Bologna vs Genoa preview - Palacio targets victory

Genoa are one win away from retaining their Serie A status and striker Rodrigo Palacio is confident that result will come at Bologna.

Davide Ballardini's side bounced back from defeats to Catania and Inter Milan with a 1-0 triumph over Palermo last time out.

The result allowed Genoa to increase the gap over the drop zone to 10 points with nine games remaining.

Ahead of this weekend's match, Genoa trail one point behind Bologna and are just two points away from reaching the 40 point mark, a figure deemed sufficient to defend their top flight status.

"We are going to Bologna to claim a win in order to get to our first aim, that of defending our Serie A status," Palacio said.

"We know it's going to be hard because Bologna play very well at home but we are ready."

Bologna also took a giant step towards survival after a narrow win at Lecce last weekend.

Gaston Ramirez scored the only goal of that game to hand Bologna their 11th victory this season.

Alberto Malesani's side have collected 39 points in 29 games and anything but a defeat on Sunday would all but guarantee their Serie A status.

"We are almost there," Malesani said.

"Our hard work throughout the season is paying off and we are very close to achieving our aim.

"My players are very motivated and ready to triumph against Genoa."

Bologna have lost just one of their last six games at the Renato Dall' Ara stadium.

Genoa, who have won just twice on the road this year, will be at full strength with striker Floro Flores returning from suspension.