Juventus Season 2011-2012

[Socrates 8387]

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Buffon underlines importance of Lazio clash

The Italy international shot-stopper is eager for his club to maintain their good form

in the league as doubts creep in over Andrea Pirlo who has a muscle problem.

Nov 24, 2011

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has urged his team-mates to secure all three points in Saturday's Serie A clash against Lazio at the Olimpico.

Buffon said his side are up for the fight against Edy Reja's men who are level on points with Juve at the top of the table.

"Lazio and Napoli are very important games for us and we want to do well against them," Buffon told Juventus Channel.

"We know the importance of these games and coach [Antonio] Conte is hoping for a good result. He always transmits will and determination within the squad."

Meanwhile, Il Corriere dello Sport reports that Andrea Pirlo was forced to abandon Thursday's training session at Vinovo after complaining of a muscular strain.

Juventus have not confirmed the extent of his injury, but there are suggestions he could miss the trip to Rome.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Andrea Pirlo doubtful for Lazio match

The Italy international is nursing a muscular problem and could miss his first game

for the club as they prepare for the crunch game at the Olimpico this weekend.

Nov 24, 2011

Juventus playmaker Andrea Pirlo's presence is in doubt, a worry for coach Antonio Conte ahead of Saturday's trip to Lazio, Sky Sport Italia reports.

The 32-year-old midfielder abandoned Thursday's practice session after complaining of a muscle problem.

It is believed that Pirlo will undergo a series of tests before the end of the day to determine the extent of the injury and learn whether he will be available for the upcoming match at the Stadio Olimpico.

Pirlo's absence would come as a heavy blow to Conte, who has used the ex-AC Milan talent in every match this season so far.

Juventus and Lazio are sharing the top of the Serie A standings, on 22 points, although the Turin-based side have one game in hand.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Roberto Baronio: I hope Lazio beat Juventus

Speaking exclusively to Goal.com, the Italian midfielder said Edy Reja's side

have what it takes to end their losing streak against the Turin-based giants.

Nov 24, 2011

Former Lazio captain Roberto Baronio believes the capital city side will give Juventus all they can handle at the weekend.

Lazio have not won against Juve since December 2003 in Serie A, but Baronio feels that will change on Saturday night at the Olimpico.

"I hope Lazio win the game as I have always been a fan of the club," Baronio told Goal.com.

"There is great expectation for this game in Rome and I hope it ends 1-0 to Lazio with a goal from Cristian Brocchi.

"Brocchi is a player you can always trust."

However, the Italian is expecting Edy Reja's side to encounter stiff resistance from the Bianconeri.

"Juventus have dangerous players like Andrea Pirlo, but also they have great strikers in Mirko Vucinic and Alessandro Matri who need to be stopped," he said.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Reja: 'A defining game'

Nov 25, 2011

Edy Reja has described Saturday night’s meeting between joint League leaders Lazio and Juventus as ‘important for both sides’.

Speaking ahead of the Week 13 clash between the two sides that share top spot in the table, Reja has acknowledged that this could be a ‘defining fixture’ for his Aquile players.

An attendance of more than 60,000 fans is anticipated, which is bigger than crowds allowed to attend the Rome derby, where security restrictions apply.

“It would be nice to win this game for our fans, considering the wonderful audience that is expected.

“It’s an important game for us and for Juve. We are yet to produce a high level performance at home, we must do it now against Juventus. It is a key match that will demonstrate the exact size of our ambition.

“Juventus have found a tactical balance with Pepe and Pirlo. Moreover, I’ve noticed that Lichtsteiner has considerably improved his crossing ability with respect to when he played with us, therefore we need to be wary.

“We’ve already played different teams with various systems and as far as that’s concerned we’re used to it. We’re ready.”

Indeed, having not beaten the Bianconeri in the League in front of their own fans for almost eight years, Reja argues of the significance picking up a win could have on any title ambitions.

“Are we in the Scudetto race? It is hard to say. Milan have organic and superior quality. Then there’s Juve. The two teams are the best candidates, with Inter to look forward to.

“But, we could be a surprise, depending on what we do in confrontations such as this one.”

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Conte: ‘One game at a time’

Nov 25, 2011

Antonio Conte still refuses to talk about the Scudetto as he prepares his table-topping Juventus side for a difficult couple of games.

The Bianconeri travel to the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday night for Week 13's top-of-the-table clash with Lazio, before then heading further south on Tuesday for the rearranged Week 11 fixture with Napoli.

In preparing for the challenging double-header, Conte has again brushed off suggestions that the Old Lady are thinking about the title race as early as Week 13.

“When will I talk about the Scudetto? Never,” began Conte to the assembled Press, before as Juve’s official website recount, re-evaluating and opening up to the possibility of doing so, but only later in the campaign.

“We’re working to build something important. At the end of the first half of the season, once we’ve faced every team, we’ll be able to assess how we’re developing and take stock of the situation.

“We’re currently doing extraordinary things and performing beyond expectations. However, even in other seasons we have started well only to end badly.”

The 42-year-old also intimated that the team’s thoughts are only of the next encounter.

“We’ll take things one game at a time. There’s no fear from our point of view: we’ll go there to play our brand of football, looking to take the game to the opposition as we always do. We’ll only think about Napoli after the final whistle.

“We’ll be up against a strong team who finished above us last season, Lazio have strengthened considerably and Reja’s doing a great job.

“They’re a very physical side, we have great respect for their work and individuals such as Klose, Cissé, Konko, Marchetti… quality players who have settled into an already important unit.”

Andrea Pirlo remains a doubt for the two games after picking up a knee injury after a training ground clash.

“There are two more training sessions to undergo. We know that the season does not end either in Rome or Naples, so we will make careful evaluations with Andrea and we will take the most appropriate decision.”

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Pirlo in Juve squad

Nov 25, 2011

Andrea Pirlo is in the Juventus squad travelling to Rome for Saturday’s game and Lazio have Miroslav Klose back.

There are still doubts over Pirlo’s ability to play after he picked up a muscular problem in training this week, but he is in the side.

It should also be noted the same squad will stay in Rome after the match to prepare for their Coppa Italia trip to Napoli on Tuesday.

Lazio have Klose back in the team after he missed last week’s 0-0 draw in Naples through injury.

Juventus squad: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 5 Pazienza, 7 Pepe, 8 Marchisio, 9 Iaquinta, 10 Del Piero, 11 De Ceglie, 13 Manninger, 14 Vucinic, 15 Barzagli, 17 Elia, 18 Quagliarella, 19 Bonucci, 21 Pirlo, 22 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Krasic, 28 Estigarribia, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 33 Sorensen, 34 Marrone

Lazio squad: Carrizo, Marchetti; Biava, Diakitè, Konko, Lulic, Radu, Scaloni, Stankevicius, Zauri; Brocchi, Cana, Gonzalez, Hernanes, Ledesma; Cissè, Klose, Rocchi, Sculli.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Vucinic sees Lazio derby

Nov 25, 2011

Juventus man Mirko Vucinic may no longer wear the Roma jersey, but facing Lazio is still a derby. “He wants to smash the game!”

The striker spent five years with the Giallorossi and in his career has scored five goals against Lazio, so taking them on at the Olimpico on Saturday night has a very special feeling.

“I spoke to Mirko and he says he wants to smash the game!” revealed manager Alessandro Lucci.

“It is going to be a special game for him. He will be split between the old Giallorossi soul and the new Juventus one.”

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus and the top contenders for the Scudetto

It's close at the top of Italy's top flight with just a single point between first

and fourth. Ed Malyon rounds up the runners and riders on the peninsula.

Nov 25, 2011

Rarely has Calcio ever been closer during its long and illustrious history. Only a point separates the top four contenders at this stage of the season. To add further spice, there are only three Champions League spots up for grabs after Serie A lost a ticket to the Bundesliga for Europe's showpiece competition.

Holders Milan lead the latest odds at 1.91 with William Hill to retain their title. The Rossoneri may be favourites but they seem to be a little short at 1.91 given the changes to their squad since May.

They do, of course, have a very talented frontline with Ibrahimovic, Pato, Robinho and the like but having released playmaker extraordinaire Andrea Pirlo to title rivals Juventus, and suffered freak injuries to Rino Gattuso and Antonio Cassano, Juventus seem a better shout at present.

The Turin side have remodelled over the summer and under new coach Antonio Conte they have a defined system in which to slot their wealth of talent. Their only concern is a goalscorer, and they will need Alessandro Matri to step up to the plate this season if they can make a real go for glory.

Latest odds supplied by William Hill

Milan 1.91

Juventus 3.25

Napoli 10.0

Inter 13.0

Juve don't have any European commitments and will be eager to land their first title after years in the wilderness. You can back the Bianconeri and current table-toppers at 3.25.

Udinese have no such problems in the striking department and in Antonio Di Natale have one of the best finishers on the globe. The hitman has bagged 57 goals in the last two seasons and he has unsurprisingly continued in the same vein this campaign.

Udinese's three-man defence is unusual to many, but it's the tightest backline in the league, letting in just six goals thus far in 2011-12. Their odds of 21.0 and are good value but suggest their squad isn't deep enough.

Currently in second spot, Lazio will back themselves to be in with a chance of their first Scudetto since 2000. With a front two of Miroslav Klose and Djibril Cisse they will never struggle for goals but their key man is 'The Prophet' Hernanes who has impressed for Brazil and is an immensely-talented playmaker.

A price of 13.0 is solid for a team that has only lost twice in all competitions this season. Lazio are also worth a punt at 2.75 to finish in the top three.

Other contenders are Lazio's local rivals Roma at 17.0 who are beginning to pick up form under new boss Luis Enrique. Man City's conquerors Napoli are a short 10.0 to pick up their first Serie A crown since 1990 with Palermo are more optimistic shout at 151.0.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Antonio Conte: Lazio are one of the best teams in Serie A

The Turin side's head coach expects a difficult encounter at the weekend

as he feels the Stadio Olimpico outfit are among the league's finest.

Nov 25, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte is eagerly anticipating Saturday's Serie A match away against Lazio as he expects a difficult, yet entertaining encounter against the Stadio Olimpico outfit.

The Turin side currently sit on top of the Italian league table with 22 points from 10 games, sharing the summit with Lazio, who have exactly as many points, but from 11 fixtures.

"I think that it will be a great match between two teams that both try to play attacking football," Conte was quoted as saying by PA.

"I rate Lazio among the best teams in Serie A. I have always said that they can play a key role in the league this season, just like Juventus."

Saturday's match at Stadio Olimpico kicks off at 20.45CET.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Serie A Preview

Antonio Conte's table-toppers aim to make it 11 games unbeaten in the league this season,

but face a similarly in-form Lazio side, who have not been defeated in their last nine.

Nov 25, 2011

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

LAZIO (4-3-1-2): Marchetti; Konko, Stankevicius, Diakite, Radu; Brocchi, Ledesma, Lulic; Hernanes; Sculli, Klose

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

Lazio coach Edy Reja has a mounting injury list to contend with, as Simone Del Nero, Stefano Mauri, Javier Garrido, Albano Bizzarri, Andre Dias, Libor Kozak, Stephen Makinwa and Matuzalem have all been ruled out of this encounter.

It is possible that the former Napoli trainer will name an unchanged XI from last week's goalless draw with Napoli, despite Djibril Cisse's return to the fold. However, the Frenchman has endured a difficult start to his career in Italy, with just one goal since his arrival from Panathinaikos during the summer, and is expected to start on the bench.

Meanwhile for Juventus, Andrea Pirlo's muscular setback means that fellow summer recruit Michele Pazienza should get the nod to replace him in central midfield and feature alongside Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal. However, the Italy playmaker will undergo a late fitness test prior to the match on Saturday.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Lazio have lost 68 games against Juventus, more than against any other Serie A side.

• Edy Reja's men have not scored more than two goals in their last 18 league meetings with the Bianconeri.

• However, Lazio are unbeaten in their last nine league matches, winning six of them, and have kept clean sheets in the last three.

• Juventus are the only Serie A side still unbeaten this season, after recording six wins and four draws.

• The Old Lady have conceded just three times in their last eight league games away from home.

• Midfielder Claudio Marchisio has already scored five goals in 10 games, his highest-ever tally in a Serie A campaign.

• Juventus are unbeaten in their last 13 matches against Lazio, with nine wins and four draws.

Head to Head

Italy - Serie A - May 2, 2011 - Lazio 0 - Juventus 1

Italy - Serie A ‎- Dec 12, 2010 - Juventus 2 - Lazio 1

Italy - Serie A ‎- Jan 31, 2010 - Juventus 1 - Lazio 1

Italy - Serie A ‎- Sep 12, 2009 - Lazio 0 - Juventus 2

Italy - Serie A - May 31, 2009 - Juventus 2 - Lazio 0

Last Five Matches

Lazio

Nov 19, 2011 - Napoli 0 - Lazio 0 - Serie A

Nov 6, 2011 - Lazio 1 - Parma 0 - Serie A

Nov 3, 2011 - Lazio 1 - FC Zurich 0 - EL

Oct 30, 2011 - Cagliari 0 - Lazio 3 - Serie A

Oct 26, 2011 - Lazio 1 - Catania 1 - Serie A

Juventus

Nov 20, 2011 - Juventus 3 - Palermo 0 - Serie A

Oct 29, 2011 - Inter 1 - Juventus 2 - Serie A

Oct 25, 2011 - Juventus 2 - Fiorentina 1 - Serie A

Oct 22, 2011 - Juventus 2 - Genoa 2 - Serie A

Oct 16, 2011 - Chievo 0 - Juventus 0 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Miroslav Klose (Lazio) - Currently Serie A's top headed goalscorer, the German hitman will look to add to his tally of six league strikes this weekend. Despite the solidity of the Bonucci-Barzagli partnership at the back for the visitors, they have not faced a calibre of striker in Klose thus far, and as shown against the likes of AC Milan, his clinical finishing ability coupled with his knack of scoring headers and intuitive hold-up play could prove too much of a handful.

Alessandro Matri (Juventus) - Another prolific performer, while being a player of similar characteristics to his German counterpart, Matri will be licking his lips when he faces a makeshift back four at the Olimpico on Saturday. He has arguably been Juventus' most important player in their surge to the summit, with plenty goals and assists to his game. Although not the quickest of attackers, his ability to lead the line efficiently, while using his instinct to bury chances will make for fascinating viewing.

Prediction

Both teams have built their successes on watertight defences and profiency in front of goal this season, and it will be no surprise if this one ends a point a piece. While Lazio may lack the likes of Andre Dias to marshall their defence, Andrea Pirlo's absence may heavily impact on Juventus' possession play and functionality.

Editor's Prediction: Lazio 1 - Juventus 1

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/2011-2012/regular-season/

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Edy Reja: Our Serie A fixture with Juventus should be an even game

The capital-city side are neck-and-neck with Antonio Conte's men on 22 points each,

and can move to the top of the league standings with three points on Saturday.

Nov 26, 2011

Lazio coach Edy Reja is expecting a tough game against Juventus on Saturday as he regards the visitors as one of the favourites for the Scudetto.

The two teams are currently level on 22 points in Serie A, and the victor can go back to the top of the standings with a win.

The home side's trainer knows that it is an important game which could be decided by small margins.

"It's an important game for us and for Juve," the 66-year-old told Tuttosport.

"It is a key match. We've shown high-level performances at home and we must do it now against Juventus. It will be tough."

The race for the Scudetto is heating up with three points separating four teams at the top, but Reja feels that others are in a better position to top the pile.

"Milan have superior quality. Then there's Juve. These two teams are better candidates," the coach candidly admitted.

"We may be surprise candidates, depending on what we do in this game. A victory would give us knowledge and strength."

Miroslav Klose is once again available for Lazio after an injury lay-off, and will be partnered by either Djibril Cisse or Tommaso Rocchi in attack.

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/2011-2012/regular-season/

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Vidal: 'Lazio-Juve at 110 per cent'

Nov 26, 2011

Arturo Vidal tells Juventus they must play “at 110 per cent” this evening against Lazio. “If we win, then we’re in the Scudetto race.”

The Bianconeri are already joint top of the table with Lazio and have a game in hand.

“If we win, then we can think we’re strong and we’re in the Scudetto race,” the Chilean told La Stampa newspaper.

“We are a great team, but now the difficult games are coming up and we have to play at 110 per cent.

“Miroslav Klose is the one to watch for Lazio, as he is someone who knows where to position himself to score, including on the rebound.”

Vidal also has a history in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen and, like Klose, is in his debut Serie A season.

“In Italy it is very difficult to play against any opponent. Much harder than the Bundesliga. I had been in talks with Bayern Munich this summer, but I wanted Juve: a big club known all over the world. It wasn’t about money. I simply dreamed of playing in Italy.”

Vidal has become an increasingly stable figure in the Juventus midfield.

“It’s wonderful to play with Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio, because I have the option to both attack and defend. Marchisio and I take turnes in going forward. We have a good rapport.”

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Pirlo in last-minute fitness test

Nov 26, 2011

According to the latest reports, Andrea Pirlo will have a last-minute fitness test to see if he’ll start for Juventus against Lazio tonight.

The veteran midfielder picked up a knee problem in training this week and was expected to make a decision this morning.

However, Sky Sport Italia claim Coach Antonio Conte is trying to give himself a few more hours to decide.

It looks as if Pirlo and his teammates will only find out if he is in the starting XI when the squad list is read out before the game.

It kicks off at 19.45 UK time at the Stadio Olimpico.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Line-ups: Lazio-Juventus

Nov 26, 2011

Andrea Pirlo has recovered in time to start tonight’s top of the table showdown between Lazio and Juventus, but Tommaso Rocchi also plays.

The two teams were joint leaders going into this Serie A round and it is a real test of their Scudetto credentials.

The Bianconeri needed a last-minute fitness test to see whether Pirlo would recover from a knock to the knee.

The veteran midfielder does start with Claudio Marchisio in midfield, while it’s a special game for ex-Roma hitman Mirko Vucinic.

Lazio are without Andre Dias, Stefano Mauri, Francelino Matuzalem and Libor Kozak.

Djibril Cisse has been dropped to the bench as his goal drought continues, so ex-Juventus youth product Rocchi starts alongside Miroslav Klose.

Lazio: Marchetti; Konko, Diakite, Stankevicius, Radu; Ledesma, Brocchi, Lulic; Hernanes; Rocchi, Klose

Lazio bench: Carrizo, Biava, Scaloni, Cana, Gonzalez, Sculli, Cisse

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

Juventus bench: Storari, De Ceglie, Pazienza, Estigarribia, Giaccherini, Quagliarella, Del Piero

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Andrea Pirlo fit for unchanged Juventus' trip to Lazio

The key midfielder has been named in the starting line-up as Antonio Conte goes with

an identical XI which beat Palermo last week, while Miroslav Klose is back for the hosts.

Nov 26, 2011

Andrea Pirlo has been passed fit and will start for Juventus in this evening's clash with third-placed Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico.

Pirlo, who has been an ever-present for the Bianconeri since signing from AC Milan on a free transfer this summer, was considered a doubt after picking up a muscle strain in training on Thursday. However, the midfielder features in an unchanged starting XI from that which beat Palermo to go back to the top of Serie A last Sunday.

Top scorer Miroslav Klose returns to the Lazio line-up after missing out on last week's 0-0 draw at Napoli through injury, and will take his place alongside club skipper Tommaso Rocchi up front.

The fixture kicks off at 20.45CET, with the added incentive of the sole Serie A leadership for the winning side.

Lazio (4-3-1-2): Marchetti; Konko, Diakite, Stankevicius, Radu; Brocchi, Ledesma, Lulic; Hernanes; Klose, Rocchi

Subs: Carrizo, Stendardo, Biava, Cana, Gonzalez, Sculli, Cisse

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

Subs: Storari, De Ceglie, Pazienza, Marrone, Giaccherini, Quagliarella, Del Piero

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

HT: Pepe punishes Lazio

Nov 26, 2011

Simone Pepe has given Juventus the half-time lead in Rome just moments after a desperate Gigi Buffon save denied Lazio.

These teams were joint top going into this weekend, so it was a huge test of their Scudetto potential. Andrea Pirlo passed a last-minute fitness test to start despite a knock to the knee, while it was like a derby for ex-Roma star Mirko Vucinic. Lazio missed Stefano Mauri, Libor Kozak, Andre Dias and Francelino Matuzalem, while Juve youth product Tommaso Rocchi pushed Djibril Cisse on to the bench.

The Bianconeri’s last defeat at the Olimpico was in 2003 and some fans thought they had scored after 10 minutes when Claudio Marchisio got in front of his market and Federico Marchetti to meet Stephan Lichtsteiner’s cross, but the header skimmed the bar to land on the roof of the net.

Alessandro Matri was pulling the trigger on another Lichtsteiner assist before Mobido Diakite’s crucial sliding tackle.

Pirlo took Marchetti by surprise with a free kick that swerved viciously in the air, but the goalkeeper managed to change direction to palm it off the line and Giorgio Chiellini fired the follow-up wide from close range.

Lazio also threatened, as Rocchi got in front of Leonardo Bonucci and chipped the on-rushing Gigi Buffon to force a corner. Replays show the ball struck Andrea Barzagli’s hand, but it seemed to be involuntary. From that corner, Cristian Ledesma’s screamer sailed over the bar.

Simone Pepe, in the pink away shirt, shook off a defender to curl over and Buffon smothered a Hernanes daisy-cutter.

Hernanes threaded through to release Rocchi and Buffon desperately charged it down with his legs. In the same move, Juventus went on the counter-attack with Matri, who rolled across from the left for the unmarked Pepe’s daisy-cutter finish.

Lazio 0-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Pepe 34 (J)

Lazio: Marchetti; Konko, Diakite, Stankevicius, Radu; Ledesma, Brocchi, Lulic; Hernanes; Rocchi, Klose

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

Ref: Rocchi

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000‎

Simone Pepe fires Turin giants back to the top of Serie A

The Italy International's first half strike was enough to see off hosts,

as the Old Lady return to the summit of Serie A.

Nov 26, 2011

Juventus defeated Lazio 1-0 in a thrilling encounter at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday evening, as Simone Pepe's 34th minute goal, ensured the visitors leapfrogged Udinese to retake top spot in Serie A.

The game began as a real end to end encounter, with both sides getting forward at every oppurutnity, but it wasn’t until the eighth minute that an attempt on goal was registered, a poor pass from Arturo Vidal fell to Hernanes, but the Brazilian long distance drive flew over the bar.

Minutes later and the away side went close to taking the lead, a great run and cross from Stephan Lichtsteiner as met by Claudio Marchisio, but the Italy international’s powerful header went just wide.

Just before the 20 minute mark, the visitors almost went in front again, Federico Marchetti produced an outstanding save to deny Andrea Pirlo’s free-kick before Lichtsteiner missed a glorious opportunity from the rebound, dragging his effort wide.

The hosts were now starting to get into the game and were unlucky to not be in front, when Thomas Rocchi, found himself in space just inside the box and managed to lift the ball over the on rushing Gianluigi Buffon but the captain’s effort was blocked by Andrea Barzagli On 34 minutes the away side took the lead through Pepe, a great counter attacking move from the visitors led to Alessandro Matri finding himself in space on the left flank, before his inch perfect cross fell to the former Udinese winger, who slotted past Marchetti into the bottom corner.

The game started to slow down a little after Pepe’s opener, ensuring the visitors took a one goal lead into the break.

The second half began with the visitors controlling the game and they could have doubled their lead a minute after the restart, but Matri’s shot on the turn sailed just over the Lazio goal.

The hosts then started to impose themselves on the game, with Hernanes looking particulary dangerous, the Brazilian had a great chance to level the tie in the 51st minute but the former Sao Paulo playmaker’s effort was denied by an excellent block from Barzagli.

The home side were unlucky to not be on level terms, and were close to equalising twice in the space of minute, first Hernanes struck the post with a powerful drive, before Buffon pulled of a great save to deny Mirolsav Klose’s curled strike from the edge of the box.

With 20 minutes to go the away side almost doubled their advantage, when a great ball from Pepe found substitute Emanuele Giaccherini but the former Cesena wingers drive was parried away by Marchetti.

With just over five minutes to go the visitors spurned another chance to kill the game off, a great ball from Marchisio found Matri just outside the box, who created some space for himself with a neat turn before unleashing a powerful strike which struck the outside of the post.

The visitors managed to hang on to their slender lead, to pick up a vital three points despite some late pressure from the hosts to regain the top spot in Serie A, the league leaders now face another tough away fixture as they travel to Napoli next time round, while third placed Lazio will hope to return to winning ways at home to Novara in the next round of Serie A.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000‎

Pepe sends Old Lady top

Nov 26, 2011

Unbeaten Juventus edged Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico tonight to go one point clear at the top of the Serie A standings.

Simone Pepe scored the only goal of the game in the 34th minute as the Turin giants extended their great run of form for another week.

The result allowed Antonio Conte's Juve to leapfrog Udinese into first place.

Both teams went into the encounter in the Eternal City level on 22 points.

Juventus had the first chance in the 10th minute.

Former Lazio player Stephan Lichtsteiner crossed the ball towards the far post and Claudio Marchisio's close-range header went over the bar.

Juve almost went in front soon after. Lazio goalkeeper Federico Marchetti parried away Andrea Pirlo's curled free-kick but only as far as Lichtsteiner, who fired wide from a good position.

At the other end, Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon kept out Tommaso Rocchi's shot from the heart of the area.

Juventus then took the lead. A fast counter-attack from the visitors saw Matri cross to an unmarked Pepe, who struck the ball from 10 yards past Marchetti.

The visitors almost doubled their lead before half-time. Pepe beat the off-side trap and surged towards the area but was unable to beat Marchetti in a one-on-one.

Lazio pressed forward more aggressively after the re-start and in the 50th minute, Lichtsteiner made a crucial tackle with Hernanes ready to fire from close range.

The hosts were unlucky not to equalise on the hour mark when Hernanes' drive from outside the area beat Buffon but struck the woodwork.

Seconds later, Buffon punched away Miroslav Klose's goal-bound effort.

In the 73rd minute, Marchetti kept Lazio in the game as he kept out substitute Emanuele Giaccherini's eight-yard strike.

With seven minutes remaining, Alessandro Matri almost killed the game off but his powerful strike from 25 yards was denied by the post.

At the other end, substitute Djibril Cisse's weak header proved an easy catch for Buffon.

Lazio looked tired in the closing stages as their run of nine games without defeat came to an end.

Match Stats

Lazio - Juventus

19(8) - Shots (on Goal) - 18(5)

19 - Fouls - 11

5 - Corner Kicks - 4

4 - Offsides - 3

46% - Time of Possession - 54%

2 - Yellow Cards - 1

0 - Red Cards - 0

4 - Saves - 8

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000‎

Antonio Conte: Narrow win over Lazio

was a test of our maturity

Juventus coach has applauded his side for managing to keep their resolve against

their capital counterparts, before reserving special praise for chief playmaker Andrea Pirlo.

Nov 26, 2011

Juventus coach Antonio Conte feels his team have passed an important test of their Serie A title credentials, following the 1-0 win over Lazio on Saturday.

In a hotly-contested encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, Simone Pepe's first-half strike ensured the Old Lady continue to lead the way in the Italian top-flight, and the 42-year-old says he is pleased at seeing his side maintain their rapid progression, despite being out of their comfort zone on occasions.

"We are happy because we have won against a very strong team that will fight for first place until the end," Conte told Sky Sport Italia after the game. "For our part, it was an important test of our maturity.

Conte then spoke about his tactics during the match, and revealed that he instructed his team to keep on looking for an opening to extend their slender lead, rather than sit back and settle for the result.

"We suffered [at times], but we were good enough to win the game," he continued. "We were always in the game and we never stopped trying to score a second goal.

"I told the boys that if we took to the field to defend the 1-0 scoreline, we would have lost the game. So I would say that being exposed to the counter-attack was normal. I'm glad, because it was not easy and we won the battle."

The former Bari boss finished the interview by singling out the inspirational contribution made by summer signing Andrea Pirlo, whose influence has played an important part in the Turin giants' renaissance this season.

"We are going beyond any prediction right now, and our success is down to the players," said Conte. "Today, special praise must go to Andrea Pirlo, who two days ago suffered a major injury, but the great man gritted his teeth. For us he is important on and off [the field]."

Juventus are now one point clear of Udinese at the Serie A summit, with a game in-hand over their northern rivals.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000

Conte: 'Beyond expectations'

Nov 26, 2011

Antonio Conte concedes the victory at Lazio is “an important sign of our maturity. Juventus are going beyond all expectations.”

The two sides were joint leaders going into this weekend, but Simone Pepe secured a 1-0 result and now Juve are clear at the top despite having a game in hand.

“We are happy because we won against a very strong side that will fight to the end for the top spots,” assured Conte.

“As far as we are concerned, this performance is an important sign of our maturity. We suffered under pressure too, but that’s inevitable at the Olimpico and we never stopped looking for the second goal.

“I told the lads that if we came here to win 1-0, we would lose. Therefore being a little bit open to counter-attacks was to be expected.

“I’m happy, as it was not an easy match and we won a top of the table clash.”

This week Conte declared he would not mention the Scudetto, but after this result it seems inevitable they’re among the favourites.

“I am still superstitious, but we are going beyond all expectations and the credit for that goes to the players.

“I reserve particular praise tonight for Andrea Pirlo, as two days ago he picked up an injury, but grit his teeth to carry on like a great man. He’s important for us on the field and off it.”

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000

Reja rage: 'Penalty and red card'

Nov 26, 2011

Edy Reja raged at the referee after Lazio’s defeat to Juventus. “There was a clear penalty and Andrea Barzagli should’ve been sent off.”

The incident occurred in the first half, when Tommaso Rocchi’s chip over a beaten Gigi Buffon took a deflection off Barzagli’s hand to go off target.

“We were unlucky with the incidents, as there was a clear penalty on Rocchi’s shot and Barzagli should’ve been sent off,” said the Coach of the 1-0 result.

“Had that been spotted, it was a spot-kick and a straight red card, in my view. Unfortunately, it proved to be decisive. Maybe the referee just didn’t see it, but his decision was very disappointing.”

Simone Pepe snatched the only goal of the game on a classic counter-attack in this top of the table clash.

“We are satisfied with the performance and do not come out of this with our reputation damaged, because we fought on equal terms with Juve.

“It’s true we should have done something more, as we had the chances. It’s a shame we were too tired at the end to really mount an assault for the equaliser.

“Juventus played well and I think it can be their year, also considering they have no European commitments to worry about. We proved tonight that we deserve to be in the top spots and could even have won.”

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000

Buffon: 'Feet on the ground'

Nov 26, 2011

Gianluigi Buffon urges Juventus to “keep our feet on the ground” even after the top of the table triumph against Lazio.

The 1-0 victory at the Stadio Olimpico puts the Bianconeri one point clear of Udinese despite having a game in hand.

“Tonight everything went our way and it’s only right to underline how well Lazio played,” said the goalkeeper.

“It went this way, we are in good shape and the victories do help raise our self-esteem. At this moment we’ve got individuals in great form, like Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal.

“The Scudetto? Let’s keep our feet firmly on the ground. Of course we’re happy with tonight’s result and the performance, but let’s just keep quiet about anything else.”

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000

Pepe: 'It's a new Juve'

Nov 27, 2011

Simone Pepe scored the winner at Lazio and warns “Juventus want to make up for last season.”

The Bianconeri failed to qualify for Europe last term and the humiliation has given them an extra boost to improve under new Coach Antonio Conte.

“I play in a great squad that at the moment is playing excellent football,” said the versatile winger.

“The talent is throughout the squad, as we all have character and start moves from the back without throwing the ball away.

“It’s a completely different side to last year. This is another Juve altogether. Now we have fun on the pitch and that is the most wonderful thing.”

The Bianconeri are now clear at the top of the table despite having a game in hand.

“Scudetto? At times we have looked beyond the next game and took a tumble. Last season was just embarrassing, so we want to make up for it.

“If we win at Napoli on Tuesday, then we have another three points in the table and that is all it means.”

The match at the San Paolo was originally called off earlier this month due to flooding.

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

[Socrates 8387]

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 1

Simone Pepe (34')

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 29000

Edy Reja assures drastic changes

are not needed despite losing to Juventus

Lazio coach believes his side were better than the Serie A leaders

in the opening

exchanges and says the strike partnership of Rocchi and Klose is working well.

Nov 27, 2011

Lazio coach Edy Reja says his side are still on course to finish inside the Champions League places in Serie A despite losing 1-0 to Juventus in their top-of-the-table clash at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday.

The Biancocelesti looked to be in control of the match through the opening half hour, but a quick counter-attack from the visitors led to the eventual winning goal in the 34th minute by Simone Pepe.

After the defeat, Reja assured that there would be no knee-jerk reaction to the loss, which could see his side drop to fourth place by the end of the round 13 fixtures.

"We will not make drastic changes as a result of this defeat," Reja told reports after the match.

"The team played openly and to their level, but there have been moments that were not particularly lucky for us.

"In the first 20 minutes we created lots of chances, and just when we were doing well, their counter-attack led to a goal.

"But we did not give up after the goal and even the second half we did well, but unfortunately there has been little composure in front of goal.

"There's room to improve further and work hard, but I liked the performance of the boys, even at the individual level, we have proven to be a good team," Reja added.

The coach was also impressed with the developing partnership between strikers Miroslav Klose and captain Tommaso Rocchi.

"Rocchi finds spaces and is the most suitable from the tactical point of view and is an excellent partner to Klose."

Reja said he was happy with the team's performances in the league thus far, but called on his players to improve.

"To continue to be so high in the standings, we need to improve some aspects. There is the belief that they do not deserve this defeat, but we must react immediately and start working hard on Monday for our Europe League match [against FC Vaslui].

"Our goal is to go beyond our position of last season. Our injured players will recover and third place is within our reach."

Lazio are provisionally in third place in the league, three points behind Juventus. They welcome Novara to the Stadio Olimpico next week.

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