Football Bet of the Day: Juve to take first step on path to greatness

Juventus v Lazio 
Wednesday May 17, 20:00
Live on Sky Sports 1

Vikings are famed for going to other people's homes and causing trouble, but the ones from Stavanger got a taste of their own medicine last night, as they lost 2-1 at home to our boys Aalesund. We were right to lay the hosts at odds-on.

I'll treat you lot to a bit more glamour this evening, because we're off to the eternal city, Rome. Juventus and Lazio will do battle in the final of the Coppa Italia, and the showpiece event will be played at Lazio's very own Stadio Olimpico.

Lazio made the worst possible start to the campaign, as high-profile coach Marcelo Bielsa walked out just moments after he'd walked in. Lazio were in a hole, and former youth coach Simone Inzaghi was given the reins. He has relished the opportunity, blending together one of the most exciting teams in Italy.

Lazio have dumped Inter and Roma out of this season's competition, and now they face the biggest test of all against mighty Juventus. The Bianconeri are likely to wrap up a sixth consecutive Serie A title this weekend, despite dropping seven points in their last three games. Max Allegri's side have also reached theChampions League final, and the coach says the Coppa Italia final is the start of a vital 20-day mini-season for his players.

Juve are odds-against to win this in 90 minutes. They are on poor form in the league, they are facing a very good Lazio side in the capital, and there are big question marks over the participation of Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic.

However, I still really fancy Juve to take this. This is a rock-solid unit that generally performs on the big occasion. They still have Gonzalo Higuain, who has delivered time and time against this season in crucial games, and there is an extraordinary wealth of knowhow in the squad. Lazio have a mix of youth and experience, but will their young players cope with the magnitude of the occasion?

Juve have beaten Lazio twice in the league this season, and I think they will win again.

Recommended Bet
Back Juventus to win at 2.12