Roma and Sassuolo are set to clash at Stadio Olimpico this Saturday evening in a key Serie A match. Analyzing recent performances, Roma aims to maintain momentum after a pivotal win, while Sassuolo seeks redemption following a heavy defeat.
Match Preview: Roma vs Sassuolo
Roma recently secured a crucial 2-0 victory against Lecce, marking their first win of the season. Strikers Evan Ferguson and Artem Dovbyk played key roles, with both players scoring throughout the match. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini emphasized their importance as they look to recover from prior setbacks, including losses to Napoli, Cagliari, and Juventus.
Currently, Roma sits with 36 points, significantly improving from the previous season’s halfway tally. The team is optimistic about requalifying for the Champions League, and transfers are expected in the winter window, with targets like Joshua Zirkzee and Giacomo Raspadori in sight.
Sassuolo’s Recent Struggles
Sassuolo, on the other hand, has faced difficulties recently. After a stunning victory against Roma at this venue last December, they were relegated but quickly rose back to Serie A as champions of Serie B. Initially, they performed well but have since faced setbacks, including losses to Torino and Juventus.
- Current Position: 12th in Serie A
- Recent Form: W D L D D L
Their last success came against Fiorentina but they must now regroup after back-to-back defeats. Sassuolo needs points to regain stability in the league.
Team News and Lineups
Roma has several key absences for this match. Dovbyk is out after his injury during the Lecce game. Other missing players include Lorenzo Pellegrini, Bryan Cristante, and Wesley due to suspension or illness. Defensive players Gianluca Mancini and Mario Hermoso return to the squad after serving suspensions.
Conversely, Sassuolo will miss striker Domenico Berardi and a few others due to injuries and absences related to the Africa Cup of Nations.
Possible Starting Lineups
| Roma | Sassuolo |
|---|---|
| Svilar | Muric |
| Mancini | Walukiewicz |
| Ziolkowski | Idzes |
| Hermoso | Muharemovic |
| Celik | Doig |
| Kone | Lipani |
| Pisilli | Matic |
| Tsimikas | Kone |
| Soule | Fadera |
| Dybala | Pinamonti |
| Ferguson | Lauriente |
Prediction
In a tightly contested matchup, Roma is favored to secure a 1-0 win against Sassuolo, benefiting from their strong defensive record. Sassuolo’s lack of clean sheets in recent games could be their downfall, allowing Roma to capitalize and take home the points.
