The Serie B playoff final between Cremonese and Venezia promises to be an intense battle as both teams vie for a coveted spot in Italy's top flight.
This crucial first leg takes place at the Stadio Giovanni Zini, with both teams coming off impressive semi-final victories.
Match Preview
Cremonese's Road to the Final
Cremonese secured their place in the final with a commanding 4-1 victory over Catanzaro in the semi-final second leg, after a 2-2 draw in the first leg.
Franco Vazquez, Cristian Buonaiuto, Massimo Coda, and Leonardo Sernicola were the standout performers, ensuring Cremonese's progression.
The team has now extended their unbeaten streak to five games, showcasing their resilience and form at a crucial juncture.
Venezia's Strong Form
Venezia, finishing just behind Cremonese in the regular season, have also been in impressive form.
They overcame Palermo in the semi-finals, with Tanner Tessmann and Antonio Candela playing key roles in their victories.
Venezia have won six of their last eight matches, highlighting their momentum as they head into the final.
Team News
Cremonese
Cremonese will be without ex-Roma striker Felix Afena-Gyan and goalkeeper Mouhamadou Sarr due to injuries.
However, they welcome back Michele Collocolo. Coach Giovanni Stroppa faces a selection dilemma up front, with Massimo Coda, who scored 17 goals this season, and Frank Tsadjout as potential starters.
Franco Vazquez is expected to support the attack, with Dennis Johnsen as an alternative.
Probable Lineup
Saro, Antov, Ravanelli, Bianchetti, Zanimacchia, Buonaiuto, Castagnetti, Pickel, Sernicola, Vazquez, Coda,
Venezia
Venezia will have Giorgio Altare and Mikael Egill Ellertsson back from suspension, although they are likely to start on the bench.
Coach Paolo Vanoli is expected to stick with a 3-5-2 formation, with Tanner Tessmann in midfield and Joel Pohjanpalo leading the attack alongside Nicholas Pierini.
Probable Lineup
Joronen, Idzes, Svoboda, Sverko, Candela, Lella, Tessmann, Busio, Zampano. Pierini, Pohjanpalo
Prediction
Both teams have shown they can perform under pressure, but Venezia's current form gives them a slight edge.
Cremonese's solid home record will make it a tough contest, but Venezia’s attacking prowess could see them securing a crucial first-leg victory.
Our Prediction: Cremonese 1-2 Venezia
