The two teams have clashed 34 times historically, of which Bologna has only won 2 matches, drawn 9, and lost a staggering 23 games. In terms of goals scored and conceded, Juventus clearly holds the advantage. In 34 matches, Bologna managed to score only 28 goals against Juventus, averaging less than one goal per match, while conceding 60 goals in total, averaging 1.76 goals per game. Looking at Bologna's recent form, this team is not in great shape, with 1 win, 5 draws, and 2 losses in their last 8 games. Currently, they are ranked 17th in the league table, level on points with Udinese in the relegation zone, avoiding it only due to a better goal difference. For Juventus, who currently boast a strong attacking line, even as an away game, securing all three points against such an opponent should be within reach.
Key Point Two: Krasic's double-edged sword - Juve suffers from dependency syndrome. From the current performances of summer signings, Krasic is undoubtedly the most effective acquisition for the Bianconeri. However, moving beyond the joyous encouragement brought by the significant improvement in team attacks through the East European star, the double-edged nature of Krasic begins to show. Juventus has inevitably developed a Krasic dependency syndrome. It was evident during last night's match against Salzburg that without Krasic in midfield, Juventus' organization was significantly disordered and aimless. The situation improved markedly upon his entry, with Krasic personally rewriting the scoreline just two minutes after coming on. For Juventus now, Krasic is the elixir that revitalizes their attack.
Key Point Three: Rising stars caught in injury woes, defense lineup under scrutiny.
Bologna: Esposito (injured), Perez (suspended)
Predicted Starting Lineup:
Bologna (4-1-4-1): 1-Viviano / 8-Garic, 13-Portanova, 6-Britos, 21-Lubin / 17-Radovanovic / 24-Buse, 26-Mudingayi, 12-Ekdal, 35-Papuni / 9-Di Vaio
Juventus (4-4-2): 30-Storari / 2-Motta, 19-Bonucci, 3-Chielini, 29-De Ceglie / 27-Krasic, 4-Melo, 14-Aquilani, 8-Marchisio / 11-Amori, 18-Quagliarella
However, this remedy could leave Juventus incapacitated, as Krasic is not superhuman. With Juventus playing on two fronts, Del Neri must adopt a rotation system to ensure players get necessary rest. Once Krasic sits on the bench, Juventus struggles to find the rhythm and pace of the game, leaving the Old Lady in a difficult situation. Returning to the league, Krasic's performance will undoubtedly be the focus, and the underlying issues need Del Neri's attention.
In the away game against Salzburg, Del Neri still chose to trust Gregra at right-back. However, the Czech defender's performance was nerve-wracking, as he must bear direct responsibility for the conceded goal. Not only did his form dip again, but the Czech also encountered physical issues. According to today's news from "Tuttojuve," due to a collision during the Salzburg match, Gregra might face a month-long injury layoff. Del Neri already had limited defensive options, especially at the full-back positions, and Gregra's absence forces him to select Motta, who hasn't earned Del Neri's trust recently. Adding to this, the left-back position remains problematic with De Ceglie, meaning Juventus' defense will face significant pressure in this game.
Both teams' injuries and suspensions:
Kick-off at 21:00 Beijing Time on October 24, marking the eighth round of Serie A Sunday fixtures. Back home, Juventus faces Bologna away. Given the previous round's 4-goal rout of Lecce, the Bianconeri are in high spirits and steadily climbing up the standings. Facing Bologna, who they historically dominate and rank lower in this season's Serie A table, Juventus is expected to secure a victory. However, the issues plaguing Juventus began to surface during last night's Europa League match, namely their reliance on Krasic.
Predicted starting lineups:
Juventus: Buffon (injured), Traore (injured), Rinault (injured), Lanzafame (injured), Gregra (injured)
Key Point One: Historically dominant, Juventus aims for 3 points away.