Fiorentina vs Lazio, Preview: L’Aeroplanino pits his wits against the Eagles
Three is the magic number for third placed Lazio, who look to continue their winning run in Florence.
Dino Panato
Sixth place Fiorentina sit nicely placed in the European places, but can't seem to buy a win, picking up just one victory in their last five outings.
The home side have drew just as many games as they have won so far this season, but the visitors are yet to draw. Last week, while Lazio mastered Milan, the Viola clogged up in Chievo.
However, the home side will have freshness on their side for this match, due to Lazio's Europa League duty and trip back from Panathinaikos on Thursday night. Vladimir Petkovic felt his side were "not mature enough" after conceding a last gasp equaliser in Athens, yet didn't shuffle his starting pack too much.
Lazio have won the last four league meetings between the two sides, with the last two fixtures on this ground ending 2-1. Miroslav Klose was the deciding factor in both of last season's matches. The German is expected to shake off a shoulder complaint in time to play. Stefano Mauri and Senad Lulic should also recover from minor knocks.
Viola coach Vincenzo Montella has gone for a touch of reverse psychology in the buildup to Sunday's game. He said: "Lazio are a complete side, but I don't know whether we are on the same level as them right now."
Poor Lazio’s Modibo Diakite had two of his cars torched this week. The defender still hasn’t signed a new contract, so remains out in the cold, or is that now the warm?
Fiorentina injuries and suspensions
Out: Michele Camporese, Alberto Aquilani (injured)
Facundo Roncaglia, David Pizarro (suspended)
Lazio injuries and suspensions
Out: Federico Marchetti, Stefan Radu, Marius Stankevicius, Ederson (injured)
Match Date/Time: Sunday 28th October 2012 3:00 p.m. local, 10:00 a.m. ET
Venue: Stadio Artemio Franchi, Florence, Italy
TV: Premium Calcio, Sky Calcio 2 (Italy) beIN Sport 1 (U.S)
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