Stroppa: Venezia's Results Don't Match Performances; We Must Capitalize on Chances

Giovanni Stroppa acknowledges Venezia could face his dismissal following five straight losses with zero points. He stated, "the table does not reflect the performances," including the recent 2-0 defeat to Lazio.

The team's struggles are evident in their inability to convert scoring opportunities, particularly in the first half against Lazio. John Yeboah missed a penalty, saved by Christos Mandas. A brief moment of confusion arose regarding who would take the penalty, with Akor Adams wanting the ball until Stroppa instructed Yeboah.

Lazio capitalized on Venezia's missed chances, securing a 2-0 victory with a Mattia Zaccagni penalty and a Tijjani Noslin header.

Stroppa: Venezia's Numbers Are Dire

“The table does not reflect the team’s performances,” Stroppa told Sky Sport Italia. “Look at the statistics: we had six shots on target, Lazio had two, and we lost 2-0. The first half was exceptional; we were well prepared, and the players interpreted the plan perfectly.”

“The penalty could have been a turning point, but we didn’t make the most of it, while Lazio converted their spot-kick. Despite that, the team didn’t falter, but we still lost 2-0.”

Reports suggest Stroppa might be the third Serie A coach sacked this season, following Fabio Grosso at Fiorentina and Domenico Tedesco at Bologna.

“If I were the President, I wouldn’t dismiss the coach, because the work we’ve done is clear. I’m mainly disappointed by the limited player availability,” Stroppa added. “Of course, I’m not the President, so the decision isn’t mine. We’ll see what influences the decision – the results or the daily work.”

Venezia faces numerous absences, including Gianluca Busio, Ridgeciano Haps, Andrea Adorante, Armel Bella-Kotchap, Marin Sverko, Bartol Franjic, and Toma Basic.

The team sits at the bottom of the league with five defeats from five matches, scoring four goals and conceding 13. This marks their worst start to a season since 2001/02.

“Our standing could be very different considering the chances created over these five games. I see no negative signals from the squad, but the numbers are unforgiving. We played Lazio, one of the league’s best teams right now, yet we created a lot and allowed little. You’ve got to take those chances.”

The issue isn't a lack of opportunities, but rather too many individual errors at both ends of the pitch.

“With the Noslin goal, perhaps the goalkeeper could have come out for the cross. Juan Jesus provided significant support today with communication and dictating the tempo.”

Coaches linked with the Stadio Penzo job include Igor Tudor and Roberto D’Aversa. Stroppa had previously led Venezia to the Serie B title last season, securing promotion.