As the 2024/2025 Serie A season enters its 8th round, Genoa prepares to host Bologna at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on October 19th, kicking off at 15:00 local time. This match marks a crucial moment for both teams as they strive to move away from the relegation zone. Genoa, currently sitting in 18th place, has managed only one point in its last five league matches. In stark contrast, Bologna stands at 13th, maintaining an unbeaten streak over the same period, highlighting different trajectories in recent form. However, both sides face significant injury issues that might influence their tactics and squad depth.
Genoa’s squad is notably affected by injuries, with key players like goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini out due to surgery. The prolonged absence of Ruslan Malinovskyi adds to their woes. On the flip side, Bologna is also dealing with injuries. Lewis Ferguson is confirmed out, and there are doubts about Lucumi’s fitness. Despite these challenges, Genoa can draw strength from their dedicated supporters, who have been a constant source of motivation, as seen in their recent well-attended open training session. Both teams are desperate for a win to turn their fortunes around.
Genoa vs Bologna Prediction & Betting Tip
Examining recent performances suggest this match could be tightly contested. Genoa’s defensive issues have been evident lately, while Bologna’s steady, though sometimes inconsistent, away performances point to a likely draw. Thus, a stalemate seems the most fitting prediction, aligning with both teams’ current league standings and recent form.
Genoa vs Bologna Prediction | |
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Betting tip | Draw |
Odds | 3.35 – 3.4 |
Factors contributing to this prediction include Genoa’s challenges in maintaining a strong defense and Bologna’s difficulties in converting away matches into wins. Historical data also supports this prediction, with many recent fixtures between the two teams ending in a tie.
Genoa vs Bologna Odds
The betting odds for the Genoa vs Bologna face-off suggest a closely contested game. A draw is slightly more favored by odds makers, largely due to the well-known injury challenges and tactical adjustments both teams might make.
Genoa vs Bologna Betting Odds | |
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Genoa Win | 2.45 |
Draw | 3.35 |
Bologna Win | 2.90 |
These odds, though close, reflect a match that could go either way, underscoring the importance of expert analysis on team formations and player availability as more developments unfold before match day.
Genoa Team Analysis
Genoa Recent Performance
Genoa’s recent form has been fraught with difficulties, as shown by their latest results. They have suffered three consecutive defeats in Serie A against tough opponents like Juventus, Venezia, and Atalanta. A Coppa Italia loss to Sampdoria further emphasized their attacking and defensive issues. Across their last five league matches, Genoa has conceded 13 goals and scored just two, highlighting their struggles on both fronts.
Recent Matches | Result |
---|---|
Juventus vs Genoa | 1-0 |
Genoa vs Venezia | 0-2 |
Atalanta vs Genoa | 5-1 |
Genoa vs Sampdoria (Coppa Italia) | 1-2 |
Roma vs Genoa | 1-1 |
Manager Alberto Gilardino faces growing pressure to bolster the team’s defense and improve their attacking play. Addressing these key issues is crucial for climbing the league table and gaining some stability.
Genoa Key Players
Andrea Pinamonti remains a vital player for Genoa. Although he has only scored one goal this season, his role in attack is crucial. Meanwhile, the potential signing of Mario Balotelli has sparked interest, as his addition could add a new dimension to Genoa’s offensive lineup. Gaston Pereiro, recently signed, is expected to boost the midfield’s creativity and depth in light of ongoing injuries.
In the midfield, Morten Frendrup and Andrea Cambiaso are anticipated to play significant roles, with Cambiaso’s versatility and competence on international duty being particularly noteworthy.
Genoa Suspensions & Injuries
Genoa’s injury list includes several key players, complicating Gilardino’s selection choices and tactical strategy.
Player | Injury | Expected Return |
---|---|---|
Pierluigi Gollini | Surgery | No specific return date |
Mattia Bani | Muscle injury | Late October 2024 |
Caleb Ekuban | Muscle injury | Mid-November 2024 |
Milan Badelj | Thigh injury | Mid-November 2024 |
Ruslan Malinovskyi | Long-term (until Spring) | Unknown |
Morten Frendrup | Muscle concern (doubtful) | To be confirmed |
Vitinha | Muscle injury | Unknown |
With Gollini absent, Genoa’s defense faces additional pressure, requiring reserve goalkeepers to step up significantly. Managing these injuries and adapting tactics will be key to maintaining competitiveness.
Genoa Tactics and Formation
Due to injuries and recent form, Genoa might opt for a 3-5-2 formation. This structure aims for defensive solidity while providing attacking support through wing-backs. A defensive approach allows Genoa to withstand pressure and initiate counter-attacks through rapid transitions.
Andrea Pinamonti is expected to lead the attack, fulfilling a linking role to capitalize on chances. Wing-backs like Alessandro Zanoli are crucial for stretching the opposition’s defense and assisting in offensive forays. Morten Thorsby and Emil Bohinen anchor the midfield, using their strength and strategic passing.
Gilardino’s tactics involve adaptability, ready to change formations during matches, with a focus on securing defense while allowing for aggressive setups.
More about Genoa’s team dynamics can be explored at Genoa’s profile.
Bologna Team Analysis
Bologna Recent Performance
Bologna is experiencing a positive run, remaining unbeaten in their last five Serie A games. This reflects their strategic resilience and tactical flexibility under manager Vincenzo Italiano.
Recent Matches | Result |
---|---|
Lazio vs Bologna | 1-1 |
Bologna vs Torino | 2-0 |
Bologna vs Parma | 0-0 |
Fiorentina vs Bologna | 1-1 |
Bologna vs Cagliari | 1-0 |
Bologna demonstrated their strength in the victory over Torino, highlighted by Santiago Castro’s crucial contributions. Their defense has been stable, regularly securing points, in contrast to Genoa’s defensive problems.
Bologna Key Players
Santiago Castro leads Bologna’s attack, having scored three goals so far, making him vital to their offensive plays. Defensively, Sam Beukema’s stability is key, especially given Lucumi’s uncertain status.
Riccardo Orsolini is an important wing player, effectively connecting midfield and attack. In central midfield, Michel Aebischer facilitates transitions with his versatility and skill, while Remo Freuler brings experienced support to tactical depth.
Bologna Suspensions & Injuries
Like Genoa, Bologna faces injury challenges, with parts of their lineup adjusting to these setbacks.
Player | Injury | Expected Return |
---|---|---|
Lewis Ferguson | Cruciate ligament injury | Summer 2025 |
Oussama El Azzouzi | Knee injury | Ongoing rehabilitation |
Tommaso Pobega | Partial training (not confirmed) | Monitoring phase |
Lucumi | Unconfirmed fitness | To be assessed |
These injuries affect team dynamics, offering emerging players a chance to step up and adapt strategies depending on available personnel.
Bologna Tactics and Formation
Bologna is likely to maintain a 4-3-3 setup, focusing on defensive coordination combined with skillful midfield exchanges to maintain possession. Defenders like Posch and Erlic secure the back line, allowing room for forward movement.
Santiago Castro’s dynamic playing style could challenge the vulnerable Genoa backline. Bologna’s approach involves pressing aggressively and using a flexible strategy to handle different game situations and capitalize on set pieces.
Explore more about Bologna’s team at Bologna’s team overview.
Genoa vs Bologna Head-to-Head Statistics
Looking back at past encounters, Genoa holds a slight edge, having won two out of the last three meetings. Last season in Serie A, Genoa won 2-0 at home, but Bologna managed a 1-1 draw in their away game.
Home | Away | Result |
---|---|---|
Genoa | Bologna | 2-0 |
Bologna | Genoa | 1-1 |
Their history shows that matches are often tightly contested, creating a tense environment where either side can aim to gain an advantage.
Venue and Weather
The picturesque Stadio Luigi Ferraris, an emblem of Italian football, hosts this Serie A match. Located in the vibrant city of Genoa, the stadium’s charged atmosphere supports home team morale despite their current league position.
Weather forecasts indicate moderate rain at a kickoff temperature of around 15.56°C. The slick pitch requires adaptive tactics focused on quick ground-passing and effective ball control to navigate high-pressure moments. Moderate winds might affect aerial plays, prompting tactical adjustments for long passes and crosses.
Genoa must adjust to weather conditions, employing technical skills and fan energy to boost performance. With favorable conditions for physical efforts, team endurance and precision will define key moments in the match.
For a broader perspective on Serie A, consider visiting Serie A.