Fiorentina vs Lazio
Serie A
Monday
26th February 2024
Artemio Franchi
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Serie A fixture between Fiorentina and Lazio.
Fiorentina vs Lazio: Preview
Fiorentina form analysis
Fiorentina’s recent Serie A run paints an inconsistent picture as their push for the top has stuttered. A 1-0 home loss to rivals Inter Milan started this period before Fiorentina twice blew the lead to draw 3-2 at struggling Lecce despite Luis Beltrán and Rolando Mandragora goals. Fiorentina responded impressively by hammering Frosinone 5-1 as Andrej Belotti, Jonathan Ikone and Lucas Martinez Quarta all scored. But inconsistencies returned in a 2-0 defeat away at mid-table Bologna, failing to recover after conceding to Riccardo Orsolini’s early opener.
Most recently against Empoli, Fiorentina relied on Beltrán again for a 1-0 first half lead but eventually needed a penalty save late on to secure a 1-1 draw. So while Fiorentina carry a threat in wide areas from the likes of Ikone, they have lacked ruthlessness in converting chances and defensive stability. Addressing those flaws will be critical if Fiorentina are to reach the top this campaign.
Lazio form analysis
Lazio had ups and downs in their recent Serie A matches, struggling for both results and performance levels. They started this five game stretch with three wins, including a 1-0 home victory over Lecce secured by a Felipe Anderson goal. However, a goalless draw at league leaders Napoli showed Lazio’s offensive limitations against quality opposition. In their next match away to Atalanta, Lazio were soundly beaten 3-1, with Ciro Immobile’s late penalty a mere consolation.
Lazio did bounce back with an important 3-1 away win against struggling Cagliari, with Immobile again on the scoresheet alongside Felipe Anderson’s strike. But defensive issues resurfaced in their most recent match, a disappointing 2-1 home loss to Bologna. Despite Gaussin Isaksen’s early opener, second half goals from Omar El Azzouzi and Joshua Zirkzee gave Bologna the comeback win. In general, Lazio have struggled to maintain positive results and fluent attacking performances. A goal threat remains while immobile, Lazio’s defense and midfield play has been too irregular. Significant improvement is needed if Lazio are to qualify for Europe this season.
