Parma vs Juventus
November 10, 2007
Parma are off to a rough start this season and their struggles continued in Round 11 when they were held to 2-2 draw at home by the lowly Siena. It was the second time in 3 days that Parma have blown a lead late and have had to settle for a draw. Parma’s failure to capture the 3 points at home leaves them in 14th place of the league table with just 11 points form 11 matches. It also put manager Di Carlo’s spot in jeopardy as Parma are getting closer and closer to the dreaded relegation zone. However, hopes are high this week that the side from the Ennio Tardini will be able to rise to the occasion against the mighty Juve. The only problem is that the back line continues to leak goals and inspires very little confidence.
While the Vecchia Signora were unable to defeat Inter Milan at home in Round 11, they are still off to a more than acceptable start in this their first season back in top flight Italian football. They have 21 points from 11 matches and sit just 4 points back of the league leaders, Inter Milan. Former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri has done a great job after taking over for Didier Deschamps and the club has not missed a beat so far. The two biggest absences for Juve this week are Nedved and Mauro Camoranesi, Nedved is suspended while the Italian international is recovering from injury and expected to start on the bench. The Argentine Almiron will be in Nedved’s spot just behind David Trezeguet and Alex Del Piero while Salihamidzic will cover for Camoranesi. Trezeguet currently leads the league in scoring with 10 goals.
Despite Juve’s absences in this match, they still possess a ton of fire power both in attack and midfield. Parma have not played particularly well at home all season long and after two disappointing draws, including one at home, they are being asked to beat one of the best clubs in Europe, let alone Serie A. Their bright spot this season has been center forward Bernardo Corradi while Juventus are full of superstars. Even if they were at full strength Parma do not appear to be in position to cause Juventus too many problems these days.
Prediction: Road win (0-2)
