Bologna vs. Sassuolo Preview: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups

Bologna will host Sassuolo at the iconic Stadio Renato Dall’Ara for a crucial Serie A clash on Sunday. This regional derby marks the last match before the year’s end, and both teams have significant motivation to secure a win.

Bologna’s Recent Form and Challenges

Bologna enters this match with a winless streak of three Serie A games. Their last victory came against Udinese, where they claimed a dominant 3-0 win on November 22. Following that, they managed just one point from a total of nine, which has left them four points behind fifth-placed Juventus and only one point above seventh-placed Como.

After suffering a 3-1 loss to AC Milan, Bologna went on a prolonged unbeaten run but has struggled to regain form after facing Juventus most recently. They also participated in the Supercoppa Italiana, where they reached the finals but lost 2-0 to Napoli.

Current Injury Concerns

• Torbjorn Heggem is suspended following a red card against Juventus.
• Injuries have sidelined Lukasz Skorupski, Federico Bernardeschi, Remo Freuler, and Nicolo Casale.

Riccardo Orsolini remains a key player, having scored six goals this season, with four of them at home.

Sassuolo’s Mid-Table Position

Sassuolo, managed by Fabio Grosso, sits in mid-table and is only four points behind their rivals. They are looking to end the year positively after a mixed run of form. Their last away game resulted in a commendable 2-2 draw against AC Milan, showcasing their resilience.

Despite a recent setback against Torino at home, Sassuolo’s away performance has been slightly better compared to their home games, amassing 11 out of 21 points on the road this season.

Injury Updates for Sassuolo

• Domenico Berardi remains sidelined with a muscle issue.
• Other injured players include Yeferson Paz, Stefano Turati, Laurs Skjellerup, Edoardo Pieragnolo, Daniel Boloca, and Filippo Romagna.
• Andrea Pinamonti’s participation remains uncertain due to injury.

Pinamonti has been an essential player, with all of his four league goals being scored away from home. Sassuolo will need contributions from their remaining attackers in his absence.

Match Predictions

This derby presents an opportunity for both teams to assert their dominance as they head into the new year. Given the current circumstances, Bologna may hold the upper hand, especially with Sassuolo’s key attackers potentially missing.

Our prediction leans towards a 2-1 victory for Bologna, enabling them to end 2025 on a high note against their regional rivals.