Prediction: Roma vs Juventus

Prediction: Juventus win

Best Odds: 1/1

Bookmaker: 888sport

In the wake of the new domestic season getting underway in England, all of the other top leagues across the European elite will be getting underway sooner rather than later. This weekend we will see the continuation of Serie A, the first major league to shut down towards the start of the year, and today we’ll be taking a look at the meeting between Roma and Juventus. A few years ago this would’ve been viewed as a clash between two clubs who are fairly close to one another in terms of ability, but now, it could rightly be seen as a David vs Goliath encounter – depending on who you ask.

Roma

Roma were deservedly beaten by Roma in their Europa League Round of 16 clash at the start of August, and they had more than a month to regroup before getting back to business. Over the years they’ve often been viewed as the second or third best team in Italy and it’s pretty clear to see that they’ve got a chip on their shoulder because of it. It’s all well and good for them to go on a strong run in Europe every now and then, but they need some more consistency.

Team News

Kumbulla is set to make his debut this weekend whereas Zaniolo, Perotti, Kluivert and Pastore are all expected to miss out through injury.

Juventus

The big questions surrounding Juventus right now tend to be based on their transfers and what direction they’re going to head in next during the window. Still, most fans will choose to focus their attention on one thing and one thing only – capturing the European Cup. They’ve been walking to the Serie A title for years now and the one trophy that continues to elude them is the one they covet the most.

Team News

Morata should feature on the bench to start off with after his move from Atletico Madrid was confirmed. The injury absences for the visitors are as follows: de Ligt, Dybala, Sandro and Bernardeschi.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in August, Roma beat Juventus 3-1.
• Roma have won three, drawn two and lost one of their last six games.
• Juventus have won four and lost two of their last six games.
• Roma have scored 12 goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Juventus have scored 13 goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

Roma’s biggest weapon should be their confidence in knowing that they were able to beat Juve less than two months ago – and they should be more than capable of doing it all over again. However, the Old Lady should be far more motivated now than they were back then, which is why we’re backing them to pick up all three points. Juve just have far too much quality going forward and even though it’s going to be a spirited performance from Roma it just won’t be enough.

Prediction: Juventus win

Best Odds: 1/1

Bookmaker: 888sport