The opening match of Serie A’s 33rd round sees Sassuolo host Como at the Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia. Scheduled for Friday, April 17, 2026, this fixture promises to be crucial for both sides, albeit for different reasons. The home team aim to consolidate their mid-table position, while the visitors continue their pursuit of a Champions League spot. After holding Juventus to a draw in their previous home outing, Sassuolo will again try to frustrate one of the league’s top contenders.

Sassuolo’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Sassuolo enter this match sitting 11th in the Serie A standings with 42 points. Their recent form has been inconsistent, with only one win in their last five league games (1 win, 1 draw, 3 defeats). The most recent setback came in a 2-1 loss away to Genoa on April 12, 2026. Despite this, the Neroverdi have shown resilience at home, collecting 23 points from 16 matches and recording notable victories against Lazio and Atalanta.

Statistically, Sassuolo’s season reflects a balanced but fragile performance: 12 wins, 6 draws, and 14 losses, averaging 1.2 goals scored and 1.3 conceded per game. They have been involved in lively first halves recently, with over 0.5 goals scored before halftime in each of their last 12 Serie A matches. However, they have also trailed at halftime in their last four league fixtures, a trend that could be worrying against a strong opponent like Como.

At home, Sassuolo have won three of their last four matches, showing that the Mapei Stadium remains a difficult ground for visiting teams. Yet, they have struggled against the league’s elite, failing to beat any of the current top six sides this season (2 draws, 8 defeats), and in seven of those losses, they failed to score. The absence of key players could further complicate matters: Domenico Berardi and Josh Doig are suspended, while several others remain sidelined through injury. These absences may force tactical adjustments from the coaching staff, especially in defense.

Como’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Como travel to Reggio Emilia in fifth place, just two points shy of the Champions League zone. Their impressive campaign has been built on consistency and a solid defensive structure. The team’s overall record stands at 16 wins, 10 draws, and 6 defeats, with an average of 1.8 goals scored and only 0.8 conceded per match. Even though they suffered a dramatic 4-3 home defeat to Inter on April 12, that was their first loss in nearly two months.

On the road, Como have been particularly reliable. They have not lost away from home since December, collecting seven wins and two draws during that stretch. Their ability to start matches strongly is also notable: they have avoided defeat at halftime in 29 of their last 32 games and have led at halftime in 8 of their last 12 Serie A fixtures. This early dominance often allows them to control the tempo and manage results efficiently.

In terms of match dynamics, Como’s games tend to be disciplined rather than chaotic. Under 10.5 corners have been recorded in each of their last 15 matches, and under 9.5 corners in their last 12 Serie A outings. Despite their attacking prowess, they have also been involved in several low-scoring encounters, with under 0.5 goals in 3 of their last 12 away games. Their head-to-head record against Sassuolo is perfect this season, having won both previous meetings (including a 2-0 victory in November 2025).

Coach Cesc Fabregas will have to do without Jayden Addai, the only confirmed absentee, but otherwise has a full squad to choose from. The attacking line, led by Tasos Douvikas, remains a major threat, especially given that the Greek striker has scored in both previous encounters against Sassuolo this season.

Match Analysis and Tactical Overview

This fixture brings together two teams with contrasting objectives and styles. Sassuolo will rely on their home advantage and attacking transitions to challenge a disciplined Como side. However, the hosts’ defensive vulnerabilities and recent disciplinary issues could be exploited by the visitors’ quick and structured approach.

Como, on the other hand, have shown remarkable consistency and tactical maturity throughout the season. Their ability to control possession and strike efficiently on the counter makes them a dangerous opponent for any side. Given their strong away record and Sassuolo’s recent struggles, the visitors appear slightly better positioned to take all three points. Still, Sassuolo’s attacking intent at home could turn this into an open contest with several scoring opportunities.

Historically, this matchup has favored Como, who have won both previous meetings this season. Sassuolo’s challenge will be to break that trend and regain momentum in front of their supporters. Considering both teams’ offensive tendencies and recent results, a high-scoring affair seems likely.

BetMines Prediction

Sassuolo vs Como prediction from BetMines: Away Win (2) with 46% probability.