Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Lennon expresses Celtic belief Feb 11, 2013 Neil Lennon warned doubters not to underestimate Celtic ahead of the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash against Juventus at Parkhead. To the surprise of many pundits and fans, the Hoops emerged ahead of Benfica and Spartak Moscow to finish second in Group G behind star-studded Barcelona - whom they famously beat 2-1 at Celtic Park last November - and earn their place in the knockout stages of the tournament for the first time in five seasons. The Serie A champions, though, are strong favourites to progress through to the quarter-finals but manager Lennon, while recognising the quality of the visitors, said: "I think we have been (underestimated) throughout the whole campaign and going into this game we are being made out to be massive underdogs but I don't quite see it that way myself. "There is a real belief, anything can happen over two games. "We go into the tie as underdogs but nothing is going to be decided at the end of 90 minutes tomorrow night, it is over two games and we are prepared to play hard football over 180 minutes. "They have excellent strikers - Mirko Vucinic, Fabio Quagliarella, Sebastian Giovinco, and they have also brought in Nicolas Anelka. "But the one who has caught my eye is Alessandro Matri, he looks an excellent young player. "They are very strong in midfield. Arturo Vidal is playing very well currently, Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio, these are class players including Andrea Pirlo who is still one of the finest midfield players in the world. "So the team is blessed with fantastic footballers but we knew that before the tie or before any preparation were made. "But it would be dangerous to underestimate Celtic. "We have proved already this season that we can be a match for anyone." The former Hoops player, who described Juventus training at Rangers' Murray Park training complex this morning as "irrelevant", recognises the difference between the Italian giants and Barca. "They are two different cultures," he said. "Juventus are very strong defensively, very well-organised, very consistent in domestic football and they have been very impressive in their Champions League campaign. "We have done a lot of work on Juventus and I have seen them myself so we will have to change the way we played against Barcelona but that is only natural because Barcelona dominate possession like no other team." However, the Northern Irishman expects another momentous European night in the east end of Glasgow. When he was confirmed as Celtic boss in June 2010, after a spell as caretaker, Lennon said he wanted to "bring the thunder back to this stadium - I want to make it rock again." In a tweet earlier today, he said:"..think i can hear thunder in the distance" and he expanded upon that at the pre-match press conference. "This will be one of my best achievements, to bring these nights back to Celtic Park," he said. "It is the only show around, a European night at Celtic Park. "It will be a fantastic football arena, for me one of the best atmospheres in world football, never mind European football and it is for our supporters. "Obviously the players will play their part but to bring these nights back to the club is something that means a lot to me and anyone who has experienced a Champions League night here before will know what I am referring to. "Obviously we are up against a great team and great coach and it is very exciting for me to challenge myself against Antonio Conte. "I don't want to fill the players heads too much from a tactical point of view. "In terms of motivation, I don't think the players need any more from me. "For some of them, it is probably the biggest game of their young careers and we are hoping we can take the club further in the competition. "We've always known this has been looming on the horizon so it is almost here and I think we are ready." Lennon is sweating over the availability of two key players. Forward Georgios Samaras is battling to recover from a hamstring injury while stopper Efe Ambrose played for Nigeria in their 1-0 African Cup of Nations final win over Burkina Faso last night and will not be back in Glasgow until tomorrow morning. Left-back Emilio Izaguirre has recovered from a knee injury while winger James Forrest is fit again following a hamstring problem. The Hoops boss said: "It is as you were with Samaras, we will make a decision on him tomorrow. "Izaguirre trained today and has joined the squad and Forrest is fit and Ambrose, we expect to arrive tomorrow morning. "We will see what condition he is in and if he is okay, we will have him in the squad. "We will give Georgios as much time as he is needed. He has been doing pretty aggressive rehabilitation work and we are hopeful he will be okay. "If not, then I have a very strong squad and we will have him fit for the second leg." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Celtic-Juventus Preview: Bhoys have won 21 of their last 23 Champions League home matches Neil Lennon's side welcome the current Serie A leaders to Glasgow on Tuesday night aiming to seal passage into the quarter-finals of Europe's premier cup competition. Feb 11, 2013 PROBABLE LINE-UPS CELTIC Forster Matthews, Lustig, Wilson, Izaguirre Brown, Wanyama, Mulgrew Samara, Hooper, Forrest JUVENTUSBuffon Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres Lichtsteiner, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah Vucinic, Giovinco With Celtic currently enjoying an 18-point lead at the top of the SPL, Neil Lennon made a host of changes for the weekend win over Inverness in order to ensure fresh legs. However, question marks remain over a number of players. Emilio Izaguirre (knee) and Georgios Samaras (thigh) had previously been rated as 50/50 for the match, but with Lennon insisting their treatments would be as aggressive as possible, starts look highly plausible. Efe Ambrose will be available for selection, but his appearance in Nigeria's Africa Cup of Nations final win on Sunday means he looks set to take a place on the bench, with Kelvin Wilson already highlighted as a probable starter. Juventus head coach Antonio Conte has almost a full squad to pick from, with very few players missing for the trip to Scotland. Giorgio Chiellini (calf) is still a few days away from a return, while Paolo De Ceglie, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner (all thigh) will miss out too. On the positive side for Conte, Claudio Marchisio has recovered from the injury which had kept him out for a month, while Kwadwo Asamoah is back from Afcon duty with Ghana. Meanwhile, Leonardo Bonucci's domestic suspension means he will be refreshed for Tuesday. DID YOU KNOW? • On each of the four previous occasions these sides have met, the home team has been victorious. • Twelve goals have been scored over the course of their last two meetings. • Celtic have never been further than this stage of the competition since it was rebranded as the Champions League. They are 19/5 to qualify for the next round with BetVictor. • From their previous 23 Champions League home matches, Celtic have only been beaten twice. Both of those defeats came against Barcelona. • Like Borussia Dortmund, Malaga and Schalke, Juventus are unbeaten so far in this season's competition. • The Italians conceded just four goals in the group stages. Only Paris Saint-Germain have a better record, having let in three goals. • The Serie A leaders scored four of their 12 group stage goals from the bench, more than any other side. • Gianluigi Buffon is the only player in either squad who played the last time the two sides met in 2001. Head to Head 16.09.1981 - Champion Clubs' Cup - Celtic Glasgow-Juventus 1-0 30.09.1981 - Champion Clubs' Cup - Juventus-Celtic Glasgow 2-0 18.09.2001 - Champions League - Juventus-Celtic Glasgow 3-2 31.10.2001 - Champions League - Celtic Glasgow-Juventus 4-3 Last Five Matches Celtic Dec 5, 2012 - Celtic 2 - Spartak 1 - UCL Nov 20, 2012 - Benfica 2 - Celtic 1 - UCL Nov 7, 2012 - Celtic 2 - FC Barcelona 1 - UCL Oct 23, 2012 - FC Barcelona 2 - Celtic 1 - UCL Oct 2, 2012 - Spartak 2 - Celtic 3 - UCL Juventus Feb 9, 2013 - Juventus 2 - Fiorentina 0 - Serie A Feb 3, 2013 - Chievo 1 - Juventus 2 - Serie A Jan 29, 2013 - Lazio 2 - Juventus 1 - Coppa Italia Jan 26, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Genoa 1 - Serie A Jan 22, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Lazio 1 - Coppa Italia Players to Watch Fraser Forster Goalkeeper Fraser Forster was absolutely essential to Celtic getting out of the group stage, performing heroics throughout, most notably in the home win over Barcelona. Out of all the keepers who made it through to the knockout phase, none made more saves than Forster, who got his body in the way of shots 25 times. One gets the impression he will be busy once again over the course of this two-legged affair. Arturo Vidal It would be easy to single out Andrea Pirlo as the Old Lady's key cog, but with Victor Wanyama likely to be snapping at the Italian's heels at every given opportunity he will need an accomplice. That's where Vidal comes in. The Chile international is an all-round midfielder who can pass, dribble and tackle, and those assets will be needed if the visitors are unable to maximise Pirlo's influence. Prediction Juventus will be at near enough at full strength for the trip to Glasgow, but Celtic's home record in the Champions League speaks for itself, therefore the Serie A side will not be in for an easy evening. A score draw looks a good bet. Editor's Prediction Celtic 1 - 1 Juventus Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Lennon: Celtic ready for Juventus test After a famous victory over Barcelona in the group stages, the Northern Irishman is hoping his side can progress further in the competition and is confident of beating the Italians. Feb 11, 2013 Celtic manager Neil Lennon believes his side are more than capable of beating Juventus and progressing further in the Champions League. The Hoops host the Italian side at Celtic Park on Tuesday night and after their morale-boosting victory over Barcelona in the group stages, Lennon is confident that the his side have nothing to fear. "When I took on the job I didn't imagine a game like this, when you consider where we were and the progress that we have made," Lennon told The Guardian. "What I did think at the start of the season was that if we could get through the qualifiers we could make inroads in the Champions League with the players that we had. "We don't want to stop now at the last 16. We've got two titanic games against Juventus to look forward to and anything can happen over a two-game tie." Juventus could hand a start to new signing Nicolas Anelka, although Lennon says he isn't concentrating on the Frenchman, and the Italians' starting lineup is sure to be full of quality. "I think they're pretty top-heavy at centre-forward," he added. "I don't know how much football Anelka has played in the last few months, so whether he's been brought in for domestic football or this game, I don't know. "We had them watched against Fiorentina on Saturday but we know that whatever two strikers they use will be quality. They are pretty clinical in the final third so we'll have to be at our best." Celtic approach the game on Tuesday on the back of a 3-1 victory over Inverness and winger Kris Commons, who scored during Saturday's win, is hoping for a massive occasion. "It feels like it's been a long time coming, probably about two and a half months, so I just hope it doesn't pass us by," he said. "We have to take the opportunity by putting in the kind of performance that we know we are capable of at Celtic Park. "I don't think this is a tougher proposition than Barcelona," he continued. "We fancy ourselves over the two legs. We're quietly confident." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Getting to Know Neil Lennon and Celtic Feb 11, 2013 This post was guest-blogged by Celtic fan Paul Fisher. Celtic have so far surpassed all expectations in this year's Champions League and will have to do something really special in order to overcome Juventus. The Italian champions have been touted as strong favourites for the tie and, even though it pains me to say it, rightly so. Neil Lennon's men will no doubt go into the fixtures thinking that they have a small chance of upsetting the odds, they did overcome Barcelona after all. This will depend on the way Celtic approach the fixture. Neil Lennon is entering unknown territory with his relatively inexperienced side and although they have started to gather a reputation as "bottlers" in the big games with a number of losses in semi-finals and finals under the former captain, I feel that Europe is a completely different world altogether. Celtic have reached the Last 16 of the competition on one previous occasion and this did not phase the Glasgow team in the slightest, back in 2007 they bowed out to an extra-time goal against AC Milan and Kaka, who would then go on to lift the coveted trophy. Now, six years later under the guidance of Lennon, the Glasgow side will again face Italian opposition. Fans of Celtic are highly optimistic ahead of the tie after the side picked up points on the road in the group stage for the first time, and they have yet to lose at Parkhead in the competition so far. The strategy that Lennon's men take will be imperative to any chance of qualification and after a transfer window where no key players made their way to the exit doors, it bodes well for the men in green and white. In Fraser Forster, Celtic have one of the most respected goalkeepers in this year's competition. He has put in stellar performances against some of the world's best players and came out relatively unscathed. He has been struggling recently with a neck injury, but he looks to be coming back to the fold and having "The Great Wall" fit will be a must if Celtic are to put up a fight against Juve. Now, defenders have been a weak point in recent seasons for Celtic but with the emergence of Adam Matthews and Mikel Lustig, Celtic will feel they are more than a match for anything Juventus have to throw at them. The problems come more in the centre with Kelvin Wilson, Efe Ambrose and defender come midfielder, Charlie Mulgrew the most likely options for a starting place at the heart of the defence. Wilson has been pretty shaky in recent fixtures without Ambrose at his side as he is currently on international duty with Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations. An unexpected defeat in the semi-finals of the League Cup saw an out of sorts Mulgrew taking a lot of the stick with a well below average showing and with Wilson barely scrapping pass marks this will be the area of the park that the Celtic supporters will most apprehensive about ahead of the knockout phase. In terms of midfield, Celtic have a number of strong players who have performed brilliantly in Europe so far this season. Leading from the front is club captain Scott Brown who was hampered by a hip injury throughout the group stage yet still turned out a few great if gritty performances and his inclusion and a performance will be crucial for the home side in the first leg. Another Welshman, Joe Ledley, is the silent assassin. He plays a crucial role in the midfield setup but goes about his job in a quiet and unassuming way and to underestimate him would be almost suicidal for Juventus as he is stellar in both defence and attack. James Forrest, Kris Commons, Beram Kayal and Victor Wanyama are the others who will most likely feature in some way. James Forrest is coming back from an injury and it seems like perfect timing for the hoops. Both Commons and Kayal have been vital for Celtic in the past couple of years and will be on Tuesday for the first leg. Victor Wanyama is, in my opinion, one of the best players to pull on a Celtic jersey. The Kenyan has the power, presence and ability of a seasoned professional. At just 21 years old, he has a long career ahead of him and I don't think that will be at Celtic much longer. He has the opportunity for the first time to show his worth in the knockout stage of the elite footballing competition in the world and I think he will show exactly why he is rated as highly as he is! Celtic's strike-force of Gary Hooper, Anthony Stokes, Georgios Samaras, Lassad Nouioui and Tony Watt have shown thus far why they deserve a starting place against Juventus and it will be interesting to see how Lennon goes up top. I personally think the Northern Irishman will start with Samaras and Hooper just in front of him. It has been a well-worked partnership so far this season and if they can get the balance right again, who's to say they can't pull off another shock. If Celtic are to have any chance of qualification they will have to get a result at home and keep things tight at the back. I am eternally optimistic that we can do something special and show the rest of Europe that we are not to be messed with. Either that or we'll be on the end of a resounding loss. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) How Celtic Can Beat Juventus in the Champions League Feb 11, 2013 Although Celtic managed to shock Barcelona at Celtic Park in the Champions League earlier this season, most expect Italian giants Juventus to sweep them aside in the Last 16. If Celtic are to spring another upset they will have utilise all the attributes they have at their disposal. One aspect of their success they can bank on is their tremendous home support who will pack out their Parkhead ground on Tuesday night. Celtic's home support will be in full voice and will unquestionably create at atmosphere the equal of anywhere in world football. But ultimately the match will be decided on the pitch and if Celtic are to succeed they will have to use the ball well when they have it. It's likely the Celts will have less than 40% of the ball, so they will have to make their possessions count. Charlie Mulgrew and Kris Commons, who are likely to start wide, will have to provide frontmen Gary Hooper and Georgios Samaras with quality crosses for them to thrive off. They've also need to deliver top class set-pieces, something that worked well against Barcelona both home and away. Samaras is likely to star ahead Anthony Stokes, slotting in just behind Hooper who shall lead the line alone. Samaras' role is twofold. The Greek international must get up and support Hooper, as widemen Mulgrew and Commons are likely to be pegged back by Juve wing-backs Stephen Lichsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah. At the same time the former Manchester City player mustn't allow deep lying playmaker Andrea Pirlo time on the ball, as he's entirely capable of dictating the tempo of the game on his own. Behind Samaras will sit the experienced Scott Brown and the highly-rated Victor Wanyama. Those two are likely to play a holding role in front of the back four, guarding Celtic's defence against the forward runs of midfield pair Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio. Another man who must have a good game is Celtic goalkeeper Fraser Forster. The former Newcastle United reserve has been in fine form this Champions League season and he is quickly establishing himself as Joe Hart's only competition for the England No. 1 jersey. If Celtic can do all of the above then there is no reason why the can't stop Juventus and claim another sensational Celtic Park victory. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Celtic vs. Juventus: Champions League Preview, Team News, Projected Lineups Feb 11, 2013 Juventus travel to Glasgow to tackle Scottish champions Celtic on Tuesday for the first leg of their last 16 clash in the Champions League. The Bianconeri are strong favourites to progress to the quarterfinals, but there is no doubt that The Bhoys will not go down without a fight. Celtic have an 18-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League and therefore rested many of their star players over the weekend in preparation for this match. Juve are in no such position in Serie A, going into the weekend just three points ahead of Napoli and facing a tricky game against Fiorentina. The Viola had dominated the Bianconeri at the Artemio Franchi, so Antonio Conte was unable to rest any players, but a 2-0 victory—which maybe even flattered the visitors—was the perfect way to warm up for the Champions League. Celtic Team News Neil Lennon has a major concern (per STVSport) over whether Georgios Samaras will be fit and stated that the Greek international will be assessed on game day. Emilio Izaguirre trained with the squad today and is expected to shake off a knee injury in time to start tomorrow. Efe Ambrose will return from South Africa, where he enjoyed African Cup of Nations glory with Nigeria, but it is still undecided whether he will recover from Sunday's final and a long flight in time. According to the Daily Record's Mark Guidi, Lennon feels a starting spot for Ambrose is unlikely. Juventus Team News Conte will be without long-term absentees Giorgio Chiellini, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe (per Sport.co.uk). Paolo De Ceglie will also miss out after a scan revealed a tear in the semitendinosus muscle of his thigh (per the Daily Telegraph). Mauricio Isla has shaken off the flu and Leonardo Bonucci returns after serving a domestic suspension. Kwadwo Asamoah should be available for selection after his participation in the African Cup of Nations with Ghana and Mirko Vucinic—who was withdrawn prematurely against Fiorentina—should shake off a knock to start. Key Battle: Victor Wanyama Vs. Mirko Vucinic Vucinic was able to drop deep against Fiorentina and influence the play by linking midfield to attack, distributing to the onrushing De Ceglie and Stephan Lichtsteiner as well as looking for Alessandro Matri, who occupied the penalty area. Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio can also break from deep, so although Vucinic will start as a striker, he can quickly turn into the Bianconeri playmaker. Celtic need to stifle the Montenegrin. Wanyama will be tasked with pressing Vucinic and not giving him the time and space to hurt Celtic. Vucinic's clever movement and skill mean that he might still be able to shake off the tough-tackling Kenyan. Probable Lineups CELTIC: Fraser Forster, Adam Matthews, Mikael Lustig, Efe Ambrose, Emilio Izaguirre, Scott Brown, Victor Wanyama, Charlie Mulgrew, Giorgios Samaras, Gary Hooper, James Forrest. JUVENTUS: Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Martin Caceres, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Kwadwo Asamoah, Mirko Vucinic, Alessandro Matri. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Five things Juventus must do to defeat Celtic Feb 11, 2013 The Italian champions Juventus return to Champions League duty this week with a very difficult task ahead of them if they are to reach the last 16 of the competition, as they face Scottish side Celtic. Celtic will be difficult opposition for the Bianconeri indeed as they defeated Barcelona in the group stages and were it not for conceding a goal at the Camp Nou with 20 seconds remaining, they would have topped the group ahead of the Catalan giants. However, that would have deprived fans of this exciting encounter that lies ahead but Juventus would do well to follow these five guidelines to securing victory in the cacophonous cauldron that Parkhead will become when the sides take to the field tomorrow night. After all, no Italian side has ever won against them in Scotland before and they have only beaten at home in the Champions League by three clubs since their arrival into the tournament – Barcelona, Arsenal and surprisingly, Dynamo Moscow. Do not become overawed by the atmosphere You may think that Juventus are highly-paid professional footballers and that this advice may matter little to them but just look at the top players and clubs who have arrived in Glasgow to face Celtic previously and came away disappointed. The support truly lifts the team to new heights and has a serious detrimental effect on the opposition. Only Andrea Pirlo has previously played here in the Champions League when with AC Milan and while the likes of himself and others such as Gigi Buffon who have played in Champions League and World Cup finals should not be effected too much, you would be surprised. Nemanja Vidic was pulled into challenges here that he may otherwise not have made which led to the winning goal and Javier Saviola and Thiago Motta, buoyed by atmosphere, both were sent off for Barcelona here in a key UEFA Cup clash that Celtic went on to win. Even the best can be affected. Keep it tight early Advancing on the atmosphere point, it is the Celtic players who always come out all energetic and full of fire and passion, determined to give the vociferous support something to really cheer about in the opening stages. They took first half leads against Barcelona and Spartak Moscow previously this season, showing how desperate they are to get the crowd onside. While the crowd always cheer on the Bhoys until the end when they need a goal, (just ask Palermo’s Massimo Donati for an example in what he calls the “greatest night of his career”) things do become noticeably more subdued and tense during the second half if their side have not yet scored and especially if the opposition are offering a real threat on the counter-attack. If Pirlo and Arturo Vidal can keep Juventus in possession and keeping the ball moving to teammates, it can draw Celtic players (especially fiery captain Scott Brown) into making reckless challenges they do not need to make in an attempt to appease the crowd. Not conceding first is crucial. Isolate Emilio Izaguirre The Honduran was Celtic’s player of the year two seasons ago but, after picking up a broken ankle on the opening day of last season, he has not looked the same player since returning and his positional sense at times in key moments of big European games has been a worry. He is also an injury doubt meaning that if he does start, then all the more reason to attempt to capitalise on his not being fully-fit while if he does not make the starting side then whoever takes his place, probably Mikael Lustig, is not a natural left-back and therefore susceptible to suffer badly at the hands of a marauding Stephan Lichtsteiner. Izaguirre also loves to get forward and can at times leave his defence very exposed, something that the Bianconeri will hope to take full advantage of on the counter-attack although they will have to be wary of his attacking as he does deliver a dangerous final ball. Defend deeper to cut out Celtic attack While Juventus’ central defensive trio do defend deeper than many sides, having them sit even deeper than usual in Glasgow would help to cut out a game plan that the hosts will surely attempt to implement. Leo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli are not the naturally quickest athletes in the world while Celtic attackers Georgios Samaras, James Forrest and Gary Hooper are very quick over short distances. Neil Lennon will likely be hoping to having Charlie Mulgrew playing dangerous balls behind the visiting defence in an attempt to utilise his teammates’ pace and have them racing behind the Bianconeri and on to such passes. By defending deeper, this will cut out one of the Celtic attack’s biggest advantages and allow Bonucci and Barzagli’s fine reading of the game to come to the fore instead of their lack of pace perhaps being exposed by defending higher. No foolish fouls or needless set-piece giveaways This is massive for Juventus because if they avoid conceding free-kicks in dangerous areas or even corner kicks that they did not have to give away, then they could be well on their way to victory. Sebastian Giovinco, Alessandro Matri, Fabio Quagliarella and Mirko Vucinic are all capable of causing problems for Celtic (their displays away in Europe this season prove this) and can take their chances when they come so it is about stopping Celtic scoring any goals that they may have not had to work too hard for. The Bhoys scored nine goals in the group stages and four of these came from set-pieces, and the threat they have from Charlie Mulgrew’s dangerous dead balls is clearly prevalent. Victor Wanyama, Georgios Samaras, Joe Ledley and Kelvin Wilson are all serious aerial threats and Juventus simply cannot give these players any chances to try and punish them in the air. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Five Celtic players Juventus must watch out for Feb 11, 2013 It seems that every time Celtic are mentioned at home in Europe, it is with great emphasis on the crowd being their 12th man, and it will be no different against Italian champions Juventus. However, it would be foolish to overlook some of the danger men on the pitch in the Celtic side who Juventus will have to keep a close eye on. Meet the men who will be out to hurt Antonio Conte and his players: Gary Hooper Celtic rejected three bids during the January transfer window from Norwich City for their star striker Gary Hooper, the latest of which was a £9.2m offer which shows what a threat he is. Capable of scoring against any opposition, ‘Hooperman’ has worked his way up from non-league English football to become one of Britain’s top marksmen. He has two goals in the group stages to his name, both of which were crucial strikes against Spartak Moscow both home and away, and will be desperate to show that he can continue hitting the back of the net in these advanced stages of the tournament. The former Scunthorpe United man has also hurt Italian opposition previously when he scored the Bhoys’ goal in their 1-1 draw away to Udinese in the Europa League last season. The 25-year-old has made no secret of the fact that he is looking for a move away having rejected the club’s latest contract offer and a big performance against Juventus would show potential suitors that he would definitely be an attacking investment worth making. The fact that England boss Roy Hodgson will also be in attendance at Parkhead to watch him with a view to a call-up means he will have a lot to play for on a personal level and 74 goals in 120 Celtic appearances prove this is a man who can trouble Gianluigi Buffon and co. Fraser Forster ‘The Great Wall’ was what Forster was dubbed by the Catalan press following his heroic performances both home and away against Barcelona in keeping arguably the best side in the world at bay as he pulled of wonder save after wonder save to deny Lionel Messi and his teammates time and again. When his resistance was eventually breached in injury time in Glasgow, it was only while he was on the ground after making a great diving stop to deny Pedro. He is capable of giving the Bianconeri attackers a real headache throughout this clash and Neil Lennon will be breathing a massive sigh of relief that he is now fit again to take his place between the sticks as he had been a doubt recently through injury but came through their weekend clash unscathed and will be ready to test himself against the best once more. His shot-stopping and confidence in the air are the 24-year-old’s biggest attributes although his kicking prowess remains something of a worry for Celtic supporters and is one thing that Juventus could look to take advantage of. His displays though have even caught the eye of the competition and one of the best of all time. “He can become one of the elite goalkeepers along with Joe Hart, Manuel Neuer and Salvatore Sirigu some day if he continues to improve,”Forster’s hero and Juventus captain Buffon said of him. Georgios Samaras If he can overcome a niggling thigh injury and take to the field when the Champions League theme booms out around an electric Parkhead, then he is arguably the player most capable of making a difference for Celtic. His threat is clear, a wonderful turn of pace and capable of being a goalscoring threat as well as dragging defenders out of position with his intelligent running out wide are topped off by a real aerial threat that the Old Lady defence will have to be at their best to deal with. This season, the Greek international became the first ever Celtic player to score in five consecutive away Champions League games when he scored against Helsinki, Helsinborgs, Spartak Moscow, Barcelona and Benfica and will be looking to make it six when the sides meet in Turin too. Of these five goals, four of them were headers which shows that Juventus will really need to keep an eye on the winger at all times. The likely plan for Neil Lennon’s side is going to be getting Samaras racing on to balls behind Stephan Lichtsteiner and trying to isolate the centre-backs which he has done to devastating effect so far for the Bhoys throughout this season’s European campaign. A very frustrating player when not on form though, it just depends on which Samaras turns up tomorrow night. Victor Wanyama Juventus fans you can know exactly what to expect of Celtic midfielder Wanyama by likening him to one of their own – for the combative Kenyan is essentially a mirror image of the Bianconeri’s Paul Pogba. Physically imposing for such a young man, a maturity that belies his 21 years when passing and in possession of the ball and a composed and imposing eye for goal when he gets into the right areas, he truly is Glasgow’s answer to Juve’s French starlet. He is now being chased by the likes of Manchester United among others due to his displays for the Bhoys not only in the SPL but, perhaps more impressively, in the Champions League throughout this season. He has a formidable partnership with Welshman Joe Ledley in the middle of Celtic’s likely four (although for this clash it could be a five) man midfield and those two will not shirk the potential battle against Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal for dominance in the centre of the field. It is unlikely that the Bhoys will be able to hang on to him for too much longer as his future surely lies at a higher level and he really will be one of the stars of European football in the years to come. Charlie Mulgrew A diehard Celtic fan and Lennon’s utility man, he can play all over the field and has done many times for the Hoops. Predominantly a left-back, he has been known to play in the middle of the park and as a winger but it is in the centre of the defence where he is most comfortable. The Scotland international will partner Kelvin Wilson at the heart of the Celtic defence surely as Efe Ambrose will likely not be risked after winning the African Cup of Nations with Nigeria on Sunday meaning Mulgrew should slot in there for this one. Released from the club as a youngster, he was bought back from Aberdeen in 2010 and has gone from strength to strength since. He was the club’s Player of the Year last year as he led from the back for the Bhoys as they won their first league title in four years. His real threat though comes at the other end of the field because his left-foot dead ball deliveries are among the best in Britain. A top assist record as a result of his exceptional free-kicks and corners, the 26-year-old is also a real threat from any free-kicks in and around the Juventus penalty area in much the same way Pirlo will be to Celtic. Likely Celtic starting line-up: Forster, Matthews, Wilson, Mulgrew, Izaguirre, Brown, Ledley, Wanyama, Forrest, Samaras, Hooper. 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Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Buffon: the Celtic Park crowd don't scare me Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon insists he will not be intimidated by a 60,000 sell-out Celtic Park tomorrow night. Feb 11, 2013 The 35-year-old Italian international was on the bench in October 2001, when Juventus lost 4-3 to the Hoops at Parkhead in a dramatic Champions League qualifier. That was not his first experience of a Glasgow football crowd, having played for Parma against Rangers in a UEFA Cup match at Ibrox in 1998, which ended in a 1-1 draw, and again in a Champions League qualifier the following year when the Light Blues won 2-0. However, while Celtic Park gears up for another great European night when the Old Lady of Italy visits for the first-leg of the Champions League last-16 clash, Buffon refused to buy into the cliche of the crowd being the 12th man. He said: "I have played here (Glasgow) two or three times with Parma and Juventus although the last time 10 years ago I was on the bench. "It was the last match in the group and we had already qualified. "The atmosphere is very British in many ways but as far as I can remember, no fan has ever scored a goal. "Certainly the crowd can help Celtic but only to a certain point. "The opponents can't get carried away with this and must focus on their own game. "The most hostile atmospheres I have ever played in, I would probably have to say is Turkey, at Fenerbahce and Galatasaray. "Of course, here, at both Celtic and Rangers, they have stadiums that when full have an excellent atmosphere, we already know this and we respect this very much." Buffon, though, does not believe that keeping a clean sheet will guarantee a Juventus a safe passage into the quarter-finals. He said: "If I don't concede a goal tomorrow night then we can be sure that we will at least get a draw which will be something that would be very good to build on for the second-leg, but only to a certain extent. "It's not a case of us going out to attack and Celtic going out to defend, both teams will play to their strengths to try to win the game. "It wouldn't be categorical that we would be going through if I don't concede a goal tomorrow but it would certainly be a good start." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Champions League preview: Celtic v Juventus Feb 11, 2013 This week sees the return of the Champions League and with it, an extremely intriguing clash as the best Italy has to offer in Juventus travel to Glasgow to take on Scotland’s finest in Celtic in the last 16. One thing that has become apparent when watching the Bhoys in the Champions League in the past 13 years or so, and this season too, is that when they are at home they really cannot be underestimated. The atmosphere created at Parkhead is famous all over the world and will be something new for many Juventus stars (only Andrea Pirlo has experienced it before) and should make for an exciting contest. The beating of Barcelona there in the group stages should be a warning shot to the Bianconeri that they are not to be taken lightly but they themselves also came through an extremely difficult group containing perennial dark horses Shakhtar Donetsk and reigning champions Chelsea. Which makes this game such an exciting one because, while you undoubtedly fancy Juve to get the better of Celtic in Turin, away from home it is a much different story and Antonio Conte may well be setting his side up to leave the east end of Glasgow with a draw although their performances away from home in the competition this year show that they are capable of attacking and scoring against anyone. Both sides come into the game on the back of impressive domestic wins this weekend, Juventus besting Fiorentina 2-0 and Celtic easing out Inverness Caledonian Thistle 3-1, and both currently sit top of their respective leagues. However, one interesting point of note is when comparing the two starting XIs that took to the field for each club on league duty this weekend. Only two of those who started for Celtic, and one of whom is goalkeeper Fraser Forster, are likely to line out from the start on Tuesday night while the Old Lady chose to start men like Andrea Barzagli, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Claudio Marchisio, Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo and Alessandro Matri who would all be hoping that they will start in Scotland. One major blow to the Bianconeri is an injury picked up to Mirko Vucinic and he limped out of the game against the Viola after scoring a rocket. He is a truly big-game player and in the Champions League with Roma, was often their key men in such contests and Antonio Conte will be desperately hoping that he is fit to start. Will there be a lack of freshness too in the Juventus side as a result of this? Celtic also have the very small but nonetheless noteworthy advantage of having their game at the weekend kick of on Saturday at midday while Juventus did not play until Saturday night. When you think that they also face a journey to Glasgow shortly afterwards on top of this, you cannot help but feel that tiredness may be a factor for some of the Bianconeri players. They admittedly were not in the same luxurious position as their rivals given that, had they rested many key players against Fiorentina, they may have slipped up and allowed Napoli to really pile the pressure on them while Celtic boss Neil Lennon was able to tinker given that his side had a 15 point lead in the title race going into the game. One positive for Conte is that Leo Bonucci is back from suspension while Kwadwo Asamoah has returned from the African Cup of Nations although Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe, Nicklas Bendtner and Paolo De Ceglie are all out. For Celtic, key players Georgios Samaras and Emilio Izaguirre are both recovering from knocks but are hoped to be fit for the game while African Cup of Nations-winning defender Efe Ambrose has returned to Glasgow following his victory and will be pushing for contention. These sides have only met once in the revamped Champions League (although Juventus did knock Celtic out of the European Cup in 1980/81) when they were paired in the 2001 group stages together. A dubious last minute penalty at the Delle Alpi helped the Bianconeri to a 3-2 win while the Hoops emerged victorious thanks to a 4-3 win in Glasgow, but it would be very surprising if there were as many goals shared between the sides this time around. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) UEFA Champions League Round-of-16 Preview: Celtic vs. Juventus Feb 11, 2013 It's back. After an arduous three-month hiatus, exhilarating tournament draw and much build up, the UEFA Champions league will resume in a capacity that will dwarf any Valentine's day plans you may have had. Among the mouthwatering ties is the historic clash of Scottish champions Celtic and Italian champions Juventus. Despite only meeting on four previous occasions, both clubs boast a rich footballing history in Europe; with both sets of fans among the most passionate in the world, expect an electric atmosphere come matchday. To say that this tie is perfectly poised would be an understatement. Why? Well if you look at the head-to-head between both sides it will make sense. Four encounters are split two and two...with neither side losing out at their home ground. Following on from that point, Celtic, have won 21 of their last 23 home matches in UEFA's premier competition...Antonio Conte's men have their work cut out for them. So where does that leave us? Celtic Team News Like most teams in this year's competition, the team from Glasgow have been affected by player losses to the Africa Cup of Nations. However, with the tournament over, Celtic can welcome back Nigerian Efe Ambrose to the squad. His selection would obviously depend on his fatigue from the tournament, but he is most definitely at the disposal of Neil Lennon. Emilio Izaguirre and Georgios Samaras are still recovering from knee and thigh injuries respectively, but as the match draws closer it seems their prognosis is getting better. Don't be surprised to see either one start or at the very least be named on the bench. Despite a brilliant debut—the likes of which saw him awarded Man of the Match—new Australian signing Tom Rogic has not been selected in Celtic's Champions League squad. The decision may come back to bite Lennon considering just how good Rogic was against Inverness. Nonetheless, here is the squad at Lennon's disposal for the midweek tie: Kris Commons, Izaguirre, Beram Kayal, Scott Brown, Dylan McGeouch, Tony Watt, Charlie Mulgrew, Efe Ambrose, Miku Fedor, Fraser Forster, Gary Hooper, Joe Ledley, Mikael Lustig, Adam Matthews, Lassad Nouioui, Thomas Rogne, Samaras, Victor Wanyama, Kelvin Wilson, Lukasz Zaluska, Anthony Stokes, Bahrudin Atajic, Joe Chalmers, James Forrest, Marcus Fraser, Paul George, John Herron. Juventus Team News Following a solid 2-0 showing against Fiorentina on the weekend, the Bianconeri have moved five points clear at the top of the Serie A. Despite not being at the helm of the Old Lady's win—due to suspension—Antonio Conte can now return to the dugout. With Kwadwo Asamoah back from AFCON duty and Leonardo Bonucci back from suspension, Conte practically has the full Juventus squad at his disposal. He does, however, have to make do without defender Giorgio Chiellini, Paolo de Ceglie, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner. With Mirko Vucinic having quite an emphatic run of form, expect him to start for the Bianconeri most likely alongside Sebastian Giovinco. Although, seeing as though Alessandro Matri has also found his scoring boots, don't put it past Conte to mix things up. Conte's 22-man-squad is as follows: Gianluigi Buffon, Marco Storari, Rubinho, Martin Caceres, Federico Peluso, Andrea Barzagli, Bonucci, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Paul Pogba, Claudio Marchisio, Simone Padoin, Andrea Pirlo, Asamoah, Arturo Vidal, Emanuele Giaccherini, Mauricio Isla, Luca Marrone, Vucinic,Giovinco, Nicolas Anelka, Fabio Quagliarella, Matri. Build Up Here's what's been doing the rounds prior to kickoff. Juventus midfield maestro Andrea Pirlo had this to say to the media (via Eurosport) about Celtic: "If they want to play football, we'll play football. But if they want to battle, we are ready to go to battle." Former Juventus manager Marcelo Lippi had this to say to the Daily Record (via Goal.com) about Juventus' Champions League hopes: For me, there are four clubs left in the draw who are a few rungs above everyone else: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Bayern Munich. These teams are the favourites but there’s no doubt Juventus have quality and will be aiming to challenge. Celtic boss Neil Lennon made comparisons between the Juve of 2001-02 to the Scudetto-winning side telling the media: Lippi's team had more flair with Trezeguet, Del Piero, Nedved and Davids. This team is more workmanlike, without being disrespectful to them. But in the final third they are clinical and they are probably also better defensively than Barcelona. They are strong, organised and very difficult to break down. Fomer Celtic forward and Italian Massimo Donati reflected on the last time Celtic made the knockout phases of the Champions League telling the Scotsman: I will always remember that night because it was the best of my career, the highlight, the most magnifico moment. I sometimes watch it on YouTube because, like Celtic, that goal is always in my heart, in my mind. Final Word Juventus remain just one of four teams undefeated in the 2012-13 installment of the competition. However, they will know first-hand just how meaningless that is, considering their last few ventures into the knockouts. Celtic boast an impressive home record, including a victory against Barcelona at home in the group stage.With both sides defeating last season's respective finalists, expect an intriguing encounter at Celtic Park come kickoff. Expect Juve to come away winners in both the first leg and the tie...but this year's competition has produced some unexpected results, the likes of which Celtic themselves were responsible for. Prediction: Celtic 0-1 Juventus Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Ghost Dog 620 Joined: 14-Jun-2008 11014 messaggi Inviato February 11, 2013 Neil Lennon believes passion play can put Celtic on quarter-final stage by PHIL GORDON (THE TIMES 12-02-2013) Neil Lennon has urged his Celtic players to raise the bar yet again in the Champions League by overcoming Juventus tonight and taking a step closer to uncharted territory. The Italian champions will walk out at Celtic Park for the first leg of the round-of-16 tie knowing that Barcelona were beaten in the East End of Glasgow last November. If that feat fuelled the expectation of the Celtic supporters, who now sing about going to Wembley for the final, the manager’s own ambitions are clear. Celtic were champions of Europe in 1967 and reached another European Cup final in 1970, but they have not reached the last eight of the competition since being knocked out by Real Madrid in 1980 and not at all since 1992-93 when it was rebranded as the Champions League, yet Lennon sees no reason why his team cannot progress into the quarter-finals. The Scottish champions are likely to be without Georgios Samaras, their talismanic forward, who has not shaken off a hamstring injury, and Efetobore Ambrose, the centre back, whose Africa Cup of Nations success with Nigeria on Sunday prevented him from returning from Johannesburg until this morning. Lennon promised that he may even have a “surprise or two” in terms of team selection, but Celtic will pursue this prize with the same fervour as they did against Barcelona, backed by the passion of 60,000 fans inside Celtic Park. “I want the players to take us to where a Scottish team has not gone before, at least in this format,” Lennon said. “That is the motivation.” Juventus qualified from group E, from which Chelsea, the holders, failed to make progress and Lennon does not think that Antonio Conte, the Juventus coach, or his players, will underestimate the Scottish champions. “They will be well aware of Celtic Park as an arena, although I do not think anything prepares you for that feeling you get when you walk out there,” Lennon said. “It will be new to a lot of the Juventus players and we can use that to our advantage. It’s one of the main reasons why our home form has been so impressive over the 12 years we’ve been around the competition.” Lennon added that the Celtic fans had been given something to dream about again. “That’s been missing for a long time,” he said. “In the bottom of their hearts, they probably do not really believe we will get to Wembley, but they can dream about it now. “We are a million miles away from it. Even at the semi-final stage, you are a million miles away. We are in the last 16 and we want to go farther.” Lennon placed a question mark against the name of Samaras, who scored against Benfica, Barcelona and Spartak Moscow in the group stage, pointing out that the Greece player’s ability away from home is likely to result in him being saved for the return leg in Turin on March 6. “I know the team, but the players do not,” the Celtic manager said. “Everyone has to prepare as if they are going to play and I might spring a surprise or two. It is very difficult to take teams like Juventus by surprise, but we are thinking about doing something different. “There are not many weaknesses in the Juventus team. At times, they have a back five with those wing backs protecting the defence and it can be difficult to play through them. They also have good front players, whoever they choose.” On Ambrose, Lennon said: “It will be difficult for him. I will see how he is when he arrives but he has had no preparation, he played on Sunday evening in South Africa and then had a 12-hour flight. He will be in the squad, though.” The Celtic manager also relishes the renewed interest in his club in England, after the defeat of Barcelona, to the extent that ITV will screen this match after failing to show any of Celtic’s previous three home games. “There has been more respect and we have got good coverage,” Lennon said. “We were sort of seen as a novelty in the Champions League. People now see us a pretty serious team. “I know they talk down about the SPL and see it as a one-team league, but look at England, Germany and Spain and there is only one team going to win those leagues as well. And they are allegedly the three biggest leagues in Europe.” Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Buffon plays down importance of Celtic crowd The 35-year-old believes the famous Celtic Park support will not determine the outcome of Tuesday's Champions League clash with the Bhoys. Feb 11, 2013 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has played down the importance of the Parkhead atmosphere ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Celtic. The 35-year-old has experienced the "typical British atmosphere" in the past and while admitting the crowd do hold a degree of influence from the stands, the Bianconeri captain believes the result will ultimately reflect what transpires on the field. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the World Cup-winner said: "I have played here before with Parma and Juventus and it is a typical Brittish atmosphere. "We know what lies ahead. The crowd can certainly help and give a boost to the players, but only up to a certain point. "As far as I'm aware, no spectator has ever scored a goal." Juve go into the game on the back of a 2-0 Serie A victory over Fiorentina on Saturday. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Scott Brown: Celtic can beat anyone at Parkhead The Hoops' captain has said that his side are feeling confident ahead of Tuesday's home clash with Juventus, claiming that it's "probably the biggest game of our lives". Feb 11, 2013 Celtic captain Scott Brown has said that his side are feeling confident ahead of Tuesday's first leg tie at home against Juventus in the Champions League. The 27-year-old regards tomorrow's clash as "probably the biggest game of our lives", and believes that the tempo in training has increased noticeably as the Hoops prepare for their first appearance in the last 16 of the competition since they were defeated 4-2 on aggregate by Barcelona in 2008. Brown was also keen to place emphasis on the power of the fans, and the recently-appointed Scotland captain believes that with a sell-out crowd behind them anything is possible after beating the Blaugrana in the group stage of this year's competition. "We can beat anyone, especially at Parkhead, as the fans play a big part," he told the pre-match press conference. "We haven't had the best form in the world at home in the league this season, but it's definitely a step up in the Champions League." The Hoops captain and his team are well aware that they are up against some of the finest players in Europe, especially two-time Champions League winner Andrea Pirlo, a player Brown regards as "one of the greats". "He's getting a bit older now, so hopefully we can catch him," he joked. "He's fantastic. We have to try and stop him from playing his own game. "Everyone's a threat. They have technical players and the strikers hold the ball very well." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Matri-Vucinic to face Celtic Feb 12, 2013 Alessandro Matri’s return to form should see him confirmed in the Juventus attack against Celtic on Tuesday night. The striker has had problems this season, but goals against Chievo Verona and Fiorentina will probably see him picked alongside Mirko Vucinic tonight. Matri, who will 'replace' Sebastian Giovinco in the starting XI, has never scored in the Champions League. Boss Antonio Conte will field a 3-5-2 in the last 16 tie, but he won’t risk Kwadwo Asamoah. The latter is now back from the African Cup of Nations, but the Ghana international will start on the bench. Conte is set to field a back-three of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Martin Caceres. With Paolo De Ceglie injured and Asamoah out from the start, Federico Peluso should be picked on the left. Juventus possible: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Vucinic, Matri. Substitutes: Storari, Asamoah, Pogba, Marrone, Giovinco, Quagliarella, Anelka. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Hartson: Atmosphere the key Feb 12, 2013 Former Celtic striker John Hartson believes Juventus will struggle against the Scottish champions this evening. The Welsh forward, who played for the Bhoys between 2001 and 2006, is confident that the atmosphere at Parkhead will be a determining factor in the last 16 Champions League clash. “Juventus have experienced players like Andrea Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon,” he told Goal.com. “But even they have never experienced anything like that. “It is no fluke that teams like Barcelona and Manchester United have lost there in recent memory.” Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Celtic star: 'Juve were dirty' Feb 12, 2013 Ahead of tonight’s Champions League match, former Celtic star Frank McGarvey claims Juventus were the dirtiest side he ever faced and Claudio Gentile “knocked me unconscious.” He was on the field when these teams first met in 1981, taking on the likes of Dino Zoff, Gaetano Scirea, Antonio Cabrini, Marco Tardelli and legendary hard man of Italian football Gentile. “They did everything to upset us,” McGarvey told the Daily Record. “Pulling your jersey was the least of it. “I was spat on, elbowed and their defenders were even pulling the hairs out of my legs. The worst, though, was when Gentile knocked me out. It happened during the first half in Italy when we were attacking and the referee and the linesman were following the play. “He just came up behind me and punched me in the head. I was unconscious. Our physio brought me round with smelling salts – and they were disgusting. “Back then being knocked out wasn’t enough to have you substituted so I played on while the rough treatment continued. “I was always very good when it came to keeping my discipline as a player and I didn’t respond to any of the fouls or the spitting. “However, once the final whistle went I lost my head and went in search of Gentile. I went up the tunnel shouting for him and I was determined to land one on him for what he did. “It’s the only time in my life I’ve ever reacted like that but I was furious about what he’d done. I didn’t get to him but that was probably the best thing that ever happened to me because he was twice my size!” Juventus lost 1-0 in Glasgow and qualified by winning the second leg 2-0 at the Stadio Comunale in Turin. “I’ve never had a problem with hard tackling – in fact I think the modern game has gone too far in trying to get rid of it – but they weren’t exactly hard but fair,” continued McGarvey. “Juventus were a team full of household names and half of them were World Cup winners but the referee in both games let them away with murder. “Their defenders simply wouldn’t have a career nowadays. The stunts they pulled off the ball back then would now be caught by cameras and they’d be pulled up and banned for it. “Unfortunately, 30 years ago it was open season on us. It was obvious that they were desperate to win and would stop at nothing when it came to putting you off your game.” Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Hartson: Juventus scalp would put Lennon further in Premier League shop window The former Hoops striker expects clubs in England to be queuing up for the Ulsterman's services having demonstrated his managerial nous with his exploits in the Champions League. Feb 12, 2013 EXCLUSIVE By Russell Stoddart John Hartson believes that victory over Juventus in the Champions League last 16 will put Celtic boss Neil Lennon at the top of the list for upcoming Premier League vacancies. The Wales coach insists, however, that it would have to be a special job for his former Celtic team-mate to be tempted south of the border. Lennon made Europe sit up and take notice when he plotted Celtic's remarkable victory over Barcelona in November on the way to qualifying from the group stages of Europe's elite club competition. His stock has also risen on the domestic stage with a second successive SPL title virtually assured with a third of the season still to go. Hartson told Goal.com: "Neil was thrown in at the deep end without any real managerial experience when he replaced Tony Mowbray. But he's done a great job and he's getting better all the time. "The Premier League is a managerial merry-go-round and I've no doubt that Neil will be in demand. I'm sure he would have no problems taking charge of a Premier League club in England. "Celtic fans won't want to hear that because they don't want him to go, but they will be reassured to know that Neil is very happy at the club and it would have to be something special for him to even consider leaving." Hartson and Lennon were team-mates when Celtic tasted victory over Juventus in 2001 and Barcelona three years later, and the Celts boss is planning a rare player/manager double over two of Europe's most decorated sides. Hartson believes that Lennon's success in this season's Champions League group stages have proven his tactical nous and hailed Celtic's exploits in mixing it up with clubs that possess far greater resources. He added: "His achievements in the Champions League group stage showed he is tactically astute and it put a marker down. "He didn't have the millions that was spent by Barcelona, and the other teams in the group, Benfica and Spartak Moscow, but he got them well organised and they were very effective soaking up pressure and hitting on the break. "Being the manager of Celtic brings with it real pressures, and that will stand him in good stead wherever he goes after Celtic. "Martin O'Neill, his old boss at Celtic, used to say that you are never more than three or four bad results away from the sack because of the demands of the job, and that is a heavy weight on young shoulders. "To be honest, I never really saw Neil as a future manager when we were team-mates, but then again, I used to travel to training at Celtic with Paul Lambert and I never saw it with Paul, either." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) From Ronaldo to Rooney & Pirlo to Puyol: Europe's finest braced for return of Champions League After months of hype and anticipation the continent's premier club competition is back with a bang as Manchester United and Real Madrid prepare to take top billing. Feb 12, 2013 After months of exciting build-up and plenty of talk, the Champions League is back with a bang as Real Madrid host Manchester United in the standout last-16 tie. The clash sees Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo face the Red Devils for the first time since jetting off to the Bernabeu in a world record £80 million transfer in 2009, and almost 10 years since the last meeting between these two sides when a stunning hat-trick from former Brazil international striker Ronaldo saw los Blancos through to the semi-final stage that season. It is also a reunion for Jose Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson. The ‘Special One’ has been linked with replacing the legendary Scot when he eventually steps down from the Old Trafford hot-seat, but will be desperate to win ‘la Decima’ for the Spanish side this term, and his third Champions League title in the process, with defending the Liga crown looking impossible for Madrid. Despite Ronaldo leaving United, many have predicted that he will be afforded a warm reception from the English fans. Defender Rio Ferdinand claimed: "The fans appreciated him when he was here and since he's been gone they sing his name. He came here a young boy and left a world-class player. He showed a lot of respect when he left and still does." Mourinho himself was in typically box-office form ahead of the match after scouting United in their comfortable 2-0 win over Everton on Sunday afternoon. He told MUTV: "The world is not waiting for other matches in the Champions League, so I hope we can give the world what they are waiting for." Before the Red Devils take to the field against the Spanish champions, the Serie A title holders will be on British shores when Juventus are hosted by Celtic. The Hoops have previous noteworthy triumphs in this season’s competition, having already stunned Lionel Messi & Co. when Barcelona travelled to Parkhead earlier this term and will be hoping for another stirring Glasgow atmosphere when the Bianconeri come to town. Kenyan star Victor Wanyama scored in Celtic’s win over the Liga leaders and is hoping to repeat the heroics against the Italian table-toppers. He exclusively told Goal.com: "The journey is still on. We are not looking at just Juventus, but are looking at going all the way and maybe lifting the big prize. "What is at stake is the big prize and that is why playing Juventus will be an amazing match. We were rated the underdogs and went on to shock Barcelona. "On paper, I still believe that we are underdogs going into Tuesday’s match against Juventus but this status will definitely keep us motivated. "We have to seize this opportunity and put up a winning performance." Conquerors of Manchester City and Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund and Shakhtar Donestk, meet in one of the round’s more fascinating ties. Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp has been linked with moves to Europe’s leading lights, but told Goal.com that he does not intend on leaving the Signul Iduna Park just yet. He said: "Not at this moment but I don't think about anything else but Borussia Dortmund at this moment.” David Beckham, however, will not be making a return to Champions League action this weekend as he is yet to regain enough fitness for Paris Saint-Germain as they face Valencia at the Mestalla. Los Che have secured 1-1 draws at home to Real Madrid and Barcelona since the turn of the year, although they have also been on the wrong end of a 5-0 hiding from Mourinho's side, while Carlo Ancelotti's charges have tightened their grip at the top of Ligue 1 recently, extending their lead to six points. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Conte: Juventus will not underestimate Celtic The successful trainer has made it clear that the Hoops will not be pushovers, and says he dreams of going all the way in Europe. Feb 12, 2013 Antonio Conte has insisted that Juventus will not underestimate Celtic in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie at Parkhead on Tuesday evening. The Serie A champions are seen as the sky-high favourites to reach the quarter-finals at the expense of the Scottish giants, but Conte has stressed that a tough task awaits the Bianconeri. "We’ve got great respect for Celtic and won’t underestimate them. They’re back in the Champions League and, like us, are outsiders who want to go as far as possible," Conte said at a press conference. "They’re a physical team and score a high percentage of their goals from set pieces. We kept a close eye on Celtic’s Champions League progress during the group stages. "Home advantage has been very important for them. The stadium will act as their 12th man. Not many teams could manage to beat Barcelona at home and lose by a whisker at the Nou Camp. "It’s a dream to be back in the Champions League and our dream is now to claim a place in the quarter-finals." Tuesday's match is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Celtic warrior: Why Juventus are so vulnerable without defensive rock Chiellini The Italy international's absence has hit the Bianconeri hard, and he remains unavailable as the Turin side approach the biggest game of their season so far. Feb 12, 2013 ANALYSIS By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer Football has never been such a squad game as it is in the modern era. Whereas in bygone years clubs would often go a whole season without using more than 18 to 20 players in total, the combination of greater demands on the body and an increased focus on rotation of key men has led to fewer and fewer players being ever-present during any single campaign. Some, though, remain as irreplaceable as ever, and in the case of Juventus’ Giorgio Chiellini, there is seemingly no option that can even come close to giving the Bianconeri the effectiveness and reliability that they get from the Italy international defender. So much so, his current lay-off with a calf muscle tear has impacted greatly on the club’s season, and his absence from Tuesday night's Champions League first leg clash represents perhaps the Bhoys' greatest hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals. Since the former Livorno man sustained the injury in training in December, the Old Lady have gone through their poorest run of form of the campaign, dropping valuable points in their attempted title defence and being eliminated from the Coppa Italia as a result. And in many of those matches, there have been clear issues down the Juve left due to their difficulties in replacing their dependable No.3. Whether they have turned to Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres or Federico Peluso in their search for a replacement on the left of the back three during his absences this term, Antonio Conte and his staff have remained clueless as to how to significantly patch up their side defensively. Andrea Pirlo may be their creative leader, Gianluigi Buffon their iconic shot-stopper and Arturo Vidal the side’s beating heart, but nobody has proven as important to the cause as Chiellini. In the time-honoured tradition that you ‘don’t know what you've got til it’s gone’, Juve fans have come to realise over the past couple of months just how much Chiellini’s role impacts on the rest of the Bianconeri’s gameplan. A record of 14 goals conceded in 16 matches without their defensive leader may not sound too bad, but compare that with just 12 in 19 when he has been available and you see a marked difference. Add to that the fact Juve score fewer when he is not playing, and you get a loss ratio of 18.75% in his absence compared to 5.26% when he is present. But why would Chiellini’s presence or lack thereof have an impact on their goalscoring? Well that can be answered in part with numbers, but there is also evidence to be gained with the naked eye. Juve have enjoyed more possession when Chiellini has not played this season (56.4% against 54.2%), yet they have been much less successful. That is because their time on the ball tends to come much deeper without Chiellini in the side, brought about by a greater collective responsibility in defence, meaning that the dominance of territory which came earlier in the season is not so evident at the moment. The need to hold onto possession has become more pressing, such is the nature of their defensive structure when they lose the ball. Chiellini’s game is about dominating his territory, whether that be in the air or on the ground. He takes ownership of the left side of the pitch in the defensive half. Theoretically, a quarter of the pitch is his to patrol. And he does so with real authority, artistry and vigour, making the wing-back role of Kwadwo Asamoah, who is not a natural defender, so much easier to negotiate. His sense of responsibility to the cause is almost unmatched in the modern game, making him one of the game’s true warriors. Yet without him, there have been moments of clear weakness. Barzagli and Caceres have each had their limitations exposed by the request for them to play on the left side, even when they have been boosted by the employment of a more natural defender to their left in the absence of Asamoah due to the Africa Cup of Nations. Moreover, Peluso has come in and immediately exemplified the difference between Chiellini and the rest of Serie A’s left-sided defenders. The 29-year-old was considered Italian football’s best alternative to ‘Chiello’ before his move to Turin, yet he has quickly been exposed as a poor replacement in the channel. On his debut alone, he was shown up twice by Mauro Icardi as Sampdoria won at Juventus Stadium, and positionally he has looked no better when called upon since. If Celtic are to make the most of Chiellini's absence, it is not just by attacking the Juve left that they could succeed either. Without his leadership and confidence, the rest of the defensive line has looked largely less assured. The Hoops can count themselves fortunate that such a rock is missing from the Bianconeri line-up, and a failure to cash in could well leave them counting the cost when the teams meet again in Turin in three weeks time. The sooner Chiellini returns to the Juventus back line, the better it will clearly be for the Scudetto holders, and with his comeback scheduled before the end of the month, it is vital that he is available for the remainder of the club’s European campaign thereafter if they are to have any hope of going deep in the Champions League. And if Celtic can take advantage in the meantime, then Juve may well still be left counting the cost. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Can Hooper prove he is a Champions League-quality striker against Juventus? The Celtic forward, who has been heavily linked with a Premier League move and an England call-up, faces a crucial test of his credentials against the Serie A champions. Feb 12, 2013 ANALYSIS By Chris Myson In July 2008, Gary Hooper was transfer-listed by Southend United after scoring just four goals in 44 games for the club. Less than five years later, he is preparing to spearhead Celtic's attack in the Champions League knockout stages against Juventus. It has been a quite remarkable rise for the striker, who saw his impressive form for Scunthorpe after leaving Roots Hall earn himself a move to the SPL giants as one of Neil Lennon's first signings. The £2.4 million transfer fee continues to look like a real bargain. Ever since he arrived north of the border, Hooper's eye for goal has been impressive and the Englishman became a mainstay of the Bhoys' attack. During that time, Celtic's fortunes have improved. From being a side who failed to qualify for the group stages of either continental competition during Hooper's first season in Scotland, they featured in the Europa League in 2011-12 before their exploits in Europe's elite club competition this term. Still aged just 25, netting 73 times in two-and-a-half-years of consistent goalscoring, combined with exposure to the Champions League, has led to a new surge of interest in the striker. In the most recent January transfer window, Norwich City had multiple bids rejected by Celtic and Andre Villas-Boas watched him play as Tottenham pondered whether to move for a frontman in the market. England boss Roy Hodgson has been continuously urged to call him up to the international fold by Lennon and will travel to Scotland to take in the match against Juventus. With his contract due to expire in the summer of 2014 and months of negotiations with his representatives proving unproductive so far, Hooper has been tipped to leave Glasgow, along with Victor Wanyama, in the summer. Lennon has since admitted that his side's historic progress in the Champions League was vital in being able to hold on to his stars until at least the end of the season and the club remain hopeful that they can at least persuade the forward to extend his deal. On Tuesday night, though, comes a huge test for Hooper. There is already little doubt that he is a prolific striker capable of doing an excellent job for over half of the sides in England's Premier League, those from upper-mid table down to the lower reaches. But, despite his success at Celtic to date, he is still yet to prove whether he really possesses the quality to warrant interest from Spurs, a call-up for England and to be considered a Champions League-level striker. In the Europa League last season, he scored against Rennes and Udinese but failed to find the net in two games against eventual winners Atletico Madrid. This year, he crucially netted home and away against Spartak Moscow but it was Wanyama and youngster Tony Watt who took the headlines against Barcelona. In total, he has scored six goals in Europe from 15 appearances, 12 of which were starts, at an average of just under one every two games. Domestically, tests against tougher opposition are hard to come by, aside from games against Old Firm rivals Rangers. Prior to their relegation to the Third Division, Hooper fared reasonably well against the Gers, scoring five times from 10 appearances, nine of which were starts. That record in big matches certainly does not suggest he is out of his depth at the highest level but, as yet, he remains relatively untested. If he is going to make it to the top, we are still waiting for Hooper's true breakout moment - a defining goal or match-winning contribution against a European heavyweight. He has played twice against Barcelona and now has the opportunity to spearhead his side's formidable challenge to reach the last eight up against a team who dominated Serie A last season without losing a game and comfortably disposed of Chelsea in the group stages. At Celtic you do not get many opportunities to play against the true elite, the likes of Barca, Juve and Manchester United. If Antonio Conte's side prove too strong for the SPL champions, Hooper will know that it could be his last chance to do so for some time. That is why this last-16 tie could be so important in deciding the forward's next career move, be that extending his stay at Celtic, moving to a mid-table English club or making a decisive step forward to a top Premier League side and earning international recognition. Based on the rapid rise that he has enjoyed in his career to date, there is every chance that he can go on to make an impression against Juve and continue his strong progression. There is no doubt that he still has an awful lot to prove if he wants to be considered a striker capable of succeeding at Champions League and international level but Hooper goes into this tie with everything to gain. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) 'Pirlo and Buffon have never experienced anything like it' – Home advantage key for Celtic, says Hartson The former Hoops striker believes that the stars of Juventus can be shaken by the incredible atmosphere at Celtic Park in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash. Feb 12, 2013 EXCLUSIVE By Russell Stoddart Celtic legend John Hartson believes that the atmosphere at Celtic Park can help the Bhoys to take a crucial first-leg lead in their Champions League last-16 clash with Juventus. Neil Lennon's side take on the Serie A holders on Tuesday night and the former striker feels that they will need to take a lead to Italy if they are to progress. "Even experienced Juve players such as Andrea Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon will never have experienced anything like it," Hartson told Goal.com. "The East End of Glasgow on a European night is an electric place. It is no fluke that teams like Barcelona, AC Milan and Manchester United have lost here in recent memory." The ex-Arsenal star believes that in-demand striker Gary Hooper can also put uncertainty about his own future behind him and use the Champions League as a stage to show what the Premier League and England are missing. The former Scunthorpe forward was the subject of five failed bids from Norwich City in January, while Three Lions coach Roy Hodgson is said to be keeping tabs on him with a view to an international call-up. "Gary can now relax after the transfer window shut," Hartson continued. "He knows he's not going anywhere for at least the next few months, so he can concentrate on his football. "It is a great chance for Gary to show what he can do against the best but that also goes for others, such as Charlie Mulgrew, Joe Ledley and Adam Matthews." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Celtic v Juventus: Probable Line-Ups Feb 12, 2013 Celtic take on Juventus in the Champions League first knockout round on Tuesday evening at Celtic Park. Probable Line-Ups: Celtic: Forster, Matthews, Wilson, Lustig, Izaguirre, Brown, Wanyama, Ledley, Mulgrew, Samaras, Hooper Juventus: Buffon, Bonucci, Barzagli, Caceres, Peluso, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Matri, Vucinic Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8422 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 133844 messaggi Inviato February 12, 2013 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 12-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ CELTIC - JUVENTUS Celtic Park - Glasgow Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Celtic can beat Juventus, insists Dalglish The legendary former Hoops striker believes the Glasgow outfit can replicate their spirit and performance against Barcelona earlier in the season when they meet the Bianconeri. Feb 12, 2013 Kenny Dalglish sees no reason why Celtic cannot emerge from their Champions League last 16 clash with Juventus on the winning side. The Hoops have already claimed a notable scalp in this season's competition, beating Barcelona 2-1 in the group stage in front of a raucous Parkhead crowd, and the former Liverpool boss believes the Bhoys can replicate that against the Serie A holders on Tuesday evening. Dalglish said: "I think it's fantastic what Celtic have done. Beating Barcelona, you wouldn't have even contemplated predicting that. "They've been fantastic, they got over the line by beating Spartak Moscow 2-1 in their last game - two fantastic nights at Celtic Park. There'll be another one against Juventus. "They'll all be looking forward to it, they've tasted the success. They want to taste more of it. "It's a really difficult tie. I saw them play at Chelsea, Juventus. They were fantastic. So it's a really big game for them. It's a big ask, where there's a will, there's a way. "Of course you can stop anybody playing, you've just got to be lucky or they've got to have a bad day or whatever. "It's more about Celtic than Juventus, it's how they play and how they go about their work that's more important." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
