Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Juventus back to work

Apr 8, 2013

Italian champions Juventus will resume training on Monday after being given a 24-hour break following the win over Pescara.

Although the Old Lady face Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday, boss Antonio Conte gave his side a day’s rest yesterday.

Juventus will have it all to do in midweek in the second leg of their quarter-final Champions League clash.

The Bianconeri lost the first leg 2-0 at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday evening. Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner will be suspended.

Juve maintained their nine-point lead over Napoli at the weekend by beating Pescara 2-1.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Lippi expects Juventus to show up

Apr 8, 2013

The real Juventus will show up against Bayern Munich on Wednesday, insists former Bianconeri boss Marcello Lippi.

The Old Lady will entertain the German giants in the Champions League this week in a bid to overturn a 2-0 deficit.

“I saw a great Bayern in the first leg,” the current Guangzhou Evergrande boss told Tuttosport. “They were well balanced, complete and devastating at times.

“That was no surprise for me because they are a European force, one on the same level of Barcelona and Real Madrid.

“But, besides the strength of Bayern, we didn’t see the true Juventus in Munich. The players themselves knew that.

“I don’t know if the comeback will happen, but I’m pretty sure that Juventus will prove to themselves and Bayern that they are a different team from the one seen in Germany.”

Juve will have to try to mount a fightback without key midfielder Arturo Vidal who will be suspended for the quarter-final tie.

“Paul Pogba will undoubtedly be ready to replace Vidal. I really like him, he has class, personality and he knows where the goal is.”

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Bayern-Juve not over – Tacchinardi

Apr 8, 2013

Juventus are still alive in their Champions League tie with Bayern Munich, says Alessio Tacchinardi.

The Old Lady lost the first leg of their quarter-final encounter 2-0 last week and the two sides will face each other again on Wednesday.

“Had they lost 3-0 then it would be a different story,” the former midfielder told Tuttosport on Monday morning.

“But the Bianconeri have the desire and capability to recover because the comeback is not impossible.”

Tacchinardi believes that boss Antonio Conte, a former teammate, will know how to motivate his troops.

“He knows how to get the best out of his players,” Tacchinardi added. “Juventus, with Conte, win as a team and not because of individuals.

“Saying that, they will need a bit of luck to qualify.”

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Two doubts for Juventus XI v Bayern

Apr 8, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has two team selection issues to resolve ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.

The Old Lady will entertain the German giants in Turin with the aim of overturning their 2-0 first leg quarter-final reverse.

Conte will be without the suspended Stephan Lichtsteiner and Arturo Vidal, while Sebastian Giovcino is a doubt after picking up an injury in the win over Pescara.

While Paul Pogba will replace Vidal in central midfield, Conte will have to decide whom to select in the right wing-back role.

Simone Padoin is the current favourite ahead of Mauricio Isla and Martin Caceres, given that the first has struggled for form and the second hasn’t featured recently because of his involvement in a car crash.

The other doubt that Conte has is with regards to whom will partner Mirko Vucinic in attack. Fabio Quagliarella should get the green light ahead of Alessandro Matri.

Juventus possible: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Quagliarella

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Rummenigge eyes away goal

Apr 8, 2013

Bayern Munich Chief Executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge insists his outfit will need a goal at Juventus on Wednesday night.

Although the German giants will take a 2-0 advantage to the Juventus Stadium, the former international striker insists the quarter-final Champions League tie is still alive.

“The first game against Juventus was a dream result,” Rummenigge told The Times of India in an interview.

“But we have to be careful because we know that Italians can come back really strong. We need to score one goal in the second leg to make things a little safe.”

Bayern have already wrapped up the German championship and the club official wants to lift more silverware this term.

“We have never achieved a treble,” he added. “We aren't too optimistic but we aren't pessimistic either.

“The Champions League is very high quality football and we have been hard done in a couple of Finals in the past years. So, let's say we are not confident but we do dream.”

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Bayern only slight favourites against Juventus - Trapattoni

The veteran coach believes that Italian teams' history against Germans

means the Bavarians cannot afford to rest of their laurels on Wednesday.

Apr 8, 2013

Former Bayern Munich and Juventus coach Giovanni Trapattoni believes that the German outfit only have a slight edge going into the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final tie against the Bianconeri on Wednesday.

The Bavarians defeated Antonio Conte's men 2-0 at the Allianz Arena last week, but despite their advantage, the Republic of Ireland boss does not think die Roten are through to the semi-finals yet.

"The Germans are favourites, but only by 51 per cent," the 74-year-old told La Stampa on Monday.

"I'm optimistic, because history has shown us that we Italians often play great matches against German teams."

Trapattoni went on to say that while the German champions have stars like Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery and Bastian Schweinsteiger, other factors can also be important in the game.

"Bayern have the best Dutchman, the best Frenchman and the best German player. However, in football, there are different values that come into play," he concluded.

Juventus and Bayern kick off at 20:45CET on Wednesday.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

'Just one title would be disappointing for Bayern' - Neuer

The Roten goalkeeper has urged his side to go for broke in their pursuit

of the treble as they prepare to face Juventus on Wednesday.

Apr 8, 2013

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer says his club would be "disappointed" if they only win one title this season after their Bundesliga triumph on Saturday.

The Bavarians are still in the hunt for a historic treble with a Champions League quarter-final clash with Juventus on Wednesday and a Pokal semi-final against Wolfsburg next week.

"It's been a very good season for us, up until now. We can be proud of our display in the domestic league," the 27-year-old told Kicker.

"However, if we're left with only one title at the end, we will be disappointed. We have very high aspirations and learned last year how it feels to leave a season empty handed.

"The extra motivation we pulled [from that experience] helped us. The solidarity and everything that has developed in the team was good for us.

"Of course we know we have an important match ahead of us on Wednesday, but we're also allowed to be humans and enjoy the moment.

"For me, it's crucial to focus on the two other tournaments [Champions League and DFB-Pokal]."

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

'Bayern will try to win everything' - Hoeness

The Roten president has vowed that his side will not rest on their laurels

after their Bundesliga triumph was confirmed on Saturday.

Apr 8, 2013

Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has stressed that his side will "try to win everything" this season after clinching the Bundesliga title on Saturday.

The Bavarians travel to Juventus for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday and have a DFB-Pokal semi-final with Wolfsburg next week, and the 61-year-old has set his sights on the treble.

"We'll have to try to win everything now," the 61-year-old told Bild.

"However, even if that won't be the case, we won't say winning the [German] championship is nothing.

"A 20-point advantage [over second-placed Borussia Dortmund] and all those records, that's an outstanding feat from the team and the coach.

"We're playing a fantastic season. But in order to say that, we'll have to grab the Champions League title as well."

Bayern could face a potential Champions League semi-final with Dortmund but Hoeness was quick to emphasise that both teams have tough last-eight ties to get through before.

"Dortmund lack the depth to play successfully in three competitions. I'm superstitious, firstly, we both have to proceed," he added.

"For Dortmund, it won't be easy after the 0-0 at Malaga and we expect an all-out attack from the Italians in Turin. Ask me again next Thursday."

Dortmund host Malaga on Tuesday, with Bayern travelling to Turin the next day.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Bonucci confident Juventus can overcome Bayern

The Italian side's defender remains confident in his team’s ability to reach

the semi-finals, despite the 0-2 first leg loss at the Allianz Arena.

Apr 8, 2013

Leonardo Bonucci says Juventus can overcome Bayern Munich in the second leg of their Champions League quarter final tie despite their first-leg deficit.

Despite being 2-0 down after the first game, Bonucci believes his side have the quality to beat Bayern in Turin and advance to the semi-final stage.

“We believe, because we are Juventus,” the defender told Sky Sports. “It is still wide open, and Wednesday we will give 110 percent out on the field.

“We must use the full 90 minutes. There is always time to make goals.”

The visitors have suffered just one defeat from four games on the road this year in the competition but Bonucci believes the Bianconeri can still progress.

“Certainly we can continue our dream,” he added. “I think we have all the qualities to make life difficult for a strong team like Bayern, despite a bad first leg.”

The Italian defender also addressed comments made by Franz Beckenbauer directed towards Gigi Buffon after the first leg.

“We have respect for Beckenbauer, but I am sure that his statements will motivate Gigi and the whole team,” he said.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Juventus are not dead yet, insists Zoff

The Bianconeri icon believes his old club cannot be written off

just yet and has singled out Mirko Vucinic as the Old Lady's dangerman.

Apr 9, 2013

Former Italy goalkeeper Dino Zoff has insisted that Juventus still have every chance of making it to the semi-finals of the Champions League at the expense of Bayern Munich.

The Serie A champions were beaten 2-0 in the first leg at the Allianz Arena last week, but Zoff believes that the Bianconeri have the quality to turn things around in the return leg in Turin on Wednesday.

"Bayern are always a candidate to go all the way, but Juventus are not dead yet. Nothing has been decided," Zoff was quoted as saying by TZ.

"The result from the first leg was obviously not good for Juve, but they have already shown before that they are capable of great things. It will not be easy, but I believe that Juventus can turn things around."

Zoff then went on to single out Mirko Vucinic, who netted twice at the weekend, as Juventus' biggest attacking threat in Wednesday's return.

"He is Juventus' most dangerous man at the moment. He can score a goal from out of the blue and is very unpredictable.

"Additionally, he can always create something for his team-mates, too. He works hard for the team and is dangerous in front of goal. There are not many players around with those two characteristics."

Wednesday's match at Juventus Stadium is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

'Juve play Bayern with confidence'

Apr 9, 2013

Juventus midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah believes that the Bianconeri go into their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich with 'great confidence'.

The Old Lady host the Bundesliga champions on Wednesday looking to overturn a 2-0 first-leg deficit in their quarter-final.

But the 24-year-old has claimed that their win over Pescara at the weekend can act as a springboard for a European triumph.

“The win against Pescara gives us great motivation,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “And it is also important for the Scudetto.

“After these three points, we play the Germans with great confidence.”

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

A Plan for Pirlo and Juventus in Turin

Apr 9, 2013

In Euro 2012, Italy approached matches with the intention of dominating the middle third of the pitch and dictating the pace of play. Thirty-three-year-old Andrea Pirlo sat in front of the back four alongside Daniele De Rossi and sprayed balls forwards, left, and right.

Some teams were aware of this and tried to mark him, but did so unsuccessfully. It’s not that the strategy was defective rather that the players that were chosen to carry out the plan were not the right ones.

In Italy’s Group C draw with Croatia, current Bayern striker Mario Mandzukic was assigned to track Pirlo's movement when Italy was in possession. After the first 10 minutes or so, Mandzukic stopped doing his job and Italy began dominating the midfield. They won a free kick and Pirlo scored.

In the second half, Rakitic was moved into a deep midfield holding role and was strictly assigned to track Pirlo. As a result of this change, Croatia won the midfield battle for the rest of the game and eventually equalized.

In Italy's 1-1 draw with Spain, Spain allowed Italy too much time on the ball through Pirlo and De Rossi. This was also because Spain didn't adequately press the Italian full backs and they were allowed to get the ball into the midfield, but again, Pirlo was the main focus.

When England played Italy in the quarterfinal, Wayne Rooney was given the task of dropping into midfield and marking Pirlo. Similarly to Mandzukic, Rooney strayed from his responsibilities and pushed further up the pitch, allowing Pirlo the freedom of the midfield.

Italy dominated the midfield for the entire match and in the end, England only saved itself from losing in regulation by dropping so deep that Pirlo’s over-the-top and grounded through balls were ineffective.

To cap it all off, in what was one of his finest performances in Euro 2012, Pirlo and Italy took on Germany in the semifinals. Jogi Low gave Toni Kroos the job of marking Pirlo, and as you might be able to guess by now, he didn’t stick to his assignment. The Juventus man was able to play long diagonal passes throughout the match, one of which ultimately resulted in Italy’s first goal.

So, how does this all relate to Juventus and their upcoming match against Bayern? It turns out that just as Pirlo was the key man for Italy in Euro 2012, he is the key player for Juventus as well. According to www.whoscored.com, Pirlo has made an average of 3.1 key passes per match (for Juventus in all competitions), the highest of any midfielder or player on Juventus's roster.

One could argue (and they wouldn't be wrong) that a side with Pirlo in the midfield could be stopped by marking the Italian stalwart. But the key to marking Pirlo is dividing the job amongst two or three players.

If one player is assigned, the plan often goes awry as the match goes on, especially in the case of strikers being assigned to mark deep-lying midfielders. Mandzukic and Rooney were not the wisest picks for man-marking Pirlo, because their natural tendencies as forwards enticed them to move up and look for goal-scoring opportunities.

Now let’s look at the Champions League match. In Munich, Bayern dealt with Pirlo by pressing high up the pitch and forcing him into one of his worst performances as a member of Juventus.

He completed only 70 percent of his attempted passes, was dispossessed four times, and turned the ball over twice. He had 58 touches.

Because Pirlo’s time on the ball was severely limited, most of Juventus’s build up play was left to the centerbacks to construct. Leonardo Bonucci, Georgio Chiellini, and Andrea Barzagli made a combined 156 passes against Bayern.

A key moment in the match at the Allianz Arena was when Toni Kroos walked off with an apparent groin injury. He was originally the man Heynckes ordered to mark Pirlo.

But after the poor job he did on Pirlo at the Euros, this might have been a stroke of luck for Bayern, at least temporarily. Muller was moved from the right side to the center attacking role and did a fine job on Pirlo, sticking tight to him and not allowing him to use his vision and pick out passes.

Just four days prior, Juventus defeated Inter 2-1 at the San Siro in the Derby d’Italia. Barzagli, Bonucci, and Chiellini combined for total of just 118 passes. This was because Pirlo was the main playmaker. He finished the game with 104 touches (almost double the amount against Bayern) and completed 88 percent of his attempted passes.

Looking a little more in depth, we can see that in Juve’s win at the San Siro, Pirlo delivered 15 long balls from his deep-lying midfield position. Twelve of those were accurate. At the Allianz Arena, Pirlo launched just four long balls. None of them reached their target.Starved from good service, Juventus strikers Matri and Quagliarella combined for just 36 touches.

So how can Juventus, a team that seemed to be outplayed in all areas of the pitch in Munich, come back in Turin and advance to the semifinals? The answer could be as easy as giving Pirlo the freedom of the pitch to move.

Pirlo can be given the freedom of the pitch because unlike other players like Lionel Messi (an integral part of both Barcelona's build-up and goal-scoring), Juventus doesn't depend on Pirlo for goals. They depend on him for assists and ball distribution.

And unlike Arturo Vidal, Juventus doesn't depend on Pirlo to break up opposition play in the midfield, so there is no need for him to sit in pocket between the central defenders and the strikers for the entire match.

Also, giving him the freedom of the pitch ensures that whoever Jupp Heynckes orders to track Pirlo will have to be vigilant. And as the match wares on, whoever tracks him will be dragged out of position, possibly opening up space for Claudio Marchisio or Arturo Vidal to exploit.

However, this plan is easier said than done. As mentioned before, Pirlo is approaching his mid thirties and cannot be asked to run all around the pitch for an entire match. But on the contrary, this season may be Pirlo's last chance to win the "trophy with the big ears." In addition, the effect of the home crowd in Turin will boost Juventus and make it much harder for Bayern to press high up the field for the entire match.

Juventus will be looking to Pirlo to deliver at home, even against the adversity that Bayern poses. They should take the match in Turin as a clean slate and a new opportunity to prove their worth. They are, after all, on track to be champions of Italy after conceding only twenty times this season. Providing that Pirlo can deliver in one of the biggest matches of his career, Juventus has no reason to think that they can't come from behind and progress to the next stage of their Champions League dream.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Juventus vs. Bayern Munich:

Complete UEFA Champions League Preview

Apr 9, 2013

Juventus and Bayern Munich will fight it out for a place in the last four of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday as the German side take a 2-0 first-leg lead to Turin, hoping for a staunch defensive performance to send them through.

Bayern got a great start to the first leg a week ago when they scored inside of a minute, David Alaba striking a deceiving and deflected shot from range. The home team were the better side and, despite losing Toni Kroos to injury, scored a deserved second when Thomas Muller swept home from inside the box during the second half.

Juve will need to perform far above their level from the first leg if they are to stand a chance of reaching the semifinals.

Recent form

Both Juve and Bayern hold significant leads at the top of their respective championships—in fact, Bayern's 1-0 win over Frankfurt at the weekend secured them another league title.

They have been entirely dominant at home and abroad recently, taking victory in an astounding 19 of their last 20 fixtures in all competitions—only a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Round of 16 blemishes that run.

As for Juventus, they are nine points clear at the top of Serie A; five more wins from their remaining seven games will guarantee them the league title, though they will likely end up having to win less than that total.

Juve have won their last four league matches and have suffered just two defeats in the last 12 in all competitions. In the Round of 16, Juve overcame Celtic 5-0 on aggregate.

Team news

Juventus are missing two big names through suspension, with midfielder Arturo Vidal and wing-back Stephan Lichtsteiner both accruing too many yellow cards. Sebastian Giovinco, Simone Pepe, Nicklas Bendtner and Martin Caceres all remain sidelined through injury. Mauricio Isla made a comeback in the final stages of the weekend's match, however.

Bayern Munich, as mentioned, are without Toni Kroos, and he joins Holger Badstuber, who is out with a long-term injury. Manager Jupp Heynckes should have a full side to choose from outside of those two.

Possible lineups:

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Marchisio, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Vucinic, Matri.

Bayern: Neuer; Lahm, van Buyton, Dante, Alaba; Schweinsteiger, Martinez; Robben, Muller, Ribery; Mandzukic.

Prediction

With a 2-0 lead to protect and a phenomenal defensive record away from home this season to provide inspiration and confidence, Bayern are going to be able to allow Juve to press forward—and then try to hit them on the break. Juventus will have to play the perfect game of attacking intent and defensive solidity to avoid conceding an away goal, which will mean they need four goals of their own.

Juve 2 Bayern 1 — Bayern to go through comfortably on aggregate, 2-3.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Juventus: Five steps to overcome Bayern Munich

Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Juventus have a mountain to climb

to overcome Bayern Munich & progress to the semi-finals.

Apr 9, 2013

Juventus trail Bayern Munich 2-0 after their first leg defeat. But there Champions League dream isn't completely over. Here's five steps they must take if they are to overcome the Bundesliga champions and progress to the semi-finals.

1. Find space for Pirlo to work his magic

In the first leg, every time Pirlo moved, so did the Bayern Munich midfield in an attempt to stifle his unique creative talents, and as the scoreline shows, it worked. To get a result in Turin, the midfield magician must work hard for himself, but his teammates must help ease the pressure on their main man. If Pogba starts next to Pirlo, his physical presence could keep the marking men away for long enough for Pirlo to make the killer passes he is so famous for.

2. Start Vucinic and Quagliarella over Giovinco and Matri

When Vucinic came on as a substitute for Matri in the second half of the first leg, he changed the game for the Bianconeri. He was recovering from the flu and Conte may have wanted to preserve him so he could play the whole 90 minutes of the second leg. The big Montenegrins pace and control made Juve look a lot more dangerous in the final third, and if he was on the whole match, he probably would have scored. His size means that he can also compete physically with Van Buyten and Boateng. If Juve are going to turn the tie around, he should prove to be pivotal. Quagliarella may have been invisible in Germany, but he has the ability to take the ball from 30 yards out and turn nothing into something wonderful, like his goal against Inter in Serie A last Saturday. He may fade in and out of games and be frustrating at times, but there is no doubting his natural talent, and he can pop up with big goals in big games.

3. Bring in Pogba for the suspended Vidal

This has been the young Frenchman's breakthrough season. After not getting a chance at Manchester United, Conte could see talent what Ferguson couldn’t, and it has paid off. He could be a permanent fixture in the Juventus line-up for the next decade. His physical presence would help Juventus win the midfield battle and could also help the Old Lady find a plan B. He has a good passing range for someone so inexperienced and his shots from range can be venomous. Playing him in the hole between defence and midfield could be just what Juve need. Paul Pogba can play a key role in the return leg.

4. Play physically

Juventus are not known as a physical team and usually break a team down with their mesmeric passing and lighting quick counter attacks, but with Lichtsteiner missing, it means that the counter attack tactic won’t work as well down the right flank. With Bayern playing physically in the first game and Juve not expecting it, repaying the favour could be enough to shock Bayern into making mistakes. With Pogba, Asamoah, Chiellini, Bonucci and Vucinic all being good in the air and having a large physical presence, Juve have just what they need to pull it off.

5. Attack from the start

In Serie A, it is a common sight to see Juve kick off and immediately go for the jugular like they are behind with only a matter of seconds left, just to throw the opposing team off and catch them off guard. The same tactic could work perfectly against a Bayern team whose only world class defender is Lahm. With Van Buyten turning 35 just two months ago, his pace has left and his reactions can be sloppy, while Boateng is famously inconsistent, if Juve launch attacks early against a sometimes leaky back line, the goals will surely come.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Juventus vs. Bayern München PREVIEW –

It Ain’t Over ‘Till the Old Lady Sings

Apr 9, 2013

On Wednesday night a very stern test awaits the home team as Juventus must try to overcome the comfortable 2-0 lead Bayern take with them to Turin after the first quarterfinal encounter in Germany last week. It is not the deficit in itself that will trouble the Bianconeri the most though, as the first leg was something of a footballing lesson for Conte’s men who were outdone in every facet of the game by their in-form adversaries. A splendid Bayern performance combined with a very timid effort from Juventus left the impression that the Germans quite frankly were on a higher level than their Italian opponents.

However, as much as that game was one sided and as much as Bayern is undoubtedly one of the best sides in Europe, it is simply hard to imagine Juventus put in another performance as bad as the one in Munich. There are lessons in defeat, and the Old Lady will have brought home volumes of notes on what went wrong.

With the backing of an enthusiastic home crowd and those notes in the back of their minds, the Juve players will feel obliged to not only put up a fight, but to actually go for the improbable three goal win. Even with a decimated team at his disposal due to the suspensions of Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner, Antonio Conte will undoubtedly seek to rectify the poor impression given in the first match. The fact is that his team contains a lot more quality than what was shown at the Allanz Arena, and if he can get the players to take to the field with the right mentality, it is not a given that this tie is over.

JUVENTUS

The uncharacteristically poor showing in Munich will have left a dent in the pride of players and manager alike. That might not necessarily only be a bad thing though, for if there’s anything that characterises Juventus under Antonio Conte, it is the enormous determination and will with which the team has fought back at the even the smallest sign of a crisis or poor form. The Mister may talk a lot about the gap between the two sides but few with just a marginal knowledge of the mind-set of the man will believe that he will not demand his team to be at least on a par with the German side going into the game.

The absences of Vidal and Lichtsteiner, arguably Juve’s two best performers in the first leg, will of course be felt and may prove crucial. On the other hand, unlike last Tuesday, the backbone of the starting line-up will have been rested this time with all of Buffon, Barzagli, Chiellini, Pirlo, Marchisio for various reasons not playing in the 2-1 win over Pescara on Saturday.

The defensive trio of Andrea Barzagli, Leo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini are all guaranteed to start, as is Gigi Buffon in goal (that might have been the mildest case of “flu symptoms” in medical history that kept him out of the Pescara game). Central midfield is a given as well, with Paul Pogba slotting in for Vidal alongside Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio.

The wing-backs are more uncertain; Simone Padoin is expected to start on the right as the conditions of neither Isla nor Caceres are not optimal at the time being (one could hope for a surprise here, though). On the left, Federico Peluso has been starting over Kwadwo Asamoah recently, but an encouraging display against Pescara may see the Ghanaian in contention once more – especially seeing that Peluso looked over-matched in Munich (in fairness, most Juve players did, mind you).

Up front, Mirko Vucinic will lead the line with confidence after recovering from illness and celebrating his return with a brace (and a strip show) at the weekend. Giovinco will miss out after being stretchered off on Saturday, leaving Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella to compete for the final starting berth, with FabQuags the favourite to take it.

Antonio Conte will need to get the balance exactly right for this match; on the one hand going for the goals needed whilst on the other securing a crucial clean sheet with a flawless defensive display. A tough ask against a side of Bayern’s calibre, but nonetheless a necessary one.

Probable Formation: (3-5-2) Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Quagliarella.

FC BAYERN

The reds underscored their imperious form by winning the Bundesliga crown at the weekend, the earliest title to be secured in the history of German football. However, the noises coming out of Bavaria suggest that all major celebrations will be postponed till after the Juventus game, so the Bianconeri should not get their hopes up that the Germans fly to Turin straight out of the beer halls.

In fact, for a team known as “FC Hollywood”, the Germans have been very eager to play down the talk of the tie being done and dusted after the first leg, perhaps as a consequence of the scare they got when Arsenal traveled to Munich and recorded a shock 2-0 win in the second leg of the last round.

Jupp Heynckes should not have too many doubts over his line-up considering the excellent job his team did in the first leg. The only injury to worry about would be the one suffered by Kroos in that game, however, the introduction of Arjen Robben on the flank, shuffling Thomas Müller to the middle, if anything made the Bavarians look even more threatening with the latter wreaking havoc on the right and the former delivering a MoTM performance centrally.

Mario Mandžukić and Franck Ribéry were rested at the weekend, but with Mario Gomez and Swiss wunderkind Xherdan Shaqiri are ready to fill the gap, the depth of this team is quite simply startling. Javi Martínez’ ban is up, meaning he should replace Luiz Gustavo in midfield although the latter had a great game against Juventus himself.

Bayern is a formidable side, and it’s hard to see the Germans stray from their normal style, playing with incredible intensity with or without the ball. Although they might sit back a bit given their aggregate lead, the directness and tempo with which they counter attack is still a huge threat to the Bianconeri, and one successful such could see the tie truly over well before the 90 minutes.

Probable Formation: (4-2-3-1) Neuer; Lahm, Boateng, Dante, Alaba; Schweinsteiger, Martinez; Robben, Müller, Ribéry; Mandzukic.

Juventus have it all to do Wednesday night. They will have to take the game to a team that is one of the two best in the world on the break right now, they will have to try and outfox what is one of the most solid systems around, and they will have to ensnare a team painfully aware of every trap in the game after having been caught in all of them at the final hurdle as late as last season.

It seems unlikely. But football is a strange game sometimes… While Bayern is much further in their development than Juventus currently and boast an overall superior squad, the only thing needed for this tie to be turned on its head is exactly what happened in the first leg: The home side playing to their true potential and the away team playing below par. The suspensions and goal deficit of course makes this seem an insurmountable task for Juventus, but as a large manufacturer of sports gear is known to have put it: Impossible is nothing.

Most Juventini will be aware of the magnitude of the task at hand, and few will be truly surprised to see the Old Lady bow out to one of the real powerhouses of European football. What *will* be expected, nay, demanded, is that Juventus deliver a performance worthy of their name and history – unlike the one in Munich.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Preview: Juventus vs. Bayern Munich

Apr 9, 2013

Much was expected of this quarter-final tie when it was pulled out of the hat last month.

However, during the opening leg at the Allianz Arena last Tuesday, visiting Juventus struggled to make an impact on the match. As a result they travelled back to Italy having suffered a 2-0 defeat to Bayern Munich and with their hopes of progressing through to the Champions League semi-finals hanging by a thread.

If they are to pull off an unlikely comeback, they will have to do so without the services of midfielder Arturo Vidal and wingback Stephan Lichtsteiner, both of whom are suspended. The absence of Vidal is likely to hand a starting opportunity to former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba.

Meanwhile, visiting Bayern, who won the Bundesliga title at the weekend, will have Javi Martinez available following suspension, but will have to make do without the injured Toni Kroos.

The last time that these two teams met in Turin was back in 2009 when visiting Bayern ran out 4-1 victors.

Recent form

Juventus: WDWWWW

Bayern: WWWWWW

Possible starting lineups

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Peluso, Pirlo, Pogba, Marchisio; Giovinco, Quagliarella, Vucinic

BAYERN: Neuer; Lahm, Dante, Van Buyten, Alaba; Schweinsteiger, Martinez; Robben, Muller, Ribery; Mandzukic

Sports Mole says: 1-1

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Juventus v Bayern Munich Preview –

Team News, Tactics, Line-ups And Prediction

Apr 9, 2013

The past week or so has been nothing short of amazing for everyone associated with Bayern Munich. Starting off with a 9-2 obliteration of Hamburg, followed by a quality first leg display against Juventus and finally culminating in a Bundesliga title triumph on Saturday, the last week has shown the world just how dangerous this Bayern side really are.

Their opponents this week, and the club they outshone last week, have been equally commendable in Serie A this season and in Europe up until the loss last Tuesday. Juventus also have the league more or less wrapped up but are in a deep pit in the Champions League. Not only did they lose via the scoreline last week, but also on the team sheet and more importantly, mentally. The horrors of UEFA’s suspension rules that affected Bayern last year have returned to haunt Juventus this time around and has possibly sealed this tie already.

Arguments against the death of this tie will undoubtedly be brought up after what Bayern pulled off against Arsenal in the last round. However, rather than falling prey to their own over confidence once again, that loss should act as an eye opener, a wake-up call for the Bavarian giants. Juventus are a great side and one of the few capable of over turning this monstrous lead that Bayern have, but it is going to take an effort all the more monstrous if they wish to pull off one of the most remarkable comebacks in European history and progress to the next round.

Team News and Tactical Brief

JUVENTUS

Yet another manager faces the wrath of UEFA’s suspension rules. Antonio Conte will have to make do without two of his most influential players for the second leg, Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner, both of whom picked up yellow cards in the first leg. Replacing Vidal will be the highly promising Paul Pogba while Lichtsteiner’s replacement isn’t a certainty. Conte has two options, Simone Padoin and Mauricio Isla, neither in the same league as his first-choice right wing back.

The first leg brought out a side of Juventus that many haven’t seen after Conte took over. Sluggish, clueless and completely outclassed, the likes of Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Barzagli and Gianluigi Buffon were mere shadows of their usually brilliant selves. Juventus were on the back foot throughout the game and things have to change this time around, especially for Marchisio. Being their main attacking outlet in midfield, his drop in form greatly affects the team. Bayern will still be a tough cookie to break but Marchisio’s ability can take Juventus a long distance.

As always, Andrea Pirlo will hold the key for Juventus but if Mario Mandzukic puts in yet another stellar performance, the 33-year-old Italian’s seasoned legs may not be enough. Pirlo is no stranger to these magnificent European nights and will have to pull out every trick under his sleeve in this second leg.

Mirko Vucinic should replace Alessandro Matri in attack and should provide a lot more both physically and in terms of skill. The unpredictability of Vucinic might take Bayern by surprise, be it for good or bad. Fabio Quagliarela should keep his spot as the other striker.

Probable starting line-up(3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Quagliarella, Vucinic

BAYERN MUNICH

The only injury worry for Jupp Heynckes will be Toni Kroos, who picked up a knock in the first leg and is ruled out for the season. To the joy of Bayern fans and the dismay of the Juventus faithful, Javi Martinez will be back from suspension for the second leg and should replace Luis Gustavo in midfield.

Kroos’ injury could prompt Heynckes to alter things a little bit, using both Mario Gomez and Mandzukic, the latter in a more withdrawn role. Rather than playing as a creative player, Mandzukic will look to do what he did so well in Munich, destroy Juventus’ possession in defence. With the hosts preferring to build from deep positions, Mandzukic’s deployment in this role could close the tie early on and the use of Gomez can get Bayern that game-ending away goal.

Philipp Lahm has been in scintillating form off late and his forward forays will haunt Peluso for a second time. With more than ten assists to his name this season, Lahm has been one of Bayern’s most potent yet underrated attacking forces. On the opposite side will be David Alaba, Bayern’s buccaneering left back and the scorer of the first goal from last week. Lichtsteiner’s absence will only make things easier for Alaba on Wednesday and more or less decides this tie.

Probable starting line-up(4-2-2-2): Neuer; Lahm, Van Buyten, Dante, Alaba; Martinez, Schweinsteiger; Müller, Ribery; Mandzukic, Gomez

Players to watch out for

Mirko Vucinic (Juventus): Probably the most inconsistent player on the Juventus roster but also among the most talented in the world. Vucinic brings an incredible amount of skill onto the playing field and a good night could easily result in him bagging a brace and shifting things strongly in favor of the Old Lady.

Dante (Bayern Munich): Bayern might start on the back foot, especially since they’re playing away and have a two-goal lead already. With this in mind, their Brazilian rock will be the most crucial figure in keeping Juventus’ attacks at bay and ensuring that the Bavarians inch closer to their dreams of a treble.

Prediction

Juventus 1 – 1 Bayern Munich

Juventus will go all out in this fixture and should reap some benefits for their efforts. Unfortunately for the Italian champions, this isn’t going to be enough. Bayern shouldn’t find it all that hard to muster a goal come Wednesday and that alone should finish the quarter final tie.

Blast from the past

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Champions League Preview —

Show us your grinta

Apr 9, 2013

When the going gets tough, so does Juventus? It seems like that has been the case on more than one occasion at least in the Champions League this season for Antonio Conte's men. It's obviously not the ideal way to do things, but up until this point, Juve have shown the ability to fight back when the chips are stacked against them.

How do I know this? Well, here's some evidence.

I take you to Nov. 20 at the Juventus Stadium. Defending European champion Chelsea visited Turin with both teams needing a win to get that much closer to knockout round qualification. A loss would have essentially ended Juventus' Champions League run barely after it started, which would have given us a lot of sad moments and probably angry comments. But the end result? I think you remember what happened...

That's the same exact Juventus that needs to show up Wednesday night against Bayern Munich. It's not only a team that played with a complete sense of desperation and urgency, but one that executed nearly perfectly in every aspect of the field. That's what was the difference than Juve's dismantling of Chelsea and last Tuesday against Bayern. Juventus forced Chelsea into all kinds of mistakes, and subsequently the same can be said about Bayern's pressure against Juve in the first leg.

What kind of tactics Conte uses remains to be seen. But one thing is for certain: If Juventus wants any chance of advancing to the semifinals of the Champions League, anything other than a perfect showing won't get it done. Not against this Bayern Munich team, that's for damn sure.

And that's the task Conte has on his hands. Juventus can't be so-so. They have to be good — beyond good. They have to play a truly great game to not only win, but flip the 2-0 aggregate into their favor.

It's a lot to do, but not impossible at the same time. This is Juventus afterall. More importantly, Antonio Conte's Juventus, one capable of greatness on the biggest of European stages. We've seen it before. And we'll need to see it again if this season's European adventure wants to continue.

GOOD NEWS

Despite being down 2-0 on aggregate, the best thing going for Juventus is that the second leg is at home instead of in Munich. Even though the last time Bayern went home with a lead after the first leg in the Champions League it became total schadenfreude, i wouldn't have a whole bunch of confidence if this one was headed back to Germany. But it isn't, so that really doesn't matter.

One thing that does matter: Juventus' support will off the charts. The staio will be as loud as it has ever been and that will certainly be something for the players to feed off of. We've seen it before domestically and in Europe this season— and that's why all hope shouldn't be lost.

BAD NEWS

1. Down 2-0 after 90 minutes.

2. No Arturo Vidal or Stephan Lichtsteiner due to suspension. Dammit.

That's really all that needs to be said.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. How Juventus starts. Whether you look at the highlights from the Chelsea win above or you decide to re-watch the suckfest from last Tuesday, you can see just how important starting these kinds of games can be. Juventus were full on the gas against Chelsea. They were completely shocked against Bayern. Sure, it's a 90 minute game. I completely understand that. But Juve have a monumental task to get done even before kickoff. If there's a slip up, the two-goal disadvantage can become even greater, thus making the chances of advancing all but vanish.

2. Arjen Robben's impact. As much as the first-minute goal in Munich didn't help, the changed completely in Bayern's way once the talented Dutch winger came on for the injured Toni Kroos midway into the first half. Robben was all over the wing and to expect anything different on Wednesday would probably be the wrong thing to do. Whether it's Simone Padoin or somebody else playing as the wingback on the right side of Juve's midfield, their main concern will be Robben — and rightfully so.

3. How much room Andrea Pirlo has to operate. Out of any Juventus player the bearded maestro/part-time world traveler definitely had one of the worst performances in the first leg. His 70 percent completion percentage on his passes was by far one of the lowest totals he's recorded since coming to Juventus. Some of that had to do with the pressure Bayern put on him for the entire 90 minutes, but some of it had to do with Pirlo being completely off his game.

4. How well Paul Pogba fills in for Arturo Vidal. Out of all that went wrong in Munich, Vidal was one of the incredibly few bright spots — especially when you consider how the rest of the midfield plays. But because of the Chilean's suspension, in comes Pogba for the return leg in Turin. His role will be different than the one he had against Pescara over the weekend with Pirlo returning to the lineup, but his importance remains the same. He'll certainly have to do more defensive work than he did on Saturday — even though that's pretty much expected. Still, this is a game where a player like Pogba can make his mark on the biggest of stages.

5. Whether Big Game Mirko shows up for real this time. First, a few words from Antonio Conte himself regarding Mirko Vucinic's performance against Pescara on Saturday.

"I told Vucinic he had a terrible game and still scored two goals. ...Imagine what he would've done if he had played well. It's important that he scored today and that bodes well for the Bayern match, even if I'm thinking of benching him!" (via Football Italia)

As Ivo pointed out after the first leg, Vucinic not starting was one of the biggest mistakes Conte made in Munich. And while we never got the full and definitive answer as to why Mirko didn't start against Bayern in the first leg, there's no doubting his performance will play quite a roll in Juventus' attempt to eliminate the hole they find themselves in. It doesn't matter what aspect of the game, really. The man behind 'Big Game Mirko' will have to be at his best. There's really no other way around it.

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Vucinic

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Juventus prepared for penalties

Apr 9, 2013

Seven Juventus players have been put on alert should their Champions League quarter-final tie against Bayern Munich go to penalties.

The Old Lady are 2-0 down after the first leg and the two sides will meet in the decider on Wednesday in the Champions League.

According to reports today, boss Antonio Conte prepared his team for a possible penalty shoot-out on Monday.

It is believed that if the game goes that far then the five Bianconeri penalty takers will primarily come from a group of seven players.

They will be: Mirko Vucinic, Fabio Quagliarella, Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba, Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci.

Arturo Vidal would have been a contender, but the Chilean international is suspended for the second leg tie.

Sebastian Giovinco could also be asked to step up, although it is unclear at this stage whether he will be fit for the game.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Neuer has considered Juve shoot-out

Apr 9, 2013

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has failed to rule out the possibility of a penalty shoot-out against Juventus on Wednesday.

Although the German giants will go into the quarter-final tie 2-0 up after the first leg, the international says he’s ready for spot-kicks should the Old Lady stage a fight-back.

“We want to win the game,” he stated on Tuesday. “But I’m a goalkeeper and, as part of my job, I have to prepare for the possibility of penalties.

“Let’s just hope it doesn’t come down to that…”

Bayern will go into the game with confidence after the result of the first tie, as well as sealing the Bundesliga title at the weekend.

“We did well in the Munich encounter, but we can not just sit on the 2-0 lead,” Neuer added. “It is not going to be easy tomorrow and we all know that.

“The title? It was important to wrap that up and we are obviously delighted. It’s always a bonus to go into a game on the back of a positive result.”

Juventus are believed to have also prepared for the possibility of collecting a 2-0 after 120 minutes of action.

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Bayern won’t just defend, insists Robben

Apr 9, 2013

Arjen Robben has underlined that his Bayern Munich side will play their usual attacking game in the Champions League return leg against Juventus.

The German giants will start Wednesday’s tie with a two-goal advantage, but the Dutchman insists his side won’t play cautiously.

“We have come to Turin to score,” he stated. “We know how important an away goal could be because we didn’t concede at home.

“Bayern Munich are not just going to defend. We’re 2-0 up, but anything can happen in football. We have to remain focused and play our own game.”

Robben also played down Mirko Vucinic’s recent claim that he predicted a “war” in the second leg.

“That word has little to do with football,” added the attacking midfielder. “Nevertheless, we know what to expect.”

Bayern managed to keep Andrea Pirlo quiet in the first game and that seems to be the plan for tomorrow night too.

“Pirlo is world class,” he added. “Players like him can always step up to the occasion like the tie on Wednesday.

“He is probably their most important player so we have to be careful, we’ve got to keep an eye on him out there.”

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Heynckes: Nothing decided yet

Apr 9, 2013

Jupp Heynckes has insisted that nothing is decided between Bayern Munich and Juventus in their Champions League quarter-final.

The Bundesliga champions travel to Turin for the second leg of their last eight clash tomorrow holding a 2-0 advantage.

But the Bavarian club's Coach has claimed that the tie is not over, whilst also commenting on Gianluigi Buffon, who came in for some criticism after his first leg performance.

“For us, despite the first leg result, nothing has changed fundamentally,” he told a Press conference.

“We’ll approach the game as we did last Tuesday, so we’re going to try and win here in Turin.

“Juventus are a top team and they have shown that so far in the Champions League and in Serie A. They are going to try and make the impossible possible.

“I regard Gianluigi Buffon as one of the best goalkeepers in the history of football. He is a legend for me, a fantastic man and an excellent goalkeeper.”

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Caceres back for Juve-Bayern

Apr 9, 2013

Juventus have named their squad for the Champions League quarter-final with Bayern Munich, as Martin Caceres returns, but Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner miss out.

The Bianconeri welcome Bayern to the Juventus Stadium tomorrow evening in a bid to turn around the 2-0 first leg defeat.

Vidal and Lichtsteiner picked up yellow cards in Munich and are therefore suspended, while Sebastian Giovinco, Nicolas Anelka, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner are sidelined.

Caceres returns to the squad for the first time since he was hospitalised after a car accident on March 18.

Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini are fresh after missing the 2-0 win over Pescara due to bans.

Juventus squad: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 4 Caceres, 6 Pogba, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 13 Peluso, 15 Barzagli, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 22 Asamoah, 24 Giaccherini, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Conte: 'A different Juve to Munich'

Apr 9, 2013

Antonio Conte is confident Juventus “will play differently to the first leg” against Bayern Munich, but warned “they are a skyscraper whereas we are a building site.”

The Bianconeri welcome Bayern to Turin tomorrow evening in a bid to turn around the 2-0 first leg deficit in their Champions League quarter-final.

“We are facing a very strong side. We have hunger and the right level of calm to approach this game and the awareness we’ll play very differently to the first leg,” opened Conte in his Press conference.

“The first leg confirmed what we already knew, which was that Bayern are a very strong side who play a very physical game. We confirmed they are among the favourites for the trophy.

“In all these years they have worked to get where they are now, reaching the Champions League Final twice in the last three years, and are at the highest level in both team and club terms.

“We have just started our journey after many years of difficulty. Clearly there is a gap between us, as we are still building this project and only a third of the way through, so we want to follow Bayern’s example. For many reasons, we had to reconstruct what had been destroyed. Bayern are a skyscraper, whereas we are still a building site.

“However, I am convinced the distance between us is not as big as the one seen in the first leg. As far as we are concerned, we really want to play differently to the first match. My players want to show what they were unable to in Germany. We’ll see what happens.”

Juventus were demoted to Serie B in 2006 and had to sell many of their top stars, then finished seventh in Serie A for two years running before last term’s Scudetto triumph.

“It is wonderful to be back playing games like this and it has to fire up our enthusiasm, pushed on by our fans,” continued Conte.

“There must be great joy within us and within the supporters to be in the Champions League quarter-finals. Our fans will be breathing the kind of atmosphere they haven’t felt in a long time. If someone forgets that, then we’ve got problems.

“I heard people saying that was Juve’s worst performance for years. How many years?! We’ve only been working on this side for 18 months and people forget too quickly what we’ve done. People think everything is easy, but success is never easy. Only two years ago we weren’t even in Europe.

“We have to put in the kind of performance that Bayern did in the first leg, showing concentration and sporting aggression. We mustn’t step on to the field with the handbrake on the way we did in Munich. We have to go on to the pitch playing like Juventus.

“In terms of incidents, I also hope my team can be a little more fortunate – I am referring to the offside goal and Franck Ribery not getting sent off. I thank Jupp Heynckes for his kind words about us. I hope tomorrow, after the game, he can say ‘I told you so...’”

Conte playfully slapped Mirko Vucinic after a series of misses in the 2-0 win over Pescara on Saturday, where the striker eventually netted a brace.

“Vucinic just has to believe in himself more. He can reach 20 goals per season, as he has great qualities. We need everyone, because only the collective can get the best out of the individual.”

Nicolas Anelka missed the Pescara game due to ‘a family matter’ and is now out of the squad against Bayern, fuelling reports of an early exit.

“Anelka had a calf problem ahead of the Pescara match. He never gave me the impression that he has given up.”

[Socrates 8335]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 10-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - BAYERN

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Chiellini: 'Juve have studied Bayern'

Apr 9, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini claims Juventus have studied Bayern Munich and will “counter-act their pressing game” in Turin.

“There is great enthusiasm,” said the defender in the Press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Champions League quarter-final.

“We believe in qualification and we want to fight all the way. We want to leave the field without regrets, aware that we gave our all.

“We really want to experience a wonderful evening. In the city you can sense the desire the fans have to achieve something remarkable. The crowd will help us to put in a great performance.

“It would be crazy to surge forward and give Bayern the opportunity to counter-attack. There’s no danger we will leave ourselves open.

“Bayern did very well when pressing us in the first leg, not just on the defenders but also the midfield passes. There was a big difference between the teams in terms of intensity.

“We watched the game back and studied it carefully together. We all know that we have to counter-act their pressing game. It will require a different attitude.”

Chiellini was asked about Bayern Munich Honorary President Franz Beckenbauer’s controversial comments, suggesting Gigi Buffon “looked like a pensioner” in the first leg.

“Gigi was not affected by Beckenbauer’s comments. We can’t wait to get on to the pitch tomorrow.”