Lazio vs Inter Prediction: 16/12/2024

Lazio, currently in 5th place in Serie A, is aiming to secure a top-four finish and qualify for the Champions League next season. The team has been in strong form, winning five straight matches against Genoa, Como, Cagliari, Monza, and Bologna, but suffered a setback with a 3-1 loss to promoted Parma. However, they quickly recovered with two impressive victories over Napoli, first in the Italian Cup (3-1) and then in the league (1-0).

Inter Milan, the reigning Scudetto champions, are once again considered title contenders. They are currently 3rd in Serie A, just three points behind the leaders, with a game in hand. Inter has remained unbeaten in their last nine league matches, securing seven wins and two draws. Although they suffered a defeat in their opening Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen (1-0), they are well-positioned to progress to the knockout stage.

Lazio will face challenges in this match due to injuries to key players such as defender Romagnoli and midfielder Vecino, as well as the suspension of striker Castellanos, who has scored six goals this season. Castellanos’ absence may see Noslin, who scored a hat-trick in the Italian Cup against Napoli, take his place. Lazio’s attack will rely on players like Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni, and the midfield partnership of Rovella and Guendouzi.

Inter, meanwhile, will be without key defenders Pavard and Acerbi, as well as backup goalkeeper Di Gennaro. However, Dutch full-back Dumfries, who was recently ill, is expected to be available for this match. Inter’s captain trio of Dimarco, Barella, and Lautaro Martinez (who has five goals and two assists) should return to the starting lineup. Lautaro will team up with Marcus Thuram (10 goals and 3 assists) to form a potent attacking force, with Inter boasting the second-best attack in Serie A.

Prediction

Lazio 1 – 1 Inter. Both teams have recently played in matches with fewer than 3.5 goals, indicating a closely contested game.