Another eventful week in the Serie A this week which began with another managerial sacking as Ciro Ferrera was sacked as manager of Sampdoria. Despite a great start to the season Sampdoria have now slipped to fourteenth in the table. His replacement is the controversial Delio Rossi who managed Fiorentina last season but was sacked after punching his own player in the dugout.
Cagliari's stadium fiasco continues as authorities announced that their game on Friday against Juventus would be played in Parma after authorities decided the Is stadium in Cagliari was deemed unfit to host the game. This long running battle between Cagliari and the authorities continues to be an embarrassment for Italian football.
Also this week the authorities established that 3 Napoli players were involved in a match fixing scandal in 2010. The result of the investigation has seen Napoli fined and deducted 2 points. Two players, Paulo Cannervaro and Gianluca Grava have been banned for 6 months and former Goalkeeper Matteo Gianello has been banned for 3 years. It is understood that before Napoli played Sampdoria in 2010 Gianello suggested to Cannervaro and Grava that they should attempt to fix the game, the duo refused but did not report the offer to the authorities. The result has left Napoli ten points behind leaders Juventus and they are certain to appeal against their punishment.
On the pitch last weekend saw Napoli beaten 3-2 by Bologna in a shock result. Leaders Juve cruised past Atalanta 3-0. Genoa drew 1-1 with Torino and Udinese and Palermo shared the same score line. Sunday also saw 3 games finish 4-1, with AC Milan continuing their good run against Pescara, Parma thump Cagliari and Fiorentina bounce back against Siena. Catania beat Sampdoria 3-1 and Inter missed a chance to close on Juve as they were beaten 1-0 by Lazio. Chievo overcame Roma 1-0 with an 87th minute strike from Pellissier which gained the team from Verona a much needed win.
Fixtures & Predictions To This Weekend's Games:
Friday 21st December:
Pescara V Catania - 17:00 - Away Win
Third from bottom Pescara are really struggling at the moment, having let in 15 goals in their last 4 games its easy to see were their problems lie. They face a Catania side who lie eighth after a good win against Sampdoria last weekend, they continue to score goals at a decent rate and that only means bad news for Pescara. Catania should take this one comfortably.
Cagliari V Juventus - 19:45 - Away Win
The return of Conte to the dugout certainly boosted Juve last weekend as they cruised past Atalanta to go seven points clear. They face a Cagliari side who have lost all their last three and two of them have been by 3 goal margins. Only one outcome in this one.
Saturday 22nd December:
Inter Milan V Genoa - 11:30 - Home Win
Second place Inter should keep the heat on Juventus with victory over Genoa. Despite losing to Lazio last weekend Inter have proven themselves a good outfit this season and they should easily overcome second bottom Genoa who have lost two of their last three.
Atalanta V Udinese - 14:00 - Draw
A very tricky mid table clash sees Atalanta host Udinese with both teams experiencing poor seasons by their standards. Atalanta are currently 12th and Udinese 9th, both sides will feel they can get something from this and that sets up a cagey affair which will more than likely produce few goals. A draw is the safest bet.
Bologna V Parma - 14:00 - Draw
Another mid table clash that sees two teams in good form battle it out. Bologna's great victory over Napoli last weekend was the highlight of their season so far and they will enter this full of confidence. The same however can be said for Parma who demolished Cagliari last time out. Parma may well prove harder to break down than Napoli and they will frustrate the home side into a low scoring draw.
Palermo V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Away Win
Palermo are currently sitting just above the relegation zone and suffered another defeat last weekend. They face a high flying Fiorentina side that bounced back from defeat in Rome in some style beating Siena 4-1 in their last game. Despite changing manager Palermo's fortunes remain unchanged that they look set for another defeat here against a strong Fiorentina.
Sampdoria V Lazio - 14:00 - Away Win
Sampdoria fans may have to be patient with new manager Rossi who faces a daunting task in his first game in charge against third placed Lazio. Lazio gained a great win over Inter last time out and will want to build on that momentum before the winter break. Sampdoria are desperate to stop the rot that has seen them free fall down the table but Lazio are likely to be too strong for them.
Siena V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Both these teams were beaten last time out but it is fifth placed Napoli who are taken to bounce back against bottom club Siena. The amount of goals Siena have been shipping is concern enough to say Napoli will take this one given their attacking force. This should be comfortable for Napoli.
Torino V Chievo - 14:00 - Away Win
Torino have been tumbling down the table but managed to stop the rot with a draw against Genoa. Chievo had a disastrous start but are now climbing into mid table safety after 3 straight wins, including a great win against Roma last time. Chievo are the better team out of these two and they are taken to show it here especially considering the form they are in. It may be a cagey affair but Chievo should edge it.
Roma V AC Milan - 19:45 - Home Win
Two of the most unpredictable sides meet in the match of the weekend which sees sixth placed Roma play seventh placed Milan. Milan have been on a great run after their horror start and now look like the side they were last season, Roma meanwhile have been brilliant one week and then dire the next throughout the campaign. It is Zeman's men who get the vote however given home advantage. Roma were fantastic against Fiorentina a fortnight ago and a repeat performance will see them beat Milan comfortably. Milan will of course prove a test but I suspect this will be a goal fest and at the moment Roma just edge it in both defence and attack.
The next round of games in on the 5th of January. The next blog post will be a few days before. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Chievo, Napoli, Lazio, Fiorentina, Inter, Juve & Catania - All To Win : 292/1
Roma V AC Milan - Roma Win 4-3: 50/1
Siena V Napoli - Cavani Brace : 100/30
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 21 December 2012
Friday, 7 December 2012
Gameweek 16 - The Return Of Conte
This week sees the return of Juventus head coach Antonio Conte to the Juve bench. Conte has now served his 4 month ban given to him at the start of the season after he failed to report match fixing incidents during his time as Siena manager. Conte has been forced to watch his team from the stands for the entirety of the campaign and has not been allowed in the dressing room prior to the game and at half time. Despite his absence Juve are top of the Serie A and have qualified for the last 16 of The Champions League. There is little doubt though that the return of the man who guided them to an unbeaten season last season will be a big boost for Juve.
On the pitch last weekend Juve won yet again beating Torino 3-0 on Saturday evening. Prior to that the Friday night game saw AC Milan win their second game in a row as they beat Catania 3-1. Sunday saw Fiorentina draw 2-2 with Sampdoria as the Viola continue to stutter. Chievo got a much needed win as they beat Genoa away 4-2. Udinese too got a valuable 3 points as they thrashed Cagliari 4-1. Both Rome teams won with Roma overcoming Siena 3-1 and Lazio beating Parma 2-1. Inter got back on track beating Palermo 1-0 while second placed Napoli thumped Pescara 5-1 and Atalanta continued their poor run as they were beaten 2-1 by Bologna.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Saturday 8th December:
Atalanta V Parma - 17:00 - Draw
Atalanta have lost four on the bounce and Parma have won just once in 5 games. That alone points to a draw for this one. Atalanta's poor run has come as a surprise given how strong they were last season. Their poor run will come to an end soon but its unlikely to here given Parma's solidarity. I can't see either team doing enough to win the game.
Roma V Fiorentina - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma have won all of their last 3 games and they are taken to make it four from four at home to Fiorentina. Zeman can recall Danielle De Rossi who has now served his 3 match suspension for being sent off in the Rome derby. His return will solidify a still shakey looking defence for the Gillarossi. Fiorentina have been the surprise package of this season currently sitting in fourth and just 6 points off the top they have had a great first half of the campaign. However they have drawn their last 2 games against teams they really should be beating in Sampdoria and Pescara. In their current vein Fiorentina look set to struggle in this one.
Sunday 9th December
Cagliari V Chievo - 14:00 - Draw
13th meets 15th as Cagliari host Chievo. Cagliari haven't won any of their last 5 games and were taken apart by Udinese last weekend. Chievo have been bitterly disappointing all season but did get a much needed win last time out. They are inconsistent though, which is reflected in their league position and although they may build on that win a draw is most likely given the current form of both sides.
Palermo V Juventus - 14:00 - Away Win
The return of Conte is sure to boost Juve morale and can record win number 12 of the season against Palermo. Palermo currently sit just above the relegation zone and have lost 7 of their 15 games this season, they were only narrowly beaten by Inter last time but Juve will prove to be a different proposition and I can't see Palermo troubling the champions at all.
Pescara V Genoa - 14:00 - Draw
A relegation scrap sees Pescara host Genoa. Pescara are now bottom of the table after losing all 5 of their previous 5 games. Genoa are third from bottom and have won just once in 5 attempts. Pescara's defence has been their main issue with a goal difference of -20 double that of the nearest worst goal difference, Genoa's -10. Goals then are to be expected but a draw seems most likely given that neither team will want to lose this one.
Siena V Catania - 14:00 - Draw
Siena have lost just one of their last 5 games but remain second from bottom due to their points deduction. Their were comfortably beaten by Roma last weekend but face an easy challenge here against a Catania side that have lost their last two games. Catania are currently tenth but should be higher given the talent in their squad. Much like Atalana their bad run is unlikely to last much longer but away to Siena is no easy fixture and they will be held to draw.
Torino V AC Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Torino have lost their last two games and things don't get any easier when they host AC Milan on Sunday. The visitors have won their last two and are clambering up the table after a disastrous start to the campaign. I fully expect Milan to win this comfortably, Torino look like a side heading for a relegation battle.
Inter V Napoli - 19:45 - Away Win
The game of the weekend sees second travel to third. Inter are two points behind Napoli in the table and will be looking to leapfrog them after this game. Their form though has taken a dip and they only just overcame Palermo last weekend. Napoli however will come into the game full of confidence after thrashing Pescara. A lot has been said of Napoli's attack and they again could be the key to this one. It is likely both teams will score but its Napoli who are the more likely to score more.
Monday 10th December
Sampdoria V Udinese - 18:00 - Draw
Sampdoria did well to earn a draw against Fiorentina last weekend and they look set to draw again here against an improving Udinese. Udinese's victory over Cagliari was just their fourth win of the season, unacceptable by their standards. They have however drawn more games than any team in the division, 7 which is why they are not in a worse position. Udinese's best form is at home and they would take another draw now if offered it. It is the most likely result however given that Udinese are in better shape than their hosts but they are still likely to fall short.
Bologna V Lazio - 20:00 - Away Win
Bologna's win last weekend saw them move away from the relegation zone though they remain a team in trouble given their inconsistent form. Lazio are in good heart after winning their last two and should take this one, currently fifth they will want to climb into the top four and cement a Champions League position. With that incentive they will comfortably beat a bologna side that cannot be trusted in their current form.
Selected Match Odds and Betting:
Lazio, Napoli, Milan, Juve & Roma - All To Win : 47/1
Roma V Fiorentina - Roma to win 3-2: 14/1
Palermo V Juve - First goal scorer Quagliarella: 4/1
Enjoy The Games!
On the pitch last weekend Juve won yet again beating Torino 3-0 on Saturday evening. Prior to that the Friday night game saw AC Milan win their second game in a row as they beat Catania 3-1. Sunday saw Fiorentina draw 2-2 with Sampdoria as the Viola continue to stutter. Chievo got a much needed win as they beat Genoa away 4-2. Udinese too got a valuable 3 points as they thrashed Cagliari 4-1. Both Rome teams won with Roma overcoming Siena 3-1 and Lazio beating Parma 2-1. Inter got back on track beating Palermo 1-0 while second placed Napoli thumped Pescara 5-1 and Atalanta continued their poor run as they were beaten 2-1 by Bologna.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Saturday 8th December:
Atalanta V Parma - 17:00 - Draw
Atalanta have lost four on the bounce and Parma have won just once in 5 games. That alone points to a draw for this one. Atalanta's poor run has come as a surprise given how strong they were last season. Their poor run will come to an end soon but its unlikely to here given Parma's solidarity. I can't see either team doing enough to win the game.
Roma V Fiorentina - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma have won all of their last 3 games and they are taken to make it four from four at home to Fiorentina. Zeman can recall Danielle De Rossi who has now served his 3 match suspension for being sent off in the Rome derby. His return will solidify a still shakey looking defence for the Gillarossi. Fiorentina have been the surprise package of this season currently sitting in fourth and just 6 points off the top they have had a great first half of the campaign. However they have drawn their last 2 games against teams they really should be beating in Sampdoria and Pescara. In their current vein Fiorentina look set to struggle in this one.
Sunday 9th December
Cagliari V Chievo - 14:00 - Draw
13th meets 15th as Cagliari host Chievo. Cagliari haven't won any of their last 5 games and were taken apart by Udinese last weekend. Chievo have been bitterly disappointing all season but did get a much needed win last time out. They are inconsistent though, which is reflected in their league position and although they may build on that win a draw is most likely given the current form of both sides.
Palermo V Juventus - 14:00 - Away Win
The return of Conte is sure to boost Juve morale and can record win number 12 of the season against Palermo. Palermo currently sit just above the relegation zone and have lost 7 of their 15 games this season, they were only narrowly beaten by Inter last time but Juve will prove to be a different proposition and I can't see Palermo troubling the champions at all.
Pescara V Genoa - 14:00 - Draw
A relegation scrap sees Pescara host Genoa. Pescara are now bottom of the table after losing all 5 of their previous 5 games. Genoa are third from bottom and have won just once in 5 attempts. Pescara's defence has been their main issue with a goal difference of -20 double that of the nearest worst goal difference, Genoa's -10. Goals then are to be expected but a draw seems most likely given that neither team will want to lose this one.
Siena V Catania - 14:00 - Draw
Siena have lost just one of their last 5 games but remain second from bottom due to their points deduction. Their were comfortably beaten by Roma last weekend but face an easy challenge here against a Catania side that have lost their last two games. Catania are currently tenth but should be higher given the talent in their squad. Much like Atalana their bad run is unlikely to last much longer but away to Siena is no easy fixture and they will be held to draw.
Torino V AC Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Torino have lost their last two games and things don't get any easier when they host AC Milan on Sunday. The visitors have won their last two and are clambering up the table after a disastrous start to the campaign. I fully expect Milan to win this comfortably, Torino look like a side heading for a relegation battle.
Inter V Napoli - 19:45 - Away Win
The game of the weekend sees second travel to third. Inter are two points behind Napoli in the table and will be looking to leapfrog them after this game. Their form though has taken a dip and they only just overcame Palermo last weekend. Napoli however will come into the game full of confidence after thrashing Pescara. A lot has been said of Napoli's attack and they again could be the key to this one. It is likely both teams will score but its Napoli who are the more likely to score more.
Monday 10th December
Sampdoria V Udinese - 18:00 - Draw
Sampdoria did well to earn a draw against Fiorentina last weekend and they look set to draw again here against an improving Udinese. Udinese's victory over Cagliari was just their fourth win of the season, unacceptable by their standards. They have however drawn more games than any team in the division, 7 which is why they are not in a worse position. Udinese's best form is at home and they would take another draw now if offered it. It is the most likely result however given that Udinese are in better shape than their hosts but they are still likely to fall short.
Bologna V Lazio - 20:00 - Away Win
Bologna's win last weekend saw them move away from the relegation zone though they remain a team in trouble given their inconsistent form. Lazio are in good heart after winning their last two and should take this one, currently fifth they will want to climb into the top four and cement a Champions League position. With that incentive they will comfortably beat a bologna side that cannot be trusted in their current form.
Selected Match Odds and Betting:
Lazio, Napoli, Milan, Juve & Roma - All To Win : 47/1
Roma V Fiorentina - Roma to win 3-2: 14/1
Palermo V Juve - First goal scorer Quagliarella: 4/1
Enjoy The Games!
Thursday, 29 November 2012
Gameweek 15 - Juve Rocking As Milan Turn A Corner
A relatively quite week in Italy's top flight this week with no managerial sackings, big transfer rumours or hooligan trouble. For once it would seem the biggest story of the week has occurred on the pitch with AC Milan beating Champions Juventus 1-0 on Sunday evening. That was Juve's second defeat of the season and they are now just two points ahead of Napoli. Although they were undone by a Robiniho penalty against Milan the performances of The Old Lady in recent weeks have not been to the level that saw them go unbeaten for all of last season. In contrast to Juve, AC Milan have looked resurgent in recent weeks, capped by their win over the Champions. Allegri's job maybe far from safe but he has turned Milan around and they look like a side who could continue up the league. Their dismal start will linger long in the memory of Milan's fans but their is certainly now hope for them with two thirds of the season still left to play.
Elsewhere Palermo got a much needed win as they beat Catania 3-1 in a surprising result. Another surprise saw Atalanta slump to another defeat as they were beaten 1-0 at home to Genoa. A late goal saw Fiorentina rescue a point at Torino in a 2-2 draw. In a relegation clash Sampdoria overcame Bologna 1-0. An early goal from Destro saw Roma gain an away win in Pescara. Chievo and Siena played out a goalless stalemate. Parma sprung a surprise as they beat third placed inter 1-0 but their was no surprise in Cagliari as the home side were beaten 1-0 by Napoli. The final game of the week saw Lazio ease aside Udinese 3-0.
This Weekend's Fixtures and Predictions:
Friday 30 November:
Catania V AC Milan - 19:45 - Away Win
Catania have looked their usual solid selves this season and currently occupy eighth, a position you can expect them to be around for the rest of the campaign. They are at the moment though suffering a wobble and having been comprehensively beaten last time out it is Milan who get the tentative vote after beating Juventus they have shown they maybe ready to put a run together and they should have enough to overcome Catania.
Saturday 1 December:
Juventus V Torino - 19:45 - Home Win
Despite being beaten last time out the Champions should return to winning ways here against a Torino side who haven't won in 2 games. Their draw with Fiorentina at the weekend was impressive but an angered Juventus will be a different proposition. The Champions will bounce back in style here.
Sunday 2 December:
Napoli V Pescara - 11:30 - Home Win
Napoli are in terrific form at the moment and even without Cavani they are a force to be reckoned with. Pescara have lost all of their last three games and look set for another defeat here. Juve put 6 past them three weeks ago, it would be little surprise for Napoli to rack up a similar tally in this one.
Bologna V Atalanta - 14:00 - Away Win
Two teams who lost last weekend meet in this one and it is Atalanta who should come out on top. Despite losing last time out they can bounce back and can overcome a Bologna side who are second from bottom and are low on confidence.
Genoa V Chievo - 14:00 - Draw
Sixteenth face seventeenth as Chievo travel to Genoa. Both sides have been disappointing this season which is reflected in their league position. Both are proving hard to predict but a low scoring draw seems the most likely result.
Inter V Palermo - 14:00 - Home Win
Inter are struggling at the minute but they could bounce back here. Back in the San Siro where they have only lost once this season they should be able to overcome Palermo. Palermo's win over Catania was much needed and that will of helped their confidence, they will test Inter but the home side will edge it.
Lazio V Parma - 14:00 - Home Win
Lazio remain in great form after overcoming Udinese in some style and they should have enough to beat resurgent Parma in this one. Parma got a good win last weekend but they remain an inconsistent side particularly away from home and they will fall short against Lazio's attack in the Stadio Olimipico.
Siena V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Roma have looked promising in recent weeks and could continue that run here against Siena who despite being unbeaten in 5 are a side still set for a relegation struggle. Roma's attack has been effected by the absence of Lamela but with Destro finding form they remain a side with great attacking prowess that will surely test Siena's defence.
Udinese V Cagliari - 14:00 - Home Win
Udinese this season have won 3, lost 4 and drawn 7 of their 14 games in what has been so far a poor campaign for them. They have a good opportunity here though to record win number 5 against a Cagliari side who haven't won in 4 games. Udinese have only lost once at home all season and they should have enough to beat a Cagliari side who are struggling at the moment.
Fiorentina V Sampdoria - 19:45 - Home Win
Despite only managing a draw against Torino last weekend, Fiorentina are taken to win this one. That draw sees them remain in third place and showed again how far Vincenzo Montella has taken his side in a short space of time. Unbeaten in 8 games and unbeaten at home all season they will take all the beating. Sampdoria's win last weekend will of helped their confidence but Fiorentina will prove too much for them.
Selected Match Betting:
Fiorentina, Udinese, Roma, Lazio, Atalanta, Napoli, Juve & AC Milan - All To Win: 133/1
Fiorentina V Sampdoria - Fiorentina to win 4-0: 16/1
Siena V Roma - Destro To Score First: 4/1
Enjoy The Games!
Elsewhere Palermo got a much needed win as they beat Catania 3-1 in a surprising result. Another surprise saw Atalanta slump to another defeat as they were beaten 1-0 at home to Genoa. A late goal saw Fiorentina rescue a point at Torino in a 2-2 draw. In a relegation clash Sampdoria overcame Bologna 1-0. An early goal from Destro saw Roma gain an away win in Pescara. Chievo and Siena played out a goalless stalemate. Parma sprung a surprise as they beat third placed inter 1-0 but their was no surprise in Cagliari as the home side were beaten 1-0 by Napoli. The final game of the week saw Lazio ease aside Udinese 3-0.
This Weekend's Fixtures and Predictions:
Friday 30 November:
Catania V AC Milan - 19:45 - Away Win
Catania have looked their usual solid selves this season and currently occupy eighth, a position you can expect them to be around for the rest of the campaign. They are at the moment though suffering a wobble and having been comprehensively beaten last time out it is Milan who get the tentative vote after beating Juventus they have shown they maybe ready to put a run together and they should have enough to overcome Catania.
Saturday 1 December:
Juventus V Torino - 19:45 - Home Win
Despite being beaten last time out the Champions should return to winning ways here against a Torino side who haven't won in 2 games. Their draw with Fiorentina at the weekend was impressive but an angered Juventus will be a different proposition. The Champions will bounce back in style here.
Sunday 2 December:
Napoli V Pescara - 11:30 - Home Win
Napoli are in terrific form at the moment and even without Cavani they are a force to be reckoned with. Pescara have lost all of their last three games and look set for another defeat here. Juve put 6 past them three weeks ago, it would be little surprise for Napoli to rack up a similar tally in this one.
Bologna V Atalanta - 14:00 - Away Win
Two teams who lost last weekend meet in this one and it is Atalanta who should come out on top. Despite losing last time out they can bounce back and can overcome a Bologna side who are second from bottom and are low on confidence.
Genoa V Chievo - 14:00 - Draw
Sixteenth face seventeenth as Chievo travel to Genoa. Both sides have been disappointing this season which is reflected in their league position. Both are proving hard to predict but a low scoring draw seems the most likely result.
Inter V Palermo - 14:00 - Home Win
Inter are struggling at the minute but they could bounce back here. Back in the San Siro where they have only lost once this season they should be able to overcome Palermo. Palermo's win over Catania was much needed and that will of helped their confidence, they will test Inter but the home side will edge it.
Lazio V Parma - 14:00 - Home Win
Lazio remain in great form after overcoming Udinese in some style and they should have enough to beat resurgent Parma in this one. Parma got a good win last weekend but they remain an inconsistent side particularly away from home and they will fall short against Lazio's attack in the Stadio Olimipico.
Siena V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Roma have looked promising in recent weeks and could continue that run here against Siena who despite being unbeaten in 5 are a side still set for a relegation struggle. Roma's attack has been effected by the absence of Lamela but with Destro finding form they remain a side with great attacking prowess that will surely test Siena's defence.
Udinese V Cagliari - 14:00 - Home Win
Udinese this season have won 3, lost 4 and drawn 7 of their 14 games in what has been so far a poor campaign for them. They have a good opportunity here though to record win number 5 against a Cagliari side who haven't won in 4 games. Udinese have only lost once at home all season and they should have enough to beat a Cagliari side who are struggling at the moment.
Fiorentina V Sampdoria - 19:45 - Home Win
Despite only managing a draw against Torino last weekend, Fiorentina are taken to win this one. That draw sees them remain in third place and showed again how far Vincenzo Montella has taken his side in a short space of time. Unbeaten in 8 games and unbeaten at home all season they will take all the beating. Sampdoria's win last weekend will of helped their confidence but Fiorentina will prove too much for them.
Selected Match Betting:
Fiorentina, Udinese, Roma, Lazio, Atalanta, Napoli, Juve & AC Milan - All To Win: 133/1
Fiorentina V Sampdoria - Fiorentina to win 4-0: 16/1
Siena V Roma - Destro To Score First: 4/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 23 November 2012
Gameweek 14 - Another managerial casualty & Hooligans make the headlines
Another turbulent week in the Serie A began with Pescara coach Giovanni Stroppa resigning from his post after his side were beaten 1-0 by Siena on Sunday, a result which has left them third from bottom. His replacement was named on Tuesday, Cristiano Bergodi a former Pescara player who lands his first Serie A job after a spell managing in the lower leagues.
In what should of been a celebratory week for Italian football with both Juventus & AC Milan winning in the Champions league the headlines were taken again by Italy's continuing hooligan problem. Wednesday saw a group of Napoli fans torch a car belonging to a group of Foggia fans who were on their way back from a Serie D game. Luckily no one was seriously injured and those responsible arrested. Then in the early hours of Thursday morning a bar in the centre of Rome was set upon by Lazio ultras who attacked Tottenham fans, in the capital ahead of their Europa League game with Lazio on Thursday evening. One man was left seriously injured and he and a further 10 men were taken to hospital. For some time hooliganism in Italy has not gained the publicity it used to enjoy, these isolated occurrences certainly do not suggest a resurgence in hooliganism but show again how in Italy it remains to sit just below the surface ready to strike whenever an opportunity arises.
On the pitch results continue to be full of surprises. Both Saturday fixtures ended in a draw as leaders Juve were held by Lazio to a 0-0 bore draw and Milan drew 2-2 with Napoli. Sunday saw much needed wins for Sampdoria who beat genoa 3-1 and Bologna who dispatched Palermo 3-0. Catania overcame Chievo 2-1 in a tight affair. Fiorentina continued their good form by thumping Atalanta 4-1. Inter were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Cagliari in a shock result. Udinese and Parma also played out a 2-2 draw and Siena overcame Pescara 1-0. Monday's game saw Roma return to form, beating Torino 2-0.
This Weeks Fixtures, Previews & Predictions:
Saturday 24 November
Palermo V Catania - 19:45 - Away Win
Palermo remain a team on the slide after being beaten by fellow strugglers Bologna last weekend. They have now lost their last there last three games and look set for another defeat here against a Catania side who look a good outfit and look set for a top 10 finish even at this early stage.
Sunday 25 November
Atalanta V Genoa - 14:00 - Home Win
Atalanta were comfortably beaten by an inform Fiorentina side last time out but they are taken to bounce straight back against bottom side Genoa. Atalanta remain in mid table and continue to be a difficult side to beat especially at home. Genoa are likely to find the home side too strong.
Chievo V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Chievo have been surprise strugglers this season but they did gain a much needed win last weekend. Despite being second bottom Siena's form is stronger than their opponent's with their points deduction meaning they remain in the relegation zone. Despite that Siena remain difficult to predict and a draw between these two struggling sides seems most likely.
Pescara V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Pescara's one nil defeat last weekend forced them into a change of management. In the long run that may prove a positive move but Bergodi is unlikely get off to a winning start here against a Roma side that although hard to predict continue to score at will. The home side look set to struggle against an attack as strong as Roma and Zeman's side can make it two wins from two.
Sampdoria V Bologna - 14:00 - Draw
These sides sit 14th and 15th respectively in the table and both gained much needed wins last time out. On paper there is very little to separate them and with both teams desperate not to lose its likely this one will end in a stalemate.
Torino V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Away Win
Fiorentina continue to play great football and get results, their 4-1 thumping of Atalanta saw them move up to third in the table and they are likely to notch up another win here. Torino remain in mid table but have won just one of their last five and will find Fiorentina too strong.
AC Milan V Juventus - 19:45 - Away Win
The game of the weekend sees Juventus travel to Milan. Both teams could only manage draws last time out which saw Juventus remain top and Milan stay 12th. The table doesn't lie and the gulf in class between these two may never have been wider. Juventus continue to look imperious particularly defensively whereas Milan regularly look shaky. This should be a straight forward win for the Champions.
Monday 26 November
Cagliari V Napoli - Away Win
Both these sides drew their games 2-2 last weekend showing the attacking prowess but also defensive weakness of themselves. Napoli have the upper hand in both departments in this one and they should be too strong for Cagliari. Expect goals in this one but Napoli will prevail.
Parma V Inter - Away Win
Parma are stuck in mid table after another draw last weekend and they are unlikely to increase their point tally here against a strong Inter side who currently occupy second place. Parma haven't won any of their last 3 and Inter none of their last 2 so expect a cagey affair but Inter should edge it.
Tuesday 27 November
Lazio V Udinese - Draw
Both these sides have been hard to predict this campaign with Udinese having a dreadful start that sees them occupy 10th in the table, poor by their standards. Lazio started so well but have in recent weeks failed to put a long run of good results together. Both teams drew their last games and this is set to be another tight affair.
Selected Match Odds:
Inter, Napoli, Juventus, Fiorentina, Atalanta, Roma & Catania - All To Win:
AC Milan V Juventus - Juventus Win 3-0 : 18/1
Cagliari V Napoli - Insigne To Score first: 11/2
Enjoy The Games!
In what should of been a celebratory week for Italian football with both Juventus & AC Milan winning in the Champions league the headlines were taken again by Italy's continuing hooligan problem. Wednesday saw a group of Napoli fans torch a car belonging to a group of Foggia fans who were on their way back from a Serie D game. Luckily no one was seriously injured and those responsible arrested. Then in the early hours of Thursday morning a bar in the centre of Rome was set upon by Lazio ultras who attacked Tottenham fans, in the capital ahead of their Europa League game with Lazio on Thursday evening. One man was left seriously injured and he and a further 10 men were taken to hospital. For some time hooliganism in Italy has not gained the publicity it used to enjoy, these isolated occurrences certainly do not suggest a resurgence in hooliganism but show again how in Italy it remains to sit just below the surface ready to strike whenever an opportunity arises.
On the pitch results continue to be full of surprises. Both Saturday fixtures ended in a draw as leaders Juve were held by Lazio to a 0-0 bore draw and Milan drew 2-2 with Napoli. Sunday saw much needed wins for Sampdoria who beat genoa 3-1 and Bologna who dispatched Palermo 3-0. Catania overcame Chievo 2-1 in a tight affair. Fiorentina continued their good form by thumping Atalanta 4-1. Inter were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Cagliari in a shock result. Udinese and Parma also played out a 2-2 draw and Siena overcame Pescara 1-0. Monday's game saw Roma return to form, beating Torino 2-0.
This Weeks Fixtures, Previews & Predictions:
Saturday 24 November
Palermo V Catania - 19:45 - Away Win
Palermo remain a team on the slide after being beaten by fellow strugglers Bologna last weekend. They have now lost their last there last three games and look set for another defeat here against a Catania side who look a good outfit and look set for a top 10 finish even at this early stage.
Sunday 25 November
Atalanta V Genoa - 14:00 - Home Win
Atalanta were comfortably beaten by an inform Fiorentina side last time out but they are taken to bounce straight back against bottom side Genoa. Atalanta remain in mid table and continue to be a difficult side to beat especially at home. Genoa are likely to find the home side too strong.
Chievo V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Chievo have been surprise strugglers this season but they did gain a much needed win last weekend. Despite being second bottom Siena's form is stronger than their opponent's with their points deduction meaning they remain in the relegation zone. Despite that Siena remain difficult to predict and a draw between these two struggling sides seems most likely.
Pescara V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Pescara's one nil defeat last weekend forced them into a change of management. In the long run that may prove a positive move but Bergodi is unlikely get off to a winning start here against a Roma side that although hard to predict continue to score at will. The home side look set to struggle against an attack as strong as Roma and Zeman's side can make it two wins from two.
Sampdoria V Bologna - 14:00 - Draw
These sides sit 14th and 15th respectively in the table and both gained much needed wins last time out. On paper there is very little to separate them and with both teams desperate not to lose its likely this one will end in a stalemate.
Torino V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Away Win
Fiorentina continue to play great football and get results, their 4-1 thumping of Atalanta saw them move up to third in the table and they are likely to notch up another win here. Torino remain in mid table but have won just one of their last five and will find Fiorentina too strong.
AC Milan V Juventus - 19:45 - Away Win
The game of the weekend sees Juventus travel to Milan. Both teams could only manage draws last time out which saw Juventus remain top and Milan stay 12th. The table doesn't lie and the gulf in class between these two may never have been wider. Juventus continue to look imperious particularly defensively whereas Milan regularly look shaky. This should be a straight forward win for the Champions.
Monday 26 November
Cagliari V Napoli - Away Win
Both these sides drew their games 2-2 last weekend showing the attacking prowess but also defensive weakness of themselves. Napoli have the upper hand in both departments in this one and they should be too strong for Cagliari. Expect goals in this one but Napoli will prevail.
Parma V Inter - Away Win
Parma are stuck in mid table after another draw last weekend and they are unlikely to increase their point tally here against a strong Inter side who currently occupy second place. Parma haven't won any of their last 3 and Inter none of their last 2 so expect a cagey affair but Inter should edge it.
Tuesday 27 November
Lazio V Udinese - Draw
Both these sides have been hard to predict this campaign with Udinese having a dreadful start that sees them occupy 10th in the table, poor by their standards. Lazio started so well but have in recent weeks failed to put a long run of good results together. Both teams drew their last games and this is set to be another tight affair.
Selected Match Odds:
Inter, Napoli, Juventus, Fiorentina, Atalanta, Roma & Catania - All To Win:
AC Milan V Juventus - Juventus Win 3-0 : 18/1
Cagliari V Napoli - Insigne To Score first: 11/2
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 16 November 2012
Serie A Matchweek 13 - Juve Back With A Bang
The Serie A returns this weekend after a mid week international break. This weekend sees the ten games spread over 3 days with 2 on Saturday, eight on Sunday and one on Monday evening.
Last weekend saw a continuation of bizarre results that have dogged the Serie A this season. Inter Milan, conquers of Juventus the previous week were beaten 3-2 by Atalanta. AC Milan found themselves on the end of another defeat as they lost 3-1 to Fiorentina. And in Rome Lazio won the Rome derby, 3-2 in a game which saw both sides have a man sent off. Elsewhere Torino added to Bologna woes beating them 1-0. Napoli continued their good goal scoring form beating Genoa 4-2. Chievo held Udinese to a 2-2 draw and Parma and Siena also played out a stalemate, that one ending 0-0. Cagliari V Catania also finished 0-0. Palermo beat a now struggling Sampdoria 2-0 and Juventus set about going on another unbeaten run by thrashing Pescara 6-1.
Another defeat for AC Milan has seen them slip to 13th in the league and pressure continues to mount on manager Allegri. There is little doubt that if Milan had a suitable replacement available Allegri would be gone, however negotiations with Pep Guardiola appear to have stalled and the Spaniard is unlikely to take over before the start of next season. Rumours are rife in Italy that a new candidate has come to light, Fiorentina's Vincenzo Montella. Montella has guided Fiorentina to fourth in the division this season, playing some fantastic football. Its easy to see why Milan would want him but his buy out clause is reportedly large and he is said to be happy at Fiorentina. Even so the lure of the San Siro maybe too much for him and if Milan continue in their current vein expect that call to come sooner than later.
This weekend's fixtures and predictions:
Saturday 17 Novmeber
Juventus V Lazio: 17:00 - Home Win
The match of the weekend sees first versus fifth as Juve host Inter Milan. Juve's defeat to Inter shows that they are not indestructible but they manner in which they bounced back last weekend shows both the quality and hunger that they possess. Lazio's win in the derby will have helped their confidence after a couple of blips and they are sure to give the champions a test. It's set to be tight but the Champions get the vote.
Napoli V AC Milan : 19:35 - Home Win
Third placed Napoli will look to continue their pursuit of Juventus with victory over Milan. Napoli's attack are sure to enjoy themselves against an inept looking Milan defence who folded tamely against Fiorentina last weekend. It is unlikely Napoli will get a better chance to beat Milan than the one that presents itself here.
Sunday 18 November
Last weekend saw a continuation of bizarre results that have dogged the Serie A this season. Inter Milan, conquers of Juventus the previous week were beaten 3-2 by Atalanta. AC Milan found themselves on the end of another defeat as they lost 3-1 to Fiorentina. And in Rome Lazio won the Rome derby, 3-2 in a game which saw both sides have a man sent off. Elsewhere Torino added to Bologna woes beating them 1-0. Napoli continued their good goal scoring form beating Genoa 4-2. Chievo held Udinese to a 2-2 draw and Parma and Siena also played out a stalemate, that one ending 0-0. Cagliari V Catania also finished 0-0. Palermo beat a now struggling Sampdoria 2-0 and Juventus set about going on another unbeaten run by thrashing Pescara 6-1.
Another defeat for AC Milan has seen them slip to 13th in the league and pressure continues to mount on manager Allegri. There is little doubt that if Milan had a suitable replacement available Allegri would be gone, however negotiations with Pep Guardiola appear to have stalled and the Spaniard is unlikely to take over before the start of next season. Rumours are rife in Italy that a new candidate has come to light, Fiorentina's Vincenzo Montella. Montella has guided Fiorentina to fourth in the division this season, playing some fantastic football. Its easy to see why Milan would want him but his buy out clause is reportedly large and he is said to be happy at Fiorentina. Even so the lure of the San Siro maybe too much for him and if Milan continue in their current vein expect that call to come sooner than later.
This weekend's fixtures and predictions:
Saturday 17 Novmeber
Juventus V Lazio: 17:00 - Home Win
The match of the weekend sees first versus fifth as Juve host Inter Milan. Juve's defeat to Inter shows that they are not indestructible but they manner in which they bounced back last weekend shows both the quality and hunger that they possess. Lazio's win in the derby will have helped their confidence after a couple of blips and they are sure to give the champions a test. It's set to be tight but the Champions get the vote.
Napoli V AC Milan : 19:35 - Home Win
Third placed Napoli will look to continue their pursuit of Juventus with victory over Milan. Napoli's attack are sure to enjoy themselves against an inept looking Milan defence who folded tamely against Fiorentina last weekend. It is unlikely Napoli will get a better chance to beat Milan than the one that presents itself here.
Sunday 18 November
Bologna V Palermo - 11:30 - Draw
Bologna's latest defeat was their eighth of this campaign and they are left second bottom and in real trouble. Palermo are fairing a little better with their victory last weekend seeing them move to fourteenth. Both sides are under performing this season and a stalemate here is the most likely result.
Catania V Chievo - 14:00 - Home Win
Catania have had a promising start to the campaign and currently sit eighth, six places above their opponents. Chievo are another side under achieving and despite a decent draw against Udinese last time they look set for another defeat here. Catania have looked a strong outfit, particularly at home and should pick up another three points here.
Fiorentina V Atalanta - 14:00 - Home Win
Fiorentina are enjoying a great start to the campaign and will be looking to continue it against an Atalanta side full of confidence after overcoming Inter last weekend. Fiorentina's victory over AC Milan last weekend shows just how far Fiorentina have come since a poor campaign last season. They should outclass Atalanta here despite Atalanta enjoying a good run themselves.
Inter Milan V Cagliari - 14:00 - Home Win
Second placed Inter suffered a set back against Atalanta last weekend but their is little doubt they are a quality outfit and an improving one. Cagliari have had a decent start, currently occupying mid table but they look sure to be over run by Inter's classy forward line and as they do not score enough goals themselves this should only end one way.
Siena V Pescara - 14:00 - Draw
Bottom club Siena will look to move away from the bottom when they face a Pescara side still reeling from their drubbing at the hands of Juve last weekend. Prior to that Pescara had looked in decent form and expect them to bounce back and hold Siena here.
Udinese V Parma - 14:00 - Home Win
Udinese have still yet to reach the high standards they set themselves last season and have just 3 wins all season. Parma are a place above Udinese in 9th after a solid start to the campaign. There is little to separate the sides on form but Udinese at home are very strong and that might just prove the difference here.
Sampdoria V Genoa - 19:45 - Draw
Third and fourth bottom meet in this one with both teams on the slide. Sampdoria's promising start now seems a distant memory and they are really struggling at the moment. Genoa too despite a decent beginning have slipped down the table and continue to leak goals. A high scoring draw is the safest option in this tricky contest.
Monday 19 November
Roma V Torino - 19:45 - Home Win
The final match of the weekend sees a Monday night game at the Stadio Olimpico where Roma will look to bounce back from their derby defeat as they host a Torino side who notched up another win last weekend. Roma's third straight derby defeat will do little to aid the confidence of the most unpredictable side in the league but the gillarossi did play well and can take some positives from it. Torino are comfortably in mid table after defeating Bologna last weekend. They face a different proposition here and the all out attacking tactics of Roma could see them over run as an angry Roma bounce back.
Selected Match Odds:
Roma, Udinese, Inter, Fiorentina, Catania, Napoli & Juventus - All To Win: 82/1
Roma V Torino - Lamela To Score First: 4/1
Napoli V AC Milan - Correct Score Napoli 4-0 Milan : 28/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 9 November 2012
Matchweek 12 - The Rome Derby
The Serie A last week continued in its unpredictable fashion that has been prevalent in recent weeks. Saturday saw unbeaten league leaders finally come unstuck as they were beaten 3-1 by Inter at home. Their first defeat in 49 league games. Saturday night also saw AC Milan get a much needed win as they thrashed Chievo 5-1.
Sunday saw a series of strange results as Napoli where held to a 1-1 draw with Torino, Lazio were beaten 4-0 by Catania and Pescara beat Parma 2-0. There were also wins for Siena who narrowly beat Genoa 1-0, Atalanta who overcame Sampdoria 2-1, Fiorentina beat Cagliari 4-1 and Roma beat Palermo by the same scoreline to end their losing run. The other game of the weekend saw Udinese draw 1-1 with Bologna.
This Weekend's Fixtures and Predictions:
Saturday 10 November
Cagliari V Catania - 17:00 - Away Win
Caglairi were on a decent run before being thumped 4-1 by Atalanta last weekend but they remain a side that could easily be dragged into a relegation battle if they were to go on a bad run. It's possible that run could begin to gain momentum now with Catania high on confidence after their very impressive 4-0 win over Lazio last time out. The visitors should take this one.
Pescara V Juventus - 19:45 - Away Win
All good things must come to an end and Juventus' 49 game unbeaten run was halted by Inter last weekend. In the end Inter ran out worthy winners but expect The Old Lady to bounce straight back here. Pescara continue to look a good outfit, not out of their depth in the top division they currently sit 14th. This however is likely to prove a bridge too far against a Juventus who will be determined to return to winning ways.
Sunday 11 November
Palermo V Sampdoria - 11:30 - Draw
Both these sides suffered loses last time out and Palermo in particular look in big trouble already. Sampdoria started the season well but have fallen away and now find themselves in 15th place. Palermo are second from bottom and need to start picking up points quickly. A draw seems most likely in a game neither side will want to lose.
AC Milan V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Home Win
Milan's disastrous start to season appears to have tailed off and they are finally beginning to show themselves as a decent side again. Boosted by the return of Alessandro Pato Milan now have a striker who could replace Ibrahimovic. Fiorentina are on a decent run themselves sitting fourth in the table they will certainly be fighting for a European spot come May but it is Milan who get the vote in this one having thrashed Chievo last weekend they will be confident of getting another home win, this one won't be as comfortable but they should have enough.
Chievo V Udinese - 14:00 - Away Win
Chievo are hovering around the relegation zone after being beaten by AC Milan. They have had a poor start by their standards and things don't get any easier as they host Udinese. Udinese are yet to reach the heights of last season but they remain a decent side and a comfortably in mid table. Chievo will want to halt their losing run but the suspicion is that Udinese's forward line will simply prove to much for a Cheivo team low on confidence.
Genoa V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Genoa are in danger of slipping back into the relegation places if their current form continues, a 1-0 defeat to Siena last weekend has left them fourth from bottom. They avoided the drop last time round but only just, this season they must improve or they will go down. That process of regaining form and confidence is unlikely to begin here however against a Napoli side who despite only managing a draw against Torino last time are almost certainly going to have too much fire power for Genoa.
Parma V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Siena remain bottom despite their win over Genoa. They seem to be revelling as underdogs after their points deduction looked sure to see them struggling near the bottom of the table. Yet they are now just 3 points from safety. Parma, currently eighth have had a inconsistent start to the season and after losing last time out will want to return to winning ways. Siena though have shown themselves to be a solid outfit and expect this one to end in a stalemate.
Torino V Bologna - 14:00 - Home Win
Both these drew last weekend but it is Torino who start as surprise favourites here. Turin's other team have proved a surprise package this season, currently sitting in mid table they continue to get good results, particularly at home. Bologna however have had a dreadful start by their standards and a currently third from bottom. It is the newly promoted side then who get the vote in this one as home advantage prevails.
Lazio V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
One of the biggest games in European football sees Lazio face Roma in the Rome derby. Currently sitting 5th and 6th respectively the game is given even more emphasis. Roma have suffered a poor run against their bitter rivals in recent seasons but there could be a turn around here. Under new manager Zeman Roma have produced great attacking displays yet have continued to be suspect defensively. They will be boosted by the return of Danielle De Rossi but Francesco Totti is a doubt. Lazio have looked the stronger of the two sides this season but their 4-0 loss to Catania raises serious questions about their defensive abilities. Expect lots of goals and plenty of controversy but Roma might just prevail.
Atalanta V Inter - 19:45 - Away Win
Atalanta have made a solid start to the season as many expected they would, expect them to be challenging for a Europa league spot come May. However they are unlikely to boost their points tally here against an Inter side full of confidence after defeating Juventus last weekend. Inter have only lost twice all season and are just three points behind leaders Juventus. Atalanta will make life hard but expect Inter to overcome them.
Selected Match Betting:
Inter, Roma, Torino, Napoli, Catania, Juventus, AC Milan & Udinese - All To Win : 504/1
Lazio V Roma - Correct Score Lazio 3-4 Roma : 40/1
Lazio V Roma - First Goalscorer Totto : 11/2
Enjoy The Games!
Sunday saw a series of strange results as Napoli where held to a 1-1 draw with Torino, Lazio were beaten 4-0 by Catania and Pescara beat Parma 2-0. There were also wins for Siena who narrowly beat Genoa 1-0, Atalanta who overcame Sampdoria 2-1, Fiorentina beat Cagliari 4-1 and Roma beat Palermo by the same scoreline to end their losing run. The other game of the weekend saw Udinese draw 1-1 with Bologna.
This Weekend's Fixtures and Predictions:
Saturday 10 November
Cagliari V Catania - 17:00 - Away Win
Caglairi were on a decent run before being thumped 4-1 by Atalanta last weekend but they remain a side that could easily be dragged into a relegation battle if they were to go on a bad run. It's possible that run could begin to gain momentum now with Catania high on confidence after their very impressive 4-0 win over Lazio last time out. The visitors should take this one.
Pescara V Juventus - 19:45 - Away Win
All good things must come to an end and Juventus' 49 game unbeaten run was halted by Inter last weekend. In the end Inter ran out worthy winners but expect The Old Lady to bounce straight back here. Pescara continue to look a good outfit, not out of their depth in the top division they currently sit 14th. This however is likely to prove a bridge too far against a Juventus who will be determined to return to winning ways.
Sunday 11 November
Palermo V Sampdoria - 11:30 - Draw
Both these sides suffered loses last time out and Palermo in particular look in big trouble already. Sampdoria started the season well but have fallen away and now find themselves in 15th place. Palermo are second from bottom and need to start picking up points quickly. A draw seems most likely in a game neither side will want to lose.
AC Milan V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Home Win
Milan's disastrous start to season appears to have tailed off and they are finally beginning to show themselves as a decent side again. Boosted by the return of Alessandro Pato Milan now have a striker who could replace Ibrahimovic. Fiorentina are on a decent run themselves sitting fourth in the table they will certainly be fighting for a European spot come May but it is Milan who get the vote in this one having thrashed Chievo last weekend they will be confident of getting another home win, this one won't be as comfortable but they should have enough.
Chievo V Udinese - 14:00 - Away Win
Chievo are hovering around the relegation zone after being beaten by AC Milan. They have had a poor start by their standards and things don't get any easier as they host Udinese. Udinese are yet to reach the heights of last season but they remain a decent side and a comfortably in mid table. Chievo will want to halt their losing run but the suspicion is that Udinese's forward line will simply prove to much for a Cheivo team low on confidence.
Genoa V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Genoa are in danger of slipping back into the relegation places if their current form continues, a 1-0 defeat to Siena last weekend has left them fourth from bottom. They avoided the drop last time round but only just, this season they must improve or they will go down. That process of regaining form and confidence is unlikely to begin here however against a Napoli side who despite only managing a draw against Torino last time are almost certainly going to have too much fire power for Genoa.
Parma V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Siena remain bottom despite their win over Genoa. They seem to be revelling as underdogs after their points deduction looked sure to see them struggling near the bottom of the table. Yet they are now just 3 points from safety. Parma, currently eighth have had a inconsistent start to the season and after losing last time out will want to return to winning ways. Siena though have shown themselves to be a solid outfit and expect this one to end in a stalemate.
Torino V Bologna - 14:00 - Home Win
Both these drew last weekend but it is Torino who start as surprise favourites here. Turin's other team have proved a surprise package this season, currently sitting in mid table they continue to get good results, particularly at home. Bologna however have had a dreadful start by their standards and a currently third from bottom. It is the newly promoted side then who get the vote in this one as home advantage prevails.
Lazio V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
One of the biggest games in European football sees Lazio face Roma in the Rome derby. Currently sitting 5th and 6th respectively the game is given even more emphasis. Roma have suffered a poor run against their bitter rivals in recent seasons but there could be a turn around here. Under new manager Zeman Roma have produced great attacking displays yet have continued to be suspect defensively. They will be boosted by the return of Danielle De Rossi but Francesco Totti is a doubt. Lazio have looked the stronger of the two sides this season but their 4-0 loss to Catania raises serious questions about their defensive abilities. Expect lots of goals and plenty of controversy but Roma might just prevail.
Atalanta V Inter - 19:45 - Away Win
Atalanta have made a solid start to the season as many expected they would, expect them to be challenging for a Europa league spot come May. However they are unlikely to boost their points tally here against an Inter side full of confidence after defeating Juventus last weekend. Inter have only lost twice all season and are just three points behind leaders Juventus. Atalanta will make life hard but expect Inter to overcome them.
Selected Match Betting:
Inter, Roma, Torino, Napoli, Catania, Juventus, AC Milan & Udinese - All To Win : 504/1
Lazio V Roma - Correct Score Lazio 3-4 Roma : 40/1
Lazio V Roma - First Goalscorer Totto : 11/2
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 2 November 2012
Matchweek 11 - Juve go for 50 unbeaten
After a full midweek schedule the Serie A is back to its normal format this weekend. With two games on Saturday and eight on Sunday. The midweek fixtures produced some strange results but Juventus delivered a much expected victory by beating Bologna 2-1 on Wednesday. Juve now face Inter on Saturday night in the game of the weekend. If Juve win they win or draw they will stretch their unbeaten run in the Serie A to 50 games, they could also extend their lead at the top by beating second placed Inter and moving 7 points clear.
Elsewhere AC Milan's disastrous start to the season continued as they had to come from 2 goals down to draw 2-2 with Palermo on Tuesday. Pressure continues to mount on Allegri and he looks certain to lose his job in the near future if results do not change quickly. On Wednesday Lazio could only manage a 1-1 draw with Torino in Rome a result which saw them fall 9 points behind leaders Juve. Second placed inter gained a hard fought 3-2 victory over Sampdoria. Sampdoria are now tumbling down the table after a promising start. Chievo look to be moving in the opposite direction after they recorded their third win of the season beating Pescara 2-0. Cagliari continued to defy the odds as they beat Siena 4-2 to move up to eighth. Siena remain rock bottom with just three points. Atalanta produced the shock of the round as the beat Napoli 1-0. Napoli were without Edison Cavani but credit goes to Atalanta for stifling the best attacking side in the league. That result left Napoli in third, now six points behind Juve. Udinese are another side who are putting their poor early season form behind them after they drew 2-2 with Catania. Udinese are now unbeaten in 3 and sit comfortably in mid table, two places above Catania. Parma provided a surprise by beating Roma 3-2. That was the second time in 4 days that Roma were beaten 3-2 and they really are struggling defensively and have now lost as many games as they've won. Parma are enjoying a promising start to the season and they moved up to sixth with that victory. Thursdays only game saw Fiorentina narrowly overcome Genoa 1-0. The Viola are now fifth in the table and look a force to be reckoned with, the problems they had last season now seem a distant memory. Genoa have only won twice this season and remain a side that could easily be dragged into a relegation battle.
This Weekends Fixtures And Predictions:
Saturday, 3 November 2012
AC Milan v Chievo, 17:00 - Draw
Another tricky fixture for Milan who are continuing in disarray. Chievo however have returned to form and they promise to give Milan a real test, though they might not have enough quality to take all 3 points.
Juventus v Inter Milan, 19:45 - Home Win
Despite Inter's impressive start and their resilience Juve remain impossible to oppose, they will be so determined to make to 50 unbeaten that its hard to see anything but a home win.
Sunday, 4 November 2012
Pescara v Parma, 11:30 - Away Win
Pescara have already lost 6 times this season and they face a Parma side buoyant after their victory in Rome, they should take all 3 points again here.
Bologna v Udinese, 14:00 - Draw
Despite being beaten 7 times this season and sitting second bottom Bologna have put in some strong performances in recent weeks, they meet a Udinese side that is slowly finding its feet but may well have to settle for a point away from home.
Catania v Lazio, 14:00 - Away Win
Both teams drew in mid week and will be looking to return to winning ways. Lazio's attacking flair is certain to test a Catania defence that has been leaking goals and that could be the key to this one.
Fiorentina v Cagliari, 14:00 - Home Win
Cagliari have been the surprise team of this season but they will suffer defeat here against a Fiorentina side that are going places. Especially as striker Stevan Jovetic continues in good form.
Napoli v Torino, 14:00 - Home Win
Napoli look set to bounce back from their mid week setback against Torino. Torino have proven themselves hard to break down this season, drawing 5 of their games but Napoli should have enough attacking prowess to overcome them.
Sampdoria v Atalanta, 14:00 - Draw
Both teams lost their last games and will be keen to avoid a repeat. That sets this one up for a trappy affair with few goals, a draw seems most likely.
Siena v Genoa, 14:00 - Draw
Both teams are struggling and both lost their last games. Siena are stronger at home than away but Genoa will prove hard to break down. A frustrating night for both sides sees them share the spoils
Roma v Palermo, 19:45 - Home Win
Roma are the most unpredictable team in Italy, possibly in Europe. Their attacking talents are up their with the top teams in the division but defensively they are poor. They have conceded 6 in their last 2 games and Palermo will fancy their chances against such a leaky outfit. However Palermo have won just one game this season and the attacking prowess of Roma should be too much for them to handle.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Napoli, Fiorentina, Lazio, Parma & Juve - All To Win : 35/1
Fiorentina V Cagliari - Jovetic To Score First : 100/30
Napoli V Torino - Napoli to win 4-0 : 18/1
Enjoy The Games!
Elsewhere AC Milan's disastrous start to the season continued as they had to come from 2 goals down to draw 2-2 with Palermo on Tuesday. Pressure continues to mount on Allegri and he looks certain to lose his job in the near future if results do not change quickly. On Wednesday Lazio could only manage a 1-1 draw with Torino in Rome a result which saw them fall 9 points behind leaders Juve. Second placed inter gained a hard fought 3-2 victory over Sampdoria. Sampdoria are now tumbling down the table after a promising start. Chievo look to be moving in the opposite direction after they recorded their third win of the season beating Pescara 2-0. Cagliari continued to defy the odds as they beat Siena 4-2 to move up to eighth. Siena remain rock bottom with just three points. Atalanta produced the shock of the round as the beat Napoli 1-0. Napoli were without Edison Cavani but credit goes to Atalanta for stifling the best attacking side in the league. That result left Napoli in third, now six points behind Juve. Udinese are another side who are putting their poor early season form behind them after they drew 2-2 with Catania. Udinese are now unbeaten in 3 and sit comfortably in mid table, two places above Catania. Parma provided a surprise by beating Roma 3-2. That was the second time in 4 days that Roma were beaten 3-2 and they really are struggling defensively and have now lost as many games as they've won. Parma are enjoying a promising start to the season and they moved up to sixth with that victory. Thursdays only game saw Fiorentina narrowly overcome Genoa 1-0. The Viola are now fifth in the table and look a force to be reckoned with, the problems they had last season now seem a distant memory. Genoa have only won twice this season and remain a side that could easily be dragged into a relegation battle.
This Weekends Fixtures And Predictions:
Saturday, 3 November 2012
AC Milan v Chievo, 17:00 - Draw
Another tricky fixture for Milan who are continuing in disarray. Chievo however have returned to form and they promise to give Milan a real test, though they might not have enough quality to take all 3 points.
Juventus v Inter Milan, 19:45 - Home Win
Despite Inter's impressive start and their resilience Juve remain impossible to oppose, they will be so determined to make to 50 unbeaten that its hard to see anything but a home win.
Sunday, 4 November 2012
Pescara v Parma, 11:30 - Away Win
Pescara have already lost 6 times this season and they face a Parma side buoyant after their victory in Rome, they should take all 3 points again here.
Bologna v Udinese, 14:00 - Draw
Despite being beaten 7 times this season and sitting second bottom Bologna have put in some strong performances in recent weeks, they meet a Udinese side that is slowly finding its feet but may well have to settle for a point away from home.
Catania v Lazio, 14:00 - Away Win
Both teams drew in mid week and will be looking to return to winning ways. Lazio's attacking flair is certain to test a Catania defence that has been leaking goals and that could be the key to this one.
Fiorentina v Cagliari, 14:00 - Home Win
Cagliari have been the surprise team of this season but they will suffer defeat here against a Fiorentina side that are going places. Especially as striker Stevan Jovetic continues in good form.
Napoli v Torino, 14:00 - Home Win
Napoli look set to bounce back from their mid week setback against Torino. Torino have proven themselves hard to break down this season, drawing 5 of their games but Napoli should have enough attacking prowess to overcome them.
Sampdoria v Atalanta, 14:00 - Draw
Both teams lost their last games and will be keen to avoid a repeat. That sets this one up for a trappy affair with few goals, a draw seems most likely.
Siena v Genoa, 14:00 - Draw
Both teams are struggling and both lost their last games. Siena are stronger at home than away but Genoa will prove hard to break down. A frustrating night for both sides sees them share the spoils
Roma v Palermo, 19:45 - Home Win
Roma are the most unpredictable team in Italy, possibly in Europe. Their attacking talents are up their with the top teams in the division but defensively they are poor. They have conceded 6 in their last 2 games and Palermo will fancy their chances against such a leaky outfit. However Palermo have won just one game this season and the attacking prowess of Roma should be too much for them to handle.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Napoli, Fiorentina, Lazio, Parma & Juve - All To Win : 35/1
Fiorentina V Cagliari - Jovetic To Score First : 100/30
Napoli V Torino - Napoli to win 4-0 : 18/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 26 October 2012
Game Week Nine - Another Managerial Casualty & Juve Remain Unbeaten
The biggest story coming out of Serie A this week is that Genoa have sacked their manager Luigi Di Canio and replaced him with former Juventus and Roma manager Luigi Del Neri. Neri becomes Genoa's sixth manager since November 2010. Di Canio's sacking came as little surprise given Genoa's board has a reputation for being impatient. Genoa currently sit in tenth with 9 points from 8 games which is not a dreadful run but they threw away a 2-0 lead against Roma on Sunday and ended up getting beat 4-2, it is that kind of performance that Genoa's board and the clubs fans simply do not tolerate. The new man, Luigi Del Neri is vastly experienced and at 62 this is his fiftteenth managerial position, including a spell at Genoa's bitter rivals Sampdoria. He has however been welcomed as a positive appointment and he should at least keep Genoa in the division.
On the pitch and the traditional fixture list is apparent this week with 2 games on Saturday and 8 on Sunday. The first of Saturdays games sees Siena host Palermo. Both teams haven't won in their previous two outings now after Siena suffered two defeats in a row after they were beaten 2-1 by Atalanta whereas Palermo have drawn their last two including a 0-0 at home to Torino last weekend. Both teams are in need of points but they likely hood is they will share them here in what is sure to be a trappy affair. Draw - Two struggling teams share the spoils.
The second of Saturday's games sees A.C Milan host Genoa in Luigi Del Neri's first game in charge of Genoa. Milan are in turmoil with just two wins from their opening eight games. They suffered their fifth defeat of the season last weekend as they were beaten 3-2 by Lazio. Genoa are in a slightly better position having won 2 of their opening fixtures and only losing 3 including a 4-2 defeat away to Roma last Sunday evening. Both of these two will be desperate for a victory but it is Allegri's side who might just edge it. They were slightly unfortunate to lose against a very good Lazio side and could bounce back at home against a Genoa side who's defensive frailties were all to evident last Sunday. Home Win - Much needed win for Milan.
Sunday's first game sees champions Juventus travel to Catania. Juve showed again that they are the best team in the league by brushing aside second placed Napoli 2-0 last weekend. They have now not been beaten in 48 league games, an astonishing record. Catania are an unpredictable side, they have won 3 and lost 3 of their opening 8 including a 2-0 defeat in the San Siro last weekend. Catania will look to contain Juventus but it is unlikely they are up to the task given they shipped 4 against Bologna 3 weeks ago. Their defence is not the strongest and expect Juve to take full advantage of that. Away Win - Juve make it 8 wins out of nine.
Bologna will be looking to bounce back from a poor display against Cagliari last weekend when they host Inter. Bologna are looking surprisingly poor this season, having lost 5 of their opening fixtures including a 1-0 loss to lowly Cagliari last weekend. Bologna should survive this season but they will have to wait another week to up their points total as they face a very promising Inter side who have won 6 of their 8 games. A comftable 2-0 win over Catania made it four wins in a row and they should make it 5 here against a Bologna side that are struggling. Away Win - Inter continue in good form, Bologna continue in poor.
Fiorentina will look to make it 3 games without a defeat when they host Lazio. Fiorentina have made a decent start with 3 wins, 3 draws and just the two losses. They drew 1-1 away to Chievo last weekend in what they would have seen as a disappointing result given their positive start. They do however face a stiff task here against a Lazio side that have won 6 of their opening 8 and are full of confidence after beating AC Milan 3-2 last Saturday. Two in form strikers meet in the form of Fiorentina's Stefan Jovetic and Lazio's Miroslav Klose. Klose leads the goal scoring chart with 6 but Jovetic is just behind him on five. With both sides playing good attacking football this will be a question of who defends the best.during the 90 minutes. It is Lazio who get the tentative vote given their supurior defence but this will be close. Away Win - Lazio just overcome Fiorentina.
Pescara host Atalanta as they look to move out of the bottom three. The newly promoted side have shown glimpses of quality but their record of 5 defeats from 8 says alot about their chances of staying in the division this season. They suffered their fifth defeat at the hands of Udinese in a 1-0 loss last time out but that was a tough task and they may fair better against an inconsistent Atalanta side. Atalanta won their last game, a 2-1 win over Siena that came on the back of two hammerings at the hands of Torino and then Roma. Atalanta have now won 3 and lost four of their eight games. The main concern for both these sides is that they simply don't score enough goals and that trend might well continue here resulting in a dull draw. Draw - Two teams in indifferent form share the spoils.
This seasons surprise package Sampdoria host Cagliari as they look to return to winning ways. Sampdoria's bubble hasn't burst but has certainly deflated in recent weeks, after such a promising start they have lost all three of their last games including a 2-1 defeat away to Parma last Sunday. Sampdoria have now won 3, drawn 2 and lost 3. They will be keen to halt the slide against a Cagliari side who managed just their second win of the season last weekend as they beat Bologna 1-0. Despite that victory it is Sampdoria who get the vote, Cagliari don't travel well and Sampdoria will be desperate to recapture their good early form. Home Win - Sampdoria return to form as they beat a poor Cagliari side.
Torino host Parma in a mid table clash. Torino have shown themselves to be a solid unit in this campaign, having drawn the most games of any team in the division with 4, they have proven themselves hard to beat. They drew 0-0 with Palermo last time out to move to ninth in the table, a great achievement for a relatively small club. Parma lie eleventh after beating Sampdoria 2-1 last weekend. They too have gotten the knack of drawing games with 3 to their name. It is more than likely then that the result here will be a draw. Both sides are in decent heart and either could snatch it but both are strong defensively which points to a stalemate. Draw - Both teams leave satisfied with a point each.
Napoli will look to bounce back from their defeat at the hands of Juventus last weekend when they host Chievo. Before last Saturday Napoli looked like the only team in the division capable of overthrowing Juventus. Their record matched the champions of 7 wins out of 8. They were however beaten convincingly by Juventus 2-0 to end their unbeaten run. They face a Chievo side that has finally found a run of form after a dismal start to the season. They drew 1-1 with Fiorentina last weekend to gain their first draw of the campaign. Despite Chievo performing better of late its hard to look past Napoli bouncing back to form here. At home, against a side that ships goals and with a point to prove Walter Mazzarri's men will take all the beating. Home Win - Napoli return to winning ways at the expense of Chievo.
The last game of this weekend sees Udinese travel to the capital to face Roma. Roma are without doubt the most unpredictable side in the division with some truly bizarre results, including last weekends 4-2 victory over Genoa when Totti & Co. were 2-0 down after 20 minutes. Zdenek Zeman has installed a sense of belief in his side and despite the fact they continue to let in plenty of goals they score plenty too. They have now just lost twice this season, recording 4 wins. The return to form of Osvaldo has certainly aided them in reaching this position and expect him to get on the score sheet again in this one. Udinese have had a troubled start, winning just twice. They did manage to beat Pescara 1-0 last Sunday but that was just their second win of the season and the solid look they have been known for in recent seasons appears to be diminishing. The attacking flair Roma possess is sure to cause Udinese plenty of problems and they are taken to win this one by a comfortable margin. Home Win - Roma continue their promising if not strange start to the campaign.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Napoli, Sampdoria, Lazio, Inter, Juve & Milan - All To Win: 67/1
Fiorentina V Lazio - Correct Score- Fiorentina 2-3 Lazio: 33/1
Roma V Udinese - Osvaldo To Score First: 4/1
Enjoy The Games!
On the pitch and the traditional fixture list is apparent this week with 2 games on Saturday and 8 on Sunday. The first of Saturdays games sees Siena host Palermo. Both teams haven't won in their previous two outings now after Siena suffered two defeats in a row after they were beaten 2-1 by Atalanta whereas Palermo have drawn their last two including a 0-0 at home to Torino last weekend. Both teams are in need of points but they likely hood is they will share them here in what is sure to be a trappy affair. Draw - Two struggling teams share the spoils.
The second of Saturday's games sees A.C Milan host Genoa in Luigi Del Neri's first game in charge of Genoa. Milan are in turmoil with just two wins from their opening eight games. They suffered their fifth defeat of the season last weekend as they were beaten 3-2 by Lazio. Genoa are in a slightly better position having won 2 of their opening fixtures and only losing 3 including a 4-2 defeat away to Roma last Sunday evening. Both of these two will be desperate for a victory but it is Allegri's side who might just edge it. They were slightly unfortunate to lose against a very good Lazio side and could bounce back at home against a Genoa side who's defensive frailties were all to evident last Sunday. Home Win - Much needed win for Milan.
Sunday's first game sees champions Juventus travel to Catania. Juve showed again that they are the best team in the league by brushing aside second placed Napoli 2-0 last weekend. They have now not been beaten in 48 league games, an astonishing record. Catania are an unpredictable side, they have won 3 and lost 3 of their opening 8 including a 2-0 defeat in the San Siro last weekend. Catania will look to contain Juventus but it is unlikely they are up to the task given they shipped 4 against Bologna 3 weeks ago. Their defence is not the strongest and expect Juve to take full advantage of that. Away Win - Juve make it 8 wins out of nine.
Bologna will be looking to bounce back from a poor display against Cagliari last weekend when they host Inter. Bologna are looking surprisingly poor this season, having lost 5 of their opening fixtures including a 1-0 loss to lowly Cagliari last weekend. Bologna should survive this season but they will have to wait another week to up their points total as they face a very promising Inter side who have won 6 of their 8 games. A comftable 2-0 win over Catania made it four wins in a row and they should make it 5 here against a Bologna side that are struggling. Away Win - Inter continue in good form, Bologna continue in poor.
Fiorentina will look to make it 3 games without a defeat when they host Lazio. Fiorentina have made a decent start with 3 wins, 3 draws and just the two losses. They drew 1-1 away to Chievo last weekend in what they would have seen as a disappointing result given their positive start. They do however face a stiff task here against a Lazio side that have won 6 of their opening 8 and are full of confidence after beating AC Milan 3-2 last Saturday. Two in form strikers meet in the form of Fiorentina's Stefan Jovetic and Lazio's Miroslav Klose. Klose leads the goal scoring chart with 6 but Jovetic is just behind him on five. With both sides playing good attacking football this will be a question of who defends the best.during the 90 minutes. It is Lazio who get the tentative vote given their supurior defence but this will be close. Away Win - Lazio just overcome Fiorentina.
Pescara host Atalanta as they look to move out of the bottom three. The newly promoted side have shown glimpses of quality but their record of 5 defeats from 8 says alot about their chances of staying in the division this season. They suffered their fifth defeat at the hands of Udinese in a 1-0 loss last time out but that was a tough task and they may fair better against an inconsistent Atalanta side. Atalanta won their last game, a 2-1 win over Siena that came on the back of two hammerings at the hands of Torino and then Roma. Atalanta have now won 3 and lost four of their eight games. The main concern for both these sides is that they simply don't score enough goals and that trend might well continue here resulting in a dull draw. Draw - Two teams in indifferent form share the spoils.
This seasons surprise package Sampdoria host Cagliari as they look to return to winning ways. Sampdoria's bubble hasn't burst but has certainly deflated in recent weeks, after such a promising start they have lost all three of their last games including a 2-1 defeat away to Parma last Sunday. Sampdoria have now won 3, drawn 2 and lost 3. They will be keen to halt the slide against a Cagliari side who managed just their second win of the season last weekend as they beat Bologna 1-0. Despite that victory it is Sampdoria who get the vote, Cagliari don't travel well and Sampdoria will be desperate to recapture their good early form. Home Win - Sampdoria return to form as they beat a poor Cagliari side.
Torino host Parma in a mid table clash. Torino have shown themselves to be a solid unit in this campaign, having drawn the most games of any team in the division with 4, they have proven themselves hard to beat. They drew 0-0 with Palermo last time out to move to ninth in the table, a great achievement for a relatively small club. Parma lie eleventh after beating Sampdoria 2-1 last weekend. They too have gotten the knack of drawing games with 3 to their name. It is more than likely then that the result here will be a draw. Both sides are in decent heart and either could snatch it but both are strong defensively which points to a stalemate. Draw - Both teams leave satisfied with a point each.
Napoli will look to bounce back from their defeat at the hands of Juventus last weekend when they host Chievo. Before last Saturday Napoli looked like the only team in the division capable of overthrowing Juventus. Their record matched the champions of 7 wins out of 8. They were however beaten convincingly by Juventus 2-0 to end their unbeaten run. They face a Chievo side that has finally found a run of form after a dismal start to the season. They drew 1-1 with Fiorentina last weekend to gain their first draw of the campaign. Despite Chievo performing better of late its hard to look past Napoli bouncing back to form here. At home, against a side that ships goals and with a point to prove Walter Mazzarri's men will take all the beating. Home Win - Napoli return to winning ways at the expense of Chievo.
The last game of this weekend sees Udinese travel to the capital to face Roma. Roma are without doubt the most unpredictable side in the division with some truly bizarre results, including last weekends 4-2 victory over Genoa when Totti & Co. were 2-0 down after 20 minutes. Zdenek Zeman has installed a sense of belief in his side and despite the fact they continue to let in plenty of goals they score plenty too. They have now just lost twice this season, recording 4 wins. The return to form of Osvaldo has certainly aided them in reaching this position and expect him to get on the score sheet again in this one. Udinese have had a troubled start, winning just twice. They did manage to beat Pescara 1-0 last Sunday but that was just their second win of the season and the solid look they have been known for in recent seasons appears to be diminishing. The attacking flair Roma possess is sure to cause Udinese plenty of problems and they are taken to win this one by a comfortable margin. Home Win - Roma continue their promising if not strange start to the campaign.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Napoli, Sampdoria, Lazio, Inter, Juve & Milan - All To Win: 67/1
Fiorentina V Lazio - Correct Score- Fiorentina 2-3 Lazio: 33/1
Roma V Udinese - Osvaldo To Score First: 4/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 19 October 2012
Game Week 8 - The Top Two Go Head To Head
The Serie A returns this weekend after the International break with all 20 teams in action over Saturday and Sunday. The International break seemed to have come at a good time for Italian football, with transfer talk dying down, Cagliari's farcical stadium saga finished and no new match fixing allegations the season appears to be settling down with action on the pitch being the main talking point for Italian football fans.
We are treated to two fantastic matches on Saturday with the top two meeting as Juventus host Napoli. Both teams come into the clash with 19 points a piece. Both undefeated and have won 6 of their 7 games. Juve beat Siena 2-1 last time out while Napoli beat Udinese 2-1. Close, would be the best prediction for this one but it is Juve who still have the edge. They remain very solid defensively and will be able to stifle Napoli's attacks better than most sides. Upfront their strikers continue in good form and against a Napoli defence that although improved does not look world class they could grab the decisive goal. Expect an entertaining, lively game but Juve will do what Champions do and win 1-0. Home Win - Juve remain top and inflict first defeat of the season on Napoli.
Saturday's second game sees AC Milan travel to capital to face Lazio. Lazio beat Pescara 3-0 a fortnight ago and have now won 5 of their 7 games and sit in third place. Milan's return to form was short lived as they lost the Milan derby 1-0. They have won just two of their opening seven and have lost four of them. The pressure on manager Allegri continues and reports in Italy suggest that he only remains in the job as a suitable replacement is not available. Like the previous game this one will be close but the disarray that Milan are in at the moment makes them hard to be confident about, Lazio meanwhile seem to go from strength to strength and they look set for an important victory. Home Win - Lazio heap more misery on Milan.
The first of eight games on Sunday see's Cagliari host Bologna. Despite their stadium dispute being resolved Cagliari remain in deep trouble just one place off the bottom of the table and just one win all season.That win was gained in their last game, a 1-0 win over Torino. Bologna have had a disappointing start to the season and were beaten 1-0 by Fiorentina last time out. They could well bounce back here though against a poor looking Cagliari side. Away Win - Bologna make it two out of two at the expense of Cagliari.
Chievo host Fiorentina as they look to overcome a difficult start to the season. Eugino Corini's men were tipped for a Europa league place this season but with just 2 wins and 5 loses this campaign they don't look the force they were last season. They did however manage to gain their second win of the season in their last game, a 2-1 victory over Sampdoria. Fiorentina also won last time out beating Bologna 1-0 to gain their third win of the season. Chievo have not had an easy start to the season given their fixture list and they face another difficult task against a Fiorentina side who will be challenging for a European place come May. Away Win - Fiorentina beat a stumbling Chievo.
Inter buoyant after their win in The Milan Derby now host Catania who themselves earned a good win a fortnight ago. Inter's 1-0 derby win saw them stay in fourth with five wins from their seven fixtures. They look to have completely shaken off the nightmare of last season and although they may not have the depth to make a title challenge they will certainly be in the running for a Champions League place. Catania have had an inconsistent start, winning three, drawing two and losing two. They did put on a good performance by beating Parma 2-0 last time out but this represents a different challenge against an Inter side full of confidence. Home Win - Inter continue their great form at the expense of Catania who are struggling to put a run of good results together.
Torino travel to Palermo looking to continue their surprisingly good start to the season. Despite losing 1-0 to Cagliari last time the newly promoted side have won two and drawn three of their opening 7 and sit in mid table. Palermo have had a poor start to the season and despite changing manager continue in indifferent form, a 1-1 draw with Genoa last time say them gain just their fifth point of the season after losing four of their opening games. Torino's bubble may have burst with that Cagliari defeat but Palermo are not on top form at the moment this looks set to be a cagey affair that will most likely end in a draw. Draw - Two wounded sides share the spoils.
Two teams will both look to avoid back to back defeats when Sampdoria travel to Parma. Sampdoria have fared the best of the newly promoted teams with 3 wins, 2 draws and 2 loses. Their one nil defeat at the hands of Chievo last team out may show that they will not be competing for a European place this season but they look a good solid outfit and expect them to be in the division next season. Parma too should stay in the division but are on a dreadful run with just the one win from their opening 7 games. They were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Catania a fortnight ago. That was an away game however and Parma are traditionally strong at home, that maybe enough for them to gain a point against a wobbling Sampdoria. Draw - A game neither team wants to lose ends in a stalemate.
Udinese are another team struggling for form. They have won just once this season and suffered another defeat last time out as they were beaten 2-1 by Napoli. The heights that the team from Udine reached last season look to becoming further away with each passing game. Their lack of goals seems to be becoming an increasing issue with Di Natale not firing on all cylinders Udinese do look a much weaker side. Defensively though they are solid and are certainly going to survive this season. The kick start they need may come this weekend as they host Pescara. Pescara have looked promising in spells during their short time in the Serie A but they were brought down to earth by Lazio two weeks ago as they were beaten 3-0. That was their fourth defeat of the season and they like the other promoted clubs look to have hit a blip. Udinese should win this one although it maybe by a much smaller margin than people may predict. Home Win - Udinese scrape a win with a good defensive performance.
Atalanta host Siena with both teams having been beaten last time out. Atalanta were beaten 2-0 by Roma, their second defeat in a row. They have now won just two games this season and look to be really struggling. Siena meanwhile were beaten 2-1 by Juventus in a tight affair and they will have taken confidence from that performance. They remain bottom of the table however, though the main reason for that is the points deduction they suffered at the start of the season. They like Atalanta have won just twice this season. With the form of both teams poor its a very tricky game to call, the safest stance is a draw. Draw - Two struggling sides share the spoils.
The final game of the weekend sees Genoa host Roma. Genoa's 1-1 draw with Palermo two weeks ago gained them their 10th point of the season and they now sit in eighth after losing just 2 of their opening seven fixtures. They have begun the season well after a disastrous end to the last campaign which nearly saw them relegated, they look sure to avoid that this time round. The enigma that is Roma managed to bounce back from their thrashing at the hands of Juventus to beat Atalanta 2-0 last time out. Zeman's men have won 3, drawn 2 and lost 2 of their 7 games. They remain a side full of talent and promise but at the same time remain a side that is always likely to concede. Genoa's lack of goals and lack of a goal threat this season may mean that Roma's defence is given an easy time on Sunday evening and with an attacking line up that is almost certain to score Roma could nick this one. Away Win - Roma just get past Genoa who don't challenge Roma's defence enough.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Udinese, Inter, Fiorentina, Bologna, Lazio & Juventus - All To Win : 152/1
Genoa V Roma - Correct Score : Roma 2-1 Genoa: 7/1
Lazio V Milan - Klose To Score 1st: 9/2
Enjoy The Games!
We are treated to two fantastic matches on Saturday with the top two meeting as Juventus host Napoli. Both teams come into the clash with 19 points a piece. Both undefeated and have won 6 of their 7 games. Juve beat Siena 2-1 last time out while Napoli beat Udinese 2-1. Close, would be the best prediction for this one but it is Juve who still have the edge. They remain very solid defensively and will be able to stifle Napoli's attacks better than most sides. Upfront their strikers continue in good form and against a Napoli defence that although improved does not look world class they could grab the decisive goal. Expect an entertaining, lively game but Juve will do what Champions do and win 1-0. Home Win - Juve remain top and inflict first defeat of the season on Napoli.
Saturday's second game sees AC Milan travel to capital to face Lazio. Lazio beat Pescara 3-0 a fortnight ago and have now won 5 of their 7 games and sit in third place. Milan's return to form was short lived as they lost the Milan derby 1-0. They have won just two of their opening seven and have lost four of them. The pressure on manager Allegri continues and reports in Italy suggest that he only remains in the job as a suitable replacement is not available. Like the previous game this one will be close but the disarray that Milan are in at the moment makes them hard to be confident about, Lazio meanwhile seem to go from strength to strength and they look set for an important victory. Home Win - Lazio heap more misery on Milan.
The first of eight games on Sunday see's Cagliari host Bologna. Despite their stadium dispute being resolved Cagliari remain in deep trouble just one place off the bottom of the table and just one win all season.That win was gained in their last game, a 1-0 win over Torino. Bologna have had a disappointing start to the season and were beaten 1-0 by Fiorentina last time out. They could well bounce back here though against a poor looking Cagliari side. Away Win - Bologna make it two out of two at the expense of Cagliari.
Chievo host Fiorentina as they look to overcome a difficult start to the season. Eugino Corini's men were tipped for a Europa league place this season but with just 2 wins and 5 loses this campaign they don't look the force they were last season. They did however manage to gain their second win of the season in their last game, a 2-1 victory over Sampdoria. Fiorentina also won last time out beating Bologna 1-0 to gain their third win of the season. Chievo have not had an easy start to the season given their fixture list and they face another difficult task against a Fiorentina side who will be challenging for a European place come May. Away Win - Fiorentina beat a stumbling Chievo.
Inter buoyant after their win in The Milan Derby now host Catania who themselves earned a good win a fortnight ago. Inter's 1-0 derby win saw them stay in fourth with five wins from their seven fixtures. They look to have completely shaken off the nightmare of last season and although they may not have the depth to make a title challenge they will certainly be in the running for a Champions League place. Catania have had an inconsistent start, winning three, drawing two and losing two. They did put on a good performance by beating Parma 2-0 last time out but this represents a different challenge against an Inter side full of confidence. Home Win - Inter continue their great form at the expense of Catania who are struggling to put a run of good results together.
Torino travel to Palermo looking to continue their surprisingly good start to the season. Despite losing 1-0 to Cagliari last time the newly promoted side have won two and drawn three of their opening 7 and sit in mid table. Palermo have had a poor start to the season and despite changing manager continue in indifferent form, a 1-1 draw with Genoa last time say them gain just their fifth point of the season after losing four of their opening games. Torino's bubble may have burst with that Cagliari defeat but Palermo are not on top form at the moment this looks set to be a cagey affair that will most likely end in a draw. Draw - Two wounded sides share the spoils.
Two teams will both look to avoid back to back defeats when Sampdoria travel to Parma. Sampdoria have fared the best of the newly promoted teams with 3 wins, 2 draws and 2 loses. Their one nil defeat at the hands of Chievo last team out may show that they will not be competing for a European place this season but they look a good solid outfit and expect them to be in the division next season. Parma too should stay in the division but are on a dreadful run with just the one win from their opening 7 games. They were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Catania a fortnight ago. That was an away game however and Parma are traditionally strong at home, that maybe enough for them to gain a point against a wobbling Sampdoria. Draw - A game neither team wants to lose ends in a stalemate.
Udinese are another team struggling for form. They have won just once this season and suffered another defeat last time out as they were beaten 2-1 by Napoli. The heights that the team from Udine reached last season look to becoming further away with each passing game. Their lack of goals seems to be becoming an increasing issue with Di Natale not firing on all cylinders Udinese do look a much weaker side. Defensively though they are solid and are certainly going to survive this season. The kick start they need may come this weekend as they host Pescara. Pescara have looked promising in spells during their short time in the Serie A but they were brought down to earth by Lazio two weeks ago as they were beaten 3-0. That was their fourth defeat of the season and they like the other promoted clubs look to have hit a blip. Udinese should win this one although it maybe by a much smaller margin than people may predict. Home Win - Udinese scrape a win with a good defensive performance.
Atalanta host Siena with both teams having been beaten last time out. Atalanta were beaten 2-0 by Roma, their second defeat in a row. They have now won just two games this season and look to be really struggling. Siena meanwhile were beaten 2-1 by Juventus in a tight affair and they will have taken confidence from that performance. They remain bottom of the table however, though the main reason for that is the points deduction they suffered at the start of the season. They like Atalanta have won just twice this season. With the form of both teams poor its a very tricky game to call, the safest stance is a draw. Draw - Two struggling sides share the spoils.
The final game of the weekend sees Genoa host Roma. Genoa's 1-1 draw with Palermo two weeks ago gained them their 10th point of the season and they now sit in eighth after losing just 2 of their opening seven fixtures. They have begun the season well after a disastrous end to the last campaign which nearly saw them relegated, they look sure to avoid that this time round. The enigma that is Roma managed to bounce back from their thrashing at the hands of Juventus to beat Atalanta 2-0 last time out. Zeman's men have won 3, drawn 2 and lost 2 of their 7 games. They remain a side full of talent and promise but at the same time remain a side that is always likely to concede. Genoa's lack of goals and lack of a goal threat this season may mean that Roma's defence is given an easy time on Sunday evening and with an attacking line up that is almost certain to score Roma could nick this one. Away Win - Roma just get past Genoa who don't challenge Roma's defence enough.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Udinese, Inter, Fiorentina, Bologna, Lazio & Juventus - All To Win : 152/1
Genoa V Roma - Correct Score : Roma 2-1 Genoa: 7/1
Lazio V Milan - Klose To Score 1st: 9/2
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 5 October 2012
Game Week 6 - The Milan Derby & Another Managerial Casualty
After mid week European football for several Italian clubs its back to the domestic programme this weekend with all 20 teams in action over two days, 2 games on Saturday two on Sunday.
The first game of the weekend sees Chievo host Sampdoria. Chievo remain win less since the opening day of the season and were hammered 4-1 by Palermo last weekend. They face a Sampdoria side who suffered their first defeat of the season losing 1-0 at Napoli. Sampdoria have proven themselves the surprise package of this season whilst Chievo have been disappointing. In Verona though Chievo are usually strong and will give a wounded Sampdoria a test, its likely this one will end in a stalemate. Draw - Chievo improve but only enough to get a draw against Sampdoria.
Genoa host Palermo in Saturday's later game. Genoa have won 2, drawn 2 and lost 2 of their six games and but remain a side on the up after a solid 0-0 draw with Udinese last weekend. They will look to continue their good performances in recent weeks with victory over a Palermo side who gained their first victory of the season last weekend, beating Chievo 4-1. Palermo had just one point to their name before that victory but will be buoyed by their great victory last time out. Another very tricky puzzle to call with both teams form confusing, a draw seems likely. Draw - Genoa and Palermo battle out a share of the spoils.
Sunday's first game sees Roma host Atalanta at The Stadio Olimpico. Both teams were thumped last time out, Roma beaten 4-1 by Juventus as Zeman's attacking tactics failed completely and Atalanta were on the end of a 5-1 loss to newly promoted Torino. Before those two dreadful results both teams had started the season ok. Roma being their usual inconsistent selves winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 2. While Atalanta have won 2, drawn one and lost 3 of their opening games. Juve's dismantinling of Roma was perhaps predictable, Torino thumping Atalanta was not. Both teams will want to bounce back but it is Roma who look the stronger of the two sides and they get the vote. Home Win - Roma add to Atalanta's woes.
Catania were another side on the end of a hiding last weekend when they were beaten 4-0 by Bologna. They host a Parma side buoyed by a great 1-1 draw with AC Milan. Catania have only won two games so far this campaign and will be low on confidence after being so comfortably beaten. Parma have drawn their last 3 games 1-1 and remain a stubborn outfit set for a mid table position this time round. The indifferent form of both sides points to another draw for Parma and another poor result for Catania. Draw - Two normally solid sides fight out a low scoring draw.
After their great win against Catania, Bologna now travel to Florence to play Fiorentina. Bologna's 4-0 win over Catania was just their second win of the campaign having lost 3 and drawn 1. They face a tough task here against despite Fiorentina being beaten 2-1 by Inter last weekend. The Viola have made an ok start winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 2 but at home they are unbeaten in a run that has seen them take points of Juventus. Fiorentina should record their third win of the season here. Home Win - A return to familiar surroundings sees Fiorentina bounce back to form.
Promoted Pescara host Lazio as the hosts look to make it three wins in a row. Despite their poor start to the season Pescara have looked promising in performances and they are not turning that into results with victories over Palermo and then Cagliari last weekend. They look like they could avoid the drop this season if continuing in the same form. They look set to suffer a set back here though against a strong looking Lazio side. Lazio bounced back from their defeat at the hands of Napoli by beating Siena 2-1 last weekend. They have now won 4 of their opening 6 and are sure to be fighting for a Champions League place come the end of the season given the players they have at their disposal. This will be a test for Lazio but they should overcome it. Away Win - Lazio just edge victory over Pescara.
Torino host Cagliari who have a new man at the helm following the sacking of Massimo Ficadenti this week. Ivo Pulga, a former Cagliari player now takes charge of the sardinians in his first managerial post. He certainly has a job on his hands with Cagliari win less this season and with just two points to their name. They face a Torino side who provided the shock of last weekend by thrashing Atalanta 5-1 to gain their second win of the campaign. Like Pescara and Sampdoria, Pescara have settled well into the Serie A despite a difficult start they look set to rack up another win here with Cagliari in disaray. Home Win - Torino make it win number 3 with victory of Pulga's Cagliari who look in real trouble.
It is Siena's turn this weekend to do what is looking increasingly impossible, beating Juventus. Siena have won just two games this season and were beaten 2-1 by Lazio last time out. In comparison the Juventus juggernaut just keeps rolling, they smashed Roma 4-1 last weekend and look sure to make it 6 wins out of 7 here. Siena do perform well against the big boys but this will be a step to far against a Juventus side who remain head and shoulders above anyone in the league at the moment. Away Win - Another comfortable win for Juventus.
The only team at the moment that look like they could challenge for Juventus' crown is Napoli who host Udinese. Napoli host the same record as Juventus with 5 wins and a draw including a hard fought 1-0 win over Sampdoria last weekend. Udinese continue to underwhelm this season after picking up just one win from 6. They have drawn their last two after a 0-0 with Genoa. Udinese's Achille's heal this season is that they have not scored enough goals, with Di Natale netting just twice this campaign. That is a great concern for any team that faces Napoli as they will probably concede goals given Napoli's attacking flair lead by the leagues top scorer Edison Cavani. That may well prove to be the difference between the two sides here and as such Napoli get the vote. Home Win - Udinese can't contain Napoli's attack as they slump to another defeat.
The final match of the weekend is one of the biggest of the season - The Milan Derby. The derby this season is made even more interesting given the state of the respective Milan sides. Inter have begun well, with 4 wins and 2 defeats. Their new recruit from Milan, Antonio Cassano has settled well and looks sure to cause problems for the Milan defence. Milan are in crisis with just 2 wins this season and 3 defeats. They have sold a very low number of tickets for this huge game as fans have become increasingly dissolusioned with how the club is being run. Manager Massimilano Allegri has come under increasing pressure in recent weeks and their is a strong rumour in Italy that Pep Guardiola is being offered the largest pay packet in Italian football history to take over at Milan. On the pitch Milan won their last game, a 2-0 win over Cagliari. Inter too won beating Fiorentina 2-1. This will be a fascinating game and it is is Inter who look to have the edge over their rivals for the first time in a few seasons, they might just edge it. Inter Win - Derby joy for Inter as Milan plunge further into crisis.
Selected Match Betting:
Inter, Napoli, Juve, Torino, Lazio, Fiorentina & Roma - All To Win : 47/1
Inter V Milan - Cassano to score last : 7/1
Roma V Atalanta - Correct Score - Roma 3-1 Atalanta: 9/1
Enjoy The Games
The first game of the weekend sees Chievo host Sampdoria. Chievo remain win less since the opening day of the season and were hammered 4-1 by Palermo last weekend. They face a Sampdoria side who suffered their first defeat of the season losing 1-0 at Napoli. Sampdoria have proven themselves the surprise package of this season whilst Chievo have been disappointing. In Verona though Chievo are usually strong and will give a wounded Sampdoria a test, its likely this one will end in a stalemate. Draw - Chievo improve but only enough to get a draw against Sampdoria.
Genoa host Palermo in Saturday's later game. Genoa have won 2, drawn 2 and lost 2 of their six games and but remain a side on the up after a solid 0-0 draw with Udinese last weekend. They will look to continue their good performances in recent weeks with victory over a Palermo side who gained their first victory of the season last weekend, beating Chievo 4-1. Palermo had just one point to their name before that victory but will be buoyed by their great victory last time out. Another very tricky puzzle to call with both teams form confusing, a draw seems likely. Draw - Genoa and Palermo battle out a share of the spoils.
Sunday's first game sees Roma host Atalanta at The Stadio Olimpico. Both teams were thumped last time out, Roma beaten 4-1 by Juventus as Zeman's attacking tactics failed completely and Atalanta were on the end of a 5-1 loss to newly promoted Torino. Before those two dreadful results both teams had started the season ok. Roma being their usual inconsistent selves winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 2. While Atalanta have won 2, drawn one and lost 3 of their opening games. Juve's dismantinling of Roma was perhaps predictable, Torino thumping Atalanta was not. Both teams will want to bounce back but it is Roma who look the stronger of the two sides and they get the vote. Home Win - Roma add to Atalanta's woes.
Catania were another side on the end of a hiding last weekend when they were beaten 4-0 by Bologna. They host a Parma side buoyed by a great 1-1 draw with AC Milan. Catania have only won two games so far this campaign and will be low on confidence after being so comfortably beaten. Parma have drawn their last 3 games 1-1 and remain a stubborn outfit set for a mid table position this time round. The indifferent form of both sides points to another draw for Parma and another poor result for Catania. Draw - Two normally solid sides fight out a low scoring draw.
After their great win against Catania, Bologna now travel to Florence to play Fiorentina. Bologna's 4-0 win over Catania was just their second win of the campaign having lost 3 and drawn 1. They face a tough task here against despite Fiorentina being beaten 2-1 by Inter last weekend. The Viola have made an ok start winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 2 but at home they are unbeaten in a run that has seen them take points of Juventus. Fiorentina should record their third win of the season here. Home Win - A return to familiar surroundings sees Fiorentina bounce back to form.
Promoted Pescara host Lazio as the hosts look to make it three wins in a row. Despite their poor start to the season Pescara have looked promising in performances and they are not turning that into results with victories over Palermo and then Cagliari last weekend. They look like they could avoid the drop this season if continuing in the same form. They look set to suffer a set back here though against a strong looking Lazio side. Lazio bounced back from their defeat at the hands of Napoli by beating Siena 2-1 last weekend. They have now won 4 of their opening 6 and are sure to be fighting for a Champions League place come the end of the season given the players they have at their disposal. This will be a test for Lazio but they should overcome it. Away Win - Lazio just edge victory over Pescara.
Torino host Cagliari who have a new man at the helm following the sacking of Massimo Ficadenti this week. Ivo Pulga, a former Cagliari player now takes charge of the sardinians in his first managerial post. He certainly has a job on his hands with Cagliari win less this season and with just two points to their name. They face a Torino side who provided the shock of last weekend by thrashing Atalanta 5-1 to gain their second win of the campaign. Like Pescara and Sampdoria, Pescara have settled well into the Serie A despite a difficult start they look set to rack up another win here with Cagliari in disaray. Home Win - Torino make it win number 3 with victory of Pulga's Cagliari who look in real trouble.
It is Siena's turn this weekend to do what is looking increasingly impossible, beating Juventus. Siena have won just two games this season and were beaten 2-1 by Lazio last time out. In comparison the Juventus juggernaut just keeps rolling, they smashed Roma 4-1 last weekend and look sure to make it 6 wins out of 7 here. Siena do perform well against the big boys but this will be a step to far against a Juventus side who remain head and shoulders above anyone in the league at the moment. Away Win - Another comfortable win for Juventus.
The only team at the moment that look like they could challenge for Juventus' crown is Napoli who host Udinese. Napoli host the same record as Juventus with 5 wins and a draw including a hard fought 1-0 win over Sampdoria last weekend. Udinese continue to underwhelm this season after picking up just one win from 6. They have drawn their last two after a 0-0 with Genoa. Udinese's Achille's heal this season is that they have not scored enough goals, with Di Natale netting just twice this campaign. That is a great concern for any team that faces Napoli as they will probably concede goals given Napoli's attacking flair lead by the leagues top scorer Edison Cavani. That may well prove to be the difference between the two sides here and as such Napoli get the vote. Home Win - Udinese can't contain Napoli's attack as they slump to another defeat.
The final match of the weekend is one of the biggest of the season - The Milan Derby. The derby this season is made even more interesting given the state of the respective Milan sides. Inter have begun well, with 4 wins and 2 defeats. Their new recruit from Milan, Antonio Cassano has settled well and looks sure to cause problems for the Milan defence. Milan are in crisis with just 2 wins this season and 3 defeats. They have sold a very low number of tickets for this huge game as fans have become increasingly dissolusioned with how the club is being run. Manager Massimilano Allegri has come under increasing pressure in recent weeks and their is a strong rumour in Italy that Pep Guardiola is being offered the largest pay packet in Italian football history to take over at Milan. On the pitch Milan won their last game, a 2-0 win over Cagliari. Inter too won beating Fiorentina 2-1. This will be a fascinating game and it is is Inter who look to have the edge over their rivals for the first time in a few seasons, they might just edge it. Inter Win - Derby joy for Inter as Milan plunge further into crisis.
Selected Match Betting:
Inter, Napoli, Juve, Torino, Lazio, Fiorentina & Roma - All To Win : 47/1
Inter V Milan - Cassano to score last : 7/1
Roma V Atalanta - Correct Score - Roma 3-1 Atalanta: 9/1
Enjoy The Games
Saturday, 29 September 2012
Matchweek 6 Preview - Milan ease pressure as Juve stutter
After a full mid week fixture list the next round of Serie A games begins with the traditional two games on Saturday and eight on Sunday.
The first of Saturday's games sees Parma host AC Milan. Parma gained their second draw in a row as they drew with Genoa, 1-1 on Wednesday. They have 5 points from their opening 5 games and have won just one game. Milan bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over Cagliari easing pressure on manager Allegri. That win was just Milan's second of the season and they will have to put a run of good results together if Allegri is too keep his job. They are taken to start that run here given Parma regularly struggle against the big clubs and Milan's need to win. Away Win - Milan make it back to back wins.
The second of Saturday's games is a fascinating encounter as champions Juventus host Roma. Juve showed you can't win them all as they were held to a 0-0 draw with Fiorentina on Tuesday. They remain unbeaten however and remain top of the league with 4 wins and a draw. Roma threw away another lead as they drew 1-1 with Sampdoria on Wednesday. It is the same old story for Totti & Co. with great attacking play but weak at the back. Roma have a poor record in Turin but they should give it a go under Zeman's new attack philosophy. Juve don't score many goals and that might be the key to this if they cannot test Roma's defence enough then Roma have a real chance of getting something from the game. Very difficult to call and a draw seems likely, probably with Roma throwing away a lead again. Draw - two decent sides play out an exciting draw.
The first of Sunday's games sees Udinese host Genoa. Both teams drew in mid week with Udinese being held to a 0-0 with Torino and Genoa coming from behind to draw with Parma 1-1. The hosts are yet to reach the dizzy heights they enjoyed last season, winning just one game so far this campaign. They remain a good side, beating AC Milan last weekend enforced this notion. But they must start beating the so called lesser teams if they are to have any hope of reaching the European places this time round. Genoa have won 2 of their opening 5, including a win over Lazio. However, there remains a consensus that they are set to struggle this season and that view should be upheld here as Udinese at home are very difficult team to beat. Home Win - Udinese edge past Genoa
Bologna host Catania as the hosts look for their first win in three games. Bologna were beaten by a late Siena goal on Thursday night, the match finished 1-0 and Bologna still have just 4 points and one solitary win to their name. Catania recorded their second win of the new campaign beating Atalanta 2-1 in a solid performance on Wedneday. Bologna should be safe this season but they have not begun well. In comparison Catania have begun with their usual consistency and they may well grab a European place come May. It is Catania who get the vote in this one to continue their good start to the season. Away Win - Catania record a decent win in Bologna.
Siena will look to make it three wins in a row when they travel to Rome to face Lazio. Siena moved into positive points with their victory over Bologna and have only lost one game so far this season. They look as if they could be the surprise package of this season, given their struggles in previous campaigns they have made a great start to this one. Lazio had a great start but have quickly lost form with two defeats in a row including a 3-0 trouncing by Napoli in mid week. Given the current form of the two sides it would be easier to side with Siena for this one but Lazio are a very good outfit and will be determined to bounce back in front of their home supporters. Siena will make it tough but it is Lazio who should take all three points here. Home Win - Lazio return to form with a good home win.
Palermo host Chievo with both teams in desperate need of a win. Palermo went down 1-0 to Pescara on Wedneday, a result that saw them remain rooted to the bottom of the table with just one point from their opening 5 games. New manager Gian Piero Gasperini has had no honeymoon period over seeing 2 straight defeats, there is little doubt he has a huge job on his hands. Cheivo have failed to win since the opening weekend and suffered their fourth defeat in a row as they lost to Inter 2-0 in midweek. Both teams are struggling for goals and this looks set to be a very cagey affair but it is Cheivo who the get the vote, they have been unfortunate with their fixtures, having had to play Lazio, Juve and Inter in a row and this is a much easier assignment. Both teams should be safe come May but Palermo will have to suffer a transitional phase under their new manager and that phase looks a long way from completion. Away Win - Chievo get a much needed win at a struggling Palermo.
Sampdoria face another stern test when they host Napoli. Despite being down to ten men Sampdoria rescued a draw against Roma in midweek and they remain unbeaten having won 3 and drawn 2 of their opening games. They look by far the strongest of the promoted sides and if they continue playing as they are they will be more than safe this season. Napoli recorded great 3-0 win over Lazio on Wednesday with Cavani scoring a hatrick. They too are unbeaten winning four of their opening five. Two teams then in great form but the attacking flair of Napoli should be too much for Sampdoria here. Away Win - Napoli inflict a first defeat of the season on Sampdoria.
Atalanta host Torino as they look too bounce back from a defeat in midweek.The hosts were beaten 2-1 by Catania, their second defeat of the season. Torino proved again that they are hard team to beat as they held Udinese to a 0-0 draw on Wednesday. They have drawn three of their opening five, losing just once. Atalanta should change that record here though given their decent home form. Torino have looked unconvincing away from home and they could well come unstuck again here. Home Win - Atalanta just edge a home win.
Cagliari play their first home game of the season after their new stadium was finally declared safe to host Serie A matches. On the pitch Cagliari have struggled, without a win all season they are looking to avoid 3 straight defeats after being beaten 2-0 by AC Milan in mid week. They face a Pescara side who recorded their first win of the season on Wednesday beating Palermo 1-0. Despite that win Pescara, like Cagliari look set to struggle this campaign and the stuttering form of both sides makes this one very hard to call. Cagliari will be buoyed by playing in their new stadium but Pescara will cause them problems. Draw - Two struggling teams share the spoils.
Inter host Fiorentina in the final game of this weekend after both teams gained good results in midweek. Inter beat Chievo 2-0 while Fiorentina held Juventus to a 0-0 draw. Both teams have begun inconsistent with Inter winning 3 and losing 2 and Fiorentina winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 1. Both teams will be looking to put a string of good results together which should make for an open game but this one again is too hard to call. Draw - Two decent sides play out an entertaining draw.
Selected Match Odds:
Atalanta, Napoli, Chievo, Lazio, Catania, Udinese & Milan - All To Win : 268/1
Sampdoria V Napoli - Correct Score, Napoli To Win 3-0: 16/1
Juventus V Roma - First Goalscorer: Mattia Destro: 15/2
Enjoy The Games!
The first of Saturday's games sees Parma host AC Milan. Parma gained their second draw in a row as they drew with Genoa, 1-1 on Wednesday. They have 5 points from their opening 5 games and have won just one game. Milan bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over Cagliari easing pressure on manager Allegri. That win was just Milan's second of the season and they will have to put a run of good results together if Allegri is too keep his job. They are taken to start that run here given Parma regularly struggle against the big clubs and Milan's need to win. Away Win - Milan make it back to back wins.
The second of Saturday's games is a fascinating encounter as champions Juventus host Roma. Juve showed you can't win them all as they were held to a 0-0 draw with Fiorentina on Tuesday. They remain unbeaten however and remain top of the league with 4 wins and a draw. Roma threw away another lead as they drew 1-1 with Sampdoria on Wednesday. It is the same old story for Totti & Co. with great attacking play but weak at the back. Roma have a poor record in Turin but they should give it a go under Zeman's new attack philosophy. Juve don't score many goals and that might be the key to this if they cannot test Roma's defence enough then Roma have a real chance of getting something from the game. Very difficult to call and a draw seems likely, probably with Roma throwing away a lead again. Draw - two decent sides play out an exciting draw.
The first of Sunday's games sees Udinese host Genoa. Both teams drew in mid week with Udinese being held to a 0-0 with Torino and Genoa coming from behind to draw with Parma 1-1. The hosts are yet to reach the dizzy heights they enjoyed last season, winning just one game so far this campaign. They remain a good side, beating AC Milan last weekend enforced this notion. But they must start beating the so called lesser teams if they are to have any hope of reaching the European places this time round. Genoa have won 2 of their opening 5, including a win over Lazio. However, there remains a consensus that they are set to struggle this season and that view should be upheld here as Udinese at home are very difficult team to beat. Home Win - Udinese edge past Genoa
Bologna host Catania as the hosts look for their first win in three games. Bologna were beaten by a late Siena goal on Thursday night, the match finished 1-0 and Bologna still have just 4 points and one solitary win to their name. Catania recorded their second win of the new campaign beating Atalanta 2-1 in a solid performance on Wedneday. Bologna should be safe this season but they have not begun well. In comparison Catania have begun with their usual consistency and they may well grab a European place come May. It is Catania who get the vote in this one to continue their good start to the season. Away Win - Catania record a decent win in Bologna.
Siena will look to make it three wins in a row when they travel to Rome to face Lazio. Siena moved into positive points with their victory over Bologna and have only lost one game so far this season. They look as if they could be the surprise package of this season, given their struggles in previous campaigns they have made a great start to this one. Lazio had a great start but have quickly lost form with two defeats in a row including a 3-0 trouncing by Napoli in mid week. Given the current form of the two sides it would be easier to side with Siena for this one but Lazio are a very good outfit and will be determined to bounce back in front of their home supporters. Siena will make it tough but it is Lazio who should take all three points here. Home Win - Lazio return to form with a good home win.
Palermo host Chievo with both teams in desperate need of a win. Palermo went down 1-0 to Pescara on Wedneday, a result that saw them remain rooted to the bottom of the table with just one point from their opening 5 games. New manager Gian Piero Gasperini has had no honeymoon period over seeing 2 straight defeats, there is little doubt he has a huge job on his hands. Cheivo have failed to win since the opening weekend and suffered their fourth defeat in a row as they lost to Inter 2-0 in midweek. Both teams are struggling for goals and this looks set to be a very cagey affair but it is Cheivo who the get the vote, they have been unfortunate with their fixtures, having had to play Lazio, Juve and Inter in a row and this is a much easier assignment. Both teams should be safe come May but Palermo will have to suffer a transitional phase under their new manager and that phase looks a long way from completion. Away Win - Chievo get a much needed win at a struggling Palermo.
Sampdoria face another stern test when they host Napoli. Despite being down to ten men Sampdoria rescued a draw against Roma in midweek and they remain unbeaten having won 3 and drawn 2 of their opening games. They look by far the strongest of the promoted sides and if they continue playing as they are they will be more than safe this season. Napoli recorded great 3-0 win over Lazio on Wednesday with Cavani scoring a hatrick. They too are unbeaten winning four of their opening five. Two teams then in great form but the attacking flair of Napoli should be too much for Sampdoria here. Away Win - Napoli inflict a first defeat of the season on Sampdoria.
Atalanta host Torino as they look too bounce back from a defeat in midweek.The hosts were beaten 2-1 by Catania, their second defeat of the season. Torino proved again that they are hard team to beat as they held Udinese to a 0-0 draw on Wednesday. They have drawn three of their opening five, losing just once. Atalanta should change that record here though given their decent home form. Torino have looked unconvincing away from home and they could well come unstuck again here. Home Win - Atalanta just edge a home win.
Cagliari play their first home game of the season after their new stadium was finally declared safe to host Serie A matches. On the pitch Cagliari have struggled, without a win all season they are looking to avoid 3 straight defeats after being beaten 2-0 by AC Milan in mid week. They face a Pescara side who recorded their first win of the season on Wednesday beating Palermo 1-0. Despite that win Pescara, like Cagliari look set to struggle this campaign and the stuttering form of both sides makes this one very hard to call. Cagliari will be buoyed by playing in their new stadium but Pescara will cause them problems. Draw - Two struggling teams share the spoils.
Inter host Fiorentina in the final game of this weekend after both teams gained good results in midweek. Inter beat Chievo 2-0 while Fiorentina held Juventus to a 0-0 draw. Both teams have begun inconsistent with Inter winning 3 and losing 2 and Fiorentina winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 1. Both teams will be looking to put a string of good results together which should make for an open game but this one again is too hard to call. Draw - Two decent sides play out an entertaining draw.
Selected Match Odds:
Atalanta, Napoli, Chievo, Lazio, Catania, Udinese & Milan - All To Win : 268/1
Sampdoria V Napoli - Correct Score, Napoli To Win 3-0: 16/1
Juventus V Roma - First Goalscorer: Mattia Destro: 15/2
Enjoy The Games!
Tuesday, 25 September 2012
Gameweek 5 - Full Mid Week Programme
With no European competitions this mid week the Serie A hosts a full fixture programme spread over Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. In the few days since the last games were played the Italian media has been fixated on two issue, the ongoing shambles at Cagliari and the poor form of AC Milan. Cagliari's game with Roma on Sunday was postponed due to Cagliari inviting fans to attend the game at their new stadium despite Italian football officials telling the Sardinian club that the ground was not yet ready to host games and it would have to held behind closed doors. Cagliari have reacted angrily to the games postponement and the aftermath which say the Italian F.A award a 3-0 victory to Roma as Cagliari's punishment. Cagliari believe that their stadium is safe and that the F.A are showing disinterest in resolving the issue. This is another blow to the Serie A's credibility at a time when Italian football needs stability and calm in the wake of the match fixing scandal another crisis occurs making a laughing stock of the league and those running it. There remains no news as to when or how the issue will be resolved.
Ironically Cagliari's next opponents AC Milan are also in crisis after suffering another defeat. They were beaten 2-1 by Udinese on Sunday in a game which saw two of their men see red. Milan have picked up just three points from their opening 4 games and pressure continues to grow on Allegri. Most anger however is directed toward the Milan board after the sale of Ibrahimovic and Tiago Silva. Followers of Milan remain at a loss as too how these players were sold and not replaced but also as to how Allegri cannot put out a winning side with players such as Pazzini, Nocerino and Ambrosini at his disposal. If Milan fail to beat Cagliari on Wednesday in The San Siro it is expected Allegri's tenure will come to a swift end.
To the action then and Tuesday's sole game sees Fiorentina host Juventus. Fiorentina were held to a 1-1 draw with Parma last Saturday and this posses a much bigger test against a Juventus side who won yet again last weekend beating Chievo 2-0. Juve have won all four of their games and expected them to continue that against a Fiorentina side that have had a good start but will be found out here. Away Win - Juve continue their staggering form.
The first of eight games on Wednesday sees Pescara host Palermo. Pescara gained a good point in a 1-1 draw with Bologna. That solitary point is all the newly promoted side have after 4 games and they remain a side set to struggle this season. The same could be said of Palermo who slumped to another defeat losing 1-0 at Atalanta. They too have just one point from their opening games and despite replacing their manager they look like a side on a decline. Two sides then that are struggling and in a game that neither can afford to lose a draw is the most likely out come. Draw - two poor sides play out a low scoring draw.
Udinese travel to Torino on the back of a great 2-1 win over AC Milan that could kick start their season after picking up just one point from their their first three games. Torino gained a solid 1-1 draw with Sampdoria last weekend and have started the season brightly with just one defeat in their opening 4 games. It is Udinese though that are taken to win this one given the confidence boost received after the Milan win, they should be too much for Torino. Away Win - Udinese outclass Torino.
Roma host Sampdoria in The Stadio Olimipico having not played a competitive game for 10 days after their game with Cagliari was postponed. Having all 3 points award to them in the wake of that postponement is a great boost for Zeman's men who have moved up to fifth in the table. Their last game saw them lose 3-2 to Bologna but they have had plenty of time to get over that and should regain the winning thread here. Promoted Sampdoria had begun the season well before being held to a 1-1 draw with Torino last weekend. They remain the strongest of the promoted teams but a rested Roma side at home should be too strong for them. Home Win - Roma bounce back to form.
Catania host Atalanta as they look to build on their solid draw against Napoli last time out. That 0-0 draw saw Catania continue their promising start taking 5 points from the opening four games. Their opponents Atalanta beat Palermo 1-0 to move on the same points total. This is a meeting of two decent sides that will be battling for Europa league places come the end of the season. With both sides starting well this is too hard to call. Draw - Two decent sides play out an entertaining draw.
Chievo host Inter as both teams look to bounce back from defeats last weekend. Chievo succumbed to the might of Juventus losing 2-0, a result that means they have no lost three in a row. Inter as they were beaten 2-0 at home by Siena. They have no lost two and won two of their opening games. Inter dominated against Siena but didn't take their chances likely hood here is that Inter will take their chances especially against a defence that is leaking goals. It certainly wont be easy but Inter will bounce back as the problems mount for Chievo. Away Win - Inter narrowly take the spoils.
Genoa host Parma with both teams looking to gain good back to back results. Genoa caused an upset last weekend beating promising Lazio 1-0. That win gave Genoa their second win of the season having lost their previous two. Parma fought a 1-1 with Fiorentina to gain their first draw of the season and their fourth point. Both sides should find themselves in mid table as the season progresses but its Genoa who get the vote in this one, the victory over Lazio is certain to have been a moral booster and with home advantage they should take all three points in this one. Home Win - Genoa's good start continues.
Two clubs in crisis meet when Cagliari travel to The San Siro to face AC Milan. Cagliari's postponed game against Roma last weekend meant that Cagliari's poor start to the season looks even worse after Roma were awarded all 3 points. Cagliari are still yet to win this season and have just two points to their name. AC Milan were beaten again last weekend losing 1-0 to Atalanta in the shock of the weekend. Milan have just 3 points from 4 games and are in desperate need in a change of fortune. A chance is taken that Milan know what is at stake in this game with their manager under increasing pressure they should give a big performance. They are lucky to have been given a decent opportunity here against a Cagliari side who have their own problems along with poor form on the pitch. Away Win - Milan win for Allegri.
Napoli host Lazio in Wednesday's final game as both sides look to bounce back from dissapointing results. Napoli were held in Catania to a goaless draw last weekend which saw their winning streak coming to end after 3 games. Lazio too lost their 100% record losing 1-0 to Genoa. Both sides sit second and third in the table respectivly with just a point seperating them. That small gap shows how close this game will be and with both sides looking to bounce back this is set to be entertaining affair. It's Napoli though that get the tentative vote as they are usually strong at home throughout the season. Home Win - Napoli just edge it with the help of the Stadio San Paulo faithfull.
Thursday's only game sees Bologna travel to Siena. Siena provided a shock last weekend beating Inter 2-0 to gain their first win of the season. They had drawn two and lost one of their previous three games. Bologna were unable to build on their dramatic win over Roma a fortnight ago as they were held to a 1-1 draw with promoted Pescara. That victory remains their sole win of the campaign having lost their two of their 3 games, drawing the other. Siena were thought of by many as a side that would struggle this season but they have begun well despite their points reduction at the start of the season they now sit on just -1 and will be looking to get away from the bottom three soon enough. They face a difficult task here though against a Bologna side who are inconsistent but more than capable of beating Siena on their day. On current form and with home advantage Siena might take this but Bologna regulary upset the odds so a draw is the safest call. Draw - Two ok sides play out a cagey draw.
Selected Match Odds:
Milan, Genoa, Inter, Udinese, Roma, Juve & Napoli - All To Win - 153/1
AC Milan V Cagliari - Correct Score - Milan 3-0 - 10/1
Roma V Sampdoria - First Goalscorer - Florenzi - 7/1
Enjoy The Games!
Ironically Cagliari's next opponents AC Milan are also in crisis after suffering another defeat. They were beaten 2-1 by Udinese on Sunday in a game which saw two of their men see red. Milan have picked up just three points from their opening 4 games and pressure continues to grow on Allegri. Most anger however is directed toward the Milan board after the sale of Ibrahimovic and Tiago Silva. Followers of Milan remain at a loss as too how these players were sold and not replaced but also as to how Allegri cannot put out a winning side with players such as Pazzini, Nocerino and Ambrosini at his disposal. If Milan fail to beat Cagliari on Wednesday in The San Siro it is expected Allegri's tenure will come to a swift end.
To the action then and Tuesday's sole game sees Fiorentina host Juventus. Fiorentina were held to a 1-1 draw with Parma last Saturday and this posses a much bigger test against a Juventus side who won yet again last weekend beating Chievo 2-0. Juve have won all four of their games and expected them to continue that against a Fiorentina side that have had a good start but will be found out here. Away Win - Juve continue their staggering form.
The first of eight games on Wednesday sees Pescara host Palermo. Pescara gained a good point in a 1-1 draw with Bologna. That solitary point is all the newly promoted side have after 4 games and they remain a side set to struggle this season. The same could be said of Palermo who slumped to another defeat losing 1-0 at Atalanta. They too have just one point from their opening games and despite replacing their manager they look like a side on a decline. Two sides then that are struggling and in a game that neither can afford to lose a draw is the most likely out come. Draw - two poor sides play out a low scoring draw.
Udinese travel to Torino on the back of a great 2-1 win over AC Milan that could kick start their season after picking up just one point from their their first three games. Torino gained a solid 1-1 draw with Sampdoria last weekend and have started the season brightly with just one defeat in their opening 4 games. It is Udinese though that are taken to win this one given the confidence boost received after the Milan win, they should be too much for Torino. Away Win - Udinese outclass Torino.
Roma host Sampdoria in The Stadio Olimipico having not played a competitive game for 10 days after their game with Cagliari was postponed. Having all 3 points award to them in the wake of that postponement is a great boost for Zeman's men who have moved up to fifth in the table. Their last game saw them lose 3-2 to Bologna but they have had plenty of time to get over that and should regain the winning thread here. Promoted Sampdoria had begun the season well before being held to a 1-1 draw with Torino last weekend. They remain the strongest of the promoted teams but a rested Roma side at home should be too strong for them. Home Win - Roma bounce back to form.
Catania host Atalanta as they look to build on their solid draw against Napoli last time out. That 0-0 draw saw Catania continue their promising start taking 5 points from the opening four games. Their opponents Atalanta beat Palermo 1-0 to move on the same points total. This is a meeting of two decent sides that will be battling for Europa league places come the end of the season. With both sides starting well this is too hard to call. Draw - Two decent sides play out an entertaining draw.
Chievo host Inter as both teams look to bounce back from defeats last weekend. Chievo succumbed to the might of Juventus losing 2-0, a result that means they have no lost three in a row. Inter as they were beaten 2-0 at home by Siena. They have no lost two and won two of their opening games. Inter dominated against Siena but didn't take their chances likely hood here is that Inter will take their chances especially against a defence that is leaking goals. It certainly wont be easy but Inter will bounce back as the problems mount for Chievo. Away Win - Inter narrowly take the spoils.
Genoa host Parma with both teams looking to gain good back to back results. Genoa caused an upset last weekend beating promising Lazio 1-0. That win gave Genoa their second win of the season having lost their previous two. Parma fought a 1-1 with Fiorentina to gain their first draw of the season and their fourth point. Both sides should find themselves in mid table as the season progresses but its Genoa who get the vote in this one, the victory over Lazio is certain to have been a moral booster and with home advantage they should take all three points in this one. Home Win - Genoa's good start continues.
Two clubs in crisis meet when Cagliari travel to The San Siro to face AC Milan. Cagliari's postponed game against Roma last weekend meant that Cagliari's poor start to the season looks even worse after Roma were awarded all 3 points. Cagliari are still yet to win this season and have just two points to their name. AC Milan were beaten again last weekend losing 1-0 to Atalanta in the shock of the weekend. Milan have just 3 points from 4 games and are in desperate need in a change of fortune. A chance is taken that Milan know what is at stake in this game with their manager under increasing pressure they should give a big performance. They are lucky to have been given a decent opportunity here against a Cagliari side who have their own problems along with poor form on the pitch. Away Win - Milan win for Allegri.
Napoli host Lazio in Wednesday's final game as both sides look to bounce back from dissapointing results. Napoli were held in Catania to a goaless draw last weekend which saw their winning streak coming to end after 3 games. Lazio too lost their 100% record losing 1-0 to Genoa. Both sides sit second and third in the table respectivly with just a point seperating them. That small gap shows how close this game will be and with both sides looking to bounce back this is set to be entertaining affair. It's Napoli though that get the tentative vote as they are usually strong at home throughout the season. Home Win - Napoli just edge it with the help of the Stadio San Paulo faithfull.
Thursday's only game sees Bologna travel to Siena. Siena provided a shock last weekend beating Inter 2-0 to gain their first win of the season. They had drawn two and lost one of their previous three games. Bologna were unable to build on their dramatic win over Roma a fortnight ago as they were held to a 1-1 draw with promoted Pescara. That victory remains their sole win of the campaign having lost their two of their 3 games, drawing the other. Siena were thought of by many as a side that would struggle this season but they have begun well despite their points reduction at the start of the season they now sit on just -1 and will be looking to get away from the bottom three soon enough. They face a difficult task here though against a Bologna side who are inconsistent but more than capable of beating Siena on their day. On current form and with home advantage Siena might take this but Bologna regulary upset the odds so a draw is the safest call. Draw - Two ok sides play out a cagey draw.
Selected Match Odds:
Milan, Genoa, Inter, Udinese, Roma, Juve & Napoli - All To Win - 153/1
AC Milan V Cagliari - Correct Score - Milan 3-0 - 10/1
Roma V Sampdoria - First Goalscorer - Florenzi - 7/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 21 September 2012
Gameweek 3 - First Managerial Casualty and Milan In Crisis
This week in The Serie A saw its first managerial sacking of the season after Palermo fired Giuseppe Sannino just three games into the season. Palermo are notorious for firing coaches, with not a single manager lasting the season since the 2004-2005 campaign. Palermo sit third from the bottom of the table after picking up just one point from their 3 games, they should have won last weekend against Cagliari but were prevented by a last minute equaliser. Even by the Serie A's and Palermo's standards this has to be seen as a knee jerk reaction with Sannino having such little time to make an impact, he has been replaced by former Genoa coach, Gian Piero Gasperini.
Another manager who's job is coming increasingly under threat is Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri. He saw his team slump to their second defeat of the season last weekend losing 1-0 to Atalanta which was followed by a bitterly disappointing 0-0 draw with Anderlecht in the Champions League on Wednesday night. That night saw the two major players Milan sold in the summer, Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva both score for PSG. Milan's faithful have been at odds with those running the club for sometime but many feel that with the players retained Allegri should be beating teams like Atalanta comfortably, its hard to disagree with them. A strong rumour coming out of Italy at the moment is that former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is being lined up as a replacement for Allegri if the results fail to improve.
Looking forward to this weekends action on the pitch and the fixtures have a familiar look to them with two matches on Saturday and eight on Sunday. The first game of the weekend sees Parma host Fiorentina on Saturday evening. Parma suffered their second defeat of the season last weekend losing 3-1 to Napoli. They may only have 3 points from their first 3 games but have had a tough start to the campaign facing both Napoli and Jueventus, they will improve and expect them to be filling a mid table spot soon. They may continue to struggle this weekend though with the visit of a resurgent looking Fiorentina who have won two of their first three games, only coming unstuck in Naples. The Viola beat Catania 2-0 at home last weekend and look set to avoid the relegation battle they were drawn into last season. Expect Parma to make life hard for Fiorentina but Fiorentina should have enough to take this one. Away Win - Fiorentina continue their great start to the new campaign.
Champions Juventus look to continue their staggering 42 game unbeaten run when they host Chievo in Saturday's other game. Juventus suffered a scare to their record last weekend after having to come from behind to beat Genoa 3-1. Despite that scare they have made a great start to the season scoring 9 goals and conceding just 2 in 3 games, they remain were they finished last season at the top of the table and fully expect them to stay there. Chievo suffered their second defeat in a row after losing 3-1 at home to Lazio. Chievo are another side that should be be sat in a mid table position as the season progresses but for now they are set for their third defeat on the bounce as Juve remain impossible to oppose. Home Win - 43 games unbeaten for the mighty Old Lady.
The first of Sundays games sees two of the promoted sides meet as Torino travel to Sampdoria. Torino have suffered a inconsistent start to the season, drawing, winning then losing their opening fixtures. They were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Inter last weekend and are certain to struggle this season given their limit resources. Sampdoria however have had a tremendous start to the new season, unbeaten in three, beating AC Milan, Siena and last weekend fellow promotion side Pescara. Although it is early days Sampdoria certainly look the strongest of the 3 promoted sides and they are taken to prove it here. Home Win - Sampdoria again show that they are not relegation fodder with a good win over Torino.
Catania host Napoli as they look to make it back to back wins. A hard fought 3-2 win over Genoa last weekend saw them gain their first win of the season and they look set for a solid campaign again under Montella, though this poses a tough task against an unbeaten Napoli side. Napoli's 3-1 win in Parma last weekend showed again that despite losing some key men they remain a force to be reckoned with. Napoli have scored eight goals in their opening games and it is their forward line that will be the key to this one with Catania capable of scoring goals but they also concede too many. Napoli may just edge this one in a high scoring affair. Away Win - Napoli again show their attacking prowess against Catania.
Atalanta host Palermo in Gian Piero Gasperini's first game in charge of Palermo. Atalanta caused the upset of last weekend beating AC Milan 1-0 to gain their first win of the season. They remain a solid outfit and will be confident of making it back to back wins against a Palermo side in crisis after just changing their manager. Palermo have just one point to their name after a 1-1 draw with Cagliari last weekend, they have lost some key men in the close season and look set for a struggle particularly with their notoriously trigger happy chairman. Its Atalanta then who get the vote in this one given their current confidence and Palermo's lack of it. Home Win - Atalanta add to Palermo's woes with a comfortable home win.
Bologna host newly promoted Pescara as they look to gain back to back victories. Bologna looked set for defeat in Rome last weekend before 3 goals in the last 20 minutes saw them beat Roma 3-2, giving them their first points of the season. Pescara remain searching for their first points of the new campaign after being beaten 3-2 by Sampdoria. Bologna will be no doubt high on confidence after last weekends great victory and let set for another victory here against a Pescara side that already look set for relegation. Home Win - Bologna cruise past Pescara.
Cagliari host Roma as they search for their first win of the season. In their last two games Cagliari have gained draws with last minute equalisers against Atalanta and last weekend, Palermo. Such luck cannot last forever and they must improve if they hope to avoid a relegation battle this season. It won't be easy to begin improvement against a Roma side wounded after throwing away a 2-0 lead against Bologna last weekend that eventually saw them lose 3-2. Roma had looked a force to be reckoned with, a 3-1 win over Inter a fortnight ago a terrific performance. It is they then who are taken to win this one given Cagliari's weakness at the back and Roma's great attacking play under the guidance of Zeman. Away Win - Roma bounce back as Cagliari's luck finally runs out.
Inter host Siena in The San Siro with the visitors still looking for their first win of the season. Inter bounced back from their defeat in Rome by beating Torino 2-0. Their front line of Snijeder, Milito and Cassano looks like one of the strongest in the division, expect them to be challenging for the Champions League places this season despite their Rome set back. Siena gained a good point last weekend drawing 2-2 with Udinese though they remain win less and have conceded 4 goals in their opening three games, their clean sheet coming against Torino. It is hard then to envisage anything but an Inter win in this one, home advantage and their attacking force should seem them take all 3 points. Home Win - Inter breeze past Siena who are in danger of being involved in a relegation fight this season.
The game of the weekend sees two sides desperate for a win as Milan head to Udinese. Udinese remain win less after their 2-2 draw with Siena last time out and they must improve if they have any chance of reaching the giddy heights of last season. Milan have had arguably a worse start to the campaign, losing to Sampdoria on opening day, followed by victory over Bologna and then last weekend losing 1-0 to Atalanta. Unacceptable is what Milan fans are calling their teams start. So a game both teams will feel they must win to kick start their seasons, however given the inconsistency of both sides a draw looks the most likely result in this one. Draw - A frustrating result for all involved.
The final game of the weekend sees Lazio host Genoa. Lazio have had a great start to the season, 3 wins, 7 goals scored, one conceded including a 3-1 victory over Chievo last weekend. In contrast Genoa's only points of the new season so far came on opening day in a 2-0 victory over Cagliari. They were soundly beaten 3-1 by Juventus last weekend and expect a similar scoreline this weekend given Lazio's current form. Lazio look set to be challenging for a Champions League spot this season whereas Genoa look likely to be caught in a relegation scrap. The difference in the two sides will be reflected in the result on Sunday. Home Win - Lazio win easily against Genoa.
Selected Match Odds:
Lazio, Inter, Roma, Bologna, Atalanta, Napoli, Sampdoria, Juve and Fiorentina - All to win : 228/1
Udinese V AC Milan - Correct Score 2-2 : 5/1
Cagliari V Roma - Florenzi To Score First : 7/1
Enjoy The Games!
Another manager who's job is coming increasingly under threat is Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri. He saw his team slump to their second defeat of the season last weekend losing 1-0 to Atalanta which was followed by a bitterly disappointing 0-0 draw with Anderlecht in the Champions League on Wednesday night. That night saw the two major players Milan sold in the summer, Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva both score for PSG. Milan's faithful have been at odds with those running the club for sometime but many feel that with the players retained Allegri should be beating teams like Atalanta comfortably, its hard to disagree with them. A strong rumour coming out of Italy at the moment is that former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is being lined up as a replacement for Allegri if the results fail to improve.
Looking forward to this weekends action on the pitch and the fixtures have a familiar look to them with two matches on Saturday and eight on Sunday. The first game of the weekend sees Parma host Fiorentina on Saturday evening. Parma suffered their second defeat of the season last weekend losing 3-1 to Napoli. They may only have 3 points from their first 3 games but have had a tough start to the campaign facing both Napoli and Jueventus, they will improve and expect them to be filling a mid table spot soon. They may continue to struggle this weekend though with the visit of a resurgent looking Fiorentina who have won two of their first three games, only coming unstuck in Naples. The Viola beat Catania 2-0 at home last weekend and look set to avoid the relegation battle they were drawn into last season. Expect Parma to make life hard for Fiorentina but Fiorentina should have enough to take this one. Away Win - Fiorentina continue their great start to the new campaign.
Champions Juventus look to continue their staggering 42 game unbeaten run when they host Chievo in Saturday's other game. Juventus suffered a scare to their record last weekend after having to come from behind to beat Genoa 3-1. Despite that scare they have made a great start to the season scoring 9 goals and conceding just 2 in 3 games, they remain were they finished last season at the top of the table and fully expect them to stay there. Chievo suffered their second defeat in a row after losing 3-1 at home to Lazio. Chievo are another side that should be be sat in a mid table position as the season progresses but for now they are set for their third defeat on the bounce as Juve remain impossible to oppose. Home Win - 43 games unbeaten for the mighty Old Lady.
The first of Sundays games sees two of the promoted sides meet as Torino travel to Sampdoria. Torino have suffered a inconsistent start to the season, drawing, winning then losing their opening fixtures. They were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Inter last weekend and are certain to struggle this season given their limit resources. Sampdoria however have had a tremendous start to the new season, unbeaten in three, beating AC Milan, Siena and last weekend fellow promotion side Pescara. Although it is early days Sampdoria certainly look the strongest of the 3 promoted sides and they are taken to prove it here. Home Win - Sampdoria again show that they are not relegation fodder with a good win over Torino.
Catania host Napoli as they look to make it back to back wins. A hard fought 3-2 win over Genoa last weekend saw them gain their first win of the season and they look set for a solid campaign again under Montella, though this poses a tough task against an unbeaten Napoli side. Napoli's 3-1 win in Parma last weekend showed again that despite losing some key men they remain a force to be reckoned with. Napoli have scored eight goals in their opening games and it is their forward line that will be the key to this one with Catania capable of scoring goals but they also concede too many. Napoli may just edge this one in a high scoring affair. Away Win - Napoli again show their attacking prowess against Catania.
Atalanta host Palermo in Gian Piero Gasperini's first game in charge of Palermo. Atalanta caused the upset of last weekend beating AC Milan 1-0 to gain their first win of the season. They remain a solid outfit and will be confident of making it back to back wins against a Palermo side in crisis after just changing their manager. Palermo have just one point to their name after a 1-1 draw with Cagliari last weekend, they have lost some key men in the close season and look set for a struggle particularly with their notoriously trigger happy chairman. Its Atalanta then who get the vote in this one given their current confidence and Palermo's lack of it. Home Win - Atalanta add to Palermo's woes with a comfortable home win.
Bologna host newly promoted Pescara as they look to gain back to back victories. Bologna looked set for defeat in Rome last weekend before 3 goals in the last 20 minutes saw them beat Roma 3-2, giving them their first points of the season. Pescara remain searching for their first points of the new campaign after being beaten 3-2 by Sampdoria. Bologna will be no doubt high on confidence after last weekends great victory and let set for another victory here against a Pescara side that already look set for relegation. Home Win - Bologna cruise past Pescara.
Cagliari host Roma as they search for their first win of the season. In their last two games Cagliari have gained draws with last minute equalisers against Atalanta and last weekend, Palermo. Such luck cannot last forever and they must improve if they hope to avoid a relegation battle this season. It won't be easy to begin improvement against a Roma side wounded after throwing away a 2-0 lead against Bologna last weekend that eventually saw them lose 3-2. Roma had looked a force to be reckoned with, a 3-1 win over Inter a fortnight ago a terrific performance. It is they then who are taken to win this one given Cagliari's weakness at the back and Roma's great attacking play under the guidance of Zeman. Away Win - Roma bounce back as Cagliari's luck finally runs out.
Inter host Siena in The San Siro with the visitors still looking for their first win of the season. Inter bounced back from their defeat in Rome by beating Torino 2-0. Their front line of Snijeder, Milito and Cassano looks like one of the strongest in the division, expect them to be challenging for the Champions League places this season despite their Rome set back. Siena gained a good point last weekend drawing 2-2 with Udinese though they remain win less and have conceded 4 goals in their opening three games, their clean sheet coming against Torino. It is hard then to envisage anything but an Inter win in this one, home advantage and their attacking force should seem them take all 3 points. Home Win - Inter breeze past Siena who are in danger of being involved in a relegation fight this season.
The game of the weekend sees two sides desperate for a win as Milan head to Udinese. Udinese remain win less after their 2-2 draw with Siena last time out and they must improve if they have any chance of reaching the giddy heights of last season. Milan have had arguably a worse start to the campaign, losing to Sampdoria on opening day, followed by victory over Bologna and then last weekend losing 1-0 to Atalanta. Unacceptable is what Milan fans are calling their teams start. So a game both teams will feel they must win to kick start their seasons, however given the inconsistency of both sides a draw looks the most likely result in this one. Draw - A frustrating result for all involved.
The final game of the weekend sees Lazio host Genoa. Lazio have had a great start to the season, 3 wins, 7 goals scored, one conceded including a 3-1 victory over Chievo last weekend. In contrast Genoa's only points of the new season so far came on opening day in a 2-0 victory over Cagliari. They were soundly beaten 3-1 by Juventus last weekend and expect a similar scoreline this weekend given Lazio's current form. Lazio look set to be challenging for a Champions League spot this season whereas Genoa look likely to be caught in a relegation scrap. The difference in the two sides will be reflected in the result on Sunday. Home Win - Lazio win easily against Genoa.
Selected Match Odds:
Lazio, Inter, Roma, Bologna, Atalanta, Napoli, Sampdoria, Juve and Fiorentina - All to win : 228/1
Udinese V AC Milan - Correct Score 2-2 : 5/1
Cagliari V Roma - Florenzi To Score First : 7/1
Enjoy The Games!
Thursday, 13 September 2012
Game week 3 - Back In Buisness
The Serie A returns this weekend after an international break with the usual 10 games spread over Saturday and Sunday. Saturday sees two evening fixtures with Sunday hosting eight games.
Palermo will be hoping to gain their first points of the season as they host Cagliari in the first of Saturday's games. Palermo were beaten 3-0 by Lazio a fortnight ago after suffering by the same score against a Napoli a week previous. They look set for a struggling season although this represents their easiest task so far. Cagliari gained their first points of the season after a late equaliser saw them draw 1-1 with Atalanta. This fixture is bound to be a cagey affair with both sides struggling to find their form and neither will want to lose this one, a draw looks the most likely outcome. Draw - 2 struggling sides play out an uneventful draw.
AC Milan picked up their first points of the season after winning 3-1 in Bologna. New signing Pazzini grabbed a hat-trick in that game and if he can continue to score goals Milan will surely challenge for the title again. They host Atalanta in the second of Saturday's games. Atalanta were held to a 1-1 draw with Cagliari and are still waiting for their first 3 points of the new campaign. Milan bounced back from their shock start a fortnight ago and expect them to go on a good run of form now, Atalanta will be no doubt winning games soon but they are unlikely to get one here against a Milan outfit that remain classy. Home Win - Milan back in business as they comfortably beat Atalanta.
The first game on Sunday sees Chievo host Lazio as the team from Verona look to bounce back after being beaten 2-0 in Parma two weeks ago. They had begun the season well with victory over Bologna but they look up against it here facing an unbeaten Lazio side. Lazio became one of just 3 teams to have a 100% win record at the start of the season after beating Palermo 3-0. Lazio are certainly more solid at home but in their current vein they will make it two away wins out of two here, though Chievo will pose a threat. Away Win - Lazio continue their great start to the season with victory in Verona.
Pointless Genoa face a daunting task as they host champions Juventus. Genoa were beaten 3-2 by Catania last time out in a hard fought affair and why the attitude of Luigi Di Canio's men can't be questioned their defence certainly can be, conceding 5 goals in their first 2 games has to be of great concern. Juventus have began this campaign as they ended the last by winning and winning well. The old lady thumped Udinese 4-1 in Udine two weeks ago as they continue to look imperious. At some point Juventus will get beaten this season but its highly unlikely to occur here, Genoa lack the fire power to trouble Juventus and Juventus' strong forward line will look to fill their boots against a leaky back line. Away Win - Juventus continue their title defence with another win.
Two of the three newly promoted teams meet as Pescara host Sampdoria. Pescara have lost both their opening fixtures 3-0 including an away defeat at Torino a fortnight ago. Pescara must win games like these, against relegation rivals if they are to have any hope of staying in the division, so far though they have looked out of their depth. That is something that cannot be said for Sampdoria who after beating Milan on the opening day then travelled to Siena and gained a hard thought 2-1 victory. Its still far to early to say what these two teams are capable of this season, Sampdoria have made a great start but they were beaten by Pescara at the end of last season which is reason to hope for the side with no points. A draw seems likely in a game too tough to call. Draw - Could go either way but a draw is the most likely result.
Roma host Bologna in the Stadio Olimpio as they look to continue their good start to the season. Totti and Co. got their first three points of the season by beating Inter 3-1 in Milan. That great team performance saw Daniel Osvaldo score before being sent off, he will be a big miss for Roma after starting the season in great form and bagging two more goals for Italy in midweek. Roma will also be without Daniel De Rossi who has been ruled out for two weeks. Despite the loss of two key men Roma should have enough to beat a Bologna side who have lost their opening two games including a 3-1 home defeat at the hands of AC Milan a fortnight ago. Bologna are unlikely to be dragged into a relegation battle but now is not a good time to play Roma. Home Win - Roma continue their great start at the expense of Bologna.
Fiorentina host Catania as they look to bounce back from a 2-1 defeat against Napoli last time out. Fiorentina won on opening weekend with a great victory over Udinese, Napoli proved too much for them a week later but Catania represent an easier assignment. Catania are unbeaten in this campaign after beating Genoa 3-2 but they have conceded four goals in the opening two games and against a fluid attacking side like Fiorentina they may come unstuck defensively. Its set to be a close affair between two decent sides but the Viola's home advantage and attacking prowess should see them win. Home Win - Fiorentina chalk up win number two of the campaign against Catania.
Siena host Udinese with both teams looking for a change of fortunes after a disappointing start to the season. Siena were beaten 2-1 by newly promoted Sampdoria a fortnight ago and have just one point from their first two games, they look sure to be involved in a relegation scrap come May. Udinese have began poorly by their standards, a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Juventus last time out came after being beaten 2-1 by Fiorentina. This represents Udinese's easiest task of the campaign so far however and expect them too take all 3 points back to Udine. Udinese's front line should prove to much for a Siena defence that has struggled against lesser opposition than Udinese. Away Win - Udinese get their first points on the board at the expense of a poor looking Siena side.
Parma travel to Naples to face Napoli looking for back to back wins. After a being beaten by Juventus on opening weekend Parma bounced straight back with a solid 2-0 win over Chievo. That is about the level Parma are at, good performances against the teams that will be round them in mid table but coming unstuck against the big boys which is why Napoli will beat them on Sunday. Napoli made it two from two by beating Fiorentina 2-1 at home a fortnight ago and look to have adapted well to the loss of Lavezzi to PSG, holding on to Edison Cavani was a huge boost for them and their attacking line is still the envy of many a club in the league. They really should have no problem in making it three in a row here. Home Win - Napoli cruise past Parma who will be safe come May, but this is above them.
The final game of the weekend sees Torino host Inter. Torino have made an unbeaten start to the season, after beating Pescara 3-0 last time out. They face a different test here however playing a wounded Inter who were convincingly beaten 3-1 by Roma a fortnight ago. Inter had began the season well, beating Pescara 3-0 and expect a similar score line here. The front line of Antonio Cassano and Diego Milito will surely be too much for Torino and they will face defeat for the first time this season. Away Win - Inter bounce back with a convincing win over Pescara who get a reality check.
Selected Match Betting:
Inter, Napoli, Udinese, Fiorentina, Roma, Juve, Lazio & Milan - All To Win : 120/1
Napoli V Parma - Edison Cavani to score first : 3-1
Roma V Bologna - Correct Score 3-1: 17/2
Enjoy The Games!
Palermo will be hoping to gain their first points of the season as they host Cagliari in the first of Saturday's games. Palermo were beaten 3-0 by Lazio a fortnight ago after suffering by the same score against a Napoli a week previous. They look set for a struggling season although this represents their easiest task so far. Cagliari gained their first points of the season after a late equaliser saw them draw 1-1 with Atalanta. This fixture is bound to be a cagey affair with both sides struggling to find their form and neither will want to lose this one, a draw looks the most likely outcome. Draw - 2 struggling sides play out an uneventful draw.
AC Milan picked up their first points of the season after winning 3-1 in Bologna. New signing Pazzini grabbed a hat-trick in that game and if he can continue to score goals Milan will surely challenge for the title again. They host Atalanta in the second of Saturday's games. Atalanta were held to a 1-1 draw with Cagliari and are still waiting for their first 3 points of the new campaign. Milan bounced back from their shock start a fortnight ago and expect them to go on a good run of form now, Atalanta will be no doubt winning games soon but they are unlikely to get one here against a Milan outfit that remain classy. Home Win - Milan back in business as they comfortably beat Atalanta.
The first game on Sunday sees Chievo host Lazio as the team from Verona look to bounce back after being beaten 2-0 in Parma two weeks ago. They had begun the season well with victory over Bologna but they look up against it here facing an unbeaten Lazio side. Lazio became one of just 3 teams to have a 100% win record at the start of the season after beating Palermo 3-0. Lazio are certainly more solid at home but in their current vein they will make it two away wins out of two here, though Chievo will pose a threat. Away Win - Lazio continue their great start to the season with victory in Verona.
Pointless Genoa face a daunting task as they host champions Juventus. Genoa were beaten 3-2 by Catania last time out in a hard fought affair and why the attitude of Luigi Di Canio's men can't be questioned their defence certainly can be, conceding 5 goals in their first 2 games has to be of great concern. Juventus have began this campaign as they ended the last by winning and winning well. The old lady thumped Udinese 4-1 in Udine two weeks ago as they continue to look imperious. At some point Juventus will get beaten this season but its highly unlikely to occur here, Genoa lack the fire power to trouble Juventus and Juventus' strong forward line will look to fill their boots against a leaky back line. Away Win - Juventus continue their title defence with another win.
Two of the three newly promoted teams meet as Pescara host Sampdoria. Pescara have lost both their opening fixtures 3-0 including an away defeat at Torino a fortnight ago. Pescara must win games like these, against relegation rivals if they are to have any hope of staying in the division, so far though they have looked out of their depth. That is something that cannot be said for Sampdoria who after beating Milan on the opening day then travelled to Siena and gained a hard thought 2-1 victory. Its still far to early to say what these two teams are capable of this season, Sampdoria have made a great start but they were beaten by Pescara at the end of last season which is reason to hope for the side with no points. A draw seems likely in a game too tough to call. Draw - Could go either way but a draw is the most likely result.
Roma host Bologna in the Stadio Olimpio as they look to continue their good start to the season. Totti and Co. got their first three points of the season by beating Inter 3-1 in Milan. That great team performance saw Daniel Osvaldo score before being sent off, he will be a big miss for Roma after starting the season in great form and bagging two more goals for Italy in midweek. Roma will also be without Daniel De Rossi who has been ruled out for two weeks. Despite the loss of two key men Roma should have enough to beat a Bologna side who have lost their opening two games including a 3-1 home defeat at the hands of AC Milan a fortnight ago. Bologna are unlikely to be dragged into a relegation battle but now is not a good time to play Roma. Home Win - Roma continue their great start at the expense of Bologna.
Fiorentina host Catania as they look to bounce back from a 2-1 defeat against Napoli last time out. Fiorentina won on opening weekend with a great victory over Udinese, Napoli proved too much for them a week later but Catania represent an easier assignment. Catania are unbeaten in this campaign after beating Genoa 3-2 but they have conceded four goals in the opening two games and against a fluid attacking side like Fiorentina they may come unstuck defensively. Its set to be a close affair between two decent sides but the Viola's home advantage and attacking prowess should see them win. Home Win - Fiorentina chalk up win number two of the campaign against Catania.
Siena host Udinese with both teams looking for a change of fortunes after a disappointing start to the season. Siena were beaten 2-1 by newly promoted Sampdoria a fortnight ago and have just one point from their first two games, they look sure to be involved in a relegation scrap come May. Udinese have began poorly by their standards, a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Juventus last time out came after being beaten 2-1 by Fiorentina. This represents Udinese's easiest task of the campaign so far however and expect them too take all 3 points back to Udine. Udinese's front line should prove to much for a Siena defence that has struggled against lesser opposition than Udinese. Away Win - Udinese get their first points on the board at the expense of a poor looking Siena side.
Parma travel to Naples to face Napoli looking for back to back wins. After a being beaten by Juventus on opening weekend Parma bounced straight back with a solid 2-0 win over Chievo. That is about the level Parma are at, good performances against the teams that will be round them in mid table but coming unstuck against the big boys which is why Napoli will beat them on Sunday. Napoli made it two from two by beating Fiorentina 2-1 at home a fortnight ago and look to have adapted well to the loss of Lavezzi to PSG, holding on to Edison Cavani was a huge boost for them and their attacking line is still the envy of many a club in the league. They really should have no problem in making it three in a row here. Home Win - Napoli cruise past Parma who will be safe come May, but this is above them.
The final game of the weekend sees Torino host Inter. Torino have made an unbeaten start to the season, after beating Pescara 3-0 last time out. They face a different test here however playing a wounded Inter who were convincingly beaten 3-1 by Roma a fortnight ago. Inter had began the season well, beating Pescara 3-0 and expect a similar score line here. The front line of Antonio Cassano and Diego Milito will surely be too much for Torino and they will face defeat for the first time this season. Away Win - Inter bounce back with a convincing win over Pescara who get a reality check.
Selected Match Betting:
Inter, Napoli, Udinese, Fiorentina, Roma, Juve, Lazio & Milan - All To Win : 120/1
Napoli V Parma - Edison Cavani to score first : 3-1
Roma V Bologna - Correct Score 3-1: 17/2
Enjoy The Games!
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