Bologna vs Monza Prediction - Serie A Fixtures

In the 21st round of Serie A, eighth-placed Bologna will host bottom-placed Monza at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on 18 January 2025 at 14:00. The match holds significant importance for both sides, as Bologna looks to solidify their position in the top half, while Monza desperately seeks to climb out of the relegation zone. The weather forecast predicts clear skies with a chilly 5°C, which could impact the match dynamics.

Bologna, coached by Vincenzo Italiano, comes into the game in decent form (DDLWW) and has scored in 89% of their home matches this season. Riccardo Orsolini, Bologna’s top scorer with six goals, will aim to continue his scoring streak. Monza, managed by Salvatore Bocchetti, has been struggling (WLLLL) and will miss key players like Gagliardini, Pessina, and D’Ambrosio due to injuries. Dany Mota, their top scorer, will be crucial in their attacking efforts.

Given Bologna’s inconsistent performance and the bookmaker odds, a draw is a plausible outcome. Betting tips recommend considering a draw with odds around 4.04, reflecting the competitive nature of this matchup.

Bologna vs Monza Prediction & Betting Tip

For this Serie A clash, our recommended betting tip is to consider a draw. Based on both teams’ recent performances and the provided match facts, this tip offers a balanced perspective.

Reasons to consider this tip:

• Bologna’s inconsistent form, reflected in their recent results (DDLWW), suggests they may struggle to secure a win.
• Monza, despite their poor run (WLLLL), will be highly motivated to avoid another loss.
• Both teams have various injuries and suspensions, which might lead to a more evenly contested match.

Given the competitive nature and the current circumstances, a draw appears to be the value bet.

Bologna vs Monza Odds

Let’s dive into the betting odds for this Serie A fixture:

Bologna Team Analysis

Recent Form: DDLWW

Bologna has experienced a mixed bag of results recently, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches. Their latest 2-2 draw against Roma highlighted their resilience, but inconsistency remains a challenge. The team has managed to keep two clean sheets in their last five games and averages 1.80 goals scored per match during the same period. Bologna’s defensive solidity, combined with their attacking prowess, makes them a tough opponent at home.

Bologna Key Players

Bologna’s key players have had a noticeable impact this season, with Riccardo Orsolini leading the charge with six goals to his name. Orsolini’s creativity and finishing ability will be critical in breaking down Monza’s defense. In midfield, Remo Freuler adds stability and control, while Jens Odgaard contributes to the attacking dynamic. Defender Sam Beukema has also shown solid performances at the back. The expected lineup for Bologna is:

• Goalkeeper: Lukasz Skorupski
• Defenders: Emil Holm, Sam Beukema, Jhon Lucumí, Juan Miranda
• Midfielders: Lewis Ferguson, Remo Freuler, Jens Odgaard
• Attackers: Dan Ndoye, Thijs Dallinga, Riccardo Orsolini Individual battles to watch include Orsolini against Monza’s experienced defender Armando Izzo.

Bologna Suspensions & Injuries

Bologna is plagued with injury concerns that could impact their performance against Monza.

Bologna Tactics and Formation

Bologna Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Thijs Dallinga
• Midfield Trio: Dan Ndoye, Jens Odgaard, Riccardo Orsolini
• Defensive Strength: Bologna has managed two clean sheets in their last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Strong scoring in the final 15 minutes of matches.

Bologna is likely to stick to a 4-2-3-1 formation under coach Vincenzo Italiano. Thijs Dallinga spearheads the attack, supported by the creative trio of Orsolini, Odgaard, and Ndoye in midfield. With the absence of El Azzouzi and Aebischer, additional pressure will fall on Remo Freuler and Lewis Ferguson to secure midfield dominance. Expect Bologna to capitalize on their late-game scoring prowess, especially in the final 15 minutes, where they’ve been most lethal.

Monza Team Analysis

Monza has endured a challenging period recently, managing only one victory in its last five matches. Their most notable win came against Sampdoria, but they have since suffered four consecutive defeats against formidable opponents. Despite occasionally finding the back of the net, Monza has struggled defensively, evident from its lack of clean sheets in these outings. On average, they have scored 1.20 goals per game over this stretch, reflecting some capability in attack, but their defensive frailties remain apparent.

Monza Key Players

Monza’s key players for this match include top scorer Dany Mota, who has scored 4 goals so far this season, and playmaker Gianluca Caprari, who will be crucial in providing attacking support. Expected lineup for Monza:

• Goalkeeper: Stefano Turati
• Defenders: Armando Izzo, Pablo Mari Villar, Andrea Carboni, Danilo D’Ambrosio
• Midfielders: Patrick Ciurria, Warren Bondo, Alessandro Bianco, Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro
• Forwards: Daniel Maldini, Gianluca Caprari Key individual battles to watch will be Dany Mota versus Sam Beukema, as well as Gianluca Caprari against Bologna’s wing-backs. Monza will hope their attacking duo can break through Bologna’s defense, which has conceded an average of 1.2 goals per game this season.

Monza Suspensions & Injuries

Monza is facing notable challenges in their squad due to multiple injuries and a key suspension. This could significantly impact their performance against Bologna, particularly in maintaining defensive stability and midfield control.

The absence of Pedro Pereira due to suspension might leave a gap in Monza’s defensive line. Additionally, the injuries to several key players such as Alessio Cragno and Matteo Pessina could hamper their control in both defensive and midfield areas. These issues might force coach Salvatore Bocchetti to make strategic adjustments to their lineup and approach.

Monza Tactics and Formation

Monza’s Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-4-2
• Key Forwards: Daniel Maldini, Gianluca Caprari
• Midfield Setup: Patrick Ciurria, Warren Bondo, Alessandro Bianco, Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro
• Defensive Line: Armando Izzo, Pablo Mari Villar, Andrea Carboni, Danilo D’Ambrosio
• Goalkeeper: Stefano Turati

Monza typically utilizes a 4-4-2 formation, aiming for a balanced approach to both attack and defence. The partnership of Maldini and Caprari up front provides a mix of youthful energy and experience. In midfield, Ciurria and Akpa Akpro will likely focus on width and crossing opportunities, while Bondo and Bianco provide core stability. However, defensive lapses remain a concern, exacerbated by key injuries and suspensions. Expect Bocchetti to employ a compact defensive strategy, given their recent struggles and propensity to concede goals.

Bologna vs Monza Head-to-Head Statistics

The previous encounters between Bologna and Monza have been quite balanced, with a mix of victories, draws, and defeats. Here’s a look at the last five meetings: