Prediction: Lazio vs Roma

Prediction: Roma win

Best Odds: 7/4

Bookmaker: 888sport

Serie A is back once again this weekend and with each passing set of fixtures that goes by, it seems as if Italy’s top tier is getting more and more intriguing. Off the back of the nation’s win in the Euros this summer we’ve seen every single team in Serie A either step up their game or provide us with endless entertainment. This time around, Lazio and Roma are back in the saddle to face off in one of world football’s most intimidating rivalries.

Lazio

For years they’ve gone back and forth between being nearly-rans and being one of Italy’s most effective sides and with a few games gone in the campaign, we aren’t so sure which way the cards are going to fall here. They’ve still got a few stand out players within their ranks but the level is so high in Serie A right now that there’s a very real possibility of them being left in the dust. They’re good, but just how good can Lazio ultimately be?

Team News

Zaccagni is set to be out of action until mid-October after picking up an injury in the week but aside from that, Lazio have a fully fit squad.

Roma

Everyone joked about Jose Mourinho masterminding his way to another surprise success story but we can’t imagine they’re going to be laughing if he carries on the form they’ve started the season with. From front to back they’ve been incredibly formidable and even if they fall away in the actual title race, they’re still legitimate contenders to finish in the Champions League places and that would be a real achievement in itself.

Team News

Pellegrini is suspended after a controversial red card against Udinese with Spinazzola being on the shelf through injury.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in May, Roma beat Lazio 2-0.
• Lazio have won two, drawn two and lost two of their last six games.
• Roma have won five and lost one of their last six games.
• Lazio have scored 12 goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Roma have scored 17 goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

Lazio need to get physical in this game and really get down in the mud with their rivals if they’re serious about coming away with a positive result. With that being said, it seems as if Roma have managed to find a really strong balance within their squad this season and they’re riding the kind of momentum that’s so often hard to stop. We’re going to back Roma to edge out Lazio with a 2-1 win that’s bound to feature some form of controversy.

Prediction: Roma win

Best Odds: 7/4

Bookmaker: 888sport