Maurizio Sarri has praised the physical presence of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru following his second-half introduction in Lazio\u2019s dramatic 3-3 draw with Udinese in Serie A, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.\n<\/p>\n
The Nigerian midfielder was brought on after the break as Lazio sought greater control in a tightly contested encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, with his 45-minute cameo adding a more physical edge to the hosts\u2019 midfield.\n<\/p>\n
Sarri, however, also highlighted a crucial missed opportunity by Dele-Bashiru as a defining moment in the six-goal thriller, noting that the chance came when Lazio were leading 2-1 and in a strong position to take command of the contest.\n<\/p>\n
The Italian coach admitted his side struggled early on, lacking intensity and composure, but credited an improved second-half performance that nearly secured victory before the momentum shifted.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe entered as a team with a lot of nerves, we entered the game after half an hour,\u201d he said in comments reported by Fanta Calcio. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe second half was of excellent level, the turning point of the match on 2-1 is the missed goal opportunity with Dele-Bashiru.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\u201cWe immediately suffered the physical gap this evening, we went into difficulty on all the dirty balls in the penalty area.<\/p>\n
There was great character in looking for the draw as well.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
Despite the missed chance, Sarri\u2019s remarks underscored the impact of Dele-Bashiru\u2019s introduction, particularly in terms of physicality, even as Lazio ultimately had to settle for a point after surrendering their advantage in a pulsating contest.\n <\/p>\n
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