AS Roma vs Sampdoria

It has been a rough week for AS Roma in the lead up to this match at home to Sampdoria at the Stadio Olimpico. After learning that start Francesco Totti would continue to miss time they went winless in two matches over a 5 day span against Torino. They continue to sit in second place behind Inter Milan but the gap has now reached 7 points. Sampdoria visit Roma for the derby of the south having lost 2 of their last 5 matches while winning once and drawing the other.

The side managed by Luciano Spalletti are at 33 points for the year from 16 matches. After a disappointing 0-0 draw away to Torino in their last Serie A match they proceeded to lose 3-1 in the first leg of the Coppa Italia to the very same Toro. The news is slightly better this week on the injury front as it appears that Totti is finally ready to return. However, Taddei is still not available while Chilean midfielder Pizarro is now doubtful. Therefore, Spalletti could decide to keep the 4-2-3-1 formation but this time with Totti as the lone striker with Tonetto, Perrotta and Mancini as the 3 attacking midfielders. In addition, Mexes of France is out suspended.

Sampdoria were held to a disappointing 2-2 draw at home by Fiorentina in week 16. With that draw Sampdoria are in 9^th place with 21 points on the season just behind 8^th place Atalanta on goal difference. Despite the poor result things have been improving for the blucerchiati. In terms of injuries Sammarco looks set to return to action but is likely to start on the bench with Franceschini getting another start. Delvecchio, Sala and Montella are out while top striker Cassano must sit out suspended. The injury to Sala will have Gastaldello taking the spot in the center of the 3 man back line as Sampdoria go with a 3-4-2-1 featuring Bonazzoli.

While on paper Roma are without question the stronger side, this match is a derby and Sampdoria will come ready to play. There is also no telling how fit Totti will be and that could also play into Sampdoria’s favor. Still, despite the bleak scenario, the giallorossi should be able to break down the Samp defense and pick up the 3 points. This is especially true since the visitors will be without Cassano in attack, and Sala at the back.

Prediction: Roma (2-1)