Cagliari is set to host Hellas Verona in a crucial Serie A clash on Saturday evening. This match is pivotal as both teams vie for better positions in the league standings.
Cagliari’s Recent Performance
Cagliari recently revitalized their survival hopes in Serie A, moving closer to mid-table. They currently sit 12th in the league, having secured successive victories after a rocky start to the season. Their last two wins included a memorable victory over Juventus and a solid performance against Fiorentina, where the club’s rising talents made a noticeable impact.
Recent Matches
- Cagliari’s last five Serie A matches: W L D L W W
- Position in the league: 12th place
- Overall wins in the last 16 matches: 2
With a boost in confidence, Cagliari can enhance their chances of remaining in the top flight for another season. A win against Verona could significantly propel them further away from relegation.
Challenges for Hellas Verona
Conversely, Hellas Verona has faced difficulties this season, currently sitting at the bottom of the league table with 14 points. They have struggled to secure victories, notably experiencing five defeats and two draws since the Christmas break. Their recent form includes a disappointing home loss to Udinese.
Current Form
- Hellas Verona’s last five Serie A matches: L D L L D L
- Position in the league: 20th place
Verona’s struggles are compounded by an inability to score in several matches, raising concerns about their ability to secure points. Another defeat against Cagliari could see them equate their worst performance after 23 games in Serie A, recalling their relegation season in 2016.
Team News and Lineups
Coach Fabio Pisacane of Cagliari may opt to keep his winning squad unchanged, facing no new injury concerns. However, several players remain sidelined, including Alessandro Deiola and Michael Folorunsho. Rising star Semih Kilicsoy is likely to lead the attack alongside Esposito.
On the other hand, Hellas Verona’s coach Paolo Zanetti has a few returning players to bolster the squad. Wing-backs Martin Frese and Rafik Belghali are expected back, while key players like Gift Orban continue to make contributions. However, significant absences remain a concern for Verona.
Potential Starting Lineups
| Cagliari | Hellas Verona |
|---|---|
| Caprile | Perilli |
| Ze Pedro | Slotsager |
| Mina | Nelsson |
| Luperto | Ebosse |
| Palestra | Lirola |
| Adopo | Serdar |
| Gaetano | Gagliardini |
| Mazzitelli | Bernede |
| Obert | Bradaric |
| Esposito | Sarr |
| Kilicsoy | Orban |
Match Prediction
This encounter is expected to be competitive, with neither side wanting to concede defeat. Cagliari appears to have the upper hand given their confidence and recent performance. The prediction favors a narrow victory for Cagliari, as they aim to consolidate their position in Serie A.
Prediction: Cagliari 1-0 Hellas Verona.
