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Serie A Week 29 Liveblog: Cremonese vs. Fiorentina
16 March 2026 at 23:43
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Yesterday — 16 March 2026Football Italia
Report Leao anger at Pulisic forced Allegri to intervene in Milan dressing room
16 March 2026 at 23:42
It’s reported Rafael Leao continued his tantrum in the dressing room after Milan’s defeat to Lazio, aiming his ire at Christian Pulisic, forcing coach Max Allegri to intervene.
The Portugal international did nothing to hide his irritation when hauled off as a substitute at the 67th minute of this 1-0 loss at the Stadio Olimpico last night.
He walked so slowly off the field that goalkeeper Mike Maignan ran halfway up the pitch to physically push him off, then resisted Allegri’s attempt at a reassuring hug.
Rafael Leão wasn't happy about being subbed in the 66th minute during AC Milan's 1-0 defeat to Lazio
pic.twitter.com/v42C5EpG6u
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 16, 2026
The coach said in post-match comments that Leao was “a bit annoyed because he had some situations where he could’ve had better service, so he was a bit angry, but these things can happen during a match.”
Claim Leao vented frustration with Pulisic
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Leao was specifically furious with Pulisic, who he accused of not passing him the ball in two potentially dangerous attacking situations.
More importantly, it’s reported that the anger continued well after the final whistle in the dressing room, to the degree that Allegri had to separate the pair and tell them to calm down.
It is safe to say that this strike partnership isn’t delivering the goods for Milan, because Pulisic has not scored a single goal in 2026.
This may well also have contributed to the USMNT star’s resistance to passing the ball, as he wanted to break his drought.
The pairing also hasn’t had many opportunities to work from the start, as one or the other tended to be out injured.
Leao and Pulisic have only started together seven times in Serie A this season, during which Milan scored just two goals.
When Leao found the net against Cremonese, it was after Pulisic had already been substituted.
Gosens: ‘Fiorentina face very different type of pressure’ in relegation battle
16 March 2026 at 23:26
Robin Gosens admits Fiorentina are dealing with ‘a very different type of pressure’ in the relegation battle with Cremonese, so ‘mentality is everything’ in tonight’s showdown.
It kicks off at the Stadio Giovanni Zini at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.
This result could well decide who stays up and who drops into Serie B this summer, because going into this game Fiorentina are in 17th place on 25 points and Cremonese are in the drop zone in 18th on 24 points.
At the same time, the Tuscans are also forced to think about the Conference League Round of 16, after beating Rakow 2-1 on Thursday, they will visit Poland this week for the second leg.
Gosens warning for Fiorentina
“When you have to fight against relegation, the match plan works to a certain extent, but then mentality is everything,” Gosens told DAZN Italia.
“It’s a very different type of pressure to the one we had last season, for example, when we had other objectives.
“We want to be aggressive at the right time and clear-headed when unexpected things happen. We are coming off an important Conference League win that gave us enthusiasm, so we are ready.”
Fiorentina have also shifted their tactics recently to a four-man defence, and that means a different role for ex-Atalanta and Inter wing-back Gosens now that he is a full-back.
“I am a full-back who likes to attack, because those are my characteristics, but it’s very different in a four-man defence, as I don’t get to attack the back post in quite the same way.
“The important thing is that I have got my fitness levels back, which is absolutely fundamental for a player with my style of football. I am happy the coach chose me today and want to repay that faith.”
The change also means that Fabiano Parisi moves into a more advanced role for Fiorentina as part of a supporting quartet behind centre-forward Roberto Piccoli.
“Fabiano is having a great season, he put himself at the disposal of the coach and doing a good job in this position,” concluded Gosens.
Ancelotti calls Bremer and Wesley for Brazil friendly games
16 March 2026 at 23:03
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has called up Roma winger Wesley and Juventus defender Gleison Bremer from Serie A for the upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia.
They are warming up for the 2026 World Cup campaign with a couple of test matches, as they will play France on March 26, then Croatia on April 1.
The Seleçao are in World Cup Group C with Morocco, Haiti and Scotland, with their tournament beginning on June 14.
Ancelotti picks Bremer and Wesley
As always, there are some representatives from Serie A in the squad for these games, especially now that their coach is the Italian legend Ancelotti.
Roma winger Wesley Franca has impressed since moving to the Stadio Olimpico and gets a call, with five senior caps already under his belt.
Juventus defender Gleison Bremer, who has fully recovered from a serious injury, is also included for the first time since 2024.
Notably, despite reports that he had done enough to win back a spot in the team, there is no room for Neymar.
Inter’s versatile figure Carlos Augusto is also left behind.
Former Juventus players Alex Sandro and Danilo are included in defence.
CONVOCADOS!
O mister Ancelotti divulgou a lista de jogadores convocados para os amistosos contra França e Croácia, nos dias 26 e 31 de março, nos Estados Unidos.
BATE NO PEITO!
ISSO É BRASIL
— brasil (@CBF_Futebol) March 16, 2026
Serie A official line-ups: Cremonese vs. Fiorentina
16 March 2026 at 22:39
Moise Kean is only fit for the bench, so Roberto Piccoli and Albert Gudmundsson lead the Fiorentina attack against Cremonese’s Federico Bonazzoli and Milan Djuric in a relegation battle.
It kicks off at the Stadio Giovanni Zini at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.
This result could well decide who stays up and who drops into Serie B this summer, because going into this game Fiorentina are in 17th place on 25 points and Cremonese are in the drop zone in 18th on 24 points.
If Pisa and Verona are most likely doomed, then only Lecce and Cagliari could still get sucked into the danger zone, as the Sardinians are on 30 points.
Fiorentina also have to balance this with their Conference League commitments, as they beat Rakow 2-1 with a Gudmundsson stoppage-time penalty on Thursday and have the second leg of that Round of 16 tie coming up in Poland on March 19.
Their Serie A form had suffered with one point from the last two rounds and zero goals scored.
Hitman Kean is back on the bench after an ankle issue, but Niccolò Fortini joins Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey on the absentee list.
Gudmundsson and Piccoli therefore lead the attack, with support from Marco Brescianini and Rolando Mandragora.
Cremonese had started the season so well, but their last victory was 2-0 against Lecce on December 7.
That was followed by just four draws and 10 defeats, losing the last three on the bounce.
It’s clear where the problems are, scoring only four goals in their last 14 games.
To make matters worse, former Leicester City striker and Premier League winner Jamie Vardy is injured with a bruised thigh, forced to watch from the stands with Federico Baschirotto, Michele Collocolo and suspended Giuseppe Pezzella.
At least Faris Moumbagna has recovered for a spot on the bench and Filippo Terracciano is back from his ban.
David Okereke had been frozen out for several months, but was brought back into the fold for a substitute appearance in the 2-1 loss to Lecce.
Cremonese vs. Fiorentina line-ups
Cremonese: Audero; Folino, Ceccherini, Luperto; Floriani Mussolini, Thorsby, Bondo, Maleh, Barbieri; Bonazzoli, Djuric
Fiorentina: De Gea; Dodo, Pongracic, Ranieri, Gosens; Fagioli; Parisi, Mandragora, Brescianini, Gudmundsson; Piccoli
Cremonese
Fiorentina
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Report Roma midfielder Pellegrini targeted by Juventus as free agent
16 March 2026 at 22:05
Reports are growing that Juventus will try to poach Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini as a free agent this summer, as requested by Luciano Spalletti.
The two clubs are duelling for the fourth Champions League qualifying spot this season, although Como are currently the ones who have snuck in to snatch it from both of them.
Next term we could see Pellegrini in the black and white stripes of Juventus, as the Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Spalletti has asked for them to target the midfielder.
Pellegrini set to be released by Roma
Despite scoring some big goals for them in the Derby della Capitale against Lazio and in last week’s Europa League Round of 16 draw with Bologna, there seems to be no real desire to extend his contract.
Pellegrini turns 30 in June and will be a free agent a couple of weeks later, ending a lifetime in the Giallorossi jersey.
He was a product of their youth academy and spent his entire career with Roma, other than a brief two-year spell from 2015 to 2017 at Sassuolo.
This means that Pellegrini never actually worked under Spalletti during either of the coach’s previous two tenures at the Stadio Olimpico, yet the current Juve boss is an admirer and feels he can bring something new to their midfield.
Diao provocative post sparks fresh Como vs. Roma tension
16 March 2026 at 21:21
The tension between Como and Roma escalated again after Assane Diao made a provocative Instagram post about the controversial Wesley red card.
The Lariani came back from a goal down to win 2-1 at the Stadio Sinigaglia last night, thanks also to the fact that their opponents were reduced to 10 men.
That incident saw Wesley receive a second yellow card, although his contact with Diao seemed minimal at best, with Devyne Rensch more likely to have contributed to the Como man going over.
Diao incident fuels tension
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini was furious and suggested in his post-match interviews that Como were “regulars” at this sort of behaviour, refusing to shake the hand of Cesc Fabregas.
So when Diao posted on Instagram several photos of the match, including the Wesley challenge, with the caption “That’s how we do it,” the response was swift.
They ranged from Roma fans noting it was “hardly normal for you to post this after stealing a match” to others assuring they will “remember this and be waiting when you come to the Stadio Olimpico.”
Many simply replied with gifs of dives into swimming pools and off cliffs.
There are always some who go too far, and they expressed hope that the player will suffer a relapse of his serious knee ligament injury.
Statistics show Rabiot essential for Milan after 1-0 defeat
16 March 2026 at 20:50
Milan’s 1-0 defeat to Lazio has confirmed a remarkable statistic showing how badly the team struggles without Adrien Rabiot, as Ardon Jashari comes under fire.
The Rossoneri had seen their Scudetto hopes revitalised by the Derby della Madonnina victory over Inter, cutting the lead at the top of the table to seven points.
A win yesterday would’ve closed that even further to just five points, but instead they capitulated at the Stadio Olimpico.
Milan badly miss Rabiot
before the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Rabiot was suspended for the Lazio game and it is probably no coincidence that they faltered, because Milan have an average of 2.42 points per match with the France international in the squad this season.
In his absence, that average plummets to just 1.40 points per game.
There are two alternative options who can stand in for him, namely Samuele Ricci and last night’s pick Jashari.
The latter has come under particular criticism from fans, as after weeks of tense negotiations with Club Brugge and a €40m deal, he has struggled to make an impact.
It wasn’t helped by a serious injury in one of his first training sessions, but Jashari has made just 12 appearances for Milan, contributing one assist.
Since arriving from Olympique Marseille on transfer deadline day, Rabiot has scored four goals and provided five assists in 23 matches for the Rossoneri.
He was injured during a run of three draws and two victories in October and November 2025, including stalemates with Pisa, Atalanta and Parma.
Rabiot was suspended for the 1-1 draw with Como, and 1-0 defeat to Lazio.
The only losses he was present for were 1-0 to Parma in Serie A, 2-0 to Napoli in the Supercoppa Italiana, and 1-0 to Lazio in the Coppa Italia.
Minister for Sport: ‘Bastoni admitted his mistake’ and should play for Italy
16 March 2026 at 20:26
Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi insists calls for Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni to be dropped by the Italy squad over his simulation against Juventus are unfair because ‘he admitted to his mistake.’
The centre-back caused controversy when he simulated a foul from Juve opponent Pierre Kalulu during their Serie A match, getting him sent off with a second yellow card.
Bastoni then celebrated wildly when the referee pulled out the card, knowing that VAR protocol meant the decision could not be overturned.
Although he has since apologised, Kalulu was still forced to sit out a one-match ban, and Bastoni has been loudly jeered in every game by opposition fans.
Bastoni faced calls for Italy snub
Minister for Sport and Youth Abodi was pressed today on whether it was right to suggest Bastoni be dropped from the Italy squad over this incident.
“I believe you are called up not just for your technical qualities as a player, but also your behaviour,” replied Abodi.
“Bastoni was clear-headed enough to admit to his mistake.”
As for the jeers from the fans, Abodi also pointed out that “respect is supreme in sport, and everyone does what they see is fit.”
Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso has not commented publicly on the situation, but it seems unlikely that he will snub the Inter defender for the upcoming 2026 World Cup play-offs against Northern Ireland.
If there is a victory in Bergamo on March 26, then the Azzurri will play either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final five days later.
After collapse scare, Banda returns to Lecce in time for daughter’s birth
16 March 2026 at 20:04
It proved to be quite the weekend for Lecce forward Lameck Banda, as after he collapsed during the Serie A game with Napoli, he was released from hospital just in time for the birth of his daughter.
The 25-year-old had a scare at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona when he received a knock to the chest and was struggling to breathe.
When he went down clutching his chest, Napoli coach Antonio Conte was the first to spot it and immediately called the Lecce medical staff over to help.
Whirlwind weekend for Banda
Although he did not appear to lose consciousness, Banda was struggling to breathe, so was taken to hospital and kept in overnight for observation.
The Zambia international was given the all-clear and returned home just in time, because he got to be present at the birth of his daughter.
It was confirmed in a statement by Lecce, who welcomed little Rumi Ezlyn Banda into the world today.
He has been at Lecce since 2022 and so far this season contributed three goals with three assists in 24 games between Serie A and the Coppa Italia.
L’abbraccio di tutto il Club a Lameck e alla compagna in questa meravigliosa giornata! pic.twitter.com/VgYXYJKyOm— U.S. Lecce (@OfficialUSLecce) March 16, 2026
Allegri agent on Rafael Leao: ‘Obviously not giving a big contribution’ to Milan
16 March 2026 at 19:44
Max Allegri’s agent points out Rafael Leao is ‘obviously not giving a big contribution’ this season, but his substitution tantrum must be treated with kid gloves. ‘He’s a source of income for the club.’
The striker reacted angrily when hauled off just 67 minutes into last night’s 1-0 Serie A defeat to Lazio, which left them eight points adrift of leaders Inter.
He sulkily walked slowly to the touchline, to the degree that goalkeeper Mike Maignan ran halfway up the pitch to physically push him off it, and then resisted Allegri’s attempts at a reassuring hug.
Rafael Leão wasn’t happy about being subbed in the 66th minute during AC Milan’s 1-0 defeat to Lazio
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 16, 2026
Leao behaviour is frustrating for Milan
When Allegri’s agent Giovanni Branchini was asked if the coach will punish his player for this show of disrespect, the response was telling.
“Club dynamics are complicated,” Branchini told Radio Anch’io Sport on Radio 1.
“Leao is a source of income for the club and therefore various factors have to be taken into consideration. This season he is obviously not giving a big contribution to the team, that is clear for all to see.
“He remains an important player and will be defended to the end, just as Allegri did after the match last night, despite the brusque epilogue of the substitution.”
While this sort of behaviour is not new for the Portugal international, Leao is now 26 years old and the highest-paid player in the Milan squad.
The club is growing frustrated at his continuing immaturity, as confirmed by director of sport Igli Tare in the stands, caught on camera muttering “look at this, what is he doing” when Leao slowly trudged off the field.
According to MilanNews.it, Leao’s current contract runs to June 2028 and the club has put any talk of an extension on ice, because they want him to earn a new deal.
He has contributed 10 goals and two assists in 24 competitive games this term, largely playing in a new centre-forward role in a 3-5-2 formation.
Moore to miss potential Italy 2026 World Cup play-off for Wales
16 March 2026 at 19:23
Italy’s World Cup play-offs could see them take on Wales, but it is now confirmed Wrexham striker Kieffer Moore won’t be part of that potential tie due to injury.
The Azzurri risk missing out on the third consecutive edition of the World Cup, after failing in the play-offs for 2018 and 2022.
Italy road to 2026 World Cup is via play-offs
They will host Northern Ireland in Bergamo in the semi-final on March 26, then if victorious will go on to play either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final five days later.
It is therefore important to take note of the Wales squad, and Moore is not going to be a part of it, as confirmed by Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson.
“He’s got this tendon injury which he feels OK with, but he’s shown up on the scan and it’s one of those injuries that, up to 80-85% you’re fine, but if you extend beyond that you make yourself susceptible to muscle injuries.”
The 33-year-old centre-forward has 15 goals in 52 senior caps for Wales.
Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso is set to name his squad list for the World Cup play-offs over the next few days.
Juventus will spin profit on Serie A flop David if Ligue 1 move comes off
16 March 2026 at 19:01
Jonathan David’s time at Juventus could be coming to an early end, but the Old Lady are still hoping to spin a profit on the Canada international during the summer transfer window according to the latest reports.
David has largely failed to impress during his time in Serie A with Juventus. The 26-year-old has scored seven goals from 39 appearances across all competitions this season, and has recently lost his place in the starting line-up despite the absence of his only real competitor at centre-forward, Dusan Vlahovic.
Recent reports indicate that Juventus are already looking to move the Canadian on at the end of the 2025-26 season.
How much do Juventus need to avoid making a loss on David?
Fortunately for Juventus, David arrived on a free transfer last summer, and therefore, turning a profit on him should not be a massively complicated procedure.
Though there was no transfer fee involved, Juventus confirmed that they had to pay €12.5m in commission fees in order to seal the deal with David during the summer transfer window. That €12.5m sum is payable over three financial years.
According to the latest reports from Tuttosport, there is still plenty of interest in David, despite his struggles at Juventus.
Premier League sides Nottingham Forest, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham had both reportedly explored a potential deal for David in January. Forest and West Ham did end up bringing in new strikers in January, and both, Lorenzo Lucca and Taty Castellanos, came from Serie A.
Tuttosport have recently reported that Ligue 1 side Lyon, currently managed by David’s former Lille head coach Paulo Fonseca, could be poised to make a move during the summer transfer window.
Monday’s report adds that Marseille could also be among the interested parties this summer. David provided 87 goals and 17 assists from 178 appearances during his five years in France.
Jamie Vardy ruled out of Cremonese’s Serie A Week 29 clash against Fiorentina
16 March 2026 at 18:37
Cremonese are due to host Fiorentina in the final fixture on the Serie A week 29 schedule on Monday evening, but Davide Nicola will have to do without centre-forward Jamie Vardy for this evening’s massive relegation clash. Here’s why.
Confirmed: Vardy unavailable for Cremonese vs. Fiorentina
Just one point separates the 18th-placed Cremonese, who slipped into the relegation zone last weekend, and the 17th-placed Fiorentina ahead of the meeting of the two sides at the Stadio Zini on Monday night.
La Cremo have announced their matchday squad for the Fiorentina clash, and have confirmed that Vardy will be unavailable through injury.
Vardy’s exclusion comes as a result of the knock that he suffered against Lecce in Serie A last weekend. Cremonese have confirmed that the official diagnosis is a “blunt force trauma to his right thigh.”
The 2016 Premier League winner has been a starter for Cremonese for most of the 2025-26 season, and has only missed out on two Serie A since his signing in the summer, which came in the second and third weeks of the season.
The Englishman has five goals and one assist to his name from 24 outings in the Italian top flight this term. 21 of those appearances were starts.
Cremonese squad to face Fiorentina
Goalkeepers: Audero, Silvestri, Nava.
Defenders: Luperto, Bianchetti, Ceccherini, Terracciano, Faye, Folino.
Midfielders: Thorsby, Barbieri, Zerbin, Mussolini, Vandeputte, Maleh, Payero, Grassi, Bondo.
Forwards: Djuric, Moumbagna, Okereke, Bonazzoli, Sanabria.
Five Serie A players including McTominay included in latest Scotland squad
16 March 2026 at 18:08
Scott McTominay is one of five Serie A players to have been included in the latest Scotland national team squad ahead of the international break coming up at the end of March.
There is one round of Serie A fixtures coming up this weekend before players head off to their national teams for the first international break of 2026. The international break will be a particularly important occasion for Italy, who will have to face Northern Ireland and potentially Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in order to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
There is considerably less pressure in March for the nations that have already booked their places at the World Cup, which includes Scotland. Steve Clarke’s side will play a pair of friendlies against Japan and Cote d’Ivoire on March 28 and March 31 instead.
McTominay and three other Serie A players included in the latest Scotland squad
The reigning Serie A MVP, McTominay, is the star name in the Scotland camp and has been included in the March squad, despite the fact that he has only made one 45-minute substitute appearance over the last five matches after recovering from a calf injury.
To little surprise, McTominay’s Napoli teammate Billy Gilmour has also been included in the latest Scotland squad. Despite being 29 and 24 years of age respectively, McTominay and Gilmour have already racked up an impressive 110 caps between them.
The inclusion of Bologna captain Lewis Ferguson and Udinese’s Lennon Miller means that half of the midfielders in Scotland’s latest squad are currently playing in Serie A.
Torino striker Che Adams has also been included, and is typically a starter under Clarke.
— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) March 16, 2026
Inter team news: Mkhitaryan injury confirmed, Calhanoglu latest
16 March 2026 at 17:41
Inter have confirmed that Henrikh Mkhitaryan is due for a short spell on the sidelines through injury, but the latest reports indicate that Hakan Calhanoglu is closing in on a return to action for the Nerazzurri.
Inter confirm Mkhitaryan injury, latest on Calhanoglu and summer ‘revolution’
Mkhitaryan came on at half-time of Inter’s 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Saturday afternoon, but suffered an injury to his hamstring before full-time.
Now, the Armenian veteran is expected to be ruled out of his side’s next match away against Fiorentina, and given that the international break falls immediately afterwards, he is not expected to return to action for Inter until early April.
“Henrikh Mkhitaryan underwent tests at the Humanitas Institute in Rozzano this morning. The examinations showed a strain in the hamstring of his left thigh. His situation will be reassessed in the coming days,” read a statement on the club website on Monday afternoon.
In more positive news for the Nerazzurri, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Calhanoglu is expected to return to the squad to face Fiorentina on Sunday. The Turkiye international has only been fit enough for two substitute appearances across the last 10 league matches, and has not featured in either of his side’s last two Serie A games.
La Gazzetta dello Sport also reports that Inter are considering a midfield ‘revolution’ during the next summer transfer window, as Mkhitaryan is now 37, will be out of contract and has not yet decided when he will call it a day on his playing career, while Galatasaray are still reportedly targeting a summer move for Calhanoglu.
The Pink Paper suggests that only one of Inter’s seven first-team midfielders have lived up to expectations this season, and that is Piotr Zielinski. Nicolo Barella, Petar Sucic, Andy Diouf and Davide Frattesi have all come under criticism at various stages of the 2025-26 campaign, despite Inter’s eight-point lead at the top of the Serie A table.
Top 15 Italy players revealed as Serie A week 29 draws to a close
16 March 2026 at 17:14
Ahead of Gennaro Gattuso’s Italy national team squad announcement later this week, here is a look at the 15 highest-rated Italian players from the most recent round of Serie A fixtures over the weekend just gone.
Nine out of the 10 Serie A matches scheduled for week 29 took place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and the remaining match between Cremonese and Fiorentina will be played at 19.45 GMT on Monday evening.
Then, on Friday, Gattuso is scheduled to announce his Italy national team squad for the crucial World Cup play-off campaign coming up at the end of the month.
- Read more: 12 Italy players certain of a call-up in Gattuso’s next squad
- Read more: Five Italy youngsters who should be included in World Cup play-off squad
The Azzurri will host Northern Ireland in a World Cup play-off semi-final in Bergamo on March 26, and the winner of that tie will go on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home in the final on March 31: A one-off decider for a spot at the final tournament.
Ahead of the Italy squad announcement, here is a look at the highest-rated hopefuls that were involved in Serie A action this weekend.
Top 15 highest-rated Italy players from Serie A week 29
Matteo Politano (RW/RWB): 7.5* – Napoli 2-1 Lecce
Antonio Caracciolo (CB) 7.5* – Pisa 3-1 Cagliari
Stefano Moreo (CF/RW) 7.5 – Pisa 3-1 Cagliari
Arturo Calabresi (CB) 7 – Pisa 3-1 Cagliari
Nicolo Cambiaghi (LW) 7* – Sassuolo 0-1 Bologna
Pio Esposito (CF) 7 – Inter 1-1 Atalanta
Daniel Maldini (CF) 6.5 – Lazio 1-0 Milan
Mattia Zaccagni (LW) 6.5 – Lazio 1-0 Milan
Riccardo Orsolini (RW) 6.5 – Sassuolo 0-1 Bologna
Alessandro Marcandalli (CB) 6.5 – Verona 0-2 Genoa
Manuel Locatelli (CM) 6.5 – Udinese 0-1 Juventus
Leonardo Spinazzola (LWB) 6.5 – Napoli 2-1 Lecce
Samuele Angori (LB/LWB) 6.5 – Pisa 3-1 Cagliari
Nicolo Barella (CM) 6.5 – Inter 1-1 Atalanta
Davide Zappacosta (RWB) 6.5 – Inter 1-1 Atalanta
* Denotes player of the match award
(Ratings via Sky Sport Italia)
One in one out for Juventus: Vlahovic nears return but new midfield doubt emerges
16 March 2026 at 16:29
Dusan Vlahovic is targeting a spot in Juventus’s squad to face Sassuolo in Serie A this coming weekend, but there are now doubts over the availability of Khephren Thuram in a case of one in, one out for Luciano Spalletti’s side.
Vlahovic and Thuram updates for Juventus
Juventus picked up a 1-0 win away against Udinese on Saturday evening, which means that they are now in fifth place and one point behind Como in the Champions League positions. Como defeated Roma, who have now slipped to sixth, two points behind the Old Lady.
Juventus went with a ‘fluid’ attacking unit in their game against Udinese, featuring Kenan Yildiz at centre-forward with a supporting cast of Francisco Conceicao, Weston McKennie and Jeremie Boga.
Vlahovic had been tipped to return to the squad after more than three months out injured after surgery on his adductor, but was not deemed fit enough in the end.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Vlahovic is now targeting a return to the matchday squad for this Saturday’s match against Sassuolo instead.
There are, however, doubts regarding the condition of midfielder Thuram, who was forced off during Juve’s win away against Udinese with a blow to his left ankle.
Thuram’s condition is set to be monitored day-by-day, but as things stand, his inclusion in the squad to face Sassuolo is not guaranteed either way at this stage.
Vicario faces further criticism after ‘absolutely shocking’ mistake in Liverpool
16 March 2026 at 15:19
Italy goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has come under further criticism from Tottenham Hotspur supporters after failing to keep out Dominik Szoboszlai’s free-kick during his side’s 1-1 Premier League draw against Liverpool on Sunday: ‘You’ve got to save that, that’s awful, absolutely shocking’.
It has been a miserable season for Vicario and his Tottenham teammates, who are at genuine risk of relegation from the Premier League with eight games of the season left to play.
With 30 league games gone, Tottenham find themselves in 16th place in the Premier League table, just one point above the relegation zone. Sunday’s draw against Liverpool was the first point that Spurs have picked up during Igor Tudor’s first five matches in charge.
Vicario has also come under criticism on an individual level at various stages of the 2025-26 season, which led to his being dropped for last Tuesday’s 5-2 Champions League defeat against Atletico Madrid.
In an extraordinary turn of events, Vicario was then brought on after just 16 minutes of that game with Atletico leading by three goals following two major errors from back-up goalkeeper Anotnin Kinsky.
Vicario troubles continue at Tottenham
Despite restoring his no.1 status at Tottenham this weekend, Vicario has once again come under criticism for failing to stop Szoboszlai’s 18th-minute free-kick on Sunday, which many feel was ‘saveable’ for a top level goalkeeper.
“I mean (Szoboszlai) is a specialist, but a goalkeeping specialist, it’s not far off the middle of the goal. You’ve got to save that, wow. That’s awful, absolutely shocking,” said Jamie Carragher, who was on co-commentary duty for Tottenham’s 1-1 draw away against Liverpool.
“I genuinely believe I could save that. It’s like just off the middle of the goal and instead of just being normal he’s tried to do a “spectacular” one hand save when he could’ve just caught it,” a Chelsea supporter wrote on X.
“Has anyone started investigating Vicario for match fixing yet?,” another joked. “Vicario is on the take!!! How does that go in?!?!,” another Tottenham supporter similarly questioned. One supporter responded: “My first thought too. Has he got a bet on Spurs to be relegated? Pro Keeper should save that 99.9% of the time.”
“We were competing and in the game before Vicario gets a cardboard hand on a saveable free-kick,” said another Tottenham fan.
Ambrosini gives advice to Leao and Allegri after substitution in Lazio 1-0 Milan
16 March 2026 at 14:55
Massimio Ambrosini has given advice to both Rafael Leao and Massimiliano Allegri after Milan’s 1-0 loss away against Lazio, during which the Portugal international reacted angrily after being taken off in the 66th minute.
Milan slipped to a 1-0 defeat away against Lazio in Serie A on Sunday evening, which means that Inter’s lead at the top of the table has been extended to eight points with nine league games of the season left to go, despite dropping points against Atalanta this weekend.
Aside from the result, there was also a concerning moment for Milan supporters two thirds of the way through their Lazio loss, when Leao refused to give his head coach, Allegri, a hug on the touchline after being substituted off.
The Portugal international reacted angrily, especially after teammate Christian Pulisic had failed to slip him in on goal with a decent opportunity just moments before the substitution was called.
Ambrosini on Leao, Allegri and Lazio 1-0 Milan
Speaking on DAZN after full-time on Sunday, former Ambrosini, a four-time Scudetto winner with Milan, advised Leao that he should channel the anger and frustration that he occasionally shows when he is on the pitch, rather than when he is taken off it.
“I think that he has to show that anger when he comes off when he’s on the pitch,” said Ambrosini.
“He always gives that impression that the competitive charge is missing. But he has to channel that anger during the game in one way or another.
“By the 34th minute, he’d touched the ball four times, one of which was a header. The feeling is that by nature and by his characteristics, he’s a player you have to try and keep switched on. He doesn’t light up much, though.”
Ambrosini also advised Allegri that playing Leao as a centre-forward, especially when the Rossoneri swap to a 4-3-3 is a waste of his qualities.
“As a centre-forward, he takes a lot more breaks than he does when he’s playing out wide. I wouldn’t have changed (the shape) today.
“Milan went from a 3-5-2 to a 4-3-3 in the second half with Pulisic out wide and Leao up front. Again, I would have kept him out wide and gone to a 4-2-3-1. He’s wasted as a centre-forward.”
Di Canio: ‘Milan are a team without personality’ aside from one player
16 March 2026 at 14:29
Paolo Di Canio has taken a damning stance on Milan after their 1-0 loss against Lazio in Serie A on Sunday evening, and believes that only one Rossoneri player should avoid criticism: ‘A team without personality’.
Milan slipped to a 1-0 defeat away against Lazio in Serie A on Sunday evening. Following Inter’s 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Saturday, the Rossoneri had an opportunity to move within five points of the league leaders, but now have a considerably tougher eight-point deficit to make up with nine games of the season left to go.
There had been suggestions that Milan could stage a late fight for the Serie A title after their derby victory against Inter the weekend prior, but many argue that those hopes have now faded away after the Lazio defeat.
Di Canio criticised Milan, Leao and lack of ‘personality’
Speaking on Sky Calcio Club after Sunday’s loss against Lazio, Di Canio described Massimiliano Allegri’s side as one that is lacking in ‘personality’.
He also singled out Rafael Leao for criticism and says that Luka Modric is perhaps the only Rossoneri player who should avoid criticism after the defeat at the Stadio Olimpico.
“Milan have always found it difficult against teams even less gifted than Lazio, especially when they have to play themselves,” said Di Canio (via Milannews.it)
“Leao walks around and only gives you a solution on the counter attack. You can’t have a player walking around for 70 minutes while the others sacrifice themselves, and then get angry because they aren’t playing him in. Allegri has to solve that.
“Milan are a team without personality. Let’s leave Modric aside, who excited me. De Winter, Leao, Pulisic, who plays in the attack and doesn’t give him the ball, guys like that. It’s a team without a general personality.”
Champions League race: Remaining Como, Juventus and Roma fixtures compared
16 March 2026 at 13:58
Three points separate three teams competing for one spot in the Serie A top four with nine matches of the season left to go, but which of Como, Juventus or Roma has the ‘easiest’ run of fixtures remaining between now and the end of the 2025-26 campaign?
Juventus picked up a 1-0 victory away against Udinese on Saturday evening thanks to a lone goal from January signing Jeremie Boga, while Como beat Roma 2-1 at the Stadio Sinigaglia on Sunday evening, following the harsh 64th-minute dismissal of Giallorossi wing-back Wesley.
The weekend’s results means that Como currently occupy fourth place on 54 points, Juventus are in fifth on 53 points and Roma in sixth on 51.
In terms of the average league position of their remaining opponents, Juventus and Como have the same average of 11.89, which is marginally higher than the average league position of Roma’s upcoming opponents (12.11).
That said, Juventus are the only side of the three that are not involved in any cup competitions and only have Serie A to focus on.
Roma will take on Bologna at the Stadio Olimpico in the second leg of the Europa League round of 16 on Thursday evening, with the scores currently level at 1-1 at the halfway stage of the tie. The Giallorossi are the pre-match favourites given their home advantage and position in the Serie A table.
Como, meanwhile, will have to take on Inter in the second leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final in April, with the scores currently level at 0-0 after the first leg at the beginning of March.
Como’s remaining Serie A fixtures
Pisa (19th) at home
Udinese (11th) away
Inter (1st) at home
Sassuolo (10th) away
Genoa (13th) away
Napoli (3rd) at home
Verona (20th) away
Parma (12th) at home
Cremonese (18th) away
Remaining home games: 4
Remaining away games: 5
Average league position of remaining opponents: 11.89
Juventus’s remaining Serie A fixtures
Sassuolo (10th) at home
Genoa (13th) away
Atalanta (7th) away
Bologna (8th) at home
Milan (2nd) away
Verona (20th) at home
Lecce (16th) away
Fiorentina (17th) at home
Torino (14th) away
Remaining home games: 4
Remaining away games: 5
Average league position of remaining opponents: 11.89
Roma’s remaining Serie A fixtures
Lecce (16th) at home
Inter (1st) away
Pisa (19th) at home
Atalanta (7th) at home
Bologna (8th) away
Fiorentina (17th) at home
Parma (12th) away
Lazio (9th) at home
Verona (20th) away
Remaining home games: 5
Remaining away games: 4
Average league position of remaining opponents: 12.11
Bayern preparing to field 16-year-old goalkeeper against Atalanta in injury crisis
16 March 2026 at 13:27
Bayern Munich are preparing to hand a debut to 16-year-old goalkeeper Leonard Prescott for the return leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Atalanta on Wednesday evening, as every other stopper in Vincent Kompany’s ranks are either injured or at high risk of missing out.
Bayern injury crisis leads to opportunity for 16-year-old goalkeeper
The Bundesliga giants have a whopping 6-1 advantage over Atalanta heading into their round of 16 leg after dishing out a thrashing in Bergamo last Tuesday.
La Dea are the only Italian side left standing in the competition after the elimination of Inter and Juventus in the play-off round and Napoli’s exit at the end of the league phase.
Atalanta are facing a near-impossible task when they take on Bayern away at the Allianz Arena requiring a six-goal victory to qualify for the quarter-finals. But, the hosts are in the midst of a goalkeeping injury crisis that could lead to a 16-year-old being handed their senior debut between the posts on Wednesday night.
That is because captain Manuel Neuer, who missed out on the first leg against Atalanta, is still unavailable through injury. Back-up option Sven Ulreich is also nursing an adductor tear.
Jonas Urbig, who started against Atalanta last week, is a major doubt due to concussion, and reports in Germany suggest that Bayern are unlikely to take any risks with the 22-year-old, especially with a 6-1 advantage heading into the second leg.
Bayern’s reserve team, Bayern II, are also without 19-year-old goalkeeper Leon Klanac due to a thigh injury, which means that 16-year-old Prescott, currently based with the U19 squad, is the most likely goalkeeper to play against Atalanta on Wednesday according to reports from various outlets.
Prescott was born in New York but has represented Germany at U16 and U17 level.
The teenager has made 16 appearances for Bayern’s U19 squad so far this season, conceding 30 goals, and has twice been included in the senior matchday squad: Against Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga over the weekend just gone and against Atalanta in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 last Tuesday,
Costacurta: Leao was more angry at Pulisic than at substitution in Lazio 1-0 Milan
16 March 2026 at 13:02
Rossoneri legend Alessandro Costacurta says that Rafael Leao was more angry at Christian Pulisic than he was at his substitution two thirds of the way through Milan’s 1-0 loss away against Lazio on Sunday evening.
Leao reacted angrily when he was taken off after 65 minutes of Milan’s disappointing defeat in the capital on Sunday night and appeared to reject a hug from head coach Massimiliano Allegri on the touchline at the time of the change.
Many have taken the opinion, however, that the Portugal international was most frustrated with teammate Pulisic, who had failed to slip him in on goal just moments before the substitution board went up.
Costacurta reacts to Leao substitution
Milan’s defeat against Lazio means that they have now slipped eight points behind league leaders Inter with nine games of the season left to go, when they could have moved within five points of the Nerazzurri. Reigning champions Napoli are now just one point behind the Rossoneri in third place.
“Eight points with nine games to go is a lot. If I were in that team, I’d start thinking about the other sides behind,” said Costacurta on Sky Calcio Club after Milan’s loss on Sunday night (via Milannews.it).
Costacurta agrees that Leao was naturally frustrated about having to come off with almost half an hour left to play, but that he was probably more frustrated at Pulisic for the lack of passes in on goal.
“I was amazed that despite some excellent shots from Leao, Pulisic never gave it to him. Captain America preferred to give it to others and made that clear. I was making the same gestures as Leao: ‘Give it to him, give it to him!’
“He wasn’t angry about the sub, but about Pulisic’s lack of pass. I wouldn’t have taken Leao off, I would have moved him.”
Costacurta also agrees that this was a missed opportunity for his old club.
“For me, Milan missed a great opportunity to put pressure on the strongest side and see how they would have reacted.
“The first 10 minutes, Lazio seemed really up for it, when Milan should have been. The message you send at the beginning is important for the rest of the game. They also played a decent game, but you can’t just give minutes away.”
Today’s Papers: King Kimi, Milan’s gift to Inter, Gasperini anger
16 March 2026 at 12:41
La Gazzetta dello Sport
Golden boy
Kimi magic: After 20 years, an Italian triumphs in F1
Antonelli makes history in China
‘Now you’re making me cry. Aiming for the World Championship with Mercedes’
Sinner is back
At Indian Wells
Beats Medvedev and dedicates the tournament to his friend Kimi
Milan fall to -8
Lazio give Inter a gift, Leao tension
Isaksen’s goal decides it. Rafa argues with Pulisic and Allegri over the substitution
The Scudetto then changes
Chivu let off
The Scudetto then the changes
Chivu relief
The coach is a fixed point, but the squad will be rebuilt
Como dreaming, Gasp anger
Roma fall to sixth, behind Juve as well
‘The Wesley red was an error, that’s how it is with them …’ Fabregas: ‘Unsportsmanlike’, and he’s alone in fourth
Corriere dello Sport
King Kimi
Antonelli triumph | Dominates at the Grand Prix in China: There’s an Italian winner in F1 20 years after Fisichella
‘I’ve always dreamt about it but we’re only at the beginning’. His dad: ‘He was born on the track’
Sarri, gift to Inter
Lazio shock Milan (1-0): Chivu first on +8
Isaksen makes the difference and puts his signature on the Scudetto race: From a possible -5, Allegri lets Cristian and the title slip. Leao doesn’t appreciate the change
Gasp fury: ‘10 men for no reason’
Beaten in Como (2-1): Roma contest the Wesley red card
Tuttosport
Generation of phenomena
Kimi triumphs in China, Jannik at Indian Wells
Fabulous Antonelli! An Italian returns as a GP winner in F1 for the first time since Fisichella 20 years ago: He’s the youngest ever after Verstappen. ‘What a dream! I was s***ing myself at the end’. Behind the Mercedes are the Ferraris: Hamilton, first podium in red after an internal battle with Leclerc. Sinner crushes a super Medvedev and makes up for the nightmare one year ago: Alcaraz’s no.1 is getting closer
Isaksen scores for Inter as well
Milan flop against Lazio: -8
A wasted, high-tension occasion:Leao, annoyed by the substitution, rejects the hug from Allegri and Tare doesn’t appreciate it
Yildiz, 10 squared: 130 million valuation
Spalletti-Juve: A signing in the air
10 goals and 10 assists: according to CIES he’s the fifth top player in the world. Boga, the algorithm that works. David, Maresille solution
River Plate call Simeone
The new coach wants him
The Toro bomber grew up at the Buenos Aires club: He’s Coudet’s priority. Fila open today: There’s anticipation for the fans’ response
Como overturn Roma: 4th place, but Gasp is raging
Red for Wesley, it was harsh: Sparks with Cesc
Lazio fans ‘are the extra man, it’s undeniable’ after boycott suspended
16 March 2026 at 02:51
Mario Gila and Gustav Isaksen confess the return of Lazio fans after weeks of boycotting the Stadio Olimpico was decisive against Milan. ‘They are the extra man, it’s undeniable.’
The Aquile had been in crisis, but this was their second consecutive Serie A victory, and confidence is growing.
After beating Sassuolo last week, they managed to push past Scudetto-chasing Milan thanks to the Isaksen strike on a long Adam Marusic ball, shrugging off Pervis Estupinan.
Lazio fans inspire success over Milan
“It was an incredible atmosphere and we had really missed this feeling,” Isaksen told DAZN Italia.
“The players and staff are great people, they help me every day, and I wanted to dedicate the goal to them as a well as the fans”
Above all, Lazio found inspiration from the crowd, as the fans suspended the boycott of the Stadio Olimpico that had left the stadium painfully empty and desolate in recent weeks.
They put on a remarkable atmosphere for this big match, so the team and staff celebrated under the Curva Nord after the final whistle.
“It is very different feeling the supporters behind us, they are the extra man, it’s undeniable,” Gila told DAZN Italia.
“We saw their influence tonight and put in a great performance. We had a lot of difficulties this season, but are seeing a different Lazio in the last three or four games, we can feel that energy on the pitch. We have matured thanks to these obstacles, and this was a great signal.”
Lazio might find it very difficult to close up the gap to the European places, but they can still win a trophy and qualify for UEFA competition.
They are in the Coppa Italia semi-final after a 2-2 first leg home draw with Atalanta.
“If we play like this, then we can have a different energy, so we want to keep the momentum going in Serie A and towards the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final,” concluded Gila.
Sarri: ‘Lazio fans made it a memorable night regardless’ of 1-0 victory over Milan
16 March 2026 at 02:40
Maurizio Sarri said that the return of Lazio fans to the Stadio Olimpico after weeks of protest made it ‘a memorable night regardless of the result’ of their victory over Milan.
It was already a positive night before kick-off, as the fans suspended their boycott in protest at President Claudio Lotito, and returned to the stands of the Stadio Olimpico.
They helped inspire the team to a huge victory, as Gustav Isaksen shrugged off Pervis Estupinan to beat Mike Maignan in what proved to be the only goal of the game.
Sarri emotional at Lazio atmosphere
“The whole night was emotional, as seeing the Stadio Olimpico with this spectacular atmosphere and these fans was wonderful. I am so happy that the team gave them this joy of a victory, but it would’ve been a memorable night regardless of the result,” Sarri told DAZN Italia.
“I feel that we should’ve finished the first half with more than a one-goal advantage, so if there was a criticism of our performance, it’s that,” responded the coach.
“Clearly, we couldn’t maintain the intensity of that half, and had limited options to take off the bench, so that made it difficult as it wore on.”
With a large injury crisis ruling out Danilo Cataldi, Alessio Romagnoli, Ivan Provedel, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot, Sarri seems to have found a worthy replacement midfielder in Gil Patric.
“I wouldn’t use this match for comparison to any other this season, because the lads were galvanised and motivated by the return of the fans,” insisted the coach.
“The atmosphere at the Olimpico was special tonight. This is a team that is improving in many areas, and we hope to lay solid foundations for the future.”
Sarri was sent off deep into stoppages for dissent, largely as he was complaining that the six minutes of added time had already expired.
It has been a difficult campaign with issues off the field, including a transfer embargo he had not been expecting, and the on-going tension between the fans and President Lotito.
“It has been certainly the most difficult season of perhaps not my career, as I had tough ones in Serie C, but certainly the toughest in Serie A. The squad also needs to be praised, because they could’ve fallen apart, but they have overall kept training with the right attitude and maintaining their character.”
Can this night potentially change the atmosphere around Lazio for the final weeks of the season, including the Coppa Italia semi-final with Atalanta?
“I don’t know, to be honest. What I heard from the fans is that this was a one-off, but I hope this wonderful atmosphere struck them as much as it struck us, and that the situation can be fixed, although I don’t know how quickly that can happen,” confessed Sarri.
“I don’t want to make an appeal to the fans, because when people make decisions, they are to be respected, even when those decisions are painful.”
Allegri: ‘Milan must be realistic, Leao was irritated by situations’
16 March 2026 at 02:23
Max Allegri hopes the defeat to Lazio means people will stop asking Milan about the Scudetto, and explains why Rafael Leao ‘was annoyed’ at his substitution.
This had been a big opportunity for the Rossoneri to ride the wave of enthusiasm from the Derby della Madonnina success and take advantage of Inter’s draw with Atalanta to close the gap at the top to five points.
Instead, they lost 1-0 at the Stadio Olimpico and Inter’s lead is expanded to eight points, while Napoli are now only one point behind the Rossoneri in third place.
Lazio were repeatedly attacking Pervis Estupinan down the right flank, and he stumbled when Gustav Isaksen went clear on the long Adam Marusic ball to beat Mike Maignan in the only goal of the game.
Allegri gives reasons for Milan stumble
“We knew the difficulties of this match, as the fans were returning to the stadium and it was very important for Lazio,” Allegri told DAZN Italia.
“Their first half was very strong, we should’ve been a little more organised and made fewer errors. They ran hard and fell away after the break, we had a lot more intensity and poured forward, but were unable to make it count with a goal. This is football.”
More worryingly, they are closer to Juventus in fifth now than to the leaders, as the advantage for a Champions League spot is only seven points.
“What we absolutely must do now is press the reset button. People talked about the Scudetto after the win over Inter, but we have to be realistic in life,” added the coach.
“We need to remember that the objective is Champions League qualification, otherwise we risk destroying all that we have built over the last six months.”
There was also tension when Allegri substituted Rafael Leao at the 68th minute, as the Portugal international reacted angrily to being hauled off.
He walked so slowly towards the touchline that Maignan ran over to push him off, then resisted Allegri’s attempts to hug him, before kicking away bottles on the Milan bench.
“Leao was a bit annoyed because he had some situations where he could’ve had better service, so he was a bit angry, but these things can happen during a match,” assured Allegri.
“All the lads wanted to win, first and foremost to break away from the chasing pack, because Juventus are only seven points behind us now. It’s a long season still, we need to stay focused and do better on the situations we got wrong in the first half.”
It is perhaps no coincidence that Milan lost here, as they have struggled in the absence of Adrien Rabiot, who sat out a ban this evening.
However, the coach did not agree with suggestions Milan were too passive and sat back in the first half.
“I think we made too many technical errors in the first half and allowed far too many counter-attacks. Even before the goal, we had another couple of situations where we were all ahead of the ball and had acres of space behind us, you should not concede goals like this,” noted Allegri.
“We stepped up a gear after the break and had many favourable situations, but couldn’t make them count. It’s not that we waited for Lazio, I think we allowed more counter-attacks tonight than throughout the rest of the season.
“If you lose the ball in the opposition half, then either you win it back straight away or you get caught on the counter, there’s no other way out of that situation. We lost a lot of duels in the first half, such as one between De Winter and Maldini, so when you go too softly into those challenges, of course you’ll lose the ball.
“After the break, we were a lot stronger into those duels, and therefore kept Lazio pinned back into their half. It’s difficult to explain why they were soft in those duels, because the lads prepared well and knew the importance of the game.
“I think we made too many errors in general, we accepted going man-for-man with them tonight, and often it didn’t work, leaving De Winter alone against Maldini.”
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Football Italia
- Serie A | Lazio 1-0 Milan – Gila & Isaksen help scupper Rossoneri Scudetto comeback dream
Serie A | Lazio 1-0 Milan – Gila & Isaksen help scupper Rossoneri Scudetto comeback dream
16 March 2026 at 01:48
Lazio picked up three points in an impressive 1-0 victory over Milan at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday night, with a first half goal from Gustav Isaksen separating the two teams as the Rossoneri fail to close the gap on league leaders Inter.
Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Mario Gila, for an impeccable defensive performance that helped thwart the Milan attack time and time again.
Lazio 1-0 Milan – Player Ratings
Lazio: Motta 7; Marusic 6.5, Gila 7.5, Provstgaard 6.5, Tavares 6.5; Dele-Bashiru 6, Patric 6, Taylor 6.5 (Belahyane N/A); Isaksen 7 (Pedro 6), Maldini 6.5 (Dia 5.5), Zaccagni 6 (Cancellieri N/A)
Best Lazio player: Mario Gila – Continues to shine as a core element of the Biancocelesti’s team, made a number of huge defensive interventions and gave the Rossoneri front line no room to breathe.
Lowest Lazio rating: Boulaye Dia – Despite playing nearly thirty minutes, the Senegalese forward had next to no involvement, touching the ball less than 10 times – more or less just there to complete the numbers and help secure the three points.
Coach: Maurizio Sarri 7.5 – An impressive hit-and-run performance saw the coach pick up what will feel like a well-earned win against tough opposition. Sarri’s influence and tactics helped shape the game and keep his team in the lead until the final whistle.
Milan: Maignan 6; Tomori 6 (Athekame 6), De Winter 5.5, Pavlovic 6; Saelemaekers 6 (Ricci N/A), Fofana 6 (Nkunku 5.5), Modric 6, Jashari 5.5, Estupinan 5 (Bartesaghi 6), Pulisic 6, Leao 5 (Fullkrug 5.5)
Best Milan player: Alexis Saelemaekers – Definitely offered the most threat of Milan’s ‘attackers’, creating six chances for his team and working hard to track back defensively.
Lowest Milan rating: Pervis Estupinan – Whilst Leao is a dishonourable mention, the Ecuadorian continues his poor form in red and black, and was entirely to blame for Lazio’s winner. The Biancocelesti identified him as a weak point early on and the wing-back caused several other problems for his defence in his 57 minutes on the pitch.
Coach: Massimiliano Allegri 5.5 – Brought back down to earth after the impressive Milan derby victory last weekend. This will be a disappointing one for the coach to take, as he was able to close the gap on Inter further with a win today. His substitutions offered little, even though Allegri deserves credit for taking Leao off after his lacklustre performance.
Serie A | Lazio 1-0 Milan: Isaksen breaks Rossoneri ambition
16 March 2026 at 01:41
Milan’s Scudetto dream crumbled as soon as it had opened up, as Gustav Isaksen gave Lazio the 1-0 victory, and Rafael Leao reacted angrily to a substitution.
The Rossoneri blew the Scudetto race open with their victory in the Derby della Madonnina and were handed another big opportunity to close the gap after Inter drew 1-1 with Atalanta yesterday. Adrien Rabiot sat out a ban, with Matteo Gabbia, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Santiago Gimenez injured, so Ardon Jashari stepped into midfield. The Aquile ended their negative streak by beating Sassuolo 2-1, but more importantly the ultras suspended their boycott and returned to the Stadio Olimpico. Danilo Cataldi joined Alessio Romagnoli, Ivan Provedel, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot on the treatment table, so Gil Patric took on a new midfield role.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
Pervis Estupinan saw his diving header flash wide from an Alexis Saelemaekers cross, but moments later Kenneth Taylor smacked a shot against the crossbar from a tricky angle after good work from Daniel Maldini.
Lazio had been repeatedly attacking Estupinan down the right flank and it paid off, as he stumbled when Gustav Isaksen got onto a long Adam Marusic ball, beating Mike Maignan one-on-one at the near post.
Lazio take the lead over AC Milan, and it's Gustav Isaksen who runs clear of the Milan defence to slot past Maignan!
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 15, 2026
Maldini also held off Koni De Winter to test Maignan on another counter-attack, but after the restart Edoardo Motta flew for a one-handed save on Christian Pulisic’s strike, with Youssouf Fofana’s weak follow-up header.
At the other end, Dele-Bashiru flashed a ball across the face of goal, then as the move concluded, Maignan had to be alert to prevent Estupinan nodding into his own net.
Mario Gila crucially prevented Leao from going clear on the Fofana through ball, then Motta punched a dangerous Pulisic cross off Leao’s head before the American blasted the rebound over.
Rafael Leao was substituted and clearly unhappy with the decision, as Maignan had to rush over to push him off the field while he reacted with irritation when hugged by Max Allegri.
Zachary Athekame’s volley was charged down by Taylor just inside the area, then on 75 minutes Athekame fired in a splendid strike from a corner, but it was disallowed because it struck his arm as he tried to control and turn. If the ball makes contact with the arm just before scoring a goal, then intentionality is irrelevant.
Milan poured forward with a series of corners, Motta punching one off the head of Pavlovic, then Luka Modric fired over from the edge of the area after the referee got in his way.
Nuno Tavares flashed a ball across the six-yard box just beyond Boulaye Dia, while Ardon Jashari blasted wide. Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri saw red for dissent deep into stoppages.
Lazio 1-0 Milan
Isaksen 26 (L)
Player statistic
1st half
| Gustav Isaksen (Assist: Adam Marusic) |
|
26' |
2nd half
| 55' | Pervis Estupiñán | |||
| Edoardo Motta | 70' | |||
| Nuno Tavares | 81' | |||
| Patric | 90+5' | |||
| Pedro | |
90+5' |
Match statistic
41
Possession %
59
7
Total shots
17
2
Shots on target
3
2
Shots off target
8
3
Blocked shots
6
1
Corners
9
3
Offsides
4
7
Fouls
19
Lazio
Milan
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Milan forward Rafael Leao throws tantrum after being substituted against Lazio
16 March 2026 at 01:26
Milan forward Rafael Leao looked quite the unhappy man after he was substituted in Milan’s match against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday evening.
Lazio took the lead in the first half thanks to a goal from Danish winger Gustav Isaksen and Leao had little impact in helping his side get back into the game.
Therefore, with 25 minutes to play, Rossoneri head coach Massimiliano Allegri decided to replace the Portuguese star and midfielder Youssouf Fofana with two more traditional strikers in Fullkrug and Nkunku.
Relive all the action from today’s Serie A matches on our Live Blog.
Leao frustrated after being taken off in Milan trip to Lazio
Leao was not happy to be taken off and took his time exiting the field.
Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan rushed over to the forward to encourage him to leave the pitch faster, before being embraced by Allegri, who he quickly pushed off to go and take his place on the bench.
Shortly after, the former Lille man was spotted kicking bottles in frustrating on the touchline.
Whilst his frustration is understandable, the forward demonstrated an arrogance at a critical point for his team in what was a must-win game to keep in the Scudetto chase.
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- Roma coach Gasperini snaps back at Fabregas: ‘Como are strong but I don’t respect their behaviour’
Roma coach Gasperini snaps back at Fabregas: ‘Como are strong but I don’t respect their behaviour’
16 March 2026 at 01:10
Gian Piero Gasperini has fired back at Cesc Fabregas following the post-match handshake controversy that emerged after Como’s 2-1 victory over Roma, delivering a blunt and unambiguous response to the Como head coach’s public comments.
Speaking to ANSA, via the Corriere dello Sport, Gasperini showed little interest in diplomatic language.
“Como are a strong team, but I do not respect their behaviour, on the pitch or on the touchline,” he said plainly.
The exchange follows Fabregas’ pointed but measured comments to Sky Sport after the final whistle, in which the Como coach expressed disappointment at Gasperini’s failure to shake his hand, describing it as a matter of basic sporting respect.
You can read Fabregas’ full reaction here.
Gasperini furious with Como behaviour ‘on the pitch & the touchline’
Gasperini’s response suggests the ill-feeling runs considerably deeper than a missed handshake.
His reference to behaviour “on the pitch and on the touchline” implies broader grievances with Como’s conduct throughout the match, likely connected to the Wesley’s second yellow card that prompted his furious post-match reaction about simulation.
With Roma still harbouring Europa League ambitions and facing Bologna in the second leg on Thursday, Gasperini will be eager to channel his frustration into a result at the Olimpico.
But the war of words with Fabregas has added an extra layer of intrigue to what is already a fascinating final stretch of the season for both clubs.
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- Como 2-1 Roma – Fabregas calls out Gasperini for ‘disrespect’, delighted with ‘epic’ performance
Como 2-1 Roma – Fabregas calls out Gasperini for ‘disrespect’, delighted with ‘epic’ performance
16 March 2026 at 00:41
Cesc Fabregas was riding a wave of emotion after Como’s victory over Roma, describing the performance as “epic” while taking a pointed but measured swipe at Gian Piero Gasperini for failing to shake his hand at the final whistle.
The Como head coach was effusive in his praise for his players, who he felt demonstrated exactly the identity and character he has been building since taking charge.
“It was a beautiful match and I enjoyed every moment of it,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.
“You could say the victory was epic, but it cost a lot. It was a very intense game and yet from the first minute we always sought our own game. That gives enormous credit to this squad.”
Fabregas was equally clear about what underpins Como’s remarkable season. “When you build a squad you implement an idea, you study your players carefully, their character, their identity. Learning to handle the result and the game in a certain way is a question of solidity, courage and trust. That takes months to develop, not weeks. Games like this show it is becoming natural, not forced.”
But it was his comments on Gasperini that will generate the most headlines.
Como 2-1 Roma – Fabregas slams lack of Gasperini respect
The Roma coach notably failed to seek out Fabregas for the customary post-match handshake, and the Spaniard did not shy away from addressing it directly.
“In two years I do not think there has been a single occasion where I have not gone to shake a colleague’s hand, whether I have lost, been sent off, been angry or been happy,” he said. “I think it is a question of respect. When the match ends you go and shake hands, even if you have been beaten in circumstances you feel were unjust. When he left without doing so, it saddened me a little, but then I thought it was nothing.”
He added that he had moved towards the tunnel believing Gasperini was heading that way, and was careful not to escalate the situation further.
“I can only speak about my own experience, I simply went to say hello.”
With nine league games remaining plus the Coppa Italia, Fabregas was keen to keep feet firmly on the ground despite Como sitting fourth. “We must maintain humility, naturalness and keep working. We go step by step.”
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- Como 2-1 Roma – Gasperini fury at Wesley dismissal: ‘It’s pointless to comment on dives’
Como 2-1 Roma – Gasperini fury at Wesley dismissal: ‘It’s pointless to comment on dives’
16 March 2026 at 00:03
Gian Piero Gasperini cut a frustrated figure after Roma’s defeat at Como, directing his anger at the decision to send off Wesley for a second yellow card and lamenting what he described as a growing problem with simulation in the modern game.
The Roma head coach was in no mood to hold back when speaking to DAZN, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.
“I have already seen the Wesley incident, today it is pointless to comment on this trend in football, especially regarding dives,” he said.
“It was unfortunately a decisive episode, just like the one for their equaliser. We defended the cutbacks well but in that moment we were not good enough. Some of it is down to us, and it is not a great moment, but these are glaring episodes that are hard to ignore.”
Gasperini shakes off defeat to focus on Europa League
Gasperini also acknowledged that the absence of Donyell Malen significantly reduces Roma’s attacking threat, though he was keen to frame it as a broader team issue rather than an individual dependency.
The Dutchman scored from the spot to give Roma the lead but was replaced with twenty five minutes left.
“We do rely on him, understandably, given how many goals we score,” he said. “He creates clear, clean chances every match, that means the team is working well and building correctly.”
His tactical assessment of the match itself was candid.
Roma had the tools to turn the game around after the break, he argued, but Como’s half-time changes, introducing key players before Wesley’s dismissal altered the contest, proved decisive.
With Thursday’s Europa League second leg against Bologna now looming large, Gasperini acknowledged there is little time to dwell.
“The players are young and some have experience, they must recover their energy quickly. The suspensions disrupt our continuity, but Thursday is an important match and we must be ready.”
Tare: ‘Milan know season is full of surprises, Modric loves us’
15 March 2026 at 23:33
Milan director Igli Tare brushes off Moise Kean talk, is confident Luka Modric will extend his contract, and warns ‘the season is full of surprises’ as a win against Lazio would reopen the Scudetto race.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the Liveblog.
There have been reports over the last few days that Milan will target Fiorentina striker Moise Kean for the future of their attack, reuniting with ex-Juventus coach Max Allegri.
“It’s pointless talking about this now, that won’t be discussed for a few months,” replied Tare when pressed on Kean by DAZN Italia.
“It is fundamental that we win the game tonight not just for the table, but also to give a sense of consistency following the derby, so there will be plenty of time to talk about the rest.”
Tare and Milan ready to put pressure on Inter
The Rossoneri have a huge opportunity to blow the Scudetto race wide open, as after last week’s Derby della Madonnina victory, they also watched leaders Inter held 1-1 by Atalanta yesterday.
It means a win here would close the gap at the top to just five points with nine rounds left to play.
“Honestly, we have to focus on ourselves and try to win. It is a big gap still, but a win here would close the gap, and we need to take it one step at a time, because the season is full of surprises,” smiled Tare.
Milan lost here in December for the Coppa Italia quarter-final, beaten by a Mattia Zaccagni header on the Nuno Tavares corner.
As a former Lazio player and director, Tare knows the atmosphere well at the Stadio Olimpico, and saw that the local ultras suspended their boycott, so are present in the stands tonight.
“We talked about it during the week, we’d prefer to play in a full stadium, because this is the joy of football. Lazio are going through a difficult transition period, but they remain a team that can beat anyone on the right day.
“We are aware of all that and want to win tonight.”
Adrien Rabiot is suspended, with Matteo Gabbia, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Santiago Gimenez injured, so Ardon Jashari step into midfield with Luka Modric.
The Croatian has found a second wind for his career in the Rossoneri jersey, so will he extend his contract to 2027?
“One thing for sure is that Luka loves Milan, and Milan love Luka. As we said at the start of the season, we have an option to extend, but the decision is up to him. He’ll be given the time and space he needs to decide, but he really enjoys playing for us,” concluded Tare.
Before yesterdayFootball Italia
Sarri on ‘decisive’ return of Lazio fans and new midfield role against Milan
15 March 2026 at 23:20
Maurizio Sarri says the return of Lazio supporters after their boycott is ‘decisive’ and explains his midfield changes against Milan. ‘We’ve got to make do.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the Liveblog.
The big news for the Biancocelesti is that the ultras have suspended their protest against President Claudio Lotito, so they are back in the stands of the Stadio Olimpico after several weeks of leaving the arena desolately empty.
“The fans are decisive for us and having them back is wonderful. These are things people from the outside cannot understand fully,” Sarri told DAZN Italia.
Sarri has to rearrange Lazio squad
Lazio ended their negative streak by beating Sassuolo 2-1 last week, but Danilo Cataldi picked up an injury, joining Alessio Romagnoli, Ivan Provedel, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot on the treatment table.
Rather than Rade Belahyane in midfield, Sarri prefers to move defender Gil Patric into that position instead.
“We are without Rovella, Cataldi, Basic, and sold Vecino, so we’ve got to make do. Patric is good at passing, he can give us something there, and did well in the second half of the last game.
“We’ve got to be very careful not to lose the ball cheaply, as Milan can be lethal in these situations, so we mustn’t be wasteful, and have to be alert with preventative marking,” concluded the coach.
The Aquile knocked Milan out of the Coppa Italia quarter-final on December 4, with a late header from Mattia Zaccagni on the Nuno Tavares corner.
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- Serie A | Como 2-1 Roma – Player Ratings as Baturina, Diego Carlos & Douvikas inspire comeback
Serie A | Como 2-1 Roma – Player Ratings as Baturina, Diego Carlos & Douvikas inspire comeback
15 March 2026 at 23:03
Como came back from a goal down to defeat 10-man Roma at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia this evening, with a 2-1 victory seeing the hosts leapfrog Juventus into fourth place in Serie A.
Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Como attacking midfielder Martin Baturina, for his impressive work rate, chance creation and brightness on the ball.
Como 2-1 Roma – Player Ratings
Como: Butez 6; Ramon 6.5, Diego Carlos 7, Kempf 6 (Douvikas 7); Smolcic 6.5, Sergi Roberto 5 (Diao 7), Da Cunha 7, Valle 6.5; Caqueret 5.5 (Perrone 6), Baturina 7.5; Nico Paz 5.5 (Rodriguez N/A)
Best Como player: Martin Baturina – Despite not finding the back of the net himself, the Croatian created six chances, more than anyone else on the pitch, and was a constant menace – especially when the visitors went down to 10 men.
Lowest Como rating: Sergi Roberto – Playing in midfield once again, the Spaniard had a rough day today before being replaced by Diao as Fabregas switched his strategy up at half-time. Really struggled to have any impact on the game in his 45 minutes on the pitch.
Coach: Cesc Fabregas 7.5 – Helped in part by Wesley’s red card, the coach masterminded an impressive comeback, with Douvikas being subbed on to score and Diao coming on to greatly improve the team’s danger going forward.
Roma: Svilar 6; Ghilardi 5.5, Mancini 6, Hermoso 5 (Ziolkowski 6); Celik 6 (Tsimikas 5.5), Cristante 5.5, Kone 5.5, Wesley 5.5; Pellegrini 6.5 (Pisilli 6), El Shaarawy 6.5 (Rensch 5.5); Malen 6.5 (Vaz 6)
Best Roma player: Stephan El Shaarawy – Impressive performance tonight from the 33-year-old, who continued to prove he is not getting lazier with age. A hard working performance from the Italian, who won the penalty early on to give Roma the lead.
Lowest Roma rating: Kostas Tsimikas/Wesley – Not entirely sure who was worse. Wesley was perhaps unlucky to pick up two yellow cards but ultimately it was his fault the team lost. Tsimikas, meanwhile, was brought on for an injured Zeki Celik with twenty minutes left and put in another disastrous cameo.
Coach: Gian Piero Gasperini 5.5 – His substitutes offered very little when he needed them most. The coach was let down by Wesley’s sending off but his side were being outplayed, even in the first half with the teams at eleven apiece.
Serie A | Como 2-1 Roma: Fabregas wins controversial Champions League battle
15 March 2026 at 22:57
Como fought back from a Donyell Malen penalty to beat 10-man Roma after Wesley’s controversial red card, leaping into that fourth Champions League spot.
This was an unexpected duel for Champions League qualification, as both teams were locked together in fourth place, albeit overtaken when Juventus beat Udinese last night. The hosts were coming off three consecutive victories, missing Jayden Addai with Maxi Perrone not fully fit, but surprised with a three-man defence. The Giallorossi still missed Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson, with Evan Ndicka suspended. Manu Koné returned after skipping Thursday’s 1-1 Europa League draw with Bologna, while Mario Hermoso got his first start since February 2 and Stephan El Shaarawy since January 6.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
Como got into a tangle playing out from the back and El Shaarawy pounced on the loose ball, brought down by Diego Carlos for an early penalty, converted hard and low into the near bottom corner by Donyell Malen.
Nico Paz responded by testing Mile Svilar from a tricky angle, as did Alex Valle on the half-volley, while Wesley made a series of decisive blocks, including one to prevent a Sergi Roberto tap-in.
Jacobo Ramon only managed to get his thigh to the Maxence Caqueret cross and flicked it inches wide of the far post from six yards.
Como had a big chance just before half-time when Caqueret drew out Svilar and pulled it back generously for Nico Paz, only for the Argentine to fire over the bar.
Cesc Fabregas made a double attacking change at the restart and they paid off, because Tasos Douvikas sprung the offside trap on a Valle through ball and surprised Svilar at the base of the near post, squirming the finish under the goalkeeper’s body.
There were chances at both ends, first Svilar flapping a loose ball away from Nico Paz mid-volley, then Malen’s counter-attack denied by a desperate block.
It went from bad to worse for Roma, because they went down to 10 men when Wesley was very harshly shown a second yellow card for a challenge on Assane Diao. There seemed to be barely any contact, with Devyne Rensch more likely to have contributed to his fall, but the VAR protocol meant they could not intervene.
Da Cunha nutmegged Robinio Vaz for a curler inches wide of the far top corner from outside the box, then Martin Baturina turned over first-time from a similar position on the Douvikas lay-off.
Svilar flew to palm a Diao strike out from under the bar, then got down to parry the Ivan Smolcic low drive, but could do nothing as Diego Carlos pounced on the rebound from six yards. It was an ideal birthday gift, his first Serie A goal.
Da Cunha nearly added a third when he cut inside from the right and smashed a left-foot finish onto the crossbar.
Como 2-1 Roma
Malen pen 7 (R), Douvikas 59 (C), Diego Carlos 79 (C)
Sent off: Wesley 64 (R)
Player statistic
1st half
| 7' | |
Donyell Malen |
2nd half
| 48' | Wesley | |||
| Anastasios Douvikas (Assist: Álex Valle) |
59' | |||
| Maxence Caqueret | 63' | |||
| 64' | |
Wesley | ||
| Diego Carlos | 73' | |||
| 77' | |
Daniele Ghilardi | ||
| Diego Carlos | |
79' |
Match statistic
66
Possession %
34
22
Total shots
3
7
Shots on target
1
7
Shots off target
1
8
Blocked shots
1
7
Corners
1
0
Offsides
1
16
Fouls
18
Como
Roma
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Finalissima cancelled as Argentina FA announce UEFA rejected San Siro proposal
15 March 2026 at 22:40
The 2026 Finalissima between Argentina and Spain has been cancelled, with the Argentine Football Association confirming that a proposed alternative venue in Italy was rejected by UEFA following the original host city of Doha becoming untenable due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
AFA president Claudio Tapia explained that Argentina had pushed for the match to be moved to Italy and played on 31 March, but UEFA deemed the rescheduling unfeasible.
“We could have played it in Italy, but UEFA did not accept the proposal to change the date,” Tapia said, via FCInterNews.
“We always maintained that the match should be played on neutral ground and the proposal of Madrid did not respect that principle. The Italy option was presented, but we had requested a postponement to 31 March. UEFA considered the move unworkable and the match was cancelled.”
The proposed alternate location was Milan’s San Siro, which would’ve marked a special homecoming for Inter Captain Lautaro Martinez.
Inter relief as no pressure for Lautaro to star in Finalissima after UEFA snub San Siro
The decision therefore has a notable knock-on effect for Inter, aside from San Siro being rejected as a possible location.
Captain Lautaro Martinez had been pushing to accelerate his recovery from injury with the Finalissima in mind, but with that incentive now removed, Inter can take a more measured approach to his rehabilitation without the pressure of an international fixture looming.
According to Sky Sport, the club are relieved to have more breathing room and are unwilling to take any risks with their captain ahead of the season’s crucial final weeks.
Whether Lautaro will be fit for Inter’s trip to Fiorentina remains to be seen, with further assessment expected in the coming days.
Serie A official Week 29 line-ups: Lazio vs. Milan
15 March 2026 at 22:30
Milan can close the gap at the top of the table to just five points with a victory here, so Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic lead the way against Lazio’s Daniel Maldini and Mattia Zaccagni.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the Liveblog.
The Rossoneri blew the Scudetto race open last week with their victory in the Derby della Madonnina, but as Inter were held to a 1-1 draw by Atalanta yesterday, it gives them an even bigger opportunity to close within five points of the leaders.
Max Allegri is forced into a change, as Adrien Rabiot is suspended, with Matteo Gabbia, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Santiago Gimenez are still injured.
Modric is therefore joined in midfield by Ardon Jashari, while Pervis Estupinan keeps his spot ahead of Davide Bartesaghi.
Leao and Pulisic lead the attack, with Alexis Saelemaekers out wide.
Lazio have received two big pieces of good news in the last week, as they ended their negative streak by beating Sassuolo 2-1, and the ultras suspended their boycott.
That means the crowd returns to the stands with chants, flags and fireworks, having protested President Claudio Lotito over the last few weeks.
However, there is also bad news for Maurizio Sarri, as Danilo Cataldi joins Alessio Romagnoli, Ivan Provedel, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot on the treatment table.
Gil Patric is moved into a new midfield role behind Zaccagni, Gustav Isaksen and former Milan youth team player Maldini.
Lazio vs. Milan line-ups
Lazio: Motta; Marusic, Gila, Provstgaard, Nuno Tavares; Dele-Bashiru, Patric, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Zaccagni
Milan: Maignan; Tomori, De Winter, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modric, Jashari, Estupinan; Leao, Pulisic
Player statistic
1st half
| Gustav Isaksen (Assist: Adam Marusic) |
|
26' |
2nd half
| 55' | Pervis Estupiñán | |||
| Edoardo Motta | 70' | |||
| Nuno Tavares | 81' | |||
| Patric | 90+5' | |||
| Pedro | |
90+5' |
Match statistic
41
Possession %
59
7
Total shots
17
2
Shots on target
3
2
Shots off target
8
3
Blocked shots
6
1
Corners
9
3
Offsides
4
7
Fouls
19
Lazio
Milan
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Immobile reveals he turned down Milan move whilst at Lazio: ‘It was hard to say no’
15 March 2026 at 21:53
Ciro Immobile has revealed that AC Milan made a serious attempt to sign him during his peak years at Lazio, with the Italian striker admitting it was no easy decision to turn them down, even if his heart ultimately made the choice for him.
The former Lazio captain, who joined Paris FC on a free transfer in January after spending the first half of the season with Bologna, spoke exclusively to MilanNews.it ahead of tonight’s Lazio-Milan clash at the Stadio Olimpico.
“It is true, there was interest, even when Gattuso was the manager,” Immobile confirmed.
“But that was a strong Lazio side, at the same level as Milan at the time. It was a decision made with the heart, because it is difficult to say no to a club of that importance. Would I have liked it? Well, who wouldn’t?” he laughed. “But at that moment I was happy at Lazio.”
Lazio vs Milan – Immobile: ‘Lazio can cause problems for anyone’
On tonight’s fixture, Immobile was enthusiastic, predicting a lively atmosphere with supporters returning to the Olimpico in full voice.
“I know how much the fans love the club, I will watch it very willingly if I can,” he said. “Lazio can cause problems for anyone, especially with the crowd behind them. They are well organised and well coached.”
Asked about his fondest memories of facing Milan, Immobile singled out two figures who left a lasting impression. “Donnarumma and Ibrahimovic, in terms of personality and making themselves felt on the pitch, it was those two.”
Tonight’s match kicks off at 19:45 GMT (20:45 local time) and you can follow all the action, as it happens, on our Live Blog.
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- Bologna face scare ahead of Roma clash as Skorupski and Moro injured in win at Sassuolo
Bologna face scare ahead of Roma clash as Skorupski and Moro injured in win at Sassuolo
15 March 2026 at 21:29
Bologna claimed a narrow but vital 1-0 victory over Sassuolo in the Emilian derby, with Thijs Dallinga’s early goal securing all three points, but the celebrations were tempered significantly by a series of injury concerns that threaten to undermine their preparations for Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Roma.
The most alarming moment came late in the match when goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski went down in clear distress after an aerial challenge outside his box.
With Vincenzo Italiano having already used all his substitutions, Skorupski was forced to play on despite what appeared to be a muscular problem, reportedly affecting his left hamstring, according to CalcioMercato.
Bologna keeper Skorupski injured in win over Sassuolo
He completed the match but was visibly emotional at the final whistle, breaking down in tears beneath the away end, scenes that did little to ease growing anxiety about his availability for Thursday’s decisive clash.
Should Skorupski be ruled out, Italiano will be forced to turn to either Ravaglia or young backup Pessina for one of the biggest matches in the club’s recent history.
Neither represents a straightforward replacement for a goalkeeper of Skorupski’s experience and quality at this level.
Moro and De Silvestri also picked up injuries during the contest, adding further selection headaches for a coaching staff already working with a depleted squad, although the latter is absent from the Europa League squad anyway.
Bologna head into the second leg level at 1-1 on aggregate, giving them every reason to believe they can progress, but the medical room will be every bit as important as the tactics board between now and Thursday evening.
Official: Ashley Cole appointed as new Cesena coach
15 March 2026 at 20:55
Former Roma defender Ashley Cole has officially been appointed as the new coach of Serie B side Cesena, his first major management role.
It had been reported last night that Cole was already on Italian soil to discuss the deal with the club owners, and today he made it official.
His contract runs to June 30, with an option to renew if certain conditions are met.
Cesena sacked Michele Mignani after two seasons in the job following a 2-2 draw with Frosinone, which left them in eighth place in Italy’s second division.
Cole has new Calcio adventure
The 45-year-old had some experience in Italian football as a player for Roma from 2014 to 2016, when he went on to the LA Galaxy and ended his playing career at Derby in 2019.
Before that, Cole had made his mark as a full-back for Arsenal, Crystal Palace and Chelsea.
Cole has worked at the Chelsea youth academy, plus as an assistant manager to the likes of Lee Carsley, Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney and more.
Above all, he worked with Carsley, and is currently the assistant to the England Under-21 team coach.
His staff at Cesena consists of assistant Jack Mesure, fitness coach Giorgio D’Urbano, Paolo Stringara, Nicola Capellini and goalkeeping coach Federico Agliardi.
Massara: ‘Roma know Como result will weigh heavily’ on Champions League battle
15 March 2026 at 20:38
Roma director Ricky Massara admits today’s battle with Como ‘will weigh heavily’ on the race for a Champions League spot, but ‘the season is long regardless.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Sinigaglia at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the Liveblog.
The pressure is on the Giallorossi in this showdown for fourth place, especially after Juventus won 2-1 away to Udinese last night, temporarily leapfrogging both teams onto 53 points.
On top of that, they also have to prepare for Thursday’s Europa League Round of 16 tie with Bologna, having drawn the first leg 1-1 at the Stadio Dall’Ara.
Roma have sights set on top four
“Undoubtedly, it is a very important game for the way the table looks right now, so it’s obvious that the points here will weigh heavily on the final standings,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.
“At the same time, there are still another nine rounds after this, and the season is long regardless.”
The Giallorossi have been trying for several years to get into the Champions League and last term missed out on the final day, so how much would achieving that aim transform their transfer plans?
“The financial impact of Champions League qualification is important for all clubs, and Roma are no exception. Having said that, Roma will always commit to a transfer strategy that fits with its ambitions, which it can do thanks to strong club owners,” insisted the director.
Evan Ndicka is suspended, with Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson injured, so Mario Hermoso gets his first start since February 2.
Manu Koné is also back after missing the Europa League match with a muscular twinge and Stephan El Shaarawy hadn’t started since January 13.
“Donyell Malen combines well with various different players, which helps with the squad rotation around him. We do have a lot of injuries concentrated in the attack, but the return of El Shaarawy is very important, and we expect him to give his contribution today.”
Fabregas: ‘Roma will see what Como tactics are, Nico Paz is a striker’
15 March 2026 at 20:28
Cesc Fabregas keeps Roma guessing on his Como tactics and explains why Nico Paz is not really a ‘False 9’ in this battle for Champions League spots.
It kicks off at the Stadio Sinigaglia at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the Liveblog.
The importance of this fixture cannot be underestimated, as both teams are locked together on 51 points, temporarily leapfrogged by Juventus on 53 thanks to last night’s victory away to Udinese.
Champions League qualification is at stake, a remarkable achievement for a Como side who were in Serie B two years ago.
Fabregas keeps Como tactics vague
Maximo Perrone is not 100 per cent fit after a knock, with Jayden Addai out for the rest of the season following a laceration of the Achilles tendon.
“Perrone is in the squad, he says he’s fine, he trained a little with the team yesterday, he is ready to come on if we need him, but it’s important to start those who are at 100 per cent,” Fabregas told Sky Sport Italia.
Surprisingly, Como are using a three-man defence from the start today, with Nico Paz seemingly as the False 9, but again the coach doesn’t want to be tied down to definitions.
“You think it’s a three-man defence? You’ll see… I think Nico Paz is a striker, he just has different characteristics. Osimhen attacks the space, Messi drops back more, Hojlund protests the ball, so every striker is different and has their own characteristics. We’ll see if it goes the way we want it to.”
Along with fighting for the top four in Serie A, Como are also in the Coppa Italia semi-finals, having held Inter to a 0-0 draw in the first leg.
Since making his debut in the top flight a year and a half ago, Fabregas has put together 100 points. Did he expect this?
“I didn’t expect this, but the life of a coach is to be taken one day at a time, so we cannot think about what happens a year from now. We have our vision of where we can get to in four or five years, but we must try to grow on a par with the club, staff, players, directors, with patience, humility and hard work,” concluded Fabregas.
Warning for Inter in Serie A title race: ‘Drained and fearful’
15 March 2026 at 20:10
Referee decisions in a 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Saturday infuriated Inter, but Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport notes that the Nerazzurri looked ‘drained and fearful’ against La Dea.
Despite a 1-1 home draw against Atalanta on Saturday, Inter remain at the top of the Serie A standings with an eight-point lead over second-placed Milan.
Inter ‘drained and fearful’ against Atalanta
The Rossoneri have a game in hand, to be played against Lazio tonight, and a win would allow Massimiliano Allegri’s men to move five points below their city rivals with nine games remaining.
Besides the debatable refereeing decisions, Gazzetta dello Sport’s front page summed up Inter’s mood and shape against Atalanta in two words: “drained and fearful.”
Journalist Arianna Ravelli added: “It is clear that refereeing incidents end up affecting not only the match and the standings, but also the evaluations of Chivu’s team.
“What can be said is that an unattractive Inter had nevertheless gained an advantage that should have allowed them to face adversity, real or perceived, without harm. The way the team plays on the field must reflect that of a side that has earned the top spot and believes it deserves it. Simply managing the game is not enough.
“The truth is that Inter should have killed off a game that had a sluggish start and developed with overall lacklustre brilliance. What was missing was the ruthlessness and more courage. The contribution from the substitutes was also lacking: the changes definitely benefited Palladino more than Chivu.”
Former Milan coach Fabio Capello also argued that Chivu looked “a bit confused” and admitted that the decision to replace Pio Esposito in the second half was unconvincing.
Perhaps the next three league fixtures are the toughest remaining for Inter this season, as the Nerazzurri will first travel to Fiorentina, then host Roma, and then visit Como.
On the other hand, after tonight’s game against Lazio, Milan will face Torino at home, Napoli away and Udinese at home.
Serie A official Week 29 line-ups: Como vs. Roma
15 March 2026 at 20:09
Como push for Champions League qualification with Nico Paz and Martin Baturina plus a three-man defence, as Roma rely on Donyell Malen and returning Manu Koné.
It kicks off at the Stadio Sinigaglia at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the Liveblog.
This is a huge clash for fourth place, as the two teams are locked together on 51 points, and both were leapfrogged by Juventus on 53 following last night’s victory away to Udinese.
Cesc Fabregas has truly turned Como into a force of Italian football and they’ve won their last three on the bounce, as well as playing the Coppa Italia semi-final against Inter.
The season is over for Jayden Addai with a torn Achilles tendon, while Maxi Perrone is struggling after a knock.
Fabregas again goes for the False 9 with Nico Paz taking that role, supported by Maxence Caqueret and Baturina, as Sergi Roberto steps into midfield.
The big surprise is Fabregas starting a three-man defence, which he very rarely does.
Roma are stretched thin after Thursday’s 1-1 Europa League draw with Bologna, especially as Evan Ndicka is suspended in defence.
The biggest problems are in attack, with Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson still out injured.
At least Wesley returns from his ban, but the Giallorossi are without a victory in three competitive games and lost 2-1 to Genoa last week.
Koné is back in action after a muscular issue, while Mario Hermoso is given his first start since February 2.
Malen has made a remarkable impact since arriving from Aston Villa in January, scoring six goals in nine official games, and today he is supported by Lorenzo Pellegrini and Stephan El Shaarawy.
Como vs. Roma line-ups
Como: Butez; Diego Carlos, Ramon, Kempf; Smolcic, Sergi Roberto, Da Cunha, Valle; Baturina, Caqueret; Nico Paz
Roma: Svilar; Hermoso, Mancini, Ghilardi; Celik, Koné, Cristante, Wesley; Pellegrini; El Shaarawy, Malen
Player statistic
1st half
| 7' | |
Donyell Malen |
2nd half
| 48' | Wesley | |||
| Anastasios Douvikas (Assist: Álex Valle) |
59' | |||
| Maxence Caqueret | 63' | |||
| 64' | |
Wesley | ||
| Diego Carlos | 73' | |||
| 77' | |
Daniele Ghilardi | ||
| Diego Carlos | |
79' |
Match statistic
66
Possession %
34
22
Total shots
3
7
Shots on target
1
7
Shots off target
1
8
Blocked shots
1
7
Corners
1
0
Offsides
1
16
Fouls
18
Como
Roma
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Serie A | Sassuolo 0-1 Bologna: Dallinga all smiles for Rossoblu victory
15 March 2026 at 20:03
Thijs Dallinga decided the local derby and ensured Bologna consolidate eighth place, dooming Sassuolo to a second consecutive defeat.
This was not only a local Emilia-Romagna Derby, but also a head-to-head for European ambitions, as only one point separated eighth from ninth. Andrea Pinamonti returned from suspension for the hosts, who missed Alieu Fadera, Daniel Boloca, Fali Cande and Edoardo Pieragnolo after a run of three straight wins was ended by defeat to Lazio. Bologna also lost in Serie A last week and had Lewis Ferguson banned, but otherwise a full squad following Thursday’s 1-1 Europa League draw with Roma.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
It was the ideal start for Bologna, as within six minutes a Jens Odgaard shot was charged down and ricocheted into the path of Thijs Dallinga, who gathered with his back to goal and scored on the turn from just inside the area.
Sassuolo nearly equalised moments later, as Lukasz Skorupski flew to palm the Pinamonti effort away following a Jhon Lucumi slip.
Niccolò Cambiaghi drilled wide, but Lorenzo De Silvestri pulled up clutching his hamstring and limped off after just 29 minutes.
Nikola Moro’s free kick was just off target and Riccardo Orsolini only glanced his head to an Odgaard cross, then fired over from an improbable angle.
Odgaard tested Arijanet Muric after the restart, while Cristian Volpato forced a save after good work from Armand Laurienté.
Martin Vitik risked an own goal with a decisive interception to prevent M’Bala Nzola tapping in the Domenico Berardi roll across, while twice Laurienté went for goal when he had better options for the assist.
Orsolini also stung Muric’s gloves at the near post after a stepover, but Bologna lost Lukasz Skorupski to a suspected flexor strain at the 88th minute, after completing all their substitutions. After several minutes of stoppages and a very heavy strapping on his left thigh, he managed to finish the game.
Sassuolo 0-1 Bologna
Dallinga 6 (B)
Player statistic
1st half
| 6' | |
Thijs Dallinga | ||
| 24' | Thijs Dallinga |
2nd half
| M’Bala Nzola | 77' | |||
| 90+6' | |
Nadir Zortea |
Match statistic
54
Possession %
46
9
Total shots
16
4
Shots on target
3
4
Shots off target
8
1
Blocked shots
5
7
Corners
4
1
Offsides
2
16
Fouls
11
Sassuolo
Bologna
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Serie A | Pisa 3-1 Cagliari: Caracciolo hero for 10 men in rare win
15 March 2026 at 20:00
Despite being down to 10 men from the 37th minute, Pisa still managed only their second victory of the season, beating Cagliari 3-1 with captain Antonio Caracciolo’s brace.
The hosts were left rock bottom despite the arrival of new coach Oscar Hiljemark, with Simone Scuffet, Juan Cuadrado, Lorran, Daniel Denoon and Isak Vural not fully fit. Sebastiano Esposito was suspended for the Sardinians, with Riyad Idrissi, Gennaro Borrelli, Andrea Belotti and Mattia Felici injured, but Gennaro Gaetano, Alessandro Deiola and Yerry Mina were available again.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
The referee initially seemed to point to the edge of the area, but changed it to the spot when Arturo Calabresi was brought down by an Ibrahim Sulemana sliding tackle. The contact seemed to be on the line, so Stefano Moreo converted for his first Serie A home goal of the season.
Cagliari had the opportunity to equalise moments later with an Adam Obert diving header, but it thumped the crossbar from 10 yards.
Pisa lost Marius Marin to a knee injury and Matteo Tramoni’s strike was charged down, but above all they went down to 10 men when the referee spotted Rafiu Durosinmi kicking out at Yerry Mina in an off the ball situation. It was hardly the first time that Mina’s method of frustrating strikers has paid off.
Nicolas got down to fingertip an Obert daisy-cutter round the far post, but it was so nearly 2-0 for Pisa on the stroke of half-time.
More knocked back the cross at the far post for Matlhe Hojholt to tap in from point-blank range, but was denied by a stunning Elia Caprile reaction save.
Instead, 10-man Pisa doubled their lead when Michael Folorunsho flicked on a Simone Canestrelli throw-in, accidentally providing the assist for Antonio Caracciolo to fire in on the half-volley at the near post.
Cagliari seemed to crumble, as Obert’s decisive block prevented Samuele Angori completing the give and go in the box, but Pisa added a third on the resulting Mehdi Leris corner with Caracciolo unmarked to prod in from point-blank range with his knee.
Semih Kilicsoy forced a flying Nicolas save from distance, but Cagliari did finally get back into it when Alberto Dossena’s header forward bounced, and Leonardo Pavoletti acrobatically turned in on the volley after shoving Raul Albiol aside.
Dossena also nodded Obert’s corner just wide of the back stick, but Cagliari went down to 10 men too when Obert received his second yellow card for bringing down Leris.
Caprile kept the scoreline down late on with another tricky save on Moreo’s header.
Pisa 3-1 Cagliari
Moreo pen 9 (P), Caracciolo 52, 54 (P), Pavoletti 67 (C)
Sent off: Durosinmi 37 (P), Obert 81 (C)
Player statistic
1st half
| Stefano Moreo | |
9' | ||
| Rafiu Durosinmi | |
37' |
2nd half
| 47' | Zé Pedro | |||
| Antonio Caracciolo | 52' | |||
| Antonio Caracciolo (Assist: Raúl Albiol) |
54' | |||
| 59' | Adam Obert | |||
| Michel Aebischer | 61' | |||
| 67' | |
Leonardo Pavoletti (Assist: Alberto Dossena) | ||
| 78' | |
Alberto Dossena | ||
| 81' | |
Adam Obert |
Match statistic
28
Possession %
72
10
Total shots
14
6
Shots on target
4
2
Shots off target
6
2
Blocked shots
4
1
Corners
5
1
Offsides
1
14
Fouls
16
Pisa
Cagliari
Starting lineups
Substitutes
How Custom Fan Merchandise Will Shape the 2026 FIFA World Cup Experience
15 March 2026 at 19:40
(Sponsored)
The Evolution of Football Fan Culture
The World Cup has evolved beyond a mere sporting event; it’s now a global phenomenon. The culture surrounding football fans has shifted dramatically, fueled by digital innovation and commercial interests.
Fans today express their passion through a wide range of merchandise, from scarves and hats to fully custom supporter gear, and show their allegiance to the tournament. Social media has also played a major role in transforming fan culture. Supporters now share their matchday experiences online, display their collections, and connect with fellow fans across the world.
Why Custom Fan Merchandise Is Becoming Essential for Major Tournaments
Major sporting events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup have significantly increased the demand for collectable and personalised fan merchandise.
Today’s fans want more than standard souvenirs. They are increasingly looking for items that reflect their personal style and demonstrate a deeper connection to their favourite teams.
When football fans wear the same T-shirts or hats while watching a game, it makes them feel like they are part of a group. From local fan gatherings to global social media communities, these personalised items have become an integral part of the modern football fan merchandise culture.
Popular Types of Custom Football Fan Merchandise
Enamel Pins for Matchday Memories
Football fans consider Enamel Pins to be their most essential collectable item. Football-themed enamel pins can be exchanged, displayed, or worn during matches to help fans commemorate specific events, tournaments, or victories. The pins can be designed using any combination of a player’s name, host cities, match dates, and a team’s name. Custom enamel pins, with their compact dimensions, unique design possibilities, and ease of transport, have become a must-have for any football enthusiast’s collection.
Custom Keychains and Custom Medals for Collectors
For fans who cherish collectables, custom keychains and medals provide more than just utility. They carry a sentimental weight.
Keychains, for instance, are a daily way to display your allegiance. Custom medals can be engraved with achievements, anniversaries, or special events, making them especially collectable.
Unlike usual souvenirs, these personalised items are crafted with exquisite artistry. From vibrant enamel finishes to intricate engravings, they transcend the commercial realm of ordinary goods, becoming a part of a football fan’s life story.
PVC Patches for Team Identity
Custom patches are also a common type of football merchandise. Custom PVC Patches offer fans a durable and visually striking way to express their loyalty. Design elements can include team logos, football patterns, or witty football puns.
Fans usually adorn these patches on jackets, backpacks, scarves, and hats, transforming everyday accessories into wearable symbols of team honour. Furthermore, optional 3D craftsmanship, with its layered structure, allows PVC patches to display vibrant textures and colours, highlighting team crests or event logos.
Personalised Apparel and Accessories
One of the most recognisable types of football fan merchandise is personalised team apparel. Items such as t-shirts, hats, scarves, and wristbands can be customised to have the fan’s name, jersey number, or original slogans.
Design inspiration can range from meaningful football graphic designs and national team jersey colour schemes to numbers. These custom items can be worn at matches, fan festivals, and when viewing on big screens with other fans, creating a collective identity among thousands of fans around the world.
Custom Luggage Tags for Travelling Fans
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring fans together from all over the world. Beyond the usual fan merchandise, fans can also use Custom Luggage Tags as identification and luggage tracking during their travels.
Custom Luggage Tags can be designed with World Cup elements, participating country flags, or football-themed patterns. Fans can also personalise them by adding their nicknames or team colours, making it easy to identify their luggage while travelling.
Custom Lanyards for Everyday and Event Use
Custom lanyards, printed with soccer patterns and national team colours, combine practicality and team spirit. Fans can wear personalised lanyards to matches or parties, conveniently carrying tickets, water bottles, or keys while proudly displaying their support.
Custom Stickers for Creative Expression
Custom stickers allow fans to personalise their belongings. Design elements can include football cartoon characters, cute soccer patterns, or stylised event graphics.
Fans can stick them on laptops, phone cases, or suitcases, keeping the World Cup atmosphere with them. Custom stickers are a convenient and fun collectable.
Innovation in Custom Fan Merchandise Production
From Traditional Manufacturing to AI Design
The transition from conventional manufacturing methods to AI design represents the current state of manufacturing processes.
Traditional merchandise production used methods that took excessive time to produce. Today, digital design capabilities and AI design tools enable designers to develop custom products throughout the complete product development process.
How GSJJ Supports Custom Fan Merchandise Production with 3D Modelling
Companies such as GSJJ are helping brands and fans turn creative ideas into real products through advanced manufacturing and digital design tools.
Through 3D Modelling, designers can visualise merchandise before production, making it easier to refine colours, textures, and structural details. Each of these processes ensures that custom pins, PVC patches, custom keychains, and custom luggage tags will not only look great but also meet fans’ expectations.
Conclusion
Custom fan merchandise will continue to evolve alongside fan expectations and technology. The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup will offer fans new ways to celebrate their passion for football. From collectable pins to personalised travel accessories, custom fan merchandise allows fans to transform unforgettable matchday moments into lasting memories.
De Zerbi one of the leading names for Tottenham as Italian coach keeps waiting
15 March 2026 at 19:06
There are growing reports on Tottenham’s interest in Roberto De Zerbi, but the Italian tactician will wait until the summer before taking a new role.
Former Sassuolo and Brighton coach De Zerbi could return to the Premier League in the summer as the Italian is reported to be among the primary names for the Tottenham job.
De Zerbi ‘one of the leading names on Tottenham’s shortlist’ for 2026-27
Ben Jacobs reports on X social media that “De Zerbi is currently inclined to wait until summer before taking a new role, knowing multiple clubs are interested. Italian is one of the leading names on Spurs’ shortlist along with Mauricio Pochettino.”
The transfer expert adds that Tottenham are expected to part ways with Igor Tudor this month as the North Londoners are “actively assessing both caretaker options and whether a permanent appointment could be brought forward.”
De Zerbi left Marseille by mutual consent in February, and previous reports linked the Italian with the Manchester United job as well.
De Zerbi, 46, already coached Brighton in the Premier League. He was appointed in October 2022 and left the club at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
The Italian tactician won 38 of 89 games at Brighton, losing 31 and drawing 20.
During his first season at Brighton, De Zerbi led the team to their first-ever qualification for the UEFA Europa League.
De Zerbi coached Palermo, Benevento and Sassuolo in Serie A, winning 47 of 155 games in Italy’s top flight.
Referee chiefs give verdict on incidents that infuriated Inter
15 March 2026 at 18:30
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, referee chiefs believe it was legitimate to allow play to continue in the build-up to Atalanta’s equaliser against Inter, but the table leaders should have been awarded a penalty for a foul on Davide Frattesi.
Referee chiefs have given their verdicts on the controversial incidents that infuriated Inter in their 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Saturday.
Referee incidents that upset Inter in 1-1 draw vs. Atalanta
The table leaders protested for La Dea’s equaliser as they felt Kamaldeen Sulemana had pushed Denzel Dumfries in the build-up. Inter were even more upset a few minutes later when Giorgio Scalvini challenged Frattesi inside the box, making contact with the Italian midfielder.
Referee Gianluca Manganiello waved play on on both occasions, infuriating the Nerazzurri, who didn’t even speak to the media after the match.
According to Gazzetta, referee chiefs feel the match official was right to let the play flow in the build-up to Atalanta’s goal scored by Nikola Krstovic. Still, Manganiello should have awarded a penalty to Inter for Scalvini’s foul.
Manganiello should have correctly assessed the penalty incident, so he’s considered more responsible than the VAR official.
However, the AIA executives were also not pleased that VAR remained silent and did not advise the match referee to review the incident on the pitchside monitor.
Manganiello is not expected to referee any Serie A game next week as part of the routine rotation. He’ll return to action after the international break, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll take charge of a Serie A or Serie B match.
Serie A Liveblog including Como vs. Roma and Lazio vs. Milan
15 March 2026 at 23:41
{rsn-live-v2}
Serie A | Verona 0-2 Genoa: De Rossi close to survival as Gialloblu sink
15 March 2026 at 17:33
Vitinha and Leo Ostigard’s goals gave Genoa a crucial 2-0 win away at Verona, and while Daniele De Rossi’s side nears survival, the Gialloblu seem destined for relegation to Serie B.
De Rossi’s Genoa secured a massive 2-0 win at the Stadio Bentegodi in Verona on Sunday, climbing to 13th in Serie A with 33 points, nine above the relegation zone.
Verona, on the other hand, remain in 19th with just 18 points.
The first half at the Bentegodi was quite dull, with Verona midfielder Jean Akpa Akpro producing the only decent goal-scoring opportunity for the home side when his cross from the right hit the crossbar.
Caleb Ekuban had the best chance for the visitors, backed by over 2,000 fans travelling from Genoa, but Lorenzo Montipò easily blocked the striker’s weak shot.
The first half ended with Verona producing just 0.7 Expected Goals against Genoa’s 0.14.
De Rossi’s second-half substitutions made the difference, as Vitinha replaced Ekuban and scored with his first touch.
The Portuguese striker saw Montipò off his line and unleashed a powerful shot from 32 yards. It was strong, but straight down the middle, and the Verona goalkeeper was poorly positioned to stop it.
Ostigard sealed the match a few minutes later, powering in a decisive header from a Martin free kick delivered from the left.
The only real Hellas response came through a Tomas Suslov free kick that sailed over the crossbar.
For the Grifone, it marked their first away victory in three months, while Verona’s winless run at home stretches on since the beginning of December.
Verona 0-2 Genoa
Vitinha 61 (G), Ostigard 87 (G)
Player statistic
1st half
| Daniel Oyegoke | 6' | |||
| Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro | 31' |
2nd half
| 61' | Vitinha | |||
| 81' | |
Vitinha | ||
| 86' | |
Leo Östigard (Assist: Aarón Martín) |
Match statistic
42
Possession %
58
8
Total shots
11
1
Shots on target
3
4
Shots off target
3
3
Blocked shots
5
4
Corners
2
3
Offsides
1
22
Fouls
9
VER
GEN
Starting lineups
Substitutes
-
- Video: Italy talent Reggiani makes Bundesliga history with 1st B. Dortmund goal at 18
Video: Italy talent Reggiani makes Bundesliga history with 1st B. Dortmund goal at 18
15 March 2026 at 17:13
Italian talent Luca Reggiani, 18, became the youngest Italian goalscorer in the Bundesliga as he found the net in a 2-0 win over Augsburg on Saturday.
Italian defender Reggiani scored his first Bundesliga goal for Borussia Dortmund on Saturday.
The 18-year-old played the full 90 minutes and bagged his first goal for the German side with a header from a corner kick routine in the second half.
As reported by Opta, Reggiani has become the youngest Italian player to score in one of the top five European leagues, excluding Serie A, since Pietro Pellegri in 2018. Reggiani has also become the youngest Italian to score a goal in the Bundesliga.
“It’s crazy. I couldn’t believe it when I saw the ball going in. I can’t say how the feeling was because it was really amazing to score my first goal,” said at full time.
“It’s all happening so fast. Last month, I made my debut, then the Champions League, and now my first goal. I’m very happy with what is happening. I thank the club and everyone.”
A product of the Castelvetro Calcio and Sassuolo academies, Reggiani joined the Borussia Dortmund youth sector from the Neroverdi in 2014.
The promising defender made his debut with the Italy U19 squad this past January.
Lucca Reggiani marcou seu primeiro gol pelo Borussia Dortmund… e foi à loucura na comemoração.#NoCentroDoJogo pic.twitter.com/QfwfhO7ZtG
— SportyNet (@SportyNetBrasil) March 14, 2026
Juventus star Thuram felt ‘attacked’ when Vinicius Jr. was racially abused
15 March 2026 at 16:53
Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram says he felt ‘attacked’ when Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. was allegedly racially abused during a Champions League match against Benfica: ‘It could have been me.’
Juventus star Thuram spoke out firmly against racism in an interview with Canal+, addressing how he felt witnessing Vinicius Jr. allegedly subjected to racist abuse during a Champions League match against Benfica in February.
“It’s difficult as a black boy. In 2026, you can still be attacked because of the colour of your skin,” the Juventus midfielder said via L’Equipe.
Vinicius and other Real Madrid players accused Gianluca Prestianni of making racist remarks towards the Brazilian, but the Benfica talent denied the claims.
Besides this latest incident, sadly, Vinicius has frequently been the target of racist abuse in Spain and across Europe.
“Vinicius was attacked, and it’s as if I were the one being attacked. It could have been me. And all of this just because I’m black? I don’t have the answer to stop this. I don’t have the answer to stop it in stadiums,” Thuram continued,
“Leaving the pitch might be a solution, but I want to play football. It’s my job, and I enjoy what I do.
“There should be stronger actions for those who behave like that. Why should I be the one to leave the field? He should be the one leaving the stadium. We have to stop this nonsense and start taking things seriously.”
Thuram’s father, Lilian, a former Juventus and Parma defender and a 1998 France World Cup winner, is a well-known anti-racism activist, founder of the Lilian Thuram Foundation, which focuses on education to combat racism.
His sons, Marcus and Khephren, play in Serie A for Inter and Juventus, respectively.
Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram has scored three goals and provided four assists in 37 appearances across all competitions this season.
His contract at the Allianz Stadium runs out in June 2029.
Inter handed Mkhitaryan injury blow for Fiorentina game
15 March 2026 at 16:21
Inter midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is expected to miss the next Serie A match against Fiorentina due to a muscle injury, according to reports in Italy.
Inter midfielder Mkhitaryan suffered a muscle injury during a 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Saturday.
Italian sources, including Calciomercato.com, claim that the Armenian will undergo medical tests in the coming days to learn the extent of his injury.
The ex-Arsenal and Manchester United midfielder is expected to miss the next Serie A match against Fiorentina on March 22, but the Nerazzurri hope Hakan Çalhanoğlu will return to action in Florence.
Mkhitaryan played 45 minutes in Inter’s match against Atalanta, replacing Petar Sucic at half-time.
Mkhitaryan’s contract with Inter expires at the end of the season, and according to Italian sources, the Nerazzurri are considering offering him a one-year extension.
Mkhitaryan, 37, has scored two goals and provided three assists in 30 appearances across all competitions this season.
Inter remain the Serie A table leaders with an eight-point advantage over second-placed Milan, who have a game in hand.
Banda: Lecce winger discharged from hospital after health scare vs. Napoli
15 March 2026 at 15:29
Lecce winger Lameck Banda has been discharged from the hospital after undergoing tests that ‘returned negative results,’ the Serie A club said.
Banda collapsed in the final minutes of Lecce’s away game at Napoli on Saturday after sustaining a knock in the chest.
The 25-year-old was struggling to breathe and received immediate medical attention on the field.
Banda never appeared to lose consciousness, but he was taken to a hospital in Naples for further tests.
The 25-year-old spent the night at the hospital and was discharged on Sunday morning.
“Lameck Banda was discharged this morning from Cardarelli Hospital after a series of tests that returned negative results,” Lecce said in a statement.
A Zambia international, Banda has scored three goals and provided three assists in 23 Serie A appearances this season.
Lecce suffered a 2-1 away defeat at Napoli on Saturday, but remain three points above the relegation zone.
Their next league game is against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday, March 22, and it remains to be seen whether Banda will be eligible to play.
Capello: Chivu ‘a bit confused’ but Serie A title race still in Inter’s hands
15 March 2026 at 15:09
Fabio Capello admits that Inter coach Cristian Chivu is ‘a bit confused’, but the race for the Serie A title remains in the Nerazzurri’s hands.
Inter were held to a 1-1 home draw by Atalanta at San Siro on Saturday, but the Serie A leaders were upset by referee decisions in the second half.
Ex-Milan, Juventus and Roma coach Capello, however, examined the Nerazzurri’s performance in an interview with Gazzetta, suggesting that the result was not determined solely by referees’ decisions.
“I was at San Siro and saw a team that wasn’t very sharp physically,” said the legendary Italian coach.
“Inter also had chances to kill off the game when they were 1-0 up, but Atalanta also wasted the opportunity to equalise as well, before eventually scoring with Krstovic. My impression is that Chivu is a bit confused.
“The substitutions didn’t convince me,” Capello continued.
“Why take off Esposito, who allowed the team not to get pinned back and forced Atalanta not to push up too much? After that, Atalanta began to take control of the field.
Inter remain the Serie A table leaders with an eight-point lead over second-placed Milan, but the Rossoneri have a game in hand, to be played away at Lazio tonight.
The Rossoneri boss Massimiliano Allegri will look to Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao in attack.
“The Portuguese seems to have lost his best qualities, namely, his acceleration and his ability in one-on-one situations,” Capello noted.
“Maybe he’s not fully fit yet, but I didn’t like him much in the derby, and when he had chances to strike, he was unusually slow and got bothered right when he was about to shoot.
If Milan beat Lazio, they’ll move five points below their city rivals with nine games remaining.
“Dreaming and hoping are always allowed, but everything would still depend on Inter, which would have to make mistakes in at least two or three more matches,” argued Capello.
“At the same time, Milan would need to keep winning, starting tonight in Rome.
“The draw between Inter and Atalanta will have brought some cheer to Milanello, but the away match in Rome is definitely not something to take lightly. Sometimes, when you are fired up and want to do too much, you overdo it, and it ends badly.”
Inter play their next Serie A match away at Fiorentina before facing Roma and Como. After their game against Lazio, Milan will play Torino at home, Napoli away and Udinese at home.
Serie A Week 29: Verona vs. Genoa – Official line-ups and live updates
15 March 2026 at 14:42
Scotland striker Kieron Bowie starts for Verona in a crucial home game against Lorenzo Colombo’s Genoa.
It kicks off at 12:30 CET (11:30 GMT) at the Stadio Bentegodi.
Over 2,000 Genoa fans have travelled to Verona following last week’s 2-1 win over Roma at Marassi.
The Rossoblu sit 14th in the standings, six points above the drop zone, while Verona sit 19th, seven points below safety.
Scottish striker Bowie, who scored his first Serie A goal in a 2-1 victory against Bologna, joins Gift Orban in attack for Verona.
Genoa coach Daniele De Rossi starts Colombo and Caleb Ekuban in attack, while English right-back Norton-Cuffy begins on the bench, still not fully fit after an injury.
Verona vs. Genoa – official line-ups
Verona (3-5-2): Montipò; Nelsson, Edmundsson, Valentini; Oyegoke, Akpa Akpro, Gagliardini, Harroui, Frese; Bowie, Orban.
Verona bench: Perilli, Toniolo, Belghali, Sarr, Suslov, Lirola, Mosquera, Niasse, Isaac, Fallou, De Battisti, Al Musrati.
Genoa (3-5-2): Bijlow; Marcandalli, Ostigard, Vasquez; Ellertsson, Malinovskyi, Frendrup, Messias, Sabelli; Colombo, Ekuban.
Genoa bench: Leali, Sommariva, Martin, Amorin, Baldanzi, Vitinha, Zatterstrom, Norton-Cuffy, Ekhator, Otoa, Cornet, Lafont.
Verona vs. Genoa – live updates
Player statistic
1st half
| Daniel Oyegoke | 6' | |||
| Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro | 31' |
2nd half
| 61' | Vitinha | |||
| 81' | |
Vitinha | ||
| 86' | |
Leo Östigard (Assist: Aarón Martín) |
Match statistic
42
Possession %
58
8
Total shots
11
1
Shots on target
3
4
Shots off target
3
3
Blocked shots
5
4
Corners
2
3
Offsides
1
22
Fouls
9
Verona
Genoa
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Inter fear Bastoni chaos sparked controversial referee decisions
15 March 2026 at 14:25
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter President Beppe Marotta and director Piero Ausilio politely confronted the referee after a 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Saturday, but the club fear recent calls are linked to the Alessandro Bastoni controversy against Juventus.
Refereeing decisions in a 1-1 home draw against Atalanta infuriated Inter, who didn’t send coach Cristian Chivu or any of their players to speak to the media after the match.
The Serie A table leaders protested for a potential foul in the build-up to Atalanta’s equaliser in the second half and felt they deserved a penalty kick a few minutes later for a mistimed Giorgio Scalvini challenge on Davide Frattesi.
According to Gazzetta, Marotta and Ausilio politely confronted referee Gianluca Manganiello inside the dressing room at full-time.
The pink paper adds that Andrea Demarco, federal coordinator for relations between referees and clubs and Andrea Gervasoni, the delegate responsible for assessing the refereeing performance, were also present.
Inter already complained about a potential penalty kick they were denied in the final minutes of last week’s 1-0 loss to Milan.
According to Gazzetta and Sport Mediaset, Inter feel a ‘climate of hostility’ which the club attribute to the Bastoni case against Juventus.
Back in February, the Italian defender caused a red card for Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu by going too easily on a challenge from the Frenchman, and also celebrated when his opponent was sent off.
Bastoni received a hostile welcome in the following away games at Lecce and Como and in the derby against Milan, during which he also suffered an injury.
Inter remain at the top of the Serie A table with an eight-point lead over second-placed Milan, but the Rossoneri have a game in hand, to be played tonight against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
Picture: Calafiori reacts to big Arsenal win and clearance with three-word message
15 March 2026 at 14:04
Italy star Riccardo Calafiori contributed to Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday night and celebrated on social media with a three-word message.
Arsenal secured a massive 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday, moving nine points above Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table with a game in hand.
Calafiori contributed to the Gunners’ vital victory with a fantastic clearance in the first half, and the North Londoners went on to win the game with late goals from Viktor Gyokeres and 16-year-old Max Dowman.
Calafiori’s acrobatic block from this angle is insane
— Meech (@MeechSomto) March 15, 2026
To celebrate the win, Calafiori posted an Instagram showing him in a celebratory mood, accompanied by a simple caption: ‘No words needed.’
Calafiori is one of the Italian players with a guaranteed spot in the Azzurri squad for next week’s World Cup play-offs.
Serie A: Como vs. Roma – probable line-ups, where to watch on TV
15 March 2026 at 13:19
Como will look to Anastasios Douvikas and Nico Paz in a big home game against Donyell Malen’s Roma today.
It kicks off at 18:00 CET (170:00 GMT) at the Stadio Sinigaglia in Como.
Azzurri and Giallorossi are level on 51 points, just two below fourth-placed Juventus, who already played on Saturday night, beating Udinese 1-0 away.
It goes without saying that it’s a crucial fixture for both Roma and Como, who are battling for a Champions League spot.
Como are without Jayden Addai, while Roberto Perrone is not fully fit. According to Sky Sport, however, the ex-Manchester City talent will still start in central midfield.
Roma, on the other hand, are short of options in attack with Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson, Paulo Dybala and Matias Soulé injured. Furthermore, centre-backEvan Ndicka is suspended.
According to Gazzetta, Jan Ziółkowski is favourite over Daniele Ghilardi, while Gazzetta claims that the Italian will start in a back-three alongside Gianluca Mancini and Mario Hermoso.
Roma played away at Bologna on Thursday in the first leg of the Europa League Round of 16 and will play the decider at the Olimpico against the Rossoblu next week.
Como vs. Roma – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 2 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland and Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.
Como vs. Roma – probable line-ups
Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Kempf, Valle; Perrone, Da Cunha; Vojvoda, Paz, Baturina; Caqueret.
Roma (3-4-2-1): Svilar; Mancini, Ziolkowski, Hermoso; Celik, Koné, Pisilli, Wesley; Pellegrini, Cristante; Malen.
Serie A: Lazio vs. Milan – probable line-ups, where to watch on TV
15 March 2026 at 13:02
Lazio are short of options in central midfield, while Milan are without the suspended Adrien Rabiot, but Massimiliano Allegri will rely on Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic in attack for a key away game at the Olimpico in Rome tonight.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT).
Samuel Gigot, Nicolò Rovella, Ivan Provedel, Danilo Cataldi and Toma Basic are unavailable for the Biancocelesti and even Alessio Romagnoli is not expected to be called up due to an injury.
According to several media, including Sky Sport Italia, centre-back Patric will play as a central midfielder, joining Kenneth Taylor and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Milan have travelled to Rome without the injured Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Matteo Gabbia, while Adrien Rabiot is serving a one-game ban.
Pervis Estupinan is favourite over Davide Bartesaghi after scoring the winning goal in last week’s derby against Inter.
Milan sit second in the Serie A table, but a win in today’s match would allow them to move five points below leaders Inter, who were held to a 1-1 stalemate by Atalanta at San Siro on Saturday.
Lazio vs. Milan – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
Lazio vs. Milan – probable line-ups
Milan (3-5-2): Maignan; Tomori, De Winter, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modric, Jashari, Estupiñán; Leão, Pulisic.
Lazio (4-3-3): Motta; Marusic, Gila, Provstgaard, Tavares; Dele-Bashiru, Patric, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Zaccagni.
Today’s Papers – Enraged Inter, Milan believe, Juventus wait for Como-Roma
15 March 2026 at 12:37
La Gazzetta dello Sport
Enraged Inter
They pulled the brake against Dea too, referee on target
Pio not enough, Atalanta level the score. Media blackout against Manganiello: protests for Krstovic’s goal and penalty request on Frattesi. Chivu sent off, club furious, but the team is drained and fearful.
Milan, chance for -5
Devil at Lazio’s home (20.45). Capello: ‘It will be tough, but Chivu is confused.’
Juve: Yildiz-Boga, they are fourth
The Turkishman is magic. The winger is decisive in Udine. Today Como-Roma
Napoli run, Conte: ‘I’d like to stay here…’
Corriere dello Sport
Inter, two damages
Manganiellata
Chivu protests Manganiello: sent off. Milan assault, they go -5 today.
From Dea’s 1-1 to a denied penalty
Media blackout ordered by the club. Sulemana unbalances Dumfries in the build-up to Krstovic’s goal. Protest for the contact between Scalvini and Frattesi. Max challenges Laizo (20.45).
Napoli reaction, extra-luxury Politano
Siebert deceives Difra: Matteo, the protagonist. Assist for Hojlund and the goal. McTominay and CDK deserve applause
Juventus are fourth: Boga’s mark
Yildiz enchants again, creating the Ivorian’s third consecutive goal. Lucio’s overtake: +2 on Fabregas and Gasp
Cesc and Gasp to the tie-break
Fabregas comes from 3 consecutive wins: Gian Piero is looking for the 8th away win. Douvikas-Malen, what a challenge.
Cesena surprise: Ashley Cole on the bench.
Tuttosport
Inter, waste and fury. Milan believe now
Thuram fails the 2-0 after Pio’s goal. Then a crazy finale: protests for Krstovic’s equaliser, followed by the most debated incident. The club remain silent. Tonight Allegri can move to -5 at Lazio’s home: ‘If they drop points…’
Strong and beautiful
Yildiz creates, Boga hits: Juve dominate and return in a Champions League spot
Total superiority, spectacular moments and chances after chances created by Kenan’s class. The January reinforcement scores his third consecutive goal. Conceiçao’s second goal is ruled out for an irrelevant Koopmeiners offside. Today’s Como-Roma can confirm the Bianconeri in the fourth place. Spalletti: ‘This time, we were perfect.’
D’Aversa, an extra delay
Another Napoli with the big ones, Banda scare.
Udinese 0-1 Juventus – Bianconeri saviours Boga & Yildiz react to hard-fought win
15 March 2026 at 02:54
Juventus ground out a crucial 1-0 victory at Udinese to move into fourth place in Serie A, with Jeremie Boga’s winning goal, his third in consecutive matches, proving the difference in a hard-fought contest that tested the Bianconeri’s resolve throughout.
Boga was the toast of the travelling support and spoke to Sky Sport afterwards with the relaxed confidence of a man in the form of his life.
Asked whether he had ever scored in three consecutive games before, the former Sassuolo and Nice winger laughed off the question.
“I don’t know, I don’t think so,” he said with a grin, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.
Udinese 0-1 Juventus – Boga credits Spalletti & Yildiz for good form
He credited Luciano Spalletti’s hands-on approach in training for his recent run of form. “He always speaks to me and asks me to improve. I work hard and my teammates have welcomed me brilliantly, I want to give 100% every match.”
Boga also reflected on a career that has not always followed a smooth trajectory.
“I had problems with consistency, but at Atalanta and Nice I learned a lot and grew as a player. Now I am happy to be here at Juventus and I hope to continue like this.”
His admiration for strike partner Kenan Yildiz was equally heartfelt.
“For me it is wonderful to play with someone of his quality. He is a player I watch and learn from, people like him make me love football.”
Yildiz, meanwhile, was characteristically humble despite reaching the remarkable milestone of ten goals and ten assists for the season. “It is good, but everything is for the team,” the Turkish forward said.
“I have not set myself personal targets other than to keep doing more for the squad, the rest takes care of itself.” He did acknowledge, however, that his development this season has been significant.
“I think I have grown a lot mentally. I am happy with the path I am on, and I believe I can do even more.”
Three points that matter enormously, and two players who are finding their best form at exactly the right time for the Bianconeri’s Champions League aims.
Spalletti: ‘Boga’s new role surprising, Cambiaso versatility helps Juventus’
15 March 2026 at 02:28
Luciano Spalletti was ‘surprised’ by Jeremie Boga’s new role for Juventus against Udinese and insists Andrea Cambiaso needs to ‘wander all over the pitch’ to be effective.
The Bianconeri were coming off a 4-0 win over Pisa and knew that they could take advantage of the fixture list to close the gap on fourth place.
It was a tough slog at the Bluenergy Stadium, but Boga proved decisive with his third goal in as many Serie A games, this time turning in the Kenan Yildiz assist.
Francisco Conceicao had also put the ball in the net, though it was disallowed because Teun Koopmeiners was offside and interfering with play.
Spalletti impressed with Juventus approach
“The team did really well, maintaining that level of determination to close the game as soon as possible. We had also scored a second, but that’s fine, because we were up against a very strong opponent,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia.
Kenan Yildiz initially started as a False 9, but as usual he seemed to enjoy himself far more when moved over to the left flank and Boga was more central.
“I had never put Boga there, I always played him on the left, but he surprised me with the way he moved as a striker today,” confessed the coach.
“Yildiz I’ve said before doesn’t entirely enjoy being a centre-forward because he doesn’t yet have the art of dealing with a defender who is constantly on his tail. Starting from there I think creates problems for him.”
Kosta Runjaic confessed that Udinese struggled with the long balls from Manuel Locatelli over the top, which is where the goal came from.
“The lads did well to put those balls over the top, because if you let Udinese defend inside their own half, you’re not getting through that blockade,” noted Spalletti.
“So rather than allow them to be comfortable in those physical situations, we preferred to put them on the back foot by forcing them to run back.”
Andrea Cambiaso is another player whose versatility can be both a benefit and a problem for Juventus, as he often struggles to find the right position, but the coach insists this only has positives.
“If he doesn’t wander around all over the pitch, then I won’t pick him,” replied Spalletti to criticism from the Sky Sport Italia studio.
“These aren’t spaces, they are half-spaces, and you need players who can find them and drag others out of position. Being able to find those spaces where they open up is a quality that benefits the team.”
This was also the second consecutive clean sheet for the Bianconeri, so what improved in their defending?
“When we see more of the ball, then we defend better. Possession isn’t just a superficial exercise, it is used to create chances, and that doesn’t mean taking unnecessary risks. You consolidate the dominance of the game, and then choose the moments when should take those risks. We were perfect in that today, not allowing Udinese many counter-attacks that we had to chase back,” replied Spalletti.
“This reflects the mentality, as tonight we played with the mentality of a strong team.”
This result means Juventus leapfrog Roma and Como into fourth place for one night, and could well stay there, depending on the result of tomorrow’s showdown between those two teams.
-
- Premier League Italians round-up: Tonali ill for Newcastle, Calafiori & Donnarumma in action for Arsenal & Man City
Premier League Italians round-up: Tonali ill for Newcastle, Calafiori & Donnarumma in action for Arsenal & Man City
15 March 2026 at 02:22
Riccardo Calafiori and Gianluigi Donnarumma were the two Italians in action in today’s Premier League action, with both playing a vital role in the ongoing title race.
Sandro Tonali missed Newcastle United’s 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea, after he was taken ill in the run-up to the game.
Calafiori shines for Arsenal as Gunners close in on Premier League
Calafiori started at left-back for Arsenal today as they hosted Everton at the Emirates Stadium, after Ecuadorian Piero Hincapie was given a rest by head coach Mikel Arteta.
In the 17th minute, Everton fashioned a good chance to break the deadlock but Calafiori made a fantastic block to deny the Toffees the lead in London.
Arsenal went on to win the game 2-0, opening up their gap at the head of the league table.
Later in the day, Manchester City travelled to the capital to face relegation battlers West Ham. Gianluigi Donnarumma started in goal for Pep Guardiola’s team, but conceded the Irons’ only shot in the entire match.
So as Calafiori works hard to keep Arsenal’s advantage, Donnarumma had a quiet night – with one painful sting in the tail.
Runjaic: ‘Juventus have world class players and Udinese cannot compete now’
15 March 2026 at 02:08
Kosta Runjaic admits Udinese ‘were not able to compete on the same level’ with a practically full-strength Juventus. ‘They have world class players like Kenan Yildiz and Jeremie Boga.’
The Friulani suffered a 1-0 home defeat this evening, as Boga turned in the assist from Kenan Yildiz to beat Maduka Okoye, the goalkeeper having made several big saves.
Francisco Conceicao had also managed to find the net, but it was disallowed because Teun Koopmeiners was considered to be interfering with play in an offside position.
Runjaic acknowledges Udinese limits
“Juventus played better, that is clear, we expected to have less possession, but were missing a little bit of quality at times. We also had chances, soccer is not just about playing better, but taking the chances,” Runjaic told Sky Sport Italia.
“Ekkelenkamp had a good situation, Zaniolo was in a good position when there Atta should’ve had a cut-back ball, and other choices were made.
“Juventus are a strong team, they have world class wide players like Yildiz and Conceicao, so right now we are not able to compete on the same level.”
Udinese are now in mid-table, so for the remaining nine games of the season, will he motivate them aiming for Europe or just to improve on last season’s tally?
“I don’t need to push the team,” shrugged Runjaic.
Udinese seemed to struggle with long balls down the left in particular, where players like Yildiz and Boga managed to control and attack the near post.
“Juventus are a very versatile team, they are able to play short combinations, but also dangerous with deep balls from Locatelli, and one of those we didn’t defend well enough, so they scored the goal. It is not easy to protect a fantastic deep ball like that, they have players who are running deep and can receive with one touch.
“It’s not easy to find the balance, we did better in the second half, but that is just one of many elements.”
Yildiz moved over to his preferred left side, that added to the sense that Udinese’s defence was struggling, but Runjaic points out his choices were also limited.
“It’s nothing new, Yildiz played many times as a winger, so it was just a matter of time. We were completely aware about this, but were also missing players like Zanoli, Bertola and Solet. It is not an excuse, but we were unable to perform with a full squad.
“On the other hand, Juve put all their quality out without any big injuries at the moment, so if it wasn’t Yildiz, then Conceicao would do something. We don’t need to look for micro-details, it’s not about this.”
Serie A | Udinese 0-1 Juventus – Player Ratings as Boga saves the day
15 March 2026 at 01:43
Juventus battled to a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Udinese on Saturday evening, with a first half goal from Jeremie Boga all that separated the two sides.
Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Boga, for his vital goal that continues his good start to life in Bianconeri.
Udinese 0-1 Juventus – Player Ratings
Udinese: Okoye 6.5; Ehizibue 6, Kabasele 5.5, Kristensen 6; Zarraga 5 (Mlacic N/A), Ekkelenkamp 5.5 (Miller 6), Karlstrom 5.5 (Piotrowski N/A), Atta 5.5, Kamara 6 (Arizala 6); Zaniolo 5, Davis 6
Best Udinese player: Maduka Okoye – Made six saves tonight to keep his team in the game and cannot be faulted too much for Boba’s goal. Looked very competent and prevented the scoreline from being a lot worse.
Lowest Udinese rating: Nicolo Zaniolo – Uncharacteristically poor compared to his typical performances for Udinese this season, struggling to have much involvement at all beyond a yellow card.
Coach: Kosta Runjaic 6 – Would have preferred, obviously, to come away with a result but will not be too disheartened with his team’s performance against a side with much more financial pull than themselves.
Juventus: Perin 6; Kalulu 6, Bremer 6.5, Kelly 6, Cambiaso 6; Locatelli 6.5, Thuram 6 (Koopmeiners 6); Conceicao 6.5 (Miretti N/A), McKennie 6, Boga 7 (Gatti N/A); Yildiz 7
Best Juventus player: Jeremie Boga – Once again finding the back of the net, bringing him two goals off Jonathan David’s Serie A tally for the season, the Ivorian is proving to be an excellent winter addition. Created a number of good chances for his teammates too.
Lowest Juventus rating: Khephren Thuram – Had a difficult first half before having to come off early in the second period due to a knock. Was not involved a whole lot when he was on the pitch but he wasn’t atrocious.
Coach: Luciano Spalletti 6.5 – Will be happy with his team’s performance, and less so with the scoreline. Spalletti’s tactics overwhelmed the opposition but poor finishing of chances meant the match was a lot closer than the Italian coach may have liked.
Serie A | Udinese 0-1 Juventus: Boga gets Old Lady back on track
15 March 2026 at 01:41
Jeremie Boga scored for the third Serie A match in a row to give Juventus a precious 1-0 victory away to Udinese, but a Francisco Conceicao goal was disallowed.
The Bianconeri ended their crisis with a 4-0 win over Pisa, but with Dusan Vlahovic and Emil Holm still out, dropped Jonathan David to bring in Jeremie Boga as support for False 9 Kenan Yildiz. The Friulani were also back on track, beating Fiorentina 3-0 and holding Atalanta 2-2, not coincidentally once Keinan Davis returned from injury. Arthur Atta and Oumar Solet were available again, though Adam Buksa, Nicolò Bertola, Jordan Zemura and Alessandro Zanoli missed out.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
Boga got down the left to force a tricky save out of Maduka Okoye at the near post, then Francisco Conceicao scuffed the finish on the resulting short corner and had another attempt charged down by Thomas Kristensen.
Arthur Atta tested Mattia Perin at the near post, as did Boga at the other end with Okoye, but it was only a warning.
Juventus took the lead when another long ball allowed Kenan Yildiz to spring the offside trap down the left, holding off Oier Zarraga to roll across for a Boga tap-in from six yards. It was his third goal in as many games.
It was wide open before half-time, as Atta fired over from close range after a loose ball fell into his path, then Boga again tested Okoye after running onto a Francisco Conceicao through ball.
On the resulting corner, Andrea Cambiaso forced a big reaction save out of Okoye at the back stick.
Juve lost Khephren Thuram to injury and Udinese wasted an astonishing chance to equalise, as Keinan Davis rolled across from the left only for Jurgen Ekkelenkamp to stumble, unable to tap in from six yards.
Okoye flew to palm away the Manuel Locatelli curler, while Teun Koopmeiners couldn’t keep his header down from six yards on the Boga cross.
Yildiz tested Okoye at the near post, then his strike was on target until deflected wide by Kingsley Ehizibue.
Juventus thought they had doubled their lead on 70 minutes when Kenan Yildiz twisted and turned, threaded through for Francisco Conceicao, who took one touch before sweeping into the far bottom corner from 12 yards. However, Koopmeiners was offside and got out of the way to let the ball through, so the goal was disallowed following a VAR review.
Yildiz completed a give and go with substitute Fabio Miretti, the Italian seeing his finish parried from close range by Okoye.
Udinese 0-1 Juventus
Boga 38 (J)
Player statistic
1st half
| Nicolò Zaniolo | 32' | |||
| 38' | |
Jeremie Boga (Assist: Kenan Yıldız) |
2nd half
| Branimir Mlacic | 88' | |||
| Christian Kabasele | 90+2' | |||
| 90' | |
Lloyd Kelly |
Match statistic
44
Possession %
56
10
Total shots
22
2
Shots on target
8
7
Shots off target
9
1
Blocked shots
5
2
Corners
6
Offsides
3
12
Fouls
14
Udinese
Juventus
Starting lineups
Substitutes
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- Sarri opens up on Lazio set piece struggles and pinpoints Milan threat ahead of Serie A clash
Sarri opens up on Lazio set piece struggles and pinpoints Milan threat ahead of Serie A clash
15 March 2026 at 01:18
Maurizio Sarri held his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s home clash with Milan, and the Lazio head coach was in candid and thoughtful mood, touching on tactical concerns, injury news, and even offering a wry observation about what he might envy in his opposite number Massimiliano Allegri.
The return of supporters to the Stadio Olimpico after a period of reduced attendance was a clear source of motivation for Sarri, who rarely hides his affection for the Lazio faithful.
“Both myself and the players are all happy to play in front of our people and a full stadium,” he said, with quotes via LaLazioSiamoNoi.
“It is a strong motivation for us.”
He also revealed he intends to visit the Curva Nord before the match, something he typically avoids out of respect for his players, after supporters extended a personal invitation.
“The fact that they want to greet me means a lot. I think tomorrow I will go.”
Lazio coach Sarri anticipates Milan threat
On the tactical challenge posed by Milan, Sarri was typically precise in his assessment.
“Milan have well-defined characteristics, they hurt you even when they don’t seem in control of the game. Great technical and physical quality, devastating acceleration. We cannot give them open space.”
He then delivered a counterintuitive but sharp observation that will resonate with anyone who has watched Lazio struggle in transition.
“When you play Milan, the most dangerous moment is when we have the ball.”
Set pieces have become a structural problem for Lazio, and Sarri was honest about why. “Without Vecino and Guendouzi, dead balls are now a real issue,” he said. “Having to change formation also means changing the positioning of players at set pieces, none of that makes things easier.”
In terms of injured players, Alessio Romagnoli remains a doubt and will be assessed on Sunday morning, while Patric and Taylor have both been trialled in training as Sarri looks to finalise his options.
Asked what he might envy about Allegri, the Lazio coach allowed himself a smile. “Allegri manages the club with the highest revenue in Italy, they can afford important players. You envy some things, but that is part of the game. What does he envy about me? Ask him,” he laughed.
On his own future, Sarri was measured. He acknowledged that several players are out of contract at the end of the season and that another transitional summer may be coming. “I have a contract. If the club is not happy or if I am not happy, we will speak. But today there is no discussion.”
The sense, reading between the lines, is of a coach who remains committed but is watching closely to see how the club intends to rebuild.
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- Napoli 2-1 Lecce – Partenopei stars Politano, Alisson & Hojlund react to comeback victory
Napoli 2-1 Lecce – Partenopei stars Politano, Alisson & Hojlund react to comeback victory
15 March 2026 at 00:38
Napoli dug deep to claim a hard-fought comeback victory over Lecce, and the mood in the dressing room afterwards was one of relief mixed with genuine satisfaction, particularly for Matteo Politano, who finally ended a long personal drought with a goal and an assist in the same game.
“I am so happy, I finally scored that blessed goal that had been escaping me for ages,” Politano told DAZN, via IlNapolista.
“A fantastic, perfect day. We won a difficult game and Conte told us at half-time to stay calm, that one goal would put things right. He knew our strength.”
The experienced winger was equally keen to credit the returning players for changing the game, pointing to the broader squad depth as a key factor in Napoli’s continued push for Champions League football.
Napoli 2-1 Lecce – Hojlund ‘happy’ to find shooting boots
Rasmus Højlund was another man in fine fettle after rediscovering his scoring touch.
“I am happy to have found my goal again and to help the team,” the Danish striker said.
“Players like McTominay, De Bruyne and Politano stimulate us a lot, the squad needs players like them.” He also singled out Politano specifically, noting that the winger has assists running through his veins.
Captain for the evening Alex Meret was more measured in his assessment, offering an honest appraisal of a first half that left plenty to be desired.
“We did not play well in the first half, too many misplaced passes and we gave away dangerous counter-attacks,” he said.
“In the second half we were more aggressive and the goal gave us the momentum we needed.”
Wearing the armband was a source of enormous pride for the goalkeeper, who also spoke of his ambitions to be part of Italy’s World Cup squad. He did flag one area of concern, however, aerial balls and set-pieces.
“The matches are decided there now. We need to be more focused and concede fewer goals.”
Brazilian forward Alisson Santos rounded off the reaction with a neat insight into his goalscoring philosophy.
“I always try to finish at the near post, I believe it puts the goalkeeper in more difficulty,” he said simply. “The most important thing is that Napoli won.”
Conte: ‘Napoli common good is what matters, Banda frightened me’
15 March 2026 at 00:02
Antonio Conte warns Napoli that he will be ruthless for the ‘common good, which is Champions League qualification,’ and reveals what he saw with Lameck Banda’s collapse.
It was the worst possible start to the game at the Stadio Maradona when Lecce took the lead in the third minute, as Jamil Siebert was allowed a free header on a corner.
The Partenopei struggled to get back into it, but were transformed at half-time when introducing Kevin De Bruyne and Scott McTominay off the bench.
They equalised within 60 seconds thanks to Rasmus Hojlund meeting a Matteo Politano pull-back, then Politano ended his 43-match drought to turn it around completely for a third consecutive victory.
Conte keeps eye on big picture for Napoli
“I am not someone who tends to pay attention to statistics, but I can only be satisfied when hearing I have such a good record,” Conte told DAZN Italia when informed he has an average of 2.21 points per game in Serie A.
Although De Bruyne had made his comeback last week against Torino, this was his first appearance at the Stadio Maradona since he suffered that serious thigh tear on October 25, converting a penalty against Inter.
With everyone available again, how could this change the Napoli line-up?
“These are all hypotheticals, because we are talking about players who have been out for four or five months, so we cannot expect them to immediately be in good shape,” replied Conte.
“We started out using Elmas against Torino with Gilmour, then in the second half I brought on Anguissa and pushed Elmas further forward. Today we started with Anguissa and Gilmour, then Elmas as a Number 10.
“As we were losing the match, I changed again. These are great players, but we must give them time to regain the match tempo.
“It’s true that the lads need to regain confidence, but the most important thing is the common good, which is what is good for Napoli.
“I made choices today and made changes at half-time. Everyone wants to play, but we’ve got to be smart and they must trust what I see and feel.
“The most important thing is that we qualify for the Champions League.”
There was also tension in the final minutes when Lecce player Lameck Banda collapsed near to Conte on the touchline, so the coach alerted the medical staff to get him treatment.
According to the latest reports, Banda received a knock to the chest moments earlier and was struggling to breathe, but did not appear to lose consciousness.
“I was right there preparing the wall for a free kick and I saw him looking a bit shaky, he started to go down, then he had his hand on his chest, which really frightened me,” revealed Conte.
“I rushed onto the field and called for help, I hope he is doing well and has a quick recovery. Banda is a good lad, he’s expecting a baby too, so I wish him and his family well.”
Spalletti: ‘Juventus like video games, study Bayern Munich movement’
14 March 2026 at 23:26
Luciano Spalletti tells Juventus that the trip to Udinese is ‘about stepping up to the next level, like in video games’ and wants to learn from Bayern Munich’s ‘encyclopaedia of football.’
It kicks off at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
The Bianconeri had been going through a crisis, which included crashing out of the Champions League and Coppa Italia, but got back on track by thrashing Pisa 4-0.
Jeremie Boga impressed off the bench in the game, so he gets his first start here in place of Jonathan David, moving Kenan Yildiz to a False 9 role.
Spalletti outlines Juventus changes
“It is going to be a very important game for our season, as it is the kind of match where we are stepping up to the next level, like in video games,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia.
“My players therefore need to defend all they have built and gone through this term, and do it against a tough opponent.”
Dusan Vlahovic returned to training this week for the first time since his serious tendon injury in November 2025, but is not in the squad yet, missing out along with Emil Holm.
“Udinese are not the team we faced earlier this season in Serie A and the Coppa Italia, they have found their identity. They are also very physical, so we need to make our quality count and the first touch is going to be decisive, as that is what allows you to take control of the ball and rob their physicality of that power,” added Spalletti.
The Juventus coach gained inspiration from watching the Champions League, where Bayern Munich beat Atalanta 6-1 on Tuesday.
“This is why I chose three upfront who have great quality on the ball and can take men on. In modern football, everyone has to find their position on the field with balance and continual changing of role, but doing it in a dynamic and fluid manner.
“Just look at Bayern Munich the other day against Atalanta, they showed us a whole encyclopaedia of movement and positioning in football.
“It’s about realising where the gaps are and not letting Davis gather a long ball to sprint into space.”
Juve hope that with Roma and Como going head-to-head tomorrow for fourth place, it can let them back into that tussle for Champions League qualification.
“What becomes fundamental is that players realise a match can change in a second, and we can dictate what happens in that second. It’s always up to us,” concluded Spalletti.
What happened when Lecce player Banda collapsed during Napoli game
14 March 2026 at 23:18
Lecce player Lameck Banda collapsed during the final minutes of the 2-1 defeat to Napoli, but reports from the club are reassuring on his condition.
The wide forward was in the starting XI for the Salentini at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, a game his team had been leading through Jamil Siebert before Rasmus Hojlund and Matteo Politano turned it around.
Banda collapse worrying for Lecce and Napoli
In the final minutes of the Serie A fixture, Napoli coach Antonio Conte spotted that Banda was struggling to breathe, as he was in the vicinity of the touchline, and immediately alerted the Lecce medical staff.
A hushed silence fell over the crowd as medics ran on to provide assistance, then after a few minutes he was stretchered off and taken to a nearby ambulance on the side of the pitch for tests.
According to DAZN Italia, Banda sustained a knock to the chest around 40 seconds before he collapsed, so was badly winded and struggling to breathe.
He never appeared to lose consciousness, and initial reports from the touchline are reassuring on his condition.
Serie A | Napoli 2-1 Lecce: Politano ends drought for third straight victory
14 March 2026 at 22:58
Matteo Politano ended his goal drought after 43 games, as Napoli fought back to beat Lecce 2-1 on the return of Scott McTominay and Kevin De Bruyne to the Stadio Maradona.
The Partenopei regained their confidence with back-to-back 2-1 wins over Verona and Torino. A significant boost was Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa’s first start since November, although Antonio Vergara and Juan Jesus joined Stanislav Lobotka, David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Amir Rrahmani on the treatment table. Scott McTominay returned to the bench after a month out. Lecce clambered out of the bottom four with a victory over Cremonese, and had Omri Gandelman back after a knee problem, but missed Medon Berisha, Francesco Camarda and Kialonda Gaspar.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
It was a very aggressive start from the visitors, who took the lead on their second Antonino Gallo corner of the game, as Jamil Siebert was allowed a free header from six yards at the back post after just two minutes and 20 seconds.
They very nearly conceded an identical second, as this time Tiago Gabriel nodded a Gallo corner over from five yards after the Lameck Banda shot had been deflected off target.
Billy Gilmour prodded inches wide from 12 yards on an Alisson Santos pull-back, while Gallo was decisive to intercept an Alisson cross for Matteo Politano and Rasmus Hojlund couldn’t quite get on the end of a cross from six yards.
Alex Meret got down to parry a Nikola Stulic strike at the base of the near post, while Politano’s screamer only hit the side-netting.
Antonio Conte pulled out the big guns for the restart, introducing McTominay and Kevin De Bruyne, and it paid off within 60 seconds.
Gilmour’s inspired pass sent Politano down the right, he pulled back from the by-line and Hojlund was ready to tap in from six yards.
Tiago Gabriel failed to make the most of slack marking on a free kick moments later, as Walid Cheddira only hit the side-netting against his parent club and Alisson Santos sent through by De Bruyne forced a desperate Wladimiro Falcone save with an outstretched leg.
Napoli turned the game around completely when De Bruyne’s corner was flicked on to the back post for the precise Politano volley. It was his first goal in almost a full calendar year, ending a drought of 43 competitive games.
De Bruyne also sent Alisson Santos through to drill inches wide of the near post, while Siebert did just enough to stop Hojlund getting a shot away from a dangerous position.
There was a hushed silence in the Stadio Maradona when Lameck Banda was struggling to breathe after being winded, but he was stretchered off after a few minutes for treatment. Lecce had completed their substitutions, so played stoppages with only 10 men.
Napoli 2-1 Lecce
Siebert 3 (L), Hojlund 46 (N), Politano 67 (N)
Player statistic
1st half
| 3' | Jamil Siebert (Assist: Antonino Gallo) | |||
| 19' | |
Jamil Siebert |
2nd half
| Rasmus Højlund (Assist: Matteo Politano) |
46' | |||
| Matteo Politano | |
67' |
Match statistic
70
Possession %
30
12
Total shots
12
4
Shots on target
2
6
Shots off target
6
2
Blocked shots
4
7
Corners
7
11
Fouls
7
Napoli
Lecce
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Serie A official line-ups: Udinese vs. Juventus
14 March 2026 at 22:43
Juventus launch a new strike force of Kenan Yildiz, Jeremie Boga, Francisco Conceicao and Weston McKennie against Udinese’s Keinan Davis and Nicolò Zaniolo.
It kicks off at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
The Bianconeri had been in a crisis of results until thrashing Pisa 4-0 last week, and hope the fixture list can give them a helping hand to get back into the top four.
Dusan Vlahovic returned to training over the last few days, but has not made the trip along with Emil Holm and Arek Milik.
Misfiring Jonathan David is therefore dropped and replaced with Yildiz as a False 9, supported by Francisco Conceicao, McKennie and new entry Boga.
The former Sassuolo and Marseille winger impressed off the bench and gets his first start.
Udinese had a dismal run of three straight defeats, but it’s no coincidence that ended with the return of Davis from injury.
He had a starring role in the 3-0 win over Fiorentina and 2-2 draw with Atalanta, so again partners Italy international Zaniolo upfront.
Arthur Atta and Oumar Solet are back in the squad after injury, but Adam Buksa, Nicolò Bertola, Jordan Zemura and Alessandro Zanoli miss out.
Udinese vs. Juventus line-ups
Udinese: Okoye; Ehizibue, Kabasele, Kristensen; Zarraga, Ekkelenkamp, Karlstrom, Atta, Kamara; Zaniolo, Davis
Juventus: Perin; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Conceicao, McKennie, Boga; Yildiz
Player statistic
1st half
| Nicolò Zaniolo | 32' | |||
| 38' | |
Jeremie Boga (Assist: Kenan Yıldız) |
2nd half
| Branimir Mlacic | 88' | |||
| Christian Kabasele | 90+2' | |||
| 90' | |
Lloyd Kelly |
Match statistic
44
Possession %
56
10
Total shots
22
2
Shots on target
8
7
Shots off target
9
1
Blocked shots
5
2
Corners
6
Offsides
3
12
Fouls
14
Udinese
Juventus
Starting lineups
Substitutes
Ex-Roma defender Cole lined up as new Cesena coach
14 March 2026 at 22:25
Former Roma defender Ashley Cole has reportedly been lined up as the new coach of Serie B side Cesena, leaving the staff of the Under-21 England team.
According to Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà, Cole is already in Italy and having physical meetings with the Cesena hierarchy to sign the contract.
Surprising Serie B adventure for Cole
The 45-year-old had some experience in Italian football as a player for Roma from 2014 to 2016, when he went on to the LA Galaxy and ended his playing career at Derby in 2019.
Before that, he had made his mark as a full-back for Arsenal, Crystal Palace and Chelsea.
When it came to management, Cole has worked at the Chelsea youth academy, plus as an assistant manager to the likes of Lee Carsley, Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney and more.
Above all, he worked with Carsley, and is currently the assistant to the England Under-21 team coach.
Cesena were held to a 2-2 home draw by Frosinone today and the decision was made to sack coach Michele Mignani.
It left them in eighth place, the final slot available for the promotion play-offs.
Both good and bad Roma news for Como trip
14 March 2026 at 21:59
Manu Koné returns to the Roma squad for their fourth place showdown with Como, but Matias Soulé and Paulo Dybala are still out of action with Evan Ndicka suspended.
It kicks off at the Stadio Sinigaglia on Sunday at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
This is a huge crossroads in the race for Champions League qualification, as the two teams are stuck together in joint fourth place.
The good news for Gian Piero Gasperini is the return of Koné, who was not even on the bench after a muscular twinge during Thursday’s Europa League 1-1 draw with Bologna.
Wesley is also back after sitting out last week’s Serie A defeat to Genoa, but he is replaced on the naughty step by Ndicka.
It had been hoped that Soulé would recover from his on-going inflammation of the groin area, but the pain persists and he is again not going to make the trip.
Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson are long-term absentees, leaving very few alternatives in attack.
As for the defence, Ndicka’s ban makes it likely that Mario Hermoso will receive his first start since February 2, having played 25 minutes against Bologna on Thursday.
Roma squad for Como
Svilar, De Marzi, Gollini; Rensch, Angelino, Tsimikas, Celik, Hermoso, Mancini, Ziolkowski, Wesley, Ghilardi; Cristante, Pellegrini, El Aynaoui, Kone, Pisilli; Malen, Venturino, Vaz, El Shaarawy, Zaragoza
Inter in silence to protest referee after controversial 1-1 with Atalanta
14 March 2026 at 21:29
Cristian Chivu and Inter have imposed a press silence in protest at two controversial refereeing decisions in their 1-1 draw with Atalanta.
The coach was sent off for dissent after two yellow cards in quick succession, as he was protesting the decision to give the equaliser from Nikola Krstovic, claiming that Kamaldeen Sulemana had fouled Denzel Dumfries.
Francesco Pio Esposito had given Inter the lead before half-time, while the hosts also had penalty appeals rejected late on for Giorgio Scalvini’s contact with Davide Frattesi.
You can read how DAZN refereeing pundit Luca Marelli evaluated the two incidents here.
Inter stage silent protest
There was a lengthy wait in the press room for Chivu or some club representative to reach the microphones, but nobody ever came.
This press silence is Inter’s way of protesting the decisions of referee Gianluca Mangnaniello, and the failure of VAR to overturn those calls.
This is the second setback in a row for the Nerazzurri, who already saw their Serie A lead reduced to seven points after last week’s defeat to Milan.
If Milan manage to beat Lazio tomorrow, it will close the gap further to just five points.
Inter had also been very unhappy with some calls in the Derby della Madonnina last week, specifically a penalty appeal for handball, even though the referee’s association confirmed there were no errors.
Refereeing expert judges controversial Inter 1-1 Atalanta incidents
14 March 2026 at 21:15
DAZN refereeing expert Luca Marelli has given his verdict on the controversial decisions that infuriated Inter in their 1-1 draw with Atalanta. ‘They are subjective situations.’
There were two significant incidents in the space of a few final minutes of this Serie A match at San Siro, after Francesco Pio Esposito had opened the scoring.
Inter furious with refereeing decisions
Atalanta equalised with Nikola Krstovic only after Kamaldeen Sulemana had robbed Denzel Dumfries on the edge of the area, making the Dutch player stumble and fall over.
Referee Gianluca Manganiello had the whistle in his mouth, seemingly hesitated, and eventually did not blow it, awarding the goal.
A long VAR check confirmed the original decision, which infuriated Cristian Chivu so much that the Inter coach was sent off.
“There is no lower contact between the legs, the only contact is one hand resting on the back, but he doesn’t seem to push,” explained DAZN expert and former referee Marelli.
“In my view, Manganiello was right to let play continue, because any contact is minimal.”
The other moment to hit the headlines occurred a few moments later, when Davide Frattesi got to a bouncing ball first, caught on the boot by Giorgio Scalvini.
Here too, the referee waved play on, and VAR did not consider it necessary to suggest an On-Field Review.
“It is a subjective situation, penalties are a serious matter and should not be given for any contact,” added Marelli.
“I see contact between Scalvini and Frattesi that should be evaluated, but there isn’t a genuine kick from the Atalanta defender.
“I don’t think Manganiello saw it, but I also feel VAR was right not to intervene, because this is not a clear and obvious error.
“It is a situation that can be interpreted and of course all opinions are legitimate.”
Palladino: ‘Atalanta battle with courage, I never talk about referees’
14 March 2026 at 20:47
Raffaele Palladino thanks Atalanta for ‘battling with such courage’ to a 1-1 draw with Inter, especially thanks to their substitutes, and shrugs off controversy.
La Dea were feeling the pressure after one point from two Serie A games, a 2-2 Coppa Italia semi-final draw at Lazio, and above all Tuesday’s 6-1 Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich.
So when going a goal down at San Siro to Francesco Pio Esposito’s angled drive, it as not to be taken for granted that they’d get back into it.
Palladino hails Atalanta fightback
“This is a great squad, I’ve been asking so much of then for the last four months, and I want to publicly thank them for all their efforts,” Palladino told DAZN Italia.
“They’ve battled with such courage and it’s not easy to play every three days, but they put in a strong performance today. We improved over the course of the match, we had wanted to sit a little deeper and use the transitions in the first half, but didn’t do it well enough.”
This has to be treated as a positive result in the circumstances, and there was a boost with the return of Ederson and Charles De Ketelaere as substitutes after injury problems.
“I knew the inertia of the game could change and those who came off the bench gave us a great energy boost,” continued Palladino.
“Krstovic gave a big hand, we needed his work ethic. We also got De Ketelaere back, Isak Hien won every defensive duel. The players who can come off the bench are a real strength of this club.”
There was controversy too, as Inter were furious a foul wasn’t given for Kamaldeen Sulemana on Denzel Dumfries in the build-up to Nikola Krstovic’s equaliser, then felt Giorgio Scalvini’s contact on Davide Frattesi was worthy of a penalty.
“I never talk about referees. Your own refereeing expert Luca Marelli confirmed the referee did not make a mistake here, so I try to respect everyone’s work.”
Now Atalanta travel to Munich for the second leg of their Champions League tie, having lost the first leg 6-1.
“The result is compromised and there’s a mountain to climb, but we’ll play our game against a great opponent,” concluded Palladino.
Why Italy star Tonali will not play in Chelsea vs. Newcastle United
14 March 2026 at 20:36
Italy international Sandro Tonali is not in the Newcastle United squad travelling for this evening’s game with Chelsea, raising questions on his fitness ahead of the World Cup play-offs.
The Premier League clash is due to kick off at Stamford Bridge at 17.30 GMT and Tonali had been expected to start the match.
Instead, he is not even on the bench, and the official club website confirms that his absence is due to illness.
Tonali out of Newcastle United squad
According to Sky Sports UK, this is the same virus that also forced Newcastle United to leave Anthony Gordon and Nick Woltemade at home recently.
Both those players are back in the starting XI, so that suggests it should only be a short-term issue.
This will be reassuring for Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso, who is set to name his squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup play-offs.
Arguably, the 25-year-old could do with some rest, having already played 46 competitive games at club level so far this season.
Tonali scored three goals and provided seven assists this term in the Newcastle United jersey.
