Lazio’s Baroni Rallies Team Ahead of Inter Clash: “No Fear at San Siro”
August 24, 2025
MILAN, ITALY – Lazio head coach Marco Baroni is stoking the fires of determination as his squad prepares to face reigning Serie A champions Inter Milan at the iconic San Siro stadium this weekend. In a bold pre-match press conference, Baroni declared, “We have no fear at San Siro,” signaling his intent to challenge Inter head-on despite a recent thrashing at the hands of the Nerazzurri.
Baroni’s Defiant Stance
Baroni’s comments come on the heels of a 4-0 defeat to Inter Milan in December 2024, a match where he admitted responsibility for his team’s collapse, stating, “The team gave in from a nervous point of view. We disunited, and that’s on me.” This time, however, Baroni is projecting confidence, emphasizing that Lazio has worked on mental resilience and tactical discipline to avoid a repeat performance. “We’ve learned from our mistakes,” he said. “San Siro is a tough place, but we’re ready to fight. Inter are strong, but we’re not intimidated.”
The coach’s fiery rhetoric, described by some Italian media as “loading the bull,” is aimed at galvanizing his players for what promises to be a heated encounter. Lazio, currently mid-table in the 2025-26 Serie A season, are eager to make a statement against Inter, who are vying for the title alongside Napoli.
The San Siro Challenge
The San Siro, also known as Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, is a formidable venue, with a capacity of 75,817 and a storied history as the home of both Inter and AC Milan. Known as “La Scala del Calcio” for its theatrical atmosphere, the stadium has been a fortress for Inter, who boast an impressive unbeaten record in their last 15 Champions League home matches, with 12 wins and three draws. Baroni acknowledged the challenge, noting, “It’s a stadium that lifts you or breaks you. We choose to rise.”
Lazio’s preparation has focused on tightening their defense and maintaining composure under pressure, areas where they faltered in their last meeting with Inter. Baroni is expected to rely on key players like Alessio Romagnoli and Mattia Zaccagni to lead the charge, with young midfielder Nicolo Rovella potentially playing a pivotal role in midfield.
Inter’s Dominance and Recent Form
Inter Milan, under new management following Simone Inzaghi’s departure to Al-Hilal after a trophyless 2024-25 season, remain a powerhouse. Their recent 7-6 aggregate victory over Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals, sealed by a dramatic extra-time win at San Siro, has boosted their confidence. Players like Lautaro Martinez, who scored crucial goals in that tie, and Denzel Dumfries, instrumental in the attack, pose significant threats.
Despite their strength, Inter’s focus may be split, with a Champions League final looming in Munich. Baroni hinted at exploiting this, saying, “They’re thinking about Munich, but we’re thinking about Sunday. That’s our edge.”
Fan and Media Reactions
The buildup to the match has sparked lively discussion on X, with fans divided on Lazio’s chances. One user posted, “Baroni talking big, but Inter’s gonna steamroll Lazio again. San Siro ain’t forgiving.” Others rallied behind Lazio, with a post reading, “No fear? That’s the spirit! Let’s shock them!” Italian media, including La Gazzetta dello Sport, have praised Baroni’s bold approach but question whether Lazio can back up his words against a formidable Inter side.
What’s at Stake
A victory for Lazio could reshape their season, boosting their European qualification hopes and proving their mettle against top-tier competition. For Inter, a win would solidify their title challenge and maintain their dominance at home. With the San Siro’s electric atmosphere and the stakes high for both teams, the match promises to be a spectacle.
As Baroni and his squad step onto the hallowed turf, all eyes will be on whether they can tame the “bull” of Inter Milan and make good on their fearless pledge.
Sources: La Gazzetta dello Sport, Football Italia, SempreInter.com