Matias Vecino explains what went through his mind when scoring the Lazio winner to beat Napoli this evening and is relishing his new playmaker role.
The Partenopei looked unstoppable with an 18-point lead at the top of the table and only one Serie A defeat all season, 1-0 away to Inter on January 4.
However, Matias Vecino gathered a weak Kvicha Kvaratskhelia clearance and thumped it on the half-volley into the near bottom corner to give Lazio the shock victory at the Stadio Maradona.
“It may well be our best win of the season, we needed to defend well, we suffered at times, as is only to be expected, and took our chances. That’s what you need in these games,” Vecino told DAZN.
“I tried to hit it as hard as possible, also to prevent a potential counter-attack. It went well.”
The Uruguay international was not originally expected to start as a playmaker, but proved to be decisive in that role.
“It’s true, I played for many years with a two-man defence, maybe more in front of the defence for my national team, but I am enjoying it.”
This result puts the Biancocelesti temporarily into second place, awaiting Inter and Milan’s results this weekend, and consolidates their claim on a Champions League spot.
“Every point is precious and winning here should give us even more belief that we can fight it out with anyone. Whoever makes the fewest mistakes will get into the Champions League and we hope it is us.”