Daniele De Rossi’s new-look Roma side get their Serie A campaign underwat at the Unipol Domus against Cagliari. The Giallorossi have made some major changes to their attacking line-up, while Cagliari will be aiming to build on a positive end to the last campaign.
Cagliari: Looking for a Fresh Start
Cagliari enter the match with a sense of optimism after securing a 3-1 victory against Carrarese in the Coppa Italia. The team, managed by Davide Nicola, finished last season just above the relegation zone and will be eager to improve their fortunes this year. With new signings, including Romanian midfielder Răzvan Marin, Cagliari hopes to build on their recent form and make a statement against a strong opponent.
The home side will rely on the attacking prowess of players like Zito Luvumbo, whose speed and technical ability can pose a threat to Roma’s defence. Cagliari’s recent home form has been encouraging, with only one defeat in their last seven matches at the Unipol Domus. They will look to capitalize on this advantage as they face the Giallorossi.
AS Roma: Aiming for a Strong Start
Roma, under the management of De Rossi, will be keen to start the season positively after finishing sixth last year. The club have made significant additions to their squad, including the arrival of Artem Dovbyk, last season’s Pichichi winner. Roma’s attacking lineup looks formidable, and they will be eager to showcase their quality against Cagliari.
Despite some mixed results in pre-season friendlies, Roma have a strong track record against Cagliari, having won their last four encounters. The team will rely on the creativity of Lorenzo Pellegrini and the finishing ability of Dovbyk to secure crucial points on the road.
Tactical Battle
Cagliari are expected to adopt a disciplined defensive approach, utilising a 3-5-2 formation and aiming to frustrate Roma’s attacking players while looking to pacey wing-backs Nadir Zortea and Tomasso Augello to provide service to Roberto Piccoli and Luvumbo. Roma, on the other hand, will likely dominate possession in the centre of the pitch, making the most of Bryan Cristante’s ability to dictate play, with new signing Enzo Le Fee keen to showcase his abilities, while creating scoring opportunities through quick transitions and wing play.
Predictions
Given Roma’s superior squad depth and recent form against Cagliari, they should edge this match. However, Cagliari’s home advantage and desire to start the season on a high note could make this a closely contested encounter. A predicted scoreline of 2-1 in favour of Roma reflects their attacking capabilities and historical success against Cagliari.
