The 2-6 draw suffered at the Mapei Stadium between Sassuolo and Lazio represented a severe blow for Alessio Aquilani's team, which now finds itself facing a series of defensive difficulties that can no longer be masked by the quality of the game. The match, which saw the Black team concede six goals in a single match, was the last in a sequence of three consecutive defeats and confirmed a fragility that has now become evident in every match.
Before Thorstvedt's dismissal, the Neroversi had already conceded three goals in the first sixteen minutes, with misreading and a lack of protection leaving the team in a position of constant vulnerability. Despite Sassuolo's offensive ability, which continues to score, create and try to build, every good move was canceled out by subsequent defensive errors. Serie A rewards above all those who know how to manage the most difficult moments, recognize danger and duck when necessary; Sassuolo, with 22 goals conceded, is currently the worst defense in the championship.
In addition to the technical difficulties, the team seems to lose confidence at the first moment of difficulty. It's not so much a question of lack of talent but of an attitude that tends to break down when the game requires coolness and compactness. This season's numbers - one point in five matchdays, four defeats and a draw, 12 goals conceded in three consecutive games - only accentuate the need for immediate change. Sassuolo scored 14 goals but conceded 22 in nine games, a figure that highlights the precariousness of the defense.
The 2-6 against Lazio must not turn into a condemnation, but must be interpreted as a wake-up call. The team must demonstrate that they possess not only ideas but also nerves, balance and hunger, so as not to be easily overwhelmed. Aquilani underlined the urgency of a change, highlighting that the team must "hold on" to the matches to save itself.
The next match, scheduled for Monday, will be against Fiorentina. In that match, the black team will have to avoid the mistakes that have characterized the last few matches and try to consolidate their defense, in order to avoid further defeats and improve their position in the standings.