The match against title contenders Roma will be a perfect test of Genoa’s top 5 credentials, with the Rossoblu climbing to third after back to back wins over Cesena and Milan. The Giallorossi were somewhat unfortunate to crash out of the Champions League, but at least they can now fully focus on their Serie A campaign.

Brilliant start for Genoa

With Genoa fighting for their lives over the last couple of seasons, it is fair to say nobody could predict such an impressive start for the Rossoblu. Nevertheless, Gian Piero Gasperini’s men have been absolutely brilliant in the opening exchanges, defeating some of Italy’s top sides to climb to third position in the standings. But, having been pretty fortunate in wins against Lazio, Juventus and Milan, I am not convinced they have what it takes to match star-studded Roma side. Seeing as how Genoa lack the quality needed to remain near the top of the standings, it is only a matter of time before their downtrend begins and no doubt their next fixture will serve as a big test. The Rossoblu also appear to lack some top-flight experience, and I can see them struggling when facing the Giallorossi. And having failed to score more than one goal in any of their home matches this season, Genoa’s defence will have to be at their very best if they want to prevent Roma from taking maximum points at Stadio Luigi Ferraris.

Important midfielder Juraj Kucka looks set to miss out through a back problem, whilst Rolando Mandragora is definitely out.

Roma fail to qualify for CL knockout stages

It was never going to be easy for AS Roma to mount a serious title challenge in Serie A and also progress from what was the toughest Champions League group, but the Giallorossi, nonetheless, did really well in both competitions and were pretty unlucky not to pip Manchester City to a place in the next stage. The hosts had missed several very good chances to score before conceding two cheap goals, but having given their best, Rudi Garcia’s men are unlikely to be too downhearted by the result. The Champions League exit could also prove to be a blessing in disguise seeing as how the Serie A title push remains the priority and having failed to beat Sassuolo last time out, the Giallorossi will be eager to make amends by defeating high-flying Genoa. Roma have played well on the travels this season, winning three of six away matches, and having beaten Atalanta last time out, I fully expect them to be the team to stop Genoa’s impressive run. Midfielder Daniele De Rossi may be suspended, but he is unlikely to be sorely missed having lost his place in the starting line-up.

In addition to Capitan Futuro, Roma will be without Leandro Castan, Federico Balzaretti and Salih Ucan, but Vassilis Torosidis returns.

Verdict

Genoa have not been as impressive as their results would suggest and having had Lady Luck on their side so many times this season, I seriously doubt they will enjoy another fortunate victory. Roma are playing really well at the moment and the Giallorossi are very motivated to put extra pressure on title rivals Juventus.

Top pick: Away win   2.05 (21/20) @ Unibet

Alternative pick 1: Under 2.5 goals   1.80 (4/5) @ Betfair

Alternative pick 2: Roma to win to nil   3.50 (5/2) @ Coral