Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8231]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Juve through to last eight

Dec 12, 2012

Juventus booked their place in the last eight of the Coppa Italia with a narrow 1-0 victory over Cagliari.

Sebastian Giovinco scored the only goal of the night in the 57th minute as the Old Lady squeezed into the next round at the expense of their Serie A rivals.

In the night's other last-16 tie, Catania needed penalties to see off Parma after playing out a 1-1 draw after extra time.

Dorlan Pabon gave Parma the lead after 12 minutes but Francesco Lodi equalised from the penalty spot seven minutes later.

The remaining 101 minutes failed to deliver a second goal, so the tie was settled on penalties, with Catania prevailing 4-3 after Parma's Marco Parolo and Gabriel Paletta failed from 12 yards.

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Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Juventus suffer multiple injury blows

Dec 12, 2012

Juventus have been dealt a number of injury problems following Wednesday's Coppa Italia victory over Cagliari.

Arturo Vidal was forced off with a knee problem in the early stages of the match having come in as a last-minute replacement for Emanuele Giaccherini.

Nicklas Bendtner could also be facing a spell on the sidelines for the Serie A champions after coming off during the first half.

Sebastian Giovinco scored the only goal of the game at the Juventus Stadium to put Antonio Conte's side through to the quarter-finals.

[Socrates 8231]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Player Ratings

The home team triumphed and move into the Coppa Italia last eight with a narrow

victory in Turin, earned thanks to a single goal from Sebastian Giovinco.

Dec 12, 2012

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - A very comfortable evening for the keeper, with one save from Dessena about as busy at it got.

Leonardo Bonucci - Stood out primarily for his creative rather than defensive talents. A perfect ball over the top nearly set up Giovinco, before Bendtner should have buried his cross.

Andrea Barzagli - Flawless in the middle of defence, always there to stop Cagliari in their tracks on the rare occasions they ventured forward.

Mauricio Isla - It was the Chilean's cross that put in motion the move that handed Juve the lead. Solid performance, even if he did not get forward as much as he would have liked.

Paolo De Ceglie - Revelled in the freedom afforded to him as he marauded down the left. Frightened the visitors on more than one opportunity with his dribbling.

Luca Marrone - The centre-back proved an able replacement for Chiellini as the first choice was rested, tackling strongly and rarely being caught out.

Arturo Vidal - The Chilean was a late inclusion following Giaccherini's injury, but did not manage to complete the first 45 minutes before being taken off with his own complaint.

Paul Pogba - Continues to impress following his move from Manchester United. Strong, assured and confident in the middle, with an obvious talent for both the simple and eye-catching pass.

Simone Padoin - Great pressuring on Rossettini to force the error that opened the way for Giovinco. Used the ball well around the Cagliari area.

Sebastian Giovinco - A livewire for the home team, constantly probing and testing the Cagliari backline even if the final product was at times suspect. Classy finish to open the scoring.

Nicklas Bendtner - A frustrating evening for the on-loan striker. Missed more than one chance to break his duck for Juve, before being forced off towards the end of the first half.

Substitutions

Kwadwo Asamoah - A low-key yet effective performance from the winger, who was pressed into service due to Vidal's injury.

Alessandro Matri - Came in for Bendtner just before the break, and suffered the same profligacy in front of the net as the Dane.

CAGLIARI

Vlada Avramov - Made a handful of key saves and had little chance to stop Giovinco's winner, as the Juventus forward advanced on goal unchallenged.

Luca Rossettini - Paid dearly for a lack of concentration in his own box, as Giovinco stole in to decide proceedings with the game's only goal.

Gabriele Perico - Battled without pause to keep the Turin side at bay in his own box, but flashed one effort wide at the other end that could have changed the game.

Nicola Murru - Too often caught out of position, leaving Cagliari vulnerable to the long ball over the top.

Dario Del Fabro - Struggled with the movement of first Bendtner, then Matri, although the pair's lack of confidence in front of goal meant his hesitation was forgiven.

Sebastian Eriksson - Was one of the more lively players in the Rossoblu, creating several chances that were not seized upon by his colleagues.

Albin Ekdal - Given a lot of trouble by Giovinco's running from deep early on, although composed himself to improve as the game progressed.

Pablo Ceppelini - The young Uruguayan showed flashes of his potential with some assured passing, although he looked lightweight at times in the face of fierce pressure.

Thiago Ribeiro - An all-too anonymous display from the Brazilian forward, who could not repeat his hat-trick heroics of the previous round.

Víctor Ibarbo - Flashes of excellence from the former Atletico Nacional wonderkid, whose determined play almost allowed Pinilla a way to goal.

Mauricio Pinilla - A tireless display from the battling forward, but could not find the precision in front of goal to match his impressive work-rate.

Substitutions

Daniele Dessena - The midfielder's entry coincided with a more dynamic, confident Cagliari effort, although it ultimately proved insufficient to turn around the game.

Marco Piredda - A late substitution for Ceppelini, but he could not force a draw.

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Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Conte: 'I was moved'

Dec 12, 2012

Antonio Conte was “certainly moved” when saluting the Juventus fans after his first game back in Turin, while Cagliari Coach Ivo Pulga cursed a single slip.

Tonight’s 1-0 Coppa Italia victory over Cagliari was Conte’s first home match since his four-month ban expired and he saluted the whole crowd, joining his players in rushing hand-in-hand towards the ultras.

“I am certainly moved, as it is always very pleasing to have this show of affection from our fans,” confessed Conte.

“Of course we wanted to get a victory, as we want to be competitive in every tournament. There were many lads who hadn’t played as much this season, but they had the chance to shine.

“Cagliari were organised and now we wait for the Quarter-Finals, where our opponents will presumably be Milan.”

The Rossoneri welcome Serie B side Reggina to San Siro tomorrow evening.

Conte had to reshuffle his pack repeatedly, as Emanuele Giaccherini pulled out in the warm-up, his replacement Arturo Vidal bruised his knee and Nicklas Bendtner was stretchered off with a muscular problem.

“It’s a shame, as Giaccherini felt unwell before kick-off and so I needed Arturo to play. He then got a knee problem, while Bendtner’s problem is muscular. It’s a shame, as you want to try new faces.”

The tie was decided only by a Sebastian Giovinco goal, as he took advantage of defender Luca Rossettini’s error.

“It was a fine performance and the lads showed there are no second choice players at Cagliari,” said Coach Pulga.

“We’re happy with the performance, not the result, as the goal was unlucky. One of our players slipped and they took advantage.”

[Socrates 8231]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Conte: Juventus want to challenge on all fronts

The Bianconeri trainer was especially pleased with the way his squad players seized

their chance to impress in the Coppa Italia win over Cagliari, and is grateful to the fans.

Dec 13, 2012

Antonio Conte has challenged his Juventus side to challenge for silverware on every front after they reached the quarter-finals of the Coppa Italia thanks to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Cagliari.

Sebastian Giovinco's strike was enough to settle the tie in Turin, and the 43-year-old, returning to the home dugout for the first time since completing his suspension, was delighted that his much-changed side was able to keep another trophy quest alive.

"I'm pleased we went through tonight because we want to be challenging on all fronts," he was quoted as saying by the club's official website.

"We were up against a decent Cagliari side and they were well set out on the pitch. Now we'll wait to see whether we face AC Milan or Reggina in the next round.

"Today the lads who have been playing less gave me the response I was after. I'm sorry for [Emanuele] Giaccherini - he was forced to withdraw because of some sort of flu bug, so I had to field Arturo [Vidal], who had a knee problem.

"And I was especially sorry for Bendtner, I would have liked to see him have a longer run-out."

Conte received a rapturous reception from the Juventus Stadium faithful, and the former midfielder admitted he was moved by the fans' response.

"It was really touching, it's always nice to know you're appreciated," he added.

Luca Marrone echoed the crowd's sentiments towards the coach, and added that his boss wasted no time in making his own feelings about the first-half performance known at half-time.

"You could sense the crowd's affection for him from out there on the pitch," he told reporters.

"We're delighted to have him back with us because he's such an important presence. He made his presence felt during the break today too!

"We put in a good performance and we're glad to have made it through to the next round because we want to go all the way.

"It's important for us to stay in all the competitions so that those who are featuring less get more opportunities to play."

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Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Giovinco – the twelfth man!

Dec 13, 2012

The number 12 proved to be the magic number for Sebastian Giovinco as Juventus progressed in the Coppa Italia on Wednesday.

The forward, wearing the No 12 shirt on his back, scored his 12th goal for the Old Lady in the 12th minute of the second half of the 1-0 win over Cagliari.

Yesterday’s date was also 12/12/2012...

[Socrates 8231]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Juventus vs Cagliari: What Did We Learn

About Juve's Depth Players in Cup Win?

Dec 13, 2012

On Wednesday night, Juventus beat Cagliari 1-0 in the Coppa d'Italia with a team that featured a number of unfamiliar faces. Players like Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio were given some much-needed rest and fans got a chance to see how their replacements would fare over the course of a full game.

Having depth is crucial in the modern game, as teams like Juventus often play multiple games per week, courtesy of the UEFA Champions League. Juventus have been lucky so far when it comes to injuries, but it is still important to know that you have players able to step right in when your star performers go down.

The game against Cagliari was Antonio Conte's first chance to see how his bench players would handle a start against a quality side, and the results were fairly good. The Bianconeri came away with a win and looked dominant in the process, and several players showed the coaches that they can be trusted when called upon.

In this article, we'll take a look at how each player that isn't a regular starter for the team performed in Juventus' win and try to determine whether or not they have what it takes to play in top games should one of the regulars go down.

Nicklas Bendtner

It's a shame that Nicklas Bendtner had to leave the pitch with an injury at the end of the first half, because he was having his best game since arriving in Turin during the summer on loan from Arsenal.

Bendtner looked sharp and was involved from the very first minute. For the first time this season, his movement was precise and his runs were timed perfectly.

Paired with Sebastian Giovinco, Bendtner regularly overpowered the Cagliari defense and made good use of his body to counteract Giovinco's movement around the box.

The Dane created several chances for himself and came close to scoring on multiple occasions. Before he went down, he certainly looked like the most dangerous man on the field.

He looked nothing like the player Bianconeri fans have gotten used to seeing in these past few months. I've been very critical of Bendtner's performances this season, but I must say that I was greatly impressed with the Danish international in this game.

Providing the injury isn't too serious, I hope Bendtner gets a few more chances before January. If this is truly what he's capable of and these past few months were the result of him getting back in shape and getting used to Italian football, I'll gladly forgive him for the misery he has put me through in 2012-2013.

Mauricio Isla

Mauricio Isla can't cross the ball. It's really that simple.

The former Udinese man has all the tools in the world to be an elite force on the right wing, but his crossing is poor and, in Antonio Conte's 3-5-2, providing quality crosses is his main responsibility.

Isla was impressive against Cagliari, completely locking down his side of the field defensively and breaking through on the right wing on multiple occasions.

His speed and power are too much for most defenders, and he has impressive vision in the passing game. He does a good job at presenting a target to the midfield triangle and never panics in possession.

Isla is an excellent depth player and someone who should always sit on the bench for the Bianconeri, but as long as he doesn't learn how to cross a ball, I'd rather put my faith in the hands of Stephan Lichtsteiner in the big games.

Paul Pogba

Paul Pogba is the gem of Juve's bench.

I honestly believe he would be a starter for every other team in the Serie A, but at Juventus, he sits behind Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal. For such a young player, it's really the perfect situation.

I've never seen a young prodigy that's so calm and collected with the ball. It all looks so simple, like he isn't even trying. He makes very good use of his body when shielding the ball and always has his eyes up, looking for where to go with the ball.

Pogba has excellent scoring ability, but his main strength is his defending and his vision. The best comparison for his playing style would be Vidal, who serves as an excellent example for the talented Frenchman.

He has to be one of the best backup players in the world. Juventus couldn't ask for a better midfielder to be waiting on the bench in case one of the members of the MVP triangle go down.

Pogba will be an absolute superstar very soon, and the question is how much longer Conte can afford to sit the youngster on the bench.

Simone Padoin

Simone Padoin had a fairly quiet game, but that doesn't mean he had a bad performance.

He was very useful in the role of the vacuum cleaner, blocking fast attacks by Cagliari. Most of his work came on the defensive side of the ball, but when he ventured forward he did an excellent job of penetrating the penalty area.

He showed he wasn't afraid to take a shot on goal and wasn't a liability in the passing game, which is a big plus if you look at the guys playing around him.

Fans might not know this, but Padoin was once one of the hottest prospects around Italy and his play certainly shows that. While the Italian might not have reached the lofty expectations he once carried, he is a very useful player to have in case of multiple injuries and the likes.

I also get the idea that his play for Juventus is improving with every chance he gets. As far as backups go, I say he's a keeper.

Paolo De Ceglie

Fans know who Paolo De Ceglie is and what he brings to the team: a steady presence on the defensive side, and very little offensively.

De Ceglie knows this system and the Juve back line like the back of his hand as he was the starter on the left wing all of last season. But there's a reason the Bianconeri brought in Kwadwo Asamoah during the summer: De Ceglie is almost useless as an attacking player.

He lacks the explosiveness to pass defenders and his crossing is far from top-notch. His passing is solid, but nothing more.

De Ceglie has a tendency to lose the ball deep in enemy territory, forcing the centre-back playing on the left side (usually Giorgio Chiellini) out of position. To his credit, he's much more cautious with the ball on his own side of the field.

We all know he's prone to making costly mistakes, but there were no such mistakes against Cagliari.

Overall, De Ceglie isn't a flashy player but with his knowledge of the system and his defensive prowess, he's a good player to have on your team. If Juventus were to invest in a new wing-back, I would not object to De Ceglie being sold.

Luca Marrone

It seems like Luca Marrone's move to the back line will be permanent. The former midfielder has seen all of his minutes this season as the central defender in Juve's 3-5-2 and has been very solid for every one of them.

I prefer him in midfield, but the team's biggest strength lies in the centre of the pitch and the club's biggest talents waiting for their chance occupy the same position, so Conte's decision to use Marrone as a centre-back is understandable.

Marrone had a great game playing next to Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli and he showed great understanding of his new position—something that was lacking last year. He moves well on the line and is rarely caught out of position.

He uses his body well in duels and has excellent athleticism for the position—something Conte likes a lot in his players. His long ball is good but not great, and his attacking contributions are almost always useful.

He does play scared when he ventures forward, visibly scared of making a mistake, but he will learn to understand he has two star defenders playing alongside him who can take care of things when Marrone loses the ball.

The centre-back position lacks depth for Juventus, so Marrone should definitely be a part of the team. His versatility is a big asset for the Bianconeri.

Alessandro Matri

Time is running out for Alessandro Matri.

I wanted him to get his chance in December, and the injury to Nicklas Bendtner gave him exactly that. Unfortunately for both him and Juventus, he did nothing to show Antonio Conte he can return to the form that made him the team's top scorer last year.

Matri looked lost on the field, running out of position and not presenting a target to the midfielders for most of the game.

He had a handful of small chances but didn't look dangerous on a single one of them. He created very little space for his teammates and did a poor job of holding the ball.

Once Sebastian Giovinco opened the scoring, his lack of pace made him miss out on most of the scoring opportunities the counter attacks presented.

Alessandro Matri needs to get his act together real fast, or his tenure with the team might be over soon. A striker that doesn't score and has no other use on the field is dead weight to a top team like Juventus, and with the January transfer window fast approaching and the team in need of extra funding to acquire a star forward, he could be moved in the next two months.

And if I'm really honest, I think that would be the best solution.

[Socrates 8231]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Marrone wants Coppa progress

Dec 13, 2012

Luca Marrone has underlined why progress in the Coppa Italia is so important for Juventus this season.

Despite the Scudetto and the Champions League being top targets, the youngster says the Italian Cup also has its purpose.

“It's important for us to stay in all the competitions so that those who are featuring less get more opportunities to play,” stated the midfielder after the 1-0 win over Cagliari.

“We put in a good performance and we're glad to have made it through to the next round because we want to go all the way.”

Marrone has struggled for games this term and, when he has been used, he’s been fielded in the middle of a back-three.

“It's up to boss Antonio Conte where he wants to play me,” he added. “All I have to do is make sure I'm ready when called upon.

“It's not as if I've forgotten how to play in midfield though, because I play there in training and for the Italy Under-21s.”

Marrone was also asked for his opinion on the return of Conte to the bench following his touchline ban.

“We're delighted to have him back with us because he's such an important presence. He made his presence felt during the break today too.”

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Maldini: Juventus, Inter or Napoli will win Serie A

The Rossoneri legend does not believe his former club are in the race for the league

title and has tipped the current top three to maintain their charge for the crown.

Dec 13, 2012

Former AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini believes Juventus, Napoli and Inter will fight it out for this season's Scudetto.

Antonio Conte's side are currently in first place but an improving Nerazzurri and the Partenopei are following closely in the Bianconeri's wake.

And Maldini has tipped one of those three to eventually lift the league title, but counted his former club out of the running.

"The removal of Milan from third place is important and I do not think the teams in front of them will slow down," he told Tuttosport.

"Fiorentina, Roma and Lazio are very competitive this season and I am sure they will make it hard for Milan to peg them back. The Scudetto? It's a three-way fight between Juventus, Inter and Napoli."

"The Rossoneri were not capable of much earlier this season. The changes during the off-season were enormous in terms of men, players and personalities. They have required a little bit of patience, thats all."

Maldini reserved special praise for Stephan El Shaarawy, though, who has emerged as the surprise package of the season with 13 goals in Serie A.

"El Shaarawy has shown great class. He is a modern player because he works in both phases, attack and defence. He is proving to be a relentless goalscorer. I did not expect so much from him," he added.

The former Azzurri skipper also spoke highly of his former international team-mate, Francesco Totti, who continues to blossom even at the grand age of 36-years-old.

"Totti is without a doubt still a major player in Italian football. The way in which he plays for Roma and helps the attackers around him is amazing. Thanks to new methods of training Totti can still play at such a high level."

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Juventus deserve to be ahead of Inter, insists Stramaccioni

The Nerazzurri boss believes that the Bianconeri are more consistent than his side

and calls for better results when his team go up against weaker opposition.

Dec 14, 2012

Inter coach Andrea Stramaccioni feels that his team need to be more steady in their performances ahead of the Lazio clash.

The Milan side currently sit second behind table-toppers Juventus, who the coach believes are more consistent in their matches against weaker opponents and therefore deserve to lead Serie A.

"Juventus? They've shown they're more consistent, not only in their results but in their individual performances," the 36-year-old told reporters at the press conference ahead of the Lazio match.

"That's why they deserve to be ahead of us. We knew we could beat them on a one-off match but their project is a year further on than ours and they have great players and replacements in every position."

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Story so far: Juventus

Dec 14, 2012

Propelled by a splendid midfield trio, Juventus racked up three wins on the bounce to top Group E and, as one of four unbeaten teams, must now be viewed as serious contenders.

Returning to the UEFA Champions League group stage after three years away, Juventus qualified for the round of 16 in impressive fashion. Though the Bianconeri's progress was still in doubt heading into matchday six, they ultimately finished top of Group E ahead of the impressive FC Shakhtar Donetsk and holders Chelsea FC.

Story so far

Juventus, undefeated in last season's Scudetto-winning campaign, started the group stage away to Chelsea and immediately proved their determination to make a mark on their return. Two down at Stamford Bridge, Arturo Vidal and Fabio Quagliarella scored to earn the visitors a share of the spoils. After another point followed at home to Shakhtar, a 1-1 draw at FC Nordsjælland complicated matters for the Serie A side. They moved up the gears when needed, though, concluding with three straight victories – and as many clean sheets.

Pivotal moment

Victor Moses's added-time clincher for Chelsea against Shakhtar on matchday four undid much of the good work achieved by Juve's 4-0 success against Nordsjælland. Subsequently requiring a home win against Chelsea, the Italian outfit responded in emphatic style in what defender Giorgio Chiellini described as an "almost perfect" performance: 3-0 the scoreline. Would they have produced such a display if their backs were not against the wall?

Key player

Midfielder Vidal, aka 'The Warrior', justified his nickname in the opening game when he scored at Chelsea despite visibly running with a limp following a nasty knock. The 25-year-old Chilean international ended the group stage with three goals and two assists – but showed himself to be more than just an attacking threat, embodying the never-say-die attitude of the Old Lady. "We are showing the same heart as last season," said Vidal, admirably supported in midfield by the excellent Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio.

Rising star

With such stiff competition in the middle of the park, it is no surprise Paul Pogba has had limited first-team opportunities. However, the 19-year-old has proved Juve can count on him whenever necessary. Two-footed, physically strong, technically sound and with a sense for goal, the French youth international revealed his worth when he deputised superbly for the suspended Marchisio in Donetsk. "Pogba is hard, physically strong and good at getting into scoring situations," said Pirlo. "He reminds me of Patrick Vieira."

Number

After beginning with three successive draws – taking their tally to nine in a row in European competition – the Bianconeri signed off with three straight wins, making them one of only four teams to finish the group stage undefeated.

Quote

"It was a show of strength; we sent out a strong signal to the whole of Europe. If somebody had doubts about us, I think we swept every question away by playing as we did."

Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon feels Juve can aim high after their impressive group stage effort.

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Serie A Week 17 - 16-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Davide Massa

Preview: Juventus vs. Atalanta

Dec 14, 2012

Atalanta ended a three-match losing streak with victory over Parma last Saturday, but will be up against it when they travel to reigning champions Juventus tomorrow night.

The Bianconeri are currently top of the pile in Serie A with 12 wins from 16 games, while the visitors are going steady in 10th place.

Antonio Conte, now back on the touchline following his ban, will be without Nicklas Bendtner for the visit of La Dea. The Danish striker has been ruled out for up to three months with a leg injury.

Emanuele Giaccherini and Arturo Vidal are also struggling to be fit after picking up injuries during last week's win over Palermo.

Sebastian Giovinco will be welcomed back from his suspension, but Leonardo Bonucci takes his place in the sin bin.

Meanwhile, defender Daniele Capelli will be missing for Stefano Colantuono, who is boosted by the return of James Troisi, Davide Biondini, Ferreira Pinto and Guglielmo Stendardo.

Recent form

Juventus: LWDLWW

Atalanta: WWLLLW

Possible lineups

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Giovinco

ATALANTA: Consigli; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Radovanovic, Cigarini, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis

Sports Mole says: 2-0

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

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Serie A Week 17 - 16-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Davide Massa

MATCH PREVIEW

Dec 14, 2012

Juventus have restored their four point lead but face a rejuvenated Atalanta who have ended a three match losing streak.

Juve claimed back-to-back victories for the first time since October with success in Palermo. Amid Antonio Conte’s return to the bench, a hailstorm and heavy pitch, Stephan Lichtsteiner connected with Mirko Vucinic’s backheel to net the only goal of the game.

In action again on Wednesday, Juve defeated Cagliari by a single goal - scored by Sebastian Giovinco - in the Coppa Italia. Conte said he felt moved by the fans affection in his first match back in charge in Turin, but he lamented injuries suffered.

Emanuele Giaccherini had to pull out during the warm-up, while his replacement Arturo Vidal, plus Nicklas Bendtner, were both replaced during the first half. Giaccherini and Vidal should be available, yet the Dane is expected to miss two or three months. Giovinco returns from suspension, but Leonardo Bonucci has reached the yellow card limit.

Boosted by a strong run of form which produced four wins out of five – including triumphs over Napoli and Inter – Atalanta proceeded to lose their next three matches. Disappointingly two came against sides straddling the relegation zone, while they were humbled in Florence.

They altered the form guide on Saturday by defeating Parma. German Denis netted for the second match in succession, before Federico Peluso doubled the advantage. Parma pulled a goal back but the Bergamaschi held on. Yet Stefano Colantuono was disappointed by the nature of their Coppa Italia exit, a 3-0 loss at Roma on Tuesday.

Along with long-term absentee Guido Marilungo, Atalanta make the trip to Turin without injured defender Daniele Capelli. James Troisi – co-owned by Juventus - Davide Biondini, Ferreira Pinto and Guglielmo Stendardo are all available after missing last Saturday’s win.

Their last meeting completed Juventus’ historic unbeaten season, when Alessandro Del Piero was on target for the final time in the 3-1 win last May. That made it 33 wins out of 51 home contests for the Bianconeri. The Nerazzurri have returned to Bergamo with maximum points on just four occasions.

Keep an eye on: Luca Marrone (Juventus) – The talented youngster gets his opportunity thanks to Bonucci’s suspension. He is highly rated by Conte and featured in midweek in the Coppa Italia after a recent injury and difficulty in gaining a spot in the team. Marrone will look to make the most of this opportunity.

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

Last season: Juventus 3-1 Atalanta

Stat fact: You have to go back to 1989-90 for Atalanta’s last away win over Juventus. Argentine speedster Claudio Caniggia netted the only goal on that occasion.

JUVENTUS (probable): Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Giovinco

ATALANTA (probable): Consigli; Bellini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto, Radovanovic, Cigarini, Bonaventura; Moralez; Denis

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

[Socrates 8231]

Serie A Week 17 - 16-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Davide Massa

Juventus vs. Atalanta PREVIEW –

The Queen Visits The Grand Old Lady

Dec 14, 2012

As the winter break fast approaches there is no let up for Juventus as they prepare for what will be their eighth match in 26 days. While that run started with some incredibly tough fixtures, the Bianconeri have eased into a run of games against Serie A’s lesser lights and are boosted by the added focus Antonio Conte’s return will undoubtedly bring. Next up are mid-table Atalanta as the ‘Queen of the Provinces’ travel to Turin to face the grandest of old ladies.

It is a return to the past for Conte who led the Bergamaschi for nineteen games during the 2009-10 season in which they would ultimately be relegated. He would resign from his post in January of that campaign following a running feud with the Ultra of the Curva Nord and suffered a number of embarrassing losses including a 5-2 home defeat to Juventus which was arguably among the best performances of Ciro Ferrara’s tenure with the club.

Former Torino boss Stefano Colantuono now leads Serie A’s other Nerazzurri and, having finished twelfth last season, he has them as high as tenth this time around and playing some good football which will require Juve to apply themselves properly if they are to ensure a positive result. They will of course be helped by the mid-week Coppa Italia victory over Cagliari during which Conte was able to rest and rotate a number of key figures.

Atalanta

Colantuono has forged this Atalanta side into a real rarity on the peninsula, a side who attack directly and with much speed down the flanks. They possess some genuine quality in those wide areas thanks to Federico Peluso and Ezequiel Schelotto who both provide an accurate and steady stream of crosses for the dominant German Denis to feed on.

The striker has scored 22 goals in 51 games since joining the club from Udinese last August and has six goals to his name this term whilst also registering three assists. His biggest strength is in the air, winning an average of 3.8 aerial duels per game to help Atalanta be the second strongest team in this regard, trailing only Cagliari in an area where Juve struggle with only Pescara and Roma worse than the Bianconeri at winning headers.

But there is far more to this team than that and to underestimate them as some kind of Italian Stoke City would be to hugely misread the quality at Colantuono’s disposal, particularly in midfield. While Juve’s own M-V-P trio are arguably among the best units in world football, the Orobici boast a group of players more than able to hold their own in domestic action.

Luca Cigarini leads the way, averaging more passes per game than all but three players (Andrea Pirlo, Daniele Conti and David Pizarro) in the league and also ranks fifth in terms of chances created with 2.5 key passes per game. With Schelotto and Maxi Moralez also featuring, the Atalanta midfield can expect to challenge the home side on Sunday meaning Juventus will need to find players in other areas to step up and help.

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

CONSIGLI; BELLINI, LUCCHINI, MANFREDINI, PELUSO; SCHELOTTO, RADOVANOVIC, CIGARINI, BONAVENTURA; MORALEZ; DENIS

Juventus

Having named arguably his strongest line up against Palermo last week, Conte made seven changes for the Coppa Italia tie with Cagliari and, given a number of issues which have arisen since then, a number of those moves may prove to be hugely beneficial when Atalanta roll into town.

Chief among them is the first appearance in over a month for Italy Under 21 international Luca Marrone, now viewed as the first alternative in the middle of the back three. His intelligent positioning, reading of the game and passing accuracy make him perhaps the closest player in terms of skill and attributes to Leo Bonucci who will miss this match after picking up his eighth yellow card of the campaign for that dive against the Rosanero.

While not as serious as first feared, the injury sustained by Arturo Vidal in the cup game is also likely to see him miss out and another youngster – Paul Pogba – is expected to fill in for the Chilean midfielder. He has been hugely impressive since his summer switch and seems capable of providing cover for any of the first choice three in central midfield. Elsewhere it should be the usual suspects with Sebastian Giovinco likely to continue in attack following his match winner against the Sardinian side who Juve also face in league action next Friday.

Probable Formation (3-5-2):

BUFFON; BARZAGLI, MARRONE, CHIELLINI; LICHTSTEINER, POGBA, PIRLO, MARCHISIO, ASAMOAH; VUCINIC, GIOVINCO

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

[Socrates 8231]

Serie A Week 17 - 16-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Davide Massa

Colantuono too ill for Juve

Dec 15, 2012

Atalanta Coach Stefano Colantuono has had to cancel today’s pre-Juventus Press conference after coming down with flu and could even miss the game.

The tactician was meant to speak to journalists ahead of Sunday afternoon’s Serie A meeting with the Serie A leaders.

However, he has been suffering from flu over the last few days and is not fit enough to hold the Press conference.

There are even fears Colantuono won’t be able to sit on the bench in Turin for tomorrow’s game.

If he doesn’t make it, then assistant manager Roberto Beni will take over.

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

[Socrates 8231]

Serie A Week 17 - 16-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Davide Massa

Stendardo makes Juventus trip

Dec 15, 2012

Atalanta have called Guglielmo Stendardo for the game with Juventus despite suggesting he’d be punished for attending a law exam.

The defender was lambasted by Coach Stefano Colantuono this week when he turned down a call-up for the Coppa Italia tie against Roma on Wednesday.

He had to be in Salerno to sit several exams, as he is finishing off his law degree.

Colantuono and the club warned Stendardo would be punished with a fine or suspension, but he attracted a great deal of attention and positive coverage over the last few days.

Atalanta have now named the squad for tomorrow’s trip to Juventus, including Stendardo.

Atalanta squad for Juventus: Bellini, Biondini, Bonaventura, Brivio, Cazzola, Cigarini, Consigli, De Luca, Denis, Ferreira Pinto, Ferri, Frezzolini, Lucchini, Manfredini, Matheu, Moralez, Peluso, Polito, Radovanovic, Raimondi, Schelotto, Stendardo, Troisi

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