Maurizio Sarri has a unique approach to managing the pressure of Lazio's season-defining week: he's asking his players to pretend the next two games don't exist. That's no small request, considering those fixtures are the Coppa Italia Final and the Rome Derby.

Speaking ahead of today's Serie A clash with Inter at the Stadio Olimpico (kick-off at 17.00 UK time), Sarri explained his strategy to DAZN Italia. "I tried to pretend the next two games don't exist, because if you don't attack the game from the start, you'll be on the back foot, and then put in a bad performance. We've got to give it our all today with the right attitude, then from tonight we can start thinking about the next."

The timing couldn't be more intense. These two teams will meet again at the same venue on Wednesday, May 13, for the Coppa Italia Final. For Lazio, victory could secure a spot in the Europa League. For Inter, who have already wrapped up the Scudetto, it's a chance to seal the Double. Adding to the drama, the two sets of ultras—traditionally allied—are boycotting today's match in protest against Lazio president Claudio Lotito, though they'll be present for the final.

And that's not all. Lazio also face bitter rivals Roma in the Derby della Capitale, making this a week that could define their season. Sarri's focus on the present is tactical, but it's also a survival mechanism.

Injuries continue to test Lazio's depth. Key players Mattia Zaccagni, Danilo Cataldi, Ivan Provedel, and Samuel Gigot are all sidelined. However, there's good news: Nicolò Rovella returns to the starting lineup for the first time since fracturing his clavicle on February 21. Pedro also gets the nod in attack, with Sarri noting, "Rovella is improving, he needs minutes on the field. Zaccagni had a bruise to his foot yesterday in training and Pedro is in good shape, so it was the best decision."

With Inter able to rotate after their title win, Lazio must dig deep. If they can channel Sarri's "one game at a time" mindset, they might just find the momentum they need for the battles ahead.