Calcio Commentary: Juventus Solidify European Position While Bologna Faces Threat of Top Four Departure

Roma clinched another victory, while Lazio and Atalanta also secured three points. Meanwhile, Bologna and Juventus faced off in a true Champions League playoff but had to settle for a stalemate.

That encapsulates the drama from the weekend in the upper echelons of the Serie A table. Napoli currently lead with 77 points, followed by Inter on 74, and Atalanta holding 68. Close behind are Juventus, Roma, and Lazio, all on 63 points, Bologna at 62, and Fiorentina with 59. From Atalanta downwards, while Gian Piero Gasperini’s team is almost guaranteed a spot, the battle for fourth place remains fierce. It’s one of the most competitive races we’ve witnessed in Serie A for years.

Juventus Boost Top-Four Hopes

Outside of Atalanta, who will welcome Claudio Ranieri’s Roma next weekend, Juventus is clearly the frontrunner for a top-four finish. Under the guidance of Igor Tudor, the Bianconeri have rediscovered their form, and while a mathematical qualification is yet to be secured, a win in their forthcoming fixture against Lazio could significantly enhance their Champions League prospects.

Among the remaining three matches, the encounter with Lazio stands out as the most formidable challenge. Following that, Juventus will take on Udinese and Venezia, fixtures that should ideally be more straightforward.

Meanwhile, since Claudio Ranieri’s return to the capital, Roma has been in pursuit of Champions League qualification. After their remarkable triumph at San Siro against Inter, the Giallorossi also managed to defeat Palladino’s Fiorentina, a team still fighting in Europe and known for their resilience.

Dovbyk Making His Mark

This time, the decisive goal was scored not by Matias Soule, but rather by Artem Dovbyk, who has generated considerable buzz around the capital. The Ukrainian striker may not excel in the build-up play—a noted weakness—but his goal-scoring prowess has earned Roma 17 league points this season. Quite an achievement for a debut season that has seen him adapt under three very different coaches.

However, he frequently faces criticism in Rome—a common scenario in the capital. Roma’s next challenge is against Atalanta, likely the most daunting remaining test of the season. Monday will prove pivotal, followed by encounters against Milan and Torino.

Lazio managed a narrow 1-0 win over Empoli, courtesy of a goal from Boulaye Dia in the opening minute. From that point, it was all about defence and grinding out the result, even with Empoli reduced to ten men early in the match. At this stage, securing wins is the only focus, as time is running short.

Lazio’s next trio of matches includes Juventus, Inter, and Lecce, each presenting its own set of challenges. Even a match against Lecce could prove tricky, particularly with Juventus facing Venezia.

Bologna’s Divided Attention

Bologna’s concluding fixtures are not any less daunting: Milan, Fiorentina, and Genoa lie ahead. The meeting with Genoa appears to be the least challenging, but if Bologna falters in the two earlier matches, it may become moot.

Moreover, Bologna’s concentration may pivot entirely to the Coppa Italia final against Milan on May 14th, a completely valid shift given the potential historic significance for Riccardo Orsolini and his teammates. While Bologna technically remains in the top-four chase, their primary focus may well be the cup.

As for Milan, sitting on 57 points, a finish in fourth would require a stroke of luck. We mention them out of respect for their loyal supporters, but realistically, the Rossoneri should concentrate on the Coppa Italia final, aiming to secure silverware and salvage a disappointing league season.

In summary, there are three matches left. Alongside the crowning of Italy’s new champions—Napoli appears to be firmly in control—we will soon discover who will clinch the final Champions League slots. Juventus looks to be in the driver’s seat, Roma remains hopeful in pursuit, and much will depend on the critical clash between Juventus and Lazio.

It’s an exhilarating finish to the season, with everything still very much up for grabs.