The Rome derby is one of the world’s biggest rivalries and this match is set to be as hotly fought as ever. Both clubs have undergone huge changes recently and fans from the respective halves of the capital will see this game as the real test for their new look teams. Inevitably the face-off between the two Roman icons Francesco Totti and Paolo Di Canio will draw most attention, but this year the differences between the two sides are much bigger. While the new look Roma still have a host of international stars, Lazio’s blend of youth and experience sees them go into this encounter as reluctant favourites. The Biancocelesti have won all four games at the Stadio Olimpico in 2005-06 and, even though they are technically the away side for this match, they will be hoping to continue that run. Roma though have lost two of the three they have played in Rome and now find themselves deep into the bottom half the table. Even at this early stage of their campaign, Coach Luciano Spalletti must be starting to feel the pressure, especially as derby games can often prove to be the breaking point for an underachieving tactician. Spalletti will once again be without the injured Leandro Cufre for this crucial tie as well as Alberto Aquilani. Lazio’s injury problems are more serious with Roberto Baronio, Matteo Sereni, Gaby Mudingayi and Felice Piccolo all missing. However, the influential Aprecido Cesar should finally be fit enough to return after his lengthy recovery. But whoever plays, the Derby della Capitale is as entertaining for the emotional and often bizarre occurrences going on off the field as it is for the actual football, guaranteeing one of the most spectacular events in the calcio calendar.
Roma (probable): Curci; Panucci, Kuffour, Chivu, Bovo; De Rossi, Perrotta; Mancini, Totti, Taddei; Nonda
Lazio (probable): Peruzzi; Oddo, Siviglia, Cribari, Zauri; Behrami, Dabo, Liverani, Cesar; Di Canio, Rocchi
Ref: To folllow