The Daily Star Ireland
Fiorentina host AS Roma at the Stadio Artemio Franchi this weekend in a Serie A clash that could shape the battle for European qualification. The Viola, traditionally contenders for Europa League spots, have endured a poor start with just three points from their first five games, leaving them in 16th place. Their recent results include defeats to Napoli (1-3) and Como (1-2), followed by a frustrating 0-0 draw against newly-promoted Pisa.
Roma, in contrast, have begun strongly under new coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who arrived after his successful stint at Atalanta. The Giallorossi sit third in Serie A with four wins from their opening five matches. Their only slip came in a 0-1 defeat against Torino, but they responded with a hard-fought derby win over Lazio (1-0) and a solid 2-0 victory over Hellas Verona last weekend.
Team Form & Recent Results
Fiorentina’s slow start reflects both inconsistency and lack of cutting edge, though they showed promise in a 2-1 win over Milan earlier in the campaign. A worrying trend is their reliance on late goals—ten of their 14 goals have come after halftime—highlighting issues with intensity early in matches.
Roma are thriving under Gasperini’s tactical discipline. Despite occasional struggles to dominate possession, they have ground out results with defensive solidity and opportunistic finishing. Their resilience was underlined in the derby against Lazio, where they absorbed pressure before striking late.
Head-to-Head Record
Recent encounters at the Franchi have been entertaining. Six of the last eight meetings between Fiorentina and Roma in Florence have featured over 2.5 goals and both teams scoring. Roma, however, hold the upper hand in the broader record, having avoided defeat in most of their recent clashes.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Fiorentina: Ikoné and Nico González provide attacking spark, while midfield energy will come from Amrabat and Bonaventura. No major injury concerns are reported, giving Vincenzo Italiano near full options.
AS Roma: Bailey’s absence and Paulo Dybala’s limited availability could restrict attacking options. Lukaku and Pellegrini are expected to start, with Cristante anchoring midfield.
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Fiorentina are strongest when playing on the front foot at home, using width and speed through González and Ikoné. Their tendency to concede early chances, however, remains a concern. Roma under Gasperini have shown compactness and patience, often thriving in the second half when spaces open up. Lukaku’s physical presence will test Fiorentina’s defense, while González’s creativity poses Roma’s biggest challenge.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- AS Roma to Win – Roma’s form and Fiorentina’s shaky start make this the favored outcome
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Likely, given historical trends in this fixture
- Over 2.5 Goals – Six of the last eight meetings in Florence support this market
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
The match will be played at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence. Kickoff times vary by region, and fans should check local broadcasters or Serie A’s official streaming partners for updated schedules.
Final Prediction
Fiorentina’s home advantage and attacking options suggest they can trouble Roma, but the Giallorossi’s resilience, form, and tactical edge under Gasperini make them slight favorites. Expect a tight battle with chances at both ends, but Roma’s efficiency in big moments could prove decisive.
- Final Prediction: Fiorentina 0–1 AS Roma
- Best Bet: AS Roma to Win
- Alternative Value: Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
