Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8386]

[Socrates 8386]

[Socrates 8386]

[Socrates 8386]

[Socrates 8386]

[Socrates 8386]

Serie A Week 13 - 17/11/2012 (06:00 p.m.)

0 - 0

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 38839

Juventus 0-0 Lazio REVIEW: Déjà vu All Over Again!

Nov 18, 2012

Lazio came to Turin on Saturday evening to begin a sequence of five matches that would have a huge influence on what Juventus could hope to achieve this season. With Chelsea making the same journey on Tuesday before the Bianconeri visit San Siro to take on Milan next Sunday, this will prove to be a vital week in their hopes of silverware. Here’s John and Adam with the review of Act I.

MATCH ANALYSIS (by Adam Digby)

What you are about to read is not a mistake. We have not merely copy/pasted the words from any number of previous match reports and yet what follows will have that eerie air of déjà vu. Juventus dominate match. Visiting goalkeeper puts on a world class display. Final score? Yes, you guessed it, a hugely frustrating 0-0 draw. Told you it would all be sadly familiar!

Of course it would be a dereliction of duty for us to leave it at that so allow us to flesh out some details, starting with the performance of Federico Marchetti in the Lazio goal. Long since regarded as a player of huge potential, he possesses all the qualities needed to be one of the very best thanks to a combination of size, agility and fantastic reflexes. The one doubt over him has always been his questionable positioning, often caught out by lapses in concentration but here, like so many before him, he left those missteps in the visitors dressing room and promptly won the man of the match award thanks to a string of brilliant saves.

He was guilty of one error which saw a powerful header from Leo Bonucci seem destined to break the deadlock but the crossbar came to the aid of the Biancocelsti. Sebastian Giovinco, Fabio Quagliarella and Claudio Marchisio were all denied by great stops in a match which saw Juventus utterly dominate proceedings right from the very beginning. They enjoyed 59% of possession and took 21 shots while Lazio failed to even manage a single attempt on target. The Bianconeri completed 85% of their passes. Angelo Alessio summed the game up perfectly in his post-match interview when he said:

All that was missing was that elusive goal. We created many opportunities, dominating from the first minute onwards, but we weren’t able to score.

We dominated and forced Lazio to play a defensive game. We’re aware that we didn’t manage to put the ball away, but our way of playing will remain the same: maintain a high tempo and create as much as possible.

LE PAGELLE (by John Cascarano)

Buffon 6.0 – Had little to do besides watch his compatriot Marchetti do his best impression of a ca. 2006 era him.

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Chiellini 7.5 – Solid, as usual, constantly closing down defenders and winning balls after what looked like dangerous dribbles in the area. With Thiago Silva gone, he has to be Serie A’s best all around defender. Too bad Marchetti and the other 10 Laziale behind the ball were just as successful on their end.

Bonucci 6.5 – Good defending, and provided some nice passes; one of which a long ball neatly handled by Giovinco which should have been a goal. Even though it wasn’t saved by Marchetti.

Barzagli 6.5 – Solid, as usual (see Chiellini, Giorgio). Was barely bothered by Klose’s presence, much unlike how I was constantly bothered by Marchetti’s.

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Asamoah 5.5 – Not sure if it was just me, but Kwadwoah seemed relatively quiet on the night. Maybe I was too distracted by Marchetti’s flying trapeze act in net.

Marchisio 7.0 – Ran like crazy, won balls, made passes, and made through runs into the middle. He’s been lacking that goal scoring touch as of late, but the center midfielders can’t always be expected to pick up the slack for the strikers, much like any fan can’t expect the other team’s goal keeper to play the way Marchetti did yesterday on any given match against Juventus.

Vidal 6.5 – See Marchisio, Claudio. Blah blah blah, stupid Marchetti.

Pogba 6.0 – Relatively muted display from Teenage Mutant Ninja Pogba. The good news for all of you is that as of March, I will no longer be able to make teenage puns regarding him, which will frustrate me, much like Marchetti’s display did yesterday.

’84 Bendtner sv – The Danish Ibrahimovic was brought on late in hopes of a Hail Mary, but even he could not unlock the mythical Marchetti. That’s saying something!

Isla 5.5 – Mauricio is slowly finding his way back to top form, even if yesterday he could not make the most of his battle on the flank with Marchetti. I mean Radu; Marchetti only appeared to be everywhere. Including my nightmares last night.

’70 Pepe 5.5 – Pepinho finally got some minutes after his long injury layoff. Usually a Lazio-killer, pitch rust and Marchetti would say ‘no dice’ this time.

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Giovinco 6.5 – I’m not sure if this was a solid performance frustratingly ruined by a Lazio defense and, of course, Marchetti, or if it was a pitiful performance which was simply frustrating. Nor am I sure if Sarah Jessica Parker is the the hottest ugly woman or the ugliest hot woman in show business. He did have moments of sheer brilliance, like after the aforementioned Boner long ball, so I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt and rate him as the former. Auguri, Seba! You’re the hottest ugly woman in calcio!

Quagliarella 6.0 – He should have saved some of those goals for this week. Brilliantly got his foot on a ball off a free kick which would have made for another Quaglia-Wunder-Gol, but that was ruined by… you guessed it… Biava. I’m just kidding, Marchetti.

’66 Matri 5.0 – Poor Ale. I love the guy, but he’s just been looking uncomfortable out there. Needs to find his form and fast. Nothing else to say other than some reference to Marchetti’s frustrating superman display.

ANALYSIS WRAP-UP (by Adam Digby)

As weary and worn as we are with this type of result, it would be unfair to the players to merely lump this game in with the other frustrating draws Juventus have suffered since Antonio Conte took charge of the team. Where many (if not all) of those stalemates were ultimately the result of the lack of a top class striker we have all bemoaned at various times. This was not a game where Mirko Vucinic or Alessandro Matri squandered chance after chance with a combination of selfish play and an utter lack of self-belief.

Here we saw a team at its very best, carving open the opposition time after time only to see Marchetti deny them each and every time. As hard as it will be for the Marotta haters – and those firmly against the 3-5-2 – to understand, those of us with longer, unblinkered memories remember that the club also used to draw matches when Luciano Moggi was the Director General and Gianluca Vialli or David Trezeguet were playing up front.

Of course there is room for improvement and the return of the suspended Andrea Pirlo will be a huge fillip for the team, his added creativity and ability to pull off passes other players simply fail to even think of making. If even Simone Pepe (wasn’t it fantastic to see him once again fit enough to play?) cannot score against Lazio then you know it truly is just one of those days.

As they prepare to face the reigning champions of Europe on Tuesday the Bianconeri must take every positive from this performance, knowing that such displays of dominance will result in victory far more often than this disappointment. Bonucci was quick to see those points when he told Sky Italia at fulltim:

It was a great Juventus performance, we were the only team in the game. Lazio didn’t have a shot on goal and Marchetti was the best player on the pitch. Obviously there’s anger, we’ve taken a point instead of the three we deserved.

We lacked precision in front of goal, I also could have scored but hit the bar instead. From now we’ll turn our attentions to Chelsea, it’s currently the most important fixture, given our desire to progress in the Champions League.

That is exactly what we must all now do and here at JuventiKnows we will be covering the game in our usual fashion. Keep an eye out for a detailed preview of the game while remembering this was a very good performance that deserved more than just a point.

Andiamo ragazzi!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qm_whKzcWfE&feature=player_detailpage

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Turkish ref for Juve-Chelsea

Nov 18, 2012

Turkish referee Cuneyt Çakir has been assigned to Tuesday’s Juventus-Chelsea Champions League match.

It’s a win or bust game for the Bianconeri, who are currently third in Group E.

Çakir has only ever officiated Juventus once before in his career, a 2-1 Europa League preliminary round victory away to Sturm Graz in August 2010.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Roberto Di Matteo calls on Chelsea to show class

against Juventus in Champions League

Nov 18, 2012

Roberto Di Matteo has admitted the UEFA Champions League is becoming more difficult each year as he prepares for a tough challenge against Juventus.

Di Matteo guided Chelsea to European glory last season to join a select band of Italian managers to have won the competition.

The Blues still have work to do to make it through to the last 16 this term and Di Matteo is focused on trying to pick up a win in Turin rather than what reception he is likely to receive at the stadium.

Asked if he was returning home full of pride, Di Matteo said: "I'm proud to have led this club to that trophy.

"Wherever we go, it's a moment where we are a good club. We've shown it and we have to show it again."

Chelsea are currently level on points with Shakhtar Donetsk at the top of Group E, one ahead of Juve, and it is a similar tale across Europe as many of the big clubs are yet to secure passage to the next round.

Only Manchester United boast a 100 per cent record after four group games, with the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and AC Milan joining Chelsea in suffering defeats.

Di Matteo said: "Every year now, it's becoming more and more difficult.

"We had APOEL, who showed how a relatively small club can do very well in the Champions League. Every season, you see clubs surprising in the Champions League.

"It becomes more competitive and difficult every season, and clubs with new investment and traditional clubs like Juventus coming back after many years, often ending up in pots two, three or four. It makes it very difficult."

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Should Chelsea make the switch back to 433?

Nov 18, 2012

With Roberto Di Matteo considering making a switch to a more defensive approach to tighten things up at the back, I just wonder if a tactical switch back to 4-3-3 is something he is considering ahead of the trip to Juventus.

As we know, our current formation looks like this (when everyone is fit):

The formation is reliant on the attacking three pushed forward in midfield, tracking back and filling in our wide positions in defensive areas, providing support for our full backs. As we have seen Mata, Oscar and Hazard all interchange positions when we are attacking so without the ball, they each have a job to do to ensure two of them track back. It can be a vulnerable part of our game.

So what could Di Matteo do to sure things up defensively? The answer is to ensure we cover the wide areas. This is where the 4-3-3 formation comes into mind.

Going forward to the Juventus game on Tuesday, knowing we will be without Lampard and JT and with Di Matteo talking of changes, I could imagine a switch to this starting formation and selection could happen.

Juan Mata and Ramires would both operate in the central area alongside Mikel who would be asked to sit and hold his position. Eden Hazard and Victor Moses would be asked to stick to their positions on either wing and to stay there. The interchange in advanced areas we have seen would be done away with and Hazard and Moses would be asked to patrol their wing up AND down.

The fact that Torres was withdrawn in the second half in favour of Sturridge playing through the middle, it could be for one of two reasons. Firstly, that he is resting him ahead of the Juventus game or secondly, he has decided enough is enough.

I believe that Sturridge is in with a real opportunity to start on Tuesday so he would occupy the striker position as part of the three up top with Hazard and Moses operating either side.

It is a more balanced formation and will provide cover in wide areas.

Whether or not it is the way forward is another thing.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Di Matteo hints at axing Torres for vital Chelsea clash with Juventus

Chelsea coach has insisted he will leave the striker out if it is the "right thing

to do for the team" as he looks to put the Blues in pole position to win Group E.

Nov 19, 2012

Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo has hinted that he may drop Fernando Torres for the Champions League clash with Juventus on Tuesday, following the striker’s recent goal drought.

The Spain international has scored just one goal in six weeks and was part of an underwhelming Chelsea side that succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of West Brom on Saturday.

And, in a move which suggests that the profligacy is becoming a concern, Di Matteo admitted he has to explore all possible options to rectify the situation even if it means dropping his star striker.

"We will have to assess the whole team and see how everybody is, and how they have recovered," he told The Daily Mirror.

"But if I believe it is the right thing to do for the team, then yeah, I will leave him out.

"I thought when we moved Sturridge up there he looked a danger against West Brom. He had a very good chance saved by the keeper and another put wide.

"He was always a threat to the defence - we need to score goals."

The European champions currently sit top of Group E, but with only a point separating first- and third-placed teams.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Chelsea anger at West Brom loss must be used

against Juve says David Luiz

David Luiz revealed the anger in the Chelsea dressing room after the 2-1 defeat

at West Brom extended their sequence without a Premier League win to four games.

Nov 19, 2012

But the centre-back and his team-mates will have little time to reflect on the setback, which has left them four points adrift of leaders and champions Manchester City.

Luiz accepts the European champions are facing ‘the most important game in the group’ as they bid to keep their Champions League fate in their own hands against Juventus in Turin on Tuesday.

‘The reaction after the game was that we were upset and angry,’ the 25-year-old said.

‘We should have won the game. There were raised voices but that is normal. This is a big club and we don’t like to lose games. But what’s past is past and the future is Juventus. It will be difficult and Juventus are a great team.’

Luiz admits Chelsea, who must avoid defeat to maintain control of their European destiny, have to get the balance right between their differing ambitions.

He said: ‘In the Champions League we have a great opportunity to qualify. But we will never forget how important the Premier League is.

‘There is a bit of a gap at the top and we don’t want to get too far behind.

‘In two or three games everything can change and Chelsea will be fighting for the top of the league again.’

And Luiz refuses to accept that Roberto Di Matteo’s team need more time to gel.

The Brazilian added: ‘We need to live in the present.

‘When you work under one guy for a long time, yes, you know more, so all the players know we have to be stronger on the pitch.’

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

UEFA Champions League: Juventus vs. Chelsea, Build Up and Live Commentary

Nov 19, 2012

In what is perhaps the most anticipated fixture of Matchday 4, Juventus welcome Chelsea to Turin. With just a single point separating the top three sides in Group E (Chelsea, Shakthar Donetsk and Juventus) nothing less than a win will suffice for either the Blues or Bianconeri.

Chelsea will be looking to get back to winning ways following a 2-1 defeat at the hands of West Bromwich Albion.

Juventus on the other hand, will look to get back to scoring ways after succumbing to a 0-0 draw at home to Lazio in the league. In their clash on Matchday 1, both sides battled to a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge in a match which saw individual brilliance from Oscar and a never-say-die attitude from Juventus.

With kick-off just a few days away stay tuned here for all the latest team news, updates, previews and of course live match commentary. Juventus vs Chelsea, the defending Italian Champions vs the defending European Champions, Italy vs England...whichever way you look at it, make sure not to miss this blockbuster.

9:29 PM ET

TORRES TO BE DROPPED FROM JUVENTUS CLASH?

Whilst there is no doubt John Terry will not feature for Chelsea in Turin, could it be the case that Roberto Di Matteo leaves out Fernando Torres from Chelsea's squad? Di Matteo revealed (via Goal.com) he was clearly impressed with Sturridge's impact on the West Bromwich match (despite the loss) and could have the youngster start over the Spaniard.

9:10 PM ET

Last time these two sides met in the Champions League we were treated to a four-goal thriller including a stunner from Brazilian Oscar. Re-live all the action from the matchday 1.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Claudio Marchisio warns Chelsea to beware of Juventus "anger"

Nov 19, 2012

Midfielder Claudio Marchisio has warned Chelsea that Juventus will display their "anger" and "nastiness" during tomorrow night's Champions League clash in Turin.

Both sides go into the match knowing that a defeat would leave their hopes of reaching the last 16 hanging by a thread.

Juve's 49-game unbeaten streak in Serie A was ended by a 3-1 home loss to Inter Milan earlier this month and Marchisio believes that the setback has helped his side refocus.

He said: "The loss to Inter has rekindled this light, the nastiness, the rhythm that was missing in various matches.

"Against Nordsjaelland we showed the Juventus of last year, that anger, that conviction. Against Chelsea we must play like in the first game in London."

Juve came back from 2-0 at Stamford Bridge to draw 2-2 back in September.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Chelsea And Juventus To Slug It Out

Nov 19, 2012

Group E

Juventus v Chelsea

Juventus Stadium, Turin

Clearly the most exciting fixture of Matchday five, this game is likely to decide which team will continue it’s run in the UEFA Champions League further than the group stages. Juventus currently sit third at six points while Chelsea sit second with seven points. A victory for Juventus here would mean that a draw would suffice on Matchday six for them, leaving Chelsea relying on Shakhtar. A draw or a win for Chelsea would mean that they would still continue to be their masters of their destiny, with a relatively easier fixture against Nordsjælland at home on Matchday six.

Chelsea will need another special performance from Oscar

On the domestic front, Juventus continue to sit top of the table, having recovered well after the defeat against Inter ended their 49 match winning streak. They come into the game on the back of a 0-0 draw against Lazio. Chelsea on the other hand are on a miserable run of form, a perfunctory drop in the month of November, having picked up just 2 points in their last four league games and come into the game on the back of a disappointing defeat at the hands of West Bromwich Albion, wherein several key players were rested with one eye on this fixture.

Had it not been for Victor Moses’ parting of sea…or his last gasp header, Chelsea would not find themselves in this position. Even so, this will so far be Chelsea’s sternest test and could not have come at a worse possible time. Being made to chase shadows for an entire game and coming up with a winner at the end might not be a possibility against an experienced team like Juventus. In the absence of injured John Terry, Chelsea would need someone to take up the role of the leader on the pitch, something they have lacked in their recent performances.

As for Juventus, Andrea Pirlo would like to have much more of an influence on the game and Arturo Vidal, who has been putting in stronger performances after a few ‘less than impressive’ cameos, would like to put in a similar shift as last time around against Chelsea. With Chelsea’s defence and attack little short of absolute shambles, it is the midfield where the game would be won or lost, and on current form Juventus are likely to take advantage of it. Although another surprise from Chelsea could not be entirely ruled out.

Prediction: Juventus 2-1 Chelsea

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

UEFA Champions League Group E preview:

Crucial clash for Chelsea and Juve

Nov 19, 2012

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres could be dropped to the bench for Tuesday's crunch Champions League tie with Juventus.

The Spaniard came off 28 minutes from the end of Chelsea's disappointing 2-1 loss at West Brom on Saturday after yet another fruitless afternoon in front of goal.

And with manager Roberto Di Matteo contemplating a change in system for the crucial clash at Juventus Stadium, Torres may be the man left out.

"Maybe we need to sacrifice a little bit the attacking options to go a little bit more defensive," Di Matteo said after the West Brom loss.

"We are playing a little bit different but we may have to go a little bit back to win games.

Group E is one of the most evenly poised of the eight pools, with Shakhtar Donetsk top on seven points from Chelsea and Juventus (both six).

A win for Di Matteo's side in Italy would ensure their progression to the last 16 ahead of the final round of fixtures.

The Blues looked far more dangerous at The Hawthorns when Daniel Sturridge replaced Torres, while the introduction of Oscar and Juan Mata also saw an improvement, yet Juventus away will pose a greater threat than in-form West Brom.

Antonio Conte's side are top of Serie A, having lost just one league game in their past 52.

Juventus dominated Lazio in a 0-0 draw on Saturday, with only goalkeeper Federico Marchetti sparing the visitors from defeat.

Likewise for Shakhtar, a win against Nordsjaelland (one point) would guarantee their spot in the next round.

The Ukrainian side have impressed as much as any in this year's competition, surprising many with their command of the group.

Brazilian striker Luiz Adriano is being tracked by a host of Premier League clubs but his primary goal will be firing Shakhtar into the next round when they face the Danish side in Cophenhagen on Tuesday.

Mircea Lucescu's side were desperately unlucky to go down 3-2 to Chelsea on the last matchday after a lion-hearted display at Stamford Bridge.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus - Chelsea Preview: Blues hoping

to put poor domestic form behind them in Turin

With Roberto Di Matteo's men joint-top of Group E but just a point ahead of the Bianconeri,

Tuesday night's clash should prove to be a deciding factor in the final standings.

Nov 19, 2012

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini

Lichtsteiner, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Isla

Quagliarella, Giovinco

CHELSEA

Cech

Ivanovic, Cahill, Luiz, Cole

Mikel, Ramires

Mata, Oscar, Hazard

Torres

Juventus were frustrated in a 0-0 draw with Lazio at the weekend but have very few injury concerns, Mirko Vucinic has been absent with a knock since the Old Lady's Serie A defeat to Inter, while Paolo De Cegile (thigh) is still regaining fitness.

Elsewhere Andrea Pirlo will return after sitting out the weekend's game through suspension, with former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba dropping to the bench.

Sebastian Giovinco could miss out on a starting role after a below-par showing at the weekend, with Alessandro Matri and Nicklas Bendtner waiting in the wings and Simone Pepe ramped up his comeback from injury on Saturday with a substitute appearance.

Roberto Di Matteo has hinted that Fernando Torres' place in the side may be under threat, with Daniel Sturridge waiting in the wings, however it would be a big call to drop the £50 million man.

Chelsea will be without John Terry (knee) with Frank Lampard (calf) also a major doubt, however, Ashley Cole (hamstring) should return after being an unused substitute in the defeat to West Brom.

Oscar, Juan Mata, Branislav Ivanovic and Ramires all started on the bench in that loss on Saturday, but should return to the Blues' line-up for the Group E clash.

The visitors' manager may also chose to drop David Luiz after a sloppy display against the Baggies, with the option of keeping Cesar Azpilicueta at right-back and moving Ivanovic into the middle.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus' 4-0 win over FC Nordsjaelland in their last Champions League game ended a record run of nine successive European draws.

• The reigning Serie A champions have a good record against English teams at home, winning 12 out of 20 meetings - however they have won just one of the last six.

• Gianluigi Buffon, Leonardo Bonucci, Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo have all played every minute of the Old Lady's group stage campaign, with Petr Cech, Branislav Ivanovic and David Luiz doing the same for the Blues.

• Juve pair Giorgio Chiellini and Marchisio are both a booking away from a suspension, while Luiz is also one yellow away from missing a game.

• Chelsea have won only once in eight visits to Italy, beating Lazio, who drew with Juventus at the weekend, 4-0 in a group stage fixture in the 2003-04 season.

• The west Londoners have won just one of their last nine away games in the competition, while they are also without a win in their last four Premier League fixtures.

• Roberto Di Matteo was playing for Italy when Bianconeri keeper Buffon made his international debut, the game was a 1-1 draw with Russia in the 1998 World Cup play-off first leg.

• The west London outfit's duo of Fernando Torres and Juan Mata both scored against Buffon in Spain's 4-0 victory over Italy in the Euro 2012 final.

Head to Head

UEFA Champions League - 19 Sep 2012 - Chelsea FC 2 - Juventus 2

UEFA Champions League ‎- 10 Mar 2009 - Juventus 2 - Chelsea FC 2

UEFA Champions League ‎- 25 Feb 2009 - Chelsea FC 1 - Juventus 0

Last Five Matches

JUVENTUS

Nov 17, 2012 - Juventus 0 - Lazio 0 - Serie A

Nov 10, 2012 - Pescara 1 - Juventus 6 - Serie A

Nov 7, 2012 - Juventus 4 - FC Nordsjælland 0 - UCL

Nov 3, 2012 - Juventus 1 - FC Internazionale 3 - Serie A

Oct 31, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Bologna 1 - Serie A

CHELSEA FC

Nov 17, 2012 - West Bromwich Albion 2 - Chelsea FC 1 - Premier League

Nov 11, 2012 - Chelsea FC 1 - Liverpool 1 - Premier League

Nov 7, 2012 - Chelsea FC 3 - Shakhtar Donetsk 2 - UCL

Nov 3, 2012 - Swansea City 1 - Chelsea FC 1 - Premier League

Oct 31, 2012 - Chelsea FC 5 - Manchester United 4 - CCUP

Players to Watch

Arturo Vidal

The Chilean has netted five goals in 11 Serie A games this season, as well as contributing two assists, while he has scored two from four appearances in the Champions League this term - not bad for a man who originally played a deep midfield role. The 25-year-old has moved into a more attacking position this season, and the fact that he has been continually linked with both Manchester clubs and Real Madrid tells you all you need to know about his quality.

Oscar

The 21-year-old netted twice on his first Chelsea start in the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge, and will be chomping at the bit to try and produce a similar return this time around. A tricky attacking midfielder, the Brazilian is always capable of a moment of magic that could prove vital against what is a solid defensive unit. With Torres still struggling to find the net, the Blues' manager is becoming ever more reliant on goals from midfield.

Prediction

Although Chelsea stormed to a 2-0 lead in the first meeting between the sides in this competition, the reigning Serie A champions fought their way back to a 2-2 draw. It is likely to be a close game once again, with both teams oozing quality and so much at stake. Given Shakhtar Donetsk will be expected to pick up three points against FC Nordsjaelland, another tense stalemate is very much on the cards.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 1 - 1 Chelsea

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Luiz unconcerned by Chelsea's dip in form

Roberto Di Matteo's side are without a win in their last four Premier League matches,

drawing two and losing two, but the Brazilian defender is staying positive.

Nov 19, 2012

Despite a run of four Premier League matches without a win, David Luiz is unconcerned by Chelsea’s current form, affirming that just a couple of matches could see them go top once again.

After draws with Liverpool and Swansea, as well as a home defeat to Manchester United, Chelsea would have hoped to return to winning ways on Saturday, but Steve Clarke and West Brom had different ideas as they ran out 2-1 winners at the Hawthorns.

Norwich City did Roberto Di Matteo’s side a favour by edging out Sir Alex Ferguson’s men later that day, while unbeaten Manchester City moved four points clear of the Blues after smashing Aston Villa for five but Luiz is certain there is nothing to worry about yet.

Speaking to reporters after the match on Satuday, Luiz said: “The thing about the Premier League is its magic. In my first season we were 18 points behind and then in the last two games we could have won the league.

“That end of the season is long time from now, but Chelsea don’t like to be far behind other teams. But in two or three games everything can change and Chelsea could be fighting at the top.

“We had a lot of chances to win the game, but we were unlucky. We’ll now go back to London and think about the next game.

“All the other teams come here and do not have an easy game. They have a great philosophy and a great coach, but we are a little disappointed. Chelsea always want to be top [of the league].”

Up next for Chelsea is the less-than-simple task of facing Juventus in Turin, and although he recognises them as a “great team”, Luiz is confident that the team will rectify their deficiencies and qualify from the group.

“We will work it out for the Champions League,” asserted the Brazilian. “And I think we have a great opportunity to qualify, but both teams, Juventus and Shakhtar are great teams.

“Shakhtar have played together for four years. They [Juventus] will be dangerous. They have a great team.

“The group is different now because they are just one point behind us, so I think it is the most important game in the group.”

Fernando Torres struggled at the Hawthorns and has netted just twice in his last eight games for the Blues, but Luiz believes the Spaniard remains a crucial part of the side.

He said: “All of the players are important for us. Some of them play well, some of them have not so good games, but that is normal. That is football.”

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Buffon: "We respect Chelsea, but..."

Nov 19, 2012

Buffon was a losing finalist in the 2003 edition which Milan won, he’s now hoping his club can collect four points from their last two games to reach this season’s last 16 – starting with Chelsea on Tuesday.

“We are on the same level as the European champions,” he argued. “Any result could occur, but today Juventus are respected by everyone.

“I don’t even think we are lacking experience because games for national teams count too…

“We respect Chelsea, but we have the cards necessary to win. The 2-2 at Stamford Bridge underlines that.”

Despite Buffon’s confidence, there is a chance that Juventus’ Champions League campaign could be dubbed as a failure if they don’t qualify.

“Such strong terms shouldn’t be used. It depends on how you go through or how you are eliminated.

“Whoever knows anything about football knows that our group was the most difficult – that was evident at the draw.

“There are three teams – Juventus, Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk – who are going for the last 16 and I think it will go down to the last game.

“Today a lot of people are celebrating Borussia Dortmund, but they went out at the group stage last season.”

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Vialli on Juventus offensive

Nov 19, 2012

Gianluca Vialli has spoken about Juventus’ problems in attack ahead of the Chelsea game. “I think I could be of use…”

Vialli’s two former clubs meet in the Champions League on Tuesday just days after the Old Lady tried and failed to breakdown Lazio.

“Juventus’ issues in attack revolve around the fact that their forwards are all on the same level,” he told Tuttosport.

“Nobody has illustrated that they are world class and that is why boss Antonio Conte rotates them in the way he does.

“The side can benefit from that ploy as a result, but the individual players certainly won’t.

“It is hard to choose which pairing to go with, because there is not one which you can say is the strongest.”

Juventus are the League’s top scorers, but the majority of their goals have come from their midfield department.

And Vialli feels that Sebastian Giovinco, four strikes in 12 Serie A games this term, has to deliver more.

“Giovinco is always under exam,” the former Italian international added. “Conte insists that Giovinco is fundamental to his team because of his assists. I think he will only be decisive when he scores…

“He has the abilities to take the team by the hand, but he needs to be scoring key goals and doing that regularly.”

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Vucinic a doubt for Juventus

Nov 19, 2012

Italian champions Juventus may play Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday without Mirko Vucinic.

The Montenegrin international striker has missed the club’s last three games because of firstly injury and then illness.

Vucinic has been struggling to get over a fever which again saw him train separately from the rest of the squad on Sunday.

Boss Antonio Conte will take a closer look at the forward on Monday before deciding whether to select him in the party for the Juventus Stadium tie.

Should he not recover then the Old Lady may begin with a strike pairing of Fabio Quagliarella and Sebastian Giovinco.

Juve need four points from their games against Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk to reach the last 16 of the competition.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Andrea Pirlo: 'Disaster if Chelsea crash out of Champions League'

Nov 19, 2012

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo believes that it would be a "disaster" if Chelsea fail to reach the knockout rounds of the Champions League.

The current holders are in danger of getting booted out of the elite competition if they do not get a result against the Old Lady in Turin tomorrow night.

"Chelsea will arrive in a rage after failing at the weekend, but Juve is Juve and being at home always influences our rivals," the Daily Star quotes Pirlo as saying.

"We want to put the pressure on Chelsea. For this type of club, it's always a disaster to go out of the Champions League in the first phase."

The Blues sit second in Group E, level on points with leaders Shakhtar Donetsk, while Juve reside just one point below Chelsea.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus vs. Chelsea PREVIEW – The One to Watch

Nov 19, 2012

Hyperbole is ever present when it comes to presenting football matches. And frankly, most times, the shrill media cries hyping up this or that fixture are nothing but attempts to capture the emotions and imaginations of the masses to lure as many as possible to choose to watch the game in question – or indeed read the preview – rather than indulge in the numerous other offers in a sea of entertainment.

But this time it’s different… Tuesday night in Turin, as Juventus host Chelsea in the Champions League, a truly spectacular match will unfold, I guarantee this without any form of hesitation. The importance of the match itself dictates it.

Of course I can’t promise that it will be a ‘beautiful’ match, even if that is a very distinct possibility too. It is beyond doubt, however, that this will be as intense an affair as you’re likely to witness this side of the New Year.

The two teams that were considered the clear favorites to go through from Group E by many have met unforeseen difficulties in the first four matches and now find themselves in a very tight three-way battle with Ukrainian “surprise package” Shakhtar. In fact, the “Miners” of Donetsk have arguably been the best of the three sides so far and as they also have a slightly more favorable schedule to come (facing Nordsjælland away and Juve at home), the tie in Turin could well be decisive in determining which of the two combatants will go through.

For the Bianconeri it is relatively simple; anything but a win will make advancing further in this tournament very difficult, as even in the event of a draw, they will have to win in Donetsk to qualify. Chelsea lead the Italians by one point and face Nordsjælland at home in the last match, but the Londoners will need to get at least one point or be left to pray that Juventus will get nothing from their tie against Shakhtar, who could well already be qualified by then.

The stakes are indeed high as the current holders of the trophy enter the Juventus Stadium to face the seven-times finalists who will be raring to prove that they are truly back as a European force to be reckoned with once more.

Juventus

Juventus opted to field a very strong side against Lazio in Serie A on Saturday, with only Andrea Pirlo (already out due to card-accumulation) missing from what would be considered their strongest starting XI at the moment. The resulting 0-0 draw was disappointing but not due to a bad performance as such. The Bianconeri dominated the game throughout, denying Lazio a single shot on goal whilst creating quite a few chances in the opposite end.

However, the failure to convert these into goals re-opened a talking point that had been somewhat silenced after the Old Lady beat Nordsjælland and Pescara for a combined score line of 10-1 in her two preceding matches i. e., the lack of a ‘Top Striker’ in the team. While missed chances is obviously a concern for the club, it may be a slightly overestimated one, looking at the league stats where Juve lead Serie A in terms of goals scored.

In the Champions League though it’s a different story: Here, clinical finishing in key games is more important than over the course of a domestic season and one gets the feeling that picking the right front duo against Chelsea would go a long way towards a successful outcome. Not that there is a Cavani or Falcao amongst them to decide a game single footedly but, while Juve’s forwards are not the most prolific, they do contribute a lot to the system. A system that will need to be functioning perfectly Tuesday if Juve are to win the match.

As for the personnel, there’s really little doubt that coach Antonio Conte will rely on a team very similar to the one playing Lazio, with only (!) Pirlo coming back into the team and the ever-present conundrum of the strikers to be solved. Mirko Vucnic is back from injury, but did not feature at all against Lazio – which could mean that he’s still only fit for the bench.

Expect the 3-5-2 outlined below with trademark high pressing all over the pitch, relentless running from the wing-backs, Pirlo dictating the passes, and Bonucci, Marchisio and Vidal trying to penetrate the Chelsea lines from their respective positions.

Probable Formation: (3-5-2)

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah; Giovinco, Quagliarella

Chelsea

Unlike Juventus, Chelsea rested a number of key players facing West Bromwich Albion in their Saturday fixture, seeing the likes of Ramires, Juan Mata, Oscar, Ashley Cole and Branislav Ivanovic all on the bench, with the first three of those being introduced during the match. Short term the strategy backfired as they lost 1-2 but we’ll have to wait until Tuesday to see if this was a wise move by Roberto di Matteo or not.

Overall, ‘The Blues’ have experienced mixed fortunes since they last faced the Bianconeri in London. While they immediately after that game went on to record an impressive six game winning streak, including a 4-0 away pounding of Nordsjælland, back-to-back loses to Shakhtar in Ukraine and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in the EPL seems to have shaken the team somewhat – by their own lofty standards at least. Prior to the loss at WBA, a draw at Swansea and one at home against Liverpool sandwiched their home tie against Shakhtar in which a somewhat undeserved 3-2 win was sealed deep into stoppage time.

Recent wobbliness aside, though, Chelsea – like Juventus (and indeed Shakhtar!) – is a side rather unfamiliar to the concept of losing games. Roberto di Matteo’s dramatic change of the set-up, introducing the likes of Eden Hazard and Oscar along with Mata to transform last year’s tough-defending but thoroughly uninspiring side to a much more unpredictable, attacking team has been largely successful so far. All the while still keeping a solid defensive, even in lieu of their, shall we say; controversial but all the same very accomplished captain, John Terry (missing the match due to a knee injury). And even if the defence does seem a tad more vulnerable given those new-found offensive ways, The Blues still present a stern hurdle for any team trying to break them down.

It’s widely believed that Di Matteo will look to his aforementioned, extremely talented “three amigos” behind Fernando Torres, who, despite blowing more cold than hot recently is still a very competent striker when he’s fired up (as evidenced at the Euros this summer).

Behind the four of them, we’re likely to see John Obi Mikel and Ramires shoring up the midfield (with Lampard likely to be shuffled in, if required). Full backs should be manned by Cole and Ivanovic, unless the latter is drafted into central defence, pending the state of his colleagues. Needless to say, Petr Cech will be hard to pass between the sticks, although he still doesn’t look like the ‘keeper who once looked to threaten Gigi Buffon as the best goalie in the world.

Probable Formation: (4-2-3-1)

Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Luiz, Cole; Ramires, Mikel; Hazard, Mata; Oscar; Torres

Like every opponent facing Juventus (or Italy), Di Matteo’s Chelsea encounters the basic question of “who’s on Pirlo?”, as the Bearded Genius is rightly considered the heart-beat of both teams. At Stamford Bridge, Oscar did the job rather well (in addition to his two goals which were, for very different reasons, equally unbelievable). It was not a complete shut out though, and for good reason. An over-commitment to this task tends to open other corridors for both central midfielders and wing-backs to take advantage of and it is a delicate business handling the Maestro.

On the other hand, Juventus will likely have to deal with the combined threats of Mata, Hazard and Oscar, a trio that easily fits the “world class 3” category in a 4-2-3-1 set-up. While Juve contained Chelsea rather well in the first encounter in London, it’s worth noting that Lampard started ahead of a fatigued Mata in that game, making it perhaps slightly easier to dam the flood of flair and creativity.

Even given the often, maybe too often, mentioned impotence of the strikers of both teams, perhaps the most explosive battle of all will be the one on the flanks. How will Chelsea’s full-backs stand up to the charge of the Juve wing-backs, and how will their respective midfielders be able to assist and cover them? We shall see.

I stand by my promise that this will be a spectacular match. So far this season, Chelsea have looked more at ease when going on the attack, while Juventus have massively improved when it comes to getting the results needed via their trademark dominating displays, and we will see two teams battling for supremacy in trying to earn their result from the get-go. A sold-out Juventus Stadium will be cheering their Bianconeori heroes, but Chelsea will arrive knowing their worth and recent history in this competition.

Ladies and Gentlemen: A great game is afoot!

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Preview: Juventus vs. Chelsea

Nov 19, 2012

Just one point separates group leaders Chelsea and their hosts tomorrow night Juventus heading into this Champions League encounter.

As a result, the loser of this tie is likely to face elimination from the competition at the group stages with just one more match remaining.

Any success that Juve are able to achieve will have to be done without the services of the striker Mirko Vucinic, who is struggling with a knee problem.

However, Andrea Pirlo is expected to return to their starting lineup following a domestic suspension. Pirlo's inclusion is likely to see former Manchester United youngster Paul Pogba drop down to the bench.

Chelsea's major selection dilemma surrounds the centre-forward position. Head coach Roberto Di Matteo has hinted that he is considering dropping Fernando Torres, with Daniel Sturridge tipped to benefit.

Captain John Terry and Frank Lampard are ruled out of the clash through injury though.

Juve have won 12 of their last 20 meetings against English opposition, although they have only emerged victorious from just one of the previous six.

Meanwhile, the Blues have only won once from eight visits to Italy.

Recent form

Juventus: DWWLW

Chelsea: LDWDW

Possible starting lineups:

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Isla; Giovinco; Quagliarella

CHELSEA: Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Luiz, Cole; Mikel, Ramires, Mata, Oscar, Hazard; Sturridge

Sports Mole says: 1-1

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus - Chelsea Betting Preview:

Back the hosts to bag the points

Both sides are in desperate need of victory as they look to qualify for the last 16

of this year's Champions League and Willie Duncan expects the Old Lady to deliver on Tuesday.

Nov 19, 2012

Defending European champions Chelsea face a tough test when they travel to Turin to face Italian champions Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

Angelo Alessio’s side came from 2-0 behind to force a 2-2 draw when the two sides met at Stamford Bridge in the opening match of the group back in September, and the Old Lady are chalked up as 4/5 (1.80) favourites with Bet365 to pick up three points on Tuesday.

A dramatic stoppage-time winner from Victor Moses helped the west London club to a crucial 3-2 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in their last Champions League outing and the Blues can be backed at 16/5 (4.20) with Bet365 to win in Turin. The same firm offer 14/5 (3.80) on the match ending in a draw.

Roberto Di Matteo’s men slumped to a disappointing defeat at the hands of West Bromwich Albion at the weekend and go into this match without an away win in three games and will be desperate to arrest that sequence of results in this game.

Goals have been a prominent feature with over three having been scored in all four of the Premier League side’s Champions League matches thus far this term and, should that trend continue here, the 4/5 (1.80) quote from Bet365 for three or more goals to be scored certainly offers appeal for punters.

Fabio Quagliarella has been in fine form for the hosts, having scored five goals in his last five matches for Juventus, including a hat-trick in the Old Lady’s 6-1 thrashing of Pescara 10 days ago.

Quagliarella is available at an enticing 6/1 (7.0) with Bet365 to open the scoring when these sides meet on Tuesday, while the talismanic figure of Andrea Pirlo is chalked up at a tempting 11/1 (12.0) with Bet365 to bag the opener here.

Spanish striker Fernando Torres is available at 17/2 (9.50) with Bet365 to score the first goal on Tuesday while Torres’ fellow countryman, Juan Mata, is available at a juicy 14/1 (15.0) with the same firm to break the deadlock.

Chelsea have proven their European credentials before, but this looks like a bridge too far for Roberto Di Matteo’s side and the 4/5 (1.80) with Bet365 for the Italian champions to take victory should be snapped up here with the in-form Quagliarella the value pick to break Chelsea’s resistance with the opening goal at 6/1 (7.0) with Bet365.

[Socrates 8386]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (5th leg) - 20-11-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

................

JUVENTUS - CHELSEA

Juventus stadium - Turin

Referee: Cuneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Chelsea game the biggest of Juve's year, says Marchisio

The Bianconeri midfielder has stated that their match against the Blues on Tuesday

will be the most important one of 2012 for his club, but is confident of getting a result.

Nov 19, 2012

Juventus' Claudio Marchisio has underlined the importance of his side's clash with Chelsea, but remains confident that they can beat the European champions.

The Serie A leaders currently sit third in Group E of the Champions League with six points from four matches, and the Italy international is aware that the battle against the Blues will be decisive.

"It's the biggest game of the year for us," the 26-year-old stated at a press conference on Monday.

"We have ended up in one of the toughest sections of this year’s Champions League and we will be facing the defending European champions.

"Perhaps Chelsea have more experience as far as the Champions League is concerned, given that we haven’t played in this competition for a few years."

However, the midfielder believes that his side's quality and attitude can overcome the visitors' hunger for another successful campaign.

"There are many experienced international players in our squad and we’re prepared.

"We’re possibly approaching this game at the best possible moment, because we reacted well to the defeat against Inter."

He then dismissed claims saying that his team might have a problem going forward against a possibly defensive approach by Roberto Di Matteo.

"I don’t think we have a problem in attack. Let us not forget that we are scoring more than we did last season, while we have the best attack and defence in Serie A."

Juventus lock horns with Chelsea in Turin on Tuesday at 20.45CET.