As the Serie A season heats up, all eyes will be on the Stadio Artemio Franchi this Sunday as Fiorentina prepares to host Lazio in what promises to be an exciting clash. With the match scheduled for September 22, 2024, at 11:30 am UK time, both teams are looking to solidify their standings in the league and gain crucial points.
Fiorentina, known as the Viola, has had a challenging start to the season, managing to secure only three points from their first four matches. This lackluster performance marks the first time since 2019 that the team has failed to win any of their opening fixtures. Their most recent outing saw them face Atalanta BC, where they suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat despite taking the lead twice during the match. Goals from Lucas Martinez Quarta and Moise Kean gave Fiorentina hope, but they were unable to hold onto their advantage, ultimately conceding a late winner to Ademola Lookman.
Historically, Fiorentina has struggled to find their rhythm early in the season, and if they cannot secure a victory against Lazio, they risk repeating a dismal trend. The last time Fiorentina failed to win any of their first five matches was almost fifty years ago, a statistic that looms large as they prepare for this crucial fixture.
Currently sitting in 14th place in the Serie A standings, Fiorentina’s only success this season came in the form of a penalty shootout victory during the Conference League playoffs against Puskas Akademia. With their domestic struggles at the forefront, the team will be eager to turn their fortunes around against a Lazio side that has historically posed a challenge.
Lazio, on the other hand, enters this match with a more favorable outlook after securing a 2-1 victory over Hellas Verona in their last game. Goals from Boulaye Dia and Taty Castellanos helped the Biancocelesti clinch their second win of the season, bringing their total points to seven. Under the guidance of new head coach Marco Baroni, who is familiar with Fiorentina from his previous tenure, Lazio will be looking to build on their current momentum.
In terms of recent head-to-head encounters, Fiorentina has shown signs of improvement against Lazio, having won their last meeting at the Franchi 2-1 in February. The Viola has managed to collect four points from their last three matchups with Lazio, a significant improvement compared to their previous ten meetings, where they only garnered the same amount.
Despite their recent loss in Florence, Lazio boasts a strong historical record against Fiorentina, having won nine out of their last fourteen encounters in Serie A. This statistic will undoubtedly give the Biancocelesti confidence as they head into the match, aiming to claim all three points and further solidify their position in the league standings.
As both teams prepare for this pivotal clash, fans can expect an intense battle on the pitch. Fiorentina will be looking to secure their first win of the season and avoid an unwanted record, while Lazio will aim to continue their upward trajectory and capitalize on their recent form. With both teams possessing talented rosters and a desire to succeed, the stage is set for an electrifying Serie A showdown.
