Porto is set to clash with Lazio in an upcoming Europa League matchup on Thursday.
Lazio heads into the game following an impressive 5-1 win over Como in Serie A, where they maintained 49% possession and took 14 shots, seven of which were on target. Valentín Castellanos scored twice, with Pedro, Patric, and Loum Tchaouna also finding the net.
Como managed only two shots on target from 14 attempts, scoring once through Luca Mazzitelli. Lazio’s recent defensive form has been strong, with only four goals conceded in their past six games, and they’ll aim to continue this against Porto.
Porto, meanwhile, comes off a resounding 4-0 win over Estoril in the Primeira Liga, dominating with 69% possession and 16 shots.
Scorers included Danny Namaso, Pepê, and Galeno, who scored twice. Porto’s offense has been in fine form, scoring 19 goals over their last six matches, averaging more than three goals per game.
Lazio is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 lineup, with Ivan Provedel in goal and a defense likely consisting of Adam Marusic, Mario Gila, Patric, and Nuno Tavares.
Matteo Guendouzi and Nicolò Rovella could anchor the midfield, while Gustav Isaksen, Boulaye Dia, Mattia Zaccagni, and Valentín Castellanos complete the attack.
Porto’s manager, Vítor Bruno, faces some injury concerns, as Iván Marcano, Marko Grujić, and Wendell are unavailable. Porto might also utilize a 4-2-3-1 formation with Diogo Costa in goal, backed by defenders Martim Fernandes, Tiago Djaló, Nehuén Pérez, and Francisco Moura.
Midfielders Nico González and Alan Varela may support forwards Pepê, Danny Namaso, Fábio Vieira, and Samu Omorodion.
Prediction
Lazio is favored to secure a narrow 1-0 win, with Porto potentially finding it challenging to breach Lazio’s disciplined defense. Experts predict fewer than 3.5 total goals in this encounter.
