This Sunday, the Stadio Tardini will host a vital encounter as Parma takes on Venezia in a match that promises to be crucial for both teams’ aspirations in Serie A. With both clubs currently hovering near the relegation zone, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they vie for three essential points.
Parma and Venezia find themselves separated by just five points, with both teams coming off disappointing defeats last week. Parma’s recent form has been concerning, having lost four of their last six matches. Their latest setback came against Genoa, where they fell 1-0 after a deflected goal from captain Enrico Del Prato put them behind midway through the second half. This defeat left the Gialloblu precariously positioned just above the relegation zone, intensifying the pressure on head coach Fabio Pecchia.
On the other hand, Venezia have shown some resilience recently, managing to secure one win in their last five outings before facing a tough challenge against Inter Milan, where they lost 1-0. Despite their efforts, they remain five points adrift of safety and desperately need to turn around their dismal away record, which sees them with only three points from ten matches this season.
Historically, Parma have dominated this matchup, remaining unbeaten in their last seven encounters with Venezia and winning the last five meetings. The last time these two sides clashed at Stadio Tardini in Serie B resulted in a 2-1 victory for Parma. Venezia’s struggles at this venue are evident, as they have managed to secure only one point from three top-flight visits to Parma.
As both teams prepare for this encounter, tactical adjustments will be key. Parma will likely look to exploit set pieces, as they have been effective in scoring from corners this season. With six goals from set pieces so far, they rank among the best in Serie A in this regard. Pecchia’s side will aim to capitalize on Venezia’s defensive vulnerabilities and find ways to break through their backline.
Venezia’s coach, Eusebio Di Francesco, will need to devise a strategy that allows his team to absorb pressure while being opportunistic on the counter-attack. Given their struggles in front of goal—having scored only 18 times this season—finding a way to convert chances into goals will be paramount if they hope to leave Tardini with points.
Team News
Parma face several challenges heading into this match. Woyo Coulibaly is set to depart for Leicester City, and his absence will be felt alongside other injuries affecting the squad. Defender Botond Balogh is sidelined with a calf injury, joining fellow defenders Yordan Osorio and Alessandro Circati on the injury list. New signings Alessandro Vogliacco and Mathias Lovik may feature prominently as they bolster the defence.
Venezia also have their share of injury woes, with key players such as Michael Svoboda and Alfred Duncan unavailable due to injuries. Additionally, wing-back Francesco Zampano is suspended, further complicating Di Francesco’s plans. The visitors will rely on goalkeeper Filip Stankovic, who has made an impressive start to his Serie A career with the most saves in the league since his debut.
Expected Starting XIs
Parma: Suzuki; Del Prato, Valenti, Vogliacco, Valeri; Keita, Sohm; Man, Hernani, Mihaila; Bonny
Venezia: Stankovic; Idzes, Sverko, Haps; Ellertsson, Conde, Nicolussi Caviglia, Busio, Carboni; Oristanio; Pohjanpalo
Match Prediction
Given Parma’s home advantage and their historical dominance over Venezia, they are favored to secure a victory in this matchup. While both teams are struggling for form and consistency, Parma’s ability to capitalize on set pieces and their recent improvement at home could see them edge out a narrow win.
Prediction: Parma 2-1 Venezia
