Italy – Serie B, Round 11
Cittadella vs Cremonese (27/10/23, 20:30)
The last match resulted in a narrow defeat against Pisa (2-1), yet Cittadella's league start has been promising with 13 points, from 4 draws, 3 wins, and as many losses—identical to Cremonese's track record. However, while one team is built for survival, the other aims for promotion. The Grigiorossi, having replaced their coach Ballardini with Stroppa, have so far failed to win at home in 6 matches. Contrarily, Cremonese has flourished away with 10 points from 4 games, and they play at Tombolato this Friday. The standout player? Massimo Coda, the league's top scorer with 7 goals.
Como vs Catanzaro (28/10/23, 14:00)
Two consecutive losses against Parma and Cremonese have somewhat tempered Como's ambitions. However, Longo's side is still in the playoff zone, having earned a commendable 14 points. On the other hand, Catanzaro, the fierce newly-promoted team, trails Parma by just two points and remains undefeated away. Vandeputte and teammates, after three consecutive victories, aim to surprise Como. Intriguingly, both teams have low scoring forwards with Cutrone and Biasci leading, each with 3 goals.
FeralpiSalò vs Reggiana (28/10/23, 14:00)
A crushing defeat (3-0) at Catanzaro resulted in coach Vecchi's dismissal. The replacement is ex-Hellas' Zaffaroni. The current standings signal a state of emergency, with only one win in 10 games, scoring 5 and conceding 19 goals. However, Reggiana, rejuvenated by their win against Venezia (1-0), led by Gondo (3 goals), has proven their worth in the league, with only one loss in their last eight games.
Spezia vs Cosenza (28/10/23, 14:00)
Despite showing signs of improvement, the 2023/24 season remains challenging for Spezia. They were robbed of a win in the dying moments against Palermo (2-2) despite a two-goal lead. Spezia has managed only one win so far, and struggles at the lower end of the table. Facing Cosenza, they'll be defensively challenged. Contrastingly, Cosenza sits in the top half, aiming to recover from their 2-0 defeat against Sampdoria.
Sudtirol vs Sampdoria (28/10/23, 14:00)
Sudtirol's recent win against Cremonese (0-1) revived their campaign. However, their attack has dimmed lately, scoring only 3 in the last six games. Casiraghi, with 6 goals and 2 assists, hasn't scored in four matches. Sampdoria's Pirlo, after a win against Cosenza (2-0), seeks to climb from their current 16th position. Their ace, Fabio Borini, is fresh from a brace and boasts a perfect penalty record.
Ascoli vs Parma (28/10/23, 16:15)
Under Viali, Ascoli seems to have found their rhythm. Their victory against Lecco (0-2) marks five consecutive positive results. With players like Pedro Mendes emerging, they can aim higher than mere survival. However, they host the league leaders, Parma, who after their only defeat, bounced back with a win against Como (2-1). Parma rightfully tops the early stages of Serie B, with 20 goals scored and only 8 conceded.
Brescia vs Bari (29/10/23, 16:15)
A last-minute goal resulted in Brescia's first loss of the season against Modena (0-1). Despite the disappointment, Brescia showcases a unique identity, with only 6 goals scored and 3 conceded, echoing classic Italian defensive tactics. They face a Bari side still recovering from numerous draws. Expecting a high-scoring match would be audacious.
Modena vs Ternana (29/10/23, 16:15)
With Zaro's moment of brilliance, Modena finds themselves in a commendable fifth position with 16 points. A balanced side, they've scored 9 and conceded 8. Ternana's season, however, has been tumultuous, with only one win in 10 games. Their coach Lucarelli desperately needs a turn in fortune.
Palermo vs Lecco (29/10/23, 16:15)
Palermo, known for their defensive prowess and resilience, recently drew with Spezia (2-2) in a thrilling comeback. They aim to leverage their home advantage, having won 2 out of 4 games. Facing bottom-dwellers Lecco might seem an easy task, but after their recent first win against Pisa, Lecco is hopeful.
Venezia vs Pisa (29/10/23, 16:15)
Venezia needs to shake off their recent loss and rekindle the magic they showcased against Parma. Their striker Pohjanpalo has been underwhelming with just 3 goals. Facing them is an unpredictable Pisa side, who, despite their inconsistencies, can surprise any opponent on their day.