Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 25 - 16-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Francesco Totti (58′)

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 54981

Caceres: No excuses for Roma defeat

The Uruguay stopper lamented the mistakes made by his side during Saturday's 1-0 loss.

Feb 17, 2013

Juventus defender Martin Caceres insists his side cannot look for excuses after their Serie A defeat by Roma.

Francesco Totti's thunderbolt earned the hosts all three points on Saturday evening, and Caceres has refused to blame the Bianconeri's tough midweek trip to Celtic as a factor in their lacklustre performance.

“I didn’t like the game,” the 24-year-old told reporters. “We were not in our best shape and when that happens mistakes are made.

“I don’t know if we were tired or what, but we mustn’t look for excuses. We are Juventus. When you wear this jersey, excuses are of no use.

“Now we must work during the week and try to understand what went wrong.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 25 - 16-2-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Francesco Totti (58′)

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Attendance: 54981

Napoli frustrated by Sampdoria

Napoli missed a golden opportunity to close the gap on Serie A leaders Juventus

to just two points as plucky Sampdoria forced a goalless draw at the San Paolo.

Feb 17, 2013

Goalkeeper Sergio Romero was in particularly inspired form as Delio Rossi's men claimed another valuable point in their mission to book a second season in Serie A, with Samp spurning several chances to win through young striker Mauro Icardi.

Napoli's forward line suffered from a rare lack of cutting edge and ended the day four points behind Juve, who were surprised by a 1-0 defeat to Roma last night.

Sampdoria were given the confidence to dominate the first half by the heroics of Romero.

The Argentinian stood tall to clear a dangerous Giandomenico Mesto cross before taking no chances as he punched away a fierce strike from Lorenzo Insigne.

Samp had bared their teeth in between times, Gianluca Sansone looking lively when put through by Icardi, but Morgan De Sanctis was there to smother the ball.

Edinson Cavani got in the way of a Marek Hamsik effort but could not add zip to the follow-up and Romero parried, with the Samp keeper then leaping on to a close-range shot from Insigne.

Romero had weathered the storm and now it was the turn of De Sanctis to keep a dynamic Samp outfit at bay.

Lorenzo De Silvestri and Andrea Poli could not beat the Italy international, but his blushes were spared when Valon Behrami cleared an Andrea Costa header off the line.

Icardi's follow-up drew a fine save from De Sanctis and Napoli raced up the other end, Insigne providing a finish to forget when Hamsik chested the ball through the back-line.

De Sanctis denied Samp the half-time lead they deserved, though, as he pounced low to his left to deny a quick Sansone raid.

As play resumed Behrami made a dedicated block on Icardi, who had escaped the attentions of marker Miguel Britos.

Icardi beat his man again in the 54th minute, but his effort from 30 yards was too ambitious, with Romero soon called back into action to palm away a swerving effort from Insigne.

Samp could sense their opportunity and Icardi was unlucky not to connect better with a sweet cross from Eder.

Another spell of home pressure followed and Romero had to snaffle a Hugo Campagnaro header before repelling a trademark screamer from Hamsik.

The last five minutes would belong to Napoli but, try as they might, Walter Mazzarri's men could just not force home a winner.

Substitute Goran Pandev might have been the hero had he connected with a loose ball in the Samp box but Romero snaffled it up to ensure a frustrating day for Napoli.

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

[Socrates 8329]

One more day off for Juventus

Feb 18, 2013

The Juventus squad have been given two days off by boss Antonio Conte, but training will resume early on Tuesday.

The Old Lady tactician granted his players 48 hours of rest after last week’s efforts in the games against Fiorentina, Celtic and Roma.

The squad will return to duty tomorrow morning, having been asked to report to their Vinovo training base at 8am.

The Old Lady, beaten 1-0 by the Giallorossi on Saturday night, will face Siena at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Scott Brown set to miss Juve clash

Feb 18, 2013

Celtic captain Scott Brown is set to miss their Champions League last 16 second-leg clash with Juventus next month.

Antonio Conte's side go into the game holding a 3-0 aggregate lead, and have been given an extra boost ahead of the match on March 6.

The Scottish international could be out for another few weeks after picking a hip injury, with boss Neil Lennon unsure whether to risk him against the Bianconeri.

“We have already seen a specialist,” the Coach told reporters. “We just have to wait for the results and then we will make a decision.”

[Socrates 8329]

Elkann targets dual Juve success

Feb 18, 2013

FIAT chairman John Elkann has insisted that Juventus can win both Serie A and the Champions League this season.

The Bianconeri are currently four points clear at the top of the table, and hold a 3-0 aggregate lead over Celtic in the last 16 of the European Cup.

And the 36-year-old, who is CEO of Exor – the company that owns Juve, has admitted that they can challenge on both fronts this term.

“When we play as a team like we did against Celtic, we can beat anyone,” he told Rai Sport.

“We can win the League and the Champions League.”

He also commented on current boss Antonio Conte, who picked up the Panchina d'Or award this afternoon for Serie A's best Coach.

“Conte is the Coach and it will stay that way. We still have a lot more to win with him in charge.”

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Pegolo wary of Juve threat

Feb 21, 2013

Siena goalkeeper Gianluca Pegolo has admitted that his team face a 'very difficult challenge' when they play Juventus this weekend.

The Robur travel to Turin on Sunday as they look for three points against the current League leaders.

And the 31-year-old has conceded that they will come up against a superb team.

“It is going to be a very difficult challenge for us,” he told a Press conference. “We will face a great team who are coming off the back of a big defeat [against Roma].

“It is not going to be easy for us, but we go there believing we can cause them some trouble.

“As a team, we are all rowing in the right direction at the moment. But we have to remain down-to-earth and go game-by-game.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

When the year ends in a 3…

Feb 22, 2013

Milan or Juventus will reach the Champions League Final this season if a curious statistical trend isn’t broken.

One of the two Italian giants have always reached the finale of the European Cup or Champions League when the year has ended in a three.

Milan lifted the trophy in 1963 thanks to a 2-1 win over Benfica.

Juventus were beaten finalists in 1973 and 1983 when Ajax and then Hamburg defeated them 1-0.

It was the same negative scoreline for the Diavolo a decade later when Marseille were crowned Europe's best.

While Milan and Juventus faced off against each other in the 2003 Old Trafford tie when the Rossoneri won on penalties.

Juventus and Milan will go into the second legs of their current last 16 encounters with an advantage. Juve are 3-0 up against Celtic, while the San Siro giants beat Barcelona 2-0 on Wednesday.

1963 Milan 2-1 Benfica

1973 Ajax 1-0 Juventus

1983 Hamburg 1-0 Juventus

1993 Marseille 1-0 Milan

2003 Milan 0-0 Juventus (Milan won on penalties)

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Serie A preview: Juve set for rebound win

Feb 22, 2013

Juventus will have a golden chance to at least maintain their advantage at the top of the Serie A table when they meet Siena on Saturday.

The reigning champions (55 points) are currently four points clear in first position ahead of second-placed Napoli and should still find themselves at least four points clear of the pack after the weekend.

The league-leaders play host to relegation-threatened Siena at Juventus Stadium in what seemingly should be a routine win.

Exacerbating things for Siena is the fact that Juventus will be on the rebound after losing to Roma 1-0 last weekend.

Prior to that result, Antonio Conte's men had lost just one of their previous 10 league matches and will be keen to rejoin the winners' circle against lowly Siena.

Napoli will be aiming to keep in touch with Juventus when they travel to Stadio Friuli on Sunday to meet ninth-placed Udinese.

Walter Mazzarri's side have not been in the greatest of form recently, failing to win any of their last four Serie A matches, and it will prove to be a tough ask to overturn their indifferent form this weekend given Udinese have only lost once at home all season.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Gamberini set to miss Juve clash

Feb 22, 2013

Napoli centre-back Alessandro Gamberini is likely to miss the Partenopei's clash with Juventus next week after picking up an ankle injury.

The 31-year-old limped off in the defeat to Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday, and medical reports this evening have confirmed that the Italy international has picked up a knock that will leave him sidelined for at least 10 days.

He will therefore certainly miss the match with Udinese on Monday, and will be in a race against time to be fit for the top-of-the-table clash with the Bianconeri.

Gamberini has been virtually ever-present for Walter Mazzarri's side this term, playing in 20 League games so far.

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Vidal & Caceres injury doubts

Feb 22, 2013

Juventus duo Arturo Vidal and Martin Caceres could be a doubt for the match against Siena this weekend with injury.

The South American pair pulled out of this morning's training session, and are both likely to be left out of the squad for the game with the Robur.

Vidal has been diagnosed with a trauma to his right ankle, whilst Caceres pulled out with discomfort in his lower back.

The Bianconeri are also without Giorgio Chiellini and Simone Pepe.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

MATCH PREVIEW

Feb 22, 2013

Juventus are next for Siena and the wonderfully named Innocent Emeghara.

It has taken Emeghara just four games to propel himself to second in Siena's goalscoring charts for the season, with three goals coming from only six shots on goal. Such has been his impact that Coach Beppe Iachini was asked this week how he came about the Swiss striker.

"Directors Vincenzo Mirra and Stefano Antonelli brought me some DVDs of different players. We reviewed them, and I decided to go with Emeghara because he was the type of striker we were seeking," he revealed. "But the DVDs are the last step - first player was observed on the pitch by Antonelli and Mirra."

In the same interview, given to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport on Wednesday, he also refuted suggestions he was a defensive Coach.

"At Samp we played with a trequartista and two strikers. Here we have a very offensive wing-back, plus Alessio Sestu, Alessandro Rosina and Emeghara. We try to involve five to six players in each attack."

Indeed, the numbers appear to support his claim. Siena have scored 11 goals in the eight games he has been in charge, compared to the 16 in 14 games under Serse Cosmi. He has turned them into an adventurous side - reaping the rewards at the same time - and he has no plans to change for the visit to Turin.

"We go with the objective of scoring a goal," he said. "Simply defending isn’t enough. In midfield Juve are formidable - we need to be perfect when we have the ball and try to create something going forward."

Unlike Roma, they will not have the benefit of a Juventus fatigued by European fixtures. If anything, they could be on the end of a backlash given Coach Antonio Conte's irritation at last week's result.

"I spoke clearly to the players before the game. I told them 'if you feel tired from the Cup then let me know. If you tell the a Coach you are ready then you need to prove it on the pitch’."

He was, however, much calmer after winning the Panchina d'Oro award this week, given to the best Coach in Italy for the past year, and indulged the media in his objectives for the season.

"This season I would like to retain the championship, knowing that the Champions League is a dream - sometimes dreams are realised, other times they are broken," he mused.

"The match with Siena is fundamental. It is exactly the same as the clash with Napoli - we must return to winning. It is no longer a joke, every match is a World Cup Final."

And with those words, expect a motivated Juventus. They'll be without Paolo De Ceglie and Simone Pepe, with the latter's season finished after a small operation to his left hamstring.

Siena are missing only wing-back Angelo.

Keep an eye on: Innocent Emeghara (Siena) - The only player Juventus need to keep an eye on is the clinical 23-year-old. Has probably benefited from being a bit of an unknown quantity in Serie A, he now faces the league's toughest defence - a true test of his abilities.

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

Last season: Juventus 0-0 Siena

Stat fact: Beppe Iachini has never beaten Juventus as a Coach.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Bonucci, Marrone, Peluso; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Quagliarella

SIENA: Pegolo; Texeira, Terlizzi, Felipe; Belmonte, Vergassola, Della Rocca, Rubin; Rosina, Sestu; Emeghara.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Welcoming another Bianconeri side

Feb 22, 2013

Once upon a time, Antonio Conte spent one glorious year with another Bianconeri side -- one that he led to back to Serie A. Siena were a club that believed in the former player's ambition and yearned to benefit from his winning mentality and eagerness to develop tactically. The coach repaid the club's faith in him and together they built a disciplined and fluid Tuscan team whose consistency led them to promotion and the opportunity to once again take on Italy's greatest sides.

On Sunday afternoon, Conte will come face to face with his old club and he'll be hoping that on this occasion, they've forgotten the winning mentality he helped nurture within the side.

Thigh problem plaguing Pepe

Having coming off a defeat against Roma, Juventus are eager to get back to winning ways in order to maintain the four point advantage they have over Napoli in second place. Unfortunately for them, this clash is not looking as easy as it may have once appeared.

Under the tutelage of Beppe Iachini, Siena are no ordinary side budgeting for a defeat against the best. They play with pace, hunger and ambition and have already comprehensively defeated both Lazio and Inter. Managing 10 points from a possible 24 under their new coach, the relegation battlers are eyeing up the chance to defeat yet another giant when they travel to Turin this weekend.

With new signing Innocent Emeghara on board, this could be entirely possible. Scoring four goals in four appearances, the Swiss player only arrived in the winter transfer window, yet his impact on the matches has stolen all the headlines. Blessed with pace, a great physical stature and a penchant for dribbling, his ability to improve the side's counter-attacking ability ensures he is the opponent's greatest threat. His finishing ability has already made him the side's top scorer and if allowed space to dribble, he will certainly cause problems for the Bianconeri back line in much the same way he threatened Lazio.

Often deployed in 3-4-2-1 formation, Siena's attack is built in a manner that effectively exploits the pace within the side. All attacking passages of play are usually down to the creativity of Alessandro Rosina. Effectively man-marked, the player does tend to disappear within a match. However, the team's capability to utilise their wings makes them a potent attacking force now that they have a target man to deliver timely crosses to from the flanks.

Matteo Rubin and Angelo provide the wide threats and are both capable of delivering the accuracy needed to unleash their striker. Against Lazio, it was Rubin who delivered the perfect cross for Emeghara to head that opened the scoring for Siena in the first six minutes of the game. Rubin was also on hand to deliver another cross 17 minutes later that allowed Rosina to double the lead from the edge of the box.

Yet despite the improvements in attack, Iachini has concentrated on shoring up a defence that concedes 1.3 goals a game on average. In his last five games in charge, Siena have conceded three goals but have scored eight to show a marked improvement.

When out of possession, Iachini's men are quick to double-mark their opponent with the ball to either win back possession or force an error. When required to defend, the side draws two lines of defence in front of goal to limit penetration. Space is closed down hurriedly while even attackers are asked to track back and contribute defensively.

When, and if, they feel they are in a position of strength, Siena are ruthless and will enthusiastically push forward in hopes of achieving another comprehensive victory.

Juventus, by all means, are rarely caught out. However, considering how many players are currently one yellow card away from suspension, Conte will have to heavily rotate the squad. Next week, the Old Lady will face Napoli away and will thus need her best men to inflict defeat in what will surely be a very difficult game. As such, few of those on a yellow will be played on Sunday.

Andrea Barzagli, Arturo Vidal, Giorgio Chiellini, Alessandro Matri and Andrea Pirlo will be suspended for the Napoli match if they pick up a yellow card on Sunday. Considering how important Barzagli and Vidal are, Conte is likely to rest them. Chiellini, who is returning from injury, will probably not be risked against Siena while the hope is that Pirlo remains well behaved if played.

Considering the need to rotate, it's likely that Paul Pogba will take Vidal's place in midfield while Luca Marrone is likely to return to the back line. With either Martin Caceres or Federico Peluso taking up the last spot in defence, it will be interesting to see how Juve will cope with the pace of Siena's attack.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus News – Siena Studies, Matri Musings, Peluso Professes

Feb 22, 2013

Welcome back, amici.

Juventus host bottom-of-the-table Siena on Sunday, but if we’ve learned anything from supporting Juve, it’s that a match against a minnow presents a classic trap for the Bianconeri.

Take them too lightly or look ahead to Napoli next week, and Juve risk not only dropping three precious points before playing our Scudetto rivals, but also losing any momentum and confidence gained from February’s surge.

Of course, try as we might, we can’t totally ignore the important fixtures over the horizon, and you’ll find in today’s STTBS that we do give into temptation once or twice.

And now, the news…

Latest Updates on Siena Clash

Preparations began in earnest for the Siena match on Wednesday afternoon in a two-hour session. Antonio Conte’s men were put through the specific athletic drills, technical exercises and tactical strategies for a Tuscan side whose struggle for Serie A salvation has led to some impressive results of late.

Yesterday, the ragazzi suffered through freezing temperatures to refine their specific anti-Siena plans, and this afternoon saw another training session blanketed by snow. As always, the work goes on.

We can rest assured that Conte acknowledges Siena’s threat, not only for their desperate bid to avoid relegation to Serie B and their recent run of good form, but also for who they’ve taken down. Siena has upset top-of-table teams Lazio and They Who I Will Soon Name, Simply Because I Feel I’m Giving Them Too Much Power by Not Naming Them. The impressive performances of their top striker Innocent Emeghara, scorer of four goals in his last three appearances, are perhaps the salient feature of Siena’s recent success.

The good news is that Siena’s wins have mainly come at home, as their only road win this season has come at San Siro back in September against, once again, TWIWSN,SBIFIGTTMP.

As mentioned earlier in the week, no one is suspended for Juve. And that’s not the only good news.

Giorgio Chiellini is apparently ready for action, having trained in earnest this week, including participating in two reduced-pitch practice matches. Conte’s tough decision will be whether to start him, or else risk not using him at all. The choice is complicated further by reports that Martin Caceres has complained of some back trouble, as well as the possibility that Conte may want to rest Andrea Barzagli to avoid yellow cards. In any event, barring any setbacks, the Keyser WILL be ready for Napoli.

At this early juncture, it seems as if Conte is mulling over some turnover, particularly in attack, in view of the subsequent Napoli clash. Arturo Vidal could possibly be rested in favor of Paul Pogba, while Mirko Vucinic will likely make way for Sebastian Giovinco, who has done a good deal of sitting in 2013.

Interestingly, Alessandro Matri’s run of good form may actually hinder his chances of starting, or maybe even featuring at all. Normally (or what passes for normal in the precarious world of Juve strikers), Matri would be in favor to partner Giovinco, but as he is a yellow card away from suspension, Conte might prefer to play it safe for Napoli, and thus start Fabio Quagliarella or Nicholas Anelka.

In any event, it would be foolhardy to forecast Conte’s choices. Like The Lord and Nicholas Cage, Antonio Conte works in mysterious ways.

Celi: Lucky Charm?

Good news if you’re the superstitious type: Sunday’s referee has presided over some quality Bianconeri victories, including one historic occasion.

Domenico Celi, who is nearing his 100th Serie A match, has officiated seven Juventus matches, of which Juve won six and drew one. Moreover, Celi ran three matches last season, including the first official Serie A match at Juventus Stadium, the memorable 4-1 rout of Parma in September 2011 which arguably set the tone for the Scudetto-winning season.

Domenico also blew his whistle frequently over wins at Atalanta (2-0) and Novara (4-0).

Celi’s linesmen will be Francesco Altomare and Andrea Crispo. Giancarlo Rubino will reprise his award-winning role as fourth official/man-with-a-tragic-past-for-whom-it’s-not-too-late-for-redemption.

Previous Siena Encounters

Turin has witnessed very few contests between Juve and Siena, owing to the latter club having played in the lower levels of Italian football for the first 55 years of its existence. But while the history of this fixture may be brief, it nevertheless conforms to the familiar pattern of Bianconeri (Juve, not Siena) dominance.

Since their first meeting in 2001, Juventus is undefeated against Siena, tallying five wins and two draws. Sadly, most of the damage done to the Tuscan side came from the boots of Alex Del Piero, who scored eight goals in six years, including a memorable hat-trick in a 4-2 victory at the Stadio delle Alpi in 2004.

Other highlights from la bandiera include a masterful back heel in 2005 and a majestic 35-yard free kick in 2009. And for those of you with a long memory for the traumatically disappointing, I do not need to remind you that Del Piero scored twice in that infamous match under Zaccheroni in which Juve surrendered a three-goal lead, allowing Siena to earn a draw.

Incidentally, a goalless draw was the very last result between the two, in February of last year. Small sample-size notwithstanding, it’s worth noting that the most frequent scoreline is a 2-0 Juve victory, which happened twice; both occasions involved goals by David Trezeguet.

Strikers who struck, and quite frequently, too. The nature of our past success against Siena provides a very timely example for our current Bianconeri attacanti to follow.

Matri: No Distractions

As we’ve witnessed many times in the past year or so, playing for Juventus seems to come with an inordinate amount of distractions, not least by the press.

For Alessandro Matri, who at times this season has had the downcast look of one who’s reading too many pink newspapers, this must be especially annoying right now, as he looks to maintain his good form and preferential position in the attacking pecking order.

So whether or not he plays Sunday, for Matri, there will be looking forward to Napoli, nor dwelling on the loss to Roma:

We’re just thinking about the game against Siena which is currently the most important as far as we’re concerned. We know that it represents a complicated fixture, they’re in good shape both mentally and physically, they’ll come here to sit back before looking to break on the counter.

We all sat down and analyzed our performance (at Roma) together. Not much went right for us, the game began badly and ended even worse. We’ve understood the errors we committed and now we’ll set off again with the same desire to win that we’ve always possessed. We can’t think about Napoli at present, even if I don’t believe the game at the San Paolo will be decisive as far as the destiny of the title is concerned.

As proven several times in the past, Ale usually responds more to starting in successive matches, as opposed to coming on as a substitute. That is no less true now: Matri has scored thrice in his last four starts, which for this Juve squad makes him Lionel Messi. Ale knows how his confidence works:

I’m currently in better shape than I was a few months ago, but I’ve always worked hard to improve. On the pitch, however, sometimes things go well and other times less so. It’s pleasing to know that certain people are now starting to believe in me again. I’ve never thought about leaving Juve, the club has always been right behind me and that’s the only thing that I’ve ever been interested in.

Whether that’s positive self-talk or closer to reality is up for debate, as is anything anyone says to the press these days. But for the time being, Ale is top of the heap in Turin.

Marchisio Looks Forward (and Walks It Back a Bit)

I assume Claudio Marchisio is aware of the pitfalls of looking too far ahead in the schedule, but I realize that with the media being the particular beast it is, he can’t always get around it.

Plus, he can always state the obvious:

The aim is to win the championship again and to get to London for the Champions League Final. I know that it is a difficult ask, but we’ll try everything possible in order to do just that.

It would be easy to think of this as just a boilerplate statement, but in a season where Juve is proving to be a legitimate European threat, Marchisio’s words have added weight.

While not everyone will take Juve’s Champions League prospects so seriously, there will inevitably be some who construe it as a glove-slap in the face of Continental football. Which I think is just as well in Marchisio’s case. After all, it’s not like he’s a stranger to “real” fabricated controversy.

That’s why months later, he still has to walk back his allegedly “anti-Napoli” statements in preparation for next week’s showdown:

I was actually acknowledging Napoli for their excellent results over these past few years. I don’t hate Napoli, that’s absurd because every time that I go there I always manage to smile. We leave the fog behind and we find a place in the sun, with marvelous people and incredible scenery. I’m convinced it will be a spectacle, a great game between great sides.

The “fog” was a nice touch, good-naturedly knocking Turin while wisely reciting from official Neapolitan tourist brochures. He must have learned something about being ambassadorial from Buffon and Del Piero.

Even in interviews, he’s becoming a top player.

Primavera Overdrive

Despite crashing out of the Viareggio Cup, Marco Baroni’s Primavera side are just as busy, if not more, that the senior squad. They are currently still competing in the U-21 league, Coppa Italia Jr. and the Next Generation Series.

Juventus The Younger are riding a 12-game winning streak in the league which finds them at the top of the league table, seven points ahead of Mini Torino (that’s gotta feel good) and nine points up on Lower Fiorentina. According to Juventus.com, there are eight matches remaining, in which a sustained run of good form will see Baroni’s boys in one of the top two spots, automatically qualifying for the national finals.

In the Coppa Italia, the Primavera ran through Siena, Sampdoria and Torino to earn a spot in the final for the second year in a row. This time around, Little Juve will look to seek revenge for their loss against Roma last year by dismantling Napoli in a two-legged fixture—in Turin on March 13th and then at Napoli on the 23rd.

Finally, there’s the Next Generation Series, which is just entering the knockout stages. The Bianconeri went unbeaten in the first round (the only team to do so) and they will take on Rosenberg on March 7 in Round of 16.

A crowded schedule, to be sure, but one providing ample opportunity to make an impression, individually and collectively, on those higher up. Besides, their young legs can probably take it.

Andiamo, ragazzi!

The Coaches of Tomorrow… Today!

Lately, it seems that the ongoing organizational, technological and medical improvements at Juventus are approaching science fiction. Next to Juventus, the inner workings of the rest of world football (surely the rest of Serie A) are starting to seem pre-discovery-of-fire.

Now, the Bianconeri Universe is expanding into a nebulous intersection of advanced coaching strategies, corporate training methods and progressive sports medicine which looks to put La Vecchia Signora even further ahead of the curve.

Sign up now: Juventus Stadium is now offering coaching workshops designed to educate “the aspiring coaches of tomorrow.”

This past weekend saw the venue host a series of “informative talks” featuring key Juve backroom staff lecturing on their respective areas of expertise. Here’s the rundown from the website:

A number of topics were covered over the course of the weekend. Club doctors Fabrizio Tencone and Luca Semperboni handled the medical aspect, coaches Claudio Gabetta, Alessandro Ramello and Alessio Pini discussed the demands associated with training a team, while fitness coach Ivan Teoli provided an insight into the methods required to maintain players at the peak of their physical condition.

Saturday 16 February was dedicated to the technical knowledge required on matchdays, with particular attention paid to pre-match tactical instructions, managing the side throughout the 90 minutes and post-match assessment.

Sunday 17 February focused on the importance of training and methods used to get the best out of potential talent both psychologically and physically.

Juventus are no longer just a football club. Now they’re an institute nurturing the next mutant strain of supercoaches.

I encourage any and all X-Men analogies you can dream up, friends.

Peluso’s Pointers

A player relatively new to Juventus spoke to kids who are relatively new to Juve, to football, and arguably life in general.

Federico Peluso was the keynote speaker at the fifth edition of Formazione Juventus, a series of talks designed to impart the virtues of hard work and professionalism in the younger members of the youth academy.

And honestly, from the picture on Juve’s website, it looks like many of these kids need such a lesson. Look at how many of them are slouching! Sit up straight when a member of the senior squad is talking to you! And one of them actually has his back to Peluso — what nerve!

It wasn’t like that in my day… actually, it was exactly like that, probably worse.

Peluso shared his formative experiences with the young ones, and hopefully somewhere in the process he managed to teach them the greatest lesson of all: how to rebound from a disastrous first appearance for Juve.

It all began at Lazio, at a ridiculously early age:

I played anywhere, all I needed was a ball and I couldn’t hold myself back. I joined a soccer school at the age of five, then I was signed by Lazio where I progressed through the entire youth system. I still remember when they gave me the bag: it was like a dream come true, also because I came from a family of staunch Lazio fans.

Federico was keen to stress how his relatively average size and preliminary class ranking were overcome by the necessary hard work and complete dedication:

I’ve always played in defense, even though I had other characteristics as a child. I was a late developer, from 14 years old onwards. Before I was one of the smallest. I’ve had to make many sacrifices to get to where I am, there’s no doubt about that, but the satisfaction provided by this career has been more than worth it. I wasn’t top of the class, but I always worked hard. My family believed I should do so and becoming a professional footballer certainly isn’t something that should be taken for granted.

Education is at the base of everything and Juventus have a great deal of belief in this aspect. This course proves just that and I believe it should also be taken as an example by other clubs.

I hope these kids know exactly how lucky they are. Not only are they being nurtured by one of the greatest football clubs of all time, at state-of-the-art facilities, but they are benefiting from a level of attention and degree of professionalism that I imagine is at least rare, and at most an anomaly.

Somehow, I can’t picture these classes taking place at Napoli (sorry, just warming up zingers for next week).

That’s all for today. Siena’s on Sunday, and then (and we’re not officially saying this, but) the real fun starts.

Ciao until then…

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus v Siena Preview –

Team News, Tactics, Line-ups & Prediction

Feb 23, 2013

Antonio Conte welcomes his former side, Siena, to the Juventus Stadium on Sunday as the Bianconeri look to get back to their winning ways. Their Champions League triumph at Celtic Park was followed by a fatigued performance against Roma. Juventus lost by a slender margin to the Romans as inevitable tiredness crept in. The performance by the Serie A Champions was below-par and Conte cited fixture congestion as a possible explanation for their uninspired performance.

As for Siena, they may be at the bottom of the pile, but they don’t look like going down without a fight. Conte’s old side have risen to 18th position in the league table and they certainly will be in a confident mood ahead of their trip to the Juventus Stadium. The Tuscan based outfit have lost just once in their last 5 outings with two wins that include the scalps of Inter and Lazio. They now face a true test of their mini rejuvenation in the form of the intimidating league leaders.

Team News and Tactical Brief

JUVENTUS

Antonio Conte was honored this week as he received his Panchina d’Oro award, given to the best manager in Serie A. An award that was justified by the unbeaten season his Juventus went on to record last term. Indeed, Conte has turned many heads since his appointment at Juventus, by his side’s footballing philosophy and by his meticulous attention to detail.

He should stick with his favored 3-5-2 formation. Giorgio Chiellini isn’t expected to play a role on Sunday as he makes his return from a long injury lay-off. The big defender should start from the bench. Simone Pepe suffered a thigh injury that puts his season in jeopardy. Nicklas Bendtner and Paolo De Ceglie remain unavailable to the manager.

Conte faces a selection head-ache as Vidal, Pirlo, Barzagli, Matri and Chiellini are all a booking away from missing next weekend’s top-of-the-table clash with Napoli. Juventus could opt to field just Pirlo if reports emanating from Italy are to be believed. The depth of the squad will be put to the test against in-form Siena side.

The side, understandably, didn’t show the kind of pressing and intensity against Roma that has carried them on to success. Conte will shuffle and change and the two forwards up front should feature Giovinco and Quagliarella. The former has failed to hang on to the form he showed towards the end of last year while the latter has been pushed himself into the shadows following his controversial comments aimed at Angelo Alessio. Both should be presented the opportunity to lay a claim for a permanent starting role.

Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Bonucci, Marrone, Peluso; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Giovinco

SIENA

Siena have a long road ahead of them and their positive run of form should act as motivation as they look to avoid the drop. Beppe Iachini has done a commendable job since taking over the reins at Siena. But of course, the work isn’t complete yet and he will truly gain recognition for his efforts, if he manages to drag the Robur out of the relegation zone and keep them in the top flight of Italian Football for another season. Angelo is the only injury concern for Iachini as he continues to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation.

Striker Innocent Emeghara has come into the spot-light in recent weeks. Having netted 4 times in 4 appearances, Emeghara has garnered attention from the Italian media and remains Siena’s biggest hope. The Swiss striker has been ruthless in front of goal and each shot on target has resulted in him finding the back of the net.

He comes up against Luca Marrone who should play at the heart of the Juventus defence and should test the Juventus youth product who, by trade, is a central midfielder. Rosina and Sestu will play just behind Emeghara, supplying him with the ammunition he needs. The front trio remains key to Pirlo’s influence on the game. Expect them to put the pressure on the playmaker and try to negate him. Marrone comes into the play here as the onus then falls on him to distribute from the back; a tactic that Conte has used with Bonucci, another ball-playing defender.

Expect Siena to shut shop and defend deep in numbers as they try to contain the Juventus onslaught that should pour in from the outset. Aerially, they could expose a Juventus defence devoid of Chiellini, who is an uncompromising customer in the air. Siena could take full advantage of his absence by whipping in a few balls from the wide areas in Emeghara’s direction.

Probable Starting Line-up (3-4-2-1): Pegolo; Texeira, Terlizzi, Felipe; Belmonte, Vergassola, Della Rocca, Rubin; Rosina, Sestu; Emeghara

Player To Watch Out For

Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)

Marchisio returns to the side after his suspension against Roma. The Juventus youth product’s absence was felt by the Bianconeri as they failed to stamp any sort of authority on the game. His late runs into the box have gone untracked and have become characteristic of his overall game. Marchisio will need to establish a grip on the game and drive his side towards the three points as Juventus look to extend their lead at the top of the table.

Prediction

Juventus 2-0 Siena

At home, Juventus are a formidable side to face. Siena may have form on their side heading into this one but they simply cannot match up – in quality to this Juventus side. Antonio Conte’s side will be determined to put behind last weekend’s negative result behind them and march on to the title. A Juventus win looks on the cards.

Blast From The Past

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Conte: 'First of 13 World Cup Finals'

Feb 23, 2013

Antonio Conte welcomes back Giorgio Chiellini, warns Juventus-Siena is “the first of 13 World Cup Finals” and berates the fans for treating football “like theatre.”

The Bianconeri suffered a post-Champions League dip with last week’s 1-0 defeat to Roma, cutting their lead at the top of the Serie A table to four points.

“Martin Caceres will not recover in time, while Arturo Vidal’s sprained right ankle will have to be evaluated today,” explained the Coach in his Press conference.

“Chiellini trained with us all week and he will be on the bench. Mirko Vucinic? He’s fine.”

Conte was asked whether he’ll rotate the squad on Sunday, particularly as Andrea Barzagli, Andrea Pirlo, Paolo De Ceglie and Alessandro Matri are a booking away from missing next Friday’s Napoli-Juventus showdown.

“There are 13 games to go. They must be 13 World Cup Finals because dropping points anywhere can be negative.

“Right now, Siena has to be the game of our lives, because they are in great shape. Over the last five rounds they have beaten Inter and Lazio, conceding only three goals. It’s a very, very difficult test.

“If someone thinks it’s going to be a walk in the park, then they’re really not listening to me. I hope the Juventus Stadium crowd understands we need everyone to clear their throats and start pushing us forward the way they did last season.

“This year some of the fans sat and watched the game as if they were at the theatre. That really did not sit well with me. From tomorrow the supporters must give the team a hand, because this is a tough match.

“I am not interested in players on a yellow card, as I pay more attention to their physical fitness. Napoli come later, Siena are still worth three points and will make us suffer.”

Conte was in the stands at San Siro cheering on Milan for their Champions League 2-0 victory over Barcelona.

“At the start of the season I said Serie A had lost many great players due to the economic crisis, but that put the pressure on us Coaches to make up for it with ideas and hard work. Serie A is competitive and the Champions League proved that.

“I compliment Massimiliano Allegri on the perfect performance, but Juve, Lazio and Inter also did great things in Europe. In Italy there is great tactical organisation and any of the teams give you trouble. For example, tomorrow Siena will be well-drilled, enthusiastic and organised.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Chiellini's back for Juventus

Feb 23, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini is back in the Juventus squad to take on Siena, along with Claudio Marchisio and Federico Peluso.

Defender Chiellini has not featured since tearing a calf muscle on December 16, but will be on the bench in Turin tomorrow afternoon.

The Bianconeri can also now count on Marchisio and Peluso, who sat out bans in the 1-0 defeat to Roma last week.

Martin Caceres misses out with a muscular problem, but Arturo Vidal is included despite spraining his ankle.

Juventus squad for Siena: Buffon, Chiellini, Pogba, Marchisio, Vucinic, Giovinco, Peluso, Barzagli, Anelka, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Giaccherini, Lichtsteiner, Quagliarella, Storari, Matri, Isla, Rubino, Marrone

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Iachini: 'Siena will attack Juve'

Feb 23, 2013

Beppe Iachini is thoroughly impressed with Juventus, but insists giant-killers Siena “will be attacking and certainly won’t go looking for a 0-0.”

The Tuscans have never won in Turin, but over the last few rounds earned convincing victories over Inter and Lazio.

“It will require a performance of real character at the Juventus Stadium, coupled with tactical organisation,” said Coach Iachini in his Press conference.

“We are facing a very strong opponent, but it would be a terrible mistake to go out there looking for a 0-0. We will play our game, just as we always do, trying to be attacking and pro-active.

“Simone Vergassola has trained with the team all week and it will be very important to have him back in the side.

“For over 18 months Juventus are proving they’re a real team with a solid and well-drilled system. We must put in the perfect performance.”

Recent results mean Siena are third from bottom despite a six-point penalty in the betting scandal. Much of that has been down to January signing Innocent Emeghara, click here for Dylan Fahy’s blog on the striker.

“We are doing well and the fans will have to stay close to us right to the end as we seek safety.”

Siena squad for Juventus: Farelli, Marini, Pegolo; Belmonte, Felipe, Grillo, Matheu, Paci, Rubin, Teixeira, Terlizzi, Uvini; Agra, Bolzoni, Calello, Della Rocca, Mannini, Sestu, Valiani, Verre; Bogdani, Emeghara, Paolucci, Pozzi, Reginaldo, Rosina.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Next 13 games are World Cup finals for Juventus, says Conte

The Bianconeri lost ground in the defence of their title against Roma last weekend,

and the 43-year-old has called for focus on their remaining league matches.

Feb 23, 2013

Antonio Conte has claimed that Juventus must treat their next 13 Serie A matches like World Cup finals if they are to retain their Scudetto crown.

Last weekend's 1-0 defeat to Roma saw the Old Lady's lead at the top of Serie A cut to four points, and their coach has called on the supporters to act as the 12th man in the title run-in.

“We need to play 13 World Cup finals and dropping points could prove costly. We’ll face a very difficult fixture tomorrow and I hope the fans take note and raise the volume at the stadium," he was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

“Now is the time to urge the team on in the way they did last year and have done on certain occasions this season."

Juventus' next clash is against Conte's former side, Siena, and the 43-year-old warned his tropps not to underestimate the in-form Tuscans, despite their lowly standing in the table.

"Siena will put us under pressure. They’re in excellent form and have conceded just three goals in their last five games," he continued.

"They produced comprehensive wins over Inter and Lazio and were only beaten in Udine by a goal on the counter.

“They've got a good mentality, strong work ethic and an excellent coach in [Giuseppe] Iachini. People might say it looks straightforward on paper, but that certainly won’t be the case.”

Conte also took the time to congratulate AC Milan and Lazio for their midweek European triumphs and felt the masses are beginning to take note of teams on the peninsula once more.

“In Italy we’re tackling the economic crisis through ideas, work, culture and focusing on developing youngsters.

"We've lost many great players, but this has brought the opportunity for coaches to bridge the gap with work and organisation. The Italian league is very competitive and we’ve displayed that in Europe.

“I’d like to congratulate Milan and Allegri on their magnificent achievement in midweek. Inter and Lazio also did extremely well. Italian teams are very well organised.

"If a foreign side lined up against Siena tomorrow, they would come up against the same difficulties that we’ll face.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus-Siena Preview: Scudetto holders

looking to respond after loss to Roma

Beppe Iachini has never beaten Juventus but his own Bianconeri have gone

three games unbeaten ahead of Sunday’s match in Turin.

Feb 23, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Bonucci, Marrone, Peluso

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah

Quagliarella, Giovinco

SIENA

Pegolo

Texeira, Terlizzi, Felipe

Belmonte, Vergassola, Della Rocca, Rubin

Rosina, Sestu

Emeghara

Juventus winger Simone Pepe has suffered a setback in training and will likely have to undergo surgery to repair a thigh injury. The 29-year-old has made just a single appearance from the bench so far this season.

Coach Antonio Conte is also without on-loan Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner, who is still recovering from adductor surgery and is expected back sometime in March.

Defender Paolo De Ceglie is sidelined with a thigh injury suffered against Fiorentina earlier this month and Giorgio Chiellini will be given the day off to rest his troublesome calf.

Claudio Marchisio returns from suspension.

Iachini’s only injury concern involves wing-back Angelo, who has a muscle injury but is expected to play some part in his side’s match against Atalanta on March 3.

Defenders Roberto Vitiello and Claudio Terzi are serving extended bans for their part in the 2011 match-fixing scandal.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Since the beginning of January, Juventus have dropped points in four of eight Serie A matches, including losses to Sampdoria and Roma. They also lost 2-1 away to Lazio in the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia.

• Only Roma have scored more than the 50 goals Juventus have managed in the league so far this season, but Fabio Quagliarella is the only player with at least seven of them to his name.

• Juventus are unbeaten in their last seven matches against Siena. Their most recent defeat to them came in May 2008.

• Siena are third from bottom in Serie A but would be 15th had they not been deducted six points for their role in the 2011 Italian match-fixing scandal.

• Coach Beppe Iachini lost his first three matches after replacing Serse Cosmi last December but has since dropped just one of his last five while beating Sampdoria, Inter and Lazio.

• Striker Innocent Emeghara has scored three goals in four matches since joining Siena on loan from Lorient in January.

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Oct 7, 2012 - Siena 1 - Juventus 2

Serie A ‎- Feb 5, 2012 - Juventus 0 - Siena 0

Serie A ‎- Sep 18, 2011 - Siena 0 - Juventus 1

Serie A ‎- Mar 14, 2010 - Juventus 3 - Siena 3

Serie A - Oct 25, 2009 - Siena 0 - Juventus 1

Last Five Matches

Juventus

Feb 16, 2013 - Roma 1 - Juventus 0 - Serie A

Feb 12, 2013 - Celtic 0 - Juventus 3 - UCL

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

Siena

Feb 18, 2013 - Siena 3 - Lazio 0 - Serie A

Feb 10, 2013 - Bologna 1 - Siena 1 - Serie A

Feb 3, 2013 - Siena 3 - FC Internazionale 1 - Serie A

Jan 27, 2013 - Udinese 1 - Siena 0 - Serie A

Jan 20, 2013 - Siena 1 - Sampdoria 0 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Claudio Marchisio

The last time we saw the 27-year-old midfielder he was starring for Juventus in the Champions League against Celtic. Suspended for last weekend’s match against AS Roma —a 1-0 defeat— he’ll be a welcome addition for Antonio Conte ahead of Saturday’s match against Siena and will be expected to drive play forward like he has on so many occasions.

Innocent Emeghara

Siena boss Beppe Iachini has admitted he only saw the Nigeria-born Switzerland international on DVD before signing him on loan from Lorient last month. But the 23-year-old’s acquisition was definitely worth the gamble. He has scored three goals from just six shots since moving to Italy.

Prediction

Juventus have Marchisio back and will not want to go two matches without a win following last Saturday’s loss in the capital. And while Siena have started to turn things around under Iachini they’ll be hard-pressed to get anything from an irritated opponent that has turned its home stadium into a fortress.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 2 - 0 Siena

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus vs Siena PREVIEW:

Conte welcomes old side to Juventus Stadium

Feb 23, 2013

After another disappointing loss, this time away at Roma, Juventus return home to the Juventus Stadium to face Tuscan minnows Siena. Conte’s men have alternated in recent months between dizzying highs and grounding losses, that form suggests an easy win over one of the relegation candidates of Serie A.

That’s simply not the case, however, as Siena are one of the “in form” sides in Serie A. Left for dead in December, Conte’s former team has had a bit of revival, winning 3 out of their last 6 games including a great 3-0 victory over 3rd placed Lazio. In fact, Siena has picked up only 1 less point than Juventus in the last 6 games, a testimony to Juve’s stumbling but also Siena’s solid form.

SIENA

Siena only picked up 15 points from their first 19 matches, but have won an impressive 10 in their last 6, form that has seen them climb out of the worst relegation spots – they currently are only 4 points away from safety. Much of their revival is owed to “the 2nd most famous hat wearer in calcio” former Brescia coach Giuseppe Iachini, who has gotten a reaction from his side since being named coach in late December.

Siena’s offensive is not prolific, nor has it been all season, but Iachini has tightened the defense, despite the loss of defensive stalwart Neto to Zenit St. Petersburg in January. They’ve conceded 1 goal per game in the last 6 games, which has seen Siena take on opponents like Udinese, Inter and Lazio. They’ve done this without any star players (with Neto gone) rather solid tactical work from a group of capable if not spectacular defenders.

Despite a relatively conservative offense, it’s exploded in the last month. The Robur knocked 3 goals past both Lazio and Inter, with Innocent Emeghera bagging 4 goals in 3 games since his signing in January. The former Lorient player has been a revelation since his mid-season switch, scoring consistently and providing quality play up top in a team quite short of attacking firepower.

Siena aren’t leaking goals like fellow relegation candidates Palermo, Pescara, Genoa, or Roma, and that may be why they avoid the drop. The team is still similar to the one that Conte got back into Serie A- a tactically compact team that defends well, pressures well, but struggles to score.

That formula has kept them in Serie A under Conte’s successor Sannino, and Iachini may succeed in doing so.

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

Pegolo; Texeira, Terlizzi, Felipe; Belmonte, Vergassola, Della Rocca, Rubin; Rosina, Sestu; Emeghara

JUVENTUS

As stated above, Juve’s form has depended heavily based on the last fixture. The team crushed Nordsjaelland in the Champion’s League after the first loss in the Conte era to Inter. Weeks later, they would destroy Chelsea before falling to Milan, and we saw Conte’s men lose to Roma just after a mid-week exhausting triumph over Celtic.

There’s unquestionably a physical aspect to these variations. Against Roma, the team tired badly in the 2nd half, the toll of a very physical mid-week duel clearly evident. It was at this point that Roma built pressure, Totti scored, and the team was too tired to react. Instead, they meekly walked off the pitch after a 1-0 loss. Conte blasted his men for the loss, insisting that players complaining of fatigue had assured him before the match that they felt 100% fit to play. He’s absolutely right – if a player is tired, he shouldn’t mislead the coach. On the other hand, as Efy Ambrose shows, few players will let minor fatigue get in the way of them playing in a big match.

The inconsistency also points to a telling mental characteristic. The team has often fatigued in mid-week and let that lead to a poor result on the weekend, but just as often, a disappointing loss has provoked a fierce reaction from Conte’s men. The team was sorely disappointed to lose their phenomenal undefeated streak to Inter, especially at home, and took it out on poor Nordsjaelland on the weekend. The team was tired after the Chelsea match, lost disappointingly to Milan, and channeled that frustration into a 3-0 demolition of Torino the next week.

The Celtic match definitely influenced Juve’s performance against Roma, but as we’ve seen this season, the Roma loss, and particularly the depressing manner of the loss (utterly impotent) may well condition the Siena match as well. Both the players and Conte were clearly disappointed both with the loss but also the standard of play in Rome, and poor old Siena (a club ally of Juventus) may bear the brunt of it.

There are a few selection headaches for Juventus. Caceres and Vidal have both been ruled out- Vidal has been called up, but bruising to his calf probably means he probably won’t feature. Caceres has some strong lower back pain, and was not named in the team. Vucinic’s fatigue was noticeable in the Roma game, so Giovinco will probably start in his place with Matri, as Quagliarella continues to be on the fringes of the squad- expect to see Vucinic enter as an attacking substitute, however.

Probable Formation: (3-5-2)

Buffon; Bonucci, Marrone, Barzagli; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Matri

Juventus have had a whole week to prepare for this match, and the team absolutely has to play it without thinking about the away match against Napoli that looms on the horizon. The team lost to Roma last week, and no Scudetto winning team has lost more than 4 matches (Roma was our 4th) in the last 15 years. Conte&co. have more points than last season and a better attack, but the losses sting.

One of the differences between last season and this season is the performances against big and small teams. Last year, the team badly struggled to break down the provincial sides, but dominated the big teams, beating Inter and Lazio twice, thrashing Napoli and Roma, and dominating Milan 2-0 at the Juventus Stadium. This year, the team has not struggled as badly against the minnows, but 3 of the losses have come against big teams- Inter, Milan, and Roma.

That’s probably not the best stat for the team’s ego, but it bodes well for the title race. Teams like Siena were Claudio Ranieri’s undoing- the man had a stellar record in big matches, but his failure to pick apart smaller teams was why his Juve was unable to mount a serious title challenge. We can worry about the big matches later- tomorrow, there’s only one job for the team that will be wearing Bianconero- Win!

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus-Siena Preview: Round 26 — Getting Back on the Horse

Feb 23, 2013

For all intents and purposes, Juventus were the definition of a tired team last Saturday. They were sluggish, and therefore the 1-0 loss to Rome was pretty much the result that should've happened. We didn't like it around these parts, but that's what really did take place. There's no getting around it.

After seven-plus days of rest, there's really only one thing to do: Get back to being Juventus.

See? It's simple. Okay, maybe not that easy, but it helps that Juve are hosting a team that is currently in one of Serie A's relegation spots rather than, say, Napoli. But that's next week.

For now, Antonio Conte welcomes his Bianconeri coaching past to the home of his Biaconeri coaching present and foreseeable future. It's certainly a fixture that Juve's manager respects. And it's certainly one that Juve needs to win to not only win, but play well to get some good vibes going again with Napoli and the second leg against Celtic in the Champions League on the horizon.

That's just the simple truth. They've had eight days to rest. Now it's time to show why they're Italy's best team against.

It's simply time to get back on the horse. Nothing needs to be said other than that. End the preview here!

Or maybe not. Onwards and upwards we go!

GOOD NEWS

It's Italy's first-place team going up against one of the three clubs in the relegation zone. After a disappointing loss, you can't ask for much more from the scheduling gods than something like that.

And Claudio Marchisio will all but certainly return to the starting lineup after sitting out the loss to Roma last weekend. We all know how much of a difference Il Principino makes. We missed you, Claudio. Welcome back.

BAD NEWS

Siena are actually playing quite well, all things considered. Therefore, they are alive and breathing despite being in the bottom three.

Beppe Iachini doing well for relegation battlers Siena. 10 points from a possible 24 when Serse Cosmi only managed 17 from a possible 51!

Add in Siena's ultra-surprising 3-0 win over Lazio last weekend, and that's 13 out of a possible 27 points. They might have only moved up one spot in the Serie A table since the last time they faced Juventus in Tuscany, but they've certainly showed signs of life compared to some of the league's other bottom feeders.

Conte: Tomorrow we'll be taking on a team in great form. They've beaten Lazio and Inter and could have taken more from Bologna.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Squad rotation. Any kind of word you want to use to describe how Juventus played against Roma, it probably is going to be accurate. And a lot of that had to do with how the squad being flat out tired as can be. But with some injuries developing during the week — Martin Caceres and Arturo Vidal didn't practice on Friday morning, according to the Juventus website — Conte maybe take more of a cautious, play-it-safe approach to selecting his squad. And then we have this from Conte's pre-match presser:

Conte: Caceres will not feature tomorrow. Vidal missed yesterday's training session, we'll assess his condition today.

So we know of one or two guys who may or may not be playing tomorrow. If Vidal is out too, then so be it. Juventus need as many healthy starters for Napoli as possible. If there's even the slightest risk of Vidal's condition being in doubt, sit him down and keep on the bench. Hell, don't even call him up. Just make sure that when Juventus start Friday's game against Napoli, he's out there and completely healthy.

2. Striker selection.First, since this post has become field with Twitter posts, here's another one:

Conte: Giovinco's in good shape, available and we'll make our decisions after training. I still haven't chosen my side for.

Methinks the Atomic Ant will be in the starting lineup tomorrow. It's been a couple of weeks since Giovinco appeared in the starting lineup — a lot of that having to do with the resurgence of Alessandro Matri. Will it be Matri alongside Giovinco on Sunday? Or maybe Mirko Vucinic? Maybe even Fabio Quagliarella making a rare 2013 appearance? Whatever combination Conte may be thinking of using, it does seem like thing will be shaken for the first time in awhile.

3. Juventus' physical state. Tired, tired, tired. That's what Juventus were against Roma. Now, the logical thinking is week off, and the troops are ready to go again. Easier said than done, but it's always good to get rest this time of year — and that's not even considering that Juventus played like crap last weekend because they were completely exhausted. But now that they're seven days separated from the loss in the capital, they shouldn't be tired. (Please don't be tired, Juventus.)

4. Juventus' mental state. When you're physically tired after a huge game, you're usually just as tired mentally as well. The squad have had a week of to not only recuperate, but also recover rest their minds. The thing I want to see? Well, to be frank, I want Juventus to be pissed off. Just think about the last time Juve had a post-Champions League letdown and lost to Milan. The next result: Juventus 3, Torino 0. Rinse and repeat, Il Mister.

5. The impact of Innocent Emeghara. Read this mighty fine piece of writing, and then defend at your own will.

6. If this weekend will mark Giorgio Chiellini's comeback. Conte said at his pre-match press conference that Giorgio will be on the bench against Siena. For me, it should only be brief appearance if he does in fact see some action. It's been months since Chiellini was last seen on the Juventus Stadium pitch. Get his feet wet now and then let him loose against Napoli in five days. That sounds like just a dandy plan. Maybe it's because I thought of it all by myself. Genius.

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Quagliarella.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Line-ups: Juventus-Siena

Feb 24, 2013

Juventus look to Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco as they hope to avoid becoming the latest big victims of Siena and Innocent Emeghara.

Over the last few weeks, Siena have beaten Inter and Lazio, while January signing Emeghara has netted four goals in three games.

The Swiss-Nigerian striker again starts with support from Alessandro Rosina and Francesco Valiani, while defender Jorge Texeira is a surprise pick.

Simone Vergassola has failed a fitness test and is not even on the bench.

Juve welcome back Claudio Marchisio and Federico Peluso from suspension, while Giorgio Chiellini is on the bench two months after tearing a calf muscle.

Martin Caceres joins Paolo De Ceglie, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe on the injury list, but Paul Pogba is given a rare start alongside Andrea Pirlo.

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Vucinic

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Chiellini, Anelka, Padoin, Vidal, Giaccherini, Quagliarella, Matri, Isla, Marrone

SIENA: Pegolo; Jorge Texeira, Terlizzi, Felipe; Belmonte, Della Rocca, Rubin, Bolzoni; Rosina, Valiani; Emeghara

Siena bench: Farelli, Paci, Uvini, Mannini, Verre, Bogdani, Calello, Matheu, Agra, Grillo, Pozzi, Reginaldo.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000‎

Giovinco among scorers as Old

Lady extend Serie A advantage

The routine win for Antonio Conte's men means they have stretched their lead at the top

of the table to seven points, with Napoli to play on Monday, while Siena's unbeaten run ends.

Feb 24, 2013

Juventus have gone seven points clear at the summit of Serie A after goals from Stephan Lichtsteiner, Sebastian Giovinco and Paul Pogba handed the hosts a 3-0 win over lowly Siena.

The Swiss defender gave Antonio Conte's side the lead after 30 minutes, following a perfectly weighted pass by Mirko Vicinic. His Italian team-mate then secured all three points in the 70th minute, only for Pogba to add a third late on.

Andrea Pirlo forced out the first real opportunity of the encounter after Giovinco was fouled on the edge of the Siena box, but the Juventus midfielder could only guide his free kick over the bar.

The hosts enjoyed the larger share of possession in the initial 15 minutes, and looked to make their dominance count, as Lichtsteiner and Mirko Vucinic linked up excellently, before the former fired an effort over the Siena goal.

Claudio Marchiso then forced a superb diving stop from Gianluca Pegolo having combined well with Vucinic as Juventus began to exert themselves. Giovinco followed up by working the Siena goalkeeper again, but the shot-stopper was equal to it.

The Bianconeri deservedly took the initiative with a half hour gone after Pegolo palmed Vucinic's lofted pass onto the shins of the surging Lichtsteiner, who bundled the ball into the far right corner.

Juventus looked to add a second, moments later, following some good work by the creative Vucinic and Kwadwo Asamosh before the latter picked out Paul Pogba in the middle of the park. However, his effort was tame and trickled straight through to Pegolo.

Pirlo came close to doubling the hosts' advantage on the hour mark, but couldn't direct his audacious chip from the edge of the 18-yard box into the far corner.

With 15 minutes remaining the Turin outfit secured the win after Giovinco was picked out by Pirlo from a free kick. The former pushed down the left side of the Siena box before firing into the roof of the net leaving Pegolo with no chance.

The strike sprung the visitors into life and moments after the goal, Gianluigi Buffon was called into action, but tipped Innocent Emeghara's goal-bound header onto the bar.

Christian Terlizzi came even closer for Siena in the final five minutes, beating Buffon from the edge of the box, only to see his effort cannon back off the foot of the post.

However, any chance of a comeback was dealt a final blow in the dying embers, as Pogba added a third from the edge of the Siena area.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000‎

Juve sweep Siena aside

Juventus swept Siena aside 3-0, Paul Pogba completing the rout,

but the Tuscans did hit the woodwork twice.

Feb 24, 2013

Juventus swept Siena aside 3-0, Paul Pogba completing the rout, but the Tuscans did hit the woodwork twice.

The Serie A leaders suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat to Roma last week, so the gap at the top was cut to four points. Claudio Marchisio and Federico Peluso returned from their bans with Giorgio Chiellini on the bench for the first time in two months, but Paolo De Ceglie, Martin Caceres and Nicklas Bendtner were injured. Siena beat Inter and Lazio over the last few weeks, picking up 10 points from their last five games, but Simone Vergassola failed a fitness test.

Antonio Conte had asked the fans to make more noise and not “sit there as if they’re watching theatre,” so the Juventus Stadium was particularly full-throated and sang the club anthem before kick-off.

Leonardo Bonucci horribly wasted a great opportunity on a well-worked corner when he hit a fresh-air shot from just inside the area. Andrea Pirlo then curled a free kick off target, as did Stephan Lichtsteiner with his snapshot.

Gianluca Pegolo needed a fine save to keep out Marchisio, flying to palm his curler round the post. Juve were putting on the pressure and broke through on the half-hour mark.

Mirko Vucinic threaded through with a smart angled pass and Pegolo only managed to flap aimlessly at it, allowing Lichtsteiner to tap in at the back post.

Paul Pogba side-footed straight at Pegolo from the edge of the box, but Siena struggled to mount a fightback.

After the restart Gigi Buffon punched an Alessandro Rosina corner away and Marchisio stopped Emeghara getting the follow-up.

Pegolo stood and watched a delightful Pirlo chip flash just past the far top corner, but it was Giovinco who put the result under lock and key.

A free kick was rolled forward into the box and Giovinco smashed a powerful finish in at the near top corner. Pegolo got a hand to it, but the shot was so strong that it continued under the bar.

Emeghara ensured the Bianconeri stayed on their toes, as he got a towering header moments later that Buffon fingertipped on to the crossbar. The assist was from Salvador Agra, another Siena January buy, who soon after forced a save out of Buffon from the edge of the box.

Giorgio Chiellini made his comeback after two months out with a torn calf muscle.

Christian Terlizzi was unfortunate not to get one back for Siena, as his long-range daisy-cutter thumped the base of the upright.

Instead, Pogba hit one of his traditional screamers from distance that surprised Pegolo in the bottom corner.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah (Chiellini 78); Giovinco (Giaccherini 81), Vucinic (Matri 65)

SIENA: Pegolo; Jorge Texeira, Terlizzi, Felipe; Belmonte, Della Rocca (Verre 92), Rubin, Bolzoni; Rosina (Agra 71), Valiani (Pozzi 65); Emeghara

Ref: Celi

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000

Juventus go seven points clear

Feb 24, 2013

Juventus extended their lead at the top of Serie A to seven points thanks to a 3-0 win over Siena, although the visitors made a game of it at the Juventus Stadium.

Stephan Lichtsteiner and Sebastian Giovinco gave the Bianconeri a two-goal advantage, but Siena hit the woodwork twice as they made Juve work hard for their win.

Paul Pogba then ended Siena's hopes with a third goal in the dying stages.

The three points take Antonio Conte's side further ahead of Napoli at the top of the table, while Siena remain just a point off the foot of the table and five adrift of safety.

Conte had warned that this would be one of their toughest and most important games of the season, and his message appeared to have been understood by his team.

Not for one minute did it look like they would take the Serie A strugglers lightly and a committed attacking effort led to Claudio Marchisio testing Gianluca Pegolo for the first time in the 20th minute.

Ten minutes later, Lichtsteiner somewhat fortunately gave the home side the lead.

He surged into the area to meet Mirko Vucinic's pass, but he would not have reached it had Pegolo not pushed the ball onto the Swiss full-back's shin with the rebound looping into the net.

Andrea Pirlo went close to adding a second with a free-kick as Juve continued to keep their concentration high.

Giovinco made it two with a shot from a tight angle which Pegolo pushed in off the underside of his own crossbar in the 74th minute, but the day's work was far from done.

Gianluigi Buffon did well to tip Innocent Emeghara's shot onto the bar in the 76th minute before Christian Terlizzi's shot hit the post six minutes from time.

Pogba then settled Juve's nerves in the 89th minute as he took aim from 20 yards out, beating Pegolo with a low shot into the bottom left-hand corner.

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