All Set for Lazio's Clash with Viktoria Plzen
The stage is set for a pivotal second leg as Lazio gears up to take on Viktoria Plzen. The stakes are high, with a place in the Europa League quarter-finals on the line—an opportunity to reach this juncture for the third time under Lotito's stewardship. Lazio’s manager Baroni has made it abundantly clear that the mindset must be one of aggression and intent: “We need to approach every match as a do-or-die affair. The lads must step onto the pitch with steely determination and confidence, ready to take the game to our opponents,” he said in the pre-match conference. He further emphasised the importance of squad depth: “It’s about who’s in form, not just who starts. It’s critical that everyone is ready to step up.”
Team News: Baroni Welcomes Castellanos and Tavares Back
In the lead-up to the match, insights from Lazio’s training ground in Formello suggest that Baroni is not contemplating any rotations, even with a trip to Bologna looming on Sunday. Provedel appears to be the preferred choice in goal ahead of Mandas. The backline sees Tavares tested alongside Marusic, Patric (who is one yellow away from a ban), and Romagnoli. Midfield selections are somewhat restricted due to Rovella’s suspension and the fitness concerns of Dele-Bashiru, as well as Belahyane missing from the squad altogether, paving the way for Guendouzi and Vecino to partner up. In the attacking third, Isaksen, Pedro, and Zaccagni are lined up to support Castellanos, who could even start after a spell out. Hysaj remains sidelined with injury, while Rovella and Gigot are serving their respective bans.
Probable Line-ups:
Lazio (4-2-3-1): Provedel; Marusic, Patric, Romagnoli, Tavares; Guendouzi, Vecino; Isaksen, Pedro, Zaccagni; Castellanos. Manager: Baroni. Unavailable: Hysaj. On a yellow card: Patric. Suspended: Gigot, Rovella.
Viktoria Plzen (3-5-2): Jedlicka; Dweh, Markovic, Jemelka; Memic, Cerv, Kalvach, Sulc, Cadu; Vydra, Durosinmi. Manager: Koubek. Unavailable: Havel, Vasulin. On a yellow card: Dweh, Markovic, Havel, Adu, Koubek. Suspended: -
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