Udinese returned to third place in the standings thanks to a comfortable away win over Bologna, with Friulani now aiming to continue the great run of results. Atalanta boosted their survival hopes with an amazing victory over Roma, but Orobici could find it hard to match one of the best home sides in Serie A.

Udinese on fire

Udinese boss Francesco Guidolin has just been awarded the best Serie A coach title for season 2010/2011 and if his team continue playing like this, the experienced tactician could easily defend the coveted title. Guidolin has got to be congratulated for the brave decision to change his playing style after the departure of Gokhan Inler and Alexis Sanchez last summer, and it is this more cautious style of play that has produced brilliant results. Udinese may be heavily relying on Antonio Di Natale in attack, but their midfield area is doing a great job as well, especially the likes of Asamoah, Armero, Isla and Basta. The aforementioned players are chipping in with goals as well as assists, and with rock-solid back line also in mind, it is little wonder the Friulani are still very much in the title race. Udinese remain the best home side in Serie A, having won 10 of 13 games at Friuli, and going into this game on the back of impressive away wins over PAOK and Bologna, the Zebrette look like hot favourites to win this clash.

Almen Abdi, Mauricio Isla, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu and Giampiero Pinzi are all sidelined through injury, whereas Damiano Feronetti is doubtful.

Atalanta continue to impress

Because of their involvement in the match fixing scandal, Atalanta started this season with -6 points and despite some shrewd dealings in the summer transfer window, Orobici were predicted a tough relegation fight. Nonetheless, mostly thanks to attacking duo of Maxi Moralez and German Denis, the team neutralized the six-point penalty in no time and soon started climbing the Serie A standings. Atalanta soon became a real force to be reckoned with at their Atleti Azzurri Stadium, whereas they kept bringing points from the travels and are now on the verge of climbing to the top half of the table. Stefano Colantuono’s side continue to impress when facing the bottom-table sides, but it is important to note they lost last four games against the top 4 teams. Taking that into account as well as the fact that the visitors are without several very important players, I have no choice but to back Udinese here.

Maxi Moralez and Federico Peluso are suspended, whereas Carlos Carmona, Stefano Lucchini and Daniele Capelli are out through injury.

Verdict

Udinese are flying high at the moment and their amazing home record is another reason for optimism before the Atalanta game. Orobici boast an awful record against the top 4 sides and with four starters missing the trip to Udine, they don’t look capable of getting anything from this match.

Our prediction: Home win

Odds: 1.73 (8/11)

Bookmaker: Sportingbet