ROME – Disappointment and bitterness also in the words of Strahinja Pavlovic after Milan’s defeat at the Olimpico against Lazio. The Rossoneri defender, who played a key role in Massimiliano Allegri’s backline, analyzed the match acknowledging that it was a great opportunity for Milan in the title race.
“It was a great opportunity for us – Pavlovic explained –. We had to be ready from the start and stay focused throughout the whole match. In games like these, you have to think only about yourself and play your own game until the end.”
The Serbian centre-back also highlighted the importance of the Olimpico clash in the context of Milan’s season. With league leaders Inter dropping points in the previous matchday, Milan had the chance to close the gap in the standings. An opportunity that, however, was not taken.
During the match, Pavlovic was tasked with a difficult job against Lazio’s attack, and in particular against Daniel Maldini, one of the Biancocelesti’s key offensive threats. “It’s not easy to mark him – the Rossoneri defender explained –. He’s a great player, with many qualities, and you always have to stay alert.”
The defender also wanted to thank the great support from Milan fans present in the capital: “We are very happy to see so many fans here in Rome. Their support is always very important to us.”
However, the Olimpico match did not smile on the Rossoneri. Isaksen’s goal in the first half decided the contest and prevented Milan from closing the gap to the top of the table.
For Pavlovic, the regret remains for a missed opportunity: an evening in which Milan hoped to relaunch their title challenge but instead left the Rossoneri with many regrets and the awareness that they must react immediately in the upcoming fixtures.
