Serie A Strike Could Continue, Watch Serie B Instead

Thanks to the failure of owners and players to reach agreement over the collective bargaining agreement, the opening week of Serie A has been delayed. The 2011-2012 season was meant to start today, with the Tuscan derby being played between Fiorentina and Siena. Now, it seems the strike could continue, as clubs have not agreed to an interim agreement to bridge the gap for a year. But rather than sulk over having to wait at least another week (I'm a bit upset myself, as there's no way my Napoli pedicure will last that long), fans of Italian football can console themselves with Serie B.

I'll be the first to admit, I don't know a lot about the Italian second division -- but without Serie A, what better time is there to learn? The Serie B season kicked off Thursday with a thrilling 2-2 draw between Sampdoria and Padova, reminding 'Doria they won't have the easiest time earning promotion back to the top flight. On Friday, Pescara beat Hellas Verona 2-1, which might put a wrench in the hopes many have of seeing Verona clinch two promotions in two years.

The rest of the Serie B fixtures are set for 19:00 CET, 1pm ET. Here's what you've got to choose from:

Ascoli - Torino

Bari - Varese

Brescia - Vicenza

Cittadella - Albinoleffe

Crotone - Livorno

Empoli - Juve Stabia

Grosseto - Gubbio

Reggina - Modena

Sassuolo - Nocerina

Brescia, Bari, and Sampdoria are the clubs relegated from Serie A last season. Gubbio, Juve Stabia, Nocerina and Verona were all promoted. But if you're just starting out with Serie B, isn't it best to go in with no preconceptions of the clubs? Go forth, find a stream, and enjoy some Italian football.