The Monza vs Cagliari clash this weekend is set to be a pivotal encounter in Serie A, as both teams fight to escape the relegation zone. With Monza under new management and Cagliari struggling for consistency, this match promises high stakes and intense drama.
Monza Preview: A New Era Under Bocchetti
Monza’s decision to appoint Salvatore Bocchetti as their new manager has yet to yield positive results. The team remains rooted to the bottom of the table after a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Parma last weekend. Despite playing with ten men for over half an hour, Monza showed resilience, only to concede a late winner in the 98th minute.
Bocchetti’s task is clear: steer Monza away from relegation. However, injuries and suspensions have complicated matters. Pablo Mari’s red card means he’ll miss this game, while key players like Roberto Gagliardini and Georgios Kyriakopoulos are doubtful.
Predicted XI (3-4-1-2): Turati; Izzo, Postiglione, D’Ambrosio; Birindelli, Bondo, Bianco, Carboni; Ciurria; Maldini, Caprari
Cagliari Preview: Struggles Continue for the Sardinians
Cagliari’s season has been a rollercoaster. After a brief resurgence, they’ve slipped back into the bottom three following a 3-0 thrashing by Inter Milan. Goals from Bastoni, Martinez, and Calhanoglu highlighted the gulf in class, leaving Cagliari with four consecutive Serie A defeats.
Manager Davide Nicola faces mounting pressure, and injuries to key players like Yerry Mina and Zito Luvumbo add to his woes. The Sardinians must find a way to bounce back quickly if they hope to survive the drop.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Scuffet; Zappa, Mina, Luperto, Obert; Adopo, Makoumbou; Zortea, Gaetano, Augello; Piccoli
Key Factors to Watch
- Home Advantage for Monza: Playing at home could give Monza the edge, especially with Bocchetti looking to make an immediate impact.
- Cagliari’s Defensive Woes: Conceding three goals against Inter exposed Cagliari’s defensive frailties, which Monza will look to exploit.
- Suspensions and Injuries: Both teams are missing key players, which could influence the outcome.
Monza vs Cagliari Prediction
This Monza vs Cagliari encounter is a classic six-pointer in the relegation battle. With both teams desperate for points, expect a tightly contested match. Monza’s improved performance last week, despite the loss, suggests they might have the slight edge, especially at home.
Prediction: Monza to win or draw (Double Chance)
How to Watch
- Date/Time: Sunday, 5th January 2025 – UK: 11:30am / US ET: 6:30am / US PT: 3:30am
- TV: UK – Not televised / US – CBS Sports (select matches)
- Online: UK – OneFootball / US – Paramount+
