Genoa, this season’s Serie A surprise, can all but end the Italian title race if they beat Juventus at home on Saturday.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side only arrived back in the top flight last term but shrewd signings such as striker Diego Milito and Brazilian Thiago Motta have propelled them to the fourth Champions League qualifying spot with eight games left.
Second-placed Juve were held 3-3 at home by a resurgent Chievo last weekend, dropping them nine points behind leaders Internazionale, and need a win to keep their slim hopes alive.
“It’s a fundamental game for us,” said Gasperini. “If we manage to do well against (Juve) it would be like passing the ultimate test. If it’s our day, on our home turf we can manage the right result.”
Genoa have lost just once at home this season but Argentine Milito, the team’s top scorer with 16 league goals, looks likely to miss out with a leg injury.
Juve will be without winger Hasan Salihamidzic after he suffered a knee problem which is threatening to end his season.