Monza are close to Serie A after a 2-0 victory in the first leg of their playoff final against Catanzaro. The two teams will meet in the return leg to decide which will join Venezia and Frosinone in Serie A next season.
Monza’s Advantage After First Leg
Hernani and Caso scored for Monza, giving them a significant advantage. If the aggregate score is level after both matches, Monza will be promoted due to their higher league position. Catanzaro must win by three goals to be promoted.
Monza can afford to lose by up to two goals and still secure promotion. The coach, Bianco, is expected to rotate his attacking options, potentially pairing Petagna and Cutrone together.
An ‘Over 2,5 goals’ outcome is considered a possibility, with odds of 1.75 on Vincitu and Eurobet, and 1.72 on Starcasinò and Betflag.
Catanzaro’s Challenge
Catanzaro face a difficult task in the return leg. They need to score at least three goals to have any chance of promotion. In the regular season, they lost 2-1 to Monza at the U-Power Stadium. The two games at Ceravolo saw Aquilani’s team draw 1-1 in the regular season and lose 2-0 in the playoffs.
Catanzaro eliminated Palermo to reach this stage. Aquilani may opt for an attacking lineup, potentially including Di Francesco.
Monza’s Defensive Strength
Monza had the second-best defence in Serie B this season, conceding just 32 goals, second only to Venezia. They also boasted the best home defensive record, letting in only 12 goals. A half-time draw followed by a Monza win is priced at 5.00 on Snai, Netwin and Bwin, and 4.80 on William Hill, mirroring the first-leg result.
The return leg is scheduled for Friday 29 May at 20:00.