The Mapei Stadium sets the stage for a high-stakes Matchday 33 encounter in Serie A this Friday, April 17, 2026. Como, the season’s breakout sensation, travels to Reggio Emilia with one goal in mind: reclaiming a spot in the top four. Meanwhile, a mid-table Sassuolo side looks to play the role of spoiler despite significant roster challenges.
Tactical Analysis & Team News
Sassuolo enters this clash in a difficult position. The “Neroverdi” have struggled for consistency, securing only one victory in their last five outings. Their challenge is magnified by the absence of their captain and creative engine, Domenico Berardi, who is sidelined due to suspension. Without Berardi’s vision and scoring threat, the burden falls on Andrea Pinamonti to lead a depleted attacking unit.
Como, led by Cesc Fàbregas, has become the league’s most feared “giant killer.” Despite a narrow 3-4 defeat to Inter Milan last weekend, their confidence remains sky-high. Their away record is particularly formidable—they haven’t tasted defeat on the road since December. With Anastasios Douvikas in clinical form and a midfield that dominates possession, Como is primed to exploit a Sassuolo defense that will be missing key starters like Josh Doig and Filippo Romagna.
Key Betting Insights
- The Stakes: Como sits just one point behind Juventus for the final Champions League spot. Motivation is at a maximum for the visitors.
- Head-to-Head: Como has dominated this fixture recently, winning both previous meetings this season while scoring at least twice in each game.
- Defensive Woes: Sassuolo is missing four starting-caliber defenders due to injury and suspension, leaving them highly vulnerable to Como’s high-press system.
Expert Betting Tips & Odds
Given the disparity in motivation and the critical absences for the home side, the value lies with the visitors and a high-scoring affair.
- Primary Pick: Como to Win (Match Result) – Decimal Odds: 1.70
- Alternative Pick: Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Decimal Odds: 1.74
- Correct Score Prediction: 1-2 or 1-3 in favor of Como
Insider Tip:
Monitor the starting lineups for Alvaro Morata. If he starts alongside Douvikas, the “Over 2.5 Goals” market becomes an even stronger play, as Sassuolo’s makeshift backline will struggle to track two elite movement-based strikers
Best of luck!
