As the Serie A season reaches its midpoint, ambitious Como welcome mid-table Udinese to the Stadio Sinigaglia on Monday evening in a match that could have significant implications for both sides’ campaigns.
Como, last season’s Serie B runners-up, find themselves in a precarious position just one point above the relegation zone. However, under the guidance of former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas, the Lariani have shown resilience in their bid to establish themselves in the top flight.
The January transfer window has already proven fruitful for Como, with new signings making an immediate impact. Assane Diao scored on his debut against AC Milan, assisted by fellow newcomer Maxence Caqueret. Despite ultimately losing that match 2-1, Como demonstrated their ability to compete with Serie A’s elite.
Fabregas has instilled a fighting spirit in his squad, with Como losing consecutive league games only once since their promotion. This resilience will be crucial as they battle for survival in a tightly contested lower half of the table.
Udinese arrive in Lombardy on a four-match unbeaten streak, having reversed a concerning dip in form. Under the leadership of coach Kosta Runjaic, the Friulani have steadily climbed to 10th place in Serie A.
Their most recent outing saw them hold high-flying Atalanta to a goalless draw, a match in which they were perhaps unfortunate not to claim all three points. Veteran striker Alexis Sanchez twice struck the woodwork, highlighting Udinese’s attacking threat.
The visitors have developed a reputation as draw specialists, with only Juventus recording more stalemates since the start of last season. This tendency for tight contests could make for an intriguing tactical battle against Como’s survival-driven approach.
Team News
Como receive a boost with the return of creative midfielder Nico Paz from an ankle injury, though he may only be fit enough for a place on the bench. New signings Diao and Caqueret are in contention to start, while top scorer Patrick Cutrone is expected to lead the line despite competition from Andrea Belotti.
Udinese welcome back striker Lorenzo Lucca from suspension, with the Italian having already netted seven Serie A goals this season. January arrival Oumar Solet has made an immediate impact in defense, helping to secure two clean sheets in his first two appearances for the club.
Expected Starting XIs
Como: Butez; Goldaniga, Dossena, Kempf; Van der Brempt, Da Cunha, Caqueret, Fadera; Strefezza, Diao; Cutrone
Udinese: Sava; Kristensen, Bijol, Solet; Modesto, Lovric, Karlstrom, Payero, Kamara; Thauvin, Lucca
Match Prediction
Como’s home form could prove crucial, with three wins, three draws, and three defeats at the Sinigaglia so far this season. Udinese, meanwhile, have not lost away from home in the league since November, suggesting they will travel with confidence.
Prediction: Como 2-1 Udinese
