As the Serie A season approaches its midway point, Cagliari and Hellas Verona prepare for a pivotal clash at the Unipol Domus on Friday evening. With both teams embroiled in a fierce relegation battle, this match could prove crucial in determining their fate for the remainder of the season.
Cagliari, currently sitting in 16th place, have shown resilience in recent weeks. After a string of three consecutive defeats, they managed to secure dramatic draws against AC Milan (3-3) and Genoa (2-2). These results have highlighted their ability to fight back from behind, with only Lazio and Atalanta claiming more points from losing positions this season.
Hellas Verona, just one point ahead of Cagliari in 15th place, are experiencing a challenging period. Their recent form has been poor, culminating in a 5-0 thrashing by reigning champions Inter Milan. This defeat has put significant pressure on head coach Paolo Zanetti to improve the team’s defensive record, which is currently the worst among Europe’s top five leagues in the 2024-25 season.
The historical record between these two sides adds an intriguing dimension to the match. Cagliari have won nine of their ten victories over Verona at home, suggesting a home advantage. However, Verona are unbeaten in their last nine top-flight matches against Cagliari, including a win and a draw last season. This represents Verona’s longest undefeated streak against any opponent in Serie A.
The match could hinge on which team can shore up their defensive weaknesses. Cagliari have conceded the most goals from set-pieces in Serie A this season (10), while Hellas Verona have leaked the most from open play (27). Both teams’ inability to keep clean sheets has been a major factor in their struggles this season.
For Cagliari, Roberto Piccoli will be crucial. The striker, on loan from Atalanta, has scored 16 Serie A goals in his career but is yet to provide an assist. His ability to find the net could be decisive in this tight encounter.
Verona will look to the experience of Darko Lazovic to provide creativity and spark in attack. His performances could be key to unlocking a Cagliari defense that has struggled in recent weeks.
Team News
Manager Davide Nicola has the luxury of a fully fit squad to choose from. The main selection dilemma appears to be in goal, where Simone Scuffet could return to replace Alen Sherri, who started against Genoa. Roberto Piccoli, who scored last time out, is likely to lead the line against one of his former loan clubs.
Verona face several injury concerns. Juan Cruz, midfielder Ondrej Duda, and defender Martin Frese are all sidelined. However, Diego Coppola may recover from an ankle sprain in time for the match. Zanetti might revert to a four-man defense against Cagliari, which could see either Casper Tengstedt or Daniel Mosquera drop to the bench.
Expected Starting XIs
Cagliari: Scuffet; Zappa, Mina, Luperto, Augello; Marin, Adopo; Zortea, Gaetano, Luvumbo; Piccoli
Verona: Montipo; Tchatchoua, Dawidowicz, Magnani, Bradaric; Belahyane, Serdar; Suslov, Harroui, Lazovic; Tengstedt
Match Prediction
Given Cagliari’s home advantage and recent resilience in securing draws against stronger opposition, they may have a slight edge. A win for either side could provide a significant boost in their battle against relegation.
Prediction: Cagliari 2-1 Hellas Verona
