Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri was pleased with victory over Hellas Verona.
Ciro Immobile and Luis Alberto struck for the 2-0 win.
“It was a tough game. Last season we collected five points after the eight Europa League games and we averaged two points per game in the other matches. In the end, our season was affected by that [European games]," Sarri told DAZN.
“It is difficult for everyone to play in Europe, also abroad. Bayern got a 2-2 draw against a low-table team. It is difficult and last season, we made life even more challenging for ourselves.
“I am satisfied because it was a tough game. You need patience against Verona, especially if you don't score immediately. They made 24-25 fouls throughout the game, we made something like five."
Sarri also took aim at the Olimpico pitch: “We won today, so I can say it: we won a game on a turf that is not worthy of the city of Rome and was even more difficult."
