Lazio gears up to face Celtic in a pivotal Champions League clash at home, with the Italian side aiming to secure their spot in the knockout rounds while Celtic fights to stay afloat in the competition.
Match Preview
Lazio enters the match after a disheartening 2-1 defeat to Salernitana, extending their Serie A struggles.
Despite Ciro Immobile’s milestone of scoring 100 away goals in Serie A, a second-half comeback condemned Lazio to their sixth league defeat this season.
However, their Champions League campaign presents a different narrative, with Lazio collecting seven points from four matches.
A victory in this fixture could solidify their advancement to the last 16, especially if Feyenoord fails to defeat Atletico Madrid.
In contrast, Celtic’s Champions League journey has been challenging, managing just one point from four group games.
A heavy 6-0 defeat against Atletico Madrid compounds their woes, as they sit at the bottom of Group E, facing an uphill battle to progress.
Despite their European struggles, Celtic holds fond memories of their victorious trip to the Stadio Olimpico in 2019.
However, replicating that feat seems daunting, given their recent league draw against Motherwell.
Lazio’s Champions League form: DWLW
Lazio’s form (all competitions): LWLWDL
Celtic’s Champions League form: LLDL
Celtic’s form (all competitions): DWWLWD
Team News
Lazio faces defensive concerns with Alessio Romagnoli’s absence due to a calf problem and doubts over Nicolo Casale’s fitness. Matias Vecino’s suspension further challenges the squad’s depth.
Celtic navigates injuries to Reo Hatate and Liel Abada, alongside Luis Palma’s suspension. Daizen Maeda’s suspension compounds their challenges, as he also nurses a knee injury.
Predicted Starting Lineups:
Lazio:(4-3-3)
Provedel;
Lazzari, Patric, Gila, Marusic;
Geundouzi, Cataldi, Alberto;
Anderson, Zaccagni, Immobile
Celtic:(4-3-2-1)
Hart;
A. Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor;
O’Riley, McGregor, Turnbull;
Yang, M. Johnston;
Furuhashi
Prediction
Despite Lazio’s Serie A struggles, their stronger Champions League performance favors them against Celtic.
- Our prediction: Lazio 2-1 Celtic
