Fiorentina Faces Bologna in Desperate Derby dell’Appennino Showdown

FLORENCE, Italy – Fiorentina seeks its first win of the Serie A season when they host Bologna in the Derby dell’Appennino on Sunday, Oct. 26, at Stadio Artemio Franchi.

The home team has struggled this season, sitting in the drop zone with just three points from seven matches, a performance last seen in 1977. Despite a brief revival with a 3-0 victory against Rapid Vienna in the Europa Conference League, they continue to falter in Serie A.

Fiorentina’s last match ended in a disappointing 2-1 loss to AC Milan, where they had initially taken the lead. Head coach Stefano Pioli faces an uncertain future despite previously leading the club to Conference League finals.

Bologna, on the other hand, has enjoyed a strong start to the season, sitting fifth in the league with 13 points. After a lackluster season in the Champions League, they rebounded with a 2-1 win against FCSB in the Europa League, fueled by early goals from their star players.

Fiorentina will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage, having won 10 of their last 14 home games against Bologna. They last defeated Bologna in a league match at the Franchi in May, with a scoreline of 3-2.

Star striker Moise Kean, who finally netted his first Serie A goal of the season against Milan, is expected to lead Fiorentina’s attack alongside either Albert Gudmundsson or Roberto Piccoli. However, they will be without important players like Tariq Lamptey and Christian Kouame.

Bologna is dealing with injuries but will see the return of key players. The Rossoblu aims to maintain their strong form, having scored 10 goals in their last three matches while conceding none.

As both teams have faced similar travel challenges this week, the match could start slowly. Yet, with Fiorentina desperate for a win, an intense battle is anticipated in front of their home crowd.

The match kicks off at 5 PM local time (11 AM EST), with both squads ready to bring their best efforts in this thrilling derby clash.