With no European games this mid week all of Europe's main leagues are staging full fixture lists and the Serie A is no exception, with 2 games on Tuesday and 8 on Sunday.
We begin on Tuesday in Verona as Chievo host Roma. Both sides drew on their last outing with Chievo playing out a 0-0 with Cagliari and Roma were involved in a very entertaining 2-2 with Napoli. Chievo haven't won in 4 games and Roma have a similar record, without a win in 3. Chievo are struggling at the moment, particularly in front of goal and that will play into the hands of a Roma side who's defencive problems were highlighted again on Saturday night but are a very useful attacking outfit. It promises to be tight but Roma showed enough against Napoli to suggest they might be turning a corner. Away Win - Roma do enough to keep the dream of Champions League football alive.
After that draw with Roma, Napoli host Palermo, themselves looking to better a draw they gained at the weekend. Napoli's draw with Roma saw them climb to third in the table but only on goal difference they are astonishingly level on points with Inter, Udinese and Lazio. They are also now unbeaten in three games. Palermo's 1-1 draw with rivals Catania saw them all but secure Serie A football for next season, they still haven't won for five games however. It's Napoli then who are taken to get all 3 points here, Palermo simply don't score enough and the let in plenty. Home Win - Napoli continue their recent good run and prove to classy for Palermo.
The first of Wednesday's games sees Fiorentina face Novara. Both teams will be looking to bounce back from defeats as Fiorentina were beaten 2-0 by Atalanta and Novara were thrashed 4-0 by Juventus. Fiorentina still dance with relegation but any if they take any points out of this one they will be safe, Novara need a small miracle to stay up, needing to win every game and hope that those around them lose every fixture, they remain second bottom and 8 points from safety. A very tough game to call and a draw seems likely with both teams not wanting to lose the game. Draw - Result that satisfies only Fiorentina as they secure Serie A football for another season.
Unbeaten league leaders Juventus host third from bottom Leece. Juve's victory over Novara saw them maintain their 3 point lead at the top and they remain on course to finish the season unbeaten and as champions. Leece's survival hopes were dealt a big blow at the weekend as they lost 2-1 at home to Parma. They are a point behind Genoa and six behind Fiorentina. Leece have proven themselves to be a decent outfit this season but they don't have much of a chance here with Juve in their current vein, there really should be only one outcome. Home Win - Leece make Juve work for it but ultimatly The Old Lady comes out on top.
Another top versus bottom clash sees releagated Cesena host 4th placed Udinese. Cesena slumped to another defeat as they were beaten 2-1 by Inter. Udinese gained a great 2-0 victory over league rivals Lazio to keep themselves in the hunt for the final Champions League place. Udinese's away form has been poor this season but with the momentum gained from the Lazio game they should heap further misery on Cesena here. Away Win - Cesena out played by a confident Udinese.
Title chasers AC Milan face a tricky fixture as they host Atalanta at the San Siro. Milan cruised past Siena 4-1 at the weekend but Atalanta gained a good 2-0 win over Fiorentina. Milan's wobble looks to be over having won their last two, but Atalanta now have the same record. Milan could find life difficult but they should have enough, but expect Atalanta to put up a fight as they look to add another big scalp to their collection. Home Win - Milan keep the heat on Juventus, just.
Catania host Bologna in a mid table match up. Catania fought out a draw with Palermo at the weekend as Bologna battled out a 3-2 win over struggling Genoa. Catania have won just one of their last 5, whereas Bolonga are now unbeaten in 5. Catania have been good at home this season but Bologna are a solid unit and will be hard to break down. Draw - Too tight to call this one, a draw seems the safest option.
Genoa will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Bologna and ease their relegation worries when they host Cagliari. With both teams gaining poor results at the weekend both will be looking to get something here, though it is undoubtedly Genoa who need them the most. Cagliari currently sit six points ahead of Genoa and are all but safe from relegation. Genoa have now lost three in a row and are just a point above the relegation zone and will be low on confidence after their latest defeat. Its Cagliari then who get the vote as Genoa continue despondent. Away Win - Cagliari heap more pressure on Genoa.
Both Lazio and Siena will look to bounce back from defeats at the weekend when they play each other in Rome. Lazio's 2-0 loss to Udinese caused major damage to their Champions Leage dreams whereas Siena's 4-1 defeat to AC Milan was simply demoralising than anything for the mid table side. Lazio now haven't won in 4 matches but this represents their easiest task for sometime and they should bounce back against a Siena team that has little to play for. Home Win - Home advantage pays dividends as the Lazio faithful help their side to much needed victory.
The final game in this round of matches sees Parma host Inter. Both teams won their games 2-1 at the weekend over Leece and Cesena respectively. Parma have won all of their last 4 and Inter remain unbeaten under Andrea Andrea Stramaccioni. Inter know they have to win to keep in the fight for the final Champions League place and that will fuel them on but Parma have looked solid in recent weeks and they will put up a decent fight at home. Draw - Parma hold Inter who remain an the unfinished article.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Napoli, Juve, Udinese, Milan, Cagliari & Lazio - All To Win: 43/1
Napoli V Palermo - Napoli to win 3-0: 15/2
AC Milan V Atalanta - Ibrahimovic First Goalscorer: 5/2
Enjoy The Games!
Monday, 30 April 2012
Friday, 27 April 2012
Matchweek 35 Preview - Saturday & Sunday Games
Another full fixture list in the Serie A this weekend, with 3 matches on Saturday and 7 on Sunday. With just 3 games left in this season each game takes on added importance for the Serie A's twenty teams.
We begin at The Stadio Renzo Barbera, as Palermo host Catania. Palermo are on a poor run at the moment, winning just one of their last five and were beaten 2-1 at home to Parma on Wednesday. They remain six points above the drop and its unlikely they will be relegated put Palermo fans could certainly sleep easier if their side were to pick up some points in this one. Their opponents, Catania were pushed for a European spot but a 3-0 defeat to Cagliari on Tuesday means they remain 8th 4 points behind Roma. Catania too have only won one of their last 5 games. This being the Sicilian derby expect a high tempo affair but given the form of both sides don't expect a classic. In Palermo Catania have won just once, and given their away form that is record is unlikely to change here. Palermo's recent record against their rival's is poor and with those too facts in mind a draw is most likely. Draw - Result that favours no one really, but it should ensure Palermo's safety for next season.
Catania's conqueror's Cagliari host Chievo as they look to ensure safety for next season. The win over Catania on Tuesday was vital to Cagliari's hopes of staying in the Serie A, and has left them 6 points above the drop. Despite their win in midweek their form remains inconsistent, with just two wins in their last 5. Chievo suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Atalanta in mid week but remain comfortable in mid table, however they haven't won any of their last 3 games. Cagliari are in good form at home, unbeaten in their last 4 and that could prove crucial here. With Cagliari needed the points and having home advantage they are taken to win this one, but it will be close. Home Win - Chievo don't enjoy their trip to Sardinia as they are beaten by a Cagliari side desperate to secure safety.
To teams that are in no danger of being relegated meet on Saturday evening as Roma host Napoli in a game that could decide where the final Champions League place goes. Roma are currently four points behind 4th placed Napoli in 7th after losing 2-1 to Fiorentina on Wedneday. Luis Enrique's side have won just 2 of their last 5 losing the other 3. Napoli have been looking like their old selves in recent weeks with a back to back victories including a 2-0 win over Leece on Wednesday. Their attacking flair looks to have returned which is bad news for a shaky Roma defence that has conceded in each of their last six games. In Rome Napoli's record is poor and Roma do sport a good home record this season but Roma remain an enigma, seemingly impossible to predict. They will also be without Osvaldo for the game who was sent off for dissent against Fiorentina. Very tricky but a draw looks a likely result. Draw - An entertaining game but the result will please Napoli much more.
The first of Sunday's games sees a solid Bologna host Genoa. Bologna managed a decent 1-1 draw at Siena on Wednesday and remain rooted in mid table after going unbeaten for four games. Genoa meanwhile continue to dance with relegation after a 1-0 defeat at the the hands of AC Milan in midweek, Genoa now haven't won in their last 14 league games. They are just a point off the relegation zone. Genoa do have more to play for but Bologna should be too much for them in their current vein. Home Win - Bologna continue their good run and put Genoa into deep trouble.
Siena will look to build on their draw against Bologna when they host AC Milan who beat Genoa last time out. Siena's draw left them in 10th and secure despite not winning any of their last 3 games. Milan meanwhile continue to chase Juventus and remain 3 points off The Old Lady after their victory over Genoa. They have suffered a little wobble in pursuit of the title and have only won 2 of their last 4. That said Siena have a poor record against Milan, who have beaten them in the previous six meetings between the sides. Milan are certainly not playing with all guns blazing but they are taken to do what champions do, win games even if they don't play well. Away Win - Siena will test Milan but the visitors should edge it.
Novara host Milan's nearest rivals in the form of Juventus. Novara sprang the shock of mid week beating Lazio 2-1, their first win in 5 games, despite this they remain 8 points from safety and could be relegated this weekend if results don't go their way. Juve recorded a tight 1-0 win to relegate Cesena and maintain their place at the top on Wednesday. They have now won 7 consecutive league games. It would be a huge shock if Novara got anything out of this given Juve's current run and that they still haven't been beaten this season. Away Win - Juve will either cruise through this or grind out a result, either way they will win to doom Novara.
Leece host Parma as they look to get themselves out of the relegation zone. Leece's 2-0 defeat to Napoli in midweek was their first in six league games and they remain just a point away from Genoa and safety. They face a Parma side in good form, winning all of their last 3 including a 2-1 victory over Palermo on Wednesday. Recent meetings between the sides show a dominant Parma trend, particularly at Leece. But with Leece fighting for their top flight life they should test an in form Parma and a draw looks likely. Draw - Leece again lack that little bit of quality that sees them over the line as a solid Parma hold them to a draw.
An inconsistent Atalanta host Fiorentina as they look to build on a 1-0 victory against Chievo. Atalanta have won 3 and lost 3 of their last 6 Serie A games and remain a difficult team to predict. Fiorentina look to have fully recovered from their mid season disaster and are now unbeaten in four games, including victories over AC Milan and Roma in recent weeks. Away from home Fiorentina have looked particularly good in recent weeks and they are taken to win this battle and put to bed any thoughts of relegation. Away Win - Fiorentina continue their good run against an enigma of an Atalanta side.
Inter host Cesena in what looks like sure fire home win. Cesena's loss to Juventus saw them relegated on Wednesday and they haven't won in 16 games, they have only won 4 games this season. Furthermore they have only beaten Inter once, back in 1975. Inter meanwhile continue their resurgence under Andrea Stramaccioni, unbeaten since he took charge they beat Udinese 3-1 on Wednesday too keep his 100% record. Inter are just two points off Napoli in 4th and could still make the final Champions League spot, something no one would have predicted a few months ago. Home Win - Should be straightforward for a reborn Inter side against a relegated Cesena.
The final game of this round of games sees two teams who have their sights firmly set on European football next season, Udinese and Lazio. Both were beaten in mid week, by Inter and Novara respectfully and both will be keen to return to winning ways here. Udinese have won just one of their last 5 and have slipped to 5th, 2 points behind Napoli and 3 behind Lazio. Lazio's shock defeat to Novara sees them remain in third but the chasing pack is closing on them, with just 5 points separating them from 7th placed Roma. They too have won just one of their last 5. Two teams then in dire need of a result, Udinese have a good record against Lazio and have home advantage, that could see them have just enough to take this one. Home Win - It promises to be tight but Udinese have been good at home all season and should beat a struggling Lazio who hate visiting Udine.
Selected Match Betting:
Udinese, Juve, Fiorentina, AC Milan, Bologna, Inter and Cagliari - All To Win : 76/1
Juve V Novara: Borriello To Score First : 4/1
Roma V Napoli: Correct Score 2-2: 10/1
Enjoy The Games!
We begin at The Stadio Renzo Barbera, as Palermo host Catania. Palermo are on a poor run at the moment, winning just one of their last five and were beaten 2-1 at home to Parma on Wednesday. They remain six points above the drop and its unlikely they will be relegated put Palermo fans could certainly sleep easier if their side were to pick up some points in this one. Their opponents, Catania were pushed for a European spot but a 3-0 defeat to Cagliari on Tuesday means they remain 8th 4 points behind Roma. Catania too have only won one of their last 5 games. This being the Sicilian derby expect a high tempo affair but given the form of both sides don't expect a classic. In Palermo Catania have won just once, and given their away form that is record is unlikely to change here. Palermo's recent record against their rival's is poor and with those too facts in mind a draw is most likely. Draw - Result that favours no one really, but it should ensure Palermo's safety for next season.
Catania's conqueror's Cagliari host Chievo as they look to ensure safety for next season. The win over Catania on Tuesday was vital to Cagliari's hopes of staying in the Serie A, and has left them 6 points above the drop. Despite their win in midweek their form remains inconsistent, with just two wins in their last 5. Chievo suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Atalanta in mid week but remain comfortable in mid table, however they haven't won any of their last 3 games. Cagliari are in good form at home, unbeaten in their last 4 and that could prove crucial here. With Cagliari needed the points and having home advantage they are taken to win this one, but it will be close. Home Win - Chievo don't enjoy their trip to Sardinia as they are beaten by a Cagliari side desperate to secure safety.
To teams that are in no danger of being relegated meet on Saturday evening as Roma host Napoli in a game that could decide where the final Champions League place goes. Roma are currently four points behind 4th placed Napoli in 7th after losing 2-1 to Fiorentina on Wedneday. Luis Enrique's side have won just 2 of their last 5 losing the other 3. Napoli have been looking like their old selves in recent weeks with a back to back victories including a 2-0 win over Leece on Wednesday. Their attacking flair looks to have returned which is bad news for a shaky Roma defence that has conceded in each of their last six games. In Rome Napoli's record is poor and Roma do sport a good home record this season but Roma remain an enigma, seemingly impossible to predict. They will also be without Osvaldo for the game who was sent off for dissent against Fiorentina. Very tricky but a draw looks a likely result. Draw - An entertaining game but the result will please Napoli much more.
The first of Sunday's games sees a solid Bologna host Genoa. Bologna managed a decent 1-1 draw at Siena on Wednesday and remain rooted in mid table after going unbeaten for four games. Genoa meanwhile continue to dance with relegation after a 1-0 defeat at the the hands of AC Milan in midweek, Genoa now haven't won in their last 14 league games. They are just a point off the relegation zone. Genoa do have more to play for but Bologna should be too much for them in their current vein. Home Win - Bologna continue their good run and put Genoa into deep trouble.
Siena will look to build on their draw against Bologna when they host AC Milan who beat Genoa last time out. Siena's draw left them in 10th and secure despite not winning any of their last 3 games. Milan meanwhile continue to chase Juventus and remain 3 points off The Old Lady after their victory over Genoa. They have suffered a little wobble in pursuit of the title and have only won 2 of their last 4. That said Siena have a poor record against Milan, who have beaten them in the previous six meetings between the sides. Milan are certainly not playing with all guns blazing but they are taken to do what champions do, win games even if they don't play well. Away Win - Siena will test Milan but the visitors should edge it.
Novara host Milan's nearest rivals in the form of Juventus. Novara sprang the shock of mid week beating Lazio 2-1, their first win in 5 games, despite this they remain 8 points from safety and could be relegated this weekend if results don't go their way. Juve recorded a tight 1-0 win to relegate Cesena and maintain their place at the top on Wednesday. They have now won 7 consecutive league games. It would be a huge shock if Novara got anything out of this given Juve's current run and that they still haven't been beaten this season. Away Win - Juve will either cruise through this or grind out a result, either way they will win to doom Novara.
Leece host Parma as they look to get themselves out of the relegation zone. Leece's 2-0 defeat to Napoli in midweek was their first in six league games and they remain just a point away from Genoa and safety. They face a Parma side in good form, winning all of their last 3 including a 2-1 victory over Palermo on Wednesday. Recent meetings between the sides show a dominant Parma trend, particularly at Leece. But with Leece fighting for their top flight life they should test an in form Parma and a draw looks likely. Draw - Leece again lack that little bit of quality that sees them over the line as a solid Parma hold them to a draw.
An inconsistent Atalanta host Fiorentina as they look to build on a 1-0 victory against Chievo. Atalanta have won 3 and lost 3 of their last 6 Serie A games and remain a difficult team to predict. Fiorentina look to have fully recovered from their mid season disaster and are now unbeaten in four games, including victories over AC Milan and Roma in recent weeks. Away from home Fiorentina have looked particularly good in recent weeks and they are taken to win this battle and put to bed any thoughts of relegation. Away Win - Fiorentina continue their good run against an enigma of an Atalanta side.
Inter host Cesena in what looks like sure fire home win. Cesena's loss to Juventus saw them relegated on Wednesday and they haven't won in 16 games, they have only won 4 games this season. Furthermore they have only beaten Inter once, back in 1975. Inter meanwhile continue their resurgence under Andrea Stramaccioni, unbeaten since he took charge they beat Udinese 3-1 on Wednesday too keep his 100% record. Inter are just two points off Napoli in 4th and could still make the final Champions League spot, something no one would have predicted a few months ago. Home Win - Should be straightforward for a reborn Inter side against a relegated Cesena.
The final game of this round of games sees two teams who have their sights firmly set on European football next season, Udinese and Lazio. Both were beaten in mid week, by Inter and Novara respectfully and both will be keen to return to winning ways here. Udinese have won just one of their last 5 and have slipped to 5th, 2 points behind Napoli and 3 behind Lazio. Lazio's shock defeat to Novara sees them remain in third but the chasing pack is closing on them, with just 5 points separating them from 7th placed Roma. They too have won just one of their last 5. Two teams then in dire need of a result, Udinese have a good record against Lazio and have home advantage, that could see them have just enough to take this one. Home Win - It promises to be tight but Udinese have been good at home all season and should beat a struggling Lazio who hate visiting Udine.
Selected Match Betting:
Udinese, Juve, Fiorentina, AC Milan, Bologna, Inter and Cagliari - All To Win : 76/1
Juve V Novara: Borriello To Score First : 4/1
Roma V Napoli: Correct Score 2-2: 10/1
Enjoy The Games!
Tuesday, 24 April 2012
Matchweek 34 Preview - Tuesday & Wednesday Games
After another eventful weekend in the Serie A we are treated to a full mid week fixture list spread over Tuesday and Wednesday.
The first of two games on Tuesday sees Cagliari host Catania. Cagliari's 3-0 defeat to Parma on Saturday puts them deeper into relegation territory, they now sit just 3 points above the drop and without a win in 3 games. Catania kept their European dreams alive with a 2-0 win over Atalanta, though that remains their only win in 5 games. Both teams still have something to play for that will make for an entertaining game but it is more than likely that this will end in a stalemate. Cagliari have home advantage but there is little doubt that Catania are the stronger side. Draw - An entertaining game but with a result that pleases nobody.
Atalanta will be looking to bounce back from that defeat to Catania when they host Chievo. The defeat to Catania was Atalanta's third in 5 games and they look like they could be involved in the relegation battle if they don't start picking up points. Their opponents gained a well earned 0-0 against Udinese and will be confident of getting back to winning ways here having drawn and lost their last two. The inconsistencies of the two sides are reflected in their league position, 14th and 9th respectively which makes this a tough one to call but given Chievo are playing well at the moment they get the vote. Away Win - Chievo add to Atalanta's woes.
Second bottom club Novara host Lazio in the first of 8 games on Wednesday as they look to avoid a third consecutive defeat. Novara are 11 points from safety and could still avoid the drop with 5 games to go but they will need to pick up wins, and they have only managed to win 5 times this season. They were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Napoli on Saturday. Their opponents Lazio were held to a 1-1 draw with third from bottom Leece, a disappointing result from their point of view but they still remain secure in third, 3 points ahead of Udinese. Its simply impossible to oppose Lazio here given the dire run Novara are on, expect a comfortable away win. Away Win - Lazio cruise past Novara who look set for relegation.
Lazio's frustrators Leece face a tricky home team against a Napoli side that re found its form against Novara. Out of those in the bottom three Leece look far the strongest and expect Napoli to be given a real test against a side that in unbeaten in their last 5. That said Napoli should outclass Leece, particularly offensively, it will be tight but Napoli should take all 3 points. Away Win - Napoli are still desperate to get a Champions League spot and will be driven by that to overcome a stubborn Leece team.
In form Parma travel to Palermo as they look to record a third consecutive victory. After sweeping aside Cagliari 3-0, Parma now look safe in mid table after flirting with the relegation zone. Palermo in contrast haven't won in 3 and could only manage a 2-2 draw with bottom club Cesena at the weekend. Parma haven't been great on the road this season but they have put in some sterling performances in recent weeks and that should make them hard to beat against a Palermo side that lacks consistency. Away Win - Parma dispel any thoughts of relegation and look only up as they overtake their opponents in the table with a decent win.
Inter travel to The Stadio Friuli to face Udinese with both teams having drawn their last games 0-0 against Fiorentina and Chievo respectively. Udinese have been struggling of late with just one win in their last five but back in Udine, the scene of their last win they will feel confident of getting a result. Inter were perhaps fortunate to get a draw against Fiorentina after keeper Julio Cesar fouled a Fiorentina attacked in the penalty area, only to escape with a yellow card, he then saved the resulting penalty much to the fury of Fiorentina. Inter remain unbeaten under Andrea Stramaccioni but this is by far his hardest game to date and expect him to face defeat for the first time here. Udinese's imperious home form should see them take all 3 points in this one, only AC Milan have beaten them at home all season. Home Win - Fortress Friuli continues as Udinese do severe damage to Inter's European hopes.
A mid table battle sees Siena take on Bologna in what looks like an interesting contest. Siena beat a Genoa team in disarray 4-1 on Sunday, they have now lost just one of their last 5. Bologna came agonisingly close to beating AC Milan in the San Siro but a late Ibrahimovic goal saw it end 1-1. Bologna have won just one of their last 5. The suspecion here is to side with Siena, given the energy Bologna lost trying to contain Milan and that Siena have a good home record this season. Bologna are capable, as they showed against Milan but Siena are simply playing better at the moment and should take this. Home Win - Siena continue their good run at the expense of a tired Bologna.
Roma host Fiorentina as they look to keep their European dream alive. Roma's evil twin yet again made an appearance on Sunday night as they were hammered 4-0 by Juve, with keeper Martin Steklenburg again seeing red, although it did appear to be a harsh decision to send the Dutchman off. Roma have won 2 of their last 5, losing the other three. They simply play really well or dreadfully, though at home they have shown a level of consistency that could continue again in this one. Fiorentina are unbeaten in 3 after drawing with Inter but they are struggling to score goals which will play into the hands of Roma's shaky defence. The Viola won the reverse fixture 3-2 with Roma ending the game with 9 men, providing Roma keep all 11 on the pitch this time they should register another home win by utilising the attacking prowess they have at their disposal. Home Win - Roma continue in pursuit of a European place with a win spurred on by the Olimpico faithful.
Bottom play top as Cesena host Juventus. Cesena must win or hope that other results go their way to stay in the division, and having won just 4 games this season the odds are stacked against them beating unbeaten Juventus. Cesena are unbeaten in their last 5, but have drawn all of them including a 2-2 with Palermo at the weekend. In contrast Juve have won all of their last 5 and dismantled Roma 4-0 last time out. Cesena do pose a small threat through former Juve man Adrian Mutu but the way The Oldy Lady is playing at the moment this shouldn't be much of a contest. The best defence in the league, Juve's meets the worst attack in the league, Cesena. That's just one of a host of stats against Cesena. Away Win - People in Turin will be putting their houses on a win for their team in this one, Juve comfortably beat Cesena to doom them to relegation and take another step toward the title.
AC Milan host Genoa in the final match of matchweek 34 knowing only a win will do if they are to keep the title race going. Milan were lucky not to get beat against a resilient Bologna at the weekend, eventually drawing 1-1. Milan appear to be faltering, winning just one of their last 4 games but Genoa are in disarray. They were comfortably beaten 4-1 by Siena on Sunday which was subjected to some bizarre scenes where fans invaded the pitch during the game to take shirts off the Genoa players, claiming they were not fit to wear the red and blue jersey. The disturbances finally ceased and the game was completed. Almost immediately after the game Alberto Malesini, Genoa's manager was sacked, he had only taken charge at the start of the month and becomes Serie A's 18th managerial change this season. Genoa have been ordered by the Italian FA to play their next two home fixtures behind closed doors such was the severity of the disturbances. With all this going on its unlikely Genoa are going to be well prepared to face a Milan side who need to win and most probably will. Home Win - Milan keep the title race going and plunge Genoa deeper into trouble
Selected Match Betting:
Napoli, Lazio, Juve, Milan, Siena, Udinese & Roma - All To Win : 47/1
Roma V Fiorentina - Roma Win 3-1 : 10/1
Cesena V Juve - Del Piero Last Goalscorer: 3/1
Enjoy The Games!
The first of two games on Tuesday sees Cagliari host Catania. Cagliari's 3-0 defeat to Parma on Saturday puts them deeper into relegation territory, they now sit just 3 points above the drop and without a win in 3 games. Catania kept their European dreams alive with a 2-0 win over Atalanta, though that remains their only win in 5 games. Both teams still have something to play for that will make for an entertaining game but it is more than likely that this will end in a stalemate. Cagliari have home advantage but there is little doubt that Catania are the stronger side. Draw - An entertaining game but with a result that pleases nobody.
Atalanta will be looking to bounce back from that defeat to Catania when they host Chievo. The defeat to Catania was Atalanta's third in 5 games and they look like they could be involved in the relegation battle if they don't start picking up points. Their opponents gained a well earned 0-0 against Udinese and will be confident of getting back to winning ways here having drawn and lost their last two. The inconsistencies of the two sides are reflected in their league position, 14th and 9th respectively which makes this a tough one to call but given Chievo are playing well at the moment they get the vote. Away Win - Chievo add to Atalanta's woes.
Second bottom club Novara host Lazio in the first of 8 games on Wednesday as they look to avoid a third consecutive defeat. Novara are 11 points from safety and could still avoid the drop with 5 games to go but they will need to pick up wins, and they have only managed to win 5 times this season. They were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Napoli on Saturday. Their opponents Lazio were held to a 1-1 draw with third from bottom Leece, a disappointing result from their point of view but they still remain secure in third, 3 points ahead of Udinese. Its simply impossible to oppose Lazio here given the dire run Novara are on, expect a comfortable away win. Away Win - Lazio cruise past Novara who look set for relegation.
Lazio's frustrators Leece face a tricky home team against a Napoli side that re found its form against Novara. Out of those in the bottom three Leece look far the strongest and expect Napoli to be given a real test against a side that in unbeaten in their last 5. That said Napoli should outclass Leece, particularly offensively, it will be tight but Napoli should take all 3 points. Away Win - Napoli are still desperate to get a Champions League spot and will be driven by that to overcome a stubborn Leece team.
In form Parma travel to Palermo as they look to record a third consecutive victory. After sweeping aside Cagliari 3-0, Parma now look safe in mid table after flirting with the relegation zone. Palermo in contrast haven't won in 3 and could only manage a 2-2 draw with bottom club Cesena at the weekend. Parma haven't been great on the road this season but they have put in some sterling performances in recent weeks and that should make them hard to beat against a Palermo side that lacks consistency. Away Win - Parma dispel any thoughts of relegation and look only up as they overtake their opponents in the table with a decent win.
Inter travel to The Stadio Friuli to face Udinese with both teams having drawn their last games 0-0 against Fiorentina and Chievo respectively. Udinese have been struggling of late with just one win in their last five but back in Udine, the scene of their last win they will feel confident of getting a result. Inter were perhaps fortunate to get a draw against Fiorentina after keeper Julio Cesar fouled a Fiorentina attacked in the penalty area, only to escape with a yellow card, he then saved the resulting penalty much to the fury of Fiorentina. Inter remain unbeaten under Andrea Stramaccioni but this is by far his hardest game to date and expect him to face defeat for the first time here. Udinese's imperious home form should see them take all 3 points in this one, only AC Milan have beaten them at home all season. Home Win - Fortress Friuli continues as Udinese do severe damage to Inter's European hopes.
A mid table battle sees Siena take on Bologna in what looks like an interesting contest. Siena beat a Genoa team in disarray 4-1 on Sunday, they have now lost just one of their last 5. Bologna came agonisingly close to beating AC Milan in the San Siro but a late Ibrahimovic goal saw it end 1-1. Bologna have won just one of their last 5. The suspecion here is to side with Siena, given the energy Bologna lost trying to contain Milan and that Siena have a good home record this season. Bologna are capable, as they showed against Milan but Siena are simply playing better at the moment and should take this. Home Win - Siena continue their good run at the expense of a tired Bologna.
Roma host Fiorentina as they look to keep their European dream alive. Roma's evil twin yet again made an appearance on Sunday night as they were hammered 4-0 by Juve, with keeper Martin Steklenburg again seeing red, although it did appear to be a harsh decision to send the Dutchman off. Roma have won 2 of their last 5, losing the other three. They simply play really well or dreadfully, though at home they have shown a level of consistency that could continue again in this one. Fiorentina are unbeaten in 3 after drawing with Inter but they are struggling to score goals which will play into the hands of Roma's shaky defence. The Viola won the reverse fixture 3-2 with Roma ending the game with 9 men, providing Roma keep all 11 on the pitch this time they should register another home win by utilising the attacking prowess they have at their disposal. Home Win - Roma continue in pursuit of a European place with a win spurred on by the Olimpico faithful.
Bottom play top as Cesena host Juventus. Cesena must win or hope that other results go their way to stay in the division, and having won just 4 games this season the odds are stacked against them beating unbeaten Juventus. Cesena are unbeaten in their last 5, but have drawn all of them including a 2-2 with Palermo at the weekend. In contrast Juve have won all of their last 5 and dismantled Roma 4-0 last time out. Cesena do pose a small threat through former Juve man Adrian Mutu but the way The Oldy Lady is playing at the moment this shouldn't be much of a contest. The best defence in the league, Juve's meets the worst attack in the league, Cesena. That's just one of a host of stats against Cesena. Away Win - People in Turin will be putting their houses on a win for their team in this one, Juve comfortably beat Cesena to doom them to relegation and take another step toward the title.
AC Milan host Genoa in the final match of matchweek 34 knowing only a win will do if they are to keep the title race going. Milan were lucky not to get beat against a resilient Bologna at the weekend, eventually drawing 1-1. Milan appear to be faltering, winning just one of their last 4 games but Genoa are in disarray. They were comfortably beaten 4-1 by Siena on Sunday which was subjected to some bizarre scenes where fans invaded the pitch during the game to take shirts off the Genoa players, claiming they were not fit to wear the red and blue jersey. The disturbances finally ceased and the game was completed. Almost immediately after the game Alberto Malesini, Genoa's manager was sacked, he had only taken charge at the start of the month and becomes Serie A's 18th managerial change this season. Genoa have been ordered by the Italian FA to play their next two home fixtures behind closed doors such was the severity of the disturbances. With all this going on its unlikely Genoa are going to be well prepared to face a Milan side who need to win and most probably will. Home Win - Milan keep the title race going and plunge Genoa deeper into trouble
Selected Match Betting:
Napoli, Lazio, Juve, Milan, Siena, Udinese & Roma - All To Win : 47/1
Roma V Fiorentina - Roma Win 3-1 : 10/1
Cesena V Juve - Del Piero Last Goalscorer: 3/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 20 April 2012
Matchweek 33 Preview - Saturday & Sunday Games Plus A Tribute To Piermario Morosini
Last Saturday saw Italian football witness tragedy that just a few weeks ago could of easily befallen our own game. Piermario Morosini a 25 year old midfielder was playing for Liverno in Serie B on Saturday afternoon when he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest. All of Italy's remaining weekend fixtures were postponed shortly after Morosini's death was announced.
Morosini was an emerging talent in Italian football, he was on loan at Liverno from Udinese and he had played for Italy at Under 21 level. But putting football aside Morosini was an extrodinary young man. Having seen his brother commit suicide and his mother and father pass Morosini was left to care for his severely disabled sister, Maria Clara. His close friend and Udinese team mate Antonio Di Natale stated this week that Maria was Piermario's life and that he dedicated all his time and money to her. Udinese have issued a statement this week saying that will pay for Maria's care for the rest of her life.
Morosini's funeral was held in his home town of Bergamo on Thursday. Thousands of fans from his first and local club, Atalanta lined the streets along side Liverno and Udinese fans to pay tribute.
In a country that is notorious for its footballing divisions it is great to see the whole Italian football community unite to morn the death of such a young and talented player.
An inquest into Morosini's death has been announced to see if he could of been saved in a similar manner to which Fabrice Muamba was a month ago. But the results of that and the action that the Italian F.A take on its results are for another day. This week, and for many more weeks the focus in Italian Football and in the wider footballing community will be on the loss of not only a talented footballer but on the loss of an exceptional young man. My thoughts are with his friends and family.
There is a full fixture list in the Serie A this weekend, and all games are expected to go ahead. There will be a moments silence before each game in memory of Piermario Morosini. There are five games being held this Saturday beginning with Parma host Cagliari. Neither side are safe from the drop just yet with Parma with both teams just 4 points above the drop zone and sitting in 15th and 14th respectively. Parma's 2-0 win over Novara 9 days ago could prove crucial in their bid to survive after winning just once in 4 attempts before that victory. 8 days ago Cagliari were beaten 1-0 by Bologna to plunge them back into the relegation fold. They have managed just two wins in their last five. There is hope for the Sardinian's with their side boasting a good record against Parma, an unbeaten run that stretches 7 matches. With both sides struggling its a difficult game to call, Cagliari may just edge it but the most likely outcome is a draw. Draw - Two teams who can't afford to lose scrap out a low scoring draw.
Udinese travel to Verona in hope of ending their disastrous run that saw them fall away in the race for the title and if it continues will cost them a European place. Francesco Guidolin's men have won just one of their last five and were beaten 3-1 by Roma last time out. Their hosts remain comfortably in mid table despite losing 1-0 to AC Milan, their first defeat in 5. Udinese have a good record against Chievo but their away form is atrocious at the moment, losing 3 of their last 4. That said Udinese have a lot more to play for and that could well be crucial. The suspecion is despite Chievo's decent run and Udinese's poor one, if Udinese put in a good performance they will prevail here. Away Win - Udinese need to win and that will spur them onto a narrow victory over Chievo.
Another team in dire need of a return to form are Napoli and they host second bottom Novara in what is a must win for both teams. Napoli have not won in the league in their last four games, including a shock 3-1 defeat to Atalanta last Wednesday. They will also be without Ezequiel Lavezzi for this one, removing one of their main goalscoring threats. Novara too have not won in 4 and remain 11 points from safety after losing to Parma. The history between the two sides reads in Novara's favour however they have only ever played each other once since the 1950's which was in the 1-1 reverse fixture this season. Like Udinese its hard to see Napoli continuing on such a poor run given the talent they possess in their ranks. Novara will certainly test them but with their situation looking more and more bleak their confidence will be low. Away Win - Napoli bounce back against a Novara side who look set for relegation.
Saturday's last game sees a mid table battle as Catania face Atalanta. Vincenzo Montella's Catania suffered a surprise loss last time out as they were beaten 2-1 by Leece, they have now lost 2 in a row and are without a win in 4 games. Atalanta meanwhile added another name to their list of triumphs this season as they beat Napoli 3-1. They remain inconsistent however, winning just two of their last 5. At this stage of the season it is very difficult to call these mid table bouts and given the inconsistency of both teams a draw is the safest option. Draw - Two sides with nothing to play for other than pride play out an entertaining draw.
Sunday's first of six games sees Fiorentina host Inter at The Stadio Artemio Franchi. Fiorentina were unable to build on their great win over AC Milan as they drew 0-0 with Palermo 9 days ago. They AC Milan victory remains their only win in 5 games and they hover just 3 points off the relegation zone. Inter remain in 7th after beating Siena 2-1 a result that saw Andrea Stramaccioni's unbeaten run in charge continue. Inter will also be boosted by the return of playmaker Wesley Sneijder. Fiorentina haven't beaten Inter in 11 attempts and its unlikely that will change here given the form of both clubs. Fiorentina's win over Milan showed that they can beat the big teams but Milan were poor that day and their city rivals are unlikely to make the same mistake. Away win - Inter's new manager continues his unbeaten run as Fiorentina crash to another defeat which puts them in real trouble.
Bottom, and seemingly doomed Cesena host 11th placed Palermo as they seek to give themselves any chance at avoiding the drop. A 1-1 draw with Genoa last weekend means that Cesena have still only won 4 games all season, they are 15 points from safety and could be all but mathematically relegated this weekend. Palermo have won just one of their last 5 after a 0-0 draw with Fiorentina. It's not hard to envisage a similar score line here with Palermo having one just once on the road all season and Cesena drawing all of their last 4. Cesena will push for the win, they simply have too but Palermo will but up enough resistance to at least leave with a point. Draw - Cesena's lack of quality is again shown as they fair to beat a side that are dismal away from home.
Genoa will be looking to end their win draught that stretches back 11 games as they host Siena. Genoa's draw with Cesena highlighted again their inability to win see games out and keep clean sheets. They are just two points above the drop zone and are in a real battle to stay up. Their opponents sit in 13th and should be safe for another season, their 2-1 defeat to Inter was their first in four games. Genoa haven't won any of their last five home matches but Siena have only won twice away from home all season. Again home advantage looks the key here and although it will be tight Genoa have more to play for than Siena and they are taken to take all 3 points. Home Win - Genao scrap to avoid the drop by beating Siena in what looks set to be a high scoring affair.
Bologna travel to The San Siro to play title contenders AC Milan. Bologna won their last outing 1-0 against Cagliari, gaining their first win in 5 games. They have a poor record against Milan however, losing the last 6 meetings between the two. Milan returned to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Chievo, they remain injury stricken with Boateng, Pata, Silva, Ambrosini and Roma all set to miss this game. However they boast the best attack in the league, lead by the league's top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic, he is expected to be supported by Robinho. It is the strength of the Milan squad that will be tested here but with those two world class strikers upfront they remain impossible to oppose. Home Win - Milan cruise past Genoa to keep the pressure on Juventus at the top of the table.
Third from the top plays third from the bottom as Lazio host Leece. Lazio remain unpredictable with form figures of lose,win,lose,win,lose after being beaten 2-1 by Juve. Leece in contrast are on a good run, unbeaten in 5, after beating Catania 2-1 they have given themselves a real chance of survival and are just two points off survival. Both teams will be desperate for points which may play to Lazio's strengths if the game opens up. Also at home Lazio are largely consistent losing just one of their last 6. This represents a really tough task for Serse Cosmi's Leece and they may well be up to it but its Lazio who have more solid claims and they should continue their bizarre form figures. Home Win - Home advantage pays dividends as Lazio strengthen their grip on third place.
The game of this weekend could decide were the title is destined as Juventus face arguably their toughest assignment in the run is as they host Roma. Juve remain unbeaten and a point clear at the top of Serie A after beating Lazio 2-1. They have won all of their last 4 games, and have only been beaten by Roma once in the last 13 meetings between the sides. Luis Enrique's Roma are still eyeing third place and are just 4 points behind Lazio after a 3-1 victory over Udinese. Totti is expected to be fit but Roma's defencive problems remain and that could be their downfall here. For Juve, the former Roma duo of Vucinic and Borriello are expected to feature. Roma have blown hot and cold all season and given their poor record against Juve it is difficult to make a case for them, despite their excellent win over Udinese. Juve remain imperious particularly defensively, sporting the best in the league. In attack too The Old Lady have re found form and one suspects the damage will be done well before Totti & Co even have a chance to test that defence. Home win - It may well be tight or a rout depending on which Roma turn up but Juve should continue their pursuit of the league title here.
Selected Match Betting:
Udinese, Napoli, Inter, Genoa, Milan & Lazio - All To Win: 27/1
Milan V Bologna - Correct Score 5-0: 16/1
Napoli V Novara - Cavani Hat-Trick: 9/1
Enjoy The Games!
Morosini was an emerging talent in Italian football, he was on loan at Liverno from Udinese and he had played for Italy at Under 21 level. But putting football aside Morosini was an extrodinary young man. Having seen his brother commit suicide and his mother and father pass Morosini was left to care for his severely disabled sister, Maria Clara. His close friend and Udinese team mate Antonio Di Natale stated this week that Maria was Piermario's life and that he dedicated all his time and money to her. Udinese have issued a statement this week saying that will pay for Maria's care for the rest of her life.
Morosini's funeral was held in his home town of Bergamo on Thursday. Thousands of fans from his first and local club, Atalanta lined the streets along side Liverno and Udinese fans to pay tribute.
In a country that is notorious for its footballing divisions it is great to see the whole Italian football community unite to morn the death of such a young and talented player.
An inquest into Morosini's death has been announced to see if he could of been saved in a similar manner to which Fabrice Muamba was a month ago. But the results of that and the action that the Italian F.A take on its results are for another day. This week, and for many more weeks the focus in Italian Football and in the wider footballing community will be on the loss of not only a talented footballer but on the loss of an exceptional young man. My thoughts are with his friends and family.
There is a full fixture list in the Serie A this weekend, and all games are expected to go ahead. There will be a moments silence before each game in memory of Piermario Morosini. There are five games being held this Saturday beginning with Parma host Cagliari. Neither side are safe from the drop just yet with Parma with both teams just 4 points above the drop zone and sitting in 15th and 14th respectively. Parma's 2-0 win over Novara 9 days ago could prove crucial in their bid to survive after winning just once in 4 attempts before that victory. 8 days ago Cagliari were beaten 1-0 by Bologna to plunge them back into the relegation fold. They have managed just two wins in their last five. There is hope for the Sardinian's with their side boasting a good record against Parma, an unbeaten run that stretches 7 matches. With both sides struggling its a difficult game to call, Cagliari may just edge it but the most likely outcome is a draw. Draw - Two teams who can't afford to lose scrap out a low scoring draw.
Udinese travel to Verona in hope of ending their disastrous run that saw them fall away in the race for the title and if it continues will cost them a European place. Francesco Guidolin's men have won just one of their last five and were beaten 3-1 by Roma last time out. Their hosts remain comfortably in mid table despite losing 1-0 to AC Milan, their first defeat in 5. Udinese have a good record against Chievo but their away form is atrocious at the moment, losing 3 of their last 4. That said Udinese have a lot more to play for and that could well be crucial. The suspecion is despite Chievo's decent run and Udinese's poor one, if Udinese put in a good performance they will prevail here. Away Win - Udinese need to win and that will spur them onto a narrow victory over Chievo.
Another team in dire need of a return to form are Napoli and they host second bottom Novara in what is a must win for both teams. Napoli have not won in the league in their last four games, including a shock 3-1 defeat to Atalanta last Wednesday. They will also be without Ezequiel Lavezzi for this one, removing one of their main goalscoring threats. Novara too have not won in 4 and remain 11 points from safety after losing to Parma. The history between the two sides reads in Novara's favour however they have only ever played each other once since the 1950's which was in the 1-1 reverse fixture this season. Like Udinese its hard to see Napoli continuing on such a poor run given the talent they possess in their ranks. Novara will certainly test them but with their situation looking more and more bleak their confidence will be low. Away Win - Napoli bounce back against a Novara side who look set for relegation.
Saturday's last game sees a mid table battle as Catania face Atalanta. Vincenzo Montella's Catania suffered a surprise loss last time out as they were beaten 2-1 by Leece, they have now lost 2 in a row and are without a win in 4 games. Atalanta meanwhile added another name to their list of triumphs this season as they beat Napoli 3-1. They remain inconsistent however, winning just two of their last 5. At this stage of the season it is very difficult to call these mid table bouts and given the inconsistency of both teams a draw is the safest option. Draw - Two sides with nothing to play for other than pride play out an entertaining draw.
Sunday's first of six games sees Fiorentina host Inter at The Stadio Artemio Franchi. Fiorentina were unable to build on their great win over AC Milan as they drew 0-0 with Palermo 9 days ago. They AC Milan victory remains their only win in 5 games and they hover just 3 points off the relegation zone. Inter remain in 7th after beating Siena 2-1 a result that saw Andrea Stramaccioni's unbeaten run in charge continue. Inter will also be boosted by the return of playmaker Wesley Sneijder. Fiorentina haven't beaten Inter in 11 attempts and its unlikely that will change here given the form of both clubs. Fiorentina's win over Milan showed that they can beat the big teams but Milan were poor that day and their city rivals are unlikely to make the same mistake. Away win - Inter's new manager continues his unbeaten run as Fiorentina crash to another defeat which puts them in real trouble.
Bottom, and seemingly doomed Cesena host 11th placed Palermo as they seek to give themselves any chance at avoiding the drop. A 1-1 draw with Genoa last weekend means that Cesena have still only won 4 games all season, they are 15 points from safety and could be all but mathematically relegated this weekend. Palermo have won just one of their last 5 after a 0-0 draw with Fiorentina. It's not hard to envisage a similar score line here with Palermo having one just once on the road all season and Cesena drawing all of their last 4. Cesena will push for the win, they simply have too but Palermo will but up enough resistance to at least leave with a point. Draw - Cesena's lack of quality is again shown as they fair to beat a side that are dismal away from home.
Genoa will be looking to end their win draught that stretches back 11 games as they host Siena. Genoa's draw with Cesena highlighted again their inability to win see games out and keep clean sheets. They are just two points above the drop zone and are in a real battle to stay up. Their opponents sit in 13th and should be safe for another season, their 2-1 defeat to Inter was their first in four games. Genoa haven't won any of their last five home matches but Siena have only won twice away from home all season. Again home advantage looks the key here and although it will be tight Genoa have more to play for than Siena and they are taken to take all 3 points. Home Win - Genao scrap to avoid the drop by beating Siena in what looks set to be a high scoring affair.
Bologna travel to The San Siro to play title contenders AC Milan. Bologna won their last outing 1-0 against Cagliari, gaining their first win in 5 games. They have a poor record against Milan however, losing the last 6 meetings between the two. Milan returned to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Chievo, they remain injury stricken with Boateng, Pata, Silva, Ambrosini and Roma all set to miss this game. However they boast the best attack in the league, lead by the league's top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic, he is expected to be supported by Robinho. It is the strength of the Milan squad that will be tested here but with those two world class strikers upfront they remain impossible to oppose. Home Win - Milan cruise past Genoa to keep the pressure on Juventus at the top of the table.
Third from the top plays third from the bottom as Lazio host Leece. Lazio remain unpredictable with form figures of lose,win,lose,win,lose after being beaten 2-1 by Juve. Leece in contrast are on a good run, unbeaten in 5, after beating Catania 2-1 they have given themselves a real chance of survival and are just two points off survival. Both teams will be desperate for points which may play to Lazio's strengths if the game opens up. Also at home Lazio are largely consistent losing just one of their last 6. This represents a really tough task for Serse Cosmi's Leece and they may well be up to it but its Lazio who have more solid claims and they should continue their bizarre form figures. Home Win - Home advantage pays dividends as Lazio strengthen their grip on third place.
The game of this weekend could decide were the title is destined as Juventus face arguably their toughest assignment in the run is as they host Roma. Juve remain unbeaten and a point clear at the top of Serie A after beating Lazio 2-1. They have won all of their last 4 games, and have only been beaten by Roma once in the last 13 meetings between the sides. Luis Enrique's Roma are still eyeing third place and are just 4 points behind Lazio after a 3-1 victory over Udinese. Totti is expected to be fit but Roma's defencive problems remain and that could be their downfall here. For Juve, the former Roma duo of Vucinic and Borriello are expected to feature. Roma have blown hot and cold all season and given their poor record against Juve it is difficult to make a case for them, despite their excellent win over Udinese. Juve remain imperious particularly defensively, sporting the best in the league. In attack too The Old Lady have re found form and one suspects the damage will be done well before Totti & Co even have a chance to test that defence. Home win - It may well be tight or a rout depending on which Roma turn up but Juve should continue their pursuit of the league title here.
Selected Match Betting:
Udinese, Napoli, Inter, Genoa, Milan & Lazio - All To Win: 27/1
Milan V Bologna - Correct Score 5-0: 16/1
Napoli V Novara - Cavani Hat-Trick: 9/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 13 April 2012
Matchweek 33 Preview - Saturday, Sunday & Monday Games
Round 33 of the Serie A runs over the course of 3 days this weekend beginning with the usual two matches on Saturday evening.
The early evening kick off sees second place AC Milan host Genoa. Milan squeezed past Chievo 1-0 on Tuesday to return to winning ways and ensure they remain just one points behind Juventus. Milan have now only lost one of their last 13 games. Genoa's miserable run continued in mid week with a 1-1 draw with bottom club Cesena. They are now just two points above the drop zone, and are in real danger of being relegated come the end of the season. Genoa have only won once in their last 12 games. Milan will certainly fancy their chances against a side that have only won four times in their entire history at the San Siro. Milan are suffering with injuries, Robiniho remains a doubt and Pato is out but they should still have enough to beat a Genoa side that are low on confidence and form. Home Win - Milan cruise past Genoa and ensure the title race continues.
Saturday's second game sees 4th placed Udinese host 7th placed Inter in a crucial match for both sides in the pursuit of European spots. Francesco Guidolin's Udinese were beaten 3-1 by Roma Wednesday, a result that leaves them just one point ahead of Roma and 3 ahead of Inter. Udinese have only won one of their last 5, but their home form is imperious with AC Milan the only team to win at the Stadi Fruili. Inter's recovery under Andrea Stramaccioni continued on Wednesday with a 2-1 victory over Siena, he remains unbeaten in the 3 games he has taken charge of Inter. That record could easily change here however with a combination of Udinese's great home form and Inter's poor away form. Udinese also won the reverse fixture earlier in the season and with the likes of Di Natale and Barreto sure to test a Inter defence that has looked shaky this season Inter look set to struggle. Home Win - Udinese's great home record continues as Inter falter again in both attack and defence.
The first of seven games on Sunday sees Novara face Lazio in what is a must win game for the home side. Wednesday's 2-0 defeat to fellow strugglers Parma has left Novara 11 points from safety, they now face a huge task to stay up, they have now only won one of their last 5. After beating Napoli last weekend Lazio's inconsistency yet again resurfaced as they were beaten 2-1 by Juventus. Lazio's form reads, loss-win-loss-win-loss in their last 5. Lazio are third in the table and their is little doubt who is the better side here but much depends on which Lazio turn up. Despite Lazio's poor record at Novara, the home sides dreadful form means that they should suffer another defeat here. Away Win - Lazio's evil twin doesn't make an appearence and they prove to much for a seemingly doomed Novara side.
Parma travel to Sicily to play Palermo as they look to secure Serie A football for next season. Their mid week victory of Novara saw Parma move four points clear of the relegation zone, they face a stiff task however against Palermo at a ground they have won only once at in their history. Palermo remain safe in 11 after a 0-0 draw at Fiorentina. They have only won once in their five games, including that draw. At this time of the season its hard to predict match ups like this with Parma seemingly having plenty to play for and Palermo having little. That said Parma's record in Sicily is so dismal that they can't be supported with any confidence, Palermo are a good outfit on their day and they should record a decent home win here. Home Win - Home advantage again pays dividends as Parma remain in a perilous position.
Bottom host top as Cesena play Juventus in what on paper looks a straightforward away win. Cesena's 1-1 draw with Genoa saw them strech their unbeaten run to four games but they remain rock bottom, 15 points from safety. Juve's solid 2-1 victory over Lazio saw them remain unbeaten and a point ahead of Milan at the top. The last 3 meetings between the sides have all ended in draws but the suspicion here is that Juventus in current form should take this. Antonio Conte's men appear to have found the winning thread again after a series of draws that nearly saw them gift Milan the league, they have now won 5 on the bounce. They should record win number 6 here against a side that are all but mathematically doomed to relegation. Away Win - The Old Lady's pursuit of the league title continues as they heap more misery on lowly Cesena.
13th play 12th as Siena host Bologna with both sides looking to ensure they do not get dragged into a relegation battle. Siena's 2-1 defeat to Inter was their first in 3 and they sport a good home record. Bologna's vital 1-0 win over Cagliari on Thursday was their first in 5 games and saw them move away from trouble. Traditionally this is a low scoring affair and it is likely that this will be a cagey affair with both sides certainly not wanting to lose. Their is little to choose between them and a draw is more than likely. Draw - Both sides cancel each other out in a low scoring draw.
Atalanta host Chievo as they look to build on their impressive win over Napoli in mid week. Atalanta's 3-1 victory in Naples was the shock result of Matchweek 32 and halted Atalanta's slide after losing two in a row. Chievo's 1-0 defeat to Milan on Tuesday saw them remain in 9th but they are now just two points ahead of Atalanta. Chievo haven't kept a clean sheet in 10 games and Atalanta's attack looks sure to test their defence. This looks set to be a tight mid table battle but home advantage in combination with a good attack and struggling Chievo defence Atalanta might just take this. Home win - a narrow home win for Atalanta against their mid table rivals.
Napoli travel to Leece as they look to bounce back to form after a run of 3 straight defeats including that 3-1 defeat to Atalanta on Wednesday. Walter Mazzarri's side are struggling both defensively and in attack and this represents a difficult task. Leece's great escape from the relegation zone remains on after a 2-1 victory over Catania saw them move to within 2 points of safety. They are now unbeaten in 5 games and have a good record against sides in the top half of the table, including dismantling Roma 4-2 last weekend. There is of course every chance that Napoli may re find form, they are simply too good a side to continue playing in the way they are, however this looks like a great opertunity for Leece to take another big scalp. Home Win - Leece continue their persuit to avoid the drop and Napoli continue their dismal run.
5th placed Roma will look to put the pressure on those above them with victory over Fiorentina on Sunday evening. Luis Enrique's side bounced back from their humiliation at Leece to beat Udinese 3-1, with Francesco Totti among the goals again. They have now won 3 of their last 5 and are just four points behind 3rd placed Lazio. Fiorentina failed to build on their great win against AC Milan last weekend as they were held to 0-0 draw by Palermo on Wednesday. They have won just one of their last 5 games. The reverse fixture saw Fiorentina run out 3-0 winners but Roma did have 3 men sent off in that game and providing there isn't a repeat of that Roma should take this. The difference that Totti and De Rossi make to this young Roma side remains stark and with both of them fit Roma look much more solid in all area's of the pitch. Furthermore Fiorentina's record in the capital is poor and overall their away form has been poor this season. Home Win - Totti & Co. look to secure a European spot with good home victory, Fiorentina remain in trouble just 3 points above the drop.
The final game of this round of matches sees a Monday evening fixture as Cagliari take on Catania. Cagliari's 1-0 defeat to Bologna on Thursday was their first defeat in 5 games and has left them in 14th, just out of trouble. Catania's 2-1 defeat to Leece on Wednesday means they are without a win in 4 games. Cagliar's home form is good and Catania have won just once in their last 8 visits to Sardinia and that could prove crucial here. Catania though have a knack of grinding out draws away from home and Vincenzo Montella's side will be wanting to push for European spot. A draw is by far the safest option in a game that could go either way. Draw - Two teams gain a result that pleases neither.
Selected Match Betting
Roma, Leece, Atalanta, Juventus, Palermo, Lazio, Udinese & Milan - All To Win: 150/1
Cesena V Juve - Juve Win 4-0: 10/1
AC Milan V Genoa - Ibrahmiovic To Score A Brace - 9/4
Enjoy The Games!
The early evening kick off sees second place AC Milan host Genoa. Milan squeezed past Chievo 1-0 on Tuesday to return to winning ways and ensure they remain just one points behind Juventus. Milan have now only lost one of their last 13 games. Genoa's miserable run continued in mid week with a 1-1 draw with bottom club Cesena. They are now just two points above the drop zone, and are in real danger of being relegated come the end of the season. Genoa have only won once in their last 12 games. Milan will certainly fancy their chances against a side that have only won four times in their entire history at the San Siro. Milan are suffering with injuries, Robiniho remains a doubt and Pato is out but they should still have enough to beat a Genoa side that are low on confidence and form. Home Win - Milan cruise past Genoa and ensure the title race continues.
Saturday's second game sees 4th placed Udinese host 7th placed Inter in a crucial match for both sides in the pursuit of European spots. Francesco Guidolin's Udinese were beaten 3-1 by Roma Wednesday, a result that leaves them just one point ahead of Roma and 3 ahead of Inter. Udinese have only won one of their last 5, but their home form is imperious with AC Milan the only team to win at the Stadi Fruili. Inter's recovery under Andrea Stramaccioni continued on Wednesday with a 2-1 victory over Siena, he remains unbeaten in the 3 games he has taken charge of Inter. That record could easily change here however with a combination of Udinese's great home form and Inter's poor away form. Udinese also won the reverse fixture earlier in the season and with the likes of Di Natale and Barreto sure to test a Inter defence that has looked shaky this season Inter look set to struggle. Home Win - Udinese's great home record continues as Inter falter again in both attack and defence.
The first of seven games on Sunday sees Novara face Lazio in what is a must win game for the home side. Wednesday's 2-0 defeat to fellow strugglers Parma has left Novara 11 points from safety, they now face a huge task to stay up, they have now only won one of their last 5. After beating Napoli last weekend Lazio's inconsistency yet again resurfaced as they were beaten 2-1 by Juventus. Lazio's form reads, loss-win-loss-win-loss in their last 5. Lazio are third in the table and their is little doubt who is the better side here but much depends on which Lazio turn up. Despite Lazio's poor record at Novara, the home sides dreadful form means that they should suffer another defeat here. Away Win - Lazio's evil twin doesn't make an appearence and they prove to much for a seemingly doomed Novara side.
Parma travel to Sicily to play Palermo as they look to secure Serie A football for next season. Their mid week victory of Novara saw Parma move four points clear of the relegation zone, they face a stiff task however against Palermo at a ground they have won only once at in their history. Palermo remain safe in 11 after a 0-0 draw at Fiorentina. They have only won once in their five games, including that draw. At this time of the season its hard to predict match ups like this with Parma seemingly having plenty to play for and Palermo having little. That said Parma's record in Sicily is so dismal that they can't be supported with any confidence, Palermo are a good outfit on their day and they should record a decent home win here. Home Win - Home advantage again pays dividends as Parma remain in a perilous position.
Bottom host top as Cesena play Juventus in what on paper looks a straightforward away win. Cesena's 1-1 draw with Genoa saw them strech their unbeaten run to four games but they remain rock bottom, 15 points from safety. Juve's solid 2-1 victory over Lazio saw them remain unbeaten and a point ahead of Milan at the top. The last 3 meetings between the sides have all ended in draws but the suspicion here is that Juventus in current form should take this. Antonio Conte's men appear to have found the winning thread again after a series of draws that nearly saw them gift Milan the league, they have now won 5 on the bounce. They should record win number 6 here against a side that are all but mathematically doomed to relegation. Away Win - The Old Lady's pursuit of the league title continues as they heap more misery on lowly Cesena.
13th play 12th as Siena host Bologna with both sides looking to ensure they do not get dragged into a relegation battle. Siena's 2-1 defeat to Inter was their first in 3 and they sport a good home record. Bologna's vital 1-0 win over Cagliari on Thursday was their first in 5 games and saw them move away from trouble. Traditionally this is a low scoring affair and it is likely that this will be a cagey affair with both sides certainly not wanting to lose. Their is little to choose between them and a draw is more than likely. Draw - Both sides cancel each other out in a low scoring draw.
Atalanta host Chievo as they look to build on their impressive win over Napoli in mid week. Atalanta's 3-1 victory in Naples was the shock result of Matchweek 32 and halted Atalanta's slide after losing two in a row. Chievo's 1-0 defeat to Milan on Tuesday saw them remain in 9th but they are now just two points ahead of Atalanta. Chievo haven't kept a clean sheet in 10 games and Atalanta's attack looks sure to test their defence. This looks set to be a tight mid table battle but home advantage in combination with a good attack and struggling Chievo defence Atalanta might just take this. Home win - a narrow home win for Atalanta against their mid table rivals.
Napoli travel to Leece as they look to bounce back to form after a run of 3 straight defeats including that 3-1 defeat to Atalanta on Wednesday. Walter Mazzarri's side are struggling both defensively and in attack and this represents a difficult task. Leece's great escape from the relegation zone remains on after a 2-1 victory over Catania saw them move to within 2 points of safety. They are now unbeaten in 5 games and have a good record against sides in the top half of the table, including dismantling Roma 4-2 last weekend. There is of course every chance that Napoli may re find form, they are simply too good a side to continue playing in the way they are, however this looks like a great opertunity for Leece to take another big scalp. Home Win - Leece continue their persuit to avoid the drop and Napoli continue their dismal run.
5th placed Roma will look to put the pressure on those above them with victory over Fiorentina on Sunday evening. Luis Enrique's side bounced back from their humiliation at Leece to beat Udinese 3-1, with Francesco Totti among the goals again. They have now won 3 of their last 5 and are just four points behind 3rd placed Lazio. Fiorentina failed to build on their great win against AC Milan last weekend as they were held to 0-0 draw by Palermo on Wednesday. They have won just one of their last 5 games. The reverse fixture saw Fiorentina run out 3-0 winners but Roma did have 3 men sent off in that game and providing there isn't a repeat of that Roma should take this. The difference that Totti and De Rossi make to this young Roma side remains stark and with both of them fit Roma look much more solid in all area's of the pitch. Furthermore Fiorentina's record in the capital is poor and overall their away form has been poor this season. Home Win - Totti & Co. look to secure a European spot with good home victory, Fiorentina remain in trouble just 3 points above the drop.
The final game of this round of matches sees a Monday evening fixture as Cagliari take on Catania. Cagliari's 1-0 defeat to Bologna on Thursday was their first defeat in 5 games and has left them in 14th, just out of trouble. Catania's 2-1 defeat to Leece on Wednesday means they are without a win in 4 games. Cagliar's home form is good and Catania have won just once in their last 8 visits to Sardinia and that could prove crucial here. Catania though have a knack of grinding out draws away from home and Vincenzo Montella's side will be wanting to push for European spot. A draw is by far the safest option in a game that could go either way. Draw - Two teams gain a result that pleases neither.
Selected Match Betting
Roma, Leece, Atalanta, Juventus, Palermo, Lazio, Udinese & Milan - All To Win: 150/1
Cesena V Juve - Juve Win 4-0: 10/1
AC Milan V Genoa - Ibrahmiovic To Score A Brace - 9/4
Enjoy The Games!
Tuesday, 10 April 2012
Matchweek 32 Preview - Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday Games
With no European competition this mid week the Serie A runs a full fixture list over 3 days. With one game on Tuesday, eight on Wednesday and one on Thursday.
We begin in Verona on Tuesday night as Chievo host an out of sorts AC Milan. Chievo played out a great 3-2 win over Catania last Saturday and are now unbeaten in 4. Milan suffered another blip in their hunt for the Serie A title as they were beaten 2-1 by Fiorentina. Massimiliano Allegri's side are now a point behind Juventus and will be desperate to gain all 3 points here. Chievo may be on a good run but they have a dismal record against Milan, losing all of the last 10 meetings between the sides. Its unthinkable that the Champions will go 3 league games without a win and despite Chievo putting up a fight, Milan should prevail here. Away Win - Milan get back on track with a decent win.
Inter's revial under Andrea Stramaccioni came to a stuttering halt as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Cagliari last weekend. They will be hoping to pick up all 3 points against Siena on Wednesday evening. Siena's 2-1 victory over Atalanta last weekend saw the Tuscans cement a mid table spot. They are now unbeaten in 3 Serie A games, but they travel to the Serie A to face a side that they have never beaten in the league. Like Stramaccioni's two previous games in charge expect goals in this one but with Inter's record over Siena and home advantage they should pick up a second win for their new boss here. Home Win - Inter record a high scoring but narrow victory of Siena.
Fiorentina will be looking to build on their victory over Milan as they host Palermo at The Stadio Artemio Franchi. Fiorentina's surprise win saw them move 5 points clear of the relegation zone but they are far from safe and will be wanting to end the season with a flourish to secure Serie A football for next season. They face a Palermo side that were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Juventus on Sunday, their first defeat in 3. Palermo are inconsistent so it would be little surprise to see them bounce back, but a buoyed Fiorentina side with home advantage might just have enough to win this one. Home win - Fiorentina take another big step towards safety.
A relegation match up sees Parma face Novara as both sides look to secure top flight football for next season. Parma were beaten 3-1 by Udinese on Saturday and remain an enigma, with form figures of one win, 2 draws and 2 defeats in their last 5. They remain four points clear of the drop zone. Second from bottom Novara bounced back from their 5-2 defeat at the hands of Roma to draw 1-1 with Genoa. They are 6 points from safety. A very tricky fixture to call with Novara beating Parma 2-1 in reverse fixture but having the worse away record in the league. A draw seems a likely outcome. Draw - Low scoring affair with a result that satisfies no one.
Napoli go in search of their first win in 3 Serie A games as they face Atalanta, themselves looking to bounce back from defeat. Napoli's 3-1 defeat to Lazio saw them fall further behind in the race for Champions League spots and they really havn't looked the same side after falling out of that competition at the hands of Chelsea last month. Atalanta's 2-1 defeat to Siena sees them stuck in mid table and with just one win from their last six games. Napoli's form maybe poor but their record against Atalanta is good and they are always capable of scoring goals, that and home advantage might pay the way for a return to form. Home Win - Napoli re find their feet against a side with little to play for.
8th placed Catania will look to put the pressure back on Inter in 7th when they host Leece. The Sicilians 3-2 defeat to Chievo on Saturday was their first in 8 games and they will fancy themselves to bounce straight back against a Leece side that are 3rd from bottom in the league. However Leece pulled off the shock of last weekend by dismantling Roma 4-2, they had lead 4-0 until two late strikes saw the scoreline flatter the away side. Leece are now four points from safety, and unbeaten in 4. Catania have only suffered 2 home defeats this season but a resurgent Leece are sure to test them. A draw seems more than likely. Draw - Both teams frustrate one another.
Roma host Udinese looking to bounce back from that humiliation against Leece. After beating Novara 5-2 two weeks ago, Leece looked a straightforward task for Luis Enriques men but again defencive frailties resurfaced and they were comprehensively beaten. Roma have now won just two of their last 5 games, losing the other 3. Udinese regained the winning thread after 3 attempts by beating Parma 3-1, they remain fourth 3 points behind Lazio and 3 ahead of Napoli. Another very tricky to call given the inconsistencies of both sides but its Roma who narrowly get the vote, their home record is much better than their away record and Udinese have struggled on the road this season. Also it is rumoured that Francesco Totti may return for the home side, he maybe 35 but he still makes all the difference in an inexperienced Roma side. Home Win - Roma just have enough to see off Udinese with the help of The Olimpico crowd and their talisman.
New league leaders Juventus host 3rd placed Lazio in what is the match of Matchweek 32. Juve's 2-0 win over Parma saw them go a point clear of a faltering Milan side and continue their incredible unbeaten run. They have now also won 3 on the bounce. Lazio put in a sterling display to beat Napoli 3-1 on Saturday but they remain largely inconsistent particularly away from home. Juve look in imperious form at the moment and had a much easier assignment last weekend than their opponents. With Conte's men rediscovering their goalscoring form and having the best defence in the division all 3 points should stay in Turin. Home Win - Unbeaten Juventus remain unbeaten and continue their pursuit of the title.
Another relegation battle sees Genoa, 4th from bottom host Cesena who are bottom and 12 points from safety. Genoa's 1-1 draw with Novara last weekend meant that they are now without a win in 10 and are just 4 points above the drop zone. Cesena managed their third draw in a row with a 0-0 against Bologna, but they have still only won once in 2012 and look certain to go down. Genoa sport the worst attack in the league with Cesena having the worst attack. Genoa have put in some good performances in recent weeks, such as their 5-4 defeat to Inter and they really should take this one with strikers such as Palacio and Gilardino set to test the Cesena defence. Home win - Certainly not going to be a classic but Genoa, with home advantage and a potent striking threat should beat a seemingly doomed Cesena.
Thursday's only game sees Bologna host Cagliari. Bologna's 0-0 with Cesena on Saturday means that they are without a win in 4 games and will be desperate to not get involved in relegation battle by dropping more points. Cagliari's 2-2 draw with Inter sees them sitting comfortably in 12th despite winning just 2 of their last 5 games. The Sardinian's are unbeaten in the last seven meetings between the sides but with Bologna desperate for points, expect to see them put up a fight. Such is the inconsistencies of both sides this is very had game to call and draw is by far the most likely outcome. Draw - Another poor result for Bologna who could find themselves in real trouble come the end of the season.
Selected Match Betting:
Milan, Inter, Fiorentina, Napoli, Juve, Roma, Genoa - All To Win: 20/1
Chievo V Milan - Correct Score 3-0 Milan:
Juve V Lazio - Fabio Quagliarella To Score 1st - 5/1
Enjoy The Games!
We begin in Verona on Tuesday night as Chievo host an out of sorts AC Milan. Chievo played out a great 3-2 win over Catania last Saturday and are now unbeaten in 4. Milan suffered another blip in their hunt for the Serie A title as they were beaten 2-1 by Fiorentina. Massimiliano Allegri's side are now a point behind Juventus and will be desperate to gain all 3 points here. Chievo may be on a good run but they have a dismal record against Milan, losing all of the last 10 meetings between the sides. Its unthinkable that the Champions will go 3 league games without a win and despite Chievo putting up a fight, Milan should prevail here. Away Win - Milan get back on track with a decent win.
Inter's revial under Andrea Stramaccioni came to a stuttering halt as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Cagliari last weekend. They will be hoping to pick up all 3 points against Siena on Wednesday evening. Siena's 2-1 victory over Atalanta last weekend saw the Tuscans cement a mid table spot. They are now unbeaten in 3 Serie A games, but they travel to the Serie A to face a side that they have never beaten in the league. Like Stramaccioni's two previous games in charge expect goals in this one but with Inter's record over Siena and home advantage they should pick up a second win for their new boss here. Home Win - Inter record a high scoring but narrow victory of Siena.
Fiorentina will be looking to build on their victory over Milan as they host Palermo at The Stadio Artemio Franchi. Fiorentina's surprise win saw them move 5 points clear of the relegation zone but they are far from safe and will be wanting to end the season with a flourish to secure Serie A football for next season. They face a Palermo side that were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Juventus on Sunday, their first defeat in 3. Palermo are inconsistent so it would be little surprise to see them bounce back, but a buoyed Fiorentina side with home advantage might just have enough to win this one. Home win - Fiorentina take another big step towards safety.
A relegation match up sees Parma face Novara as both sides look to secure top flight football for next season. Parma were beaten 3-1 by Udinese on Saturday and remain an enigma, with form figures of one win, 2 draws and 2 defeats in their last 5. They remain four points clear of the drop zone. Second from bottom Novara bounced back from their 5-2 defeat at the hands of Roma to draw 1-1 with Genoa. They are 6 points from safety. A very tricky fixture to call with Novara beating Parma 2-1 in reverse fixture but having the worse away record in the league. A draw seems a likely outcome. Draw - Low scoring affair with a result that satisfies no one.
Napoli go in search of their first win in 3 Serie A games as they face Atalanta, themselves looking to bounce back from defeat. Napoli's 3-1 defeat to Lazio saw them fall further behind in the race for Champions League spots and they really havn't looked the same side after falling out of that competition at the hands of Chelsea last month. Atalanta's 2-1 defeat to Siena sees them stuck in mid table and with just one win from their last six games. Napoli's form maybe poor but their record against Atalanta is good and they are always capable of scoring goals, that and home advantage might pay the way for a return to form. Home Win - Napoli re find their feet against a side with little to play for.
8th placed Catania will look to put the pressure back on Inter in 7th when they host Leece. The Sicilians 3-2 defeat to Chievo on Saturday was their first in 8 games and they will fancy themselves to bounce straight back against a Leece side that are 3rd from bottom in the league. However Leece pulled off the shock of last weekend by dismantling Roma 4-2, they had lead 4-0 until two late strikes saw the scoreline flatter the away side. Leece are now four points from safety, and unbeaten in 4. Catania have only suffered 2 home defeats this season but a resurgent Leece are sure to test them. A draw seems more than likely. Draw - Both teams frustrate one another.
Roma host Udinese looking to bounce back from that humiliation against Leece. After beating Novara 5-2 two weeks ago, Leece looked a straightforward task for Luis Enriques men but again defencive frailties resurfaced and they were comprehensively beaten. Roma have now won just two of their last 5 games, losing the other 3. Udinese regained the winning thread after 3 attempts by beating Parma 3-1, they remain fourth 3 points behind Lazio and 3 ahead of Napoli. Another very tricky to call given the inconsistencies of both sides but its Roma who narrowly get the vote, their home record is much better than their away record and Udinese have struggled on the road this season. Also it is rumoured that Francesco Totti may return for the home side, he maybe 35 but he still makes all the difference in an inexperienced Roma side. Home Win - Roma just have enough to see off Udinese with the help of The Olimpico crowd and their talisman.
New league leaders Juventus host 3rd placed Lazio in what is the match of Matchweek 32. Juve's 2-0 win over Parma saw them go a point clear of a faltering Milan side and continue their incredible unbeaten run. They have now also won 3 on the bounce. Lazio put in a sterling display to beat Napoli 3-1 on Saturday but they remain largely inconsistent particularly away from home. Juve look in imperious form at the moment and had a much easier assignment last weekend than their opponents. With Conte's men rediscovering their goalscoring form and having the best defence in the division all 3 points should stay in Turin. Home Win - Unbeaten Juventus remain unbeaten and continue their pursuit of the title.
Another relegation battle sees Genoa, 4th from bottom host Cesena who are bottom and 12 points from safety. Genoa's 1-1 draw with Novara last weekend meant that they are now without a win in 10 and are just 4 points above the drop zone. Cesena managed their third draw in a row with a 0-0 against Bologna, but they have still only won once in 2012 and look certain to go down. Genoa sport the worst attack in the league with Cesena having the worst attack. Genoa have put in some good performances in recent weeks, such as their 5-4 defeat to Inter and they really should take this one with strikers such as Palacio and Gilardino set to test the Cesena defence. Home win - Certainly not going to be a classic but Genoa, with home advantage and a potent striking threat should beat a seemingly doomed Cesena.
Thursday's only game sees Bologna host Cagliari. Bologna's 0-0 with Cesena on Saturday means that they are without a win in 4 games and will be desperate to not get involved in relegation battle by dropping more points. Cagliari's 2-2 draw with Inter sees them sitting comfortably in 12th despite winning just 2 of their last 5 games. The Sardinian's are unbeaten in the last seven meetings between the sides but with Bologna desperate for points, expect to see them put up a fight. Such is the inconsistencies of both sides this is very had game to call and draw is by far the most likely outcome. Draw - Another poor result for Bologna who could find themselves in real trouble come the end of the season.
Selected Match Betting:
Milan, Inter, Fiorentina, Napoli, Juve, Roma, Genoa - All To Win: 20/1
Chievo V Milan - Correct Score 3-0 Milan:
Juve V Lazio - Fabio Quagliarella To Score 1st - 5/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 6 April 2012
Matchweek 31 Preview
With the Easter celebrations this weekend the Serie A has been forced to move from its usual Sunday spot to Saturday with all 8 games kicking off at 2pm, one at 5.30 and one at 8.
We begin with struggerlers Leece hosting Roma. Leece were held to a 0-0 draw for the second consecutive game last weekend by bottom club Cesena. They are now without a win in 5 and remain 5 points from safety. Roma meanwhile are eyeing fourth spot after beating Novara 5-2 last weekend. Luis Enrique's team are certainly improving with 3 wins in their last five, only AC Milan and Lazio have beaten them in recent weeks. Leece have only ever beaten Roma once in Serie A and it is highly unlikely that will change here with their inability to score goals. Also their leaky defence is likely to come undone as the likes of Osvaldo, Borini, Bojan & Totti look to get on the score sheet. Away win, Roma move closer to European place with a comfortable away win.
A mid table clash sees 11th placed Atalanta face 13th placed Siena. Atalanta's 8 game unbeaten run came to an end last weekend as they lost 2-0 to Cagliari last weekend. Siena gained a great 1-0 win over Udinese last weekend but that was their first win in 5 and they have only won once away from home all season. Expect Stefano Colantuono's men to keep their good home record going here and Siena to fall short on the road once again. Home win, another home win for Atalanta, all be it a narrow one.
Bottom club Cesena will be hoping they can get a result over an out of sorts Bologna side when they host Stefano Pioli's side. Despite being rooted to the bottom of Serie A and being 14 points from safety Cesena have been holding their form of late, drawing their last two games including a 0-0 with Leece last weekend. The visitors are on a poor run losing their last 2 including a 3-1 defeat at home to Palermo last weekend. Bologna have now won just once in their last 5. There is little doubt who the superior team is (Bologna sit comfortably in 14th) but in their current form it wouldn't be a surprise to see Cesena take something from this. A draw is more than likely outcome. Draw - Bologna add to Cesena's woes but don't take all 3 points.
Andrea Stramaccioni will be looking to maintain his 100% percent win record as Inter manager when his side travel to Cagliari. His side were involved in an extraordinary game last weekend, eventually beating Genoa 5-4. The defencive frailties that marred Cladio Raneri's reign still look intact but Stramaccioni's appoint has rejuvenated his strike force and his decision to start with Diego Milito, a player his predorcer regularly left on the bench has been a very popular move with the Inter faithful. Milito repaid his new boss with a hat-trick against Genoa and expect him to get on the score sheet again here. Cagliari cemented their place in mid table with a 2-0 win over Atalanta last weekend but they remain inconsistent with just two wins in their last 5. Inter then are taken to give Stramaccioni his second win as Inter boss and look set to finish the season with a flourish under him. Away win - Inter's away form is poor but they remain in a 'honeymoon' period with their new manager and that should see them through here.
Second from bottom Novara host Genoa as both teams look to bounce back from defeats. Novara losing 5-2 to Roma as Genoa were beaten 5-4 by Inter last weekend. Novara are 9 points from safety despite having a decent run of form losing just 2 of their last 5. Genoa are just six points from the drop zone and haven't won in their last 9 league games. Both teams will be desperate for the points here but its not hard to side with Genoa for this one given that much like their opponents they let in plenty of goals, unlike Novara however they score plenty too. Also they have changed manager this week, reinstating Alberto Malesani who was sacked earlier in the season, his appointment is the 17th manager change in this Serie A season. Novara now what its like to receive a form boost by appointing a new boss after going 2 games unbeaten under Attilio Tesser but after being taken apart by Roma last weekend it seems the honeymoon is over. Away win - Genoa's new manager boost sees them regain some form at the expense of a Novara side low on confidence after that heavy Roma defeat.
10th faces 8th as Chievo host Catania at the Stadio Marc Antonio Bentegodi. Chievo gained their first win in 5 by beating Fiorentina 2-1 last weekend. Catania gained a great point against AC Milan, drawing 1-1. They are unbeaten in 9 games and could well earn a Europa League place with a late surge. These mid table battles are always hard to predict but Catania have been holding their form well against tougher opposition and Chievo's home form is poor, losing four of the last five. Vincenzo Montella's men could take all 3 points back to Sicily but the safer option is a draw. Draw - Catania could edge it but at this stage in the season mid table games are notoriously hard to predict.
Table toppers AC Milan host Fiorentina as they look to bounce back after their Champions League exit in mid week. Before being beaten by Barcelona on Tuesday Milan where held to a 1-1 draw by Catania ending a run of 4 consecutive victories. Fiorentina were beaten 2-1 by Chievo last weekend and remain on a dismal run that has seem them slide toward the relegation zone. They are without a win in 9 games. Milan are not in great form and have had another injury set back as Alessandro Pato is ruled out for the season after picking up another injury but they should have enough to take this. Ibramiovic remains the leagues top scorer on 22 goals and expect him to be riled up for this one after having no luck against his old side on Wednesday. Home win - Milan ensure Fiorentina have a nervy end to the season and boost their own confidence with a comfortable victory.
In the last of the afternoon games Udinese host Parma as they look to end their poor run of form. Udinese were beaten 1-0 by Siena last weekend meaning they haven't won in 5 league games. They remain in 5th but have Roma just a point behind. There is a possibility that the side tipped for the title early in the season might now not even achieve a European spot. Parma sprung a shock last weekend beating Lazio 3-1, their first win in 5 games and look to have secured Serie A football for next season. They look sure to test Udinese but at home is were Udinese are at their best and that could be key in this one. Parma are inconsistent and are poor away from home. Home win - Udinese return to form at the expense of a Parma side whos inconsistency will again be highlighted.
Juventus travel to Palermo in the early evening kick off looking to keep the heat on Milan at the top. Palermo managed a 3-1 victory in Bologna last weekend and are comfortable in 9th despite not winning in four games prior to that victory. Juventus remain in imperious form after cruising past Napoli, 3-0 last weekend. The Old Lady remain unbeaten this season, 30 games. With Juve finally recapturing their goal scoring form they are impossible to oppose here and should be able to score plenty again against a Palermo defence that rarely keeps clean sheets. Away win - Juve prove too much for Palermo and ensure the race towards the title continues.
The final match of this weekend sees an intriguing encounter between Lazio and Napoli. Lazio remain unpredictable after losing to 3-1 to Parma last weekend meaning they have won 2 but lost 3 of their last 5. Napoli meanwhile haven't won in the league in 3 games after being beaten 3-0 by Juventus. Lazio's main problem is their lack of goals, something Napoli have no problem with. That could be the key to this one with Napoli simply outscoring a Lazio side that struggles to score. To add to Lazio's problems they have won just once in their last 5 meetings against Napoli. This is set to be a tight affair but Napoli might just have enough attacking prowess to take all 3 points. Away win - Napoli get back on track with a good offencive display.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Atalanta, Bologna, Inter, Genoa, Milan, Juve, Napoli & Udinese: All To Win - 420/1
Milan V Fiorentina: Milan to win 5-0 - 20/1
Cagliari V Inter: Diego Milito To Score First: 100/30
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We begin with struggerlers Leece hosting Roma. Leece were held to a 0-0 draw for the second consecutive game last weekend by bottom club Cesena. They are now without a win in 5 and remain 5 points from safety. Roma meanwhile are eyeing fourth spot after beating Novara 5-2 last weekend. Luis Enrique's team are certainly improving with 3 wins in their last five, only AC Milan and Lazio have beaten them in recent weeks. Leece have only ever beaten Roma once in Serie A and it is highly unlikely that will change here with their inability to score goals. Also their leaky defence is likely to come undone as the likes of Osvaldo, Borini, Bojan & Totti look to get on the score sheet. Away win, Roma move closer to European place with a comfortable away win.
A mid table clash sees 11th placed Atalanta face 13th placed Siena. Atalanta's 8 game unbeaten run came to an end last weekend as they lost 2-0 to Cagliari last weekend. Siena gained a great 1-0 win over Udinese last weekend but that was their first win in 5 and they have only won once away from home all season. Expect Stefano Colantuono's men to keep their good home record going here and Siena to fall short on the road once again. Home win, another home win for Atalanta, all be it a narrow one.
Bottom club Cesena will be hoping they can get a result over an out of sorts Bologna side when they host Stefano Pioli's side. Despite being rooted to the bottom of Serie A and being 14 points from safety Cesena have been holding their form of late, drawing their last two games including a 0-0 with Leece last weekend. The visitors are on a poor run losing their last 2 including a 3-1 defeat at home to Palermo last weekend. Bologna have now won just once in their last 5. There is little doubt who the superior team is (Bologna sit comfortably in 14th) but in their current form it wouldn't be a surprise to see Cesena take something from this. A draw is more than likely outcome. Draw - Bologna add to Cesena's woes but don't take all 3 points.
Andrea Stramaccioni will be looking to maintain his 100% percent win record as Inter manager when his side travel to Cagliari. His side were involved in an extraordinary game last weekend, eventually beating Genoa 5-4. The defencive frailties that marred Cladio Raneri's reign still look intact but Stramaccioni's appoint has rejuvenated his strike force and his decision to start with Diego Milito, a player his predorcer regularly left on the bench has been a very popular move with the Inter faithful. Milito repaid his new boss with a hat-trick against Genoa and expect him to get on the score sheet again here. Cagliari cemented their place in mid table with a 2-0 win over Atalanta last weekend but they remain inconsistent with just two wins in their last 5. Inter then are taken to give Stramaccioni his second win as Inter boss and look set to finish the season with a flourish under him. Away win - Inter's away form is poor but they remain in a 'honeymoon' period with their new manager and that should see them through here.
Second from bottom Novara host Genoa as both teams look to bounce back from defeats. Novara losing 5-2 to Roma as Genoa were beaten 5-4 by Inter last weekend. Novara are 9 points from safety despite having a decent run of form losing just 2 of their last 5. Genoa are just six points from the drop zone and haven't won in their last 9 league games. Both teams will be desperate for the points here but its not hard to side with Genoa for this one given that much like their opponents they let in plenty of goals, unlike Novara however they score plenty too. Also they have changed manager this week, reinstating Alberto Malesani who was sacked earlier in the season, his appointment is the 17th manager change in this Serie A season. Novara now what its like to receive a form boost by appointing a new boss after going 2 games unbeaten under Attilio Tesser but after being taken apart by Roma last weekend it seems the honeymoon is over. Away win - Genoa's new manager boost sees them regain some form at the expense of a Novara side low on confidence after that heavy Roma defeat.
10th faces 8th as Chievo host Catania at the Stadio Marc Antonio Bentegodi. Chievo gained their first win in 5 by beating Fiorentina 2-1 last weekend. Catania gained a great point against AC Milan, drawing 1-1. They are unbeaten in 9 games and could well earn a Europa League place with a late surge. These mid table battles are always hard to predict but Catania have been holding their form well against tougher opposition and Chievo's home form is poor, losing four of the last five. Vincenzo Montella's men could take all 3 points back to Sicily but the safer option is a draw. Draw - Catania could edge it but at this stage in the season mid table games are notoriously hard to predict.
Table toppers AC Milan host Fiorentina as they look to bounce back after their Champions League exit in mid week. Before being beaten by Barcelona on Tuesday Milan where held to a 1-1 draw by Catania ending a run of 4 consecutive victories. Fiorentina were beaten 2-1 by Chievo last weekend and remain on a dismal run that has seem them slide toward the relegation zone. They are without a win in 9 games. Milan are not in great form and have had another injury set back as Alessandro Pato is ruled out for the season after picking up another injury but they should have enough to take this. Ibramiovic remains the leagues top scorer on 22 goals and expect him to be riled up for this one after having no luck against his old side on Wednesday. Home win - Milan ensure Fiorentina have a nervy end to the season and boost their own confidence with a comfortable victory.
In the last of the afternoon games Udinese host Parma as they look to end their poor run of form. Udinese were beaten 1-0 by Siena last weekend meaning they haven't won in 5 league games. They remain in 5th but have Roma just a point behind. There is a possibility that the side tipped for the title early in the season might now not even achieve a European spot. Parma sprung a shock last weekend beating Lazio 3-1, their first win in 5 games and look to have secured Serie A football for next season. They look sure to test Udinese but at home is were Udinese are at their best and that could be key in this one. Parma are inconsistent and are poor away from home. Home win - Udinese return to form at the expense of a Parma side whos inconsistency will again be highlighted.
Juventus travel to Palermo in the early evening kick off looking to keep the heat on Milan at the top. Palermo managed a 3-1 victory in Bologna last weekend and are comfortable in 9th despite not winning in four games prior to that victory. Juventus remain in imperious form after cruising past Napoli, 3-0 last weekend. The Old Lady remain unbeaten this season, 30 games. With Juve finally recapturing their goal scoring form they are impossible to oppose here and should be able to score plenty again against a Palermo defence that rarely keeps clean sheets. Away win - Juve prove too much for Palermo and ensure the race towards the title continues.
The final match of this weekend sees an intriguing encounter between Lazio and Napoli. Lazio remain unpredictable after losing to 3-1 to Parma last weekend meaning they have won 2 but lost 3 of their last 5. Napoli meanwhile haven't won in the league in 3 games after being beaten 3-0 by Juventus. Lazio's main problem is their lack of goals, something Napoli have no problem with. That could be the key to this one with Napoli simply outscoring a Lazio side that struggles to score. To add to Lazio's problems they have won just once in their last 5 meetings against Napoli. This is set to be a tight affair but Napoli might just have enough attacking prowess to take all 3 points. Away win - Napoli get back on track with a good offencive display.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Atalanta, Bologna, Inter, Genoa, Milan, Juve, Napoli & Udinese: All To Win - 420/1
Milan V Fiorentina: Milan to win 5-0 - 20/1
Cagliari V Inter: Diego Milito To Score First: 100/30
Enjoy The Games!
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