Bologna is set to clash with Fiorentina in the upcoming Serie A match, titled Derby dell’Apennino. After recently breaking their winless streak, Bologna aspires for a third consecutive home victory against their Tuscan rivals.
Bologna’s Recent Form
In November, Bologna was on a successful trajectory but faltered, going winless in seven Serie A matches. They faced Hellas Verona last Thursday and emerged victorious, thanks to standout performances from players like Riccardo Orsolini, Jens Odgaard, and Santiago Castro. This win brought Bologna to eighth place in the Serie A standings, closely following teams competing for European qualification.
Upcoming Challenges
Before facing Celtic in a crucial Europa League match next week, Bologna aims to capitalize on their recent success at home. Their solid play at Stadio Dall’Ara against Fiorentina has them optimistic for the Derby dell’Apennino.
Fiorentina’s Struggles and Recovery
Fiorentina has had a rocky start but appears to be finding their footing. Stranded at the bottom of the table weeks ago, they have recently gathered four points from their last two matches, although their defensive weaknesses remain evident. The team has dropped 20 points from winning positions this season, the highest in Serie A.
Recent Matches
In their last five fixtures, Fiorentina managed to secure eight points. However, they recently settled for a 1-1 draw against AC Milan after conceding a late equalizer. This trend reflects a need for improvement if they want to secure their first away victory since May.
Team News and Lineups
As Bologna prepares for the match, head coach Vincenzo Italiano is likely to rotate his squad with an eye on their upcoming Europa League fixture. Key players such as Jonathan Rowe and Nadir Zortea may return, while injuries to Jhon Lucumi and Federico Bernardeschi could impact their lineup.
Fiorentina’s Challenges
Fiorentina will be without Moise Kean due to an ankle injury, which means Roberto Piccoli will take on the forward position. Despite their struggles, new acquisitions like Manor Solomon and Marco Brescianini bring fresh hope to the squad. Additionally, veteran striker Edin Dzeko and Tariq Lamptey are also sidelined.
Predictions for Bologna vs Fiorentina
- Bologna’s possible lineup: Ravaglia; Zortea, Heggem, Casale, Miranda; Freuler, Moro; Orsolini, Fabbian, Cambiaghi; Castro
- Fiorentina’s possible lineup: De Gea; Dodo, Comuzzo, Pongracic, Gosens; Mandragora, Fagioli; Parisi, Brescianini, Gudmundsson; Piccoli
Experts predict a close encounter, with Bologna projected to edge out Fiorentina 2-1. The match promises excitement, as both teams aim to secure valuable points in the competitive Serie A landscape.
