Football: Serie A news and match preview ahead of Matchday 8

Serie A returns this weekend for Matchday 8 after an international break that saw Italy qualify for the Euro 2020. Juventus, who moved to the top of the league when they beat Inter Milan a fortnight ago, would be looking to stay there for the rest of the campaign. Nahitan Nandez, ever-present in the Cagliari midfield, will aim to continue with his consistent form. We look at the things you can expect from the upcoming set of fixtures this weekend from the Italian league.

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Lazio vs Atalanta: October 19, 6.30 PM IST

The weekend will begin with an exciting clash when high flying Atalanta visit Rome on Saturday, October 19. After succumbing to a defeat early in the season in the hands of Torino, Atalanta are unbeaten in their last five league games. Gian Piero Gasperini's men would be hoping to continue their attacking brand of football against Lazio, whom they beat twice last season. Atalanta forward Duvan Zapata, who is in a battle with Ciro Immobile to be the highest goalscorer, is expected to miss the game.

Napoli vs Hellas Verona: October 19, 9.30 PM IST

On the same day, Napoli host Hellas Verona in a tie which is expected to be a routine victory for the Partenopei.They would desperately be wanting to change their fortunes in the tournament as they are ranked fourth, three points behind Atalanta.

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Juventus vs Bologna: October 20, 12.15 AM IST

There's an early kickoff for Maurizio Sarri's men on Sunday, October 20, when they host Bologna in what should again be a routine victory for the league leaders. Juventus will look to avoid an upset, to stay ahead of an in-form Inter Milan. The side doesn't have any new injury problems, having lost a host of players to injuries already.

Sassuolo vs Inter Milan: October 20, 4.00 PM IST

Having suffered their first defeat of the season, Antonio Conte's men visit a struggling Sassuolo. Sassuolo, who haven't lost to Inter in their last five meetings, are looking at a stern test at home to a rejuvenated Inter. Inter would be looking to move past their defat to Juventus and score another victory to keep the pressure on Juventus at the helm.

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AC Milan vs Lecce: October 21, 12.15 AM IST

Newly-appointed manager Stefano Pioli couldn't have asked for an easier game for his first competitive fixture with AC Milan. They host a struggling Lecce, who has lost thrice in their last five league games and lie 18th on the points table with just 6 points on the board. Milan, who have reportedly suffered a loss of 146 million euros last season, would be hoping for a positive start under the former Inter manager.

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