Fiorentina is set to face Bologna in a crucial Serie A match on Sunday at Stadio Franchi. Both teams are in contrasting positions, with Fiorentina seeking their first win of the season and Bologna enjoying a strong start.
Match Preview: Fiorentina vs. Bologna
This clash marks a significant moment for Fiorentina, who currently sit in the relegation zone. They have accumulated just three points from seven matches, a situation not seen since 1977. The team’s struggle continued with a recent defeat against AC Milan, where they led before eventually losing 2-1.
Despite their league woes, Fiorentina managed to break a five-match winless streak by defeating Rapid Vienna 3-0 in a Conference League match. Veteran striker Edin Dzeko found the net in this game, providing some relief for head coach Stefano Pioli, who is under pressure after losing his 500th Serie A match.
Historically, Fiorentina has fared well against Bologna at home, winning 10 of their last 14 encounters and keeping nine clean sheets. The last league victory over Bologna at Stadio Franchi was a close 3-2 match played in May. Pioli’s previous stint as Bologna’s coach from 2011 to 2014 adds an additional layer of intrigue to this fixture.
Bologna’s Current Form
Bologna enters this match boasting 13 points from their first seven games, marking their best start since 2002. Their recent performance includes impressive victories, such as a 4-0 win over Pisa and a 2-0 triumph against Cagliari. Last week, they celebrated their first Europa League win of the season, signaling confidence in the squad.
Team News
- Fiorentina: Moise Kean is expected to return to the starting XI. However, Tariq Lamptey and Christian Kouame are confirmed absentees, with Kouame recovering from an ACL injury. Amir Richardson is also dealing with a back issue.
- Bologna: The team will miss Ciro Immobile but has the option of Riccardo Orsolini, who has scored five league goals this season. Dallinga or Santiago Castro is likely to lead the attack.
Predicted Lineups
Fiorentina: De Gea; Pongracic, Mari, Ranieri; Dodo, Mandragora, Nicolussi Caviglia, Fagioli, Gosens; Gudmundsson, Kean.
Bologna: Skorupski; Holm, Vitik, Lucumi, Miranda; Freuler, Ferguson; Orsolini, Bernardeschi, Cambiaghi; Castro.
Match Prediction
This matchup could likely end in a 2-2 draw. Both teams have had recent travel fatigue, potentially leading to a cautious start. However, Fiorentina’s need for a victory may spur them into action, potentially leading to an exciting contest.
