Catania vs Lazio, Preview: Sicilians look to shoot down the Eagles

Catania are feeling hard done by and you can hardly blame them. The Sicilians are still smarting from last week's controversial defeat to Juventus after seeing a perfectly good goal chalked off for a phantom offside decision. The hangover followed the team into midweek, when they dropped two points at Udinese thanks to a last-gasp equaliser.

Lazio lost their discipline along with major ground at the top, by falling to defeat at Fiorentina, before having to battle back for a draw against lowly Torino on Wednesday. After previous setbacks this season, the Eagles have recovered quickly and enjoyed a string of victories. They will be desperate for a repeat going into next week's fiery Rome derby.

Catania will be relying on their South American contingent along with their favoured 3-5-2 formation. Nicola Legrottaglie and Giovanni Marchese are welcomed back from bans, but Pablo Barrientos is doubtful with an ankle problem.

Lazio may opt to play a lone striker and pack their midfield. Like their hosts, the Biancocelesti welcome back their own suspended duo in Hernanes and Cristian Ledesma. Veteran Tommaso Rocchi could retain his place in attack after impressing against Torino. Sergio Floccari is the other option, with Libor Kozak and Mauro Zarate behind him in the striking pecking order.

Catania have won four of the last six league meetings between the two at the Massimino. Last season's fixture was settled by a solitary goal from Legrottaglie. The hosts have picked up ten points from a possible 15 at home so far. Lazio did win here 4-1 two seasons ago and have won three out of their five road trips of the current campaign.

Catania injuries and suspensions

Out: Keko, Blazej Augustyn(injured) In doubt: Pablo Barrientos

Lazio injuries and suspensions

Out: Federico Marchetti, Ederson (injured) Miroslav Klose (suspended)

Match Date/Time: 3 p.m. local, 9 a.m. ET

Venue: Stadio Angelo Massimino, Catania, Italy

TV: Sky Calcio 2 (Italy) beIN Sport en Espanol (U.S.)