AI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-09-05 18:49 UTC
Mattia Zaccagni leads Lazio to Udine for Serie A clash
Mattia Zaccagni arrives at the Bluenergy Stadium in scintillating form, having already netted five times in his last two outings to spearhead Lazio’s early-season charge. As the visitors look to maintain their perfect start to the Serie A campaign, they face a resilient Udinese side eager to capitalise on home advantage in this Monday night encounter.
The creative spark at the heart of Lazio
Lazio’s attacking fluidity currently revolves around the clinical presence of Zaccagni, who has been instrumental in securing back-to-back league victories. Supported by Andrea Pinamonti and Albert Gudmundsson in an expected attacking trident, the visitors will look to exploit spaces in the final third. However, the absence of Adam Marusic and Nicolo Rovella due to injury forces a shuffle in the midfield and defensive ranks, testing the squad's depth early in the season.
Udinese’s momentum and defensive discipline
Udinese enter the match with confidence, having navigated a busy start that included a Coppa Italia win over Venezia and a thrilling 3-2 victory against Monza in Serie A. The expected XI, anchored by Maduka Okoye in goal and a defensive unit featuring Oumar Solet and Christian Kabasele, has shown a capacity to grind out results. With Keinan Davis leading the line, the hosts will aim to disrupt Lazio’s rhythm and control the midfield battle through Jurgen Ekkelenkamp and Jesper Karlstroem.
A history of tight margins
Recent meetings between these two clubs have been defined by their competitive nature, with three of the last five encounters ending in draws. The most recent clash in April 2026 was a high-scoring 3-3 stalemate, highlighting the potential for an open game. Udinese will draw inspiration from their 2-1 win in August 2024, a result that proves they are more than capable of matching their opponents under the lights at the Stadio Friuli.
Tactical battle in the final third
Lazio’s ability to turn around difficult situations—having recovered from losing positions multiple times recently—suggests a team with high mental fortitude. They will likely push high, relying on Nuno Tavares to provide width and support for the forward line. Udinese, conversely, will look to remain compact and transition quickly, using the energy of their midfield to feed Davis and punish any lapses in the Lazio defensive structure.
The stakes of the early season
With both sides looking to establish themselves in the upper echelons of the table, this match represents a significant test of consistency. Lazio arrive with the wind in their sails, but the atmosphere in Udine is historically difficult for visitors. The outcome will likely hinge on whether Lazio’s prolific attack can break down a disciplined home defence or if Udinese can spring a surprise to extend their own unbeaten run in the league.
Lazio
4-3-3
● Confirmed
10
↓90′
Zaccagni
9
↓53′
Pinamonti
11
↓53′
Isaksen
24
Taylor
21
Belahyane
16
⚽↓80′
Frattesi
17
Tavares
25
Provstgaard
5
Doekhi
15
Floriani Mussolini
35
Mandas
Bench (18)
Tijjani Noslin ↑53′ · Matteo Cancellieri ↑53′ · Albert Gudmundsson ↑80′⚽ · Alfonso Pedraza ↑90′ · Adrian Przyborek · Manuel Lazzari · Josip Sutalo · Edoardo Motta · Davide Renzetti · Federico Serra · Valerio Farcomeni · Filipe Bordon · Nicolo Rovella · Patric · Luca Pellegrini · Fisayo Dele-Bashiru · Adam Marusic · Danilo Cataldi
Coach · Gennaro Gattuso
Confirmed by FIFA officials.
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