With no managerial sackings, new match fixing allegations or controversy of any sort over last weeks international break it has been down to Mario Balotelli to yet again make headlines. The 22 year old striker has been in great form for AC Milan since swapping Manchester for Milan in January and this week he scored a brace in Italy's 2-0 World Cup Qualification Match win over Malta. He owes this dramatic change in performance and attitude to according too himself, his new girlfriend. Fanny Neguesha and Balotelli met last year and are already drawing parallels to Posh & Becks in Italy given Balotelli's high profile. Despite the media attention Balotelli insists it is Fanny who should be thanked for getting the controversial star back on track. As perfect as things appear at the moment the volatile Balotelli should not be forgotten, a bad break up and we could see the old flashes of childish spats that marred his time at Man City. Having said that if he continues playing how he is now for a sustained period he will surely fulfil his promise and become one of the greatest strikers in world football.
No major shocks in the Serie A last weekend apart from Torino denting Lazio's European qualification hopes by beating them 1-0. Elsewhere it was business as usual as Juventus dispatched Bologna 2-0, AC Milan beat Palermo by the same scoreline and Napoli got back on track by beating Atalanta 3-2. Roma's Francesco Totti became Serie A's outright second highest goalscorer ever as he scored in a 2-0 victory over Parma. Fiorentina squeezed past Genoa, 3-2. Cheivo overcame Pescara 2-0 all but ensuring safety for next season. Catania heaped more woe on Udinese beating them 3-1 and Siena and Cagliari played out a goaless draw. Inter's game with Sampdoria was postponed due to snow.
This Weekends Fixtures and Predictions
Saturday 30 March
Atalanta V Sampdoria - 14:00 - Draw
Atalanta are in desperate need of points as they continue to spiral toward the relegation zone. They will find life hard here however against a Sampdoria team who prior to losing to Cagliari a fortnight ago had gone 4 games unbeaten. Atalanta had looked to be back on track before losing to Napoli and they have been inconsistent all season. A draw is the safest bet.
Udinese V Bologna - 14:00 - Draw
Both these teams lost last weekend and are separated by just 6 points in the league. On form Bologna look stronger, winning 3 of their last 5 compared to Udinese's one. However Udinese are always stronger at home and they will try and use that to their advantage. Very little to choose between the two and a draw is more than likely.
Cagliari V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Away Win
Fiorentina's blip seems behind them now after they have won 4 of their last 5 games. They will want to push on and finish the season in a European place now. Cagliari continue to be inconsistent but have shown they are very difficult to beat on their day. Fiorentina in their current vein however should have enough to overcome them.
Chievo V AC Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Milan have been a team transformed since the turn of the year and now sit in third place. They have won all of their last three and with an inform Mario Balotelli they look formidable. Chievo have moved out of trouble by winning two on the bounce but their run will come to an abrupt end here.
Genoa V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
A huge relegation clash sees 17th play 16th as Siena travel to Genoa with just a point seperating the two. Both sides are in poor form with Siena winning just two of their last 5 and Genoa losing all three of their last games three games. Neither side dare lose this one and a cagey affair is on the cards, a low scoring draw is likely.
Inter V Juventus - 14:00 - Away Win
The Champions face a big test when they travel to the San Siro to face fifth placed Inter but there is plenty to suggest that they are up to taking all 3 points back to Turin. Inter have fallen away in recent weeks and have won just one of their last 3 games. Juve meanwhile continue to go from strength to strength and this could be their third win on the run. Its sure to be a tight game but Juve still look head and shoulders above any other team in the division.
Lazio V Catania - 14:00 - Draw
Seventh hosts eighth in this trappy looking contest. Lazio have lost all of their last 3 games and will be desperate to get a result here. They face a Catania team in good heart however after overcoming Udinese a fortnight ago. Lazio are inconsistent but if they can bounce back they could take all 3 points the likely hood is however that Catania will frustrate them and a low scoring draw is the most likely outcome.
Palermo V Roma -14:00 - Away Win
Palermo remain 5 points from safety and second bottom in the table after losing to Milan. They have lost their last two and are really struggling despite another change of manager. Roma however have blossomed under their new boss and are unbeaten in 5, they really should make it six here.
Parma V Pescara - 14:00 - Home Win
Thirteenth placed Parma are incredibly inconsistent but they should take all 3 points here against bottom club Pescara. Pescara have lost all 5 of their last 5 games and remain 5 points adrift at the foot of the table, they are set to be in even deeper trouble come Saturday evening.
Torino V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Twelth placed Torino look set for another season in The Serie A but they wont be adding to their points tally here. Despite winning 2 of their last five they have shipped 9 goals in that time. This will be great news for Napoli's attack that has struggled a little in recent weeks. Torino did well to beat Lazio a fortnight ago but this is an altogether different test and second placed Napoli should take all 3 points comfortably.
Selected Match Betting:
Napoli, Roma, Juve, Milan, Parma & Fiorentina - All To Win : 45/1
Chievo V Milan - Balotelli 1st Goalscorer : 100/30
Palermo V Roma - Roma Win 4-0 : 40/1
Enjoy The Games!
Thursday, 28 March 2013
Friday, 15 March 2013
Gameweek 29 - Farcial Palermo
The biggest story in the Serie A this week surrounds nineteenth placed Palermo. In the period spanning their last six games Palermo have sacked three coaches, one of those coaches twice. Thursday saw Giuseppe Sannino take over for his second spell in charge. Sannino began the season in charge of Palermo but was sacked after just 3 games, his replacement Gian Piero Gasperini lasted until February when he was given his marching orders and replaced by Alberto Malesani who was given just 3 games then sacked and replaced by Gasperini! Two games later and Gasperini was gone and Sannino rehired. Even by Italian standards this managerial merry go round is farcial and has helped little in the campaign to restore integrity to the Italian game. With Palermo playing AC Milan this weekend it would be of little surprise to see Sannino gone by Monday!
On the pitch and last weekend saw leaders Juventus extend their lead at the top to nine points as they beat Catania 1-0 and second placed Napoli suffered a shock defeat to Chievo, losing 2-0. AC Milan continued their impressive run dispensing of Genoa by 2 goals to 0. Roma's good run was halted as they were held to a 1-1 draw with Udinese. Atalanta got a much needed win beating bottom club Pescara 2-1. Cagliari too moved away from trouble beating Sampdoria 3-1. Palermo were plunged deeper into relegation trouble as they were defeated 2-1 by Siena. Parma thrashed Torino 4-1 and Bologna gained the shock of the weekend beating Inter 1-0. Fioretina kept their Champions League qualification hopes alive and dented Lazios by beating them 2-0.
This Weekends Fixtures And Predictions:
Saturday 16th March
Catania V Udinese - 17:00 - Home Win
Catania have lost both of their last two games but have found a good opportunity here to get back on track. Opponents Udinese do not travel well and despite being undefeated in 3 this represents a stern task for them.
Bologna V Juventus - 19:45 - Away Win
Bologna have won all of their last three games but this represents a tough task against the Champions. Juve haven't been at their best in recent weeks but continue to grind out results as only champions can and they should do it again here.
Sunday 17th March
Siena V Cagliari - 11:30 - Draw
Siena took a big step to moving out of the relegation zone by winning last weekend but they face a Cagliari side who are high in confidence and will be hard to beat in this one. Siena should have enough to test Cagliari however and in a match that is hard to call a draw is the safest bet.
AC Milan V Palermo - 14:00 - Home Win
Difficult week for both clubs with Milan being dismantled by Barcelona in the Champions league and Palermo changing managers, again. In the Serie A however Milan have been in great form and should gain another victory here against Palermo who are set for relegation.
Fiorentina V Genoa -14:00 - Home Win
Fiorentina have returned to form over the past two weeks and they should continue their good run against fourth from bottom Genoa who were beaten easily by AC Milan last weekend, and haven't won any of their last three.
Napoli V Atalanta - 14:00 - Home Win
Napoli's defeat to Chievo last weekend seriously dented their title hopes but they can keep the heat of Juve with a win in this one. Opponents Atalanta have won their last two but overall have been disappointing this season and they look set to struggle against Napoli's attacking prowess. Napoli will be determined to bounce back and they have been given a good oppertunity to do so.
Pescara V Chievo - 14:00 - Away Win
Chievo will know that a win here will move them out of the relegation scrap and plunge Pescara into more trouble. A moral boosting win over Napoli last weekend will spur them on and they should inflict another defeat on Pescara, a team that have lost all four of their last games.
Roma V Parma - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma's new coach Aurelio Andreazzoli has steadied the ship in recent weeks and they now lie in seventh, pushing for a European place. They should continue their push against Parma who despite winning last weekend lost their 3 previous games and have been inconsistent all campaign.
Sampdoria V Inter - 19:45 - Draw
Both these teams tasted defeat last weekend and will be determined to get back on track in this one. Inter have the ability to defeat Sampdoria but Sampdoria seem to save their best performances for the big teams and will test Inter's resolve. This should be and entertaining draw, with little to choose between the two sides.
Torino V Lazio - 19:45 - Away Win
These two teams lost last weekend but it is Lazio who are taken to bounce straight back this weekend. Torino haven't won any of their last 3 games and will struggle against Lazio's attacking force.
Selected Match Betting:
Lazio, Roma, Cheivo, Napoli, Fiorentina, Milan, Juve & Catania - All To Win: 77/1
Milan V Palermo - Ballotelli First Scorer : 5/2
Roma V Parma - Roma Win 3-1 : 9/1
Enjoy The Games!
On the pitch and last weekend saw leaders Juventus extend their lead at the top to nine points as they beat Catania 1-0 and second placed Napoli suffered a shock defeat to Chievo, losing 2-0. AC Milan continued their impressive run dispensing of Genoa by 2 goals to 0. Roma's good run was halted as they were held to a 1-1 draw with Udinese. Atalanta got a much needed win beating bottom club Pescara 2-1. Cagliari too moved away from trouble beating Sampdoria 3-1. Palermo were plunged deeper into relegation trouble as they were defeated 2-1 by Siena. Parma thrashed Torino 4-1 and Bologna gained the shock of the weekend beating Inter 1-0. Fioretina kept their Champions League qualification hopes alive and dented Lazios by beating them 2-0.
This Weekends Fixtures And Predictions:
Saturday 16th March
Catania V Udinese - 17:00 - Home Win
Catania have lost both of their last two games but have found a good opportunity here to get back on track. Opponents Udinese do not travel well and despite being undefeated in 3 this represents a stern task for them.
Bologna V Juventus - 19:45 - Away Win
Bologna have won all of their last three games but this represents a tough task against the Champions. Juve haven't been at their best in recent weeks but continue to grind out results as only champions can and they should do it again here.
Sunday 17th March
Siena V Cagliari - 11:30 - Draw
Siena took a big step to moving out of the relegation zone by winning last weekend but they face a Cagliari side who are high in confidence and will be hard to beat in this one. Siena should have enough to test Cagliari however and in a match that is hard to call a draw is the safest bet.
AC Milan V Palermo - 14:00 - Home Win
Difficult week for both clubs with Milan being dismantled by Barcelona in the Champions league and Palermo changing managers, again. In the Serie A however Milan have been in great form and should gain another victory here against Palermo who are set for relegation.
Fiorentina V Genoa -14:00 - Home Win
Fiorentina have returned to form over the past two weeks and they should continue their good run against fourth from bottom Genoa who were beaten easily by AC Milan last weekend, and haven't won any of their last three.
Napoli V Atalanta - 14:00 - Home Win
Napoli's defeat to Chievo last weekend seriously dented their title hopes but they can keep the heat of Juve with a win in this one. Opponents Atalanta have won their last two but overall have been disappointing this season and they look set to struggle against Napoli's attacking prowess. Napoli will be determined to bounce back and they have been given a good oppertunity to do so.
Pescara V Chievo - 14:00 - Away Win
Chievo will know that a win here will move them out of the relegation scrap and plunge Pescara into more trouble. A moral boosting win over Napoli last weekend will spur them on and they should inflict another defeat on Pescara, a team that have lost all four of their last games.
Roma V Parma - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma's new coach Aurelio Andreazzoli has steadied the ship in recent weeks and they now lie in seventh, pushing for a European place. They should continue their push against Parma who despite winning last weekend lost their 3 previous games and have been inconsistent all campaign.
Sampdoria V Inter - 19:45 - Draw
Both these teams tasted defeat last weekend and will be determined to get back on track in this one. Inter have the ability to defeat Sampdoria but Sampdoria seem to save their best performances for the big teams and will test Inter's resolve. This should be and entertaining draw, with little to choose between the two sides.
Torino V Lazio - 19:45 - Away Win
These two teams lost last weekend but it is Lazio who are taken to bounce straight back this weekend. Torino haven't won any of their last 3 games and will struggle against Lazio's attacking force.
Selected Match Betting:
Lazio, Roma, Cheivo, Napoli, Fiorentina, Milan, Juve & Catania - All To Win: 77/1
Milan V Palermo - Ballotelli First Scorer : 5/2
Roma V Parma - Roma Win 3-1 : 9/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 8 March 2013
Game Week 28 - Revitalised Roma?
In the week that saw 38 year old Ryan Giggs make his 1000th appearance for Manchester United a milestone was reached for one if Italy's greatest ever players and professionals. Francesco Totti of Roma at 36 years of aged scored his 225th Serie A goal last Sunday against Genoa. Totti is now joint top scorer in the Serie A since it began. The Roma captain who is now in his 21st season has only ever played for his beloved gilliarossi and guided them to the Serie A title in the 2000-01 season. He has experienced both highs and lows during his career, falling out with coaches Raneri and Enrique in recent seasons had put his future in doubt but he has been revitalised this season first under Zdenek Zeman and now under Aurelio Andreazzoli and when Totti plays well, Roma seem to find another gear. Totti's goal against Genoa, part of a 3-1 win saw Roma move up to seventh just 5 points behind third placed AC Milan. At 36 Totti can't play every game but his importance to Roma looks as high as it has ever been, described as a "true champion" by Fabio Cappello he is likely to be terrorising defences for a couple more years.
Elsewhere last weekend saw the top two shared a the points in a 1-1 draw as Juve held Napoli in Naples. AC Milan continued their mightily impressive run by beating Lazio 3-0. Torino and Palermo played out the only draw on Sunday in a dire 0-0. Fiorentina overcame Chievo 2-1, Atalanta beat Siena 2-0 to gain a much needed win. Their were narrow wins for Udinese and Sampdoria who beat Pescara and Parma 1-0 respectively. Bologna eased past Cagliari 3-0 and Inter and Catania played out a thriller which saw Inter come out on top by 3 goals to 2.
This Weekends Fixtures and Previews:
Friday 8 March
Genoa V AC Milan - 19:45 - Away Win
Genoa remain just five points above the drop zone after losing to Roma and they face a stiff task again as they face an inform AC Milan side. Milan have yet to lose a game this year and that looks unlikely to change against a Genoa side that should prove little match for Milan's attacking flair.
Saturday 9 March
Udinese V Roma - 19:45 - Away Win
Ninth hosts seventh in this one which sees two inconsistent sides go head to head. Udinese have had a very disappointing season and have won just two of their last 5. Roma have been typically up and down but their form at the moment is good winning their last 3 on the bounce. They might just have
enough to make it 4 out of 4 against a Udinese side that has offered little in attack this campaign.
Sunday 10 March
Atalanta V Pescara - 11:30 - Home Win
Atalanta's win last weekend saw them return to form and has pulled them away from the relegation fight. They should stretch margin further here with victory over the leagues bottom side Pescara who yet again lost last weekend, their third defeat in a row.
Cagliari V Sampdoria - 14:00 - Away Win
Cagliari where in great form before last weekend which saw them comfortably beaten by Bologna. They face a Sampdoria side high from another win that has seen them move up to tenth in the table. Sardinia is a hard place to go and get a victory but Sampdoria may well be up to the task given how high in confidence they are.
Chievo V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Chievo haven't won any of their last 5 games and its likely that will become six come Sunday evening as they face a Napoli side desperate to keep the heat on leaders Juventus. Napoli's form in recent weeks has dipped and they are now 6 points behind Juve but they have found a good opportunity to pick up 3 points here.
Juventus V Catania - 14:00 - Home Win
Eighth placed Catania have had a great campaign but they are set for back to back defeats here as they travel to the champions. Juve were perhaps fortunate to get a draw against Napoli but this represents an easier assignment and they should make it win 19 for the season.
Palermo V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Second from bottom Palermo are on a strange run of 4 straight draws. That could become 5 against a Siena side who have been comfortably beaten in their last two games leaving them 5 points from safety. These crucial '6 pointers' are usually cagey affairs and with no team wanting to lose this one a draw is more than likely.
Parma V Torino - 14:00 - Draw
13th host 12th in this one with Parma facing Torino. Parma have lost all of their last three games and are struggling at the moment. Torino have won just one of their last 3 games. Both teams will be looking over their shoulders knowing that a few poor results will see them dragged into a relegation battle and with that in mind will be happy to share the spoils in this one.
Inter V Bologna - 19:45 - Draw
Bologna travel to Milan in good heart having won 3of their last 5 and they will test Inter in this one. Inter gained a much needed win over Catania last weekend but their mid week humiliation at the hands of Tottenham will have done little for confidence. This of course is easier but it would be of little surprise to see Bologna take something from the game.
Lazio V Fiorentina - 19:45 - Draw
Fifth hosts sixth in this one which is set to be a tight affair. Lazio were brushed aside by AC Milan last time out while Fiorentina just edged past Chievo 2-1. Both these teams have stuttered of late and neither will come into this full of confidence. Its simply too close to call, though either could take it.
Selected Match Odds:
Juve, Napoli, Sampdoria, Atalanta, Roma & AC Milan - All To Win : 47/1
Udinese V Roma - Totti To Score First : 5/1
Lazio V Fiorentina - Draw 2-2: 12/1
Enjoy The Games!
Elsewhere last weekend saw the top two shared a the points in a 1-1 draw as Juve held Napoli in Naples. AC Milan continued their mightily impressive run by beating Lazio 3-0. Torino and Palermo played out the only draw on Sunday in a dire 0-0. Fiorentina overcame Chievo 2-1, Atalanta beat Siena 2-0 to gain a much needed win. Their were narrow wins for Udinese and Sampdoria who beat Pescara and Parma 1-0 respectively. Bologna eased past Cagliari 3-0 and Inter and Catania played out a thriller which saw Inter come out on top by 3 goals to 2.
This Weekends Fixtures and Previews:
Friday 8 March
Genoa V AC Milan - 19:45 - Away Win
Genoa remain just five points above the drop zone after losing to Roma and they face a stiff task again as they face an inform AC Milan side. Milan have yet to lose a game this year and that looks unlikely to change against a Genoa side that should prove little match for Milan's attacking flair.
Saturday 9 March
Udinese V Roma - 19:45 - Away Win
Ninth hosts seventh in this one which sees two inconsistent sides go head to head. Udinese have had a very disappointing season and have won just two of their last 5. Roma have been typically up and down but their form at the moment is good winning their last 3 on the bounce. They might just have
enough to make it 4 out of 4 against a Udinese side that has offered little in attack this campaign.
Sunday 10 March
Atalanta V Pescara - 11:30 - Home Win
Atalanta's win last weekend saw them return to form and has pulled them away from the relegation fight. They should stretch margin further here with victory over the leagues bottom side Pescara who yet again lost last weekend, their third defeat in a row.
Cagliari V Sampdoria - 14:00 - Away Win
Cagliari where in great form before last weekend which saw them comfortably beaten by Bologna. They face a Sampdoria side high from another win that has seen them move up to tenth in the table. Sardinia is a hard place to go and get a victory but Sampdoria may well be up to the task given how high in confidence they are.
Chievo V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Chievo haven't won any of their last 5 games and its likely that will become six come Sunday evening as they face a Napoli side desperate to keep the heat on leaders Juventus. Napoli's form in recent weeks has dipped and they are now 6 points behind Juve but they have found a good opportunity to pick up 3 points here.
Juventus V Catania - 14:00 - Home Win
Eighth placed Catania have had a great campaign but they are set for back to back defeats here as they travel to the champions. Juve were perhaps fortunate to get a draw against Napoli but this represents an easier assignment and they should make it win 19 for the season.
Palermo V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Second from bottom Palermo are on a strange run of 4 straight draws. That could become 5 against a Siena side who have been comfortably beaten in their last two games leaving them 5 points from safety. These crucial '6 pointers' are usually cagey affairs and with no team wanting to lose this one a draw is more than likely.
Parma V Torino - 14:00 - Draw
13th host 12th in this one with Parma facing Torino. Parma have lost all of their last three games and are struggling at the moment. Torino have won just one of their last 3 games. Both teams will be looking over their shoulders knowing that a few poor results will see them dragged into a relegation battle and with that in mind will be happy to share the spoils in this one.
Inter V Bologna - 19:45 - Draw
Bologna travel to Milan in good heart having won 3of their last 5 and they will test Inter in this one. Inter gained a much needed win over Catania last weekend but their mid week humiliation at the hands of Tottenham will have done little for confidence. This of course is easier but it would be of little surprise to see Bologna take something from the game.
Lazio V Fiorentina - 19:45 - Draw
Fifth hosts sixth in this one which is set to be a tight affair. Lazio were brushed aside by AC Milan last time out while Fiorentina just edged past Chievo 2-1. Both these teams have stuttered of late and neither will come into this full of confidence. Its simply too close to call, though either could take it.
Selected Match Odds:
Juve, Napoli, Sampdoria, Atalanta, Roma & AC Milan - All To Win : 47/1
Udinese V Roma - Totti To Score First : 5/1
Lazio V Fiorentina - Draw 2-2: 12/1
Enjoy The Games!
Thursday, 28 February 2013
Matchweek 27 - 2 Big Big Games
A relatively quiet week in Italian football this week with the Milan derby still dominating headlines on the eve of the next round of games. The game ended 1-1 with Milan rueing missed opportunities in a game they dominated but were unable to finish off. The game was no classic but the return of Mario Ballotelli to his first club Inter wearing the colours of their bitter rivals resulted in plenty of hype surrounding it. Ballotelli was not at his best but he stole the headlines due to abuse levelled at him by Inter's supporters. In another sad incident for football fans across the world and particularly Italian fans it was racial abuse Ballotelli had to suffer. Jeered each time he touched the ball and inflatable bananas thrown from the stands were just some of the completely unacceptable actions carried out by Inter fans. Inter have now been fined by The Italian F.A. but the incident has yet again highlighted Italy's racism problem. We will see it again but the question remains as to what punishment will prevent us seeing it once and for all.
Elsewhere last weekend and Palermo and Genoa got the action underway and played out a dire 0-0. Sampdoria moved further away from trouble with a 2-0 win over Chievo. Roma got a much needed away win as they overcame Atalanta 3-2. Leaders Juve extended their lead at the top to 6 points after beating Siena 3-0 and then seeing Napoli held to a 0-0 by Udinese. Cagliari and Torino played out the match of the weekend as Cagliari won a 4-3 thriller. Catania continued their good season by beating Parma 2-1. Lazio overcame their blip in form to beat Pescara 2-0 and Fiorentina's blip continues as they were beaten 2-1 by Bologna.
This weekends fixtures and previews:
Friday 1st March
Napoli V Juventus - Away Win
The first of two huge games running over Friday and Saturday sees second host first as Juve travel to Naples. Napoli have drawn all 3 of their last 3 games and more worryingly have scored just one goal in those 3 games. Juve have won 2 of their last 3 and their loss against Roma a fortnight ago hasn't seemed to bother them one jot. With Napoli struggling for goals you have to fancy Juve to take this one and extend their lead at the top.
Saturday 2nd March
AC Milan V Lazio - Home Win
Third travel to fourth in this one with just two points separating them. Lazio returned to form beating Pescara 2-0 last weekend but this represents a much sterner task and they may return to the form that has seen them fall 5 points behind second placed Napoli. Milan have been a revelation since Christmas and have clambered up the table throw in two inform strikers in El Shaarawy and Ballotelli and Milan now have a real chance of repeating last years second placed finish. Expect Milan to be too much for Lazio, particularly in attack.
Sunday 3rd March
Torino V Palermo - 11:30 - Home Win
Two sides in need of a win meet in this one. Mid table placed Torino have won just one of their last three but they continue to play some good stuff and score goals. Bottom club Palermo have drawn 4 of their last 5, losing the other. They are six points from safety and could be even further adrift by Sunday evening if Torino play to full capacity. The promoted side have shown enough already this season to suggest they can be a staple in the top division and they should cement that further with victory over a struggling Palermo.
Bologna V Cagliari - 14:00 - Draw
Thirteenth play host to fourteenth as Cagliari travel to Bologna. Both sides won last time out and are out of relegation danger. Cagliari have won 2 of their last three and Bologna have just one. Both teams remain difficult to predict however and their is little to choose between them. A tight draw is the most likely result.
Catania V Inter - 14:00 - Home Win
Catania could leapfrog Inter into fifth if they take all 3 points in this one. They continue to be a solid outfit, winning two of their last 3 and drawing the other. Another positive is their home form is good. Inter have won just one of their last three and do not travel well. However there is little doubt that on paper Inter should take this one, but football isn't played on paper and Catania may just edge this given their performances in recent weeks.
Fiorentina V Chievo - 14:00 - Home Win
Chievo have slipped back down the table after failing to win any of their last 3 games. Currently in fifteenth their season has been a disaster by their standards and it could get worse when they travel to Florence. Fiorentina have fallen into sixth after a string of inconsistent results but they should have enough class to beat a struggling Chievo in this one.
Pescara V Udinese - 14:00 - Draw
Both of these sides are in poor form and expect a cagey affair. Pescara are second bottom after taking just a point from their last 3 games. Udinese are having a dreadful season by their standards and currently lie in ninth after gaining their first point in 2 games after drawing with Napoli last weekend. Udinese do not travel well and that is a positive for Pescara but it is unlikely the home side will have enough to trouble Udinese and a low scoring draw seems most likely.
Sampdoria V Parma - 14:00 - Home Win
Tenth meets eleventh as Sampdoria host Parma. Sampdoria have won two of their last three whereas Parma have won none, losing both of their last two games. Given the form of the two its easy to side with Sampdoria who have looked resurgent in recent weeks. Parma will make life difficult for the hosts but they rarely keep clean sheets and the odd goal should see Sampdoria take all 3 points.
Siena V Atalana - 14:00 - Home Win
Third from bottom Siena would be in a much stronger position if they could get their away form sorted out, at home however they are imperious, beating the like of Lazio in recent weeks. They face an Atalanta side just two places above them and who haven't won any of their last 3 games. expect home advantage to be the key to this one.
Roma V Genoa - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma continue to leak goals but they have won 2 of their last three and will fancy themselves to make it 3 in a row against fourth bottom Genoa. Genoa have won just one of their last three, scoring a singular goal which will give Roma's shakey defence some encouragement. Roma are unpredictable and would be of little surprise to see them really pushed by Genoa but they should have enough to take this one.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Atalanta, Sampdoria, Fiorentina, Catania, Torino, Milan & Juventus - All To Win : 170/1
Roma V Genoa - Osvaldo First Goal Scorer : 3/1
Milan V Lazio - Milan Win 3-1 : 11/1
Enjoy The Games!
Elsewhere last weekend and Palermo and Genoa got the action underway and played out a dire 0-0. Sampdoria moved further away from trouble with a 2-0 win over Chievo. Roma got a much needed away win as they overcame Atalanta 3-2. Leaders Juve extended their lead at the top to 6 points after beating Siena 3-0 and then seeing Napoli held to a 0-0 by Udinese. Cagliari and Torino played out the match of the weekend as Cagliari won a 4-3 thriller. Catania continued their good season by beating Parma 2-1. Lazio overcame their blip in form to beat Pescara 2-0 and Fiorentina's blip continues as they were beaten 2-1 by Bologna.
This weekends fixtures and previews:
Friday 1st March
Napoli V Juventus - Away Win
The first of two huge games running over Friday and Saturday sees second host first as Juve travel to Naples. Napoli have drawn all 3 of their last 3 games and more worryingly have scored just one goal in those 3 games. Juve have won 2 of their last 3 and their loss against Roma a fortnight ago hasn't seemed to bother them one jot. With Napoli struggling for goals you have to fancy Juve to take this one and extend their lead at the top.
Saturday 2nd March
AC Milan V Lazio - Home Win
Third travel to fourth in this one with just two points separating them. Lazio returned to form beating Pescara 2-0 last weekend but this represents a much sterner task and they may return to the form that has seen them fall 5 points behind second placed Napoli. Milan have been a revelation since Christmas and have clambered up the table throw in two inform strikers in El Shaarawy and Ballotelli and Milan now have a real chance of repeating last years second placed finish. Expect Milan to be too much for Lazio, particularly in attack.
Sunday 3rd March
Torino V Palermo - 11:30 - Home Win
Two sides in need of a win meet in this one. Mid table placed Torino have won just one of their last three but they continue to play some good stuff and score goals. Bottom club Palermo have drawn 4 of their last 5, losing the other. They are six points from safety and could be even further adrift by Sunday evening if Torino play to full capacity. The promoted side have shown enough already this season to suggest they can be a staple in the top division and they should cement that further with victory over a struggling Palermo.
Bologna V Cagliari - 14:00 - Draw
Thirteenth play host to fourteenth as Cagliari travel to Bologna. Both sides won last time out and are out of relegation danger. Cagliari have won 2 of their last three and Bologna have just one. Both teams remain difficult to predict however and their is little to choose between them. A tight draw is the most likely result.
Catania V Inter - 14:00 - Home Win
Catania could leapfrog Inter into fifth if they take all 3 points in this one. They continue to be a solid outfit, winning two of their last 3 and drawing the other. Another positive is their home form is good. Inter have won just one of their last three and do not travel well. However there is little doubt that on paper Inter should take this one, but football isn't played on paper and Catania may just edge this given their performances in recent weeks.
Fiorentina V Chievo - 14:00 - Home Win
Chievo have slipped back down the table after failing to win any of their last 3 games. Currently in fifteenth their season has been a disaster by their standards and it could get worse when they travel to Florence. Fiorentina have fallen into sixth after a string of inconsistent results but they should have enough class to beat a struggling Chievo in this one.
Pescara V Udinese - 14:00 - Draw
Both of these sides are in poor form and expect a cagey affair. Pescara are second bottom after taking just a point from their last 3 games. Udinese are having a dreadful season by their standards and currently lie in ninth after gaining their first point in 2 games after drawing with Napoli last weekend. Udinese do not travel well and that is a positive for Pescara but it is unlikely the home side will have enough to trouble Udinese and a low scoring draw seems most likely.
Sampdoria V Parma - 14:00 - Home Win
Tenth meets eleventh as Sampdoria host Parma. Sampdoria have won two of their last three whereas Parma have won none, losing both of their last two games. Given the form of the two its easy to side with Sampdoria who have looked resurgent in recent weeks. Parma will make life difficult for the hosts but they rarely keep clean sheets and the odd goal should see Sampdoria take all 3 points.
Siena V Atalana - 14:00 - Home Win
Third from bottom Siena would be in a much stronger position if they could get their away form sorted out, at home however they are imperious, beating the like of Lazio in recent weeks. They face an Atalanta side just two places above them and who haven't won any of their last 3 games. expect home advantage to be the key to this one.
Roma V Genoa - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma continue to leak goals but they have won 2 of their last three and will fancy themselves to make it 3 in a row against fourth bottom Genoa. Genoa have won just one of their last three, scoring a singular goal which will give Roma's shakey defence some encouragement. Roma are unpredictable and would be of little surprise to see them really pushed by Genoa but they should have enough to take this one.
Selected Match Betting:
Roma, Atalanta, Sampdoria, Fiorentina, Catania, Torino, Milan & Juventus - All To Win : 170/1
Roma V Genoa - Osvaldo First Goal Scorer : 3/1
Milan V Lazio - Milan Win 3-1 : 11/1
Enjoy The Games!
Thursday, 21 February 2013
Matchweek 26 - The Milan Derby
A relatively quiet week in the Serie A this week with little action off the field it has been left to actions on the pitch to take centre stage. The major story of the week concerns AC Milan and their dramatic turn in fortunes. Milan have taken a staggering 23 points from their last 10 games and despite a dreadful start to the season are now vying for a Champions League place. Their form was boosted further on Wednesday as they overcame Barcelona 2-0 in The Champions League. They are the team no one wants to face at the moment and that has to be a concern for Inter who play their bitter rivals on Sunday night.
In contrast to the previous week their were only 2 draws in the Serie A last weekend as Napoli were held by Sampdoria in a 0-0 and Chievo shared points with Palermo in a 1-1. Pescara overcame Cagliari 2-0 while Catania narrowly beat Bologna 1-0. Torino held on to beat Atalanta 2-1. Milan continued their good run beating Parma 2-1. There were the usual surprise results as Siena beat Lazio 3-0, Fiorentina thrashed Inter 4-1, Genoa beat Udinese 1-0 and Roma shocked everyone by first keeping a clean sheet and then in doing so beating Juventus 1-0.
This Weekends Fixtures and Predictions
Saturday 23rd February
Palermo V Genoa - 19:45 - Away Win
Palermo remain bottom of the table after gaining a draw against Cheivo. Their opponents this weekend sit just six points above them but in much stronger form. Genoa have beaten both Udinese and Lazio in recent weeks and this represents a much easier task. Palermo have only lost one of their last 5 but they look set to struggle against a buoyant Genoa.
Sunday 24th February
Sampdoria V Chievo - 11:30 - Home Win
12th meets 13th in this one as Sampdoria and Chievo look to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle. Both sides have stopped their slide into the danger zone and now look set for mid table finishes. It is Sampdoria who get the vote in this one however given the strength of their home form and Cheivo's poor away form. Sampdoria have been scoring for fun at home and that will concern a struggling Chievo defence, it could prove to be the difference in this one.
Atalanta V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Atalanta have won just one of their last 5 after being beaten by Torino. They have had a disappointing campaign and would be happy just to avoid relegation this season. Roma shocked everyone by beating Juve last time out and will be full of confidence going into this one. Both these sides are inconsistent but Roma's victory last time out shows the class they possess and they should prove to much for a sorry looking Atalanta.
Bologna V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Away Win
Bologna's narrow defeat to Catania last time out was just their second in 5 games, despite that they remain 16th just 5 points above the drop zone. 6th placed Fiorentina returned to form with a bang beating Inter 4-1 last weekend a similar display will see them sweep Bologna aside. The Viola have been inconsistent in recent weeks but their performance against Inter showed promise and they should be able to push on from it against a struggling Bologna.
Cagliari V Torino - 14:00 - Draw
Cagliari are unbeaten in five and have clawed their way up the table and away from any relegation
battle. Torino have lost just one of their last 5 and have proven themselves to be the most consistent of the three promoted sides. There is very little to choose between the two on both form and league position, either is capable of taking all three points but a draw is the safest option.
Juventus V Siena - 14:00 - Home Win
League leaders Juve were in imperious form before losing to Roma last weekend and they are taken to bounce straight back to form here. Third from bottom Siena have had some positive results in recent weeks, none more so than beating Lazio 3-0 last weekend. Lazio though are struggling and this represents a much sterner task away to the champions. Juve should prove to much for Siena in this one.
Parma V Catania - 14:00 - Draw
Both these teams come into this one in good heart. 10th placed Parma have lost 3 of their last 5 but those losses were against Milan, Fiorentina and Napoli. 7th placed Catania have lost just one of their last five and will head to Parma confident of picking up all 3 points. Parma however have been decent at home and will look to make life hard for the visitors. An entertaining draw looks in prospect.
Inter V Milan - 19:45 - Away (Milan) Win
The big game of the weekend and one of the biggest games of the season sees Inter face Milan in the Milan derby. Milan have been nothing short of superb in recent weeks winning 4 of their last 5. Inspired by the signing of Mario Balotelli they have worked their way up to third in the table, over taking their arch rivals. Inter in contrast have been poor in their last few games, a win against struggling Chievo was sandwiched between heavy defeats at the hands of Siena and then Fiorentina. It is the red half of Milan that look on the rise then and with Balotelli determined to score against his former club they look sure to cause a struggling Inter no end of problems. Expect fireworks but Milan should come out on top.
Monday 25th February
Udinese V Napoli - 18:00 - Away Win
Udiense's disappointing campaign continued after losing to Genoa. Their third defeat in 5 they sit in 9th with European qualification looking ever more unlikely. Napoli's title ambitions have been dealt a blow after drawing their last two but they are taken to return to winning ways here. Napoli's attacking options should prove to much for a shaky Udinese defence.
Lazio V Pescara - 19:45 - Home Win
Lazio have been inconsistent in recent weeks but they face their easiest task for some time here as they host second from bottom Pescara. Pescara haven't won any of their last 5 and have lost 16 games this season. Despite a promising start they look set for relegation now and Lazio should heap more misery on them in this one despite their own poor form.
Selected Match Betting:
Lazio, Napoli, Milan, Juve, Fiorentina, Roma, Sampdoria & Genoa - All To Win: 228/1
Inter V Milan - Mario Balotelli Hat Trick : 40/1
Lazio V Pescara - Lazio to win 3-0: 6/1
Enjoy The Games!
In contrast to the previous week their were only 2 draws in the Serie A last weekend as Napoli were held by Sampdoria in a 0-0 and Chievo shared points with Palermo in a 1-1. Pescara overcame Cagliari 2-0 while Catania narrowly beat Bologna 1-0. Torino held on to beat Atalanta 2-1. Milan continued their good run beating Parma 2-1. There were the usual surprise results as Siena beat Lazio 3-0, Fiorentina thrashed Inter 4-1, Genoa beat Udinese 1-0 and Roma shocked everyone by first keeping a clean sheet and then in doing so beating Juventus 1-0.
This Weekends Fixtures and Predictions
Saturday 23rd February
Palermo V Genoa - 19:45 - Away Win
Palermo remain bottom of the table after gaining a draw against Cheivo. Their opponents this weekend sit just six points above them but in much stronger form. Genoa have beaten both Udinese and Lazio in recent weeks and this represents a much easier task. Palermo have only lost one of their last 5 but they look set to struggle against a buoyant Genoa.
Sunday 24th February
Sampdoria V Chievo - 11:30 - Home Win
12th meets 13th in this one as Sampdoria and Chievo look to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle. Both sides have stopped their slide into the danger zone and now look set for mid table finishes. It is Sampdoria who get the vote in this one however given the strength of their home form and Cheivo's poor away form. Sampdoria have been scoring for fun at home and that will concern a struggling Chievo defence, it could prove to be the difference in this one.
Atalanta V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Atalanta have won just one of their last 5 after being beaten by Torino. They have had a disappointing campaign and would be happy just to avoid relegation this season. Roma shocked everyone by beating Juve last time out and will be full of confidence going into this one. Both these sides are inconsistent but Roma's victory last time out shows the class they possess and they should prove to much for a sorry looking Atalanta.
Bologna V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Away Win
Bologna's narrow defeat to Catania last time out was just their second in 5 games, despite that they remain 16th just 5 points above the drop zone. 6th placed Fiorentina returned to form with a bang beating Inter 4-1 last weekend a similar display will see them sweep Bologna aside. The Viola have been inconsistent in recent weeks but their performance against Inter showed promise and they should be able to push on from it against a struggling Bologna.
Cagliari V Torino - 14:00 - Draw
Cagliari are unbeaten in five and have clawed their way up the table and away from any relegation
battle. Torino have lost just one of their last 5 and have proven themselves to be the most consistent of the three promoted sides. There is very little to choose between the two on both form and league position, either is capable of taking all three points but a draw is the safest option.
Juventus V Siena - 14:00 - Home Win
League leaders Juve were in imperious form before losing to Roma last weekend and they are taken to bounce straight back to form here. Third from bottom Siena have had some positive results in recent weeks, none more so than beating Lazio 3-0 last weekend. Lazio though are struggling and this represents a much sterner task away to the champions. Juve should prove to much for Siena in this one.
Parma V Catania - 14:00 - Draw
Both these teams come into this one in good heart. 10th placed Parma have lost 3 of their last 5 but those losses were against Milan, Fiorentina and Napoli. 7th placed Catania have lost just one of their last five and will head to Parma confident of picking up all 3 points. Parma however have been decent at home and will look to make life hard for the visitors. An entertaining draw looks in prospect.
Inter V Milan - 19:45 - Away (Milan) Win
The big game of the weekend and one of the biggest games of the season sees Inter face Milan in the Milan derby. Milan have been nothing short of superb in recent weeks winning 4 of their last 5. Inspired by the signing of Mario Balotelli they have worked their way up to third in the table, over taking their arch rivals. Inter in contrast have been poor in their last few games, a win against struggling Chievo was sandwiched between heavy defeats at the hands of Siena and then Fiorentina. It is the red half of Milan that look on the rise then and with Balotelli determined to score against his former club they look sure to cause a struggling Inter no end of problems. Expect fireworks but Milan should come out on top.
Monday 25th February
Udinese V Napoli - 18:00 - Away Win
Udiense's disappointing campaign continued after losing to Genoa. Their third defeat in 5 they sit in 9th with European qualification looking ever more unlikely. Napoli's title ambitions have been dealt a blow after drawing their last two but they are taken to return to winning ways here. Napoli's attacking options should prove to much for a shaky Udinese defence.
Lazio V Pescara - 19:45 - Home Win
Lazio have been inconsistent in recent weeks but they face their easiest task for some time here as they host second from bottom Pescara. Pescara haven't won any of their last 5 and have lost 16 games this season. Despite a promising start they look set for relegation now and Lazio should heap more misery on them in this one despite their own poor form.
Selected Match Betting:
Lazio, Napoli, Milan, Juve, Fiorentina, Roma, Sampdoria & Genoa - All To Win: 228/1
Inter V Milan - Mario Balotelli Hat Trick : 40/1
Lazio V Pescara - Lazio to win 3-0: 6/1
Enjoy The Games!
Thursday, 14 February 2013
Matchweek 24 - More Controversy
Another turbulent week in Serie A has seen Genoa president Enrico Preziosi and CEO Alessandro Zarbano investigated for tax evasion. Also Inter Milan have been fined 15,000 euros after their fans chanted racist abuse about former striker Mario Balotelli. This in turn with the recent dismals of two coaches has only heightened the sense of embarrassment that surrounds Italian football, it seems not a week can go by without some drama.
Turning to matters on the pitch last weekend saw some unusual results but the spate of shocks appears to have ended for now at least. Inter returned to form beating Chievo 3-1 while Roma's woe continues as they were beaten by the same score line by Sampdoria. Udinese overcame Torino 1-0 while Juventus continued their dominance over the rest of the league by beating Fiorentina 2-0. The remaining 6 games all finished in draws with Palermo V Pescara, Cagliari V AC Milan, Bologna V Siena and Lazio V Napoli all finishing 1-1. Atalanta V Catania was goal less as was Parma V Genoa.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Friday 15th February
AC Milan V Parma - 19:45 - Home Win
Both these teams drew last time out but it is Milan who enter this one in better shape. New striker Mario Balotelli has scored 3 times in his two games for the club and he looks a constant threat. Parma haven't won in five games and I don't expect that to change here. They will offer resistance but expect Balotelli in particular to be too much for them.
Saturday 16th February
Chievo V Palermo - 17:00 -home Win
Chievo have slipped back down the table after 2 defeats to Inter and Juve, they did however manage to beat Lazio before those defeats. They face a much easier task than their previous three games here as they face bottom club Palermo. Just three wins all season and a poor 1-1 draw with Pescara last time out does little to inspire confidence that they can avoid the drop or more pressingly another defeat.
Roma V Juventus - 19:45 - Draw
Roma haven't won any of their last 4 league games but they might be able to nick a point against the champions in this one. New boss Aurelio Andreazzoli suffered defeat in his first game in charge last weekend a 3-1 loss to Sampdoria. His first goal is surely to steady the ship and ensure his defence stop leaking goals. I think we will see a much more defensive Roma side for the rest of the campaign and although Juve are more than capable of breaking Roma down, a more solid looking Roma might just keep them at bay.
Sunday 17th February
Catania V Bologna - 14:00 - Home Win
Catania have had a great campaign, currently sitting in eighth and looking to secure a European place they have been one of the leagues most consistent sides. Bologna in contrast have been in consistent and as a result are in 15th just 5 points off the drop. Catania are disciplined and organised, the same can't be said for their opposition and their should only be one winner in this one.
Genoa V Udinese - 14:00 - Away Win
Genoa are just a point off the relegation places and they may well find themselves back in the drop zone after Sunday as Udinese represent a hard game for the strugglers. Udinese have suffered setbacks throughout their campaign but overall they have done well to recover and work themselves up into seventh. This represents an easier task than they have had in recent weeks and they should take all 3 points.
Napoli V Sampdoria - 14:00 - Home Win
Despite Sampdoria taking points off Roma and AC Milan in recent weeks and going 5 games unbeaten Sampdoria's impressive run should come to a halt here. Second placed Napoli are on an even better run of form than their opponents and continue to look impressive. This looks set to be attack against attack with both teams playing style being free flowing. If that turns out to be the case Napoli will certainly take all the beating giving the quality they possess.
Pescara V Cagliari - 14:00 - Draw
Pescara remain a point from safety after drawing with Palermo. Just 4 points above them sit Cagliari who have enjoyed a rich vein of form of late to move away from trouble. Like many relegation battles this is a game that neither team will want to lose. Pescara especially can not afford to lose and expect them to set up for a tight affair that will end in a low scoring draw.
Torino V Atalanta - 14:00 - Draw
Just a point separates these two as 12th meets 14th in this one. Torino have shown themselves to be the most solid of the newly promoted sides and bar a disaster will enjoy another season of top flight football. Atalanta have been poor this season by their standards and will not want to slip any further down the table. Both teams are capable of taking this one but the safest option is a draw.
Fiorentina V Inter - 19:45 - Draw
Both these sides have experienced blips in recent weeks and neither can be backed with confidence. Inter did return to form with a win over Cheivo but they face a tougher game here against a Fiorentina side who are just 4 points behind them. Fiorentina have won just one of their last 5 and are unlikely to gain a victory here, like wise Inter are unlikely to be up to taking all 3 points given their current form. A tight draw seems the most likely result.
Monday 18th February
Siena V Lazio - 19:45 - Away Win
Second bottom means second from top in this one and it is Lazio who should take all 3 points here. Siena have battled themselves off the bottom of the table but continue to struggle. They do however save their best performances for the big boys which will be a concern for Lazio. Lazio though have been solid all season and despite having a couple of poor results in recent weeks they should take this one comfortably.
Selected Match Betting:
Lazio, Napoli, Udinese, Catania, Milan & Chievo - All to win : 52/1
Genoa V Udinese - Di Natale 1st Goal scorer : 7/2
Napoli V Sampdoria - Napoli to win 4-1 : 18/1
Enjoy The Games!
Turning to matters on the pitch last weekend saw some unusual results but the spate of shocks appears to have ended for now at least. Inter returned to form beating Chievo 3-1 while Roma's woe continues as they were beaten by the same score line by Sampdoria. Udinese overcame Torino 1-0 while Juventus continued their dominance over the rest of the league by beating Fiorentina 2-0. The remaining 6 games all finished in draws with Palermo V Pescara, Cagliari V AC Milan, Bologna V Siena and Lazio V Napoli all finishing 1-1. Atalanta V Catania was goal less as was Parma V Genoa.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Friday 15th February
AC Milan V Parma - 19:45 - Home Win
Both these teams drew last time out but it is Milan who enter this one in better shape. New striker Mario Balotelli has scored 3 times in his two games for the club and he looks a constant threat. Parma haven't won in five games and I don't expect that to change here. They will offer resistance but expect Balotelli in particular to be too much for them.
Saturday 16th February
Chievo V Palermo - 17:00 -home Win
Chievo have slipped back down the table after 2 defeats to Inter and Juve, they did however manage to beat Lazio before those defeats. They face a much easier task than their previous three games here as they face bottom club Palermo. Just three wins all season and a poor 1-1 draw with Pescara last time out does little to inspire confidence that they can avoid the drop or more pressingly another defeat.
Roma V Juventus - 19:45 - Draw
Roma haven't won any of their last 4 league games but they might be able to nick a point against the champions in this one. New boss Aurelio Andreazzoli suffered defeat in his first game in charge last weekend a 3-1 loss to Sampdoria. His first goal is surely to steady the ship and ensure his defence stop leaking goals. I think we will see a much more defensive Roma side for the rest of the campaign and although Juve are more than capable of breaking Roma down, a more solid looking Roma might just keep them at bay.
Sunday 17th February
Catania V Bologna - 14:00 - Home Win
Catania have had a great campaign, currently sitting in eighth and looking to secure a European place they have been one of the leagues most consistent sides. Bologna in contrast have been in consistent and as a result are in 15th just 5 points off the drop. Catania are disciplined and organised, the same can't be said for their opposition and their should only be one winner in this one.
Genoa V Udinese - 14:00 - Away Win
Genoa are just a point off the relegation places and they may well find themselves back in the drop zone after Sunday as Udinese represent a hard game for the strugglers. Udinese have suffered setbacks throughout their campaign but overall they have done well to recover and work themselves up into seventh. This represents an easier task than they have had in recent weeks and they should take all 3 points.
Napoli V Sampdoria - 14:00 - Home Win
Despite Sampdoria taking points off Roma and AC Milan in recent weeks and going 5 games unbeaten Sampdoria's impressive run should come to a halt here. Second placed Napoli are on an even better run of form than their opponents and continue to look impressive. This looks set to be attack against attack with both teams playing style being free flowing. If that turns out to be the case Napoli will certainly take all the beating giving the quality they possess.
Pescara V Cagliari - 14:00 - Draw
Pescara remain a point from safety after drawing with Palermo. Just 4 points above them sit Cagliari who have enjoyed a rich vein of form of late to move away from trouble. Like many relegation battles this is a game that neither team will want to lose. Pescara especially can not afford to lose and expect them to set up for a tight affair that will end in a low scoring draw.
Torino V Atalanta - 14:00 - Draw
Just a point separates these two as 12th meets 14th in this one. Torino have shown themselves to be the most solid of the newly promoted sides and bar a disaster will enjoy another season of top flight football. Atalanta have been poor this season by their standards and will not want to slip any further down the table. Both teams are capable of taking this one but the safest option is a draw.
Fiorentina V Inter - 19:45 - Draw
Both these sides have experienced blips in recent weeks and neither can be backed with confidence. Inter did return to form with a win over Cheivo but they face a tougher game here against a Fiorentina side who are just 4 points behind them. Fiorentina have won just one of their last 5 and are unlikely to gain a victory here, like wise Inter are unlikely to be up to taking all 3 points given their current form. A tight draw seems the most likely result.
Monday 18th February
Siena V Lazio - 19:45 - Away Win
Second bottom means second from top in this one and it is Lazio who should take all 3 points here. Siena have battled themselves off the bottom of the table but continue to struggle. They do however save their best performances for the big boys which will be a concern for Lazio. Lazio though have been solid all season and despite having a couple of poor results in recent weeks they should take this one comfortably.
Selected Match Betting:
Lazio, Napoli, Udinese, Catania, Milan & Chievo - All to win : 52/1
Genoa V Udinese - Di Natale 1st Goal scorer : 7/2
Napoli V Sampdoria - Napoli to win 4-1 : 18/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 8 February 2013
Matchweek 24 - Two More Managerial Casualties
Another eventful week in Italian football saw another two managers relieved of their duties. Sunday night saw Roma sack Zdenek Zeman after losing 4-2 to Cagliari. The Czech had overseen Roma score more goals than any other side this season but in turn concede the second most in the division. He leaves Roma in eighth place and without a win this year. Roma coach Aurelio Andreazzoli has taken temporary charge of team and remains unclear who is likely to succeed Zeman.
Monday then saw Palermo sack Gian Piero Gasperini who had only taken charge in September. Gasperini leaves Palermo bottom of Serie A with just 3 wins all season. Former Palermo manager Alberto Malesani is being lined up as Gasperini's replacement but no deal has been finalised as yet.
On the pitch and yet again a few surprise results. Roma were beaten 4-2 by Cagliari on Friday night. Saturday saw some normality as Napoli beat Catania 2-0 and Torino and Sampdoria played out a 0-0 draw. Sunday looked to be following a similar pattern as Juve overcame Chievo 2-1 and Atalanta beat Palermo by the same score line. Fiorentina ended their poor run with a 2-0 victory over Parma and Bologna got a much needed win as they beat Pescara 3-2. Then the two shocks occurred with Inter losing 3-1 to Siena to mount pressure on Stramaccioni and Lazio were beaten 3-2 by Genoa. Sunday's evening game saw Mario Balotelli score twice on his debut as Milan beat Udinese 2-1.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions
Saturday 9th February
Juventus V Fiorentina - 17:00 - Home Win
One of the games of the weekend sees league leaders Juventus host sixth placed Fiorentina. Juventus have looked every bit champions this season, not playing brilliantly but grinding out victories. In comparison Fiorentina have played some wonderful football but have suffered dips in form. The Viola returned to form with a win last time out but this represents a much sterner task and Juve will prove to much for them.
Lazio V Napoli - 19:45 - Away Win
Third meets second in this one and it couldn't of come at a worse time for Lazio. Beaten again last time out they haven't won any of their last three and must win this one to keep their title challenge alive. Napoli have looked like the only side who can seriously challenge Juventus this season and they continue to pick up points. The free flowing football of Napoli is not what you want to face when your on a bad run and that's exactly what Lazio are up against, so its Napoli who should take this one.
Sunday 10th February
Parma V Genoa - 11:30 - Draw
Parma have won just one of their last 5 but remain in tenth position in mid table safety. Genoa are just one place above the relegation zone but continue to get good results, drawing against Juventus and then beating Lazio in their last two games. Both these sides are capable of beating each other but both are inconsistent and with that as an overarching factor a draw seems the most likely result.
Atalanta V Catania - 14:00 - Away Win
Catania are enjoying a good season currently sitting it seventh they should gain another 3 points in this one. Atalanta are having a poor campaign by their standards and their victory last weekend was their first in their last 5 games. Catania should take this one.
Bologna V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Both these sides remain in the relegation battle although it is Bologna who are currently better off. They currently sit 5 points above the relegation zone and are unbeaten in 2. Siena remain second from bottom but gained a great win over Inter last time. This is sure to be a cagey affair given what is at stake and a draw seems most likely.
Cagliari V AC Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Cagliari's great victory over Roma last weekend will have aided their confidence but the side fifth from bottom face a stern task against a rejuvenated Milan who have won 3 in a row and are now led by Mario Balotelli up front. Milan will prove to much for Cagliari.
Palermo V Pescara - 14:00 - Draw
Bottom club Palermo are in desperate need of points and will look at this as a golden opportunity against the side three points and two places above them. Pescara have slipped down the table in recent weeks and they two will be looking to stop the rot. Both teams are hard to back with any confidence in their current form and with both desperate not to lose this one a draw looks most likely result.
Sampdoria V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Sampdoria have clambered away from the relegation zone after winning two of their last 5. Roma are yet to win this year and continue to score freely and concede easily. This is more than likely going to be a goal fest and the suggestion is that Roma should have enough class to overcome Sampdoria.
Udinese V Torino - 14:00 - Home Win
Despite being beaten by AC Milan last weekend Udinese were beginning to show signs of the team they were last season and are taken to regain the winning thread in this one against Torino. Torino have faired best of the newly promoted sides this season sitting in eleventh but Udinese should be too much for them in this one.
Inter V Chievo - 19:45 - Draw
Inter are really struggling at the moment having dropped to fifth in the table and they face a Chievo side who look like they are coming back to the side we saw last season. This is set up to be a tight game with Inter desperate not to lose another game. Chievo will represent a solid test and in their current vein, Inter cannot overcome.
Selected Match Betting:
Udinese, Roma, Milan, Catania, Napoli & Juventus - All To Win - 81/1
Cagliari V Milan - Balotelli To Score a brace - 4/1
Sampdoria V Roma - Roma to win 4-3 - 80/1
Enjoy The Games!
Monday then saw Palermo sack Gian Piero Gasperini who had only taken charge in September. Gasperini leaves Palermo bottom of Serie A with just 3 wins all season. Former Palermo manager Alberto Malesani is being lined up as Gasperini's replacement but no deal has been finalised as yet.
On the pitch and yet again a few surprise results. Roma were beaten 4-2 by Cagliari on Friday night. Saturday saw some normality as Napoli beat Catania 2-0 and Torino and Sampdoria played out a 0-0 draw. Sunday looked to be following a similar pattern as Juve overcame Chievo 2-1 and Atalanta beat Palermo by the same score line. Fiorentina ended their poor run with a 2-0 victory over Parma and Bologna got a much needed win as they beat Pescara 3-2. Then the two shocks occurred with Inter losing 3-1 to Siena to mount pressure on Stramaccioni and Lazio were beaten 3-2 by Genoa. Sunday's evening game saw Mario Balotelli score twice on his debut as Milan beat Udinese 2-1.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions
Saturday 9th February
Juventus V Fiorentina - 17:00 - Home Win
One of the games of the weekend sees league leaders Juventus host sixth placed Fiorentina. Juventus have looked every bit champions this season, not playing brilliantly but grinding out victories. In comparison Fiorentina have played some wonderful football but have suffered dips in form. The Viola returned to form with a win last time out but this represents a much sterner task and Juve will prove to much for them.
Lazio V Napoli - 19:45 - Away Win
Third meets second in this one and it couldn't of come at a worse time for Lazio. Beaten again last time out they haven't won any of their last three and must win this one to keep their title challenge alive. Napoli have looked like the only side who can seriously challenge Juventus this season and they continue to pick up points. The free flowing football of Napoli is not what you want to face when your on a bad run and that's exactly what Lazio are up against, so its Napoli who should take this one.
Sunday 10th February
Parma V Genoa - 11:30 - Draw
Parma have won just one of their last 5 but remain in tenth position in mid table safety. Genoa are just one place above the relegation zone but continue to get good results, drawing against Juventus and then beating Lazio in their last two games. Both these sides are capable of beating each other but both are inconsistent and with that as an overarching factor a draw seems the most likely result.
Atalanta V Catania - 14:00 - Away Win
Catania are enjoying a good season currently sitting it seventh they should gain another 3 points in this one. Atalanta are having a poor campaign by their standards and their victory last weekend was their first in their last 5 games. Catania should take this one.
Bologna V Siena - 14:00 - Draw
Both these sides remain in the relegation battle although it is Bologna who are currently better off. They currently sit 5 points above the relegation zone and are unbeaten in 2. Siena remain second from bottom but gained a great win over Inter last time. This is sure to be a cagey affair given what is at stake and a draw seems most likely.
Cagliari V AC Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Cagliari's great victory over Roma last weekend will have aided their confidence but the side fifth from bottom face a stern task against a rejuvenated Milan who have won 3 in a row and are now led by Mario Balotelli up front. Milan will prove to much for Cagliari.
Palermo V Pescara - 14:00 - Draw
Bottom club Palermo are in desperate need of points and will look at this as a golden opportunity against the side three points and two places above them. Pescara have slipped down the table in recent weeks and they two will be looking to stop the rot. Both teams are hard to back with any confidence in their current form and with both desperate not to lose this one a draw looks most likely result.
Sampdoria V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win
Sampdoria have clambered away from the relegation zone after winning two of their last 5. Roma are yet to win this year and continue to score freely and concede easily. This is more than likely going to be a goal fest and the suggestion is that Roma should have enough class to overcome Sampdoria.
Udinese V Torino - 14:00 - Home Win
Despite being beaten by AC Milan last weekend Udinese were beginning to show signs of the team they were last season and are taken to regain the winning thread in this one against Torino. Torino have faired best of the newly promoted sides this season sitting in eleventh but Udinese should be too much for them in this one.
Inter V Chievo - 19:45 - Draw
Inter are really struggling at the moment having dropped to fifth in the table and they face a Chievo side who look like they are coming back to the side we saw last season. This is set up to be a tight game with Inter desperate not to lose another game. Chievo will represent a solid test and in their current vein, Inter cannot overcome.
Selected Match Betting:
Udinese, Roma, Milan, Catania, Napoli & Juventus - All To Win - 81/1
Cagliari V Milan - Balotelli To Score a brace - 4/1
Sampdoria V Roma - Roma to win 4-3 - 80/1
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 1 February 2013
Matchweek 23 - The Transfer Window Shuts
The last month has seen a few high profile transfers but it inevitable that in the last few days of the transfer window the traditional melee of transfer action would take place across Europe. Italy was no different pulling off arguably the deal of the month as AC Milan attained the services of enigmatic Manchester City striker Mario Ballotelli for 19 million euros. The 22 year old life long Milan fan has signed a 4 and a half year deal and is said to be delighted by the move, reportedly financing some of his own transfer fee to push the move through. Two players moved in the opposite direction from Italy to England as Phillipe Coutinho moved from Inter to Liverpool and Urby Edmanuelson moved from AC Milan to Fulham. Elsewhere Mohammad Sissoko has joined Fiorentina on a season long loan which should give the Viola a more organised midfield. Levante have brought the brilliantly named Bologna striker, Robert Aquafresca in on loan and Palermo have acquired Qpr's Alejandro Faulin in a similar deal. On the whole the transfer window has again highlighted Italy's struggle with attracting big names and problems with financing moves. Ballotelli's signing is great news for Italian football in a window which saw them lose the likes of Sniejder and Pato. But the fact remains that many of Italy's big teams are relieved this morning just to have held on to their prized possessions e.g Cavani and De Rossi.
On the pitch and last weekend saw what is becoming common place as a series of strange results appeared again. Saturday saw Champions Juve held to a 1-1 draw by third from bottom Genoa before second placed Lazio were beaten 1-0 at home to Chievo. Sunday saw Inter only take a point from Torino as they drew 2-2, Catania inflicted another defeat on Fiorentina with a 2-1 defeat. AC Milan overcame Atalanta 1-0 and Udinese beat Siena by the same score line. Cagliari and Palermo drew 1-1 and Bologna and Roma to shared the points in a thrilling 3-3 draw. Napoli continued their pursuit of the title with a 2-1 victory in Parma. Sampdoria provided the most entertainment as they thrashed Pescara 6-0 to move away from the relegation zone and plunge Pescara into deeper trouble.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Friday 1 February:
Roma V Cagliari - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma haven't won any of their last three Serie A outings but they really should change that here against Cagliari. Cagliari haven't lost any of their last 3 but remain in sixteenth, the defensive problems of both sides is sure to resurface in this one but attacking wise Roma are far superior and that should see them through this one.
Saturday 2 February
Torino V Sampdoria - 17:00 - Draw
12th meets 13th in this one as Torino host Sampdoria. It is Torino who have equipped themselves best of the promotion sides stringing together a decent run of results that should ensure they are not embroiled in a relegation battle come May. The same can't be said for Sampdoria whose form figures read LWDLW. Brilliant as they were against Pescara they are inconsistent and a trip to Torino represents a much stiffer test.
Napoli V Catania - 19:45 - Home Win
This should be a great encounter with two goods team meeting with both in good form. Napoli are now just three points behind leaders Juventus and will be desperate to bridge the gap further with victory here. Catania have won all of their last three and come into this in great heart but Napoli might just edge it with the talent they possess.
Sunday 3 February
Chievo V Juventus - 11:30 - Away Win
Cheivo have reached mid table safety after recovering from a disastrous start to the campaign. But they face a stiff task against a Juventus side who will be determined to remain top of the table. Juve have had a few blips of late but their quality remains and they should take this one against an improved but inconsistent Chievo.
Fiorentina V Parma - 14:00 - Home Win
Vincenzo Montella's men have lost two of their last three games, drawing the other and are tumbling down the table they will hope to stop the rot against 10th placed Parma. Parma had been on a good run before losing to Napoli but they do struggle against the top sides. Fiorentina are a quality team and should begin turning results around starting with this one.
Genoa V Lazio - 14:00 - Draw
Genoa have proved themselves a resilient side in recent weeks yet they remain in the bottom three, two points from safety. They face a Lazio side who have struggled of late and will be determined to get their title push back on track. If Lazio play to their full capacity they will take this, the feeling is though that Genoa will put up a united front as they did against Juve and make life too difficult for the romans.
Palermo V Atalanta - 14:00 - Draw
Neither of these two can put a decent run together this season which is reflected in their league positions. Palermo are second bottom and haven't won any of their last 5. Atalanta are in slightly better shape in 14th but they to haven't won any of their last 5. This is all points to a cagey affair were the spoils are likely to be shared.
Pescara V Bologna - 14:00 - Away Win
A relegation battle this one as 17th hosts 15th. Pescara will be low on confidence after being beaten 6-0 by Sampdoria and as a result having lost 4 on the bounce. Bologna however will be high on confidence after taking a point off Roma last time out. They will be looking to string some good results together and that should start here against a wounded Pescara.
Siena V Inter Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Siena remain bottom of the table after their 1-0 defeat to Udinese last Sunday. They are four points from safety and have won just one of their last 5. Simple then one would feel for Inter Milan to take this but they too are having problems having dropped points last weekend. They should however have the class to take this one against a struggling Siena.
AC Milan V Udinese - 19:45 - Home Win
Both these teams started the season badly but it is Milan who have bounced right back and currently occupy 5th in the table. They have won 3 of their last 4 games. Udinese have taken some big scalps in recent weeks but they remain hit and miss and with Ballotelli to now contend with in this one they look certain to concede. Both teams are slowly getting back to their best but it is Milan who should just edge it especially with a home crowd behind them.
Enjoy The Games!
Milan, Inter, Bologna, Fiorentina, Juve, Napoli & Roma - All To Win: 39/1
Roma V Cagliari - Roma win: 4-1 : 18/1
Milan V Udinese - Ballotelli 1st Goalscorer: 7/2
Enjoy The Games!
On the pitch and last weekend saw what is becoming common place as a series of strange results appeared again. Saturday saw Champions Juve held to a 1-1 draw by third from bottom Genoa before second placed Lazio were beaten 1-0 at home to Chievo. Sunday saw Inter only take a point from Torino as they drew 2-2, Catania inflicted another defeat on Fiorentina with a 2-1 defeat. AC Milan overcame Atalanta 1-0 and Udinese beat Siena by the same score line. Cagliari and Palermo drew 1-1 and Bologna and Roma to shared the points in a thrilling 3-3 draw. Napoli continued their pursuit of the title with a 2-1 victory in Parma. Sampdoria provided the most entertainment as they thrashed Pescara 6-0 to move away from the relegation zone and plunge Pescara into deeper trouble.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Friday 1 February:
Roma V Cagliari - 19:45 - Home Win
Roma haven't won any of their last three Serie A outings but they really should change that here against Cagliari. Cagliari haven't lost any of their last 3 but remain in sixteenth, the defensive problems of both sides is sure to resurface in this one but attacking wise Roma are far superior and that should see them through this one.
Saturday 2 February
Torino V Sampdoria - 17:00 - Draw
12th meets 13th in this one as Torino host Sampdoria. It is Torino who have equipped themselves best of the promotion sides stringing together a decent run of results that should ensure they are not embroiled in a relegation battle come May. The same can't be said for Sampdoria whose form figures read LWDLW. Brilliant as they were against Pescara they are inconsistent and a trip to Torino represents a much stiffer test.
Napoli V Catania - 19:45 - Home Win
This should be a great encounter with two goods team meeting with both in good form. Napoli are now just three points behind leaders Juventus and will be desperate to bridge the gap further with victory here. Catania have won all of their last three and come into this in great heart but Napoli might just edge it with the talent they possess.
Sunday 3 February
Chievo V Juventus - 11:30 - Away Win
Cheivo have reached mid table safety after recovering from a disastrous start to the campaign. But they face a stiff task against a Juventus side who will be determined to remain top of the table. Juve have had a few blips of late but their quality remains and they should take this one against an improved but inconsistent Chievo.
Fiorentina V Parma - 14:00 - Home Win
Vincenzo Montella's men have lost two of their last three games, drawing the other and are tumbling down the table they will hope to stop the rot against 10th placed Parma. Parma had been on a good run before losing to Napoli but they do struggle against the top sides. Fiorentina are a quality team and should begin turning results around starting with this one.
Genoa V Lazio - 14:00 - Draw
Genoa have proved themselves a resilient side in recent weeks yet they remain in the bottom three, two points from safety. They face a Lazio side who have struggled of late and will be determined to get their title push back on track. If Lazio play to their full capacity they will take this, the feeling is though that Genoa will put up a united front as they did against Juve and make life too difficult for the romans.
Palermo V Atalanta - 14:00 - Draw
Neither of these two can put a decent run together this season which is reflected in their league positions. Palermo are second bottom and haven't won any of their last 5. Atalanta are in slightly better shape in 14th but they to haven't won any of their last 5. This is all points to a cagey affair were the spoils are likely to be shared.
Pescara V Bologna - 14:00 - Away Win
A relegation battle this one as 17th hosts 15th. Pescara will be low on confidence after being beaten 6-0 by Sampdoria and as a result having lost 4 on the bounce. Bologna however will be high on confidence after taking a point off Roma last time out. They will be looking to string some good results together and that should start here against a wounded Pescara.
Siena V Inter Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Siena remain bottom of the table after their 1-0 defeat to Udinese last Sunday. They are four points from safety and have won just one of their last 5. Simple then one would feel for Inter Milan to take this but they too are having problems having dropped points last weekend. They should however have the class to take this one against a struggling Siena.
AC Milan V Udinese - 19:45 - Home Win
Both these teams started the season badly but it is Milan who have bounced right back and currently occupy 5th in the table. They have won 3 of their last 4 games. Udinese have taken some big scalps in recent weeks but they remain hit and miss and with Ballotelli to now contend with in this one they look certain to concede. Both teams are slowly getting back to their best but it is Milan who should just edge it especially with a home crowd behind them.
Enjoy The Games!
Milan, Inter, Bologna, Fiorentina, Juve, Napoli & Roma - All To Win: 39/1
Roma V Cagliari - Roma win: 4-1 : 18/1
Milan V Udinese - Ballotelli 1st Goalscorer: 7/2
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 25 January 2013
Matchweek 22 - More comings and goings
This week saw one of Italy's longest running transfer sagas come to an end as Wesley Sneijder finally left Inter Milan to join Turkish side Galatasary for a fee believed to be around £8 million. Also this on Thursday came the news of another saga reaching its conclusion as Juventus have come to an agreement to sign Fernado Llorente from Atletico Bilboa, he will join the champions in the summer. A lesser documented transfer saw Greek international left back, Vasilis Torosidis join Roma as they look to ease their defensive woes. As always at this time of year rumours are rife with comings and goings, AC Milan are reportedly interested in Didier Drogba but are put off by his club's asking price. Milan have also been in pursuit of former player Kaka during this window but that interest appears to have ended. Also Liverpool target Philippe Coutinho has insisted that he is happy at Inter and wishes to remain at the San Siro.
Last weekend saw half of the ten matches end in draws. Fiorentina were held 1-1 at home to Napoli, Chievo and Parma played out the same score line as did Atalanta and Cagliari and Roma and Inter. Palermo gained a great result in holding Lazio to a 2-2 draw. Milan continued their revival as they beat Bologna 2-1. Catania won 2-0 in Genoa and Torino also gained an away win beating struggling Pescara 2-0. Bottom club Siena gained a much needed win as they beat Sampdoria 1-0 and champions Juve thrashed Udinese 4-0 to go 5 points clear at the top.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Saturday 26 January -
Lazio V Chievo - 17:00 - Home Win
Both these teams drew last time out but it is the home side that are taken to get all 3 on Saturday evening. Lazio remain third, level on points with second placed Napoli and 5 behind leaders Juve. They will be disappointed with their performance last weekend, drawing with second bottom Palermo and will be determined to bounce back particularly in front of their own fans. Chievo have recovered slowly from their dreadful start but remain inconsistent. Lazio should comfortably take this.
Juventus V Genoa - 19:45 - Home Win
Juve have stumbled in recent weeks but the 4-0 beating they handed out to Udinese last weekend suggests that they may be returning to their best. They face a Genoa side in dreadful form having lost all of their last three games. Straightforward win for the champions.
Sunday 27 January -
Bologna V Roma - 11:30 - Away Win
Bologna were only narrowly beaten by Milan last weekend but expect a similar result in this game. Bologna are currently 14th and have won just one of their last 4 games, losing the other three. Roma gained a good draw against Inter and will be looking to get their league campaign back on track after being winless in 3 games. Its set to be tight but Roma should have enough, particularly when going forward.
Atalanta V AC Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Atalanta have had a poor season by their standards and look set for another defeat here. Currently lying in 13th they have won just 7 games all season and haven't won since the start of December. Milan meanwhile have recovered from their disastrous start to move into sixth in the table. They are taken to continue their good run against a poor looking Atalanta side.
Cagliari V Palermo - 14:00 - Draw
This is a vital game for both sides with both involved in a relegation battle. Cagliari currently sit points above the relegation zone, Palermo sit second bottom and a point from safety. Cagliari have been much better at home than away and that could make the difference in this one but the safest bet is a low scoring draw between these too poor sides.
Catania V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Draw
Both these teams are enjoying good seasons but it is the home side who come into this in better form. Catania have won their last two whereas Fiorentina haven't won any of their last 4. Despite their poor run Fiorentina remain a good outfit and are sure to test Catania as much as the home side are set to test them, a tight game is forecast which will more than likely end in a draw.
Parma V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Both Parma and Napoli are on good runs at the moment but it is the team from Naples who should extent their run in this one. Parma have climbed up the table into 9th after going 5 games unbeaten. Napoli are unbeaten in three and will want to keep the heat on leaders Juve with a victory here. Parma have shown that they are solid outfit this season but expect Napoli's attacking flair, led by the leagues top scorer, Cavani to be to much for them.
Sampdoria V Pescara - 14:00 - Draw
Two of the newly promoted teams meet in this one as both look to stave off the threat of relegation. Sampdoria's defeat to bottom club Siena last weekend has left them in fifteenth just four points above the relegation zone. Pescara mean while are 3 points above the drop zone and have been beaten in their last two outings. The stage is set for a very cagey affair in a game that neither team dare lose. The most likely outcome is they share the spoils.
Udinese V Siena - 14:00 - Home Win
Udinese had looked to be getting their season back on track in recent weeks before Juve thumped them 4-0 last Sunday. They face a much easier assignment against bottom of the table Siena who although winning last weekend remain six points from safety. If Udinese can put the disappointment of the Juventus game behind them they should have enough to beat Siena.
Inter V Torino - 19:45 - Home Win
Torino have been on a good run of late beating the teams around them in the table but a trip to the San Siro represents a much stiffer task. Torino are currently 11th and unbeaten in 5, however all but one of those games was against teams below them in the table. Inter are currently third and unbeaten in 3. They should have enough class to beat Torino at home, although it could be close.
Selected Match Odds:
Inter, Udinese, Napoli, Milan, Juve, Roma & Lazio - All To Win: 45/1
Juve V Genoa - Juve win 4-0: 8/1
Bologna V Roma - Osvaldo To Score First: 5/1
Enjoy The Games!
Last weekend saw half of the ten matches end in draws. Fiorentina were held 1-1 at home to Napoli, Chievo and Parma played out the same score line as did Atalanta and Cagliari and Roma and Inter. Palermo gained a great result in holding Lazio to a 2-2 draw. Milan continued their revival as they beat Bologna 2-1. Catania won 2-0 in Genoa and Torino also gained an away win beating struggling Pescara 2-0. Bottom club Siena gained a much needed win as they beat Sampdoria 1-0 and champions Juve thrashed Udinese 4-0 to go 5 points clear at the top.
This Weekends Fixtures & Predictions:
Saturday 26 January -
Lazio V Chievo - 17:00 - Home Win
Both these teams drew last time out but it is the home side that are taken to get all 3 on Saturday evening. Lazio remain third, level on points with second placed Napoli and 5 behind leaders Juve. They will be disappointed with their performance last weekend, drawing with second bottom Palermo and will be determined to bounce back particularly in front of their own fans. Chievo have recovered slowly from their dreadful start but remain inconsistent. Lazio should comfortably take this.
Juventus V Genoa - 19:45 - Home Win
Juve have stumbled in recent weeks but the 4-0 beating they handed out to Udinese last weekend suggests that they may be returning to their best. They face a Genoa side in dreadful form having lost all of their last three games. Straightforward win for the champions.
Sunday 27 January -
Bologna V Roma - 11:30 - Away Win
Bologna were only narrowly beaten by Milan last weekend but expect a similar result in this game. Bologna are currently 14th and have won just one of their last 4 games, losing the other three. Roma gained a good draw against Inter and will be looking to get their league campaign back on track after being winless in 3 games. Its set to be tight but Roma should have enough, particularly when going forward.
Atalanta V AC Milan - 14:00 - Away Win
Atalanta have had a poor season by their standards and look set for another defeat here. Currently lying in 13th they have won just 7 games all season and haven't won since the start of December. Milan meanwhile have recovered from their disastrous start to move into sixth in the table. They are taken to continue their good run against a poor looking Atalanta side.
Cagliari V Palermo - 14:00 - Draw
This is a vital game for both sides with both involved in a relegation battle. Cagliari currently sit points above the relegation zone, Palermo sit second bottom and a point from safety. Cagliari have been much better at home than away and that could make the difference in this one but the safest bet is a low scoring draw between these too poor sides.
Catania V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Draw
Both these teams are enjoying good seasons but it is the home side who come into this in better form. Catania have won their last two whereas Fiorentina haven't won any of their last 4. Despite their poor run Fiorentina remain a good outfit and are sure to test Catania as much as the home side are set to test them, a tight game is forecast which will more than likely end in a draw.
Parma V Napoli - 14:00 - Away Win
Both Parma and Napoli are on good runs at the moment but it is the team from Naples who should extent their run in this one. Parma have climbed up the table into 9th after going 5 games unbeaten. Napoli are unbeaten in three and will want to keep the heat on leaders Juve with a victory here. Parma have shown that they are solid outfit this season but expect Napoli's attacking flair, led by the leagues top scorer, Cavani to be to much for them.
Sampdoria V Pescara - 14:00 - Draw
Two of the newly promoted teams meet in this one as both look to stave off the threat of relegation. Sampdoria's defeat to bottom club Siena last weekend has left them in fifteenth just four points above the relegation zone. Pescara mean while are 3 points above the drop zone and have been beaten in their last two outings. The stage is set for a very cagey affair in a game that neither team dare lose. The most likely outcome is they share the spoils.
Udinese V Siena - 14:00 - Home Win
Udinese had looked to be getting their season back on track in recent weeks before Juve thumped them 4-0 last Sunday. They face a much easier assignment against bottom of the table Siena who although winning last weekend remain six points from safety. If Udinese can put the disappointment of the Juventus game behind them they should have enough to beat Siena.
Inter V Torino - 19:45 - Home Win
Torino have been on a good run of late beating the teams around them in the table but a trip to the San Siro represents a much stiffer task. Torino are currently 11th and unbeaten in 5, however all but one of those games was against teams below them in the table. Inter are currently third and unbeaten in 3. They should have enough class to beat Torino at home, although it could be close.
Selected Match Odds:
Inter, Udinese, Napoli, Milan, Juve, Roma & Lazio - All To Win: 45/1
Juve V Genoa - Juve win 4-0: 8/1
Bologna V Roma - Osvaldo To Score First: 5/1
Enjoy The Games!
Thursday, 10 January 2013
Matchweek 20 - Juve & Inter look to bounce back
The return to action last weekend after the winter break saw some bizarre results. Firstly Champions and league leaders, Juventus were beaten 2-1 by 14th placed Sampdoria which was followed by Inter losing 3-0 to Udinese, Inter have now fallen to 5th in the table after that defeat. Fourth placed Fiorentina also tasted defeat losing 2-0 at home to Pescara, who are currently 15th in the table. Elsewhere results were more expected as Catania and Torino played out a goalless draw on Saturday before Lazio beat Cagliari 2-1. Chievo overcame Atalanta by a goal to nil to move further away from trouble. Genoa beat Bologna 2-0 to move out of the relegation zone. Milan beat Siena 2-1 and Parma beat Palermo by the same score line. The final match of the weekend saw Napoli dish out a bashing to Roma as they won 4-1.
There has been little transfer movement as yet in the Serie A but a story that has again reappeared this week is that Napoli forward Edison Cavani is a target for Manchester City. It is likely however the English Champions will wait until the summer to try and sign the Uruguayan. The Wesley Sneijder transfer saga continues with the Dutchman reportedly in talks with Galatasary. Again though a move is unlikely given Sneijder's huge wage demands.
This Weekends Fixtures And Predictions:
Saturday 12 January:
Bologna V Chievo - 17:00 - Draw
Both these teams are inconsistent and although Chievo won last time out their form remains patchy. Bologna haven't won any of their last five and are dicing with being dragged into a relegation battle if results don't improve.
Inter V Pescara - 19:45 - Draw
Pescara gained a great result in beating Fioretina last weekend but Inter may prove harder to break down. Inter were comfortably beaten by Udinese on Sunday and may well be happy to take a point from this one given they haven't won any of their last 3 league games.
Sunday 13 January:
Torino V Siena - 11:30 - Home Win
Torino have established themselves as a mid table team after a string of good results, they should have enough to overcome bottom club Siena who have won just 4 of their 19 games this season and face a massive task to avoid relegation.
Cagliari V Genoa - 14:00 - Draw
18th meets 17th in this one and it is simply to close to call between two sides who have struggled all season. Genoa may just edge it having won last weekend but Cagliari will hope home advantage is enough for them to pick up at least a point.
Catania V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win.
Catania are on a poor run at present with just one win from their last three, they remain in tenth. Roma are almost unpredictable but they have shown heart this season to bounce back from defeats and they can do so again here given the attacking options at their disposal.
Lazio V Atalanta - 14:00 - Home Win
Second placed Lazio continued their pursuit of Juve with a good win over Cagliari, they should record back to back wins here against an Atalanta side that have had a disappointing season.
Napoli V Palermo - 14:00 - Home Win
Freescoring Napoli look set for another high scoring win when they face Palermo. Palermo are currently second bottom and have the third worst defensive record in the division. This should be straight forward for Napoli, who will be looking to keep the heat on Juve and Lazio.
Parma V Juventus - 14:00 - Away Win
Parma are having a good campaign, working their way into eighth but the Champions are likely to take the spoils here. Despite suffering a shock defeat last weekend Juve remain the team to beat in the division and will bounce back here.
Udinese V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Home Win
The moral boosting 3-0 victory over Inter last weekend could be the catalyst to kick start Udinese's season. They have been largely disappointing all season but they remain a side with quality players and can beat a struggling Fiorentina who after a great start have suffered a little in recent weeks.
Sampdoria V AC Milan - 19:45 - Draw
Sampdoria's shock win over Juve was much needed but it may only serve to make over teams take the newly promoted side more seriously. Milan have been on a good run but they will know what to expect here and will be happy to escape with a draw.
Selected Betting:
Udinese, Juve, Napoli, Lazio, Roma & Torino - All To Win: 41/1
Napoli V Palermo - Napoli win 5-0: 22/1
Udinese V Fiorentina - Di Natale First Goalscorer: 7/2
Enjoy The Games!
There has been little transfer movement as yet in the Serie A but a story that has again reappeared this week is that Napoli forward Edison Cavani is a target for Manchester City. It is likely however the English Champions will wait until the summer to try and sign the Uruguayan. The Wesley Sneijder transfer saga continues with the Dutchman reportedly in talks with Galatasary. Again though a move is unlikely given Sneijder's huge wage demands.
This Weekends Fixtures And Predictions:
Saturday 12 January:
Bologna V Chievo - 17:00 - Draw
Both these teams are inconsistent and although Chievo won last time out their form remains patchy. Bologna haven't won any of their last five and are dicing with being dragged into a relegation battle if results don't improve.
Inter V Pescara - 19:45 - Draw
Pescara gained a great result in beating Fioretina last weekend but Inter may prove harder to break down. Inter were comfortably beaten by Udinese on Sunday and may well be happy to take a point from this one given they haven't won any of their last 3 league games.
Sunday 13 January:
Torino V Siena - 11:30 - Home Win
Torino have established themselves as a mid table team after a string of good results, they should have enough to overcome bottom club Siena who have won just 4 of their 19 games this season and face a massive task to avoid relegation.
Cagliari V Genoa - 14:00 - Draw
18th meets 17th in this one and it is simply to close to call between two sides who have struggled all season. Genoa may just edge it having won last weekend but Cagliari will hope home advantage is enough for them to pick up at least a point.
Catania V Roma - 14:00 - Away Win.
Catania are on a poor run at present with just one win from their last three, they remain in tenth. Roma are almost unpredictable but they have shown heart this season to bounce back from defeats and they can do so again here given the attacking options at their disposal.
Lazio V Atalanta - 14:00 - Home Win
Second placed Lazio continued their pursuit of Juve with a good win over Cagliari, they should record back to back wins here against an Atalanta side that have had a disappointing season.
Napoli V Palermo - 14:00 - Home Win
Freescoring Napoli look set for another high scoring win when they face Palermo. Palermo are currently second bottom and have the third worst defensive record in the division. This should be straight forward for Napoli, who will be looking to keep the heat on Juve and Lazio.
Parma V Juventus - 14:00 - Away Win
Parma are having a good campaign, working their way into eighth but the Champions are likely to take the spoils here. Despite suffering a shock defeat last weekend Juve remain the team to beat in the division and will bounce back here.
Udinese V Fiorentina - 14:00 - Home Win
The moral boosting 3-0 victory over Inter last weekend could be the catalyst to kick start Udinese's season. They have been largely disappointing all season but they remain a side with quality players and can beat a struggling Fiorentina who after a great start have suffered a little in recent weeks.
Sampdoria V AC Milan - 19:45 - Draw
Sampdoria's shock win over Juve was much needed but it may only serve to make over teams take the newly promoted side more seriously. Milan have been on a good run but they will know what to expect here and will be happy to escape with a draw.
Selected Betting:
Udinese, Juve, Napoli, Lazio, Roma & Torino - All To Win: 41/1
Napoli V Palermo - Napoli win 5-0: 22/1
Udinese V Fiorentina - Di Natale First Goalscorer: 7/2
Enjoy The Games!
Friday, 4 January 2013
Matchweek 20 - Return From The Winter Break
The Serie A returns this weekend after its winter break to a whirlwind of transfer speculation as the January transfer window opens. Some big names have already left Italy's top divisions in the last few windows and a few more are expected to go in this one. Milan's Alesandro Pato has already departed to Corinthians whilst Wesley Sniejder continues to issue come and get me pleas to Europe's elite. Other deals that have already been completed include Giuseppe Rossi returning to Italy from Villerreal to join Fiorentina in a move that is sure to bolster the Viola's push for a Champions League place. Atalanta have lost defender Federico Peluso to Juventus who joins the Champions on a six month loan deal and Lazio forward Rocchi has joined Inter Milan in a similar loan deal.
On the pitch and there is a full fixture list this weekend split over Saturday with two games and Sunday with eight.
Catania V Torino - Draw
The inconsistencies in these two teams performances is reflected in how their is just 4 league places between them. Catania are strong at home but are struggling at present and Torino might just have enough to hold them at bay.
Lazio V Cagliari - Home Win
This should be straight forward for Lazio who despite having a little blip before the break remain in fourth place. They face a Cagliari side who have been beaten in all four of their last games.
Sunday
Udinese V Inter - Away Win
Udinese have been disappointing this campaign and may well suffer further at the hands of Inter who have been a revelation this season.
Chievo V Atalanta - Draw
Both teams have struggled for form this season and are likely to share the spoils in this one.
Fiorentina V Pescara - Home Win
Fiorentina will not have Rossi available for this one but they should still be able to beat Pescara and keep the heat on those above them.
Genoa V Bologna - Draw
Genoa are fighting their way out of trouble but Bologna appear to have got over their dreadful start and will hold them at bay.
Juventus V Sampdoria - Home Win
The Champions face what looks like an easy task at home to 15th placed Sampdoria. The home form of Juve is imperious and they should easily take this one.
AC Milan V Siena - Home Win
Despite losing to Roma before the break Milan look like they are slowly returning to the force we know. They face a much easier task here in the form of bottom club Siena, straightforward home win.
Parma V Palermo - Home Win
Palermo are struggling at present, third from bottom and with just 3 wins all season. Parma are having a great campaign residing in eighth and they look set to get another 3 points in this one.
Napoli V Roma - Home Win
The match of the weekend sees two great attacking sides go head to head. Roma will be boosted by their win over Milan and Napoli have been struggling of late, slipping to 5th in the table. It is though they who get the vote given Roma's dismal record in Naples and that defensively Roma are poor. They will ship goals and unlike against Milan they will not be able to score more than they let in.
Selected Match Betting:
Napoli, Milan, Juve, Fiorentina, Inter, Parma & Lazio - All To Win - 22/1
Juve V Sampdoria - 4-0 Juve Win - 17/2
Milan V Siena - Stephan El Shaarawy To Score First - 3/1
Enjoy The Games!
On the pitch and there is a full fixture list this weekend split over Saturday with two games and Sunday with eight.
Catania V Torino - Draw
The inconsistencies in these two teams performances is reflected in how their is just 4 league places between them. Catania are strong at home but are struggling at present and Torino might just have enough to hold them at bay.
Lazio V Cagliari - Home Win
This should be straight forward for Lazio who despite having a little blip before the break remain in fourth place. They face a Cagliari side who have been beaten in all four of their last games.
Sunday
Udinese V Inter - Away Win
Udinese have been disappointing this campaign and may well suffer further at the hands of Inter who have been a revelation this season.
Chievo V Atalanta - Draw
Both teams have struggled for form this season and are likely to share the spoils in this one.
Fiorentina V Pescara - Home Win
Fiorentina will not have Rossi available for this one but they should still be able to beat Pescara and keep the heat on those above them.
Genoa V Bologna - Draw
Genoa are fighting their way out of trouble but Bologna appear to have got over their dreadful start and will hold them at bay.
Juventus V Sampdoria - Home Win
The Champions face what looks like an easy task at home to 15th placed Sampdoria. The home form of Juve is imperious and they should easily take this one.
AC Milan V Siena - Home Win
Despite losing to Roma before the break Milan look like they are slowly returning to the force we know. They face a much easier task here in the form of bottom club Siena, straightforward home win.
Parma V Palermo - Home Win
Palermo are struggling at present, third from bottom and with just 3 wins all season. Parma are having a great campaign residing in eighth and they look set to get another 3 points in this one.
Napoli V Roma - Home Win
The match of the weekend sees two great attacking sides go head to head. Roma will be boosted by their win over Milan and Napoli have been struggling of late, slipping to 5th in the table. It is though they who get the vote given Roma's dismal record in Naples and that defensively Roma are poor. They will ship goals and unlike against Milan they will not be able to score more than they let in.
Selected Match Betting:
Napoli, Milan, Juve, Fiorentina, Inter, Parma & Lazio - All To Win - 22/1
Juve V Sampdoria - 4-0 Juve Win - 17/2
Milan V Siena - Stephan El Shaarawy To Score First - 3/1
Enjoy The Games!
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