Venezia Coach Stroppa on Exceptional First Half and His Future

Giovanni Stroppa, Venezia coach, spoke to Sky after his team's fifth consecutive loss to Lazio. He commented on the team's work and his own future.

"The league standing doesn't reflect the work the team has put in," Stroppa stated. "The numbers speak for themselves: we had six shots on target, Lazio had two, and the result was 0-2. That said, we had an exceptional first half. We prepared the match well and the players interpreted it much better, conceding nothing. The penalty could have been a turning point, but we didn't capitalize on it. Conversely, Lazio's second-half penalty incident put us on the back foot. Despite this, the team always believed, created chances even in the second half, without overcommitting. Yet, it's 0-2, and those are the numbers."

Regarding his future: "If I were the club presidency, I wouldn't dismiss the coach because there's extraordinary work to be done. So, calmly, but it's not my decision. I believe the work is visible. I only regret not having more options available. That said, we do this job, and it depends on the judgment: on results or on the daily work done on the field."

On specific incidents: "I can't comment on everything. Regarding Noslin's goal, we were marking defensively on a wide ball. It was a slow cross, I don't know if the goalkeeper could have come out. It's about positioning, moving the opponent, preventing them from getting the ball and not getting it yourself. Today, Juan Jesus was a huge help with communication and awareness. As for the penalty incident, what can I say, it happens. We were good at earning it and less good at conceding it."

"I wish we could score a few more goals. We could have had a different league position based on our performances. But there's no other way to work. The team showed exceptional balance, strength, and focus today. The players prepared very well this week. Honestly, I have no negative premonitions. It's clear the numbers are harsh, and I couldn't argue differently if it were solely about the numbers. However, it's about performances and what the team produces. Tonight, they showed the right way to restart with immense focus on their actions. We played against one of the strongest teams in the league, risked practically nothing, and created a lot with numerous opportunities."