Spezia vs. AC Milan (Saturday, 2.00pm)
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Following a victory in midweek, AC Milan return to Stadio Alberto Picco for the first time since Spezia's historic triumph over them in Liguria last February.
One of the first faltering steps as they faded out of Scudetto contention, the Rossoneri will want to avenge that result and keep the pressure on their rivals at the top of this term's Serie A standings.
We say: Spezia 1-3 AC Milan
Injuries and the distraction of tougher tests to come may well take the edge off Milan's efforts at the Picco, but their young and talented squad can secure a fifth win from six due to their hosts' defensive deficiencies.
Clearly, on their day, Spezia can pose a threat to any side, but Thiago Motta's approach leaves them open to being badly stung by counter-attacks - perfect for the Rossoneri's pacy wide men to ruthlessly expose.
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Inter Milan vs. Atalanta (Saturday, 5.00pm)
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Defending champions Inter Milan tackle the toughest test of their Scudetto defence so far on Saturday, as they welcome Atalanta BC to San Siro.
Ahead of hosting a Lombardy derby which has grown in stature over recent years, the Nerazzurri fought back to win in midweek, while their visitors were able to post a second successive win on Tuesday night.
We say: Inter Milan 1-1 Atalanta BC
Though Inter have been building up another head of steam in recent days, Atalanta are slowly improving and can push them all the way at San Siro.
The thrilling prospect of seeing the two sides' wing-backs launch raid after counter-raid should be worth watching alone, but the spoils will be shared by the Nerazzurro pair on Saturday.
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Genoa vs. Hellas Verona (Saturday, 7.45pm)
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With either side looking for just their second win of the season, Genoa welcome Hellas Verona to Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Saturday evening.
Both teams were held to 2-2 draws last time out in Serie A, which leaves them on only four points apiece so far this term.
We say: Genoa 1-2 Hellas Verona
Though it is a close call due to their frailties on the road in recent months, Verona can edge this encounter by the odd goal, as the Genoa defence is far from steadfast and is easily breached.
The away side can continue their improvement under Igor Tudor's leadership, while their flaky hosts may be set for a season of struggle once more.
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Barney Corkhill
