Sassuolo vs Torino predictions ahead of this Serie A clash. Sassuolo, struggling for form, aims to prevent a season double loss to Torino for the first time in ten years as they host them at Mapei Stadium on Saturday. Read on for our match preview and free betting tips.
Serie A | Gameweek 24 – Feb 10, 2024 at 7.45pm UK at MAPEI Stadium – Citta del Tricolore
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Sassuolo vs Torino Predictions
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A Test of Resilience: Sassuolo’s Struggle Against Torino’s Fortitude
Key Stats
– Sassuolo faces the risk of consecutive defeats to Torino for the first time in a decade, underlining their current precarious position.
– Duvan Zapata eyes adding to his nine-goal tally, posing a significant threat to Sassuolo’s survival hopes.
As Sassuolo welcomes Torino to the Mapei Stadium, both teams find themselves in differing circumstances yet united in their quest for vital Serie A points. Sassuolo, embroiled in a fierce relegation battle, faces the daunting prospect of losing twice in a single Serie A season to Torino for the first time in a decade. On the other hand, Torino, buoyed by a recent unbeaten streak, aims to consolidate their mid-table position while keeping an eye on European qualification spots.
Analytical Overview: Form and Tactical Dispositions
Sassuolo’s recent form is a cause for concern, with the team having lost three consecutive matches and four out of their last five fixtures in 2024. This slump has seen them perilously close to the relegation zone, a stark contrast to their aspirations at the season’s start. The loss of key players such as Domenico Berardi to injury has compounded their woes, leaving a gap in attacking prowess that Alessio Dionisi has struggled to fill.
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Conversely, Torino, under Ivan Juric’s astute leadership, has exhibited resilience and defensive solidity, embarking on an unbeaten run that spans four matches. Despite their away form leaving much to be desired, Torino’s defensive record is commendable, with 11 clean sheets that underscore their status as one of Serie A’s most formidable defences this season.
Key Battles and Areas of Influence
The match could be decisively influenced in the midfield, where Sassuolo’s ability to control possession and create chances will be tested against Torino’s robust and disciplined setup. Kristian Thorstvedt, who has shown glimpses of brilliance for Sassuolo, will need to step up in Berardi’s absence, especially against a Torino midfield marshalled by the likes of Sasa Lukic and Karol Linetty.
In attack, Sassuolo’s reliance on Andrea Pinamonti for goals will be crucial, as he faces a Torino defence that has proven difficult to breach. Torino’s Duvan Zapata, on the other hand, poses a significant threat to Sassuolo’s backline, with his physical presence and goal-scoring ability likely to cause problems.
Managerial Duel: Dionisi vs. Juric
Alessio Dionisi finds himself at a critical juncture, needing to galvanise his team to halt their slide towards relegation. His ability to adapt tactically and inspire confidence will be pivotal. Ivan Juric, meanwhile, has demonstrated tactical nous and the ability to extract the best from his squad. His team’s defensive organisation and counter-attacking threat will be key components in Torino’s strategy for this encounter.
Expected Lineups and Tactical Implications
Sassuolo’s lineup, featuring Consigli in goal, Erlic and Ferrari at the heart of defence, and Pinamonti leading the line, indicates Dionisi’s preference for a balanced setup, aiming to bolster defence while exploiting counter-attacking opportunities. Thorstvedt’s role as a creative hub will be crucial in linking play and providing for Pinamonti.
Torino’s expected lineup showcases Milinkovic-Savic between the sticks, with a defensive trio of Tameze, Sazonov, and Rodriguez providing a solid base. The inclusion of Sanabria alongside Zapata upfront highlights Juric’s intent to apply pressure on Sassuolo’s defence, utilising physicality and movement to create scoring chances.
Predictions and Analysis
- Torino to Win: Despite Sassuolo’s desperate situation and home advantage, Torino’s superior form and defensive strength give them the edge. Juric’s side has shown they can grind out results, especially against teams lower in the table.
- Correct Score Prediction: Sassuolo 0-2 Torino: Considering both teams’ recent performances and Torino’s defensive solidity, a clean sheet for the visitors seems plausible. Torino’s ability to capitalise on set-pieces and counter-attacks could see them secure a comfortable victory.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Duvan Zapata to Score Anytime: Zapata’s physicality and knack for crucial goals make him Torino’s main threat. Against a Sassuolo defence that has struggled for consistency, the Colombian striker is well-placed to add to his tally.
- Corner Prediction: Torino to Have More Corners; Total Corners Over 9: Torino’s direct style of play and emphasis on wide attacks are likely to result in a higher corner count. Given Sassuolo’s defensive approach and potential for counter-attacks, the game could see a significant number of corners.
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