Bologna vs Fiorentina: Prediction, H2H and probable lineups — January 18, 2026
On Sunday, January 18, in the next round of Serie A, Bologna will host Fiorentina on home turf. Read on for a detailed look at the teams' form and our match prediction.
See also: Parma Calcio 1913 vs Genoa prediction and betting tips 18 January 2026
Match preview
Bologna approach the derby against Fiorentina in mixed form. The team continues to rely on high-intensity football and aggressive pressing in the 2025/26 season, but consistency in results remains elusive. In recent rounds, Bologna have alternated between confident performances and disappointing setbacks, with the main issue still being conversion of chances. The team creates plenty through active flank play and bold runs from defenders, but often surrenders the initiative due to positional errors and exposed spaces when losing possession.
At home, Bologna play with noticeably more aggression, trying to impose a high tempo from the opening minutes. This approach pays off against teams willing to sit back, but more organized opponents present problems. Against Fiorentina, the hosts must avoid burning out emotionally and maintain a balance between attack and defense.
Fiorentina have endured an unstable 2025/26 season. After a disastrous start and a coaching change, the team has finally begun to collect points: in recent matches, they've lost only once and have already amassed 14 points, climbing from last place to 18th. Recently, the Viola have focused on ball control and gradually breaking down opposing defenses, trying to avoid unnecessary risks. Their defense is compact, and the transition from defense to attack is far smoother than Bologna's.
In attack, Fiorentina favor patient build-up play with midfielders heavily involved and strikers dropping deep. This creates overloads in midfield, but when they lose possession, the team is sometimes vulnerable to quick counterattacks, especially if the fullbacks have pushed high up the pitch.
Probable lineups
Bologna: Ravaglia; Zortea, Heggem, Vitik, Miranda; Freuler, Moro; Orsolini, Fabbian, Rowe; Castro
Fiorentina: De Gea; Dodo, Comuzzo, Pongracic, Gosens; Mandragora, Fagioli, Brescianini; Solomon, Kean, Gudmundsson
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the last five meetings, each team has won twice and there has been one draw
- Bologna have won just one of their last six games
- Fiorentina have lost only once in their last five matches
Prediction
Both clubs will look to put their best foot forward, as points are desperately needed. My prediction: total over (2) at 1.5
