The race for Champions League qualification in Serie A is heating up as the season approaches its final stretch. With only eight matches remaining for most teams, the battle for the coveted fourth spot has intensified. Currently, Bologna holds the fourth position with 56 points, closely followed by Juventus, who are also on 56 points after their recent draw against Roma. Lazio is just one point behind, while Roma and Fiorentina are still in contention, making this a thrilling end to the season.
Unlike last year, Italy is unlikely to secure a fifth Champions League spot due to its current UEFA ranking, which places it behind England and Spain. This means that the competition will be fierce for the fourth place, which is essential for teams looking to compete at the highest level in Europe.
As it stands, the Serie A standings are as follows:
- 3) Atalanta - 58 points
- 4) Bologna - 56 points
- 5) Juventus - 56 points
- 6) Lazio - 55 points
- 7) Roma - 53 points
- 8) Fiorentina - 52 points
- 9) Milan - 48 points
With Bologna and Juventus tied for fourth place, the upcoming fixtures will prove crucial. Bologna, managed by Vincenzo Italiano, faces a challenging schedule ahead. Their next match is against Napoli on April 7, 2025, followed by a key clash against Atalanta on April 13. They will also take on Inter, Udinese, and a direct encounter with Juventus on May 4, which could be pivotal in deciding their Champions League fate.
Juventus, under the management of Igor Tudor, has a similar point total and will be looking to capitalize on their remaining matches. Their upcoming games include a home match against Lecce on April 12, followed by a trip to Parma on April 21. The showdown with Bologna is set for May 4, and they will also face Lazio shortly after, making their path to Champions League qualification equally challenging.
On the other hand, Lazio has been inconsistent but remains in contention, sitting just one point behind the leaders. They will face Roma in a crucial derby on April 13, which could significantly impact both teams' hopes for a Champions League spot. Following that, Lazio will play Genoa and Parma, before facing Juventus on May 11.
Roma, revitalized by the return of Claudio Ranieri, is three points off the fourth place. They will need to maximize their performance in the upcoming matches, starting with the derby against Lazio. Their schedule includes matches against Verona, Inter, Fiorentina, and Milan, providing them with opportunities to close the gap.
Fiorentina and Milan, while further back, cannot be ruled out entirely. Fiorentina is currently at 52 points and will be looking to gain ground with their upcoming matches against Parma, Cagliari, and Empoli. Milan, sitting at 48 points, has a tough task ahead but will be aiming to make a late-season push.
As the season progresses, the attention will be on how these teams manage their schedules, especially with Bologna and Juventus set to clash in a match that could determine the fate of Champions League aspirations for both clubs. With 21 points still up for grabs over the final seven matchdays, every match will be critical.
In summary, the race for Champions League qualification in Serie A is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With several teams in close contention and a limited number of matches left, fans can expect thrilling encounters as the season draws to a close. The final matchday is scheduled for the weekend of May 25, 2025, and until then, every point will count.
