Cagliari coach Zdenek Zeman was proud of his players despite defeat to Lazio at the Stadio Sant’Elia on Saturday afternoon, believing the sending off of Modibo Diakite was crucial.
The Isolani looked a match for the visitors for the majority of the game, however, the centre-back saw red shortly after they fell behind for a second time and they eventually conceded a third in injury-time.
“I think the match was quite well balanced until we were reduced to 10 men,” Zeman told Radio Rai.
“The team is not physically at its best and with each passing minute it is a little more tired.
“I’m proud of my boys and now we think about the next game.
“We must not look at the standings, but play game-by-game only thinking about doing the best you can. I am convinced that the team can do well.
With the Biancocelesti putting pressure on neighbours Roma – ahead by a single point – Zeman believes the second automatic Champions League place could well rest on their encounter on the final day of the Serie A season.
“Who will finish higher between Lazio and Rome? I think the Biancocelesti at this time are better,” admitted Zeman. “But we must see.
“Roma today won a game that is not easy and if the play like that until the end it could be decided by who wins the derby.”
