AC Milan – Lazio

By: cathal | December 2nd, 2008

Lazio will travel to the San Siro tomorrow to take on that team we never seem to be able to beat no matter what formation we play or how their form is or whatever Milan

With both sides suffering major setbacks last weekend, it is difficult to know how either side will approach this game. Will the star names be rested? Will anyone actually take it seriously? Will the weekend’s ties be the focus of both teams? It’s impossible to tell and I’m guessing the final line-ups will be the first indication we get of either sides intentions.

It seems we will rest some players as Muslera and Diakite look certainties to start. It will be good to see both players get their chance and after the goalkeeping and defensive errors in the Atalanta game, the timing is perfect. I think both men are very capable and I have no qulams over either starting. As for the rest of the team, it’s anyones guess as to who will line out. There is a strong case for Lichtsteiner and Zarate being rested but if Rossi is to take the Coppa seriously, he may decide to continue with the in form pair thus leaving De Silvestri and Rocchi to occupy spots on the bench. Foggia may come in to replace Mauri however he could also be saved for Inter. Pandev is fit again and will probably start. I expect Ledesma to feature alongside Dabo and Meghni. I don’t think there are many options available to Delio here and I would be surprised if Brocchi plays. Siviglia is still injured so Rozehnal or Cribari will partner Mobido in defence. As Fernando and Mobido are the only confirmed starters, we will have to wait until kick off to see what Delio finally decides on.

As for Milan, Pirlo and Pato are out. However, they have more than enough depth to field an incredible team despite their absence. In saying that, I expect Ancelotti to field a youthful side with few star names. Of course, there is no way of predicting who will begin for them but with Milan focusing on Serie A glory, I expect to see a beatable side. Not that we should expect to beat them because we never do but this is a chance for us. I just hope our boys have enough motivation to go all out for the win because I do believe this is the most convenient route into Europe. But with Milan in the San Siro as the obstacle, I am not hugely optimistic.

We have a chance and I stress a chance. If we field a powerful, attacking line up then I think we could well get the result we desire but if we go into this with a half-hearted approach, we could get hammered beyond belief. I suggest you enjoy the game whatever the outcome but if we win, oh it will be so so sweet. Forza Lazio!