Serie A: The next chapter

Serie A is quickly moving forward into a land of promise. Calciopoli rocked the world of Italian football, removing Juventus from the league and handicapping Milan, Fiorentina and Lazio. But time as it has been said before is a good healer. Juventus are back and ready again to be in the Champions League next season and the fountain of youth is truly shining again in Serie A with talents such as Pato, Cavani, Zarate, Lavezzi, Hamsik, Giovinco, Marchisio, Aquafresca, Balotelli amongst others complimenting the already establised starts like De Rossi, Ibrahimovic, Kaka, Pirlo, Del Piero, Amauri, Miccoli, Maicon, Cambiasso, Mutu, Gilardino, Ronaldinho etc etc. Clearly, the quality and depth is their on a playing level, but finacially Serie A has been lagging behind. But perhaps no more. Attendance figures are up again this year by an average of 2,000 per game with Lazio for example having a rise from 21,000 to 35,000 in just one season. Stadium plans are already being drawn up for Lazio, Inter, Fiorentina, Palermo, Roma with Juventus already having one built right now. This is important as it will create extra revenue streams for the clubs that can be used on transfer budgets and player wages.

But it does not end there. Today it has been announced that the Serie A clubs have broken away from Lega Calcio and formed a Lega Serie A group. No longer do they have to make payments our of their revenue to the lower league sides. Some may argue that this is bad for the overall complexion of the game but in my view it will allow the bigger clubs to attract better players and make the league, and the desire for smaller clubs to get in it, more desirable. Additionally Serie A will no longer require the votes of Serie B clubs to adopt specific proposals such as the collective bargaining agreement of television rights that will be adopted in a couple of years also. Whilst this will allow perhaps quicker and more business like decisions for the league, one hopes and expects that the colour and passion that Serie A has will remain.

Serie B focus: Who's on the way to the 'A'

With just five rounds of the Serie B remaining I though it's time we took a look at who is likely to be joining the big boys of Serie A.

Brilliant Bari
Currently Bari are still top of the Serie B as they were the last time I dedicated a post to this subject. They had a great win against Albinoleffe away 4-1 at the weekend and currently sit on 72 points, five points clear of second placed Parma and 13 points clear of third placed Livorno. Indeed , one more win or a Livorno defeat would assure Bari of automatic promotion so they look relatively certain to be in Serie A next season. Its a positive time in Bari, as attendances up are to a respectable level also and look set to rise. Last season, they had an average gate of just under 4,000. Pitiful for a club with their history, but now attendances have risen to an average of just under 14,000, with their game against Parma getting a gate of 40,593. This would be welcomed in Serie A, as attendances their are on the rise also.

Well placed Parma
Parma also look well placed for a return to Serie A. The only side still unbeaten at home, Parma continued their good form by picking up another point in a home 0-0 draw against Salernitana. Currently on 67 points Parma boast perhaps the most leathal strike force in Serie B, with Lucarelli, Paloshi and new boy Vantagiatto having 37 goals between them. With an eight point lead of Livorno, don't be surprised to see them back in Serie A next season. The big question will be if they can stay where they belong and develop as Genoa, Sampdoria and Napoli have done in recent season. Much will depend upon whether they can keep boy wonder Paloshi, or whether he will return back to Milan to link up with Pato.

A playoff situation?
A playoff situation will likely occur to see who gets the much coveted third spot unless the third placed team can get ten points clear of the fourth placed team to earn a spot automatically. This seems unlikely, as Livorno, Brescia, Sassuolo, Albinoleffe and Grossetto are all within 5 points of each other and all will fancy their chances to get into the top six places and secure a place in the playoff games. You would have to fancy Livorno though to bounce straight back up to Serie A again with top goal scorer Tavano, the former Valencia and Roma man, leading the way on 21 goals. Whatever happens, I would expect to see him in Serie A next season somewhere.

Sunday week 33 review: Napoli down Inter

Napoli 1-0 Inter Milan
Napoli breathed new life into the Scudetto race by downing Inter on Sunday night. A buzzing San Paolo. Napoli were understandably cautious going into this one, but they had a positive start to the game and attempted to put Inter on the back foot. Ezequiel Lavezzi had a number of long range efforts early on that although were a positive signal of intent, did little to trouble Julio Cesar. But, it was Inter who should have been one up early on as Navarro saved well from Walter Samuel. Napoli perhaps should have challenged Inter again in the first half when Lavezzi threaded through to Hamsik, but the Slovakian just failed to make contact with the ball. After the restart Patrick Viera had a chance to test Navaro from the edge of the area as the play opened up, but his effort was tame. The pressure was mounting on Napoli as the atmosphere inside the stadium was reaching boiling point. Ibrahimovic lined up a freekick from all of 35 yards, and Navaro just got a touch on a powerful low drive to turn it around the post. Against the run of play at this moment in the game, it was Napoli that took the lead. Lavezzi played an excellent through ball to Zalayeta who fired a drive home with the outside of his boot from the edge of the box. Cesar did not even move such was the precision of the strike. Cruz replaced Viera soon after, but it made little difference as Napoli wrapped up the win.

AC Milan 3-0 Palermo
Milan continued their excellent run of form with a comfortable win over an in form Palermo side, although not without controversy. After just ten minutes Milan were in the lead thanks to a precise Kaka penalty as Ambrosini was brought down in the area. Kaka was in red hot form, and thanks in part to him Milan doubled their lead. Kaka played a clever ball from the edge of the area to Ambrosini who chipped into the six yard box for the evergreen Inzaghi who scored again after an inspirational hatrick last week against Torino. Soon after the restart it was all over for Palermo, as they were reduced to ten men. Cesare Bovo was turned inside out by Kaka, and brought him down for his second yellow card of the match. It was not long before it was 3-0 to Milan, as Kaka again was brough down in the area although replays showed that it was rather soft to say the least. Kaka converted straight down the middle, and wrapped up the three points.

Lazio 0-1 Atalanta
After fantastic wins over Roma, Genoa and Juventus Lazio played their usual trick and blew it again against midtable opposition in front of their own fans. Atalanta set out very defensively for this encounter, leaving little space for Lazio to find their usual passing lanes. Instead it was Atalanta that opened the scoring after Talamonti headed home after the ball was played into the area. There was little urgency from Lazio for virtually the whole game, perhaps due to the midweek clash with Juventus. Pasquale Foggia had a chance later on in the first half after his initial effort was blocked, but he drilled powerfully over the bar. Mauro Zarate nearly leveled with another highlight reel goal as he carresed the ball from the left hand side of the area towards the far post, but it fell just wide. After the break it was more of the same. Lazio kept possession well, but could not open up the Atalanta back line which was virtually ten players deep. Rocchi had a chance to level the tie but he fired his effort straight at Consigli. Stefan Radu was introduced for Kolarov, and he nearly made an impact as he fired a strong drive on the volley but Consigli held on well. This game was a total let down for Lazio fans like myself, we needed a win to climb up the table to a position that is worthy of the Aquilotti but again failed to take that chance. Europe is a must for a club like Lazio, so the Coppa Italia becomes a must win encounter on May 13th.

Elsewhere in Serie A on Sunday
Juventus blew any chance they had of catching Inter after failing to win deep down south in Reggina in a 2-2 draw. The home side lead twice in this match as they seek to avoid relegation, but Zanetti leveled late on to save face for Juventus as they look now to cement third place. Genoa made live hard for themselves again as they lost to Bologna 2-0, as Marco Di Vaio took his lead in the top scorers title. Lecce, another struggler, beat a travel sick Catania 2-1 whilst Torino also kept their head above water by scraping past Siena thanks to a superb Rolando Bianchi goal as the former Man City man continues his great form. But perhaps the game of the day was reserved for the Sampdoria faithful in Genoa as they drew 3-3 with Cagliari. Having a 2-0 lead at half time was not enough for cup finalists Sampdoria to take three points as Cagliari's young guns in Matri and Aquafresca put them into the lead only for Cassano to volley a late leveller for the Blucerchiati to take a point and continue their fine second half of the season.

Image: Steindy

Saturday nights alright for Football

Roma's chances of champions league football next season have been left in total ruins after a 4-1 defeat in Florence to the mighty Fiorentina. Udinese meanwhile scraped an undeserved victory from Chievo to maintain their hold on 10th place.

Fiorentina 4-1 Roma
Fiorentina did not waste any time in stamping their authority on the game with a wonderful goal after just six minutes. Manuel Vargas struck a strong strike from 25 yards to be Artur in his bottom right corner. Roma though were not to be undone. They poured forward, with Baptista going close through a freekick. Brighi should have made it 1-1 soon after, but missed from point blank range after a ball was played into the area. Brighi again missed a decent chance after being played onto the edge of the area after a wonderful ball from Totti, but he hit the ball with the outside of his foot and dragged it woefully wide. At the other end, the excellent Stefan Jovetic was making life hell for the Roma defence turning them inside out at every opportunity. After the break Fiorentina doubled their lead through Gilardino. Semioli played the ball into the area for Gilardino to head home. Soon after Baptista again went close, but despite his effort beating Frey the shot was cleared up by the Fiorentina defence. Things went from bad to worse for Roma, as Pizzaro was sent off after literally going head to head with Semioli. Things then went from worse to dismal as Gilardino scored an excellent goal to make it 3-0. Gilardino took the ball down from 30 yards out and powered into the area, turing the Roma defender inside out and then finishing with the outside of his boot. 4-0 soon arrived, with another excellent ball by Semioli to the head of Gilardino. Artur saved well, but could do nothing on the rebound as Gobbi scored with his first touch. Roma added one back through Baptista late on as he demonstrated excellent finishing ability but it was far to little far to late.

Chievo 1-2 Udinese
Udinese stole three points from Verona. They took the lead through a spot kick from D'Agostino, but were outplayed in the second half and really had goalkeeper Handanovic to thank for still being in the game. Chievo equilised through Sergio Pellissier who headed home to level the tie, after going close previously. Chievo later hit the bar and tested Handanovic on two occassions after leveling the tie. However, deep into stopagges D'Agostino volley home to take the three points to Udine.

Serie A round 33 preview

Make no mistake, this is a decisive week of Serie A action. Everywhere you turn people are saying the Scudetto race is over. But picture this, an Inter defeat this weekend and Milan and Juve wins would reduce the gap to seven points and with Inter still having some very tricky games left, Lazio at home and Cagliari and Chievo away. Anyway, enough of my ramblings, on with the preview.

Napoli v Inter
The game of the weekend in my view. Expect the San Paolo to be packed for this one as Inter travel to a ground in which they were defeated last season. Napoli need a win, to be honest off hand I can remember the last time they picked up three points. A great start to the season has culminated in a dismal run, but this game does give the Napoli team a chance to redeem themselves on home turf, and for Donadoni to pick up his first win in the Southern hot seat.

Fiorentina v Roma
Two teams who have been just slightly off the boil this season has a significant weight to it, as it will surely decide who pushes on to challenge Genoa for fourth place on Saturday night. Silly defeats have cost both these teams the chance to challenge for the title. Roma, so close last season, look a tired side while Fiorentina, who have a youth full and quality squad, have looked immature at times. Both have lost games that a title challenger simply should not have, but neither can afford not to make the Champions League. This game will go a long way to deciding who does, although Roma may already be at a disadvantage as they may play without Totti. Fiorentina are still without Mutu, but Jovetic will get the chance to continue to shine.

Milan v Palermo
Both teams are in fine form and are two of the best home sides in Serie A. Palermo however have been poor away from home, although two weeks back they did hold Inter at this very stadium. Hopefully Ronaldinho will get a chance to shine alongside Kaka in the midfield, with pato and the evergreen Inzaghi up front. Simplicio is back for Palermo, although perhaps he was not missed after the 4-1 rout of Bologna last week. The excellent Cavani is likely to start as Palermo hope to continue their transition into a top Serie A side.

Reggina v Juventus
Somehow, I don't think either team is looking forward to this one. Reggina, fresh from beating Atalanta last week, hardly want to face third place Juve now. But they may not get a better chance of three points as the morale in the Juve camp must be close to rock bottom after seeing their Scudetto hopes damages badly last week and their Coppa Italia dreams ended by Lazio midweek. Expect Juve to pull through though, they have shown grit on numerous occasion's this season and Reggina are hardly watertight at the back.

Lazio v Atalanta
After loosing to Reggina last week Atalanta will be looking to respond at the Olimpico. Lazio however are on cloud nine, having beaten Roma, Genoa away and Juve away in the cup to reach their first final for five years our season has been turned around. This, however, feels like groundhog day for us Lazio fans. We have won three games in a row this season and lost three in a row. This cannot happen here. Lazio have to show consistency and composure here, and not simply expect to win the match. Mauro Zarate is in stunning form, as is Alexander Kolarov so Atalanta will have to watch them both carefully. Atalanta star striker Floccari has gone off the boil in recent weeks, but he is likely looking for a summer move so where better to impress than in a high profile stadium like the Olimpico. As a Lazio fan, I hope he waits till round 34.

Elsewhere in Serie A
Fourth place side Genoa face a difficult trip to Bologna, a side in deep trouble but desperate times call for desperate football and Marco Di Vaio will have to keep scoring if his side has any chance. Chievo host Udinese at 5pm UK time Saturday, and the flying donkeys look to wrap up their Serie A status for another season with a win against an Udinese side who have pulled back some credibility after beating Fiorentina last week. Lecce host Catania in a Southern battle in a game the hosts must win, and after their decent display against Roma last week perhaps are favourites to do so against a Catania side that does not travel well. Sampdoria will be looking to build up confidence before the Coppa Italia final, but find in wait the excellent Cagliari side who are still going about their business without any fuss at all. Finally, last weeks decimated Torino host Siena in a must win game for the hosts. The Granata will look to build on their last home game win against Catania, rather than the 5-1 decimation in Milan. Check back here Monday for a full Serie A report.

Coppa Italia round up

So, there we have it. What odd's would you have got for a Lazio v Sampdoria final instead of a derby d'Italia classic between Inter v Juventus? Very long odd's that's the answer. But the Samp and Lazio faithful will have the chance to lift some silverware and punch their ticket for next seasons Uefa cup, well Europa League to be precise. Lazio last won this title in 2004, Sampdoria in 1994.

Juventus 1-2 Lazio Agg 2-4
Lazio attacked the game from the start and that alone unsettled Juventus. Mauro Zarate put the Aquilotti ahead after 38 minutes with a goal worthy of any game, a goal that was simply unstoppable. Maurito gathered the ball after a superb pass from Kolarov and curled the ball into the top right hand corner past Buffon from all of 30 yards. Lazio doubled their lead and put the tie to bed after 52 minutes with another stunning strike from Kolarov. The attacking wing back fired a shot that took a deflection of Grygera and looped over Buffon into the top right corner. Buffon amazingly managed to get his hand to it despite the off putting deflection, but he just could not keep it out. Juve pulled one back through a well taken Del Piero strike who replaced Iaqunita in the second half, but it was too little too late and Lazio will march to the final on May 13th.

Inter 1-0 Sampdoria Agg 1-3
A highly entertaining game from the San Siro ended with Sampdoria celebrations, despite the defeat. Sampdoria looked comfortable for the first 20 minutes and their huge contingent of travelling fans were in good voice. But, Zlatan Ibrahimovic finished off a route 1 move with an outstanding finish from just inside the box, firing from right to left into the top left corner. Zlatan nearly doubled Inter's lead with a shot that looked reminiscent of a golfers chip from the top left of the area. It was an outstanding and deliberate effort that just came back off the bar. It was all Inter, but Samp made it to half time unscaved. Despite going for broke it just would not go in for Inter, and Cassano nearly punished them with a delightful move that was shut down just by Cesar. Samp held on, and will meet Lazio.

Week 32: Genoa fall while Juve Stall

Another great week of Serie A action saw a number of surprise results that have brought a number of teams back into the champions league race for next season's competition. It also saw the likely end to Juve's Scudetto hopes by their inability to beat Inter Milan at home, although I believe Inter's game in Napoli next week could have a greater impact. Lets take a closer look.

Genoa 0 - 1 Lazio
The weekends action started with a very solid performance by Lazio who became only the second team to beat Genoa at home this season. Nando Muslera made some great saves early on to keep Lazio in the game, but the aquilotti took control from the 30 minute mark. Ledesma cut down the byline to cross for Pandev but his shot was saved well by Rubinho although Zarate should have opened the scoring on the follow up but blazed well over the bar. Pandev pulled up just before half time with a presumed muscle strain, and was replaced by Rocchi. Lazio again after the break looked very comfortable in possession, and opened the scoring on 65 minutes through Zarate. Kolarov smashed a 60 yard pass straight to Zarate who ran onto the ball and fired home from just inside the box to beat Rubinho in the bottom left corner. Lazio should have doubled their lead again through Zarate late on, but the Argentine youngster almost had too much time to think and Rubinho made his presence felt to put him off.

Scudetto Watch

Juventus 1 - 1 Inter Milan
Inter Milan made their fourth consecutive Scudetto or the more likely by taking a point from Juventus. Juventus set the tempo early on, but almost conceded in the early going through Mario Balotelli after Tiago only just cleared off the line. Juventus however could have also taken the lead in the first half through Grygera who was unmarked on a Del Piero freekick, but he wasted his opportunity. In the second half Buffon did his best to convince the world that he is still the best in the world. First, he stopped a stankovic missile and then on an Ibrahimovic header than Buffon picked out from under the bar. He could do nothing though to stop Inter taking the lead on a wonderful move. Juve failed to take advantage on a corner and Inter on the counter threaded the ball up the field to Muntari who set up Balotelli to open the scoring. Later on Inter were handed another advantage, as Tiago lost the plot on an irritable Balotelli and hacked him down. He was shown a straight red. It looked all over for Juve, until the arrival of Giovinco who brought some energy to a depleted Juventus. It was from a corner deep in injury time that Juve leveled the tie, as Grygera headed home to give Juve, and now Milan for that matter, a very very small chance of staying in the Scudetto hunt.

Milan 5 - 1 Torino
Milan absolutely demolished Torino in the Sunday night encounter. It did not take them long to open the scoring as Inzaghi headed home from a Beckham corner to make it 1-0. Inzaghi added to his tally late in the second half after Beckham played a ball into the area for Inzaghi to powerfully head into the top right corner. Kaka should have made it three before half time but somehow blazed the ball over the bar. Pato was replaced by Ronaldinho at half time and he had an even greater impact and dictated the play from the midfield. He set up Inzaghi for his hatrick with a wonderful through ball that Inzaghi struck home from inside the box. Torino could have pulled one back after Rosina and Abate combined effectively, but Bianchi was not on the same wavelenght at that moment. It went from bad to worse thought for the boys from Turin, as Ambrosini was brought down in the penalty area. Kaka converted with a powerful low drive. Torino did pull one back from Franceschini after a Torino corner. Milan though were not content with this advantage and Kaka played a superb ball through to Ambrosini to fire home to make it five.

Champions League chase
Fiorentina failed to take advantage of Genoa's defeat at the hands of Lazio the day before by falling in Udine. D'Agostino was at the heart of everything as Udinese disposed of the Viola by 3-1. Roma however had no such problem as they beat Lecce, just, by 3-2. Roma were 2-0 after 13 minutes through Totti and Brighi, but Lecce pegged one back through Munari on the half hour mark after confusion in the Roma defence. Lecce drew level on 55 minutes through winter signing Papadopoulos after he fired a strong effort past Doni. However, another soft penalty for Roma allowed Totti to convert for 3-2 and they held on to take the three points.

Elsewhere in Serie A
Chievo kept up their good form with a strong win in Siena, whilst Reggina stunned Bergamo by beating Atalanta at home 1-0. Cagliari notched up another home win after outplaying Napoli throughout much of the match by 2-0, and Catania won by the same margin at home to Sampdoria who possibly had their minds on their midweek Coppa semi with Inter Milan. Palermo kept up their excellent form as they appear to be making a success of their season, and with a few additions could really challenge for a Champions League spot next year. Palermo stuffed Bologna 4-1 at home before they visit Milan again next week to play AC Milan, after taking a point off Inter last week.

Top scorer title

The Scudetto this year may not go to the wire, but the top marksmans title in Serie A may well. Currently, big Zlatan leads the way with 20 goals already in only 31 games with only 2 penalties. The fading Marco Di Vaio has 19 goals with 4 pens, and he may well be the neutrals favourite as his loan spell with Bologna will have them wanting to make the deal permanent, but will Genoa let them. Di Vaio could be the perfect partner for another contender for this years title in Diego Milito. Milito has 16 goals to his credit so far this season in only 25 games. He has so far had 5 goals disallowed and when playing has been spectacular. With ten men against Fiorentina earlier this season, Milito absolutely ran the show for the majority of the game, but he will need a brace or a hatrick or two to take this title for now. Against Fiorentina, Milito met another top scorers contender in Alberto Gilardino. Gilardino has turned his career around and to be honest I am not at all suprised at his excellent season so far with 16 open play goals. At Milan, or any massive club, if you don't take your chances or get into a flow of scoring you get benched. He had a greater chance at Fiorentina to take his chances without the threat of being axed. It was a fresh start and he has added real quality to a team that could, with a few decent aquisitions, challenge for the title next season.

Next on the list, and perhaps just out of contention, is Pato with 14 who has found his scoring touch since Christmas where he has had a greater run in the side. Mutu is next on 13 goals, with Amauri after with 12 but both of these player could have been real contenders had they not been cursed with injury.

Who is my money on? Ibra at the moment. He seems to pick up a goal every other game at least and with Di Vaio dryed up and Milito just too far back this is Ibras chance to take the crown. With David Villa rumoured to be moving to Inter next season, Ibra had better take it quick! What do you think, please comment here.

Week 31: Juve crumble while Lazio rule Roma

Lazio 4 - 2 Roma
Lazio demolished Roma in the 130th Derby della Capitale. Barely had the game started and Lazio were on the attack, with Mauro Zarate attacking from the right flank and winning a much debated corner from which Goran Pandev volleyed in first time. It was a world class finish that left Doni with no chance. Two minutes later Mauro Zarate doubled the advantage by loosing his marker and curling home with a powerful finish from almost 30 yards out. Roma, however, did not loose heart. Pannucci tested Muslera with a strong header from which Muslera produced a great save. They pulled one back on the 9th minute through Mexes from the resulting corner. Roma piled on the pressure between now and half time with Baptista hitting the post from a corner and the De Rossi just catching the header wrong on the follow up.

Half time arrived but provided just as many fireworks as the match itself, as Tare and Spalletti were involved in a row. The second half started in a more composed manner than the first one did but on 56 minutes Pandev could have ended the game after being played through on goal but his precise strike was saved well by Doni. However, Lazio made it 3-1 soon after as Stefan Lichsteiner headed in a cross after Foggia had run the Roma defence ragged with some superb footwork. It only got worse for Roma after this as Pannuci was sent of after an incident with Lichsteiner. This only got even worse as both Matuzalem and Mexes were somewhat harshly sent of after coming into brief off the ball contact with each other. Still, in the face of adversity Roma's lynchpin De Rossi headed some a great ball from David Pizzaro after some non-existing defending from Alexander Kolarov. But Kolarov made up for his mistake soon after by running the length of the pitch and placing a precise shot past Doni. 4-2. It was Lazio's day and for the blue half of Rome, including myself, this will live long in the memory.


Inter Milan 2 – 2 Palermo
Palermo took a point from the San Siro after an enterprising second half. Inter took the lead with Mario Balotelli heading home well from a Sulley Muntari cross on 15 minutes, despite the non existent Palermo marking. Inter doubled their lead through Zlatan Ibrahimovic after a reletively soft penalty was awarded when Kjaer slid in on the big Swede. However, Palermo looked a different side in the second half and exposed the Inter defence and midfield fragilities on numerous occassions. An Edison Cavani missile forced a great save out of Francesco Toldo, and it was that man Cavani again who pulled one back for the Scilian outfit when he slotted home in the box in the bottom right hand corner on 73 minutes. However, three minutes later Miccoli, again at the centre of proceedings passed through to Succi who slotted home from a few yards out. Incredibly Inter looked decimatedand Palermo nearly won the tie in as Miccoli tip toed his way through the entire Inter defence and fired just wide of the left hand side of Toldo's upright. Again this confirmed what I have thought about Inter for a while, which is if you take the game to them they can be caught out and punished.


Genoa 3 - 2 Juventus
Juventus stepped into Genoa knowing that they had the chance to reduce the gap in the standings to seven points before the Derby of Italy with Inter next week, but as so often this season Juve failed to deliver when absolutely necessary. They failed in Udine and at home to Cagliari and they failed here. Imagine, if they had won these three fixtures they would be just one point behind Inter at this stage.

Genoa started far the brighter of the two sides and after a few moments Legrottaglie proved his worth by clearing a Palladino effort off the line. Genoa kept on comming though and Gigi Buffon had to step up to the plate again and stop and Guiseppe Sculli strike. However on 29 minutes the pressure finally paid off as Thiago Motta, one of the players of the season in my eyes, fired home after Giandomenico Mesto had been brought down. The Juve players however claimed the whistle had been blown for the foul before Motta's effort hit the back of the net, but the goal stood. The tension in this game, and much like most of this weekend's fixtures was rising and it only continued to do so when Juve equalised from the spot just before half time from a foul that Genoa claimed, perhaps rightly, that was actually a fair tackle from Ferrari on Del Piero. However, there was still more drama to come as deep into stoppages Motta doubled his account by heading home to make it 2-1 to Genoa.

After the restarted Juventus had a great chance to level the tie through Nedved, but he had an effort cleared off the line through Guiseppe Biava. Moments later though Juve made life extremely difficult for themselves. A horrid challenge by Mauro Camoranesi forced the referee to show a straight red and Juve faced the remainder of the fixture with just ten men. Genoa made there extra man count by piling on the pressure and but for Buffon would surely have made it 3-1 after Sculli's powerful effort was saved at point blank range. Incredibly though it was Juve who levelled the score at two a piece when Nedved played Iaqunita through to chip home to confirm the hitman's continuing good form. However, Genoa took the lead once more and were to hold it this time, as Rossi broke away on the counter and threaded through to Palladino who scored against his former team.


Chievo 0 – 1 AC Milan
This was a fixture that Milan knew they would not be able to take lightly and Verona's flying donkeys made it very hard for Milan on Saturday afternoon. Fresh from taking a point of Juve and beating Palermo and Lazio in the recent weeks the Chievo faithful were optimistic before this one and a packed Bentegodi could smell an upset after only loosing once in their last 13 games. However, the Rossoneri nearly opened the scoring on 30 minutes from an Andrea Pirlo free-kick that shaved a coat of paint of the upright. Milan, minus coach Ancelotti who had been sent to the stands, opened the scoring just after half time after a well worked move. Jankulovski crossed into the area from which Inzaghi played the ball back to Seedorf who fired his shot into the bottom right corner. However, after this goal Chievo really put Milan to the test. Pellissier fired over from close range on the volley and later had a goal disallowed for an offside position after the ball had deflected off Bogdani from a free-kick. Dida for once played the role of hero in the closing stages as he produced an excellent save with his feet to again deny Bogdani. A crucial three points for Milan who will continue to hope for Fiorentina and Genoa to drop points so they can secure their Champions League status before their tough fixtures at the end of the season arrive.

Fiorentina 2 - 1 Cagliari
Fiorentina kept up their good form to take another three points in their claim for Champions League football, keeping up the pressure on Genoa and extending their advantage over Roma. Minus Adrian Mutu, Fiorentina finally took the lead in the second half when Manuel Pasquale fired home from the edge of the box. Cagliari were reduced to ten men for the final half hour and after the Viola doubled their lead through Juan Manuel Vargas who scored his first goal for Fiorentina. Cagliari did pull one back through Cossu but were later reduced to nine men.

Elsewhere in Serie A
Napoli remain undefeated for four games now, but without victory also, as they again failed to take advantage in front of home fans and could only secure a 0-0 draw. Sampdoria continued their resurgence and secured an away win in Puglia against Lecce thanks to another Pazzini goal and a Cassano brace. Udinese also secured a win deep down south with a 2-0 win in Reggina although they left it late with a double in the last five minutes from the promising Floro Flores. Bologna's woes continued as they lost 4-1 at home to Siena, who now look to have beaten the drop again this season as they consolidate themselves as a solid mid table outfit. Finally, Torino picked up a vital three points at home to the travel shy Catania thanks to a late show from Rolando Bianchi and Cesare Natali.

Lazio run riot in Rome

Lazio demolished Roma in the 130th Derby della Capitale. Barely had the game started and Lazio were on the attack, with Mauro Zarate attacking fromt eh right flank and winning a much debated corner from which Goran Pandev volleyed in first time. It was a world class finish that left Doni with no chance. Two minutes later Mauro Zarate doubled the advantage by loosing his marker and curling home with a powerful finish from almost 30 yards out. Roma, however, did not loose heart. Pannucci tested Muslera with a strong header from which Muslera produced a great save. They pulled one back on the 9th minute through Mexes from the resulting corner. Roma piled on the pressure between now and half time with Baptista hitting the post from a corner and the De Rossi just catching the header wrong on the follow up.

Half time arrived but provided just as many fireworks as the match itself, as Tare and Spalletti were involved in a row. The second half started in a more composed manner than the first one did but on 56 minutes Pandev could have ended the game after being played through on goal but his precise strike was saved well by Doni. However, Lazio made it 3-1 soon after as Stefan Lichsteiner headed in a cross after Foggia had run the Roma defence ragged with some superb footwork. It only got worse for Roma after this as Pannuci was sent of after an incident with Lichsteiner. This only got even worse as both Matuzalem and Mexes were somewhat harshly sent of after coming into brief off the ball contact with each other. Still, in the face of adversity Roma's lynchpin De Rossi headed some a great ball from David Pizzaro after some non-existing defending from Alexander Kolarov. But Kolarov made up for his mistake soon after by running the length of the pitch and placing a precise shot past Doni. 4-2. It was Lazio's day and for the blue half of Rome, including myself, this will live long in the memory.

A full Serie A report will follow on Monday

Week 31 Preview: Derby Della Capitale!

Despite the tragic earthquake in Italy this week, it appears that the Serie A fixtures will still take place.

Lazio v Roma
The derby della capitale kicks of at 2pm UK time this week in what will be an extremely important game for both sides, and not just with regards to the capitals bragging rights. My team Lazio are currently in free fall. Three straight defeats coupled with a very unconvincing start to 2009 have seen the aquilotti slip to 9th place in the standings, behind mid table teams like Cagliari and Palermo. This simply in not good enough and president Claudio Lotito has confirmed this, but he may have left his rant far too late in the season as Lazio's confidence in themselves appears to be totally shattered. No goals for in three games and he return of the defensive frailties that have let Lazio down time and time again this season are there for all to see. However, this is the Derby, a game that has no favourites as anything can happen. The Lazio faithful will likely be out in full force to drown out their Roman counterparts, and a moral boosting win here is exactly what is needed before a tough away trip to Genoa next week and the Coppa Italia semi final against Juventus in a couple of weeks time if Lazio are to save their season and get into the Europa League.

For Roma however a defeat here could end their champions league ambitions. They already trail Genoa and Fiorentina in the standings and with both of these teams playing Juventus and Cagliari respectively a win for Roma could narrow the gap this weekend. Let us hope though, that Lazio take all the glory here ahahaha.

Genoa v Juventus
Juventus face a daunting trip to Genoa this weekend, a team who have only lost once at home all season to Inter. Genoa really have been quite superb this season and hopefully can build on this next year by strengthening their squad and challenging for the champions league spots again, along with Roma, Fiorentina, Lazio and Palermo giving added depth to the league. For Juventus this is a must win game before next weeks Derby of Italy against Inter Milan. A defeat here really would end all hope of the title for Juventus, but victory here and again next week would spell game on again.

Inter Milan v Palermo
A difficult game for Inter at home to an inconsistent, but quality, Palermo side coming off the back of a win Torino. Miccoli and Cavani will have to watched carefully by the Inter defence who shut them down earlier this season in the reverse fixture that Inter won 2 - 0.

Chievo v Milan
Milan desperately need third place to guarantee Champions League football for next season, but face a very difficult quest for three points in Verona this weekend. With Fiorentina, Genoa and Roma facing difficult games this is a good opportunity for Milan to put further distance between third and fourth place but Chievo, who have beaten Lazio, Palermo and drawn with Juve in their last three games may think differently. Sergio Pellissier was outstanding last week against Juve and his form alone has probably secured Serie A status for next season as well for the flying donkeys. However, unlike Lecce last week, Chievo will likely not place ten men behind the ball here giving Milan the space they will need to pull through in this one.

Elsewhere in Serie A
Fiorentina host a tough Cagliari side who have done themselves proud this season. This in theory should be a good opportunity for Fiorentina to assert themselves on 4th place with Genoa hosting Juventus this weekend. Napoli look to continue stabilizing their season at home to Atalanta and put an end to the torid time they have had of late. Sampdoria face the long trek down to Puglia to face Lecce where the latter will have to take three points if they are to continue their Serie A adventure. Bologna v Siena also has relegation implications. Another defeat to Bologna will put them in severe trouble here. Torino play Catania and surley must take three points here to ease the pressure on their crumbling season. Finally on Sunday Udinese face the long trip to Reggina to play the rock bottom side.

Calcio Mercato: Juve stepping up

Juventus fans take note, your club is moving in the right direction. You have great young prospects in Giovinco, Marchisio, and De Ceglie and have an abundance of quality in Sissoko, Amauri, Chielini and Tiago, players who have yet to forfill their potential. Combine this with your established stars in Del Piero, Iaqunita, Buffon and Trezeguet then it is clear to all Juventus can challenge anyone. But perhaps there is more good news coming your way. Negotiations for Brazilian player Diego are apparently underway. Diego represents the one ingredient that appears to be missing from the Juve midfield, the combination of creativity and unpredictability. Sure, they have Nedved a man who happens to be my favourite player to ever wear the blue of Lazio. But his best days are gone as a footballer, despite a recent wonder goal against Roma. Yes, they have the wonderful Giovinco, but perhaps Ranieri sees him in a more advanced role in the years to come as a second striker. Diego will add secondary scoring from a midfield role, as his 34 goals in 74 games for Bremen indicate.

Diego, the final piece in the Juve jigsaw?
The answer to the above is no, he is not the final piece in the jigsaw, but he almost completes the puzzle. He adds creativity and flair and complements the more defensive minded Sissoko, who will still be able to get forward in his 'Viera' role at Juventus. They could of course use Diego on the left as a direct replacement for Nedved, or alternatively use him as a trequartisa through the middle of the park especially if Pavel decides to stay on for another year. He is a very flexible player. However, Juve need to sure up their defence if they are to be win the Scudetto next season and challenge deep into the Champions League, especially down the left flank.

Is this a done deal?
With David Silva stressing his desire to stay at Valencia and Diego actually stating that he wants to play in Italy with Juventus then it is a distinct possibility that he will play for the old lady next yeat. This may well end the Ribery interest, unless Juve really feel like splashing the cash and buying both playing Ribery on the left and Diego in a more central role. This would make Juve a highly feared outfit, and certainly superior to Inter and on par with Milan in the midfield area.

Image: Paulblank

Week 30 review: Inter's Scudetto?

Once again Inter Milan received the rub of the green with a rather strange own goal at the Stadio Friuli, after spending the majority of the match on the back foot thanks to an aggressive Udinese performance. Juventus shot themselves in the foot once again as they have done so often this season, with the defeats to Cagliari and then Udinese being the case and point, by conceding a last minute goal in a 3 - 3 draw with Chievo. Milan returned to winning ways, but only just, with Genoa, Roma and Fiorentina keeping up the fight for the third and fourth Champions League spots.

Scudetto Race

Udinese 0 - 1 Inter Milan
Udinese started the brightest of the two sides and that pattern continued throughout. Udinese, without talisman Di Natale, put serious pressure on Inter for the first half hour and many within the Stadium would have believe that they should have been awarded a penalty when Julio Cesar appeared to bring down Fabio Quagliarella. Whilst the replay showed that Cesar did not touch the ball, it also showed a likely dive from the Udinese hit man who frankly was lucky not to have been booked. Udinese continued their pressure though and after the break only the pace of Cordoba stopped Quagliarella once again after being fed through on the counter by Simone Pepe. It was absorbing stuff, but I began to realise than if Udinese did not sooner rather than later take one of their chances they would be punished. They almost were on 65 minutes when Dejan Stankovic missed an open goal after Zlatan had played the ball across. Patrick Viera was introduced soon after, and his influence allowed Inter to take the lead in bizarre circumstances. Viera stumbled when in the area and Isla turned the ball into the back of the net. Udinese nearly equalised in stoppages after Asamoah's superb play, by Obodo sent the ball wide.

Juvetus 3 - 3 Chievo
Despite Chievo's fine form of late, I believe they surprised almost everyone in taking a point from Turin. Juve welcomed back most of their squad with Nedved and Camoranesi on the bench. Chievo caused numerous problems in the early going and Pellissier opened the scoring after out sprinting Chielini down the right channel. The Turin faithful were shocked but not deterred as Chielini redeemed himself with a stunning left foot volley they came back of the bar into the back of the net. It was a goal Del Piero would have been proud of. However, in a carbon copy of Chievo's first goal they took the lead again, although this time Pellissier outpaced Melberg and placed the ball into the bottom left corner leaving the score at half time 2-1 to Chievo. Juventus however equalised by accident soon after the restart as Camoranesi headed Molinaro's ball back into the area for it to deflect of a Yepes into the back of the net. Juve dominated after this creating chance after chance and finally Iaqunita headed another superb Camoranesi cross into the back of the net. However, Juve blew it in injury time as Pellissier completed his hatrick with a header after again Melberg was beaten for pace.

The race for the Champions League

AC Milan 2 - 0 Lecce
AM Milan relieved a significant amount of pressure from their shoulders by picking up a crucial three points against Lecce, despite both goals coming in injury time. Milan totally dominated play throughout the match with Lecce getting all ten men behind the ball right from the word go. Pato perhaps should have opened the scoring in the first half after his electrifying pace torn the Lecce defence to shreds but he failed to cut the ball back to the ever green Inzaghi who waited for the pass by the penalty spot. Lecce to their credit defended well, but the Introduction of Ronaldinho after the break was a good tactical move, as his skill and ability created the Lecce defence no end of problems with him winning a number of free kicks that Milan failed to deliver from. It looked like Milan would drop another two points but they have been superb at home this season and kept up their 14 game unbeaten streak at home assured when in injury time Senders headed a Pirlo free kick, but Ronaldinho was credited with the goal as it deflected in off his head. Milan doubled their lead deep into stoppages when Ronaldinho flicked the ball down the penalty box line to Shevchenko who crossed superbly for Inzaghi to head home.

Roma 2-1 Bologna
Roma got back on track thanks to Francesco Totti who converted two penalties against a hard-working Bologna side. Marrazzina split the scoring with a header from Sergio Volpi's corner but Roma held on for an important win ahead of the Rome derby next week.

Atalanta 1 - 2 Fiorentina
Fiorentina rode their luck in picking up three points from Bergamo. This fixture opened super Sunday and was played at a frantic pace, but again it was Atalanta and not the big away side that was piling on the pressure and after the break they took a deserved lead after Plasmati's effort took a huge deflection leaving Frey with no chance at all. However, Atalanta blew it a few moments later when Peluso brought down Gilardino in the area and was sent off for his efforts. Stefan Jovetic stepped up to convert for his first Fiorentina goal. For Atalanta it went from bad to worse in injury time when Gilardino fired home to give the Viola three points.

Reggina 0 - 1 Genoa
Genoa just do not look like slowing down at all, and continued to give themselves a Champions League chance with a win against rock bottom Reggina thanks to a tap in from the superb Thiago Motta.

The Best of the rest

Siena 2 - 0 Lazio
Siena continued their good home form by putting Lazio down in Tuscany. A superb opening striker from Calaio after 25 minutes suggested that my beloved side would go down for the third time in their last three games and that was to be the case when Maccarone embarresed Fernando Muslera who rightly came out after a long ball was played into the area but made a fresh air clearance that allowed Maccarone to tap home.


Palermo 1 - 0 Torino
Things went from bad to worse for giants Torino who fell again in Serie A thanks to the superb Edison Cavani who scored his 10th goal of the season.


Cagliari 1 - 0 Catania
Alessandro Matri furthered his excellent reputation after scoring the winner again after coming off the bench for this very good young Cagliari side who now find themselves on 45 points in seventh place.

Sampdoria 2 - 2 Napoli
Two of Serie A's heavyweights drew level in Genoa after 90 minutes of play. Angelo Palombo, after playing for Italy in the recent internationals, scored a brace either side of a Napoli goal from Zalayeta. However, deep into stoppages German Denis fired home from yet another assist from Marek Hamsik.

Sunday Kick off times

Atalanta v Fiorentina 12pm UK time
Cagliari v Catania 2pm UK time
Juventus Chievo 2pm UK time
Palermo v Torino 2pm UK time
Reggina v Genoa 2pm UK time
Roma v Bologna 2pm UK time
Sampdoria v Napoli 2pm UK time
Siena v Lazio 2pm UK time
Udinese v Inter 6pm UK time
AC Milan v Lecce 8pm UK time

Super Sunday week 30 Serie A

Yes, this Sunday will be super because ALL the Serie A games will be played on the 5th of April. Don't sweat though, there are four separate kick of times so your get your fill of calcio this weekend, if you want that is. At 12pm UK time Atalanta will host Fiorentina, at 6pm Udinese will host Inter and Milan host Lecce in the 8pm evening game with the rest of the fixtures at their usual 2pm kick of times.

A closer look at the fixtures

Atalanta v Fiorentina
A must win game for Fiorentina if they are to catch Genoa and hold fourth spot in Serie A. Fiorentina are a club on the up and will feel positive after winning the Tuscan derby against Siena, but will have to win where Inter, Lazio and Roma have all fallen heavily this season against Doni and co who have ten home wins under their belt. Combine this with the fact that on their last two road games Fiorentina failed to beat Reggina and lost, albeit narrowly, to Inter the viola faithful may not feel positive. But Gilardino is due a couple of goals and it is now or never for Fiorentina to make their move on Genoa.
Prediction: Fioretina win, just.

Cagliari v Catania
This result may actually be determined by which Catania side turns up. The composed outfit that beat both Palermo and Lazio or the shambles of a side that lost 3 - 0 at home to Siena. Cagliari have been solid all season and are coming of a solid away win in Bologna. Both sets of fans however will be mighty pleased with how their teams have performed this season, and are no where near relegation and both could be solid mid table teams for years to come, which may of course see this finish in a draw.
Prediction: Draw

Juventus v Chievo
Credit to Chievo, they are coming of two super wins against Palermo and Lazio which may give them a significant edge in the relegation battle, but this has to be a Juve win. With a number of players back from Injury this weekend, Ranieri will have to decide who the play and who to omit. However, most neutrals will be disappointed with the omission of the stunning Giovinco, so lets hope he starts. From the perspective of a Juve Scudetto this has to be three points with a tough away games at Genoa next week, and I expect nothing less with several members of the Juve squad in stunning form, especially Iaqunita.
Prediction: Juve win

Milan v Lecce
I would expect a home win here, but one never knows with Milan. They have several easier games approaching and must use them well to wrap up third place before a very hard end of the season where points may be dropped. Watch out for Pato in this one, he is not just one for the future at 19 but a star already in my eyes with 14 goals already this year, not bad for his first full year in Serie A. Pirlo also is in inspired form and combine this with a Kaka return it is hard to see anything but a win for the mighty Milan. Lecce have not won since a stunning away victory at Fiorentina and need points to avoid the drop. They may have to wait for another week.
Prediction: Evening game, heavy Milan win.

Palermo v Torino
An inconsistent Palermo take on a troubled Torino who have made yet another coaching change and have only one win in five. Both need a win for different reason, Torino to avoid Serie B and Palermo to get into the Europa League. Whilst Torino have been relatively sterile of late the same cannot be said of Palermo who have mixed a 5-2 win over Lecce with a useless 0-4 beating against Catania, conceding one goal from the half way line. Last season it was a draw, it could be the same again this season but Torino will come to play, they have to if they want to survive.
Prediction: Draw

Reggina v Genoa
Genoa just refuse to have a bad patch, bouncing right back from a defeat to Inter by winning away against a tough Cagliari side and beating an inform Udinese team at home. Reggina conversely are fighting for their lifesand are likely to go down this year, but they are tough to beat at home. They have held Fiorentina here recently and gave Inter hell when they visited just loosing 3-2. It is hard to see anything but a Genoa win, but Reggina are desperate and they may just sneak a point here in front of their home fans.
Prediction: Draw

Roma v Bologna
Marco Di Vaio makes his way back to Rome to play against Roma, and the former Lazio youth product will need to find his scoring boots again if Bologna are to take anything from this one. Roma have been poor this season, and will aim to finish fourth this year. Anything but a win here could see that objective shatter, as a further defeat to Lazio next week could totally end their season. Bologna though have improved but will need points after a home to defeat to Cagliari last round but they will need to stop relying on Di Vaio and create some secondary scoring if they are to take anything here and avoid relegation.
Prediction: Home win

Sampdoria v Napoli
Two quality sides who both have had indifferent halves to their seasons. Napoli stated in full throttle but have capitulated of late, while Sampdoria started poor but have grown in stature since signing Pazzini and look destined to make the Coppa Italia final. Donadoni presides over his second Napoli game, but Samp have been tough to break down at home of late beating Inter, Milan, Lazio and holding off Roma two weeks ago. Napoli may find this trip difficult.
Prediction: Home win

Siena v Lazio
Claudio Lotito has been furious this week and rightly so. Lazio have shown this season that they should be battling hard for a top six place, but all to often have been beaten by inferior team. Three straight defeats after this one could see Rossi heading for the door, and that is a distinct possibility against a very competitive Siena team who have only lost three times at home this season, two of which were against the Milan sides. Still, if Foggia, Pandev and Zarate are on good form then expect a Lazio win as they build up towards the huge Rome derby next weekend.
Prediction: Away win for the eagles!

Udinese v Inter
Inter need three points here with Juve likely to win against Chievo, but I think it will be tough for the blue and blacks as Udinese are starting to find their groove again. Although minus Di Natale, Pepe and Quagliarella will provide a decent threat to the Inter net and a packed house in Udine will make a great atmosphere before they play Werder Bremen in the quarter finals of the Uefa cup next week, and will want to build up some confidence. Inter are minus Maicon, but Santon and Balotelli are set to start, and Ibrahimovic will want to lead the scorers chart by himself come Sunday night. It will take a top effort to keep him of the score sheet Sunday evening, by Udinese on their day are up to the task.
Prediction: Draw, but only just.

Italy 1 -1 Ireland: The reaction

A tough night for the Azzurri, a tough night largely thanks to a referee who harshly sent of Giampaolo Pazzini for challenge on John O 'Shea after just four minutes. Pazzini jumped catching O'Shea in the face with his arm whilst watching the ball, but was shown a straight red. The referee was probably influenced by the amount of blood on O'Shea, but clearly it was the wrong decision based upon violent conduct as Pazzini was simply ball watching. This, of course, changed the whole complection of the game, but it did not stop the Azzurri from taking the lead. Once again Pirlo was the architect as he played a long ball to the wonderful Fabio Grosso who cut back inside the box and passed to the well placed Iaquinta who placed it into the back of the net from all of five yards out. Despite playing with ten men Italy looked confident and assured in possession in the first half and nearly doubled their lead again through Iaqunita, only for Given to take the ball of Iaquinta's head.

The pressure of playing with ten men would soon tell after the break, as Ireland held the bulk of the possession and tested Buffon on more than one occasion with notable save from Kilbane as he pushed his effort over the bar for a corner. Italy could, and perhaps should, have taken a 2 - 0 lead before that effort though, as Iaquinta punched out a lung bursting run down the right channel, but a cross for Liverpool man Dossena was just deflected in time to put him off.

However, despite Italy's brave endeavour with ten men, Robbie Keane drew the Irish level with just one minute of regulation remaining, firing home on the volley from inside the box after some root one football.

The result in context
The Italians will be disappointed tonight and rightly so. They were robbed of any chance to play eleven on eleven football, and probably would have won comfortably in that scenario. However, they still yield a two point advantage over Ireland and should take six points from their next two games away at Georgia and at home to Bulgaria. Ultimately, Lippi should be pleased that a team with ten men did not loose a game that would have allowed Ireland to lead the group, and that through the International break his nation now has a two point lead at the top of Group 8.