Petkovic aims to dominate Fenerbache

Vladimir Petkovic is confident that Lazio can beat Fenerbahce in their Europa League quarter-final first leg tie in Turkey on Thursday.

Lazio are the only side yet to taste defeat in the competition this season, and while coach Petkovic respects his side’s opponents, he says his side will take the game to them.

“They are a very valid opponent, well known on the European stage and with their fans in this atmosphere they have a slight advantage,” the 49-year-old told reporters.

“We have to make the most of our physical and psychological characteristics to beat Fenerbahce. We are here to dominate our opponents,” he continued.

Despite a crucial derby match against arch-rivals Roma looming on Monday night, Petkovic inststs there will be no squad rotation for either game.

“From Friday we will think about the Rome derby, but not before. All the players in the squad can feature, then I must decide if they start or are on the bench.”

Lazio will also have to play the second leg at Stadio Olimpico behind closed doors, following a two-match ban for fans after incidences of racist abuse from a small section of supporters, which Petkovic admits could harm his side’s chances.

“Fenerbahce have two advantages,” he said.

“The crowd is their 12th man tomorrow and they are also more accustomed to playing without fans than we are.”