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PREVIEW Italian Serie A Week 36 - Italian Football League Thirty Sixfth Round Sunday, April 27
By Anna Italia
Countdown is to 3 matches!
Here are the fixtures of the Italian Serie A Week 36 and my preview for the Thirty Sixth Round:
Atalanta - AS Livorno
Cagliari - Fiorentina
Catania - Reggina
Empoli - Udinese
Lazio - Palermo
AC Milan - FC Inter
Parma - Genoa
Sampdoria - AS Roma
AC Siena - Juventus
Torino - Napoli
THREE BATTLES are still going ON in this Thirty Sixth Round: Scudetto, 4th place, and Relegation Zone.
Complete Italian Soccer Results Serie A Standings/ Italian
Football League Standings / Serie A Classifica / Serie A Top Scorers / Serie A
Table
What are
your PREDICTIONS? Are you expecting a major upset? Which teams will go
down?
Here is my PREVIEW of the
Serie A Week 36 -
Italian Soccer Serie A Thirty Sixth Round scheduled for Sunday, May 4.
AC MILAN - FC INTER
San Siro Stadium
Serie A Standing: AC Milan 5th position, 58 points
FC Inter 1st position, 81 points
I think this is the most important match of the Serie A Week 36. Not only Inter will secure their third consecutive Scudetto if beating Milan, but also taking command on being the RULERS OF MILAN! Believe me, for both teams, it is a big deal to win the Milan Derby for prestige and pride!
Both are coming with victories from last week:
AS Livorno 1 - 4 AC Milan and FC Inter 2 - 1 Cagliari
Guys,
the result of the "Derby della Madonnina" indirectly affects Roma,
Fiorentina, Sampdoria, Juventus, and Udinese. Everything is related
here. I'm telling you HERE IS WHERE MOST EYES will be focused.
If Milan beat Inter and Cagliari beat Fiorentina, then, MILAN will be in the 4th position only 1 point ahead of Fiorentina. This is why Musica and Magia KAKA Super Pippo Inzaghi, Milan's brains Andrea Pirlo, the roaring lion Gennaro Gattuso and the Australian wall goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac are all important to be it and motivated.
Here is the other scenario. If Inter beats Milan and Fiorentina beat Cagliari, wow, if you are a Milan fan then get your tissues because there will be LOTS OF CRYING. Fiorentina will have 63 points while Milan only 58 points, considering there are only 2 more matches after this one, only 6 points more available. It will be almost impossible for Milan to recover in case of losing against Inter.
In Week 17, Inter beat Milan and that PAIN has not been forgotten by the Rossoneri.
There might be a ray of hope for Milan as Fiorentina players might be too tired after playing today the UEFA Cup Semifinals Second Leg against Rangers and losing!
So, my friends, the challenge is mostly for MILAN to transform their personalities in this crucial match of the Serie A as if they were playing a final of the Champions League! Hey, Milan, whenever has that "international scenario," play like real champions. Challenge here is for Milan Coach Carlo Ancelotti to delineate the "MILAN WITH THE CHAMPIONS MENTALITY." Though Milan players like Inzaghi, Kalac, Seedorf, Kaka already have expressed they are going WITH ALL THEIR MIGHT!
Milan has no suspended players but have six cautioned players: Marcos Cafu, Giuseppe Favalli, Rino Gattuso, Alessandro Nesta, Massimo Oddo, and Andrea Pirlo.
Inter has no suspended players either but has nine cautioned players: Mario Balotelli, Nicolas Burdisso, Esteban Cambiasso, Ivan Cordoba, Luis Figo, Luis Jimenez, Julio Cesar, Maicon and Dejan Stankovic.
Point is what will be Ancelotti's formation? I strongly suggest to pick Super Pippo Inzaghi in the starting lineup.
There is no way to leave Pippo out right now when he has proven WITH GOALS that he is the best striker right now for Milan. Inzaghi can be with PATO followed with trequartista Musica and Magia KAKA.
Only regret here is that Captain Paolo Maldini will miss this match because he is not fit enough to play.
This Milan Derby needs the support of the Rossoneri fans as their additional strength along with the motivator and roaring lion GENNARO GATTUSO!
As for Inter Coach Roberto Mancini, he should start with former Milan player HERNAN CRESPO and Julio Cruz. This is a crucial match and I don't think young striker Mario Balotelli is ready to be in the starting lineup. The best bet for Mancini are midfielder Esteban Cambiasso, defender Marco Materazzi and goalkeeper Julio Cesar.
Injured players for Milan include Ronaldo, Paolo Maldini, Emerson, Marcos Cafu, Nelson Dida and Serginho.
Injured players for Inter include Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Luis Figo, Ivan Cordoba, Walter Samuel and Olivier Dacourt remain injured.
Carlo Ancelotti versus Roberto Mancini
If we are going to base our predictions on "statistics," then we might say INTER will be the winner because they have won 4 matches from the last 5 derby. Yet, Milan has awaken with reinvigorated strength. It will be a great success for Milan if they repeat their spectacular victory of 2001 when they beat Inter 6-0. Ouch.... though, that is not likely to happen unless we see a tripletta from Inzaghi and Kaka.
Well, here I come with my prediction.... This time, I am taking MY MILAN heart to decide.
I have to stand by my rossoneri with a cheerful THUMB UP to wi the Milan Derby! Il Derby della Madonnina!!!!
My Prediction: AC MILAN
SAMPDORIA - AS ROMA
Luigi Ferraris Stadium
Serie A Standing: Sampdoria 6th position, 56 points
AS Roma 2nd position, 75 points
After the Derby della Madonnina between Milan and Inter, this is the second match to follow. A victory from Sampdoria or Roma will help to determine not only the 4th position but also the SCUDETTO.
Last week Sampdoria wasted a precious moment when not beating Fiorentina. Sampdoria is 4 points behind Fiorentina and 2 points behind Milan.
Fiorentina 2 - 2 Sampdoria
Roma had a convincing victory last week despite not having the main Roman gladiator Captain Francesco Totti. AS Roma 4 - 1 Torino
Here is the scenario:
If Sampdoria beat Roma and Inter beat Milan. It is practically GOOD BYE Scudetto because there are only 2 more matches. Sampdoria will have 59 points and Milan 58 points.
In case of Roma and Inter reaching the same points, the winner will be Inter for goal difference. You see how crucial is this match!!!
Roma must beat Sampdoria and hope for Milan to beat Inter. Can Roma beat Sampdoria? Yes, they can. It will be up to former Sampdoria coach Luciano Spalletti, now coaching Roma, to find the formation and strategy to defeat his former team.
In Week 17, the result was Roma 2 - 0 Sampdoria. Only problem is that Captain Totti who scored both goals is not playing for a knee injury.
The advantage will be for Sampdoria striker Antonio Cassano who missed playing against Roma in Week 17. Now, Cassano will have the chance to crash Roma's dream for the scudetto.
If Roma beat Sampdoria and Milan beat Inter. Then, my friends, let's get ready to a dramatic final of the Serie A because there will be only 3 points difference between Inter and Roma. Wow! Point my friends is that Roma need win because a defeat or a draw will be a disaster and tissues will be around the corner to start crying their big mistake in Week 34 when they foolishly kept a goalless draw against Livorno.
Problem for Sampdoria coach Walter Mazzarri is having last minute injuries.
According to Sampdoria official website, defender Stefano Lucchini experienced some problems in his right ankle during the training on Wednesday.
Making matters worst, defender Hugo Campagnaro, striker kalu and defender Daniele Gastaldello did not train today to let them recover. The one not recovering is Sampdoria main goalkeeper Luca Castellazzi, so Antonio Mirante will be the goalkeeper to stop the Roman gladiators.
Good news is that striker Antonio Cassano seems to be fit and also striker Vincenzo Montella who has missed most of the season! I miss seeing Montella celebrating his goals with the "aeropianino."
The situation is not that easy for Sampdoria because their last two matches are with Palermo and Juventus. They might beat Palermo but I don't think they can beat La Vecchia Signora.
Difference between Sampdoria, Milan, and Udinese are 2 points between them. So, either Sampdoria get the 5th position or go down to the 6th position.
Problem for Roma, apart from losing Captain Totti, is the suspension from defender Juan. Defender Matteo Ferrari is injured. Though, advantage of Roma is their motivation as a group to collect these last 9 points under the leadership of Spalletti.
My Prediction: AS ROMA
AC SIENA - FC JUVENTUS
Luigi Ferraris Stadium
Serie A Standing: AC Siena 13th position, 39 points
FC Juventus 3rd position, 70 points
Such opposite teams! Juventus rejuvenating in each match while Siena is stuck in the 13th position right now. What can I say about this match. Hey, it will be a real upset if Siena beat or manage to get a draw against Juventus.
Juventus has the golden moment to qualify for the second position if Sampdoria beat Roma. If this happens, the difference between Juve and Roma will be only 2 points.
Last week Juventus celebrated in grand style their return to the Serie A with a superb victory. FC Juventus 5 - 2 Lazio while Siena barely managed a goalless draw against Napoli. Juventus already has a spot in the next Champions League.
It is possible for Siena to get a draw playing at home. Yet, if Juventus flag Alessandro Del Piero is in the starting lineup along with his buddy David Trezeguet, "May God Protect Siena!" Del Piero has scored 18 goals and Trezeguet 19 sharing the first position with Genoa striker Marco Borriello. Here is a great opportunity for Del Piero to increase his goals.
Based on the statistics, out of the matches played between Juve and Siena, JUVENTUS has won them ALL!
It's no wonder why not only Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri is all smiles but also the players. They made it better than AC Milan who are still struggling to qualify for the Champions League next year. So, even if Juventus lose their last 3 matches they will remain in third place.
Besides, former Siena player and now Juventus player Molinaro will want to impress Ranieri. So, most likely it will be a Juventus victory.Siena midfielder Paolo De Ceglie, who is owned by Juventus, will also want to impress Ranieri maybe for a transfer??
However, if Siena beat Juventus, they will reach salvation with 42 points! Even a draw can keep them away the relegation zone as the last position is Livorno with 30 points, then Parma with 31 points. Practically., Siena coach Mario Beretta saved SIENA!
Problem is for Beretta to have a decent performance in their home stadium in front of their fans. Beretta will miss Luca Rossettini for suspension.
Will Maccarone blast Juventus saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon? Photo courtesy of acsiena.it
Though today, Siena coach Mario Beretta had the confirmation of the positive attitude from his players. As informed in the website of Siena, they played a preparatory friendly match today. Boy, just listen to this result SIENA 11 - 0 Finale Ligure! You read it right. Siena scored 11 goals! Wow, a hat trick from forward Massimo Maccarone!, Rigano' Vergassola, Kharja, Forestieri, and Locatelli.
Regarding formations. I think Siena will go with strikers Massimo Maccarone and Mario Frick, Paolo De Ceglie, Daniele Galloppa and Tomas Locatelli.
Juventus, undoubtedly will go with the dynamic duo Del Piero - Trezeguet, unless Ranieri decides to give them resting time. Though, I doubt any will want to rest while having the chance to be the top scorer of the Serie A. Plus, saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon is the man to trust to keep Juve's flag up high.
My Prediction: FC JUVENTUS
CAGLIARI - FIORENTINA
Sant'Elia Stadium
Serie A Standing: Cagliari 15th position, 35 points
Fiorentina, 4th position, 60 points
Here is a real challenge, a battle to recover the honor. Today, Fiorentina lost in penalty kicks the UEFA Cup Semifinal Second Leg and is out Fiorentina 2 - 4 Rangers. Last Round the results were FC Inter 2 - 1 Cagliari and Fiorentina 2 - 2 Sampdoria
The morale of Fiorentina players is at their lowest moment right now.
Yet, here is where Coach Cesare Prandelli must transmit positivism to his players to start fresh.
Fiorentina not only risk losing the match but the chance to play in the Champions League next year! Milan has 58 points and Fiorentina 60 points.
So, if Milan beat Inter and Cagliari beat Fiorentina, it will be a real dark week for the Viola.
Cagliari coach Davide Ballardini will have to do miracles. Striker Robert Acquafresca is struggling to be fit and midfielder Daniele Conti having some stomach problems. Andrea Parola, Daniele Magliocchetti and Acquafresca have been training separately to give them time to recover, especially Acquafresca.
Statistics are in favor Cagliari winning their last 8 matches at the Sant'Elia while Fiorentina is not having a bright record away. They lost their last 4 matches away! Considering the big defeat against Rangers, I think Cagliari has better chances to grasp the 3 points and do the big favor to AC Milan to give them a chance to play against in the Champions League, provided Milan beat Inter. Plus, Cagliari is asking their fans to go to the stadium wearing the colors of the team RED AND BLUE.
Cagliari and Fiorentina have played 6 times and Fiorentina won 5. Problem is that Fiorentina players are super tired for playing too much, especially over 120 minutes today against Rangers.
Best chance for Fiorentina will be striker Giampaolo Pazzini who played way better than striker Christian Vieri who missed the penalty kick leading to Fiorentina's defeat. Hopefully, striker Adrian Mutu will recover the motivation to win this match. Fiorentina right now need to "stringere denti." Hold tight or it will be a Black Sunday!
TORINO - NAPOLI
Olimpico di Torino Stadium
Serie A Standing: Torino 16th position, 34 points
Napoli 9th position, 47 points
Wow, here is WIN OR WIN for Torino! Torino risk going downtn to the Serie B if Parma, Reggina, and Empoli win their respective matches. Problem, my friends, this will not be easy for Torino because Napoli are playing better. Plus, last week, Napoli got a goalless draw against Siena. You bet Napoli Coach Edy Reja is not looking for another draw but a victory!
Torino is a total chaos after their poor performance this season. Plus, the late sacking of coach Walter Novellino and the re-hiring of coach Gianni De Biasi just have not been able to estabilize il cuore Granata.
Imagine, Torino have lost their last 4 matches!!!! Last week, a shameful defeat AS Roma 4 - 1 Torino
However, coach Gianni De Biasi is still optimistic. I won't be that optimistic! Here it will be a total upset for Napoli if they lose against Torino.
To make matters worst for Torino, Captain Gianluca Comotto, Cesare Natali and Paolo Zanetti are injured. Plus, Ivan Dellafiore is banned. I doubt Torino coach De Biasi find the magic strategy. If he does, I will be surprised. Point is that Torino President Urbano Cairo waited too long to substitute coaches. Not enough time to adjust in the last stage.
Before, I thought midfielder Alessandro Rosina was the main guy inspiring Torino. Now, I don't think so. Rosina as well as striker Alvaro Recoba have been a disappointment. However, Aimo Diana has better chance to make a difference.
For Napoli, there is one suspended player, defender Paolo Cannavaro. Good news for Napoli is the return from suspension of midfielder Manuele Blasi and Walter Gargano. The more I think, the more I am convinced that Napoli should win this match without problems. Plus, Argentinian striker Ezequiel Lavezzi is more than energized to keep helping Napoli climb the ladder of the Serie A.
MY Prediction: NAPOLI
LAZIO - PALERMO
Olimpico di Roma Stadium
Serie A Standing: Lazio 12th position, 40 points
Palermo 10th position, 43 points
After losing badly last week FC Juventus 5 - 2 Lazio , the men of Coach Delio Rossi have only one obligation: TO WIN!!!!
Palermo is coming from a goalless draw against Atalanta. Challenge is for Palermo coach Stefano Colantuono to win this match.
Good thing is the return from suspension of Palermo striker Amauri to score and increase his goals. Right now, Amauri has 13 goals and he will love to score more to thank Palermo fans before transferring to another team, most likely Juventus.
Others returning from suspension incldue Mark Bresciano and Leandro Rinaldu. However, defender Christian Zaccardo is suspended for this match. Still, Palermo can manage to beat Lazio.
My Prediction: PALERMO
ATALANTA - AS LIVORNO
Atleti Azzurri D'Italia Stadium
Serie A Standing: Atalanta 11th position, 42 points
AS Livorno 20th position, 30 points
Here is a survival for Livorno, though, I doubt Livorno can save themselves. They are more likely to start packing their luggage to go to the Serie B. Right now, Livorno is in the very last position. Parma has 31 points while Empoli and Reggina have 33 points each.
I don't think Atalanta will lose this match. If they do, it will be another upset.
Challenge is for the returning coach Fernando Orsi to find the right formation and perfect strategy to beat Atalanta. Gee, it sounds impossible. Well, this will be his return match after Livorno sacked on Monday Coach Giancarlo Camolese.
Hopefully,
Livorno striker Francesco Tavano will wake up to help his team. Same
goes for goalkeeper Amelia who is the second goalkeeper of Italy
Can you imagine Amelia going down tot he Serie B?
Livorno has some hope because Atalanta have lost 4 matches and 2 in their home stadium. Besides, Atalanta is not that motivated because they are already out for a spot in the UEFA Cup. Plus, Atalanta already beat Livorno last year 5-1. Ouch, that must still hurt in Livorno!.
Main guy for Atalanta, midfielder Cristiano Doni. Too bad we have not seen much of striker Simone Inzaghi.
MY Prediction: ATALANTA
CATANIA - REGGINA
Angelo Massimino Stadium
Serie A Standing: Catania 14th position, 35 points
Reggina 18th position, 33 points
No draws here but A VICTORY. Both risk the relegation zone.
Big challenge is for Reggina to win this match, but also Catania wants to grasp the 3 points and save themselves.
If Reggina beat Cataia they will have 36 points only 1 point ahead of Catania. However, if Catania beat Reggina, it will be a moment of hope for Catania coach Walter Zenga on his quest to save Catania from the relegation.
Reggina is coming motivated after their victory last week against Parma. This kind of motivation is what Reggina needs to beat Catania. Parma were beating Reggina but then they overturned the score and won.
Catania lost against Udinese. Here is their chance to recover those lost 3 points.
A disadvantage for Reggina is that Catania usually does well at home. Just imagine, Catania not only beat Lazio but also Napoli at the Angelo Massimino!
Reggina can rely on striker Nicola Amoruso and Franco Brienza while Catania has Giuseppe Mascara and Gionatha Spinesi.
My Prediction: CATANIA
EMPOLI - UDINESE
Carlo Castellani Stadium
Serie A Standing: Empoli 17th position 33 points
Udinese 7th position, 54 points
Empoli has the chance to save themselves if beating Udinese.
Honestly, I see
it difficult. Udinese has top strikers Antonio Di Natale and Fabio
Quagliarella. Besides, Udinese has the hope to reach the 4th position
along Milan, Fiorentina, and Sampdoria for a spot in the Champions
League next year.
Poor Empoli midfielder Sebastian Giovinco who has been a great asset for Empoli. Though, it is clear that he could not save the team by himself.
Udinese coach Pasquale Marino must prepare carefully his strategy if wanting to grasp the 3 points. Milan, Sampdoria, and Fiorentina the other contestants for a spot in the Champions League will be checking each other results. What an interesting round.
If Empoli manage a draw, it will be like a victory for them.
It will be a real surprise if Udinese lose this match.
My Prediction: UDINESE
What are
your PREDICTIONS? Are you expecting a major upset? Which teams will go
down?
Countdown is to 3 matches!
Here are the fixtures of the Italian Serie A Week 36 and my preview for the Thirty Sixth Round:
Atalanta - AS LivornoCagliari - Fiorentina
Catania - Reggina
Empoli - Udinese
Lazio - Palermo
AC Milan - FC Inter
Parma - Genoa
Sampdoria - AS Roma
AC Siena - Juventus
Torino - Napoli
THREE BATTLES are still going ON in this Thirty Sixth Round: Scudetto, 4th place, and Relegation Zone.
| Here is the Current Situation for the
Serie A Week 36 3 more matches equal 3 x 3 = 9 points available!!!        | ||
| Battle for the Scudetto FC Inter 81 points AS Roma 75 points FC Juventus 70 points * If Milan beat Inter and Roma beat Sampdoria. There will be only 3 points difference between Inter and Roma. If Juve beat Siena and Sampdoria beat Roma, there will be 2 points difference between Juve & Roma |
Battle for the 4th Position 4 Fiorentina 60 5 AC Milan 58 6 Sampdoria 56 7 Udinese 54 * Each team has only 2 points difference between them. THIS IS THE MAIN BATTLE THIS SUNDAY |
Battle for Salvation 16 Torino 34 17 Empoli 33 18 Reggina 33 19 Parma 31 20 AS Livorno 30 *If Livorno and Parma lose their respective matches, most likely they are heading to the Serie B. |
Complete Italian Soccer Results Serie A Standings/ Italian
Football League Standings / Serie A Classifica / Serie A Top Scorers / Serie A
Table What are
your PREDICTIONS? Are you expecting a major upset? Which teams will go
down?|
Position |
Team |
Points |
|
1 |
FC Inter |
81 |
|
2 |
AS Roma |
75 |
|
3 |
FC Juventus |
70 |
|
4 |
Fiorentina |
60 |
|
5 |
AC Milan |
58 |
|
6 |
Sampdoria |
56 |
|
7 |
Udinese |
54 |
|
8 |
Genoa |
48 |
|
9 |
Napoli |
47 |
|
10 |
Palermo |
43 |
|
11 |
Atalanta |
42 |
|
12 |
Lazio |
40 |
|
13 |
AC Siena |
39 |
|
14 |
Catania |
35 |
|
15 |
Cagliari |
35 |
|
16 |
Torino |
34 |
|
17 |
Empoli |
33 |
|
18 |
Reggina |
33 |
|
19 |
Parma |
31 |
|
20 |
AS Livorno |
30 |
Here is my PREVIEW of the
Serie A Week 36 -
Italian Soccer Serie A Thirty Sixth Round scheduled for Sunday, May 4.AC MILAN - FC INTER
San Siro Stadium
Serie A Standing: AC Milan 5th position, 58 points
FC Inter 1st position, 81 points
I think this is the most important match of the Serie A Week 36. Not only Inter will secure their third consecutive Scudetto if beating Milan, but also taking command on being the RULERS OF MILAN! Believe me, for both teams, it is a big deal to win the Milan Derby for prestige and pride!
Both are coming with victories from last week:
AS Livorno 1 - 4 AC Milan and FC Inter 2 - 1 Cagliari
Guys,
the result of the "Derby della Madonnina" indirectly affects Roma,
Fiorentina, Sampdoria, Juventus, and Udinese. Everything is related
here. I'm telling you HERE IS WHERE MOST EYES will be focused.If Milan beat Inter and Cagliari beat Fiorentina, then, MILAN will be in the 4th position only 1 point ahead of Fiorentina. This is why Musica and Magia KAKA Super Pippo Inzaghi, Milan's brains Andrea Pirlo, the roaring lion Gennaro Gattuso and the Australian wall goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac are all important to be it and motivated.
Here is the other scenario. If Inter beats Milan and Fiorentina beat Cagliari, wow, if you are a Milan fan then get your tissues because there will be LOTS OF CRYING. Fiorentina will have 63 points while Milan only 58 points, considering there are only 2 more matches after this one, only 6 points more available. It will be almost impossible for Milan to recover in case of losing against Inter.
In Week 17, Inter beat Milan and that PAIN has not been forgotten by the Rossoneri.
There might be a ray of hope for Milan as Fiorentina players might be too tired after playing today the UEFA Cup Semifinals Second Leg against Rangers and losing!
So, my friends, the challenge is mostly for MILAN to transform their personalities in this crucial match of the Serie A as if they were playing a final of the Champions League! Hey, Milan, whenever has that "international scenario," play like real champions. Challenge here is for Milan Coach Carlo Ancelotti to delineate the "MILAN WITH THE CHAMPIONS MENTALITY." Though Milan players like Inzaghi, Kalac, Seedorf, Kaka already have expressed they are going WITH ALL THEIR MIGHT!
Milan has no suspended players but have six cautioned players: Marcos Cafu, Giuseppe Favalli, Rino Gattuso, Alessandro Nesta, Massimo Oddo, and Andrea Pirlo.
Inter has no suspended players either but has nine cautioned players: Mario Balotelli, Nicolas Burdisso, Esteban Cambiasso, Ivan Cordoba, Luis Figo, Luis Jimenez, Julio Cesar, Maicon and Dejan Stankovic.
Point is what will be Ancelotti's formation? I strongly suggest to pick Super Pippo Inzaghi in the starting lineup. There is no way to leave Pippo out right now when he has proven WITH GOALS that he is the best striker right now for Milan. Inzaghi can be with PATO followed with trequartista Musica and Magia KAKA.
Only regret here is that Captain Paolo Maldini will miss this match because he is not fit enough to play.
This Milan Derby needs the support of the Rossoneri fans as their additional strength along with the motivator and roaring lion GENNARO GATTUSO!
As for Inter Coach Roberto Mancini, he should start with former Milan player HERNAN CRESPO and Julio Cruz. This is a crucial match and I don't think young striker Mario Balotelli is ready to be in the starting lineup. The best bet for Mancini are midfielder Esteban Cambiasso, defender Marco Materazzi and goalkeeper Julio Cesar.
Injured players for Milan include Ronaldo, Paolo Maldini, Emerson, Marcos Cafu, Nelson Dida and Serginho.
Injured players for Inter include Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Luis Figo, Ivan Cordoba, Walter Samuel and Olivier Dacourt remain injured.
Carlo Ancelotti versus Roberto Mancini
If we are going to base our predictions on "statistics," then we might say INTER will be the winner because they have won 4 matches from the last 5 derby. Yet, Milan has awaken with reinvigorated strength. It will be a great success for Milan if they repeat their spectacular victory of 2001 when they beat Inter 6-0. Ouch.... though, that is not likely to happen unless we see a tripletta from Inzaghi and Kaka.
Well, here I come with my prediction.... This time, I am taking MY MILAN heart to decide. I have to stand by my rossoneri with a cheerful THUMB UP to wi the Milan Derby! Il Derby della Madonnina!!!!
My Prediction: AC MILAN
SAMPDORIA - AS ROMA
Luigi Ferraris Stadium
Serie A Standing: Sampdoria 6th position, 56 points
AS Roma 2nd position, 75 points
After the Derby della Madonnina between Milan and Inter, this is the second match to follow. A victory from Sampdoria or Roma will help to determine not only the 4th position but also the SCUDETTO.
Last week Sampdoria wasted a precious moment when not beating Fiorentina. Sampdoria is 4 points behind Fiorentina and 2 points behind Milan.
Fiorentina 2 - 2 Sampdoria
Here is the scenario:
If Sampdoria beat Roma and Inter beat Milan. It is practically GOOD BYE Scudetto because there are only 2 more matches. Sampdoria will have 59 points and Milan 58 points.
In case of Roma and Inter reaching the same points, the winner will be Inter for goal difference. You see how crucial is this match!!!
Roma must beat Sampdoria and hope for Milan to beat Inter. Can Roma beat Sampdoria? Yes, they can. It will be up to former Sampdoria coach Luciano Spalletti, now coaching Roma, to find the formation and strategy to defeat his former team.
In Week 17, the result was Roma 2 - 0 Sampdoria. Only problem is that Captain Totti who scored both goals is not playing for a knee injury.
The advantage will be for Sampdoria striker Antonio Cassano who missed playing against Roma in Week 17. Now, Cassano will have the chance to crash Roma's dream for the scudetto.
If Roma beat Sampdoria and Milan beat Inter. Then, my friends, let's get ready to a dramatic final of the Serie A because there will be only 3 points difference between Inter and Roma. Wow! Point my friends is that Roma need win because a defeat or a draw will be a disaster and tissues will be around the corner to start crying their big mistake in Week 34 when they foolishly kept a goalless draw against Livorno.
Problem for Sampdoria coach Walter Mazzarri is having last minute injuries. According to Sampdoria official website, defender Stefano Lucchini experienced some problems in his right ankle during the training on Wednesday.
Making matters worst, defender Hugo Campagnaro, striker kalu and defender Daniele Gastaldello did not train today to let them recover. The one not recovering is Sampdoria main goalkeeper Luca Castellazzi, so Antonio Mirante will be the goalkeeper to stop the Roman gladiators.
Good news is that striker Antonio Cassano seems to be fit and also striker Vincenzo Montella who has missed most of the season! I miss seeing Montella celebrating his goals with the "aeropianino."
The situation is not that easy for Sampdoria because their last two matches are with Palermo and Juventus. They might beat Palermo but I don't think they can beat La Vecchia Signora.
Difference between Sampdoria, Milan, and Udinese are 2 points between them. So, either Sampdoria get the 5th position or go down to the 6th position.
Problem for Roma, apart from losing Captain Totti, is the suspension from defender Juan. Defender Matteo Ferrari is injured. Though, advantage of Roma is their motivation as a group to collect these last 9 points under the leadership of Spalletti.
My Prediction: AS ROMA
AC SIENA - FC JUVENTUS
Luigi Ferraris Stadium
Serie A Standing: AC Siena 13th position, 39 points
FC Juventus 3rd position, 70 points
Such opposite teams! Juventus rejuvenating in each match while Siena is stuck in the 13th position right now. What can I say about this match. Hey, it will be a real upset if Siena beat or manage to get a draw against Juventus.
Juventus has the golden moment to qualify for the second position if Sampdoria beat Roma. If this happens, the difference between Juve and Roma will be only 2 points.
Last week Juventus celebrated in grand style their return to the Serie A with a superb victory. FC Juventus 5 - 2 Lazio while Siena barely managed a goalless draw against Napoli. Juventus already has a spot in the next Champions League.
It is possible for Siena to get a draw playing at home. Yet, if Juventus flag Alessandro Del Piero is in the starting lineup along with his buddy David Trezeguet, "May God Protect Siena!" Del Piero has scored 18 goals and Trezeguet 19 sharing the first position with Genoa striker Marco Borriello. Here is a great opportunity for Del Piero to increase his goals.
Juventus-Siena, all previous encounters
These stats include all matches played in the national Leagues (A, B, C), since the single-group tournament was set up (1929/30) and all Italian Cups since 1922.
|
TOTAL GAMES |
JUVENTUS |
DRAWS |
SIENA | |
|
League matches in Turin |
4 |
4 |
-- |
-- |
|
League matches in Siena |
3 |
3 |
-- |
-- |
|
Italian Cup |
2 |
2 |
-- |
-- |
|
TOTAL |
9 |
9 |
-- |
-- |
It's no wonder why not only Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri is all smiles but also the players. They made it better than AC Milan who are still struggling to qualify for the Champions League next year. So, even if Juventus lose their last 3 matches they will remain in third place.
Besides, former Siena player and now Juventus player Molinaro will want to impress Ranieri. So, most likely it will be a Juventus victory.Siena midfielder Paolo De Ceglie, who is owned by Juventus, will also want to impress Ranieri maybe for a transfer??
However, if Siena beat Juventus, they will reach salvation with 42 points! Even a draw can keep them away the relegation zone as the last position is Livorno with 30 points, then Parma with 31 points. Practically., Siena coach Mario Beretta saved SIENA!
Problem is for Beretta to have a decent performance in their home stadium in front of their fans. Beretta will miss Luca Rossettini for suspension.
Will Maccarone blast Juventus saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon? Photo courtesy of acsiena.it
Though today, Siena coach Mario Beretta had the confirmation of the positive attitude from his players. As informed in the website of Siena, they played a preparatory friendly match today. Boy, just listen to this result SIENA 11 - 0 Finale Ligure! You read it right. Siena scored 11 goals! Wow, a hat trick from forward Massimo Maccarone!, Rigano' Vergassola, Kharja, Forestieri, and Locatelli.
Regarding formations. I think Siena will go with strikers Massimo Maccarone and Mario Frick, Paolo De Ceglie, Daniele Galloppa and Tomas Locatelli.
Juventus, undoubtedly will go with the dynamic duo Del Piero - Trezeguet, unless Ranieri decides to give them resting time. Though, I doubt any will want to rest while having the chance to be the top scorer of the Serie A. Plus, saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon is the man to trust to keep Juve's flag up high.
My Prediction: FC JUVENTUS
CAGLIARI - FIORENTINA
Sant'Elia Stadium
Serie A Standing: Cagliari 15th position, 35 points
Fiorentina, 4th position, 60 points
Here is a real challenge, a battle to recover the honor. Today, Fiorentina lost in penalty kicks the UEFA Cup Semifinal Second Leg and is out Fiorentina 2 - 4 Rangers. Last Round the results were FC Inter 2 - 1 Cagliari and Fiorentina 2 - 2 Sampdoria
The morale of Fiorentina players is at their lowest moment right now.
Yet, here is where Coach Cesare Prandelli must transmit positivism to his players to start fresh.
Fiorentina not only risk losing the match but the chance to play in the Champions League next year! Milan has 58 points and Fiorentina 60 points.
So, if Milan beat Inter and Cagliari beat Fiorentina, it will be a real dark week for the Viola.
Cagliari coach Davide Ballardini will have to do miracles. Striker Robert Acquafresca is struggling to be fit and midfielder Daniele Conti having some stomach problems. Andrea Parola, Daniele Magliocchetti and Acquafresca have been training separately to give them time to recover, especially Acquafresca.
Statistics are in favor Cagliari winning their last 8 matches at the Sant'Elia while Fiorentina is not having a bright record away. They lost their last 4 matches away! Considering the big defeat against Rangers, I think Cagliari has better chances to grasp the 3 points and do the big favor to AC Milan to give them a chance to play against in the Champions League, provided Milan beat Inter. Plus, Cagliari is asking their fans to go to the stadium wearing the colors of the team RED AND BLUE.
Cagliari and Fiorentina have played 6 times and Fiorentina won 5. Problem is that Fiorentina players are super tired for playing too much, especially over 120 minutes today against Rangers.
Best chance for Fiorentina will be striker Giampaolo Pazzini who played way better than striker Christian Vieri who missed the penalty kick leading to Fiorentina's defeat. Hopefully, striker Adrian Mutu will recover the motivation to win this match. Fiorentina right now need to "stringere denti." Hold tight or it will be a Black Sunday!
TORINO - NAPOLI
Olimpico di Torino Stadium
Serie A Standing: Torino 16th position, 34 points
Napoli 9th position, 47 points
Wow, here is WIN OR WIN for Torino! Torino risk going downtn to the Serie B if Parma, Reggina, and Empoli win their respective matches. Problem, my friends, this will not be easy for Torino because Napoli are playing better. Plus, last week, Napoli got a goalless draw against Siena. You bet Napoli Coach Edy Reja is not looking for another draw but a victory!
Torino is a total chaos after their poor performance this season. Plus, the late sacking of coach Walter Novellino and the re-hiring of coach Gianni De Biasi just have not been able to estabilize il cuore Granata.
Imagine, Torino have lost their last 4 matches!!!! Last week, a shameful defeat AS Roma 4 - 1 Torino
However, coach Gianni De Biasi is still optimistic. I won't be that optimistic! Here it will be a total upset for Napoli if they lose against Torino.
To make matters worst for Torino, Captain Gianluca Comotto, Cesare Natali and Paolo Zanetti are injured. Plus, Ivan Dellafiore is banned. I doubt Torino coach De Biasi find the magic strategy. If he does, I will be surprised. Point is that Torino President Urbano Cairo waited too long to substitute coaches. Not enough time to adjust in the last stage.
Before, I thought midfielder Alessandro Rosina was the main guy inspiring Torino. Now, I don't think so. Rosina as well as striker Alvaro Recoba have been a disappointment. However, Aimo Diana has better chance to make a difference.
For Napoli, there is one suspended player, defender Paolo Cannavaro. Good news for Napoli is the return from suspension of midfielder Manuele Blasi and Walter Gargano. The more I think, the more I am convinced that Napoli should win this match without problems. Plus, Argentinian striker Ezequiel Lavezzi is more than energized to keep helping Napoli climb the ladder of the Serie A.
MY Prediction: NAPOLI
LAZIO - PALERMO
Olimpico di Roma Stadium
Serie A Standing: Lazio 12th position, 40 points
Palermo 10th position, 43 points
After losing badly last week FC Juventus 5 - 2 Lazio , the men of Coach Delio Rossi have only one obligation: TO WIN!!!!
Palermo is coming from a goalless draw against Atalanta. Challenge is for Palermo coach Stefano Colantuono to win this match.
Good thing is the return from suspension of Palermo striker Amauri to score and increase his goals. Right now, Amauri has 13 goals and he will love to score more to thank Palermo fans before transferring to another team, most likely Juventus.
Others returning from suspension incldue Mark Bresciano and Leandro Rinaldu. However, defender Christian Zaccardo is suspended for this match. Still, Palermo can manage to beat Lazio.
My Prediction: PALERMO
ATALANTA - AS LIVORNO
Atleti Azzurri D'Italia Stadium
Serie A Standing: Atalanta 11th position, 42 points
AS Livorno 20th position, 30 points
Here is a survival for Livorno, though, I doubt Livorno can save themselves. They are more likely to start packing their luggage to go to the Serie B. Right now, Livorno is in the very last position. Parma has 31 points while Empoli and Reggina have 33 points each.
I don't think Atalanta will lose this match. If they do, it will be another upset.
Challenge is for the returning coach Fernando Orsi to find the right formation and perfect strategy to beat Atalanta. Gee, it sounds impossible. Well, this will be his return match after Livorno sacked on Monday Coach Giancarlo Camolese.
Hopefully,
Livorno striker Francesco Tavano will wake up to help his team. Same
goes for goalkeeper Amelia who is the second goalkeeper of ItalyCan you imagine Amelia going down tot he Serie B?
Livorno has some hope because Atalanta have lost 4 matches and 2 in their home stadium. Besides, Atalanta is not that motivated because they are already out for a spot in the UEFA Cup. Plus, Atalanta already beat Livorno last year 5-1. Ouch, that must still hurt in Livorno!.
Main guy for Atalanta, midfielder Cristiano Doni. Too bad we have not seen much of striker Simone Inzaghi.
MY Prediction: ATALANTA
CATANIA - REGGINA
Angelo Massimino Stadium
Serie A Standing: Catania 14th position, 35 points
Reggina 18th position, 33 points
No draws here but A VICTORY. Both risk the relegation zone.
Big challenge is for Reggina to win this match, but also Catania wants to grasp the 3 points and save themselves.
If Reggina beat Cataia they will have 36 points only 1 point ahead of Catania. However, if Catania beat Reggina, it will be a moment of hope for Catania coach Walter Zenga on his quest to save Catania from the relegation.
Reggina is coming motivated after their victory last week against Parma. This kind of motivation is what Reggina needs to beat Catania. Parma were beating Reggina but then they overturned the score and won.
Catania lost against Udinese. Here is their chance to recover those lost 3 points.
A disadvantage for Reggina is that Catania usually does well at home. Just imagine, Catania not only beat Lazio but also Napoli at the Angelo Massimino!
Reggina can rely on striker Nicola Amoruso and Franco Brienza while Catania has Giuseppe Mascara and Gionatha Spinesi.
My Prediction: CATANIA
EMPOLI - UDINESE
Carlo Castellani Stadium
Serie A Standing: Empoli 17th position 33 points
Udinese 7th position, 54 points
Empoli has the chance to save themselves if beating Udinese.
Poor Empoli midfielder Sebastian Giovinco who has been a great asset for Empoli. Though, it is clear that he could not save the team by himself.
Udinese coach Pasquale Marino must prepare carefully his strategy if wanting to grasp the 3 points. Milan, Sampdoria, and Fiorentina the other contestants for a spot in the Champions League will be checking each other results. What an interesting round.
If Empoli manage a draw, it will be like a victory for them.
It will be a real surprise if Udinese lose this match.
My Prediction: UDINESE
What are
your PREDICTIONS? Are you expecting a major upset? Which teams will go
down?
Posted by Anna Italia at 5/3/2008 4:03 PM 
Categories: Udinese, A.S. Livorno, Inter Milan, Lazio, Serie A Preview, Cagliari, SSC Napoli, AS Roma, Genoa, AC Milan, ACF Fiorentina, Atalanta BC, Empoli FC, AC Siena, Sampdoria
Categories: Udinese, A.S. Livorno, Inter Milan, Lazio, Serie A Preview, Cagliari, SSC Napoli, AS Roma, Genoa, AC Milan, ACF Fiorentina, Atalanta BC, Empoli FC, AC Siena, Sampdoria
Anna i love the preview and all the possible situations. I agree that the Milan derby is the match to change the serie a. Man, Milan is risking the whole season, Roma will be following this match without doubt. Mark and Hilds will be our rivals again and we need to win.
As Dominic said last week we need that the stars align to help Milan. Regarding Atalanta - Livorno, is time for Livorno to pay their consequence. Cagliari to beat Fiorentina.
Here are my predictions:
Atalanta - AS Livorno = ATALANTA
Cagliari - Fiorentina = CAGLIARI
Catania - Reggina = CATANIA
Empoli - Udinese =UDINESE
Lazio - Palermo = DRAW
AC Milan - FC Inter = MILAN
Parma - Genoa = GENOA
Sampdoria - AS Roma = ROMA
AC Siena - Juventus = JUVENTUS
Torino - Napoli = NAPOLI
Let's see how we do this week.
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Pietro I am sorry to disappoint you but I don't agree with your prediction on Milan - Inter, winner is INTER!!!!!!!
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Mark what are you talking about, man! FORZA MY MILAN. That's my prediction and will stand firm. FORZA MILAN, man, we are just rivals now because Milan cannot afford to lose and grant you the Scudetto. FORZA MILAN and FORZA ROMA! What's your take!
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Pietro what do you think of Kenntak choosing Inter as the winner? Did you faint? HA HA!
FORZA INTER
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I like your preview on the derby della Madonnina because it shows the passion we all feel about our teams. Anna, I am for Inter to beat your Milan. We are together supporting Cagliari and not Fiorentina.
Here are my predictions with my BLUE AND RED heart "interisti":
Atalanta - AS Livorno = ATALANTA
Cagliari - Fiorentina = CAGLIARI
Catania - Reggina = DRAW
Empoli - Udinese =UDINESE
Lazio - Palermo = PALERMO
AC Milan - FC Inter = INTER, of course!
Parma - Genoa = GENOA
Sampdoria - AS Roma = DRAW
AC Siena - Juventus = JUVENTUS
Torino - Napoli = NAPOLI
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Pietro and Mark it will be a tough test for Milan and Inter.
Wonder who will get the predictions right.... waiting to see the predictions from Kenntak, Suri, Milan99, Dominic, Ricardo15, HIlda, Nicholas, Teotifoso
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Atalanta - AS Livorno = ATALANTA
Cagliari - Fiorentina = DRAW
Catania - Reggina = CATANIA
Empoli - Udinese = DRAW
Lazio - Palermo = DRAW
AC Milan - FC Inter = INTER
Parma - Genoa = DRAW
Sampdoria - AS Roma = DRAW
AC Siena - Juventus = JUVENTUS
Torino - Napoli = DRAW
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Wow, 6 draws? Let's see how it goes. I am for Milan and Roma to win.... don't forget to extend your DVR hour in case of recording.....
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Kenntak you might win the predictions because most likely we will have many draws but I don't think 6!
You made my day with your prediction on Milan-Inter, having my INTER as the winner. I think Pietro and Anna will have a heart attack with this prediction. FORZA INTER
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sorry for the late response guys, work and other things have caused me to be super busy. Hopefully it's not too late to submit my predictions -- if they are then at least they will add to the colorful conversations. When I look up to the sky, I see the stars aligning for Milan so I feel very good this weekend.
Here are my predictions:
Atalanta - AS Livorno = Livorno
Cagliari - Fiorentina = Cagliari
Catania - Reggina = Reginna
Empoli - Udinese = Empoli
Lazio - Palermo = Palermo
AC Milan - FC Inter = AC MILAN!!!
Parma - Genoa = Parma
Sampdoria - AS Roma = Roma
AC Siena - Juventus = Juventus
Torino - Napoli = Napoli
I am keeping my fingers crossed for Milan.
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Dominic what sky are you watching? I see the stars align for MY INTER!
I am keeping not only my fingers crossed for Inter but my entire body! FORZA INTER
Reply to this
Mark what sky are you watching because I AM ALSO WATCHING the stars align for MILAN!!!!!
Hey, what a derby! I am praying and keeping my fingers crossed for my 11 roaring lions! Just uncross my fingers when typing ha ha ha ha
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