Stefano Pioli feels Lazio have more to fight for against Roma than position or prestige. “This is about pride.”
The Derby della Capitale kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
Last season when these sides met, it was a showdown for second place and automatic Champions League qualification. This time the Aquile have practically no chance of even qualifying for Europe.
Stefano Pioli feels Lazio have more to fight for against Roma than position or prestige. “This is about pride.”
The Derby della Capitale kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
Last season when these sides met, it was a showdown for second place and automatic Champions League qualification. This time the Aquile have practically no chance of even qualifying for Europe.
“This is about pride,” said the Coach in his Press conference. “This is the chance to give our all and prove we are worthy of this shirt.
“The derby is the derby, it’s a special match. Winning it would not mean cancelling out the season, but it would certainly make it less bitter.
“I saw the right behaviour and concentration in my players during training. We’ve got injuries, but I think the players who go out there will be up to the task. Clearly, we must have the spirit of sacrifice, organisation and pace.
“Football is full of surprises. The derby is a separate event to the rest and form becomes irrelevant. We respect Roma, but want to challenge them to the end. Every ball could be the decisive one.”
Pioli is widely expected to leave Lazio this summer and the derby result probably won’t change that.
“I read that you know a lot more than I do on my future,” he smiled to reporters. “Maybe you can give me some pointers. I am concentrated only on the game.
“We lacked many elements compared to last season, but I don’t think this is the time for that. We have to give our fans something to celebrate.
“The derby was a balanced game earlier this term, but hopefully it’ll be decided by the teams and not the referee… We’d like to play them on an even playing field.”