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AI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-08-17 17:57 UTC
Serie A season opener: Udinese host Como at Bluenergy Stadium
The opening matchday of the Serie A season sees Udinese host Como at the Bluenergy Stadium. Both sides will be looking to start their campaign with a positive result as they face off in what promises to be a keenly contested fixture.
Udinese are expected to line up in a 5-3-2 formation, with Nicolo Zaniolo and Jurgen Ekkelenkamp providing creativity from midfield. Keinan Davis and Anastasios Douvikas are likely to lead the line for their respective teams. Como, meanwhile, are anticipated to adopt a 4-2-3-1 setup, aiming to control the midfield with the likes of Martin Baturina and Maximo Perrone.
The expected lineups suggest a potential midfield battle, with both teams looking to establish dominance in the centre of the park. Udinese's formation could offer defensive solidity, while Como's approach might focus on creating overloads in attacking areas.
Udinese will be without Christian Kabasele due to suspension, which could impact their defensive options. The expected starting XI for Udinese includes Nicolo Zaniolo and Keinan Davis in attacking roles, supported by a midfield trio of Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, Jesper Karlstroem, and Jakub Piotrowski.
Como's predicted lineup sees Anastasios Douvikas spearheading the attack, with support from Nico Paz and Assane Diao. The defence is expected to feature Kaiki, Jacopo Ramon, Trevoh Chalobah, and Ivan Smolcic, marshalled by goalkeeper Jean Butez.
Udinese's recent pre-season results have been mixed, with a 1-0 victory over Calcio Padova in the Coppa Italia being their most recent competitive outing. They have shown defensive strength in their friendly matches, securing several clean sheets.
Como have also had a varied pre-season schedule, including matches against top Premier League clubs. Their recent form shows defensive resilience, having kept clean sheets in five of their last nine matches. In their head-to-head encounters, the last four Serie A meetings between Udinese and Como have been closely fought, with each side having secured two victories.
For Udinese, Nicolo Zaniolo's ability to unlock defences will be crucial. His partnership with striker Keinan Davis could pose a significant threat to the Como backline. The midfield pairing of Jurgen Ekkelenkamp and Jesper Karlstroem will be tasked with controlling the tempo of the game.
Como will look to Anastasios Douvikas for goals, supported by the creative spark of Nico Paz and Assane Diao. The defensive solidity provided by Trevoh Chalobah and Ivan Smolcic will be vital in stifling Udinese's attacking efforts, with goalkeeper Jean Butez expected to be a key figure.
As the first match of the Serie A season, this fixture holds significant importance for both Udinese and Como. A strong start could set the tone for their respective campaigns, providing momentum and confidence for the challenges ahead. The outcome of this opening day clash could offer early indications of each team's aspirations for the season.
Official expected line-ups for this match from the data feed. Locks as Confirmed ~1h before kickoff.
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