Udinese currently sit 11th in the league with 18 points from 5 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses. Their recent form has been inconsistent. After a 0–2 defeat to Juventus in the Coppa Italia in midweek, they have now lost 3 of their last 4 competitive matches. Their performance has followed a “win–loss alternating” pattern, splitting their last eight matches evenly between victories and defeats. The main issue lies in their lack of attacking firepower: they have scored only 4 goals in their last six competitive fixtures, being shut out in three of them. Their defense has been similarly unstable, conceding 10 goals over the same stretch. Udinese’s home results have fluctuated as well, with two wins and one loss in their most recent three league matches at the Dacia Arena. On the personnel front, injuries pose a significant problem. Midfield core Arthur Ata and defender Hassane Kamara will miss this match. Forwards Nicolò Zaniolo and Keinan Davis remain the team’s primary attacking threats, each having scored four goals so far this season.
Genoa, on the other hand, are in a far more precarious league position. With 2 wins, 5 draws, and 6 losses, they sit 16th on 11 points, only one point clear of the relegation zone. However, the situation has improved since early November when Daniele De Rossi took over as head coach. The team’s league performance has surged under his leadership. In the four league matches following the managerial change, Genoa went unbeaten with 2 wins and 2 draws, a run that ended only with their heavy 0–4 defeat to Atalanta in the Coppa Italia in midweek. Their attacking output has improved significantly, averaging two goals per match over the last four league rounds. Defensive issues remain their biggest weakness, as they have conceded in seven straight matches, with their away defense particularly fragile. The squad is generally healthy, with Cornet being the only notable absentee. Forward Lorenzo Colombo has been revitalized under De Rossi, contributing 2 goals and 1 assist in his last three league outings.
This match presents an intriguing contrast between motivation and momentum. While Udinese are higher in the standings and playing at home, their recent form has been shaky, with clear problems on both ends of the pitch. Injuries to key players further weaken their competitiveness. Genoa, despite being deep in the relegation battle, have shown a marked resurgence since the coaching change and are currently on a strong point-gathering run in the league. A crucial factor is the psychological edge in head-to-head meetings: Genoa have beaten Udinese in their last three encounters, all with clean sheets, giving them a clear mental advantage. Considering their improving form, strong motivation, and favorable matchup history, Genoa have every reason to believe they can extend their unbeaten league run even away from home.
Prediction: Genoa to avoid defeat
Score Prediction: Udinese 1–2 Genoa
