It's not a match point yet, but we're close. Juventus, thanks to the defeat of Napoli in the anticipation of San Siro, has the possibility of securing the fifth consecutive Scudetto. In case of victory against Palermo (15 pm) the points lead over Sarri's team would become 9, not enough to close the discussion mathematically but more than enough to extinguish any comeback ambitions. On paper, today's match doesn't seem to present any particular pitfalls.
To begin with, you play at the Stadium, a veritable fort given the 12 consecutive victories collected (the last home misstep dates back to 23 September, 1-1 with Frosinone), furthermore the opponent, although motivated by the umpteenth change of coach (today it's Ballardini's turn, tomorrow who knows...) and from the standings (yesterday Carpi won 4-1 against Genoa and "escaped" at +3), lately he has proved to be very little. “If we look at the points, it's an unequal challenge but we know that each race makes its own story – thought Allegri. – They have been in retreat for a week and are fighting for salvation, I expect a difficult and insidious day. The scudetto is still to be won, we have 18 points available and we have to try to take them all”. Words aimed at keeping attention high, a tactic often used by the coach from Livorno and, so far, quite profitable.
Juve comes from a streak of consecutive useful results (21 wins and 1 draw) without equal in Europe, moreover, after many weeks of emergency, they find the typical backbone of the team, except for the injured Chiellini. In short, Ballardini's mission appears almost impossible but in football, as we know, it is better not to take anything for granted. “I have found a serious and willing team, with great motivation and the desire to do well – the words of the Rosanero coach, who took over from Novellino this week. – To save yourself you need hard work and quality and I am convinced that this Palermo can do it".
Allegri will bet on the usual 3-5-2 with Buffon in goal, Barzagli, Bonucci and Rugani in defence. Less certainties regarding midfield and attack, departments in which choices abound and, consequently, ballots. There are four of them on the wings for two jerseys: Cuadrado-Lichtsteiner on the right, Evra and Alex Sandro on the left and everyone has a reasonable chance to play, even if the Colombian and the French seem to have a slight advantage over their "rivals". The central axis will be composed of Khedira, Marchisio and Pogba, in support of the two strikers who will be Mandzukic and one between Dybala and Morata, with the Argentine favorite despite Allegri's pre-tactics. Ballardini will respond with a 4-3-1-2 with Sorrentino in goal, Struna, Gonzalez, Andelkovic and Lazaar in defence, Hiljemark, Jajalo and Chochev in midfield, Brugman in the trocar behind the attacking couple Vazquez-Gilardino.
