Five Key Battles To Watch in Lazio vs Parma: Rovella Takes on Former Teammate | OneFootball

Lazio will be aiming to looking to extend their positive Serie A run by brushing Parma aside in front of their home supporters. The contest will take place at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, and it kicks off on Monday, 20:45 CET.

Even though Marco Baroni theoretically has more quality at his disposal, Christian Chivu’s squad is blessed with coveted talent who were able to register impressive results as of late. The Crociati are undefeated in their last six contests, despite playing Fiorentina, Inter Milan and Juventus in their last three.

Therefore, we expect some intriguing personal battles to ensue all over the pitch, including the following five.

Alessio Romagnoli vs Mateo Pellegrino

After scoring the winner against Juventus, Mateo Pellegrino’s confidence must be sky high. The big Argentine bomber has swiftly endeared himself to Parma supporters, but in Alessio Romagnoli, he’ll find a crafty Italian defender hellbent on making his life miserable. This will be an important test for the 23-year-old.

Nicolo Rovella vs Hernani

While Parma’s squad is brimming with up-and-comers, Hernani is one of the few experienced members. The 31-year-old has been on the club’s books since 2019, but he spent the 2021/22 campaign on loan at Genoa, playing alongside a young Nicolo Rovella who was still making his bones in Serie A.

When the two former teammates reconnect on the pitch, the Brazilian will certainly find a much more flourished version of the 23-year-old Italian, but it remains to be seen if he’ll be able to sabotage his build-up plays.

Mattia Zaccagni vs Enrico Delprato

Mattia Zaccagni will require some support on the left flank, as he’ll be up against Enrico Delprato (originally a defender but expected to play as a wingback), with Giovanni Leoni behind him.

This will be a thrilling battle between the two captains, but Delprato’s tenacity and defensive skills could make it a complicated evening for Zaccagni who might have to drift inside to escape the pressure.

Boulaye Dia vs Mandela Keita

Boulaye Dia often enjoys sneaking into the spaces created by Taty Castellanos’ movement, but Mandela Keita will attempt to plug all the gaps. The 22-year-old defensive midfielder is earning a reputation as a powerhouse in Italian football, so this is a battle that the Lazio attacker might not enjoy.

Taty Castellanos vs Batond Balogh

With Castellanos back in action, Lazio have regained their groove in front of goal, but Batond Balogh will be determined to halt the Argentine’s positive run. The Hungarian might have the advantage in the air thanks to his superior stature, but the Lazio bomber has been able to prevail over more acclaimed defenders.