Lazio vs Sassuolo predictions ahead of this Serie A clash. Lazio can still clinch a Champions League spot on Sunday against relegated Sassuolo, but they need a football miracle. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Serie A | Gameweek 38 – May 26, 2024 at 7:45pm UK at Stadio Olimpico
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Lazio vs Sassuolo Predictions
Lazio Eye European Qualification Against Relegated Sassuolo
Key Stats
– Lazio have kept 13 clean sheets this season, highlighting their defensive solidity.
– Sassuolo have lost 10 of their last 11 away games, underlining their struggles on the road.
– Ciro Immobile has scored seven goals this season, making him Lazio’s top scorer.
As Lazio prepare to host Sassuolo in the final match of their Serie A season, the stakes are high, albeit for contrasting reasons. Lazio aim to secure their spot in the Europa League, while Sassuolo, already relegated, seek to end their disappointing campaign on a positive note. This article delves into the tactical nuances, key player battles, and potential outcomes as Lazio seek to confirm their European berth.
Lazio’s Late Surge for Europe
Despite a season of mixed fortunes, Lazio enter the final match with a chance to clinch a Europa League spot. Under the guidance of Igor Tudor, Lazio have shown resilience and improvement, particularly in the latter stages of the season. They have lost just once in their last nine Serie A matches, a run that includes an impressive 1-1 draw with champions Inter Milan. However, a poor February, where they lost four out of five league games and exited the Champions League at the hands of Bayern Munich, has left them playing catch-up.
Lazio’s offensive statistics highlight their potential. They have scored 48 goals in 37 matches, averaging 1.3 goals per game. With key players like Ciro Immobile and Mattia Zaccagni contributing significantly, Lazio’s attack has been potent. Immobile, despite being 34, remains the club’s top scorer with seven goals. Defensively, Lazio have conceded 38 goals, keeping 13 clean sheets, a testament to their organised backline and the goalkeeping prowess of Ivan Provedel.
Sassuolo’s Disastrous Campaign
Sassuolo’s season has been nothing short of a disaster. With only three wins in 2024, they find themselves relegated and with little to play for but pride. Their defensive frailties are glaring, having conceded 74 goals in 37 matches, the second-worst record in the league. Even the January signing of Josh Doig could not stem the tide of poor performances.
Offensively, Sassuolo have struggled, scoring 42 goals at an average of 1.1 per game. Andrea Pinamonti has been their standout performer with 11 goals, but the lack of support from the rest of the squad has been evident. With players like Domenico Berardi and Samu Castillejo missing through injury, Sassuolo’s attacking options are further depleted.
Key Tactical Battles
The midfield battle will be pivotal in this encounter. Lazio’s midfield trio of Luis Alberto, Matías Vecino, and Daichi Kamada will aim to dominate possession and create opportunities for their forwards. Sassuolo’s midfield, led by Daniel Boloca and Kristian Thorstvedt, must disrupt Lazio’s rhythm and transition quickly to exploit any gaps in their defence.
On the flanks, Lazio’s Mattia Zaccagni and Felipe Anderson will look to stretch Sassuolo’s defence and deliver crosses into the box. Sassuolo’s full-backs, Matheus Henrique and Josh Doig, will need to be vigilant and prevent Lazio’s wide players from creating chances. The duel between Lazio’s Ciro Immobile and Sassuolo’s centre-backs, Martin Erlić and Gian Marco Ferrari, will be another key battle. Immobile’s movement and finishing ability could prove decisive.
Predicted Lineups and Formations
Lazio:
- Goalkeeper: Ivan Provedel
- Defenders: Patric, Nicolo Casale, Elseid Hysaj, Adam Marusic
- Midfielders: Matías Vecino, Luis Alberto, Daichi Kamada
- Forwards: Mattia Zaccagni, Ciro Immobile, Felipe Anderson
Sassuolo:
- Goalkeeper: Andrea Consigli
- Defenders: Martin Erlić, Gian Marco Ferrari, Marash Kumbulla, Jeremy Toljan
- Midfielders: Daniel Boloca, Kristian Thorstvedt, Josh Doig
- Forwards: Armand Laurienté, Andrea Pinamonti, Nedim Bajrami
Lazio are expected to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on high possession and wide play to break down Sassuolo’s defence. Sassuolo will likely adopt a compact 4-3-3 setup, aiming to remain solid defensively and hit Lazio on the counter-attack.
Areas for Improvement and Tactical Insights
Lazio:
- Strengths: Strong attacking options, solid defensive organisation, and effective use of set-pieces.
- Weaknesses: Occasional defensive lapses, lack of consistency, and over-reliance on key players.
- Improvement: Enhancing creativity in open play and maintaining defensive concentration.
Sassuolo:
- Strengths: Resilience in critical moments, effective counter-attacks, and individual brilliance.
- Weaknesses: Defensive vulnerabilities, inconsistency in midfield, and over-reliance on Pinamonti.
- Improvement: Increasing creativity and goal-scoring options and reducing defensive errors.
Managerial Strengths and Criticism
Igor Tudor has revitalised Lazio’s campaign with his tactical acumen and ability to inspire the team. However, his occasional stubbornness in sticking to high-risk strategies has left Lazio vulnerable in certain matches. Sassuolo’s manager, on the other hand, has struggled to galvanise the team, resulting in their relegation. His conservative approach and inability to adapt to the demands of Serie A have been glaring weaknesses.
Expected Goals Analysis
Lazio’s expected goals (xG) average of 1.3 per game reflects their solid attacking output, while Sassuolo’s xG of 1.1 per game highlights their struggles in front of goal. This disparity suggests Lazio will likely create more chances, but Sassuolo’s counter-attacking threat should not be underestimated.
Predictions
Best Bet: Lazio -1 to Win
Given Lazio’s need for a convincing win and Sassuolo’s defensive frailties, a Lazio victory by more than one goal seems likely. Lazio’s recent form and Sassuolo’s poor away record support this prediction.
Correct Score Prediction: Lazio 3-0 Sassuolo
Given Lazio’s attacking strength and Sassuolo’s defensive issues, a 3-0 scoreline is plausible. Lazio’s need for a big win and Sassuolo’s lack of motivation suggest a comprehensive victory for the home side.
Goalscorer Prediction: Ciro Immobile to Score Anytime
Ciro Immobile, Lazio’s top scorer with seven goals, is a reliable option to score. His positioning and finishing ability make him a prime candidate to find the net against Sassuolo’s leaky defence.
First Half Result Prediction: Lazio Leading at Halftime
Given their home advantage and the need for a strong start, Lazio are expected to be leading at halftime. Their attacking mindset from the outset will aim to put Sassuolo under early pressure.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Corners Over 9.5
Lazio average 5.2 corners per game, while Sassuolo average 5.3. This suggests a high total corner count, with Lazio’s attacking pressure and Sassuolo’s defensive clearances contributing to this outcome.
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