Lazio vs Viktoria Plzen Prediction - Europa League
Lazio will host Viktoria Plzen at Stadio Olimpico on 13 March 2025, at 17:45, in the Europa League 1/8 round. Lazio, currently in solid form, recently defeated Viktoria Plzen 2-1 in the first leg. Despite the absence of key players like Hysaj and Castellanos, they’ve shown resilience with five unbeaten games in Serie A.
Viktoria Plzen, ranking second in the Czech Championship, is known for performing well in away matches. Their key player Rafiu Durosinmi, with 3 goals, could pose a threat. However, Lazio remains the bookmaker’s favorite with odds of 1.36 for a home win.
Expect an intense game potentially featuring over 3 goals given both sides’ recent scoring rates.
Lazio vs Viktoria Plzen Prediction & Betting Tip
Recommending a betting tip here, the smart money seems to be on a solid win for Lazio given their recent form and performance metrics.
| Lazio vs. Viktoria Plzen Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Lazio to Win | 1.36 |
| Over 3 Goals | 1.78 |
- Lazio has been the bookmaker’s favorite with odds of 1.36 for a home win due to their recent 2-1 victory and unbeaten run in Serie A.
- Both teams have been scoring well lately, making an “Over 3 Goals” prediction likely based on their recent performances.
- Despite injury setbacks, Lazio has shown depth and resilience, making them a better pick to secure the win.
Lazio vs Viktoria Plzen Odds
| Lazio vs. Viktoria Plzen Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Lazio | 1.36 |
| Draw | 4.87 |
| Viktoria Plzen | 8.47 |
Lazio stands out as the clear favourite in this Europa League clash, with bookmakers giving them better odds of 1.36. A draw is much less likely, pegged at 4.87, while an away win for Viktoria Plzen is considered a long shot at 8.47.
Given Lazio’s recent form and dominant position in both Serie A and the Europa League, it’s no surprise that the odds are heavily in their favour. For those looking at alternative bets, considering Lazio’s goalscoring potential might be worthwhile.
Lazio Team Analysis
Lazio has been in solid form across their last five matches, securing two wins, two draws, and facing a single defeat. With an average of 1.20 goals scored per game and a clean sheet in one out of their last five outings, they’ve maintained a competitive edge. Here’s a closer look at their recent run of results:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Viktoria Plzen | Lazio | 1-2 (Win) |
| AC Milan | Lazio | 1-2 (Win) |
| Inter | Lazio | 2-0 (Loss) |
| Venezia | Lazio | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Lazio | SSC Napoli | 2-2 (Draw) |
Lazio’s unbeaten streak in Serie A and their recent victory over Milan illustrate their resilience and capacity to challenge better opponents. Despite injuries to key players and recent suspensions, their overall performance remains commendable.
Lazio Key Players
Lazio will rely heavily on their standout performers in this crucial Europa League match against Viktoria Plzen. Leading the attack is Gustav Isaksen, their top scorer with one goal. His creativity and finishing will be essential in breaking through Plzen’s defense.
In midfield, Matteo Guendouzi and Pedro Rodriguez play pivotal roles. Their ability to control the game and link up with Isaksen will be vital for Lazio’s offensive strategies.
At the back, Alessio Romagnoli is expected to marshal the defense, ensuring stability and support for goalkeeper Ivan Provedel.
Expected lineup for Lazio:
- Goalkeeper: Ivan Provedel
- Defenders: Adam Marusic, Samuel Gigot, Alessio Romagnoli, Nuno Tavares
- Midfielders: Matteo Guendouzi, Nicolo Rovella, Gustav Isaksen, Pedro Rodriguez, Tijjani Noslin
- Attackers: Boulaye Dia
Lazio Suspensions & Injuries
Lazio are dealing with several significant absences due to both suspensions and injuries, which could impact their performance against Viktoria Plzen:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Elseid Hysaj | Muscle injury | Potential return doubtful |
| Valentín Castellanos | Thigh injury | Late March 2025 |
| Fisayo Dele-Bashiru | Muscle injury | Potential return doubtful |
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Nicolò Rovella | Red card | 1 match left |
| Samuel Gigot | Red card | 1 match left |
These absences might force Lazio to rely on their squad depth, impacting their defensive stability and attacking options. With key players like Rovella and Gigot suspended, adjustments in formation and tactics may be necessary. The return of Zaccagni from injury might provide some relief and versatility to their lineup.
Lazio Tactics and Formation
Lazio Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Boulaye Dia
- Midfield Trio: Matteo Guendouzi, Pedro Rodriguez, Gustav Isaksen
- Defensive Structure: Ivan Provedel in goal with Adam Marusic, Alessio Romagnoli, and Nuno Tavares in defense.
- Defensive Concerns: Missing key defenders Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot due to suspensions.
Lazio typically plays with a solid 4-2-3-1 formation. Their defensive setup, however, might face challenges given the absences. The midfield will rely heavily on Guendouzi for stability and creativity. Isaksen, though listed as the top scorer with just one goal, is crucial for their attacking transitions. Expect Pedro Rodriguez to inject unpredictability and flair, while Boulaye Dia leads the front line aiming to capitalize on any defensive lapses from Viktoria Plzen.
Viktoria Plzen Team Analysis
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Pardubice | Viktoria Plzen | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Viktoria Plzen | Lazio | 1-2 (Loss) |
| Mlada Boleslav | Viktoria Plzen | 0-2 (Win) |
| Viktoria Plzen | FC Zlin | 3-0 (Win, ET) |
| Viktoria Plzen | Slavia Prague | 1-3 (Loss) |
Viktoria Plzen has shown mixed but promising form in their last five matches with a record of LWWDL. With an average of 1.60 goals scored and achieving 2 clean sheets in these games, Viktoria Plzen demonstrates both offensive capabilities and defensive resilience. However, recent draws and losses signal areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining consistency against tougher opponents.
Viktoria Plzen Key Players
Expected lineup for Viktoria Plzen:
- Goalkeeper: Martin Jedlicka
- Defenders: Jan Paluska, Sampson Dweh, Vaclav Jemelka
- Midfielders: Milan Havel, Lukas Cerv, Lukas Kalvach, Merchas Doski
- Forwards: Amar Memic, Pavel Sulc, Prince Adu
Viktoria Plzen’s key player to watch is Rafiu Durosinmi, who has netted three goals so far. His ability to find the back of the net makes him a significant threat to Lazio’s defense.
In midfield, Lukas Kalvach plays a pivotal role with his vision and passing accuracy, often initiating counter-attacks.
Defensively, watch out for Sampson Dweh, who will be crucial in stopping Lazio’s offensive threats, particularly Boulaye Dia. The battle between Dweh and Dia could significantly influence the game’s outcome.
Viktoria Plzen Suspensions & Injuries
Suspensions:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Christophe Kabongo | Knee injury | Mid March 2025 |
| Cheick Souaré | Knock injury | Mid March 2025 |
Both Christophe Kabongo and Cheick Souaré are expected to be unavailable for the fixture due to their injuries. Their absence might impact Viktoria Plzen’s defensive resilience and midfield cohesion.
Despite these setbacks, the team has shown depth in their squad, with other players stepping up when needed. This match could see a more defensive approach from Plzen, compensating for the missing key players.
Viktoria Plzen Tactics and Formation
Viktoria Plzen’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-3
- Key Forward: Rafiu Durosinmi, with 3 goals in recent matches.
- Midfield: Milan Havel, Lukas Cerv, Lukas Kalvach, Merchas Doski
- Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in their last five games.
- Notable Strategy: Focusing on counter-attacks and utilizing wide areas.
Plzen typically employs a compact, defensive setup that can transition quickly into attack. Given recent injuries to Christophe Kabongo and Cheick Souaré, they may rely more on their wingers for creating opportunities and maintain a tight backline to compensate for missing midfield options. Expect them to adopt a cautious, counter-attacking approach at Stadio Olimpico.
Lazio vs Viktoria Plzen Head-to-Head Statistics
Analyzing the last encounter between these two teams provides useful insights as we look forward to their next match.
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Viktoria Plzen | Lazio | 1-2 |
Their most recent encounter was on 6th March 2025, where Lazio emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Viktoria Plzen.
Given Lazio’s home advantage at Stadio Olimpico and their status as bookmaker favorites, they will be looking to repeat their success. Meanwhile, Viktoria Plzen will aim to overturn their previous loss and pose a better challenge. Expect a closely contested game with the potential for multiple goals.
