Italian Serie A preview: AS Roma – ACF Fiorentina
Gilarossi revival continues
Roma has been one of the most underachieving sides so far in the latest edition of Serie A. However, Ranieri’s men have recorded three consecutive victories in all competitions including the prized scalp of arch-rivals and League leaders SS Lazio. Such a
turn of events has put their season firmly back on track.
As things Stand, Gilarossi stand seventh in the league with 15 points from their opening ten games – just three points behind fourth places Juventus. Following Lupi’s disastrous start to the season in which they struggled in the relegation zone in the opening
rounds, expectations were low and many predicted a bottom half finish for the Roman outfit. Ranieri’s men have done extremely well to recover in time and should they manage to extend this positive run of results, they have every chance of challenging for a
Champions League spot.
Having said that, Gilarossi have a woeful defensive record; Lupi have conceded 12 goals and have only scored 11. Ranieri must fix the porous Roman defence if his side is to challenge for honours come the end of the season.
Viola woes continue
Sinisa Mihajlovic has had a nightmare start to this managerial start at Fiorentina. Viola failed to qualify for Europe last season and this season has hardly been an improvement. Blighted by poor form and numerous injuries, Viola find themselves 12th
in the League rankings. Mihajlovic’s side are 10 points off pace and with key players out with lengthy injuries, there is little room for optimism.
On a positive note, Adrian Mutu has returned from his 9 month long suspension. Keeping the injury crisis in mind, Mutu’s return could not have been timelier. The Romanian fared very well in the two games he has played in and his form will be critical for
the Viola ambitions.
Team News
AS Roma
Gilarossi will be without the services of Matteo Brighi for this game. The defensive midfielder suffered a thigh injury during the Derby della Capitale and is set to miss three weeks of action. Francesco Totti is still suspended following his sending off
against Lecce last week.
ACF Fiorentina
The Viola injury crisis has gone from bad to worse with their latest injuries. World-class goalkeeper Sebastian Frey has damaged a cruciate ligament and will sit out for four to six months. Riccardo Montolivo’s injury will hit Fiorentina even harder as the
Italian International is arguably the most influential player on the Viola roster. Montolivo will get his right ankle operated on the 15th of November and will miss out three months of football.
Key Players
Mirko Vucinic
The Montenegrin forward is enjoying a rich vein of form and his last three appearances have been of the highest quality. No wonder Roma’s revival has coincided with the forward hitting top form. In absence of Totti, Vucinic will be the man to watch out for
as he will also look to bring Borriello into attack.
Adrian Mutu
With Jovetic out with injury and Gilardino struggling for form, Adrian Mutu will have to play the messiah for Viola. The player, on his day, is a world class finisher and his must dispatch the chances that come his way.
Prediction
Gilarossi have looked impressive of late and will have the home advantage in this game. Viola will find it hard going past a talented Roman midfield. Mirko Vucinic’s Roma to win the match with a 2 – 0 score line.
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