Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League match.
Europa League group stage winners Lazio suffered a surprise 0:2 loss away to Bodø/Glimt last week. Returning to the Stadio Olimpico, they have a realistic opportunity to overturn the deficit. However, any drop in attacking sharpness could be exploited by the Norwegian side’s counter-attacking threat, with the potential for the Total Over goals line to be surpassed early on.
Lazio
Following an impressive run of form around the New Year, Lazio have seen their performances decline. They have recorded just one victory in seven matches since 10 March and managed only a single clean sheet in their last ten games. In the away leg, Lazio registered 2.88 xGA, but under more favourable conditions at the Olimpico, Taty Castellanos and Mattia Zaccagni are likely to push the action into the opposition’s half.
Bodø/Glimt
Since the start of their domestic campaign in late March, Bodø/Glimt have begun to regain match fitness. In their last four Europa League away matches, they have conceded eight goals in total — a stretch that includes three defeats and a 1:1 draw with OGC Nice. It seems unlikely that the squad will be able to replicate a successful high press against such a strong opponent, but counter-attacks driven by Jens Hauge will continue to pose a real threat.
Lazio vs Bodø/Glimt Prediction
With the tie hanging in the balance, Lazio will be forced to attack from the outset, and their supporters at the Olimpico will expect nothing less than a victory. Bodø/Glimt, meanwhile, are unlikely to stray from their attacking principles — an open, high-tempo match is anticipated.
