Parma face play-off problem

By Paolo Menicucci

Parma FC host Bologna FC in the first leg of the 'spareggio' to avoid relegation from Serie A. The two teams from Emilia finished level on 42 points, and the losers of the tie will join Atalanta BC and Brescia Calcio in Serie B next season.

Personnel crisis
Parma coach Pietro Carmignani faces a player shortage ahead of tonight's game at the Stadio Ennio Tardini with leading scorer Alberto Gilardino suspended along with Daniele Bonera, Jorge Bolano, Domenico Morfeo, Matteo Contini and Fabio Vignaroli, while Marco Marchionni and Damiano Ferronetti are injured.

Pressure building
"Despite missing so many players it would be suicide to defend and hope to win the return," Carmignani said. "If you play for a 0-0 you will lose. The mental approach is key. There is a lot of pressure and we know anything can happen." It has been a disappointing season for Parma, as they failed to qualify for European competition for the first time since their promotion in 1990/91.

Media blackout
Meanwhile, Bologna have refused to talk to the press until the play-off's conclusion. The Rossoblù were seventh in February, but won only one of their last 16 matches. However, they have a good record against Parma - winning 2-1 away and 3-1 at home this term.

Juarez absent
Bologna coach Carlo Mazzone has experienced 'spareggio' heartache once previously, as coach of Cagliari Calcio when they lost to Piacenza FC in 1996/97. Mazzone is without Brazilian defender Juarez through suspension. The return leg will be played on 18 June at the Renato Dall'Ara.