Seven matches without a win against an unstoppable attack: Udinese vs Roma prediction
On October 31, Udinese will host Roma at the Friuli Stadium in the 10th round of Italy’s Serie A. The hosts are mired in a prolonged crisis and edging closer to the relegation zone, while the Romans continue their pursuit of the league leaders. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side look like the favorites, but a congested schedule and a number of absences could make the task more difficult.
Udinese: the crisis drags on, but the wins still will not come
Kosta Runjaic’s side are winless in seven consecutive matches. In the previous round, the Zebras ended a six-match losing streak by drawing with Parma (0-0). However, even 20 shots were not enough to secure victory, while goalkeeper Maduka Okoye kept his team in the game by saving a penalty.
The situation is further complicated by injuries. Oumar Solet and David Alaba are unavailable in defense, while Alessandro Zanoli, Vakoun Bayo and Idrissa Gueye are also still recovering. The hosts’ main hope is Nicolo Zaniolo. The former Roma player has returned from injury and once again become a key figure in attack. Facing his former club gives him extra motivation.
However, Udinese’s home record offers little cause for optimism. The club have not won at home in six consecutive matches, while poor finishing and defensive errors continue to prevent them from escaping the crisis.
Roma: character and attacking output can offset fatigue
Gasperini’s side remain unbeaten in the league, although their recent matches have been far from straightforward. Against Napoli, the Romans came from behind twice to earn a draw, while they snatched victory against Cagliari thanks to goals in the 82nd and 85th minutes.
Roma’s attacking form has been particularly impressive. In four of their last five matches, the team scored 14 goals. Moreover, the danger comes not only from the forwards, but also from defenders who actively join attacks and set-piece situations.
The squad situation calls for rotation. Mile Svilar remains sidelined, while Paulo Dybala’s involvement is in doubt. Donny Malen, Matias Soulé and Rodrigo Mora are expected to lead the attack. Despite fatigue and a packed schedule, the Romans continue to show character and can find winning solutions even in difficult matches.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Udinese are winless in seven consecutive matches, suffering six defeats
- Roma won six consecutive head-to-head meetings before their latest 0-1 defeat to Udinese
- Udinese have scored against Roma in their last five home matches
Can the Romans capitalize on the hosts’ crisis: Udinese vs Roma prediction
Udinese are struggling in virtually every area of the pitch. Even home advantage has ceased to be a factor, while Zaniolo’s return has yet to help the team turn its results around.
Roma are far from perfect defensively as well, but they have a significant edge over their opponents in attacking quality. Gasperini’s team regularly creates chances and knows how to raise its level in decisive moments. The hosts can find the net, but stopping the visitors’ prolific attack will be a difficult task.
