Bologna vs Napoli: Prediction, Team News, and Lineup Details
Bologna is set to face Napoli this Sunday in an important Serie A clash at Stadio Dall’Ara. Both clubs enter the match after disappointing goalless draws in their previous outings. Despite their recent results, Bologna and Napoli remain competitive in Italy’s top division.
Bologna’s Strong Start
Bologna has collected 18 points from their first 10 matches, matching their best start to a league season in the 21st century. They are currently unbeaten in nine matches across all competitions, marking a significant achievement following last year’s Coppa Italia victory.
In their last match, Bologna drew 0-0 against SK Brann, a frustrating result despite creating multiple scoring opportunities. Charalampos Lykogiannis was sent off during the match, but Bologna still managed to secure a point, placing them just inside the Europa League playoff positions.
Recent Head-to-Head Records
- Bologna and Napoli have drawn in their last three encounters at Dall’Ara.
- Napoli has won only one of the last five meetings against Bologna.
- Both teams are aiming for a win to build momentum in Serie A.
Napoli’s Recent Challenges
Napoli recently regained the top position in the league by defeating Inter Milan. However, they encountered difficulties in their last two matches, including a draw with Como that ended their perfect home record. Serbian goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic has been crucial, saving multiple penalties this season and maintaining a clean sheet against Como.
In the Champions League, Napoli also settled for a goalless draw against Eintracht Frankfurt, indicating ongoing struggles in front of goal.
Team News
Bologna’s manager, Vincenzo Italiano, is approaching his 200th Serie A match. His lineup remains uncertain due to frequent rotation after European fixtures. Key players like Riccardo Orsolini and Santiago Castro are expected to feature prominently.
In contrast, Napoli faces injury concerns with players like Billy Gilmour and Leonardo Spinazzola ruled out. Milinkovic-Savic will continue to stand in as goalkeeper, while Lorenzo Lucca returns from suspension but may start on the bench.
Projected Lineups
Bologna Possible XI
- Skorupski
- Holm
- Lucumi
- Heggem
- Miranda
- Ferguson
- Moro
- Orsolini
- Odgaard
- Cambiaghi
- Castro
Napoli Possible XI
- Milinkovic-Savic
- Di Lorenzo
- Rrahmani
- Buongiorno
- Olivera
- Anguissa
- Lobotka
- McTominay
- Politano
- Hojlund
- Elmas
Match Prediction
As Bologna aims to extend their unbeaten run, they might edge out Napoli this Sunday. Despite Napoli’s strengthened defense, their attack has struggled for consistency. Bologna appears well-prepared with multiple scoring options.
El-Balad predicts a narrow victory for Bologna, suggesting a final score of 1-0 against Napoli. This matchup could be crucial for both teams as they strive for success this season.
