Sassuolo vs Bologna prediction: ITALY: Serie A betting tips on match 2023-05-07 18:45.
Mid-table Sassuolo have been alternating between wins and losses across their last five Serie A (SA) matches (W2, L3), but there was some comfort for them in that they did mathematically secure safety in midweek despite a 2-0 defeat against Lazio. Now they have a chance to secure a third top-half finish from the last four seasons; however, it remains to be seen how much of a motivator that will be for Alessio Dionisi’s men.
Home form has been solid for Sassuolo despite their inconsistent run, and their last gasp come-from-behind 2-1 win in their last match here against Empoli saw them extend their unbeaten streak at Mapei Stadium to five matches (W4, D1). Although, one win from their last seven home meetings with Bologna suggests that record could be put to the test here.
Two disallowed goals because of handballs in the opening 30 minutes had a crucial detrimental impact for Bologna who lost to Sassuolo’s last home opponents, Empoli, in the previous round (3-1). Two recent draws with giants AC Milan and Juventus – albeit at home – show Thiago Motta’s men can be a match for any side on their day, yet even a positive result here is unlikely to reignite their European hopes as the visitors start the round 13-points adrift of the top six.
Bologna have now lost back-to-back away league matches for the first time since October and their travelling fans could be fearing the worst again here. That’s because those defeats contributed to Bologna’s record of just one win in five away games against sides starting the round 13th (Sassuolo’s position) or below (D2, L2). There should be plenty of entertainment for the neutral at least, with five of their last seven away outings producing 3+ match goals.
Players to watch: Sassuolo talisman Domenico Berardi has notched four goal contributions across the last six meetings with Bologna (G3, A1), albeit all came away from home. Hoping for another successful trip to Mapei Stadium is Bologna’s Riccardo Orsolini, who scored in two of the last three H2Hs here.
Hot stat: Seven of the last nine H2Hs have seen at least two goals scored after the break.