In a pivotal Serie A encounter, Roma take on Bologna at the iconic Stadio Olimpico on Sunday, aiming to bounce back from recent struggles in domestic and European fixtures. Both teams are keen to secure vital points, as Roma look to regain their form under Ivan Juric, while Bologna aim to continue their impressive league run despite their European setbacks.
Match Preview
Roma’s Form & Challenges The pressure is mounting on Roma, with head coach Ivan Juric facing scrutiny after a series of disappointing results. The Giallorossi have lost three of their last four Serie A matches, including a narrow 3-2 defeat to Hellas Verona. Despite showing flashes of quality, the capital club has struggled to maintain consistency. Currently languishing in the lower half of the table, Roma are desperate for a victory that would lift them back into contention for European spots.
Their recent Europa League campaign has also been underwhelming, with a draw against Union Saint-Gilloise leaving them in a precarious position. The team has relied heavily on the attacking prowess of Paulo Dybala, who is expected to return to the starting lineup. However, defensive lapses and a lack of depth have been evident, especially with injuries sidelining key players like Mario Hermoso.
Bologna’s Strong Start and Tactical Setup Bologna, under the stewardship of Vincenzo Italiano, have been one of the surprise packages this season. Following a top-five finish last year, they have continued their solid form, sitting comfortably in the upper half of the Serie A table. Despite a disappointing Champions League run, where they have yet to score a goal, their domestic performances have been consistent.
The Rossoblu secured a narrow 1-0 win over Lecce in their last Serie A outing, showcasing their defensive resilience and tactical discipline. Riccardo Orsolini, who has been in scintillating form with goals in three consecutive league games, will be pivotal to their attacking plans. Bologna’s squad depth will be tested with injuries to key players, but their ability to adapt tactically has been a hallmark of Italiano’s management.
Head-to-Head and Recent Encounters
Roma and Bologna have had closely contested fixtures in recent seasons. Bologna completed a league double over Roma last term, including a 3-1 victory at the Stadio Olimpico. Historically, Roma have had the upper hand, but Bologna’s resurgence under Italiano has seen them become a formidable opponent. This encounter promises to be a tactical battle, with both managers likely to make key adjustments based on recent form and injuries.
Team News
Roma Lineup Updates Ivan Juric is expected to make several changes following their midweek European fixture. Top scorer Artem Dovbyk should return to lead the line, supported by Paulo Dybala, who was rested in the Europa League. The injury list remains lengthy, with Mario Hermoso and Alexis Saelemaekers ruled out. Evan Ndicka is set to return after missing the previous game due to illness, while Mats Hummels continues to wait for his first start.
Predicted Roma Starting XI: Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Angelino; Celik, Kone, Le Fee, Zalewski; Pellegrini, Dybala; Dovbyk
Bologna Lineup Updates Vincenzo Italiano will likely reinstate Riccardo Orsolini to the starting lineup after his recent impressive form. Injuries to Nicolo Cambiaghi, Oussama El Azzouzi, Martin Erlic, and Michel Aebischer leave Bologna with limited options, but their core defensive unit remains intact. Goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski will be facing his former club, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this fixture.
Predicted Bologna Starting XI: Skorupski; Posch, Beukema, Lucumi, Lykogiannis; Freuler, Moro; Orsolini, Odgaard, Ndoye; Castro
Betting Tips and Predictions
Goal.mu/Mauri.bet Prediction:
Roma 2-1 Bologna
Given the form and squad quality, Roma have a slight edge playing at home, but Bologna’s resilience cannot be underestimated. A narrow victory for the Giallorossi seems likely, especially if Dybala and Dovbyk find their rhythm.
Betting Markets:
- Both Teams to Score: Yes
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5 Goals
- Hotstat: Paulo Dybala has scored seven goals against Bologna in his Serie A career, making him a player to watch.
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