Maurizio Sarri believes that if Lazio’s supporters had been present in the Stadio Olimpico instead of protesting outside, “we could have secured the win” in the 2-2 Coppa Italia semi-final against Atalanta.
The Biancocelesti took the lead twice during the match, first with a delicate finish from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and then with Boulaye Dia capitalizing on a mistake from Mario Pasalic.
However, Atalanta responded quickly both times, leveling the score first with Pasalic and later with a late strike from Yunus Musah.
Sarri Shares Regrets After First Leg
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 04: Boulaye Dia of Lazio finds the net to score his team’s second goal against Marco Carnesecchi of Atalanta during the Coppa Italia match at the Olimpico Stadium on March 04, 2026. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“While we performed well against a strong opponent during a challenging time, we have regrets regarding the outcome,” Sarri told Sport Mediaset. “Even with a one-goal advantage, the match would still have been tough in Bergamo.”
The outcome will be determined in the second leg, scheduled for April 21 or 22, with the victor advancing to face either Inter or Como in the Coppa Italia Final.
“We will fight for qualification there. If we play like we did tonight, we can achieve it.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 04: A view of empty seats as SS Lazio fans boycott matches in protest before the Coppa Italia clash against Atalanta BC at Olimpico Stadium on March 04, 2026. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The Stadio Olimpico was eerily quiet with approximately 5,000 tickets sold, while many of the Lazio fans were still vocal outside the stadium, chanting and setting off fireworks.
“The Serie A standings reflect a season plagued with injuries to many players. Given these circumstances, we couldn’t have expected much more,” Sarri remarked.
“However, the team is demonstrating that it can be competitive. The challenge lies in maintaining that consistency. We hope to have most players fit and healthy for the remainder of the season. It’s tough when six or seven players are sidelined.”
The ongoing protest against President Claudio Lotito only adds to the challenges, as this Coppa Italia semi-final represents the team’s best opportunity to salvage the season.
“Unfortunately, the team is becoming accustomed to this situation in the stadium. It’s disheartening to admit, but it’s truly a sad reality. Once again, we felt that if 45,000 fans were in the stands, we could have potentially secured a victory.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 04: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of Lazio challenges Giorgio Scalvini of Atalanta during the Coppa Italia match at the Olimpico Stadium on March 04, 2026. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
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Daniel Maldini played a pivotal role as a False 9 and also dropped deeper to create space, providing an excellent assist for Dele-Bashiru’s goal. “Dele-Bashiru can sprint at 35km/h when he’s at full pace, so he can pose challenges for any opponent on a run through the middle. Kenneth Taylor has different attributes; he’s better with the ball but lacks that speed,” Sarri explained.
“To achieve greater consistency, we need a group of strikers who can deliver more goals. Unfortunately, we’ve faced limitations this season, making us vulnerable to losing our lead after any mistake.”
“There have been times when we’ve been stretched thin, especially in specific positions where injuries have compounded. In my view, this squad requires some rebalancing.”