Roma, Serie A's best attack, host the league's worst defense: Roma vs Sassuolo prediction
On Saturday, Roma will host Sassuolo at the Olimpico in the 11th round of the Italian Serie A. The Romans sit third and remain unbeaten in the league, while the visitors have dropped to 17th after four consecutive defeats. The hosts will look to make amends for their Champions League setback and continue chasing leaders Lazio.
Roma: record-breaking scoring and defensive problems
Gian Piero Gasperini's side are enjoying an impressive Serie A campaign and have hit top gear in attack. After a high-scoring draw with Napoli (3-3), the Romans beat Cagliari (4-2) and Udinese (5-2). Roma have scored 28 goals in ten rounds, setting a new club record. However, things have been more difficult in the Champions League: in their latest match, the team squandered a two-goal lead and lost to Manchester United (2-3).
Despite their attacking firepower, the hosts' defense is a concern, with ten goals conceded in their last four matches across all competitions. Manu Koné and Paulo Dybala have returned to training ahead of the game, but their involvement remains in doubt. Lorenzo Pellegrini and Mile Svilar are unavailable, while Devyne Rensch is sidelined for three weeks. Roma's main attacking hope is Donyell Malen, who has scored eight goals in the current league campaign.
Sassuolo: four straight defeats and the league's worst defense
Alberto Aquilani's side are going through a serious crisis. In their last four league matches, Sassuolo lost to Frosinone (2-4), Como (0-2), Lazio (2-6) and Fiorentina (2-4). The club have conceded 26 goals in ten games — more than any other team in Serie A. Those figures represent the worst record over such a stretch in Sassuolo's entire history in the top flight. Their last away win, meanwhile, came back in February.
The visitors are also struggling in attack. Kévin Bruno and Sebastiano Esposito have yet to show consistent scoring form, while Vasilije Adžić remains the team's top scorer. Armand Laurienté did score twice against Fiorentina and could cause problems for the Romans. Christian Thorstvedt returns from suspension, but Ferde Leysen, Ismaël Koné, Daniel Boloca and Cristian Volpato will miss out.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Roma have scored 28 goals in ten Serie A rounds — a new club record
- Sassuolo have conceded 26 goals and lost their last four league matches
- Roma have won their last four meetings with Sassuolo
Will Roma exploit their opponents' defensive weakness: Roma vs Sassuolo prediction
Roma are clear favorites thanks to their potent attack and consistent league results. After the painful defeat to Manchester United, Gasperini's side will be especially motivated to secure a victory in front of their home supporters.
Sassuolo can find the net, given Roma's recent defensive issues. However, the visitors concede far too many goals and are unlikely to contain Malen and his teammates. The hosts' superior attacking quality should prove decisive.
