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#102951 Refused Promotion in Austrian League
henrytg
"they aren't a second club like Castilla or Barcelona B."
#102949 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio accept Ledesma transfer request
August 31, 2012
Cristian Ledesma has submitted a late formal transfer request in order to force a move away from the Stadio Olimpico on deadline day.
Ledesma has been at the club since 2006. Photo: Ansa.
Lazio have accepted that request, according to sources, however they have rejected two bids believed to be from Udinese which were under the asking price.
Lazio are understood to want €7 million for the player, although this could come in the form of a co-ownership deal or a loan with an option to buy.
AC Milan are also believed to be interested, and after Udinese's two rejected bids, the Rossoneri seem the most likely destination for the Lazio midfielder.
Ledesma has been a loyal servant for Lazio up to now, however with interest from Milan earlier in the summer as well, Ledesma probably sees this as the right time to make a move happen.
The Argentinian has played over 200 times for the Biancocelesti, and one of his most memorable moments was a 25 yard strike in the 2006 Derby della Capitale.
Ledesma is a fan favourite, and it will probably be a sad day for fans if he has played his last game for the club, however his desire to leave will probably make the process smoother for everyone.
#102938 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio complete Berardi co-ownership deal
August 31, 2012
Lazio have completed a co-ownership deal which has seen them buy 50% of Domenico Berardi's rights from Sassuolo.
Berardi is seen as one of the best young Italian players. Photo: Ansa.
Berardi, 18, will continue to play for Sassuolo as part of the agreement. The Rome club paid an initial €825,000, however Lazio can purchase the other 50% for €1.7 million at any time.
Berardi is seen as one of the brightest talents in Italian football, and with many of the top clubs also looking to secure his services, Lazio can consider that they have done a pretty shrewd piece of business.
Born in Cariati, he joined the youth academy of Cosenza at the age of 13, before moving to Sassuolo at the age of 16.
'I'm really happy to know that a club like Lazio have taken an option to sign me,' Berardi told Lazio's official site, 'I will continue to work hard at Sassuolo, and hopefully the first team experience I gain will allow me to join Lazio and play at the highest level.'
Di Canio was also delighted that Lazio got their man.
'Domenico is a player who has been on the club's radar for a long time, I've also known about him for a while. He's clearly the next big thing in Italian football, so of course we're delighted to have taken a significant option to sign him in the future.'
Berardi is Lazio's second piece of summer business, after a deal was reached to sign Croatian startlet Alen Halilovic when he turns 18 in 2014.
#102839 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Klose: One of my best Lazio performances
August 30, 2012
Speaking after Lazio's win against Anzhi, Miroslav Klose said that it was one of the best, if not his best performances wearing a Lazio shirt.
Klose was decisive for Lazio. Photo: Ansa.
'Everyone in the squad was desperate to win this game, and luckily I was in the right place at the right time to help put away the chances. I couldn't have done it without my teammates, who were magnificent.'
When asked about where he rated his performance, Klose said it was one of the best.
'One of the best for Lazio. I don't think it can top the game where I scored five goals, but because of the circumstances it might just be second or third on the list.'
'It really was a magical night, and hopefully we'll have many more like that to come this season.'
Finally Klose was asked about his team's chances in the Europa League.
'If we play like we did tonight, I don't see why we can't go far. We have a very good unit, and I think we can be very successful.'
#102825 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Di Canio: It was beautiful
August 30, 2012
Reacting to Lazio's 2-0 win over Anzhi, Di Canio was ecstatic and said it was 'beautiful'. The Italian also issued a strong message to UEFA.
Klose stunned Anzhi with a 70th minute header. Photo: Ansa.
'I thought we were magnificent. That's what football is all about. Miroslav proved again why he is a top striker, and we also didn't conceded a goal, and I have to give credit to our defenders. We really restricted their chances.'
'We overcame a very good team in Anzhi, a team we should never have been playing, so I say take that UEFA and the seeding system!'
'You can't underestimate how much the fans help us at the Olimpico, and it is difficult for any team to come here and win.'
'Now we head into the international break with a lot of confidence, and hopefully we can use that when we come back against AC Milan.'
Di Canio was asked about his side's chances in the Europa League.
'Every competition we're in, we want to win. The Europa League is no different. I feel we can definitely qualify from the group stages if we get a kind draw, and then who knows what will happen.'
Lazio next play Milan and Juventus after the two week international break.
#102665 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio 2-0 Anzhi Makachkala (2-1 aggregate)
August 30, 2012
A superb brace from Miroslav Klose allowed Lazio to overturn their first leg deficit and qualify for the Europa League.
Klose and Hernanes celebrating. Photo: Ansa.
Coming into the game, Lazio knew they had to make quick impact, and within 5 minutes, they delivered.
Matuzalem delivered a corner to the near post, which was controlled by Cana who had time to turn to pass the ball into the path of Miroslav Klose. The big German then had time to beat his man and squirm a shot in past the outstretched hand of Gabulov for the first goal.
With the tie now completely level, Lazio were less keen to attack, sitting back and letting Anzhi have the ball. After about ten minutes however the Biancocelesti created themselves another chance.
Zarate made a storming run to the byline, where he whipped in a cross that was met by Klose, only for his header to rattle off the bar.
The half played out without incident, Lazio again sitting back and Anzhi unable to penetrate the defensive block.
The second half started in much the same way, and while Anzhi mounted a flurry of attacks, none resulted in a dangerous chance.
Time was running out, and it was Lazio who finally found the winner with 20 minutes to go.
Candreva floated a perfect ball into the box, and Miroslav Klose, after losing his man, again got on the end of it, powering an unstoppable header into the top corner.
The goal sparked wild celebrations from the Lazio bench, with manager Paolo Di Canio sprinting down the touchline to go and celebrate with his players.
When a final cross from Anzhi was dealt with by Federico Marchetti, the whistle was blown leaving Lazio to enjoy what was a superb comeback after the result of the first leg.
Lineups:
Lazio: Marchetti, Konko, Diakite, Cana, Radu, Hernanes (Ederson 75), Matuzalem (Gonzalez 68), Ledesma, Candreva, Zarate (Zauri 86), Klose
Subs not used: Carrizo, Andre Dias, Rocchi, Kozak.
Yellow cards: Cana, Radu, Matuzalem
Goals: Klose (4, 70)
Anzhi: V Gabulov, Gadjibekov, Ewerton (Logashov 76), Joao Carlos, Tagirbekov, Ahmedov, Jucilei, G Gabulov (Zhirkov 81), Boussoufa, Traore (Carcela 45), Eto'o
Subs not used: Pomazan, Agalarov, Smolov, Mukhammad
Yellow cards: Gadjibekov, G Gabulov
Goals: None.
Stats:
Shots: Lazio 17-6 Anzhi
On Target: Lazio 7-1 Anzhi
Fouls: Lazio 12-9 Anzhi
Possession: Lazio 56%-44% Anzhi
#102650 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Di Canio: We will have to be at our best
August 30, 2012
In the Anzhi pre-match press conference, Di Canio warned that his side would have to be at their best to overturn their deficit against the Russian side, and also doubted that Senad Lulic would make a return in the game.
Lazio drew with Genoa in their last game. Photo: Ansa.
'We're down 1-0, so we have to win 2-0. I think any team that beats a team like Anzhi 2-0 deserves some respect. We will need to be at our best, but I have confidence in my players. They really want it, and I think that with home support, we can qualify.'
'We played well for most of the first game, and I think we will do better this time around. We feel more prepared and there is a new sense of desire in the team.'
The Lazio boss was then asked about any injuries in the squad, with Senad Lulic not having played for Lazio since pre-season.
'We have a lot of players in the squad who are just coming back, unfortunately I don't think Senad will be fit for the game. We'll see, but I don't want to rush him back. Also, Alberto Bizzarri, our backup keeper broke his arm in training, so he'll be out for about 4 weeks. Apart from that, there are no new injuries.'
Finally, Di Canio addressed transfers, with only two days left in the window.
'We're working very hard. I can't promise fans new signings because I feel we have a very strong squad. However we are looking at some players for the future, and I think we will be signing at least one if not more.'
Lazio's next opponent in the Serie A is AC Milan, before another difficult trip to play Juventus.
#102630 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio-AC Milan game rearranged
August 30, 2012
The Lazio-AC Milan Serie A fixture due to a clash with the Fenerbahce-AC Milan game.
Lazio play Anzhi later today.
Lazio will now play the Rossoneri on the 15th of September as Milan's Champions League clash with the Turkish side will take place on the 18th of September.
Whatever the date, Lazio vs Milan is sure to be a sold out affair at the Stadio Olimpico.
#102628 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Arzanese complete Oddo season long loan
August 27, 2012
Young Italian defender Gianmarco Oddo has joined Arzanese on loan for the season, it was confirmed.
Oddo will get more first team action this season. Photo: Ansa.
Oddo, who can at play right back and left back, revealed his happiness at the chance for more first team football.
'Arzanese gives me the chance to get first team experience, which is vital if I want to come back to Lazio and be successful. I'm really looking forward to the season ahead.'
Oddo, who has just turned 19, has two years remaining on his contract with the Biancocelesti.
#102612 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Di Canio: We should have won
August 26, 2012
Speaking after the game against Genoa, Di Canio said that Lazio were unlucky not to win, but that a draw was an acceptable result in the circumstances.
It was Marchetti's error that lead to Genoa's equaliser. Photo: Ansa.
'I think we should have won, we had the better chances, but it was just one of those days for Federico [Marchetti]. It happens to all of us, and as long as he learns from his mistake, it's OK. He was really disappointed, and you could tell that it really mattered to him.'
'Having said that, if you'd offered me a draw in this game before it started, I probably would have taken it. A match that was just after a trip to Russia, we didn't have our top players available and against a Genoa side with some real quality away from home, I think a draw is a good enough result.'
Asked about Lorik Cana's goal, Di Canio compared it to his volley for West Ham.
'It's just one of those amazing goals. It will be tough to beat Lorik's goal for goal of the season. It reminds me of my volley I scored for West Ham! An unbelievable goal, one that you can repeat a hundred times and you probably won't be able to pull it off.'
Finally, Di Canio was asked about the state of his players ahead of the Anzhi game.
'Well, obviously I rested Klose and Ledesma and a few others so that they would be fit, but probably most of the guys who played today won't play. Three days is a tight gap, and with our short pre-season we maybe haven't got the match fitness required yet.'
After the Anzhi decider, Lazio face AC Milan and Juventus.
#102557 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Genoa 1-1 Lazio
August 26, 2012
A mistake by Federico Marchetti allowed Genoa to draw after Lorik Cana scored a goal of the season contender.
Marchetti distraught after his howler. Photo: Ansa.
The match started cagily, with neither side wanting to commit on the first day of the Serie A season.
It took 25 minutes for the first chance to arrive, when Tommaso Rocchi headed over after an excellent cross from Luciano Zauri.
It didn't take long afterwards for the first goal to arrive, and it was some goal. After some nice build up play by Rocchi and Zauri, the ball fell to Lorik Cana who let rip from 40 yards and fired his shot into the top corner of Frey's net. It was an absolutely stunning goal, and could possibly end up being the goal of the season.
Lazio eased off following their goal, and this proved costly, as Genoa responded almost immediately. After a dangerous ball was whipped in by Antonelli and caught by Marchetti, things went terribly wrong for the Italian keeper.
Instead of kicking the ball, Marchetti threw the ball out, only for it to land at Ciro Immobile's feet. After fending off a challenge from Ciani, the Genoa striker only had to put the ball past Marchetti, which he did confidently to equalise.
There was no more excitement before half time, and both sides went in level at the break.
The second half started much like the first, neither side really looking to attack and good chances were hard to come by. It wasn't until the 75th minute that Mauro Zarate played through Tommaso Rocchi, who hit the post with a powerful shot. The Italian striker probably should have done better, despite being closed down by the Genoa defender.
Genoa didn't have any real chances in the second half, and the match ended level, with Tommaso Rocchi ruing his missed opportunity and Federico Marchetti bemoaning his blunder.
Lazio next face Anzhi before a tough test in the Serie A against AC Milan.
Lineups:
Genoa: Frey, Hagen, Granqvist (Vargas 67), Canini, Antonelli, Kucka, Seymour, Bertolacci (Rossi 45), Jankovic (Jorquera 56), Immobile, Borriello
Subs not used: Tzorvas, Jara Martinez, Bellini, Hallenius, Ferronetti, Tozser, Moretti, Lucchini, Anselmo.
Yellow cards: None.
Goals: Immobile (33)
Lazio: Marchetti, Gonzalez, Dias, Ciani, Zauri, Hernanes (Matuzalem 64), Cana (Onazi 75), Sculli, Candreva (Ederson 75), Zarate, Rocchi
Subs not used: Carrizo, Diakite, Radu, Ledesma, Cavanda, Mendicino, Floccari, Klose, Kozak.
Yellow cards: Cana.
Goals: Cana (28)
Stats:
Shots: Genoa 6-7 Lazio
On Target: Genoa 3-2 Lazio
Fouls: Genoa 15-18 Lazio
Possession: Genoa 48%-52% Lazio
#102549 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Di Canio: We need to bounce back
August 25, 2012
In the Genoa pre match press conference, Paolo Di Canio emphasised the need the for his team to bounce back after a narrow loss to Anzhi, but was also conscious not to underestimate Genoa.
Di Canio wants an improvement on the performance against Anzhi. Photo: Ansa.
'This is the first game in the Serie A, we want all three points, and so we have to bounce back. It was a disappointing loss to Anzhi, but we now have the chance to start the Serie A season well.'
'Genoa are tough opponents, they have some good players, so it won't be easy. This is our second game away from home in a row, but we have to manage, even if the fixture computer hasn't been kind to us.'
When asked if the long trip to Russia affected the players, Di Canio said:
'Of course. I think it's normal. I'll have to make some changes as I also want us to be fresh for the return leg of the Anzhi game, so we won't be playing with a full strength team.'
Finally, Di Canio was asked Lazio would be doing any more business before the transfer window shuts.
'We hope to. There are a few players we are in discussions with, but we'll have to see. Hopefully we can get a few things done.'
Lazio face a tough start to the season. After the return leg against Anzhi, they play AC Milan and Juventus in quick succession, making it tough to pick up early points.
#102525 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Thanks, glad you're enjoying it.
Di Canio: We were perfect for 89 minutes
August 23, 2012
Speaking after Lazio's loss to Anzhi, Paolo Di Canio said he was annoyed they couldn't get the draw as his side played 'perfectly' for 89 minutes.
Samuel Eto'o gave Anzhi the advantage in the tie. Photo: Ansa.
'I think we were perfect for 89 minutes. We conceded the minute after half time, we weren't focused the moment we came out and that's was caused the goal. One moment of inattention, now we have to win 2-0 at the Olimpico.'
'It's stupid, because I thought for the other 89 minutes, we played very well defensively, and we even created a chance where we really should have scored.'
'Again though, that's why Samuel Eto'o is good. There are many strikers that wouldn't have capitalised right after half time, but Eto'o is always alert to defensive mistakes.'
Asked if the tie is still alive, Di Canio replied:
'Any tie is still alive when we play at the Olimpico in the second leg. We could be down 3-0 and I would still believe. Having said that, it will be a complicated balance between attacking and not conceding an away goal.'
Lazio play Genoa in the Serie A before the return leg on the 30th of August.
#102353 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Anzhi Makachkala 1-0 Lazio
August 23, 2012
A lone goal from Samuel Eto'o gave Anzhi the edge in what was an unspectacular encounter.
Eto'o after scoring for Anzhi. Photo: Ansa.
The game was scrappy and neither side created many chances. The first half was forgettable, with both keepers unemployed and most of the action happening in the middle of the park. Lazio seemed content to sit back, while Anzhi couldn't work the ball into a dangerous position.
The second half started strongly for Anzhi however. Their first possession almost got them a goal, when Lassana Diarra played in Boussoufa whose vicious shot struck the post.
Anzhi didn't have to wait long however for that elusive goal, and two minutes later Eto'o picked up a pass from Boussoufa before beating his man on the edge of the box and comfortably slotting past Marchetti in the one on one.
Lazio did eventually respond with their best chance of game after 65 minutes, when Candreva put Matuzalem through on goal, however the Brazilian hit the post from a narrow angle after beating the keeper.
Samuel Eto'o had a second goal turned down for offside ten minutes later, and that was it for what was an uneventful match.
Lazio still have themselves a chance of qualifying in front of their home crowd by only conceding one goal, however it's a tall order against a quality Anzhi team, as they proved tonight.
Lineups:
Anzhi: V Gabulov, Logashov, Joao Carlos, Gadjibekov, Tagirbekov, Ahmedov, Jucilei, Diarra, Boussoufa, Traore (Carcela 45), Eto'o
Subs not used: Pomazan, Burmistrov, G Gabulov, Agalarov, Smolov, Ewerton.
Yellow cards: Eto'o
Goals: Eto'o (47)
Lazio: Marchetti, Konko, Diakite, Cana, Radu, Ederson (Matuzalem 45), Hernanes (Zarate 75), Ledesma (Ciani 68), Candreva, Kozak, Klose
Subs not used: Carrizo, Dias, Zauri, Rocchi.
Yellow cards: Matuzalem.
Goals: None.
Stats:
Shots: Anzhi 22-6 Lazio
On Target: Anzhi 11-2 Lazio
Fouls: Anzhi 12-12 Lazio
Possession: Anzhi 53%-47% Lazio
#102347 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Di Canio: We shouldn't be playing Anzhi, UEFA is 'crazy'
August 22, 2012
In a lively press conference, Paolo Di Canio expressed his anger with UEFA for Anzhi not being seeded, and added that Lazio weren't favourites for the match.
Lazio are underdogs for their upcoming match. Photo: Ansa.
'UEFA are crazy. They really have lost it. Anzhi are a team that could beat most of the top teams in Europe, but they are unseeded in the Europa League Playoff? It's mad. I don't understand. We should not have to play them. We have got drawn against a crap team from Moldova or Anzhi. It's not even a draw, it's just a toss of a coin to see if we'll qualify.'
'If we come back with a draw from Russia, we can really congratulate ourselves. Russia is pretty much the worst place to play football, especially when it's in the middle of nowhere, and when my players know they have to mark Samuel Eto'o... it's completely crazy!'
'Something has to be done about this. Lazio should be playing in the Europa League. It's not right.'
Di Canio continued, saying his side were definitely the underdogs.
'Look at our teams. They have Samuel Eto'o one of the best strikers in the world, Lassana Diarra, a top goalkeeper, and while I have confidence my team can beat them if we play our best, if we're not 100% we will lose.'
The return leg is on the 30th of August, and Lazio will play Genoa in the Serie A in between.
#102338 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Torino-Lazio game rearranged
August 20, 2012
The Torino-Lazio Serie A fixture has been rearranged after the Italian Cup draw was made.
Lazio's first game of the season is against Genoa.
Torino vs Lazio will now take place on the 5th of December, with Torino playing Chievo on the 28th of November, the original date of the match.
#102321 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio suffer double injury blow
August 15, 2012
Both Stefano Mauri and Senad Lulic have picked up injuries on international duty, with the Italian ruled out for up to two months and the Bosnian unavailable for two weeks.
Both players will miss the critical Anzhi Europa League Playoff Photo: Ansa.
The injuries could have not been more poorly timed for Lazio, who will have to do without two of their more important players for the Anzhi Europa League Playoff and the Serie A opener against Genoa.
Stefano Mauri is out for even longer than Lulic - the Italian suffered a lower back stress fracture while training with the Italy squad, and his two month absence will definitely be a miss for Lazio.
Lulic twisted his knee while playing for Bosnia against Turkey, and his two week absence will still cause problems for Lazio, who are now left with a shortage of players the left flank.
Both injuries follow the news of Pasquale Foggia's injury, who will also be ruled out for up to two months after picking up a knock in the friendly against Trapani.
#102283 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio complete Halilovic deal
August 14, 2012
Alen Halilovic will join Lazio when he turns 18, Dinamo Zagreb confirmed on their website.
Halilovic has been scouted by all the top clubs. Photo: Ansa.
The Biancocelesti will be delighted that they have been able to secure a talent that has been wanted by all the top European clubs in a move that can be considered somewhat of a coup for the Rome club.
'I'm delighted to be joining a club as big as Lazio,' Halilovic said on Dinamo's website, 'However I won't get carried away. For now my focus is just on helping Dinamo win, and I won't be thinking about Lazio until 2014.'
The transfer fee was undisclosed but believed to be just under €2 million, a surprisingly low fee.
Lazio boss Paolo Di Canio later released a statement on the Lazio site.
'I have to say hats off to my scouting team who did such a good job. In Alen we have secured somebody who will be a very important player for us in the next several years. It's good for us that he continues his development at Dinamo for now, as he will be able to obtain valuable first team experience.'
The contract length was also not revealed, however it would presumably be at least a five year deal.
#102270 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio announce squad for Anzhi fixture
August 14, 2012
Lazio have confirmed their 25 man squad for the Anzhi Europa League playoff.
There are several notable exclusions from the squad Photo: Ansa.
In order to comply with UEFA's home grown regulations, Lazio have been forced to exclude some players, including Christian Brocchi, Sergio Floccari, Giuseppe Sculli and Giuseppe Biava. The full list can be found below.
Goalkeepers: Federico Marchetti, Juan Pablo Carrizo
Defenders: Luciano Zauri, Modibo Diakite, Andre Dias, Stefan Radu, Abdoulay Konko, Michael Ciani, Luis Pedro Cavanda
Midfielders: Matuzalem, Cristian Ledesma, Antonio Candreva, Alvaro Gonzalez, Hernanes, Stefano Mauri, Senad Lulic, Lorik Cana, Ederson, Antonio Cinelli
Forwards: Mauro Zarate, Miroslav Klose, Tommaso Rocchi, Libor Kozak, Gonzalo Barreto, Ettore Mendicino
#102251 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Albinoleffe-Lazio friendly cancelled
August 11, 2012
The Albinoleffe-Lazio friendly fixture scheduled for the 19th of August has been cancelled.
Lazio's next match will be against Anzhi
The fixture clashed with the Atalanta-Brescia fixture (Atalanta share their stadium with AlbinoLeffe).
#102250 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio make offer for Halilovic
August 11, 2012
Lazio have made an offer for Dinamo Zagreb's 16-year-old wonderkid Alen Halilovic, according to sources.
Halilovic has been scouted by all the top clubs. Photo: Ansa.
Under Croatian policy however, Halilovic would not be able to play for Lazio until his 18th birthday, so even if the deal were to go through, he would stay at Dinamo until July 2014.
Halilovic has been chased by Chelsea, Tottenham and Real Madrid, and is seen as a successor to Luka Modric.
According to rumors, Lazio already failed earlier this summer to sign PSV startlet Zakaria Bakkali, who instead joined Chelsea, so the Biancocelesti will hope that Halilovic quickly agrees a deal to join them.
Halilovic, who can play on the wing or as a central attacking midfielder, has already broken a number of records in his career, including becoming the youngest player in Dinamo's history and the youngest ever scorer in Dinamo's history.
Should Dinamo accept the offer, personal terms shouldn't be a problem and Lazio will look to agree the deal by the end of next week.
#102153 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Lazio draw Anzhi in Europa League Playoff
August 10, 2012
Lazio were handed a tough Europa League playoff draw against Anzhi Makachkala. The Rome club will need to beat the Russian side in order to qualify for the group stages of the competition.
Anzhi's owner has invested heavily in the team. Photo: Ansa.
Anzhi's side includes star names such as Samuel Eto'o, Willian and Mbark Boussoufa, and will prove a challenge for this Lazio team.
The first leg will be played in Makachkala, on the 23rd of August. As a result, Lazio's first Serie A game of the season against Genoa has been moved to the 26th of September. The return tie against Anzhi at the Stadio Olimpico is on the 30th of August.
Lazio fans will be dreading the trip to Russia, with Dagestan having an unsafe reputation, however a good result from Lazio should keep them in high spirits.
The Anzhi game also represents the first big test in Paolo Di Canio's reign, not an ideal debut for any manager.
#102045 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Rocchi: Lazio needs Champions League football
August 10, 2012
In an exclusive interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Lazio captain Tommaso Rocchi spoke about the Biancocelesti's need for Champions League football, as well as Paolo Di Canio and how the club has changed since he joined.
Di Canio was determined to return to his former club.
GDS: What are your ambitions for Lazio this season?
TR: I think it's obvious: Champions League. Lazio is a massive club, we haven't been in the Champions League for a number of years and we really need to be back in the biggest European competition. We came last year with Edy [Reja], and hopefully this season that experience will be the driving force we need to achieve it.
GDS: Paolo Di Canio made a dramatic return to Lazio at the start of the summer. How have things been different so far?
TR: I remember when I played with him in 2004, he was always the most passionate guy around, always wanting the best for the club. He hasn't changed, expect that he maybe doesn't do as many crazy things like he did before. His personality hasn't changed though, and he's brought a new sense of discipline to the club. He's definitely different to Edy, but both are great managers.
GDS: Does Di Canio rely on you to as the senior player at the club and as captain?
TR: Of course, I think that's always the relationship between manager and the captain. Having said that, Paolo is Paolo, and I;m sure he would be playing if he could. I'm expected to transmit my experience to the younger players, however is also on their case if they do something wrong. His attention to detail and passion know no bounds.
GDS: You start the Serie A campaign with a game against Genoa. Are you confident?
TR: Absolutely. We have to be with the squad we have. With Miroslav we have a top goalscorer, in Hernanes one of the best midfielders in the world, defensively we're also solid. Why shouldn't we win?
GDS: Finally, your contract expires at the end of this season. Do you want to stay on?
TR: We'll see what happens. I love Lazio, I love the fans, so hopefully something can be done. I've had nine years at this club, and hopefully we can extend that even further.
#102041 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Di Canio: Foggia injury shouldn't overshadow good performance
August 9, 2012
Speaking after Lazio's friendly win against Trapani, Paolo Di Canio revealed that Pasquale Foggia picked up a knock which will rule him out for the start of the season. However he added that it shouldn't overshadow the good performance of his team.
Lazio will have to do without Pasquale Foggia. Photo: Ansa.
When asked about the state of the winger, Di Canio said:
'For Pasquale, we know it's quite a bad one. The physios say at least one month, but probably two.'
'It's annoying as Pasquale is an important part of our depth, and without him we will be in trouble if one of our starting players gets injured. We shouldn't panic yet though, hopefully we won't have any more problems before the start of the season.'
Di Canio went on to assess the performance of his team:
'While Pasquale's injury is disappointing, the press conference should not be just about this. I thought we played with real desire today, even though that can sometimes be difficult when you're playing a team from Serie C2.'
'We maybe should have scored more goals, but we created chances, which is the important thing ahead of the season.'
Lazio's Serie A season starts with a game against Genoa, after playing in the first leg of the Europa League playoff.
#102002 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Trapani 0-2 Lazio
August 9, 2012
Goals on either side of half time allowed Lazio to record a comfortable win against Trapani.
Floccari enjoys his goal with Ciani. Photo: Ansa.
Lazio controlled the pace of the match from the start without really creating many chances, however their first serious one was taken when Lorik Cana gave the ball to Cristian Ledesma on the edge of the box who tucked away a tidy finish on the half hour mark.
Five minutes later, Kozak produced a decent save from the Trapani keeper Morello, and only two minutes afterwards Ederson hit the inside of the post with a rocket shot from just inside the box.
That was the last chance before the interval, in a half where Trapani did not create any problems of note for Lazio.
The second half started as the first one ended, with another Ledesma shot forcing a save from the Trapani keeper.
From the corner that ensued, Trapani failed to properly clear, allowing Cristian Ledesma to thread a ball through to Floccari who with his back to goal produced a nice finish to beat Morello in the far corner for Lazio's second goal.
The only other chance of the half came late on, when Tommaso Rocchi shot narrowly over from inside the box.
It was a comfortable win for Lazio who were never really troubled, and the Biancocelesti now have ten day break before their final pre season game against AlbinoLeffe.
Lineups:
Trapani: Morello (Castelli 61), Lo Bue (Dai 61), D'Aiello (Priola 45), Pagliarulo (Filippi 61), Rizzi (Lo Monaco 61), Caccetta (F Spinelli 61), Pirrone, Giordano (Mancosu 61), Basso (Cavallaro 45), Abate (Docente 61), Madonia (M Spinelli 61)
Subs not used: Ficarotta, Gambino
Yellow cards: Basso
Goals: None.
Lazio: Marchetti, Gonzalez, Ciani, Biava (Radu 67), Scaloni (Zauri 45), Matuzalem (Ledesma 29), Cana (Hernanes 67), Ederson (Foggia 45 [Zarate 75]), Mauri (Candreva 67), Kozak, Floccari (Rocchi 75)
Subs not used: Bizzarri, Diakite, Lulic, Klose.
Yellow cards: Biava, Zauri, Cana
Goals: Ledesma (31), Floccari (50)
Stats:
Shots: Trapani 6-28 Lazio
On Target: Trapani 2-10 Lazio
Fouls: Trapani 10-15 Lazio
Possession: Trapani 43%-57% Lazio
#101992 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Pisa-Lazio friendly cancelled
August 5, 2012
The Pisa-Lazio friendly fixture scheduled for the 14th of August has been cancelled.
Lazio will now only play two more friendlies.
The fixture clashed with Pisa's Italian Cup tie against Crotone.
#101861 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Rijnsburgse Boys 1-4 Lazio
August 4, 2012
Lazio comfortably saw off Rijnsburgse Boys in their first pre-season match with a brace from Miroslav Klose and a sublime finish from Mauro Zarate.
Zarate celebrates his stunning goal. Photo: Ansa.
In what was an open, free flowing game, both sides had chances from kickoff, however it was Lazio who struck first through centre back Modibo Diakite, who tapped the ball in after Rijnsburgse Boys failed to clear a corner.
The Belgian club quickly responded though, with Pepijn Kluin hitting the post after being played through.
It was a sign of things to come, and on 35 minutes, Rijnsburgse Boyse found the equaliser, with Edwin Doorn getting on the end of a cross to head the ball powerfully past the helpless Carrizo.
Lazio responded just before half time, with Ledesma’s 25 yard piledriver hitting the crossbar, the last chance in a half where both teams could have gone in ahead.
If the first half was close, the second half was dominated by Lazio. Only ten minutes in, the Biancocelesti took the lead, with Miroslav Klose producing a half volley to turn in a cross from Gonzalez.
Fifteen minutes later Mauro Zarate scored the goal of the game, producing a stunning top corner volley from Matuzalem’s lofted ball over the top of the defence.
Only five minutes later, Miroslav Klose got his second and well and truly put the game to bed, powerfully heading home from a cross by Foggia.
It was a good start for Paolo Di Canio, and he will no doubt look to build on this performance in Lazio’s next friendly game against Trapani.
Lineups:
Rijnsburgse Boys: Van Niuewkoop (Orlowski 45), Sardar (Groot 7), Kras, Van Noord (van Beuningen 46), Celen (Bruma 46), Snijders (P Freke 46 [Schet 63]), Leitoe (K Winter 46), Van den Boogart (Van der Vijver 46), Strooker (B Freke, 46), Kluin (Van Egmond 46), Doorn (Haselhoff 46 [J Winter 81])
Subs not used: None.
Yellow cards: Van der Vijver
Goals: Doorn (36)
Lazio: Carrizo, Cavanda, Diakite, Dias (Ciani 78), Zauri (Gonzalez 45), Lulic (Hernanes 66), Ledesma (Onazi 45 [Matuzalem 66]), Foggia (Floccari 78), Candreva (Ederson 66), Zarate (Sculli 78), Rocchi (Klose 45)
Subs not used: Marchetti, Biava, Mauri.
Yellow cards: None.
Goals: Diakite (14), Klose (55, 74), Zarate (69)
Stats:
Shots: Rijnsburgse Boys 9-20 Lazio
On Target: Rijnsburgse Boys 4-7 Lazio
Fouls: Rijnsburgse Boys 12-12 Lazio
Possession: Rijnsburgse Boys 48%-52% Lazio
#101852 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Kozak extends Lazio contract
July 31, 2012
Czech striker Libor Kozak has signed a new five year deal with Lazio, ending speculation linking him with a move to Inter.
Three clubs were reportedly interested in the striker. Photo: Ansa.
Kozak, who extended his contract by a year, was apparently keen on a move, however after talks with manager Paolo Di Canio, he was convinced to stay and sign an improved deal.
AC Milan and Roma was also interested in the Czech's services, however Lazio stood firm and rejected enquiries.
'I spoke with Paolo, and he convinced me to stay', Kozak said, 'I'm really happy to have signed a new contract and I think I've made the right decision.'
Kozak is the second Lazio player to have signed a new deal this week after Senad Lulic also agreed an improved contract following a rejected bid from Juventus.
Lazio will be encouraged that they are keeping hold of some of their best players, with their ambitions this season to achieve Champions League qualification, something they only narrowly missed out on last year.
#101820 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Thanks, should be fun.
Lulic signs new Lazio deal
July 24, 2012
Senad Lulic has put pen to paper on an improved four year deal with Lazio, all but ending the chances of him leaving the club.
Lazio turned down more than one bid for the Bosnian. Photo: Ansa.
If sources are to be believed, the contract could be worth up to £7 million, a considerable improvement on his previous deal.
'I'm happy to stay with Lazio, I had a good season last year and I want to build on that. Hopefully now I've signed a new contract I'll be able to look forward to the season ahead and concentrate on my football', Lulic said in a statement.
'Senad is one of our best players, so I'm happy that he's going to be staying', Lazio manager Paolo Di Canio said. 'We will need his quality this season, and I think it sends a message to our rivals that they can't come and just buy all our best players.'
Lulic had been the subject of several bids from Juventus, however none of them met Lazio's £20 million valuation of the player. It is understood that AC Milan also came in with an offer, which was also rejected.
#101792 OOH-LA-LAZIO!!!
henrytg
Rozzi joins Ternana on loan
July 22, 2012
Young Italian striker Antonio Rozzi has joined Ternana on a season long loan deal from Lazio, it was confirmed.
Rozzi will get more first team action this season. Photo: Ansa.
Rozzi, 19, has played in 3 competitive games for Lazio, making his debut last year as a replacement for the injured Tommaso Rocchi against AC Milan.
'I'm really happy to be joining Ternana on loan. It will give me vital first team experience and hopefully I can then bring that back to Lazio next year to fight for a place in the first team', Rozzi said on Ternana's website.
Born in Rome, Rozzi began his career with local side Casal Monastero, before moving to A.S. Lodigiani. At Lodigiani, he was identified by Lazio where he became a successful youth player.