Roma coach Claudio Ranieri admits their title hopes are on the line today against Lazio.

The Giallorossi need victory to reclaim the Serie A leadership from Inter Milan.

Ranieri said: "It is a fantastic season and won't be decided until the last round. The final straight is right there and we must not stop to smile or shake hands. Our fans know that. They give us the energy and we pour it back out on the field."

Lazio were going through a crisis, but have rediscovered their form in time for Sunday's Derby della Capitale.

"It's going to be very difficult and wonderful to take part in, surrounded by a magnificent crowd. Usually the side that is higher up the table is not the favourite in these situations, especially as Lazio need a derby win to 'salvage' their season."

It is a particularly emotional fixture for Ranieri, who is in charge of his hometown club, but kick-off has been brought forward to 17.30 UK time over security fears.

"It's wonderful. In Rome if you do badly in the derby, you can't leave the house. If you do well, you can't leave the house for all the hugs and congratulations! Basically, you have to stay in.

"These are positive emotions and the lads have worked so hard. I do this job precisely because of the sensations it brings. We'll play our game and I hope the city can have fun. It needs to be a festival of football."