Serie B, Round 30
Palermo vs. Venezia (15/03/24, 8:30 PM)
Palermo secures a narrow victory against Lecco (0-1), ending a 4-match winless streak. The club and fans remain cautious about Coach Corini, whose future hinges on a crucial performance in the upcoming big match: defeating Venezia to keep alive their slim promotion hopes. Venezia arrives in good form, with 3 wins in their last 4 matches and just 2 points behind second-placed Cremonese. This encounter features two Serie B powerhouses with similar strengths and flaws: potent attacks, midfield contributions, and inconsistent defenses. The first leg saw Palermo win 3-1 at Penzo, suggesting goals on both sides in a potentially tight match. Home pressure for Palermo against Venezia's top scorer Pohjanpalo, who has a knack for scoring against Palermo, could be key.
Brescia vs. Catanzaro
A last-minute defeat for Brescia at Parma puts pressure on their 7th-place standing, surrounded by competitors, yet morale remains high. Catanzaro, in 6th place and 10 points ahead, faces a shock home defeat by Reggiana (0-1). This high-stakes match pits Brescia's third-best defense against Catanzaro's adaptable offensive strategy. An unpredictable outcome is expected, potentially without a high-scoring blowout.
Como vs. Pisa
Como rues a late loss to Cremonese (1-2), marking a tough stretch against top teams and jeopardizing direct promotion hopes. Fabregas, technically an assistant post-Roberts' appointment but still effectively coaching, faces Pisa, which has recently found form and entered the playoff zone. This match promises to be finely balanced, with Como slightly favored but not expected to be a goal fest.
FeralpiSalò vs. Parma
FeralpiSalò's stunning comeback win at Modena (2-3) keeps their survival hopes alive, but an upcoming match against league leaders Parma poses a significant challenge. Despite three consecutive home losses, FeralpiSalò is determined to win. Parma, aiming to secure their Serie A spot before the break, faces a tough opponent in FeralpiSalò, capable of scoring against Parma's vulnerable defense. However, the technical gap suggests an away win or draw is more likely.
Sudtirol vs. Cremonese
Sudtirol's playoff ambitions took a hit with a loss to Spezia but face a critical match against Cremonese, who just won a key direct promotion clash. Stroppa returns to his coaching roots against a grounded Sudtirol, focusing on survival over playoffs. A low-scoring affair is anticipated, with Cremonese as the slight favorites.
Ternana vs. Cosenza
Ternana, despite recent losses, remains spirited under Coach Breda, starting his tenure with a win over Cosenza. A rematch offers Ternana a chance to approach direct survival at Cosenza's expense. However, Cosenza faces turmoil with Coach Caserta's dismissal and Viali's return. The team's reaction to the coaching change is uncertain, making Ternana's victory a viable scenario.
Bari vs. Sampdoria (16/03/24, 4:15 PM)
Bari's slump continues with a loss to Venezia, marking three defeats in their last four matches. A survey reveals fans blame technical limitations rather than Coach Iachini. Sampdoria, on a winning streak, looks to extend their playoff hopes under Coach Pirlo. With momentum on their side, Sampdoria faces a challenging atmosphere at San Nicola but is poised for a draw or away win.
Cittadella vs. Modena (16/03/24, 4:15 PM)
Cittadella breaks a losing streak with a draw at Cosenza, aiming to rebound against Modena, who suffered a home defeat to FeralpiSalò. Defensive issues plague both teams, hinting at a match with potential for both to score, though not necessarily high-scoring.
Reggiana vs. Spezia (16/03/24, 4:15 PM)
Reggiana's upset win over Catanzaro brings them close to the playoffs, but Coach Nesta tempers expectations. Facing Spezia, rejuvenated by recent victories, this match expects cautious play, likely resulting in a low-scoring outcome.
Ascoli vs. Lecco (17/03/24, 4:15 PM)
Ascoli's loss to Sampdoria leads to Coach Castori's dismissal, with Massimo Carrera stepping in amid a relegation scare. Facing a struggling Lecco, marred by the president's match-fixing concerns, this match presents high uncertainty. Ascoli's issues appear more manageable, suggesting a potential home victory for those willing to bet against the odds.