Bologna remained well clear of the relegation zone despite losing to Sampdoria with the Rossoblu now looking to return to winning ways. Palermo ended their seven-match winning run at home as they lost to Fiorentina, and they are hoping to make amends by bringing all three points from Renato Dall’Ara.

Bologna strong at home

After starring into the eyes of relegation over the last few years and eventually staying alive, Bologna were predicted another difficult season, but coach Alberto Malesani had other things on his mind. The summer signings of Diego Perez, Albin Ekdal and Matteo Rubin helped reinforce the squad with the Rossoblu quickly escaping the danger zone thanks to some impressive performances at home. Despite losing to Sampdoria last time out they are unlikely to enter the relegation race, but in all fairness, the Rossoblu still lack the quality to match top Serie A sides. Bologna have only lost one home game this season, but their good home run will be put to a serious test against Palermo, especially as the hosts will be without no less than three first team regulars.

Key players Albin Ekdal, Miguel Angel Britos and Gyorgy Garics are unavailable for this clash, and they will be sorely missed.

Palermo looking to make amends

The mere fact Palermo are still in the race for the Champions League places shows Delio Rossi’s side have been more than impressive this season. With players like Pastore, Ilicic and Miccoli in the side, the Rosanero are definitely one of the most creative sides in the league and it is no wonder their scoring record is second only to that of Inter. Palermo have been in pretty good form lately, having beaten Brescia, Juventus and Lecce, while losing to Inter and Fiorentina only after squandering the lead. Following the home defeat to Fiorentina, Palermo have slipped from the European places and they desperately need a victory at Bologna to return to the right track. Looking at the attacking potential they have in the squad, I certainly believe Palermo can get something from this game.

Fabrizio Miccoli and Federico Balzaretti have returned to contention, but the latter will not feature as he is suspended. Matia Cassani, Dorin Goian, Michele Paolucci, Matteo Darmian and Mauricio Pinilla remain sidelined.

Verdict

Bologna have been pretty impressive at home this season, but I still don’t think they have what it takes to stop high-flying Palermo. The hosts will have major problems in stopping Miccoli, Pastore and Ilicic, while the trio of Noccerino, Migliaccio and Bacinovic should manage to win the midfield battle, thus creating a perfect setting for an away win. Just to be safe you should take Palermo at level ball handicap, meaning you’ll get your stake back if the match ends in draw.

Our prediction: Palermo to win with 0:0 Asian handicap

Odds: 1.98 (39/40)

Bookmaker: Bet365