Currently 11 points clear at the top of the table, just a draw would be enough for Antonio Conte's side to seal the title. Even if they somehow manage to lose Palermo, Napoli still have to beat Inter Milan in Sunday's late kick-off to keep the race alive.
Juventus vs. Palermo, Preview: Juve set to seal the title
It’s been assured for months, but on Sunday Juventus can mathematically seal their second consecutive Serie A title, providing they aren’t beaten by Palermo.
Juve haven’t lost at home in the league since the start of the calendar year. Despite Palermo’s recent resurgence, it’s unlikely that will change. While the bianconeri are expected to be painting the town red (or maybe black and white) on Sunday night, the rosanero should be gearing up for long and frosty journey back to Sicily.
That’s despite the fact that they’ve put together a five-game unbeaten streak under Giuseppe Sannino, collecting three wins in the process. After looking relegation certainties, they’re suddenly outside of the bottom three and in with a good chance of survival.
But, with the team a place below them, Genoa, being level on points with the rosanero, things are still too tight for anyone to feel safe. Prior to April, Palermo hadn't won away all season, so there's a good chance they'll drop back into the relegation zone after this weekend.
They travel to Turin without defensive duo Michel Morganella and Andrea Mantovani, who are suspended and injured respectively. Playmaker Josip Iličić has just hit great form, so Palermo will be desperate to have him available. He's an early doubt, but should be ok. Juve have a full-strength starting eleven available, with only Simone Pepe injured and Nicolas Anelka and Mauricio Isla doubtful. Yeah, I'd forgotten they played for the bianconeri, too.
Juventus Injuries and Suspensions
Out: Simone Pepe (injured) In doubt: Nicolas Anelka, Mauricio Isla
Palermo Injuries and Suspensions
Out: Michel Morganella (suspended) Andrea Mantovani (injured) In doubt: Josip Iličić
Match Date/Time: Sunday 5th May 2013 3 p.m. local, 9 a.m. E.T.
Venue: Juventus Stadium, Turin, Italy
TV: beIN SPORT, RAI Internazionale, beIN Sport en Español (U.S.) Sky Calcio 2 (Italy)
See More:
