Juventus Season 2011-2012

Socrates · November 7, 2011

Serie A Week 11 - 6-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

San Paolo Stadium - Naples

Referee: P. Tagliavento‎

Mazzarri 'surprised' game was cancelled

Nov 6, 2011

Walter Mazzarri admits it was

Socrates · November 7, 2011

Serie A Week 11 - 6-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

San Paolo Stadium - Naples

Referee: P. Tagliavento‎

November 29 for Napoli-Juve?

Nov 7, 2011

It

Socrates · November 7, 2011

Juventus among the best in class, AC Milan improving after slow start,

Inter must do better - Serie A report card after a quarter of the season

With 10 rounds having been negotiated and the latest international break upon us,

we take a look at all 20 top-flight clubs in Italy and grade them on their form in 2011-12.

Nov 7, 2011

With a two-week break ahead for Serie A's clubs, the peninsula's 20 coaches will be analysing their sides' achievements so far in the 2011-12 campaign and where they are in relation to pre-season targets.

For the likes of Juventus, Udinese and Lazio, the new term has been a huge success, with only the odd disappointment coming out of their opening clutch of games, while Inter lead the list of teams who will consider the first two months of the season to have been a huge disappointment.

But with every letdown there has been a success story, and with a quarter of the season having now been completed, we take a look back at the first 10 rounds of action and grade each Serie A club on their performances so far whilst taking into account pre-season expectations.

ATALANTA

Having been hit by a six-point penalty in the summer, the Orobici have been almost flawless on the field, with form that would have seen them in the top five after 10 rounds were it not for their betting misdemeanours of last term.

German Denis has taken most of the headlines with seven goals so far, though his missed penalty in the dying moments against Inter stopped them taking their biggest scalp of the campaign. Argentine Maxi Moralez has added two braces alongside the former Udinese man as Stefano Colantuono's side have hit the ground running.

Their one setback came last week in a surprise defeat at Bologna, but they bounced back well to beat Cagliari on Sunday.

BOLOGNA

An abysmal start to the season was enough to see Pierpaolo Bisoli lose his post as coach, and replacement Stefano Pioli immediately brought about an upturn in fortunes.

Taking over a side that collected only one point in five games - albeit a gutsy draw away to 10-man Juventus - the man fired by Palermo before the season had even begun presided over three wins in his first four fixtures in charge before suffering defeat on his return to Sicily at the weekend.

One of the better pieces of news in recent weeks has come from the renewal of Gaston Ramirez's contract, though the Uruguayan's recent return to form could still see him leave before long.

CAGLIARI

Surprisingly, it is not their usually impressive home record which has been the basis of Cagliari's form so far this term, with only one win at the Sant'Elia to their credit - and that against Serie A new-boys Novara.

With Massimo Ficcadenti having only taken the reins from Roberto Donadoni in mid-August, they shocked many by toppling Roma in the capital on opening day, but they have only one win to their name in the last eight games after going down to Atalanta at the weekend.

The 3-0 home loss to Lazio in Round 10 will have been particularly difficult for notorious president Massimo Cellino to swallow.

CATANIA

The jury was out on Vincenzo Montella after his mixed spell with Roma last term, but the new season has been largely positive for 'L'Aeroplanino' since he was handed the coaching role at the Massimino.

Home victories over Inter and Napoli have provided the stand-out results so far, along with a draw against Juventus, but heavy defeats on the road at Genoa in Round 4 and Milan on Sunday have undone some of the good work.

Still, no longer are they reliant on the goals of Maxi Lopez, and their battling spirit has seen them earn creditable away points against Fiorentina and Lazio, and they also battled to secure a late draw in a thriller at Novara.

CESENA

The 2011-12 season has been a veritable disaster for the Seahorses so far, resulting in the dismissal last week of Marco Giampaolo.

Three draws and six defeats in nine games unsurprisingly brought about a change in coach, but Daniele Arrigoni has a big job on to turn around the fortunes of a side in freefall.

The addition of Adrian Mutu has simply not worked, and the north-east side have only three goals to their name, including just one in the last seven fixtures.

While they showed a battling quality from day one last term, the new toothless outlook does not make for good viewing, and the safety mark is still 37 points away.

CHIEVO

The Flying Donkeys continue to demonstrate their innate ability to silence the doubters just when they seem to be struggling.

Early victories over Napoli and Genoa were mixed in amongst an indifferent streak. Defeats against Parma and Bologna, and dropped points against Novara and Cesena, were added to creditable performances against Juventus and Inter.

But their response to a hugely disappointing 4-1 thumping at Siena in Round 10 was swift, with Luca Rigoni's goal seeing off Fiorentina at the weekend.

There is room for improvement in Verona, but few would dare back them to go down, especially with warhorses like Sergio Pellissier and Davide Moscardelli still around.

FIORENTINA

The Viola's season simply hasn't been good enough for a club who have come to expect more in recent times.

After an encouraging second half of 2010-11, many in Tuscany would have wanted to see Sinisa Mihajlovic's men hit the ground running. Instead they have seen their captain Riccardo Montolivo flirting with other clubs to such an extent that he lost the armband, and their coach has shown an inability to get the best out of the players at his disposal.

Alessio Cerci has blown hot and cold, Stevan Jovetic is still searching for full fitness, while Alberto Gilardino has missed much of the early stages. But behind them is a very suspect midfield, and failures against Cesena, Catania and Chievo in recent weeks make the next four clashes with Milan, Palermo, Roma and Inter crucial for Mihajlovic's future.

GENOA

It has been a typically mixed beginning to 2011-12 for Il Grifone, with victories over Lazio, Roma and Catania being offset by losses to Chievo, Parma and Fiorentina.

If they are to break free from mid-table, they will need to garner consistency from the likes of Kevin Constant, Andrea Caracciolo and Bosko Jankovic, who have all performed in fits and starts so far.

Rodrigo Palacio's five goals have been one of the bright points, while Alexander Merkel's recent return from injury has also boosted Alberto Malesani's side. One downside is the likely loss of Juraj Kucka to Inter in the January transfer window.

INTER

The Nerazzurri's 2011-12 season cannot end quick enough, even now. Currently 12 points off the Champions League pace, there will need to be a huge turnaround in fortunes for them to be in the top three come May.

Gian Piero Gasperini's calamitous campaign came to a very swift end, but the issues running through the club have largely remained, even if Claudio Ranieri has managed to steady the ship somewhat in Europe.

Defeats at Palermo, Novara and Catania were all embarrassing to various degrees, while they've also suffered two losses at home after a run of one home reverse in 42 months.

With ageing midfielders, misfiring forwards and doddering defenders, it has not been the start many Inter fans envisaged two months ago.

JUVENTUS

Antonio Conte's impact has made the Bianconeri one of the favourites for the Scudetto, and they remain the side to have dropped the fewest points going into the hiatus.

Andrea Pirlo's addition in midfield has been pinpointed as the main reason for the club's upturn after consecutive seventh-placed finishes, but there has also been a more dynamic approach about their play.

Their new pressing nature has been behind many of their early wins, but the inability to convert the multitude of chances they have created so far has seen a lot of unnecessary points dropped despite their unbeaten record.

Free of injuries to key players so far, they have had luck on their side, though Conte's insistence that his men be more adaptable from game to game has deserved some fortune.

LAZIO

After dropping an early two-goal lead on opening night at Milan and then seeing Genoa take three points from the Olimpico, Lazio were under significant pressure just two games in, with Edy Reja being petitioned to leave his job by many fans.

However, the Biancocelesti's response has been magnificent, and they sit in second at the quarter mark following eight games without a loss, with six goals for summer signing Miroslav Klose at the heart of their upturn in fortunes.

They have come from behind to win three times so far, including in the Rome derby, and on all three occasions it is the German hitman who has snatched the winner.

LECCE

Eusebio Di Francesco has been clutching on for dear life in recent weeks as a result of his side's dreadful home form which has seen them collect only one point from five games.

Their fortunes at the Via del Mare were never better summed up than in their hosting of Milan, as they led 3-0 at half-time only to throw away all three points.

However, a Round 3 win at Bologna and this weekend's priceless victory at bottom club Cesena mean they are still in with a fighting chance for now, though they will need consistent performances from the likes of Juan Cuadrado and skipper Guillermo Giacomazzi if they are to breathe more easily as the season progresses.

MILAN

Lacking mobility, creativity and vibrancy, the champions started the season in very sluggish fashion, collecting only five points from their opening five games.

But since their late, late defeat at Juventus Stadium, they have responded with five straight wins and now sit just a point off the top.

Alberto Aquilani has proven an excellent addition as time has progressed, while hat-tricks for Antonio Nocerino and - most memorably - Kevin-Prince Boateng have had a hand in their renaissance.

Antonio Cassano's health shock will no doubt deal them a blow, but having scored 18 goals in five games, they have already proven to have the firepower to overcome his loss, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic crucial as ever.

NAPOLI

After an explosive start which brought back memories of great nights at the San Paolo in the late 80s, the Vesuviani have hit a significant dip in form which has seen them fall well adrift of the top of the table.

Edinson Cavani's hat-trick against Milan looked set to be a catalyst for something big, but the Uruguayan took until Round 10 to score again, while victories over 10-man Inter and weakened leaders Udinese have been interspersed with some real letdowns.

Losses to Chievo, Parma and Catania have dealt a real blow to hopes of them taking the extra step up from last year's third-placed finish, with Ezequiel Lavezzi, Marek Hamsik et al so far showing an inability to double up at home and in the Champions League.

NOVARA

Their magnificent victory over Inter at the Silvio Piola was memorable not only because they had beaten the reigning world champions, but also because it remains their only Serie A win since 1956.

The double step up from the Lega Pro to the top flight in two seasons has proven difficult for Attilio Tesser's side, though they have made teams work hard for points on their synthetic home surface.

Marco Rigoni's form in midfield and Riccardo Meggiorini's work-rate up front have deserved better results so far, but the Azzurri are going to have to become a tougher proposition away from home if they are to have any chance of staying up come May.

PALERMO

Another season, same old Palermo. After president Maurizio Zamparini lived up to his billing by sacking Stefano Pioli before the season had even begun, the Rosanero have gone about their normal business of being near-unbeatable at home but the exact opposite on their travels.

A full 15 points have been earned at La Favorita, but just one away from Sicily as young coach Devis Mangia has failed to buck the trend of the Rosanero struggling on their travels. If they're an A+ at home, they're F- away.

While they have not had one single outstanding player so far, the contributions of Federico Balzaretti, Giulio Migliaccio and Abel Hernandez have been too much for visitors to the Barbera.

PARMA

Sebastian Giovinco continues to revel in the responsibility placed upon his shoulders by the Ducali, and their four victories so far have been due in no small part to the contribution of the Italy forward.

Braces in home wins against Chievo and Genoa were impressive enough, but he and Sergio Floccari played key roles as the Emilia-Romagna side took three points from their trip to Napoli.

Many of their defeats have come against decent calibre opposition, with only a reverse at home to Atalanta being of significant distress, though the three-goal margins of their losses at Juventus, Fiorentina and Milan will have come as a disappointment.

ROMA

Clubs should never expect an immediate return on big investment, but the Giallorossi have undoubtedly left many underwhelmed in terms of their results so far.

While they have been able to pass many teams out of the game, they have too often let opponents off the hook with the inability to provide a killer edge around the penalty area.

That said, Pablo Osvaldo's five goals have shown they do have some weaponry to make more of, while Bojan Krkic has recently begun to find the net after a difficult start.

Luis Enrique will need to continue his delicate tweaking of his side if they are to regain the ground they have lost on the leading pack in the opening 10 rounds.

SIENA

Three straight home wins - each in convincing fashion - have been the feature of Siena's season thus far as Giuseppe Sannino has continued the good work of Antonio Conte during their promotion campaign in 2010-11.

The Robur remain a durable outfit with an emphasis on flair when they attack, and with Emanuele Calaio, Mattia Destro and Pablo Andres Gonzalez among their forward options, they hold a threat which has stung many a side so far.

In picking up four away draws in six games they have proven they have the hard edge that other sides tipped for a relegation fight have failed to demonstrate in the opening rounds, and their return of 13 points from 10 games is a healthy first step to avoiding the drop.

UDINESE

Shorn of Alexis Sanchez, Gokhan Inler and Cristian Zapata, the Zebrette were tipped by many to plummet without a trace in 2011-12, but Francesco Guidolin continues to work wonders at the Stadio Friuli.

Armed with one of the best scouting systems in the world, the wily coach has injected just the right replacements for his departed stars and has reaped the benefits. And they have played with flair still too, not least thanks to the energy of the likes of Mauricio Isla, Pablo Armero, Kwadwo Asamoah and Emmanuel Badu.

Striker Antonio Di Natale continues to score goals too, and his eight goals so far have him well on course to finish as the capocannoniere of Serie A for the third season running, a feat last recorded by Juventus' Michel Platini between 1982 and 1985.

Socrates · November 8, 2011

Lega Serie A confirm new dates for Genoa v Inter

& Napoli v Juventus matches

Severe weather saw the two high-profile Italian games cancelled at the weekend,

but they have been rearranged following a decision from the authorities.

Nov 7, 2011

The Lega Serie A (Italian Football League) has confirmed new dates for the weekend's postponed games between Genoa and Inter, and Napoli against Juventus.

Both matches were cancelled following flash floods around the cities of Genoa and Naples because of severe weather.

The devastation led to six people being killed and the matches were called-off due to safety concerns.

However, the Lega has now announced the new fixtures after a consultation with the clubs.

Napoli against Juventus now takes place on November 29 at 20.45CET.

Genoa against Inter is on December 13 with the kick-off taking place at 20.45CET.

Socrates · November 8, 2011

New dates set for postponed ties

Nov 7, 2011

The Lega Serie A have confirmed the new dates and kick-off times for the Week 11 Napoli-Juventus and Genoa-Inter ties.

The two games were postponed over the weekend after heavy rain in Genoa and Naples forced the encounters to be cancelled.

Napoli-Juventus will now take place on Tuesday 29 November at 20.45 local time. Genoa-Inter has been moved to Tuesday 13 December at 20.45.

Napoli

Socrates · November 10, 2011

Massimo Ambrosini sees Juventus as title rivals

AC Milan's captain believes the Bianconeri have it easier compared

to the rest because they are not spending vital energy on European competitions.

Nov 10, 2011

AC Milan captain Massimo Ambrosini believes Juventus will be their main rivals for the Scudetto crown this season.

Antonio Conte's men have been the early pace setters in Serie A and are currently fourth in the standings, but have a game in hand after last week's game against Napoli was postponed.

Napoli have also been tipped as title candidates, but Ambrosini feels their Champions League run could hurt them domestically.

"I think Juventus are impressive and they can be a rival for the Scudetto," Ambrosini told Sky Sport Italia.

"They have a precise mentality. They are not involved in Europe and so they can be fastidious for the rest.

"Napoli? Playing in the Champions League takes up lots of energy and this could hurt Napoli as they are not used to this."

Milan are third in the league on 20 points, one more than Juventus.

Socrates · November 17, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Giorgio Chiellini: Palermo could cause us problems

The towering Italian defender has warned that the Sicilian outfit won't be pushovers

in this weekend's Serie A fixture and has urged his team-mates to stay focused.

Nov 17, 2011

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini is eagerly anticipating this weekend's Serie A match at home to Palermo, and has made it clear that the Turin side will have to be at their very best in order to shake off the Rosaneri.

The Old Lady resume match action on Sunday after the international break and Chiellini feels that they could encounter problems against the Sicilians if they don't show their best form.

"In recent years, Palermo always gave their all in Turin, and they'll want to continue that at the weekend," Chiellini said to Sky Sport Italia.

"We have to approach the game with the same determination shown in the last clashes in order to avoid difficulties. However, we're likely to suffer if we're not at our very best."

Juventus currently sit fourth in the Serie A table with 19 points from nine games, while Palermo have collected 16 points from one match more.

The match at the Juventus Stadium kicks off at 15.00CET.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 17, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus past overshadows bright present

Nov 17, 2011

Juventus have made their brightest start to a top-flight season since their return to Serie A in 2007, yet still seem to be focused on the past rather than the future.

Juve, who host Palermo on Sunday, are the only unbeaten team in Serie A after nine games and lie two points behind leading pair Udinese and Lazio with a game in hand over both.

Their impressive new stadium, with the crowd metres from the pitch, is a vast improvement on the soulless Stadio delle Alpi and is already sold out for Sunday - a rarity in a country where empty stands blight many domestic matches.

Yet it has been far from plain sailing.

The club's announcement that talismanic forward Alessandro Del Piero, relegated to the substitutes bench recently, will not be offered a contract at the end of the season and coach Antonio Conte's decision to sideline fans' favourite Milos Krasic have both aroused controversy.

In the last week, more attention has been paid to Juve's past than their present.

On Tuesday, the club lost another attempt to have Inter Milan's 2006 title revoked when Italy's sports arbitration court ruled it was not competent to rule on the issue.

Juve were stripped of the 2005 and 2006 titles for their involvement in the Calciopoli match-fixing scandal with the latter re-awarded to Inter.

Juve, who said Inter had also been involved in the scandal, also announced they would be seeking damages from the Italian federation. Inter deny wrongdoing.

On Wednesday, Italian Olympic Committee President Gianni Petrucci, apparently referring to the Turin club, made a hard-hitting speech in which he complained of "too many lawyers."

BALLARDINI BOW

"What is happening at the top level of football is unacceptable - it's hooked on legal doping," he said.

"If we carry on like this, top-level football will become an extension of public opinion. I'm talking about a part of top-level football, those who think they are clever."

He added: "What sense is there in Juventus going on?"

In reply, Juventus President Andrea Agnelli said he was prepared to take part in a "political round table" to discuss everything which had happened since 2006, a move welcomed by the Italian FA (FIGC).

"Sport on the pitch must outweigh sport in the court rooms," said FIGC President Giancarlo Abete.

Juve will finally try to let their football do the talking against the Sicilians.

In other matches, Fiorentina's new coach Delio Rossi will be thrown in at the deep end when his side host a rampant championsAC Milan, who have won five matches in a row.

Lazio visit erratic Napoli, who are likely to have more than half an eye on Tuesday's potentially decisive Champions League match against Manchester City. Udinese are at Parma.

Struggling Inter, a dismal 17th with eight points and their 2010 treble now just a distant memory, are at home to Cagliari where Davide Ballardini will make his debut as the visitors' third coach of the season.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Antonio Conte: Palermo match is like a final

The Turin club are still unbeaten but have lost their spot on top of Serie A, and will look

for three points against the Sicilians, who are a place behind them in the table.

Nov 19, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has underlined the importance of his team's Serie A clash with Palermo on Sunday, likening the game to a final.

The Turin club started this campaign well and are still unbeaten, but have lost their place at the top of the table in the last fortnight.

With the Sicilian outfit also in good form, the Lecce-born trainer has stressed that three points are necessary.

"The match against Palermo is like a final," Conte told Corriere dello Sport.

"Tomorrow we will return to camp after 22 days, it is inevitable that we will have some concerns. We went back to work trying to re-tune on the same wavelength."

Juventus are three points ahead of Palermo going into the game, and two behind current league leaders Udinese.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Mangia: 'Palermo will attack Juve'

Nov 19, 2011

Devis Mangia has no fear when taking on Juventus in Turin. “We certainly won’t sit back and watch.”

The Sicilians have won their last three consecutive trips to Piedmont and hope to end their dismal away form this season.

“Juve are a great squad with champions in every area, but we are going to Turin to play our game, without fear,” said the Coach.

“We certainly won’t sit back and watch. I have faith in my lads. They are strong, but so are Palermo.”

Both Abel Hernandez and Mauricio Pinilla are out of action, so ex-Juve man Fabrizio Miccoli is the only available striker.

When facing the Bianconeri, some opponents tend to adjust their system to provide man-marking for Andrea Pirlo.

“We have some tactical certainties and I have absolutely no intention of transforming the way we play for this match. Pirlo is a great player, but there’ll be no sentinel for him. Someone will be in his zone and take care of him, as always.”

Mangia is not frightened by notoriously fiery President Maurizio Zamparini saying he can be Palermo’s Arsene Wenger.

“I have an excellent and constructive rapport with him. He gave me my chance in Serie A and I will always thank him for that. I feel everyone’s support here and we are like a big family.”

Palermo squad: Benussi, Brichetto, Tzorvas; Aguirregaray, Balzaretti, Cetto, Mantovani, Munoz, Pisano, Silvestre; Acquah, Bacinovic, Barreto, Bertolo, Della Rocca, Di Matteo, Ilicic, Lores, Migliaccio, Zahavi; Miccoli

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Conte: 'Palermo a World Cup Final'

Nov 19, 2011

Antonio Conte insists Sunday’s encounter between Juventus and Palermo is “like a World Cup Final.”

The Bianconeri lost the Serie A top spot when their game with Napoli was postponed due to flooding, which also means they have not played for three weeks.

“Tomorrow it’ll be 22 days since the last time we stepped on to the pitch,” noted the Coach in his Press conference.

“It is inevitable there will be some question marks over how we’ll perform. We started working together again on Thursday and tried to throw the internationals back into the Serie A atmosphere, because after 10-12 days away it’s easy to pick up a different rhythm.”

Arturo Vidal returned early from international duty with Chile, as he was sent home for missing the curfew while out drinking with some of his teammates.

“It was a mistake to turn up late, but I have to say it surprised me, because Arturo has always behaved in a very professional manner here. He showed maturity in apologising. He is young and must use this negative experience.”

Conte certainly cannot be accused of taking Sunday’s clash with Palermo lightly, especially as it begins a run of games against Lazio and Napoli.

“We have to take it one match at a time, trying to get as many points as possible. Right now there is the challenge with Palermo and for us it has to be worth as much as a World Cup Final.

“There are three very important points at stake and let’s not forget Palermo have conquered Turin for three years running. We must prove things have changed.

“All the players have now recovered from injury, so all my decisions will be exclusively technical and tactical.”

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Serie A Preview

Nov 19, 2011

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini admits last season's Serie A defeats against Palermo still weigh on his mind and wants to avenge those results when the two sides meet tomorrow in Turin.

The Bianconeri lost 3-1 at home before falling 2-1 at Palermo last year, and Chiellini remembers both reverses well.

"Palermo always play well against us,'' Chiellini said.

"They are a team that can make life difficult for us.

"In recent years they have had the upper hand and I haven't forgotten our two defeats against them last season.

"I'm sure they will want to replicate those results and we will have to be as focused as ever.''

Juventus go into the encounter as the only unbeaten team in Serie A.

They have won five of their nine games and are fourth in the standings, just two points behind league leaders Udinese.

However, Juventus have a game in hand with their game at Napoli on November 6 called off due to adverse weather conditions in Naples.

Rivals Palermo will be hoping the absence of striker Abel Hernandez will not hinder them as they seek their first triumph on the road this weekend.

The Uruguay international suffered a thigh injury in his team's 3-1 triumph over Bologna last time out and will be sidelined for a month.

Hernandez's injury is a setback for Palermo coach Devis Mangia, with the South American having scored three goals in nine Serie A appearances.

Palermo, who are fifth in the standings, have taken just one point from their five games away from Sicily and Mangia expects a tough afternoon in Turin.

"Juve have a great team with so many important players,'' he said.

"We will have to play as a team and run more than Juventus.

"We need to show more aggressiveness when playing away from home and hopefully, my players will show that on Sunday.''

Juventus coach Antonio Conte will have all of his players available for selection, with the exception of injured goalkeeper Alex Manninger.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Antonio Conte worried by long break

Nov 19, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte is worried that his team's long break since their last match will have affected their fluidity when they entertain Palermo on Sunday.

Juve's last league match against Napoli was postponed due to flooding and with the international break it means they have not played for three weeks.

So Conte is resorting to drastic concepts to fire up his team.

"For us the clash with Palermo has to be a World Cup final, we're thinking only of that without making calculations or resting players," said Conte.

"From Monday we'll start thinking about Lazio and then Napoli.

"Three weeks without playing is a lot and I see some perplexity surrounding us and how we'll represent ourselves on the field but that's inevitable.

"We don't have any excuses, after the international matches from Thursday we retuned ourselves to the league.

"We were ready before the international break and we will be (on Sunday)."

Conte believes his side, the only one to remain unbeaten in the league, can handle any situation they come across.

"I have a group of lads who've shown me a lot of availability, there's great desire to do something important," he said.

"They're all ready so the decisions I make will be technical ones and not based on (physical) conditions.

"Right now the standings don't matter, what counts is working hard and giving everything."

While Juve may be amongst the front runners in the league, things off the pitch have not been so smooth for the Old Lady of Turin.

In midweek Juve came under fire from Italian Olympic Committee president Gianni Petrucci for trying to exploit legal loopholes to have their 2005 and 2006 titles, of which they were stripped for match-fixing, restored.

Juve have made a number of appeals to different bodies, both sporting and civil, but have so far always been rejected.

But Conte doesn't think such issues will affect his players.

"I have always liked looking at the verdict the pitch gives, that's the true one," said Conte.

"We have to keep grouping our strength on the pitch to continue doing what we're doing to build something strong which will last into the future."

Turning back to his players, Conte sprung to the defence of Chile midfielder Arturo Vidal who came under fire in his homeland for turning up late for international duty.

"I've spoken with Vidal, I was surprised about what happened. Here in Turin his behaviour has always been exemplary.

"I've never had anything to say about his conduct. For me he's a great lad but he was wrong to turn up late for the get-together in Chile.

"The rules have to be respected in Chile as they are here. He showed maturity in apologising and maybe in the future he'll turn up early, he needs to learn from his mistakes."

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus vs. Palermo – One of ‘Those’ Games

Nov 19, 2011

Finally! After three weeks of Bianconero abstinence, it’s time to see some real action again as Juventus host Palermo on Sunday. And one can only hope that Conte’s men will be as fired up as us calcio-starved fans, since what awaits is a very stern test for the unbeaten hosts.

For while it’s true the Rosanero haven’t won on the road this season (actually, they have lost four of five away games, earning only a single point against Lazio back in September), that poor run of form fades in the face of their recent record when playing Juve: Palermo have won five of the last six encounters between the two, including the last four matches in a row!

In fact, we haven’t beaten the Rosanero in Turin since that 5-0 game back in November 2007…

Like Napoli, whom Juventus would have faced before the international break, had the game not been postponed due to flooding (and the poor form of the hosts, if conspiracy rumours are to be believed – they are not, by the way), Palermo is one of those teams that Juventus have struggled massively against in recent times.

Ever since their 2007 return to Serie A, what Juve have experienced the most serious difficulties in are exactly “these types” of games, neither a ‘Big Match’ nor a brush-aside fixture to be easily won 3-0 (though, admittedly, those have been few and far between in recent years too). It may be down to chance, mentality, or even good old fashioned off-days, but in the Old Lady’s track record against well-drilled sub-top teams there seems to be a pattern of bad results which needs to be dealt with.

Gloomy as the head-to-head stats may sound though, this is one of those games that this season is all about: a chance for a cathartic win to wipe out past negligence and restore some much needed confidence among Bianconeri ranks.

Juventus

The momentum gained after beating Fiorentina and Inter in quick succession must have been somewhat slowed after three weeks off. Firstly, there was the futile preparation for the Napoli game. Then, an inconsequential International Break. Luckily, no Juve players were hurt in the process, so Antonio Conte can count on a full squad for this crucial match.

It’s safe to say that Il Mister’s mind is probably at the brink of bursting from analyzing the possible dynamics of this game for a fortnight, but one thing he must have shouted at the lads over and over again is: ‘avoid free-kicks around the penalty area, guys!!’. Along with the fearsome counters and the well-known raids of Balzaretti, set pieces in general – and those of Miccoli from close range specifically – are key points that will have been addressed.

That being said, expect to see nothing less a hungry Juventus team showing up, like the one that dominated Fiorentina for the first half – and hopefully one able to take its chances as well as in Milano against Inter.

As for the Juventus starting XI, it is fairly safe to say that Conte will go for the same players that came through for him in previous games, particularly in the 4-2-3-1 / 4-3-3-ish formation. This means the use of a Andrea Pirlo-Claudio Marchisio-Arturo Vidal core in central midfield, assisted by Mirko Vucinic/Simone Pepe on the wings and Alessandro Matri all alone up front (or as Adam likes to call it, ‘the double MVP’).

The left-back position (and consequentially, the CB) is still a bit up in the air, but it is likely to be covered by Giorgio Chiellini like in recent games. I have yet to see Conte change a winning team, so the coach’s tested and true formation should allow for plenty of possession as well as solidity in defense, coping with the very fast and fluid counters of Palermo.

JUVENTUS (4-2-3-1)

Buffon

Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini

Marchisio, Pirlo

Pepe, Vidal, Vucinic

Matri

Palermo

Palermo have made a lot of changes this Summer. As is the twisted way of club owner Maurizio Zamparini, the club sold prize asset Pastore for good money to Paris SG – and then went on to sell some of their best and most consistent performers (Cassani, Nocerino) for the modern football equivalent of a packet of crisps… just to shake things up a bit, presumably!

The core and style of Palermo, however, seems to be intact, at least when at the Renzo Barbera where they have been playing very well and notched up five wins in five this season, leaving them just below Juve in the standings. Caretaker manager Devis Mangia has been more or less steering the boat clear of (home) icebergs since Stefano Pioli’s dismissal, even marking his bench debut with a 4-3 win over Inter. (EDITOR’S NOTE: props to Lars here, for avoiding the obvious culinary joke of tying the coach’s name to Mike’s mid-week recipe)

However as touched upon earlier, and despite a rather difficult schedule (the isolani have faced Milan, Roma and Udinese in the last three away trips) Palermo’s away record is abysmal, and the Rosanero are yet to score on the road this season, which indicates that Miccoli & Co. might be in for a tough time facing the re-born atmosphere at Juventus Stadium (how I love writing that name).

And yet, somehow, you just know that quality in the squad will somehow show itself on Sunday…

Palermo will probably be happy to surrender possession to Juve for the most part of the game, relying on soaking up the pressure only to launch the attacking threat and pace of either of Slovenian Josip Iličić, Israeli Eran Zahavi, or South-American duo Abel Hernández/Mauricio Pinilla.

Not forgetting of course Fabrizio Miccoli – who seemingly never tires of proving his point against Juve – on the break.

PALERMO (4-3-2-1)

Tzorvas

Pisano, Silvestre, Cetto, Balzaretti

Migliaccio, Bacinovic, Barreto

Ilicic, Zahavi

Miccoli

This game will be one of many tests of the Juventus morale this season. Knowing from previous experience that you can dominate play against Palermo all you want and still walk away with nothing (even 1-3 losers at that), it should be obvious that this is not an easy task.

90+ minutes of focus, grinta and a bit of cynicism will definitely be needed if Juve are to rid themselves of another taboo on that long road to redemption.

In Conte We Trust!

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

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Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Round 10…Round 12…Hmm, We’re Playing Palermo

Nov 19, 2011

It seems like it was years ago that we marched into the San Siro and heaped more misery upon current (but sigh, admittedly not for long) relegation-battlers Sfinter; and no, it wasn’t 2006, it was actually three weeks ago. Another cancellation, albeit via an act of God instead of a resistant union, means our first mezzo giorno effect test will actually be a mezzo giorno kickoff against our nemesis Palermo.

Currently the rosaneri sit with 16 points from 10 games, while with a game in hand we are +3 on them and in fourth place — having slipped from first after our last scheduled fixture versus Napoli was postponed, allowing three teams to leapfrog us. Palermo have been a thorn in our side the past few seasons, as have many Napoleonic complex sufferers Southern teams with something to prove. Luckily we’ll be playing in our new stadium.

Credit: Zafar

Good news: Palermo have earned one out of 15 potential points this season.

Bad news: Their last three trips to Turin? Three wins.

Good news: Our new stadium isn’t the Stadio Olimpico or Delle Alpi.

Bad news: This Palermo. And it’s been a few weeks since we’ve played.

Good news: Conte. Complete bad ass. Nothing else to say.

Bad news: One word: Bergonzi.

Le chiavi: Despite what the teachings of the Mr. Magoo of calcio taught us (sorry Ranieri), it is possible and dare-I-say appropriate to switch formations. I know, I know, it’s crazy, but Conte successfully switched from the 4-2-4 which never actually existed and was actually an attacking, wing-based 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3, capitalizing on the team’s biggest strength — three midfielders who are currently playing out of their mind. Pirlo, Vidal, and yes, even Claudio nobody-likes-me-because-all-I’ve-done-is-quietly-accept-playing-out-of-position-and-do-whatever-it-is-I’m-told-will-most-benefit-the-team-despite-my-own-personal-performance-suffering-as-a-consequence-effing-Marchisio have been completely solid behind whatever the trident-of-the-week il mister is willing to field (hint: it probably won’t involve Quagliarella). That midfield is quickly becoming one of the best around, and making the dip in form of Milos Krasic as well as the disappearing act of Fabio Quagliarella go essentially unnoticed.

While Palermo is likely to line up in a 4-3-3 as well, the key will be in the center of the pitch. So long as Vidal and the new and improved (believe it or not I really am a real boy center midfielder!) Marchisio can continue to boss the 38th parallel, they should be able to stop the blood from flowing to the head of the snake and away from the talented Ilicic, (the man who Giovinco seems to be modeling his Juve-killing career after) Miccoli, and former Mossad agent Zahavi (alright, I may have made that Mossad part up).

The other key battle could very well be on the right side (well, our right side, their left…right?) between also-in-torrid-form Stephan Lichtsteiner and Frederico Balzaretti, one of the best Italian left backs right now. Couldn’t we use a left back, by the way? Oh yea, we could. Where did this guy come from, anyway? Oh…

The one thing I lament is the lack of a threat starting from out back on the left side. If we had that, we could really stretch out the field and own this game, particularly while now playing a more narrow-at-the-top 4-3-3. Paolo DeCeglie isn’t yet (and may never be) trusted by Conte, and while he can aplomb forward, his defense leaves much to be desired. Giorgio Chiellini is a centerback, and a damn good one, and can only be seen as a short-term stopgap. Fabio Grosso is at this point to calcio what Amauri is to…well, calcio. If only we had a player who could run really fast, for a really, really long time, and who’s a really good tackler, and can cross a little bit, while also pretty good with the ball at his feet, and is known for his gutsy efforts and covering every blade of grass from goal line to goal line, regardless of which side he’s playing on. I mean, I wouldn’t even care if his one flaw was his goal-scoring and finishing abilities. A player like that would probably make a damn-good fullback. If only we could find such a player.

Whatever. If people started listening to me — and at least Adam Digby still has the same idea as me, even if he might have thought of it first — we could make a game out of the left side of things, as Simone I’m-supposed-to-be-a-winger-yet-I’ve-previously-lost-my-spot-to-a-central-midfielder-see-above-(even-though-I’m-doing-a-bit-better-now) Pepe would do fine wing-manning, I mean wing-backing the defensively-challenged, yet immensely talented and underutilized Eljero Elia. But what do I know? I say shit for years, and nobody pays attention until it’s too late and nobody even cares anymore.

Pepe’s played a bit there before and with positive results. Time to terizino him once-and-for-good, I say. At least, if we aren’t going to give PDC a shot in hell.

Motivation: Do it for Amauri. And by for Amauri, I mean out of spite. I get it Palermo, it’s not our fault that sold us this box of hammers for 22.8 m Euro. I still blame Secco most. But I mean really, to some degree you’ve gotta blame the Dutch for taking advantage of the natives and buying Manhattan for trinkets, right? Secco was barely a child. You should’ve known better. Jerks.

And don’t give me any of that crap about “oooh it’s not Amauri’s fault, he didn’t do anything wrong.” He was told there was no room left for him at the squad. He knew this. He was shipped out last January for a reason, and it wasn’t just to prove himself. If it wasn’t for his unreasonably excessive wages, he would’ve never been back. He was then provided with more-than-sufficient offers to leave over the summer, which he refused. As consequence, in the final year of his contract with his shelf-life quickly expiring, he is being frozen out of the squad because of his own decisions. Yet now he’s counting the days until he can finally leave Juventus?

My starting XI: (this will never happen – 4-3-3) Buffon; Sgt. Pepe, Georgy, Barzagli (or Boner, at this point, who cares?), Forrest; Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal; Elia, Matri, Quagliarella.

Palermo probable XI: (4-3-3) Tzorvas; Pisano, Silvestre, Cetto, Balzaretti; Migliaccio, Bacinovic, Acquah; Ilicic, Zahavi; Miccoli

A disposizione: Benussi, Muñoz, Mantovani, Aguirregaray, Pinilla, Bertolo, Alvarez.

Juventus probable XI: (4-3-3) Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini; Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal; Pepe, Matri, Vucinic

A disposizione: Storari, De Ceglie, Pazienza, Estigarribia, Krasic, Del Piero, Quagliarella.

My verdict: I’m going to play it safe with this one, fellas. Amauri will remain to Juventus what Turtle from “Entourage” is to life: completely valueless.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 19, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Italian Serie A Week 12 Preview

Nov 19, 2011

With the international break over, means it’s time for the European domestic leagues including Italian Serie A to get back in action.

Juventus will welcome Palermo on Sunday with the hosts coming off of an extended break. Due to their last game against Napoli being postponed, it has been an astonishing 21 days since Juventus beat Inter at the San Siro. Palermo return to action after a solid 3-1 home win again Bologna prior to 14 day disruption.

Palermo currently sit in fifth place with 16 points after 10 games while Juventus are one spot above with 19 points in 9 games. A sold out crowd is expected for the Sunday match between these two in what will surely be an intense atmosphere as both teams look to climb further up the table.

Will be interesting to see how the long layoff affects Juventus, as it may be difficult to get into the proper mindset after three weeks without a competitive match (don’t forget the postponed match against Napoli due to flooding).

Conte will have to motivate his team or run the risk of being caught flat-footed. On the other hand, the long rest may have the Juventus players anxious and ready to get back on the pitch. Juventus should look to push forward often, in hopes to break down Palermo’s shaky defense.

So far the Sicilians have allowed 12 goals this season which is second most amongst the top seven teams in Serie A, behind only Milan who had that terrible spell to start the campaign.

Prior to the postponed match Juventus were enjoying fine form and top spot of the table. Alessandro Matri has been brilliant of late and was threatening in the few minutes he featured for Gli Azzurri. As always, the international break brought forth more transfer news with Milos Krasic once again rumored to leave as well as Michele Pazienza, who typically features as a late sub to help out the defense. In more important and relevant news, Emanuele Giaccherini has returned from his injury he sustained early in October as well as Andrea Barzagli, who had to leave the Italy camp with a thigh problem. Barzagli, who joined Juventus last year from Wolfsburg, enjoyed his longest stint in competitive football at Palermo, from 2004 until 2008.

Palermo will sure to be excited for this game, as due to their recent history against Juventus. Palermo have yet to register a win this season on the road but have had a lot of success against Juventus over the past few seasons. In the last four meetings in Serie A between the two teams, Palermo are 4-0 scoring 9 goals while only allowing 2. Juventus have not won in Torino against Palermo since November 25, 2007.

A player that Juve will have to watch is Fabrizio Miccoli. This campaign he has 3 goals and 3 assists. He has also scored 3 times against his former club over the years. Conte will have his hands full preparing for Palermo as they have used a variety of players this year. Their manager Devis Mangia has regularly switched his starting players, especially the pairings of his midfielders and forwards, using a combination of Miccoli, Hernandez, Illic, and Zehavi in different roles. There has been some news this week out of the Palermo camp about former Juventus player, Federico Balzaretti, who has been heavily linked with a move away from the club.

Zamparini made a comment this week about the future of the Italian international saying that if the defender wishes he may leave to join PSG. If he does decide to leave he would be following in the footsteps of Javier Pastore and Salvatore Sirgu, who left for Paris in the summer.

Antonio Conte will most likely go with the same formation he had deployed against Inter and Fiorentina. Mangia does like to keep his opposition guessing but he may wish to keep the same line-up as two weeks ago in hope of finding the same results with the addition of Miccoli.

Probable Starting XI

Juventus: Buffon; Lichsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini; Marchisio, Vidal, Pirlo; Vucinic, Matri, Pepe

Palermo: Tzorva; Cetto, Silvestre, Pisano, Balzaretti; Migliaccio, Bacinovic, Zahavi; Ilicic, Miccoli, Hernandez

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 20, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Serie A Preview

Nov 19, 2011

Palermo travel to Juventus with one of the worst away records in Serie A, but in the knowledge that they have won on their last three visits to Turin.

Devis Mangia’s Rosanero are truly the Jekyll and Hyde of the Italian top flight so far this term. They have the best home record, along with Udinese, thanks to five wins from five. Yet playing outside of their Stadio Barbera fortress they’ve collected just one point from 15 available. Only Cesena have done worse and, to compound matters, the Rosanero haven’t scored on the road in 2011-12 yet.

“We have to improve in general and not just on the road,” stated Mangia this week. “The players are doing reasonably well, but I wouldn’t want the thought of an away game becoming a problem. We play with less personality when we travel and I think that has to do with the low average age of the squad.”

The Sicilian tactician, who replaced Stefano Pioli on the eve of the new season, has problems in attack given the absence of Abel Hernandez and the fitness issues of Mauricio Pinilla. Yet he insists that his side will go to the Juventus Stadium to play their own game against a side who he rates very highly.

“I would say that Milan are favourites for the Scudetto, but Juventus and Napoli will be fighting until the very end,” he added. “Antonio Conte is a prepared Coach who has always given an identity to his sides. He’s also modified a few things with Juve this term.”

Those changes have been on a tactical level given that the Coach has benched his trademark 4-4-2 for a 4-1-4-1 that can be transformed into a 4-3-3. By playing that way the Old Lady have beaten Fiorentina and Inter. The tactician may be forced into changes though. Andrea Barzagli pulled out of the Italy squad with injury so Giorgio Chiellini could be placed in the middle, with Paolo De Ceglie getting the nod at left-back.

Juve could be somewhat rusty. By the time Sunday arrives, 21 days would have passed since the team was last fielded given that their Week 11 tie at Napoli was postponed. “Fortunately a lot of us have played on the international stage during this period,” noted Chiellini. “And those who haven’t have worked hard at Vinovo.”

The defender, however, is aware of the dangers when playing host to Palermo. “They’ve always played really well against us,” he added. “They’ll want to continue with that trend.” Amazingly, Palermo have collected 3-1, 2-0 and 2-1 wins since being battered 5-0 by Claudio Ranieri’s Juventus in November 2007. Palermo’s only previous win in Turin before their three-in-a-row came in 1962!

Keep an eye on:Mirko Vucinic (Juventus) – The quality he has is obvious, it’s the inconsistency which annoys. Vucinic has had a mixed campaign so far and his lack of goals – just two in eight games – have now seem him moved out to a wider attacking position. He’ll be desperate to hit the back of the net.

Form guide:Juventus (W D D W W) Palermo (L L W L W)

Last season:Juventus 1-3 Palermo

Stat fact:In 23 League games in Turin, Juventus have scored 64 goals – an average of 2.8 per tie. They have collected 16 wins, three draws and four losses. Palermo have scored 31 times in Turin.

Juventus (probable):Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, De Ceglie; Pirlo; Pepe, Vidal, Marchisio, Vucinic; Matri

Palermo (probable):Tzorvas; Pisano, Silvestre, Cetto, Balzaretti; Migliaccio, Bacinovic, Acquah; Ilicic, Zahavi; Miccioli

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 20, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Vucinic & Matri start up front for Juventus against Palermo

Alessandro Del Piero is benched once again as the Bianconeri welcome the Sicilian outfit,

but there is room for Andrea Pirlo and Giorgio Chiellini.

Nov 20, 2011

Alessandro Matri and Mirko Vucinic will forge the striking partnership for Juventus as they welcome Palermo to Turin in Serie A.

Having had their fixture against Napoli cancelled before the international break, Antonio Conte's men are hoping to rekindle their relationship with the top of the table - currently occupied by Lazio.

Gianluigi Buffon starts in goal for the Bianconeri while Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal all get the nod.

There is no space for Alessandro Del Piero, who is on the bench once again.

For Palermo, captain Fabrizio Miccoli starts up front. Josip Ilicic also takes to the field for the visitors following his goal in the 3-1 win over Bologna two weeks ago.

Juventus (4-2-3-1): Buffon, Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Pirlo, Marchisio; Pepe, Vidal, Vucinic; Matri.

Subs: Storari, Pazienza, Del Piero, De Ceglie, Elia, Quagliarella.

Palermo (4-3-2-1): Tzorvas, Pisano, Silvestre, Cetto, Balzaretti; Migliaccio, Bacinovic, Barreto; Ilicic, Bertolo; Miccoli.

Subs: Benussi, Mantovani, Della Rocca, Munoz, Zahavi, Acquah, Varela.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 20, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Line-ups: Juventus-Palermo

Nov 20, 2011

Juventus have Alessandro Matri and Mirko Vucinic leading the way against Fabrizio Miccoli’s reshuffled Palermo.

The Bianconeri could go top of the table despite having a game in hand, if Udinese fail to conquer Parma this afternoon.

With injury problems now behind him, Antonio Conte declared his choices would now be purely tactical and technical.

Vucinic and Matri get the nod in attack with Simone Pepe and Arturo Vidal, while Giorgio Chiellini moves to left-back again.

Palermo have won their last three visits to Turin, but have a dismal away record this season.

There are also injury worries, as Mauricio Pinilla and Abel Hernandez are out, meaning Miccoli is the only available striker.

He has to take the unusual centre-forward role against his former club, backed by Josip Ilicic and Nicolas Bertolo in a double-trequartista system.

Juventus: 1 Buffon, 26 Lichtsteiner, 19 Bonucci, 15 Barzagli, 3 Chiellini; 8 Marchisio, 21 Pirlo; 7 Pepe, 22 Vidal, 14 Vucinic; 32 Matri

Juventus bench: 30 Storari, 11 De Ceglie, 5 Pazienza, 17 Elia, 24 Giaccherini, 18 Quagliarella, 10 Del Piero

Palermo: 33 Tzorvas, 31 Pisano, 3 Silvestre, 4 Cetto, 42 Balzaretti; 8 Migliaccio, 21 Bacinovic, 5 Barreto; 14 Bertolo, 27 Ilicic; 10 Miccoli

Palermo bench: 99 Benussi, 2 Mantovani, 6 Munoz, 7 Della Rocca, 20 Acquah, 16 Zahavi, 26 Lores.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 20, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Simone Pepe (20′)

Alessandro Matri (48')

Claudio Marchisio (65′)

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 26000

Pepe, Matri & Marchisio send Conte's men back to the top

After three weeks without a game following the postponement of their clash with Napoli,

the Bianconeri made up for lost time with a facile win at Juventus Stadium.

Nov 20, 2011

Juventus returned to the summit of Serie A with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Palermo in Turin on Sunday afternoon.

Simone Pepe opened the scoring with a first-half header before Alessandro Matri fired home early in the second half to double the home side’s advantage. Claudio Marchisio sealed victory for Antonio Conte’s men with a 65th-minute strike.

Juventus began brightly and should have taken the lead just three minutes in, but Giorgio Chiellini headed over from close range after being picked out by Andrea Pirlo.

Marchisio then fired wide from the edge of the box after Alexandros Tzorvas had flapped at a cross, before the hosts deservedly made the breakthrough on 20 minutes. Chiellini made amends for his poor miss by producing a wonderfully precise cross from the left-hand side which was headed home by Pepe.

Pirlo went agonisingly close to making it 2-0 on the half hour, the Italy international seeing his terrific curling effort from the edge of the box come back off the right post.

In truth, though, the Bianconeri were fortunate to go in a goal to the good at the break, with Josip Ilicic having spurned three terrific chances during the opening 45 minutes. On each occasion, the Slovenian was denied by Gianluigi Buffon.

Ilicic, though, really should have given the Juventus goalkeeper no chance when he was played in by Fabrizio Miccoli on 36 minutes but he failed to prod the ball past Buffon, who had come out of his area in a desperate attempt to deal with the danger.

Palermo were punished for Ilicic’s profligacy within three minutes of the start of the second half, Matri finishing smartly after being put in on goal by a measured through ball from Stephan Lichtsteiner.

The visitors never looked remotely capable of turning the game around and they fell further behind shortly after the hour when Marchisio coolly slotted home after Matri had cleverly stepped over Mirko Vucinic’s low cross from the left-hand side.

Marchiso’s strike allowed Juve to coast to a victory which draws them level at the top with Lazio ahead of their crunch meeting with the Biancocelesti next weekend.

Palermo, meanwhile, remain without a goal away from home this season but stay fifth in the table.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 20, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Simone Pepe (20′)

Alessandro Matri (48')

Claudio Marchisio (65′)

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 26000

Player Ratings

Goal.com rates the players as the Bianconeri reclaim top spot in Serie A

with a straightforward victory over their Sicilian rivals in Turin.

Nov 20, 2011

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon 7.0 Had little or nothing to do in the second half but his contribution to the victory was crucial, with the Italy captain denying Ilicic on three separate occasions during the opening 45 minutes. As solid and reliable as ever.

Leonardo Bonucci 5.5 Like his central defensive partner, he looked far more solid in the second period but he was caught out of position several times during the first half. His distribution was poor and also mistimed a couple of tackles.

Andrea Barzagli 6.0 Switched off a couple of times during the first half but improved as the game went on.

Giorgio Chiellini 6.0 The Italian international has not always looked comfortable at full-back this season but he was one of Juve’s better players on the day. His crossing was not always 100 per cent accurate but he picked out Pepe for the opener with aplomb and was always a willing runner on the left wing.

Stephan Lichtsteiner 7.5 Top of the Match Terrific game from the full-back. His distribution at times was poor but he was a constant threat down the right-hand side and his pass through for Matri’s goal was sublime.

Andrea Pirlo 7.0 Yet another impressive display at the heart of the Juventus midfield form the peerless Pirlo. Produced some characteristically wondrous passes, twice releasing Vucinic with terrific balls, and was cruelly denied his first goal for the Bianconeri by the post.

Claudio Marchisio 7.0 Tremendously industrious effort from Marchisio. Broke up a number of Palermo attacks and his endeavour was rewarded with the killer third goal, the midfielder finishing coolly after being picked out by Vucinic.

Simone Pepe 6.0 Combined well with Lichtsteiner on the right-hand side as Juve caused Palermo all sorts of problems during the first half. Took his goal well but faded as an attacking force as the game wore on.

Arturo Vidal Pardo 6.0 Not a spectacular or particularly eye-catching display from the Chilean but was quietly effective in the Juve midfield alongside Marchisio and Pirlo.

Mirko Vučinić 6.0 Squandered a fine chance when picked out by Lichsteiner during the first half but was unlucky with a fine effort from the edge of the box during the second period. A real menace on the left-hand side but he remains frustratingly inconsistent and profligate.

Alessandro Matri 7.0 Endured a frustrating first half but finished clinically when a chance finally came his way early in the second half. His dummy for Marchisio’s goal was equally impressive.

• Substitutions

Michele Pazienza 5.5 Introduced into the action 13 minutes from the end and did not have sufficient time to make his mark.

Alessandro Del Piero 5.5 Received a tremendous ovation when he was thrown on in the closing stages and had a half-chance at the death but his impact was unsurprisingly minimal.

Fabio Quagliarella 6.0 Came on for Vucinic midway through the second half and showed some nice touches and held the ball up well. Will be desperate for more game time but that seems unlikely given Matri’s current form.

Palermo

Alexandros Tzorvas 6.0 Was repeatedly left exposed by his central defenders and could not be held accountable for any of the goals he conceded.

Mauro Cetto 4.0 Flop of the Match A shocking performance from the central defender, who lost Pepe for the game’s opening goal. His difficult afternoon was mercifully brought to an end early as he was hauled off 15 minutes into the second half.

Matías Silvestre 5.0 Was undoubtedly overworked because of a lack of protection from the midfield but he was pulled out of position too many times.

Federico Balzaretti 5.5 Showed plenty of fight and did his best to get forward whenever possible but he was completely overwhelmed by Pepe and Lichtsteiner, particularly during the first half.

Eros Pisano 5.0 Struggled to contain Vucinic and was booked in the closing stages of what was a difficult afternoon for the Palermo full-back.

Armin Bačinovič 5.0 Looked out of his depth throughout the game and failed miserably to impose himself on the proceedings

Edgar Osvaldo Barreto 5.5 Made absolutely no impact on the game as Palermo’s midfield struggled dismally to contain their Juventus counterparts.

Josip Iličič 5.5 Horribly profligate. It could have been a very different game had the Slovenian taken just one of three gilt-edged opportunities which came his way during the first half.

Giulio Migliaccio 5.0 Another Palermo player who simply stood and watched as the game passed him by.

Nicolás Bertolo 4.5 A desperately ineffective performance and, in truth, confirmation that he was actually playing only came when he was substituted during the break.

Fabrizio Miccoli 6.0 A trying afternoon for the former Juve forward, who was booed throughout the game. Slashed at the few chances which came his way but he did create two fine openings for Ilicic.

• Substitutions

Francesco Della Rocca 5.0 Came on for Cetto on the hour but didn’t manage to get himself into the game at all.

Eran Zahavi 5.5 Replaced Bertolo at the break as Devis Mangia tried to freshen things up but didn’t really get the chance to show what he can do.

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 20, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Simone Pepe (20′)

Alessandro Matri (48')

Claudio Marchisio (65′)

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 26000

Conte: 'This was dangerous'

Nov 20, 2011

Antonio Conte hailed Juventus for piling forward after a long break to beat Palermo. “This was a dangerous match.”

The Bianconeri’s last game with Napoli was postponed due to flooding, but even with a game in hand they are joint top of the table.

“Our compliments to the lads who immediately got back into gear after the break,” said the Coach of their 3-0 victory.

“This was a dangerous match against a Palermo side that plays good football and, if we had not been right on point, they could’ve caused us numerous problems.

“After 22 days off the field and at the start of a tough run of fixtures, this was the best way to begin on the right foot. When you attack with seven or eight men, it’s normal to leave space at the back, as Barcelona could say with all due respect and proportion with that comparison.

“We always try to push forward, but still have to improve and work to continue at this level.”

Juventus are top even with a game in hand, so Conte must surely now accept the Scudetto talk.

“I’ll only evaluate the standings when we reach the halfway stage and have faced all 19 other teams in Serie A. Then we will see where we are and who we want to become.

“I also want to thank the fans, who were our 12^th man today by supporting us throughout the match.”

http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Socrates · November 20, 2011

Serie A Week 12 - 20-11-2011 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Simone Pepe (20′)

Alessandro Matri (48')

Claudio Marchisio (65′)

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 26000

Mangia considers psychotherapy