As the Serie A season reaches it’s half way point, fourth-placed Lazio welcomes a struggling Fiorentina side to the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday evening. This match promises to be a captivating encounter between two teams with contrasting recent fortunes.
Lazio enter this fixture riding a wave of momentum, having secured back-to-back victories that have bolstered their position in both Serie A and the Europa League. Their recent 3-0 triumph over Hellas Verona in the league, followed by a commanding 3-1 win against Real Sociedad in Europe, has injected a surge of confidence into Marco Baroni’s squad.
The Biancocelesti’s European campaign has been particularly impressive, with the team remaining unbeaten and securing direct entry to the last 16 of the Europa League. This success allows them to focus more intently on their domestic challenges, including the upcoming Coppa Italia quarter-final against Inter Milan.
In contrast, Fiorentina arrive in Rome in the midst of a concerning slump. The Viola have failed to secure a victory in their last six league matches, equaling their worst such streak since late 2020. Their most recent outing, a disappointing 1-1 draw against 10-man Torino, epitomizes their current struggles.
Lazio’s home form has been formidable, with only one loss at the Stadio Olimpico all season. They’ve also demonstrated a knack for late drama, scoring the most goals in the final 15 minutes of matches in Serie A this season.
Fiorentina, despite their recent woes, will draw confidence from their 2-1 victory over Lazio earlier in the season. However, replicating that success at the Olimpico, where they’ve struggled historically, presents a significant challenge.
The match could hinge on how well Fiorentina’s defense copes with Lazio’s potent attack. The partnership of Taty Castellanos and Boulaye Dia has been particularly effective for Lazio, with Dia scoring in his last two league appearances. Fiorentina’s backline will need to be at their best to contain this threat.
Lazio are likely to employ their high-pressing, quick-transition style that has served them well this season. Their ability to score late in games suggests they maintain intensity throughout the 90 minutes.
Fiorentina, under pressure to turn their form around, may adopt a more cautious approach initially, looking to frustrate Lazio and strike on the counter-attack. The performance of Moise Kean will be crucial to their offensive strategy.
Team News
Lazio may see some rotation following their European exertions. Ivan Provedel is expected to reclaim his place in goal, while Samuel Gigot and Luca Pellegrini return from suspension. The availability of assist specialist Nuno Tavares remains uncertain due to a knee issue.
For Fiorentina, the focus will be on striker Moise Kean, who is on the verge of equalling his best-ever league tally. The Viola’s midfield composition remains a point of interest, with Amir Richardson, Rolando Mandragora, and new signing Michael Folorunsho vying for a starting berth alongside Yacine Adli.
Expected Starting XIs
Lazio: Provedel; Hysaj, Gigot, Gila, Pellegrini; Rovella, Guendouzi; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos
Fiorentina: De Gea; Dodo, Comuzzo, Ranieri, Gosens; Adli, Mandragora; Colpani, Gudmundsson, Folorunsho; Kean
Match Prediction
Given Lazio’s strong home record and Fiorentina’s recent struggles, a home victory seems the most likely outcome. However, the unpredictable nature of Serie A means surprises are always possible. A 2-1 win for Lazio appears to be a reasonable prediction, with the possibility of late drama keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Prediction: Lazio 2-1 Fiorentina
