Later in February, Serie A clubs will resume European action, with major battles looming on the horizon. Yet, we still have some internal conflicts to solve before heading towards continental competitions. In fact, this weekend in Calcio isn’t like any other, because whenever the Derby della Madonnina is on display, the entire globe will have their eyes fixed at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium. So who will prevail in the clash between the Milanese cousins? And will Napoli extend their lead on top of the table? Here are our full predictions for Serie A Round 21.
Cremonese vs Lecce
At this point, football pundits and scientists would struggle to explain Cremonese’s campaign thus far. Astonishingly, the Tigers are still seeking their maiden Serie A victory after 20 rounds, yet, they managed to eliminate Napoli and Roma en route towards a historic qualification to the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia.
But after the great physical and mental efforts spent at the Olimpico Stadium and the exhilarating celebrations that followed, do they still have enough in the tank to gain a positive result when they host fellow Serie A newcomers Lecce?
Unfortunately for the Lombardian side, the scheduling didn’t play in its favor, with less than 72 hours between the two fixtures.
Prediction: Lecce to win on the back of a strong second half.
Roma vs Empoli
On Wednesday, it was enchantment for Cremonese and utter rage for their Roman hosts. José Mourinho’s men will wonder how they wasted this golden opportunity to book a semi-final against Fiorentina.
Nonetheless, Roma must put their cup woes behind them and pick up from where they left off in Serie A, as they prepare to host Empoli in the Eternal City on Round 21. However, his won’t be an easy task for the Giallorossi, as their opponent is club that enjoys their travels, as it allows Paulo Zanetti to exhibit his counter attacking tactics (just ask Inter).
Thus, this could wound up being another disappointing evening for the Olimpico Stadium crowd.
Prediction: Empoli to hold Roma to a draw.
Sassuolo vs Atalanta
Well, if you’re a fan of attacking football (and occasional defensive blunders), this one isn’t to be missed. Sassuolo aren’t enjoying their best campaign, but last week’s shocking triumph at San Siro could be the spark that lights their second half of the season.
But at this point, Atalanta are head and shoulders above their Emilian foes. While they uncharacteristically failed to score in their Coppa Italia clash against Inter, the Orobici will be eager to make up for it at the expense of their dear hosts.
Prediction: Atalanta for the win.
Spezia vs Napoli
Since the departure of Jakub Kiwior towards Arsenal, Spezia have been shaky at the back. Therefore, Luca Gotti must find a quick fix, because on Sunday’s early kickoff, he’ll be hosting one of the most devastating attacks on the entire continent.
Good luck in that one!
Prediction: Napoli to extend their winning streak.
Torino vs Udinese
This will be an intriguing contest between two high-midtable teams with European aspirations. Aside from their Coppa Italia elimination in Florence, Torino have been on an exciting form recently, while Udinese haven’t been able to maintain the same momentum from their spectacular run earlier in the campaign.
So naturally, the Granata should be the favorite in this one. However, their tough cup fixture on Wednesday could take its toll on the team from a physical standpoint, leaving some openings for the Zebrette.
Prediction: Udinese to snatch the draw in the second half.
Fiorentina vs Bologna
Another thrilling battle between two managers who insist on implementing a progressive style of football. Regardless of who wins, this should be an entertain affair for the neutral.
Reminiscently to the other Serie A clubs who took part in the Coppa Italia this week, Fiorentina could suffer from some fatigue in Round 21, but Vincenzo Italiano will surely opt for some squad rotation. However, will it be enough against Thiago Motta’s on-form side?
Prediction: Bologna for the upset win.
Inter vs Milan
While it’s not exactly a Scudetto showdown like last season, the Derby della Madonnina remains one of the most anticipated clashes of the whole Serie A season.
In recent weeks, we had been tipping Milan to bounce back from their crisis with victories, but they managed to prove us wrong on every occasion, with their campaign collapsing in front our eyes.
Can Stefano Pioli salvage what has rapidly degenerated into an abysmal season? possibly.
Will the Rossoneri’s revival begin against their crosstown rivals? Based on the two teams’ contrasting form: unlikely.
Prediction: Inter to confirm their current superiority over the wounded champions.
Verona vs Lazio
Salvatore Bocchetti’s mission-impossible is on the right track, but it remains to be seen if the young Verona manager will have enough time to pull off a miraculous rescue.
Following their hollow Coppa Italia display at the Allianz Stadium, Lazio will be hellbent on turning the page as soon as possible and earn vital points in their battle for a Top Four spot.
Due to the Biancocelesti’s inconsistent displays, it’s never easy to predict the outcome. But we do feel that Maurizio Sarri’s men will find another gear at the Marcantonio Bentegodi.
Prediction: Lazio to secure a tough victory.
Monza vs Sampdoria
The last time these two sides met, Monza earned a spectacular win at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium, with Gianluca Caprari punishing his former employers.
Based on recent results, the Biancorossi should be the favorites to complete another double – following their historic victory over Juventus.
Nonetheless, it must be said that Sampdoria have vastly improved under the guidance of Dejan Stankovic, even if the results are yet to show it. The Ligurians have been both unfortunate and wasteful in recent weeks, but perhaps Lady Luck will smile on them sooner rather than later.
Prediction: Sampdoria to earn a surprising win.
Salernitana vs Juventus
Following the scandalous VAR call which plagued the two sides’ meeting in Turin, Juventus will be determined to avenge themselves when they travel to Salerno. Moreover, three points would serve them well amid their current legal crisis.
But with Massimiliano Allegri’s team, you can never be certain, and the raucous crowds at the Arechi Stadium will be pushing Davide Nicola’s men towards a rare victory over the vulnerable giants.
But then again, the Bianconeri should have enough talent to squeeze past their hosts on the final fixture of Serie A Round 21.
Prediction: Angel Di Maria to orchestrate Juve’ victory.
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