Dele-Bashiru targets Coppa Italia glory with Lazio after injury-hit season

Nigeria midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru says his priority is helping S.S. Lazio win the Coppa Italia this season as the club looks to end a difficult campaign on a positive note, Sport360NG reports.

The 25-year-old has endured an inconsistent first full season with the Serie A side, largely due to injuries and his involvement with Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.

However, Dele-Bashiru recently enjoyed a breakthrough moment when he scored his first goal of the season in Lazio’s 2-2 draw against Atalanta in the Coppa Italia.

Speaking to Lazio Press, the midfielder said lifting the Coppa Italia remains the club’s main objective, noting that the trophy would not only reward the team and supporters but also secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Europa League.

“Our goal this season is to try to win the Coppa Italia. It would be very important for the team and the fans. It would also allow us to finish a difficult year on a positive note and qualify for next season’s Europa League,” he said.

Dele-Bashiru also expressed his desire to play a bigger role in the team during the closing stages of the season as he continues to fight for a regular place in Maurizio Sarri’s squad.

“I hope to play as many games as possible before the end of the season and take advantage of every opportunity I get. I want to improve every day and make the most of my time here at Lazio while helping the club,” he added.

The former Hatayspor midfielder acknowledged that the campaign has been challenging, revealing that injuries and his AFCON commitments disrupted his momentum with the team.

Despite the setbacks, he believes the experience has contributed to his development and remains determined to prove his value.

“This year, despite the difficulties, has taught me a lot. I’m working hard for the chance to show what I can do,” he said.

Dele-Bashiru described his goal against Atalanta as a morale booster after months of frustration and hopes it will spark a strong finish to the season.

“I was very happy with the goal. Unfortunately, it has been a difficult season for me. First there were several injuries, then I left for the Africa Cup of Nations, so I never really found consistency. I hope the performance and the goal against Atalanta can be a starting point for the rest of the season.”

The Nigerian international also credited head coach Maurizio Sarri for supporting him during the challenging period and helping him improve both technically and tactically.

“He’s helping me a lot because there are always areas where a player can improve. The coach and his staff expect a lot from me. They know my qualities and work with me every day in training to bring out the best in me,” Dele-Bashiru said.

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