Top of Serie A after five rounds, Torino will aim to continue their unbeaten start on Sunday, as they welcome Lazio to Stadio Olimpico Grande. Though they were knocked out of the Coppa Italia in midweek, Toro won again last weekend and sit four points clear of their visitors from the capital.
Torino's 3-2 away victory over Hellas Verona put them top of the Serie A standings last week, capping an excellent start to Paolo Vanoli's time in Turin. Level at 1-1 when their hosts went down to 10 men, the Granata struck twice more - through Duvan Zapata and second-half substitute Che Adams - leaving them alone in first place at the end of a matchday for the first time since 1976. On that occasion, they went on to finish runners-up in the Scudetto race to city rivals Juventus - always a thorn in the side - but their aims are a little more modest this season, with European qualification being a likely goal.
Torino will first try to remain unbeaten through their first six Serie A matches for the first time in 32 years, having just seen their undefeated streak in all competitions ended in the Coppa Italia. A much-changed side lost 2-1 at home to Empoli on Tuesday evening, despite Adams scoring a 74th-minute equaliser that seemed set to keep their cup hopes alive. In the league, though, Toro have lost just one of their last 16 home matches, keeping 11 clean sheets in the process - in fact, their only defeat during that time came against Lazio last February.
Furthermore, Lazio have not lost any of their last five away games against Torino, which is already a record run in this fixture, and they have not even conceded a goal in the two most recent meetings. The Biancocelesti will also travel to Turin having recorded an excellent away win to start their Europa League campaign, beating Dynamo Kiev 3-0 in Germany on Wednesday night. In-form striker Boulaye Dia bagged a brace at Hamburg's Volksparkstadion, as Lazio shook off some inconsistent form in Serie A, where they occupied eighth place in the standings after five matches.
Lazio coach Marco Baroni is set to ring the changes once more, as six players will reportedly return to the starting lineup for Sunday’s encounter against Torino. The Biancocelesti suffered a defeat in their last Serie A outing at the hands of Fiorentina, albeit in controversial fashion. Nevertheless, the club earned a morale-boosting win in their Europa League opening fixture, beating Dynamo Kyiv by three unanswered goals in Hamburg. Baroni had completely revamped the lineup for the European contest, making eight changes to the starting XI. But despite the strong showing from the likes of Pedro and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, the Italian tactician will revert to his usual regular starters, reports La Lazio Siamo Noi.
The source expects Taty Castellanos to make his return after missing last week’s trip to Florence due to injury, thus dropping Boulaye Dia into a deeper role. The Argentine was available for the mid-week Europa League contest, but Baroni opted against risking him, especially with the team enjoying a three-goal cushion. Lazio captain Mattia Zaccagni will also reclaim his automatic starting berth on the left wing. On the opposite flank, Loum Tchaouna will be hoping to maintain his spot but will have to ward off competition from Gustav Isaksen who is favoured currently. Matteo Guendouzi will regain his starting spot in the middle of the park. He will likely rekindle his partnership with Nicolo Rovella, while Gaetano Castrovilli could fall short in his quest to earn a place in the lineup. Moreover, Manuel Lazzari, Nuno Tavares and Mario Gila should return to the backline, joining Alessio Romagnoli. Meanwhile, Samuel Gigot will likely remain out of action, while Patric remains doubtful after picking up a knock in Hamburg.
Lazio's Key Players to Watch
Lazio will be looking to their key players to turn the tide against Torino. Taty Castellanos returns to the starting lineup after missing last week's match due to injury. Castellanos is a key player for Lazio, and his return will be a welcome boost to the team. Mattia Zaccagni will also be hoping to make an impact from the left wing. Zaccagni is a dangerous attacker, and he will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in Torino's defense. Matteo Guendouzi will be looking to control the midfield and provide attacking impetus for Lazio. Guendouzi is a strong and combative midfielder, and he will be key to Lazio's success in this match. Nuno Tavares is another player who could be crucial for Lazio in this match. Tavares is a dynamic and attacking left-back, and he will be looking to provide crosses and create chances for his teammates.
Torino's Unbeaten Run
Torino have been in impressive form this season, and they will be looking to continue their unbeaten run against Lazio. Duvan Zapata, who scored against Verona last week, is the top scorer of headed goals across Europe's top five leagues since the start of last season. The Colombian striker should be paired with either Antonio Sanabria or Che Adams up front. Che Adams is a player to watch for Torino. Adams is a pacey and direct striker, and he will be looking to cause problems for Lazio's defense. Samuele Ricci has been a key player for Torino in midfield. Ricci is a strong and composed midfielder, and he will be looking to control the tempo of the game against Lazio. Ivan Ilic is another midfielder who could be influential in this match for Torino. Ilic is a talented and creative midfielder, and he will be looking to create chances for his teammates.
A Tight Match
The match between Torino and Lazio is likely to be a close affair. Torino are in good form, but Lazio will be eager to bounce back from their recent loss to Fiorentina. Lazio's key players will be looking to make a difference, and the Biancocelesti will be hoping to secure a vital three points. The match is set to be a thrilling encounter, and it will be interesting to see which team emerges victorious.
Predictions and Analysis
Two well-matched teams are set to play out a low-scoring draw in Serie A's Sunday lunchtime kickoff. Torino have impressed under new management and may expect to win on home soil, but Lazio have rejuvenated their attack this season and pose any team a real threat.
Looking Ahead
Both teams will be looking to build on their performances this weekend as the season progresses. Lazio will be hoping to maintain their momentum in the Europa League, while Torino will be aiming to stay at the top of the Serie A table. This match is likely to be just the beginning of a long and exciting season for both clubs.
