Genoa vs. Bologna Preview: Predictions, Team News, Lineups
Genoa is set to host Bologna at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris for an exciting Serie A clash this weekend. Currently unbeaten in their last four matches, Genoa is looking to extend this streak. The team, under the guidance of manager Daniele De Rossi, has climbed to 16th place in the league. In contrast, Bologna is struggling, with just one win in their last nine outings, resulting in a drop to eighth place.
Match Preview: Genoa vs. Bologna
Genoa’s recent form includes notable performances, like a 3-0 victory against Cagliari and draws with AC Milan and Pisa. Their backline has improved significantly, managing to keep consecutive clean sheets for the first time in the season. This defensive strength comes as they look to secure a third consecutive shutout against Bologna.
Recent history favors the home side, as Genoa has won five out of their last ten meetings with Bologna. They have only suffered two defeats in that span. Additionally, they now sit three points clear of the relegation zone, adding to their confidence.
Bologna’s Struggles
Bologna is facing a challenging time, having lost key matches, including a surprising 3-1 defeat to Cremonese. This loss halted a three-match winning streak for the team. Since then, they have struggled to find form, only managing to secure three points against bottom-placed Verona.
Under manager Vincenzo Italiano, Bologna has experienced a series of disappointing results, including seven losses this season. Their defensive weaknesses have been exposed, failing to keep a clean sheet in 15 consecutive matches. Their upcoming encounter against Genoa presents a crucial opportunity to turn their fortunes around.
Team News
Genoa will likely miss several key players, including Stefano Sabelli and Leo Ostigard, who is suspended. Key forward Lorenzo Colombo aims to capitalize on his current scoring form, having found the net five times this season.
Bologna’s squad also faces challenges, with several players unavailable. Riccardo Orsolini is expected to return to the starting lineup, while Santiago Castro’s participation is uncertain due to illness. The team is looking to their attacking players to deliver crucial goals as they strive to reclaim their form.
Expected Lineups
- Genoa: Leali; Marcandalli, Otoa, Vasquez; Norton-Cuffy, Frendrup, Malinovskyi, Ellertsson, Martin; Vitinha, Colombo
- Bologna: Ravaglia; Holm, Casale, Heggem, Lykogiannis; Freuler, Ferguson; Orsolini, Odgaard, Cambiaghi; Dalling
As the two teams prepare for the game, Genoa’s solid defensive performance is expected to give them the edge. A narrow victory for the home side seems likely, as they aim to extend their unbeaten run and challenge Bologna’s current struggles.