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Lazio welcome Como to the Stadio Olimpico this evening, as Maurizio Sarri’s side face a must-win game against a side six points above them in the race for European football.
It has been a mixed start to the season for the Biancocelesti, who were on the receiving end of a transfer embargo last summer, severely hindering the reinforcements brought in for returning head coach Sarri.
Despite the limited squad, and in the face of injury and suspension crises, Sarri has done a good job and Lazio sit in 9th place, yet still somewhat off the pace of the big five. Like their opposition tonight, Lazio have conceded just 16 goals so far this season; only Roma have conceded less than tonight’s contestants.
However, Lazio have struggled in front of goal, scoring just 21 times in 20 games; only five teams in the league have scored less.
Como, meanwhile, are flying.
Cesc Fabregas’ side sit in 6th place in Serie A and with a win over Lazio tonight, could move just two points behind 5th placed Juventus.
Como’s off-the-field strategy and investment continues to pay off, with Fabregas having a real talented squad at his disposal – whilst credit must also go to the coach himself for the work done tactically, on the training field and also via his involvement in club decision making.
Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Belahyane, Cataldi, Taylor; Cancellieri, Ratkov, Zaccagni
Como: Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Diego Carlos, Valle; Caqueret, Perrone, Da Cunha; Nico Paz, Baturina, J. Rodriguez.
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