Catania’s first season under coach Vincenzo Montella can already be marked down as a success – having begun the season with the stated aim of Serie A survival, the Sicilians sit in eighth place in the table and are just three points short of their all-time record in the top flight with six games remaining. Catania president Antonio Pulvirenti displayed his satisfaction with Montella's work this week by confirming that the coach will remain in the hot seat next season.
Atalanta will also be satisfied with their achievements this season. The Bergamo side are in tenth place, three points behind Catania. Indeed, had they not started the season with a six-point deficit (punishment for involvement in match –fixing) they would be challenging for Europa League qualification. Coach Stefano Colantuono was rewarded with a new contact in February, which secures his position for the next two campaigns.
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The visitors ended a mediocre run of form last time out by winning away at Napoli, while Catania suffered a rare home defeat to Lecce – an extraordinary result considering the fact that they were winning 1-0 with just two minutes of normal time remaining. The Stadio Angelo Massimino is the proverbial fortress however, and Inter, Lazio and Napoli have all tasted defeat here this season (while Juventus and Milan both had to settle for a draw).
Catania goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carrizo is unavailable due to his sending-off against Lecce, while Atalanta's top scorer German Denis is also suspended. The Nerazzurri do possess enough quality in their ranks to cause problems for the Sicilian hosts, but considering their solid home record I think Catania are worth a small bet tomorrow.
Prediction – Catania to win – 3pts
Match odds: Catania 23/20
Draw 7/4
Atalanta 3/1
