FC Twente will host Lazio at De Grolsch Veste on Thursday evening, aiming to topple the early group leaders in a crucial UEFA Europa League encounter.
Twente are winless in the competition so far but will hope to earn their first victory against the Italian giants, who have won both of their matches and sit comfortably at the top of the group.
FC Twente Recent Form
Twente have drawn both of their Europa League matches so far, with 1-1 results against Manchester United and Fenerbahce.
Despite being without a win in nine Europa League fixtures, Twente's recent Eredivisie form has been mixed, with a loss to Feyenoord followed by a draw against RKC Waalwijk. However, Twente have shown resilience, scoring in 21 consecutive games across all competitions.
Injury and team news
Twente will be without Younes Taha, who is sidelined until 2025 due to a leg injury. Coach Joseph Oosting may make some changes following their recent league draw, but key players like Michel Vlap and Sem Steijn are expected to retain their spots.
Steijn has been involved in nine of Twente's 16 Eredivisie goals this season, highlighting his importance to the team.
Last FC Twente Lineup
Here is how FC Twente lined up in their last match:
Lazio Recent Form
Lazio have been in fine form, securing victories in both of their Europa League games, most recently a 4-1 win over Nice.
The Italian side is also free-scoring, with seven goals so far in the competition. Their domestic form has been strong as well, although they did suffer a recent defeat to Juventus.
Lazio's away form remains inconsistent, averaging less than a point per game in Serie A this season.
Injury and team news
Lazio will be missing Tijjani Noslin, who is serving a three-match UEFA ban for violent conduct, and Manuel Lazzari, who is struggling with a thigh problem.
Despite this, their attack is likely to be led by Taty Castellanos and Boulaye Dia, both of whom have scored twice in the Europa League.
Last Lazio Lineup
Lazio's possible starting lineup:
FC Twente Player To Watch
Sem Steijn has been in excellent form this season, contributing directly to over half of Twente’s goals in the Eredivisie. His creativity and goal-scoring ability will be crucial if Twente are to break down Lazio's defence.
Lazio Player To Watch
Taty Castellanos, Lazio's top scorer in the competition, will be their key player to watch. With his ability to score crucial goals, Castellanos will pose a significant threat to Twente’s defence.
Prediction
This match could turn out to be an entertaining contest, with both teams capable of scoring goals.
Twente will be desperate to break their winless run in the competition, but Lazio's firepower may prove too much for the Dutch side.
A high-scoring draw seems likely, with our prediction being FC Twente 2-2 Lazio.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both teams to score - Lazio have been in fine attacking form, and Twente have found the net consistently across all competitions.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 goals - With both sides featuring free-scoring forwards, this could be an open, high-scoring affair.
Tip 3
Draw - Given Twente's fighting spirit and Lazio's inconsistencies away from home, a draw offers good value.
