Juventus Season 2011-2012

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Juve boss Conte wants the Coppa

Dec 7, 2011

Winning the Coppa Italia is a priority for Juventus boss Antonio Conte this season.

The Old Lady make their debut in the competition on Thursday when they entertain Bologna in Turin.

“We shouldn’t be thinking about the Serie A game against Roma on Monday,” the tactician commented. “We have to focus on the Cup.

“I’ve told the players that I really want to have a run in the Coppa Italia this season,” continued the ex-Siena and Bari boss.

“It is always nice to be able to lift a trophy, especially when so much time has gone by without winning anything.”

The Coach, whose side lead the Serie A standings, is expected to offer some fringe players the chance to appear at the Juventus Stadium.

Milos Krasic, who last appeared for the team on October 22, is set to feature, as striker Fabio Quagliarella.

Marco Storari should replace No 1 ‘keeper Gigi Buffon in goal, while Michele Pazienza, Marcelo Estigarribia and Paolo De Ceglie may be offered starting shirts.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Juve-Bologna Coppa record

Dec 7, 2011

History favours Juventus in their home Coppa Italia ties with Bologna, but it is not all bad news for the Rossoblu.

The two teams meet in the Italian Cup on Thursday night for the seventh time in a Turin Coppa clash.

The Old Lady have the upper hand with three wins, two draws and one defeat – but that loss came in the last of those clashes in January 1999.

Simone Perrotta gave Juve the lead on that night, but Mauro Boselli and Klas Ingesson responded for the Dall’Ara outfit.

In the six Juventus-Bologna Cup games, the Old Lady have scored 13 goals and conceded nine times.

The overall record between these two top-flight sides in Italian Cup meetings is of five Juve wins, six draws and two Rossoblu victories.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Conte will make Juve changes

Dec 7, 2011

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has confirmed that he’ll rest numerous first team players in Thursday’s Coppa Italia tie against Bologna.

Although the tactician has admitted that winning the trophy is important, he will give some of Juve’s reserves a chance to shine at Juventus Stadium.

“It’s inevitable that I have some decisions to make,” Conte stated in a media conference this afternoon.

“I want to give some space to those who haven’t had a lot of opportunities to play so far. I want some positive responses from those players who are training hard.

“There are some roles where I will need to decide which alternatives to use – especially on the flanks.

“A few of the squad haven’t had the pleasure to play and this will be an opportunity for them.”

Milos Krasic is expected to return to the team, while Emanuele Giaccherini and Marcelo Estigarribia could be used in more central midfield positions.

Marco Storari will replace Gigi Buffon in goal, but it’s unclear whether Alex Del Piero will be allowed to feature after his eight stitches at the weekend.

“Storari will start the game,” continued the former Siena boss. “He’ll be the first choice goalkeeper in the Coppa Italia this season.

“I saw Del Piero yesterday. He has quite an important cut on his face and I don’t know if he could play tomorrow. He wants to, but it will be up to the doctors.”

Juve, despite the expected changes, will start the Cup game as favourites, but Conte isn’t expecting an easy tie.

“The objective is to get through. I want the maximum effort from everybody. I want to see if we can have the same rhythm as we have in the championship.

“Our aim is to win every competition that we enter, but Bologna won’t be coming to Turin to become a sacrificial lamb.

“They will come here with the intention of going through. We’ll see who is the best.”

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Pioli has Juve plan

Dec 7, 2011

Bologna boss Stefano Pioli has every intention of spoiling Juventus’ party in the Coppa Italia tomorrow night.

The Bianconeri are unbeaten this season, but were held to a 1-1 draw in Turin by Bologna when Pierpaolo Bisoli was still on the bench.

“Juventus will step on to the field to win and we will be on exactly the same level,” assured ex-Juve player Pioli, who wore their jersey from 1984 to '87.

“Our priority is Serie A, but we will be highly motivated in the Coppa Italia. The team is in good shape and will play with the right spirit. I want to see the conviction we can overcome a difficult opponent.”

Bologna take on Juventus on Thursday evening, then Milan in Serie A this weekend.

“We’ll be facing two stratospheric sides, not just in terms of results, but also performance. It will be important to maintain a very high physical and mental level in both games,” concluded Pioli.

[Socrates 8330]

Unsung Heroes for Juventus: Arturo Vidal and Simone Pepe

Dec 7, 2011

The return of Juventus as a force in Italian football has coincided with the arrival of Andrea Pirlo on a free transfer and with former club captain Antonio Conte assuming control of coaching duties. Both Pirlo and Conte have been influential in Juve’s rise with the former Milan midfielder proving indispensable in several matches while coach Antonio has helped revive the squad’s damaged spirit.

Conte has been able to create a sense of belief amongst his players while not only boosting their confidence but also instilling the values normally associated the famous kit of the Old Lady.

It would be unfair to exclude a number of other players from praise after the club’s impressive start to the season, but there are two starters who deserve a lot of credit for Juve’s position at the table of the Serie A table. The two aforementioned players are former Udinese winger Simone Pepe and Chilean midfielder Arturo Vidal. Pepe was signed on a permanent basis this season after a one-year loan spell which could be deemed as above average but not too impressive.

During the summer there were reports Juve were going to cash-in on the player they signed from Udinese but coach Conte convinced Pepe to stay in Turin. This might prove as one of the summer’s best moves as Pepe has become integral to the coach’s plans with his dynamic, non-stop running as well as his versatility. Pepe can operate on both flanks and can even revert to a full-back position when needed.

Pepe has already managed to score four goals this season to match his total from the previous year. His movement and his tireless running have been crucial factors in sustaining the impressive start to Juve’s season through the intense energy level in midfield provided by Pepe along with Vidal and Claudio Marchisio. The energetic trio compensate for Pirlo’s inability to cover much space in midfield as a result of his age and decline in stamina. The hard work of the three players allows Pirlo to move freely and to operate at a pace most convenient to his declining physical attributes. Besides freeing the influential Pirlo, Pepe and Vidal have been able to contribute on the offensive end as well.

While Pepe tends to struggle with his crossing at times, Vidal is relied upon to drive the Juve team forward while ensuring the Bianconeri retrieve the ball quick when it is lost. Vidal, like Pepe, deserves credit for his tireless running but what he adds to the equation is his ability to force opponents to make quick decisions while challenging them for possession. Vidal also provides impetus with his runs towards the opposing penalty box and has proven to be a successful passer of the ball in small space. Vidal might not be renowned for his long-range or pinpoint passing but his short-range passing is definitely an upgrade on former Juve anchorman Felipe Melo.

Vidal has contributed three assists and scored on two occasions in 12 matches, including nine starts and three substitute appearances in Serie A. His performances this season have given the Bianconeri fans something to smile about after a few years plagued by defensive midfielders incapable of retaining possession or properly passing the ball, in particular Christian Poulsen, Momo Sissoko and Melo who all failed to win the fans while wearing the Bianconeri’s famous shirt.

Together Vidal and Pepe have formed the dynamic half of an impressive partnership in midfield with Marchisio and Pirlo. While the experienced Pirlo control the match’s tempo and provides incisive passes for the attackers, Marchisio has become well accustomed to popping up inside the opponent’s penalty box to score goals or create scoring opportunities. The four players have been instrumental in Juve’s rise but Pepe often receives less praise than he deserves. Pepe might not get the praise usually reserved for the likes of Pirlo and Marchisio, but he has certainly been as decisive for the club. No one can forget his late equaliser against Napoli which helped the Bianconeri achieve a precious draw and maintain their unbeaten record since the beginning of the season.

Against Cesena, Pirlo was suspended but Pepe, Marchisio and Vidal all compensated for his absence by scoring, in the case of the latter two, and through their tremendous effort, particularly Pepe who did not stop running. When the season is over, the Bianconeri’s final position will be heavily influenced by the performances of the midfield quartet. Pepe in particular must be applauded because he has allowed the Bianconeri fans to forget about Milos Krasic who has struggled for form in this early stretch of the season after a positive start to his Juve career during the 2010-11 season.

If the Bianconeri do win Serie A, then much of the credit deserves to go the midfield with special attention reserved to the likes of Pepe and Vidal as well as Marchisio and Pirlo ofcourse. Conte, a midfielder during his playing days, must be proud to be coaching such a productive group and must have no qualms if any of the four had partnered him when he was still an active player.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Conte vows to take Italian Cup seriously

Dec 7, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte said Wednesday he will be taking the Italian Cup seriously ahead of Thursday's last 16 clash against Bologna.

The Cup has a poor reputation in Italy where traditionally teams often fielded weakened sides, despite the possibility of qualifying for Europe.

That has started to change recently with Inter Milan in particular winning it four times in the last seven years.

In fact the last time a team outside of the Milanese (Inter and AC Milan) and Roman (Roma and Lazio) giants won the competition was back in 2002 when Parma triumphed.

"The Italian Cup is an objective which we must honour," said Conte.

"I expect great concentration and determination from everyone and I want to see if we know how to maintain the same intensity and tempo that we have in the league."

However, he admitted he will be using his fringe players.

"It's an important opportunity for those who haven't played much so far but who have been working professionally every month.

"I expect a significant response."

Although the league leaders, alongside Roma, have won this competition more times than anyone else, nine, Juve have not lifted the trophy since 1995.

Bologna for their part have won the Cup twice, in 1970 and 1974.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Mirko Vucinic to miss Coppa Italia clash

against Bologna with thigh injury

The Montenegro star is being plagued by a thigh problem

and will be unavailable for a while due to the knock.

Dec 8, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has received some disappointing news from the treatment rom in the build-up to Thursday's Coppa Italia game at home against Bologna as forward Mirko Vucinic will be unavailable due to a thigh injury.

The attacker picked up the knock in his side's 2-0 Serie A win over Cesena last weekend and was initially expected to be match fit in time for Thursday's cup game.

However, the Turin side have now confirmed on their official website that Vucinic won't play against Bologna due to the knock.

It's not yet known exactly how long the Montenegro international will be out of action for due to the thigh problem, but Juve fear that the 28-year-old could be out of action until Christmas.

Vucinic joined Juventus from Roma in the summer transfer window and has since developed into an important first team member for the Bianconeri. The striker has so far scored twice in 12 Serie A appearances for the Old Lady.

The Coppa Italia game in Juventus Stadium kicks off at 21.00CET.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Juve-Bologna probable line-ups

Dec 8, 2011

Juventus boss Antonio Conte will make changes to his preferred starting XI when the Old Lady host Bologna in the Coppa Italia on Thursday.

The tactician confirmed in a Press conference on Wednesday that he would use the tie to give some of his fringe players the chance to impress.

Marco Storari will start in goal, Frederik Sorensen is expected to come into defence and Milos Krasic will return to the team after being dropped.

Fabio Quagliarella is being tipped to start in attack after being used as a substitute so far in Serie A this term.

Conte will make a late decision on the potential use of Alex Del Piero after he was given the green light to play after a cut to the face at the weekend.

Juventus (probable): Storari; Sorensen, Bonucci, Chiellini, De Ceglie; Marrone, Pazienza, Giaccherini; Krasic, Quagliarella, Estigarribia.

Bologna (probable): Agliardi; Garics, Crespo, Raggi, Portanova; Pulzetti, Perez, Taider; Gimenez, Paponi; Acquafresca.

Ref: Peruzzo

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Conte calls for full Juve focus

Dec 8, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has warned his players not to be distracted by next week's game at Roma when they host Bologna in the last 16 of the Coppa Italia on Thursday night.

The Turin giants take on Roma in the Eternal City on Monday looking to maintain their unbeaten run this season and hold on to top spot in Serie A.

Conte is aware of the attraction of the game at Roma but insists his side's only focus must be on Bologna.

"We have to think only about Thursday's game," Conte said.

"The Coppa Italia is an important competition and we want to do well. Only after the game against Bologna will we be thinking of Roma."

Juventus have not won the Italian Cup since 1995 and were ousted from the competition by Roma in the quarter-final stages last season.

Moreover, should Juve progress to the next round, they will face either Roma or Fiorentina in the last eight.

The Bianconeri will have to do without attacking pair Mirko Vucinic and Alessandro Del Piero after both players were injured in Sunday's 2-0 win over Cesena.

Vucinic sustained a muscular injury and will be sidelined until the new year, while Del Piero needed eight stitches in a cut to his eyebrow after a boot in the face and spent Sunday night in hospital as a precautionary measure before being sent home 24 hours later.

Rivals Bologna travel to Turin in buoyant mood.

Last weekend's 1-0 triumph over Siena, courtesy of Marco Di Vaio's goal - his 200th in Serie A - was Bologna's first league win since October 30.

The result lifted the Rossoblu four points clear of the relegation zone.

"The victory is important not just for the standings but for the morale of the team," Bologna coach Stefano Pioli said.

Pioli is set to make some changes to his squad with an eye on Sunday's game against AC Milan.

However, the visitors will be without injured midfielder Mikael Antonsson and suspended defender Cesare Rickler.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

The Champions League Continues;

More Bologna for Juve

Dec 8, 2011

It’s time for the Coppa Italia — otherwise known as our very own personal Champions League — to begin. Or rather, it’s time for the Coppa Italia to finally get to us, with Bologna traveling to Turin to christen the Coppa in the new stadium.

Chiellini tested - Bonucci approved!

The real Champions League raged on today in completely dramatic and unpredictable fashion, we can take solace in the fact that Napoli, Milan and Sfinter will all continue to remain preoccupied and tired. Both Machester teams are out, while Villareal didn’t win a single game and Valencia has been out of it for slightly less time. Despite the little-Udinese-that-could fizzling out early to Arsenal, Serie A has more teams remaining at this point than any other league. This, in the midst of the most dramatic decline of Italian football in the history of football ever. Are you paying attention, UEFA? Still think that Europa League results should count as much as Champions League? Of course you do, an admission otherwise would be an admission of what everyone else already knows — that the Europa League is a poor man’s Champions League, a consolation prize that no practical Italian team would choose to waste their time on with so much at stake based on league table position.

Then again, what do I really care anymore? No, I haven’t lost the chip on my shoulder. Long gone are the days of my sunny disposition, and well, Italian teams advancing in Europe is nothing but good for the sport in the country as a hole, me swears, guys, shine ya’ shoes for ya, Govnah?!

There is only Juventus for me.

Meanwhile, we might be able to finally start seeing what our reserve players can do in actual competitive matches (DeCeglie, Elia — I’m looking at you). Conte is expected to make changes, but unlike last week, he will actually have do it in some cases. My personal sage predicted early on that Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Matri and Pirlo would all be rested. None of them have been called. Meanwhile, Frederik “Don’t-Call-Me-Freddy” Sorenson has been playing right back during training, Luca Marrone (!) has been playing center back (again, !), and perhaps most interestingly, Emanuele Giaccherini was experimented in Pirlo’s regista role during training today (!, or more appropriately, ?, or better yet wtf?).

I’m not sure which would be a stranger move — Marrone at CB or Giacch as a regista. Although, I would prefer to see Marrone remain in the midfield so that Sorenson could get some minutes in his natural CB role, a position he’s practically born to play. I know that leaves Marco Motta as the only other likely option at right back, but hey — it’s the Coppa. Oh wait, sorry, our Champions League. I keep forgetting. Whatever happens, I really can’t wait to see what it is.

Le chiavi: Last time Bologna came to town for a midweek match in September, where Mirko Vucinic scored (yay, Mirko!), then got tried to single handedly resurrect Stoopid Yooventis all by himself with an unnecessary red card (no, Mirko !), and ended up with one of the gutsiest man-down performances of the season (before last week’s Napoli match, at least). Conte, meanwhile, has not hidden his Coppa Italia ambitions, despite most other teams’ indifference. Clearly, his motivation has been one of, if not the, biggest factor in the team’s undefeated streak (and that whole “we’re not playing in Europe” thing, as alluded to above). The question is if he can have the same impact on a group of players who have remained largely sedentary in Serie A thus far.

Bad news: The aforementioned Mirko is out for 20 days with a thigh strain. Sigh. This is why deep squads are built.

Good news: Bologna showed up to play back in September, but the return is a Coppa, not league game, on the eve of them having to prepare for Sunday’s match against Milan. Bologna, in other words, is sandwiched for Juve and Milan (with the latter match far more important than the former). Too easy. My 5-year-old niece would love these.

My starting XI: (4-3-3) Storari; De Ceglie, Bonucci, Sorenson, Motta; Marrone, Giaccherini, Pazienza; Elia, Del Piero, Krasic.

I’m not, for the record, advocating for Marco Motta at all, please do not get me wrong. But hey, it’s the Coppa Italia. He’s shown signs in the past that he *could* be a very good player, and the brass (who has shown they could put together a good team) picked up his option for a reason. Now’s as good a time as any. If anything, it allows us a chance to showcase him before we ship him off to say, Stuttgart, in another month.

Honestly, as I look at that lineup, I don’t even really like it, nor is it remotely likely. But I’m about to leave the office and I want to get this uploaded before I hit the road. I just don’t really know what Conte will do. All I do know is one simple mantra — In Conte we trust.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

2 - 1

after extra-time

Emanuele Giaccherini (90')

Andrea Raggi (90+4′ )

Claudio Marchisio (103')

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Marchisio's extra-time strike sees off stubborn visitors

The Old Lady needed more than 90 minutes to progress to the next round ahead

of their opponents, who were indebted to Agliardi for a virtuoso goalkeeping performance.

Dec 8, 2011

Juventus overcame a resilient Bologna side 2-1 at the Juventus Arena to book their passage into the Coppa Italia quarter-finals.

For the vast majority of the second-half, Federico Agliardi's goalkeeping heroics kept the hosts at bay until Emanuele Giaccherini's 90th minute strike appeared to steal victory. However, Andrea Raggi headed home a corner in the 95th minute to send the match into extra time. Once there, a brilliant individual goal by Claudio Marchisio settled the tie in Juventus' favour.

The first half was not one for the purists, with both sides struggling to establish any kind of attacking rhythm. The most notable moment for the visitors came courtesy of Daniele Vantaggiato, who forced Marco Storari into a diving save from a free-kick 23 minutes in.

Juventus were not faring any better, with Milos Krasic at the heart of what little they created in the opening period. The Serbian first had a goal correctly chalked off for outside, before teeing up Fabio Quagliarella for a shot that was blocked by Agliardi a few minutes before the break.

The hosts began the second-half with renewed vigor, and could have broken the deadlock barely a minute after the restart. Quagliarella’s effort from 12 yards out was parried by Agilardi into the path of Krasic, who could not find the target from the rebound with the goal at his mercy.

Agliardi was called into action again soon after, first stopping a low drive by Alessandro Del Piero with his trailing leg, before tipping away a belter by Quagliarella at full stretch following a swift counter-attack.

Antonio Conte’s men continued to create chances, and Del Piero should have done a lot better in the 57th minute, dragging his finish wide when a missed header by Raggi left him one-on-one with the keeper.

The Bianconeri skipper had another chance ten minutes later from a free kick, but Agliardi was again equal to his effort and smothered the ball low at the far post.

The Bologna keeper produced an even better save in the 70th minute, showing stunning reflexes to divert Gianccherini’s piledriver from the edge of the area just over the bar.

However, Giaccherini would not be denied, and finally broke the visitors' resistance on the stroke of injury time with a goal of some quality. The substitute burst from midfield, storming past two players before drilling his finish high into the back of the net.

Just when it seemed like Juventus had stolen a berth in the quarter-finals, Bologna managed an equaliser five minutes into injury time from the unlikeliest of sources. A corner from the right was headed in emphatically by Raggi to send the tie into an additional 30 minute period.

The home side controlled the first half of extra time, and regained the lead just as the game clock moved into triple digits. There did not appear to be a lot of space for Marchisio to work with when he was fed near the penalty spot, but the Italy international evaded his marker with a clever shimmy before planting his finish expertly into the bottom corner.

Bologna posed little threat of an equaliser, and Juventus could have increased their tally in the time that remained, but some more inspired goalkeeping by Agliardi kept the scoreline respectable. With the win, the Serie A leaders become the first side to seal their place in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals.

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

2 - 1

after extra-time

Emanuele Giaccherini (90')

Andrea Raggi (90+4′ )

Claudio Marchisio (103')

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Juve edge past Bologna

ec 8, 2011

Juventus overcame an inspired performance by goalkeeper Federico Agliardi and extra time to knock Bologna out of the Coppa Italia.

After a slow start to the match, the second half of the Last 16 clash in Turin proved lively, but where Emanuele Giaccherini’s run and finish looked like being enough for Juve, Andrea Raggi’s dramatic stoppage-time equaliser forced extra-time. It was down to Marchisio’s well-taken effort in that period that decided the gruelling encounter.

Antonio Conte made nine changes to the team that started the weekend’s game with Cesena, with only Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli in the heart of defence keeping their place. Alessandro Del Piero started just days after requiring several stitches to a head wound, supported by Fabio Quagliarella, Milos Krasic and Emanuele Giaccherini in attack.

Opposition Coach Stefano Pioli took the opportunity to experiment slightly. Robert Acquafresca was given a chance to try the lone-striker role in attack that Marco Di Vaio has been first choice for whilst Henry Gimenez was given a rare start too. Left-back Jose Angel Crespo was tested at right-back, Andrea Raggi, who played at the weekend at right was used at centre-back and centre-back Gyorgy Garics was tried as a left-back.

Del Piero, wearing a protective bandage to protect his injury, went close on nine minutes with a 35-yard free-kick that went a yard wide. The No 10 proved to be Juve’s most active player in attack in the first half and went on to provide a highlight midway through it with a clever movement of the ball to make space for a shot at goal.

In an otherwise uninspired, speculative first period, free-kicks proved to be the best opportunities for either side, but both proved wasteful from some otherwise advantageous situations. The first real chance for Bologna came from a set-piece as Daniele Vantaggiato’s 30-yard curler forced a mid-height save from Marco Storari.

Soon after this Quagliarella’s neat work down the left saw him fashion a cross to the opposite wing, but Krasic’s run had taken him over the flight of the ball, ending the move. The Serb had the ball in the net a few minutes later to finish off a quick counter-attack for Juve. However, in receiving a 20-yard cross-field ball before his side-foot finish, the winger had drifted a few yards offside.

Quagliarella then had a golden opportunity to find his 100th goal in professional football when Krasic’s through-ball took a deflection off Raggi to wrong-foot Simone Loria and find its way through to him. However, Federico Agliardi between the sticks saved well at his feet to keep the score level.

Immediately after the break Krasic had an even better chance to break the deadlock, but opting to finish a cross with his weaker left foot, he failed to even find the target from five yards out.

Krasic contributed more positively with a marauding run from the right wing across three Bologna defenders. Del Piero took over possession in the penalty area, reversing the direction of the ball and taking a quick shot that forced a save from Agliardi’s legs. Soon after, Quagliarella tested Agliardi after another faster Juve move.

Close to the hour mark, Del Piero brushed off Raggi’s attempts to win a 50-yard ball from the halfway line, bringing it down with an excellent first touch. Then turning on to his left foot to make space for the shot, the playmaker pulled his effort from 14 yards just inches wide of the opposite post. A minute later a neat one-two with Quagliarella then proved more comfortable for Agliardi to stop.

Against the run of play, Bologna almost took the lead. Vantaggiato’s clever work on the left produced a low cross that Acquafresca got a toe to. Storari was on hand to reflex and push it behind for a corner.

Del Piero forced a low save to Agliardi’s right from a 35-yard free-kick 20 minutes from time whilst a few minutes later, the veteran almost set up Giaccherini for a spectacular goal. Estigarribia’s cross was laid off by Del Piero for his diminutive teammate to bring out another save from Agliardi with a rasping half-volley from outside the area.

With 10 minutes to go, Estigarribia’s cross forced Agliardi to clear with his feet after a deflection from Loria whilst the goalkeeper was there four minutes later to deny Elia from point-blank range after the ball broke to the Dutchman after another set-piece. Meanwhile, Acquafresca stung Storari’s gloves to remind Juve of the score-line with four minutes of normal time to go.

Giaccherini’s moment of magic as the clock struck 90 looked to have proven the difference. Picking up possession 40 yards from goal, the former Cesena man rode two tired challenges before edging into the area and confidently finished past Agliardi for his first Juventus goal.

However, Raggi’s header in the sixth minute of added time pulled the visitors level. The defender was unmarked from a corner.

Extra time proved too much for the Rossoblu’s tired legs, with Juve creating several chances and ultimately settling the tie.

Juve had a penalty shout turned down, but it was soon forgotten as substitute Claudio Marchisio’s goal put the home side in front again. Elijero Elia’s clever pass from the right-hand side found the No 8 in the box for his turn to open up the space for a neat finish to the ‘keeper’s right.

A few minutes later, Del Piero thought he had secured the result with his first goal at the new stadium, but he was denied when he was correctly ruled offside. Meanwhile, the second half of extra time saw Giaccherini go close for a second goal, his effort from the edge of the D just a yard wide of the post. Giaccherini then had a volley disallowed when Del Piero, who again cushioned the ball down for his teammate, was ruled offside.

Del Piero was then involved in another good move, flicking on a long ball into space for Elia, whose chipped effort wasn’t enough to fool Agliardi. It proved to be the last notable moment in extra time as Juve eventually secured passage to the quarter-finals.

Juventus 2-1 Bologna

Scorers: Giaccherini 90 (J), Raggi 90+4 (B), Marchisio 102 (J)

Juventus: Storari; Sorensen, Barzagli, Bonucci, De Ceglie; Marrone (Marchisio 79), Pazienza; Krasic (Elia 65), Quagliarella (Estigarribia 68), Giaccherini; Del Piero

Bologna: Agliardi; Crespo, Raggi, Loria, Garics (Morleo 56); Pulzetti, Perez (Krhin 65), Taider; Gimenez (Paponi 84), Vantaggiato; Acquafresca

Ref: Peruzzo di Schio

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Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

2 - 1

after extra-time

Emanuele Giaccherini (90')

Andrea Raggi (90+4′ )

Claudio Marchisio (103')

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Conte: Bologna ‘keeper was super

Dec 8, 2011

Bologna ‘keeper Federico Agliardi was the main reason why Juventus were forced to work so hard for their Coppa Italia victory on Thursday, says boss Antonio Conte.

The Old Lady had enough opportunities to win the game in normal time, but a string of fine saves from the former Palermo man forced the match into extra-time.

“Their goalkeeper made some extraordinary saves,” the Turin tactician said following the 2-1 win which secured qualification for the last eight.

Juve thought they had won the encounter after Emanuele Giaccherini netted late on, but Bologna responded with an injury time strike.

“It was really disappointing to concede in the 95th minute because it forced us to make extra sacrifices,” the tactician continued.

“I had some good responses out there though from some players who haven’t played that much this season.

“And I’m happy because this Cup competition is important for us.”

Claudio Marchisio came on to score the winner, but Giaccherini impressed with his goal after being used in a more central midfield position.

“He’s the kind of player who knew how to make the best of himself with smaller teams and now he deserves to be at Juventus – as he’s shown this evening.”

[Socrates 8330]

Coppa Italia - Round of 16 - 8-12-2011 (9:00 p.m.)

2 - 1

after extra-time

Emanuele Giaccherini (90')

Andrea Raggi (90+4′ )

Claudio Marchisio (103')

Juventus Arena - Turin

Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo

Conte impressed by performance of squad players

during Coppa Italia win over Bologna

The Bianconeri boss apologised to the fans for conceding right at the death in Turin,

but says he was encouraged by what his squad players had to offer on the night.

Dec 8, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has commended his second-string team for holding out to grab a 2-1 victory over Bologna in extra time of their Coppa Italia fourth round clash on Thursday.

Speaking after the game, the 42-year-old, who fielded an under-strength side against Stefano Pioli's men at Juventus Stadium, told Mediaset that he feels his decision to select some of his squad players, like goalscorer Emanuele Giaccherini, has been vindicated.

"I am sorry for us conceding the goal at the 95th minute because it forced us to use up more of our energy," said Conte.

I've been encouraged by [the performances of] those who have played less, tonight, but there is still a lot of work [to do]."

However, Conte also praised opponents Bologna for their approach to the tie, and namely Rossoblu goalkeeper Federico Agliardi, who stopped his team from scoring on multiple occasions with a number impressive saves.

"Agliardi made some amazing stops, but Bologna did everything to make for a great game." Conte concluded.

Juventus now focus their attention on next Monday's Serie A trip to Roma, as they aim to sustain their position at the league summit.

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Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Del Piero ready for Roma clash after midweek Coppa Italia win

The veteran striker says the extra-time victory over Bologna shows the Turin outfit's dedication

to the cup, and wants to keep their run going against the capital-city side.

Dec 10, 2011

Juventus stalwart Alessandro Del Piero believes his side are ready to face Roma, and feels that the midweek 2-1 extra-time win over Bologna in the Coppa Italia will help build confidence ahead of the Serie A clash.

A Cluadio Marchisio strike in the added period gave the Turin club victory in a game in which the 37-year-old forward played every minute, and the veteran believes it was an important triumph.

“It took 120 minutes to get past Bologna in the Coppa Italia and qualify for the quarter-finals,” Del Piero stated on his official website.

“It was a tough game and we were capable of reacting to the huge blow of conceding an equaliser in stoppage-time.

“You just need to see how the game went to understand how much we all care about this objective, which allows us to continue the climb towards the ‘Silver Star,’ that is, the 10th Coppa Italia [in Juventus' history].

“We were supported from start to finish by our fans and this was important. I’d like to thank them all, even personally, for the warmth with which they greeted us," he continued.

Antonio Conte's men currently top Serie A, two points clear of AC Milan and Udinese, and face a misfiring Roma outfit on Monday night.

Del Piero hopes for inclusion in the starting XI and feels his side have the momentum to get through the fixture.

"I’m satisfied with my 120 minutes and ready to concentrate on the next step, Monday’s trip to the Olimpico," he added.

“We can’t stop now - bring on Roma."

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

[Socrates 8330]

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Del Piero: 'Bring on Roma!'

Dec 10, 2011

Alessandro Del Piero played 120 minutes in the Coppa Italia with eight stitches in his head, but riles up Juventus again. “Bring on Roma!”

The captain has barely featured this season and his appearance on Sunday lasted just eight minutes before he was accidentally kicked in the side of the head, warranting eight stitches.

Despite that injury and medics advising rest, he played the full Coppa Italia tie plus extra time to beat Bologna 2-1 last night.

“It took 120 minutes to get past Bologna in the Coppa Italia and qualify for the quarter-finals,” he wrote on his official website.

“It was a tough game during which we were capable of reacting to the huge blow of conceding an equaliser in stoppages.

“You just need to see how the game went to understand how much we all care about this objective, which allows us to continue the climb towards the ‘Silver Star,’ that is the 10th Coppa Italia.

“We were supported from start to finish by our fans and this was important. I’d like to thank them all, even personally, for the warmth they greeted us with.

“In terms of my own performance, let’s just say my head held up, despite the protection and the ‘turban’ on the wound I felt good and am happy with the game. I’m satisfied with my 120 minutes and ready to concentrate on the next step, Monday’s trip to the Olimpico.

“We can’t stop now! Bring on Roma!”

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

[Socrates 8330]

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Buffon: 'Scudetto talk crazy'

Dec 10, 2011

Gianluigi Buffon “would be crazy” to talk about Juventus winning the Scudetto ahead of their trip to Roma.

The Bianconeri are top of the table and the only side still unbeaten in Serie A.

“We need a great deal of calm here,” the goalkeeper told Tuttosport. “There are too many games to go, including the entire second half of the season.

“The road is too long and I really don’t want to take our fans for a ride. If I said that S word, then I’d be crazy. I’m not just refusing to say it out of false modesty.

“Don’t forget in December last year we were in second place, then bad luck ran us down. So many injuries, at least six simultaneously, saw our season precipitate.

“After all, if we were to lose one or two important players, then we’d have to see if the team could make do without them,” continued Buffon.

“In those difficult moments, if they come, we can tell how good this squad really is.”

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