Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Line-ups: Juventus-Udinese

Jan 19, 2013

Juventus have a completely revamped midfield as they welcome Udinese, but Antonio Di Natale is not fit to start.

The Bianconeri have picked up just one point from two rounds and saw their lead at the top of the table sliced to three points going into this weekend.

Antonio Conte has to completely reshuffle his midfield, missing Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Simone Pepe, Kwadwo Asamoah, Giorgio Chiellini and Nicklas Bendtner.

Paul Pogba steps in and Arturo Vidal is able to start despite an ankle problem, joining Emanuele Giaccherini, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Paolo De Ceglie.

Mirko Vucinic returns to the starting XI alongside Sebastian Giovinco.

Udinese are without Zeljko Brkic, Diego Fabbrini, Mehdi Benatia and Emmanuel Badu, while Di Natale was debilitated by flu this week and can only start from the bench.

Therefore, Roberto Pereyra is pushed into a more advanced role as support for Luis Muriel.

Snow is expected at the Juventus Stadium this evening, but miles of underground heating pipes should ensure the game goes ahead without problems.

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Vucinic, Giovinco

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Peluso, Rugani, Garcia, Padoin, Marrone, Isla, Schiavone, Matri, Beltrame, Kabashi

UDINESE: Padelli; Heurtaux, Domizzi, Danilo; Basta, Pinzi, Allan, Lazzari, Pasquale; Pereyra; Muriel

Udinese bench: Scuffet, Pawlowski, Coda, Angella, Faraoni, Silva, Merkel, Ranegie, Di Natale, Maicosuel, Campos, Fabbrini, Merkel

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

HT 1-0: Juve lead with Pogba screamer

Jan 19, 2013

Paul Pogba has given Juventus the half-time lead over Udinese with an absolute screamer of a goal off the underside of the bar.

The Bianconeri had one point from two rounds and saw their lead at the top of the table sliced to three points going into this weekend. Antonio Conte had to completely reshuffle his midfield, missing Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Simone Pepe, Kwadwo Asamoah, Giorgio Chiellini and Nicklas Bendtner. Udinese were without Zeljko Brkic, Diego Fabbrini, Mehdi Benatia and Emmanuel Badu, while Antonio Di Natale was debilitated by flu and only able to start from the bench.

Juve had an aggressive start under sleet, but Mirko Vucinic, Sebastian Giovinco and Paul Pogba failed to make the most of chances.

A terrible Danilo clearance inside the area went straight to Stephan Lichtsteiner, who tried to pass it in from 12 yards and saw the effort charged down.

Arturo Vidal’s powerful shot on the counter was palmed over the bar by Daniele Padelli. The second choice goalkeeper was again called into action when Emanuele Giaccherini burst forward on the counter, but opted to shoot rather than roll across to Giovinco, so Padelli parried with an outstretched foot.

For the second time a corner was nodded over by Pogba, albeit with a deflection off Dusan Basta, then Leonardo Bonucci’s looping header landed on the roof of the net.

Lichtsteiner pulled back for Vucinic, who hesitated and tried to dribble past four players, eventually narrowing the angle too much to get a clear shot.

The deadlock was finally broken in truly spectacular fashion, as Pogba unleashed an unstoppable screamer on the half-volley from 20 metres that hit the underside of the bar to give Padelli no chance whatsoever.

Juventus 1-0 Udinese (Half-Time)

Scorers: Pogba 41 (J)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Vucinic, Giovinco

Udinese: Padelli; Heurtaux, Domizzi, Danilo; Basta, Pinzi, Allan, Lazzari, Pasquale; Pereyra; Muriel

Ref: Banti

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Paul Pogba (41′)

Paul Pogba (66′)

Mirko Vučinić (72′)

Alessandro Matri (80′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000‎

Prodigious Pogba propels brilliant

Bianconeri five points clear

The Bianconeri took full advantage of Lazio's surprise draw with Palermo by routing

the Zebrette, with the hosts' teenage midfielder proving the star of the show.

Jan 19, 2013

Juventus moved five points clear at the summit of Serie A courtesy of a resounding 4-0 victory over Udinese in Turin on Saturday evening.

Paul Pogba was the star of the show for the Bianconeri, opening the scoring with a stunning strike from distance towards the tail end of the first half before repeating the feat midway through the second period.

Mirko Vucinic added a third with a close-range volley that Udinese goalkeeper Danielle Padelli really should have saved and then laid on a fourth for Alessandro Matri as the home side capitalised on second-placed Lazio's surprise 2-2 draw at Palermo earlier in the evening.

Despite having accrued just one point from their previous two Serie A outings, Juventus began the game in confident fashion, with Sebastian Giovinco and Vucinic looking particularly lively up top.

Indeed, the former embarked upon a run which ultimately led to Arturo Vidal calling Padelli into action for the first time with a well-struck drive from the edge of the area that the goalkeeper did well to tip over. It was Vucinic, meanwhile, who slipped Emanuele Giaccherini through on goal 19 minutes in. Again Padelli came to Udinese’s rescue, though, this time denying the Bianconeri an opening goal with an outstretched left foot.

Giovinco then sent over the set-piece which Leonardo Bonucci headed just over the bar but, by that point, 31 minutes in, the home fans were growing a little restless. However, they were on their feet just before the break when Pogba pounced on a loose ball some 30 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable volley into the top corner.

It had come out of nothing but it was difficult not to feel that Juve deserved to go into the break a goal to the good given their visitors had offered little by way of an attacking threat during the opening 45 minutes.

Unsurprisingly, Udinese elected to take a gamble on star forward Antonio Di Natale, who had been left on the bench because of concerns over his fitness. However, his introduction made not a jot of distance because while the Zebrette saw more of the ball in the second period, they were still utterly devoid of an attacking threat in midfield.

The same could not be said of Juventus, nor indeed Pogba, who doubled the champions’ advantage on 66 minutes, this time beating Padelli from distance with a less spectacular - but equally unstoppable - drive into the bottom corner.

Udinese were left reeling by a second hammer blow from the boot of the teenage Frenchman and Juventus finished their punch drunk opponents off with two more goals in the final quarter.

First, Vucinic rolled Thomas Heurtaux in the area before somehow squirming a shot past Padelli, and then the Montenegrin turned provider, splitting the now ragged Udinese defence with a pass that Matri, who had come on for Giovinco, finished with relish.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Paul Pogba (41′)

Paul Pogba (66′)

Mirko Vučinić (72′)

Alessandro Matri (80′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Pogba brace crushes Udinese

Paul Pogba had a star-making performance, netting two long-range

screamers as Juventus hammered Udinese 4-0.

Jan 19, 2013

The Bianconeri had one point from two rounds and saw their lead at the top of the table sliced to three points going into this weekend. Antonio Conte had to completely reshuffle his midfield, missing Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Simone Pepe, Kwadwo Asamoah, Giorgio Chiellini and Nicklas Bendtner. Udinese were without Zeljko Brkic, Diego Fabbrini, Mehdi Benatia and Emmanuel Badu, while Antonio Di Natale was debilitated by flu and only able to start from the bench.

Juve had an aggressive start under sleet, but Mirko Vucinic, Sebastian Giovinco and Paul Pogba failed to make the most of chances.

A terrible Danilo clearance inside the area went straight to Stephan Lichtsteiner, who tried to pass it in from 12 yards and saw the effort charged down.

Arturo Vidal’s powerful shot on the counter was palmed over the bar by Daniele Padelli. The second choice goalkeeper was again called into action when Emanuele Giaccherini burst forward on the counter, but opted to shoot rather than roll across to Giovinco, so Padelli parried with an outstretched foot.

For the second time a corner was nodded over by Pogba, albeit with a deflection off Dusan Basta, then Leonardo Bonucci’s looping header landed on the roof of the net.

Lichtsteiner pulled back for Vucinic, who hesitated and tried to dribble past four players, eventually narrowing the angle too much to get a clear shot.

The deadlock was finally broken in truly spectacular fashion, as Pogba unleashed an unstoppable right-foot screamer on the half-volley from 32 metres that hit the underside of the bar to give Padelli no chance whatsoever. The shot was clocked at 101km/h.

Alessandro Matri came on for the second half, but Udinese were dangerous with a sweeping counter-attack and Gigi Buffon was fortunate that Luis Muriel scuffed his volley at the back post with Giaccherini diving in to block. Buffon blocked another Muriel attempt, so Di Natale was introduced as the sleet transformed to light snow.

Padelli smothered a smart Giaccherini solo effort, but at the other end Muriel scuffed a volley into the ground from the edge of the box in a great scoring opportunity.

Vidal wanted a penalty when his shot was charged down by Thomas Heurtaux’s hand, but the arm was across his chest and therefore not increasing the size of his body in any way. Vidal had wasted the chance by hesitating.

Pogba took matters into his own hands again to double Juve’s lead with another stunning long-range strike. This time it was a sudden daisy-cutter that slotted into the far bottom corner. It was the French 19-year-old’s fourth goal in 13 games and he was signed on a free transfer from Manchester United.

Juventus added a third with a howler from the ex-Liverpool goalkeeper, as Padelli was weak when parrying a Vucinic effort from six yards, deflecting it over his own body.

Di Natale’s snapshot scraped the top of the crossbar, but the Bianconeri made it 4-0. Matri had scored two in this fixture last season, netting again when he ran on to a Vucinic through ball and nutmegged the on-rushing goalkeeper.

Giampiero Pinzi and Dusan Basta fired straight at Buffon, as Udinese were unable to force a consolation goal.

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Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal (Padoin 78), Pogba, Giaccherini, De Ceglie (Isla 83); Vucinic, Giovinco (Matri 46)

UDINESE: Padelli; Heurtaux, Domizzi, Danilo; Basta, Pinzi, Allan, Lazzari, Pasquale (Gabriel Silva 83); Pereyra (Di Natale 50); Muriel (Maicosuel 73)

Ref: Banti

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Paul Pogba (41′)

Paul Pogba (66′)

Mirko Vučinić (72′)

Alessandro Matri (80′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Pogboom!

Jan 19, 2013

An inspirational Paul Pogba helped Juventus extend their lead at the top of Serie A to five points over Lazio and six over Napoli with two glorious goals in a 4-0 win over Udinese.

The French midfielder broke the deadlock with a stunning 35-yard effort before topping that with another goal from long range to make it two.

The floodgates opened, with Mirko Vucinic and Alessandro Matri also getting in on the act as Antonio Conte's men took full advantage of Lazio's draw at Palermo by returning to form in style at the Juventus Stadium.

Juve had two chances to go ahead inside the opening 20 minutes with Daniele Padelli first turning Arturo Vidal's shot over the crossbar and then denying Emanuele Giaccherini with his legs.

Udinese then set about frustrating their hosts with a strong defensive display, which succeeded in keeping them at what appeared to be a safe distance from their goal.

Pogba disproved that theory in the 41st minute, though, when he struck the ball on the volley from 35 yards out with the ball curling and dipping wickedly before grazing the underside of the crossbar on its way past Padelli.

It needed another moment of inspiration from the Frenchman to make it two in the 66th minute.

With the ball at his feet this time - and a few yards further away from goal - the 19-year-old unleashed another unstoppable shot into the bottom left-hand corner.

Udinese's hopes were dashed and not even the introduction of Antonio Di Natale could help them.

Juve started to turn their dominance into goals with Vucinic turning in at the near post to beat Padelli, who got a weak hand to the ball but could not prevent it from crossing the line in the 72nd minute.

Matri sealed the rout eight minutes later with Pogba getting the ball rolling, sending Vucinic clear and he played in Matri to thread his shot through Padelli's legs.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Paul Pogba (41′)

Paul Pogba (66′)

Mirko Vučinić (72′)

Alessandro Matri (80′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Player Ratings

Goal.com evaluates the performances of everyone involved in Turin, after a game

in which teenage midfielder Paul Pogba scored two sensational strikes from distance.

Jan 19, 2013

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - Aside from the odd harmless cross into his area, the captain had next to nothing to do for the entire 90 minutes. Unlikely that he'll have an easier outing all season.

Andrea Barzagli - A formidable presence at the back for the Bianconeri, Barzagli also stepped out of defence to good effect whenever the opportunity presented itself, with a wonderfully measured ball down the line to Lichsteiner the highlight of his evening.

Leonardo Bonucci - Although occasionally ruffled by the direct running of Muriel, Bonucci proved predictably reliable at the heart of the Juve defence. He also caused problems in the Udinese box, sending a looping header just over the bar.

Martín Cáceres - Strong in the air, Caceres dealt well with everything that Udinese threw at him from an aerial perspective, while also threatening at the other end with a header that looped just over the bar.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - As usual, the Swiss was never afraid to get in behind the opposition defence, even popping up in the middle of the box 13 minutes in only to see his shot blocked. However, all too often his final ball let him down.

Arturo Vidal - When he wasn't snapping at the feet of Udinese players, picking up his customary booking in the process, he was surging forward to support his forwards. The Chilean was very nearly rewarded for his endeavour 15 minutes in but his fine strike was tipped over by Padelli. Only had himself to blame, though, after missing an easier chance in the second period.

Paul Pogba - Kept things ticking over nicely in the middle of the park, going about his business with the minimum of fuss. However, he then underlined just how explosive he can be by firing an absolute missile into the top corner just before the break. Decided to do it again midway through the second half, this time with a low drive from distance. Oustanding goals from an outstanding talent.

Emanuele Giaccherini - Charged with the responsibility of filling in for Marchisio, Giaccherini came close to breaking the deadlock after bursting forward in the manner of his fellow Italy international, but he was denied by Padelli. He also called Padelli into action again with a weak effort during the second half. No end product but dynamic throughout.

Paolo De Ceglie - Effectively played as a winger having pushed right forward from the first whistle. However, while he repeatedly stretched the Udinese defence, he never managed to pick anyone out in the area.

Mirko Vučinić - Began brightly, linking well with Giovinco as well as putting Giaccherini in on goal with a nicely weighted through-ball. Got the goal his constant creativity deserved on 72 minutes, albeit with a helping hand from Padelli. However, there was nothing fortunate about his fine assist for Matri.

Sebastian Giovinco - Very lively early on, the diminutive forward proved a constant menace to Udinese's back three and not just with his quick feet. Indeed, it was his dead-ball delivery that Caceres headed just wide. However, he faded badly and was called ashore during the interval.

Substitutions

Mauricio Isla - Replaced De Ceglie for the final seven minutes, which was simply not enough time to make a real impact.

Simone Padoin - Took over in midfield from Vidal for the closing stages, but did not do anything worthy of mention.

Alessandro Matri - Came on in place of Giovinco during the break and wasted little time in making his presence felt with a scintillating run down the left wing. That ultimately came to nothing but Matri kept plugging away and got his just deserts when he finished coolly after being put through by Vucinic.

UDINESE

Daniele Padelli - Probably did not deserve to be on the losing side, having done remarkably well to keep the game scoreless with a string of smart stops, most notably from Giaccherini. In addition, he was given absolutely no chance by Pogba's screamer.

Danilo - Played a key role in keeping Udinese in the game for so long with a succession of timely blocks and headed interventions but was ultimately overrun in the final quarter.

Dušan Basta - Unable to offer anything resembling an attacking outlet down the Udinese right, having been forced to defend deep by the adventurous De Ceglie. However, he did at least play a part in keeping his Juventus counterpart quiet.

Maurizio Domizzi - Made numerous vital interceptions during a first half which Udinese spent almost entirely on the back foot. Indeed, he did wonderfully well in throwing his body in the way of a goal-bound effort from Giovinco.

Giovanni Pasquale - Did not manage to trouble Juventus going forward, primarily because he spent most of his evening trying to contain Lichsteiner, which he made a reasonably good fist of.

Thomas Heurtaux - A pretty composed figure at the back for Udinese, particularly during a torrid opening 45 minutes. The Frenchman also showed a willingess to get on the ball and bring it out from the back. However, he must take some blame for allowing Vucinic to turn him before netting Juve's third goal.

Allan - Struggled badly to get a grip on things in midfield and he was also left red-faced after being left on his backside in the second half after stupidly going to ground in a bid to tackle Matri, who simply scampered away from him down the left wing.

Andrea Lazzari - One of Udinese's better players, Lazzarri was unable to make much happen going forward but he did at least put himself about well in midfield.

Roberto Pereyra - Given an unexpected chance to shine because of the concerns over Di Natale's fitness, but he failed miserably to take advantage. It came as no surprise when Guidolin decided just three minutes into the second half that a half-fit Di Natale was better than a fully-fit Pereyra.

Giampiero Pinzi - Unable to produce anything positive going forward, but he tried valiantly to keep Juventus at bay, as evidenced by his terrific block on a shot from Lichsteiner in the opening exchanges. Also picked up a booking for his troubles.

Luis Muriel - Whenever he got a chance to run at the Juventus defence, he looked a handful. Unfortunately, he was too often crowded out given Pereyra offered him next to no support. However, on the down side, he snatched at a decent half-chance midway through the second half and his frustration manifested itself in a booking for mouthing off.

Substitutions

Gabriel Silva - Thrown on in place of Pasquale but his influence was negligible.

Maicosuel - Saw just 15 minutes of action but even less of the ball.

Antonio Di Natale - Restricted to the role of impact substitute because of injury but it was a role that he was literally not fit to fill.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Paul Pogba (41′)

Paul Pogba (66′)

Mirko Vučinić (72′)

Alessandro Matri (80′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Conte: 'We had situation in hand'

Jan 19, 2013

Antonio Conte praised his second string Juventus side after a 4-0 demolition job on Udinese. “We always had the situation in hand.”

Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Giorgio Chiellini, Fabio Quagliarella, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner missed out, but Paul Pogba scored a fantastic brace.

“Even if we were playing with many ‘reserve’ players, very few people noticed thanks to the fine performances of those who stepped in,” said the Coach.

“The lads are working seriously despite the many absentees. We have a concept of a team and are not a group of individuals. We gave away five points in the last two games, but it went well tonight and we always had the situation in hand.”

Conte was asked whether Pogba reminded him of a young Frank Rijkaard.

“They do have similar characteristics, but Paul needs to grow up to become one of the best players in the world in his role.”

Napoli closed the gap on leaders Juventus after their two-point penalty in the betting scandal was quashed on appeal along with six-month bans for Paolo Cannavaro and Gianluca Grava.

“It was the right thing to do, but perhaps it would’ve been right not to suspend me too.”

Conte sat out a four-month ban for failing to report a potential fix to the authorities, charges he always denied.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Paul Pogba (41′)

Paul Pogba (66′)

Mirko Vučinić (72′)

Alessandro Matri (80′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Guidolin: 'Udinese had a bad night'

Jan 19, 2013

Francesco Guidolin concedes Udinese “had a bad night” after their 4-0 defeat at the Juventus Stadium.

Paul Pogba scored two fantastic goals, followed by Mirko Vucinic and Alessandro Matri.

“Pogba is a great player and not just for his goals. I have to say we’re dealing with a real prospect for the future,” said Friuli boss Guidolin.

“We had a bad night. I was convinced my team would be able to play the game, but we did practically nothing tonight.

“There is little to add. Juventus thoroughly deserved this win. When we don’t have Antonio Di Natale, it is undoubtedly more difficult for us to play, but that’s not enough to explain how in the first 15 minutes we managed to only pass straight to our opponents.

“I really cannot explain this performance to myself, as we had been in good shape. It’s a shame, we looked bad out there and that’s all. Gigi Buffon didn’t make a save tonight and I take the blame, as something wasn’t prepared properly.”

Guidolin was asked about his future, as he has hinted at taking a step back from management.

“I want to stay in Udine in future and in my club, even if in another role.”

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 21 - 19/1/13 (8:45 p.m.)

4 - 0

Paul Pogba (41′)

Paul Pogba (66′)

Mirko Vučinić (72′)

Alessandro Matri (80′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Pogba: 'That goal was crazy!'

Jan 20, 2013

Paul Pogba could not disguise his joy at scoring a splendid Serie A brace in the 4-0 victory over Udinese. “The first goal was crazy just thinking about it!”

The 19-year-old arrived in the summer as a free agent after his contract with Manchester United expired.

“The first goal was crazy just thinking about it!” smiled the French midfielder.

“I am very happy with the brace, but I mustn’t think about it now. We must focus on continuing to work and picking up points.

“Will I go back on the bench? That doesn’t worry me, as whoever deserves it and is in the best shape will play. The Coach will make the right decision, as he always does. Conte always says he wants me to be more determined.

“Am I more like Frank Rijkaard or Patrick Vieira? Neither. I am Paul and I just want to get better.

“Why did Sir Alex Ferguson let me leave Manchester United? You’d have to ask him that, I don’t know anything.”

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

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

Hernanes: Time for Lazio to concentrate on Juventus

The Brazilian midfielder believes the Biancocelesti need to take whatever positives they can

from their draw with Palermo before facing the league leaders in the Coppa Italia.

Jan 20, 2013

Hernanes has called on his Lazio team-mates not to dwell on their disappointing 2-2 draw with Palermo and focus on their forthcoming games, starting with Juventus.

Vladimir Petkovic's side took an early lead through Sergio Floccari but, after goals from Alevaro Rios and Paulo Dybala, they only managed to rescue a point against the Sicilians with a late penalty from Hernanes.

However, after the game, the 27-year-old Brazilian stressed that there were some positive elements that his side could build on in future.

"At the end of the day it's a point gained," the former Sao Paulo man was quoted by La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

"It didn't go well, but we showed character. Now we need to think of the upcoming games, starting with Juventus."

This optimism was shared by others in the squad, including Giuseppe Biava, who played for the Rosanero earlier in his career and praised the spirit of the opposition.

"A normal team would be down and out at 2-1," the 35-year-old defender claimed. "But we were good."

"In the first half Palermo were a little fearful, perhaps due to their position, but in the second half they came out fighting.

"Gasperini is one of the best I've ever played under. If the players follow him, they can do well."

Lazio are currently second in Serie A with 43 points, five behind leaders Juventus, while strugglers Palermo are down in 19th with 16 points.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

Conte to ‘invent’ Juventus attack

Jan 21, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte faces a striker shortage ahead of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio.

Sebastian Giovinco and Nicklas Bendtner are injured for the first leg clash, Fabio Quagliarella is banned and Mirko Vucinic may not be risked from the first minute after recent fitness issues.

“We’ll have to evaluate Vucinic,” Conte stated on Monday. “He played 90 intense minutes at the weekend after a period in which we had to preserve him because of his ankle.

“I’ll need to speak to Vucinic, but I have to evaluate everything. I don’t want him to get injured again, I want to be cautious.

“We’ll have to carefully consider whether to give him another 90 minutes, especially as we only have one striker left in Alessandro Matri.

“Matri will play tomorrow as Giovinco will almost certainly not be at my disposal. Matri came on in the second half against Udinese and did well. I'm impressed by his desire to improve.

“There are other players who can be used as a striker with Matri or as a trequartista. I'm not yet able to say who will play, I'll have to deploy someone out of their natural position.”

Conte will also be without midfield creator Andrea Pirlo again after the latter also missed the 4-0 win over Udinese.

“Pirlo won’t play, that’s for certain,” he added. “However, Claudio Marchisio should return.”

The tactician confirmed that January signing Federico Peluso would be in his starting XI at the Juventus Stadium.

“I thought Peluso played well against Sampdoria [on his debut]. He’ll play tomorrow, but I don’t know yet in what role – in defence or on the left of midfield.”

Lazio frustrated Juventus in Serie A earlier this season and the tactician has respect for the side who are joint-second in the championship – just five points adrift of the Old Lady.

“I expect a tough Lazio, one who will look to not give us a lot of space and hit us on the counter,” Conte added.

“They have excellent players, ones of class and experience. They’ll fight until the end in the championship and they’ll do well in Europe too.

“Lazio will be strong, compact and well-organised. They have consolidated the good foundations established by Edy Reja.”

Conte then cut-short any questions about the January transfer window. “We're playing in the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia. I'm focused solely on the game for the time being, not the transfer market.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

Klose out of Coppa semi-final

Jan 21, 2013

Miroslav Klose will miss Lazio's Coppa Italia semi-final first-leg against Juventus on Tuesday.

The German striker was left out of the Biancocelesti's squad for their match against Palermo on Saturday after picking up a muscular problem, and Vladimir Petkovic has decided to keep the 34-year-old on the sidelines for the Coppa clash.

Full squad: Marchetti, Bizzarri, Carrizo; Biava, Cavanda, Radu, Scaloni, Zauri, Ciani; Cana, Ledesma, Mauri, Candreva, Lulic, Gonzalez, Brocchi, Hernanes; Floccari, Kozak, Rozzi.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

Zauri saves girl from well

Jan 21, 2013

Lazio defender Luciano Zauri has saved the granddaughter of Juventus legend Zbigniew Boniek from a well in Rome.

La Repubblica have revealed that the Italy international was lowered into the four-metre hole after the seven-year-old girl had fallen in on Sunday evening.

The veteran full-back was lowered into the well on a rope, before pulling the child out to safety.

The girl was then taken to hospital with minor bruises.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus-Lazio Preview:

Buoyant Bianconeri chase Coppa Italia glory

Just five points separate the two sides in Serie A, but that will count

for nothing on Tuesday night as the high-flying pair do battle at Juventus Stadium.

Jan 21, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Storari

Barzagli, Marrone, Peluso

Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Giaccherini, De Ceglie

Matri, Vucinic

LAZIO

Marchetti

Konko, Biava, Dias, Lulic

Candreva, Gonzalez, Ledesma, Hernanes, Mauri

Floccari

Silverware is in sight for both Juventus and Lazio as they clash in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final on Tuesday night.

The Bianconeri go into the game on the back of a resounding 4-0 win over Udinese on Saturday, while the Biancocelesti played out a battling 2-2 draw with Palermo in their last encounter.

With just five points separating the two sides in Serie A, the winner of this cup contest could also strike a telling mental blow in the title race and that fact will not be lost on either Antonio Conte or Vladimir Petkovic.

Juve will be without several key men, with Giorgio Chiellini (calf), Simone Pepe (hamstring), Nicklas Bendtner (abductor tear) and Marchisio all missing, while Miroslav Klose, Ederson and Abdoulay Konko are absent for Lazio.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus may be without Claudio Marchisio, but Paul Pogba put forward a compelling case for a regular starting birth with two goals in the 4-0 win over Udinese on Saturday.

• The Bianconeri have lifted the Coppa Italia nine times.

• Sebastian Giovinco and Fabio Quagliarella are the club's joint-top scorers this season, with six goals each.

• The absence of Miroslav Klose could hit Lazio hard, as he has struck 10 times already this term.

• Vladimir Petkovic's side saw off Catania 3-0 in the quarter-finals to seal their semi-final date with Juventus.

• The two teams played out a 0-0 draw in their last meeting back in November.

Head to Head

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

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

Serie A ‎- Nov 26, 2011 - Lazio 0 - Juventus 1

Serie A ‎- May 2, 2011 - Lazio 0 - Juventus 1

Serie A ‎- Dec 12, 2010 - Juventus 2 - Lazio 1

Last Five Matches

Juventus

Jan 19, 2013 - Juventus 4 - Udinese 0 - Serie A

Jan 13, 2013 - Parma 1 - Juventus 1 - Serie A

Jan 9, 2013 - Juventus 2 - AC Milan 1 - Coppa Italia

Jan 6, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Sampdoria 2 - Serie A

Dec 21, 2012 - Cagliari 1 - Juventus 3 - Serie A

Lazio

Jan 19, 2013 - Palermo 2 - Lazio 2 - Serie A

Jan 13, 2013 - Lazio 2 - Atalanta 0 - Serie A

Jan 8, 2013 - Lazio 3 - Catania 0 - Coppa Italia

Jan 5, 2013 - Lazio 2 - Cagliari 1 - Serie A

Dec 22, 2012 - Sampdoria 0 - Lazio 1 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Paul Pogba

The midfielder has played most of his football coming off the substitutes' bench so far this season, but he shone in the absence of Andrea Pirlo on Saturday, scoring twice and ensuring he heads into this encounter full of confidence.

Sergio Floccari

With top scorer Miroslav Klose absent through injury, the goalscoring burden will rest on the shoulders of the 31-year-old striker. He will be desperate to make an impression and hope to open his account for the season in the process.

Prediction

After playing out a cagey 0-0 draw earlier this season, another tight affair is to be expected and though the home side will be desperate to strike a first-leg blow, Lazio will have enough to take a draw back to Stadio Olimpico.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 1 - 1 Lazio

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus lacking attacking options for Lazio clash

The Bianconeri are short on options for Tuesday's clash with the Biancocelesti

and the Italian coach confirms Andrea Pirlo's extended absence.

Jan 21, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte is suffering a lack of striking options ahead of Tuesday's Coppa Italia semi-final clash with Lazio.

The 43-year-old has been left with a depleted strikeforce following injuries to Sebastian Giovinco and Nicklas Bendtner, while leading scorer Fabio Quagliarella misses out through suspension.

And Conte admits he is erring on the side of caution before making a decision on Mirko Vucinic's fitness.

“We’ll have to evaluate Vucinic,” Conte told reporters.

“He played 90 intense minutes at the weekend after a period in which we had to preserve him because of his ankle.

“I’ll need to speak to Vucinic, but I have to evaluate everything. I don’t want him to get injured again, I want to be cautious.

“We’ll have to carefully consider whether to give him another 90 minutes, especially as we only have one striker left in Alessandro Matri.

"I'm not yet able to say who will play, I'll have to deploy someone out of their natural position.”

The Bianconeri are also set to be without the influence of Andrea Pirlo once more.

The 33-year-old missed out on the 4-0 victory over Udinese at the weekend and Conte confirmed Pirlo would again be unavailable for selection.

He added: “Pirlo won’t play, that’s for certain. However, Claudio Marchisio should return.”

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus are the team to beat, says Petkovic

The Lazio coach has nothing but respect for the reigning Italian champions,

but believes his side can cause them problems in the Coppa Italia semi-final on Tuesday.

Jan 22, 2013

Vladimir Petkovic believes that Juventus are the team to beat in the Coppa Italia and Serie A ahead of Tuesday's cup encounter, but has insisted that Lazio will do their utmost to make life difficult for the Bianconeri.

The Stadio Olimpico side have closed the gap on the Serie A leaders to five points following a string of good results in the past few months, and Petkovic has stressed that they want to keep up their good form in the remainder of the season.

"Juventus are the team to beat, the strongest team in the league," Petkovic stated at a press conference.

"But in the last 12 games, we’ve got the most points, we are doing well and we want to do even better."

The 49-year-old then went on to discuss Tuesday's semi-final and made it clear that he expects an even contest.

"Tuesday's encounter and the one in Rome will see a great 180 minutes of football. We have to avoid any lapse in concentration which could cost us dearly."

The first leg in Turin is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Conte: Juventus unfairly criticised

The former Siena boss has insisted that the Serie A champions can still win every

competition they compete in, and has warned not to underestimate Lazio in the Coppa Italia.

Jan 22, 2013

Antonio Conte feels that the criticism aimed at Juventus in the wake of their Serie A loss against Sampdoria and draw against Parma earlier this month was harsh.

The Bianconeri initially struggled to find their best form after the winter break, but Conte has pointed out that they are still in a great position to win silverware this term.

"I’ve heard a little too much criticism this week. Certain people have spoken about a team in crisis because we weren’t able to beat Sampdoria and Parma despite two good performances," Conte said at a press conference.

"I’m perfectly relaxed and focus solely on what we’ve achieved. We’re top of the table, we’re in the Coppa Italia semi-finals for the second year in a row and have made it through to the last 16 of the Champions League."

The 43-year-old then went on to discuss his side's Coppa Italia tie against Lazio, and stressed that the Stadio Olimpico side will not be pushovers.

He said: "We’ll face a strong Lazio side. They’re compact, well-organised and will look to close down space before breaking on the counter-attack.

"However, we’ll be playing with the same objective as ever: to win. I’m perfectly relaxed about this because the lads know exactly what is required of them."

The first leg of the semi-final clash is on Tuesday.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus-Lazio Betting Preview:

There's value in opposing the hosts in cup clash

The league leaders are warm favourites to enjoy a home victory in this Coppa Italia

semi-final first leg match but Willie Duncan believes that a shock could be on the cards.

Jan 22, 2013

Italian champions Juventus will continue their quest for further silverware when they play host to Vladimir Petkovic’s Lazio side in what promises to be an intriguing Coppa Italia semi-final first leg clash in Turin on Tuesday night.

Antonio Conte’s men warmed up for this meeting with an emphatic 4-0 thrashing of Udinese at the weekend and Juventus are available at just 4/7 (1.57) with Bet365 to take a step towards the final by defeating Lazio here.

Petkovic’s side were held by Palermo at the weekend but have not lost in any competition since slipping to defeat against Catania at the beginning of November.

They are available at a tempting 5/1 (6.0) with Bet365 to take victory in Turin with the same firm offering 11/4 (3.75) that the match ends in a draw.

The Bianconeri were beaten in last year’s final by Napoli and Bet365 go just 4/9 (1.44) for Conte’s men to take their place in this year’s final while the Biancocelesti are available at 13/8 (2.63) with the same firm to qualify for the final.

It is worth noting that Petkovic’s men have kept five clean sheets in their last eight competitive matches and are capable of keeping things tight against a Juventus side that has won just one of their last four games inside 90 minutes.

With that in mind, the 19/20 (1.95) on offer from Bet365 for fewer than three goals to be scored looks to represent decent value and could be worthy of support.

Both sides are likely to be missing key protagonists for this clash but it is the hosts that appear to be most hampered by injury and the 7/5 (2.40) on offer from Bet365 for Lazio (+1) in the handicap market is outstanding value and simply must be snapped up here.

With just five points separating the two clubs at the top of Serie A, the disparity in match odds seems disproportionate and the draw, available at 11/4 (3.75) with Bet365, is superb value in what promises to be an evenly-matched contest.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

History favours Lazio v Juventus

Jan 22, 2013

Lazio will take on Juventus in the Coppa Italia semi-finals on Tuesday evening with history in their favour.

The two teams have met on 19 occasions in the Italian Cup, with the Biancocelesti collecting seven wins against Juve’s six.

The capital outfit have been particularly good in recent Coppa games against the Old Lady of Italian football.

In their last five meetings, Lazio have collected four wins and one draw.

Juve’s last triumph against Lazio in the domestic Cup competition occurred in January 2000, when current boss Antonio Conte was one of the scorers in a 3-2 Delle Alpi victory.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus name squad for Lazio

Jan 22, 2013

Juventus’ squad for tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final match against Lazio includes just two first-team strikers.

Boss Antonio Conte confirmed on Monday that he would have to invent something in attack given that Alessandro Matri and Mirko Vucinic were the only players available to him.

It is unclear whether the latter will be risked from the start this evening after his recent fitness issues.

Andrea Pirlo is missing from the midfield, but Claudio Marchisio returns after he picked up an injury in the 2-1 loss to Sampdoria on January 6.

Squad: 1 Buffon, 4 Caceres, 6 Pogba, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 13 Peluso, 15 Barzagli, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho, 35 Beltrame, 36 Rugani, 37 Schiavone, 38 Pol Garcia, 39 Marrone, 40 Kabashi.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

Coppa line-ups: Juventus-Lazio

Jan 22, 2013

Juventus have a completely new front line for tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio, who look to Sergio Floccari and Hernanes.

These two sides are currently battling for the top of the Serie A table as well as a place in the Coppa Final, but go head-to-head in Turin at 19.45 GMT.

This is the first leg of the semi-final and the decider is in Rome on January 29. This means that away goals do count at this stage of the competition.

Andrea Pirlo, Giorgio Chiellini, Nicklas Bendtner, Simone Pepe, Kwadwo Asamoah and the suspended Fabio Quagliarella are unavailable for Juve.

Claudio Marchisio returns, but Mirko Vucinic is nursing an ankle injury, so Alessandro Matri is the lone striker with support from Emanuele Giaccherini and Marchisio.

Under-21 international Luca Marrone is given a rare opportunity to start, but it looks as if he will be in his traditional midfield role rather than at centre-back. Instead, Federico Peluso joins the back three. This is only provisional, as both versatile figures can play in defence or midfield.

Arturo Vidal was expected to rest due to a recurring ankle problem, but he starts.

Lazio must do without Miroslav Klose, Abdoullay Konko, Ederson and the banned Andre Dias, but again experiment with Lorik Cana in a three-man defence.

Floccari has found the net in his last two games, so he leads the way with Hernanes pulling the midfield strings.

JUVENTUS: Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Isla, Vidal, Marrone, Pogba, Giaccherini; Marchisio; Matri

LAZIO: Marchetti; Biava, Cana, Ciani; Cavanda, Gonzalez, Ledesma, Hernanes, Lulic; Mauri; Floccari

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Antonio Damato

HT - 0-0: Lazio frighten Juve

Jan 22, 2013

Lazio have had the best scoring opportunities in the first half of the Coppa Italia semi-final in Turin, but it’s still goalless with Juventus.

These sides are battling for the top of the Serie A table, but also went head-to-head for a place in the Coppa Italia Final. This was the first leg of the semi-final, so away goals will count for the decider on January 29.

Juve were without Andrea Pirlo, Giorgio Chiellini, Nicklas Bendtner, Simone Pepe, Kwadwo Asamoah and the suspended Fabio Quagliarella, while Mirko Vucinic was rested due to an ankle problem. Antonio Conte completely reshuffled with Luca Marrone in the back three and Claudio Marchisio supporting lone striker Alessandro Matri. Lazio missed Miroslav Klose, Abdoullay Konko, Ederson and the banned Andre Dias.

Federico Marchetti needed a save in the opening 45 seconds as Marchisio rushed in behind Matri to pounce on a ricochet. Leonardo Bonucci then nodded a free kick over from close range and Paul Pogba went close twice from a corner on the day he unveiled a new haircut.

Michael Ciani’s header was also off target from a corner for Lazio, but Juve almost gave a goal away when Marco Storari dropped an easy catch and was fortunate nobody could tap in.

Pedro Luis Cavanda horribly scuffed his shot from an excellent scoring position, then Emanuele Giaccherini rushed back for a crucial interception on Hernanes. The Bianconeri defence was shaky, as Bonucci was hobbling with an injury.

Juve escaped another huge risk on 35 minutes, as Senad Lulic’s cross was mis-kicked into the air by Marrone, but a desperate Andrea Barzagli scramble prevented Stefano Mauri from bundling it over the line from a couple of yards.

At the other end, a dangerous Mauricio Isla cross was turned over the bar. Bonucci could not continue any more and hobbled off before the break, making way for Martin Caceres.

In stoppages, Giaccherini unleashed a powerful strike from distance and Marchetti did well to get a strong catch.

JUVENTUS 0-0 LAZIO (Half-Time)

JUVENTUS: Storari; Bonucci (Caceres 43), Marrone, Barzagli; Isla, Giaccherini, Vidal, Pogba, Peluso; Marchisio; Matri

LAZIO: Marchetti; Biava, Cana, Ciani; Cavanda, Gonzalez, Ledesma, Hernanes, Lulic; Mauri; Floccari

Ref: Damato

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Federico Peluso (63′)

Stefano Mauri (86′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Late Mauri leveller leaves Biancocelesti in pole position to reach final

Juventus Stadium was silenced by the forward who stole in during the dying minutes

to level proceedings, putting Lazio temporarily ahead by virtue of away goals.

Jan 22, 2013

Juventus threw away a winning position in the Coppa Italia semi-final to draw against Lazio in the first-leg, after the Roman captain Stefano Mauri hit an equaliser with just five minutes left on the clock to give his side the advantage. Federico Peluso had put the Old Lady ahead in a game where they outplayed the visitors, but Antonio Conte's men will have to chase a result in the return fixture to survive in the competition.

Chasing a place in the Coppa Italia final to keep the dream of a third domestic double on track, Juventus made an explosive start to the match in front of their own fans. The match was barely a minute old when the home side broke forward, but Claudio Marchisio saw the ball robbed from his grasp by goalkeeper Federico Marchetti after being played in by Alessandro Matri. Leonardo Bonucci also went close early on with a header that went just over the bar, while Paul Pogba also threatened in the air.

Lazio were pinned back for the first 20 minutes, but gradually began to fight in a fixture that became progressively scrappier and more imprecise. Their best chance of the first half fell to Stefano Mauri; the forward had the chance to poke home when Leonardo Bonucci scuffed a clearing header, but hesitated and saw the ball cleared by Luca Marrone with the net wide open.

Both sides had started the first leg with six midfielders, and the result was a messy encounter that frequently became bogged down around the centre circle. Passes were going wayward across the pitch, with Lazio's creative talents Mauri and Hernanes particularly notable for their lack of calm with the ball at feet.

Juventus fans would hold their breath once more in the opening 45 minutes when Emanuele Giaccherini released a stinging effort from deep as the half entered injury time. Marchetti was more than equal to his shot, however, and the teams entered the tunnel still deadlocked.

Despite the rather turgid nature of play neither team made changes during the interval, although Juve had already been forced to bring Martin Caceres into the action following an injury to Bonucci. The Turin side switched the focus of attack, looking to put pressure on their rivals out wide through the exertions of Mauricio Isla, but Lazio were resolute and resisted a host of crosses fired in by the Chilean.

Nine minutes into the second half, Juventus were presented with their best chance of the match. Matri broke the offside trap and did well to latch on to a stunning lofted pass from Marrone, taking his shot first time on the volley. The effort lacked power, however, and Marchetti again did well to palm away and keep his team level with the hosts. Mauri then appeared with a header at the other end, but Marco Storari was also in the right place and saved comfortably.

Pressure on the lacklustre Romans was growing, and it was no surprise that, after 63 minutes, the Old Lady pushed themselves into the lead. A fluid passing move around the box left Giaccherini in space, and his pinpoint cross found Federico Peluso who nodded the ball into the corner of the net. Lazio were furious that a supposed foul in the area had not been called, but it did not matter; the goal stood, and Juve were in the driving seat.

Arturo Vidal had been strong in midfield throughout the clash, and the Chilean went agonisingly close to extending his team's advantage. A well-placed shot beat Marchetti only to be denied by the post, and from the rebound the midfielder steered Barzagli's cross inches wide to give Lazio a lifeline. The Aquile took full advantage, as five minutes from the end Mauri stole in at the far post to poke home a corner and hit a shock equaliser.

Juventus will now have to score in Stadio Olimpico to progress from the last-four clash. The second fixture is scheduled to take place on January 29, while Roma and Inter play their opening encounter in the Italian capital on Wednesday.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Federico Peluso (63′)

Stefano Mauri (86′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Coppa: Lazio snatch Turin draw

Jan 22, 2013

Lazio have the upper hand in the Coppa Italia semi-final after a late 1-1 draw in Turin, despite Federico Peluso’s first goal for the club. The second leg is on January 29 and the Biancocelesti have an away goal.

Juve were without Andrea Pirlo, Giorgio Chiellini, Nicklas Bendtner, Simone Pepe, Kwadwo Asamoah and the suspended Fabio Quagliarella, while Mirko Vucinic was rested due to an ankle problem. Antonio Conte completely reshuffled with Luca Marrone in the back three and Claudio Marchisio supporting lone striker Alessandro Matri. Lazio missed Miroslav Klose, Abdoullay Konko, Ederson and the banned Andre Dias.

Federico Marchetti needed a save in the opening 45 seconds as Marchisio rushed in behind Matri to pounce on a ricochet. Leonardo Bonucci then nodded a free kick over from close range and Paul Pogba went close twice from a corner on the day he unveiled a new haircut.

Michael Ciani’s header was also off target from a corner for Lazio, but Juve almost gave a goal away when Marco Storari dropped an easy catch and was fortunate nobody could tap in.

Pedro Luis Cavanda horribly scuffed his shot from an excellent scoring position, then Emanuele Giaccherini rushed back for a crucial interception on Hernanes. The Bianconeri defence was shaky, as Bonucci was hobbling with an injury.

Juve escaped another huge risk on 35 minutes, as Senad Lulic’s cross was mis-kicked into the air by Marrone, but a desperate Andrea Barzagli scramble prevented Stefano Mauri from bundling it over the line from a couple of yards.

At the other end, a dangerous Mauricio Isla cross was turned over the bar. Bonucci could not continue any more and hobbled off before the break, making way for Martin Caceres.

In stoppages, Giaccherini unleashed a powerful strike from distance and Marchetti did well to get a strong catch.

Marchetti performed heroics here in November and he had another glorious save on 54 minutes when Matri ran on to a long cross-field Marrone pass to volley, but the Lazio goalkeeper got his fingertips to turn it out from under the bar.

Juventus finally found the breakthrough when a corner was taken short, then whipped in for Peluso’s towering header into the far bottom corner. It was the January signing’s first goal in a Bianconeri jersey. Curiously, Vucinic was on the touchline waiting to come on in place of Peluso when the goal was scored, but Conte changed his mind after that strike.

Matri threatened a second with a wonderful touch to hook the long pass, but Lorik Cana came sliding in and did just about enough to put him off.

Juve somehow failed to make it 2-0, as Arturo Vidal sprung the offside trap on a Matri pass and went clear, but the prod with the outside of his boot thumped against the base of the post with an open goal. The move continued and Vidal was again unable to turn in amid chaotic scenes.

Vidal was again denied, but this time he got away from defenders for a looping header on Vucinic’s cross and Marchetti flew to claw it away just before it could go over the line. It was a truly stunning save, as the goalkeeper had to change direction and jump at full stretch.

Vucinic went down under a Giuseppe Biava challenge, but Juve paid the price for not taking those chances when Lazio got an equaliser in the final minutes.

An Antonio Candreva corner was flicked on to the back post for Mauri to prod his low volley in from five yards, as Paolo De Ceglie seemed to lose his man.

Matri fired straight at Marchetti, Vucinic dragged a shot wide and the goalkeeper smothered a Giaccherini snapshot, as Juve found it too late to restore their advantage.

Juventus 1-1 Lazio

Scorers: Peluso 63 (J), Matri 86 (L)

Juventus: Storari; Bonucci (Caceres 43), Marrone, Barzagli; Isla, Giaccherini, Vidal, Pogba, Peluso (De Ceglie 71); Marchisio (Vucinic 77); Matri

Lazio:Marchetti; Biava (Radu 83), Cana, Ciani; Cavanda, Gonzalez, Ledesma (Candreva 70), Hernanes (Brocchi 82), Lulic; Mauri; Floccari

Ref: Damato

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Federico Peluso (63′)

Stefano Mauri (86′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Conte: 'Juve deserved more'

Jan 22, 2013

Antonio Conte feels Juventus had done enough to win tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final with Lazio, but “the smile remains for this performance in an emergency situation.”

The Bianconeri had gone in front with Federico Peluso, but Stefano Mauri snatched a 1-1 draw late on. The second leg at the Olimpico is next Tuesday.

“It’s a shame about the result, but the smile remains for this performance in an emergency situation,” he said after using Claudio Marchisio as a makeshift trequartista.

“From the negative aspects we managed to find the strength to give consistency to our performances. Despite the difficult moment in terms of injuries, the team deserved much more tonight.

“There are also a couple of incidents that need to be looked at again, such as the challenge on Mirko Vucinic. Referees make mistakes for and against everyone, but I hope that when they do get it wrong in our favour they aren’t subjected to the same trials by media as they were in the past.”

The fact remains that Lazio have an away goal to take with them to the Stadio Olimpico.

“In the second leg we will play our game, hopefully with a little more luck,” continued Conte.

“Between our Serie A meeting and this one, Lazio had more good fortune than we did, even if they are a great side who deserve everything.

“Marchisio was the player who gave me the most guarantees in that more advanced role and he did well, thanks also to the rest of the team. Paul Pogba also did well, carrying on from his performance against Udinese.

“We are a solid group and try to always think like a group.”

Conte also confirmed that tomorrow Gianluigi Buffon will sign a contract extension with Juventus.

“I am happy with his renewal and that the best goalkeeper in the world can continue playing with us for a long time.”