Hellas Verona and Bologna are set to clash on Thursday at Stadio Bentegodi, both seeking their first Serie A victory of 2026. Recent performances have left both teams struggling. Verona has gained only one point from their first three matches of the year, while Bologna has failed to win any of their last seven league games.
Match Preview
Verona suffered a 1-0 defeat against Lazio, remaining anchored in the relegation zone. They currently have just one point from three encounters this year and are four points shy of safety in the league standings. Their home record is concerning; they have managed only one win in 11 matches at Bentegodi this season. Historically, their current points tally at this stage is the second-lowest, reminiscent of their 2015-16 season, which ended in relegation.
Under pressure, head coach Paolo Zanetti must rectify both offensive and defensive issues. Verona has conceded in eight consecutive matches and failed to score in three of their last four fixtures.
Bologna’s Current Situation
Bologna, managed by Vincenzo Italiano, needs a win after a dismal series of results. After a promising start in November, they have slipped to ninth place, accumulating only three points during their current winless streak. Their last outing ended in a frustrating draw against Como, where Nicolo Cambiaghi was sent off after scoring the opening goal.
In their last four meetings, Bologna has triumphed over Verona three times, including a 2-1 victory in their most recent encounter in March.
Key Team News
Verona will miss injured players Tomas Suslov and Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro. However, Rafik Belghali, back from the Africa Cup of Nations, is expected to start. Gift Orban and the promising Giovane, who has been impactful this season, will likely feature in the attack.
Bologna faces its own battle with injuries, missing both Jhon Lucumi and Federico Bernardeschi. Cambiaghi, due to suspension after his red card, will also be absent. Riccardo Orsolini, who has underperformed lately, is also a concern, having scored just once in his past 11 top-flight matches.
Potential Lineups
Here are the possible starting lineups for both teams:
| Hellas Verona | Bologna |
|---|---|
| Montipo | Ravaglia |
| Nelsson | Holm |
| Bella-Kotchap | Heggem |
| Valentini | Vitik |
| Belghali | Miranda |
| Niasse | Moro |
| Gagliardini | Ferguson |
| Bernede | Orsolini |
| Frese | Odgaard |
| Giovane | Rowe |
| Orban | Dallinga |
Match Prediction
Our prediction sees Bologna narrowly edging out Hellas Verona, possibly ending their winless streak. Verona’s inability to convert chances and leaking of goals may ultimately lead to their defeat once again.
