Lazio vs Roma preview

February 8, 2014
By: Nemanja Lazarevic

Lazio vs RomaRevived Lazio host arch rivals Roma in the second Derby della Capitale of the season, with both sides looking to keep the rich vein of form as well as earn the bragging rights in the process.

The Biancocelesti experienced all sorts of problems in the first part of the season and it is now clear club’s decision to sack boss Vladimir Petkovic was the right thing to do.

His successor Edoardo Reja quickly lifted the players’ spirits and helped the team revive their bid for European positions.

And while the Biancocelesti suffered a narrow defeat to Napoli in Coppa Italia, they have been pretty impressive in the league, taking 11 points from last 5 fixtures.

And with Europa League positions now just four points away, Lazio will be hoping to further improve their chances by beating local rivals Roma on Sunday afternoon.

But, having suffered a 2-0 defeat in the reverse fixture back in September, Edy Reja’s side are 4.00 (3/1) to claim maximum points.

The boss has received some good news as Andre Dias and Abdoulay Konko resumed full training, but Lucas Biglia missed out through suspension.

First choice keeper Federico Marchetti is a major doubt, whilst Ederson and January signing Helder Postiga are definitely out.

Probable starting line-up (3-4-2-1): Berisha – Dias, Biava, Radu – Konko, Ledesma, Gonzalez, Lulic – Candreva, Keita – Klose.

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Unlike their bitter rivals, Roma are enjoying a truly memorable season, although there is obviously still a lot of work to be done.

The Giallorossi are on the verge of qualifying for Coppa Italia final after recording a 3-2 victory over Napoli in the semi-final first leg, while they are also exceeding expectations in the league.

Seeing as how Rudi Garcia’s side boast a nine-point advantage over fourth-placed Fiorentina, with a game in hand, they have all but secured a Champions League berth, and are now attempting to challenge Juventus for the league title.

Roma could close the gap behind the Serie A leaders to six points if they win the postponed match against Parma, but clearly they first need to try and defeat arch rivals Lazio for the second time this season.

And with the Giallorossi having won last six matches in all competitions, it is hardly surprising they are 2.05 (21/20) favourites at their Stadio Olimpico.

The hosts will have January signing Radja Nainggolan back from suspension, but Federico Balzaretti and Dodo remain on the sidelines.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): De Sanctis – Maicon, Castan, Benatia, Torosidis – Nainggolan, De Rossi, Strootman – Florenzi, Totti, Gervinho.

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