This Saturday evening, the Allianz Stadium in Turin will host a highly anticipated Serie A encounter between Juventus and Lazio. Both teams are currently level on 13 points in the league standings, making this match crucial for their respective ambitions this season.
Juventus, under new manager Thiago Motta, remain unbeaten in Serie A this season. However, their recent form has been characterized by draws, including a disappointing 1-1 result against struggling Cagliari in their last outing. The Bianconeri sit just three points behind league leaders Napoli, showcasing their title credentials despite the recent stalemates.
Lazio, led by Marco Baroni, come into this fixture in excellent form. They’ve won their last four matches across all competitions, including impressive victories in both Serie A and the Europa League. This run has propelled them up the table, matching Juventus’ point tally and hinting at their own ambitions for the season.
The history between these two sides heavily favors Juventus, especially in Turin. The Old Lady has lost just one of their last 20 Serie A meetings with Lazio at home, winning 15. However, recent encounters suggest a shifting dynamic, with Lazio winning two of the last three league matches against Juventus.
Juventus’ youthful approach under Motta, boasting the second-youngest average age in Serie A, will be tested against Lazio’s experienced squad. The hosts’ ability to maintain their unbeaten record while integrating young talents like Nicolo Savona and Samuel Mbangula will be crucial.
Lazio’s impressive away record this season, coupled with their ability to come from behind (gaining the most points from losing positions), sets the stage for a potentially thrilling encounter. The visitors’ attacking prowess, particularly through the in-form Nuno Tavares, will challenge Juventus’ previously impenetrable defense.
Team News
Motta faces several selection challenges due to injuries and suspensions. Long-term absentees Arkadiusz Milik and Bremer are joined on the sidelines by doubts over summer signings Teun Koopmeiners and Nico Gonzalez. Weston McKennie and Nicolo Fagioli are also nursing minor injuries, while Francisco Conceicao is suspended.
Baroni has a nearly full-strength squad to choose from, with only Manuel Lazzari definitely ruled out. Matteo Guendouzi is a slight doubt but expected to recover from a toe injury.
Expected Starting XIs
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Savona, Kalulu, Gatti, Cabal; Locatelli, Thuram; Cambiaso, Yildiz, Mbangula; Vlahovic
Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Tavares; Rovella, Guendouzi; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos
Match Prediction
Given Juventus’ recent tendency to draw matches and Lazio’s strong form, this encounter could end in a closely contested draw. Both teams have shown defensive solidity and attacking prowess, which could lead to a tactical battle.
Prediction: Juventus 1-1 Lazio
