Sassuolo's home press should give this match a livelier start than their recent away results suggest. Lazio have dangerous wide exits, yet their recent away wins have often begun with a specific opening rather than steady control of the box. The contest should turn on which side can make a second clear chance after its first route is stopped.
Laurienté and Esposito bring Sassuolo more ways to connect their wide attacks to the centre, with Thorstvedt offering support around second balls. They responded quickly when Milan took the lead, whereas Lazio's away chance balances against Juventus and Bologna were much closer than their scores imply. Tavares and Zaccagni can release Isaksen behind Sassuolo's press, making the recovery after a lost ball an important duel.
Sassuolo's expected attacking return comes after brief minutes for Laurienté and Esposito at Como and an absence there for Thorstvedt. Berardi's start is still an estimate. Lazio's Pinamonti did not play their last match, and his current role is unresolved.
I expect Sassuolo to turn more of their early pressure into box entries at home and to have another reply if the match opens up after the break. That's why I'm siding with Sassuolo, with the draw covered by the attached selection.
