Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Bologna: Preview, Predictions, Team News, Lineups
Bologna and Maccabi Tel Aviv are set to clash in a Europa League fixture that will determine their fates. The match will take place on Thursday, with the Italian side seeking a strong finish despite their struggles in Serie A.
Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Bologna: Preview and Predictions
Bologna finds itself in a precarious position as it looks to solidify its place in the Europa League playoffs. The club is currently perched at 15th in the Europa League table, needing a minor miracle to secure a top-eight finish. Conversely, Maccabi Tel Aviv has already been eliminated from playoff contention.
Bologna’s Recent Performance
Despite a rocky start, Bologna managed to secure advancement to the knockout stages. The team rebounded from an initial loss to Aston Villa by remaining unbeaten in the subsequent six matches, accumulating three wins and three draws. They recently drew 2-2 against Celtic, giving them a total of 12 points in the group. However, they have fallen behind in Serie A, winning only once in their last ten league matches.
Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Struggles
Maccabi Tel Aviv is having a tumultuous season in the Israeli Premier League, where they currently rank third. Their Europa League campaign has been dismal, with the team at the bottom of their group, having gained just one point. Maccabi has scored only two goals and conceded 19 across six matches, marking them as one of the worst-performing clubs this season.
Team News and Lineups
Bologna’s head coach Vincenzo Italiano is expected to rotate his team to focus on Serie A priorities. Players like Juan Miranda might return after serving suspensions, while a decision on the starting goalkeeper, whether Lukasz Skorupski or Federico Ravaglia, is still pending. Other key changes may include Dallinga or Santiago Castro stepping in for Ciro Immobile.
- Bologna possible lineup: Ravaglia; Holm, Vitik, Heggem, Miranda; Moro, Pobega; Orsolini, Odgaard, Cambiaghi; Dallinga
On the other hand, Maccabi Tel Aviv will miss their key attacker Ion Nicolaescu. Star player Dor Peretz, who has scored nine league goals this season, is anticipated to take a leading role as they look to end their Europa League run on a positive note.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv possible lineup: Mashpati; Ben Hamo, Shlomo, Heitor, Revivo; Ben Harush, Lederman; Jehezkel, Peretz, Varela; Farchi
Match Prediction
Given the current form of both teams, Bologna seems more likely to emerge victorious in this encounter. While both clubs are struggling, Bologna, with their recent streak of draws and performances, presents a better chance to score and could effectively inflict further misery on their opponents.
Final Prediction: Maccabi Tel Aviv 0-2 Bologna
