Baroni: ‘Roma vs. Lazio is pure passion, everyone dreams of derby’ | OneFootball

Marco Baroni explains his tactical choices for Lazio against Roma and assures the Derby della Capitale is ‘pure passion, so any player dreams of participating in this game.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s four Serie A games on the Liveblog.

There were over 5,000 fans packed into the training ground yesterday to cheer on the squad ahead of this Derby della Capitale.

They have every right to feel enthusiastic, sitting 15 points clear of their rivals in the Serie A standings, plus top of the Europa League table.

“In life, passion is the most important thing and the Rome Derby is pure passion. Any player dreams of participating in this game, with this atmosphere, so I told my players to ride this energy,” Baroni told DAZN.

At times, that kind of atmosphere and energy can be a bit much for some of the players, especially the ones who are from the Capital and feel the importance of the appointment.

“We must stay within our own game, that is what I told the lads. Keep hold of our identity, don’t lose sight of that, and use all the joy we have at being here on this special night.”

Baroni explains Lazio choices

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)

Baroni has chosen to start Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in what could be either a 4-3-3 formation or a 4-2-3-1, so his position might vary during the match.

“The lad is improving, I think he can give us a big hand. We are also missing a few of our attacking players, so this is the initial approach and we can change as the game goes on. Dele-Bashiru can play both attacking and defending, so is a useful figure to have.”

Baroni was eager to point out over the last few days that although Lazio are 15 points clear of their rivals, this match is taking place tonight and not two months ago.

“The statistics are important to point out, because as I said this is a different Roma, one that rediscovered unity, balance and confidence under Claudio Ranieri. This will make it an even more exciting derby,” concluded the coach.