Lazio is gearing up to host Bologna in an important Serie A clash this Sunday evening. The match comes after an impressive victory in the Coppa Italia, where Lazio defeated AC Milan, signaling their strong form heading into this fixture.
Match Preview
After a narrow 1-0 defeat to AC Milan last week, Lazio bounced back with a decisive win at Stadio Olimpico. Mattia Zaccagni’s second-half header secured their spot in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals. They will meet Bologna in the next round in February, but first, they need to improve their Serie A standings.
Lazio currently occupies eighth place in the league, trailing behind several European qualification contenders. This season, they have been particularly strong at home, claiming 13 points from 18 at the Olimpico and winning their last three matches without conceding. With eight clean sheets across all competitions, Lazio’s defensive prowess has been evident.
The historical matchup favors Lazio, who have won five of their last six home encounters against Bologna. However, the Rossoblu have been formidable away from home, with three wins in their last four overall meetings and an unbeaten run in five Serie A away games.
Recent Performance
Lazio has shown mixed form in their last six Serie A matches: W-D-W-L-W-L. In contrast, Bologna has been more consistent, with results reading D-D-W-W-W-L. This includes a recent victory against Parma in the Coppa Italia, where they won 2-1.
| Team | Serie A Form | All Competitions Form |
|---|---|---|
| Lazio | W D W L W L | D W L W L W |
| Bologna | D D W W W L | D W W W L W |
Team News
Lazio’s coach, Maurizio Sarri, faces challenges with multiple injuries and a transfer ban. Key players like Samuel Gigot, Nicolo Rovella, and Danilo Cataldi will miss the match. However, Valentin Castellanos has returned to the lineup and may lead the attack, alongside Zaccagni.
Bologna will also be without important figures, including goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski and Remo Freuler. Coach Vincenzo Italiano is expected to rotate his squad, especially following their recent matches in the Coppa Italia.
Probable Lineups
- Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Tavares; Guendouzi, Vecino, Basic; Isaksen, Castellanos, Zaccagni
- Bologna: Ravaglia; Holm, Lucumi, Heggem, Miranda; Moro, Ferguson; Orsolini, Odgaard, Cambiaghi; Castro
Conclusion
This highly anticipated match between Lazio and Bologna is set to be a tight contest. With both teams keen to secure valuable points, it could end in a stalemate. Lazio’s defense has been impressive, making a 0-0 draw a likely outcome. Fans can expect an intense battle as both sides aim to solidify their standings in Serie A.
