Five Key Battles to Watch in Lazio vs Torino: Gila & Tavares Take on Napoli Rejects

Despite beating Genoa on Monday, Lazio have yet to fully reconcile with their supporters, who were left disappointed and heartbroken by the outcome of the Derby della Capitale. Nevertheless, hosting the struggling Torino at the Stadio Olimpico surely represents an inviting opportunity to start a new chapter and launch a winning streak.

In addition to the compelling tactical battle between Maurizio Sarri and his Lazio predecessor, Marco Baroni, there will be a host of fascinating clashes on the pitch, so let’s take a closer look at five of them, at least based on the probable lineups.

Mario Gila vs Giovanni Simeone

While Lazio’s start to the season has been a rollercoaster, Mario Gila has been consistent at the back, consolidating his status as one of the ‘untouchable’ members of the starting lineup. But this time, the Spaniard will be given a challenging task in the shape of Giovanni Simeone, a relentless runner who is hungry for goals. This will be a thrilling one.

Nuno Tavares vs Cyril Ngonge

Simeone isn’t the only Napoli benchwarmer who left Antonio Conte’s court to join the Granata, as Cyril Ngonge also opted for a similar move that saw him reunite with Baroni following their time together at Hellas Verona. The tricky winger has yet to find his feet thus far this season, but he’ll be keen to pounce on the well-documented holes in Nuno Tavares’ defensive game.

Lazio vs Torino | Where to Watch, Insights, Lineups & Prediction

For his part, the Portuguese caused a stir on and off the pitch during the Derby, but Luca Pellegrini’s injury has granted him the opportunity to make amends with the Biancocelesti crowds, so let’s see if he’ll make the most out of it.

Danilo Cataldi vs Nikola Vlasic

Nikola Vlasic might be a left winger on paper, but we can expect him to constantly cut to the middle, where he’ll try to cause havoc. Therefore, it will be up to Danilo Cataldi to shield his backline and handle the talented Croatian, making sure he doesn’t connect with Simeone and Ngonge in the final third.

Boulaye Dia vs Kristjan Asllani

Boulaye Dia will be operating in a somewhat hybrid role between a second striker and an attacking midfielder. Nevertheless, in the defensive phase, he will likely be charged with the task of chasing down Torino’s Regista, Kristjan Asllani, and preventing him from pulling the strings in midfield.

The Inter Milan loanee has yet to impress this season, so he’ll be determined to make an impact at the Olimpico.

Matteo Cancellieri vs Niels Nkounkou

After opening his account for the season at the Luigi Ferraris, Matteo Cancellieri needs a confirmation performance in the capital, but he’ll have to get past Torino’s left-back, Niels Nkounkou, who, in his turn, will be hellbent on proving his worth in both phases of the game. So keep an eye on this high-paced duel.