In what has been a season of inconsistency, negativity and unwanted speculation putting coach Gigi Del Neri under constant pressure, the Bianconeri are now just four points adrift of a place in next season’s Champions League. With the fixture list destined to provide dramatic scenes across the peninsula, can Juve achieve what was once viewed as impossible?

The win against Lazio on Monday night has brought a reinvigorated Juve very much back into the race for a place in Europe’s premier competition next season as no less than four teams slug it out for that coveted fourth place. Four points separate them from the Biancocelesti, and the fixture list next weekend will have many in Turin rubbing their hands together in excitement. Roma welcome soon-to-be Scudetto winners Milan to the Stadio Olimpico, while Lazio travel to Udinese in a straight blow-for-blow Champions League knock-out match.

Remaining fixtures:

Lazio
Udinese (a)
Genoa (h)
Lecce (a)

Udinese
Lazio (h)
Chievo (a)
Milan (h)

Roma
Milan (h)
Catania (a)
Sampdoria (h)

Juventus
Chievo (h)
Parma (a)
Napoli (h)

The pessimist in me believes that the Giallorossi are favourites to land the last berth for qualification. Aided by the goals of talismanic captain Francesco Totti, their recent form and battling performances suggest that they are primed for a strong finish despite the Rossoneri’s forthcoming visit. However, should they lose, and Lazio-Udinese play out a draw at the Friuli, things will become very interesting going into the final two games of the season. Reminiscent of the final day drama of last season, it is certain that this will go down to the wire, and further it will provide captivating viewing for football fans across the world.

Milan 77
Inter 69
Napoli 68
Lazio 60
Udinese 59
Roma 59
Juventus 56

Despite all their problems and dramas this campaign, it would be a true testament to Del Neri himself and the players should they battle back to achieve the unachievable and bring European nights to the new stadium next season. However, should they fail then it will not be an entire failure. The arrival of the likes of Alberto Aquliani, Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella, albeit on loan deals, suggest that the club has a bright future ahead provided they make their deals permanent. As for my prediction, it is far too close to call. What I will predict however, is that we have the makings of a fascinating final few weeks of the season. Forza Juve!

You can follow me on Twitter for more Juve and Serie A reaction @italiafooty.

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