Although the two clubs’ meetings last season yielded a couple of lopsided results, Sunday’s contest between Bologna and Lazio should be a razor-tight affair.
But while the touchline battle between Vincenzo Italiano and Maurizio Sarri promises to be a fascinating one, the match will be decided by the smallest of margins on the pitch, including the outcome of the five duels below:
Alessio Romagnoli vs Santiago Castro
While Mario Gila has been stealing the headlines on most occasions, Alessio Romagnoli has been consistent and reliable as ever. However, it will be interesting to see how the experienced Italian defender will cope against the young and dynamic Santiago Castro, who isn’t a conventional centre-forward. Moreover, a potential cross-path with Ciro Immobile could ensue in the second period.
Nuno Tavares vs Riccardo Orsolini
This might be the most exciting battle all over the pitch, as it pits one of the most explosive full-backs in Serie A against arguably the best winger in Italy this season.
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Nuno Tavares, who is expected to get the nod ahead of Luca Pellegrini, is renowned for his attacking skills above all, but Lazio will need him to do a job at the back, as failing to contain Riccardo Orsolini could bear disastrous consequences.
Matias Vecino vs Jens Odgaard
Jens Odgaard might be one of the most underappreciated players in this Bologna side, often failing to attract the spotlight, despite his ever-growing importance to the cause. The attacking midfielder can be deadly whenever he finds pockets of space to shoot from on the edge of the box, so Matias Vecino must remain on his toes to block any attempts from the Dane.
Gustav Isaksen vs Juan Miranda
Gustav Isaksen has been blowing hot and cold in recent weeks. But with Matteo Cancellieri returning from injury, the Danish winger needs to make a statement against Bologna if he wishes to maintain his starting spot.
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Nonetheless, the 24-year-old won’t only be charged with an attacking task, but also with some defensive duties, as Juan Miranda is exceptionally dangerous when darting forward and delivering crosses to the box.
Taty Castellanos vs Jhon Lucumi
Taty Castellanos is still working on finding his feet after a long injury layoff, but this weekend, he’ll be up against one of the most underrated defenders in Serie A in Jhon Lucumi. Despite losing his former partners at the back, Riccardo Calafiori and Sam Beukema, the Colombian is still going strong, even when paired with the inconsistent Nicolo Casale.
