At Wanda Metropolitano, a clash for the top spot in Group E of the Champions League is set as Atletico Madrid welcomes Lazio for their final group-stage match.
With just one point separating the teams, both have secured a place in the last 16, with Atletico currently leading in second place.
Match Preview
Atletico Madrid, after a disappointing group-stage exit last year, have secured their last-16 spot early this season, winning three and drawing two of their first five Group E matches.
They need only to avoid defeat against Lazio to top the group for the first time since 2016-17.
Diego Simeone’s side, following a 3-1 victory against Feyenoord in the Netherlands on matchday five, will look to continue their winning ways. They are now third in La Liga and have already showcased dominance at home in the group stage.
Lazio, for the first time in three years, have qualified for the last 16 after accumulating 10 points from their initial five group-stage matches.
Maurizio Sarri’s men need a win against Atletico to secure the top spot, but they face a tough task, having struggled on the road in recent games.
While Lazio has shown strength in the Champions League, they’ve had mixed fortunes domestically, recently drawing against Verona in Serie A.
However, they aim to change their away form in Europe against an Atletico side they have struggled against in previous encounters.
Team News
Atletico Madrid is still without Thomas Lemar, Vitolo, and Pablo Barrios due to long-term injuries. Simeone might consider rotating his squad, with some players pushing for a starting spot.
Lazio’s Adam Marusic joins Alessio Romagnoli, Patric, and Gustav Isaksen on the injury list. Nicolo Rovella is suspended, so Sarri has decisions to make in midfield and defense.
Possible Lineups
Atletico Madrid: (3-4-2-1)
Oblak;
Gimenez, Witsel, Hermoso;
Llorente, Koke, De Paul, Lino;
Correa, Griezmann;
Morata
Lazio: (4-3-3)
Provedel;
Lazzari, Casale, Gila, Hysaj;
Kamada, Guendouzi, Alberto;
Anderson, Immobile, Zaccagni
Prediction: Atletico Madrid 2-1 Lazio
In what is expected to be a closely contested match, Atletico Madrid has the home advantage and a strong home record in the group stage.
Lazio’s recent struggles away from home might give Atletico the edge to secure a slender victory and claim the top spot in Group E.