Lazio v Roma: The stakes are high for the Derby Della Capitale
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Whenever the topic of the world’s greatest and most intense derbies comes around, Lazio v Roma is always and deservedly in the mix. Few games come close to matching the passion of the Derby della Capitale, and the first contest of the season is upon us, with plenty on the line.
To clarify just how much this game means to all involved, referees have handed out an incredible 97 yellow cards and 11 reds in the last 13 league meetings. That’s over seven bookings per game.
And before this weekend’s Serie A action gets underway, both Roman clubs sit in the top four, with only a point keeping Lazio behind their fierce rivals.
A win for either side this weekend would keep the pressure on league leaders Juventus, while defeat would be a major blow for any title charge and Champions League qualification.
I Giallorossi have dominated this famous derby of late, and handed a 4-1 thrashing to Lazio last time they met.
But after failing to win the last seven league contests with their neighbours, many may feel Simone Inzaghi’s men are overdue victory.
Both sides have netted in the last three meetings, and that can be backed at 1/2 to happen again.
With each side scoring in six of Lazio’s last seven and seven of Roma’s last nine, that’s sure to be a popular angle.
Meanwhile, it’s 3/1 that Luciano Spalletti’s side win and both sides find the net.
Another solid market looks to be over 2.5 goals at 8/13. Three or more have been scored in 12 of Roma’s 14 Serie A fixtures, and the same applies to five of Lazio’s last nine.
Plus, with just four of the last 15 goals derby goals coming in the first half, the 9/2 on a Half-Time/Full-Time Draw/Roma stands out.
With so much to play for, this is set to be one of the most competitive Roman derbies in years, but don’t be surprised if there are more cards than goals as hearts rule heads in the Italian capital.
All Odds and Markets are now correct as of the date of publishing
