Lazio vs Hellas Verona: Serie A Match Preview and Predictions
Introduction
Lazio face Hellas Verona at Stadio Olimpico on Sunday, aiming to recover from an opening-day defeat in Serie A. After a 2-0 loss to Como, Maurizio Sarri’s side are under pressure to secure their first points. Verona, meanwhile, earned a draw against Udinese and look to upset the Biancocelesti. This match promises high stakes and intense action.
Lazio’s Struggles and Sarri’s Return
Maurizio Sarri’s second stint at Lazio has begun with challenges. A transfer embargo limited squad reinforcements, and a 2-0 defeat to Como exposed early weaknesses. Last season’s collapse saw Lazio miss European qualification, increasing the urgency for a top-four finish. Sarri, who returned after leaving in 2024, has publicly criticized his squad’s lackluster performance, hinting at lineup changes for Sunday.
Lazio’s home form has been shaky, with just one win in their last 12 league games at Stadio Olimpico. Despite this, history favors them against Verona, with an unbeaten run in their last seven Serie A encounters, including a 3-0 victory in January 2025.
Hellas Verona’s Resilience
Verona, under Paolo Zanetti, have shown grit. A 1-1 draw against Udinese, with Suat Serdar’s equalizer, marked a solid start to their seventh consecutive Serie A campaign. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, Verona bolstered their squad with signings like Armel Bella-Kotchap and Gift Orban. Despite a Coppa Italia scare against Serie C’s Audace Cerignola, Verona remain unbeaten.
However, their record at Stadio Olimpico is poor, with only one win in 17 league visits. Zanetti’s side will need to overcome this historical hurdle to challenge Lazio.
Team News and Lineups
Lazio face injury concerns, with Samuel Gigot, Gustav Isaksen, and Patric sidelined, and Matias Vecino doubtful. Alessio Romagnoli’s suspension further strains the defense. Nicolo Rovella is expected to return to midfield, while Mattia Zaccagni, a former Verona player, will likely support Taty Castellanos in attack.
Verona’s new signings, including Victor Nelsson and Unai Nunez, are set to feature. Only Tomas Suslov and Nicolas Valentini are confirmed absentees. Gift Orban could make an impact upfront after his move from Hoffenheim.
Head-to-Head and Key Stats
Lazio’s Dominance: Lazio are unbeaten in their last seven Serie A games against Verona, winning five.
Home Struggles: Lazio have won just one of their last 12 home league matches.
Verona’s Away Woes: Verona have won only once in their last 17 league trips to Lazio.
Recent Form: Lazio lost 2-0 to Como; Verona drew 1-1 with Udinese.
Match Prediction
Lazio’s home struggles and Verona’s resilience suggest a tight contest. However, Lazio’s historical edge and Sarri’s urgency for a response could tip the scales. Expect a narrow Lazio victory, likely 2-1, as Zaccagni and Castellanos exploit Verona’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Where to Watch
The match kicks off at Stadio Olimpico on Sunday evening. Check local listings for Serie A broadcast details, or stream live on platforms like DAZN or Sky Sport.
