Lazio, aiming for their first quarter-final appearance in 24 years, have had an up-and-down season in Serie A but are back in the Champions League's knockout phase after an eventful journey through the group stage. Despite inconsistency, they secured their spot with a memorable late equalizer against Atletico Madrid.
However, history hasn't favored Lazio in this stage, having been eliminated immediately on their last two appearances, once by Bayern Munich. The German giants, targeting their seventh European crown, have a formidable record against Italian opposition and are experienced in progressing through the last-16 ties.
While Bayern's dominance in the Champions League is evident, their domestic campaign hasn't been as smooth this season, trailing Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. Despite this, they remain a force to be reckoned with, boasting a star-studded lineup led by the prolific Harry Kane.
With both teams eyeing success in Europe, the pressure is on for an intense clash as they strive to keep their trophy hopes alive.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
With Nicolo Rovella back from suspension, Maurizio Sarri faces a decision between the Juventus-owned midfielder, Danilo Cataldi, and Matias Vecino for Lazio's midfield trio alongside Matteo Guendouzi and Luis Alberto. Patric's shoulder injury persists, but Mattia Zaccagni might return from a toe injury.Ciro Immobile, fresh from scoring his 200th Serie A goal, will lead Lazio's attack once more. Immobile boasts an impressive Champions League record, averaging a goal every 99 minutes, second only to Simone Inzaghi in Lazio's history in the competition.
On the other side, Bayern Munich's Harry Kane has been instrumental in their Champions League campaign this season, involved in seven goals so far. Bayern has bolstered their squad with new additions, but Bryan Zaragoza might miss out due to illness.
Thomas Tuchel faces several absences, including Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, Konrad Laimer, and Bouna Sarr, while Alphonso Davies' availability is uncertain due to a muscular injury. Tuchel may consider reverting to a four-man defense following recent events, which could see Eric Dier relegated to the bench.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Lazio possible starting lineup:Provedel; Marusic, Romagnoli, Gila, Hysaj; Guendouzi, Rovella, Alberto; Isaksen, Immobile, Anderson
Bayern Munich possible starting lineup:
Neuer; Mazraoui, Upamecano, Kim, Guerreiro; Kimmich, Goretzka; Sane, Muller, Musiala; Kane
EXPERT PREDICTION
Lazio 2-3 Bayern Munich
Considering Lazio's recent vulnerability, it seems unlikely that they can hold off the Bavarians for the entire 90 minutes. It might take a significant upset for Maurizio Sarri's team to come out on top after the second leg next month.
