Serie A Preview: Cremonese Host Udinese in Mid-Table Clash
Cremonese are set to host Udinese at the Stadio Giovanni Zini in a 2025-26 Serie A encounter. With both teams currently positioned in the mid-table at 10th and 12th respectively, the outcome of this match will be crucial for solidifying their standing. Key players like former Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy for Cremonese and Udinese's vital midfielder Sandi Lovrić might be absent or just returning from injury, potentially impacting squad selections.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This Serie A fixture between Cremonese and Udinese is a crucial match for both sides looking to solidify their mid-table positions. As of mid-October 2025, Cremonese sit 10th in the league with 9 points from 2 wins, 3 draws, and 1 loss [23]. Udinese are close behind in 12th place, having accumulated 8 points from 2 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses [23]. While it's still early in the season, a victory would help either team distance themselves from the relegation zone and boost their aspirations for a higher finish. For Cremonese, having recently returned to the top flight, every point is valuable as they seek to establish themselves in Serie A [29].
Recent Form
Cremonese's recent form in Serie A has been mixed, with their last five matches showing one win, three draws, and one loss. Most recently, they suffered a 4-1 defeat to Inter on October 4th [36]. This was preceded by three consecutive draws: 1-1 against Como [36], 0-0 against Parma [36], and 0-0 against Verona [36]. Their last victory came on August 29th, a 3-2 win over Sassuolo [36]. Udinese's recent five Serie A matches have been more erratic. Their latest fixture saw them draw 1-1 with Cagliari on October 5th [22]. Prior to that, they experienced two losses: 3-1 to Sassuolo and 0-3 against AC Milan [22]. They secured a 1-0 away victory against Pisa [22], and an earlier win in the season to complete their 2 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses record in 6 games [23, 38].
Key Players & Injury News
For Cremonese, former Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy sustained a minor muscular strain in September and is reportedly doubtful for this match against Udinese, potentially delaying his home debut [10, 15]. Goalkeeper Emil Audero is also questionable due to a calf injury [31]. Midfielder Michele Collocolo and forward Faris Moumbagna are expected back in late October, making them unlikely to feature [9]. However, midfielder Martin Payero, who was expected back the week after September 20th, should be available [10, 14]. Upfront, Federico Bonazzoli is a key goal threat [26], while Jari Vandeputte has been instrumental in creating chances and providing assists [26]. Warren Bondo is also vital in midfield for winning duels [26]. For Udinese, key midfielder Sandi Lovrić is expected back from muscular problems in mid-October, so his availability for this match on October 20th remains uncertain [40]. Striker Adam Buksa is likely out due to a broken nose, with his return slated for late October [7]. Long-term absentee Gerard Deulofeu, despite his contract termination, is still recovering from a serious knee injury and is not expected to play this season [37]. Key performers for Udinese include forwards Keinan Davis and Thomas Kristensen, and defender Oumar Solet, all of whom have contributed goals or earned Man of the Match awards [32].