Juventus Season 2011-2012

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Hamsik makes Coppa promise

May 11, 2012

Marek Hamsik has promised to restyle his hair should Napoli beat Juventus in the Italian Cup Final on May 20.

The midfielder’s Mohawk cut has developed into something of a trademark for him, but he could be set for a trip to the barbers later this month.

“If we win the Coppa Italia then I’ll cut it,” the Slovakian international commented. “I can’t wait to play that game…”

While the Stadio Olimpico clash could signal the end of Hamsik’s distinctive hair, it may also be the last game at the club for Ezequiel Lavezzi.

“I have no idea what he will do,” Hamsik responded when asked about his attacking colleague. “You’ll have to ask him.”

Reports are suggesting that the Argentine could leave the Stadio San Paolo this summer for a switch to Inter. Anzhi and Paris Saint-Germain are also keen.

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Team Focus: Serie A Champions Juventus

May 11, 2012

Well, there it is. The Old Lady of Turin is back at the summit of Serie A, Champions of Italy for the first time in five years. After the hell of Calciopoli and the purgatory of a season spent in Serie B, Andrea Agnelli, Beppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici delivered the ingredients for a successful team and the intensity, drive and intelligence of Antonio Conte moulded them into exactly that. In winning the Scudetto in his debut season on the Juventus bench the 42 year-old coach has followed in the footsteps of some true greats of the modern era, matching the feat accomplished by Fabio Capello, Marcello Lippi and Giovanni Trapattoni.

It seems almost laughable that less than a year ago many were sceptical of his appointment, wondering how he would rise to the challenge of leading one of European football’s truly giant clubs and how his beloved 4-2-4 would cope with the complexities of one of the most tactically astute leagues in the world. Simply put, he passed with flying colours. Instilling a belief in his players that they were always good enough to clinch victory and a desire to never lose, Conte abandoned his trademark formation almost before the season began.

A quick look at the Formations Summary here on WhoScored.com shows he has deployed his team in five different formations this season, utilising 4-3-3 and 3-5-2 most regularly (14 and 13 matches respectively) but it is the ease with which they have switched that most impresses. Almost to a man it has made no difference which framework they are asked to line up in, the players have given their all to ensure Conte’s orders are carried out.

That they have been so successful in doing so is mostly attributable to one factor; whatever formation they were asked to play, the tactical system remained the same. Conte has made his players value possession and they enjoyed an average of 61.1%, comfortably the best in Italy and only bettered by Barcelona (69.5%) and Bayern Munich (63.6%) anywhere in Europe. By playing a pressing game and condensing the field they were able to retrieve the ball quickly and, once they had it, their passing was superb, again topping all Serie A clubs with 85.4%, a total good enough for fifth place on the continent.

At the centre of that passing game – far more direct and patient than the tiqui-taca of Barcelona – is the man responsible for the shelving of the 4-2-4, Andrea Pirlo. Placed back in the middle of a midfield trio after being shunted out to the left hand side by Massimiliano Allegri in his final injury plagued season at Milan, the 32 year-old has been perhaps the sides’ best player this term. His 3134 completed passes (made at an average of 87.1 per game) is a higher total than anyone in Europe’s top five leagues and is over 800 passes more than his nearest domestic rival, Lazio’s Cristian Ledesma (2321). That he has done so at a completion rate of 86.9% is similarly impressive while his league highs of 13 assists and 3.5 key passes per game is simply stunning from a man written off less than twelve months ago.

Yet he is far from alone with Andrea Barzagli (89.1%), Leonardo Bonucci (88.7%) and Giorgio Chiellini (87.3%) all completing at least 1500 passes at a more accurate rate than their team-mate. Of course Pirlo attempts more difficult passes than that defensive trio but they have contributed to that eye-catching team figure as no fewer than six first team regulars made over fifty accurate passes per match.

One criticism of the team has been the lack of a regular goal-scorer and seeing that fifteen players have topped Alessandro Matri’s team high of 10 goals is perhaps concerning until noting that no less than eighteen different players have found the back of the net during the campaign. With five of those registering at least six goals, Juventus have lead the way with 46 strikes from open play for yet another league best with only Milan scoring more total goals.

All those numbers have been impressive but, when it comes to this Juventus, never has the old maxim that defence wins championships been more appropriate. The Bianconeri have been positively miserly, not only conceding just 19 goals but allowing a meagre 9.2 shots per game, a total again only bettered by Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Gigi Buffon has been reduced to a watching brief in most games, making just 79 saves on his way to a jaw-dropping 21 clean sheets.

Writing for The Guardian in 2003, James Richardson famously called their 27th triumph ‘every bit as startling as snow in Siberia’ and, when looking at their dominance throughout this campaign, it is hard not to draw the same conclusion here. Antonio Conte and this Juventus have certainly started off a new era in impressive fashion and all that remains is to see whether they can win trophies with the regularity which prompted that comment eight years ago. With the Coppa Italia Final against Napoli less than two weeks away they will have the opportunity even before next season begins.

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Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

MATCH PREVIEW

May 11, 2012

Newly crowned champions Juventus seek to sign off in style – and remain undefeated – as they host mid-table Atalanta.

Juve travelled to Trieste to take on Cagliari with the chance to seal the Scudetto. A Mirko Vucinic opener gave the Old Lady one hand on the trophy and an own goal 20 minutes from time – coupled with Milan’s derby disaster – meant it was time to celebrate.

Juve’s win ensured an unassailable four-point margin over the Rossoneri. They can complete what would be just the third ever unbeaten Serie A season by avoiding defeat on Sunday. It would take the unbeaten streak to 38 matches and would be a first in the 20-team era. There will be cause for celebration with the Scudetto presentation, but also sadness with Alessandro Del Piero in the squad for the final time at home.

Antonio Conte is not expected to make excessive changes with the Coppa Italia final on the horizon. However, Paolo De Ceglie is injured and Arturo Vidal suspended. Stephan Lichtsteiner is ok to feature after being stretchered off in Trieste.

Atalanta fell out of the top half of the table with a defeat last weekend at the hands of Lazio – their second successive defeat. Coach Stefano Colantuono was not overly disappointed with the performance as the Bergamo side lost to a deflected goal then a Lorik Cana screamer.

The Nerazzurri will aim to end the season on a high and striker Manolo Gabbiadini says they will be going to the Juventus Stadium to win. Atalanta could finish in the top half with a victory - all the more remarkable when considering their points deduction.

However, they travel to Turin without a number of players. Matteo Brighi, Guido Marilungo, Daniele Capelli, Andrea Consigli and Simone Tiribocchi are all injured, while former Juve defender Guglielmo Stendardo is suspended. Carlos Carmona is seeking to prove his fitness.

The Bianconeri have historically dominated, winning 32 out of their previous 50 meetings, including the last two seasons ago. Atalanta have won just four times in Turin, the last occurring in 1989-90.

Keep an eye on: Alessandro Matri (Juventus) – The striker has been in and out of the starting line-up recently and is without a goal since February. Matri will be looking for a positive performance to book a spot from the opening whistle in the Coppa Italia final.

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

Last season: Not played

Stat fact: If Alessandro Del Piero features, it will be his 478th appearance in Serie A and likely to be his last.

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Padoin, Pirlo, Marchisio, Pepe; Matri, Vucinic

ATALANTA: Frezzolini; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Cigarini, Cazzola, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis

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

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Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Conte: 'Let's stay unbeaten'

May 12, 2012

Antonio Conte has won the Scudetto, but urges Juventus to remain unbeaten for the whole season. “That way nobody can ever surpass us.”

The Bianconeri have already set a new Serie A record by going unbeaten for the first 37 rounds of the campaign and aim to avoid defeat against Atalanta on Sunday.

“Against Atalanta our objective is to maintain our unbeaten record to the end of the season, as that really would be something extraordinary,” said Conte in his press conference.

“I told the lads that if we were to do that, in future they can only match us, but nobody can ever surpass us.”

The Coach also announced that Alessandro Del Piero will start tomorrow’s game at the Juventus Stadium.

“Del Piero was in the starting XI as captain in the first game in this stadium against Notts County, in the first Serie A one here with Parma and will be tomorrow against Atalanta.

“It seemed only right for him and his career, but also everything he has given us this year. He must do well both on Sunday and next week in the Coppa Italia Final with Napoli.”

Conte also took time to thank his staff for their efforts in the title-winning campaign.

“I had already worked with Cristian Stellini and Angelo Alessio at Siena, where we won the Serie B title. I played with Angelo at Juventus in the Giovanni Trapattoni era. He is a great man with excellent human and professional qualities.

“The same is true of Massimo Carrera, as we played together for many years. I had Stellini for a year and a half as a player at Bari, so as soon as I heard he was hanging up his boots, I proposed he come to work because I needed someone who knew my ideas.”

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

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Cavani: Coppa Italia final against Juventus

the most important game of the season

The Uruguayan hitman is ready to do all he can to help Napoli to glory, and feels

that his team have the right mentality to beat the Scudetto winners next Sunday.

May 12, 2012

Napoli striker Edinson Cavani has stated that the Coppa Italia final against Juventus is the most important game of the season for his club.

Walter Mazzarri's men have had a rollercoaster season, excelling in the Champions League before a painful elimination at the hands of Chelsea, but stumbling on the road to a third place in Serie A on numerous occaisons.

However, the Uruguay international believes that the game against Antonio Conte's men is more crucial than any other during this campaign.

"We will give our all in these final games of the season and at the end of it all we’ll see where we are," Cavani told Radio Marte.

"The final against Juventus will be the most important game of the season and we are slowly preparing our mentality to win it."

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Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Juventus v Atalanta Preview:

History Awaits The Newly Crowned Serie A Champions

May 12, 2012

JUVENTUS v ATALANTA

Juventus Stadium, Turin May 13th 2012, 13:00 GMTKick-off

****

It will be a night of celebration for newly anointed Serie A champions Juventus as they host Atalanta at the Juventus Stadium in Turin. It also could just be Alessandro Del Piero’s farewell home game in what will definitely be an emotional night for one of Italian Football’s all time greats. Having secured the Scudetto with an insurmountable four point lead at the top table, Sunday will be a time for celebration in Turin. For Atalanta, it’s been an excellent season as well. Having started off the campaign with a six point deduction and the loss of inspirational captain Cristiano Doni, following the match-fixing charges levied on them, the Nerazzurri have defied all odds and sit in a respectable 11^th place currently.

Team News and Tactical Brief

Juventus

Antonio Conte will stick with his successful 3-5-2 formation. The manager has managed to bring out the best in Leo Bonucci of late in this formation. The former Bari defender initially struggled during this campaign but found his feet during the crucial latter stages of the season. He provided a wonderful lobbed assist for Mirko Vucinic against Cagliari last weekend showcasing his ball playing skills from deep. Alongside him will be the ever present and sturdy duo of Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini. Simone Padoin is expected to face his old side for the first time since joining Juventus in the January transfer window.

He will reportedly replace midfield machine Arturo Vidal who is suspended for this game. Andrea Pirlo will dictate the tempo from the centre of midfield like he has done so consistently well this season. Simone Pepe is expected to retain his spot at left wing-back. The former Roma midfielder put in a good shift against Cagliari and bombed forward in support of the attack whenever he was given the opportunity to do so.

The attack is expected to comprise of Mirko Vucinic and Alex Del Piero. Il Pinturicchio is expected to play his last game for Juventus after Andrea Agnelli announced earlier in the season that the captain won’t be given an extension. Del Piero has played his part during Juventus’ success this season with vital goals after coming off the bench. Expect him to be at the heart of everything good Juventus do in attack as they try to breach the Atalanta defense.

Probable Starting Lineup (3-5-2):Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Padoin, Pirlo, Marchisio, Pepe; Del Piero, Vucinic

Atalanta

After going through the turmoil of the whole match-fixing scandal, Atalanta fans will be more than content with how their season has progressed. Having overcome a 6 point deduction, the Nerazzurri now have the chance to finish in the top half of the table, which is no mean feat given that pundits out there jotted them down as potential relegation contenders.

Boss Colantuono has gained plaudits for the way he has managed his side this campaign. His 4-4-1-1 formation has served him well and managed to bring out the best in a very close group of players. Scheotto on the right wing has caught the eye of many top clubs and has already won him comparisons with former Juventus winger Mauro Camoranesi due to their similar looks and Argentine heritage.

Serie A’s forgotten play-maker Luca Cigarini once hailed as the next Andrea Pirlo (like many others) has re-emerged this campaign in the middle of the Atalanta midfield. His partner in crime Matteo Brighi though is out for this game through injury. Diminutive playmaker Maxi Moralez will play in the hole just behind hit-man German Denis in attack. Moralez too has been central to Atalanta’s success, especially early on in the season when he looked in menacing form. The onus will fall on his shoulders to try and conjure up something for his fellow attackers to feed on during the course of the game.

Of course trying to break through an almost impenetrable Juventus defense remains an uphill task. Colantuno does have a few injury concerns to contend with as Carmona, Marilungo, Capelli, Consigli are all on the treatment table while Stendardo and Doni remain suspended.

Probable Starting Line-up (4-4-1-1): Frezzolini; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Cigarini, Cazzola, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis

Key Match Facts

1. Juventus are the only unbeaten team (in domestic league) in the top five leagues in Europe.
   
2. Juventus have the tightest defense in the league having conceded just 19 goals.
   
3. Atalanta are winless in their last two games.
   

TheHardTackle’s Players To Watch Out For

Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus)

Can he turn on the magic again?

It will be a highly emotional game as Alex Del Piero is expected to play the last Serie A game of his extraordinary career. All eyes will be on Juventus’ most beloved son as he steps on the field for possibly the last time at home.

German Denis (Atalanta) With 16 goals to his name this Serie A campaign, Atalanta’s powerful striker German Denis has been a huge part of their success this season. He looks the most likely candidate to ruin Juventus’ Scudetto party.

TheHardTackle’s Prediction

Juventus 2-0 Atalanta

Despite having the Scudetto in their bag, Juventus will look to finish off this outstanding season, unbeaten. A win for the home side does look probable and a goal from Alessandro Del Piero would just be the icing on the cake.

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

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Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Juventus vs. Atalanta PREVIEW:

Seeking Cherry on Proverbial Cake

May 13, 2012

This season has been a very good one for fans of Turin’s Old Lady: the turnaround from the previous two campaigns is there for all to see, along with the multitude of #30 signs proudly displayed not just by fans but by the own club as well. But what awaits at Juventus Stadium this Sunday isn’t merely a match against Atalanta, it is a date with destiny. As if an encounter with a team which sacked Antonio Conte (the one failure of his fledgling coaching career) was not motivation enough, the Bianconeri can become the first team to ever negotiate a 38-game season undefeated.

From the very tone of Conte’s press conference on Saturday lunchtime, the richly-deserved Scudetto triumph has been filed away in a drawer even before the winner’s medal is placed around Juve’s necks. The coach is firmly focused on the next obstacle, the next challenge and the hurdles ahead, rather than those already in the rear-view mirror.

While the game – and both pre and post game entertainment – will undoubtedly be a celebration of the 30th league title, the opportunity to become only the third Serie A team to emerge unbeaten throughout an entire season is firmly within the grasp of the newly crowned Champions.

Adding the Coppa Italia by beating Napoli in Rome next weekend would be the cherry on top, but first come an Atalanta side whose season ended sometime ago, once they had amassed enough points to preserve their Serie A status. That task was made more difficult by the six-point penalty following the uncovering of the CalcioScommesse betting ring, which not only eliminated iconic captain Cristiano Doni out of the picture but threatens to be far more decisive in the current Serie B campaign than the league table ever will be.

Atalanta

Known in Italy as the ‘Queen of the Provinces’, the northern club would – in normal circumstances – provide a stern test for Juve but, with the season effectively over, this game is difficult to get a genuine perspective on. A match with the Bianconeri is often enough to draw the best from teams visiting Turin but coach Stefano Colantuono may find it hard to drum up that enthusiasm in what will undoubtedly be a carnival atmosphere, as the trophy presentation at full time draws ever nearer.

A meaningless end of season run around feeling will permeate both camps and it would be no surprise to see numerous changes in both line-ups, particularly the away side who are not only missing Matteo Brighi, Guido Marilungo, Daniele Capelli, Andrea Consigli through injury but also have doubts over the fitness of Simone Tiribocchi and Carlos Carmona. With defender Guglielmo Stendardo suspended, it will be an uphill battle for a side who have historically struggled in Turin.

Only four times have maximum points been taken back to Bergamo and Juve can claim to have won 32 of the last 50 home games against the same opponents with the last loss coming over twenty years ago when Emiliano Mondonico coached the visitors to a 1-0 triumph. Conte’s men will have to guard against Germán Denis who has been in superb form as well as being wary of being caught on the break by one of Serie A’s most impressive counter-attacking sides.

ATALANTA (4-4-1-1)

Frezzolini

Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso

E.Schelotto, Carmona, Cazzola, Bonaventura

Moralez

Denis

Juventus

Antonio Conte, speaking at his Saturday press conference, made sure to stress the importance of the next game as he has each and every time this season. After taking time to praise his backroom staff, the coach went on to emphasize not letting one’s guard down one last time in 2011-12. He told reporters:

Against Atalanta our objective is to maintain our unbeaten record to the end of the season, as that really would be something extraordinary. I told the lads that if we were to do that, in future people can only match us, but nobody can ever surpass us.

Conte also told those gathered that, much like the wonderful opening ceremony against Notts County, Alessandro Del Piero would be in the starting eleven for perhaps one last time. Seeing the clubs all-time leading scorer and appearance-maker lead the team out, wearing the captain’s armband passed on to him from the man now sitting on the Bianconeri bench, will be an emotional moment for all those in attendance and the millions watching on television across the globe.

It is unsure who of Mirko Vucinic or Alessandro Matri will partner ADP in attack but, without a goal since February, Matri has much to prove if he is to convince Conte he is deserving of a starting berth for next week’s Cup Final. Further back Arturo Vidal will be absent through suspension while Paolo De Ceglie’s injury will see him also miss out. Stephan Lichtsteiner should recover but is only expected to take a place on the bench as Marco Storari should get a rare start in place of Gigi Buffon in goal as history beckons.

JUVENTUS (3-5-2)

Storari

Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini

Cáceres, Giaccherini, Pirlo, Marchisio, Pepe

Del Piero, Vucinic

In Conte we trust!

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

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Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Conte: An unbeaten season would be a record

nobody can ever surpass us

The former Siena trainer is hoping his team can finish their Serie A campaign on a high

by beating Stefano Colantuono's men while stating Alessandro Del Piero will start the match.

May 12, 2012

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has urged his men to avoid losing against Atalanta on Sunday as he feels ending the season unbeaten will be a record nobody will ever surpass.

The Turin-based side were crowned Serie A champions last weekend with victory over Cagliari and are yet to lose a fixture this term.

Speaking ahead of this weekend's final round of games in Serie A, Conte told reporters at his press conference: “Against Atalanta our objective is to maintain our unbeaten record to the end of the season, as that really would be something extraordinary.”

“I told the lads that if we were to do that, in future they can only match us, but nobody can ever surpass us.”

The coach also revealed that Alessandro Del Piero will start the game in what will be the veteran forward's final league game for the Bianconeri.

“Del Piero was in the starting XI as captain in the first game in this stadium against Notts County, in the first Serie A one here with Parma and will be tomorrow against Atalanta.

“It seemed only right for him and his career, but also everything he has given us this year. He must do well both on Sunday and next week in the Coppa Italia final with Napoli.”

The former Siena trainer concluded his press conference by thanking his backroom staff for their efforts during Juve's highly-successful campaign.

“I had already worked with Cristian Stellini and Angelo Alessio at Siena, where we won the Serie B title. I played with Angelo at Juventus in the Giovanni Trapattoni era. He is a great man with excellent human and professional qualities.

“The same is true of Massimo Carrera, as we played together for many years. I had Stellini for a year and a half as a player at Bari, so as soon as I heard he was hanging up his boots, I proposed he come to work because I needed someone who knew my ideas.”

Juventus also have a Coppa Italia final to contend and they will face Napoli in their attempts to claim the double on May 20.

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

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Atalanta boss Colantuono plays down

spoiling Juventus' unbeaten campaign

The 49-year-old believes Sunday's match will be a celebratory occasion for both clubs

involved, but is refusing to be drawn on the prospect of ruining the Old Lady's run.

May 12, 2012

Atalanta coach Stefano Colantuono has insisted that ending Juventus' unbeaten run is not his main priority when the two sides lock horns at Juventus Stadium on Sunday.

The Bianconeri could go the entire league season unbeaten by avoiding defeat to the Orobici on Sunday, but the visitors have also enjoyed a successful return to Serie A, with the team set to finish comfortably in mid-table.

However, the newly-crowned Italian champions also have a Coppa Italia final with Napoli on May 20 to prepare for, and Colantuono is expecting an intense encounter amid the celebratory mood in Turin.

"Let's just play the game, we know it will not be a walk in the park," said Colantuono at a press conference.

"It will be a celebration, yes, but Juventus still have the Coppa Italia final [to look forward to], and therefore Conte will keep everyone grounded.

"For them it will be a first test before their match with Napoli."

Colantuono then turned his attentions to Juve coach Antonio Conte, who he was full of praise for after leading the Turin side to their first official Serie A title in nine years.

"Conte has a lot to offer. In addition to having technical qualities, he has the right attitude," he stated.

"A great team cannot win only because of the quality of the individuals, but also with the hunger from their coach.

"He's won the league title. He's a friend of mine and a coach that I admire.

"We both started from scratch [in coaching], and Conte has been given the honour of joining a great club. Thanks to his work came the Scudetto."

Kick-off is scheduled for 15.00CET.

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

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Colantuono is Juve party pooper

May 13, 2012

Stefano Colantuono reassures Atalanta fans they are prepared to spoil the Juventus Scudetto party. “We’re here to play our game.”

There will be a spectacular atmosphere in Turin this afternoon, as after the final whistle Juve will be presented with the Serie A trophy and then tour the city streets on an open-top bus.

“Knowing Antonio Conte, he will really want to end the campaign on a high,” said Colantuono.

“He is a Coach with the right mentality and has been decisive in their ascent to this level. He is also a friend who I admire and can see how his work earned the Scudetto.

“However, we are here to play our game, aware it won’t be a walk in the park.”

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

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Del Piero starts in final league game for Juventus

The 37-year-old trequartista, whose contract expires this summer, will skipper

his beloved Bianconeri one last time in Serie A before departing Turin for pastures new.

May 13, 2012

Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero has been handed a start in his final Serie A game for the club, against Atalanta on Sunday afternoon.

The World Cup winner, who is out of contract this summer, will line up alongside Emanuele Giaccherini and Marco Borriello in a three-pronged Bianconeri attack.

In total, coach Antonio Conte has made seven changes in personnel to the side which clinched the Serie A title with a 2-0 win over Cagliari last weekend.

As well as the completely revamped forward line, Luca Marrone and Simone Padoin are afforded rare opportunities to shine alongside Andrea Pirlo in midfield, with Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal the men to make way.

Stephan Lichsteiner, Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci continue in defence but they will be joined by

Marcelo Estigarribia, who will play at left-back, while Marco Storari takes over from Gianluigi Buffon in goal.

As for Atalanta, goalkeeper Andrea Consigli, versatile defender Daniele Capelli, midfielder Matteo Brighi and forward duo Guido Marilungo all miss out through injury, while centre-half Guglielmo Stendardo is suspended.

Juventus (4-3-3): Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Estigarribia; Marrone, Pirlo, Padoin; Giaccherini, Borriello, Del Piero.

Subs: Manninger, Barzagli, Marchisio, Pepe, Vucinic, Matri, Quagliarella.

Atalanta (4-4-1-1): Frezzolini; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Carmona, Cazzola, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis.

Subs: Polito, Ferri, Raimondi, Cigarini, Minotti, Gabbiadini, Tribocchi.

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

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Line-ups: Juventus-Atalanta

May 13, 2012

Alessandro Del Piero starts in his final game at the Juventus Stadium, wearing the captain’s armband against Atalanta.

The veteran’s contract expires next month and the only remaining official fixture of the season is the Coppa Italia Final with Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on May 20.

Coach Antonio Conte confirmed he would give Del Piero a spot in the starting XI and the armband as the Turin giants celebrate the Scudetto.

This game will be followed by the presentation of the Serie A trophy, then a tour through the streets of the city in an open-topped bus, which is expected to see 100,000 fans flock to celebrate.

There is almost a full squad to choose from, as Paolo De Ceglie is injured and Arturo Vidal sits out a ban.

Marco Storari, Marcelo Estigarribia, Luca Marrone, Simone Padoin and Marco Borriello are given rare starts to join in the Scudetto party.

The team can make history by ending the season unbeaten and taking the title, something only ever achieved by Fabio Capello’s Milan in 1991-92 in a 34-round Serie A.

Atalanta are already safe from the drop, though Guglielmo Stendardo is suspended with Matteo Brighi, Guido Marilungo, Daniele Capelli, Andrea Consigli and Simone Tiribocchi sidelined.

Juventus: Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Estigarribia; Marrone, Pirlo, Padoin; Giaccherini, Borriello, Del Piero

Juventus bench: Manninger, Barzagli, Marchisio, Pepe, Vucinic, Matri, Quagliarella

Atalanta: Frezzolini; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Carmona, Cazzola, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis

Atalanta bench: Polito, Ferri, Cigarini, Raimondi, Tiribocchi, Minotti, Gabbiadini

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

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

HT: Alex on target in Juve farewell

May 13, 2012

Juventus are on track to end the season unbeaten, as they lead Atalanta 2-0 at half-time with an emotional Alessandro Del Piero on target.

The Bianconeri kicked off their Scudetto celebrations, which would continue after the game with the trophy presentation and an open-topped bus driving through the streets of Turin. There was also sadness in the air, as Del Piero wore the captain’s armband for the last time in a Serie A match. Paolo De Ceglie was injured and Arturo Vidal suspended, but Coach Antonio Conte gave rare starts to Marco Storari, Luca Marrone, Marcelo Estigarribia and Simone Padoin.

They hoped to make history by becoming only the second team ever to win the Scudetto by going unbeaten. The other was Fabio Capello’s Milan in 1991-92, but that was a 34-round campaign. Atalanta were already safe from the drop, though Guglielmo Stendardo was suspended with Matteo Brighi, Guido Marilungo, Daniele Capelli and Andrea Consigli sidelined.

In the opening minutes Storari had his palms stung by a German Denis bullet header, but it was Juventus who broke the deadlock with one of their youngsters.

Marco Borriello’s backheel flick set up Luca Marrone for a screamer from just within the box that ricocheted in off the inside of the near post. It was the youth product’s debut Serie A goal on his fifth appearance.

Simone Padoin robbed a defender and had time to shoot from seven yards, but opted to roll across for a crowded-out Del Piero instead and the chance went begging.

Naturally, Del Piero had to score at the Juventus Stadium on his last game! It was a well-taken strike, exchanging passes with Emanuele Giaccherini to drill in from the D. There were moving scenes as he was enveloped by teammates for his 289th goal in a Bianconeri jersey, the 188th in Serie A.

Denis had the opportunity to pull one back after dribbling past two defenders, but blasted over with only Storari to beat.

Juventus 2-0 Atalanta (Half-Time)

Scorers: Marrone 9 (J), Del Piero 27 (J)

Juventus:Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Estigarribia; Marrone, Pirlo, Padoin; Giaccherini, Borriello, Del Piero

Atalanta: Frezzolini; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Carmona, Cazzola, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis

Ref: Gava

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

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 1

Luca Marrone (10′)

Alessandro Del Piero (28′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (83′ - O.G.)

Andrea Barzagli (90+1′ - Penalty)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Attendance: 36000‎

Del Piero bids farewell to Serie A with goal as champions

end season with incredible unbeaten record

The legendary trequartista marked his last outing for the Bianconeri with a trademark curling,

finding the bottom left corner with a 25-yard shot just before the half-hour.

May 13, 2012

Juventus became only the third team to go through an entire Serie A season undefeated as they defeated Atalanta 3-1 in Turin on Sunday afternoon.

Luca Marrone opened the scoring for the Bianconeri before Alessandro Del Piero brought the house down by marking his final league game for the Old Lady with a 28th-minute strike.

A Stephan Lichtsteiner own goal gave Atalanta late hope of snatching a draw but Andrea Barzagli ensured that Juventus ended their unblemished campaign on a winning note by firing home an injury-time penalty.

Atalanta actually made the brighter start at Juventus Stadium, with German Denis drawing a reaction save out of Marco Storari with a near-post header from a Gianpaolo Bellini cross after just three minutes of play.

However, it was Juve who opened the scoring, Marrone unleashing a fearsome drive which clipped the post on its way past an understandably stationary Giorgio Frezzolini.

It was a blistering strike from the 22-year-old midfielder but much of credit for the goal had to go to Marco Borriello, who had surged into the area before cleverly backheeling the ball into the path of the onrushing Marrone.

The Bianconeri very nearly doubled their advantage on 16 minutes but Simone Padoin unwisely tried to tee up Del Piero after breaking into the area when he really should have gone for goal himself.

The World Cup winner, of course, has never needed any help finding the back of the net and he took the opportunity to underline as much just before the half-hour mark.

Collecting a lay-off from Emanuele Giaccherini some 25 yards out, Del Piero set himself before curling the ball into the bottom left corner of the Atalanta net the poise and precision Juventus fans have become so accustomed to over the past 19 years.

Atalanta really should have pulled a goal back on the half-hour mark but Denis fired horribly over the bar after bursting into the box and past Leonardo Bonucci.

As it was, Juventus reached the interval with their two-goal advantage intact and they thus treated the remainder of the game as nothing more than an exhibition game for their No. 10.

Indeed, events on the field during the second half became a mere sideshow to the extended lap of honour Del Piero undertook shortly after being subbed on 57 minutes.

Atalanta, though, did make a game of it when Lichsteiner diverted a cross from Bellini past his own goalkeeper, but Juventus, fittingly, had the final say, with Barzagli converting from the spot after substitute Fabio Quagliarella had been pulled down in the box by Thomas Manfredini.

The party really began thereafter, as the Serie A trophy was then presented to Juventus, who can now record a double by beating Napoli in the Coppa Italia final in Rome next weekend.

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

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 38 - 13-5-2012 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 1

Luca Marrone (10′)

Alessandro Del Piero (28′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (83′ - O.G.)

Andrea Barzagli (90+1′ - Penalty)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Gabriele Gava

Attendance: 36000‎

Del Piero leaves unbeaten Juve with a goal

Juventus ended the campaign unbeaten and with Alessandro Del Piero on target

for his emotional farewell, but Giorgio Chiellini picked up an injury..

May 13, 2012

Juventus ended the campaign unbeaten and with Alessandro Del Piero on target for his emotional farewell, but Giorgio Chiellini picked up an injury.

The Bianconeri kicked off their Scudetto celebrations, which would continue after the game with the trophy presentation and an open-topped bus driving through the streets of Turin. There was also sadness in the air, as Del Piero wore the captain’s armband for the last time in a Serie A match. Paolo De Ceglie was injured and Arturo Vidal suspended, but Coach Antonio Conte gave rare starts to Marco Storari, Luca Marrone, Marcelo Estigarribia and Simone Padoin.

They hoped to make history by becoming only the second team ever to win the Scudetto by going unbeaten. The other was Fabio Capello’s Milan in 1991-92, but that was a 34-round campaign. Atalanta were already safe from the drop, though Guglielmo Stendardo was suspended with Matteo Brighi, Guido Marilungo, Daniele Capelli and Andrea Consigli sidelined.

In the opening minutes Storari had his palms stung by a German Denis bullet header, but it was Juventus who broke the deadlock with one of their youngsters.

Marco Borriello’s backheel flick set up Luca Marrone for a screamer from just within the box that ricocheted in off the inside of the near post. It was the youth product’s debut Serie A goal on his fifth appearance.

Simone Padoin robbed a defender and had time to shoot from seven yards, but opted to roll across for a crowded-out Del Piero instead and the chance went begging.

Naturally, Del Piero had to score at the Juventus Stadium on his last game! It was a well-taken strike, exchanging passes with Emanuele Giaccherini to drill in from the D. There were moving scenes as he was enveloped by teammates for his 289^th goal in a Bianconeri jersey, the 188^th in Serie A.

Denis had the opportunity to pull one back after dribbling past two defenders, but blasted over with only Storari to beat.

After the restart Borriello’s angled drive was well held after he showed his strength to shrug off challenges.

There was a standing ovation from the fans as Del Piero was substituted, receiving hugs from all his teammates and keeping his cool in what was a hugely emotional occasion. The captain did not shed a tear, but many fans in the Juventus Stadium did and he walked round the edge of the pitch picking up the many scarves thrown from the stands. After 10 minutes of walking round, the tears finally formed in his eyes.

Meanwhile, Atalanta hit the upright as Simone Bonaventura’s strike was fingertipped on to the woodwork by Storari.

Stephan Lichtsteiner accidentally put the ball in his own net to give Atalanta a chance to get back into the game, prodding Bellini’s cross in from four yards when trying to clear.

Soon after, Giorgio Chiellini seemed to over-stretch and could well have suffered a groin strain. He limped off the field in tears and this could be a serious injury, perhaps one that could rule him out of Euro 2012.

In the final minute Juventus were awarded a penalty for Stefano Lucchini’s handling offence, which was fired under the bar by Andrea Barzagli.

Juventus: Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini (Barzagli 89), Estigarribia (Quagliarella 66); Marrone, Pirlo, Padoin; Giaccherini, Borriello, Del Piero (Pepe 57)

Atalanta: Frezzolini; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto (Minotti 52), Carmona, Cazzola (Cigarini 82), Bonaventura; Moralez (Gabbiadini 52); Denis

Ref: Gava

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