All Things Calcio

Euro round up: Inter join Milan in the last 16, Napoli put one foot in it

2011-11-23T22:32:00.001Z

Round five proved to be a decent one for Italian clubs in the Champions League as Inter Milan joined AC Milan in the last sixteen of the Champions League. Inter traveled to Turkey, never an easy destination and picked up a 1-1 draw against Trabzonspor. Ricky Alvarez opened his Inter Milan account in the Champions League after 18 minutes but the Turkish outfit leveled through a deflected effort not long after. It ended 1-1 and Inter, without Forlan, Sneijder and Maicon on the night, had to be satisfied that the point not only qualified them but secured them top place in the group thanks to Lille winning 2-0 in Moscow earlier in the evening.

The big game of the night was Napoli's encounter with Manchester City. Napoli were on top from the start and Edinson Cavani again rose to the occasion to head home from a tight angle. It was tight and tense but a defensive blunder from Salvatore Aronica let Mario Balotelli fire home from close range. At that moment it looked like the game may turn, but after the break Napoli came out strong and Cavani again found the net. It could, and should, have been more for Napoli with Hamsik hitting the post, Lavezzi testing Hart and Maggio blundering a 1 on 1 attempt. But instead Napoli fluffed their lines and had to endure ten minutes of really pressure at the end of the game. If finished 2-1 and Napoli are in the driving seat for the last round where they head to Villareal. They could go through even in defeat so long as Man City do not beat Bayern.

In the clash of titans Barcelona got the better of Milan 3-2 at the San Siro. It was a great game where Milan came from behind twice to level against the current holders but Xavi finished off a superb Messi pass to secure the three points and the group itself. Milan are through though in second place and given their performances against the best team in Europe will be a match for virtually any other side in the tournament. They will however look to avoid trips to Madrid and Bayern especially but the Diavolo can be confident that they can have a good run in this tournament this year.

So Inter and Milan through to the last 16 and Napoli almost there as well. Not bad at all for Serie A so far.

The tide appears to be turning as Udinese get green light for Stadia renovations

2011-11-15T22:29:00.001Z

Udinese look set to become the second Serie A side to embark on Stadia reconstruction after being given the go ahead by their city Council to build a new Stadium. Club President Giampaolo Pozzo remarked on tuttomercato web that he was pleasantly surprised to have been given the go ahead, and that the project would hopefully begin this Summer. This is great news for Serie A as numerous clubs have wanted, but been unable so far, to push through projects of this nature. But it is clearly even better news for Udinese.

The current Stadio Friuli is rarely full and currently only has one covered stand with an athletics track bridging the pitch from the stands. A new stadium would remedy this, as seen by the effect that Juventus' stadium has had upon their club. Average gates in Turin have gone up from 21,000 to 35,000 so far this season and there is no doubt that will improve so long as the club maintains their high league position. Whether Udinese will aim for that level of increase is doubtful, and in fact improbable given that a Stadium of 25,000 for them has been mentioned in the past. That would still represent a significant increase on their current average gate which is around 16,000. More important however it will hopefully continue the trend of new stadia.

If Lazio, Roma, Fiorentina and Napoli follow suit, and they all have plans to do so, then grounds of between 40,000-60,000 can be expected given their strong local fan bases, which would do wonders for the leagues reputation and average attendance statistic. And, while they all occupy grounds able to hold that capacity now it is the quality of them and the match day experience that is in question rather than the football on the pitch. La Viola's ground for example, much like Udinese', has only one covered stand and while the Sun shines well in Italy during the Summer months rain and snow is not absent during the Winter as any follower of Italian football would let you no.

Today's news represents a good sign for Udinese and Italian football and one looks forward to see this project begin next Summer, hopefully.

Mihajlovic losing his grip on Fiorentina throne

2011-11-07T20:39:00.000Z

Another away match forFiorentina, another defeat. This is something that the Viola have becomeaccustomed to this season under the leadership of Sinisa Mihajlovic. Too oftenhis sides have looked to preserve a point first before even contemplatingobtaining all three, especially when away from home. The stats back this up, given that in histenure as manager on the viola bench the free kick taking machine has achievedjust two away wins in Serie A. Combine that with a 9^th place finishlast campaign and what seems to be another drab season in the offing this year,without European commitments once again, it is hard to see how much morepatient the Della Valle brothers can be.

Fiorentina are however noPalermo. What do I mean by that? Well, for starters the Della Valle brothershave far more patience than Maurizio Zamperini. Mihajlovic would have been sackeda long time ago if he had produced the same record with the Rosanero. Still,with a highly competitive squad at his disposal it is hard to argue that theViola are not underachieving. Jovetic, Vargas, Gilardino, Montolivo, Gamberini,Behrami, Cerci, Ljajic and Cassani are all quality players. Yet, they are partof a side that has already been beaten four times this season and has only tengoals to their name, with half of them scored by Jovetic. Only five sides inthe division have a goal scoring record worse than that and they are Cesena,Lecce, Bologna, Chievo and Cagliari. Hardly great company.

That being said they aredefensively strong, as only five sides have been better at the back, thosebeing Udinese, Lazio, Juventus, Napoli and Siena. Now given their respectivepositions in the table that is great company and it illustrates the problem.Fiorentina are not adventurous enough going forward, especially away from home,and when they do attack they are not efficient enough at killing off games.Take their home game against Catania as an example. Twice they were pegged backfrom a leading position, while against Lazio they blew a 1-0 lead despite, forthe first half an hour, dominating proceedings.

The answer right now, sadly forMihajlovic, is a change for la Viola. The fans have begun voting on their feetdespite the ultras giving Mihajlovic their support in a recent trainingsession. Attendances have dropped and the recent game against Catania yielded asupport of just 18,783. Ultimately, this is a club and a squad that should becontesting for a European spot. The fact that they seem nothing more than anafterthought in that contest suggests that the axe does indeed need to fall.

Euro watch: Milan Qualify

2011-11-01T22:19:00.001Z

Milan qualified for the Champions League in drab fashion tonight in Belarus securing a 1-1 draw with Bate. Zlatan Ibrahimovic put Milan ahead with a smart counter attacking move from Milan but it was not enough as the home side rallied in the second half to level through a penalty on 55 minutes. Milan were wasteful with their chances in the first half and have relinquished their top spot in Group H to European Champions Barcelona. They will now need to beat Barcelona in the San Siro in the next round to recapture top spot. Clearly, this will be no easy task but perhaps it will give Milan the right attitude in terms of playing to actually win the game, rather than play for a draw had they still been level on points come round five.

Tomorrow night sees more difficult encounters for the Italian clubs. Inter take on Lille at home and they will look to move up to nine points in the group so they can focus on more pressing domestic troubles away at Genoa on Sunday. It is vital that they win and qualify as group winners given to avoid tougher fixtures come the knock out rounds.

Napoli however have Bayern Munich to contend with away from home and with Manchester City closing in on the top two both Bayern and Napoli will see this as an opportunity to take control of the group. This will be tough for Napoli, although not much should be read into their defeat to Catania at the weekend. Walter Mazzari has stated today that Napoli will try to impose their game on Bayern and this is refreshing to hear, and if they adopt their smart counter attacking style that they did against Manchester City and AC Milan this season then they will be tough to contend with. They key will be not going down too early and frustrating the Bavarians whose great form has already slipped somewhat with a recent Bundesliga defeat. Difficult? Very much so but not impossible.

Attention will turn to the Europe League on Thursday night where Udinese head to Madrid to take on Athletico. Having beaten them 2-0 in the last round Udinese will be confident of qualification but a defeat here would give hope to the others in the group. Given their great form this season it will be hoped that Di Natale will start to provide a threat to the Athletico backline.

Lazio however have not mirrored their domestic form in Europe and have only two draws to show for their efforts so far. The game against Zurich at home is a must win then and one hopes that they put out a squad that is capable of delivering this in emphatic fashion. Mirslav Klose is set to be on the bench, and that is not a good start when one thinks how good he has been this season.

Derby D'Italia: Inter v Juventus

2011-10-29T00:41:00.000+01:00

What a game, and what a time for it. With Juventus sitting pretty top of Serie A and Inter sitting, well, abysmally off the pace the contrast in this seasons league form does not mirror that of recent seasons gone by. Champions of Europe in 2010, Inter did what Juventus could not do in 2003, 1998, and 1997 by climbing that elusive final hurdle in the Champions League final. True, Juventus did achieve that in 1996 in Rome but in recent years Inter have been Italy's finest export whilst Italy awaits Milan and Juve to catch them up, on the continent at least. Expect that to happen this season as Milan look set to do very well in the Champions League, but don't count Inter out just yet.

Despite a poor start under a totally misguided manager who seemed determined to play every player out of position Inter have quality in abundance and will be keen to show that in today's mammoth encounter. And while Juve have started very well this season question marks have been raised about their true ability to take the Scudetto and whether they really have gotten over two totally atrocious campaigns by their own high standards. Recent matches have shown a soft defensive underbelly that Napoli, Milan, Udinese and Lazio, who all sit close behind Juve, will look to take full advantage of.

Inter however continue to stay alive, albeit only just. They sit top of their Champions League book having registered two excellent away wins against CSKA and Lille, and since Ranieri has taken over they have been resuscitated somewhat with wins over Bologna and Chievo, with the draw away at Atalanta not a bad result given their blistering start to the season so far. The Napoli game stands out, on paper, as a huge disappointment but those having seen the game will realise that it was a false economy of sorts in the sense of the poor referring performance which completely changed the shape of the game just before half time, even if Napoli were on fire that night.

Still, their is no denying the simply awful start Inter have made to live in Serie A this season. While even at this stage Scudetto chances look slim at best a win over Juventus would put some life back into their campaign and show the old lady and city rivals AC Milan that Inter can, and may well, have their say in the Scudetto race this season.

Napoli end Udinese's unbeaten run

2011-10-27T13:08:00.001+01:00

A consummate home performance from Napoli saw them brush past Udinese who had up until this match been unbeaten in Serie A this season. Udinese, without Antonio Di Natale and Isla lacked somewhat in creativity but fell behind thanks to a wonderful Lavezzi strike after Cavani provided what seemed like an impossible assist. Udinese did fight back and Morgan De Sanctis produced an outstanding save after a well worked Udinese corner saw Antonio Floro Flores improvise with a volley that tested the Napoli goalkeeper. But he was up to the challenge and Napoli added to their lead just before half time when Maggio headed home to make it 2-0.In many respects after having just picked up one point from their last six this was a must win for Napoli who take on Catania, Bayern Munich and Juventus in their next run of fixtures.

Speaking of Juventus they continued their unbeaten start with a solid 2-1 home win against Fiorentina. It should have been buried at half time with Juve totally dominating their opponents but Fiorentina came out determined after the break to get themselves into the match and another superb strike from Stefan Jovetic leveled the tie. However, Alessandro Matri added to his growing reputation with the winning goal late on and his third in two matches to keep Juventus clear at the top.

With Udinese defeated Lazio had the opportunity to take over at the Serie A summit against Catania and they started well in this encounter taking the lead after 17 minutes through Miroslav Klose who scored his 5th goal of the Serie A campaign so far. Despite being decimated with injury problems Lazio looked good for their lead but unlike Napoli they could not establish daylight between. They paid the price for this as Catania leveled after some poor defending by the Lazio backline. Depsite this Lazio did rally and the introduction of Hernanes and Kozak showed their attacking intent, but it was to no avail despite dominating the proceedings late on.

Elsewhere Roma fell to defeat in Genoa by 2-1 and Bologna surprised Chievo by winning 1-0 in Verona. Cesena continued their winless start with a 1-1 draw at home to Cagliari while Inter could only draw 1-1 against Atalanta away from home, with the home side continuing their fantastic start. Milan continued their ressurgence with a 4-1 win at home to Parma and move up to joint 4th in the table. Finally, Siena continued their good start with a 1-1 draw away at Novara.

Juve only draw but continue to show Serie A the way forward

2011-10-22T23:08:00.000+01:00

Juve 2 - 2 Genoa was the final score in Turin tonight after a cracking game ended all square. Juve were sublime at times going forward, Andrea Pirlo rolling back the years with inspirational contributions to both goals, from the quickly taken corner that found Marchisio on the first goal where Matri fired home to the simply majestic dummy that let Matri again hit the back of the net. Juve looked set for the win but Genoa continued to advance forward, much through the inspired play of Milan owned Alex Merkel and drew level late on through a Caracciolo equaliser. Shambolic defending and poor goalkeeping led to Juve's demise in this encounter and in the end a point was all they could take from this one.

With this in mind you may wonder what on earth the title to this article is on about. Despite going top of Serie A, albeit temporarily, tonight was a disappointment for the home side before they go on a run of games that sees them take on Fiorentina, Inter, Napoli, Palermo and Lazio. Hardly an easy run and two draws on the trot has taken the sting out of their blistering start. But, irregardless Juve this season with their new Stadium have shown the rest of Serie A what they need to do to modernise and essentially revolutionise the league.

Juventus so far this campaign have had an average attendance of 36,293. It's not huge by any stretch and only ranks sixth overall in Serie A but it is a massive improvement on their gates from last season which culminated in an average of 21,966. You could argue it has been the difference between a great start and a poor one as well. Last season at the Stadio Olimpico Juventus lost at home to Milan, Parma and Bologna, their first three home games. This season they took seven points from those same encounters instead and the crowd played their part in these fixtures as well, becoming the the essential 12th man that had been missed and the frankly limp and lifeless Olimpico in recent seasons passed. Much of course has to be attributed to a decent Summer mercato. But, their is a freshness around this club that could well take them out of the doldrums, which undoubtedly the last two campaigns have been and their is no doubt that the new Stadium is part of this.

But how does this relate to the rest of Serie A? Well aside from the revenue opportunities that a self own Stadium would provide new stadia for the other clubs would have massive knock on effects for game day attendances which so far this season are at an average of just under 24,000. This will increase as the season goes on and games become more vital to the campaigns final outcome, but it is fair to say that this number has not been helped by teams like Chievo, Lecce, Novara and Siena who barely pull in an average of more than 10,000 a game and in that regard the sooner the likes of Torino and Sampdoria come back to Serie A the better. But, for the likes of Fiorentina, Lazio, Palermo, Roma and Cagliari, teams who have been trying to build new stadia for some time, the impact could be huge. Indeed, such has the delay been in the case of the Viola that they have considered building a new Stadium out of the city limits itself.

Much of the problem has to do with current legislative restrictions and the frustration that local Council's in Italy will miss out on revenue generated by their currently owned Stadiums. But, the sooner the other clubs are able to follow the path that Juventus have then the better off they will be, and the better off the league will be too.

Champions League: Napoli hold Bayern, Milan and Inter push on

2011-10-19T22:16:00.002+01:00

It was another decent round for the Italian clubs in the Champions league as all teams picked up valuable points that given all a chance of going through to the last 16. Milan tonight put one foot into the last 16 with a strong 2-0 home win against Bate. They barely had to break out of second gear to gain the three points thanks to two excellent goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and a Prince Boateng missile. That being said Milan played with an attitude that a goal would come eventually and although it most certainly did they almost paid the price while the encounter was balanced at 0 - 0 when Van Bommel made a sloppy pass straight to Bate forward Bressan who should have put the away side 1-0 up. However, it all ended well for Milan who now head to Belarus in the next round where they again must pick up three points before their titanic clash with Barcelona at San Siro on match day five.

Last night also saw good results for the Italian clubs. Inter picked up a comfortable 1-0 win away at Lille where Wesley Sneijder and Mauro Zarate combined some magic to supply Giampaolo Pazzini who fired home with thunderous effect to put the French Champions behind. Inter looked strong but once Sneijder and Zarate were withdrawn they lacked creativity and Lille took advantage of that, putting pressure on Inter's back line which has not exactly been up to task as of late. However they and talisman Eden Hazard could not find a way through and Inter emerged victorious and like AC Milan sit top of their Champions League group.

Napoli however arguably pulled of the result of the round taking a point of Bayern, and scoring a goal against them something which had not been done since August 7th. Bayern have been steamrolling opposition all season long and at this moment in time, along with Barcelona and Real Madrid, are arguably playing the best football in Europe so far this season. They took the lead through a defensive lapse by Napoli after just 90s seconds and the writing looked on the wall for Napoli. However, they steadied the ship and began to take the game to Bayern at the end of the first half. They were rewarded with a goal as well after Maggio's goal was deflected in by Badstauber. It could have been even better for Napoli as well had the referree spotted Schweinsteigers handball which denied Hamsik a goal scoring opportunity. He did however spot a soft handball, if you can even call it that, which came off Cannavaro's arm when blasted at him from close range. Justice was done when De Sanctis saved from the spot. Napoli held on but were at times comfortable in possession. With Man City beating Villareal they will now go to Munich looking to take something from that match, perhaps as a necessity.

Four points seperates first from 13th as goal shy round ends in Lazio derby win

2011-10-17T20:57:00.002+01:00

After a goal fest of action on Saturday in Serie A with Milan rolling over Palermo and Napoli and Inter both suffering surprise defeats the action did not continue on Saturday afternoon as the net was only rippled twice across six matches in Serie A. Both those goals came in the same game as Bologna won 2-0 away at Novara to move themselves up to four points in the standings and ease the pressure on them at the bottom of the table. However, as far as goals go that was all she wrote. That being said their was no shortage of controversy especially in the early kick of in Cesena as Adrian Mutu saw red for petulance that frankly blighted Cesena going on the collect the three points they looked set to get given their strong second half performance. Their slow start continued however as they picked up just their second point in six outings.

With so many draws taking place three points would have catapulted any side high up the table but not even regular Sunday afternoon goal scorer Antonio Di Natale could ripple the net as Udinese drew 0-0 away at Atalanta in perhaps what should have been the best game of the afternoon given both sides strong starts to the season.

So, the goals were saved for the Rome derby and the game did not disappoint. Both sides had made major acquisitions in the off season with Lazio adding Miroslav Klose, Cisse and former Italian International goalkeeper Federico Marchetti while Roma had added the likes of Dutch International keeper Martaan Stekelenburg, Gabriele Heinze, Simon Kjaer, Bojan Krkic and Pablo Osvaldo to name a few. The away side started strong as well and went in front after seven minutes through Osvaldo. Lazio came back into the match late in the first half and started where they left off after the break scoring from the spot through Hernanes. The worst part from Roma however was the dismissal of Kjaer and that left them really up against it for the rest of the half. Cue lots of pressure from Lazio who rattled the woodwork twice through Cisse and Klose before the tall German finally found the winner deep into injury time much to the elation of the home support at the Stadio Olimpico. Having lost the five previous derby's the winner in injury time was of great relieve to the Laziale's the world over and they now see their team move up to third in the table.

Lazio, Milan, Inter, Udinese and Napoli now head into Europe where tough tests await in the shape of Zurich, Bate, Lille, Athletico Madrid and Bayern Munich.

Milan push on while Inter crash to defeat again

2011-10-15T22:58:00.001+01:00

Milan and Inter both have got off to poor starts this season in Serie A. While they both sit in decent positions in their respective Champions League groups their positions in the Serie A table have been a different story. Between them prior to todays round they had been beaten five times between them, in just five rounds. With Napoli and Juve getting off to such good starts it was imperative for both clubs that they picked up three points in this round, and both had to do this against Sicilian opposition. One overcame that objective, one did not.

Perhaps unsurprisingly given their truley dismal start it was Inter that failed to do so as five minutes of madness in the second half allowed Catania to score twice and overturn Inter's quick start thanks to a superbly taken Estaban Cambiasso goal. Having led at half time Inter looked to have established a strong foothold in this game but the lack of any sort of defensive cover allowed Catania back into this one. Almiron's stunning strike pulled Catania level while Lodi scored from the penalty spot, ironically his first Serie A goal that had not come from a free kick.

It was a well deserved win for Catania and another defeat for Inter whose season looks in tatters before we have even reached November. Milan however pulled away from the disaster zone after recording a comfortable win over high flying Palermo. Having set out in two banks of 4 at the back Palermo looked hard to break down and it took Milan a while until Ibrahimovic unlocked the door with a ball to the back post that was knocked across goal for Nocerino to send in. Milan had been applying the pressure and deserved the lead, and this was doubled not long after the break with Ibrahimovic again involved as he fed Robinho who opened his account for the season. Milan were in total control now and Cassano added a third as he continued his superb form so far this season. Having hit two for Italy midweek his confidence was high and it showed as he fired home with consummate ease to make it 3-0 despite their being a number of bodies in between the ball and the goal.

It was a good win for Milan and with Lecce and Parma up next in Serie a they will be confident of climbing the table soon enough. For Inter however as things stand the season looks long and hard and one wonders whether any shot at the title is in fact already over.

Calcio comment: Juve got to believe them!

2011-10-02T22:42:00.001+01:00

Questions had been asked of Juve up until this round, whether they had really turned a corner or whether they were the Juve of the last two seasons which faltered to deceive and then promptly embarrassed the 27 time, or 29 depending on which fence you sit, Scudetto winners. But, when the champions came to town tonight Juve gave a performance worth of champions themselves, dominating possession with an expansive style of play that at times left Milan looking one dimensional and without threat. Not bad, considering this was a Milan side that drew a Barcelona only a few weeks ago. Despite this, it was 0-0 come 86 minutes until Claudio Marchisio hit the back of then from a well worked team goal and then doubled his tally moments later thanks to an Abiati howler. It's only week five but there is definitely a different feel to Juventus this season, their new stadium and new additions appear to have transformed a side that has been in the doldrums for a few seasons.

Elsewhere Napoli, or perhaps referee Rocchi added to Inter's miserable start to the season. The game had been played at a cracking pace with Inter on top in the early exchanges until Joel Obi was adjudged to have fouled Christian Maggio inside the box. Infact, the foul was committed outside the box and Obi's initial yellow card was extremely harsh. To make matters worse for Inter after Hamsik's penalty was saved Hugo Campagnaro converted the follow up, despite have encourached into the penalty area way before the kick had even been taken. It was a poor night for the referee but Napoli fans won't care and the partenopei came away with three fantastic points after a dominating the second half with some great football.

One city that whose clubs have had a mixed bag of results so far this season is Rome, but both clubs set themselves up for the Rome derby with solid wins, Roma over inform Atalanta and Lazio with a superb away win at Fiorentina who themselves have had a good start to the season. Roma broke down Atalanta with goals from Bojan, Osvaldo and Simplicio while Lazio came from behind in florence thanks to a wonder strike from Hernanes and another crucial winner from German hero Miroslav Klose who hit his third Serie A goal in five games.

Elsewhere, Genoa were mauled in Parma thanks to Seb Giovinco while Novara and Catania played out a wonderful 3-3 draw. Bologna were again beaten by pace setters Udinese while Palermo continued their great start with a 2-0 win over Siena, despite being down to ten men. Cesena picked up their first point against Chievo but will rue a Adrian Mutu penalty miss while Lecce look in deep trouble after another home defeat this time to Cagliari.

Round five review: True leaders yet to reveal themselves

2011-09-25T22:14:00.002+01:00

It has been an intriguing start to the Serie A season and round five has only further added to its intrigue as just five points separate first from 18th in a table so tight that one win would change the scope and ambition, albeit temporarily at this early stage, of any Serie A club. Inter got this round underway and Claudio Ranieri began his tenure in emphatic fashion with a 3-1 win away at Bologna. Gone was the 3-4-3 formation championed by Gianpiero Gasperini and in came a 4-3-1-2 formation which gave Inter a more solid approach to the game and brought the best out of their available players. No Sneijder, no problem as Milito, Lucio and Pazzini all found the net to get their season back on track.

Both Milan and Roma got their seasons back on track with wins, albeit unconvincing in nature. Both clubs scraped to 1-0 victories over Cesena and Parma respectively thanks to Clarence Seedorf and Osvaldo and eased the pressure on their respective managers. Up next for Roma is Atalanta, who would, but for their six point penalty, be top of Serie A right now on ten points after another home win this time against Novara. The win was somewhat controversial in nature after the away side had a goal ruled out late on but that will be of no concern to the Nerazzurri fans who have had a superb start to life in Serie A.

One club that has not had a superb start to their life in Serie A is Siena, but with a 3-0 win against Lecce today they eased concerns over their goal scoring issues and built on a superb away performance at Roma midweek. Joining them on five points is Catania who held Juventus at home in a 1-1 draw. They were unlucky not to win and perhaps would have but for a goalkeeping error in Milos Krasic's drive which leveled the tie just after half time. Catania had a chance to win it at the death but failed to capitalise on a strong breakaway chance. Juventus remain unbeaten, along with Atalanta and Udinese, the latter of which joins them on top of the standings after a 0-0 draw away at Cagliari in Sardinia.

Also drawing 0-0 were Lazio and Palermo who played out a stalemate at the Stadio Olimpico. Both sides had decent chances to take the initiative in this one but in the end could not find away past each others defense. For Lazio with Fiorentina and Roma up next in the league two points dropped here may be looked back with regret in the rounds to come. Napoli also dropped points in the Saturday evening game at home to a strong Fiorentina side while Genoa relinquished their top stop after being reduced to ten men in Chievo and falling to a 2-1 defeat after having initially led.

So another round in the books and although not as entertaining as ones just passed, in terms of goals at least, the table is set up in such a manner that anyone on four points or more will begin to think they could make a run at Europe or in some select cases the Scudetto this season. This tight nature coincides with some huge clashes in the next round with Juve hosting Milan, Inter hosing Napoli and Lazio heading to Florence. It's not make or break yet but each one of these six will be looking to lay down a marker heading into the International break while Roma, Udinese and initial pace setters Genoa will be looking to capitalise on the fall out.

Calcio comment: Topsy turvey table

2011-09-21T22:28:00.000+01:00

It was no surprise to hear this morning that Inter coach Gasperini had been sacked after a hapless start to his managerial career, a start that with just one game to go in round four sees Inter Milan, European Champions in 2010, in the relegation zone. Rumours are abound that Claudio Ranieri will take over and he at least has big club experience from his time at Valencia, Chelsea and Juventus. Whether he will be the answer for Inter's woeful start remains to be seen but things could not continue especially after a horrendous 3-1 defeat to Novara last night.

However, this was not a round for the big guns as Milan, Juve and Napoli all failed to pick up three points which leave Genoa top of Serie A, on goal difference, tonight. Milan and Juve both failed to beat Udinese and Bologna respectively with Juve down to ten men for the last 45 minutes of their match. Napoli did not fare much better either having fell 1-0 in Verona after their heroics against Milan on Sunday night. An unpredictable round it was and no game illustrated this more than Lazio's win in Cesena. Having put in a limp first half performance and trailing at half time Lazio overturned the score through Hernanes and Klose within minutes in the second half.

Two teams flying under the radar, for different reasons are Atalanta and Fiorentina. The viola recored their second win of the campaign with Stefan Jovetic hitting a brace while Atalanta have now wiped out their points penalty, after just three rounds, to put them up to 15th in the table. Not many would have thought that possible at the beginning of the season. Then again, not many would have thought Milan and Inter would be in the bottom half of the table. It looks wide open and unpredictable this campaign and that should just add to the excitement.

Champions League: Milan and Napoli pick up great away draws while Inter disgrace themselves

2011-09-14T22:11:00.002+01:00

Milan and Napoli both emerged from tough encounters with Barcelona and Manchester City respectively with a hard earned away point but Inter's truly woeful start to the season continued as they crashed to a 1-0 defeat to Turkish side Trabzonspor.

Milan were handed a nightmare start to their champions league campaign but despite being subjected to the usual avalanche of Barcelona possession they emerged from the Camp Nou with a 2-2 draw, thanks to an early wonder strike from Pato and a header at the death from Thiago Silva. Despite being out bossed in terms of possession Milan were strong defensively and well organised and with three less complicated fixtures up next will hope to go into their home game against Barca in round five of the Champions League with ten points under their belt. It's early days but they have at least given themselves a chance to top this group and avoid a tougher round in the second round.

Napoli also emerged with a credible point, although it could have been more. City dominated the early proceedings but arguably the best chance fell to Lavezzi in the first half as his curling effort was half an inch away from gracing the back of the net. City, not to be outdone, also hit the bar through Yaya toure but 0-0 at half time it was. After the break Napoli started the stronger and should have gone in front through a Marek Hamsik volley which was cleared of the line, in superb fashion, but Vicent Kompany. City were rocking though and Hamsik again was at the centre of it all. A lightning fast counter attack led by Hamsik broke away and Cavani applied the finish to Hamisk's exquisite through ball. The lead did not last long however as Kolarov fired home from a free kick but replays showed Napoli really should have done better defensively as no attempt was made at jumping by the wall. Still, it ended 1-1 and Napoli will entertain Villareal at the San Paolo in the next round.

That leaves Inter and their crisis depend tonight after a truly woeful defeat at home to Trabzonspor, losing by one goal to nil. Despite creating numerous chances Inter were kept at bay by superb goalkeeper from Zengin and woeful misses in front of goal, especially from Pazzini and Milito who both spurned great chances. They were punished for their complacency and now have it all to do. The only good news was that Lille and CSKAs game ended all square, and that leaves Inter still in serious contention but with their tails between their legs for now.

Round two roundup

2011-09-11T22:22:00.004+01:00

It seems strange to call this round two given that it was in effect opening day but technically speaking this was the second round and it did not disappoint with 35 goals being banged in around the Penisula over just ten games. It is truly great to be back.

Big crowds packed the stands as well despite the strike in week one and this was the case in Turin today when Juve put on a superb display to beat Parma 4-1 in the grand opening of their stadium. A wonderful display from Andrea Pirlo rolled back the years as he ran the game from midfield. The Juventini would have been encouraged by this dominant display and entertained by two especially stunning strikes from Claudio Marchisio and new midfield rock Artur Vidal.

Not to be outdone of course rivals Napoli had the night before put three past Cesena as they won their for the second year in a row. This time however it was Marek Hamsik and not Edison Cavani who was the hero as the midfielder provided the assist for Hugo Campagnaro's goal and then belted one in with a fierce left footed drive himself in the games dying embers. With Milan and Lazio sharing the spoils this put Napoli and Juve ahead of two of their major rivals this season before Fiorentina, Roma and Inter went into action later in the day. Fiorentina did not let the viola fans down putting in a dominant home display to beat Bologna 2-0. Alberto Gilardino headed the Florence outfit in front and Cerci who ended the season red hot began this one in the same manner and put them 2 in front after the break.

Two of the big title contenders were still to come and Roma's tifosi will not be impressed with the manner in which their season has started as they crashed to a 2-1 home defeat to Cagliari. Luis Enrique will be under huge pressure and with Inter up next week they could well enter week three with no points on the board. Inter however could face that prospect as well as they fell 4-3 to Palermo in Sicily tonight in a belter of an encounter. Inter at half time but that has often been a curse on this fixture in recent years and it proved to be the case tonight as Palermo secured the win through two brilliant strikes from Miccoli and Pinilla respectively. Milito and Forlan both hit the net but it was not enough for the Benemata.

Elsewhere Genoa stalled at home to Atalanta while new boys Novara managed to come back twice away at Chievo to secure a precious point. Siena and Catania also shared the spoils while Udinese picked up three massive points in Lecce to begin their season with a vital away win.

Season opener: Milan 2 - 2 Lazio

2011-09-09T22:58:00.001+01:00

The season has finally begun and it was worth the wait as there were goals galore in Milan tonight. Lazio headed to Milan, a place they had not won in Serie A since 1989, saying they would attack and they did just that taking the game to the Rossoneri right from the first kick of the ball. It did not take them long to start creating chances either and a superb assist from Mauri allowed new signing Miroslav Klose to unlock the Milan back door to send Lazio in front. Milan did not no what had hit them as Lazio dictated the play for the first 25 minutes and it only got worse for the Diavolo when Djibril Cisse headed home another Mauri assist to put Lazio 2 goals to the good.

Milan were rocking but were allowed back into the game through a bad defensive play by the Lazio back line which left Ibrahimovic the task of tapping in from one yard out. Now it was Lazio who were rocking and the score was levelled after Antonio Cassano somehow managed to get on the end of a ball which Luciano Zauri should have cleared with ease. It looked a matter of time before Milan took the lead but the Aquile dug in and went in at the break level. After the break Milan started like that finished and it began to look like a back to the wall job for Lazio. Indeed stand in goalkeeper Albano Bizzarri repeatedly kept Boateng, Cassano and Ibrahimovic at bay although was lucky when a Cassano effort came back of the post. Despite this the best chance of the half fell to Lazio's Cisse who after rounding the keeper could not quite convert mainly due to some brilliant defending from Alessandro Nesta.

It finished 2-2 and Lazio will certainly be more pleased than Milan. Inter, Juve Napoli and Roma would have looked on with interest too and perhaps after this Milan don't seem as formidable as pundits have made out this season and an unpredictable season and Scudetto battle is afoot.

Club Focus: Cloud nine for Cesena?

2011-09-06T22:20:00.001+01:00

A year ago Cesena rejoined the Serie A elite for the first time since 1991. It must have felt like a dream, especially with the club having spent time rotting in Serie C1 during the late 90s. Indeed, they were still there in 2009 until back to back promotions saw them arrive in Serie A. Last season was superb really for them. They were always comfortably away from the heat of the relegation battle and in the end finished just seven points away from a position in the top ten.

Quite some achievement you might say, but rather than rest on their laurrels and anticipate the famous second season syndrone the board room at Cesena has been active as well bringing players with quality and experience. Adrian Mutu, Jorge Martinez, Antonio Candreva, former Brescia forward Eder and Abdel Ghezzal have all arrived while key talent Marco Parolo remains despite interest from some of Italy's biggest clubs. Impressive sums up this mercato for Cesena and this has been reflected in their season ticket sales which have exceeded 12,000 already. Not bad for a ground which has a capacity of just under 24,000 and given that their average attendance last season was 16,469 last year it is logical to forsee a significant increase on that figure come the end of the season.

Despite the small capacity however the Stadio Dino Manuzzi will be an intimidating place to come this season with the fans so close to the pitch and if they start well a top ten placing could well be within their grasp come the seasons end.

Club focus: Tough year in store for Palermo

2011-09-04T17:51:00.003+01:00

Most Serie A clubs this Summer have attempted to strengthen their squads. Inter, Milan, Juventus, Napoli, Lazio and Roma have all added significant players to their rosters while Genoa and Fiorentina, both aiming for top six places, have also added players of quality in the shape of Sebastian Frey and Andrea Lazzari whilst also retaining important players as well. Even Udinese, who sold Sanchez, Inler and Zapater can still call on developing talents and established first team players in the shape of Di Natale, Asamoah, Armero and Handanovic. For Palermo however this market has been something of a different story.

The season for Palermo ended on a high last year, even if they lost in the Coppa Italia final to Inter Milan. The final in the Stadio Olimpico represented a magificent moment for the club and their tifosi in pink replica kits vastly outnumbered their Inter rivals, taking over around three quarters of the 72,000 capacity stadium. Enthusiasm was high even in defeat but one wonders whether that is the case now after a quite woeful Summer market. Gone are Javier Pastore, Cesare Bovo, Mattia Cassani, Salvatore Sirigu, Fabio Liverani and Antonio Nocerino. The only transfers of note to come in are Matais Silvestre and Andrea Mantovani. True, this is a squad that still boasts talent in the shape of Josep Illicic, Armin Bacinovic, Ezequiel Munoz, Abel Hernandez and Fabrizio Miccoli but the sale of some of their best players, especially in the back line, is not the actions of a club aimining to keep pace with the rest of the big sides in the division.

Palermo fans will be disappointed and not for the first time given that Cavani and Kjaer both moved on last Summer and now both find themselves in rival Serie A sides, and given the huge income received from the Cavani and Pastore sales questions will be rasied as to why more of it was not invested in the squad. Palermo fans will also be disappointed that they are already out of Europe following a quite pitiful display in the Europa League qualifiers and that their coach has already been fired before a single game has been played in Serie A. The reigns have been handed to Devis Mangia who at just 37 years of age has a massive job on his hands after Delio Rossi declined to take up the hot seat in the Renzo Barbera once again.

Despite this Zamperini will surely expect them to challenge for the Europa League places but with everyone else re-enforcing this will surely be beyond them. A place in the top ten looks like the best they can hope for at this stage and the dream of chasing down a Champions League spot, as they did just two seasons ago, must feel like a dim and distant memory. As for new coach Mangia he had better hope to hit the ground running at home to Inter this coming weekend else the comparisons made to Pep Guardiola by Zamperini himself today will also seem like a dim and distant memory as well.

Serie B: Pescara off to a great start while Nocerina hold on in first Serie B home game for 32 years

2011-08-30T22:28:00.000+01:00

Zdenek Zeman steared Pescara to a second consecutive win to take the Abruzzo based side top of the Serie B table. Pescara fans have a right to be excited right now, not least because Juve man Ciro Immobile fired twice tonight in a 3-2 win over Serie B heavyweights Empoli. With Sampdoria stalling again in Livorno in a 0-0 game, Pescara have steamed away at the top with Sassuolo on six points. It is early day but with Zeman in charge Pescara will certainly be entertaining to watch this season.

Joining them in the win column tonight was Bari winning 1-0 away at Modena while Ascoli were also victorious, chipping away at their six point penalty which they were given at the beginning of the season. Not every team in Serie B played tonight but Nocerina did and they entertained Brescia in a packed Stadio San Francesco D'Assisi in their first Serie B game for 32 years, having been promoted from the Lega Pro last year. This is something of a fairytale for this club and they did not disappoint, taking the lead after Castaldo headed in a deflected shot after 40 minutes. The lead did not last long however as Ignacio fired home a superb low strike from outside the area on the stroke of half time. It finished 1-1 after an entertaining second half with Brescia twice hitting the woodwork. Tomorrow Torino and Hellas Verona are both in action and will be looking to pick up three points against Cittadella and Juve Stabia respectively.

Inter kick start their mercato, at last

2011-08-29T22:57:00.000+01:00

It's taken them some time but much like city rivals Milan last Summer Inter have finally taken substantial action as far as their mercato goes. Diego Forlan and Andrea Poli are set to come in and this may kick start a frantic final few days of the mercato for the Nerazzurri.

With Samuel Eto'o moving to pastures new Diego Forlan is set to take his place. Although older than the Cameroon Lion Forlan represents a quality addition to an already quality forward line with Diego Milito back from injury, Giampaolo Pazzini already in good form after his pre-season exploits and Luc Castingos arriving from Feyenoord ready to learn his trade alongside some of the top forwards in the world.

The loss of Eto'o will still hurt for the Inter Tifosi and perhaps more players are set to arrive given that Forlan is rumoured to cost Inter 'only' five million and that Andrea Poli, the talented young midfielder who broke through at Sampdoria over the last two years, is set to arrive on loan with an option to buy.

Inter have though been heavy spenders over the last decade and beyond and perhaps with Inter having achieved everything now under Moratti's watch the incentive to splash million after million has dried up somewhat and now is the time to reign this in. Time will tell whether this is the case for Inter and the opportunity to sell a player of 30 years of age for almost 30 million euros is not an offer to be sneezed at. Alternatively, perhaps Moratti sees this as the time to freshen up a squad that slumped last year after that treble winning season with fresh faces, eagar to make a run at the Scudetto and Champions League titles once more.

Perhaps whether anyone else of significance arrives or not will indicate whether Inter are looking to halt the big spending of recent years or instead freshen up the squad much like they did last time in the wake of Ibrahimovic being sold. Either way, Interista's should be pleased tonight at least that some intent has at last been shown by their club this Summer.

Pandev off to Naples

2011-08-27T00:42:00.000+01:00

Napoli have captured Goran Pandev on a season long loan as the Partenopei add another quality player to their lineup for the long season that they have ahead of them. Of course as is well known by now this season will not start this weekend due to strike action but Napoli will need the new additions to their squad to hit top gear early considering the challenge that awaits them in repeating last seasons third place heroics and getting out of the group of death that they have fallen into in the Champions League.

Pandev's experience will help with this, after all he eliminated Bayern Munich from the Champions League last season with a superb goal at the Allianz Arena to send Inter through to the quarter finals, and he will provide welcome relief and quality to a forward line that already boasts Cavani and Lavezzi. With Inler and Dzemali arriving as well and Gargano still on board the strength in depth Napoli have has increased, and it needed to if they are to be competitive on all fronts. However, tonight's news should please Napoli fans and Pandev as well. At Inter he was never going to lead their front line but in Naples he will get on the pitch far more often that he would have done at the San Siro. Looks like a win win situation for all concerned then, even the Interista's who should now see Diego Forlan arrive to add weight to their attack, and maybe Palacio as well.

Inter rebuilding as Eto'o on the verge of Russian move

2011-08-22T22:48:00.000+01:00

The more time that passes in the final days of the mercato the more certain it looks that Samuel Eto'o is on the verge of completing a multi million pound move to Russia. All in all this will be disappointing news for Nerazzuri followers as Samu was their best player last season, and by some distance. Having held up the Inter front line while Diego Milito spent most of the season injured and while Wesley Sneijder failed to live up to the high standards so often displayed in his first season Eto'o will be sorely missed. And, despite Zanetti and Cambiasso having come out and stated that Inter are still strong, which they of course are, one wonders whether another quiet mercato at San Siro will cost them again this season.

Let's look at the situation rationally however. Eto'o has perhaps two to three seasons left in him at the top and his sale will earn Inter a reported 100 million in savings on wages and the transfer fee itself. This, in theory at least, should allow Inter to invest some of that in replacing the great man and keeping Wesley Sneijder as well. It all sounds a beat defeatist however while other clubs round Europe splash money like their is no tomorrow. This is however something Inter have been doing for years and lets not forget that this was exactly what they did in January when signing Giampaolo Pazzini and Yugo Nagatomo. Indeed talented signings in the shape of Argentine Alvarez, who has impressed in pre-season, and highly rated Dutch youngster Luc Castaignos have arrived. The latter is regarded as a huge talent, being only 18 and having scored 15 goals in just 30 games for Feyenoord in the Dutch Eredivise last season.

The question is whether players of this immature ilk can fill the shoes of the like of Eto'o for Inter? The obvious answer is no, not right away and while they present a bright future for the Benemata they will be reliant on a fully fit Milito and Pazzini front line to replace the goals that the Cameroon Lion gave them last year. Talk of Diego Forlan is on the horizon and while knocking on in years, in sporting terms at least, he could be the sort of player to fill the void for a year or two until the young talent at Inter are ready to come to the fore.

Calcio Mercato: Who is Mr X?

2011-08-16T22:12:00.000+01:00

Since the beginning of the mercato Milan have been keen to add a midfielder. It's no secret, since Andrea Pirlo has moved on Allegri has been on the look out for someone with a touch of class to fill the void and there is no question that this is needed. Whilst Boateng offers ingenuity and tenacity the rest of the midfield looks like something you would find out of a rough nightclub. That is no disrespect because they are all enforcers. Van Bommel, Gattuso and Ambrosini are all keen to break up play but cannot be relied upon to open up space and create opportunites for the forwards. Enter, therefore, Mr X. But who is he, or does he even exists. Is it all a mirage from Galliani and co or much like last year will they surprise all with a stunning mercato move in it's dying embers?

All of these are just questions but Bastian Schweinsteiger has today been linked with Milan. He is exactly the type of midfield player Milan need. Not only is he highly talented but he has the experience at club and international level to settle in straight away and pull the strings for the Diavolo. How true this rumour is is anyones guess. An alternative is Riccardo Montolivo. The viola player is one whose reputation is growing in stature and his role in Fiorentina's champions league run two seasons ago is to his advantage. Indeed, he is beginning to make the Italy shirt his own as well with a great performance their 2-1 win against Spain last week.

The final candidate would seem to be Alberto Aquiliani who has enjoyed a decent pre season and also made an impact against Spain last week, but one would question whether Allegri can build a midfield around a

player who is frequently injury prone.

With not many weeks left until the window shuts it won't be long until the identity of Mr X is revealed. The real question is whether Milan really know who he is right now. One would hope so if they are aiming to have a genuine crack at the Champions League this season.

Supercoppa Italia: AC Milan 2-1 Inter

2011-08-07T12:49:00.000+01:00

AC Milan started their season in winning form in China with a sweet victory over rivals Inter in the Italian super cup, but for large periods of the game it looked like AC had no answer to their city rivals. Inter were much the better side in the first half as Wesley Sneijder gave them the lead through an excellent free kick after Gennaro Gattuso brought Obi down on the edge of the area. Indeed, Obi and new signing Riccardo Alvarez looked excellent down the left hand side as their tormented Ignazio Abate for much of the first half.

It look hard to see anyway back into this match for Milan at half time. Their midfield looked stagnant as Seedorf, Gattuso and Van Bomel struggled to feed Boateng and Ibrahimovic anything of creative substance. But, half time is where managers earn some of their money and Milan looked a different side after the break. Seedorf especially was superb as he and Robinho were involved in the build up for Ibrahimovic's headed equaliser. Inter were rattled and it showed when Pato was introduced. Abate's long ball fell to the young Brazilian and he forced a great save out of Julio Cesar, but he could not deny Boateng who converted the rebound.

This proved enough for Milan in a packed Birds Nest Stadium in China as they dealt the first blow to their most serious Scudetto challengers this season. However, last time Inter lost in the supercoppa they went on to do the treble so perhaps defeat here will be a good omen for their season.

Inter on the verge of signing Bastos

2011-08-02T22:51:00.000+01:00

Inter Milan look on the verge of signing Lyon's left sided midfielder Michel Bastos. The Brazilian talent has long been linked with a move to Serie A and principally with Juventus but Inter look set to steal the show in an exchange that will see McDonald Mariga go the other way.

Given that Inter look set to adopt a 3-4-3 formation next season Bastos is a player that will go down well in Inter quarters. His explosive pace and finishing ability was key in Lyon's run to the Champions League semi finals two years ago. It's been a slow market for Inter so far but this could kick start proceedings especially given the rumours that Maicon is up for sale to help fund the quest for Carlos Tevez.

In other news Samir Handanovic tied himself to Udinese in a contract until 2016.

Roma sign Stekelenburg as their revolution continues

2011-07-31T23:21:00.000+01:00

Both Juventus and Lazio have arguably been the most active clubs in Serie A this mercato, but Roma are not far behind and are slowly assembling their squad for next season. With Bojan Krkic and Eric Lamela signed up for next season and Gabrielle Heinze added to the case Roma have now turned their attention to their goalkeeping situation, a department which has not been rock solid for them in recent years.

Enter Maarten Stekelenburg, the former Ajax and Holland number one. Widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, especially after his performances for Holland at the world cup last summer, Stekelenburg has joined the Roma revolution. One man out the door seems to be Mirko Vucinic. The highly rated forward looks set to join Juventus in a 15 million euro move this Monday and the merry go round looks set to kick in. If the rumour mill is to be believed this will lead to Fabio Quagliarella moving away from Turin possible to Fiorentina in an exchange with Juan Manual Vargas to fill their void down the left hand side. This could well be an interesting week in the transfer market.

Udinese continue great pre-season

2011-07-26T20:49:00.001+01:00

Many have suggested that Udinese, since parting with Zapater, Inler and Sanchez, are on track to become this seasons Sampdoria. Having qualified for the Champions League last season Doria hit self destruct when parting with their two best players and crashed out of the Serie A top flight in dismal fashion. Udinese were last years Samp when they qualified for the Champions League, but will they be this seasons Samp and go into oblivion after parting with some of their best players from the last campaign?

The answer at the moment would be a resounding no. There is depth to this Udinese team. While Sanchez and Inler may have gone, Asamoah, Benatia, Armero, Handanovic and Di Natale still remain and they have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with after destryoing Bordeaux in France 3-1 and Marseille 2-1 in recent days. Impressive results again two of the three last French Championship winners. Even more impressive when you think that Ligue 1 will kick off much sooner that Serie A. Udinese however have business before then of course in the Champions League preliminary rounds and while many believe that they will struggle to get through that phase they have shown so far in the pre-season that they can take their game to big foreign sides and win. Now they just have to do it when it matters, and recent results will give them the confidence that they can do so.

Big guns yet to fire

2011-07-19T20:09:00.000+01:00

Juve, Lazio and Roma have added quality this mercato already and whilst it is only mid July we have still yet to see either of the Milan giants make any truly significant market moves. Whilst Milan have strengthened from a defensive view point with the signings of Philip Mexes and Taye Taiwo from Marseille and Inter have added highly rated talents Jonathon and Ricky Alvarez, neither of the Milan giants have made the sort of moves that will as of yet send shock waves around the rest of the division and Europe.

Milan tifosi are of course awaiting the arrival of Mr X, a label given to their key mercato target by Allenatore Allegri and Vice President Galliani this summer and most will not doubt that this player is indeed on his way. Milan last summer constructed an excellent mercato whereby they secured Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho and Kevin Prince Boateng in August and most believe a similar situation is on the cards this year. Riccardo Montolivo looks set to join after all but washing his hands with Fiorentina. Interestingly many don't believe him to be Mr X, with Argentina's Javier Pastore and Cesc Fabregas topping the list in that category. The latter may initially seem unlikely but with Barcelona still haggling over the transfer fee for Udinese's Alexis Sanchez one wonders whether they will have the muscle to facilitate two huge transfers this summer.

What about Inter however? Well, they are after all still linked with both Tevez, Pastore and Sanchez but all look distant possibilities at best for the nerazzurri and while many will argue that the core of a quality team still remains and they no longer have Rafa Benitez to undo Mourinho's good work at the club this club needs a big name to rejuvenate a squad that may have become somewhat stale since winning all before them in the 2009-2010 season. Of course they will start this season with Giampaolo Pazzini and Yugo Nagatomo in their ranks but if they do make the anticipated shift to 3-4-3 then surely they will have to acquire someone to play out wide on the right flank of the 3 up front.

It's no surprise then that they have been linked with Genoa's Rodrigo Palacio for that role. Indeed, the Argentine was superb at Genoa this season but it is arguable if he is big club quality and perhaps lacks the top level experience to bring Inter on a notch, which surely has to be their objective in this mercato.

All in all its been a cautious approach from both Milan clubs so far as opposed to both Juventus and Lazio who have added a number of players already. Whether it will end that way however remains to be seen.

Napoli add Inler

2011-07-14T21:36:00.000+01:00

Napoli have had a quiet mercato so far considering they finished 3rd in Serie A last season but the San Paolo crowd will be pleased with the addition of Gokhan Inler to their starting line up at a fee of around 13 million euros. The Swiss midfielder has long been a target for some of Europes biggest clubs and Napoli have secured another coup by adding the former Udinese man to their starting line up.

President De Laurentis has been behind Napoli's metoric rise from Serie C1. The additions of promising talents Lavezzi and Hamsik upon their return to the Italian top flight was seen as a sign of things to come and now Napoli can consider themselves to have one of the strongest lineups in Serie A with the likes of Cavani, Maggio, Gargano and De Sanctis within their line up. Inler adds more in this regard and Napoli fans will remember his 30 yard strike in Udinese's 2-1 win at the San Paolo last season.

This looks likely not to be the end for this Summers market for Napoli fans however, as President De Laurentis promised more signings, principally a forward to add depth to their exciting attack. Goran Pandev and Sergio Floccari have been linked but one wonders if a more high profile name will arrive to bolster their attack in the Champions League.

The so called 'Small clubs' re-enforce.

2011-07-08T23:16:00.001+01:00

With Inter signing Ricky Alvarez, Lazio signing anyone they can get their hands on, Juventus adding Pirlo and Roma on the verge of signing Barcelona's Bojan and Erik Lamela you would think the smaller Serie A clubs are being left in the dust. Not so, it would seem.

Last seasons surprise package Cesena have already added Adrian Mutu, a player proven at International and top club level for their forward line next season. Today returning Serie A side Siena, relegated with a thread bare squad only last summer, seem to have signed Italy international Gaetano D'Agostino. Having not quite taken off in Florence the much hyped midfielder, linked to numerous big clubs last summer round Europe, seems content to rebuild his career at Siena.

For Serie A this is great news as after last years competitive relegation battle, which ultimately saw Sampdoria bite the dust, many teams can't be considered relegation fodder nor certain of Serie A status before the season begins. With this in mind it will be interesting to see how fellow competitors for that precious survival status will respond this summer. Bologna, Lecce, Novara and Atalanta will certainly have to do so.

Lazio on the rise?

2011-07-07T21:05:00.000+01:00

Juventus aside, it's somewhat surprisingly Lazio who have been most active in the market so far in the Serie A. While Inter today completed the signing of the highly talented Ricky Alvarez from Velez Sarsfield, under the noses of English side Arsenal, Lazio look set to wrap up the signing of Djibril Cisse from Panathinaikos.

Cisse has reeked havok in Greece scoring 52 goals in just 60 games. It's an outstanding return and one that won't be replacated in the tough and tactical nature that is Serie A, but his ability to finish will leave many an oppositions defence not exactly relishing the prospect of playing against him.

He is joined at Lazio by German hero Miroslav Klose, whose domestic record in recent years is abysmal. But at Lazio he will be given a new lease of live and is likely to be more of an impact player from the bench, especially in the big games. Irregardless, Klose is player who has performed at the highest level and will be motivated to make the German team at Euro 2012. This makes it an exciting time for Lazio tifosi as they addressing their main problem from last season, which was finding a natural goal scorer up front.

Indeed, it was midfielder Hernanes who toped the scoring charts for them with a splendid 11 goals from midfield while forwards Floccari, Zarate and Kozak brought up the rear with a solid tally of goals. That being said, had Lazio had a Cavani style player, at least in terms of goal output, then they would have been much higher up the table than 5th last season.

However, it looks like Lazio may not be done their either. Fabio Quagliarella has been linked today with the possibility that Mauro Zarate may be moving on, perhaps to Athletico Madrid with Sergio Aguero moving on from their to pastures new. There may be no football at this time of year, but that often does not make it any less interesting.

Juve take up the option on Matri and Quagliarella

2011-06-23T15:58:00.000+01:00

Juventus have begun their mercato in impressive fashion so far, adding Andrea Pirlo to their midfield to give it a sense of gravitas that it perhaps has lacked since Pavel Nedved retired a couple of seasons ago. Pirlo, of course, is a player who has achieved great success both domestically and Internationally in recent years and his experience in the middle of the park will be needed if the old lady are to return from the slumber they have entered into in the last two campaigns. Now they have completed the signings of two players who did manage to impress last season, despite their dire campaign as a whole.

Fabio Quagliarella was having a superb campaign before injury took him out of the Juve lineup. 9 goals in 17 games was a very decent return prior to his horrific injury against Parma, and in many respects that match itself was where the wheels came off for the old lady in a 4-1 home hammering. But, prior to that, Quagliarella had taken to life at a big club like a duck to water and his redemption should be pleasing to that of the Juve tifosi.

The same can be said for Matri as well. Another bright Italian talent Matri had at Cagliari carved out something of a reputation. Indeed in this campaign he had, prior to his move to Juve, hit 11 goals in 22 games. And, in the black and white, he continued this rich vein of form scoring 9 times in 16 games making him have a season total of 20 goals when all was said and done. Again, this is another permanent signing that the Juve tifosi can be pleased with even if their main problems last season was their dismal back line and midfield at times.

The question remains however as to whether Juventus have turned a corner with these permanent signings. Certainly the addition of Ziegler at the back will have added quality, and with Bastos and Aguero still heavily linked Juventus may well be a force to be reckoned with next season in their new arena.

Serie B: Hellas Verona back up into Serie B

2011-06-19T23:55:00.000+01:00

Finally Hellas Verona have something to cheer about. After spending time in the depths of Serie C Hellas Verona, Champions of Italy in 1985, have today secured promotion back into Serie B despite losing 1-0 away at Salernitana. Their 2-0 win in the first leg was more than enough in the end to send the Gialloblu back into the second division. Serie C was however a purgatory that they had been exposed to since 2007 when they were relegated from Serie B after 64 seasons of football in Italy's two highest divisions. And, as if that was bad enough, they have had to endure city rivals Chievo going from strength to strength in Serie A, pretty much confirming themselves as a mid table club. But today belongs to Hellas and one wonders with Novara doing the double jump from Serie C to Serie A whether Hellas can do the same next season.

Calcio mercato: Leonardo set to go as Bielsa steps in?

2011-06-15T22:39:00.000+01:00

After taking the reigns at Inter after the terrible reign of Rafa Benitez Leonardo looks set to jump ship yet again, this time to the cash injected pastures of Paris St Germain. But, for those Inter fans set to reach for the hankies, perhaps you should not bother. Inter's main problem in the most crucial moments of their campaign this season, the Milan derby and Champions League quarter final, was a complete defensive collapse.

Sound familiar? It was the same when he bossed AC Milan, and led them to concede 7 goals over two legs against Manchester United in the Champions League a couple of campaigns ago. The so called 4-2 fantasy simply never stood up when against more organised opposition and completely conflicted with the way Inter won all before them last season, where they adopted a defensively rick solid counter attacking style that was never more so evident when it matter most, against Barcelona in the Champions League and of course in their 10 man win over Milan.

Perhaps a style of this kind, or at least one that presents a more formidable structure for the opposition to break down, will be evident if Marcelo Bielsa takes the hot seat. Whilst his club level experience is limited he achieved great success with Chile at the last world cup, with them falling short in the group stage to eventual winners Spain and being ultimately eliminated by Brazil. His record with them is superb as well, having won 23 out of 42 games managed with just 12 defeats. Certainly a record to be proud of, but club football is a different game altogether, not more so than when at a club like Inter.

Novara up to Serie A as fairy tale return complete

2011-06-12T22:50:00.000+01:00

Italian football loves a success story and for now it has another one to report as Novara, absent from Serie A for 55 years defeated Padova by 2-0 tonight to secure a berth in the top flight. Having only achieved promotion to Serie B last season from Serie C1A the target for them initially would surely have been survival but they led the division for a while in the seasons early going, just falling off the pace of Atalanta and Siena when all was said and done.

But perhaps to an extent this should not come as so much of a surprise. After all last season Novara in the Coppa Italia ran current Italian Champions Milan close at the San Siro, just getting knocked out by 2-1 with a stunning Flamini strike being the difference. What was noticable however was the passion of the Novara fans as the Curva Nord in the San Siro became their domain for the 90 minutes of that match. That will definitely something they will bring to Serie A next season as their fans embark on a success story up and down grounds across the peninsula.

Speaking of success stories another one could be on the cards. Hellas Verona were today victorious in the first leg of the final of the playoffs in Serie C1A beating Salernitana by 2-0. With a second leg still to play the job is not done but Salernitana would need to score 3 times without reply to go through. The Brigate Gialloblu could well be about to end their exile in the pergatory that is Serie C.

Udinese: Great season, perhaps almost too good as their squad looks set to be dismantled

2011-06-06T22:55:00.000+01:00

It was a fantastic season for Udinese. The Northern side, who lets remember lost their first four games of the season, came back into contention and went virtually four months without losing a game to take fourth place, thanks to a better head to head with Lazio when all was said and done. But having achieved so much it now looks as if their squad, certain key members of it, are linked with a move away to pastures new.

In many respects this is not a surprise. When a team with limited financial means excels then their players become a hot commodity. Thats the same for big clubs too, but the difference here is that Udinese firstly cannot match the wage demands that the big clubs will comparably offer and secondly the lure of big money for their stars is in many respects just a lucrative as the prospect of Champions League football.

This is nothing new for Udinese though. Top players have come annd gone before. Oliver Bierhoff and Marcio Amoroso to name a couple. Top players however look set to go again. Alexis Sanchez is in the middle of a bidding war between some of Europes top clubs, while Gokhan Inler again looks set to leave with Napoli and Juve prime contenders. This is not to mention highly talented midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah who may fill the void in the Milan midfield left by Andrea Pirlo.

All ifs and buts of course but after making the Champions League Udinese's fans could be set for something of a come down this summer, and that would be a shame.

Calcio mercato: Conte in at Juve,

2011-05-31T23:00:00.000+01:00

Barely has the ink dried on the current season and already the big Serie A clubs are looking to make moves for the next campaign. Antonio Conte takes the reigns at Juve. It's not a big surprise considering he has been linked to them for some time now, but one questions whether this is the right move for the Old Lady as they attempt to let another inexperienced manager try to take them back to the top again.

To be honest though with no Champions League football on offer it was always going to be difficult to tempt anyone of significant substance into the Juve hotseat. That's not to say Conte won't do a good job, but once again Juve have gambled and this time cannot afford for it to end in disappointment as it has done for the last two years. Conte of course however is a Juve inside out, having played for them for 12 years and captained the great club.

Conte has undoubted passion but didn't exactly inspire when in charge of Atalanta in Serie A last season, with the club being relegated in the end. However, he has led Bari and most recently Siena into Serie A. He's got a huge job on his hands now though and the pressure in Turin will be insurmountable before even a ball is kicked. With a new stadium and most likely a host of new straneri on show come August Conte will be up against it. Still, if he leads them back to the top his status will move even higher in Juve folk law.

Coppa Italia: Inter victorious after valiant effort from Palermo

2011-05-30T11:09:00.000+01:00

A packed Stadio Olimpico, with over 50,000 Palermo fans making the trip, saw Inter claim their 7th Coppa Italia win last night in Rome by 3-1. The score suggests that it was a comfortable affair for Inter but that was anything but the case. Palermo dominated the midfield play putting Inter under significant pressure throughout the match, especially the second half, but were sucker punched twice but classic counter attacking football that saw Samuel Eto'o score his 36th and 37th goals of the season, an incredible tally for the Lion of Cameroon. Palermo gave themselves half a chance with a later goal from Munoz, despite the fact that the corner it came from should never have been awarded. But the game was killed off late on when Munoz received his marching orders and then some superb work down the left wing from Goran Pandev fed Milito the easiest of finishes. Inter have been a team Palermo have struggled against in recent seasons. They've beaten Juve, Inter Milan and Roma on numerous occasions but against the Nerazzurri it has been a different story and that remained the case.

The game looks set to be Fabrizio Miccoli's last game in the Palermo pink and mnay have suggested his next destination will be Lecce. Both he and coach Rossi were in tears after the game and one wonders where they will both be next season.

Calcio Mercato: Juve sign Pirlo and Ziegler

2011-05-26T13:01:00.000+01:00

The 2010-2011 season has only just been laid to rest and already the mercato has kicked off, not that it should surprise any of us. Milan had decided not to offer Andrea Pirlo another contract therefore shedding themselves of one of footballs great play makers over recent years and as a consequence free up some space on their wage bill as well. Somewhat unsurprisingly he heads to Juventus, and having already played for Inter Milan as well he completes, or at least will do when he takes to the pitch, the set of playing for all three of Italy's biggest clubs. Joining him at the old lady will be Sampdoria's Reto Ziegler, the highly rated left back who will be filling a position in the Juve line up that has been somewhat problematic over the last few campaigns.

Both these deals raise interesting consequences as to both any concrete move for Alberto Aquilani and Lyon's Michel Bastos. Of course there is the possibility that he could be played at left wing rather than left back but any tactical analysis of what to expect from Juve next season remains worthless until it is announced as to who will sit on the bench in the new Stadio Delle Alpi. One thing is for sure and that is given the last two abysmal campaigns for the Turin giants at lot more will be expected of them, not least because they have nothing but Serie A to focus on next season.

Heartbreak in Genoa and Sampdoria are relegated to Serie B

2011-05-15T22:25:00.000+01:00

Despite a spirited first half performance, in which Samp had a legitimate goal disallowed, Sampdoria fell 2-1 at home to Palermo and tasted the bitter feeling of being relegated into Serie B. Fabrizio Miccoli put Palermo ahead just before half time after Sampdoria had thrown everything but the kitchen sink at Palermo, but it was to no avail. It didn't take Samp long after the break to draw level however as Jonathon Biabiany headed home after some poor Palermo goal keeping.

Still, in a game which meant everything to Samp and nothing to Palermo it was difficult to to tell which was the team who needed to display some urgency, as Samp ambled around doing little in the second half to give their fans any hope of getting out of this mess. And to make matters worse Lecce were winning at Bari, meaning that Samp had to win simply to keep pace with the Southern outfit. But the fail nail was driven in to Samp's Serie A status when Pinilla fired home with just a few minutes left on the clock to send Samp crashing to defeat.

Despite this the Samp fans kept signing, kept being proud of their club despite the internal problems there have been at Samp this season. They've gone from 4th spot last season to 18th this campaign, and just like Palombo was at the end of the match today their fans will be inconsolable tonight. Come back soon Samp.

Cup final set as Palermo will take on holders Inter

2011-05-11T21:57:00.001+01:00

Palermo made their way to the final in stunning fashion last night with a 2-1 win over Milan and they will have to beat holders Inter to get their hands on their first ever piece of silverware. Whilst their record against AC is great in recent seasons Palermo have struggled against Inter and they would definitely have preferred to take on Roma, who were defeated 2-1 on aggregate tonight by Inter, instead.

Indeed, an exquisite Samuel Eto'o finish gave Inter the lead tonight in the second half before Marco Boriello leveled the tie with a superb header in the games dying embers. Moments before the former Milan and Genoa forward had hit both posts with a strike that beat Julio Cesar as the drama cranked up to maximum. Diego Milito also had a valid penalty claim turned away as Juan took out the Argentine without getting near the ball on the 90 minute mark. In the end it did not matter as Inter went through and will play Palermo in the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday the 29th of May, a week after the domestic season ends.

Serie A: Juve implode once more to virtually end their Champions League dream

2011-05-10T19:14:00.000+01:00

Once again Juve let themselves down against a mid table side, and once again they blew a 2 goal lead to virtually end all hope of them securing 4th spot and a ticket to the Champions League qualifying round. Much like against Catania Juventus were in cruise control, two goals to the good and without any threat of a comeback, or so it seemed. However just as they did against Catania Juve conceded two quick goals to peg them back to 2-2, and after a moment of madness from Gigi Buffon they could have been 3-2 down.

Indeed, nothing went right for Juventus last night as in the games dying embers Giorgio Chielini blew a chance to give Juve back the lead with a header than flew back off the post. One thing is for sure though, and that is that this team has a problem against the divisions lesser sides. Juve after all have, against the best seven Serie A sides, the best head to head record. Winning against Roma and Inter, beating Milan in the San Siro, beating Lazio home and away and hammering Udinese 4-0 in the Friuli.

This form is in stark contrast to dismal defeats away at Lecce, at home to Parma and Bologna respectively. It is a perceived arrogance in their minds, are they not up for the smaller occasion? Perhaps, but this side is simply not the same as the one that dominated Italian football and European football for so long during the 90s and early part of the 00s. Back to back Champions League football finals are now long in the memory, but there is reason to be hopeful .

A new stadium beckons and big investment in the summer is promised, but money has been spent before. What is needed is a top notch manager to see this through. Del Neri can't be blamed for everything at Juve this season but perhaps it is time for a manager with big club experience comes in to take the reigns.

Serie A: Bresica back in Serie B

2011-05-08T22:47:00.001+01:00

It seemed inevitable and after today's defeat at home to Catania, a side who had not even won away on the road this campaign, Brescia were condemned to Serie B having just picked up 31 points so far this season. They join Bari in the Cadetti and as things stand Sampdoria will not be far behind them after their heartbreaking last second derby defeat to Genoa tonight. Lecce moved themselves out of the relegation zone with a stunning win over Napoli while Catania, who sent Brescia down, are now mathematically safe with them being more than six points clear of Sampdoria as things stand.

Parma too are safe. Sampdoria could catch them on points but Parma beat them in both games and therefore have a better head to head. Chievo also are on 42 points but there games with Sampdoria both ended 0-0. However Chievo only have a goal difference of minus 2, while Samp have a minus 13 goal difference. Therefore Chievo are virtually save short of a plethora of goals from Samp in their last two games, something that seems unlikely. With all this in mind it seems as if the final battle for Serie A survival will be between Samp and Lecce, though Cesena and Bologna are not quite safe just yet.

Milan Champions of Italy

2011-05-07T22:32:00.000+01:00

Milan arrived in Rome tonight needing a point and that's exactly what they got as they played out a 0-0 draw in this tight, tense and emotional affair. Milan embodied all their defensive quality in this match up as Abbiati, Nesta and Silva shut down everything Roma had to offer as they themselves almost took the three points with a superb Robinho effort that cannoned off the post just after half time. Ibrahimovic returned, and played his part in holding up the ball and could have had a penalty, perhaps should have had a penalty when Doni brought him down when through on goal. It was not given, but in the end it mattered not as they got what they needed to win their 18th Scudetto, taking them level with Inter who also have been Italian Champions 18 times.

Both Milan giants still sit someway behind Juve's huge 27 title wins, and with their new stadium ready for next season they will also look to get back in on the act as well. But this is Milan, and Allegri's night, and credit must go to the coach for turning them into a defensive rock rather than a porous sponge that was so often the case under Leonardo.Congratulations Milan.

Elsewhere, both Atalanta and Siena returned to Serie A today after securing promotion from Serie B. They'll be lots of wine drunk in Italy tonight.

Round 35 Preview: Can Napoli and Lazio get back on track?

2011-04-28T23:12:00.000+01:00

With the Scudetto almost wrapped up for Milan the attention in Serie A now turns to the battle for fourth place and with this in mind Lazio entertain Juventus in the big game on Monday night. Juventus have had another below par season and are in danger of not even making the Europe League as things stand while Lazio have returned to the side of the table that they should be in, rather than battling relegation. At stake in this encounter, for Lazio at least, is another step into the Champions League qualifying round. But Juve have improved of late and are unbeaten in their last five games and the last time Lazio actually beat Juve in Serie A is as far back as 2003. And with Lazio needing a win here that record will need to be broken or they run the risk of letting Udinese and Roma close in upon that vital fourth place berth.

Elsewhere Napoli will look to bounce back from two straight defeats and not let their good work go to waste this season. They take on an improving Genoa on Saturday night and will look to take three points of Ballardini's men now the pressure of chasing the Scudetto has all but subsided. Three points here could well see them clinch Champions League football next season depending upon Udinese result in Florence on Sunday afternoon.

The battle to avoid relegation is really heating up and Sampdoria have avoided total free fall by beating Bari last week. They take on Brescia at the Marassi this Sunday and for Samp this is a must win game considering the results that went the way of Parma, Cesena and Catania last week. A win for any of those three would move them virtually into safety as any of them would reach the 40 point barrier. For Lecce, also on 35 points with Samp, they need to continue their free scoing form away at Chievo but need to halt the ridiculous amount of goals conceded so far this season. Currently this is a division worst of 60 goals conceded in just 34 games. Food for thought for Gigi Di Canio as he looks to take something away against a dogged Chievo side.

Fiorentina focus: Dunga dreams of Fiorentina, but do the Viola?

2011-04-27T22:19:00.000+01:00

It's no secret that this season has been one of immense disappointment for Fiorentina. After having a fantastic season in Europe last season la viola were expecting much more than a mid table finish this season, but that's what looks set to be the case for them. Yes, they have been without Stefan Jovetic amd the troubled Adrian Mutu for a large portion of the season but Mihajlovic would have been expected to achieve more than he has up to this point. There season has never really got going and from the the word go they have never been in the race for major European berths, all the while they have had a relatively un-congested fixture list.

And now Dunga enters the frey. A former Fiorentina and Brazil legend Dunga was not exactly the most popular Brazilian manager to lead the selecao at a world cup with a more defensive a tactical approach to the usually free flowing style of Brazilian play. The question is however whether he would be the right fit for Fiorentina. There's no question Sinisa Mihajlovic has talent as an allenatore after his display with Catania but where there is more pressure, as there is in Florence, you have to deliver quick or face the axe.

Pressure is something Dunga is used too. Managing Brazil is without question the definition of pressure. It's either win the world cup or simply exit stage left. He ended up taking the latter option but with this in mind for Fiorentina he has the nous to manage big game players and take them up to where they belong, battling for the top European places. And with them not doing this in the season, it is hard to see Mihajlovic lasting in Florence for when the 2011-2012 season kicks off, not least because they only had Serie A to focus on this season. Time for a new approach, perhaps.

Inter focus: Scudetto stranglehold all but over. What next?

2011-04-26T22:37:00.000+01:00

With Milan sitting eight points clear at the top of Serie A it looks almost certain that Inter's domination of the Scudetto is over. Milan will more than likely require just one point after the weekend game against Bologna and even today the preperation for next season seems already underway as rumours suggest Milan have agreed terms with talented left Marseille left back Taye Taiwo. This re-enforces the believe that Allegri is the right coach for Milan. He has taken the same defense and made them, so far, conceded only 23 goals compared to the 39 they did last season. Just imagine what he could do with world class wing backs and a top notch replacement for Nesta. These are the areas Milan are likely to enforce in the summer with Fiorentina's Ricardo Montolivo rumoured to be joining as well. Exciting times them, but what for Inter last years European Champions.

There is no question big changes are needed to a squad that saw no one come in last summer. The biggest change could well be on the bench although this seems unlikely given Moratti providing Leonardo with a welcomed boost in confidence recently. But, surely this summer we will see Inter return to the market and invest some serious cash as they look to re-enforce ahead of next season.

The rumour mill has of course started early but if the rumours are to be believed Leonardo has asked for two major purchases this summer, with one though to be Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez. It's no secret Tevez has wanted out of England for a while and Inter, with all their Argentine stars, could well be odds on to land the star forward. And this is a department they certainly need to invest in. Diego Milito this season has been virtually a spectator thanks to injuries and so much pressure has been put on Samuel Eto'o to deliver. Giampaolo Pazzini has arrived but one questions whether really he can deliver at the very highest level, as Tevez has done in the past. Udinese's Alexis Sanchez has also been heavily linked after a break out season and he could well provide the depth of quality upfront that Inter, without Milito for so long, have been lacking this season.

Midfield is also likely to be invested in as well. First and foremost however Wesley Sneijder must not be sold. Without question he makes Inter tick in the creative department and to part company with him would be a monumental body blow. If they have to sell to make big signinig this summer then Milito and Maicon are arguably the two that should move on, with Inter covered in the wing back positions with the exciting Nagatomo and Davide Santon returning from his loan spell at Cesena. The big rumour in midfield recently has been Arsenal's Cesc Fabragas, but with Barcelona constantly on his trail this deal seems one of pure fantasy.

Still, unlike last summer this one is unlikely to be a quiet one for the Nerazzurri fans out there and that is something to be excited about after such a season of disappointment.

Milan just four points away from title as Napoli fall again

2011-04-25T18:24:00.001+01:00

In a round where Milan were without Ibrahimovic and Pato Cassano and Robinho were put upfront and they did not disappoint. It took a while for Milan to get going in this one and for a significant portion of the second half Brescia looked the more likely to score but a late Robinho winner sealed the win for Milan and also a likely relegation for Brescia this season. It was a huge win for Milan, not least because of Inter's victory over Lazio earlier in the day, and now leaves them requiring just four points from four games to be certain of taking their 18th Scudetto crown. With Bologna, Roma, Cagliari and Udinese to come for the Rossoneri they look odds on to achieve this.

Napoli were prior to this round Milan's closest competitors but they were defeated again, this time in Palermo to see them surpassed in the table by Inter. Edinson Cavani got Napoli of to the perfect start but a rejuvenated Palermo under returning manager Delio Rossi picked up three points for the second round in succession. Napoli now slide down to third place after Inter came from behind at home to Lazio to take three points. Lazio went ahead thanks to a Mauro Zarate penalty which also saw Inter reduced to ten men but the European Champions gritted their teeth as a stunning Sneijder free kick put them back on level terms. Shortly after the break Inter grabbed the winning goal after Giuseppe Biava slipped up allowing Samuel Eto'o to go clean through on goal and he made no mistake in finding the back of the net.

With Lazio losing this provided an opportunity for Udinese, Roma and Juve to close in on fourth spot, but only Roma were able to do this. A Simone Perotta goal gave them a vital win at home over Chievo, but Udinese crashed at home to Parma and Juve blew a two goal lead against Catania to pick up just one point.

The battle for survival looks set to be the closest fought element of the table, and with Sampdoria, Parma and Cesena all picking up vital three points this weekend it is not hard to see why. Bari are now officially down and Brescia remain 5 points away from safety, so it looks likely that only one spot remains left to be filled in the relegation battle. Right now Lecce fill that berth but are level on points with Sampdoria while Cesena, Catania and Parma have moved two to three points clear of them respectively. All have tough games next weekend but the clash between Sampdoria and Brescia will be one to keep an eye on, especially to see whether Samp have finally ended their horrendous run after last weekends win or whether Brescia can keep themselves alive in the race for survival.

Round 34 preview: Titans clash in Milan as the Rossoneri seek to take advantage

2011-04-22T11:57:00.000+01:00

Milan may be without Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alex Pato for a couple of rounds yet in terms of Serie A games at least, but with an away trip to Brescia followed by a home game against Bologna in the next two rounds they will be confident of securing six points and pushing on towards the title. And after Inter and Napoli both slipped up last weekend there is no rest bite for either of these sides as they have difficult fixtures to contend with in round 34.

Inter begin by entertaining and inform Lazio side who themselves are desperate for points what with Udinese breathing down their necks for fourth place as things stand. And after a dismal display away at Parma last weekend Inter will look to bounce back and at the very least secure their position in the top three placing. It won't be easy however as Lazio looked inspired last weekend thanks to a virtuoso display in Catania that saw them destroy the Island side over 90 minutes by four goals to one, thanks to Mauro Zarate, Hernanes and Stefano Mauri having great games. It's been a while since Lazio won in Milan against Inter, a 5-3 barnstormer in 1998 being the last time that Lazio conquoured the San Siro in the league, and that actually includes games against AC as well which demonstrates that it has not been a happy hunting ground for Lazio in recent memory. This will give Inter confidence, not least their strong home form as well. Certainly a game worth watching.

After Napoli's bitter loss last week at home to Udinese, mildly reminiscent of the manner in which Roma bowed out of the Scudetto race last year with a 2-1 home defeat to Sampdoria, they head to Palermo for redemption. However, after an excellent 3-2 win in Rome last Saturday and a midweek draw at Milan in the Coppa Italia Semi Final Palermo will be in confident mood and look to have overcome their post Christmas difficulties. Not an ideal time for Napoli to head their then, but will returning hero Edinson Cavani be able to make the difference against his former club? Stay tuned.

Elsewhere Juve and Roma look to pull themselves back into top four contention with home games against Brescia and Chievo respectively, while relegation bound Sampdoria surely have to stop the rot away at Bari this weekend in a make or break encounter.

Serie A dark horses Udinese are also worth keeping an eye on this weekend as they entertain Parma, fresh from beating European Champions Inter, in order to keep their Champions League dream going.

Napoli and Inter crash as Milan march on

2011-04-17T22:36:00.000+01:00

Napoli fell at home tonight in Naples to all but hand the Scudetto to AC Milan who now, with just five games to go, sit six points clear at the top and have a superior head to head against both Inter and Napoli this campaign. An Udinese side without Di Natale and Sanchez lifted Udinese out of their two game slump to close the gap on fourth placed Lazio to just one point, and with a home game against Parma to come next week Udinese will be confident they can keep up that pressure on the Rome giants.

As far as AC Milan goes while it is not quite time to pop out the Champagne glasses yet Milanista's everywhere will be extatic with the way this round went after Parma comfortably saw of a Inter Milan than look like they've given up on this season since their midweek champions league exit and hammering in the Milan derby.

They'd better not give up just yet however as Udinese and Lazio both recorded superb away wins at Napoli and Catania respectively and closed the gap on Inter to three and four points respectively. And, with Inter and Lazio clashing next week there is still plenty more decisive action to come even if the Scudetto race looks done and dusted especially with Milan's next two games looking like comfortable wins against Brescia and Bologna in the coming rounds.

It was not a good round for Juve and Roma however as they fell behind in the race for fourth place. Juve could only pick up a point in Florence as the two fierce rivals failed to deliver a knock out blow on their opponent while Roma crashed at home to Palermo as former Lazio boss Delio Rossi picked up a famous win against a Roma side that looked very flat disorganised at the back Yesterday afternoon.

In the race for survival Cesena picked up a vital three points against Bari to push Samp into the relegation zone, while Lecce completed and amazing comeback against Cagliari to draw 3-3 at the death and pick up a useful point at home. Chievo all but assured themselves of Serie A football next season with a 1-0 home win against Bologna.

Battle for fourth: Race re-opens

2011-04-13T22:23:00.000+01:00

With this season being the last time, for now at least, that fourth place equals a trip to the Champions League qualifiers in Serie A it's time to look at how the battle for this particular accolade has heated up and who could well be smiling come week 38.

Right now Lazio occupy fourth spot after their 2-0 win over Parma at the weekend, but they have some tough fixtures ahead. With a trip to Catania up next and then a trip to Milan to face Inter the pre-Easter games look tough. And if that was not enough Lazio then entertain Juventus at the Olimpico before heading up to Udine to take on Udinese, usually formidable at home. They then entertain Genoa before ending away at Lecce. These difficult games aside Lazio have been in the top four for most of the season, even leading the league at one stage. They've shown their quality, especially at home, as 12 wins in casa represents the most in the division, joint with Inter. That being said only five away wins is not something to have great confidence in. Having won just once on the road, at Brescia, this year the fact that four of their last six away games are on the road will not fill the Laziale's with great confidence.

City rivals Roma on the other hand have a much easier, on paper, fixture list to contend with. Their next to games are at home to Palermo and Chievo and one would be surprised if six points are not picked up. Then it's onto Bari before entertaining Milan. Catania away next will be a difficult trip before they face Sampdoria on the seasons last day. Milan at home is certainly their stand out game but the other games all represent decent three point bets. They sit four points behind Lazio as things stand but there's no doubt whose got the easier final games. With this in mind Roma look a strong contender for fourth.

What about Udinese I hear you say. Well, up until two weeks ago many tipped them to move about Napoli such was the unstoppable appearance of their good form. But, back to back defeats have put pressure on them to achieve a result in Naples this weekend, something that seems unlikely. This however is the beginning of a difficult phase for them as they still have to play Parma, Fiorentina, Lazio, Chievo and then at home to Milan on the final day. Although they are only 1 point behind Lazio as things stand the combination of a bad run and difficult games ahead makes fourth a difficult target for them.

Somewhat looking in on this battle for fourth is Juventus having pulled themselves back into the race with 10 points from a possible 12 in their last four games. Up next though is a difficult trip to Fiorentina before they entertain Catania. The big clash though comes on May 2nd away at Lazio, where defeat here would all but end their chances. After they play Chievo, Parma and then Napoli. Given their inconsistent form this season, and the fact they are already six points behind Lazio it seems too much for them really to claim this spot. They would probably have to win at least five of their six matches, if not all of them to be in with a strong chance.

So, an entertaining battle ahead and unless Udinese halt their slide it looks set to be a battle between the two Roman clubs. Lazio have the four point edge over their bitter rivals, but one wonders whether that will be enough given the tough road they have to take.

Relegation focus: Samp and Parma edge closer to the drop

2011-04-11T23:16:00.003+01:00

With both Sampdoria and Parma losing again this weekend, and with them having to play the Milan clubs in the next Serie A round it certainly is going to be a tense end to the season for the followers of both these clubs. With two spots remaining for a trip to Serie B next season, if you assume Bari are already as good as down, and both these clubs being leapfrogged by Lecce at the weekend both Parma and Sampdoria, who both finished well within the top ten last season, are in serious danger.

And, there's more than that in common for both these clubs this campaign. Both have parted with their managers after suffering with their inconsistent results. In the case of Samp this is no surprise, internal divisions within the club have hardly helped matters and selling both of your best players has not helped either. For Parma it's a wonder that Marino was not sacked earlier and he again took what was on paper a decent side to the brink of relegation, just as he did last season at Udinese. It's this that points in Parma favour at least to beat the drop. They gave a good account of themselves against Lazio on Sunday even if they did lose 2-0 in the end and against a limping Inter Milan next week they could rally to pick up a point. The attacking talent is there when you examine their squad, the likes of Giovinco, Candreva, Amauri and Bojinov all have quality in the final third, something that is distinctly lacking in the Sampdoria side who look set to rely on Massimo Maccarone to bail them out of trouble.

At this stage it is hard to see Maccarone doing this. Milan are on a roll and should sweep all before them at the San Siro this weekend, and with Cesena entertaining Bari at home the next day Sampdoria could find themselves in the relegation zone come the end of round 33. Brescia of course are in the relegation zone as things stand as well and will probably still be their come week 38 when you consider their next two games are at Genoa and then at home to Milan, but they do face Sampdoria in a six pointer in round 35. That game for Sampdoria, as well as their trip to Bari, will go a long way in defining their season as their other remaining encounters are against Milan, Roma, Genoa and Palermo.

Difficult games indeed, but not as daunting as Parma's end to the season which sees them take on Inter, Udinese, Palermo, Bologna, Juventus and Cagliari. With these fixtures in mind Cesena and Brescia will look on in hope that they can surpass them and at this stage given the difficult nature of Parma and Sampdoria's fixtures certainly gives them half a chance, and given that Cesena have lost just once in their last five encounters makes it, on the basis of form at least, simply a matter of time before they catch both of these Serie A regulars.

Calcio comment: Inter in disarray as Champions League and Serie A titles all but lost

2011-04-07T19:11:00.000+01:00

It's been an incredible week of football in Serie A and in Europe, and just when Inter thought they were back in with a shout at both the Serie A title and the Champions League they have had the rug swept from under their feet on both counts. After the hammering received by AC Milan at the weekend Inter's misery was complete when they hit complete self destruct against German side Schalke 04 last night and are all but out after a 5-2 humiliation on home turf. Inter need to win 4-0 in the second leg, an outcome that looks somewhat unlikely even to the most optimistic interista.

Indeed, Inter have lost their defensive solidarity that they prided themselves so much by just last season. There's no question that mistakes have been made, right down to the hiring of managers that simply could not replace Mourinho and the lack of investment in the Summer that could have freshened up a squad that has won it all.

However, when looking at a club that has done everything over the last five years it's hard to be too harsh, simply because it was always going to be a matter of time as to when the wheels came off, and that is the same for every club in world football and will never change.

Some have suggested in recent days that this marks the end of an era for the current Inter squad and perhaps thats true of some of their players in the current set up. One area that does need freshening up is central midfield and last Summers enquiries for Bastien Schweinsteiger may begin again and Carlos Tevez has been continually linked with the Benemata as well. Their defence also is in need of serious work and the absence of Walter 'the wall' Samuel has been felt especially when it has mattered most.

Who knows what the mercato and the rest of the season holds for Inter, but rest assured that Moratti won't be happy until the Nerazzurri are Kings of Europe once again.

Week 31: Blockbuster weekend

2011-04-01T22:02:00.000+01:00

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.

Azzurri focus: Italy win again as Prandelli builds for the future

2011-03-29T22:56:00.000+01:00

Italy won for the second time in only four days as they continue to put the misery that was the world cup behind them. Having picked up 3 points in Slovenia a friendly with the Ukraine beckoned and despite being ultimately reduced to ten men Italy ran out 2-0 winners in Kiev. A tough place to play for sure, but Italy took the lead through Giuseppe Rossi after a the ball pin balled around the area only to find the Villareal ace wating at the net. He duly converted.

The second half turned sour for Italy when Astori was sent of for kicking a ball away when the whistle has been blown, but Alessandro Matri finished the tie when Sebatian Giovinco's exquisite back heel found it's way into the Juve forwards path and he made no mistake as his shot beat the keeper and rebounded into the net off the post.

Again, it was encouraging to see so many fresh faces in the Azzurri set up, Giovinco especially showed a lot of quality in the final third and is showing Juve exactly what they are missing in that department this season.

Sampdoria: Into the abyss?

2011-03-26T00:06:00.000Z

It's hard to believe in some respects, but not in others. Whats that I hear you say? Well, I'm talking about the dramatic decline of Sampdoria of course, a self inflicted decline. This time last year they were battling, and winning the battle, for fourth spot in Serie A and a place in the Champions League with a world class forward line of Antonio Cassano and Giampaolo Pazzini leading the charge. Right now they are fighting for their lives in Serie A relying on Massimo Maccarone to bring home the goals, having hit the back of the net a shocking seven times so far in 2011.

They are sinking fast and so far this calender year have picked up only eight points in fourteen matches. A quick mathematical calculation works out that this level of form maintained over the course of a season would equate to a shocking 21 points. This shows a club in disarray on the pitch, but it's arguably been the off pitch activity and lack of mercato action that has attibuted to this slide.

The fall out between Cassano and club President Garrone was the beginning of the end for the former Real Madrid players time at Doria. Many thought it was only a matter of time before Cassano burnt his employers and they were right. After this parting of ways it was always going to be difficult to keep Giampaolo Pazzini, but to simply then sell on their best player in January without really obtaining adequate replacements for what was once arguably one of the best forward lines in the division was madness. It's easy to look back in hindsight, but clearly signing just Massimo Maccarone and a clearly underused and inexperience Federico Macheda was never going to cut it. The addition of Jonathan Biabiany was an exciting one, but at the same time not the type of player that would give the same level of goal production of Pazzini and Cassano.

It's not the first time however that Sampdoria have been backward when it comes to transfer action. Upon qualifying for the Champions League last year they didn't make the sort of market moves that would have taken them up a level. Instead they've regressed, and fast. Of course, they are not relegated yet but with Cesena and Lecce demonstrating good form post Christmas it could well be a matter of rounds before they find themselves in the relegation zone. It's certainly not something this great club and their fantastic fans deserves, so one hope they can muster enough points to beat the drop and then start again next season.

Three to fight for the Scudetto, or is it four?

2011-03-23T17:52:00.000Z

With Milan falling at Palermo at the weekend the gap at the top has shrunk, and with Inter also stalling in rounds previous Napoli and incredibly Udinese find themselves within touching distance at the top. What makes this more intriguing is that the Milan derby takes place in the next round. Napoli have a tough fixture to contend with in Lazio arriving at the San Paolo but Udinese find themselves taking on Lecce away. If the Milan derby ended all square Udinese could find themselves within four points come the end of round 31 and given that they are unbeaten since December, that's 13 Serie A rounds ago, they have to be taken very seriously indeed. For a team that lost their first four games to the season, this is simply incredible.

One can't ignore the presence of Napoli at the top either. They themselves sit only three points off the top as things stand and it could be a lot closer than that soon enough. Milan seem to be choking somewhat and Inter will most certainly have one eye on the Champions League. Given that they secured arguably the easiest tie in Schalke 04 they involvement in Europe's top tier competition could have some way to run yet, meaning that the incredible could happen in Serie A this year.

Of course it is still early days in terms of the business end of the season any many favour Inter to go onto claim the title yet again given their post Christmas form. But maybe, just maybe, this season will throw something up that will be talked about for years to come.

Serie A: Ibrahimovic banned for three rounds

2011-03-15T22:20:00.000Z

After a moment of madness of Sunday afternoon when Zlatan resorted to hitting Bari player Marco Rossi at a time when Milan were starring down the barrel at a humiliating defeat. The game ended 1-1, even with Milan reduced to ten men for a large period of the second half, but now AC will have to do with Ibra for the next three games which includes the monumental clash approaching in two rounds time, the Milan derby. Arguably, given his current form, or lack of it, this could be a blessing in disguise as Antonio Cassano now becomes the pivotal figure in the Milan attack. One wonders however what sort of swing this could have in the Scudetto race after both Milan sides dropped points at the weekend.

Bans have also been handed out for Lazio's Stefan Radu, three games, after his Zidane styleheadbutt in the derby and Cristian Ledesma, two games, after unfavourable comments directed at the referee. Again one wonders the effect that missing two key players will have on Lazio's quest for Champions League football next season. With Cesena up next, a game Lazio should win, their loss may not be heavily felt but with a trip to Napoli lying in wait after that difficulties may well be encountered.

Champions League: Inter tame Bayern

2011-03-15T22:01:00.001Z

Inter Milan came from behind in Munich tonight to edge out Bayern Munich when all looked completely lost at half time. Inter started the game in the ascendancy and went ahead through Samuel Eto'o after just four minutes but Julio Cesar continued his bizarre form when virtually gifting the German giants a goal which Gomez took with aplomb. It did not take Bayern long to double their lead, and young star Thomas Muller saw to that when he drove the ball past Julio Cesar from close range.

Inter were rocking and shortly after Ranocchia managed to clear the ball of the line, had he not the tie would surely had been over. Inter however came out after the break in far more energetic fashion and began to stamp their authority on the game. Wesley Sneijder once again showed why he is one of the best players in the world when he hit a screamer from the edge of the area that almost broke the net in Munich. Bayern had a double blow not long after when Robben was taken off. Inter continued to dominate although Bayern threatened on the counter, but just when it looked like the holders were heading out Pandev found some space on the right hand side of the Bayern area and when fed by Eto'o he made no mistake, for once in this game, in finding the back of the net.

A huge win for Inter than and one of pride for Serie A in a year which had been devoid of performances like this from clubs of this league. Inter join Barcelona, Tottenham, Shaktar, Manchester United and Schalke in the next round. Lyon take on Real Madrid and Chelsea meet Copenhagen to decide the final two places.

Calcio comment: Race to the bottom

2011-03-11T18:19:00.000Z

Whilst it looks like a two way fight for the title, it now looks like a seven way battle royal for Serie A survival. Bari are virtually as good as down, already 12 points off Brescia and Lecce's pace and surely even a miracle could not save from the drop to Serie B.

Currently, last years promoted sides sit in the 17th, 18th and 19th spots respectively although out of the three Cesena look the best bet out of the three to survive as theres plenty of creativity in their midfield with Jiminez and Rosina now linking up in midfield, not to mention the attacking intent of Davide Santon. This has been backed up by back to back wins against Chievo and Sampdoria. And while Brescia and Lecce may be favourites to go down come round 38 that by no means is guaranteed given that Catania, Chievo and Sampdoria have been dragged into the mix as well.

Perhaps having Chievo and Catania down there is not much of a surprise, but the decline of Sampdoria is given that they finished 4th last season. In many respects this has been self inflicted as internal conflict with Cassano and then selling Pazzini has now left many scracthing their heads as to where the goals will actually come from, and because of that it is by no means certain that they will be in Serie A next season.

Serie A: Juventus in turmoil as season looms on disaster

2011-03-06T22:22:00.000Z

Juventus 0-1 Milan was the final score from last nights heavyweight Serie A clash as the 27 time Scudetto winners crashed to defeat again in Serie A. After defeating European champions Inter almost a month ago it looked as if Juve had turned a corner, but defeats to Lecce and then Bologna plunged Juve into crisis and a pretty average performance against Milan last night, who were comfortable right from the word go, looks to have all but ended Juve's attempts to qualify for next seasons champions league, especially after Lazio, now in fourth, extended their lead over them to ten points with just ten games to go. And, with a rejuvenated Cesena up next for Juve things may even get worse.

The question now is how long can Del Neri, and his ridgid 4-4-2 tactic, hang on. Marotta has acknowledged that Del Neri is the future of Juve and if that pans out to be true all the Juventini out there can probably look forward to more trophy less seasons to come. One doubts if Del Neri's time of the Juve bench will last much longer however. Injuries have played their part in a disappointing season but strange substitutions, such as not bringing on more offensive options last night in light of needed three points down, will no doubt have infuriated the Juve faithful especially as Milan as well did not look at their most fluid and could have been exposed if put under more offensive pressure. Instead Juve kept things tight without showing any adventure going forward. This is not what chairman Andrea Agnelli would have expected especially given the huge amount of investment in the squad over the last few seasons.

For Juve fans out there it looks as if it will end in disappointment once again this season and the now yearly calls of an overhaul in the summer will be ringing around all mercato web sites come the end of May. To a degree this is merited but there is quailty in this Juve squad especially in midfield. They simply need some new forwards and a world class coach to harness this.

Palermo 0-7 Udinese

2011-03-02T20:23:00.000Z

See just how Palermo crashed at home to an excellent Udinese side.

Serie A: The rise and rise of Udinese

2011-03-02T20:21:00.000Z

Anyone who witnessed Udinese's 7-0 win over Palermo at the weekend won't need any introduction to the 'little Barcelona'. Udinese's incredible rise up the table since they lost their first four games this season has been as remarkable as it has been brilliant. At first it went unnoticed, and to a degree that was to be expected. After all in the seasons early going they were beaten 4-0 by Juventus and looked to be facing the same battle against relegation that they did last season.

But perhaps those that thought that would transpire should have had a little more faith in Francesco Guidolin, the same man that coached Parma to 8th last season, a Parma side that now is battling relegation. Udinese contrarily are only five points away from third place and are now unbeaten since December where Lazio were victorious against them by 3-2 Udinese have since registered seven wins and three draws. They've beaten Inter and Juve, and scored four against Milan in an unbelievable 4-4 draw at San Siro. The only shock was the 0-0 home draw against Brescia last weekend where most thought they'd run up a cricket score. Instead they saved that for Palermo scoring a sublime seven times, three through Di Natale and four through Sanchez.

These two players are taking the plaudits but the squad runs deeper than that. Handanovic in goal is an assured pair of hands at the back while Zapater is continuing to enhance his reputation at the back. Then you have newcomer Pablo Armero who has been a revelation going forward all the while Inler and Asamoah hold court in midfield. Even German Denis has come into his own in a super sub role weighing in with big goals against Milan and Genoa. It most certainly has been a team effort masterminded by Guidolin who has made them a delight to watch going forward. Indeed, nobody has scored more goals than Udinese this season. 49 to be precise in 27 rounds, level with both Inter and Milan. At this rate Lazio will struggle to hang onto fourth spot for much longer as this Udinese juggernaught rolls on with Bari looking set to be the next victim, and with Cagliari and Catania up next this run looks like it will not end yet.

Parallels will of course be made with the great Udinese side of the 1997-98 season which finish third when all was said and done with Oliver Bierhoff topping the scoring charts as well. This time it's Di Natale leading the line but third could well be within their grasp yet.

Round 27: Titans clash at San Siro

2011-02-25T21:02:00.002Z

Round 27 saves its best for Monday night as Napoli, a revelation this season, head to San Siro to attempt to take three points from Milan and join them on a level footing at the top of the table. After exiting Europe last night, despite outplaying Villareal for much of the match, Napoli will be looking to get themselves back on track against a Milan side that has been rocking slightly since the start of the New Year. The recent home defeat to Tottenham will have hurt Milan and given the likes of Napoli and Inter confidence that they can catch them before match day 38. Napoli will have to do without Lavezzi however as he continues to sit out his three match ban.

Before Napoli and Milan face of Inter have a difficult trip away at Sampdoria to contend with, a place where they crashed to a 1-0 defeat last season and another tough test will await them this year at the Marassi. Seeking to take advantage of all of this will be Lazio who head out to Sardinia to play Cagliari, a place which has been a happy hunting ground for them in recent years. However, under Roberto Donadoni Cagliari have registered eight wins and only six defeats, so they will be another tough nut to crack for one of the top four sides.

Outside of the top four Juventus open this round with a home game against Bologna and will look to make up for their horror show against Lecce last week, while Roma also will look to build on their 1-0 win at Bologna in midweek under new Allenatore Vincenzo Montella at home to an under performing Parma side.

The clash of the Sunday afternoon games however looks set to be Palermo's home encounter with Udinese. The Friuli outfit have been in inspired form and their home draw to Brescia was something of a surprise last week and they'll look to make up for it here. For Palermo a defeat could leave them cut adrift of the Europa League positions before heading to play Lazio next week. It's only week 27 but it seems make or break already in some respects.

Serie B focus: Return of Atalanta and Siena?

2011-02-23T11:46:00.000Z

It's getting to the business end of the season. The time where points really do mean prizes, but not just in the top flight. This time last year both Siena and Atalanta were heading out of Serie A. Outdone by the new arrivals from Serie B, Parma and Bari to be precise, Atalanta and Siena were preparing themselves for a year in the Cadetti. It's still to early to say whether they will both return for sure especially given that as of now Siena sit in a playoff position. But Atalanta look strong and with 20,000 roaring them on every other week in Bergamo a return to the top flight looks a distinct posibility.

Unbeaten since a 2-0 home defeat to Livorno in late November last year Atalanta have demonstrated the sort of form that will push them towards an immediate return to Serie A and thats a good thing for the league in general as they are a club that has played 50 seasons in Serie A, more campaigns in the top flight than Udinese, Cagliari and even former league champions Genoa. In this unbeaten period Atalanta have racked up six wins and four draws.

The next few rounds however could have a huge bearing on where they ultimately finish in the table as they clash with fallen giants Torino and surprise package Novara who, after being promoted to Serie B last season, look set to make the double jump to Serie A as well . They currently sit second in the table after having led the league for some time in the early going and clearly are a side to be taken seriously in the race for promotion given that they still, after 27 games, are unbeaten at home.

It may be only week 27 in the Serie B calender, but give the experience of Atalanta and Siena and the sheer determination of Novara who have sat high up the table since the seasons beginnings it would take a brave man to be against these three being the sides that ply their trade in Serie A next season.

Napoli keep up the pressure on Milan as top four break away

2011-02-21T20:49:00.000Z

It proved to be a great round for Serie A's top four as Milan, Napoli, Inter and Lazio all recorded wins while the four below them in Udinese, Juve, Palermo and Roma all failed to win, and it was only Udinese out of those four who actually managed to avoid defeat after drawing 0-0 at home to Brescia, a game they would have expected to win. Juventus would also have expected to win away at Lecce after they beat European Champions Inter Milan the week before, but they fell to pieces at the Via Del Mare. Gigi Buffon was sent off in the early going and Lecce then asserted themselves as the superior time, taking the lead in the first half and then doubling after the break. Lecce have been in excellent form since the New Year swept in and this is a huge result that could well give them a significant edge in the battle against relegation.

Juve were not the only club to fall by the wayside this weekend as Roma completely capitulated away in Genoa, blowing a 3-0 lead to lose 4-3 at the Marassi. Alberto Paoloshi got the winner at it was certainly heard in Rome when Lazio were cruising to a comfortable win over Bari. Hernanes was once again on target with a superb first time volley which was enough in the end to deliver another win for the Rome giants.

1-0 was a familiar score for the big guns and Napoli and Inter followed with 1-0 wins in which they both started well against Catania and Cagliari but in the end both found themselves begging for the final whistle as their heavy fixture lists begin to take their toll. Milan found themselves hanging on as well against Chievo and only found the three points from a wonderful Alex Pato strike. Left out of the midweek European game against Tottenham Pato found himself on the bench again but this time he was able to make the difference and maintain Milan's three point advantage over Napoli.

In the battle for relegation Cesena conceded a late goal away at Parma to have a potential three points for them reduced to one while Sampdoria picked up a valuable point at Fiorentina. Bologna however continued their good form picking up a win over Palermo with a late winner. They sit on 32 points now and seem set to avoid the direct battle for relegation, and this is in spite of their three point deduction for financial irregularities. An amazing achievement for them so far this campaign.

Goodbye Ronaldo

2011-02-14T21:02:00.004Z

It seems hard to believe, for me at least, that Ronaldo, il fenomeno, has retired. Maybe it’ s a sign of getting older but it does not seem that long ago that the Brazilian legend made his debut for Inter, and on it was upstaged by the then virtually unknown Alvaro Recoba who weighed in with two magnificent goals. It didn’t take long however for Ronaldo to make his mark at Inter as an outstanding 25 goals in 32 games in his debut season in Serie A showed, leaving him second behind Oliver Bierhoff in the scoring charts.

Such an output came as no surprise whatsoever and despite his then tender age Ronaldo was, as he has been so often described, a phenomenon, having hit a breathtaking 34 goals in 37 games for Barcelona the season before leading them to the Cup Winners Cup under Bobby Robson’s guidance.

The world was then Ronaldo’s oyster and he almost brought Inter the Scudetto, and but for that infamous match with Juventus and the penalty that was never given he may well have done. It was not a trophy-less season however as Inter went onto win the UEFA cup against Lazio in Paris by three goals to nil with Ronaldo on the mark with a sparkling effort including an array of step over’s that left Lazio keeper Luca Marchegiani rooted to the spot.

This super season led onto the World Cup where Brazil were clear favourites to win. Ronaldo lit up the tournament especially in the last sixteen match against Chile when he was on the mark twice and in the semi-final against Holland where he was on target again. The final however was for Brazil the combination of a total letdown and mystery as Ronaldo was at first left out of the squad and then re-introduced back into it after what was later found out to be a convulsive fit affecting the Inter Milan forward.

His ego may have been slightly bruised after Zidane, and not himself, stole the show in Paris that night but he reverted to his old self in Serie A again hitting 14 goals in 19 games the following season. But, from then at Inter injuries led to him featuring only seven times over the next two seasons before returning, in the 2001-2002 season, to hit 7 goals in 10 games in the World Cup year.

This time Ronaldo did steal the show in the final in Yokohoma scoring twice against Germany to give Brazil their fifth triumph in this glorious competition. However, his Italian venture was, we thought, over as Real Madrid beckoned and the galactico era had begun. Five glorious years at Real followed along with two La Liga titles, his first league titles in any league, and 117 league goals.

But still the elusive Champions League title was absent from his collection. A move to AC Milan took place and ironically they did go onto win the Champions League that season, but Ronaldo could not share in the glory given that he had already represented Real Madrid in the competition that season and was cup tied. His time at Milan was short but he still broke records whilst representing the Diavolo. He became the first to score for both Milan and Inter in a derby, although that has since been equalled by Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

After just 22 games for Milan over two seasons a move back home to Brazil and Corinthians beckoned and that’s where he played out his final days as a footballer. Far from the melting pot that is European football Ronaldo was gone but not forgotten and that will remain the case for years, if not decades, to come. The three times FIFA Player of the year leaves the game having won over millions of fans. Goodbye, and thanks for the countless memories.

Round 25: Juve win derby D'Italia

2011-02-13T22:10:00.001Z

The 182 derby D'Italia in Serie A ended with a Juventus win as Alessandro Matri continued his excellent start to his Juve career nodding home a Fredrick Sorrenson cross. It was the combination of the two talented young players that brought down the European Champions although it was anything but easy, as on more than one occasion Gianluigi Buffon confirmed why he is regarded as the world's best in his position with a number of important stops. There was nothing Buffon could do at the end however when Eto'o was unmarked at the back post, but somehow the Cameroon star cannoned his effort off the cross bar to all but wrap up the Juventus win. This was Juve's 81st win against Inter in Serie A in this prestigious fixture and gives them some lead of the Nerazzurri in that department as Inter sit on just 55 wins in comparison. However what really matters at this moment is where they sit in the table and these three points for Juve move them up to sixth on 41 points with Inter slipping down to fourth on 44 points after being leapfrogged by Lazio after their 2-0 win in Brescia this afternoon.

Inter do however have a game in hand and that will take place this coming Wednesday against Fiorentina in Florence. Inter will not be pleased with their return to form however as their magnificent 4-2 win in Palermo confirmed earlier today. After going behind twice in that fixture Fiorentina dug deep and secured their first away win of the campaign this season thanks to a own goal by Cesare Bovo, whilst a late Ricardo Montolivo finish wrapped up the points late on.

The race for European places really has cranked up a notch now and Udinese again were victorious, this time in Cesena, with Toto Di Natale on target twice as he looks to catch Edinson Cavani in the race for top scorer. Lazio also picked up three points after a comfortable display in Brescia. Without Sergio Floccari and Mauro Zarate Libor Kozak once again stepped up heading home a beautifully weighted Cristian Ledesma corner to wrap up the points in the second half.

In the battle for relegation Bari broke their losing streak but could only manage a draw at home to Genoa while Lecce lost to Catania 3-2 after having led 2-1 up until late on in the fixture as Diego Simeone tasted his first victory as Catania boss. Sampdoria moved themselves away from trouble with a 3-1 win against fellow midtablers Bologna while Cagliari all but secured their place in Serie A for next season with a thumping 4-1 win at home over the often dogged Chievo Verona.

So, another entertaining round comes to a close and its advantage AC Milan and Napoli in the race for Lo Scudetto but despite their defeat tonight a win for Inter in Florence on Wednesday night will bring them right back into it.

Serie A: Napoli confirm that they are the real deal

2011-02-13T00:49:00.000Z

If there was any doubt in your mind, then remove it posthaste. Napoli's commanding win in Rome tonight, their first since their golden age in 1993, has elevated them into title contenders and perhaps even more significantly, given Roma's role in it last season, removed the capital side from it. Once again Edinson Cavani stole the show with a penalty, that definitely went in, and a superb conversion of a Paolo Cannavaro cross in the games dying embers to give the Azzurri three points. Roma never really got into the game and with Gargano and Pazienza dominating the midfield Daniele De Rossi never really dicated the tempo either and this was key when looking back as the lethal partnership that is Boriello and Vucinic hardly troubled the Napoli back line all night long.

With Milan running out 4-0 winners over Parma prior to this match the derby del sud really did seem a cup tie or sorts as to who really in this business phase of the season would push on and mount a challenge to both of the Milan clubs that seem set to duel for the Scuetto. Napoli confirmed their intentions tonight and will face Villareal in another test of their ambitions this season. Winning is paramount if they are to continue to grow as a club and give them the essential boost that they will need when they face AC Milan in two weeks time on February 28th at the San Siro. Perhaps it's too early to call that a Scudetto showdown but those three points could go a long way to determining where the title ends up come May.

Round 24: Inter and Napoli close the gap as Milan and Lazio stall again

2011-02-06T22:28:00.000Z

Is the pressure getting to Milan? After today's 1-1 draw against Genoa and a huge win tonight for Inter over Roma at San Siro it may well be. Milan still sit three points clear of Napoli as things stand after a 1-1 draw in Genoa today but will now have to pick up their form if they are to weather this Inter and Napoli based storm. Alex Pato did set Milan off into what looked like would be a comfortable afternoon in Genoa today but Antonio Floro Flores equalised before half time to level things up and that's exactly how it finished as Milan drew their second game in succession.

At the same time Napoli were adding the finishing touches to another home win at the San Paolo with Edinson Cavani on target with his 18th Serie A goal of the season, whilst midfielder Sosa made it 2-0 against Cesena in the games dying embers. It was the sixth successive home game for Napoli in which they did not concede a goal as they push on towards the Serie A summit. It was not however such a good day for Lazio who could only draw at home to Chievo. An outstanding Hernanes free kick gave the Aquile the lead before half time but a defensive mix up led to Chievo equalising through Bosjan Cesar. Lazio created little afterwards and had to settle for the point. Lazio sit in fourth as things stand but have Udinese and Palermo breathing down their neck only two points behind after they both recorded strong wins against Sampdoria and Lecce respectively.

Inter have also closed the gap after a highly entertaining 5-3 win over Roma tonight. Wesley Sneijder got things going with a stunning striker afte just 3 minutes and was instrumental in most of Inter's attacking play along with Douglas Maicon and Samuel Eto'o, who scored twice as well to bring home the three points. It was not all plain sailing however as Roma produced some superb attacking play, additionally scoring twice after they were reduced to ten men following former Inter player Nicolas Burdisso's dismissal. Inter move up to third and could close the gap at the top to just two points if they win their game in hand against Fiorentina on February 16th. However before that they must travel to play Juventus next week and AC Milan fans will be hoping that Inter drop points in that one.

Elsewhere Bari lost their 7th straight game in Serie A against Brescia 2-0 and they now are 7 points behind 19th placed Cesena and look set for the drop. Bologna however look set to avoid any battle for relegation this year as they now sit on 29 points after a 1-0 home win against Diego Simeone's Catania. Amauri finally found the net after almost a year for new club Parma against Fiorentina, but it finished all square with Gaetano D'Agostino providing Fiorentina with a valuable away point.

Juventus finally got back to winning ways with Alessandro Matri scoring twice against Cagliari in a 3-1 away win, just under a week after he left that very club during the January transfer window. It many ways it seemed inevitable that he would make that sort of impact.

Round 23: Inter the big winners as everyone else stalls

2011-02-03T22:40:00.000Z

Inter rolled out 3-0 winners in Bari tonight, although as strange as it is to suggest after a 3-0 win it was far from convincing. It took a tactical change and the introduction of Wes Sneijder to inspire Inter towards their first goal from Houssine Kharja after a smart one two with Eto'o, while Pazzini added to the total in injury time before Sneijder himself got on the scoresheet, hit first Serie A goal this season. It was three points for Inter, and two more than arch rivals AC Milan achieved against Lazio on Tuesday night in a top of the table clash. Lazio arrived at the San Siro in highly organised fashion and gave Milan virtually nothing for 90 minutes, although the ten minutes after half time were highly uncomfortable for the Rome outfit and they just avoid defeat after Zlatan Ibrahimovic's superb strike cannoned off both posts. Milan still sit seven points clear of Inter, but the nerazzurri have a crucial game in hand away at Fiorentina where they will have the chance to close the gap.

As both Milan and Lazio dropped points, so did Roma and Napoli. Roma could surprisingly only manage a draw at home to lowly Brescia while Napoli fell to pieces in Verona, going down 2-0 to Chievo. If it was bad for them, then it was worse for Juve as there season descended into free fall after another defeat, this time against the excellent Palermo and Javier Pastore who played a crucial role in locking the Juve back line.

Elsewhere Sinisa Mihajlovic may have just saved his job with a 1-0 win over Genoa thanks to a Mario Santana goal, while Udinese were halted at home by Bologna with Marco Di Vaio on target for the away side again. Lecce also racked up an impressive win to continue their unbeaten start to 2011 with a 1-0 win at Parma at the death. Finally, Cesena picked up another valuable point at home to Catania.

Mihajlovic standing on his last legs

2011-01-31T21:56:00.000Z

Last season for the viola was something of an up and down one. Up in the sense of the wonderful Champions League campaign which should have seen then edge past Bayern Munich, but for woeful officiating, and up in the sense of superb wins in Europe’s premier competition against Lyon and home and away against five time winners Liverpool. However, their domestic form suffered to balance out the ‘down’ side of this equation. A final placing of 11th was an anti-climax given their heroics in Europe, but many a viola fan would have understood the sheer effort expanded to achieve that success was always going to leave them overstretched on the domestic front and in that sense it was worth the sacrifice.

There were of course more positives for Fiorentina. The emergence of Stefan Jovetic as a player who could make the difference against elite European sides added icing to what was already a pretty sweet cake of a season. They have certainly missed his presence this season, and as they continue to tread water, in 13th place, one wonders how much time coach Sinisa Mihajlovic has at the helm and how long Fiorentina have left to save anything from this season. Right now it seems as if survival is the only objective left and that will not please the residents of the Curva Fiesole who before this campaign had begun would have legitimately expected their side to at least battle for a top four spot in the bella campionato del mondo. Strength and creativity in the form of Gaetano D’Agostino had been added to an already strong side with the likes of Vargas, Montolivo and Gilardino still wearing purple and without the distraction of European action there was a solid foundation for a another special season in Tuscany.

However, these factors have made no difference as their season still has yet to take of with only six victories registered up to this point, and defeat on the road to Lazio this weekend maintained their record of not having won a game away from home this season. Injuries have played their part but one wonders how much the Adrian Mutu saga has impacted upon the club dressing room as again he has been the centre of controversy this season. However, time is definitely running out for manager Sinisa Mihajlovic and unless points are obtained against fellow struggler’s Genoa and Parma directions to the exit door will be looming.

Giornata 22: Milan face tough test

2011-01-29T00:47:00.000Z

Milan, the Serie A leaders, face a tough test to maintain their Serie A lead in the face of an away trip to Diego Simeone's Catania. Last season two late Klass Jan Huntelaar goals won the tie, but this year Milan have far more options up front with Cassano, Ibrahimovic, Pato and Robinho to choose from. This is three points Milan simply cannot afford to drop given that Napoli and Roma are breathing down their necks, and Inter, fresh with Giampaolo Pazzini up front could be chasing hard soon enough. Still, if Milan do win in Catania on Saturday night then the pressure will be piled on Inter in their clash with Palermo on Sunday afternoon and Javier Pastore takes to the San Siro turf once again. However, after their gritty win midweek against Napoli in the Coppa Italia Inter may well be galvanised to see off the talented Palermo side.

One side in great shape is Napoli and they face Sampdoria on Sunday afternoon, without their former son's Pazzini and Cassano. Three points looks likely for the home side here, but another home side in Lazio may struggle against Fiorentina. The wheels have come off the Rome giants season for now after a 3-1 humbling at Bologna last week but the prospect of the viola at home will be an even tougher encounter. Roma face a similar trek to Bologna this week, and with the hosts in inspired form it promises to be a tough encounter for il Lupi.

Finally, Juventus will look to re-ignite their season against Udinese. The problem is the away side are in fantastic form after destroying Inter Milan last week and will fancy their chances in Turin this weekend.

Calcio Mercato: Milan go dutch while Inter look towards Pazzini swoop

2011-01-26T21:50:00.001Z

Not content with being top and not content with already adding Zlatan, Robinho, Boateng and Cassano Milan have deepend their squad with the signings of Bayern Munich midfielder Marc Van Bommel and Ajax wingback Urby Emanuelson who should help cover Luca Antonini, especially in light of his error prone display at home to Cesena on Sunday evening. This is good news for Milan fans as they have added quality to areas other than their forward line for a change, and it does not stop there it seems as Milan look set to pursue Chelsea defender Alex before the window shuts. Some seem surprised by Milan's activity on the market, but the truth is their wage bill has shrunk since Ronaldinho left and with consistent Champions league qualification and the shirt deal with Emirates yielding significant income Milan have money to spend even when club patron Silvio Berlusconi seems to have been tight with the wallet since their Champions League win in 2007. Both new signings debuted tonight as Milan made their way into the Coppa Italia semi-finals, where they will meet Palermo.

Not to be outdone, it seems Inter are looking for a forward to back up Milito, who seems to be constantly injured this campaign, and the big name heavily linked at the moment is Giampaolo Pazzini. This has the feel of a deal which could still go either way but with Inter offering talented forward Jonathan Biabiany in with the deal Samp would not be loosing out in terms of personnel. They would however be loosing a hugely talented forward but given the departure of Cassano that has since seemed inevitable. Luis Fabiano has also been linked to Inter, but they may have competition in the sense of bitter rivals Juventus.

Calcio News: Diego Simeone takes over the reins at Catania

2011-01-20T22:07:00.000Z

Diego Simeone, the former Inter Milan, Athletico Madrid and Lazio legend has taken his first management position in European football as head coach at Catania, succeeding Marco Giampaolo as boss of the Massimino as the Etnei parted company with the former Siena manager. Initially the replacement of a manager for a club that perhaps most would favour to battle relegation for the season may come as somewhat of a surprise. After all, Catania are joint 14th in the table and 3 points away from 11th place and don't necessarily look like being in any significant danger, especially compared to last season where prior to the Christmas break they were rock bottom of the division until Sinisa Mihajlovic took over and on his second game in charge of the club mastered a stunning 2-1 win in Turin against Juventus.

Still, perhaps this is a sign of progression from their clubs point of view. Not content with simply battling it out in the depths of the division Catania are looking to progress up to at least midtable now that they can consider themselves an established club in this division as they have been in it since the 2006-2007 season and much like Udinese they are beginning to get into the habit of buying for cheep and selling for significant profit, as testified by the sale of Jorge Martinez to Juventus in the summer and Juan Manuel Vargas to Fiorentina a couple of seasons ago.

That is testament to their scouting system with seems to scour South America, Argentina specifically, in search of new talent. Indeed, the clubs has a huge number of Argentines already on their roster and that will add to the attraction of the job for the Argentine hard man. Similar presence to Sinisa Mihajlovic Simeone will provide a fearsome figure from the Sicilian touchline that will inspire a mixture of fear and fire in the Catania players, perhaps something that has been mising this season since Mihajlovic headed up to Florence.

There is however significance substance behind Simeone however. With two titles to his name, the Argentine Apertura with Estudiantes in 2006 and the Clausura with River Plate in 2008 Simeone has already shown that he knows how to win. Now he needs to demonstrate that the Massimino faithful, and in my view it is simply a matter of time before he does that and moves onto coach a major European club. Athletic Madrid is known to be on his radar, but what price he manages Lazio or even Inter Milan one day too. Watch this space.

Round 20: Milan stall again as Lazio, Juve and Inter begin to catch up

2011-01-17T21:33:00.000Z

Another dramatic round of action concluded in, well, dramatic fashion last night as Lecce managed to pull of an improbable point at the hands of league leaders Milan. After Zlatan Ibrahimovic opened the scoring with a contender for goal of the season, it looked as if Milan would steamroll on for a comfortable victory after somewhat of an unconvincing first half. However, the seven times European Champions could not shake the pressure that Lecce put them under in the latter stages and yielded to a well taken Olivera strike in the 82nd minute. Milan responded with Zlatan going close twice in the latter stages, but not close enough. A disappointing point for Milan and they will look to take six points from their next two games against Cesena and then Catania.

With Milan dropping points most of Calcio's powerhouses are queuing up for a taste of the top spot now, and Lazio closed to within four points after defeating Sampdoria at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday afternoon. In a game of few chances it looked set to finish a drab 0-0, but a superb delivery from Cristian Ledesma found its way onto the head of the young Libor Kozak who again weighed in with an important contribution from the bench. Inter additionally continued their winning ways this time in emphatic fashion against Bologna. Samuel Eto'o was once again in inspired form and scored two wonderful goals, the latter a stunning free kick. Diego Milito and Dejan Stankovic supplied the other two goals. Napoli however could not find a winner against a well drilled Fiorentina outfit. Disappointing in the first half the vesuviani picked up the pace after the break but could not find away through as they have done so many times this season in the latter phases of games.

One side returning to wining ways however was Juventus, although only thanks to a late Aquilani volley while Roma left it late in Cesena as well having secured the three points through an own goal in the 89th minute. They were joined in the victory catergory once again by Udinese who are in fine form at the moment. As usual there were fireworks when the Friuliani outfit took to the pitch and Antonio Di Natale, Alexi Sanchez and German Denis were all on target for the second game running. The fact that they are now only one point behind Palermo is all the more amazing given that they lost their first four games of the season.

Elsewhere Palermo fell 3-1 at Cagliari as Roberto Donadoni's men continue to impress after his arrival while Brescia showed that's there is fight in them yet as they beat a downbeat Parma 2-0. Finally, Catania and Chievo picked up an important point each as they look to move towards salvation.

Napoli stall at a packed San Paolo

2011-01-15T22:58:00.002Z

After their emphatic win against Juventus last Sunday night many a Napoli fan would have been well within their rights to have expected them to roll over a somewhat disappointing Fiorentina side come Saturday afternoon, but it was not to be after a disheartening 0-0 stalemate.

In a game where direct chances were few and far between Napoli fans will be left wondering whether they really can challenge at the very highest echelon of the league or whether they have simply gone as far as they can go this season and are in reality one step removed from both AC Milan and Inter. For this is a game where surely both of those sides would have found a way to win even in the most difficult of circumstances. It's not all doom and gloom for Napoli however.

Napoli did minus Marek Hamsik, in the second half especially, dominate play and forced a well organised Fiorentina side onto the back foot for large parts of it who to their credit defended resolutely and with be happy with their golden point, as so described by Lorenzo De Silvestri.

For Napoli the prospect of well drilled and organised sides perfectly happy in the long run to come to Naples and shut up shop is something they will have to get used to. As Walter Mazzari commented after the match teams are afraid to come to the San Paolo and given the demolition job inflicted on Juventus I for one will not disagree with him.

Round 20 preview: Half way house

2011-01-14T21:50:00.000Z

It's hard to believe that we are half way through another Serie A season once again, but we are and this round sees a host of top fixtures that entertained us day one of the bella campionato del mondo. Up first sees a great encounter, Napoli v Fiorentina at the San Paolo. Excitement is cranked up to ten in Naples at the moment following their demolition job on Juventus and the viola won't be looking forward to stepping into this caldron. However, that was arguably their feeling last year and they ran out 3-1 victors. In addition to that this Fiorentina is packed with quality despite their poor start to the season. In other words this is a potential banana skin for the Azzurri. If they do win they'll be one point off the top, although not many will expect that to last given that Milan head down South to Lecce. However, given Lecce's win in the Stadio Olimpico against Lazio last week the home side will be encouraged to complete an impressive double to begin the New Year.

One team bringing up the rear at the moment is Inter and they will expect to win at home to Bologna on Saturday night. Bologna have been impressively solid this season and would sit in 10th place had it not been for their 3 point deduction for financial irregularities. They held Inter in week one and would do well to do so again. Roma were also held in week one but unlike Inter they must venture out of their home turf in this round to Cesena. Cesena have picked up seven points in their last three matches to move them up to 17th place in the table and news of a possible link with Adrian Mutu may well galvanise them to go onto survive this season. Roma however will be looking to make up for the three points they literally threw away at Sampdoria last week. Juventus will also be looking to make up for lost time and they host rock bottom Bari at home. After recording a solid win against Catania in the Coppa Italia midweek and with the return of Gigi Buffon. Anything but a win here for the old lady surely removes them from the title race and begins parallels with last seasons fall from grace. Lazio may well fall into that category too if they fail to beat Sampdoria at the Olimpico on Sunday afternoon. Sampdoria are missing their central defensive pairing of Gasteldello and Lucchini while Lazio are without Matuzalem and Tomasso Rocchi.

Elsewhere, Genoa host an inform Udinese with Di Natale and Sanchez currently on fire, while Brescia host Parma as they look to dig themselves out of their hole. Finally Cagliari host Palermo in the battle of the Islands. The latter will look to win after a draw in Chievo to really launch their season which is simmering bellow the main challengers at the moment. Still, Palermo are unbeaten in the league since their 1-0 loss to Napoli in early December and are once again making themselves a top six calibre side.

Calcio video: Milan 4-4 Udinese

2011-01-12T23:02:00.000Z

It's not every day you get a 4-4 draw. It's not every day an away team is able to score 4 at the San Siro. Check at all the action from this epic encounter.

Round 19: Topsy turvey round

2011-01-11T22:50:00.000Z

In what turned out to be a strange round some degree of normality resumed itself at the end of play when you consider that it was another good week for both Milan clubs. Inter were victorious in Catania, unlike last season under Mourinho, thanks to a Cambiasso brace and much like against Napoli it was the midfield that delivered the goals for Leonardo. Indeed, it was Cambiasso's third goal in just two games. For AC Milan their game went from the ridiculous to the sublime from their viewpoint, coming back from a 3-1 deficit at home to Udinese to eventually tie 4-4. Udinese have been in excellent form since a torrid start to the season and looked set to complete a remarkable win at San Siro having taken the lead when eventually pegged back to 3-3 to make it 3-4 thanks to German Denis late on. But Zlatan Ibrahimovic hit his tenth Serie A goal of the season deep into injury time to give the rossoneri a point. It was certainly a game where the stars shone the brightest, with Di Natale and Pato netting a brace a piece and Ibrahimovic and the excellent Sanchez on target as well. A point was probably not the desired result but other games went their way. Roma collapsed after looking dominant against Sampdoria thanks to two Juan errors, while Lazio were embarrassed at home to Lecce in a lacklustre and somewhat downbeat performance which did little to please the home tifosi. Napoli however did register a win, the only side in the top six to do so, thanks to a wonderful Cavani hatrick against Juventus to hand them their second hammering in two matches. There title chances hang by a thread.

Elsewhere, Fiorentina came from two goals down against Brescia to win late on while Bologna and Cagliari registered impressive away wins and Bari and Parma respectively. Chievo and Palermo drew 0-0 in a stalemate in Verona while Genoa did the same in Cesena. So at the half way point Milan sit four points ahead in first place while Napoli remain the closest to them. Lazio sit third on 34 but Inter could leapfrog them into that berth if they win both of their two games in hand.

Calcio mercato: Desperate old lady seeks older man

2011-01-08T21:38:00.000Z

No, don't be mistaken this is not a dating advert for me to you lot out there. It's a reaction to Juve's mercato so far and their signing of Luca Toni. For a club that has invested heavily in their midfield over the last two summer mercato's its rather strange that they have yet to actively add a true world class forward to their attack. Quagliarella is without question the closest forward they have in that regard but with his serious injury ruling him out potentially for the rest of the season Juve fans have been left with a totally out of form Amauri, an injured Iaquinta and an ageing Del Piero who despite his undoubted quality cannot be expected to carry Juve to the Scudetto on his own. Now the Juventini have the prospect of watching Luca Toni upfront, potentially tommorow night against Napoli and that probably won't fill them with confidence especially in light of their 4-1 drubbing against Parma. How they would love to get their hands on just one of Napoli's upfront pairing of Cavani and Lavezzi.

Now, don't get me wrong. Luca Toni has had a decent career and one that blossomed late at that. After becoming somewhat of a journey man through the Peninsula going through clubs in 'Christian Vieri fashion' at Modena, Empoli, Bresica and Vicenza amongst other's Toni finally came to prominance at Palermo before moving onto Florence where he amassed an amazing 31 goals in 38 games for the Viola. A move to Bayern in 2007 came to pass and he enjoyed great success there topping the scoring charts in his first season in Bavaria. But, things have gone down hill since then and after falling out with Louis Van Gaal and failing to impress significantly at both Roma and Genoa one wonders why Juve, in a potentially defining moment of their season, have turned to a player who since his return to Italy has only hit the back of the net 8 times. Considering Milan picked up Cassano, Ibrahimovic and Robinho for their forward line for this season the difference does seem to look at the moment as significant. The upshot is that Juve will probably need to do more this mercato if they aspire to the title.

Round 18 review: Milan stretch ahead

2011-01-07T22:04:00.000Z

They left it late but some inspiration from Antonio Cassano and Rodney Strasser, of all Milan players, gave Milan three vital points in Cagliari despite being somewhat depleted. No Nesta, no Ibrahimovic, no Zambrotta and no Boateng illustraited Milan's growing sense of depth that their squad has as Cassano, Robinho and Pato filled the void upfront instead. It's certainly exciting times for Milan as their initial three point lead at the beginning of play on Thursday afternoon was extended to five by the 90 minute mark what with Lazio managing just a 0-0 draw against Genoa, breaking their run of three wins in a row against Genoa at the Marassi. After dominating the first half Lazio were subjected to a barrage of pressure from the Grifoni who spurned many guilt edged chances, with Luca Toni missing a free header. However as usual Lazio keeper Fernando Muslera was on top form making a number of world class stops.

This was not the best time for Lazio's winning streak to come to an end at the Marassi but for Milan it was an added bonus to what had already turned out to be a good day for them. What am I talking about? Juve of course and there debacle at home to Parma which resulted in a 4-1 defeat after the old lady were reduced to ten men after just 17 minutes. Felipe Melo saw red for kicking Massimo Paci in the face while on the ground. It was a disgraceful incident from a player who has quite a habit of disgracing himself on the pitch in recent seasons. This, of course, came after the injury to Fabio Quagliarella. Things only got worse for Juve as a disallowed goal, Giovinco brace, Crespo penalty and a Palladino injury time goal subjected Juve to a 4-1 massacre. It must have been sweet however for Giovinco to return and haunt his parent club who have shown little faith in him.

With Lazio and Juve both dropping points it was turning into the dream start to 2011 for Milan. However, Roma and Inter had something to say about that. The Lupi recorded a solid 4-2 win over Catania with a brace from Marco Boriello and Mirko Vucinic apiece while Inter, under new manager Leonardo, recorded an excellent 3-1 win over in form Napoli with Thiago Motta scoring an superb double, and with two games in hand over their fellow title contenders Inter could well find themselves back in contention in no time at all. However, a tricky trip to Catania awaits them on Sunday and they will be looking to overturn a 3-1 hammering that they receieved on their last visit there.

Elsewhere fans were ultimately allowed into watch Lecce v Bari but many would have left disappointed as the home side fell to a 1-0 defeat in what was Bari's first win since September. Joining Bari in the win category were Cesena with Luis Jimenez again on the mark in a huge 6 pointer against Brescia while Udinese again showed themselves to be rock solid at home. Unbeaten since Juventus routed the Friuli 4-0 in mid september Udinese, despite being down to ten men for over an hour, ran out 2-0 winners against Chievo thanks to goals from rising star Alexi Sanchez and club icon Antonio Di Natale. Finally, Palermo continued their fine season with a 3-0 demolition job on Sampdoria. Fabrizio Miccoli got the rout started before Migliaccio and Maccarone completed the job late on. It represented a fine win for Palermo over an inconsitent and now Cassanoless Sampdoria and now the Sicilian outfit

Round 18 preview: Inter the breach

2011-01-05T21:32:00.000Z

Napoli face Inter at the San Siro in the showpiece game of tomorrows midweek round and this time start the game well ahead in league points of their northern rivals. There's no doubt that this season so far has been one of disappointment for Inter but for Napoli, currently 10 points ahead of the Nerazzurri, its been one of consistently getting the job done. Of late they have squeezed out two one nil wins in the league against Genoa and Lecce respectively but some would say that is the mark of Championship sides, winning when not playing their best football. That being said for Napoli this represents a massive test of their credentials. Whilst they are in second right now, along with Lazio, is fair to say that few really consider either of this sides eventual Scudetto winners. But a win for Napoli away at Inter would put a spanner into that notion. However, with Leonardo taking the reins at Inter the nerazzurri may well get that new manager boost and end the night with three points. It will certainly be exciting to watch.

Elsewhere Roberto Donadoni comes face to face with his old friend AC Milan as Cagliari play host tomorrow afternoon. There's no Zlatan Ibrahimovic but Alex Pato returns to partner Robinho upfront and its fair to say the Cagliari defence won't be sleeping easy tonight. Neither will Parma's as they travel to Turin to take on Juventus, who sitting fourth at the moment could well climb to second until the evening game. Sitting in third as things stand is Lazio and they will look to add another three points on the road in Genoa tomorrow afternoon. Genoa away has been a fruitful occasion for Lazio since the grifoni returned to Serie A with the Aquile winning three out of three visits there. Many fancy them to make it four.

Amongst the other round highlights Palermo entertain Sampdoria at home in a rematch of last years fourth and fifth place battle while Roma will look to build on their away win at Milan before the winter break when they take on Catania.

Calcio Mercato: Inter add Ranocchia as they look to the future, but they should be more concerned with the present

2011-01-04T21:41:00.001Z

Andrea Ranocchia has joined the ranks of Inter Milan for a cool 12.5 million Euro's as the Genoa connection once again fed the San Siro with another talent. This time however it is an investment for the future as the 22 year old Ranocchia links up with fellow future prospects Santon, Biabiany and Coutinho at San Siro to learn their trade alongside their more senior counterparts. There is no question about the wealth and quality that Inter have at their disposal but if anything has been shown from this season so far with regards to Inter it is that it is not as deep as perhaps it was perceived to be. Their injury crisis has been a huge factor to the downturn in their performances this season. Missing Diego Milito and his vat of goals has been problem number one, whilst the long term absence of Estaban Cambiasso and Thiago Motta has no doubt weakened Inter's strength. This confirmed may peoples opinions that the European Champions not only stood still in the summer, but let the rest of Europe catch up.

All is certainly not lost though. They have two very winnable games in hand against Cesena and Fiorentina and avoided more difficult paths in the Champions League, although Bayern represent a tough test. However, there's always the danger that a lesson has not been learned and whilst Ranocchia represents an excellent signing they, in my opinion at least, require more firepower upfront to help Eto'o whose been keeping Inter afloat in that department so far. With that in mind Alexis Sanchex of Udinese has been heavily linked to Leonardo's black and blues in recent days and his creativity, speed and close control ability could add an unpredictable nature to Inter's attack and aide Eto'o and Milito as the season cranks up to the business end. Watch this space.

Lecce v Bari to be played behind closed doors: Ridiculous

2010-12-30T14:01:00.000Z

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.

Calcio mercato: Last chance saloon for Cassano?

2010-12-29T11:45:00.000Z

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.

Serie B: Novara set to make the double jump

2010-12-28T12:18:00.000Z

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.

All Things Calcio Half term 'Team of the Season'

2010-12-26T18:07:00.001Z

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

2010-12-26T17:31:00.000Z

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

Serie A half term report: Benitez expelled

2010-12-23T21:44:00.000Z

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.

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

2010-12-20T22:52:00.000Z

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

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

2010-12-20T22:37:00.000Z

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.

Calcio comment: Italian clubs avoid bigger tests

2010-12-19T16:55:00.000Z

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.

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

2010-12-12T00:28:00.002Z

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.

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

2010-12-10T23:12:00.002Z

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.

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

2010-12-06T22:47:00.001Z

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

2010-12-06T22:44:00.003Z

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.

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

2010-11-26T22:26:00.004Z

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.

Champions League: Italian Trio win

2010-11-24T22:28:00.000Z

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.

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

2010-11-23T22:39:00.000Z

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.