Juventus Season 2011-2012

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Stephan Lichtsteiner wary of Atalanta threat

The Switzerland international has stressed that the upcoming Serie A game in Bergamo

will not be an easy encounter and has told his team-mates to possess an aggressive mentality.

Jan 20, 2012

Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner is eagerly anticipating Saturday's Serie A game against Atalanta, and has warned his team-mates that it will not be an easy match.

The Turin giants were held to a 1-1 draw by Cagliari in their last league game, and the former Lazio right-back is determined to return to winning ways this weekend.

"We’ve done well up until now, but we still haven’t won anything. The two points dropped on Sunday still frustrate us. So that means that we’ll look to get all three on Saturday," Lichtsteiner said to Sky Sport Italia.

"It won’t be easy because Atalanta have a great home record. We must be aggressive, play the game to our tempo and remain alert in defence.

"We need to continue on this path. Perhaps we’ve been less impressive than usual in the last two games, but we haven’t got any physical nor psychological problems."

Saturday's game in Bergamo kicks off at 20.45 CET.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Serie A Preview

The Bianconeri will be looking to extend their lead at the top of the table

when they travel to Bergamo to lock horns with Stefano Colantuono's men on Saturday.

Jan 20, 2012

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

ATALANTA

Consigli

Raimondi, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso

Schelotto, Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura

Moralez

Denis

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini

Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio,

Pepe, Borriello, Vucinic

Atalanta boss Stefano Colantuono does not have any injuries worries ahead of the crunch clash but Stefano Lucchini and Carlos Carmona are both suspended and will miss Saturday's festivities.

Juve coach Antonio Conte will likely be without the services of Eljero Elia who sustained an ankle injury in training earlier in the week, while Fabio Quagliarella is still struggling with a cheekbone problem.

DID YOU KNOW?

•Atalanta and Juventus have both played out eight draws this term, which is the most in the league.

•The Nerazzurri have only one win in their last eight games (W1 D5 L2).

•The Bergamo-based outfit have been outscored 4-0 in their last two contests.

•Juventus have only picked up one win their last four away matches (W1 D3).

•The Turin outfit have scored in all but two of their 18 Serie A encounters this season.

•The Bianconeri have conceded just two goals in their last five games, keeping three clean sheets during that span.

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Mar 28, 2010 - Juventus 2 - Atalanta 1

Serie A ‎- Nov 7, 2009 - Atalanta 2 - Juventus 5

Serie A ‎- May 17, 2009 - Juventus 2 - Atalanta 2

Serie A ‎- Dec 21, 2008 - Atalanta 1 - Juventus 3

Last Five Matches

Atalanta

Jan 15, 2012 - Lazio 2 - Atalanta 0 - Serie A

Jan 8, 2012 - Atalanta 0 - AC Milan 2 - Serie A

Dec 21, 2011 - Atalanta 4 - Cesena 1 - Serie A

Dec 17, 2011 - Fiorentina 2 - Atalanta 2 - Serie A

Dec 11, 2011 - Atalanta 1 - Catania 1 - Serie A

Juventus

Jan 15, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Cagliari 1 - Serie A

Jan 8, 2012 - Lecce 0 - Juventus 1 -Serie A

Jan 5, 2012 - Al Hilal 1 - Juventus 7 - FR.

Dec 21, 2011 - Udinese 0 - Juventus 0 - Serie A

Dec 18, 2011 - Juventus 2 - Novara 0 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Germán Denis

The Argentine striker leads the team with 12 goals and is joint second in scoring in Serie A so far this season. The 30-year-old has failed to find the back of the net in the last two games, though, and will need to remedy that situation if the home side are to spring a surprise on the league leaders.

Andrea Pirlo

The midfield metronome has kept things ticking in the middle of the park for Juve this season and has become an integral part of Antonio Conte’s squad. He will need to direct traffic in midfield as the Bianconeri look to extend their impressive unbeaten run.

Prediction

Atalanta have only lost once at home this season and will do just enough to pull off the upset and surprisingly end Juve’s 18-game unbeaten run on Saturday.

Editor's Prediction

Atalanta 2 - 1 Juventus

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

MATCH PREVIEW

Jan 20, 2012

Juventus boss Antonio Conte returns to Atalanta eager for his League leaders to be crowned Winter Champions.

Although the Old Lady took control of the Serie A table last weekend, it was primarily because Milan lost to Inter after the Bianconeri could only collect a 1-1 draw at home to Cagliari. That was clearly a disappointing result in Turin, but it was an historic point as Juve set a new club record thanks to their longest unbeaten start to a League campaign. Their 18 matches is one better than the 1949-50 team.

While Conte has yet to taste defeat as Juve tactician, he regularly digested failure during his problematic four-month spell at Atalanta. In 12 Serie A games in charge of the Nerazzurri in 2009-10, he collected just three wins and three draws.

Juve haven’t impressed since the Christmas break. Their win at Lecce was ugly and they struggled to break down a defensive Cagliari side who were more than content with a point in Turin. The likes of Claudio Marchisio and Simone Pepe, who had been instrumental for the club, have suffered dips in form which are penalising the Old Lady.

Italian international Giorgio Chiellini is expected to return to the left-back spot following his suspension on Sunday. He could be the only change to the starting XI as Conte may field virtually the same side that faced the Rossoblu – even if new boy Marco Borriello is pushing for a starting shirt. Emanuele Giaccherini and Fabio Quagliarella are fitness doubts though.

Juve, along with Milan and Lazio, have the best away record in the land this season thanks to their 17 points. They’ve also kept five clean sheets from their nine games outside of Turin.

Atalanta, meanwhile, were considered as a revelation in Serie A this term after they quickly wiped out their six-point penalty. However, their form has suffered recently and they’ve only won one of their last eight games in the top-flight – the 4-1 over Cesena on December 21.

They’ve also started the New Year poorly having suffered 2-0 losses to Milan – their first home defeat of the season – and Lazio. Cards at the Stadio Olimpico mean that the Bergamo boys will be without the suspended Stefano Lucchini and Carlos Carmona. German Denis, 12 goals in 18 games, will be a threat for the Nerazzurri though.

Historically speaking, Juve have the advantage in this one. In 50 Bergamo games, the Old Lady have won 21, drawn 22 and lost just seven. The last meeting here was in November 2009 when they won 5-2. Conte was on the Atalanta bench, Ciro Ferrara on the Juve one.

The Old Lady have won the last four away at Bergamo, with Atalanta’s last League success coming 2-1 in February 2001.

Keep an eye on: Ezequiel Schelotto (Atalanta) – The Argentine-born Italian Under-21 international has again spoken this week of his desire to win honours at full level. Likened to former Juve and Italy winger Mauro Camoranesi, he’ll be keen to impress Azzurri boss Cesare Prandelli.

Last time in Serie A: Atalanta 2-5 Juventus

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

Stat fact: In the last three League games at Bergamo, the aggregate score is - Atalanta 3-12 Juventus. Alex Del Piero has scored four of those.

Atalanta (probable): Consigli; Masiello, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura; Marilungo, Denis

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

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Preview

Jan 20, 2012

Juventus go into tomorrow's game at Atalanta boasting the stingiest defence in Serie A.

So far, the Bianconeri have yet to lose in the competition after letting in just 12 goals in 18 games.

But goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon says he and the team's backline do not deserve all the praise.

"It's true that our defence is doing well" Buffon told www.juventus.it.

"But this is thanks to the work of the whole team that with pressing and focus at certain lines means that the balls that arrive at my end are easy to control."

Buffon did concede a goal in last weekend's 1-1 home draw to Cagliari, though.

The result, Juve's second draw in their last three league games, saw the club miss a chance to move three points clear at the top of Serie A.

But Antonio Conte's men are still one point above AC Milan heading into this weekend's game, and Buffon expects his side to be tested at the Atleti Azzurri d'Italia stadium.

"It's going to be a delicate game" he said.

"It's always like that against Atalanta and more so considering their current form."

"We will go there determined to defend our current top spot in the standings."

Atalanta need three points to stop their slide.

The Bergamaschi, having begun the campaign with a six-point penalty for match-fixing, overcame that with a fine start to the season and ended the calendar year in 11th place.

Stefano Colantuono's men have lost their first two games of 2012, however.

They fell 2-0 to AC Milan and last week Lazio beat them, 2-0.

The results have seen the them drop to 15th place.

"We need to be humble and keep working" Cigarini said.

"We've faced a difficult calendar to start the year and we must leave behind us our last two defeats and concentrate on handing in a good performance against Juve."

Conte will have all of his players available with the exception of injured striker Fabio Quagliarella.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Round 19: Welcome to Atalanta

Jan 20, 2012

Although we’re a few weeks past the winter break, this weekend our beloved Bianconeri travel to Bergamo aka Hot-a-lanta, for the official midway point of the Serie A season. A win will guarantee that Juventus claim the so-called “Winter Championship,” which could provide a psychological boost for the rest of the term. Earlier this week Antonio Labbate had a good piece on how the winter champions have fared in the past. In a nutshell: the winter champion generally goes onto win it all in May, particularly in the era of 3 points for a win, as 12 out of 16 times the winter leader would go onto win the Scu…I mean…the league.

I will maintain my policy of not mentioning the S-word, and I will continue to manage my expectations. Particularly after last week’s drab draw. But after winning once in our last four games, we remain unbeaten — and due for a win in Atalanta.

Le chiavi: Last week I warned that Cossu in the hole could cause us problems, and that the centerbacks needed to keep an eye out for him roaming (coughBonercough). Predictably, Bonucci was caught napping, and a +3 was downgraded to a +1 more quickly than Aguero was eventually downgraded to Rossi and evaporated into Vucinic. Not that I still think about that or anything. Anyway, Atalanta similarly will use Moralez in the hole, but only one striker in front of him, German Denis who is one goal off from capocannonieri. Boner…I’m looking at you again.

My preference for this match would be to (surprise!) move Chiellini back to the center to partner up with Barzagli, and let Paolo De Ceglie — who was literally the one bright spot I could think of from last week’s wet blanket of a game — continue the form he displayed against Cagliari. That way il Dottore can have the job of marking the F out of him, like we’ve seen him do to some of the best strikers in his day.

Good news: The aforementioned Chiellini is back, after missing last week’s match due to suspension.

The bad: Conte is probably going to start him at left back, where one of the best defenders on the peninsula suddenly transforms into very-average-looking.

My starting XI: (4-3-3) Gigi; Kelso, Dottore, Dre, Forrest; Principino, Bon Pirlo, King Arthur; Vooch, A-Mat, Sgt. Pepe.

See what I did there? You all thought I was going to clamor for Elia to get a start again, didn’t you? Well, apparently he’s injured. Or is he…?

That’s a can of worms I’m not about to open.

Welcome to Atalanta!

Atalanta probable XI: (4-4-1-1) Consigli; Raimondi, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis.

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

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Match Preview

Jan 20, 2012

Juventus will be looking to extend their 18-game unbeaten run when they visit Atalanta in what is expected to be a hotly contested encounter.

Serie A leaders Juventus are hoping to extend their impressive 18-game unbeaten run when they travel to Bergamo to take on Atalanta at the Atleti Azzurri d'Italia stadium on Saturday.

Despite being held to a frustrating home draw by Cagliari last week, the Bianconeri still overtook Milan at the top of the league standings, after the Italian champions were edged out by city rivals Inter Milan at the San Siro on Sunday.

However, if Juventus intend to maintain league leadership they will have to be on top of their game against a difficult Atalanta side whose only home defeat of the season came against Milan a little less than a fortnight ago.

Due to Atalanta's good home record, it is likely to be a very hotly contested encounter, as both sides are in much need of the three points, even if they find themselves on opposite ends of the table.

Atalanta, who started the 2011-12 Serie A season with a six-point penalty for being found guilty in the Calcioscommesse betting scandal, come into the game having lost their last two matches, and if they continue with their recent downfall they could return to the Serie B next season.

Juventus will rate their chances of returning to Turin with the three points, and have reason to be as with 4 wins and 5 draws from nine away matches this season, they surely know a thing or two about playing in rival territory.

Veteran midfielder Antonio Pirlo has been able to pull the strings in the Juve midfield to great effect alongside Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal this season, and his display on Saturday could likely determine the outcome of the match.

Antonio Conte, the coach of Juventus, will be unable to count with the services of Dutch international Eljero Elia, who is sidelined with an ankle injury, while Fabio Quagliarella will also miss the match after undergoing surgery on his fractured cheekbone.

Meanwhile, Atalanta coach Stefano Colantuono will be able to field a full-strength side, apart from the suspended duo of Stefano Lucchini and Carlos Carmona.

Juventus have a significantly favourable history against Atalanta, with 21 victories and only 7 losses from 49 matches. The last game between the sides in 2009 finished 5-2 in favour of the Bianconeri, with former players Mauro Camoranesi scoring twice, and Felipe Melo, Diego and David Trezeguet also finding the back of the net for the victors.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Why Juventus may settle for away-day draw again

The Old Lady are unbeaten and top of Serie A but may have to be satisfied

with another stalemate at an Atalanta side who are tough to beat at home.

Jan 21, 2012

Juventus are the team at the summit and are enjoying a fine season. Currently sitting one point clear of Milan, the Old Lady are unbeaten in their 18 league games as they bid to win their first Serie A title since 2003.

On Saturday evening they travel to mid-table Atalanta, meaning coach Antonio Conte returns to the club he used to manage, not that Conte has many happy memories of his time with La Dea: he left the club in the relegation zone and in conflict with the clubs’ ultras – an unenviable position for any manager in Italian football.

So although Conte would no doubt love to get one over on his old charges on a personal level, more importantly Juventus have the opportunity to steal a march on the teams below them, who all play on Sunday, but a trip to Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia may not be as easy as it seems.

In bwin’s 3way odds Juventus are understandably favourites at 17/20, with the draw priced up at 47/20 and Atalanta the outsiders to snatch a home win at 333/100.

And after considering all the relevant factors, I think Atalanta are equipped to get a result.

Juventus may be unbeaten, but they have drawn eight of their 18 games and at the prices quoted, I would rather be on the 47/20 that the spoils are shared than any other result.

In The Old Lady’s nine away games, five have been drawn and Conte’s men have found goals hard to come by. Juve have scored just ten goals in their nine trips, drawing two blanks, meaning only twice have they scored more than one goal.

Defensively tight – they have conceded just six goals, three of which came in one match against Napoli – Juventus have kept five clean sheets during their unbeaten run.

Atalanta’s home record is alarmingly similar. Stefano Colantuono’s men have a 4-4-1 record in front of their own fans this season, their only defeat coming in their last match against AC Milan, and a record of just 11 goals scored explains why only four of their home fixtures have resulted in wins.

Yet a defensive record of just seven goals conceded shows they are a tough nut to crack and given Juventus’ lack of potency on the road, I’m firstly expecting a low-scoring affair.

The 13/20 that the match features under 2.5 goals should be taken – but I’m going to back the stalemate at 47/20 given the penchant both teams seem to have for sharing the points.

Correct score punters should look towards the fact Atalanta average 1.22 goals per home match and Juventus 1.11 away and take the 5/1 the match ends in 1-1 draw.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Pepe, Matri and Vucinic lead attack

for Juventus in Serie A clash at Atalanta

Coach Antonio Conte starts with the attacking trio in a difficult match

as his side look to clinch the winter championship.

Jan 21, 2012

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has opted for a front three of Simone Pepe, Alessandro Matri and Mirko Vucinic for the trip to face Atalanta in Saturday's Serie A encounter.

Matri is preferred to recent signing Marco Borriello through the centre for the Old Lady, while behind him Arturo Vidal, Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo all start.

In defence, Paolo De Ceglie comes in at left-back, meaning Giorgio Chiellini will shift into the centre of defence to replace Leonardo Bonucci.

For the home side, in-form German Denis leads the attack, as he looks to end Juve's unbeaten start to the season.

A win for the Bianconeri will see them clinch their first winter championship in six years.

Atalanta (4-4-1-1): Consigli; Raimondi, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis

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

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Line-ups

Jan 21, 2012

Juventus bring Giorgio Chiellini back into central defence, as they make only one change to face Atalanta this evening.

The Bianconeri will be crowned Winter champions if they manage to get a victory at the Stadio Azzurri d’Italia, something only Milan have achieved so far this season.

Their only absentees are Fabio Quagliarella and Eljero Elia, but Antonio Conte makes just one change from the side that was held 1-1 by Cagliari last week.

Chiellini returns from suspension and is redirected to central defence in place of Leonardo Bonucci, therefore keeping Paolo De Ceglie as full-back.

Marco Borriello and Milos Krasic find a spot on the bench, though Marcelo Estigarribia is sent to the stands.

This is a special game for Conte, who was in charge of Atalanta in 2009-10 before he was fired.

Atalanta are without Giampaolo Bellini and Daniele Capelli, while Stefano Lucchini and Carlos Carmona sit out bans.

Maxi Moralez gets the nod to partner German Denis in attack, leaving Under-21 international Manolo Gabbiadini on the bench.

Atalanta: Consigli; Raimondi, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura; Moralez, Denis

Atalanta bench:Frezzolini, Stendardo, Gabbiadini, Ferreira Pinto, Minotti, Marilungo, Tiribocchi

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, De Ceglie; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pepe, Matri, Vucinic.

Juventus bench:Storari, Bonucci, Marrone, Krasic, Giaccherini, Del Piero, Borriello

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

HT: Juve frustrated in Bergamo

Jan 21, 2012

Both sides had chances and an Arturo Vidal screamer rattled the crossbar, but it’s goalless at half-time between Atalanta and Juventus.

The Bianconeri knew a win would guarantee the Winter champion crown, in other words leaders at the half-way stage this season.

Antonio Conte returned to face his former club, but made only one change from the side that drew 1-1 with Cagliari last week, as Giorgio Chiellini returned from suspension to push Leonardo Bonucci out of the centre-back role. Atalanta had lost only once on home turf this term, but missed Giampaolo Bellini, Daniele Capelli and the banned Stefano Lucchini and Carlos Carmona.

There was a minute’s applause before kick-off for Mario Merelli, a legendary 50-year-old mountain climber and noted Atalanta fan who died during an excursion this week. He even sent a message to his beloved Orobici from the top of one of the world’s highest peaks.

Alessandro Matri should’ve scored after two minutes, but fired over from six yards. Simone Pepe then flashed an angled drive across the face of goal.

Atalanta also threatened, as German Denis chested down a cross for Simone Bonaventura’s volley into the ground, which Gigi Buffon plucked out from under the crossbar.

Matri went very close on 11 minutes, as a free kick eventually fell to the ex-Cagliari striker and his strike was fingertipped on to the far post by Andrea Consigli. From that corner, Mirko Vucinic stung Consigli’s palms at the near post.

An acrobatic attempt at a volley from Paolo De Ceglie whistled wide, while Michele Ferri’s similar effort only got him a nasty cut to the head for his trouble. Matri was incorrectly flagged offside, but had fired straight at Consigli anyway.

De Ceglie nodded over from an Andrea Pirlo free kick, though Chiellini risked giving away a penalty for his shirt-tug on Denis.

Pepe went on the counter to sting Consigli’s palms with a screamer from the edge of the box. Arturo Vidal went even closer, as he unleashed a blockbuster from distance that cracked against the crossbar, possibly with the aid of a Consigli fingertip.

Maxi Moralez chipped a pass on to Denis’ right foot for a splendid volley that flashed across the face of goal to skim the far post.

Atalanta 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Atalanta: Consigli; Raimondi, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura; Moralez, Denis

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

Ref: Celi

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000‎

Lichtsteiner and Giaccherini crown

Conte's men as winter champions

The Bianconeri dominated the contest in Bergamo, and are assured first place

at the halfway stage of the season thanks their four-point lead at the top.

Jan 21, 2012

Juventus overcame Atalanta 2-0 at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia to clinch the unofficial title of Serie A winter champions.

After a slew of first-half chances went begging, Stephan Lichtsteiner belatedly headed the visitors in front 10 minutes after the restart. Substitute Emanuele Giaccherini volleyed home a well-taken second with eight minutes to go to claim victory for Juventus, who provisionally move four points ahead of nearest rivals AC Milan.

Juventus attacked straight from kick-off, and nearly took the lead after only three minutes of play, but Alessandro Matri wasted a glorious chance, sidefooting Simone Pepe’s low cross over the bar from only a few yards out.

The visitors were taking the game to Atalanta in the early stages, and Pepe flashed an effort wide of the far post after latching onto Claudio Marchisio’s through ball.

Matri went even closer two minutes later, hitting the post from inside the area, before Mirko Vucinic coaxed a stunning save from Andrea Consigli with a powerful shot towards the top corner.

Atalanta managed to recover from the frantic start to gain a foothold in the game, but Juventus continued to create chances and always looked the more likely to break the deadlock.

Pepe took matters into his own hands with a barnstorming run from midfield five minutes before the break, but his shot at the end was beaten away by Consigli.

Barely a minute later, Arturo Vidal unleashed a fearsome drive from all of 30 yards that beat Consigli but smacked off the crossbar. Somehow, Atalanta had managed to make it to half-time with the score still goalless.

However, their luck would not hold for long in the second half, and a sublime pass by Andrea Pirlo completely unhinged the Atalanta defence, allowing Lichtsteiner to steal in at the far post and head the visitors in front.

Matri fashioned a great chance for himself shortly after the hour mark when he won possession in the opposition half and sprinted through on goal, but his finish deserted him once again as his lob attempt bounced just wide of the far post.

Juventus were comfortable at this point, and substitute Luca Marrone had a shot saved at the near post by Consigli after a neat one-two with Matri.

With eight minutes left, Juventus put the icing on the cake when Marrone’s delightful chipped ball was caught on the volley by fellow substitute Giaccherini to put the match beyond doubt.

The result sees Juventus move four points clear at the top, but that lead could be cut after Milan’s fixture against Novara on Sunday. Atalanta meanwhile remain in 15th place, five points off the relegation zone.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000‎

Juve wear Winter crown in Bergamo

Juventus have taken the Winter title with a 2-0 victory away to Atalanta

thanks to Stephan Lichtsteiner and Emanuele Giaccherini.

Jan 21, 2012

The Bianconeri knew a win would guarantee the Winter champion crown, in other words leaders at the half-way stage this season.

Antonio Conte returned to face his former club, but made only one change from the side that drew 1-1 with Cagliari last week, as Giorgio Chiellini returned from suspension to push Leonardo Bonucci out of the centre-back role. Atalanta had lost only once on home turf this term, but missed Giampaolo Bellini, Daniele Capelli and the banned Stefano Lucchini and Carlos Carmona.

There was a minute’s applause before kick-off for Mario Merelli, a legendary 50-year-old mountain climber and noted Atalanta fan who died during an excursion this week. He even sent a message to his beloved Orobici from the top of one of the world’s highest peaks.

Alessandro Matri should’ve scored after two minutes, but fired over from six yards. Simone Pepe then flashed an angled drive across the face of goal.

Atalanta also threatened, as German Denis chested down a cross for Simone Bonaventura’s volley into the ground, which Gigi Buffon plucked out from under the crossbar.

Matri went very close on 11 minutes, as a free kick eventually fell to the ex-Cagliari striker and his strike was fingertipped on to the far post by Andrea Consigli. From that corner, Mirko Vucinic stung Consigli’s palms at the near post.

An acrobatic attempt at a volley from Paolo De Ceglie whistled wide, while Michele Ferri’s similar effort only got him a nasty cut to the head for his trouble. Matri was incorrectly flagged offside, but had fired straight at Consigli anyway.

De Ceglie nodded over from an Andrea Pirlo free kick, though Chiellini risked giving away a penalty for his shirt-tug on Denis.

Pepe went on the counter to sting Consigli’s palms with a screamer from the edge of the box. Arturo Vidal went even closer, as he unleashed a blockbuster from distance that cracked against the crossbar, possibly with the aid of a Consigli fingertip.

Maxi Moralez chipped a pass on to Denis’ right foot for a splendid volley that flashed across the face of goal to skim the far post.

Straight after the restart Matri again turned off target from six yards, but it was Stephan Lichtsteiner who opened the scoring when he got down for a diving header at the back post from Pirlo’s cross, having got away from Bonaventura.

Matri pounced on a Ferri error to go clear on goal, but his lob was off target with Consigli well off his line. It was another wasted opportunity from the ex-Cagliari hitman.

Pepe was stretchered off after Guido Marilungo’s rough tackle on his right ankle. Chiellini did well to take a Maxi Moralez cross off the head of Denis, then from the corner ‘Tanque’ complained he’d been pulled down by the Italian international defender.

Substitute Luca Marrone’s one-two with Matri saw him denied by Consigli at the near stick. Moments later, 21-year-old Marrone set up Juve’s second goal with a delightful flick off the outside of his foot, allowing Emanuele Giaccherini to spring the offside trap and volley from nine yards.

Atalanta: Consigli; Raimondi, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto (Ferreira Pinto 77), Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura (Marilungo 62); Moralez (Gabbiadini 83), Denis

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, De Ceglie; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio (Giaccherini 46); Pepe (Marrone 69), Matri, Vucinic (Bonucci 86)

Ref:Celi

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000‎

Juve secure top spot

Jan 21, 2012

Juventus secured their place at the top of Serie A at the midway stage of the season with a 2-0 win over Atalanta in Bergamo.

After a one-sided first half in which Juve tried everything to score, they opened the scoring in the 55th minute through Stephan Lichtsteiner.

Substitute Emanuele Giaccherini added a second eight minutes from time as Antonio Conti's side opened up a four-point advantage over AC Milan at the top of the table.

Juventus hit the woodwork twice in a first half in which the ball just would not go in, despite their monumental efforts.

Alessandro Matri missed the first chance in the third minute, lifting his shot over the crossbar from six yards out before Simone Pepe placed his shot wide of the far post five minutes later.

Andrea Barzagli hit the left-hand post with a good shot on the turn in the 11th minute and Mirko Vucinic's shot was saved moments later as the Bianconeri laid siege to the Atalanta goal.

Shots were raining in from everywhere, including an Arturo Vidal effort from fully 30 yards which cannoned back off the crossbar.

With such an elevated number of missed chances, Juve could have been forgiven for thinking it was not going to be their night, but Lichtsteiner finally broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half.

Andrea Pirlo lifted the ball to the far post where the Swiss full-back guided it inside the post with a low header.

Matri missed the chance to make it two in the 62nd minute when he lifted the ball over Andrea Consigli but wide of the far post.

At the other end, Atalanta's top goalscorer German Denis was adamant that Giorgio Chiellini had pulled his shirt as he went down inside the area, still managing to get a shot in on goal as he went down.

Juve, who had eased off a little after scoring, sensed that one goal may not actually be enough and they started to attack again.

They got the goal to settle their nerves in the 82nd minute when Luca Marrone lifted the ball up into the area and Giaccherini took it on the volley to beat Consigli and seal the win for Juve.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000‎

Bianconeri Defense Dominates, Alessandro Matri Flounders

Jan 21, 2012

Antonio Conte has made a pretty quick run up the Italian football coach table. He went from coach of an Arezzo team that was relegated to Serie C1 in 2007, to winning Serie B with Bari the next season. After that, he was appointed as Atalanta's manager, but his tenure was unsuccessful.

Conte started well, but his team's form quickly fell. Their poor play eventually led to Atalanta's furious fans calling for Conte's resignation. Conte did indeed resign, and the police even had to step in to protect Conte from the Atalanta ultras. Conte went on to success at Siena, but nonetheless his time at Atalanta was not pleasant.

Today, Conte returns to Atalanta's stadium as head coach of the leading team in Serie A, and the best team in Calcio history, Juventus.

Perhaps Conte's redemption song inspired the Old Lady's players, as they dominated for most of the match and won 2-0. Granted, the two goals are a lot less impressive when one considers that they had eight shots on target and 18 shots overall.

Juve were great at creating chances to score today but mediocre at finishing. More specifically, Alessandro Matri continued his recent bad form with another stinker.

Matri has had some spectacular games this season, for example his brace against Genoa. However, lately he has failed to live up to standards.

It started when Mirko Vucinic was injured in December, but it has continued through Mirko's return. Luckily for Antonio Conte, he has other options, most notably the new arrival Marco Borriello. Borriello did not appear in today's match, though he seems ripe for some playing time against Roma in the Coppa Italia match on Tuesday.

Of course, Conte also has the legendary Alessandro Del Piero, who has failed to score this year. With a little more match time, however, he will surely knock a goal in.

Matri had shot after shot today, but he failed to make any of them count. He had shots that went right at Atalanta's goalkeeper; he had shots that went over him; and he had shots that went to his side—but none of them went into the goal.

Juventus had to rely on Stephan Lichtsteiner to give them the leading goal today. Andrea Pirlo sent forth a glorious pass that was perfectly aimed for the Swiss running machine to head it straight into goal.

Both men had fine matches, with Pirlo returning to his usual form after an odd dip in performance last week. Lichtsteiner has been perhaps the most consistent performer for Juve, and that's important since there really isn't another player to step in at right back.

Martin Caceres may finally find his way to Turin, but as of now Stephan is the only real option at right back.

After all, we can't trust Marco Motta. Marco Motta is a bad, bad man.

There were also some unorthodox substitutions made by Conte in this match, though one was due to circumstance. Simone Pepe was injured by a late sliding challenge from Federico Peluso, who received some words from Conte. Pepe would have to come out, and as of this writing his condition is still unknown. His replacement was to be the young Luca Marrone.

The other unorthodox substitution was that of Claudio Marchisio, who is usually a stalwart for Juventus. Also, his performance usually merits that status.

Marchisio was okay today, but Conte made a good decision to put some fresh legs into the midfield at half time with the inclusion of Emanuele Giaccherini.

Giaccherini and Marrone did their part to confirm Conte's decisions, as they worked together to score Juve's second goal. Marrone played a ball right through Atalanta's central defense to Giaccherini, who had been making a run. To cap the move off, Giaccherini slid the ball right past Andrea Consigli.

Marrone had another impressive movement when he played a little 1-2 pass with Ale Matri, Marrone serving as the end recipient. He smashed the ball towards the goal, but Andrea Consigli made an impressive save.

Consigli made many impressive saves today, but he also received some help from Ale Matri.

Marrone has impressed me in every appearance he's made this season. Even when he has only played for a few moments, he still manages to make an important linking pass to continue a counter attack, or a nice long ball to meet a winger's run.

Conte has been looking for some reinforcements in midfield, but he may a suitable option in Marrone. He is young, and still needs to prove that he can be consistent against tougher opposition, but he shows promise.

There was one other thing about today's Juve squad that was different: Paolo De Ceglie was starting at left back, while Giorgio Chiellini started in the center. Until his suspension last week, Chiellini had been playing as the left back for most of the games, with De Ceglie seeing time sparingly.

Last week, De Ceglie showed he deserved to start, and today he had another solid game. Chiellini, though, was more than impressive.

Today, Giorgio Chiellini was absolutely classy. He had 23 clearances and 19 of those were headed clearances. The player he was marking, Denis, was suffocated for most of the match, though he got a few shots in.

Perhaps it was the shift for Chiellini back to central defense; perhaps it was motivation to avenge Conte—whatever it was, Juventus took control today.

They had looked shaky last week against Cagliari, but they put in a very solid performance today. Yes, they struggled when it came to finishing, but for the most part this was due to Matri.

On the whole, this is a side that looks ready for their big Coppa Italia (aka TIM Cup) tie at home against Roma on Tuesday. Perhaps that game will see the inclusion of Eljero Elia and Fabio Quagliarella, two players who were off the teamsheet for today's game due to minor injuries.

The match against Roma is one of two big matches for Juventus next week, as they also face third-place Udinese over the weekend. Juventus have had some struggles the past few weeks against mediocre opposition, but seem to have gotten back to their usual impressive form.

Still, if they want to win against Roma and Udinese (teams who both tied Juventus the last time they played), they need to improve their finishing.

I think we know what Conte will be focusing on in practice this week.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Player Ratings

Goal.com casts a studious eye over the performers at the Stadio Atleti Azzuri d'Italia as two second-half goals see the visitors crowned as Serie A's winter champions.

Jan 21, 2012

Atalanta

Andrea Consigli 7.0 - Did everything right for the home side between the sticks, thwarting Juventus time and time again with his acrobatics and command of his area. His world-class save from Vucinic early in the first half was the main highlight of an impressive display, as he was the one person keeping the scoreline down.

Thomas Manfredini 5.5 - Like his central defensive partner, he looked shaky whenever Juventus looked to attack, and will probably be grateful to his goalkeeper for being there to clean up his mistakes.

Federico Peluso 4.5 - Left Pepe far too much space on the flanks in the first half, and was caught ball-watching on a few occasions as Juventus attacked in waves. Additionally, he lost sight of Lichtsteiner at the far post in the buildup to the opener, which gave the Juventus full-back the time he needed to head home.

Michele Ferri 5.5 - Simply could not cope with the Juve machine when the ball was around the box, especially in the first half onslaught. Was guilty of allowing Matri to give him the slip multiple times, though the Juventus striker's profligacy meant that his lapses were not as exposed as often as they should have been.

Ezequiel Matias Schelotto 5.0 - Made one or two bursts to make the Juventus defence think, but otherwise he was mainly used to man the flanks in his own half. Taken off with a quarter of an hour to go.

Luca Cigarini 5.0 - Did not have a productive time of it in the centre of the park, giving possession away cheaply far too many times and generally never getting to grips with the game,.

Simone Padoin 5.5 - Was cut to ribbons at times in the first half as Juventus ran rings around the Atalanta midfield. However, he improved after the break and made a steady finish to the game.

Cristian Raimondi 6.0 - Had an intriguing battle with Vucinic as they tussled more than once, but kept a better watch on the Montenegrin than Peluso did on Pepe down the opposite flank. Booked on the stroke of half-time for complaining after a free-kick was awarded to Juventus.

Giacomo Bonaventura 4.5 - With little time or space to make something happen on the wing, his contribution was limited to providing an extra body to defend out wide. Substituted just after the hour mark.

Germán Denis 5.0 - Pickings were extremely slim for him up front, with his one half-chance volleyed wide in the first half. Worked hard at chasing down lost causes, but did not have enough quality or support to make anything happen.

• Substitutions

Adriano Ferreira Pinto 5.0 - Played the last 15 minutes, but failed to make an impact.

Manolo Gabbiadini N/A - Given a seven-minute run out

Guido Marilungo 5.5 - Found it difficult to adjust to the pace of the game in his half-hour on the pitch.

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon 6.5 - The veteran keeper was never really in any danger from Atalanta, and handled his business between the posts with confidence to keep a clean sheet.

Giorgio Chiellini 7.0 - Produced a couple of spectacular clearances from dead ball situations to snuff out the Atalanta threat in the air, and generally held his own in the centre of defence.

Paolo De Ceglie 6.5 - Rarely tested defensively so he looked to get forward often, especially in the first half offensive avalanche. Provided a decent outlet on the left but should have done better when he headed Pirlo’s free-kick over from a great position.

Andrea Barzagli 6.5 - Made several timely interceptions, and even though he was caught out of position once or twice, had a solid game.

Stephan Lichtsteiner 7.5 - The full-back was very aggressive defensively, hardly allowing the Atalanta wide men time or space to get their bearings. Broke the deadlock with a nifty header after Pirlo’s brilliant pass, but picked up a silly yellow card for complaining.

Simone Pepe 7.0 - At times he was his side’s most dangerous outlet in the first half, constantly finding space on the wings while putting a few chances on a plate for his profligate team-mates. However, there was to be no direct reward for his endeavour, and he was taken off in the second half.

Claudio Marchisio 5.5 - Subdued outing for the midfielder, who did not contribute much outside of one or two clever passes, and was replaced at half-time.

Andrea Pirlo 7.5 - As ever, the veteran midfielder dictated play with his incisive passing, and initiated many a Juventus attack in this fashion. His gorgeous through ball helped finally break Atalanta’s resistance and allow Lichtsteinier to head in the opener.

Arturo Vidal Pardo 6.5 - For most of the game, he executed his role well, cleaning up all the loose ends in midfield. Nearly opened the scoring just before half-time with a howitzer from 30 yards out that cannoned back off the crossbar.

Mirko Vučinić 6.0 - The Montenegrin was not a constant threat from out wide, but there were moments when his deliveries into the box caused the Atalanta defence a few problems. Withdrawn with four minutes to go.

Alessandro Matri 5.0 - Left his shooting boots in the locker room, providing a catalogue of terrible misses on the night. The Italian should have had a hat-trick, but his radar was off as he wasted a slew of Juventus chances.

• Substitutions

Leonardo Bonucci N/A - Late cameo off the bench.

Emanuele Giaccherini 7.0 - Made a definitive impact off the bench, combining with fellow substitute Marrone to volley Juventus into an unassailable two-goal lead at the end of a great move.

Luca Marrone 6.5 - Another inspired substitution by Conte, Marrone helped put the icing on the cake with a sumptuous pass for Giaccherini to score. Almost had a goal himself, but for the fingertips of Consigli.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Giaccherini: To be crowned as winter champions is a 'great feeling'

The former Cesena forward, who capped off the Old Lady's win over Atalanta with an excellent

goal, says he is pleased with the achievement and insists he will only get better.

Jan 21, 2012

Juventus forward Emanuele Giaccherini has declared his happiness at his team being crowned as winter champions in Serie A, following their 2-0 victory over Atalanta on Saturday.

The forward has struggled for playing time in Turin since his summer arrival from Cesena, but he proved his worth with a fine goal to secure the three points, and the Bianconeri's status as league leaders for the first half of the season - a feat that he claims is a "great feeling".

"It's nice to be crowned the champions of winter; we wanted to remain in first place very much," said Giaccherini. "It's a great feeling, even if the championship is long and demanding.

"We hope to stay on top for as long as possible. The first part of the season says that we were the strongest.

"I work hard to be ready for team and I hope to get better," he concluded.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55')

Emanuele Giaccherini (81')

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Antonio Conte hails 'extraordinary' first half

to the Serie A season after win over Atalanta

The Bianconeri trainer has commended his side for becoming winter champions of Serie A,

praising their hard working nature and consistency, but now wants them to sustain their form.

Jan 21, 2012

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has branded his team's start to the season as "extraordinary", following their 2-0 victory over Atalanta in Serie A on Saturday.

Goals from Stephan Lichtsteiner and Emanuele Giaccherini inspired the Old Lady to an important win in their title push, and the trainer feels they are fully deserving of earning the distinction of being winter champions in Italy.

"We have enjoyed ​​a great first half to the season, we've performed at high levels and deserve to be there [at the top]," the trainer told Sky Sport Italia after the match.

"Today I think was the culmination of our efforts. Congratulations to the boys because they've done extraordinary things. Now we must be prepared to carry on giving 120-130 per cent.

"Each of my players is displaying more than 100 per cent, this explains why we are at the top. We have also disposed of the top teams that were tipped to beat us," concluded Conte.

Juventus have now opened up a four-point gap at the top of Serie A following their win, but Atalanta now face falling from 15th place.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Conte: 'Juve are extraordinary'

Jan 21, 2012

Antonio Conte can finally celebrate Juventus winning the Winter title after an “extraordinary” first half of the season.

The crown of Winter champions is given to the team on top of the table at the midway stage and more often than not it leads on to the Scudetto.

“Our first half of the campaign has been extraordinary,” he said after the 2-0 win away to Atalanta this evening ensured they remain unbeaten.

“We played at a very high level and tonight was the crowning moment. My lads have done remarkable things, but now we must continue giving 120 per cent, as that is the only way to keep hold of the top spot. We are out in front of teams that were favourites before the season began.

“We create many chances, but admittedly do miss quite a few as well, so I guess that’s inevitable. Perhaps we should be a little calmer, but the side does play with great intensity.

“Atalanta are an organised outfit, so we needed a great performance to beat them. There are some negatives from today, as we hope Claudio Marchisio and Simone Pepe’s injuries aren’t too serious.”

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′)

Emanuele Giaccherini (81′)

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Colantuono bows to Juve

Jan 21, 2012

Stefano Colantuono has no problems admitting “Juventus clearly deserved the victory,” even with the penalty Atalanta was denied.

The Bergamo club was beaten 2-0 on home turf this evening, their third consecutive Serie A defeat.

“There’s nothing we can say, as Juve clearly deserved the victory. We had studied the move for the first goal this morning, so it’s a shame that we still conceded anyway.

“Juve are physically strong and, once they have broken the deadlock, they do kill you off. There is too much of a gap between our teams at the moment.

“Our position in the table is still good and it was only to be expected we’d struggle when facing Milan, Lazio and Juventus in a row. We may not be in great shape, but the Bianconeri are stronger and I cannot ask for more from my players.”

Atalanta also had recriminations, as German Denis twice appeared to be hauled to the ground by Giorgio Chiellini.

“I don’t know, it’s tough in these situations because some referees give the penalty and some don’t. It’s certainly not the reason we lost, though, so let us not grasp at excuses. Juve deserved the three points.”

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55')

Emanuele Giaccherini (81')

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Colantuono admits Juventus deserved 2-0 win:

‘There is too much of a gap between our teams’

Atalanta’s coach is not disappointed in his players for slipping to defeat

against the Serie A table-toppers and refuses to blame the loss on refereeing.

Jan 22, 2012

Stefano Colantuono admits that Juventus deserved their 2-0 victory over Atalanta, refusing to focus on his side’s penalty claims against who he feels were vastly superior opponents.

Goals from Stephan Lichtsteiner and Emanuele Giaccherini sunk the hosts to take Antonio Conte’s side, at least temporarily, four points clear at the top of Serie A, and the home coach believes that the table-topping quality shone through for the visitors.

“There’s nothing we can say, as Juve clearly deserved the victory,” Colantuono told reporters after the game.

“We had studied the move for the first goal [on Saturday] morning, so it’s a shame that we still conceded anyway.

“Juve are physically strong and, once they have broken the deadlock, they do kill you off. There is too much of a gap between our teams at the moment.”

The result leaves Atalanta 15th place in the table, five points away from the relegation zone, but Colantuono is not worrying just yet.

“Our position in the table is still good and it was only to be expected we’d struggle when facing Milan, Lazio and Juventus in a row,” the 49-year-old said calmly.

“We may not be in great shape, but the Bianconeri are stronger and I cannot ask for more from my players.”

There were suggestions during the game that Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini had brought German Denis down in the box, with no penalties awarded, but the orobici trainer was unwilling to blame the defeat on refereeing.

“I don’t know, it’s tough in these situations because some referees give the penalty and some don’t. It’s certainly not the reason we lost, though, so let us not grasp at excuses,” he insisted.

“Juve deserved the three points.”

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55')

Emanuele Giaccherini (81')

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Lichtsteiner: Juventus should always play for the Serie A title

The Switzerland international has expressed his satisfaction with the win over Atalanta,

and feels that the Bianconeri are of a status that demands always targetting the Scudetto.

Jan 22, 2012

Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner has voiced his delight with Saturday's 2-0 Serie A win away against Atalanta and added that a team of the Old Lady's calibre should always be playing for top honours.

The Switzerland international, who opened the scoring in Bergamo before Emanuele Giaccherini added a second late in the second half to put the match to bed, was very happy with his side's performance.

"Being winter champions doesn’t count for much. For us it’s important to be first," he said on the club's official website.

"Today [saturday] it was great to win in this way, with a great performance, creating many opportunities. We were more aggressive than last week, and we dealt well with gaining possession of the ball.

"Juventus must always play for the Scudetto," Lichtsteiner argued.

"We’re an extremely strong side and everything’s possible. However, we’re not thinking about the title, but winning all our games, then we’ll see what will happen."

Juventus currently sit atop of the Serie A table with 41 points from 19 games.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55')

Emanuele Giaccherini (81')

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Massimiliano Allegri: AC Milan & Juventus

are the favourites for the Serie A title

The Rossoneri coach has voiced his opinion that his side and the Bianconeri are the two teams

with the best chance of walking away with the Scudetto come the end of the season.

Jan 22, 2012

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri feels that his side and Juventus are the two favourites to win the Scudetto, following their results in the first half of the 2011-12 campaign.

Juve extended their unbeaten run this term to 19 games by beating Atalanta 2-0 on Saturday, and have so far collected 41 points.

Milan, on the other hand, recorded a 3-0 win over Novara on Sunday courtesy of a Zlatan Ibrahimovic brace as well as a Robinho goal, consequently closing the gap with the Old Lady to one point.

"Juventus are keeping up an impressive pace. They are still unbeaten halfway through the season. They are the favourites to win the Scudetto along with us," Allegri declared to the assembled press after the victory over Novara.

"However, we obviously can't rule out the other teams just yet. Udinese, Roma and Inter are doing pretty well.

"We really needed the full three points against Novara in order to reach the 40-point mark, the goal we had set at the start of the season."

Milan start the second half of the Serie A season with a home game against Cagliari on January 29.

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

[Socrates 8399]

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Stephan Lichtsteiner (55')

Emanuele Giaccherini (81')

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 21000

Why winter champions Juventus have history on their side

in their bid for the Serie A title

Unbeaten and unbowed, the Bianconeri lead the way after 19 rounds, but despite a poor recent

post-Christmas record, there is one stat which suggests they are champs in the making.

Jan 22, 2012

It may only be a symbolic award, but Juventus clinched the winter championship on Saturday with their 2-0 victory over Atalanta, completing an unbeaten andata to sit top of Serie A at the halfway stage for the first time in six years.

But while they may receive no silverware for leading the way after 19 rounds, recent history is on their side, with the last seven league titles being won by the winter champions.

The Bianconeri have undoubtedly been the most consistent side so far, with every other club having lost at least three fixtures, but coach Antonio Conte will not be taking anything for granted just yet with AC Milan only one point behind.

The regular smattering of draws has been the only drawback for the Old Lady so far, with dropped points at home to Bologna, Genoa and last week against Cagliari undermining their otherwise sensational start to the campaign.

But their record against some of those chasing has been what has set them apart. Victories over Milan, Inter and Lazio, plus draws away to Udinese, Roma and a sensational 3-3 with Napoli have proven that Juve can take on their big rivals.

They also had a very good record against the top six last season, but this term Conte has been able to get his side up for many of those matches people would normally expect them to take in their stride. Much of that is down to the addition of Andrea Pirlo, whose ability to add an extra dimension and pick apart the opposition has proven a much-needed feather in Juventus’ cap.

Above all else though, Conte’s insistence on a relentless work rate from front to back has been the greatest catalyst. With a still-suspect defence, many would not have expected the Bianconeri to have kept 10 clean sheets by this point, but their high pressing game has resulted in a huge percentage of possession over the course of the season, and the ball has more often than not been in the opposition half.

The best form of defence is attack, they say. And Juve’s forward line has been exemplary in their hassling and harrying of the opposition. While they could easily have bagged a great deal more goals from the amount of possession and chances they have enjoyed so far, the fact that so many opportunities have come their way has been thanks in large part to their pressing style.

The midfield has adapted well to Conte’s 4-1-4-1 come 4-3-3 system, with Pirlo’s role at the axis laying the platform for the all-rounder Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio, whose six goals so far have been vital to the cause. And the wide men have been led by the desire of Simone Pepe.

However, with 19 more fixtures come 19 more tests. Some fans began to wonder as early as September whether this Juventus could go the whole season unbeaten, and while it is still premature to suggest that is a real possibility, their consistency suggests few will be given the chance to beat them on a plate.

With 41 points gained so far, a greater conversion rate into victories would be welcomed. While 82 points has been enough to win the last two Serie A titles, those tallies have been below the norm since the 38-game season came into force in 2004. Champions Milan are sure to have a say in the title race, but if Juve can maintain their consistency and add a clinical edge up front, they will be difficult to overhaul.

Their great concern right now must be that they have a dreadful record over the past two ritorno campaigns. A miserable early-2010 under Alberto Zaccheroni was followed up by an almost equally poor spell 12 months ago for Luigi Del Neri's men. This Juve looks different, but with still many of last season's side in the current ranks, it should not be discounted that the scars may remain.

All seven winter champions in the 38-game era have eventually got their hands on the silverware that counts. The gauntlet is thrown down to Juve to make it eight.

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