Lazio, struggling in Serie A but excelling in European competition, return to domestic action on Saturday as they host an improving Cagliari at the Stadio Olimpico.
Match Preview
Lazio’s Serie A campaign has been a challenge, gathering only 17 points from 13 matches and currently sitting 11th in the table.
However, their Champions League triumph against Celtic propelled them into the last 16 of the competition.
A recent loss to Salernitana followed a goalless draw in the Derby della Capitale, highlighting Lazio’s domestic struggles.
Despite this, their wins in the Champions League against Feyenoord and Celtic have given them something to look forward to in 2024.
Meanwhile, Cagliari’s recent form has seen improvement. They managed to secure seven points from their last four Serie A matches, climbing out of the bottom of the table after a challenging start to the season.
Although they have a poor record against Lazio, losing 13 of their last 16 meetings, recent performances suggest an uptick in their form.
In their last league encounter, Cagliari secured a draw against Monza, but their away form remains a concern, having gathered just two points from six away fixtures this season.
Team News
Lazio’s Matias Vecino returns after serving a one-match European suspension, while Luis Alberto is available after missing the previous match due to suspension.
However, they still have injuries to key players like Alessio Romagnoli, Nicolo Casale, and Mattia Zaccagni.
For Cagliari, Andrea Petagna, Eldor Shomurodov, Gianluca Lapadula, and Leonardo Pavoletti are in contention for the forward line, with Marco Mancosu potentially sidelined due to a knee injury.
Possible Lineups
Lazio:(4-3-3)
Provedel;
Lazzari, Patric, Gila, Marusic;
Guendouzi, Vecino, Alberto;
Anderson, Immobile, Pedro
Cagliari:(3-4-1-2)
Scuffet;
Goldaniga, Dossena, Hatzidiakos;
Zappa, Prati, Makoumbou, Augello;
Viola;
Luvumbo, Petagna
Prediction
Lazio, under pressure to perform, faces a Cagliari side that has shown recent improvement. Despite the defensive woes, Lazio’s strength in attack and Cagliari’s vulnerabilities might lead to a victory for the home side.
- Our Prediction: Lazio 2-1 Cagliari
Lazio is expected to secure a narrow win against Cagliari, leveraging their attacking prowess and taking advantage of Cagliari’s defensive fragility.