Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Serie A match.
Udinese kicked off last season in blistering fashion, collecting 10 points from their first four games to briefly sit top of the table, before settling into mid-table respectability by Christmas.
Udinese
That was enough for the hierarchy, and despite averaging just 1.26 points per game, Kosta Runjaić kept his job — a rarity in today’s Serie A. This summer Udinese had less than a month to prepare, but used it effectively. They played six friendlies against solid European mid-table sides with European ambitions, as well as Qatar’s national team and UAE’s Shabab Al-Ahli — and won all six, with a combined score of 12:3 (including 6:2 against European opposition). They then carried that momentum into the Coppa Italia, seeing off Carrarese (2:0).
Hellas Verona
Hellas Verona also enjoyed a bright start last season, climbing as high as fifth after three rounds, but by spring were again battling to stay afloat. Survival was secured, and as a result Paolo Zanetti enters a second season at the helm. Financial muscle remains limited, and the club was forced to part with three of their best defenders, raising only €26m in return. Their pre-season offered few clues: they faced just one top-flight opponent from Europe’s big five leagues, losing 0:1 to St. Pauli.
Udinese vs Hellas Verona Prediction
Udinese aren’t prolific in front of goal, but with their organisation and form, one or two strikes should be enough to get the job done in the opener.
