Lazio vs Palermo preview - Cosmi aiming for Europe

Posted Sunday, March 06, 2011 by PA

New Palermo coach Serse Cosmi has set his side a target of qualifying for the Europa League as he prepares for his first Serie A match at the helm at Lazio.

Cosmi agreed a deal until the end of the season to replace Delio Rossi, who was sacked following the club's dismal form last month.

Last Sunday's 7-0 hammering by Udinese in Sicily was Palermo's third consecutive defeat and proved the final straw for club president Maurizio Zamparini.

Cosmi, who had been out of a job since leaving Livorno in January 2010, has spoken of the objectives set out for his tenure.

"I believe Palermo has great resources," Cosmi said. "I am certain that I am coaching a team that has great quality.

"I don't see any psychological problems, I only see the positives.

"We have the possibility to finish in the top six and play in Europe next season and we are also alive in the Coppa Italia.

"I believe we can achieve those objectives."

Palermo lie eighth in the standings, just three points behind sixth-placed Roma, who hold the last European qualifying spot.

If the Sicilians are to be successful, they will have to show a drastic improvement in defence.

Palermo have given away 43 goals in 27 games, 12 of which have come in their last three games.

They have the second leakiest defence in the competition behind Lecce, who have conceded 48 times.

Lazio, meanwhile, lost 1-0 at Cagliari in the last round to see their five-match unbeaten run come to an end.

The Biancoceleste expect to forget about last weekend's defeat and focus on strengthening their grip on fourth place.

Lazio, who hold the last Champions League qualifying spot, are one point clear of in-form Udinese and are unbeaten at the Stadio Olimpico since January 9.

The hosts will be without injured defenders Andre Dias and Mobido Diakite.

Palermo's Armin Bacinovic and Matteo Darmian are both suspended.