Roma vs Cagliari prediction 09.02.2026 | Serie A

Roma find themselves in a familiar spot. Fifth place again, the same position they finished in last season, and still searching for that final step forward. The start of 2026 was uneven. A narrow 1-0 loss to Atalanta raised questions, but back-to-back wins over Lecce and Sassuolo steadied things.

A round of 16 exit halted momentum, yet victories against Torino and Stuttgart followed, along with draws versus Panathinaikos and Udinese. It has been stop-start. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side showed that inconsistency again with a recent 1-0 defeat to Udinese. Still, home form offers reassurance. Just one loss in the last six at the Olimpico keeps belief intact.

Donyell Malen has settled quickly, scoring once in three league games, and should lead the line with Lorenzo Pellegrini and Matías Soulé supporting. Paulo Dybala remains unavailable, which limits creativity, and the injury list is long.

Artem Dovbyk, Manu Koné, Stephan El Shaarawy, Mario Hermoso and Evan Ferguson are all sidelined. Depth is stretched, but experience at home may carry Roma through.

Cagliari know this territory well. Since returning to Serie A, seasons have ended with tension rather than comfort. Last year’s five-point cushion above the drop felt slim. This time, things look steadier. Eleven points clear of the bottom three offers breathing room, even if safety is not guaranteed.

The new year started poorly with three winless games, including two defeats, but the response has been impressive. Wins over Juventus, Fiorentina and Hellas Verona changed the tone quickly.

Fabio Grosso’s side also travel better than before, losing just one of the last four away matches. That alone will encourage belief. Semih Kılıçsoy leads the attack after scoring four league goals, likely partnered by Sebastiano Esposito, who has three. Injuries remain an issue.

Andrea Belotti and Michael are out with cruciate ligament problems, while Michael Folorunsho is sidelined with an internal ligament strain. Options are limited, but confidence is growing.