Cagliari vs Genoa Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Saturday, 22 November

In the Serie A clash on Saturday, 22 November, Cagliari will face Genoa at the Unipol Domus. This match promises to be an intriguing encounter as both teams look to secure crucial points in the league standings. Cagliari, playing at home, will aim to make the most of their familiarity with the Unipol Domus to claim victory over Genoa. Meanwhile, Genoa will be eager to challenge their hosts and improve their position in the Serie A table.

Both Cagliari and Genoa have experienced mixed fortunes this season, making this matchup particularly significant. With home advantage, Cagliari might have the upper hand, but Genoa’s resilience on the road cannot be underestimated. As we delve into the prediction, match preview, and betting tips, this encounter promises plenty of action and potentially some surprises for fans and bettors alike.

Cagliari vs Genoa Prediction & Betting Tip

Given the current form of both Cagliari and Genoa, we recommend betting on under 0.5 goals for this match. Both teams have struggled to find the back of the net consistently, and their recent performances suggest a low-scoring game.

• Less than 2.5 goals have been scored in 73% of Cagliari’s matches this season, indicating a trend towards low-scoring games.
• Genoa has failed to secure a win in their away games, with most of their matches ending in draws, highlighting their inability to score frequently.
• The last encounters for both teams have been low-scoring, with Cagliari drawing 0-0 in their most recent home game and Genoa tying 2-2 in their last match.

Betting Odds

In this Serie A clash, Cagliari and Genoa are neck and neck in the betting odds, with both teams priced almost equally. Cagliari are slight favourites at 2.78, while Genoa are at 2.79, making this a tough one to call. The draw is also a tempting option at 2.94, indicating that bookmakers expect a closely contested match.

For those looking to place a bet, consider the potential for a draw given the evenly matched odds. Additionally, exploring markets like both teams to score or under 2.5 goals might offer value, considering the defensive setups both teams may employ.

Cagliari Analysis & Past Performance

Cagliari’s recent form has been less than inspiring, as they have struggled to secure victories in their last five matches, recording three losses and two draws. This challenging spell includes a goalless draw against Como and successive defeats to Lazio (2-0) and Sassuolo (1-2). Their inability to find the back of the net consistently is underscored by an average of just 0.60 goals per game over this period.

Recent Form:
Defensively, Cagliari have also shown vulnerabilities, conceding an average of 1.60 goals per game in their last five fixtures, which has contributed to only one clean sheet during this stretch. Their home performance has been equally concerning, with a win ratio of only 40% from five home matches, indicating struggles to capitalise on home advantage.

Cagliari’s attacking efforts are largely led by Mattia Felici, who has scored just two goals this season. However, the team’s overall creative output has been limited, as evidenced by their low shot numbers and possession percentages. Positioned 14th in the league standings with just 10 points, Cagliari need to improve both offensively and defensively to climb the table and move away from the lower mid-table.

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Cagliari Suspensions & Injuries

Cagliari’s current injury list could significantly impact their tactical approach against Genoa, particularly with key player Andrea Belotti sidelined due to a cruciate ligament injury, expected back only by early April 2026. His absence is a major blow to their attacking options. The midfield is also affected, with Alessandro Deiola, Nicola Pintus, and Marko Rog all struggling with physical discomfort or muscle injuries, which could force coach Fabio Pisacane to rely on less experienced players.

The potential absence of these midfielders may lead to tactical adjustments, possibly shifting from their typical 4-5-1 formation to a more defensive setup to compensate for the lack of depth and experience in midfield. This could impact their ball control and transitions, making it challenging to maintain possession against a potentially aggressive Genoa side.

With Giuseppe Ciocci also doubtful, Cagliari’s bench strength is stretched thin. The team’s ability to adapt and find suitable replacements will be crucial, potentially opening opportunities for younger squad members to step up. These absences might influence betting markets, with Cagliari possibly seen as underdogs due to their compromised squad depth and the reliance on inexperienced players in key positions.

Cagliari Key Players

Cagliari’s attacking threat is led by their top scorer Mattia Felici, who has netted two goals this season. Felici, playing as an advanced midfielder, excels at exploiting spaces between the lines and can be a constant menace to Genoa’s defence. His ability to link up with Sebastiano Esposito, the lone forward, will be vital in breaking down opposition defences. Esposito’s movement and finishing could be crucial in converting chances created by Felici and the midfield.

In midfield, players like Michael Folorunsho and Gianluca Gaetano are crucial for Cagliari’s tactical setup. Folorunsho provides necessary physicality and defensive cover, while Gaetano is expected to orchestrate play with his vision and passing range. Defensively, Yerry Mina’s leadership and aerial prowess are indispensable, especially against set-pieces where Genoa might pose a threat. Together, these players form the backbone of Cagliari’s strategy, aiming to control the game through midfield dominance and defensive solidity.

Expected lineup for Cagliari:

• Goalkeeper: Elia Caprile
• Defenders: Gabriele Zappa, Yerry Mina, Sebastiano Luperto, Adam Obert
• Midfielders: Marco Palestra, Michael Folorunsho, Matteo Prati, Gianluca Gaetano, Mattia Felici
• Forward: Sebastiano Esposito

Cagliari Tactics and Formation

Cagliari Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-5-1
• Key Forward: Sebastiano Esposito
• Midfield Engine: Michael Folorunsho and Matteo Prati
• Defensive Strength: Yerry Mina’s leadership at the back
• Notable Strategy: Defensive compactness and counter-attacking play.

Cagliari’s 4-5-1 formation focuses on creating a compact defensive unit while relying on quick transitions to attack. With Sebastiano Esposito as the lone forward, supported by a robust five-man midfield, Cagliari aim to control the central areas and break quickly when opportunities arise.

Defensively, Yerry Mina’s experience and aerial ability are crucial for maintaining structure and dealing with set-pieces. Alongside him, Sebastiano Luperto and full-backs Gabriele Zappa and Adam Obert add depth and resilience, although the team’s recent record of one clean sheet in five games indicates room for improvement.

Offensively, the midfield, led by Michael Folorunsho and Matteo Prati, is pivotal in transitioning play from defence to attack. However, Cagliari’s struggle for goals is evident, with only three goals in their last five matches, highlighting a need for greater creativity and finishing in the final third.

Genoa Analysis & Past Performance

Genoa’s recent form has been mixed, with the team securing only one win in their last five matches. Their recent 2-2 draw against Fiorentina highlighted both their attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities. Genoa’s attack has shown some consistency, scoring in three out of their last five games, yet they have struggled to maintain defensive solidity, conceding seven goals in the same period.

Recent Form:

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Genoa’s performance statistics reveal a struggle for consistency, with an average of 1.00 goals scored and 1.40 goals conceded per match over their last five fixtures. They have managed only one clean sheet, suggesting issues with defensive organisation. Away from home, they have faced challenges, winning only one of their last five away games, reflecting a win ratio of 20%. Despite these struggles, they showed promise with a recent 2-1 victory over Sassuolo, indicating potential for tactical adaptability and resilience. Their position at 18th in the league with 7 points underscores the need for improvement to avoid relegation threats.

Genoa Suspensions & Injuries

Genoa face a challenging fixture against Cagliari with notable absences due to injuries. Jeff Ekhator, who is nursing a foot injury, is doubtful for the match. His absence could disrupt the team’s midfield dynamics, where his physical presence and ball-winning abilities are crucial. The loss of Jean Onana and Sebastian Otoa further exacerbates Genoa’s midfield issues, potentially forcing coach Daniele De Rossi to rethink his strategy.

The tactical impact of these injuries might see Genoa relying more heavily on Morten Frendrup and Morten Thorsby in midfield. These players will need to step up to fill the void left by the injured trio. Additionally, the versatility of Mikael Egill Ellertsson could be pivotal, as he may be called upon to adapt to a more central role, providing creativity and linking play between the lines.

With these unavailable players, Genoa may opt for a more conservative approach, possibly adjusting their usual 3-4-2-1 formation to bolster the midfield. This could mean a shift to a more defensive setup, focusing on counter-attacks led by Lorenzo Colombo. The tactical adjustments will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge against Cagliari.

Genoa Key Players

Genoa’s key player in their upcoming match against Cagliari is undoubtedly Leo Østigård, who is not only a defensive stalwart but also the team’s top scorer with two goals this season. Østigård’s prowess in set-piece situations adds a critical dimension to Genoa’s attacking options. His partnership in defence with Alessandro Marcandalli and Johan Vásquez is vital, providing a solid foundation against Cagliari’s forwards.

In midfield, Morten Thorsby and Morten Frendrup are pivotal, offering both defensive stability and the ability to transition play effectively. Thorsby’s physicality and Frendrup’s vision make them a formidable duo capable of controlling the tempo of the game. Up front, Lorenzo Colombo is expected to lead the line, bringing his attacking instincts and composure in front of goal.

Expected lineup for Genoa:

• Goalkeeper: Nicola Leali
• Defence: Alessandro Marcandalli, Leo Østigård, Johan Vásquez
• Midfield: Brooke Norton-Cuffy, Morten Frendrup, Morten Thorsby, Aaron Martin Caricol, Mikael Egill Ellertsson, Vitinha
• Forward: Lorenzo Colombo

The tactical impact of these key players is significant, as Genoa will rely on Østigård’s defensive leadership and Thorsby’s midfield dynamism to counter Cagliari’s threats. Their strengths, particularly in aerial duels and transitional play, could be decisive in shaping the outcome of the match.

Genoa Tactics and Formation

Genoa Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Lorenzo Colombo
• Midfield Core: Morten Frendrup and Morten Thorsby
• Defensive Structure: Yet to secure consistent clean sheets, conceding in four of the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on wing-back play and transitional attacking phases.

Genoa’s 3-4-2-1 formation is designed to maximise width and provide flexibility in both attack and defence. With Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Aaron Martin Caricol operating as wing-backs, Genoa look to stretch the opposition and create crossing opportunities for Lorenzo Colombo, the focal point in attack.

Defensively, the trio of Alessandro Marcandalli, Leo Østigård, and Johan Vásquez forms the backbone. However, the team’s vulnerability is evident, having conceded an average of 1.40 goals per game, reflecting their struggles to maintain clean sheets.

Offensively, Genoa aim to utilise quick transitions and the creative play of Mikael Egill Ellertsson and Vitinha behind Colombo. Despite their limited success, evidenced by only one win in the last five matches, their strategy hinges on exploiting spaces left by opponents during transitional phases.

Cagliari vs Genoa Head-to-Head Record

In the head-to-head record between Cagliari and Genoa, Genoa hold the upper hand with 19 wins compared to Cagliari’s 16, along with 7 draws across all competitions. Their last encounter ended in a 1-1 draw in Serie A, showcasing how tightly contested these matches can be.

In Serie A, the head-to-head record remains competitive, with Genoa slightly ahead. Cagliari will be looking to leverage their home advantage at the Unipol Domus to close the gap and improve their standing in the league.