As Serie A action heats up, Cagliari prepare to host Lazio at the Unipol Domus on Monday in a match that could have significant implications for both teams’ seasons. With Cagliari fighting to avoid relegation and Lazio aiming to secure a top-four finish, this clash promises to be an intriguing battle.
Cagliari, under the guidance of Davide Nicola, have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks. The Isolani have managed to lift themselves just above the relegation zone, but their position remains precarious. Their last outing resulted in a 2-0 defeat against Torino, highlighting the challenges they still face in maintaining their Serie A status.
Lazio, on the other hand, have experienced a dip in form after a strong start to the season. Marco Baroni’s men currently occupy the fourth spot in the table, but their grip on a Champions League position is loosening. The Biancocelesti are coming off back-to-back defeats, including a 2-1 home loss to Fiorentina in Serie A and a 1-0 defeat to Sporting Braga in the Europa League.
The historical record heavily favors Lazio in this fixture. The Roman club are unbeaten in their last 19 Serie A encounters against Cagliari, winning 16 of those matches. Moreover, Lazio have won each of their last five visits to Sardinia, outscoring Cagliari 12-3 in the process. This dominant record sets a formidable backdrop for Monday’s clash.
For Cagliari, the focus will be on their attacking options. Roberto Piccoli has been a bright spot for the Sardinians, netting five goals in 22 league appearances. The hosts will need to shore up their defense, which has been particularly vulnerable to set-pieces this season.
Lazio will look to their midfield maestro Matteo Guendouzi to control the tempo of the game, assuming he recovers from a recent illness. The return of Nicolo Rovella and Mattia Zaccagni from suspension should bolster the Biancocelesti’s lineup. Ciro Immobile’s form will be crucial for Lazio’s attacking threat.
Team News
Cagliari have a relatively clean bill of health, with only Zito Luvumbo remaining a doubt due to an ankle issue. The home side is likely to field a 4-4-1-1 formation, with Piccoli leading the line.
Lazio will be without full-backs Nuno Tavares and Manuel Lazzari due to injury, while Patric and Matias Vecino are also sidelined. Baroni is expected to revert to his strongest available XI after rotating the squad for the Europa League fixture.
Expected Starting XIs
Cagliari: Caprile; Zappa, Mina, Luperto, Obert; Zortea, Deiola, Marin, Felici; Gaetano; Piccoli
Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Guendouzi, Rovella; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos
Match Prediction
Given Lazio’s historical dominance in this fixture and their need to bounce back from recent setbacks, they enter as favorites. However, Cagliari’s desperation for points in their relegation battle could make this a closely contested affair.
Lazio’s superior quality should ultimately shine through, but Cagliari’s home advantage could see them put up a spirited fight. Expect an entertaining match with goals at both ends, but Lazio’s firepower and experience should see them emerge victorious.
Prediction: Cagliari 0-3 Lazio
