Prediction: Udinese vs Lazio

Verdict: Draw

Best odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: Betfair

After securing their long-awaited first home victory of the season in their previous match, Udinese will host Lazio at the Bluenergy Arena in a Serie A clash on Sunday afternoon.

This encounter comes as another challenge against a team vying for a spot in the Champions League.

Udinese

Udinese managed to secure a significant victory against Bologna in their last outing at the Bluenergy Arena, breaking their streak of draws at home. This win was crucial, especially considering their knack for gaining points against teams in similar positions, which could be vital in their battle against relegation this season.

While they have shown resilience against mid-table and lower-ranked teams, Udinese’s struggles have mostly been against top sides, as indicated by their defeats against stronger opponents from last season’s top eight.

Moreover, facing Lazio, who are aiming for a top-four finish, poses a significant challenge. Udinese has had difficulties defeating this particular opponent at home in recent years, with their last victory over Lazio dating back to 2013 when Antonio Di Natale scored the decisive goal.

Putting three goals in Bologna’s net was certainly a big achievement, with Roberto Pereyra, Lorenzo Lucca and Martin Payero on target for Gabriele Cioffi’s team.

The upcoming match against Lazio will be another big test for Udinese, who will need to maintain their recent momentum to secure points against a formidable opponent.

Team News

Udinese’s injury concerns seem to persist, as several key players will be unavailable for the upcoming matches. Defenders Adam Masina and Hassane Kamara’s absence from the Africa Cup of Nations squad might offer some relief, providing Udinese with additional defensive options during this period.

However, the team will face defensive challenges due to the absence of Jordan Zemura, who is departing for international duty with Zimbabwe. Combined with the injury to Enzo Ebosse, this could leave Udinese short-handed in defense for the foreseeable future.

Gerard Deulofeu’s continued absence remains a significant loss for the team, and the ongoing recovery of summer signings Brenner and Keinan Davis from long-term injuries further limits Udinese’s attacking options.

Manager Cioffi will likely need to rely on alternative players and tactical adjustments to compensate for the absentees, ensuring that the team remains competitive despite these setbacks.

Lazio

Maurizio Sarri’s Lazio has indeed showcased a significant improvement in form, notably in the latter part of 2023, accumulating 20 points from the last 33 available. This surge in performance has propelled them to within two points of the sixth-placed Atalanta BC, having occupied lower table positions earlier in the season.

Crucial victories over Empoli and Frosinone have bolstered their position, yet their struggles in away matches continue to pose a challenge, with five losses already recorded away from the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A this season.

Maintaining consistency in league fixtures remains imperative for Lazio, especially with crucial cup competitions on the horizon. The upcoming fixtures against Udinese and Lecce offer favorable opportunities to secure victories and set a strong foundation before challenging encounters against Napoli and Atalanta following their cup commitments.

With a Coppa Italia Derby della Capitale against Roma and a Supercoppa semi-final against Inter Milan awaiting, maintaining focus and securing wins in the league will be essential for Sarri’s team to build momentum and confidence for their forthcoming pivotal clashes.

Team News

The absence of key figures like Ciro Immobile and Luis Alberto due to injury will pose a challenge for Lazio in this upcoming match. Taty Castellanos, who ended a goal drought in the previous victory against Frosinone, is expected to lead the attack in their absence.

However, the potential return of Alessio Romagnoli and the availability of Manuel Lazzari following suspension could offer a boost to Lazio.

Conclusion

Udinese’s recent home win could provide them with confidence, but Lazio’s unbeaten streak at this venue over the past decade indicates their strength in this fixture.

Considering Lazio’s recent successes and their competitive spirit, they could carry the momentum into this match and aim to secure a positive result.

All in all, a share of the spoils seems the likeliest outcome.

Verdict: Draw

Best odds: 11/5

Bookmaker: Betfair