Torino vs Lazio

Torino is riding high after a strong start to the 2024-25 Serie A campaign, sitting at the top of the table with five rounds completed. Their next challenge sees them face Lazio on Sunday at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, aiming to extend their unbeaten run in the league. Despite an unfortunate midweek exit from the Coppa Italia, Torino remains in formidable form, and with a four-point advantage over their visitors, they'll be eager to solidify their position at the top.

Match Preview

Torino’s recent 3-2 victory over Hellas Verona, a thrilling encounter that showcased both their resilience and attacking prowess, has cemented their status as one of Serie A’s early frontrunners. Under new manager Paolo Vanoli, Torino has flourished, earning praise for both their style of play and their results. The win against Verona saw them surge to the top of the Serie A standings, an achievement that marks a significant milestone for the club. The last time Torino led the Serie A after five rounds was in 1976, a season that ended with them finishing as runners-up to their fierce city rivals, Juventus. Although Torino’s ambitions might not yet stretch to winning the Scudetto this time around, they are undoubtedly targeting a European qualification spot—a goal that seems increasingly realistic given their strong start.

The match against Verona saw Torino take full advantage of their opponents' misfortune. With the score tied at 1-1, Hellas Verona was reduced to 10 men, and Torino swiftly capitalized. Duván Zapata, who has been pivotal for the Granata since his arrival, found the net to give them the lead, while second-half substitute Che Adams added a third to seal the victory. It was a clinical display of attacking football, and it left Torino sitting alone at the top of the table—a position they will be determined to defend in the coming weeks.

While the Coppa Italia exit was a disappointment—especially considering they fell to a 2-1 defeat against Empoli at home—it doesn’t seem to have derailed their momentum in the league. In that game, Che Adams again made his mark, scoring a 74th-minute equalizer that briefly revived Torino’s hopes. However, Empoli struck back to knock Torino out of the competition. Despite this setback, Torino's focus is firmly on maintaining their unbeaten run in Serie A, which they will hope to extend to six matches for the first time in over three decades.

Torino’s Unbeatable Home Record

Torino’s home form has been nothing short of stellar. They have lost just one of their last 16 Serie A matches at Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, a period in which they have kept an impressive 11 clean sheets. This fortress-like defense has been key to their success, making them one of the hardest teams to beat on home turf. In fact, the only blemish on their home record during this time came against Lazio, their upcoming opponents, who managed a victory in Turin last February.

This Sunday’s encounter will provide Torino with an opportunity to avenge that defeat and reinforce their strong home record. Should they manage to keep a clean sheet, it would further underline their defensive capabilities, as Lazio have often found it difficult to break them down in this fixture. However, Torino will be acutely aware that Lazio has an enviable record in this particular matchup.

Lazio’s Recent Form and Record Against Torino

Lazio, under the guidance of Marco Baroni, travel to Turin with the wind in their sails following an emphatic 3-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev in the Europa League. The win, secured in Hamburg, showcased the attacking threat that Lazio possesses, with in-form striker Boulaye Dia stealing the show by scoring twice. This victory came at an important time for the Roman club, who have been somewhat inconsistent in Serie A this season. After five rounds, they find themselves in eighth place, a position far below their expectations, especially given their ambitions to challenge for a top-four finish.

Lazio’s domestic form has been frustrating for their fans. Their most recent league outing, a 2-1 defeat to Fiorentina, was a bitter pill to swallow. Leading late in the game, Lazio conceded a stoppage-time penalty, which resulted in a gut-wrenching loss. Despite the defeat, Mario Gila’s goal ensured that Lazio’s scoring streak continued—they have now found the net in 14 consecutive matches, a run that stretches back to the Rome derby in April. Maintaining this offensive rhythm will be crucial if they are to challenge Torino’s formidable defense.

However, while Lazio has been prolific in front of goal, their away form in Serie A has left much to be desired. The Biancocelesti have lost both of their away fixtures so far this season, which is uncharacteristic of a team that often performs well on the road. In fact, Lazio has not lost three consecutive away matches at the start of a Serie A season since 1969. The prospect of such a historic unwanted record will weigh heavily on Baroni and his players as they prepare for Sunday’s clash.

Historically, Lazio has enjoyed significant success in their visits to Turin. They are unbeaten in their last five away games against Torino, a record that includes several impressive defensive displays. In their most recent visits, Lazio has not conceded a single goal, underscoring their ability to neutralize Torino’s attacking threats when playing away from home. This defensive solidity, combined with their current goal-scoring streak, suggests that Sunday’s match could be a tightly contested affair, with little margin for error on either side.

Key Players and Tactical Battles

Much of Torino’s success this season has been built on their ability to balance solid defense with a potent attack. At the heart of their defensive line is Perr Schuurs, who has been a commanding presence in Torino’s back four. His leadership and organizational skills have been key to keeping opponents at bay, while goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic has produced some standout performances between the posts. Torino’s defensive strength is complemented by the attacking prowess of Duván Zapata. The Colombian striker has been a revelation since joining Torino, offering not only goals but also the physicality and presence that have troubled opposition defenses.

In midfield, Torino relies on Nikola Vlasic to provide creativity and drive. The Croatian midfielder’s vision and ability to pick out key passes have been instrumental in Torino’s attacking play, while he also contributes defensively with his work rate and pressing. Alongside him, Ivan Ilic has played a crucial role in maintaining Torino’s midfield balance, offering both defensive cover and an outlet for transitioning from defense to attack.

For Lazio, much of their attacking threat revolves around Boulaye Dia. The Senegalese forward has been in scintillating form, and his brace against Dynamo Kiev in midweek was a reminder of just how lethal he can be in front of goal. His pace and movement will pose a significant challenge to Torino’s defense, and if he can find space in behind the backline, Lazio could cause serious problems.

Lazio will also look to Matteo Guendouzi to control the midfield battle. The French midfielder has been a key figure since joining Lazio, offering both defensive stability and creativity going forward. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and break up opposition play will be crucial if Lazio is to gain a foothold in midfield against a Torino side that likes to press high up the pitch.

Conclusion

As Torino prepares to host Lazio, there is a sense that this could be a defining moment in their season. A victory would not only extend their unbeaten start to six matches but also strengthen their position at the top of the table. However, Lazio’s recent history in this fixture, combined with their dangerous attack, means that Torino cannot afford to be complacent.

Lazio, meanwhile, will be determined to shake off their inconsistent league form and secure a much-needed win on the road. A victory in Turin would not only help them climb the Serie A table but also restore confidence after their recent domestic setbacks. With both teams possessing quality in attack and defense, Sunday’s encounter promises to be a fascinating contest, with the potential for plenty of drama and excitement.

For Torino, the goal is clear: continue their remarkable start and maintain their status as Serie A’s early pace-setters. For Lazio, the challenge is to find consistency and prove that they can compete with the league’s top teams. In a match that could have significant implications for both sides, the stakes couldn’t be higher.