In a clash that echoes through the heart of Serie B, Monza hosts Frosinone on January 17, 2026, with both teams bracing for a showdown that could redefine their season. The stakes are sky-high as Frosinone leads the table with 41 points while Monza trails closely at 37 points. With just four points separating them, every inch on the pitch will be fiercely contested.
Predicted Lineups
Expect both coaches to stick with recent successful formations. For Monza: GK: Demba Thiam, DEF: Andrea Carboni, Filippo Delli Carri, Luca Ravanelli, MID: Paulo Azzi, Matteo Pessina, Samuele Birindelli; FWD: Keita Baldé, Patrick Ciurria, Dany Mota. For Frosinone: GK: Lorenzo Palmisani, DEF: Gabriele Bracaglia, Ilario Monterisi, Anthony Oyono; MID: Ilias Koutsoupias, Giacomo Calò; FWD: Giorgi Kvernadze, Antonio Raimondo, Farès Ghedjemis.
Let's dive into the trenches and dissect what each team brings to the battlefield in this pivotal encounter!
Recent Form
Monza's recent form is a mixed bag-two wins against Modena and Carrarese showcased their attacking prowess but were sandwiched by disappointing losses to Venezia and Virtus Entella. Particularly alarming was their inability to convert possession into goals against Virtus Entella despite dominating possession (61%). They averaged around 14 shots per game in their last five outings but only managed to put a meager average of 3 shots on target-a concerning statistic revealing inefficacy in front of goal.
In contrast, Frosinone's confidence is palpable after securing three victories out of their last five matches. They've turned clinical with an impressive goal differential thanks to players like Ilario Monterisi and Farès Ghedjemis who have found their scoring boots lately. Even when they faced adversity-like being held to a draw at Empoli-they still mustered a significant total of shots (15) showing intent and adaptability.
Tactical Breakdown
The tactical dimensions make this matchup fascinating! Monza's preferred formation of 3-4-2-1 highlights an intention to control midfield and launch swift attacks down the flanks with players like Paulo Azzi engaging defensively while also pushing forward. Yet they must shake off the inconsistency displayed against defensive sides. Can they find the killer instinct against a Frosinone defense that's been robust?
On the other hand, Frosinone plays a balanced 4-3-3 system that enables fluid transitions from defense to attack while maintaining defensive solidity. They possess not only offensive firepower but also depth in versatility-their midfield is critical in dictating tempo against teams that aim for possession dominance.
Possession is where Monza must assert themselves-they boast an average of nearly 60% ball control over recent matches but can't afford another day like at Venezia where they fell short despite hogging the ball for long stretches. What does it matter if you can't finish? Against Frosinone's staunch midfield trio which includes Giacomo Calò-a player known for breaking down opposition play-they'll need more than mere numbers; they'll require creativity and precision.
Key Players & Statistical Insights
Each side has stars poised to shine on this big stage! For Monza, look no further than Keita Baldé who notched three goals this season and remains vital up top alongside Patrick Ciurria whose creative ability can unlock even the tightest defenses. With multiple chances created from his wing position in past encounters (averaging over two key passes per match), he'll need support from central players like Matteo Pessina who often dictate play but must elevate their finishing quality.
On the flip side for Frosinone-keep your eyes glued on Farès Ghedjemis! His speed and agility can stretch any defense thin while providing crucial width for counter-attacks or overlapping runs into space behind fullbacks. If he links effectively with Giorgi Kvernadze upfront-who scored during their convincing win over Catanzaro recently-the dynamic could wreak havoc on Monza's backline.
What does all this boil down to? In head-to-head matchups this season alone between these two rivals-all square until now-what's been evident is how decisive moments dictate outcomes. Last time they met saw a solitary strike win it for Monza despite Frosinone having more shots overall across those matches (totaling around 20 attempts).
The Prediction
When it comes down to brass tacks: Frosinone will test Monza's frailties exposed repeatedly throughout January if given room to breathe-backed by formidable midfield execution paired with sharp transitions will see them capitalize on any lapse from defenders pushing high upfield chasing possession glory.
With that said: This one promises fireworks! Expect early nerves followed by sparks flying as Frosinone edges ahead late through sheer tenacity combined with technical flair! Final score? Mark my words: Frosinone takes it 2-1, carrying forth their title aspirations towards securing promotion!