Derby di Sicilia: Fan predictions
By Anthony Barbagallo
With Palermo dominating the Sicilian derby over the years, especially in recent times, this current Catania side will go into this weekend’s derby clash with more freedom than in the past. Because of the Rossazzurri’s current ownership uncertainties and the significant financial debt, the Etnei look destined for bankruptcy this season. But despite issues off the pitch, Catania is playing an entertaining style of attacking football under coach Francesco Baldini.
The Rossazzurri may have one of the worst defences in Serie C’s Group C this season, but they boast one of the league’s best attacks at the same time. With star striker Luca Moro bagging all the goals, Catania can be a menacing side when Moro, Simone Russini, Leon Sipos and Andrea Russotto have more freedom to roam in the final third. Without any objectives this season and more freedom in their play, Catania might be able to cause havoc for an organised Palermo side. And the Rossazzurri will also be playing in front of their home fans, something they didn’t have in last season’s 1-0 loss against their Sicilian rivals.
Palermo has come across this season as a more balanced and structured side - the team’s robust defence, organised midfield, and strong frontline is evidence of this assumption. Coach Giacomo Filippi has implemented a balanced playing style - building from the backs, utilising the wings and executing lethal counter-attacks.
The Rosanero are currently in second, five points behind Group C leaders Bari. So despite the bragging rights for the Derby di Sicilia being on the line, Palermo also has their hopes of direct Serie B promotion hanging in the balance. The five-time Serie B champions will need their defence and midfield firing on all cylinders when they face Catania, especially for the league’s top goalscorer Luca Moro.
Nevertheless, Sicilian Football interviewed some Palermo and Catania fans ahead of this weekend’s clash. Here are some of their predictions.
Predictions from Palermo fans
Interview with Davide Antongiovanni, Palermo fan based in Canada
1. What are your score predictions?
“I personally think it will be a 1-1 draw or a 2-1 Palermo win. There won't be a clean sheet either way.”
2. Does Catania’s Luca Moro make you nervous before the game?
“Luca Moro is an offensive threat and does pose some concerns but honestly I'm not that concerned as it takes a team to win. I also feel that Palermo has the better midfield right now led by De Rose, and Catania is struggling defensively and hasn't been playing good team defence. My worry with Moro is that Palermo at times become guilty of mental errors in judgment and he can pounce on any mistake.”
3. How important will the win mean for Palermo?
“Any derby win is always important and is a definite confidence booster. But even if Palermo doesn't win the target is promotion and how they bounce back next week against leaders Bari could ultimately determine their fate for direct promotion. A win against Catania would be good morale going into Bari.”
4. Which Palermo player do you think will be the star in the derby?
“Stars...have to say De Rose will have another strong game and the Brunori/Valente tandem could be key. Both are showing decent chemistry. Defence lead by Accardi needs to be swtiched on to nullify Moro. Who knows maybe Jacopo Dall'Oglio might have a hell of a game against his ex-teammates.”
Interview with Alessandro, founder of Palermo Football TV
1. What are your score predictions?
“Every Sicilian derby is a story in itself regardless of the position in the standings. I think this game can end either way.”
2. Does Catania’s Luca Moro make you nervous before the game?
“He is a player who has exceeded all expectations, he will certainly be the greatest danger for Palermo.”
3. How important will the win mean for Palermo?
“Without a doubt, a victory would be fundamental in view of the direct clash at home with Bari for the dream of direct promotion. But gaining bragging rights in Sicily will be just as important.”
4. Which Palermo player do you think will be the star in the derby?
“I think that every player who takes the field dreams of being the protagonist. Like Moro for Catania, I think that Brunori for Palermo is currently in tremendous form and has all the credentials to be the protagonist of a possible victory for the rosanero.”
Interview with Instagram page Catania46
1. What are your score predictions?
“I think Catania will win 2-1.”
2. Do you think Luca Moro will have a special derby?
“Given Moro’s exceptional goalscoring form, the stage looks set for him to have a monumental game.”
3. How important will the win mean for Catania?
“Winning the derby will be huge, giving us bragging rights for the meantime. It will also prove to be a massive confidence booster for the players.”
4. Which Palermo player do you think will pose a threat in the derby?
“Given Brunori’s impressive form in front of goal so far this season, he will be a disruption to our defence.”
Interview with Instagram page Vita Rossazzurra
1. What are your score predictions?
“I think Catania will win 2-1.”
2. Do you think Luca Moro will have a special derby?
“Moro is a player who only thinks about playing, staying focused throughout the game. He is technicality in front of goal makes it difficult for him to make a mistake. It would be nice if he produces the goods in an important derby like this one.”
3. How important will the win mean for Catania?
“It is important because it is the derby! It would be monumental if Catania were to win against a team that is second in the standings and above all that is called Palermo.”
4. Which Palermo player do you think will pose a threat in the derby?
“I think Brunori, who is very fit both physically and psychologically, and I also think Silipo or Valente can cause trouble. But I hope I'm wrong.”