Lazio coach Marco Baroni emphasized that his team’s knack for scoring late, decisive goals isn’t just luck. He sees it as “a clear sign that this team possesses unwavering belief and a refusal to surrender,” especially after their hard-fought victory against Viktoria Plzen, achieved while playing with only nine men.
Lazio had an impressive run in the Europa League group stage, finishing top of their group and securing a favorable seeding for the knockout rounds.
However, their match against Viktoria Plzen proved to be more challenging than anticipated. Alessio Romagnoli initially put Lazio ahead, but Plzen responded with Rafiu Durosinmi scoring a header from a set-piece, leveling the score.
The situation worsened for Lazio when both Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot were sent off, reducing them to nine players. At this point, settling for a 1-1 draw seemed like the likely outcome for Lazio, with the second leg in mind. But Gustav Isaksen had other plans, scoring a spectacular winning goal in the 98th minute.
“I am incredibly happy for the players. It was a tough game because we lost some of our momentum and energy in the second half,” Baroni told Sky Sport Italia.
“Plzen are an aggressive team, they press high, attack relentlessly, and run tirelessly. Moreover, controlling the ball on that pitch was a challenge in itself. All these factors make this victory even more significant.”
“The character of this team shone through once again, showcasing their incredible hunger. This win marks another step forward in our team’s development.”
Baroni Optimistic About Lazio’s European Journey
Lazio’s growing experience in the Europa League is visibly boosting their confidence, leading them to be considered serious contenders for the trophy.
“Victories are always a mental boost, strengthening conviction, and I always tell my players that strong performances have the same effect. Today, we demonstrated our ability to endure pressure and defend resiliently with nine men, achieving it through organization and collective sacrifice.”
Isaksen’s 98th-minute winner follows closely on the heels of another dramatic victory in Serie A against Milan, where Pedro scored a decisive penalty in added time.
“I believe this is our 19th goal scored this season in the final 15 minutes plus added time, which is a testament to this team’s unwavering belief and never-say-die attitude,” Baroni acknowledged.
“I am delighted with Isaksen’s goals this season, but not surprised. He needed greater confidence, and I provided him with more freedom. I favor forwards who are willing to take risks. He is now becoming a decisive player, and I always sensed he was ready to make a significant impact.”
“My philosophy is to always strive to attack and get players into the penalty area, which is why I kept forwards on the pitch, even when we were down to nine men.”
Baroni admitted that Lazio faces a persistent issue with defending set pieces, as Durosinmi was completely unmarked when he scored.
“We are fully aware of this weakness and are actively working to address it. We need to improve our focus and concentration in these situations.”