As the Serie A season approaches its midpoint, Lazio prepare to host league leaders Atalanta at the Stadio Olimpico in a highly anticipated clash. With both teams in formidable form, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter that could have significant implications for the title race.
Atalanta enter this match riding high on an impressive streak, having won their last ten league games. Under the astute management of Gian Piero Gasperini, La Dea have transformed into a dominant force in Italian football, currently sitting at the top of the Serie A table with 40 points. Their recent performances have showcased their attacking prowess and tactical discipline, making them a formidable opponent for any team.
Lazio, meanwhile, are also in good form, securing four victories in their last five matches across all competitions. Marco Baroni’s side managed to bounce back from a heavy defeat to Inter Milan with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Lecce in their last outing. Sitting fourth in the league with 34 points, Lazio will be eager to close the gap on the leaders and assert their credentials as serious title contenders.
The history between these two clubs adds another layer of intrigue to this matchup. In their last eight league encounters, both teams have claimed three victories each, indicating a competitive rivalry. Notably, Lazio has been strong at home, and they will look to leverage this advantage against an Atalanta side that has shown vulnerability in past visits to the capital.
Team News
Lazio will be without several key players for this crucial fixture. Midfielder Matias Vecino is sidelined due to a thigh injury, while forwards Pedro and Tijjani Noslin are also unavailable due to injuries. The status of experienced center-back Alessio Romagnoli remains uncertain as he deals with a knee issue. If Romagnoli is deemed fit to play, Lazio may opt for an unchanged starting lineup that features a potent attacking trio of Gustav Isaksen, Boulaye Dia, and captain Mattia Zaccagni supporting Taty Castellanos up front.
Atalanta, on the other hand, faces their own injury challenges. The team will miss the services of striker Mateo Retegui due to an ankle injury sustained recently, joining Gianluca Scamacca on the sidelines. However, they will welcome back captain Marten de Roon from suspension, providing a boost to their midfield. Charles De Ketelaere has been in sensational form and will be expected to lead the line alongside Ademola Lookman as they aim to continue their impressive scoring run.
Expected Starting XIs
Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Tavares; Guendouzi, Rovella; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Ruggeri; Pasalic, Lookman; De Ketelaere
Match Prediction
Lazio have a very decent home record and it will take something special to get the best of them. Atalanta, on the other hand, have rarely dropped points this season, and like to play on the front foot. A slender away win could be on the cards, with both sides expected to attack from the off.
Prediction: Lazio 1-2 Atalanta
