Juventus Season 2011-2012

Socrates · April 21, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Quagliarella in Juve-Roma squad

Apr 21, 2012

Fabio Quagliarella is in the Juventus squad to face Roma on Sunday evening after Antonio Conte said he was in real doubt to feature.

The striker had been widely tipped to start tomorrow evening, but Conte declared during the press conference that Quagliarella was suffering from an upper thigh problem.

The former Napoli and Udinese forward is in the squad, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll be fit to start or even for a place on the bench.

Juventus squad: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Pepe, Marchisio, Del Piero, De Ceglie, Manninger, Vucinic, Barzagli, Quagliarella, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Vidal, Borriello, Giaccherini, Lichtsteiner, Estigarribia, Storari, Matri, Marrone.

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

Socrates · April 21, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Round 34 (33): The Most Important Match of the Season?

Apr 21, 2012

Everywhere you look, every paper you open, you see the storylines surrounding Sunday's match at Juventus Stadium.

It is, of course, the first weekend of action since the calcio world lost Piermario Morosini. Might it be the last time we see two Legends, Totti and Del Piero, on the field together? It is the beginning of the final charge in the current campaign. That means, for our beloved Bianconeri, it is the beginning of the final push towards a third star accompanying those lovely Black and White stripes.

I don't know about you, but I'm ready for some football.

Avanti!

Out of the remaining six games, this is the one that would give Juventus the most trouble. It's at Juventus Stadium, sure. It's against a Roma team that has certainly had its share of ups and downs this season. But this is a Roma team that is fighting for the third and final Champions League spot.

Take a look at Juventus' schedule after this game; the teams they play lie — as of this moment — 20th (Cesena), 19th (Novara), 18th (Lecce), 14th (Cagliari) and 10th (Atalanta). But forget the schedule, this is all a conspiracy because Max Allegri said so.

Juve win this one and it's nothing but provincial sides from here on out. Sounds good to me.

Le chiavi: Roma has had a Mirko Vucinic-ish kind of season. Sometimes they're very good, sometimes they're just kind of meh, and sometimes they're flat out bad. Their form is a clear reflection of that. They can play basically even with Milan one day and then get throttled by Lecce — yes, Lecce — just a few weeks later. That's just how its seemed to go for Roma as they continue to rebuild in a post-Sensi world.

It's still a huge game regardless of what Roma shows up. We all know what the implications are and what happens win, lose, or draw. I'd love to see the so-so one show itself, but in this kind of game with both teams fighting for their own respective targets, sometimes form doesn't exactly matter.

Good news: The unfortunate postponement of Round 33's games — which will be made up on next Tuesday/Wednesday — not only gave the team a well-deserved break, but also means no suspensions. Yes, everybody's available. I know I've said it for the past couple of weeks, but this time of year and to dealt with as few injuries as Juventus has, it's really amazing.

Bad news: Look who's refereeing this one.

My starting XI (4-3-3): San Gigi; Swiss Beats, Dre, Giorgione, Paolo De Kutcher; KIng Arthur, Jon Bon Pirlo, Principino; Pepinho, Mitra Matri, Vucinic Quagliabella

There's a Vucinic missing. That's on purpose, people. I know we can't get away from him, but dammit I want to just for one game. It'd be nice not to yell at my television because of a Mirko turnover.

But who knows. If the rumblings about Conte going with a 3-5-2 come out to be true, then I look completely stupid. Then again, it wouldn't be the first time — or last — that its happened.

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

Socrates · April 21, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Conte: Scommessopoli allegations will not destabilise Juventus

The Bianconeri boss reacted calmly to claims made by one of his former players

that he was aware Siena's match with Novara last season was being influenced.

Apr 21, 2012

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has remained tight-lipped over accusations made by former Siena midfielder Filippo Carobbio that he was once involved in Scommessopoli.

The midfielder, who now plies his trade with Spezia, told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport on Saturday that the 43-year-old knew Siena's 2-2 draw with Novara last season was being rigged, a charge that, if proven, could carry a three-year prison sentence.

However, at a press conference ahead of Juve's Serie A encounter with Roma on Sunday, Conte appeared to maintain his innocence in the betting scandal.

"I have read the newspapers today, and in regards to the statements made by Carobbio, I have little to say. There is an ongoing investigation, but I am very calm," he said.

To date I have not been called by anyone, but when they call me, I will have the pleasure of speaking to these people and answering their questions.

"Will these attacks destabilise my team? Not a chance. If anything, they will have tripled our strength to achieve something monumental. It's part of the game, but they are things that can only increase our determination."

Conte then turned his attention to the weekend clash with Roma and spoke of the responsibility he has of leading a winning team, but also had praise for his counterpart Luis Enrique.

"It will be a tough game, and we will face a team in good shape," he continued. "Are we obliged to win? Always. Juve, Inter and AC Milan play only for victory.

"Being only six matchdays away from the end of the season with the chance of achieving our dream [of lifting the Serie A title] is beautiful. It makes us proud and now it's time to give everything.

"I hold great esteem and respect for Luis Enrique, he has always had the full support of his club and his fans. He has introduced a new mentality at Trigoria, and I'm sure it has been fully accepted by everyone."

The former Italy midfielder also spoke about Alessandro Del Piero, who is set to leave Juve in the summer, and hinted he is still a useful asset to the club.

"Alex is still looking great from a physical aspect, but he remains as concentrated as everyone else for the season finale and is hoping to take home a trophy," Conte concluded.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Vucinic: 'Roma not like others'

Apr 22, 2012

Mirko Vucinic admits tonight’s clash with his former Roma teammates is “not a game like any other” for the Juventus striker.

The Montenegrin is expected to start in this evening’s Serie A match in Turin against the Giallorossi.

“Time for Roma. Obviously, this is not a game like any other for me,” confessed Vucinic on his official Facebook page.

“In order to continue dreaming, we cannot give up!”

He left the Olimpico club in the summer and Juve are currently top of the table, while Roma are pushing for third place.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Projects collide as Juventus meets Roma

Apr 22, 2012

Change was in the air at both Vinovo and Trigoria last summer. Seeking a return to pre-Calciopoli heights, Juventus turned to former captain Antonio Conte, meanwhile some 500kms south and following years of financial uncertainty, American businessman Thomas Di Benedetto led the Roman revolution. As 2011-12 nears completion, two of Italian football’s most interesting constructions have straddled different paths but appear to be headed for brighter times.

Their respective choices in playing stocks and on the bench were a careful consideration of philosophies and level of development. The Bianconeri – after beginning under Luigi Delneri - aimed for ready-made players capable of attaining their minimum goal of Champions League football, such as Stephan Lichtsteiner, Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Mirko Vucinic. Starting from scratch, Roma’s hierarchy deliberately targeted the future with signings such as Erik Lamela, Jose Angel, Miralem Pjanic, Bojan Krkic and Fabio Borini. Also, if Juventus went for a familiar face in Conte, Roma went the opposite way by signing Barcelona B Coach Luis Enrique.

The Lecce native built the team around the three-man midfield of Vidal, Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio. It shields a miserly defence - the best in Europe’s top five leagues, which concedes fewer than ten shots per match - whilst also contributing 13 goals. Juve’s average possession rate of 61.2 percent is Serie A’s highest and their 85 percent pass completion rate is equal-first alongside Roma. However, their 53 goals scored from a League high average of 19 shots per game is their weakest area.

More than a system, Conte has instilled a winning mentality at Juventus, the same attitude he conveyed as a player, which to him is critical: “It’s while I was part of that Juventus (under Marcello Lippi) that I learned what it means to be a winner. Even now, the most important thing I do as a Coach is to transmit that knowledge to my players.” Gianluigi Buffon agrees, noting Juve’s secret this season has been Conte’s ambition.

In Rome, the desire to duplicate the Spanish style initially manifested itself from two angles. Enrique’s favoured 4-3-3 formation differed from Luciano Spalletti’s fluent 4-2-3-1 and Claudio Ranieri’s 4-3-1-2. Its introduction, along with a number of new individuals, meant time was required to adjust. Their season start included four losses in the first ten matches.

Enrique altered tactically, reverting to a recognisable 4-3-1-2 Roma could steadily grow from, whilst incorporating the Spaniard’s style. They only trail Juve in terms of possession, shots per match and short passes completed. Where last term only David Pizarro and Daniele De Rossi averaged over 50 passes a game and with John Arne Riise third on 42, eight players better Riise’s mark. It indicates a team comfortable in possession, akin to Spalletti’s Lupi.

The second major alteration was the use of De Rossi. From the right of a midfield three he did not have a defined creative or defensive role. This has changed under Enrique as De Rossi is positioned ala Sergio Busquets at the midfield base. His primary job is to craft from deep and only fellow creators Pirlo (84) and Riccardo Montolivo (67) average more passes per match than De Rossi’s 66, plus he also assists by winning the ball back quickly – a key focus for Enrique – and sits in the top ten for interceptions in Serie A.

Whilst Juve have remained undefeated and are first, erasing many of the issues which plagued their past two seasons, Roma have experienced a mixed campaign with 15 wins and 12 losses. That is one more than last term and doubles that of their Scudetto-pursuit in 2009-10. Defensively Roma look suspect considering their fifth place. They concede four more shots per match than Juve, complete the least amount of tackles in Serie A and their 42 goals conceded is the second highest of teams in the top half. Greater defensive cohesion is an area Roma must improve in order to challenge for honours. But as he stressed in August, “I don’t have a crystal ball and I’m not Harry Potter,” Enrique acknowledged it will take time to cultivate his ideas.

Nonetheless, as he noted last week, Roma still can finish this campaign positively: “It’s true we’ve had some terrible results, but we must’ve done something right to stay up there fighting for the Champions League.” Conte meanwhile has almost steered Juve towards the Scudetto, but he too recognises they need strengthening in certain areas. And when Juventus and Roma meet at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday, it is another step along their exciting new paths.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Serie A Preview - Hosts aim to stay top of Serie A

as club legends Del Piero and Totti meet again

It may be the last time that the two World Cup winners meet as the Turin giants look to stay

one step ahead of AC Milan and the visitors hope for Champions League qualification.

Apr 22, 2012

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini

Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio

Pepe, Quagliarella, Vucinic

ROMA

Stekelenburg

Rosi, Kjaer, De Rossi, Angel

Pjanic, Gago, Marquinho

Totti

Osvaldo, Lamela

Once again, Juventus coach Antonio Conte will have a full squad at his disposal with no suspensions or injuries to worry him. His main concern will be deciding between a 3-5-2 and 4-3-3 formation, with the latter looking more likely in order to more closely match up against the Giallorossi.

The recent good form of centre-back Leonardo Bonucci could result in Giorgio Chiellini being pushed out to the left of the defence. Meanwhile, Fabio Quagliarella seems set to lead the line upfront, but Alessandro Matri and Marco Borriello are also in contention to start.

Bianconeri talisman Alessandro Del Piero, set to leave the club at the end of the season, could face fellow Serie A icon Francesco Totti for the final time in his career.

On the opposite side of the pitch, Roma boss Luis Enrique has been toying with the idea of using Daniele De Rossi in defence during recent training sessions, a tactic he utilised earlier in the season as injury-prone Nicolas Burdisso and Juan remain on the sidelines - meaning ex-Real Madrid man Fernando Gago would anchor the midfield.

In-form Pablo Daniel Osvaldo is certain to start in attack as Erik Lamela and Fabio Borini, who could return from a leg muscle injury, vie for the remaining spot ahead of playmaker and captain Totti.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus remain unbeaten in Serie A and have the best defence, conceding just 18 goals and only allowing one in their last six matches.

• Conte's men are the team that has drawn the most times in the top flight this season, sharing the spoils a total of 14 times thus far.

• Del Piero has bagged a total of 10 Serie A goals against the capital side in his career, his second-favourite target after Siena.

• Roma have only been able to secure one victory in their last 13 Serie A encounters against Juventus.

• Summer signing Osvaldo has four goals in his last five matches and a total of 11 in 23 appearances during the 2011-12 league campaign.

• The Giallorossi have won just one of their last seven matches on the road in Serie A, a 1-0 victory against Palermo on March 10.

Head to Head

Coppa Italia ‎- Jan 24, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Roma 0

Serie A ‎- Dec 12, 2011 - Roma 1 - Juventus 1

Serie A ‎- Apr 3, 2011 - Roma 0 - Juventus 2

Coppa Italia ‎- Jan 27, 2011 - Juventus 0 - Roma 2

Serie A ‎- Nov 13, 2010 - Juventus 1 - Roma 1

Last Five Matches

Juventus

Apr 11, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Lazio 1 - Serie A

Apr 7, 2012 - Palermo 0 - Juventus 2 - Serie A

Apr 1, 2012 - Juventus 3 - SSC Napoli 0 - Serie A

Mar 25, 2012 - Juventus 2 - FC Internazionale 0 - Serie A

Mar 20, 2012 - Juventus 2 - AC Milan 2 - Coppa Italia

Roma

Apr 11, 2012 - Roma 3 - Udinese 1 - Serie A

Apr 7, 2012 - Lecce 4 - Roma 2 - Serie A

Apr 1, 2012 - Roma 5 - Novara 2 - Serie A

Mar 24, 2012 - AC Milan 2 - Roma 1 - Serie A

Mar 19, 2012 - Roma 1 - Genoa 0 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Fabio Quagliarella

With his recent performances, the former Udinese and Napoli striker is reported to be back in contention for a spot in the Italy squad at Euro 2012 and will have a great chance to prove himself if chosen in the starting XI by coach Conte.

Daniele De Rossi

The Giallorossi's 'Captain Futuro' put in a man-of-the-match display last time these sides met in Serie A during a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Olimpico while playing at centre-back, Luis Enrique will be hoping for a performance of similar ilk from the 28-year-old in order to tame Andrea Pirlo and Co.

Prediction

Roma's away record (W5 D2 L9) leaves plenty to be desired and while they typically are fired up for clashes with Juventus and they arguably have the quality to challenge the hosts, they lack the organisation and discipline. Expect the Bianconeri to continue their good form as they attempt to win the Scudetto.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 2 - 1 Roma

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

MATCH PREVIEW

Apr 22, 2012

Juventus continue their Scudetto bid by welcoming in-form Roma to Turin, where Mirko Vucinic and Marco Borriello face their old teammates.

The Bianconeri are just one point clear at the top of the table and know the title is ‘now in our hands’. With Milan breathing down their necks, a slip-up cannot be afforded, while the Giallorossi are also desperate for points in the race for Champions League qualification.

Antonio Conte has a full squad to choose from and looks likely to pick former Roma star Vucinic with either Fabio Quagliarella or Alessandro Matri. The third point in the Juve trident is also familiar with the Giallorossi, as Simone Pepe grew up in their youth academy. Considering Conte’s usual approach, he should mirror Luis Enrique’s 4-3-3 system in his search for a sixth consecutive League win.

Roma are a spectacularly inconsistent side, something their Spanish Coach has confessed to, as they can go from thrashing Novara and Udinese to falling 4-2 at relegation strugglers Lecce. Their away form is particularly poor, losing five of their last six games outside the Olimpico. Considering Juventus have only dropped Serie A points on five occasions in their new stadium, a strong bet would be on a home win.

Francesco Totti has shaken off injury concerns, but Juan, Marco Cassetti, Bogdan Lobont and Nicolas Burdisso are still out of action. It is possible Daniele De Rossi will again be given a role in central defence, where he has shone of late, but another option is for Simon Kjaer to partner Gabriel Heinze. Marquinho is likely to get the nod in midfield after impressing recently.

Keep an eye on: Mirko Vucinic (Juventus) – The Montenegrin will be particularly eager to prove a point against the club he fought so hard to leave last summer. The Roma fans never really liked Vucinic and he is finding a not too dissimilar situation in Turin, where his inconsistency can be incredibly frustrating. It must be impossible for him to lack motivation and drive in this match, though.

Form Guide: Juventus (W W W W D) Roma (W L W L W)

Last season: Juventus 1-1 Roma

Stat fact: Juve have not won this Serie A fixture since a 2-0 result in November 2008, followed by a 2-1 defeat and last season’s 1-1 stalemate. They also met twice here in the Coppa Italia in January 2011 and 2012, picking up one victory each. The last time Roma kept a Serie A clean sheet here was in their 2-0 September 2001 win.

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

Roma: Stekelenburg; Rosi, Kjaer, Heinze, Jose Angel; Pjanic, De Rossi, Marquinho; Lamela, Totti, Osvaldo

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus v AS Roma: Preview

Apr 22, 2012

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has labelled tonight's game against European hopefuls Roma as the "most important" left in their season.

The Turin giants go into the encounter in Turin unbeaten this campaign and riding a five-match winning streak.

Their 2-1 triumph over Lazio last time out lifted Juventus to the top of the Serie A standings, one point clear of AC Milan with six games left to play.

"We have to have the right approach to this game," Bonucci said.

"We have to hand a similar performance to what we showed against Lazio.

"This is like a final, it is the most important game out of the six we have left.

"We must win at all costs. It depends on us."

Juve, coached by Antonio Conte, are showing few signs of weakness.

The Bianconeri have found the back of the net 14 times in their last five league games while they have given away just one goal in their last six.

Rivals Roma have won just eight of their 48 league encounters at Juventus.

The Eternal City giants travel north looking to climb further up in the Serie A table.

The Giallorossi leapfrogged Napoli into fifth place with a 3-1 triumph over Udinese last time out.

That result followed their 4-2 defeat at Lecce and allowed Roma to close the gap on third-placed city rivals Lazio to four points.

The top three teams in Serie A qualify for Champions League football next season.

"We want to finish third," Roma striker Fabio Borini said.

"But our season will not depend on the game in Turin."

Borini is set to play alongside Daniel Osvaldo in Roma's attack.

Roma are hoping to recover goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, who is doubtful with the flu.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus v Roma – Preview

Apr 22, 2012

Juventus welcome Roma in Turin for an important match in both teams’ season. Juve are on top of the table and on course for the Scudetto, while Roma still have a chance to finish third and qualify for the Champions League.

Team News

Juventus

Coach Antonio Conte is likely to play with a 4-3-3 formation, with Fabio Quagliarella likely to play in the center of the attack ahead of Alessandro Matri and Marco Borriello. The Bianconeri have no injuries or suspensions to contend with.

Possible formation: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pepe, Quagliarella, Vucinic.

Roma

Daniele De Rossi is likely to play in central defence, with Gabriel Heinze alongside him and Simon Kjaer on the bench. Fernando Gago, Miralem Pjanic, and Marquinho will form the midfield, unless coach Luis Enrique decides to use De Rossi in his natural position. Defenders Nicolas Burdisso, Juan, and Marco Cassetti are all out injured, as well as goalkeeper Bogdan Lobont.

Possible formation: Stekelenburg; Taddei, Heinze, De Rossi, Jose Angel; Pjanic, Gago, Marquinho; Totti; Bojan, Osvaldo.

Team Analysis

Juventus

The Old Lady have been impressive throughout this season, and recently regained the top spot on the table after being overtaken by Milan for a while, with a strong run of results. They are also still unbeaten, and are currently on a run of five consecutive wins, which they obtained against the likes of Fiorentina, Inter, Napoli, Palermo and Lazio, with the 5-0 rout of the Viola away from home being the highlight.

The Bianconeri hold a slim one-point advantage over Scudetto rivals Milan, although they also have the advantage of being ahead in the head-to-head, which would favour Juve if the teams finished level. The calendar would certainly seem to favour the Bianconeri as well, since they will be facing a number of teams on the lower end of the table, although they will certainly be hungry for points also. There are still six matches to go and it’s very much an open race for the Serie A title.

Roma

The Giallorossi have had a very rollercoaster-like season with many ups and downs, but they are still in contention for a Champions League spot. Coach Luis Enrique has had a turbulent first season at the club, and has always struggled to give the team consistency, even though they have often shown good football. Currently Roma are in fifth place, four points below third-placed Lazio, who seem to be the favourites to finish third at the moment.

Inter and Napoli, both two points below Roma, are also still in contention for third place, although their chances seem a bit more slim. A good result here against a team that remains a fierce rival for the Giallorossi, would certainly give them a big boost ahead of the final part of the season as they continue their hunt for a Champions League place.

Players to watch

Mirko Vucinic (Juventus)

The Montenegro striker moved from Roma to Juventus last summer, and has been something of a mixed bag. Although he has shown moments of genius, his inconsistency remains a problem, one he can’t seem to shake off. However, it’s likely a lot of eyes will be pointed at him in this match against his former side, so he’ll be motivated to do well.

Francesco Totti (Roma)

The legendary Roma captain has a good goalscoring record against Juventus, and usually delivers in these kinds of matches. This season has been a tough one for Totti, as he has sometimes been relegated to the bench by coach Luis Enrique, although that was mostly at the start of the season. Also, a total of five goals in Serie A is a disappointing return for ‘Er Pupone’.

Prediction: Juventus-Roma 2-2

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus vs. Roma Preview:

Projects Collide in Torino in late Spring

Apr 22, 2012

Juventus currently sit on top of the table in Serie A and look to maintain the +1 advantage tomorrow when welcoming the Wolves of Rome to the Juventus Stadium. The last few weeks have been a bit topsy-turvy, with Milan and Juventus exchanging positions at the top.

Antonio Conte's men are in great position heading into the last month of the season. Having battled the biggest sides already- Lazio, Napoli, Inter, and Milan, all beaten, Juventus face their last big test of the season when taking on Luis Enrique's Roma side.

The two teams both underwent a massive rebuilding project in the last season. Juventus discarded an old Italian coach and opted for a former legend, Roma discarded a former legend and opted for a young Spanish coach. Antonio Conte has far and beyond exceeded expectations in Torino this year, and Luis Enrique has had a relatively successful tenure as well- while there are significant gaps and problems within their side, they still firmly sit in the hunt for 3rd place.

Juventus have battled Enrique's Roma twice this season- the first encounter occurred at the Stadio Olimpico di Roma, just two weeks after playing Lazio at the same venue. Roma was in relatively dire straights- there were heavy rumors that Luis Enrique would be sacked by Christmas, but their team put on an inspired display, perhaps their best of the season thus far. As has been the case for all sides this season, it wasn’t enough to capture all 3 points.

The second match occurred in the Coppa Italia match in Torino a few months ago. Unlike the first meeting, a relatively even tussle between two possession-based sides, Juventus dominated the match with a decent amount of rotation between the two teams. The 3-5-2 was returning “in vogue” for Antonio Conte, and it resulted in a 3-0 thrashing, with Del Piero marking his first goal of the season. (and what a goal it was) It was proof that while Conte's side was a relatively mature side, Luis Enrique had a lot of work to do.

Juventus

The spring has truly revived Juve's form. After struggling a bit through the winter, Antonio Conte’s side has seized the 1st place position with a narrow 1+ advantage. To do so is absolutely stunning, particularly in late April, with a booked plane ticket for the Coppa Italia final, all while maintaining an unbeaten record.

Juventus are currently on a 5-game winning streak, their most successful run of form since the Claudio Ranieri’s day- indeed, much was made of Ciro Ferrara and Gigi Delneri’s inability to get a 3-game winning streak going. In this achievement, Juventus have beaten many great sides- Fiorentina, Inter, Napoli, Palermo, and Lazio have all fallen to Conte’s side, all teams that would have greatly troubled Juve in the post-Calciopoli era.

Antonio Conte set the record at Bari for the most amount of consecutive wins in the clubs entire history, regardless of the division played in. That sort of consistency and winning spirit has brought Juve back into the position to win the double with only a month remaining. The aforementioned squads all presented a monumental task for Juventus, to beat old rivals game after game.

Roma is the perfect side to keep this spirit moving. The Giallorossi are perennial rivals with the Bianconeri, and many harsh insults have been swapped between squads, be it Capello and Baldini’s harsh words for Juventus, or Jonathan Zebina being traded to the Bianconeri. With a possible Champion’s League spot on the line, Roma will certainly be motivated.

Yet Juventus absolutely will be as well. The team is aiming to win their first Scudetto in 6 years, and defend their slender lead at home in front of their fans in the best stadio in Italy. There is simply no shortage of motivation for this match, no excuses for failure.

Indeed, Antonio Conte has an entire team to select from. Forgotten wingers Eljero Elia and Milos Krasic have been again dropped for “technical reasons” whereas Fabio Grosso continues to be frozen out of the squad. Aside from that, there are no injuries as Fabio Quagliarella recovered from a training blow in time to make it for the match. It is continued proof of the phenomenal work Antonio Conte and his staff have done in reducing injuries at the team.

JUVENTUS (3-5-2)

Buffon

Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie

Matri, Vucinic

Roma

The Giallorossi return to Torino hungry for victory. They have previously tasted defeat in the Juventus Stadium, and are currently fighting for that lucrative 3rd spot in the Champion’s League as they are only 4 points behind cousins Lazio who sit in 3rd place.

Luis Enrique’s side have warmed up in recent months, but their form continues to be erratic. They have won games in an impressive fashion of late, such as their victory over Udinese last match, but were crushed by a Serse Cosmi-inspired Lecce.

Roma scores a fair amount of goals, but still has problems keeping a clean sheet- they currently have conceded an equal or worse amount of goals compared to teams like Chievo, Siena, Atalanta, Fiorentina, Bologna, or Napoli. Their road record is fairly woeful too- they have only won one of their last 6 away trips.

The capital side are not as “healthy” as the Old Lady of Torino, but still have a very competitive list to bring up north. Fabio Borini has recovered from an injury recently, so the young Italian striker was included in the squad. Their injuries do not help their poor defensive record however, as they will be missing Juan, Burdisso, and Cassetti at the back.

The opponents will be plenty motivated and eager for a win. Given their defensive statistics and their recent away form, however, there’s no margin for error against old foes. Juventus must claim all 3 points.

ROMA (4-3-1-2)

Stekelenburg

Taddei, Kjaer, De Rossi, José Ángel

Pjanic, Gago, Marquinho

Totti

Lamela, Osvaldo

There are a lot of different narratives for the match tomorrow- one could compare Luis Enrique’s Roma and Antonio Conte’s Juventus, given the ambitious projects that both undertook in the summer. There will be much discussion over how this is likely the last meeting between club icons Francesco Totti and Alessandro Del Piero. There’s plenty of discussion over the former Roma players within Juve’s mix- most notably Marco Borriello and Mirko Vucinic.

But while this is “not a normal match” for Vucinic, it is a normal match in any other sense of the word, in that victory is required. The above narratives will all be forgotten as the season comes to a head, this match will more be remembered either as a stepping stone to the Scudetto or a stumbling block in the way. There’s no reason it shouldn’t be a stepping stone.

With a full squad available and a packed stadium behind the team, Juventus should certainly be eyeing 3 points in tomorrow’s encounter. The Wolves of Rome may be hungry- but the Old Lady needs to again prove her resilience.

In Conte we trust!

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Record-breakers: Having surpassed Mancini's Inter,

unbeaten Juventus now have Capello's AC Milan in their sights

The Bianconeri have now gone 32 games unbeaten this season, moving them

two within two games of the Rossoneri side which enjoyed an unblemished 1991-92 campaign.

Apr 22, 2012

Amidst the perfectly understandable media frenzy which followed Alessandro Del Piero’s late winner for Juventus in the club's last Serie A fixture with Lazio, it was easy to lose sight of the fact that Antonio Conte’s men had taken a hugely significant step towards immortality.

In avoiding defeat against the Biancocelesti, the Bianconeri have now taken their undefeated run this season to 32 games, moving them one clear of the Roberto Mancini-led Inter side of 2006-07, who memorably came unstuck against Roma at San Siro. Of course, Juve fans will tell you that Inter’s record should have an asterisk beside it because it was achieved while the Bianconeri were in Serie B following their Calciopoli-enforced relegation from the top flight the summer before, but then, that’s a whole other argument ...

The point is that if Juve manage to escape from Sunday's home encounter versus Roma with their unbeaten record still intact, they will have drawn level with Fiorentina’s Scudetto winners of 1955-56, who agonisingly came within five minutes of an unblemished campaign, the Viola conceding two late goals in a 3-1 defeat by Genoa on the final day of the season.

At that point, the Bianconeri would be just one game short of the single-season undefeated streak set by Fabio Capello’s AC Milan side of 1991-92, who went through the entire term undefeated in what was the former England boss’ first year at the helm. It is worth noting that Perugia also finished a campaign unbeaten, in 1978-79, but did so at a time when there were only 16 teams in Serie A.

Juve, of course, are closing in on an undefeated season themselves. However, they would do well not to get ahead of themselves, primarily because their next opponents are Roma on Sunday evening.

The Giallorossi will not want for motivation as they are chasing a Champions League place and will also take great encouragement out of having given Juve all sorts of trouble when the two sides met at the Stadio Olimpico in December at a time when Roma’s players were still struggling to adapt to life under new coach Luis Enrique.

Still, get past Roma tonight and the hype will really start to build because Juve finish their campaign against Cesena, Novara, Lecce, Cagliari and Atalanta. Of those five sides, Atalanta are placed highest in the table, and they are only 11th, while three of the other four account for the entire relegation zone. History really will be there for the taking.

However, the Bianconeri will have some way to go before they break the all-time undefeated record in Serie A. Yes, their current run actually extends back to the final game of last season, meaning their overall tally stands at 33 games, but that aforementioned Milan side ultimately went unbeaten for a staggering 58 matches between May 26, 1991 and March 21, 1993.

Coincidentally, their streak started against Parma and ended against Parma, with enigmatic Colombian forward Faustino Asprilla earning the Gialloblu a 1-0 victory over the Rossoneri at San Siro with a 25-metre free kick.

Still, such statistics will be the last thing on Conte's mind at the moment. Like any good coach, he will be taking things just one game at a time.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Luis Enrique willing to 'risk everything' for victory against Juventus

Roma boss has pointed out that with his side chasing a place in next season's

Champions League, they need the three points just as badly as their hosts.

Apr 22, 2012

Roma coach Luis Enrique insists that his troops will be going all out for victory in Sunday night's crucial Serie A clash with Juventus, explaining that he would rather "risk everything" than go looking for a draw.

The Giallorossi are currently sixth in the standings but they can climb to fourth and keep up the pressure on third-placed Lazio if they triumph in Turin.

As a result, Luis Enrique insists that while he has the utmost respect for table-topping Juventus, he will be sending his side out to attack the undefeated Bianconeri.

“I’d never settle for a draw before a game," the Spaniard told reporters on the eve of the game. "I prefer to risk everything to win.

"There’s a clear difference as far as the league table’s concerned, but in a one-off game I believe it’s an open encounter.”

Luis Enrique argued that Roma will be just as fired up for the game as their hosts, who are currently locked in an intriguing battle with AC Milan for this season's Scudetto.

“We’re playing to gain a place in Europe - a considerable motivation in itself," the former Barcelona B team boss pointed out. "We could also be the first team to beat them, and do so on their own soil.

"But, of course, you can’t make mistakes against Juventus; any errors will be punished.”

Roma's eagerly-awaited meeting with the Old Lady kicks off at 20.45CET.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Roma technically superior to Juventus, claims Mazzone

The former Giallorossi boss believes that the Bianconeri have the edge when it comes

to physicality and intensity but he feels that Luis Enrique's troops play the better football.

Apr 22, 2012

Carlo Mazzone has described Roma as "superior on a technical level" to Juventus ahead of Sunday night's crucial Serie A clash between the two sides in Turin.

The Giallorossi are currently sixth in the standings, some 18 points behind the table-topping Bianconeri, but they are pushing for a Champions League place all the same and have also drawn plaudits for their style of play this season.

Consequently, Mazzone believes that while Luis Enrique's men are not without their flaws, he believes they are a better footballing side than the Old Lady.

“Juventus have something more than Roma in terms of physical strength and intensity, but the Giallorossi are superior on a technical level,” the former Giallorossi coach told Radio Mana Mana Sport.

However, Mazzone is anticipating that his old club will adopt a more cautious approach than usual against the league leaders.

“I don’t think Roma will go there to take the initiative, as they have to be more defensive and make the most of the quality of players like Francesco Totti and [Pablo] Osvaldo," the 75-year-old Italian reasoned.

Regarding Osvaldo, Mazzone argued that Roma did well in selling Mirko Vucinic to Juventus last summer and replacing him with the Buenos Aires-born Italy international, though he praised the Bianconeri for picking up Andrea Pirlo.

“I prefer Osvaldo to Vucinic, as he is proving that he is a genuine hitman," he explained, before turning his attention to the midfield battle.

“I have to ask how could Milan allow Andrea Pirlo to leave on a free transfer. Such a strong and decisive player cannot be let go for nothing. That fired up his pride, which is why he’s having perhaps the best season of his career.

“As for Daniele De Rossi, he does well at centre-back, but he should always play in midfield.”

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Sunday Serie A Betting Preview:

Both teams to score when Juventus host Roma

With both teams in an impressive goal scoring form, Phil Kitromilides can see

goals at both ends tonight between the two Serie A giants.

Apr 22, 2012

With Juventus closing in on the Scudetto and Roma chasing a place in the Champions League, this promises to be an encounter of huge significance for both sides not to mention the teams around them.

Juve's stunning unbeaten record continues, and with this arguably the toughest of their five remaining matches, Antonio Conte's side have an excellent chance of going through the whole season without suffering defeat in the league.

More important than that record though, would be claiming the Serie A title, and a win tonight would go a long way towards making that a reality with Bet365 offering odds of 4/9 (1.44) on a home victory.

Roma meantime, have been poor on their travels managing just one win in their last eight trips away from the capital. They are offered at 13/2 (7.50) to record what would be their sixth away win of the season.

Both these sides have been in decent scoring form of late, and a bet on over 2.5 goals at 7/10 (1.70) looks appealing. Six of Roma's last eight games have seen three goals or more with the Giallorossi averaging 2.94 goals a game. Juve meantime have seen over 2.5 goals in four of their last six matches.

If goals look like being on the agenda, the price of 5/6 (1.83) for both teams to score looks like providing excellent value. Juve have scored in 10 of their last 11 matches, while Roma have only failed to score once in their last 14 games. With both teams having huge incentives to win, goals look likely and the price makes the bet well worthy of consideration.

For a value bet back the legendary Alessandro Del Piero to score the last goal at 5/1 (6.00). The veteran has three goals in his last four home matches.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Mazzone reads Juve-Roma

Apr 22, 2012

Carlo Mazzone looks forward to Juventus-Roma and believes Pablo Daniel Osvaldo is a better striker than Mirko Vucinic.

The two teams clash this evening in Turin and former Giallorossi tactician Mazzone spoke to Radio Manà Manà Sport.

“Juventus have something more than Roma in terms of physical strength and intensity, but the Giallorossi are superior on a technical level,” said the 75-year-old.

“I don’t think Roma will go there to take the initiative, as they have to be more defensive than usual and make the most of the quality of players like Francesco Totti and Osvaldo.

“I prefer Osvaldo to Vucinic, as he is proving that he is a genuine hitman.

“As fot the midfielders, I have to ask how could Milan allow Andrea Pirlo to leave on a free transfer? Such a strong and decisive player cannot be let go for nothing. That fired up his pride, which is why he’s having perhaps the best season of his career.

“Daniele De Rossi does well at centre-back, but he should always play in midfield.”

Mazzone finally gave his verdict on the two tacticians, Antonio Conte and Luis Enrique.

“I was fortunate enough to train Conte at Lecce. He is a lad with great temperament and has been able to transmit that winning character to the team.

“I like Luis Enrique, as he knows exactly what he wants to do, which is possession football based on attack. However, he and Roma have shown limitations when they don’t have the ball, as they concede far too much.”

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Allegri: If Juventus defeat Roma,

they are Scudetto favourites

The 44-year-old coach was disappointed that his side failed to take the three points

and admitted that the Bianconeri are in a privileged situation to win the title.

Apr 22, 2012

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has conceded that Juventus are favourites to win the Scudetto following his side's 1-1 draw against Bologna at San Siro.

A late goal from Zlatan Ibrahimovic rescued a point for the Rossoneri, who could trail Juventus by three points if Antonio Conte's men defeat Roma in the match they have in hand.

"We are disappointed because we could not win," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia. "We believed we could win the match and provisionally move to the top of the table.

"But it is true that there are five matches remaining. If Juventus win their match tonight, there is a high chance that they will win the Scudetto, but if they do not, everything will stay just the way it was.

"Nothing is decided yet, also because the second place is not mathematically secure either."

The Italian coach then rued the team's disappointing start to the match and noted that his half-time team talk produced visible results.

"After Bologna's goal, we were no longer united and it took us a lot of time to get back to the match," he added.

"We certainly did not play well in the first half, but we improved after half-time. We made a huge effort and we created a lot of chances, including Robinho's late header."

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus forward Quagliarella fit to face Roma

The former Napoli striker, who has been in good goalscoring form of late, has recovered

from a knock and retains his place in the Bianconeri forward line ahead of Alessandro Matri.

Apr 22, 2012

Fabio Quagliarella will again start up front for Juventus in Sunday night's crucial Serie A clash with Roma.

The former Napoli striker had been a doubt for the game in Turin with a thigh injury but he has been passed fit to partner Mirko Vucinic in the Bianconeri attack.

Consequently, there is just one change to the side which overcame Lazio last time out, with wing-back Paolo De Ceglie coming into the side in place of Simone Pepe, who has been dropped to the bench.

Juve's match-winner against the Biancocelesti, Alessandro Del Piero, has also been named among the substitutes.

As for Roma, they are buoyed by the availability of Fabio Borini after a back problem and he returns to the starting lineup in place Francesco Totti, who has been carrying a knock.

Elsewhere, Aleandro Rosi takes over from Rodrigo Taddei at right-back, while midfielder Daniele De Rossi continues alongside Simon Kjaer at the heart of the Giallorossi defence, with Gabriel Heinze again forced to make do with a place on the bench.

Simone Perotta returns in midfield as Miralem Pjanic is pushed forward in support of forward duo Borini and Pablo Osvaldo, with Erik Lamela the man to make way as Luis Enrique's switch to a 4-3-1-2 formation results in some surprising casualties.

Juventus (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Vucinic.

Subs: Storari, Caceres, Pepe, Del Piero, Borriello, Giaccherini, Matri.

Roma (4-3-1-2): Stekelenburg; Rosi, De Rossi, Kjaer, Jose Angel; Perrotta, Gago, Marquinho; Pjanic; Osvaldo, Borini.

Subs: Curci, Taddei, Heinze, Greco, Bojan, Totti, Lamela.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Line-ups: Juventus-Roma

Apr 22, 2012

Mirko Vucinic and Fabio Quagliarella lead the Juventus line against Roma’s Fabio Borini and Pablo Osvaldo, as Francesco Totti is dropped.

The Bianconeri have the opportunity to go three points clear at the top of the table this evening after Milan were held to a 1-1 draw by Bologna.

Antonio Conte has a full squad to choose from and picks a 3-5-2 system to take on Roma.

Vucinic faces his former teammates and admits this is “not a game like the others” for him, while he is partnered by Quagliarella, who has recovered from a thigh problem.

Luis Enrique stages an unexpected revolution in Turin by dropping Totti and Erik Lamela, as they hope to close on the Champions League places.

Nicolas Burdisso, Juan, Marco Cassetti and Bogdan Lobont are out of action.

Borini and Maarten Stekelenburg are carrying knocks, but both of them start, while Daniele De Rossi is re-routed to centre-back.

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Vucinic

Juventus bench: Storari, Caceres, Pepe, Del Piero, Borriello, Giaccherini, Matri

Roma: Stekelenburg; Rosi, De Rossi, Kjaer, José Angel; Perrotta, Gago, Marquinho; Pjanic; Osvaldo, Borini

Roma bench: Curci, Heinze, Taddei, Greco, Lamela, Bojan, Totti

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

HT: Juve demolish Roma

Apr 22, 2012

Juventus are crushing 10-man Roma 3-0 at half-time thanks to an Arturo Vidal brace and Andrea Pirlo penalty follow-up.

Antonio Conte said Juve would “treble” their efforts in the final six rounds of the season and he had a full squad to choose from. It was a special game for Mirko Vucinic, who faced his former teammates, though ex-Roma striker Marco Borriello was on the bench and Fabio Quagliarella was fit to start despite a thigh problem. Leonardo Bonucci played with a protective mask after fracturing his nose two weeks ago.

The Giallorossi were pushing for a Champions League spot, but had a dire away record and were missing Nicolas Burdisso, Juan, Marco Cassetti and Bogdan Lobont. Fabio Borini and Maarten Stekelenburg started despite knocks, with Daniele De Rossi in defence, but Francesco Totti and Erik Lamela were sensationally dropped.

It took just over three minutes for Juventus to break the deadlock, as Paolo De Ceglie sprung the offisde trap down the left from a Claudio Marchisio pass and rolled across for Arturo Vidal to curl in from 11 yards with the inside of his left foot.

Juve doubled their lead with the same Chilean international, as De Rossi lost possession, Vucinic burst forward and spread the play to the right, where Vidal smashed a powerful right-foot finish across Stekelenburg into the far side netting.

It was almost 3-0 as Stek blocked a Vucinic angled drive, while Jose Angel and Fernando Gago had efforts from distance.

Giorgio Chiellini’s diving header from an Andrea Pirlo free kick saw him turn wide unmarked, as it bounced into the ground and off target.

On 26 minutes Marchisio sprung the offside trap and went clear but had flicked the ball over Stekelenburg when tripping over his leg. The referee awarded a penalty and the red card, though he was going wide and there were two Roma players nearby. Borini was sacrificed for substitute goalkeeper Gianluca Curci, whose first touch was to parry Pirlo’s penalty, but he could do nothing on the veteran’s follow-up. It was only the second spot-kick awarded to the Bianconeri this season.

A corner was cleared to the edge of the box for De Ceglie to drill just wide of the upright, while Curci smothered an audacious Quagliarella volley.

Juventus 3-0 Roma (Half-Time)

Scorers: Vidal 4, 8 (J), Pirlo 28 (J)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Vucinic

Roma: Stekelenburg; Rosi, De Rossi, Kjaer, Jose Angel; Perrotta, Gago, Marquinho; Pjanic; Osvaldo, Borini (Curci 27)

Ref: Bergonzi

Sent off: Stekelenburg 26 ®

Saved penalty: Pirlo 28 (J)

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Arturo Vidal (4′)

Arturo Vidal (8′)

Andrea Pirlo (29′)

Claudio Marchisio (53′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 35000‎

Vidal, Pirlo and Marchisio strike as Conte's side

open up three-point lead at top of Serie A

The still undefeated Bianconeri ruthlessly capitalised on AC Milan's shock draw

at home to Bologna by routing the Champions League-chasing Giallorossi in Turin.

Apr 22, 2012

Juventus took a major step towards the Serie A title with a resounding 4-0 victory over 10-man Roma on Sunday evening.

Arturo Vidal put the Bianconeri two goals to the good inside the opening eight minutes before Andrea Pirlo made it 3-0, knocking home the rebound after his penalty attempt just before the half-hour mark had been saved by Gianluca Curci, who had taken over in goal following the dismissal of Maarten Stekelenburg.

Claudio Marchisio who added Juve’s fourth goal shortly after the interval as Antonio Conte’s men moved three points clear of title rivals AC Milan.

Undoubtedly buoyed by the news that the Rossoneri had been held at home by Bologna earlier in the day, Juventus made a rip-roaring start to the game, with Vidal netting a quickfire double.

The Chilean’s first goal was a wonderfully composed first-time finish with his left-foot from a cross from Paolo De Ceglie, after Mirko Vucinic had opened up the Giallorossi defence.

The latter was also heavily involved in Vidal’s second strike. Fabio Quagliarella cleverly took Daniele De Rossi out of the equation by jumping into the makeshift Roma centre-half as he attempted to head clear just inside his own half.

The ball dropped for Vucinic, who drove forward before feeding it wide to Vidal. Again, the former Bayer Leverkusen man did not even think twice before letting rip and beat Stekelenburg with a stunning right-footed shot from the edge of the area.

Roma were reeling and though they did improve from an offensive perspective, they continued to look desperately porous at the back. It came as no surprise, then, when Juve moved 3-0 up with just 29 minutes gone.

After Marquinho had gifted the hosts possession in midfield, the ball eventually found its way to the feet of Vucinic. The former Roma man took a couple of touches before playing a delightful outside-of-the-foot pass in to Marchisio, who was taken out by Stekelenburg after knocking the ball beyond the Roma keeper.

Stekelenburg rather harshly saw red for making minimal contact with Marchisio and although his replacement, Curci, saved Pirlo’s subsequent spot-kick, the midfielder was on hand to tuck away the rebound.

The game now over as a contest after less than half an hour of play, it was just a question of how many goals Juve would rack up.

In the end they managed just one more, Marchisio expertly placing the ball into the bottom right corner of the Roma goal early in the second half after a sublime lay-off from the effervescent Vucinic.

Marchisio went close to adding a fifth only to be denied by Curci but Juve were more than happy to settle for four as they cruised to a victory, which means that in light of their superior head-to-head record, they can afford to lose one of their five remaining fixtures and still win the title.

Roma, meanwhile, remain sixth in the standings and are now five points adrift of third-placed Lazio.

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

Socrates · April 22, 2012

Serie A Week 34 - 22-4-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Arturo Vidal (4′)

Arturo Vidal (8′)

Andrea Pirlo (29′)

Claudio Marchisio (53′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 35000‎

Four-star Juve flatten Roma

Juventus soar towards the Scudetto after steamrollering 10-man Roma

4-0 with Arturo Vidal’s brace, Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio.

Apr 22, 2012

Juventus soar towards the Scudetto after steamrollering 10-man Roma 4-0 with Arturo Vidal’s brace, Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio.