The U-Power Stadium is set to host an intriguing Serie A clash on Sunday as struggling Monza welcome high-flying Lazio. With contrasting form and ambitions, this match could prove pivotal for both sides as the season approaches its midway point.
Lazio enter this fixture in scintillating form, having won their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent run of three consecutive Serie A victories has propelled them to 6th place, just three points off the summit. Marco Baroni’s men have been particularly prolific, netting 10 goals in their last three league outings.
In stark contrast, Monza find themselves in a precarious position, sitting 18th in the table after a run of two straight defeats without scoring. Alessandro Nesta’s side have picked up just one point from their last three matches, leaving them firmly entrenched in the relegation battle.
Lazio’s impressive form continued midweek with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Porto in the Europa League. The Biancocelesti showed their resilience, with veteran forward Pedro netting a late winner to maintain their perfect record in the competition.
In Serie A, Lazio overcame Cagliari 2-1 last weekend thanks to a 76th-minute Mattia Zaccagni penalty. This ability to secure late victories has become a hallmark of Baroni’s team, with nine of their league goals this season coming in the final 15 minutes – more than any other side.
Monza, meanwhile, are still reeling from a controversial 1-0 defeat to AC Milan. The Brianzoli had a Dany Mota goal controversially disallowed, much to the frustration of coach Nesta. This setback followed a 2-0 loss to Atalanta, leaving Monza without a goal in their last two outings.
History favors the visitors in this matchup. Monza have never beaten either of the Roman clubs in Serie A, failing to even keep a clean sheet in nine attempts. However, they did manage to draw both encounters with Lazio last season, offering a glimmer of hope for the hosts.
Monza’s home form is a major concern, with the Biancorossi winless in their last 10 Serie A matches at the U-Power Stadium dating back to March. While they have enjoyed some cup success at home, their league form in front of their own fans needs urgent improvement.
The crucial battle in this match could be Monza’s ability to withstand Lazio’s late pressure. The Biancocelesti have been lethal in the final stages of matches, scoring 12 goals in the last 30 minutes of their 11 Serie A games this season.
Monza’s defence, which has already conceded 20 goals this campaign, will need to maintain concentration for the full 90 minutes to have any chance of a positive result. The likes of Pablo Mari and Luca Caldirola will be key to organizing the backline and withstanding the expected Lazio onslaught.
Team News
Nesta has several injury concerns to contend with. Goalkeeper Alessio Cragno, midfielders Stefano Sensi and Roberto Gagliardini, and forward Andrea Petagna are all expected to miss out. Omari Forson is another doubt for the hosts.
Despite these absences, Monza still have options in attack. Milan Djuric, who scored twice against Lazio in this fixture last season, is likely to lead the line. Daniel Maldini and Dany Mota could provide support, though Gianluca Caprari and Samuele Vignato are also pushing for starting berths.
Baroni has the luxury of an almost fully fit squad to choose from. Manuel Lazzari has returned from injury, while Tijjani Noslin is available after serving a UEFA suspension. The only confirmed absentee is Gaetano Castrovilli, who is sidelined until 2025.
Given the congested fixture list, Baroni may opt to rotate his squad. Boulaye Dia could return to the starting lineup after contributing three goals in his last two Serie A appearances. The Senegalese striker has already matched his league tally from last season.
Expected Starting XIs
Lazio: Turati; Izzo, Mari, Carboni; Pereira, Pessina, Bondo, Kyriakopoulos; Mota, Maldini; Djuric
Monza: Provedel; Lazzari, Gila, Romagnoli, Tavares; Rovella, Guendouzi; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos
Match Prediction
Given the contrasting form and historical head-to-head record, Lazio enter this match as strong favorites. Their attacking prowess and ability to score late goals make them a formidable opponent for a Monza side lacking in confidence.
While the hosts may put up stern resistance initially, Lazio’s quality should ultimately shine through. Expect the visitors to secure a comfortable victory, potentially with some late goals to add gloss to the scoreline.
Prediction: Monza 1-3 Lazio
