Rome derby tough to call: Zeman

Pescara coach Zdenek Zeman, who coached both Roma and Lazio in the 1990s, says Sunday’s clash between the rivals will be a close affair.

Roma boss Luis Enrique will experience his first Rome derby against Edy Reja’s men with both clubs on eight points after their first five games.

With local pride and bragging rights at stake, Zeman – now in charge of Serie B outfit Pescara – feels it is difficult to predict a winner.

“Both teams have players who can decide the important derby,” the 64-year-old told Cinquestelle TV.

“The two teams are balanced even if Lazio has some advantages due to more time playing together, football is a game and anything can happen. There is no favourite, I just hope that people enjoy it.”

Roma have a number of new players, such as Pablo Osvaldo and Bojan Krkic, who will be facing Lazio for the first time, and the Czech coach feels this could be an advantage.

“It could be, because they still do not understand how strongly the fans (follow their teams),” Zeman said.

Roma will be without Francesco Totti for the match, whilst Lazio are waiting to see if Miroslav Klose will be fit in time to feature.