Udinese vs Genoa preview - Handanovic eyes third place



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Posted Sunday, May 06, 2012 by PA

Udinese goalkeeper Samir Handanovic believes the battle to finish third in Serie A is still wide open.

The Friuli outfit host relegation-threatened Genoa on Sunday in fourth place, level on 58 points with Napoli, who hold the final Champions League qualifying berth.

With two games to go, Handanovic, whose side beat Cesena 1-0 last time out, believes anything is possible.

"We have to win against Genoa because we have the possibility to finish in the top three," he said to www.udinese.it.

"We are there alongside Napoli and it's going to be a battle until the end.

"We know we have to give our best in our next two games in order not to have any regrets.

"Provided we play like Udinese, then we can do well."

While Napoli visit Bologna this weekend and conclude their season against Siena on May 13, Udinese end the campaign at Catania.

Udinese, coached by Francesco Guidolin, will be at full strength with defender Mehdi Benatia returning from suspension.

However, Genoa have warned Udinese to expect a battle on Sunday afternoon.

The Grifoni won 2-1 over Cagliari last time out to halt a run of 14 games without a win and ease their relegation fears.

The victory was Luigi De Canio's first since replacing sacked Alberto Malesani last month.

Genoa still have some work to do before they can celebrate as they lie one place and three points clear of Lecce, who are 18th.

"It's going to be a combative game," Genoa midfielder Bosko Jankovic said. "Udinese need points for Champions League qualifying while we also need a win to avoid the drop.

"We believe it is possible to defend our Serie A status and we are mentally ready for our last two games.

"The victory against Cagliari has given us a big boost in confidence."

Udinese will fancy their chances for they have lost just twice at home this season while Genoa are winless on the road since December 10.

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