The Europa League’s new format kicks off on Wednesday evening as Dynamo Kiev and Lazio clash at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion in their opening group stage encounter. This match marks the beginning of an extended campaign, mirroring the Champions League structure with eight games before the knockout stages.
Dynamo Kiev enter the Europa League after a narrow Champions League playoff defeat to Red Bull Salzburg (3-1 on aggregate). Despite this setback, they’ve shown impressive domestic form, leading the Ukrainian Premier League with five wins from six matches.
The Ukrainian giants have struggled in recent Europa League campaigns, winless in their last 11 group stage matches. They also seek their first victory against Lazio in competitive fixtures, adding extra motivation to this encounter.
Oleksandr Shovkovskyi’s side finished just two points behind champions Shakhtar Donetsk last season. Their strong start to the current campaign suggests they’re determined to reclaim the domestic title while making a mark in Europe.
Lazio arrive in Hamburg with mixed form in Serie A, currently sitting eighth in the table. New manager Marco Baroni is still finding his footing with the squad following a summer of changes.
The Italian side boasts a perfect record against Dynamo Kiev in away fixtures, winning both previous encounters. However, this “home” game for Dynamo will be played at a neutral venue due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Lazio’s recent 2-1 defeat to Fiorentina highlighted their inconsistency, but they’ve maintained an impressive scoring streak, finding the net in 13 consecutive matches since April.
Team News
Dynamo’s attack will be spearheaded by veteran striker Andriy Yarmolenko and young talent Vladyslav Vanat. The midfield trio of Volodymyr Brazhko, Mykola Shaparenko, and Oleksandr Pikhalyonok will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game.
Marco Baroni faces selection dilemmas in attack. Former captain Ciro Immobile’s summer departure, coupled with injuries to Taty Castellanos and Boulaye Dia, leaves the forward line unsettled.
New signing Gustav Isaksen, who has an impressive Europa League record, could play a key role. Captain Mattia Zaccagni is expected to lead the front line alongside Pedro and potentially Tijjani Noslin.
Expected Starting XIs
Dynamo Kiev: Bushchan; Karavaev, Popov, Mykhavko, Dubinchak; Brazhko, Shaparenko, Pikhalyonok; Yarmolenko, Vanat, Kabayev
Lazio: Mandas; Lazzari, Gila, Romagnoli, Tavares; Rovella, Guendouzi; Isaksen, Pedro, Zaccagni; Noslin
Match Prediction
Given Dynamo’s strong domestic form and Lazio’s inconsistency, a closely fought draw seems likely. Both teams have the quality to score, but defensive organization could be key in this opening fixture.
Prediction: Dynamo Kiev 1-1 Lazio
