Edy Reja admits he was hoping Lazio would get an easier Europa League draw than Atletico Madrid.

“We avoided the English clubs, but Atletico Madrid are a very strong side and beating them will be tough,” said the Coach.

The Spaniards won the trophy in 2010 and dominated their group this season, including a 4-0 demolition of Udinese.

As Lazio were runners-up in their group, they will play the first leg on home turf.

“I trust in the Stadio Olimpico to help us,” added Reja. “It is an arduous task, but it’s always a pleasure to play against teams of this magnitude.”

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