The Serie A spotlight returns to Verona on February 7, 2026, as hosts Verona face desperate relegation rivals Pisa in a pivotal six-pointer. Both teams sit precariously in the drop zone, with Verona languishing in 19th place (15 points) and Pisa just one spot lower in 20th (12 points). A win for either side could breathe life into their survival hopes, while a draw would keep them mired in the relegation scrap.
Injury and Suspensions: A Tale of Two Defences
For Verona, the return of midfielder Juan Cuadrato from a six-week knee injury is a major boost. The Colombian playmaker’s creativity had been sorely missed, and his presence could unlock Pisa’s compact defence. However, defensive woes persist: centre-back Bela Ksapa (hamstring strain) remains sidelined, leaving youngster Mattia Caldara to deputise alongside veteran Arturo Calabresi (suspended for this match). Winger Amine Harit is also out after accumulating two yellow cards, depriving Verona of a vital attacking outlet.
Pisa, meanwhile, welcomes back defender Arturo Calabresi following a one-match ban, providing stability to a backline that has leaked 18 goals in seven games. Striker Andrea Favilli (8 goals) is rested but available off the bench, while midfielder Davide Frattesi (thigh strain) is ruled out for three weeks. Goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi faces a late fitness test after complaining of muscle tightness, adding uncertainty to Pisa’s leakiest department.
Head – to – Head and Tactical Battle
Historically, these sides have met only twice in Serie A, with one draw each. This fixture promises to break the stalemate, though stylistic contrasts abound:
- Verona will likely deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation to dominate possession through Cuadrato and Santiago Cáseres, supported by pacey wingers Davide Diaw and Yannick Cahuzac. Their set-piece threat—exemplified by Cuadrato’s delivery—could exploit Pisa’s fragile backline.
- Pisa may opt for a 5-3-2 defensive setup to limit space in transition, counterattacking via full-backs Tommaso Calabrese (newly returned from suspension) and Roberto Insigne. Midfield anchor Riccardo Orsolini will need to shield a ragged defence while seeking opportunities on the break.
Why This Game Matters
Both teams enter with new managers desperate for their first victory:
- Verona coach Ivan Juric seeks to reignite his side’s campaign after six consecutive league defeats.
- Pisa’s Fabrizio Ravanelli aims to translate recent squad additions (Calabrese, Favilli) into results after a disastrous start to the season.
The absence of Ksapa leaves Verona vulnerable at the back, but Cuadrato’s return offers a tactical advantage. Conversely, Pisa’s high defensive line could be exposed by Verona’s counterattacking threat—provided they can overcome early pressure.
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