Monza vs Como: Match Preview and Prediction

April 5, 2025. 16:00. Monza. U-Power
Serie A, Round 31

Injuries: Sensi, Pessina, Carboni, Caldirola - Dossena
No suspensions

"Monza" - "Como": Bookmakers' Odds

"Monza"

After the break, Monza conceded three goals against Cagliari, marking their 19th loss of the season. Sitting 10 points away from safety with just eight matches left, the Bianconeri's hopes of extending their first visit to the top division after three seasons are rapidly fading. Following the dismissal and subsequent reappointment of Alessandro Nesta, the return to the sidelines has not led to any noticeable improvements; his team has picked up just two points from a possible 18 since the departure of former coach Salvatore Bocchetti.

In fact, in their last four home matches, Monza has scored only one goal - Armando Izzo netting against Parma - with their last victory dating back to January.

Typically, Alessandro Nesta defends his players even after defeats, but after the match against Cagliari, the Monza coach didn't hold back: "We had a fantastic first half, but we didn’t test the keeper... We need to run at 200 km/h, otherwise, we are doing something wrong. We lack the anger to win; we need a different approach to the game. We must make passes, try to play, shoot on target. Am I angry? No, disappointed..."

"Como"

After a 1-1 draw with Monza in November, Como has lost their last four derbies in Lombardy, though few expected them to match up against the likes of Inter, Milan, or Atalanta. However, an active winter transfer window helped the ambitious club distance themselves from relegation, earning eight points in their last six matches. In the 30th round, Como, without their suspended coach Cesc Fabregas, shared the spoils with Empoli (1-1).

"We reviewed some episodes on video to avoid repeating them. I need to be crystal clear in the locker room. I got the impression that some players think they are bigger than they actually are, and at times we need to remain humble. We are Como, and this is our first season in Serie A. Empoli is more experienced than us, and at times the opponent could have won the game. We need to come back down to earth. The only player I can save from criticism in the Empoli match is Diaw. In his position, receiving the ball, I would be charging towards goal without sharing. I'm not satisfied, but most importantly is the result.

We have grown, but there is still much to do. We have reached the 25% mark; now we need to ensure our safety in Serie A. Then we must make everyone understand that expectations must rise, and we need to adapt to different teams in the league.

"Monza"? Many teams have struggled in matches against them. Nesta plays good football; they are somewhat similar to us, even if we might have fewer points than we could have had. Keita Balde is my friend, and he plays very well for Monza. To stay in Serie A, you don't always need to win; if you're not ahead in the 88th minute, at least you must avoid losing," noted Cesc Fabregas.

"Monza" - "Como": Probable Line-ups

"Monza" - "Como": Prediction from the Author

Monza fans note that relegation can happen in various ways. Currently, their team is relegating "without fight", and they are asking for a wake-up call, at least for this crucial match. This is the Lombardy derby.

Do you think the players will hear the fans? In any case, I'm betting on Como. The first round match ended in a draw, but since then, Fabregas's team has taken off.