Venezia host Udinese at the Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo on Friday in a crucial Serie A encounter, with both sides desperate to improve their position near the bottom of the table.

Venezia have endured a difficult start to the campaign, collecting just three points from their opening 10 matches. Davide Nicola’s side have also struggled in front of goal, scoring only six league goals and failing to find the net in their last three outings. Their recent 1-0 defeat to Como further highlighted their attacking difficulties.

Udinese are also under pressure after a disappointing run of results. Their 5-2 home defeat against Roma proved costly for Kosta Runjaic, who was subsequently replaced by Paolo Zanetti. The new manager now faces an immediate challenge against his former club, having previously guided Venezia to promotion.

Despite their poor form, Udinese possess attacking options capable of troubling the hosts. Nicolò Zaniolo and Jurgen Ekkelenkamp could provide the creativity needed to support Keinan Davis, although the visitors must improve defensively after conceding 11 goals across their last five matches.

Venezia will look to make home advantage count, with Akor Adams expected to lead their attacking efforts. However, their recent scoring record suggests that breaking down Udinese’s defence may not be straightforward.

With both teams struggling for consistency and a new manager adding uncertainty to the visitors’ performance, this encounter could develop into a closely contested battle. Neither side has demonstrated enough reliability to justify strong confidence in an outright victory.

A draw appears a reasonable outcome, with both teams having opportunities to find the net.

Main Prediction: Draw

Score Prediction: Venezia 1-1 Udinese

Alternative: Both team to score