Five Key Battles in Lazio vs Atalanta: Can Isaksen Torment Ahanor Again? | OneFootball

On Wednesday evening, Lazio will try to put their never-ending woes behind them and prevail over Atalanta in what is definitely their most important match of the season thus far.

After tumbling back to 11th place in the Serie A table, the Biancocelesti realize that their only path towards Europe goes through winning the Coppa Italia. Maurizio Sarri’s men already boast an impressive hit-list, having knocked out last season’s two finalists, AC Milan and Bologna. So, will they be able to overcome the in-form Atalanta?

The first leg of the semi-final will take place at an almost deserted Stadio Olimpico, and the following duels could play a decisive role in tipping the scales one way or the other.

Mario Gila vs Nikola Krstovic

The last time Lazio and Atalanta clashed heads, Mario Gila ended up sustaining a slight knock. The Spaniard should make his return to the pitch, but it remains to be seen if he’ll be in optimal physical condition. The same could be said about Nikola Krstovic, who earned himself some nasty cuts in the face while winning the spot-kick that secured La Dea’s place in the Champions League Round of 16.

Nevertheless, these two warriors are always mentally prepared for a battle, so it should be a good one.

Nuno Tavares vs Davide Zappacosta

In his pre-match press conference, Sarri emphasized the important role his full-backs will have to play, as they will try to ward off Atalanta’s wing-backs, which could sabotage Raffaele Palladino’s whole plan.

With Luca Pellegrini struggling for form, and Nuno Tavares producing improved displays off the bench, the latter should finally get the nod, but he’ll be up against one of the most dangerous and savvy veterans in Serie A in Davide Zappacosta, who can be an absolute nuisance for his opposite number.

Danilo Cataldi vs Lazar Samardzic

This is a classic battle between a holding midfielder and a creative attacking midfielder who loves to operate between the lines. Cataldi must shut down all the pockets to prevent Samardzic from causing havoc around the penalty box, knowing that the Serbian is a great dribbler and also has long-range goals in his arsenal.

Gustav Isaksen vs Honest Ahanor

When the two teams met last February, Gustav Iskasen was an absolute menace for Honest Ahanor. The Dane’s trickery and pace prompted an early yellow card for the Atalanta teenager, so Palladino hooked him for Sead Kolasinac after 30 minutes.

The young defender is certainly eager to redeem himself, but based on their last battle, Isaksen can be the key to unlocking the Orobici’s defences.

Mattia Zaccagni vs Giorgio Scalvini

Mattia Zaccagni has often been Lazio’s white knight in the Coppa Italia. It has been a while since we last saw the captain guiding the team to victory, so he’ll definitely be hellbent on rising to the occasion. In his way stands Giorgio Scalvini, one of the most promising young defenders in Italian, yet one who still has a few holes in his defensive game.

Will Zaccagni be able to pounce on the opportunity and give the Aquile the advantage ahead of the second leg?