Sunday, October 23 2011

Bologna v Lazio

Lazio continued their fine run of form, easily seeing off Bologna away from home.

It was a tough start to the game for the visiting Romans however, as Bologna had a number of wonderful opportunities to find the back of the net. Key striker Robert Acquafresca managed to do so on 23 minutes, albeit at the wrong end of the pitch, as his unfortunate knee scored an own goal to gift the visitors the lead.

One minute into the second period and the Biancocelesti made it two, as Senad Lulic got on the end of a wonderful through ball by Djbril Cisse, securing the three points for the club.

Cisse had the chance to make it three at the death, however he was denied by defender Daniele Portanova, although that miss counted for little, as Lazio incredibly are now second in the league, just one point behind leaders Udinese.

Bologna 0-2 Lazio

Cagliari v Napoli

Cagliari and Napoli played out a dull scoreless draw in Sardinia, a result that extended the visitors dismal run of form over the past month.

Having failed to defeat Bayern Munich in the Champions League midweek, and having gone down to Parma at home in the league last weekend, there were no signs of improvement by the Azzurri, as they were extremely disappointing over the course of the 90 minutes.

Edinson Cavani was very poor on the day, however he wasn't the only one, as to be fair to the hosts, they simply should have won this match.

Nene and Redja Nainggolan both struck the woodwork in the match, and both looked lively throughout. Mario Santana did likewise for the Partenopei, however it was one of few chances they had in the game.

Cagliari 0-0 Napoli

Inter v Chievo

Inter Milan continued their winning form after defeating Lille midweek in the Champions League, to erase the memories of last weekend's horror result against Catania in the league.

The Nerazzurri look to have turned a corner after a fairly convincing display against the Flying Donkeys, particularly in the first half, as Thiago Motta finally found an opener for the giants on 34 minutes, after a number of half opportunities in the lead up to it.

The visitors made a few tactical changes early in the second period, and looked quite menacing when going forward, however there was no way through for them, as the few chances they had were expertly dealt with by a determined Julio Cesar in goal.

Maicon struck the crossbar with a thunderous drive late on in the game, however it didn't matter, as Inter held on for just their second victory of the campaign.

Inter 1-0 Chievo

Parma v Atalanta

Atalanta continued their brilliant return to the topflight, edging out Parma at the Ennio Tardini stadium.

In a fairly timid opening, both sides looked content to sit back and try and play on the counter. It didn't really work for either though, as the two sides were level without a goal to their names at the break.

The second half was a completely different story however, as the Bergamaschi's hero from the opening match day's trip to Genoa - Maximiliano Moralez - hit a quick fire brace within the space of just three minutes to turn the game on its head.

A disappointing Sebastian Giovinco tried to inspire his team into life, however he had no luck, but just when it seemed as if it was all over for the Gialloblu, a surging run forward by Massimo Gobbi, saw the defender play in Jaime Valdes with a wonderful cross, and the substitute made no mistake in pulling one back for his team.

It meant for little though, as the hosts were unable to produce anything further from there, as they slump to yet another home defeat this season.

Parma 1-2 Atalanta

Roma v Palermo

Roma bounced back from last weekend's Derby della Capitale defeat to Lazio, edging out Palermo at the Stadio Olimpico.

It took just eight minutes for the Giallorossi, as new signing Erik Lamela scored on debut for the club, as he netted with a brilliant side-footed finish to send the home fans into raptures.

Daniele De Rossi was pulling the strings in midfield and almost played in Pablo Osvaldo for the second soon after - however it wasn't to be, for the striker who was looking to score for the fifth game in succession.

To this point, the Sicilians had failed to record a point or score a goal on their travels away from home all season, however that looked like it was about to change midway through the second half when Abel Hernandez and Josip Iliicic combined. The latter easily made his way from the keeper, and side-footed a ball towards the goal, only for De Rossi to rush back and slide to clear it off the line.

With little time remaining the Giallorossi had done enough to hold on, but only just, as they jump to sixth in the standings, just four points adrift of leaders Udinese.

Roma 1-0 Palermo

Siena v Cesena

Siena comfortably accounted for Cesena in Tuscany, as the Seahorses look a near certainty to go down this season.

Having failed to record a win thus far, the visitors' task was immediately made tougher than it already was, when Pablo Gonzales netted the opener after just nine minutes of play.

The Biacnoneri dominated possession, but were unable to turn that into opportunities, however they maintained their goal advantage at the break, as their opponents offered minimal resistance.

Gonzales teamed up with his strike partner Emanuele Calaio eight minutes into the second half to double the hosts' advantage, ensuring Siena jump to 11th in the standings, while Cesena remain rooted to the foot of the table with just two points from eight rounds of fixtures.

Siena 2-0 Cesena

Udinese v Novara

Udinese are the new outright Serie A leaders, after thumping Novara at the Friuli stadium.

Since that memorable 3-1 victory over Inter a few weeks ago, the newly promoted club have picked up jut one point in four matches, with that being a 3-3 draw with Catania.

Coming up against an in-form Bianconeri side was therefore always going to be a tough ask, and it showed, when Antonio Di Natale scored his first of the day on 33 minutes.

Di Natale turned provider seven minuted later, when he played in Maurizio Domizzi expertly for the second, before he capped off his brace with his team's third and final goal of the day, four minutes into the second period.

The result leaves them a point clear at the top of the table ahead of Lazio, and two points clear of third placed Juventus after eight rounds of play.

Udinese 3-0 Novara

Lecce v AC Milan

In the Sunday lunch time fixture, Milan recorded a famous come from behind victory over Lecce at the Via del Mare stadium.

The hosts stunned the reigning champions after just four minutes, when Guillermo Giacomazzi was left unmarked at the back post to head home the opener, following a superb ball in by Carlos Grossmuller.

The Giallorossi incredibly made it two on the half hour mark, as Massimo Oddo scored from the spot against his former club, before the provider of the first goal turned scorer, as Grossmuller sensationally made it 3-0 at the break.

In desperate need of some inspiration, Massimiliano Allegri made a double substitution prior to the start of the second half, introducing Alberto Aquilani and Kevin Prince Boateng for Massimo Ambrosini and a disappointing Robinho.

The switch proved pivotal for the Rossoneri, as the latter had an incredible five shots within his first four minutes on the pitch, the last of which was a cracking opening goal on 49 minutes.

Boateng continued to dominate the game, and the visitors looked a completely different team with him on the pitch. On 54 minutes he banged home a superb second, and the belief was well and truly back amongst the Milan camp.

The champs began to push their opponents deeper and deeper at the back, and a third looked on the cards. Unsurprisingly it eventually came, when on 64 minutes, the Prince incredibly capped of the comeback.

Lecce eventually tested Christian Abbiati in the Milan goal for the first time in the second half on 76 minutes, but just moments later, Mario Yepes popped up to nod home a memorable winner, gifting the champions a crucial three points.

Lecce 3-4 AC Milan

Saturday, October 22 2011

Juventus v Genoa

Juventus were very disappointing at home to Genoa, dropping more points in the newly built Juventus arena.

The Bianconeri came into the match looking to go outright top for the time being, and made their mark on just six minutes, when Alessandro Matri continued his solid goal scoring form, after pouncing on a fumbled ball by the goalkeeper, following a Claudio Marchisio strike from distance.

As they so often do though, Genoa fought back in style, and looked a different team as the half wore on, getting their reward just after the half hour mark, when Marco Rossi scored the equaliser.

Andrea Pirlo began to pull the strings in midfield in the second period, and when he picked out Matri for his and the team's second of the evening, the three points looked secured, until Andrea Caracciolo popped up to score from an acute angle five minutes from time, to ensure his team took a share of the spoils.

Juventus 2-2 Genoa

Fiorentina v Catania

The opening game of the round saw Fiorentina held by Catania at the Artemio Franchi stadium, despite dominating large portions of the play.

With Alberto Gilardino out injured on the sidelines, Stevan Jovetic has stepped up in recent weeks, since returning from a long-term injury of his own, and it was he who on 20 minutes found a way through to grab the opening goal.

Similar to the match that would follow however, the visiting Sicilians lifted after conceding the opener, and found an equaliser just before the break, as Gennaro Delvecchio levelled the score line with a fine finish.

Jovetic was not done yet however, as he scored his second of the night just after the hour mark, and just as the Viola looked headed for a crucial three points, Maxi Lopez popped up to tap in a late equaliser to gift his side a crucial point on the road.

Fiorentina 2-2 Catania

There were plenty of goals scored on Saturday, but a real dryfest on Sunday, as five Serie A matches ended in scoreless draws, the first time since June 1989. Inter face Chievo in a crunch match for both sides, Juventus host free-scoring Genoa and Roma take on Devis Mangia's Palermo. 

Saturday, 22 October 2011

Fiorentina - Catania

It's been hard to fully grasp the form of Sinisa Mihajlovic's Fiorentina this season. Starting the campaign off in poor style against Udinese, the Viola then went on to defeat Parma convincingly, but were involved in a scoreless draw last week with Cesena. A big factor has been the loss of Alberto GIlardino to a knee injury, but the likes of Stevan Jovetic and Santiago Silva struggling to make an impact on the scoreboard. The match holds special significance for Mihajlovic and star winger Juan Manuel Vargas, as the dup play against their former side, and will want to highlight how far they have come since being at the Elefanti.

Despite leaving Catania's star attacker in Maxi Lopez on the bench, coach Vincenzo Montella has seen his side flourish recently, culminating in a 2-1 come-from-behind win against Inter last Saturday. Montella's emphasis on scoring goals has been paying off, as the Rossazzurri have scored five times in two matches. Nicola Spolli will slot back into defence, relegating Nicola Legrottaglie to the bench.

Catania have never won in Florence, and the last time they picked up a point was in 1971. 

Prediction: Fiorentina 2-1 Catania

Juventus - Genoa

Much of the talk surrounding Juventus week has been about Alessandro Del Piero playing his last season at the club. The media has been linking the 36-year-old to a move to the US and to the UAE, but the club icon is only interested in doing well under former team-mate and now-coach Antonio Conte. Having failed to score last weekend against Chievo means the Bianconeri are yet to convincingly break their away 'curse' - unable to win by playing good football away from home. There is also speculation Conte could try the attacking trio of Fabio Quagliarella, Alessandro Matri and Mirko Vucinic to combat the indifferent form of Milos Krasic and Eljero Elia. Gianluigi Buffon is under serious doubt after sustaining a shoulder injury in training, meaning Marco Storari could be deployed in between the sticks.

Pressure is still mounting on coach Alberto Malesani despite the side constantly finding the back of the net. And three games without a win means the Grifoni will be seeking to claim maximum points at the Delle Alpi. Defensively, the Rossoblu have been conceded regularly, as they have only kept a clean sheet twice this season, including last weekend's scoreless draw against Lecce.

The Bianconeri won both matches last season between the sides, and have been a fortress at home. 

Prediction: Juventus 2-0 Genoa

Sunday, 23 October 2011

Lecce - Milan

Lecce were expected to be taught a footballing lesson last weekend by Genoa, whose goalscoring firepower failed to deliever. With plenty of shots on target, goalkeeper Massimiliano Benassi and defender Nenad Tomovic faced a horrid afternoon trying to keep the Grinfoni attack at bay. But the good news for Giallorossi supporters is that the side walked away with a point from the Luigi Ferraris, and will be looking to steal three more from Milan this weekend.

Milan got their campaign back on track after demolishing Palermo 3-0 last week at the San Siro. The match marked the return of Robinho from injury, and his influence was noted, as he found the back of the net and constantly provided headaches for the Rosanero defence. A strong victory in the Champions League midweek against BATE Borisov has lifted the mood at via Turati, with the club now believing they are on the right path going forward. A tough month awaits, and they will want maximum points from this match.

A strong head-to-head record in favour of the reigning champions should see them claim the points.

Prediction: Lecce 0-2 Milan

Cagliari - Napoli

Fifth take on third place in the Serie A table this weekend as surprise high-flyers Cagliari take on Napoli at the Sant' Elia. 

One of Cagliari's problems this term has been their ability to score at home, though. Normally, team find it tough away, but the Isolani have only managed to find the back of the net twice this campaign at the Sant'Elia. The Rossoblu were also one of the 10 sides who were involved in the scoreless draw weekend, which will remain in the memory of Serie A fans.

Napoli held Bayern Munich to a draw at home  in the midweek Champions League fixture, but Walter Mazzarri's team will need to refocus on the league, and looking to remain near the top of the standings. The Partenopei failed to claim a point against Parma last weekend, allowing Francesco Modesto and Massimo Gobbi to put their names on the scoresheet and walk away from the San Paolo with their heads held high.

Both teams have been playing better away from home, then at their principal fortresses. The Azzurri also claimed a win in the corresponding fixture last season, but Cagliari won't give up without a fight.

Prediction: Cagliari 1-1 Napoli

Inter - Chievo

There hasn't been a lot of positive news to come out of Inter this season. This is their second-worst season defensively - conceding 13 goals in six matches - a statistic dating back to 1930-31, and the club is sitting near the bottom of the table. But coach Claudio Ranieri has just turned 60 years old, and the players will want to put on an exhibition for him. It is also reassuring to see that the Nerazzurri's problems are only occurring domestically, scraping last Lille 1-0 in the Champions League midweek.

Chievo obtained their second scoreless draw in a draw, holding Juventus at the Stadio Bentegodi. Prior to that, the Flying Donkeys had claimed two victories over Napoli and Genoa. Sitting only three points the league leaders has given the side confidence, and are now prepared to fight for a spot among Italy's elite.

Inter would be seen as favourites for the win based on previous matches, but the erratic form line suggests a draw is expected.

Prediction: Inter 1-1 Chievo

Parma - Atalanta

Parma has managed two wins from their last two games, taking the Gialloblou from the relegation zone to eighth place. Last week, the side were inspired by the San Paolo atmosphere, and claimed a shock 2-1 win over Napoli. More importantly, Sebastian Giovinco was not on the scoresheet, illustrating the Crociati do have other avenues to goal. Sergio Floccari stepped up whilst Giovinco was given close attention by the Partenopei defence.

Atalanta has also been surprising in its ability to gain positive results, but will now be tested, as Thomas Manfredini will be missing from the centre of defence for a month through injury. The captain has been instrumental in the Orobici's tight structure at the back, and it will be interesting to see who takes the reins and leads by example. Luca Cigarini will also want to show his former employers how his game has developed since leaving the side in 2008, when he was sold to the Bergamaschi.

Atalanta have scored at least one goal in their last 11 away matches, whilst Parma have failed to keep a clean sheet this term. But, the Nerazzurri have only recorded a win in 11 outings at the Ennio Tardini.

Prediction: Parma 2-1 Atalanta

Roma - Palermo

Both teams may have lost their respecitve matches last weekend, but Roma and Palermo will be keen to rectify this on Sunday.

Much of this week's focus for the Giallorossi has been on their 2-1 loss to fierce rivals Lazio on Sunday night, and especially on the red card sustained by Simon Kjaer. One positive aspect for Luis Enrique side is that Pablo Osvaldo has netted four goals in as many matches, helping the team to constantly find the back of the net. The former Bologna and Espanyol hitman may not be scoring pretty goals, but they are effective. Franco Baldini has taken over as general manager of the club this week, and the club should be more settled off the pitch.

Palermo's away record has been dismal this season, and it showed last Saturday evening, going down 3-0 to a Robinho-inspired Milan outfit. Coach Devis Mangia 4-4-2 formation has also come under fire from president Maurizio Zamparini, who believes the Rosanero are better than the scoreline suggested. Could he be preparing his bags to leave the Sicilians?

The Giallorossi have taken the lead in their last four matches, but have conceded all their goals in the second half.

Prediction: Roma 3-1 Palermo

Siena - Cesena

Their results may not have been spectacular, but Siena at least have a point from as many games. Their aim will be to avoid relegation, but should they continue this trend, they will have done just enough to survive. A scoreless draw last week to Cagliari meant a vita point away from home was earnt and deserved. 

Cesena are faring much worse than their opponents. Rooted to the bottom of the ladder, coach Marco Giampaolo has plenty of problems to resolve - and quickly - should the Seahorses aim to stay in Italy's top-flight. Missing from the match will be Adrian Mutu, who is serving a three-match suspension for his red card. The side is also unbeaten in their last two matches.

Anyone got a coin?

Prediction: Siena 0-0 Cesena

Udinese - Novara

Udinese seem to going from strength to strength, and playing three matches a week is not having an effect on the squad. Picking up a 2-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Europa League means the Bianconeri come into this game with some form. Still undefeated in all competitions this season, Francesco Guidolin's men will want to continue this trend at home. Antonio Di Natale and co. may be the ones attracting the headlines, but it has been the Zebrette defence has flown under the radar. Only letting through one goal this campaign has meant 'keeper Samir Handanovic has been well-guarded by a wall-like defence.

Novara's fortress-like record at home came to an end last weekend against Bologna, suffering a 2-0 loss. What will also hurt them is coach Atilio Tesser will not be on the sidelines for the match, as he was sent off for questioning the referee. It was also the side's first time that they failed to score at home, having found the back of the net on their previous 10 outings.

Despite having never met in top-flight football, the Bianconeri should prove a class above.

Prediction: Udinese 2-0 Novara

Bologna - Lazio

Bologna started life under new coach Stefano Pioli in style after dispatching of Novara at home 2-0. Gaston Ramirez and Robert Acquafresca found the back of the net last weekend. The tactician revealed he would be prepared to try new things at the Rossoblu, and it paid off with maximum points. The two goals was also the first time the Felsinei had troubled the scorers on more than one occasion, dating back to March 2011. The team also jumped off the bottom of the ladder with the victory, and will want much of the same on Sunday evening.

Lazio claimed a 2-1 victory over fierce rivals Roma last weekend in the Derby della Capitale, with Miroslav Klose ensuring the points went to the Aquile late in the match. But the Biancocelesti failed to defeat FC Zurich in the Europa League midweek, meaning they are yet to find the consistency which they showed last term. Having notched up two wins and an draw on  the road, Edy Reja's men will hope to play good football at the Renato Dell'Ara, and keep up their fourth-place in the standings.

Lazio has the better head-to-head in recent times, but the Felsinei claimed a 3-1 win in the corresponding fixture last season. 

Prediction: Bologna 0-1 Lazio

What a dull round of Italian football! Incredibly five of the seven Sunday fixtures ended in a scoreless draw, making for a forgetful weekend of action.

The Serie A is back after the international break, and the first of the Derby della Capitale's takes place this weekend, with Lazio 'hosting' Roma. Inter travel to the Stadio Massimino to face Catania, in-form Napoli meets Sebastian Giovinco's Parma and Milan take on Palermo. On Sunday, Chievo play Juventus and Atalanta will have to contend with Udinese.

Saturday, October 15 2011

Catania - Inter

VIncenzo Montella's men provided one of the matches of the season last time they played in the league, with a highly-enterntaining 3-3 draw against Novara. Wide open play saw chances created at will, and many people admire both sides. The Elefanti will now hope to bring that style of play against an Inter side, fighting tooth and nail for every point. Nicola Legrottaglie made his debut in the Novara game, and will now look to form a defensive partnership with Giuseppe Bellusci. 

The Nerazzurri are at the wrong end of the table, and are trying hard to rectify this. Striker Diego Forlan will be out of action for up to a month with a leg injury, but news has emerged linking Anzhi striker - and former Beneamata hitman - Samuel Eto'o with a sensational loan return to the club. Goalkeeper Julio Cesar could also be rested for this match, meaning Luca Castellazzi will be between the sticks. News which will boost the 2009/10 Champions League winners is that midfielder Dejan Stankovic will solely be focusing on the Nerazzurri, as he retired from international football.

Inter have the better record against the Rossazzurri, winning four of five encounters, but up-and-down form this term mean this could a closer game than many predict.

Prediction: Catania 1-2 Inter

Milan - Palermo

Milan's strikers have stolen the headlines over the past fortnight. Zlatan Ibrahimovic recently revealed he is starting to think about life after football, Antonio Cassano said he could finish playing football in three years' time, but on a positive note, the Rossoneri regain the services of Robinho after his injury lay-off. Also hoping to return from injury is Philippe Mexes, who is yet to make his debut for his new club since his free-transfer move from Roma during the summer. The Diavoli may be languishing in 15th place, but coach Massimiliano Allegri is not looking at the league position just yet.

Palermo's up-and-down form this term mean it has been hard to gauge how good (or bad) they really are. Fortress-like performances at home but disappointing performances away mean we don't know just what to expect from Davis Mangia's outfit. Rosanero 'keeper Alexandros Tzorvas seems to have settled in at the club, and the likes of Mauricio Pinilla, Fabrizio Miccoli and Abel Hernandez have posed a real threat up front for opposition sides. Miccoli is in doubt for the match, and will be given until the last minute to prove his fitness.

The Sicilian side have had the wood over the Rossoneri in recent times, winning three of five previous encounters. Only a draw was the result in the corresponding fixture last term, but the return of Robinho will add extra firepower to the team.

Prediction: Milan 2-1 Palermo

Napoli - Parma

Napoli seem to be the best of the sides who are coping with the balancing act required to do well in the league and in the Champions League. According to the players, it is down to the support and attention to detail provided by coach Walter Mazzarri. Many of Mazzarri's men were involved in international duty, but Gokhan Inler admitted his team-mates have now become accustomed to playing every three days, and it will not be an excuse for them to lose this weekend. Goran Pandev also revealed he wishes to repay the faith shown in him by the club, and the best way is by scoring against the Gialloblu. The side has demolished both Milan teams so far, and look like they could do the same on any given day.

Constanly touted as one of the best players so far this campaign in the Serie A, Sebastian Giovinco has been a name not very far from anyone's lips. Five goals so far has helped the Crociati sit mid-table.  The 3-1 win over Genoa prior to the international break will give the side a huge boost going into the match at the San Paolo, but they will need to quickly forget about their two away trips, as they have ended disastrously. A 3-0 loss to Fiorentina and 4-1 hammering by Juventus sent shockwaves through the club.

The Partenopei won both clashes last season, and look the goods again this weekend. 

Prediction: Napoli 3-1 Parma

Sunday, October 16 2011

Cesena - Fiorentina

Still without a win in Italy's top-flight, pressure is starting to mount on coach Marco Giampaolo. President Igor Campdelli has come out and defended the tactician, which can only mean he is on a limited tenure at the club. The Seahorses are currently relying on former Fiorentina hitman Adrian Mutu too much to score goals, and he has only showed glimpses of his absolute best. Captain Giuseppe Colucci will be out of action, as he has a torn meniscus ligament. 

Fiorentina have been preparing on a synthetic pitch all this week, in order to simulate the ground conditions at the DIno Manuzzi Stadium. Coach Sinisa Mihajlovic has only had three days to properly prepare for this encounter, as most of his squad has been away on international duties. Striker Alberto GIlardino has not been properly covered by his team-mates, and an over-reliance on the likes of Stevan Jovetic has emerged. The 21-year-old will need to find the back of the net to go along with his brace against Parma from a few weeks ago.

Horrible form has struck the home side this campaign, but the threat of international duty for Mihajlovic's men could see them lose. 

Prediction: Cesena 1-0 Fiorentina

Atalanta - Udinese

It will almost become a recurring talking point when discussing Atalanta that they had a six-point deduction to start the season, but the good thing is that they are now in positive-point territory - and would be lying in join-second spot - behind Juventus and Udinese. Coach Stefano Colantuono has managed to get the best out of his side thus far, and the loss to Roma prior to the international break will be seen as a stumbling block. A tough few weeks await the Bergamo outfit, and will want to claim as many points as possible. German Denis takes on his former side, and has been scoring as of late, finding the back of the net on a consistent basis.

The Bianconeri are in contention for a Champions League spot, predominantly thanks to marksman Antonio Di Natale. Scoring four times in five matches has seen the Friuli-based outfit remain unbeaten this term, and looking the goods to be a serious Scudetto chance. Gabriel Torje has been labelled the Romanian 'Lionel Messi' and he will want to show why. His debut showed glimpses of why the comparison has been made, but he will need to back it up on a weekly basis.

Atalanta have a perfect home record this season, but the Zebrette will be tough ask to keep at bay attacking-wise. 

Prediction: Atalanta 1-1 Udinese

Cagliari - Siena

Cagliari have now become known as the heart-stoppers, as half of their goals this campaign have come in the last 15 minutes of matches. Coach Massimo Ficcadenti has also had the luxury of very few injuries - actually one to be exact - meaning he has been able to keep the same starting XI since the start of the term. Should the Isolani claim victory this weekend, their reward could be leading the Serie A table. Daniele Conti is still seen as the Rossoblu's key man, and has already been rewarded with two goals.

Siena are on the improve, and showed why as they dispatched Lecce 3-0 prior to the international break. The Robur could have also had a few more points, as they were unlucky to score a second goal against Roma. Sitting in 14th place, Giuseppe Sannino's men are having a good campaign thus far.

The home side is favoured in this encounter, winning three of the past five matches. Cagliari are also in better form than Siena.

Prediction: Cagliari 2-0 Siena

Chievo - Juventus

The Chievo fans will be out in force to see their heroes play, as the Bentegod Stadium has sold out. The Gialloblu will want to add notch to their belt, as they have defeated both Genoa and Napoli - albeit understrength - at home this term. Michael Bradley has settled in well at the club, and Sergio Pellissier looks like he has not lost his speed and pace up front. 

Many of the Bianconeri players are returning from international break, and will want to find the sam rhythm and winning edge they had prior to departing for representative duties. Andrea Pirlo has been touted as the best player so far this campaign, and it isn't hard to see why, as he led the Turin side past his former club Milan 2-0. What will test the side is how they perform away from home, playing against the smaller teams. Only managing a 1-1 draw to Catania and scraping past Siena with a 1-0 win weren't convincing performances.

Two draws last season make this a crucial match, especially if they wish to remain near the top of the league.

Prediction: Chievo 1-1 Juventus

Genoa - Lecce

Despite sitting in mid-table after a strong start, Genoa boss Alberto Malesani is starting to come under pressure over his job. This may seem silly considering the Grifoni are the second-highest goalscorers, but recent losses to Parma and Catania have mounted pressure on the tactician. Reports have also surfaced that a hunt for Malesani's replacement has begun. One thing going well for the Ligurian side is striker Rodrigo Palacio, who currently tops the Serie A Capocannoniere standings on five goals. The Argentine international has repaid the faith shown in him by the club, as he turned down a lucrative summer move to Inter.

If Genoa's coach is struggling to keep his, then no one understands how Lecce boss Eusebio Di Francesco still has his. With only three points to their name, the Giallorossi are rooted in third-last position, losing to Udinese, Atalanta, Siena and Cagliari so far this term. Goals have dried up, not scoring in 245 minutes, and have only found the back of the net three times. 

Lecce have only won once at the Luigi Ferraris in 15 attempts, dating back to 1998. They have also lost their last five encounters against Genoa, so the Rossoblu should pick up the three points.

Prediction: Genoa 3-1 Lecce

Novara - Bologna

Novara may not have stolen the headlines as much as fellow promoted side Atalanta, but the Piemonte-based outfit have caused a few sides some headaches this term. Defeating Inter a few weeks ago - which saw the final nail put in Gian Piero Gasperini's coffin at the Nerazzurri - was backed up with come-from-behind draw to Catania. Atilio Tesser's men have also not been afraid to play some attacking football, as the Biancozaaurri lead the goalscoring ranks, but they also have been poor defensively, conceding just as many.

Stefano Pioli believed he may not be involved in this campaign, after being sacked by Palermo prior to the season commencing, but he has been given a lifeline after Pierpaolo Bisoli was shown the door. The new tactician announced recently that it was intention to play free-flowing, attacking football, and intends to use tri Robert Acquafresca, Marco Di Vaio and Alessandro Diamanti up front. Di Vaio is yet to find the back of the net this term, and this could explain why the Rossoblu sit in last place, having only scored twice.

Still unbeaten at home since May 2010 means the Biancoazzurri will provide a tough challenge for the new Rossoblu boss. 

Prediction: Novara 3-2 Bologna

Lazio - Roma

Throw out the form guide. Throw out past performances in these matches, as the Derby della Capitale is about the here and now! 

Lazio's have been up and down so far this campaign, but their home form has been slightly better than their away performances. Miroslav Klose and Djibril Cisse will both be on the hunt for goals, as will attacking midfielder Hernanes. The defence has looked shaky when put under pressure, and will need to stand up to the likes of the in-form Pablo Osvaldo and Bojan Krkic, who scored his first goal for his new team.

Coach Luis Enrique's new football philosophy has started to flow into the players, and they are starting to express themselves like the tactician wants. Krkic  dispelled any rumours floating about him wanting to return to Barcelona by scoring against Atalanta prior to the international break. He has now settled into the side, and will be expected to play a key role. Pablo Osvaldo was rewarded for his good form by receiving a call-up to the Italy squad by coach Cesare Prandelli against Northern Ireland. Daniele De Rossi's future has all but been resolved, as he looks to remain at the club.

The only thing to remember about past encounters is that the Giallorossi claimed victories in both matches last season - and the last five times the sides have met - but Lazio supporters feel they have the firepower up front to win this time.

Prediction: Lazio 1-2 Roma