Lazio vs Fenerbahçe Preview

Topics: Lazio, Fenerbahce, Europa League

Lazio will be desperate to overturn a two-goal deficit from the first leg in order to advance to the Europa League semi-finals in the expense of the Turks.

Following their 2-0 defeat to Fenerbahce in Istanbul last week, Lazio will have to produce an impressive comeback in order to secure themselves of progress into the final four of the Europa League.

Lazio, who fought out a 1-1 draw with arch-rivals Roma on Monday, understand the importance of scoring an early goal at the Stadio Olimpico, which would help them in their attempt to overturn what will at least start as a two-goal deficit.

The Biancocelesti were completely outplayed by Fenerbahce in the first leg last Thursday, and will need to cancel out the goals scored by Pierre Webo and Dirk Kuyt at home.

But a factor that could play against their chances of progressing is that they will be playing behind closed doors, as part of a sanction imposed by UEFA after their fans were found guilty of racism in a game against Borussia Monchengladbach earlier in the competition.

On top of this, Lazio boss Vladimir Petkovic will have to deal with the fact that no less than seven squad members are unavailable for selection due to either injury or suspension. These players include the injured trio of Christian Brocchi, Andre Dias and Sergio Floccari, as well as the suspended pair of Stefano Mauri and Ogenyi Onazi.

Meanwhile, important players Hernanes, Ederson and Klose were all in doubt for the game through injury, but should recover in time for the kick-off. Hernanes, perhaps Lazio's most influential player, will be hoping to put on another strong performance in order to lead his side to victory over the visitors.

Rivals Fenerbahce have far less selection concerns ahead of the game, with their only injured player being winger Moussa Sow. He will most likely be replaced by Caner Erkin.

Emre, who recently joined the side from Atletico Madrid, will not participate as he is cup-tied for the competition.