The former Biancoceleste midfielder, Ousmane Dabowho wore the shirt of Lazio from 2003 to 2006 and from 2008 to 2010, he gave a long interview for Ouest France. Among the many current and non-current topics covered, Dabo he also told of his parenthesis at Lazio. Here is an excerpt from the interview regarding his biancoceleste parenthesis.
Dabo’s words
“At Lazio I played more than 150 matches, I won two Italian Cups and an Italian Super Cup. It was an exceptional experience. In 2009 I took the decisive penalty in the Cup final against Sampdoria. To this day I have a special bond with the Lazio fans, they always talk to me about that final: it was played in Rome, three quarters of the stadium were dressed in blue and white. It’s an indelible memory.
On the Derby
The Roman derby is one of the most difficult in the world. Rome is impressive. When I signed for Lazio, they told me: “You have to win the derby to be loved.” Some also say that the stakes penalize both teams. They focus too much on this match. Sometimes we even forget about the championship. If you lose to Roma, your season can be ruined. I remember the one on January 6, 2005, in which we won 3-1. Roma were favourites, no one thought we were winners. The 3-2 in 2008 is also unforgettable: Behrami scored the winning goal. I played about ten derbies, I got shivers when the two corners met.
My favorite anecdote?
I remember the elderly ladies of Roma. When we passed by on the bus, they stood on their balconies, gave us the middle finger and we laughed. This is Italian folklore.
The more you become attached to the club, the more you become involved in the game. Over time I managed to do it. I got there at 26, so I started putting the pressure aside.”
