Preview

Preview of the match "Lazio" - "Milan" (31 August 2024, 21:45, Stadio Olimpico, Rome)

The third round match of Serie A between Lazio and Milan promises to be one of the central events of the weekend. Both clubs have had a difficult start to the season and are now looking to find their game and improve their results.

"Lazio": Maurizio Sarri's team, despite winning against Venezia in the first round, faced the well-known problem of slow starts to the halves, which became evident in the last game against Udinese. Having conceded a goal at the beginning of each half, Lazio were unable to avoid defeat, despite having managed to reduce the gap in injury time and having gained a numerical advantage in the 68th minute. The return of this "disease" is a concern, and Sarri will have to solve the problem of getting into the game quickly. The team has also suffered the loss of several players to injury, including Gila and Pellegrini.

Milan: Under Paulo Fonseca, Milan have had a poor start to the season, which has drawn criticism. After a draw with Torino and a 2-1 defeat to Parma, Milan went winless in the first two matches of the league for the first time in 12 years. Fonseca has been criticised for his lack of a clear playing style, poor defensive organisation and the players’ inability to adapt to the new approach. The absence of key players such as Giroud and Kjaer has also affected the team. Milan have been inconsistent in attack, and the high physical demands imposed by the coach seem excessive, which is reflected in the players’ “heavy legs”.

Prediction: The match promises to be a tense one given the current state of both teams. Lazio will be looking to take advantage of Milan’s problems and correct their mistakes related to the slow start to the halves. At the same time, Milan must show character and organization to start picking up points and regain confidence.

Expected result: 1:1 draw or minimal victory for Lazio.