As the battle to avoid relegation intensifies in Serie A, Hellas Verona and Parma will clash in a crucial match at Stadio Bentegodi on Sunday. Both teams find themselves struggling near the bottom of the league table, separated by just two points after 11 matches. Verona is currently in 19th place, yet to secure a league victory this season.
Match Preview: Hellas Verona vs Parma
Hellas Verona enters this match following a goalless draw against Lecce, which has left them in a precarious position in the standings. With nearly a third of the season completed, they sit just one point above Fiorentina, who occupy the last spot in the league. Verona has experienced six draws and five defeats, with their only victory coming in a Coppa Italia penalty shootout three months ago.
Although Verona has been competent in creating scoring opportunities, they have struggled to finish, netting just six league goals, four of which were scored at home. Captain Suat Serdar and Nigerian forward Gift Orban lead the team’s scoring with two goals each. Furthermore, rising star Giovane has only managed to score once this season and is attracting interest from larger clubs ahead of the winter transfer window.
Parma’s Recent Performance
Parma, on the other hand, is also facing challenges in their pursuit of points. Their most recent match featured a hard-fought draw against AC Milan, where they staged a commendable comeback after trailing by two goals. A potential victory against Verona could lift them above their rivals and further away from the relegation zone.
Yet, Parma has not won in six games and is experiencing a turbulent season. They suffered one of their worst starts in 11 years, but hope remains as new coach Carlos Cuesta settles into his role. Parma’s scoring issues mirror those of Verona, making this upcoming fixture critical for both sides.
Team News and Lineups
Hellas Verona will be without their captain, Suat Serdar, who is sidelined due to a knee injury. Daniel Oyegoke and Tomas Suslov are also unavailable, although midfielder Moatasem Al-Musrati may return. Giovane is expected to partner Orban in the attacking front.
For Parma, injuries pose a significant concern. Players Pontus Almqvist, Nahuel Estevez, Abdoulaye Ndiaye, and Gaetano Oristanio are doubtful. Key defender Alessandro Circati remains unavailable due to an ankle injury, while Christian Ordonez returns from suspension. Veteran goalkeeper Vicente Guaita has joined the squad to fill the gap left by injured starting goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
- Hellas Verona Possible Lineup: Montipo; Bella-Kotchap, Nelsson, Valentini; Belghali, Akpa Akpro, Gagliardini, Bernede, Bradaric; Giovane, Orban
- Parma Possible Lineup: Corvi; Delprato, Troilo, Valenti; Britschgi, Bernabe, Keita, Sorensen, Valeri; Cutrone, Pellegrino
Match Prediction
Considering their pressing need for a victory, Hellas Verona is expected to take the win against a wobbly Parma side. Predictions suggest a narrow 2-1 victory for Verona, as they seek to turn their fortunes around. With both teams struggling to score, it promises to be a tightly contested match at the Bentegodi.
