Parma is set to clash with Bologna on February 22, 2025, marking the latest chapter of the intense Derby dell’Emilia. Scheduled to kick off at 15:00 CET at the Ennio Tardini Stadium, this encounter carries immense weight for both teams as they chase their distinct goals. For Parma, it is about survival, as they sit precariously near the relegation zone with only 20 points from 25 games, having lost their last four matches consecutively. The Gialloblù have brought Cristian Chivu on board as the new head coach, replacing Fabio Pecchia, whose departure was seen as necessary to reverse the team’s fortunes.
Bologna, on the other hand, is riding high with aspirations for European qualification, currently holding 41 points and fresh off their impressive 3-2 victory against Torino. Under the guidance of Vincenzo Italiano, the Rossoblù have proven to be resilient this season, managing to navigate through injuries and maintain solid performance levels, exemplified by their recent success.
For spectators eager to follow the action, the match can be viewed live on DAZN. Fans can access the DAZN app on smart TVs or through the Sky platform, including via Sky Q, Sky Stream, and other devices compatible with the DAZN service.
Both teams bring unique tactical setups to the field. Parma is anticipated to field a 4-3-3 formation, with Suzuki guarding the net, supported by Delprato, Valenti, Balogh, and Valeri at the back. Midfield responsibilities will be shared among Bernabé, Sohm, and Estevez, with Bonny likely leading the attack alongside wingers Man and Cancellieri. Chivu is expected to challenge the squad's lack of confidence by implementing aggressive tactics aiming for immediate impact.
Bologna is likely to counter with a 4-2-3-1 formation featuring Skorupski as goalkeeper, flanked by defenders Calabria, Beukema, Lucumi, and Lykogiannis. Freuler and Pobega will anchor the midfield, allowing attacking players like Dominguez, Fabbian, and Ndoye to support Castro, who is expected to spearhead Bologna's offensive efforts.
The historical rivalry between these two teams adds another layer of excitement to the contest. Out of their 37 Serie A meetings, Parma has won nine, Bologna twelve, and they've drawn sixteen times. Notably, Bologna remains unbeaten against Parma for the last ten outings, presenting yet another hurdle for the home side.
Another interesting angle to watch will be the tactical changes Chivu might deploy to tackle Bologna's formidable side, especially considering injuries affecting both squads. Bologna's Holm is sidelined with muscular issues, opening up opportunities for new faces like Calabria.
The stakes couldn’t be higher; any slip from Parma could deepen their relegation woes. Meanwhile, Bologna aims to continue building momentum as they approach their fixtures, particularly with significant matches against Milan looming on the horizon.
Indeed, Parma vs. Bologna promises to be more than just another game; it's a pivotal moment for both teams, dictation of seasons, aspirations, and outcomes. The clash will not only attract football enthusiasts but also spotlight the battling strategies and human narratives within both squads as they seek to secure pivotal points.