Maurizio Sarri warns Serie A defences as Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s pace shines in Lazio draw with Atalanta

Maurizio Sarri believes Fisayo Dele-Bashiru possesses the explosive qualities capable of unsettling any defence in Serie A after the Nigerian midfielder delivered an eye-catching display for SS Lazio in their thrilling Coppa Italia semifinal clash against Atalanta BC.

The Super Eagles midfielder underlined his growing influence by finding the net in Wednesday night’s first leg encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, helping Lazio secure a 2–2 draw in a contest that swung from end to end.

Dele-Bashiru’s energy and direct running repeatedly stretched the Atalanta back line, providing a glimpse of the attacking threat Sarri believes the 24-year-old can consistently offer as he continues to adapt to Italian football.

Speaking after the match, the Lazio coach highlighted the midfielder’s remarkable speed and ability to surge forward with purpose, attributes he considers rare among players in similar positions.

Sarri suggested that when Dele-Bashiru accelerates into open space, defenders often struggle to contain him, particularly because of the intensity and timing of his forward bursts from midfield.

“Dele-Bashiru can cause problems for anyone, when he manages to launch himself forward he can reach speeds of 36 km/h,” Sarri told Pazzi Di Fanta.

The Italian tactician, however, emphasised that the next step in the Nigerian’s development lies in sustaining such performances over a longer stretch of matches.

Sarri noted that while flashes of brilliance are encouraging, Lazio require greater regularity from their attacking options if they are to translate promising displays into decisive results across competitions.

“Taylor, on the other hand, has different characteristics, he’s a setter and has less pace,” Sarri added.

“To have more consistency we need to have a group of attackers who would guarantee us more goals.”

Dele-Bashiru’s goal against Atalanta continues a season in which the Nigerian has gradually carved out a larger role in Sarri’s plans.