As the new year dawns, the stage is set for one of the most anticipated fixtures in Italian football: the Derby della Capitale. On Sunday, Roma will host their fierce rivals Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico, with both teams eager to assert their dominance in this historic rivalry. Currently, Roma trail Lazio by 15 points in the Serie A standings, making this match crucial for the Giallorossi as they seek to close the gap.
Roma enter this derby amid a tumultuous period that has seen significant changes within the club. Following a challenging 2024 that included the dismissals of manager Jose Mourinho and club legend Daniele De Rossi, Roma turned to Claudio Ranieri for stability. After a rocky start under Ivan Juric, Ranieri’s return has brought a sense of hope and resurgence, although inconsistency remains a concern.
The Giallorossi managed to salvage a draw against AC Milan in their last outing, which followed a Coppa Italia victory over Sampdoria and a resounding 5-0 win against Parma. However, despite these positive results, Roma’s recent performances against Lazio have not lived up to expectations. Last season’s Coppa Italia defeat was particularly painful for fans and marked a turning point that led to Mourinho’s departure.
In contrast, Lazio have enjoyed a successful run leading up to this derby. The Biancocelesti finished the previous year strong, with four wins in their last six matches, including impressive victories over title contenders Napoli and a Europa League triumph against Ajax. Under manager Marco Baroni, Lazio have established themselves as serious contenders in both domestic and European competitions, currently sitting comfortably in the top four of Serie A.
Team News
For Roma, coach Claudio Ranieri will be without Bryan Cristante due to an ankle injury and Zeki Celik, who is sidelined by illness. Despite these absences, Ranieri is expected to field a strong lineup featuring Artem Dovbyk up front alongside Paulo Dybala. Dybala has historically performed well against Lazio but has struggled to find the net recently. Club captain Lorenzo Pellegrini may find himself on the bench due to ongoing tensions with fans affecting his performance.
Lazio face their own challenges with injuries impacting their squad depth. Key players Matias Vecino and Pedro are unavailable, along with full-back Manuel Lazzari and defender Patric. However, Taty Castellanos is set to lead the attack, supported by captain Mattia Zaccagni, who has been instrumental in previous derby encounters.
Expected Starting XIs
Roma: Svilar; Mancini, Hummels, Ndicka; Saelemaekers, Paredes, Kone, Angelino; Dybala, El Shaarawy; Dovbyk
Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Tavares; Guendouzi, Rovella; Isaksen, Dele-Bashiru, Zaccagni; Castellanos
Match Prediction
Lazio’s attacking prowess and recent form suggest they can exploit Roma’s defensive vulnerabilities. With both teams eager for victory in this high-stakes encounter, fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as they kick off 2025 with one of football’s most passionate rivalries.
Prediction: Roma 1-2 Lazio
