Week 31: Blockbuster weekend

Milan v Inter, Napoli v Lazio and Roma v Juve. Not to mention Udinese who in themselves have become an institution in entertainment whoever they play against. Yes, blockbuster weekend is perhaps an understatement mainly because this round will go a long way in deciding where the trophies and European places go this season given the nature of these huge six pointers. And that's exactly what these games are, but it is in Milan tonight where my gaze is focused on.

Undoubtedly the Milan derby is the biggest game in Europe this weekend and Inter go into it in red hot form while Milan have stagnated from their early campaign pace setting standard. With no Zlatan tomorrow night many feel Milan are in hot water but the chance to entertain a Pato/Cassano attack must not be underestimated by Inter's back line. With no Lucio a lot will be expected from Ranocchia to keep these guys quiet. But if he is intimidated then Nesta and Silva must be unnerved as well as they have to deal with Eto'o, Sneijder, Pandev and Pazzini and possibly Diego Milito too as well if he makes his expected return from injury. Inter are clicking into gear at the right time, especially for their Champions League push which sees them take on Schalke midweek. But for now beating Milan, and going top of Serie A will be on their mind.

For Milan this is make or break for their Scudetto push. A defeat here will really take the wind out of their sales and possibly see them met on 62 points by Napoli when all is said and done in this round. However, they won't be entertaining that idea. They need Cassano and Pato to really deliver in this one if they are to have any chance of winning against the European Champions.  Whatever happens, expect colour, passion, flair, technique and tension both on and off the pitch. Let the battle commence.