Gattuso's debut. Prediction for the Coppa Italia match Lazio vs Mantova
In the 1/32 finals of the Coppa Italia, Lazio from the capital will face Mantova. The match will take place in Rome on Sunday, August 16, with kickoff at 21:15 Central European Time. I’m offering a pick on the winner of this clash.
Head-to-head and key statistics
- Lazio won all their pre-season friendlies this summer.
- The Romans were Coppa Italia finalists last season.
- Mantova managed just three away wins in 2026.
- Mantova has never beaten Lazio: five defeats and three draws.
- The teams haven’t met since the 1968/69 season.
Lazio finished last season in Serie A without challenging for the top spots, but the team still maintained its status as one of Italy’s most prominent clubs. Now the Romans embark on a new campaign under Gattuso, with the coach tasked to make the squad more consistent and competitive.
Over the summer, Lazio completed a full-fledged pre-season. One of the most prolific matches was a 6-3 win over Avellino. The Romans then thrashed Ostiamare 4-0, and wrapped up their pre-season with a victory over Frosinone—2-1, finishing their run without a single defeat. That said, the level of their opposition was quite modest.
The club’s transfer policy also aimed to refresh the squad, though so far it’s hard to call it a success. Notable new faces include Bruno Galassi from Real's academy, Alfonso Pedraza, and former Union defender Duki Danilo. Gattuso, however, is still seeking another central striker, so Lazio’s transfer window appears far from over.
Given the gulf in class, Lazio approach this match as clear favorites. The Romans have more experience, a stronger roster, and home advantage. They’ve also already shown some impressive attacking form in their friendlies.
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Mantova wrapped up last season in Serie B mid-table. The team performed steadily throughout the campaign, never truly threatening the leaders, and ultimately fell short in the promotion race.
This summer Mantova played a series of friendlies, scoring freely and losing only once. Still, their pre-season was a mixed bag: there were some eye-catching wins, but matches against third- and fourth-division sides hardly provided a real test.
Mantova’s transfer activity was primarily focused on retaining a competitive squad and making targeted reinforcements. Even before last season, the club prioritized keeping its core intact, and now they’re looking to add a bit more depth.
Against Lazio, the visitors will need maximum discipline. It will be extremely tough for Mantova to compete with the Romans in ball control and individual quality, so the most logical approach is a compact defense, hoping to strike on the counter or from set pieces. Their main objective: keep the contest alive as long as possible and make the favorites nervous.
What’s the smart bet?
Lazio are the obvious favorites. They head into the official start of the season on the back of a winning streak in friendlies, are in good physical shape, and will play in front of their home support. Mantova can put up a fight, but the difference in class and squad depth should tell. I’m backing the hosts to win with a -1 goal handicap.
