Torino coach Marco Baroni expresses strong disapproval of the decisive penalty and reflects on his team`s performance after the 2-1 loss to Parma.
Even a usually calm and thoughtful person like Marco Baroni couldn`t stomach such a penalty. It`s pointless to beat around the bush: matches often revolve around specific incidents, and when refereeing decisions feel like an injustice, as in the case of the penalty awarded to Parma and converted by Pellegrino, the ninety minutes become an almost impossible uphill battle. Marco Baroni didn`t raise his voice, not even this time. But his message was very clear.
He has a vast background, first as a successful player and then with extensive experience as a coach. He draws upon this experience to describe the key moment that turned the entire evening at the Tardini.
“In football, there are dynamics of movement: it`s impossible for players to jump like penguins with their hands behind their backs,” said the Toro coach, referring to the incident involving Ismajli that led to the 1-0 penalty. “When an arm is not stretched out towards the ball but is instead extended along the body, as we`ve seen in many other cases in our league, it cannot be a foul.”
Baroni went further, offering his cooperation to the refereeing class. “I am convinced that, little by little, by working together, we will correct these situations to respect football and the spectacle, moving in the right direction. I am ready to offer my contribution of experience, because this rule will need a slight modification.”
During the match, Baroni was cautioned… “because the referee told me I celebrated too much after our goal. I will try to be more moderate next time.”
Post-Match Analysis: Baroni on Parma-Torino 2-1
Despite the result, the Granata delivered one of their best performances, particularly in the first half, demonstrating strong composure and aggressive attacking pressing. “The team played an important match, providing answers, starting with their aggressiveness,” reflected the Torino coach. “We sought to win back possession and created many chances. Aside from the penalty, Parma had only two shots.”
The negative outcome, however, was hard for the coach to accept. “This defeat stings,” Baroni continued, “we are angry, but there`s also the awareness that this is the right path. We need to do more, always playing with this discipline, with this energy, because the performance was convincing. Obviously, we are heavily penalized by the result; in the upcoming matches, we must add a bit more attention.”
He added: “The team must not take a step back: this is the path to continue on, and obviously, it`s certain that we must do better. I told the players that we must believe, continue, and insist on this type of performance.”
Maripan concluded: “The situation isn`t good, but we remain positive; we must have faith in the team. From now on, we`ll think one game at a time.”
