As Serie A returns with a midweek fixture, Udinese host Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 3rd, 2024 (03:45 GMT). Both teams arrive with distinct form, injury concerns, and historical context that will shape this encounter.
1. Udinese: Struggles at Home, But Hope of Resurgence
Udinese sit in Serie A’s mid – table but have struggled for consistency, particularly at home — they’ve earned fewer points at Stadio Friuli than away this season.
- Injury Updates: The team faces setbacks, with a key left wing – back ruled out due to injury. However, there’s a boost as second – leading scorer Nico Iacoponiis tipped to return from injury, which could add creativity to their attack.
- Recent Form: After back – to – back disappointing results, Udinese bounced back with a 3 – 1 win over Verona in their last league game. This victory snapped a two – match winless streak, and they’ve now won two of their past four Serie A fixtures. Yet, their home form remains a concern — they’ve only secured 3 wins in 11 league games at Stadio Friuli this term.
2. Roma: Defensive Solidity & Away Dominance Over Udinese
Roma sit third in the table, known for their defensive resilience and clinical away performances — especially against Udinese.
- Defensive Prowess: Roma are Serie A’s best defensive unit in terms of low – scoring games, keeping a clean sheet in all 5 of their recent league matches that ended with 2.5 goals or fewer. This stinginess makes them tough to break down.
- Historical Edge vs Udinese: Roma have been relentlessagainst Udinese in recent years, winning six straight matches between the two sides. In their last 12 away games against Udinese, Roma have claimed 9 victories (2 draws, 1 loss). Their away form is also solid: 4 wins from 5 Serie A trips this season.
- Injury Concerns: Roma aren’t without issues — midfielder Piotr Zielinskiis out with a long – term injury, while forward Adam Buksais likely to miss out. Additionally, Dusan Vlahovic(new injury) and Andrea Belotti(ongoing fitness doubts) add uncertainty to their attacking options. Despite this, Roma’s depth and tactical discipline often compensate for injuries.
3. Key Battles & Prediction
Udinese will look to exploit home advantage and hope Iacoponi’s creativity unlocks Roma’s defense. However, Roma’s defensive record and psychological edge over Udinese make them heavy favorites.
- X – Factor: Roma’s ability to grind out results — even with injuries — gives them an edge. Their 22 – league – game streak of winning when scoring first (all 22 such matches have ended in victory) could prove decisive if they take an early lead.
- Prediction: Considering Roma’s defensive solidity, historical dominance, and Udinese’s home struggles, a narrow Udinese 0 – 1 Roma seems plausible.
In summary, while Udinese will fight for pride at home, Roma’s quality, defensive strength, and recent form against their opponents make them the team to beat on Tuesday night.
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