Baroni: ‘Lazio should be proud with no regret’ over Atalanta draw | OneFootball

Marco Baroni does not want Lazio to feel ‘regret’ after their 1-1 draw with Serie A leaders Atalanta, insisting they should be ‘proud’ of the performance.

The Biancocelesti could feel regret at the final whistle at the Stadio Olimpico, as they had been in front for an hour against the leaders thanks to the Fisayo Dele-Bashiru strike sent through by Nicolò Rovella.

They had several other big opportunities too, most notably with Boulaye Dia, but Marco Brescianini came off the bench to snatch a late equaliser set up by Ademola Lookman.

“I told the lads in the locker room that I am proud of their performance against a great opponent that has everything to challenge for the title. I think the quality of the performance was all the more notable because it was against such a strong team,” said Baroni on Sky Sport Italia.

“There are no regrets, we need to hang in there because this side has to keep growing in terms of character and the ability to handle this type of game. The players give their all during the most difficult moments and show character, that is what interests me.”

Baroni sees positive side of Lazio result

ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Serie match between Lazio and Atalanta at Stadio Olimpico on December 28, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

While Lazio had the better of the first half, Atalanta started to take control in the second and had the momentum in stoppages too.

“We had the opportunity to kill it off at 2-0, but are struggling with injuries at the moment and I’m very pleased with how everyone fought hard, but also showed quality against an Atalanta side that presses high,” continued Baroni.

“I always look at the performance before the result, these games help us to step up a level and get a hold of our identity.”

Dele-Bashiru was used in midfield and Taty Castellanos dropping a little deeper to connect between the midfield and attack, which created the space for the goal.

“Atalanta press high, so we tried to get those quick passes and mobility to take advantage of the spaces. Dele is improving every day, he played a lot in the Europa League this season and perhaps needs more quality in his passing, but is physically very effective.

“I believe that playing like this raises the level of the team and while I would’ve liked to bring home the victory, this is a good result.”

Rovella provided the assist for the Dele-Bashiru goal, but is also becoming more consistent in midfield for Lazio, something that Baroni appreciates.

“I like to see mobility in my midfielders, Rovella and Guendouzi often exchange positions and are difficult to mark. Rovella never feels the pressure when he has the ball at his feet and I encourage him to take risks, even if it means making a mistake sometimes. I prefer midfielders who go towards the ball rather than just wait for it to be handed to them.

“We can often find players between the lines, and this is why a lad like Dele-Bashiru needs a bit more work to fit in with this attitude, as he is perhaps not used to it,” concluded Baroni.

Although they only got a point out of it, Lazio are still secure in fourth place, four points ahead of a Fiorentina side with two games in hand.