Lazio striker Taty Castellanos will spearhead the club’s charge in Thursday’s Europa League contest against Porto.
The Biancocelesti are currently leading the tournament’s group-stage table thanks to a perfect record in the first three matchdays. They began their campaign by toppling Dynamo Kyiv in Hamburg by three unanswered goals, before smashing three past OGC Nice at home, and overcoming FC Twente with a 2-0 victory away from him.
Lazio Gaining Steam
With the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax taking part in the European contest, Lazio might not be the odds-on favorites to clinch the trophy. But after assembling nine points and an astounding goal difference of +8, Marco Baroni’s are emerging as a potential Dark Horse.
But in order to cement their status as a candid challenger for the Europa League crown, Lazio must overcome their next challenge. The Italian capital side will be facing its biggest test on the continent since the start of the season. After all, Porto is one of the most experienced sides on the European stage, and possess a squad filled with top-notch talent.
Taty Castellanos to Spearhead Lazio Attack
Therefore, Baroni will be looking to unleash a solid starting lineup worthy of the challenge. According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, Castellanos will start upfront once again. The Argentine is the club’s leading goalscorer across all competitions, with seven goals in 13 appearances.
The Argentine bomber will be supported by savvy veteran Pedro who has been in great form in recent weeks. The Barcelona legend will replace Boulaye Dia who worked separately in training, while Loum Tchaouna and Mattia Zaccagni should operate on the wings. The captain has recently overcome illness and made an immediate impact by scoring the winner against Cagliari from the spot.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru Set to Be Dropped
In the middle of the park, Matias Vecino should start alongside Matteo Guendouzi who expressed his anger while leaving the pitch against the Sardinians. On the other hand, Nicolo Rovella will be rested, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru could be excluded from the lineup despite being a staple in Europa League fixtures.
Christos Mandas to Start In Goal
Finally, Christos Mandas should get the nod between the sticks, while Adam Marusic, Samuel Gigot, Alessio Romagnoli and Nuno Tavares will constitute the backline. The Portuguese will be making his first start in the competition for Lazio after cementing himself as the ultimate assist king in Serie A.
LAZIO (4-2-3-1): Mandas; Marusic, Gigot, Romagnoli, Nuno Tavares; Guendouzi, Vecino; Tchaouna, Pedro, Zaccagni; Castellanos.