Chievo vs Bologna preview - Pioli confident of survival

Chievo host Bologna with coach Stefano Pioli desperate for a victory to try to relieve some of the pressure mounting on his shoulders.

The Flying Donkeys have clinched just one win in their previous nine games and lost 2-0 at Inter Milan in the last round.

A lack of goals has been Chievo's main problem, with the men from Verona having found the back of the net just twice in their last six games.

Chievo have yet to assure themselves of Serie A safety and head into Sunday's match in 13th position, with 36 points from 32 games. They are five points clear of the drop zone with six games remaining.

"Our fate is still in our own hands and we must not fear the drop," said Pioli.

"If we keep working hard and take each game at a time, I am sure we will have enough points to stay in the top flight come May."

The atmosphere is certainly more relaxed in the Bologna camp, despite the Rossoblu having lost their last two games.

After an impressive run that had seen Bologna take seven points out of a possible nine to defend their Serie A status, the Rossoblu have lost their winning touch in recent weeks.

Defeats against Brescia and Napoli have dropped Bologna to 11th place, two places and four points clear of Sunday's rivals.

Bologna coach Alberto Malesani has demanded an extra effort from his players in order to end the season in the best possible way.

"We have collected 40 points so far and although this might be enough to guarantee our Serie A status, we still have a duty to try to finish as high as possible in the standings," he said.

"There are still six games remaining and I want to see my players give their all in our remaining matches."