Lazio – Atalanta

By: cathal | September 30th, 2008

Tomorrow evening a high-flying Lazio side will take on a talented Atalanta team in the Coppa Italia. We may be the current kings of Serie A but we have a long way to go before we reign in the cup.

Lazio and Atalanta have progressed through the competition in a different manner. We kicked off the campaign with a beautiful 5-1 win at home to Benevento. Atalanta, on the other hand squeezed through with a last gasp goal against Modena. However, we would be fools to underestimate this lot; Atalanta lie 8th in Serie A and have some excellent individuals. As far as I’m concerned, they, like us, have had an excellent mercato, bringing in the immensely talented Cigarini and Garics, who impressed me in Euro 2008. I actually think this is a game we should take very seriously if we want to remain in the Coppa.

The sad thing is, Rossi probably sees this game as the ideal opportunity to rest our regulars. Of course we can use this to good effect; starts for De Silvestri and Kolarov would make sense and maybe Meghni also. However, the chosen squad is intriguing and indicates change. Inzaghi could be in line to make his first appearance of the season. Both Dabo and Firmani are back in the team now they have gained full fitness but Rocchi is out. He is going to be given longer to recover. Matuzalem is also unavailable. Diakite’ takes headbanger Cribari’s place in the side (Emilson seems to get colossal knocks to the head, must have a fear of elbows by now). Although a strong squad has been selected, an Inzaghi-Makinwa attack with Manfredini in midfield and possibly Belleri in defense is not a team I have faith in getting the job done. Rossi needs to be careful with his selection.

As for Atalanta, I don’t have a clue how they will approach the game. I think they are now a solid mid-table side, an outside chance for a UEFA Cup spot and not a side who should face a relegation battle. Therefore, what have they got to lose by fielding a strong team? I would be inclined to say nothing and that’s what makes them dangerous. Let’s not forget either that Atalanta is Delio’s old club and their coach, Del Neri, is an ex-Roma manager (he was wonderfully abysmal there). On top of this, a few ex-Lazio players are in Bergamo, such as defender Talamonti and the unforgettable Vieri. So it’s worth keeping in mind that there are a few factors that could add some spice to the game.

I just hope the optimism doesn’t evolve into arrogance and clouds our heads. We are saying all the right things at the moment; Lotito stating his intentions to keep Zarate long-term, Cribari announcing that we are better than Roma and Delio claiming we will fight for all trophies. Lazio are talking the talk but can we walk the walk? Forza Lazio!