Juventus Season 2011-2012

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Pirlo: Juventus want to lift the Coppa Italia

The influential midfielder has stressed that the Old Lady are targeting the Italian cup

in order to complete the domestic double but warned that Napoli will provide a stern test.

May 16, 2012

Andrea Pirlo has made it clear that Juventus are hungry for more silverware after winning the Serie A title as they set their sights on claiming the Coppa Italia.

The Old Lady lock horns Napoli in the final this Sunday evening, and Pirlo has insisted that the Turin giants are eager to complete the domestic double.

"We've started an important week. On Sunday we'll show the right concentration and desire to lift this trophy," Pirlo said to Sky Sport.

"We've laid the foundations to do something great. When you start to achieve success, you want to get more. We'll have the chance to lift further cups and trophies and to play more finals. We can definitely win more silverware."

However, Pirlo acknowledged that Napoli will not be pushovers in this weekend's encounter.

"Napoli are a great side, they've showed their value over recent years, and will certainly give their all. It will be a tough match."

The final at the Stadio Olimpico kicks off at 21.00CET.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Marchisio: Juventus' hunger for success was decisive in Scudetto race

The Italy international believes that the Old Lady's determination to lift silverware

drove the team to success in the Serie A title race as he now looks for cup glory.

May 17, 2012

Claudio Marchisio has voiced his opinion that Juventus' hunger for success was one of the main reasons they won the Serie A title.

The Bianconeri finished four points clear of AC Milan in the league table to secure their first official Scudetto since 2002-03, and Marchisio feels their determination to win proved to be vital.

"We won because we were hungrier than the other teams. We also played a very important brand of football in every game, even when we missed several goalscoring opportunities and didn’t get a result," Marchisio stated to Sky Sport.

"We always looked to take the game to our opponents every Sunday, both home and away. Our coach also deserves credit for this; he has instilled the right mentality required to get back to winning ways."

The midfielder then discussed the upcoming Coppa Italia final against Napoli, and stressed that Sunday's game will not be easy based on the two league meetings.

"It will certainly be a difficult test. The draw in Naples and the game we won at home were both tough encounters. The two games represented the two most important periods of our season."

Sunday's cup final at the Stadio Olimpico kicks off at 21.00CET.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Marrone eyes Coppa glory

May 17, 2012

Luca Marrone is hoping that his Juventus side will soon be able to display the Italian Cup in their new club museum.

The centre was officially opened last night and the Old Lady, fresh from their Scudetto success, will have a chance to show off the Coppa Italia in it should they defeat Napoli on Sunday.

“This museum represents Juve’s history, it’s something unique and makes you realise the importance of wearing this shirt,” the young midfielder noted.

“The trophy room is truly special and we know we’re playing to fill it even more. We’ll try and win another Cup in Sunday’s Coppa Italia Final.

“Napoli are a great team, they’re not going through the best of spells, but anything can happen in a one-off game.

“We’re ready, we’ve put the title celebrations behind us and the Coach has immediately prepared us in the right manner.”

Marrone, 22, appeared in three Serie A games this season and scored on the last day of the season against Atalanta. He was also used on three occasions in Coppa games.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Ref chosen for Coppa Italia Final

May 18, 2012

Christian Brighi has been assigned as the referee of Sunday’s Coppa Italia Final between Napoli and Juventus.

The decision was announced this evening and Brighi will be assisted by Giorgio Niccolai and Cristiano Copelli, while Mauro Bergonzi is the fourth official.

Napoli and Juventus face off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Sunday evening in a one-off Coppa Italia Final.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Lapo: 'Bring Juve the Coppa!'

May 19, 2012

Juventus patron Lapo Elkann respects Napoli, but warns his side is not sated by the Scudetto. “We want to triumph in the Coppa Italia too.”

The two teams go head to head at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome for Sunday night’s Final.

“Napoli are a side with great champions. At Juventus we proved our value by winning the Scudetto and can double that success in Rome,” Elkann told Il Mattino newspaper.

“We want to triumph in the Coppa Italia too. I will say that with Juve out of the Champions League, the only team I cheered on this season was Napoli.

“They had a positive campaign and put many opponents under pressure, including Chelsea. That night I was at the San Paolo as a guest of the President.”

Elkann is one of the heirs to the Agnelli empire and can count himself as a personal friend of Alessandro Del Piero, who is set to make his final appearance in a Bianconeri shirt.

“Alex is a friend and has done so much for not only Juventus, but also Italy and the whole world of sport. He is an example to all and continues to be that.

“We have to speak about Del Piero in the present, because he will continue to do so much for us. In the new Juventus Museum we inaugurated on Wednesday, we dedicated the final section to him, because he represents the Bianconeri.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Buffon sees 'spectacular' Coppa Final

May 19, 2012

Gigi Buffon has committed his future to Juventus and expects a “spectacular” Coppa Italia Final against Napoli on Sunday night.

The shot-stopper was rested for the last Serie A game of the season and is again likely to be benched tomorrow evening, as Marco Storari has been the regular in this competition.

“At times it is also nice to participate when you are part of a group like ours,” Buffon told Radio Deejay.

“I expect it to be a spectacular evening both on the pitch and in the stands between two great teams and two passionate cities.

“My future is always in black and white. We can achieve many more important objectives after the Scudetto.

“I celebrated as champion of Italy five times, but I realise that in the long-run always talking about this issue of the 30 Scudetti can get boring.”

Juventus are adamant they have won 30 Serie A titles, counting the two that were stripped in the Calciopoli trial of 2006.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Conte: 'My first Final as Coach'

May 19, 2012

Antonio Conte is excited at facing his first Coppa Italia Final as a Coach, having lifted the trophy for Juventus as a captain. “It can crown an extraordinary year.”

The Bianconeri face Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Sunday evening and can set a new record by ending the campaign unbeaten in official competition.

“It’s a wonderful sensation and a unique emotion, because this is my first Final as a Coach,” said Conte in his press conference.

“I think tomorrow’s Final can crown an extraordinary year that has seen us win the Scudetto by a comfortable margin. Now we prepare for another great evening that can give us the chance to lift a second trophy in this fantastic season.”

Conte was also captain when Juventus won the Champions League in this stadium in 1996.

“Our state of mind is to reach this game with a remarkable Scudetto victory behind us and a week in which we celebrated. However, as I told the lads, it is time to stop the party and focus on this Final that we really care about.

“We fought hard to get here, so will step on to the field with the right mentality, of a side that knows it has achieved something remarkable already, but could make it a super-extraordinary campaign.”

The encounters with Napoli in Serie A this season have been thrilling, including a 3-3 draw at the San Paolo.

“In Naples it was a great show of strength and I realised this team is made of steel,” continued Conte.

“Napoli are the worst opponent we could’ve chosen for this Final, as they have immense potential.”

Naturally, the Coach was asked about the new accusations from Filippo Carobbio in the betting scandal, as unproved allegations suggested he knew about match-fixing when he was at Siena in Serie B last season.

“I reply the same way I did during the season, don’t I? There’s nothing new on the horizon. I read the articles yesterday and have nothing to reply to, as it would be a lack of respect to those conducting the investigation. If and when I am called to testify, I will be happy to answer any questions put to me.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

The last time you will see Del Piero in a Juventus shirt -

Five reasons to watch the Coppa Italia final

The football world has been focused on Munich this week but, as Goal.com is keen to convey,

Juventus' meeting with Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday night deserves attention.

May 19, 2012

By Mark Doyle

The Champions League has a lot to answer for. To some, its very name is an insult to the prestigious competition it so cynically hijacked in 1992, while it has spent the past two decades widening the gap between the haves and the have-nots of European football. So much so to that we are unlikely to ever again see proud footballing institutions such as Red Star Belgrade, Steaua Bucharest and even four-time champions Ajax lift the trophy.

It has also thoroughly devalued the once great Uefa Cup - which is now fighting valiantly to maintain a semblance of relevance under a new name - as well as domestic cup competitions.

So it has come to pass that the FA Cup final no longer brings the curtain down on the English football season and now kicks off at teatime, while the Coppa Italia barely gets a mention during a week dominated by the build-up to a game between a German side beaten with such regularity by the nation’s undisputed champions Dortmund that it is getting embarrassing at this stage, and an English outfit which has reached the final of football's biggest cup competition on the back of two painfully defensive displays.

Italian football, of course, has long been associated with defensive football but those who still buy into such a clichéd notion should take in Sunday night’s meeting between Juventus and Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico. Why? Well, aside from the fact that these two produced one of the games of the season when they drew 3-3 at the San Paolo back in November, there is the small matter of a living legend bringing the curtain down on his career in Italian football. And that's just for starters ...

DEL PIERO'S FOND FAREWELL

It was once claimed that Muhammad Ali resisted the temptation to swing another punch at George Foreman as the then heavyweight champion of the world collapsed to the canvas during 'The Rumble in the Jungle' because 'The Greatest' did not want to run the risk of ruining the moment by missing his falling target. In that context, a small part of Alessandro Del Piero must be wondering if he really needs to take to the field at the Stadio Olimpico after enjoying the perfect Serie A send-off last weekend.

Lining out in front of his adoring Turin public one final time, 'Il Pinturicchio' scored a goal of typically perfect precision and poise, enjoyed a lap of honour (while the game was still going on!) and then lifted the Scudetto. It was a fitting finale for a true great of the Italian game, but it is difficult to see how Del Piero could possibly top it on Sunday night. It just does not seem feasible. Still, one last 'Gol alla Del Piero' would be nice, just for old time’s sake.

PEERLESS PIRLO

While a Del Piero special is by no means a guarantee, an Andrea Pirlo masterclass is about as close as you can get to a sure thing these days. Just turned 33, the Italy international is still doing what he does best and perhaps only Xavi does better: painting pretty pictures with pin-point passing. Indeed, it does not seem right that Pirlo has never been bestowed with a Renaissance-inspired moniker himself.

The regista’s performances this year have been nothing short of sublime and he has been as influential as he has been consistent. Pirlo missed just one game in Serie A all season and ended with three goals and, more significantly, 13 assists to his name: statistics which only serve to underline the folly of AC Milan’s decision to deny him the three-year contract he was seeking to remain at San Siro last summer. If Napoli are to have any hope of triumphing in Rome, they will have to do something that no other side has done this season, and that is shut down Pirlo.

JUVE'S MISFIRING FORWARDS

Given Pirlo’s penchant for creating openings, it is shocking that Alessandro Matri, Fabio Quagliarella and Marco Borriello have contributed just nine goals between them since the turn of the year. Matri has not netted since February and was on Sunday night left out of Italy’s preliminary squad for Euro 2012. Quagliarella and Borriello, meanwhile, have impressed sporadically in recent weeks but their performances have still been well below par. Consequently, all three now face uncertain futures with the Old Lady.

Both Matri and Quagliarella recently signed new contracts with the club but, if recent reports are to be believed, their positions are even less secure than that of Borriello, who is on loan from Roma. As a result, Matri, Quagliarella and Borriello will all be desperate to not only start at the Stadio Olimpico, but also prove to coach Antonio Conte that they are worth holding onto for next season’s assault on the Champions League.

CAVANI'S BODY LANGUAGE

Of course, irrespective of what happens in Rome, Juventus will move heaven and earth this summer to land the genuine world-class striker they are so sorely missing. They have been linked with both Robin van Persie and Gonzalo Higuain, but it is believed that Edinson Cavani remains their primary transfer target. The Uruguay international is arguably the most lethal marksman in Serie A and Napoli would be loathe to allow him leave this summer, particularly with Ezequiel Lavezzi seemingly edging towards an exit.

However, as Cavani underlined this week by revealing that he will represent Uruguay at this summer’s Olympics whether Napoli like it or not, the 25-year-old striker will clearly do whatever it takes to get what he wants and the fact is that Juve can offer him a second consecutive season of Champions League football; his current employers cannot. It will be therefore fascinating to watch his body language before, during and after the game to see if it is possible to detect any indication that Cavani’s commitment to the Napoli cause is wavering.

SILVERWARE

Of course, no player is bigger than the club and Napoli’s current concern should not be keeping Cavani or Lavezzi; it should be ending their wait 22-year wait for a major trophy. Qualification for last season’s Champions League was a fantastic achievement for a club who five years previously had been lining out against the likes of Juve Stabia in Serie C1.

However, no matter what American investors, Russian oligarchs or Arab businessmen might think, the Champions League is not the be all and end all; silverware still counts for something. Indeed, just try telling the 32,000 Napoli fans set to descend upon the Italian capital on Sunday evening otherwise!

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Juventus - Napoli Preview: Bianconeri look

to win Coppa Italia final on Del Piero's swansong

The Turin giants are hoping to claim a domestic double as the Partenopei aim to lift

a long-awaited trophy as the two rivals clash at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

May 19, 2012

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Storari

Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Giaccherini

Del Piero, Vucinic

NAPOLI

De Sanctis

Campagnaro, Cannavaro, Aronica

Maggio, Inler, Dzemaili, Dossena

Hamsik, Lavezzi

Cavani

Juventus ended the Serie A season on a high by defeating Atalanta 3-1 to maitain their unbeaten record, but can wrap their season up in a tidy bow by winning the Coppa Italia. However, coach Antonio Conte must face a determined Napoli side without star defender Giorgio Chiellini. Despite the former Fiorentina man's absence, Conte is set to stick with a 3-5-2 with Caceres stepping into the defence alongside Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci. Marco Storari has been steady for Juventus in the competition all season and could be rewarded with a place in goal in the final.

Meanwhile, De Ceglie's injury means Emanuele Giaccherini could start on the left of midfield, but Simone Pepe is another option. Up front, club legend Alessando Del Piero is expected to be given a start on his final game for Juventus alongside Mirko Vucinic.

On the other side, Partenopei boss Walter Mazzarri has a worry in captain Paolo Cannavaro, but the centre-half is expected to grit his teeth to be in the starting XI come Sunday night. The two-goal hero from their final league game against Siena last weekend, Andrea Dossena, is also a slight doubt and if he cannot feature Juan Camilo Zuniga should take his place on the left flank. Blerim Dzemaili will replace the suspended Walter Gargano in the centre of midfield.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus overcame Bologna, Roma and AC Milan to reach the Coppa Italia final this season

• The Bianconeri have been crowned champions of the tournament nine times (the joint most with Roma), although they have not lifted the cup since 1995 when they beat Parma.

• In Serie A play in 2011-12, Juventus drew 3-3 with Napoli at the Stadio San Paolo before defeating them 3-0 in Turin in the opposite fixture.

• Napoli have beaten Cesena, Inter and Siena on their path to the domestic cup decider.

• The Partenopei have three Coppa Italia crowns, but have not won the tournament since a 4-0 aggregate triumph against Atalanta over two legs in 1987.

• Edinson Cavani leads the scoring charts in the Coppa Italia with four goals. On Juventus' side, Martin Caceres, Alessandro Del Piero and Emanuele Giaccherini each have two strikes to their name.

Head to Head

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

Serie A ‎- Nov 29, 2011 - SSC Napoli 3 - Juventus 3

Serie A ‎- May 22, 2011 - Juventus 2 - SSC Napoli 2

Serie A ‎- Jan 9, 2011 - SSC Napoli 3 - Juventus 0

Serie A ‎- Mar 25, 2010 - SSC Napoli 3 - Juventus 1

Last Five Matches

Juventus

May 13, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Atalanta 1 - Serie A

May 6, 2012 - Cagliari 0 - Juventus 2 - Serie A

May 2, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Lecce 1 - Serie A

Apr 29, 2012 - Novara 0 - Juventus 4 - Serie A

Apr 25, 2012 - Cesena 0 - Juventus 1 - Serie A

SSC Napoli

May 13, 2012 - SSC Napoli 2 - Siena 1 - Serie A

May 6, 2012 - Bologna 2 - SSC Napoli 0 - Serie A

May 1, 2012 - SSC Napoli 2 - Palermo 0 - Serie A

Apr 28, 2012 - Roma 2 - SSC Napoli 2 - Serie A

Apr 25, 2012 - Lecce 0 - SSC Napoli 2 - Serie A

Players to Watch

ALESSANDRO DEL PIERO

The Bianconeri icon scored against Atalanta in his final Serie A match for the club on home soil last weekend, but a perfect ending would be leading them to a Coppa Italia trophy for the first time in over 15 years. Does the veteran striker have one last moment of magic left in his boots?

BLERIM DZEMAILI

With the energetic Gargano suspended, Dzemaili will have show he can do battle with the likes of Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal in the centre of the pitch and come out a winner. The trio were arguably the most spectacular members of the Bianconeri's Scudetto victory and the ex-Parma star must limit their effectiveness if the Partenopei are to have a chance.

Prediction

Juventus finished the Serie A season with an incredible run of 10 wins from 11 matches and have looked more impressive than Napoli for large portions of 2011-12. Mazzarri's side have the attacking talent, but a less assured defence than Conte's side and that could play a role on Sunday.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 2 - 1 Napoli

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Down Coppa’s Memory Lane

Juventus and Napoli will contest the Coppa Italia Final on Sunday.

Luca Cetta remembers the last time they each lifted the trophy.

May 19, 2012

Only Alessandro Del Piero survives from their last triumph. That in itself reveals the length of Juventus’ Coppa Italia drought as well as adding another layer to his finale and enduring legacy. As for their opponents, Napoli will be seeking to add a trophy to their cabinet for the first time since the Diego Maradona era.

Both Juve and Napoli will battle for the unloved Coppa Italia with the opportunity to enter club history. A Bianconeri victory will ensure they add a silver star to their shirt for 10 Coppa successes, the first club to do so. The Partneopei are hoping to hoist a trophy high into the night sky for the first time since the 1990 Italian Super Cup – won thanks to a 5-1 thrashing of Juventus.

Antonio Conte attempts to lead his side to a domestic double for the first time since Marcello Lippi in 1994-95. Seventeen years ago, Juve won their ninth Coppa thanks to a 3-0 aggregate win over Parma.

In search of redemption following a defeat at the hands of the Ducali in the UEFA Cup Final a fortnight earlier, Sergio Porrini nodded home the only goal in Turin and opened the scoring at the Stadio Ennio Tardini. Juve won a spirited and at times fiery contest when Fabrizio Ravanelli beat Luca Bucci. Roberto Baggio collected his final trophy in Turin – perhaps a precursor to his successor’s final match in the black and white.

Napoli also managed to end their dream 1986-87 season in double delight – “You never tire of winning” said Maradona afterwards – and confirmed their status as the new kings of calcio. In the Final they faced surprise package Atalanta, freshly relegated from Serie A.

Ottavio Bianchi’s side romped through the group stage and knock-out rounds and despite piling on the pressure in the first leg, found an inspired Ottorino Piotti in goal. He kept them at bay with a series of stunning saves for an hour, until a 10-minute salvo in which Alessandro Renica’s long-range scorcher plus goals from Ciro Muro and Salvatore Bagni sealed the result. Bruno Giordano’s lone strike in Bergamo ensured a 4-0 aggregate win and Napoli’s third Coppa.

Since last revelling in victory both sides have experienced dual disappointments. Parma would exact revenge on Juventus in 2001-02 – denying another domestic double – as they sucker-punched the Turin giants with an injury time away goal before a lone strike at home meant an away goals success. Two seasons later Juve were outplayed in Rome, losing 2-0 versus Lazio. Juve equalised just after half-time at home, but Bernardo Corradi and Stefano Fiore won it for the Biancoceleste.

Napoli returned to the decider in 1988-89, but after winning the first leg they were blown away by a rampant Sampdoria in the return, losing 4-1 on aggregate. Ten years after Bergamo they were back, but it was a very different Napoli – gone were the stars and Scudetto assaults. They were in steady decline and the Coppa offered some redemption. Napoli beat Vicenza 1-0 at home, but the Biancorossi scored twice deep into extra time at the Stadio Romeo Menti to win their one and only major trophy.

If their recent Serie A encounters are any indication, it is sure to be an exciting affair. When the duo march on Rome for the first time since the reintroduction of the one-off showpiece finale Juve have the chance to farewell Del Piero in the best possible manner and complete an extraordinary unbeaten campaign, whilst the Partenopei can cap a wonderful period under Walter Mazzarri. It may ‘only’ be the Coppa Italia but the two clubs and their supporters will be hoping – for entirely different reasons – their side wins, as they seek to emulate the triumphs of the past.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Juventus vs. Napoli: Bianconeri Will Finish

Unblemished Season with Another Win

May 19, 2012

Juventus will try and put a cap on their perfect Serie A campaign with a win over Napoli on Sunday.

The Bianconeri have already won the Serie A title. Winning the Italian Cup would be sweet justice for a much-maligned club.

Juventus was subject to a match-fixing scandal in 2006. The club was relegated and sent into a dark age of sorts.

Their first Serie A title since that time revived the club and it's fanbase in one swift motion.

Let's take a look at the significance of this game for Bianconeri.

It Has Been a Long Time

Juventus haven't won an Italian Cup since 1995. They have lost to Parma and Lazio since their final cup victory.

This should be enough motivation for Juventus to show up in this game.

Who will win the Italian Cup?

A. Juventus 93.8%

B. Napoli 6.2%

Total votes: 113

This season's campaign has been truly incredible for their squad. They have played much better than the rest of Serie A and an Italian Cup would fit a successful season perfectly.

Winning the Italian Cup over Napoli would be even better.

Juventus beat Napoli already earlier this year, and Napoli has not hoisted the Italian Cup in 25 years.

Juventus need to do their best to make sure that streak extends to 26 years.

Alessandro Del Piero

Del Piero has 500-plus career appearances and 200-plus career goals with Juventus.

He has been with the club since 1993.

Del Piero is one of the best supporting strikers the world has to offer. His career puts him in the same breathe as other phenomenal European talents.

Del Piero will be a free agent after this season.

Juventus want to grab a victory for their leader. Del Piero only had five points in 23 games this year, but he is vital to Juventus' morale.

What to Expect

First of all, you can expect a Juventus victory.

Bianconeri has been dominant on both ends of the field all year, and that will not change in their season's final stanza.

Playing for pride and Del Piero will have Juventus' squad amped up. They will want to win more than they normally would, and that is problematic for any team facing a side with this much talent.

Napoli is in a bad spot.

They are playing an extremely motivated team with an obvious chip on its shoulder.

Juventus grab the victory, renew their club reputation and send Del Piero out on the highest note.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Del Piero set to bow out at Coppa Italia final

May 19, 2012

Alessandro Del Piero is set to play his last game for Juventus tomorrow when the Serie A champions take on Napoli in the final of the Coppa Italia in front of a packed Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

The 37-year-old Juventus captain is a hero in Turin, having scored 290 goals in 704 games, but the board has not renewed his contract and is likely to head to the United States next term.

Over 19 years, Del Piero has won six Serie A titles, one Coppa Italia, one Champions League and an Intercontinental Cup, as well as the 2006 World Cup with Italy.

That same year as the Azzurri’s triumph in Berlin, he took a step down to Serie B after Juve were relegated following a match-fixing scandal. However, he helped them return straight back to the top flight as champions.

Last week, he bid an emotional farewell to Serie A, typically scoring as Juventus beat Atalanta 3-1 to become only the third side to go an entire campaign unbeaten having won their first official title since 2003 the week before.

After being substituted in the second half, he accepted the invitation to stand in front of the Juventus Stadium’s Curva Sud and the applause of teary-eyed supporters, before heading over to the other side of the ground and receiving a similar ovation.

“I’ve never seen such a thing before. Let’s say that the fans won us another title,” said the number 10 after his tribute.

“What happened today is something incredibly beautiful, the bond with these people goes beyond anything else.”

Should Juventus win tomorrow it will be their 10th Coppa Italia and with it their third domestic double.

For Napoli it would be their fourth cup triumph, the first since 1987 and first silverware since their 1990 Serie A title and Italian Supercoppa win, back in Diego Maradona’s heyday.

It has been an up-and-down season for Napoli, who missed out on Champions League football to Udinese at the weekend, while their thrilling brand of counter-attacking football in European competition captivated fans at home and abroad.

However, many felt that they had the chance to challenge for the Italian title and missing out on the Champions League has meant that some of their key players, including playmaker Ezequiel Lavezzi, have been the subject of transfer speculation.

Maradona himself urged Napoli to cash-in on Lavezzi, saying that, if he were club president Aurelio De Laurentiis, he would sell to Inter, who are favourites to sign the 27-year-old Argentine.

“If I were De Laurentiis I would make a good transfer, if Inter offer lots of money,” said Maradona.

“This is the right moment to sell him, but Inter have to pay like they did for Ronaldo.”

Both teams will be backed by thousands of passionate fans, with the Stadio Olimpico expected to be a sell-out.

Reports have claimed that many supporters will travel to the Italian capital without tickets.

Juventus and Napoli fans have never particularly got on and tensions between both sets of fans and Roma supporters has prompted concerns about possible safety problems in the city and at the stadium tomorrow.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

HAMSIK HAILS 'PHENOMENON' DEL PIERO

May 19, 2012

Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik hailed Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero as a "phenomenon" ahead of Sunday's Coppa Italia final at Rome's Stadio Olimpico.

Del Piero led an unbeaten Juve to their 28th Serie A title this season, with this weekend's cup final set to be his last game for the Italian club after 19 years playing for the Bianconeri.

Hamsik admitted winning the cup would be a huge boost after Napoli narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Champions League to Udinese, but reserved his praise for the 37-year-old Del Piero, whom one day he hopes to emulate.

"Del Piero is a phenomenon," Hamsik told Corriere dello Sport.

"He has made history at Juventus over the past 19 years with loads of victories. I don't like the use of superlatives, but we are talking about a truly extraordinary player, who still is very strong.

"I would very much like to become Napoli's Del Piero. It would be a source of pride for me to still be a key player of this team by 2016, even though it does make me feel old to look that far ahead."

Victory on Sunday for Napoli would be their fourth cup triumph and their first silverware in 22 years since their last Serie A title win in 1990, whereas if Juve lift the cup it would complete their third domestic league and cup double.

Juve will be without centre-back Giorgio Chiellini for the final after he was substituted with just two minutes left of Juve's 3-1 win over Atalanta last Sunday.

Juventus coach Antonio Conte revealed he did not know the full extent of Chiellini's injuries, but he would definitely play no part against Napoli.

"It was a thigh twinge," Conte said. "He will certainly be out of the Coppa Italia final, but needs more tests."

Midfielder Andrea Pirlo believes more silverware is on the cards for Juve this season, although he expects a tough encounter against Napoli.

"On Sunday we'll show the right concentration and desire to lift this trophy," Pirlo told Sky Sports.

"We've laid the foundations to do something great.

"When you start to achieve success, you want to get more. We'll have the chance to lift further cups and trophies and to play more finals. We can definitely win more silverware.

"Napoli are a great side, they've showed their value over recent years, and will certainly give their all. It will be a tough match."

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Juve aim to add Cup to unbeaten season

May 19, 2012

Juventus is looking to cap its undefeated season by adding the Italian Cup to its Serie A title when it meets Napoli in the final on Sunday.

The Bianconeri completed the recovery from its darkest period following the 2006 match-fixing scandal as it lifted its first Serie A title in nine years last week, sparking scenes of jubilation in Turin.

"On Sunday we will try to win another trophy in the Italian Cup final," Juventus midfielder Luca Marrone said. "Napoli is a great team, it's not going through a very fortunate period, but in a one-off game anything can happen.

"We are ready, the celebrations are already behind us and the coach immediately prepared us in the right way."

It has been a long road since the 2005 and `06 titles were stripped from Juventus and it was relegated to Serie B but finally under young coach Antonio Conte, one of Italy's oldest clubs is proving it is back to its best once more.

Should Juventus win, it will have gone the entire season unbeaten in all competitions.

It is legendary striker Alessandro Del Piero's last game for Juventus. Del Piero, who scored in his last Serie A game for the club, has spent most of his career at Juventus after signing from Padova in 1993 and he will be hoping to complete a dream farewell campaign.

Juventus will be without key defender Giorgio Chiellini, who picked up a thigh injury in the last match against Atalanta.

Juventus wants to add a third gold star to the two already on the team shirts, as it counts the two titles it was stripped of, and debate over whether the club should be allowed is set to rumble throughout the offseason.

If it wins on Sunday, however, it can add a silver star, to mark a 10th Italian Cup victory. It currently stands level with Roma as the club to have won most in the competition.

Juventus has not won the cup since 1995, losing finals to Parma and Lazio since then.

Napoli has lifted the trophy three times, with its last victory coming in 1987. It has reached two finals since then, losing to Sampdoria and Vicenza.

"We will give everything Sunday," Napoli captain Paolo Cannavaro said. "It's an important date for us, it will be a match to make history in and who manages to play better will take the Cup home.

"We know that Juventus is strong and that it more than deserved the league this year. They say that appetite for success comes with winning, but we are really hungry for this victory. This is a Cup that Napoli has lacked for 25 years and we want to give this joy to our fans, it would be amazing."

It is almost certain to be Ezequiel Lavezzi's last game for Napoli, with the Argentina forward set to leave in the offseason after the club failed to qualify for the Champions League.

The sides have met eight times in the Italian Cup - including two two-legged ties - with Juventus winning five matches and Napoli three.

Napoli drew 3-3 at home to Juventus this season, but lost 3-0 in Turin.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Mazzarri: 'Juve favourites, but...'

May 19, 2012

Walter Mazzarri believes Napoli are the underdogs to Juventus in the Coppa Italia Final, but “my lads would do anything to win.”

The Bianconeri could set a new record by ending the season unbeaten in all competition, while the Partenopei need a boost after finishing fifth in Serie A.

“My lads would do anything to win,” said the Coach in his pre-match press conference.

“It’s one thing wanting to win and another being able to do it. Incidents will make a big difference on the night and they have more experienced players.

“Having just won the Scudetto, Juventus will also have less pressure on their shoulders, while for us it is a very important test.

“Juventus are still unbeaten and seem unbeatable, so they are the favourites. In order to win this trophy, we have to do something extraordinary, not make a single mistake and have incidents go in our favour.

“We feel the importance of this game so intensely that I fear it might even be noxious. We’ve got a little Champions League experience now and that could be helpful tomorrow.

“We need adrenaline rather than tension. Juve have more experience and players like Alessandro Del Piero who can give certainty and calm to their teammates. He can make the difference at any moment.”

Ezequiel Lavezzi was dropped in recent weeks, but is expected to start in place of Goran Pandev at the Stadio Olimpico, while Walter Gargano is suspended.

“My choices are limited in midfield and there won’t be huge changes. Lavezzi worked perfectly during the week and is in great shape.

“It sounds as if there will be a real exodus of Napoli fans travelling to Rome, so if we manage to win it’ll be the crowning moment of something exceptional. Whether we win or not, just reaching this Final is already enough to make us happy.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Del Piero ready for final Juve bow

May 19, 2012

Alessandro Del Piero admits facing his final match for Juventus will be emotional in the Coppa Italia Final against Napoli.

His contract has not been renewed and the captain already said goodbye to the crowd in Turin, but tomorrow evening will be his last ever game in the Bianconeri jersey.

“I don’t know what I will think right before stepping on to the field. I know what I’ll think this evening and throughout tomorrow,” he said in his press conference.

“I will try to find the right concentration, a clear head and isolate myself as much as possible from what is around this magnificent adventure. Basically I’ll try to focus on the Cup and everything one savours on days like this.

“I haven’t tried to picture what it will be like. Everything that has happened up until today has been immensely fantastic, indescribable and I hope tomorrow along with my teammates to write another winning page in the history books.

“I will admit this week, well the last few weeks and even months, have been completely different. However, I can confirm that within me I am focused only on achieving victory. We’ve done it in Serie A and now we have this other great opportunity.

“I don’t want to distract attention from what is this moment, this Final, to be played and experienced in full. I think that is the best thing to do before going into the future. It’s an attitude us young people can embrace,” smiled the 37-year-old.

Del Piero was also asked whether he thought that he deserved another year on his contract.

“I’m afraid I have to repeat myself, because maybe you think I’m just saying this, but it really is the truth. The journey over all these years and my growth in this time brings me to believe the only important thing is the present. That means all that counts is today, at this moment, listening to your questions and tomorrow trying to win.

“After that, there will be the summer vacation and many other things. I’ll have time to think about what I want to do when I grow up.”

Juventus confirmed they will wear a special patch on their jerseys marking the dates of Del Piero’s debut and final game with the words ‘One love.’

“It was the idea of our sponsors who asked if I wanted anything special for the final game. It was a patch where I could put my own mark. I happily accepted and put my logo, my signature and what I have tried to represent in all these years between those two dates.

“It represents the rapport between me and my work and specifically me and Juventus.”

Del Piero revealed he invited Oasis star Noel Gallagher to the Stadio Olimpico as his guest for the Final against Napoli.

“We are simultaneously in the best and worst possible situation, as we are in the Coppa Italia Final and facing a Napoli side of great quality who have proved very hard to beat. Tomorrow we have a tough task ahead of us.

“If we think of how hard we worked to reach this point and the opportunity in front of us, then we will put all our efforts on to the pitch and have what it takes to win. That must be our focus.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Conte: Juventus can write history by winning Coppa Italia

The Bianconeri boss is aiming to crown his side's unbeaten season with glory

in Italy's domestic cup competition against Napoli at the Olimpico on Sunday.

May 19, 2012

Antonio Conte says Juventus will try their utmost to lift the Coppa Italia and write "history" when his team take on Napoli in Sunday's final.

The Old Lady have been presented with the chance to secure a domestic double, having already sewn up the Serie A title this season, while a win over the Partenopei would confirm their unbeaten status for the campaign.

Speaking ahead of the decisive clash in Rome, Conte applauded the manner in which the Old Lady reached the final, but vowed his team will be fully focused on the task at hand amidst their championship celebrations.

He told reporters on Saturday: "We have got to the Coppa final with the right approach - to be the champions of Italy first and foremost.

"We've celebrated our title triumph but now it's time to return to the pitch to do our utmost and crown a great season.

"To win would ensure we end the season unbeaten, and in the history books. Napoli is the worst team we could have faced in the final."

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Mazzarri admits Juventus are favourites to lift Coppa Italia

Napoli coach is under no illusions as to the calibre of team the Partenopei will face

in Sunday's final, while he believes his side paid the price for competing on three fronts.

May 19, 2012

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri has branded Juventus as the favourites to win this season's Coppa Italia ahead of the southern Italians' trip to the Olimpico on Sunday.

The Partenopei won many admirers for their positive showing in this season's Champions League, but their run to the round of 16 in the competition has arguably come at the cost of poor league form, which saw them eventually finish fifth.

However, they now have a Coppa Italia final to look forward to, and while he felt his team struggled to compete on all three fronts, Mazzarri expects Napoli to face a focused Juventus outfit on Sunday, despite their recent title success.

"The Bianconeri have more experienced players and are under less pressure because they have already won the Serie A title. They are the favourites" he told reporters at a press conference.

"For us, however, it is an event. For the first time ever, my team has been playing in the Champions League, and I am convinced that if we had not competed on three fronts this year, we would be at least 13 points higher in the standings."

Ezequiel Lavezzi's future has been the subject of much speculation since the end of the season, but Mazzarri maintained: "Lavezzi has worked perfectly during the week and is in great shape."

Napoli will be gunning for their third Coppa triumph in history, and their first since 1987.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Maggio: 'Momentous Napoli Final'

May 20, 2012

Christian Maggio feels tonight’s Coppa Italia Final against Juventus is a momentous occasion for Napoli, as their first trophy in 22 years “would be incredible.”

The Partenopei are the underdogs at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome this evening and their last piece of silverware was the Italian Super Cup in 1990.

“Do we feel more motivation or responsibility? Both. It is an incredible event and we are trying to stay calm, keeping that even keel that helped us throughout the season,” said Maggio.

“Napoli have great ambition and the club wants to make Napoli bigger on a European level too, so regardless of the result in this Final, I am certain the club will try to take even more of the spotlight.

“Juventus have players of great quality who can resolve the match at any moment, but then so do we...

“We know this is a fundamental match for the club and the fans. Bringing a trophy back to Naples would be something incredible, but we are facing a great side. We have prepared as best we can during this week and obviously want to win.”

It is no coincidence that Napoli’s slump in form was during Maggio’s injury, so he is sometimes referred to as the ‘Fourth Tenor.’

“I don’t feel like that, even if I have heard the phrase. I just try to give everything I’ve got even when I’m not in the best shape. If I have done well until now it is down to both me and those who put faith in me.

“I am happy with this experience at Napoli, because I really wanted to be here and hope to stay for a long time yet.

“My role is very difficult, but I don’t think I am the best. I’ve improved a lot defensively over the past few years and have been able to make more of my attacking instincts, but I don’t think I’m the best wide player in Italy, no.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Maradona's Napoli-Juve appeal

May 20, 2012

Diego Armando Maradona has urged Napoli and Juventus fans to be the image of “fairness and chivalry” in tonight’s high-risk Coppa Italia Final.

There will be a huge police presence in Rome this evening, as there are fears local Roma and Lazio fans could join the fray in and around the Stadio Olimpico, as at least 30,000 Napoli supporters are making the journey.

Napoli legend Maradona released a statement through lawyer Angelo Pisani urging the ultras to focus only on the sport.

“This game at the Stadio Olimpico must be played with the utmost respect for the rules of civilised society.

“I only want to see the ball being kicked and nothing else. On the field and in the stands I must see fairness and chivalry.

“I am a symbol of peace in the world. I have always expressed fairness in my football and that is what I’d like to see in every single match.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Campagnaro hails Napoli passion

May 20, 2012

Ahead of tonight’s Coppa Italia Final, Hugo Campagnaro reveals “playing in Naples is different to the north of Italy.”

The Argentine defender spoke to ESPN Argentina and explained there is a big gap between Napoli supporters and those of Juventus.

“I have played in the north and can say Naples is different. It’s great living here, the people are as passionate as in Argentina and I really feel at home.

“Napoli have not won a trophy since the days of Diego Armando Maradona, so the fans are really fired up ahead of the Final with Juventus.

“We are in good shape, are facing the new Champions of Italy and want to end the season in a positive manner. It has been a strong campaign, as we finished in front of richer sides like Inter and Roma.

“Walter Mazzarri is a great motivator with real character. He focuses a lot on the tactical aspects. I’m happy to have him as our Coach, as he allows us to give our best.”

Campagnaro is one of several Serie A stars called up for international duty with Argentina.

“I am happy to have been recalled. The Coach rang me up before the Lecce game to give me the news. It is the most emotional moment of anyone’s career, although I’m a little sad to have only reached the Seleccion at the age of 31.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

I support my brother Paolo in Coppa Italia final

against Juventus, says Fabio Cannavaro

Speaking ahead of the domestic cup showpiece, the retired centre-back has chosen

to side with his sibling instead of the team he departed on two occasions.

May 20, 2012

Former Napoli and Juventus defender Fabio Cannavaro has thrown his support behind brother Paolo and the Partenopei for the Coppa Italia final on Sunday.

The 38-year-old, who played for both teams during his career, opined that his sibling is fully capable of leading his team to victory, but the former Italy international also took time to congratulate the Bianconeri for their Serie A title.

"I have beautiful memories of my time with Juventus: I won two league titles, and I defend those Scudetti. That being said, as a Neapolitan, I am especially rooting for my brother, Paolo," Cannavaro told Tuttosport.

"In recent days we have hardly spoken, and that is a good sign. Paolo did not need advice; he is the captain of Napoli and has proven time and again that he can transmit calmness to his team-mates."

Cannavaro then went on to discuss the key battles that are set to take place on Sunday, and he gave credit to the Bianconeri for the successful season they have had so far.

"Napoli will have to be able to harass the three midfield players of Juventus, [Andrea] Pirlo in particular. I expect a major contribution from Hamsik as he is skilled in both defence and offence," the elder Cannavaro brother explained.

"Juventus deserved the championship. I have been at the club in two different periods, before and after 2006; I know the meaning of this victory. Antonio Conte and the guys were great; their season is already extraordinary. A second title will make it memorable."

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

I hope to write another page in Juventus' history

in Coppa Italia final, says Del Piero

The legendary attacker, who is set to leave the Bianconeri in the summer, has revealed

that he would like to depart the club having triumphed against the Partenopei on Sunday.

May 20, 2012

Juventus veteran Alessandro Del Piero has stated that he hopes to write another page in the club's illustrious history with a win over Napoli in the Coppa Italia final.

The Bianconeri captain, who will depart the Turin giants in the summer, refused to shed light on his next destination, putting off transfer talks until after Sunday's game.

"So far everything has been fantastic and indescribable. I hope to write another page tomorrow with a win together with my team-mates," Del Piero said to reporters ahead of the Coppa Italia final.

"I am focusing on achieving victory, and now I will not divert my attention from this goal. The important thing is to think about Sunday and win. Then there will be holidays, and everything else.

"Will I go to Qatar? Wait until Monday.

"We are in the best position possible, because we come into this fixture after becoming Italian champions. But paradoxically we are also in worst situation because of the festivities and the fact that we face a very good quality side in the form of Napoli.

"We will, however, marshal all our forces, recalling what we have gone through to get here, and this will gives us what we need to win."

The Coppa Italia final is set to be played at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, with the kick-off scheduled for 21.00CET.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Antonio Conte affirms Juventus are in the right frame

of mind to lift the Coppa Italia

Having recently put an end to a nine-year wait to become champions of Italy again,

the coach insists that his troops are hungry for more.

May 20, 2012

Antonio Conte affirmed that Juventus have brought their title celebrations to a halt to concentrate on winning the Coppa Italia when they clash with Napoli at Rome's Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

Having clinched the Scudetto in stunning fashion a fortnight ago and having gone onto end the season unbeaten with their 3-1 victory over Atalanta last weekend, the Bianconeri now have their sights set on securing a rare domestic double.

Conte, who has received much of the praise for Juve's title triumph, admitted being proud of how his players reached the final, and insisted that his team are completely focused on the task ahead.

"We have got to the Coppa final with the right approach - to be the champions of Italy first and foremost," he declared to reporters during Saturday's pre-game press conference.

"We've celebrated winning the Scudetto but now it's time to return to the pitch to do our utmost and crown a great season."

Conte is well aware of the fact that if Juventus win the final they would write a new chapter into the history books, after a marvellous campaign, but admitted that he would have rather played any other side than Walter Mazzarri's title-hungry Napoli.

"To win would ensure we end the season unbeaten, and in the history books. Napoli is the worst team we could have faced in the final," he affirmed.

Despite having trounced Napoli 3-0 in the Serie A in April, prior to that result, Juventus hadn't beaten the Neapolitans in four consecutive games, which included two heavy defeats.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Final - 20-5-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Christian Brighi

Coppa Italia: Juventus vs Napoli Match Preview

The Italian champions will have to be at their very best to overcome Napoli

in what promises to be an action-packed Coppa Italia final at Rome's Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

May 20, 2012

Team News

Juventus coach Antonio Conte will be unable to count with the services of both Giorgio Chiellini and Paolo De Ceglie, as both players are sidelined due to injury. Due to this Martin Caceres will join Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci in what is expected to be a three-man defence. Conte will most likely start Juve legend Alessandro Del Piero alongside Mirko Vucinic in his final game in a Juventus shirt.

Other than midfielder Walter Gargano, who is suspended, Napoli boss Walter Mazzarri will be able to field a full-strength side for the highly anticipated final. There were doubts as to whether captain Paolo Cannavaro would recover from a knock to his ribs, but he has responded well in recent hours and is expected to lead the side. It is yet to be known whether Ezequiel Lavezzi or Goran Pandev will partner Uruguayan talisman Edinson Cavani in the Napoli attack.

Probable Starting Line-ups

Juventus: Buffon, Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres, Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Giaccherini, Del Piero and Vucinic.

Napoli: De Sanctis, Campagnaro, Cannavaro, Aronica, Maggio, Inler, Dzemaili, Dossena, Hamsik, Lavezzi and Cavani.

Form

Juventus come into the game in highly confident mood, as not only did they clinch their first Scudetto since 2003 a fortnight ago, but last weekend's 3-1 victory over Atalanta at the Juventus Arena meant they became one of only three teams to end an entire Serie A season unbeaten. Rivals Napoli have only suffered one defeat in their last six outings, but just missed out on qualification for next season's Champions League. In their final league game, last weekend, Mazzarri's men edged Siena 2-1, the same team that they overcame in the Coppa Italia semi-finals to reach Sunday's decider.

Head-to-head

The Bianconeri crushed Napoli 3-0 the last time the teams met one another for the Serie A in April, courtesy of goals from Vucinic, Arturo Vidal and Fabio Quagliarella. But when they met at the Stadio San Paolo earlier in the campaign, they fought out a thrilling 3-3 draw. Including that result, The Neapolitans haven't lost to Juve in their last four games, where they won twice and drew the same number of games. When it comes to Coppa Italia titles, Juventus have won nine of them, compared to Napoli's three.

Players to Look out for

Del Piero: Everyone's eyes will be glued on the Juve legend, who will be hoping to put on a strong display in his final game in the famed black and white striped jersey. Despite not being used too much this season, Del Piero has scored a few crucial goals in recent games, and is worthy of his place in the starting eleven.

Cavani: The classy striker leads the Coppa Italia scoring charts with four goals, and will surely cause the Juventus defence plenty of problems on Sunday. His ruthlessness when in front of goal is astonishing, and he will be looking to produce the goods in the final. Like Del Piero, the much sought-after striker could also be playing his last game for his club.

Prediction

Juventus come into the game as the odds on favourites to win the title, due to the fact that they proved much superior to their competition this season, but despite this should be wary of the Neapolitans, as they contain a deadly attack. If Napoli take full advantage of the abundance of talent which they count with in their attacking third they will surely make life extremely difficult for the Italian champions. If Cavani is at his best the underdogs could cause a major upset.

The Verdict:

Juventus 1-2 Napoli