Lazio are preparing a fiery response as Milan return to Rome in the Coppa Italia, only days after a controversial league meeting at San Siro reignited tension between the clubs.
The focus of the anger in the Biancocelesti camp remains the late incident involving Pavlovic, with Lazio convinced they should have been awarded a penalty in the closing minutes. Referee Collu’s decision not to award the spot kick has been heavily criticised by both the club and its supporters, who felt robbed of a possible result in Milan.
Now, for the second act of this clash, this time in the Coppa Italia quarter finals, Lazio fans are planning a hostile welcome for the Rossoneri. The Olimpico, which in recent weeks has often been criticised for a muted atmosphere, is expected to transform this evening as the Curva Nord calls its people to arms.
Tensions with President Claudio Lotito have contributed to a colder climate in the stands lately, with sections of the fan base in near-constant protest. For the Coppa tie with Milan, however, an unofficial truce is expected. In the days after the league match, a message spread quickly on social media: “Alla Lazio ci pensano i laziali” – Lazio will be taken care of by the Laziali.
Around forty thousand fans are expected at the Olimpico, and the club’s support is being urged to make itself heard from the first whistle, in what many view as an opportunity for revenge after the defeat at San Siro.
In a season marked by inconsistency and frustration, the Coppa Italia is seen by a large part of the Biancocelesti faithful as a shortcut to Europe. Knocking out Milan could provide the spark Maurizio Sarri and his players need to build momentum and push all the way to the final, in front of a fan base that, at least for one night, seems ready to put internal disputes aside in the name of a common target.
