BARI, Italy (Interstat) — A pivotal Serie B clash with playoff implications is set for Saturday as Bari hosts Venezia at the Stadio San Nicola.

The match, scheduled for April 18, 2026, pits a Bari side seeking consistency against a Venezia team riding a wave of positive form in the final stretch of the season.

Venezia (8-4-12) enters the contest unbeaten in its last five matches (3-2-0), most recently securing a 1-1 draw on the road against Virtus Entella on April 11. Their attack has been potent during this run, scoring three goals in three separate matches. The visitors also hold a psychological edge from the most recent head-to-head meeting, a 2-1 victory at home over Bari on Aug. 24, 2025.

Bari (6-7-11), meanwhile, looks to rebound from a disappointing 2-0 away loss to AC Monza on April 11. Their form has been erratic, mixing a resounding 4-1 win over Reggiana on March 14 with heavy defeats, including a 4-0 loss to Pescara on March 8 and a 3-0 home loss to Carrarese on March 22. Securing points at home is critical for their league standing.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, the contest is projected to end in a 1-1 draw.

The matchup carries significant weight for the playoff picture. Venezia will aim to solidify its position with a positive result before a challenging schedule continues, facing Empoli, Spezia and Palermo in early May. Bari, looking to climb the table, faces a quick turnaround with a trip to Avellino scheduled for April 24.

Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. local time (1300 GMT) at the 58,000-seat Stadio San Nicola.