Serie A schedule, preview and scores, Round 12: Milan derby takes center stage

It seems like so long ago that Juventus were putting seven goals past hapless Parma and both Milan sides were struggling to salvage a mere point. That, my friends, is what an international break does to you. So let’s forget the distant past and focus on what we should watch this weekend.

Lazio vs. Juventus
Lazio’s plan to sneak into the Champions League places went a bit off the rails last time out, when they managed to lose to Empoli. This, while Juve were busy LOLzing at Parma. So of course it’ll be an easy win for the visitors, right? Well the Old Lady’s defense might be the stingiest in Serie A, but they’ve yet to face such an attack as Lazio’s -- no, not even from Roma. If Gigi Buffon has a day similar to the one he had against Croatia, the champions’ win may not be routine.

Parma vs. Empoli
LOLz. What happens when you pit two sides faced with relegation against one another? Well, when they’re the teams that have given up the most goals in Serie A thus far, you have to think this game’s going to be at least a little bit comical. Plus, both teams can actually score once in awhile, so they won’t simply be holding back, waiting for their opponents to venture forward.

Milan vs. Inter
You’re not watching this to study the nuances in the tactics used by two top sides. You’re watching because it’s the Derby della Madonnina and that’s what you do. And maybe you’ll actually see a mostly-full San Siro. There’s also the sub-plot featuring the fact that Inter actually thought bringing in a new manager just before the derby would be a wise idea. But hey, at least Roberto Mancini won some trophies. Sorta.

results updated throughout the weekend