Lazio will play host to Udinese in the third round of Serie A fixtures this Sunday afternoon, with both clubs looking to bounce back from respective defeats last time out.
After starting the season brightly, obtaining a well-earned 2-1 victory over Bologna, the Aquile surprisingly suffered a 4-0 defeat a week later at the hands of Chievo, just before the international break.
Consequently, Biancocelesti coach Stefano Pioli will be hoping for a response from his players when they face the Zebrette at the Stadio Olimpico, as his side currently lie in 13th place with only three points. .
Meanwhile, following Udinese’s impressive victory against reigning Scudetto champions Juventus in their first league match, Stefano Colantuono’s men could not repeat their previous heroics, succumbing to a 1-0 home defeat against Palermo in their following game.
The side from Friuli have also picked up only three points this campaign and are situated in 11th place in the league table. .
In the pair’s most recent meeting, Lazio recorded a 1-0 away victory last February, courtesy of a first-half penalty from talisman Antonio Candreva.
The Biancocelesti have dominated this fixture in previous seasons, winning three of the last four encounters. However, all of the games between the duo have been close affairs, with only a goal separating the preceding five matches.
As for the team news, coach Pioli is more than likely to make notable changes as a result of his team’s hiding against the Flying Donkeys last time out.
First-choice goalkeeper Federico Marchetti could be in line to make his return after recovering from two fractured ribs, whilst prodigy Felipe Anderson should also feature in the starting line-up.
Opposing tactician, Colantuono, may also rejuvenate his starting 11 after the unexpected loss to the Sicilians, but will most probably maintain faith in his 3-5-2 formation. Veteran striker Antonio Di Natale could start from the outset at the expense of Duvan Zapata, whilst Greek international Panagiotis Kone may also supersede youngster Alexander Merkel.
Furthermore, newly acquired Chilean midfielder Manuel Iturra should retain his place in the team following his move from Spanish outfit Granada and midfielder Guilherme is doubtful for the clash but will be monitored right up until kick-off.
Form Guide: Lazio (W-L) Udinese (W-L)
Expected Staring XIs
Lazio: Marchetti; Basta, De Vrij, Patric, Radu; Parolo, Cataldi, Lulic; Candreva, Anderson, Kishna
Udinese: Karnezis; Danilo, Heurtaux, Piris; Adnan, Fernandes, Iturra, Kone, Edenilson; Di Natale, Thereau
