The clash between Juventus and Lazio promises to be a proper Serie A battle this weekend with plenty at stake for both sides. The visitors from Rome have been in top shape lately and they come into this one without any midweek distractions which gives them a big edge over their hosts who are feeling the effects of European football.
Team Form
Lazio have made a strong start to the campaign with five wins and just one draw in their opening six league games which puts them level on points with Inter at the top. After the international break they brushed aside Monza 3-1 at home showing they are full of confidence and ready to fight for the title. Juventus on the other hand have only dropped points once losing away to Sassuolo in dramatic fashion after conceding late but they have responded with three wins and a draw since then.
- Lazio unbeaten in Serie A this season
- Juventus playing in Europa League with little recovery time
- Key strength for Lazio is their settled weekly schedule
- Juventus showing improvement in attack but look tired
Tactical Analysis
Without any European ties Lazio have had a full week to prepare and their coach Gennaro Gattuso has had time to get his tactics spot on. They are solid at the back and dangerous on the counter with players like Immobile ready to punish any mistakes. Juventus will need to rotate after their tough win over Celta Vigo but Luciano Spalletti must be careful not to weaken the side too much against such a well organized opponent.
The home side might start brightly but the lack of rest could see them fade in the second half allowing Lazio to take control of the midfield and create better chances.
Betting Proposal
Given all the factors it makes sense to back the visitors to hold their own on the road. Lazio not to lose away at odds of 2.20 or the plus one handicap on the guests at 1.70 look like the smartest types here.
