Lazzari: ‘Lazio here to fight Atletico for first in UCL group’

Manuel Lazzari underlined Lazio’s ambitions to secure a first-place finish in their Champions League group ahead of their definitive duel with Atletico Madrid.

The Biancocelesti, who’ve already confirmed their spot in the Round of 16, sit one point behind Atletico in Group E, making tonight’s head-to-head decisive for determining which team secures the top seed and which team will likely face a tougher opponent in the next stage.

Lazio held Atletico to a dramatic 1-1 draw in their first meeting back in September, finding a last-minute equaliser from goalkeeper Ivan Provedel. Whilst they’ve been wildly inconsistent in the league, Maurizio Sarri’s side have looked more confident on the European stage.

Speaking to Sport Mediaset via TMW, Lazzari first gave his thoughts on the mentality ahead of Lazio’s clash with Atletico.

“We’re two teams who’ve qualified for the Round of 16, we both have very clear heads. We are here to fight for first place, because we know that coming first or second changes a lot in the draw.”

He touched on his expectations for the clash in the Spanish capital.

“It will be a very complicated match. Atletico are a physical and technical team, they have achieved many consecutive results at home. We know it will be a complicated match, but we will play it.”

The Italian right back was asked if Lazio had found their comfort zone in the Champions League this term.

“We started with Provedel’s goal in injury time, which gave us that extra boost. Now we arrive with game day to go, and we’ve already qualified and are playing for first place.

“We’re just a point behind, we’ll play with open eyes and a free mind. We hope to keep the game open until the end.”

Finally, Lazzari discussed the threats posed by Atletico.

“We face a really strong team in all departments. Up front they have Griezmann, Morata, Depay and Correa. Whoever plays plays, they are great players, we have to stay focused until the last minute and try to give them as little as possible.”