Europa League | Lazio v Real Sociedad: Match Preview

The UEFA Europa League returns to action this Thursday as Group E leaders Lazio host Real Sociedad in a pivotal matchup at the Stadio Olimpico. With both sides eyeing automatic qualification for the knockout stages, this encounter promises to be a thrilling affair.

The Biancocelesti have been in imperious form in Europe this season, sitting atop the group with 16 points from six matches. Their only blemish came in a goalless draw against Ludogorets, but Marco Baroni’s men quickly bounced back with an impressive 3-1 victory over Ajax in Amsterdam.

Lazio’s European success has been a bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent domestic campaign. After a strong start in Serie A, the Roman club endured a three-game winless streak, including a painful derby defeat to rivals Roma. However, they seem to have regained their footing with a convincing 3-0 win over Hellas Verona last weekend.

The Basque side finds themselves in a precarious position, sitting 12th in the overall Europa League standings but just one point shy of the coveted top eight spots. A victory in Rome could see them leap into automatic qualification territory, while a defeat might jeopardize their European ambitions.

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Real Sociedad’s recent form has been a mixed bag. They’ve won eight of their last 14 Europa League matches, including back-to-back victories with clean sheets. However, their domestic form has been inconsistent, leaving them seventh in La Liga after a disappointing loss to bottom-placed Valencia.

This match marks the first-ever competitive meeting between Lazio and Real Sociedad, adding an element of unpredictability to the encounter. However, both sides have struggled against opposition from each other’s countries in recent years.

Lazio have won just one of their last 13 games against Spanish sides, while Real Sociedad are winless in their last eight encounters with Italian opponents. Moreover, the Basque club has never tasted victory on Italian soil in competitive fixtures.

Team News

Lazio will be without several key players due to injuries and suspensions. Defensive stalwarts Patric and Manuel Lazzari are sidelined, joining midfielder Matias Vecino on the injury list. French center-back Samuel Gigot is suspended, likely paving the way for Alessio Romagnoli to partner Mario Gila in defense.

One bright spot for the home side is the potential return of Europa League specialist Pedro. The 37-year-old veteran leads the competition with six goal involvements and could be in line for a start after recovering from injury.

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Real Sociedad also have their share of absentees, with Hamari Traore out long-term and Arsen Zakharyan doubtful due to an ankle issue. However, they receive a boost with Jon Aramburu available after serving a suspension.

All eyes will be on the potent attacking duo of Take Kubo and Mikel Oyarzabal, who may be recalled to the starting lineup after beginning on the bench in their recent league match. The midfield battle could be crucial, with Spain international Martin Zubimendi expected to feature prominently.

Expected Starting XIs

Lazio: Mandas; Marusic, Romagnoli, Gila, Pellegrini; Dele-Bashiru, Rovella; Tchaouna, Dia, Pedro; Castellanos

Real Sociedad: Remiro; Elustondo, Zubeldia, Aguerd, Munoz; Kubo, Mendez, Zubimendi, Sucic, Gomez; Oyarzabal

Match Prediction

Given Lazio’s strong home record in Europe and Real Sociedad’s solid defensive performances away from home, a closely contested match seems likely. The hosts will be eager to secure their place in the knockout stages, while the visitors know that a positive result could be crucial for their qualification hopes.

Prediction: Lazio 1-1 Real Sociedad

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