Marco Baroni admits Lazio ‘have no margin for error’ if they are to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the Europa League quarter-final against Bodo/Glimt. ‘These are Pedro’s games.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
Whoever goes through here will face either Tottenham Hotspur or Eintracht Frankfurt in the semi-final.
There is a huge task to overturn the 2-0 first leg deficit, but not entirely impossible, because in the 2020-21 Conference League quarter-final, Roma lost in Norway only to win the second leg 4-0 at the Olimpico.
Baroni believes Pedro experience can inspire Lazio
epa11708475 SS Lazio’s Pedro Rodriguez in action during the UEFA Europa League soccer match between SS Lazio and FC Porto, in Rome, Italy, 07 November 2024. EPA-EFE/ETTORE FERRARI
“We know that we requite an extraordinary performance against a strong opponent,” Baroni told Sky Sport Italia.
“There is no margin for error. It’s a game where we have to give everything, from the first to the last moment, that is what the team has to do.”
Nuno Tavares is fit enough for a spot on the bench, meaning only Patric is still out of action, while Luca Pellegrini is cup-tied.
There was only one real question mark over the starting XI, specifically Pedro rather than Boulaye Dia behind Taty Castellanos.
“Nuno Tavares could play in the second half,” explained Baroni.
“As for Pedro, these are his games, the moments where he really shines. I had to also make a decision based on fitness levels.
“Castellanos is only in his second start since the injury, while Dia has the option of coming on as either a centre-forward or a support striker.
“We prepared a slightly different tactical solution. We’ve got to be strong in the duels, because Bodo/Glimt are a very technically gifted side with a lot of mobility on the field.
“Berg likes to see a lot of the ball, so we’ll try to limit his influence on the match.”
Lazio are coming off a hard-fought 1-1 Derby della Capitale against rivals Roma, which did little to boost either of their hopes in Serie A.
“I am sure the team will have the right mentality. It’s true that there is a big advantage from the first leg, but above all we need a great performance with our minds more than our legs. The team is well aware of that,” concluded Baroni.
