Thursday 30 December 2010

Lecce v Bari to be played behind closed doors: Ridiculous

Derbies in Italy are always great to watch. Whether its the clash of European giants in Milan v Inter or the passion on display in Lazio v Roma, it's never dull. This year in Serie A saw the return of the Lecce to Serie A which meant one thing and one thing only, the return of the Southern derby between Lecce and Bari. It represents an extremely passionate derby highlighted by events in recent years which saw former Lecce player and then Bari manager Antonio Conte attacked on a beach by a mindless set of Lecce fans while more recently last month current Lecce player Souleymane Diamoutene was accosted in training by Lecce Ultras on the pretext of his Bari history. Both incidents were mindless, both not in the spirit of sport. But, was simply banning anyone attending the best option? The answer is clearly no, for one being that it is a defeat for sport and for the so called wonderful fancard which once again has been shown to be utterly pointless. Prior to the ban only Bari fans with the fan card would be allowed to attend in the away section. Now none of them will as what should have been a colourful and passionate affair will  now be nothing more than a damp squib in the South of Italy unless minds are changed.

Wednesday 29 December 2010

Calcio mercato: Last chance saloon for Cassano?

Antonio Cassano's move to AC Milan has been dubbed as his last chance at the big time. After dramatically falling out with Sampdoria club President Riccardo Garrone Cassano was frozen out of the squad for virtually all of this season, and since that moment the anticipation of his likely destination has been hot topic. Somewhat surprisingly in my view Milan have answered the call instead of Inter or Juve, both of whom are in far greater need of a world class forward than the Rossoneri. Nonetheless, with Pato, Ibrahimovic, Robinho and now Cassano upfront few teams in Europe can boast a better armory. 

However, will Cassano be able to settle here? The answer probably will be yes in the short term at least. Milan is a club used to big ego's and getting the best out of them, although in some respects this does not seem to be Cassano's problem on the pitch at least. Never one to hog unnecessarily Cassano was the perfect foil for Giampaolo Pazzini upfront carving out chance after chance for the young Italian hitman. His main problem has been his temper and his inability to control it. Asking the referee for a fight in one of his infamous 'Cassanata's' perhaps being the pick of the bunch. Additionally, from Milan's viewpoint, it's worth noting too that with the exception of Bari Cassano has hardly left any of his following clubs on good terms falling out with Del Neri at Roma, Capello at Real Madrid and now Garrone at Sampdoria. What would make the same any more unlikely at Milan? Perhaps it is the fact that in big clubs terms at least this is probably his last chance, and a chance that he may well of believed he would never get anyhow having seemingly been settled at Samp coming into this season. The truth is however that players of Cassano's ability will always be wanted, even if he ends up becoming a journeyman like Baggio who ended his playing days between Bologna, Inter and Brescia.

Tuesday 28 December 2010

Serie B: Novara set to make the double jump

It was only a year ago that Novara had put themselves back on the calcio map once again. Having finished 8th in Serie A in 1952 success for the piedmont based club has been quite hard to come by. Indeed, the club had spent years rotting in Serie C2 until winning that division in the 2002-2003 campaign. However, last year saw them play Milan in the Coppa Italia. The occasion didn't mean much to the Rossoneri but for the Novara it meant everything to play at one of the cathedral's of European football and it seemed as if ther whole of their fanbase had come along as they packed the lower tier of the Curva Nord. This day in the sun ended in a 2-1 defeat, but promotion to Serie B, for the first time in 33 years, put the icing on the cake of a fine season and put Novara back on the map. However, it seems this smattering of success has not ended here. Back into Serie B Novara are running away with the Championship and and sit three points clear of Atalanta and five points clear of Siena, both of which were in Serie A last season. Along with Siena they have the best home record in the division, 8 wins and 2 draws, but they've also won four games on the road as well as their campaign approaches the half way stage.

Looking at Novara's squad it's hard not to notice the name of the once Inter Milan forward Nicola Ventola on their books, a player who was in their promotion campaign from Serie C1 last season. Nonetheless, Forwards Cristian Bertani and Argentine Pablo Gonzalez have both scored 11 goals a piece this season forming the most deadly partnership in the division. It's statistics like this that point towards a promotion this campaign and not one of survival which surely would have been the target at the start of the season.

Sunday 26 December 2010

All Things Calcio Half term 'Team of the Season'

Whose made the grade for the team of the season so far in this 3-4-3 formation...

In Goal....
Cristian Abbiati (Milan): If ever there was an underrated goalkeeper, then Abbiati fits the bill. A rock in the San Siro fortress so far this campaign he has come up with big save after big save and has rarely made a mistake. His experience could be key for Milan in Europe this season.

In defence...
Alessandro Nesta (Milan): When fit there is still few better, arguably none in all honesty. Along with Silva Nesta has marshaled Milan into the tightest D in the league. No question that Milan will need him in their line up for the whole season if it is to be successful.

Thiago Silva (Milan): A rock at the back for Milan. Hard to belief this is only his second season with the club but he has learned well of the master 'Nesta', of that there is no doubt. Milan have the best defence in the league and Silva is the second reason why.

Federico Balzaretti (Palermo): I can't be the only one impressed with Balzaretti's searing runs down the left flank of the Favourita in Palermo. Often Balzaretti is involved in Palermo's positive attacking play and he has been rewarded with a call up to the Azzurri this season. 

In midfield....
Milos Krasic (Juventus): Some were dubious over his arrival from the Russian top flight. But there is no doubt anymore. He's arguably been the best player in the league this season with his explosive pace being a huge weapon for Juventus that along with Fabio Quagliarella has launched Juve into contention. Goals, assists, pace and a top notch passing ability have given Juve fans there answer to Pavel Nedved.

Hernanes (Lazio): Cool, calm and collected describe the Brazilian in my opinion. He's taken to European football like a duck to water and has turned Lazio's midfield in one of the best in the league. His footwork is outstanding and he has left some of the best defenders in the league for dead this season. Five goals as well so far is a tidy return.

Javier Pastore (Palermo): The explosive Pastore has dipped in form as Christmas approached but there can be no denying him a place in this team. The comparisons to Kaka are obvious but at just 21 he is arguably a better finisher than the Brazilian already. On his day unplayable.

Marek Hamsik(Napoli)
If it's consistency you want then Hamsik is your answer. Seven goals, the same as Pastore, is his total so far but he has run the Napoli midfielder like a true box to box midfielder supplying the ammunition for Cavani and Lavezzi upfront. It seems like he's been doing this for years now, is he really only 23? At this rate he is on for 15 goals this season. Not bad for a midfielder. 

In attack...
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Milan): Zlatan returned to Serie A and once again finds himself in a team leading the league. Where he goes, he wins and his 13 goals and 8 assists in Serie A and Europe combined are proof of his imput. Additionally, his partnership with Robinho has been a pleasure to watch.

Samuel Eto'o (Inter); The best forward in the world, without question. Goals from anywhere and everywhere in explosive Eto'o fashion have been the only saving grace of Inter's season so far. If he was not suspended for three games for a Zidane style headbutt against Chievo then he would have improved on his 19 goals in 18 games this season.

Edinson Cavani (Napoli): The big money move of the Summer from Napoli has delivered in supreme fashion. Wanted across the continent Cavani signed up to play on Maradona's old stomping ground and so far along with Di Natale leads the top scorers chart with 10 goals, not to mention his 7 goals in Europe this season. His goals against Lecce and Twente this season will live long in the memory.

Merry Christmas

A Merry Christmas and a happy new year to all 'All things calcio' readers!

Thursday 23 December 2010

Serie A half term report: Benitez expelled

It's time for the infamous half term report. No, not from school or college but from Serie A as we delve deeper into the ongoings of calcio to see who's good enough to be on Santa's list this Christmas, or whose going to be handed a bit of coal instead.

Top of the class
One team with A grade's down the line is Napoli. Despite having European distractions Napoli currently sit in second place just three points behind Milan. With Edinson Cavani replacing Fabio Quagliarella in the Summer optimism was high about the young Uruguayan coming to town, but few would have expected the top notch rate  of goal production that he has produced. Since coming up from Serie B a few years ago the Napoli project has hit top gear. They've held onto their best players in Marek Hamsik and Lavezzi, whilst adding quality in the off season over their return to Serie A. Can they get better and hit the top of the league? We will no more about their capabilities after their double header against Inter and Juve in the coming rounds. 

AC Milan are also being given top marks. The additions of Robinho and Ibrahimovic added flare to go along with the brilliant young Brazilian Pato. Not to mention Kevin Prince Boateng whose signing has proved to be a master stroke as he continues to impress in his first season at a top club. If that wasn't enough Antonio Cassano seems set to arrive. But, the real success has been on the pitch. Despite not quite delivering in the big games, as defeats to Roma, Real Madrid and Juve have shown, Milan have been consistent against the so called smaller sides this term, something that in recent seasons has not always been the case. However, if it leads to the Scudetto, which I think it will, no Milanista's will be complaining. 

Doing good, but could do better
Juventus, in my opinion, fall under this category. A season in which they have pulled off some impressive results, without actually setting a real challenge at the top as of yet. Five points off the top however is not too much to catch up and under Del Neri they are a much better side than they were last season, despite going out of Europe all too early for their high standards. Too many draws has also been advanced at them as a side, and if they had converted just one of their seven into three points they would be in a extreamly strong position as things stand. However, they've only been beaten twice all season long, the last time coming in week four of the season in September. Scudetto contenders? Yes, and if they spend in January they could be well on the way to being the force they used to be. 


Bottom of the class
Inter Milan: After the heroics of last season, this campaign has so far been something of an anti-climax for all Inter fans out there. Yes, they could still win it all once again. But there has undoubtedly been a drop in intensity from Inter even with the huge injury crisis that they have suffered. Blame it all on Benitez may been somewhat unfair, but his cold touchline demeanour seems not to have the same effect as the all action, all power, showmanship of Mourinho. That being said Benitez should have received some funds for transfer activity to leave his mark on the team. But now Inter will be looking for a new coach and one wonders whether President Moratti will be as reluctant to invest again in this mercato after the somewhat average start to the season

Bari: After a great season last year for the Southern side this campaign has been one of total disaster as they sit rock bottom of the division. There last win was registered against Brescia in late September, and this contrasts to their excellent start to the season where they handed Juve the first of only their second defeats so far in a 1-0 win at the San Nicola. Perhaps it's been the injury issues that this side have suffered, perhaps the loss of Ranocchia and Bonucci at centre back has hit harder than first imagined, perhaps it second season syndrome. Whatever the problem time is running our for coach Giuseppe Ventura, which is a shame after his excellent work in the last campaign. Bari would be a loss to Serie A given their solid attendances and passionate fans in the curva, but it is looking ominous as things stand.

Monday 20 December 2010

Calcio Video: Edinson Cavani attempts to break the net in Naples while Quagliarella is head over heals with his finish

Two of the best goals your see this season...





Serie A: Milan, winter Champions as title race opens up

AC Milan are crowned winter Champions. We knew this a week ago, but this round provided conformation of it and it's significance cannot be denied as in most cases whoever tops the table at Christmas will top it come week 38 in May. However, Milan's crowning as winter Champions saw them slip up a home to a determined Roma side, who absorbed everything Milan could throw at them before Milan's 'old friend' Marco Boriello put the Lupi in front midway through the second half. In truth Milan never looked like scoring after that, and really only looked there devastating selves in the first 10 minutes or so where a superb chance engineered by Robinho was squeezed past the far post under the Curva Nord after he tied Mexes in knots. The defeat was a blow to Milan, there fourth at home to Roma in their last five attempts, but arguably the biggest blow was the injury to Andrea Pirlo who looks set to be out a month. That being said Milan will look over their shoulders and seem themselves five points ahead of Juve, seven ahead of Roma and 13 ahead of Inter, who do have two games in hand, and be very very happy with their season so far.

Keeping up the chase however are Lazio and Napoli, as Juve fell by the way side in Verona having conceded a last minute Sergio Pellissier goal  after fabio Quagliarella opened with a contender for goal of the season. Lazio squeezed out a win at home to Udinese in an end to end pulsating clash. Having taken the lead twice, with star Hernanes on the mark again, Udinese pulled them back twice and confirmed there significant improvement this season under Francesco Guidolin. However, Udinese lost out thanks to an own goal from Cristian Zapata in the latter stages. Napoli also left it late and again Edinson Cavani answered the call with a breathtaking goal from distance after dancing around the Lecce midfield. It was his 17 goal in 25 games this season as his confirmed his rise to an elite Serie A player. Palermo, another side reaching for the stars, failed in their bid to keep pace with the leaders as ten man Bari pegged them back in 1-1 draw.

At the bottom of the table despite their point Bari look in deep trouble as things stand. However, Cesena pulled their heads above water with a win over Cagliari and joined Brescia and Lecce on 15 points. It's tight in the lower half of the table but Bologna would have been pleased with their point in the derby against Parma to leave them both comfortable as things stand. Catania can also consider themselves in a similar shape as Maxi Lopez hit the winner against Brescia.

The big game of the round, the Genoa derby, was sadly postponed due to adverse weather.

Sunday 19 December 2010

Calcio comment: Italian clubs avoid bigger tests

Many feared the worst for the Italian clubs when the draw for the second round of the Champions League was made on Friday. With all the Serie A sides finishing up second in their groups there remained the potential for nightmare second round draws for them, against Barcelona, Real Madrid , Chelsea and Manchester United most notably. The good news for Milan, Inter and Roma is that avoided all of the above and instead will face Tottenham, Bayern Munich and Shakhtar Donestsk respectively. All games will be tough in the second phase of this competition no doubt, but the feeling in Italy is that it could have been much much worse for the Serie A sides this year. All three Italian clubs will fancy their chances here, but will be aware of the potential dangers that each of the three opposing sides can create. 

Arguably the most interesting of the three fixtures in a repeat of last years final as Inter are reunited with Bayern again. The Germans will no doubt be out for revenge but much like Inter have experienced a poor start to their domestic campaign leaving themselves well of the pace of the Bundesliga title. Both sides as well have experienced big injury problems which have hampered them so far this season. However, these factors will be likely irrelevant when they face of in February for a place in the Quarter finals. Motivation will take over for both sides knowing that victory here could galvanise a path to the final, like it did for both sides last year.

Tottenham will once again travel to Milan but this time face the Rossoneri. Based on this season alone it will be a tougher test for the London side, but with Gareth Bale they have a player who can exploit Milan's weakest positions, their full backs. However, the Italian league leaders have an abundance of mussel in midfield and real quality up front. Lets not forget that they are top in Serie without the help, for much of the season, of Alex Pato. 

Roma however have Shakhtar Donetsk, and this will be a tough game. Having beaten Arsenal to their group leadership the side from Ukraine are not to be taken lightly. Roma will want to build up a home advantage before having to play the second leg. However, under Claudio Ranieri they have improved as the season has progressed.

In the Europa League Napoli will entertain Villareal in a game that see's two teams having super seasons clash. Napoli have grown in strength under Walter Mazzari and of late have been grinding out wins, showing the sort of form that Champions do. However, Villareal are a polished European outfit. A win here for Napoli will raise their profile across Europe no doubt.

Sunday 12 December 2010

Calcio comment: Napoli up to second now, time to be taken seriously?

Napoli have been slow burning into fruition for some time now. The De Laurentis project has been taking shape since their meteoric rise from Serie C back to where they belong in Serie A, but the question is are we now at a stage where it can be considered to have peaked? For me, the answer is clearly no.

Napoli are are one of the most exciting teams to watch in Serie A. Whether it be the endless hustle of Lavezzi, the passing precision of Hamsik of the sheer quality in finishing ability of Cavani they are at times a joy to watch. However, they have changed, if this season is anything to go by. They've begun churning out three points when really, they haven't deserved them. Tonight against Genoa they to some degree were on the back foot in the second half, though it could be said that Napoli should have buried the game by then. But, as has been said time and time again in football folk law, winning when you don't play that well is the hallmark of Champions. It's a little too early to consider Napoli as worthy of than mantle but all the while they remain three points from the summit then they will be regarded as a top class side, and rightly so. It's not just the input of Hamsik, Lavezzi and Cavani that has taken them to this position. The threat of Maggio down the right channel and the solid presence of Italy international Morgan De Sanctis in goal have exacerbated their quality this season and have made them a team to be feared. 

This, for me at least, is no flash in the pan. Their 6th placed finish last season was in my opinion something of an understatement. They remain a superior side to Sampdoria and Palermo, who finished above them last year, and in Cavani have added a weapon that can hurt any side in world football with 15 goals in just 21 games this season so far confirming that notion. With Lecce up next for the Azzurri will be confident of ending this year on 33 points. Ahead of Inter, Palermo, Samp, Fiorentina and Roma for certain. It's no small achievement and with the mentality of De Laurentis at the helm their is no reason for believing that it will stop there. It sure is an exciting time to be a Napoli fan, I would imagine.

Friday 10 December 2010

No Inter , probably for the best for the Interista's for now

Inter will sit this round out because of the Club world cup, probably for the best from their viewpoint. Currently they are getting beaten left right and centre by practically any team that takes to the pitch against them. Most recent was an absolute demolition job by Werder Bremen, a team that had nothing to play for as they were already eliminated from the Champions League. Conversely, Inter had everything to play for. A win would have allowed them to top the group, and avoid nightmare draws against Barcelona, Chelsea, Manchester United or Real Madrid but they barely mustered an attack, let alone a chance, against the German side. Rafa Benitez said it was a game they didn't have to win, but come the Champions League draw next Friday one wonders whether he will regret saying that. 

It's an understatement to say that this season so far has been a total anti-climax if you like this season, a hangover from the glorious night before. They've already been beaten four times in Serie A this season by Lazio, Roma, Milan and Chievo and for their punishment sit ten points behind city rivals Milan. And, whilst it is true they have been injury ravaged some of the performances have simply beggared believe, and would not have been seen on Mourinho's watch last season. There has been a drop in intensity and a focus on ball retention as opposed to the shape counter attacking style that destroyed all comers last season. Additionally, a lack of investment in the summer has caught Inter with their trousers down. With Milito injured and no Balotelli sold Pandev has often had to lead the line, especially with Eto'o suspended and with all due respect to the former Lazio player he has not looked like Inter Milan calibre. B

But these problems are certainly not enough to see Rafa Benitez escape criticism. His bewildering reliance on Marco Materazzi, in the derby especially, left Inter exposed to the pace and power of Milan's Ibrahimovic and Robinho. It would have been better for him to have played Santon at right back in that match allowing Cordoba to sit in at centre back, but that was not to be and Inter slumped to their first home defeat in the league since Juve conquered them in 2008. Many have said Benitez took on an impossible task, winning the treble was always going to be an insurmountable mountain to overcome and even at this stage winning the Scudetto seems very difficult indeed. With Milan having two winnable games before the winter break Inter could find themselves miles off the pace. This leaves Europe as the priority and Moratti will want to taste European glory again. To do that he'll need to pray for a fully fit squad, a signing or two in Jan and maybe a new manager as well before their season is well and truly pissed up the wall.

Monday 6 December 2010

Calcio Vid: Lazio took on Inter, and surprisingly put them to bed with ease

Lazio steamroll Inter, Milan destroy Brescia and Napoli and Juve join the breakaway

Lazio put European Champions Inter to the sword, and they fell upon it at the Olimpico on Friday night falling to a 3-1 reverse to the Aquile. It could, and arguably should, have been worse, but Goran Pandev pulled a goal back after Biava and Mauro Zarate gave Lazio a 2-0 lead after 55 minutes. Pandev's goal allowed Inter to pile on the pressure, but Hernanes calmed the nerves with a freekick that left Inter's injury ravaged lineup pointless, and down to 5th in the table. With that in mind city rivals Milan rubbed salt into the growing blue and black wounds on Saturday night, with old friend Zlatan Ibrahimovic architect and executioner in explosive fashion either side of a Robinho goal. All that happened in the first half, leaving Milan with little to do in the second aside from rest a few legs and strut across the San Siro pitch.

With Milan and Lazio steaming away at the top both Napoli and Juve have broked away from the mini group of teams still in touching distance at the top to launch their title challenge. Juve ended Catania's long home unbeaten run last night with Fabio Quagliarella star of the show. He should have had a hatrick but had a goal wrongly disallowed when it was clearly over the line. Still, he made up with it with his second goal, catching Catania's Argentine goalkeeper Andujar off his line with a classic Quagliarella stunner. For Napoli it was not quite as comfortable, and after lots of huffing and puffing tonight it took a last gasp Cristian Maggio goal, with Cavani assisting, to settle the game against Palermo in injury time.

In the chasing pack, both Genoa clubs were victorious pulling themselves back into contention while Roma blew a two goal lead against Chievo to stall their ambitions for a while. Fiorentina put a win on the board against Catania but are still four points behind the bulk of the chasing pack at this point in the season. With a trip away to Udinese next up for them, they may remain off the pace for a while yet as they will look to make up for an away defeat to Hernan Crespo's Parma.


Bologna were victorious in Cesena after their one point penalty deduction for financial irregularities midweek, and have pulled themselves away from the bottom four whom look set to battle relegation this season. Lecce, Brescia, Cesena and somewhat surprisingly Bari are beginning to slip significantly behind Bologna in 16th, and look set to have a long and difficult season ahead of them.

Friday 26 November 2010

Preview: Unstoppable Milan head to Genoa, rest of top five set for difficult tests also

Milan kick off this weekends action with a visit the Marassi to take on Sampdoria, a side that have at least on their home turf become something of a bogey side in recent years. Indeed, their last victory against Samp in Genoa was a stonking 5-0 reverse in October 2007. Thats the only win achieved there over the last five years and this alone illustrates the difficulty lying in wait tomorrow at 5pm. One problem Milan don't have to worry about is Antonio Cassano who has been totally frozen out of the Sampdoria squad after crossing the line against Club President Riccardo Garrone who currently is attempting to dissolve his contract. Additionally, aside from a 3-2 win in Lecce Sampdoria have really been struggling for goals of late and have been relying on striker Pazzini to find the net. He did against Lecce with a hatrick and his partner Guido Marilungo has looked like a decent prospect for the future, but without Cassano up front Milan's chances of recording three points in Genoa, a rare thing for anyside, have increased significantly. And, if they do register a win it will virtually end Inter's chances of becoming Winter Champions, a title that has become indicative of who goes onto win the Scudetto at the seasons end, most of the time.

With Milan seemingly having the most difficult challenge this weekend, based on historical results at least, the rest of the top six have the chance to close ranks. Juve however take on a rejuvenated Fiorentina at home and will hope the guile and craft of Krasic and Aquilani continue to open up opposition defences. For Fiorentina however this is a derby, one steeped in rivalry paved out through the sale of Baggio to Juve when Florence seemingly turned into a war zone in the early 90s. Last years fixture finished in a draw, but I'd bet Juve go one better this on current form. Bitter rivals Inter face Parma early on Sunday, and after their win over Twente midweek they will look to resuscitate their season with a win here against a Parma side that have limped through the league so far this campaign. They same cannot be said of Lazio who sit in second as things stand and will look to beat Catania at home on Sunday before two crunch fixtures, the first against Inter Milan next Friday and the second away at Juve a week later.

Napoli face a difficult challenge this weekend. Sitting third at the moment, a magnificent achievement, they head to Udine to face Udinese who have recovered from an appalling start to the season, sitting only three points behind Inter as things stand. It was not a happy hunting ground for them last season, loosing three one to Udinese and given the home form they have shown of late it may be a difficult afternoon for the Napoli faithful. Finally in the race for the Scudetto Roma head to Palermo, 5th v 7th, for a three points that really could push one of these sides right into the upper echelons of the table. It's never a dull game, the proof in the pudding being a 3-3 draw that is just one meeting between the two teams that contributed a plethora of goals and it should provide an entaining end to this rounds action on Sunday night.

Wednesday 24 November 2010

Champions League: Italian Trio win

All three Italian clubs were victorious in the Champions League this round, with Milan and Inter both securing qualification into the next phase. Milan put two past French side Auxerre to secure their passage into the next round. Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored a fantastic goal to put Milan in front, with Ronaldinho adding the second after some wonderful play by himself and Robinho. City rivals Inter also secured their passage tonight, beating Twente 1-0 thanks to a strike from Estaban Cambiasso who provided Inter with the sort of quality and technique that has been missing in that position. 

However, performance of the round was reserved for Roma who came back from 2-0 against Bayern Munich, last years beaten finalists, to win 3-2. Marco Boriello scored when it seemed impossible to do so after virtually lying on the floor. Danielle De Rossi leveled with a tap in before Francesco Totti converted from the spot to assure the win. Roma need to sweat a little more however and need one point to assure passage to the next phase, although if Basel loose to Bayern then Roma will be through anyway.

If your expecting Europa league action this week, then you'll be disappointed as next Wednesday and Thursday will host the fifth round of that.

Tuesday 23 November 2010

Serie A: Inter fall in Verona, while Milan win again

The Scudetto race has been blown wide open thanks to a second consecutive defeat for Inter who fell in Verona. Sergio Pellissier lead the charge for Chievo as they beat Inter 2-1. Eto'o pulled one back late on but should have seen red for a head butt that was reminiscent of Zidane's infamous use of the cranium on Marco Materazzi in the 2006 world cup. Milan however are reveling in their rivals misery as they won their fourth game on the trot thanks to a wonder goal from Zlatan Ibrahimovic. His overhead kick was the difference between Milan and Fiorentina. With Inter stalling, Roma, Juve and Napoli all won against Udinese, Genoa and Bologna. Napoli were arguably most impressive, with Hamsik hitting two and answering the critics with regards to his supposed slump in form. Once agains Edison Cavani was on target with a smart finish, but Lavezzi once again arguably stole the show with a non stop tireless performance. Lazio however could only draw away at Parma, coming from behind after old friend Hernan Crespo put them in front. Sergio Floccari answered after the break, but despite dominating Lazio could not find a way to obtain three points.

It's incredibly tight at the top, and it's only got tighter this week with Palermo joining the party level on points with Inter now in joint sixth after a 2-1 win in Cesena. Chievo are now on 19 points as well, and with Sampdoria winning in Lecce this weekend thanks to a superb Pazzini hatrick there really is all to play for as we enter the final phases before the winter break. 

At the other end of the table Cagliari's decision to hire Donadoni had it's usual initial first game win effect with them achieving a strong win away at Brescia who find themselves slipping down the table. One team however going nowhere is Bari, who after a superb season last year find themselves rooted to the bottom after yet another defeat, this time at Catania. The Massimino is no easy place to go as most sides will testify, and this alone should be enough to see Catania maintain their status in Serie A as a midtable side. This time last year they were approaching crisis point, until a majestic win in Turin against Juve and the introduction of Mihajlovic as allenatore. This year however, its a different story as they now sit on 17 points, just three behind Inter. Still unbeaten at home, Catania have quality and could be a dark hourse for a European place as the season progresses.

Saturday 20 November 2010

Remember when?: Lazio beat Real Mallorca to the Cup Winner's Cup

Ok, here's a new facet to the site. Remember when...Given that I was actually at this game 11 years ago, I should remember this one.

Friday 19 November 2010

Round 13 Preview: Given 180 minutes, the time bomb is ticking

180 minutes. Not a lot of time. But it seems that's all Rafa Benitez has to save his job. He could be gone from Inter by midweek if results don't go their way against Chievo Verona and FC Twente. In many respects, this is a fair deal given to Benitez by Padrone Moratti. Get Inter back into the Scudetto race and into the last 16 of the CL, or get out. Yes, there has been the absence of players like Milito, Cambiasso and now 'The Wall' Walter Samuel, but to be unable to get past Lecce, Brescia, and suffer humiliation and the hands of Tottenham in Europe, as reigning European Champions, says a lot about how Inter have suffered this season. So, for Rafa, the first port of call in winning in Verona, something that they did do last season and will be expected to do this season. But, if they struggled against Lecce and Brescia, both in Serie B last season, what price that they struggle against Chievo. This is a side, after all that is riding high at the moment in 11th place in the table, comfortably away from the relegation zone and carving out a place in the regular set of side that adorn this league year upon year. This won't be easy for Benitez and Inter, but if they come through this roughest of rough patches for them post Calciopoli, then it could galvanise them into the side that won it all last year. Make or break.

Round 13 preview: Renaissance in Florence, but surely not enough to bring down Milan

It's amazing the difference a year can make. Scratch that, it's amazing the difference a month or so make. Since beeing given the run around by Real Madrid in the Bernabeu, Massimo Allegri has taken stock, and changed up. A three man holding midfield has almost bulldozed it's way through the opposition of late, leaving Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pato and Robinho to clean up in the final third. Whether it be Ambrosini, Gattuso, Flamini, Pirlo or Boateng in the middle, it so far has worked and they look a much more solid, and robust, team than they did under Leonardo. Tommorow however they come up against a rejuvenated Fiorentina, basking in the light of a recent renaissance especially at home in the beautiful city of Florence. Sinisa Mihajlovic has overcome a tough start and put his side within touching distance of the European places. Indeed, the Florentines have only lost one of their last five, and put three wins on the board in this stretch. Much of this renaissance has to do with the return of the likes of D'Agostino, Vargas and Mutu to the side, allowing Mihajlovic the sort of squad depth that he had hoped for right from the word go. There's still no Stefan Jovetic, the wonder that hurt so many teams in the Champions League last year, but there's enough for Fiorentina to given Milan some headaches tomorrow. Probably not enough to register three points, but enough certainly to put a spanner in the works of Allegri's quest for the Scudetto. If there's one thing Fiorentina have shown, in Europe especially, over the last year, it's their ability to raise their game against the big boy's. Can they do it against Milan? We shall see.

Wednesday 17 November 2010

Tuesday 16 November 2010

Round 12: Milan and Lazio fly as the top six clash

A mega and quite unique weekend of calcio pitted the top six against each other, and if that was not enough there was the Sicilian derby to contend with as well. First up were Juve and Roma, and a high tempo game was given a fantastic goal after Aquilani delivered a superb ball for Vicenzo Iaquinta to volley home. Francesco Totti however leveled the tie however before half time from the spot, as he did last year before they went onto win, after Simone Pepe was adjudged to have handled the ball in the area. This time however there was no win for Roma, and only a fine Julio Sergio save denied Fabio Quagliarella from a wonder goal late on.

In the next top six clash Lazio pushed past a talented Napoli side to secure their first win since week nine after two consecutive defeats against Roma and Cesena. Mauro Zarate put in an excellent performance open the scoring after a wonderful assist from Italy International Stefano Mauri. Zarate later turned provider to allow Sergio Floccari to hit his fourth goal of the campaign so far with a tidy finish past Morgan De Sanctis. Napoli however were desperately unlucky not to level the tie in the early going after Lavezzi, in wonderful form, beat two Lazio players and rattled the bar from 25 yards with Muslera motionless on the goal line. It was not Napoli's day however, but they remain third in the table. 

Milan remain first however thanks to a win over bitter rivals Inter, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic on target from the spot after just five minutes. It was a game won with ten men by Milan, and could have been of a higher margin as both Seedorf and Ibrahimovic came close on more than one occassion. Inter fans thought they had leveled the tie when a wonderful Sneijder freekick skimmed the netting in the first half, but they did not make the most of their one man advantage and went down to their second defeat of the season so far.

Elsewhere, Palermo blew Catania away in the derby with a Javier Pastore ha rick, while Bologna picked up another solid home win against Brescia thanks to, you've guest it, Marco Di Vaio. Parma continued their resurgence with a 1-0 away win at a troubled Bari, while Fiorentina did the same with a 1-0 win against Cesena thanks to a superb Gilardino volley. Genoa, under new management in former Lazio flop Davide Ballardini, won their second game on the bounce to take them up to 17 points against Cagliari. Joining them on that mark is a totally changed Udinese side who thrashed Lecce 4-0 with Antonio Di Natale on target with a hatrick. Considering they were rock bottom in the seasons early stages, their position now just three points away from fourth places is quite an achievement. One side really struggling right now however is Sampdoria as they failed to score for the third game running, with Antonio Cassano still frozen out of the squad. Another goalless outing saw them draw 0-0 with Chievo at the Marassi. They look a far cry from the team that finished fourth last season.

Saturday 13 November 2010

Calcio comment: Juve and Roma draw, advantage Milan?

Juve and Roma played out an entertaining draw in Turin tonight. Both teams will probably be dissappointed with the draw, especially Juventus who arguably had the better of the possession and pressure in the second half especially. However, for Roma this is another good result to put alongside their increasingly good position in the table as they continue to show that they are far from out of the picture in the Scudetto race. Indeed, they sit just four points off the summit at the moment before tommorows monumental clash in the San Siro between AC and Inter Milan. Juve sit just three behind, but quite how the table will look at the end of play tommorow night is currently anyone's guess. A win for Inter could put them top if Lazio or Napoli fail to win in their game against each other, whereas a win for either of the aforementioned clubs could put them top if AC Milan fail to win their game. What does this mean? It's been labled a six horse race at the top and with arguably three of the strongest contenders sitting in 6th, 5th and 4th currently that's exactly how it seems to be as we approach Christmas. However Milan at the top of the pile seem a different proposition this year, growing in confidence week after week. The injury to Pato will be a big blow, but certainly not an excuse given the near critical injury list that their city rivals, and Juve, have suffered so far this campaign. But, there is one positive piece of news on that front, or three if you like, with the return of Cambiasso, Stankovic and Julio Cesar for the Milan derby for Inter fans at least. Still, they will not be at full fitness clearly, and with Roma and Juve not picking up maximum points this could be advantage Milan.With Ibra and Robinho in rich form and a rejuvenated Mathieu Flamini returning to the midfield they certainly go into this game in confident mood especially after conquering their usual banana skin in Palermo midweek.

One team going into this round not in good form are former league leaders Lazio, who take on Napoli tommorow to complete this unique set of fixtures at the top that saw all the teams in the top six play each other. Napoli roll into the Olimpico after two straight defeats for the Aquile. Napoli however approach this game with three straight wins and would go top of the league if they leave Rome victorious. Indeed Mazzari's men seem unstoppable on their travels at the moment. It'll be tough for Lazio, but if they are to confirm themselves as a changed side and involved in this titanic six way at the top, then they need a response to their two defeats right here, right now.

Friday 5 November 2010

Round ten preview: A derby like no other

Ask any casual observe of Italian football to name it's biggest derby and undoutably they'd go for Inter v Milan. Two giants of the Italian and European game, ten Champions League trophies between them and an endless array of world renowned players both now and in the past. However, scratch beneath the surface of the casual observer and you'll find two derbies, that in my opinion at least, surpass the Milan classic in terms of passion and rivalry at least. The first is Inter v Juve, the Derby D'Italia, a phrase coined by Italian Journalist Gianni Brera in the 60s that epitomised a match up between the two clubs in Italy that had won the most International and domestic trophies. Undoubtedly, passion runs high in this encounter and thats' seen, even in recent years, altercations on the pitch between, in last years case Gianluigi Buffon and Thiago Motta. However, one derby surpasses both of these for me. The Rome derby, and that's the classic we have to entertain us this weekend at 2pm on Sunday afternoon as Lazio, top of the league, host Roma, currently in 9th place and ten points behind. Last year Roma won both encounters, so despite being top of the league that will count for little for the Lazio fans for these 90 minutes as avenging both defeats of last season will be heavily on the mind. For Roma, revenge of a different sort may be in the offing, as they look to get their season back on track and close the gap on the leagues front runners. 

But, as has been suggested, more than just football has taken place at these encounters over the years with two prominent events making their mark in tragically devastating fashion. In 1979 a Lazio fan was killed by a flare fired from the Curva Sud, while in 2004 the game was suspended after false rumours were spread about a child being killed. Unprecedented scenes even saw Ultra leaders on the pitch conversing with club captains to give their account. These sad scenes are the exception to the rule, against which most derbies have been played out to backdrops of spectacular choreography of the Lazio ultras in the Curva Nord and the Roma Ultras in the Curva Sud. But the rivalry, as you can tell, is fiercely strong ever since the first meeting of the two sides in 1929 not long after Roma were formed as a club. Roma, who came about after the merger of three sides to which Lazio resisted, were victorious on the first occasion and up to today hold the better record of wins between to the two clubs in Serie A and all competitions. But, that will count for nothing come Sunday afternoon, and whatever the result it is sure to be a passionate and colourful affair. 

Elsewhere, Milan take the perilous road to Bari, will a injury ravaged Inter and Juve both have easier games against Brescia and Cesena respectively. Napoli host Parma while in the big Sunday night game Palermo host Genoa in a match that could set one team on the way to European qualification.

Monday 1 November 2010

Round Nine: Juve Lions roar in Milan, Lazio and Inter both win on the road

Inter Milan began this round, and picked up three points as they usually do in Genoa against the Grifoni. This time however, unlike last years 5-0 rout, there was a strong element of luck surrounding Inter's win. Sulley Muntari, coming on for the injured Estaban Cambiasso, struck from distance only for Genoa keeper Eduardo to flap at the strike and concede in the worst possible fashion. This burst Genoa's bubble, who up to that point had put Inter under significant pressure for much of the first half although Inter had had the best chance with Samuel Eto'o, for once, not hitting the back of the net when clear through. This was a great result for Inter given that Milan and Juve had to face off on Saturday night at San Siro. For many the smart money was on Milan, especially given the absence of Milos Krasic. But, Juve surprised the division by being the first club to win there this season on their travels, and putting a small dent in Milan's title challenge. A wonderful Quagliarella header gave Milan the lead in the first half, although Zlatan Ibrahimovic had come very close to giving Milan the lead in the early going, rattling the bar from all of 25 yards. The writing for Milan was on the wall however when Del Piero doubled the lead mid way through the second half, and although Zlatan did pull one back it was nothing but a mere consolation in the end.

Lazio continued their stunning start to the season, confirming their serious nature in this campaign by winning away in Palermo thanks to a world class Andre Dias strike after Ledesma delivered an inch perfect free kick. Palermo should however have been in front after 30 seconds but Pastore fluffed his lines when clear through on goal. Muslera saved then, and did so again and again in consummate fashion after Giuseppe Biava was sent off for a reckless challenge. Indeed, he was the star of the show as and certainly earned Lazio the extra two points on Sunday afternoon. For Lazio, they became only the second team to win in Palermo in recent years, with the Sicilian outfit unbeaten their for all of last season.

Elsewhere Roma continued their recovery at home against Lecce in a 2-0 win, with Vucinic on target. Udinese have recovered well also registering their fourth win away at Bari, who are now rock bottom. For Udinese however this was their fifth game without defeat and they now find themselves in 8th, compared to 20th just five rounds ago. Francesco Guidolin has more than rescued his job in the last five rounds, and now perhaps can give the Friuliani faithful a successful campaign as opposed to the flirt with relegation that occurred last season. 

Napoli bounced back from defeat to Milan away at Brescia with a 1-0 win in dull and turgid conditions thanks to Lavezzi's second goal in two rounds, abley assisted about Marek Hamsik. It was a similar hard fought victory for Sampdoria who left it very late to take three points from Cesena. They had Giampaolo Pazzini to thank as Antonio Cassano was left out due to an internal problem at Sampdoria. One player returning to action this weekend was Adrian Mutu, yet he could not inspire Fiorentina to a win in Catania. Maresca came closest to scoring, his superb freekick left Frey stranded but could not beat the woodwork.

Finally, Parma continued to struggle at Palermo as Pasquale Marino's side continued to struggle to put the ball in the net, this time against Chievo. Cagliari however did not struggle to score as they put two past Bologna without reply. Amazingly this was only the second time Cagliari had won in their last 23 Serie A fixtures, the other 21 games being 10 draws and 11 defeats.

Tuesday 26 October 2010

Round Eight Review: Lazio steam ahead, Milan cling to their heals

Another round, another win for Lazio who continue to pick up three points much to the delight of their fans. This time Cagliari were the victims thanks to a superb Sergio Floccari strike and a Stefano Mauri tap in after some good work from Floccari once again. It was not all plain sailing however, far from it. Alessandro Matri showed why he is becoming one of the most lethal finishers around with a well taken header after a Radu error. Indeed, Matri was a constant pain for the Lazio defence and probably should have scored for Cagliari in the first half but balloned wide instead. One of Matri's former clubs, Milan, also registered a win in Naples although again not in convincing fashion. After a fairly balanced start it was Milan who took the lead through Robinho's second Serie A goal in as many games. Massimo Oddo, on for Antonini after a clash of heads, played Robinho into space for the Brazilian Ace to fire home with his left foot. It was Oddo again who turned provider, this time for Ibrahimovic in the second half who headed home the Italian's cross totally unmarked when Napoli were down to ten men. Despite this the closing stages of the game were dominated by Napoli and an absolute piece of genius from Lavezzi got Napoli back in the game, but it was too little too late in the end. The same could be said of Inter, who left it too late to push home their domination of the latter stages against Sampdoria in a 1-1 draw. In the end only Samuel Eto'o, yet again, could save them from their first home defeat in the league since early 2008 against Juventus.

Fiorentina, expected to battle for the champions league places, removed themselves from the bottom of the division with a hard fought win over Bari. Parma replaced them at the bottom soon after but could not remove themselves from the position after a turgid 0-0 draw with Roma. Previously rock bottom Udinese, for the first few weeks of the campaign, secured their third win on the go this time taking Palermo's scalp. Mario Pinilla was again on target for Palermo but this turned out to be only a consolation in a 2-1 reverse in Udine. 

One side that has been no where near the bottom this season is Chievo, and this remains to be the case after a 2-1 home win against Cesena. In fact this win now puts Chievo into fourth spot in the table and light years away from the relegation battle that most thought they would be in, for the time being. Another unexpected side flying high are Lecce, the perennial yoyo club that I personally thought would be rooted to the bottom of the table from start to finish this season. Not so however, as they showed character in coming from behind against Brescia at the Via Del Mare to take another three points in casa. Experienced hitman Davide Di Michele scored the winner to move Lecce up to 10th in the table. They remain level with Genoa who, after massive investment over the last few years, were under pressure to win this home game. They delivered a 1-0 win against Catania with Marco Rossi on target. Finally, Bologna picked up another credible point against Juventus this time, with the Old Lady missing a penalty as well during the match. Perhaps the worst part of this for Juve is the expected two match ban for Milos Krasic for diving during the game, the second game in succession. Currently, he will miss the big game against Milan this weekend.

So another round which has done little to unravel the tight an unpredictable nature of this table. Just five points separates 20th place from 5th at the moment, making it difficult to judge who is at risk of relegation and who is on course for greater things.

Saturday 23 October 2010

Player Profiles: Eto'o, the unstoppable Lion

14 goals in 12 games so far this season. You read it right, 14 goals in 12 games. At the beginning of the season, if you had told any Inter fan that they would have been without Diego Milito the period that he has been out injured then they would have wondered where the goals were going to come from. Don't get me wrong, Eto'o was outstanding for Inter last season, sacrificing himself down the left channel for the benefit of the Inter Juggernaut that went on to win everything possible. He weighed in with big goals as well, away at Chelsea, at home in a showdown with Roma. This season however, he has become the focal point of Inter. Everything he touches seems to end up in the back of the net, football's equivalent of King Midas on current form. 

From the hatrick against Werder Bremen to the superb strike against Cagliari last weekend, Eto's has given Rafa Benitez a real problem, because what will happen when El Principe returns? Does he push Eto'o back out onto the wing with the freedom to cut inside, or does he completely change Inter's shape and revert their 4-3-3 to a 4-4-2? The latter would be a mistake, as their power as a counter attacking unit when necessary is on full display when they operate under the way that Mourinho played. That being said, they have already shown under Benitez how good they can be at retaining possession and cutting teams apart with sharp, smart attacking play. Eto'o is at the forefront of that at the moment, and there is no sign of the goals drying up. Considering his record at Barcelona that can be taken as par for the course.

Thursday 21 October 2010

Euro Round up: Dismal week for Italian clubs

A dismal week in Europe for the Italian sides has done little to enhance their qualification chances for the next phase. Inter were the only side to win and even they made a real mess of it when all was said and done by conceding three times after having a 4-0 lead thanks to a superb first half performance. There was no such luck for city rivals AC Milan,  outclassed in Madrid against Real by 2-0. It could have been more, and frankly Milan coach Allegri got it all wrong by playing a side with little balance in it. Robinho probably should have started from the beginning as should have Kevin Prince Boateng as his work ethic and defensive coverage would have helped Milan a lot more than Seedorf and Ronaldinho who contributed next to nothing all night long. If their defeat was bad, Roma's was diabolical. A 3-1 reverse at home to Basel put a serious dent in them securing qualification in a relatively straight forward group. They'll need to set the record straight in Basel in two weeks time to put their noses in front before welcoming Bayern to Rome.

In the Europa League both Napoli and Juve secured draws, but not in credible fashion. Napoli dominated against Liverpool but just could not find they way through, while Juve came from behind to draw in Salzberg. Both sides are well positioned to qualify but must pick up a win in the next round to get themselves on the road for the next phase. Sampdoria however crashed to a pathetic defeat away to Metalist. They took the lead but the home side leveled before they were reduced to ten men. Despite this, Metalist took the lead through a stunning overhead kick. Samp had no answer. Palermo also had no answer in a much tougher test against CSKA Moscow. Last years Champions League last eight side cruised past ten man Palermo 3-0. 

So, a poor week in Europe but all clubs still have the chance to make it to the next phase. Objectively, perhaps only Palermo are in trouble as their trip to CSKA next round will be very difficult, but it remains a must win for them.

Wednesday 20 October 2010

Video tribute: Milos Krasic

He's been lighting up Serie A so far this season, so take a closer look at Milos Krasic.

Calcio comment: Del Neri proving his worth at Juve

It's taken a while, but Juve seem finally to be seeing the fruits of Luigi De Neri's work. In many respects it is not surprising that Juve stuttered and spluttered around at the seasons birth. After all, the manor of the total destruction of their campaign last season is not a memory easily washed away. We saw this in week two against Sampdoria, when they conceded three at home in a 3-3 draw with defensive errors. Again, we saw this against the Lech Poznan where the opening 30 minutes provided the viewer with a guide of how not to defend. But, slowly and surely these errors, lapses of concentration have weathered away and Juve have benefited significantly from that. The goals have continued to flow, but for now the direction is only in the back of the oppositions net. Four goals against Cagliari, Udinese, and Lecce in recent weeks have confirmed that Juve know exactly where the back of the net is. Much of that has come down to the brilliance of midfielder Milos Krasic, and there is the slight danger that Juve have become over reliant on the great Serb despite being only seven rounds in.

With that in mind, it comes as a big bonus for the Juve faithful to see Alberto Aquiliani blossoming in central midfield as his strike from distance at the weekend brought back memories of some of his thunderous strikes that he hit when being a key cog in Roma's midfield seasons ago. Sill, caution is required and no doubt etched in the memories of Juve fans especially after last season. Champions League football remains the target, and thats something Del Neri achieved with his 4-4-2 formation at Sampdoria last season. But maybe, just maybe they can do better than that given their impressive form in recent weeks. Salzberg up next for Juve, and one game at a time has to be their mentality.

Tuesday 19 October 2010

Round seven: Lazio continue to fly at the top, Inter, Milan and Juve close behind

Another round, another win for Lazio as their continue to nullify their opponents into submission. This time it was Bari, and this time two goals on the break made the difference as Stefano Mauri hit two assists for Hernanes and Sergio Floccari push in the goals for the Rome club to bring back three points. Inter and Milan however remain in close proximity to wrecking Lazio's fairytale as both recorded wins. A stunning Samuel Eto'o strike condemed Cagliari to defeat while a brace from Alex Pato gave Milan the points to keep pace with the leaders at the top before their difficult trip to Naples next Monday night. Dark horses Juventus however sent out another message as they recored another 4-0 victory, this time against Lecce. Alberto Aquilani's fierce drive gave Juve the lead before Melo and Quagliarella made the points safe. The best was saved till last however as Del Piero rolled back the years with a majestic finished in the second half. 

Leading the chase behind the top sides are Napoli and Palermo. The former stuttered to a draw against Catania and probably should have gone down to a defeat their but for Morgan De Sanctis. Palermo however again showed their potential with youngsters Pastore and Illicic on the score sheet again in a 4-1 win against Bologna. Sampdoria seem intend on joining this party, and thank to a mad 90 seconds at the Marassi they overturned a 1-0 scorline against Fiorentina to take the points. Reto Ziegler and Antonio Cassano were the heros there. 

Elsewhere Udinese picked up their second straight win while Parma stopped the rot of defeat by taking a point away at Cesena.

Wednesday 13 October 2010

Round seven preview: Season resumes.

Round six brought some showpiece clashes with Juventus heading to Milan to take on Inter and Napoli defeating Roma in the Derby Del Sud. This time however the clashes are maybe not so grand but they are equally important. Juventus entertain Lecce on Sunday afternoon, and after taking a point from the San Siro last time round they will look to take three here. However, if this season is anything to go by then Lecce will be confident of at least hitting the back of the net in Turin. Sampdoria did it three times, Cagliari twice and Lech Poznan thrice as well. Juventus need to sent a message here, it's time to score but learn to defend as well. It'll be a game I will be watching on Sunday and I think it will be a lot of fun. 

The Milan club's have tricky games to contend with. AC take on Chievo at home in the early kick of on Saturday. It's never been an easy game for them over the years, and the flying Donkeys have started well this season and sit just a point behind Milan as we stand. Still, Milan will be confident of a win I feel. Alex Pato is set to play after scoring for Brazil midweek while Zlatan Ibrahimovic will look to continue his fine form in front of goal by adding to his total this season. For Inter a trip to Sardinia awaits them. Rafa Benitez likes to go there on Holiday, but will he like it so much after 90 minutes here? Roma lost 5-1 here, but Inter have had success on this ground witha 2-0 win last year evidence of that. There's no Diego Milito or Estaban Cambiasso but Thiago Motta looks set to return along with Javier Zanetti.

Elsewhere league leaders Lazio head to Bari, a very difficult place to play. Few teams came away from there with anything last season but confidence is high in the blue half of Rome with numerous players in their camp recently receiving international call ups. For Roma they host Genoa and their battered confidence will need to be swept aside in order for them to get a win here and get their season up and running. City rivals Sampdoria take on Fiorentina, both having underwhelmed so far this season. However, defeat for the Viola could be the final straw and see Mihajlovic removed from his post. This is not the case for Walter Mazzari of Napoli who leads Napoli into Catania with the possibility of them being top come the end of this round in some shape or form. Edison Cavani is in red hot form while Marek Hamsik is as well. Catania are strong at home but that may not be enough here. Delio Rossi additionally seems to have saved himself from the axe of Palermo president Zamperini, for the time being. Wins in Florence and Turin put paid to that, but unless they start winning home games they can forget about Europe this year. Bologna await Palermo and it won't be easy by any stretch with the visitors defeated just once this season so far by Lazio. Finally, Brescia entertain Udinese.


Calcio tribute: Manuel Rui Costa

It's time to take a look at one of Calcio's best straneri who played in Serie A for 12 years for Fiorentina and Milan, moving to the latter for £30 million. Manuel Rui Costa, without question a world class player who supplied ammunition for Batistuta, Shevchenko and Inzaghi over the years.

Monday 11 October 2010

Calcio comment: Tight Serie A season ahead

Last year, of course, earned the title of the epitomy of a tight season. Once again Inter and Roma were involved as the Scudetto changed hands three times on the final day of the season in the last campaign. But, especially after Sampdoria were victorious in Rome against Roma in the last rounds of the campaign, Inter's victory had an air of inevitability about it. They were, and are, the best side in the division and in Europe after their Champions League heroics last season and remain a tough nut to crack for any side .  Indeed, despite Mourinho's much heralded arrival in Madrid for myself Barcelona and Chelsea remain the threats to their European crown. However, it seems as if this year their historic challengers to the Scudetto, Juventus and Milan, have perhaps awoken from their slumber. Milan have transformed their attack with Zlatan Ibrahimovic being the reference point up front and Robinho providing pace down the flanks and if they can keep Alex Pato fit then they have an attack that can damage any defence. There's more balance in the midfield as well with Mathieu Flamini beginning to play more of a role and Kevin Prince Boateng able to weigh in both defensively and from an attacking viewpoint. The crux for the Rossoneri will however be the ability for Andrea Pirlo to leave his creative mark on the game. Last season was not his finest it is fair to say but in the last few rounds the metronome has started to show the passing range that he is famed for. 

For Juventus, it seemed as if the lack of confidence, and frankly quality, that dogged them last season has not gone away. The home defeat against Palermo highlighted the lack of idea's that blighted Juve last term, while the inability to defend without question returned againt Lech Poznan and Sampdoria at home in Serie A. A corner, to some degree, seems however to have been turned. A credible win over Cagliari showed that Juve have no problem scoring goals while a comfortable draw at Manchester City, second in the EPL, began to show a Juve growing in confidence and the influence of their news players, most notably Milos Krasic and return to form of Felipe Melo. It was however the 0-0 at Inter that perhaps highlights the potential of this Juve side. Chance for chance it was a game that Juve probably should have won and that alone should inspire confidence that Del Neri can drill into the squad. However, its not so much confidence, quality or individual ability that will top Inter Milan, it is the simple word of consistency. It's one thing to rise to the challenge against the Barcelona's of this world, but it's quite another to bring your A game against the likes of Lecce and Chievo. That's exactly why Milan and Juve have to do this weekend else they can forget about the Scudetto. However, I think this year they both have the tools to achieve the kind of consistency that can result in a title win, making for an exciting, tight and tense season ahead.

Tuesday 5 October 2010

Round Six: Inter and Juve draw, while Lazio take advantage

Inter Milan v Juve had everything in the end but the goal as two giants of the Italian game took a point from the derby d'Italia. Inter started well but it was Juve who turned the screw as the game went on with Milos Krasic sending a delicious cross across the box which Julio Cesar just diverted out of the reach of Vicenzo Iaquinta. Indeed, Juve went close again in the second half with Fabio Quagliarella put clean through on goal, but the pressure of Lucio bearing down from behind seemed to do enough to put the former Napoli man off his stride and fire his shot straight at Julio Cesar. It was not all Juve however as Diego Milito had a chance that perhaps he would have buried this time last year when he was full of confidence. 0-0 was probably fair in the end but certainly not indicative of the quality of the game that had been witnessed by the 80,000 packed into the San Siro. 

With Inter stalling again Milan took advantage for the second consecutive week as they won in Parma with Andrea Pirlo on the mark with a 30 yard strike. It's been a while since he punched one in from that distance but it was well worth the wait. Napoli as well were victoriuous and join Inter and Milan in second place. Marek Hamsik was again on target for the San Paolo outfit as they came out winners in the derby del sole against bitter rivals Roma. For Roma there inconsistent start continues as they slip into the relegation zone at this early stage. Palermo too continued their inconsistent start, this time however with a win away in Florence by 2-1 with Javier Pastore on target again. Dellio Rossi's men don't seem to be able to win at home in the league but have made up for that with two consecutive away wins against Fiorentina and Juve no less.

The same cannot be said of Lazio who go from strenght to strength, winning for the fourth time this season to take them up to 13 points and into first place in the division thanks to a 1-0 win over Brescia. Stefano Mauri was on target after Brazilian International Hernanes skimmed past the Brescia defence to put Mauri clean through just before half time.

Elsewhere Udinese finally registered three points at home to Cesena with a last minute goal while Bologna continued their solid start to the season with a 1-1 draw with Sampdoria. Chievo and Cagliari dug out a 0-0 draw while Lecce again surprised Serie A by picking up their 8th point of the season beating Catania at home. Genoa join Lecce on eight points, with a Luca Toni late strike sealing their first win at home this campaign.

Calcio Tribute: Sinisa Mihajlovic

 With Lazio top of the table after week six all things calcio takes a look at one of the clubs former legends, Sinisa Mihajlovic. People should have learned not to give away a free kick when this guy was around.

Wednesday 29 September 2010

Champions League: No stopping Eto'o

Samuel Eto'o helped Inter dispatch of German side Werder Bremen with relative ease weighing in with a hatrick as inter steamrolled their way to victory by 4-0. It could, and should, have been 2-0 to Inter before Inter even registered their first of the night with Coutinho and Biabiany playing very well in the absence of Pandev and Milito. However, it was the Samuel Eto'o show as he scored twice before Sneijder applied a lovely finish to make it 3-0. Eto'o got his hatrict late on, playing with a photographers camera as he pracised yet another celebration. It was too easy for Inter, but there is still four games to play in this group and many points still to win. However, it remains a much better start than it was last year. 

Rivals AC Milan earned a credible draw against Ajax the night before. They came from behind thanks to a Zlatan Ibrahimovic's well taken strike. The same level of quality could not be said of Robinho. He timed his runs well but his finish when clear though on goal was poor, infact a sign of a man short on confidence. When he does get that back, then Milan will be a different proposition and they will need to be against Real Madrid in three weeks time.

Roma won their second game on the trot, with Mexes and Boriello on target against FC Cluj. Boriello's goal was absolutely superb in the end was the difference between the two sides. Roma face Basel next at home.

Tuesday 28 September 2010

Round five: Roman rule

Round five of the season saw both Rome clubs land impressive results as Roma secured a later 1-0 win against European Champions Inter, while Lazio beat Chievo by the same scoreline to put themselves joint top of the division thanks to Mauro Zarate's first goal for seven months. Napoli and Milan however are not far behind, both securing good wins against Genoa and Cesena respectively. Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored an impressive lob while Edison Cavani scored two superb goals in Cesena to blow them away 4-1 in the closing stages.

Elsewhere Fiorentina picked up their first win of the season with a 2-0 win over Parma, with Lorenzo Di Silvestri on target with a heavily deflected goal while Udinese picked up their point of the season away at a somewhat stagnent Sampdoria. Bologna continued to build on their impressive start to the season picking up a hard earned draw in Catania with Marco Di Vaio scoring his fourth goal of the season. Bari, a revelation last season, continued to show no signs of a second season syndrome as they beat Brescia 2-1 at home to give themselves eight points from the opening five rounds.

In the evening game Milos Krasic scored a hatrick for Juventus as they beat Cagliari 4-2 on home turf in a highly entertaining encounter. However, Luigi Del Neri will be concerned about their defensive frailties at Alessandro Matri exposed their backline on two occasion's. Its not a bad defeat for Cagliari as they were the last side to be unbeaten in Serie A this season and they will look to bounce back against Chievo on Sunday.

Thursday 23 September 2010

Round Four: Every one loves a midweek game, except Juve

Juve were well and truly put to the sword tonight against a rejuvenated Palermo side led by the brilliant Javier Pastore who quite frankly is beginning to look unplayable. The Argentine International scored in the early going before playing a key role in the second as Juve had no response. Inter Milan meanwhile had litte trouble in dispatching of Bari by 4-0 with Samual Eto'o and Diego Milito both hitting a brace each. The Cameroon International was on fire once again down the left channel turning provider for Milito as well as Inter hit the top spot in the division. City rivals Milan however could consider themselves fortunate to take a point away from the capital city against Lazio, who should have been at least a goal to the good at the break. As it was Zlatan Ibrahimovic continued his good form giving Milan the lead but it was short lived as Hernanes fed Sergio Floccari who provided a clever finish to leave Abbiati stranded.

However, despite the big clubs providing entertainment the Serie A table has an unfamiliar look to it tonight with Chievo and Brescia just behind Inter on nine points. Brescia continued Roma's misery with a 2-1 home win while Chievo stunned the Napoli faithful with a 3-1 win in the San Paolo. Cesena however could not keep their unbeaten run going and succumbed to a 2-0 defeat in Catania with hitman Maxi Lopez on the scoresheet.

The Genoa clubs could only however pick up a point a piece midweek, with Sampdoria taking a credible 0-0 draw away from Cagliari, who look strong this season, and Genoa drawing 1-1 with Fiorentina. Udinese's woe continued as they suffered a 2-1 defeat in Bologna while Lecce contnued their positive start picking up their 4th point in a 1-1 draw with Parma. Hernan Crespo did however get on the score sheet for Parma, responding to Jeda's penalty kick.

Tuesday 21 September 2010

The player: Mr wondergoal, Fabio Quagliarella

After his wonder goal against Udinese at the weekend for Juventus, take a look at the man who simply does not do tap in's in his breakthrough season with Sampdoria.


The player: Milos Krasic

Juve, it would seem, have found themselves a bargain. Milos Krasic was kept in limbo most of this summer, declaring that he wanted to join Juve from Russian giants CSKA Moscow, and in the process shunning moves to Manchester City, Manchester United and other big clubs. The attraction of the old lady was too much for him, and the chance to replicate the dazzling performances of former Ballon d'or winner Pavel Nedved, and his hero, was all the more reason to settle for Juve. But, Juve didn't seem to convinced at first, instead trying to lure Edin Dzeko away from Wolfsberg given the quota of one non-Eu player for Serie A clubs per transfer market. However, it now seems like money well spent, and worth the wait for Krasic as he has blossomed in his first few appearances for the old lady, especially in the game against Udinese where his two pin point crosses lead to a Marchisio volley and an absolute wonder goal from Fabio Quagliarella. Its the sort of service, and pace going forward, that was missing from the Juve midfield last season. Indeed with his long blond hair you could have almost been forgiven for thinking that it was Nedved playing out their on Sunday afternoon. Comparisons for the however do in reality have to stop there, such was the shear power, quality and ability of the great Czech. That's no slight on Krasic however, who has shown already that he can be a huge player for Juve this season, and in the ones to come.

Monday 20 September 2010

Round four preview: Time for teams to back up their intent

Both Juventus and Lazio had highly positive results at the weekend, but now the real test comes for both these sides as a gauge to how far they can realistically go this season. Juve host Palermo on Thursday night in a game where they were well beaten last season. Despite that the odds have turned somewhat in their favour given Palermo's poor start to the season and Juve's improving form. Confidence will be high for the old lady as they build up to take on Inter Milan in week six's showpiece game. For Lazio Milan arrive in town, as the home side approach a game that rarely has been a happy hunting ground for them. Indeed, their last win against the Rossoneri at home in Serie A was in the 1997/1998 season. Milan are in need of three points while Lazio are in need of a big scalpe given the disaster that was last season. A new initiative at the club will involve the flying of an eagle around the Stadio Olimpico before the game, and as a Laziale I can only hope this brings them good luck.

Inter Milan will look to build upon their excellent win in Palermo against Bari at home in this round. But it will not be easy for them at all. Bari have already defeated Juventus this term and gave Napoli nightmares in round two. They took a point away from the San Siro last season and they will not be happy unless they do so again.

Last seasons runners up Roma are in real trouble as there stuttering start only got worse when they blew a 2-0 lead on Sunday afternoon. But with the quality within their squad it surely is only a matter of time before the winning habit returns, and Brescia will be their opposition on Wednesday night.

Elsewhere Napoli will look to keep their unbeaten record in tact against Chievo, while Fiorentina will look to register their first win of the season away at Genoa, something that will not be easy. Top of the table Cesena face a big test in Sicily away at Catania, so strong on home turf. However, Cesena have yet to concede a goal this season so will be tough to break down. Sampdoria will look to bounce back from their home defeat to Napoli last night, but the trip to Cagliari stands in their way. Bologna will look to build on their positive draw in Rome on Sunday, and will fancy their chances against rock bottom Udinese, the only team in the division to not have a point to their name as of yet. Finally, Lecce host Parma and after beating Fiorentina on home turf two rounds ago and will need to do the same here given the positive start of most of the so called relegation candidates. For Parma, if they are to realise a European berth then three points must surely be attained from Puglia.

Sunday 19 September 2010

Round three: Juve break out, Eto'o sinks Palermo and Napoli conquer Samp

Sampdoria and Palermo fans have an unfamiliar feeling running through their veins tonight. They are not used to being defeated at home, but both experienced exactly that tonight. Unbeaten at home all last season, Palermo were first too fall despite taking the lead against European Champions Inter, who without Sneijder, looke strong as they conquered the Sicilian capital. A brace from Eto'o did the trick as Diego Milito continued to stutter, but the return to form of Douglas Maicon was encouraging to see as the Brazilian looked dominant marauding up and down the right channel. Defeat then for Palermo on home turf, and this was also the case for Samp as Napoli, the dominant side on the night, came from behind to hit two goals in the last seven minutes of regulation play to take three points from Genoa. Antonio Cassano scored his third goal of the season on 78 minutes from the spot but a dominant Marek Hamsik blasted a left footed drive past Curci on 83 minutes to level the tie. Just two minutes later world cup star Edison Cavani scored his goal of the season as the near post to leave Doria fans stunned. It was a sweet moment for Walter Mazzari, the former Sampdoria manager.

Juventus continued the trend of away wins in this round with a thumping 4-0 win at Udinese that could be the tonic to turn their season around. Goals from Bonucci, Quagliarella, Marchisio and Iaquinta left Udinese rock bottom of the league. This is the exact opposite of Cesena, who currently sit top of Serie A after winning over fellow promoted team Lecce thanks to a solo Bogdani goal. Incredibly the promoted outfit have yet to concede a goal. Joining Cesena near the top are Lazio, who won their second game on the bounce again, like Inter and Napoli, coming from behind to complete a 2-1 win against Fiorentina away from home. A dubious penalty gave the Viola the lead but a deflected Ledesma strike and a debut goal from Libor Kozak after some excellent work from Hernanes was enough for Lazio to register three points. A big test awaits the Roman side next on Wednesday night in the shape of AC Milan. It will certainly be a game not to miss.

Speaking of Milan they continued to blow hot and cold in the early days of this season, stuttering to a 1-1 draw against a Catania side that were well worthy of a point. A stunning goal from Capuano gave Catania the lead but old stallwart Pippo Inzaghi was on hand to level the tie after a dream pass from Ronaldinho. But, this did not do enough to spark Milan into life as they limped along until the 90th minute mark. Roma continued to limp along as well, as they have yet to burst into the sort of form that took them within reach of the Scudetto last season. A 2-2 draw with Bologna was their result today, disappointing for them after leading 2-0 at one stage.

Elsewhere, Bari and Cagliari played out a 0-0 draw while Chievo lost their 100% record as Brescia registered their second win on the trot. Finally, Parma came from behind to halt Genoa with a late goal from defender Zaccardo after Luca Toni had scored his first goal for the Grifoni.

Wednesday 15 September 2010

Champions League: Ibra sends Milan on their way

Zlatan Ibrahimovic weighed in with a brace to send AC Milan past Auxerre and on their way in the Champions League. They didnt secure a home win last season nor a clean sheet in this competition, but both those negative statistics were conquered tonight. A turgid first half gave way to a much better second as Ronaldinho ran the game from whistle to whistle, playing provider for both goals with the aid of Kevin Prince Boateng for the first as Zlatan did the honours. The first was a well taken tap in while the first was a superb shot angled past the keeper. They go top of their group along with Real Madrid.

Inter did not get off to a winning start but did secure a point away at FC Twente thanks to a stunning Samuel Eto'o goal. Jansen's freekick for Twente was equally as stunning but Inter only had themselves to blame for not taking the three points, especially given Diego Milito's own goal. They host Werder Bremen next in a game that even at this stage can be considered a must win.

Roma however lost 2-0 away in Munich, last years runners up. Thomas Muller and Miroslav Klose did the damage, but with four games now against Basel and FC Cluj Roma will still be confident of progressing given that their toughest game is now out of the way.