Verdict: Away win
Best odds: 103/100
Bookmaker: ZetBet
Having made a positive start under new coach Paolo Vanoli, Torino will look to continue their unbeaten run when they visit Venezia on Friday evening.
Vanoli, who previously managed Venezia and helped guide them to promotion, now returns to face his former club, this time in charge of a Torino side that has shown early promise this season.
Venezia
Venezia’s return to Serie A has been challenging so far, as they managed just one point from their opening two matches. After securing promotion through the playoffs last season under Vanoli, the Lagunari had to adjust to a new leader when the 52-year-old departed for Torino, leaving former Frosinone boss Eusebio Di Francesco to take over.
Di Francesco’s tenure began with a 3-1 defeat against Lazio in the opening matchday, but Venezia showed some defensive resilience in their goalless draw against Fiorentina last week, largely thanks to a standout performance from goalkeeper Jesse Joronen.
As Venezia prepare to face Torino at home, they can draw confidence from their strong Serie B record at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo, where they suffered just three defeats last season. Moreover, their recent history against Torino is favorable, as they are unbeaten in five Serie A matches against Friday’s visitors, dating back 25 years.
Looking for their first win of the season, Venezia will aim to build on their defensive efforts and secure a positive result in front of their home supporters.
Team News
Venezia could receive a boost with the potential return of their prolific striker Joel Pohjanpalo, who missed the first two matches due to a thigh injury. Although he may not be ready to start, Pohjanpalo’s availability off the bench could provide Venezia with an additional attacking option. The Finnish forward was instrumental in their promotion campaign, netting 22 goals in Serie B last season.
In the meantime, Christian Gytkjaer is likely to continue leading the line, with Nicholas Pierini or Gaetano Oristanio offering support in the attacking third. Midfield reinforcements may come in the form of Hans Nicolussi Caviglia, who recently joined Venezia on loan from Juventus. With Mato Jajalo, Gianluca Busio (injured), and Tanner Tessmann (set for a move to Lyon) all unavailable, Nicolussi Caviglia could be handed his home debut in the midfield.
Torino
Paolo Vanoli has successfully adapted to his role as Torino’s head coach, following his impressive work with Venezia. Filling the shoes of Ivan Juric, who brought Torino close to European qualification last season, was no easy task, but Vanoli has continued the team’s upward trajectory.
Despite a heartbreaking draw against AC Milan at San Siro, where Torino conceded late, they quickly bounced back with a significant win over Atalanta. Che Adams, a key summer acquisition, played a pivotal role in that victory, scoring one goal and assisting another. Vanja Milinkovic-Savic also made a crucial contribution by saving a stoppage-time penalty, helping Torino secure three points against the Europa League winners.
With an unbeaten start across all competitions, including a 2-0 win over Cosenza in the Coppa Italia, Torino enter their final fixture before the international break full of momentum.
Team News
Torino’s attack is likely to remain unchanged, with Adams likely solidifying his place ahead of Antonio Sanabria after an impressive performance last week. The Scotland international is expected to partner captain Duvan Zapata in the forward line, as Nikola Vlasic remains out with injury and Pietro Pellegri has made a recent move to Empoli.
In defense, Dutch center-back Perr Schuurs is still recovering and is not expected back until November. However, Torino’s new loan signing Borna Sosa could be in contention for his first start, following the departure of fellow wing-back Raoul Bellanova to Atalanta. With these adjustments, Torino aim to continue their strong form heading into the international break.
Conclusion
Building on a solid foundation from last season, Torino appear to be in fine form at the start off their 2024-25 campaign. With a sturdy defense and an efficient attack, they are well-positioned to capitalize on any mistakes made by Venezia.
Having already scored four goals against strong opponents like AC Milan and Atalanta, Torino’s balanced approach gives them a strong chance of continuing their impressive start to the season.
Verdict: Away win
Best odds: 103/100
Bookmaker: ZetBet
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