Udinese vs Cremonese | Serie A Preview

Udinese will host struggling Cremonese at the Bluenergy Stadium on Saturday evening, with both sides looking to end their Serie A campaigns on a positive note. The hosts sit comfortably in mid-table in 10th place with 50 points, while Cremonese find themselves in the relegation zone with just 31 points from 36 matches.

Looking at recent form, Udinese have been the more consistent side over their last five outings. They've managed to secure 14 wins from 36 matches this season, with a fairly balanced record of 8 wins and 7 losses away from home. Their attacking output has been respectable, netting 45 goals while conceding 46. Cremonese, meanwhile, have struggled throughout the campaign with only 7 victories all season. Their goal-scoring woes are evident with just 30 goals scored, the joint-lowest in the division, while shipping 53 at the other end.

The injury list presents significant challenges for both managers. Udinese will be without Kingsley Ehizibue due to yellow card accumulation, while Jurgen Ekkelenkamp remains sidelined with a leg injury and Alessandro Zanoli is ruled out with a knee problem. Borna Mlacic is listed as questionable with an unspecified injury concern. These absences could force tactical adjustments, particularly in defense and midfield areas.

Cremonese's injury concerns are equally problematic. Federico Baschirotto is definitely out with a thigh injury, while several key players including Riccardo Floriani, Frank Moumbagna, Martin Payero, and Giuseppe Pezzella are all listed as questionable with various knocks and muscle problems. Given their precarious league position, any weakening of their squad could prove costly.

The head-to-head record between these sides shows a mixed picture from their recent encounters. Their most recent meeting in October 2025 ended in a 1-1 draw at Cremonese's Stadio Giovanni Zini. However, Udinese dominated when these teams met at this venue in April 2023, running out comfortable 3-0 winners. The Friulians also won a friendly encounter 3-1 in December 2022, suggesting they may hold a psychological edge.

Gianluca Manganiello takes charge of proceedings as referee. His disciplinary record this season shows he's not afraid to flash cards when necessary, though he tends to maintain good control over matches. Both teams will need to be careful not to let frustration boil over, particularly Cremonese given their desperate need for points.

Tactically, both sides have favored 3-5-2 formations throughout the season, with Udinese using this setup in 18 of their 36 matches. This suggests we could see a tactical battle between similar systems, with wing-backs likely to play crucial roles in determining the outcome.

With Cremonese already relegated and Udinese safe in mid-table, this match lacks the intensity of a must-win encounter. However, pride remains at stake for both sides. Udinese's superior home record and Cremonese's away struggles point toward a home victory. The visitors have managed just 4 wins on the road all season, while Udinese have been solid at the Bluenergy Stadium.

Prediction: Udinese to win 2-0, capitalizing on their home advantage and Cremonese's defensive frailties to secure a comfortable victory that reflects their superior campaign.