This Sunday, Napoli will host Lazio at the iconic Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in a highly anticipated Serie A showdown. Just three days after their last encounter in the Coppa Italia, where Lazio triumphed 3-1 over Napoli, both teams will be eager to assert their dominance in the league. With the title race heating up, this match carries significant implications for both clubs.
Napoli, managed by Antonio Conte, are currently leading the Serie A table but faces pressure from several close rivals. Their recent cup exit marked a disappointing moment for the Partenopei, as they have now been eliminated in the last 16 of the Coppa Italia for four consecutive years. In that match against Lazio, Conte opted to field a completely different lineup from the one that secured a league victory over Torino just days prior. The decision backfired, resulting in a comprehensive defeat.
Despite this setback, Napoli have made an impressive start to the season, focusing solely on regaining the Scudetto after a strong campaign under Conte. They have maintained a solid defensive record, keeping nine clean sheets in Serie A and two in the Coppa Italia this term. However, their recent form has been mixed; they have won seven of their last nine league matches but are still looking to bounce back from their midweek disappointment.
On the other hand, Lazio come into this match with renewed confidence after their cup victory. Under manager Marco Baroni, they have transformed into serious contenders for the title following a disappointing previous season. However, they suffered a setback last weekend when they lost 3-1 to Parma, ending a five-match winning streak in Serie A. Despite this loss, Lazio remains competitive and is just outside the top four in the league standings.
Historically, Napoli have enjoyed success against Lazio at home, averaging nearly three goals per game in their last 12 home fixtures against the Aquile. However, recent encounters have been less favorable for Napoli; they have lost their last two home league matches against Lazio. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to Sunday’s clash as Napoli seeks revenge for their recent cup defeat.
Team News
Napoli will welcome back several key players who were rested during the cup match. Stars such as Romelu Lukaku, Stanislav Lobotka, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are expected to return to the starting lineup. Giovanni Simeone may drop to the bench despite having an impressive record against Lazio.
In contrast, Lazio will be without left-back Nuno Tavares and midfielder Matias Vecino due to injuries. Boulaye Dia is also doubtful with an ankle issue. Additionally, Nicolo Rovella will miss the match due to suspension after a challenging outing against Parma.
Expected Starting XIs
Napoli: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Buongiorno, Olivera; Anguissa, Lobotka; Politano, McTominay, Kvaratskhelia; Lukaku
Lazio: Provedel; Lazzari, Gila, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Guendouzi, Dele-Bashiru; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos
Match Prediction
Given both teams’ recent performances and historical context, this match promises to be fiercely contested. While Napoli aim to bounce back from their cup exit and maintain their position at the top of Serie A, Lazio will look to build on their midweek success and prove themselves as serious title contenders.
With both teams having potent attacks and solid defenses—Napoli boasting a strong home record—this match could be decided by fine margins.
Prediction: Napoli 2-1 Lazio
