Roma faced their longstanding rivals Lazio in a pivotal Derby della Capitale last weekend, as both teams compete fiercely for a top-four spot in Serie A.

The two capital clubs ended up level in the standings, with Matias Soule's outstanding long-range goal securing a draw for Roma, maintaining a two-point gap to their sixth-placed foes.

Roma have now netted nine league goals from outside the box this season—including Soule's highlight in the Rome derby—and they've been prolific since Claudio Ranieri's return.

Under the experienced manager, Roma have secured 11 wins and five draws in the league since their last defeat, though they exited both the Europa League and Coppa Italia in earlier rounds.

Their resurgence has put Roma back in contention for a top-four finish, with Ranieri delivering an impressive third spell at his childhood club before transitioning to a directorial role this summer.

This weekend, Ranieri could match Luciano Spalletti's 17-game unbeaten run from 2016; with only four points dropped in their last nine home matches at Stadio Olimpico, the hosts are poised to extend their streak.

Verona, who haven't won in their last 27 encounters with Roma in the capital—losing 21 of them—are up against a tough historical record as Serie A strugglers.

However, they triumphed in the reverse fixture in November—a thrilling 5-goal match at Stadio Bentegodi—and have won four of the last nine league meetings, equaling their total from the prior 46 clashes.

Heading into this trip to Rome, Verona's form has improved since winter, helping them pull clear of relegation danger. Paolo Zanetti's team has drawn their last three games—after winning three of the previous seven—and now holds an eight-point cushion above the drop zone.

Following a scoreless draw against Genoa last week, Verona's last four away first halves have finished 0-0, indicating Zanetti is addressing their defensive issues effectively.

Despite having one of Serie A's weakest defenses, goalkeeper Lorenzo Montipo has recorded eight clean sheets this season, matching his career high.

Verona last achieved more shutouts five years ago, but they will face a stern test in stopping Roma on Saturday night.

Roma possible starting lineup:

Svilar; Celik, Mancini, Ndicka; Saelemaekers, Kone, Paredes, Angelino; Soule, Baldanzi; Dovbyk

Hellas Verona possible starting lineup:

Montipo; Ghilardi, Coppola, Valentini; Tchatchoua, Duda, Dawidowicz, Bernede, Bradaric; Suslov; Mosquera