Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Juventus 0-2 Bayern Munich (Agg 0-4):

Germans impressive march to semis for Bayern

The Croatian striker opened the scoring midway through the second half

before substitute Claudio Pizarro added a second right at the death.

Apr 10, 2013

Bayern Munich booked their place in the semi-finals of the Champions League with another commanding defeat of Juventus, the newly-crowned German champions triumphing 2-0 in Turin on Wednesday night to seal a 4-0 aggregate win over their Italian counterparts.

The Bavarians soaked up what little the Bianconeri could throw at them during the early exchanges of both halves before eventually putting the outcome of the tie beyond all doubt when Mario Mandzukic converted from close range just after the hour-mark.

Juventus tried to rally but there was to be no way back for Antonio Conte's game but limited side, who were opened up again in the dying seconds when substitute Claudio Pizarro fired home.

While the Bianconeri had to make do without suspended duo Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner, they were at least buoyed by Mirko Vucinic’s return to full fitness, with the Montenegrin having been restricted to the role of substitute in Munich.

Unsurprisingly, a fired-up Vucinic was particularly prominent early on, curling a tame strike into the arms of Manuel Neuer before then lofting the ball into the path of Claudio Marchisio, who drove forward with will menace only to then blaze high and wide as the Bayern goal came into range.

Bayern, though, weathered what was a very early and a very brief storm, and it took an expertly executed sliding challenge from Simone Padoin to prevent Mandzukic from finishing off a terrific move down the right-hand side involving Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery.

Andrea Pirlo lifted the home fans with a stinging free kick from the edge of the area that Neuer did well to fist over the bar, while Paul Pogba flashed a ball across the face of the six-yard box that criminally went unconverted.

However, for all the Bianconeri’s bluster, and the loss of Daniel van Buyten to injury 35 minutes in, Bayern looked reasonably comfortable and they arguably finished the half the stronger, with Gianluigi Buffon having to produce a flying save to keep out a well-struck drive from David Alaba.

Vucinic, though, put Juve back on the front foot with a barnstorming run right at the heart of the Bayern back-line immediately after the interval and, just moments later, strike partner Fabio Quagliarella flashed a shot just wide of Neuer’s right post.

However, the increasingly desperate hosts unsurprisingly began to leave holes at the back and one brilliant Bayern breakaway on 57 minutes really should have resulted in the opening goal, Mandzukic deftly laying the ball off into the path of Robben, who took a touch before striking the post with a sublime curling effort from 20 yards out.

The Bavarians’ disappointment did not last long, though, with Mandzukic on hand to convert the rebound after Buffon had done brilliantly to keep out Javi Martinez’s point-blank range volley from a Bastian Schweinsteiger free kick.

The visitors should have doubled their advantage moments later but Thomas Muller blazed over after being put through by Robben. However, Bayern would get the second goal their dominance deserved when Pizarro slotted home after slipped in by Schweinsteiger to put the seal on another statement of intent from a side clearly driven by their desire to atone for last season's defeat by Chelsea.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Super Bayern send Juve out

Juventus crashed out of the Champions League after a 2-0 home defeat against Bayern Munich,

as Mario Mandzukic and Claudio Pizarro silenced the Turin crowd.

Apr 10, 2013

The Bianconeri had a mountain to climb in order to reach the Champions League semi-finals, having lost the first leg 2-0 in Munich. Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner were suspended, so Paul Pogba and Simone Padoin stepped into the starting XI with Fabio Quagliarella replacing the injured Sebastian Giovinco. Bayern won the Bundesliga last week with six games to spare and welcomed Javi Martinez back from his ban, though Toni Kroos suffered a thigh strain.

As Antonio Conte requested, the atmosphere in the Juventus Stadium was deafening and a huge banner read: ‘Never give up, because when you think it’s all over, that is the moment where everything begins.’

After 84 seconds Mirko Vucinic scuffed his shot at Manuel Neuer, then Giorgio Chiellini went down in agony after a clash with Mario Mandzukic that saw the striker very harshly booked and therefore suspended for Bayern’s next game.

Mandzukic went close to a goal on the counter, but turned wide under pressure from Padoin. Philipp Lahm tripped Claudio Marchisio right on the edge of the box for a free kick, from which Andrea Pirlo hit a missile that Neuer punched out from under the bar with great difficulty.

Padoin tackled Ribery to win back possession and Vucinic threaded through for Pogba down the right, who flashed a ball across the six-yard box, but Asamoah was a fraction too late to get the final touch.

Quagliarella smashed a long-range attempt high and wide, while Thomas Muller volleyed off target. Daniel Van Buyten requested a substitution, making way for Jerome Boateng, the brother of Milan star Kevin-Prince.

Pogba’s first touch let him down in the D when Vucinic pulled back and he hesitated, allowing the shot to be charged down.

David Alaba’s screamer surprised Gigi Buffon in the first leg, but this time a corner fell to the full-back for a powerful shot and the goalkeeper was ready, flying to palm it away.

Juve went close from a free kick that was not dealt with, as Quagliarella and then Bonucci couldn’t finish it off from six yards. In first half stoppages Ribery scuffed a weak effort into Buffon’s arms, while Vucinic’s chipped pass for Padoin was crucially deflected out for a corner.

Straight after the restart, Vucinic sprinted at the Bayern defence and was eventually sandwiched between red shirts on the edge of the box for a free kick. Pirlo’s effort was deflected off the wall and into Neuer’s arms.

Quagliarella cut in from the left and his daisy-cutter whistled inches past the base of the upright. Pirlo’s misplaced pass sparked a Muller counter, then Quagliarella spun round to sting Neuer’s palms, but was offside anyway.

Chiellini fell in the box under a Boateng challenge, but play continued and Robben’s fantastic curler cracked against the upright from the edge of the area.

However, it was Bayern Munich who took the lead in Turin. A Robben free kick found Javi Martinez’s outstretched foot, forcing a great reaction save out of Buffon, but there was no stopping Mandzukic with a diving header to follow it up from a couple of yards.

Juventus now needed four goals to qualify. From their corner, Bayern went on the counter and Muller ballooned over the bar. Vucinic wasted a good chance when needing one extra touch and allowing Neuer to smother at his feet, then the goalkeeper blocked a Pogba strike.

Muller drilled wide at the end of a well-worked move and Buffon at full stretch fingertipped a Robben solo effort round the base of the upright, as all belief had long seeped out of the Juventus Stadium.

In stoppages, Bayern made it 2-0, as Schweinsteiger set up substitute Claudio Pizarro for a low angled drive that went through Buffon’s legs.

Juventus 0-2 Bayern (0-4 agg)

Scorers: Mandzukic 64 (B), Pizarro 91 (B)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin (Isla 69), Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio (Giaccherini 78), Asamoah; Vucinic, Quagliarella (Matri 66)

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, Dante, Van Buyten (Boateng 35), Alaba; Schweinsteiger, Javi Martinez; Robben, T Muller, Ribery (Luiz Gustavo 80); Mandzukic (Pizarro 83)

Ref: Carballo (SPA)

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

We Believed, But The Dream Is Over

Apr 10, 2013

Last week Juventus travelled to the Allianz Arena and were humbled by a Bayern Munich side desperate to make amends for losing last year’s final in their own stadium. A two-nil victory showed that they were a side to be taken seriously and that the second leg defeat to Arsenal in the previous round was more a product of circumstance rather than any sudden loss of form by the Bavarian outfit. The Bianconeri knew that overcoming that deficit would be difficult but not impossible and they would fight to the very end in the hunt for victory.

MATCH ANALYSIS by Adam Digby

Yellow cards and the subsequent suspensions robbed Antonio Conte of both Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner so Paul Pogba slotted into midfield alongside Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio while Simone Padoin and Kwadwo Asamoah filled the wingback berths. The usual suspects lined up in defence while Fabio Quagliarella partnered Mirko Vucinic in attack and Juventus made clear their intent from the opening whistle.

Juventus-0-2-Bayern-Munich-Champions-League-Pirlo-RiberyThey asserted themselves in a way David Alaba’s early first leg goal never allowed them to do last week and it looked like being one of those games where the pressing and pressure demanded by Conte would pay dividend. The increased sense of belief inside the stadium was palpable as, in one voice, the crowd declared “if you’re not jumping, you don’t believe we can do it!” Not a single soul remained in their seat.

Vucinic failed to trouble Manuel Neuer inside two minutes with a weak effort before Marchisio blasted a left-footed drive over the bar. With 22 minutes gone, Bayern had barely been allowed to venture beyond their own half and gave away a free kick that was outside their box and in a nice central position. It was a gilt edged opportunity and the noise inside Juventus Stadium grew even louder as Pirlo stood over the ball and surveyed the scene.

Sadly for The Bearded Genius and the “one hundred and sixty million fans around the world,” Neuer proved equal to the task and parried a superb effort away from goal. Undeterred, the Bianconeri stuck to their task and drove forward, almost completely in command of the game. Padoin slotted a superb pass to Pogba but, as the midfielder flashed the ball across the face of goal, not one player had followed him in to tap home. Somewhere in northern Spain, Fernando Llorente smiled and imagined similar chances coming his way next term.

Quagliarella would fire wide with an effort typical of his insane penchant for miraculous goals before some normality was restored and, after almost forty minutes, Bayern recorded their first genuine shot as everyone’s favourite pensioner Gigi Buffon prevented Alaba from netting again.

Halftime came and went without any change from Conte, a worrying issue given the team now had just 45 minutes to find three goals after not finding a goal in triple that amount of time so far. Yet he appeared to have once again inspired the players as a great run from Vucinic drew a poor challenge from Dante. That gave Pirlo another set piece opportunity but this time he struck the wall and the ball ran softly to the waiting goalkeeper.

Quagliarella and Arjen Robben traded efforts before the moment all those of a Bianconeri persuasion dreaded. Mario Mandzukic was in the right place at the right time and headed home from close range to all but end Juve’s hopes and substitute Claudio Pizzarro added a second to ensure comfortable passage into the Semi Finals for Bayern.

LE PAGELLE by Aaron Giambattista

Buffon 7.0 - Criticized by Beckenbauer as a “pensioner” after a disappointing display in the first leg, San Gigi showed his class in the return match in Torino. Commanded his box well and pulled off some great saves on Alaba and Robben. Made a good save on Martinez before the goal, but couldn’t do anything on the rebound.

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

Barzagli 5.5 - Pressed by Muller, Barza never settled into a good passing rhythm and was occasionally defensively suspect.

Bonucci 5.0 - Ultimately, Bayern’s goal that ended the game was his fault. Held Martinez onside for his first effort, and then, the game was over.

Chiellini 5.5 - Must have remembered the trouble from Mandzukic from the first leg, because he appeared nervous from the first minute. His passing was especially poor even for his standards, it seemed pressured and rushed. Defensively, did alright with Mandzukic’s threat.

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

Padoin 6.5 - Most thought that Padoin would be the worst player on the pitch, but he dignified himself with a great game. Made an impressive goal-saving tackle early on (though he kept Mandzukic onside, it must be noted) and did well getting forward, cutting inside, delivering simple but effective passes. May be redeeming himself in Juventus fans eyes.

’69 Isla s.v. - Got a few minutes in his legs, and despite the game being well over by the time he subbed in, worked hard on the flank.

Pogba 6.0 - The first half was excellent- he played physical, retained possession, and caused Bayern threats on the few occasions he moved forward. The second half was the complete opposite, he entirely disappeared. Still, a solid performance for a 20-year old in a Champion’s League Quarterfinal.

Pirlo 6.0 - Started out the game decent- not brilliant, but nowhere as poor as he was in Germany. Worked hard in midfield, but never was able to deliver a truly killer pass. Had a great free kick that Neuer saved.

Marchisio 4.5 - In the first few minutes, it looked like Claudio would have a good game, he was pressuring, he was making good forward runs, but unfortunately, the Prince was absent for the rest of the game, outclassed by Schweinsteiger. The few times he was on the ball, the result was very poor.

’79 Giaccherini s.v. - Subbed on, ran, nothing of note.

Asamoah 5.5 - Ran up and down the flank and held his own defensively, but it has become increasingly an issue that he’s not at all a wide player.

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

Quagliarella 6.5 - Fabio has probably been the most underused player in the team this year. Looked determined to make an impact and had Juve’s best opportunities all game, including a drive that struck the lower right post.

’66 Matri s.v - The game was over, the forwards got no support. Nothing to do.

Vucinic 5.0 - There were 2-3 times where Vucinic made a brilliant run through 3-4 Bayern players, showing individual skill and tenacity in keeping the ball. Unfortunately, that was about it. Big Game Mirko has failed to show up in pretty much any big game for most of this season, completely unlike his demolition jobs against Milan, Fiorentina, and Inter a year ago.

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

Conte 5.5 - The team started out well enough, a dramatic improvement over the match in Germany, but the Bianconeri became increasingly desperate as time went on. Once Bayern scored, the game was over. A great debut Champion’s League run, but a 4-0 aggregate loss is pretty heavy.

ANALYSIS WRAP-UP by Adam Digby

Conte made few changes to the first leg other than the two forced upon him. Aside from the inclusion of Pogba and Padoin, his inclusion of Asamoah over Peluso was seemingly there to balance the loss of the Swiss fullback’s attacking intent. The coach did allow his wingbacks freedom to attack by removing their defensive responsibility, instead opting to use Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini to nullify the threat of Robben and Franck Ribery when Juve were in possession.

However, that change was almost directly responsible for the second goal here as it left Leo Bonucci to cover the middle on his own and some smart interplay left the 25 year old with no chance to prevent Bayern scoring. On the whole, the two legs proved that the 3-5-2 – so vital to Scudetto glory in Serie A – is wholly inadequate against the continents top sides who attack with pace and quality which overwhelms the back three over and over again.

I’ve congratulated the lads, because I think winning the Scudetto and being among the top eight sides in Europe represents an extraordinary achievement.

Antonio Conte

But there are two ways to assess this game and, by proxy, Juve’s 2012-13 Champions League campaign as a whole. On the one hand, it is easy to look at the performance and say Antonio Conte was out-coached and Juventus outclassed by Jupp Heynckes’ marauding FC Bayern. That view is the one neutrals appear to hold as the Bianconeri crash out to last year’s runners up and leads to the inevitable debate about the weaknesses of Serie A compared to its German counterpart.

Perhaps the events of last weekend should have provided us with a clue for, as a much-changed Juve laboured to a 2-1 win over lowly Pescara, FC Bayern were celebrating sealing their twenty-third Bundesliga title. Holding an unassailable twenty point lead over the rest of the German league, they have enjoyed a similar dominance of the domestic scene that the Old Lady currently possess on the peninsula.

However, an alternative view would be to recognise the mitigating factors at work here and the inexperience of this young Juventus team. Not only had very few players ever ventured into Europe’s top competition before, Conte himself was making his personal debut in the elite tournament and will grow immensely from the experience.

He did so not only having been banned from the early matches of the campaign but also without two players who gave him genuine tactical options. With Mauricio Isla still not fully fit and Simone Pepe missing for the entire year, the 4-3-3 alternative used before was not available to the coach and that shape could certainly have helped here as much as the addition of the much lamented ‘top player’.

With this season under their belts, the Old Lady will undoubtedly return next season stronger than ever. Conte has often claimed Juventus must play ‘as if going to war’ and, given the coach’s love of a rallying speech, perhaps it is fitting the last word should go to iconic orator Winston Churchill who once said “this is not the end, it is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.”

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xywkwl_juventus-0-2-bayern-munich-highlights_sport

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Champions League Post-Match Reaction

Apr 10, 2013

In the days leading up to the second-leg match against Bayern Munich, Antonio Conte's men made the rounds in the Italian media with their cries of urgency and pride before the big match.

Juventus sounded so convincing that I even bought into their unbridled confidence, thinking that a 2-0 aggregate scoreline could be turned around by the reigning Italian champions in their intimidating new stadium.

However, another dominant display from the recently-crowned Bundesliga winners put to bed my naivety, as they managed yet another 2-0 win against a team that was clearly inferior throughout both legs.

Juventus Notes:

•The losses of Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner proved costly to the Bianconeri, as they were forced to slot in a player like Simone Padoin on the right flank, who has about as much Champions League experience as I do.

•Up front, Antonio Conte once again went with the hit-or-miss Fabio Quagliarella, who nearly scored with a signature fantastic effort from distance. Along with Mirko Vucinic, the mercurial and rather inconsistent pair failed to give Juventus a goal in the entire game.

•Simply put, the attack isn't up to the level required at this stage of the competition. Fortunately for Juventus fans, January transfer window signing Fernando Llorente can be that man next year, as he will join the team in the summer.

•Andrea Pirlo isn't Andrea Pirlo in the Champions League. Milan fans have been echoing these sentiments since the club sold the deep-lying playmaker to Juventus two seasons ago. Pirlo can be quelled by a world-class team with athletic midfielders. Against Bayern, Pirlo was contained in both legs and looked slower and older than he ever has berfore in his entire Juventus stint.

Bayern Munich Notes:

•Bayern Munich not only proved to be a better side than Juventus, but also one that needs to be considered as a favorite in Europe. They've built a model organization which is balanced throughout the formation, having incredible depth in each position.

•This Bayern Munich team reminds me a bit of the Inter side which went on to win the Champions League in 2010 under Jose Mourinho (ironically against Bayern in the final). They play the same 4-2-3-1 formation and employ plenty of hulking, physical players with the right mix of ruggedness and technique.

Final Thoughts:

Although it was a sad exit for Juventus, they'll be back next year even better. After a summer where they'll improve their striking core, the Bianconeri will fill their biggest weakness while having young starlets like Paul Pogba getting even better—a terrifying thought for any fan of a rival Italian side.

La Vecchia Signora can bow her head back and admit that the better team won. Bayern Munich put on a footballing display for the entire world and will undoubtedly provide us with another memorable two-legged affair in the semifinals.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Mandzukic melts Bianconeri hearts

Apr 10, 2013

Juventus were beaten 2-0 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final second leg in Turin on Wednesday.

Mario Mandzukic’s second half goal and Claudio Pizzaro’s late strike meant the Germans won 4-0 on aggregate as they were victorious in the first leg 2-0.

In the opening moments Mirko Vucinic had a poor shot which went straight to Manuel Neuer. While Mandzukic has a good chance at the other end as Bayern took advantage on the counter attack.

Andrea Pirlo then forced another save from Neuer as his freekick looked set to go in. Then Paul Pogba smashed a ball across the Bayern goalmouth but Kwadwo Asamoah struggled to get on the end of it.

Not long after Fabio Quagliarella hit wide, before Thomas Muller did the same. Then a few moments later David Alaba tried another long range effort, but unlike in the first leg, Gianluigi Buffon was equal to it.

Just before half-time Juve had another opportunity as Quagliarella and Leonardo Bonucci couldn’t poke the ball in from close range as bounced around the six-yard area.

Following the break, Quagliarella jinxed past Philip Lahm but his shot went just wide of the post and a few minutes later tested Neuer once again but the German goalkeeper saved easily.

Bayern started to look a but more dangerous and Arjen Robben his the post with an effort from the edge of the area. But a few minuted later the ball was in the back of the net.

Mandzukic nodded home from close range after Buffon parried a Javi Marttinez effort into his path.

As a result of that goal, Juve poured forward and Bayern should have been two up, as Robben picked out Muller on the left edge of the penalty area but the German smashed over the cross bar.

Pogba tried a long shot from the edge of the area, but Neuer easily dealt with it, then Bayern had a chance to kill the tie completely with Mandzukic’s low cross which Muller just failed to get a toe on.

As the end of the match approached Bayern looked to shore up the midfield as Juve struggled to have any more meaningful chances, then just to rub salt in the wounds of the Bianconeri, Pizarro made it two right at the death.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Champions League: Bayern ease past

Juventus and into the semi-finals

Bayern Munich beat Juventus 2-0 in Turin to win 4-0 on aggregate

and progress to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.

Apr 10, 2013

Bayern, who wrapped up the Bundesliga crown at the weekend, might have been expecting a tough night in Italy but second-half goals from Mario Mandzukic and Claudio Pizarro sealed the tie.

Mandzukic, who was unlucky to be booked early on and will now miss the first leg of the semi-final, had the first opportunity for the German side when he almost turned in a Franck Ribery cross.

At the other end, Juventus pushed for the first-half breakthrough they surely needed but Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer saved well from a fiercely struck Andrea Pirlo free-kick.

Paul Pogba then played a dangerous ball across the face of the Bayern goalmouth but there was nobody on the end of it, while Arjen Robben blazed over wildly when well placed for the visitors.

After the break, Juve showed some intent when Fabio Quagliarella cut in from the left and fired right-footed just wide of Neuer's near post.

But it was Bayern posing the greater threat with Robben hitting the post with Buffon beaten before Mandzukic delivered the killer blow on the hour mark.

Bastian Schweinsteiger whipped in a free-kick from the right and while Buffon was able to parry Javi Martinez's close-range effort away, Mandzukic was there to slot the ball home.

The German champions could have doubled their advantage on the night when Robben set up Thomas Muller but the 23-year-old curled a great chance over the bar.

Substitute Pizarro did add a second goal when the veteran pulled away from his marker in the right channel and slid the ball past Buffon with ease.

By that point, any hope of a Bianconeri comeback had long since been extinguished and Jupp Heynckes' side saw out the game to join Bundesliga rivals Borussia Dortmund in the last four.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

Player Ratings: Juventus 0-2 Bayern Munich (Agg 0-4)

Goal.com evaluates the performances of everyone involved in Turin, as the Bundesliga

champions clinch their place in the final four with another assured display.

Apr 10, 2013

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon - Had to deal with one awkwardly flighted ball in the opening quarter before then being called upon to make a fine stop from Alaba. Pulled off an even better save to deny Javi Martinez, so was unfortunate to see Mandzukic bury the rebound. Nothing he could do about the second goal either.

Andrea Barzagli - Back to his best after an uncharacteristically nervy display in Munich, the centre-half making a number of typically well-timed tackles.

Leonardo Bonucci - An ill-timed slip resulted in him picking up a booking for cynically hauling down Muller, but he was defensively sound thereafter.

Giorgio Chiellini - Played with passion and determination, as exemplified by the way in which he threw himself into two 50-50s in the space of 10 seconds in the first half. However, was given all sorts of trouble by Robben's quick feet.

Simone Padoin - Showed a great appetite to get forward down the right-hand side and was also admirably strong in the tackle. However, he just did not offer enough going forward and, as expected, proved a poor substitute for Lichtsteiner.

Paul Pogba - Showed a real eagerness to get beyond his attackers right from the off, while at the same time ensuring that he was always on hand to help Padoin deal with Ribery. His final ball let him down occasionally but this was a fine display.

Andrea Pirlo - Once again put under pressure, the veteran playmaker once again failed to dictate the pace of the game. Was unfortunate that his fiercely-struck free kick was straight down Neuer's throat.

Claudio Marchisio - Initially played with far greater drive and dynamism than he had at the Allianz, getting a shot away inside the opening 10 minutes after a strong surge from midfield. But he faded dismally the longer the game when on.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Unsurprisingly left space in behind for Robben to exploit as he was charged with the responsibility of providing Juve with greater width, and while he switched the play well at times, he never really put Lahm under any great pressure.

Mirko Vučinić - Lively enough at times, getting a shot on target inside the opening five minutes before then releasing Marchisio into space. Lifted Juve with a barnstorming run just after the break but could not make a sustained impact.

Fabio Quagliarella - Seemed more intent on getting players booked than scoring goals in the first half, but began the second in far more determined fashion, firing just wide after cutting in nicely from the left wing. His resurgence didn't last, though, and he was replaced by Matri on 66 minutes.

Substitutions

Mauricio Isla - Took over from Padoin just after Mandzukic's goal but was unable to alter the course of the game.

Emanuele Giaccherini - Sent on in place of Marchisio with just over 10 minutes remaining but unable to make an impact.

Alessandro Matri - Came on for Quagliarella midway through the second half but did not get a clear sight of goal.

FC Bayern München

Manuel Neuer - Showed strong hands in fisting a free kick from Pirlo over the bar and exhibited his bravery in diving at the feet of Vucinic midway through the second half. Reliable as ever.

Philipp Lahm - Gave away a very dangerous free on the edge of the area with a clumsy challenge on Marchisio and only once got beyond Robben down the right flank. However, he defended Asamoah excellently.

Dante - Never ruffled, even when his central defensive colleague was forced off shortly before half-time. Coped confidently and effectively with everything Juve threw at him, and played a key role in containing Quagliarella.

Daniel Van Buyten - Looked dominant in the air before his injury-enforced departure some 35 minutes in. Had bravely tried to play through the pain but it was clear that he was struggling badly before he was belatedly withdrawn.

D. Alaba - Wisely focused solely on his defensive duties during the opening quarter but began to attack with far greater regularity the longer the first half went on and the Austrian tested Buffon with a fine strike just before the break.

Javi Martínez - Lucky to escape a booking after chopping down Marchisio in midfield and fortune smiled on him again when Bonucci sliced over after he had botched an attempted clearance. However, protected his back four to great effect and deserves credit for the volley which led to Mandzukic breaking the deadlock.

Bastian Schweinsteiger - Whipped the ball away from the feet of Vucinic as the Montenegrin set himself to shoot on 13 minutes and continued in that vain thereafter, putting out fires left, right and centre. Also played his part in both goals. Inspirational.

Franck Ribéry - Created a fine opening for Mandzukic inside the opening 10 minutes, after being released by Robben, and drew a routine save out of Buffon at the end of a decent - if unspectacular - opening 45 minutes for the Frenchman. Listless in the second half, though.

Thomas Müller - Did some good work down the right-hand side, creating a couple of openings for Mandzukic. However, he took too much out of the ball on occasion and also missed a glorious chance to double Bayern's advantage.

Arjen Robben - Combined well with Ribery, while at the same time sparking panic within the Bianconeri back-line every time he started taking players on. His shooting was wayward during the first half but he was so unlucky to strike the post with a terrific curler just before the hour.

Mario Mandzukic - Went close to opening the scoring eight minutes in but was denied by a tremendous last-ditch challenge from Padoin. Just as he had done in Munich, put Pirlo under pressure at every opportunity and was rewarded for his endeavour with a simple finish on 64 minutes.

Substitutions

Jerome Boateng - Thrown on in place of the injured Van Buyten 10 minutes before half-time and made a significant early contribution, putting in a fine block on a shot from Pogba, setting the tone for a fine performance.

Luiz Gustavo Dias - Replaced Ribery in the closing stages, but did not have enough time to really make his presence felt.

Claudio Pizarro - Took over up top from Mandzukic and helped himself to a goal right at the death with a calm finish.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

Robben hails 'perfect away performance'

The Dutchman feels Bayern Munich did everything right during their victory

over Juventus, which came courtesy of goals from Mario Mandzukic and Claudio Pizarro.

Apr 10, 2013

Arjen Robben paid tribute to "a perfect away performance" after Bayern Munich beat Juventus 2-0 in Turin on Wednesday night to sail into the semi-finals of the Champions League.

Having triumphed by the same scoreline in the first leg at the Allianz Arena, there was little onus on the Bavarians to take the game to the Bianconeri but, after a cagey opening quarter, that is exactly what they did, and second-half strikes from Mario Mandzukic and Claudio Pizarro were just rewards for a dominant display.

"Yeah, I think it was the perfect away performance," Robben told Sky Sports.

"If you win 2-0 away in Turin, that's an amazing result because they're unbeaten in so many games in Italy and they're such a perfect team; so strong at the back.

"So, if you dominate the game, too, then I think it's a great performance."

Bayern are joined in the last four by Barcelona, Real Madrid and compatriots Borussia Dortmund. A semi-final showdown with Jurgen Klopp's men would guarantee a German representative in the final, but Robben would rather die Roten face their Bundesliga rivals in the final.

"I think Germans will want us kept apart," the winger mused. "I think that's what we're hoping for. I think it'd be nice if we're mixed up, but we don't have a choice.

"It's going to be a big one, the semi-final, as we're maybe the four best teams in the world at the moment, so it's going to be very nice."

Robben is just happy that Bayern are once again in a position to record a treble, having wrapped up the league at the weekend.

"We knew that was going to happen," the Netherlands international explained. "We had such a big gap with the second place, but I think it's good that it's done and dusted, and that we can focus on the Champions League now.

"Next week we also play in the semi-final in the German Cup, so we have some pretty big games coming up."

The Bavarians tackle Nurnberg in the Bundesliga on Saturday before taking on Wolfsburg in the DFB Pokal on Tuesday evening.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

Barzagli: Bayern proved they are stronger than Juventus

The Bianconeri defender admits that the Bundesliga champions were worthy winners

over the two legs and hopes his side can become more of a force in Europe next season.

Apr 10, 2013

Andrea Barzagli admits that Juventus were second-best after the Italian side were defeated 2-0 at home by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final second leg, ultimately ensuring their elimination 4-0 on aggregate.

Goals from Mario Mandzukic and Claudio Pizarro ensured it is now 10 years since the Bianconeri have reached the semi-finals, and on that occasion they were eventually defeated by Milan in the final.

Speaking to Mediaset, the 31-year-old defender said: “We certainly played better than the first leg, but Bayern proved they are a very strong side and one stronger than us.

“We need to improve in order to reach their level and maybe by working hard we can get there.

“This was our first Champions League in many years, for some of us the first full stop. Bayern have been at this level for five or six years, but we are just dipping our toes in."

Barzagli praised the support of the home fans and hopes that the team can achieve success by regaining the Serie A title.

“We played with great fans and we thank them for supporting us. Now we have to end the season well," he added.

“It’s a shame we were unable to give them something to celebrate, but it was wonderful to receive applause even after the defeat.”

Paul Pogba has impressed in his debut Champions League campaign, but the Frenchman agreed Bayern were worthy winners over the two legs.

Speaking to reporters after the game, he said: "I'm happy with the effort we put in, but we played against a better team with more experience.

"We would have liked to score early but they didn't give us the chance. They played very well and the first goal made it too much for us in the end."

Bayern join Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid and Barcelona in the semi-finals, with the draw being made on Friday.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Mandzukic hails Bayern 'calm'

Apr 10, 2013

Mario Mandzukic praised Bayern Munich for staying calm “with the atmosphere” at the Juventus Stadium tonight.

The Croatian international scored the opening goal in Bayern’s 2-0 victory, sending them through to the Champions League semi-final 4-0 on aggregate.

“We knew that it would be a difficult game today especially with the atmosphere in the stadium,” Mandzukic told UEFA.com.

“It wasn't easy, but we had to stay calm and wait for a goal. Reaching the next round was the main objective obviously, but I'm also very happy about having scored tonight.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Marotta: 'Gap is economic'

Apr 10, 2013

The German side won 2-0 in both legs to reach the Champions League semi-final.

“Over the 180 minutes they were superior, but it was not just because of this season,” Marotta told Mediaset.

“Bayern have reached the Champions League Final three times recently and won the German League with six rounds to spare.

“There was definitely a gap, that was clear, but the German clubs are at a more advanced stage in the rebuilding process. We are following their example.

“The economic factor also decides the transfer strategy. Today we have clubs like Bayern who double the revenue of Italian sides like Milan, Inter or Juventus. Of course they can buy just one player for €40m, whereas Italian clubs have to band together with three or four to raise that sum.

“Juventus are starting on that road with a new stadium, but the other Serie A clubs still have that handicap.”

Juventus are the only Serie A side to own their stadium, as red tape continues to make it impossible for other teams.

“It is very simple, as Italian sides have almost 70% of their revenue from TV rights, whereas the German clubs split between TV rights, commercial rights and the stadiums. It’s clear in Italy that there is a lack of stadiums that can be owned by the clubs to boost income.

“I thank our squad, as we started this new era two and a half years ago, when we never imagined we’d be in the Champions League quarter-finals against a huge superpower like Bayern.

“We are still working and do not have the quality needed as yet to be in that group of superpowers. Unfortunately, right now the Italian clubs are far behind in purely economic terms, which therefore affects the transfer potential.”

Marotta was asked whether Juventus will finally invest in the so-called ‘top player’ over the summer?

“This is not the right time to make promises. Further on, when we know the Scudetto result, then we can evaluate what needs to be done.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Barzagli: 'Bayern are stronger'

Apr 10, 2013

Andrea Barzagli admits “Bayern Munich proved they are stronger than Juventus, but we can work hard to reach their level.”

The Bianconeri crashed out of the Champions League quarter-finals 4-0 on aggregate, losing both legs 2-0 to last season’s beaten Finalists.

“We certainly played better than the first leg, but Bayern proved they are a very strong side and one stronger than us,” Barzagli told Mediaset.

“We need to improve in order to reach their level and maybe by working hard we can get there.

“This was our first Champions League in many years, for some of us the first full stop. Bayern have been at this level for five or six years, but we are just dipping our toes in.

“We played with great fans and we thank them for supporting us. Now we have to end the season well.

“It’s a shame we were unable to give them something to celebrate, but it was wonderful to receive applause even after a defeat.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Conte: 'We woke up from the dream'

Apr 10, 2013

Antonio Conte concedes Juventus “woke up from a wonderful dream, but are still in Europe’s top eight teams” after their Champions League exit.

The Bianconeri were unable to recover from the 2-0 first leg defeat and lost 1-0 in Turin too against last season’s beaten Finalists Bayern Munich.

“I think that the best team went through, which they proved in both legs. This side has been working together for a long time and always reaches the latter stages. They were created to win, so I don’t think it’s absurd to say this is the best Bayern team of all time.

“They are all very physical, work very hard and do so with quality. In football you have to be honest and tip your hat when you find stronger teams,” the Coach told Mediaset.

“This was an opportunity for us and we were basically newcomers to the Champions League after so many years out. We reached the quarter-finals, which in my view was something extraordinary.

“Now we know there is a long and pretty hard road to go on. That shouldn’t scare us, but it should help us keep our feet on the ground and not hear some talking about the Treble in pre-season. Those who say things like that have clearly never won anything in their lives.”

“When we were paired with Bayern, I said this was an opportunity for us to face an extremely strong side and understand the gap that separated us from the superpowers.

“What I liked the most was the attitude of the fans today, as they recognised what these lads have been doing. The applause at the final whistle was what the lads deserved, as they gave everything, but at times 110 per cent is not enough. I am very proud of the Juventus fans.”

The Bianconeri were certainly more aggressive than in the first leg and tried to counter-act Bayern’s pressing game, but the result was the same.

“It is inevitable when facing a side with the quality of Robben, Ribery, Mandzukic or Muller, they do not feel panicked under pressing and do not give the ball away. They welcome double-marking, as they can go past two in one go.

“We achieved a miracle last season by winning the Scudetto, so hopefully next year we can do something more in Europe, which would mean reaching the semi-final or Final – not to be sniffed at!

“I complimented the players and will be always grateful to them for the extraordinary things they have achieved in the last two years. We woke up from a wonderful dream, but are still in the top eight sides in Europe.

“We have something real to focus on now, as the Scudetto is there and we have to earn it.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Buffon: 'Bayern surprised me'

Apr 10, 2013

Gigi Buffon admits he “didn’t expect Bayern to be this good” and revealed his father was harsher on him than Franz Beckenbauer.

“If we had regrets after the first leg at not playing our best game, me especially, we were curious to see what the real difference was between us and the elite of European football. In all honesty, they have something more,” Buffon told Mediaset after a 2-0 home defeat.

“If the target is Bayern Munich, then I don’t know what we need to reach them, as they have everything it takes to win this tournament. They have great technique, physicality, quick thinking, experience and have been together for a long time.

“All these qualities mean they deserved to win, but I will candidly admit I didn’t expect them to be this good. We were concerned, but I was convinced we could play on a par with anyone in the quarter-final draw. Unfortunately, that was not the case, as they showed they were superior.

“I want to underline the attitude of the Juventus fans was wonderful, as they showed how sporting and intelligent they are to appreciate the efforts. What we put on the field was the most we could do right now and we thank them for their support.

Beckenbauer caused outrage after the first leg when he said Buffon “looked like a pensioner” in Munich.

“Many asked me why I didn’t answer in stronger terms, but at the end of the day I didn’t take it as an insult. It was a comment, one that was probably avoidable, but it was a joke and one that can be understood. At times we footballers take ourselves a bit too seriously.

“My father asked me after the game if I was drunk, so I think he was harsher than Beckenbauer! I honestly don’t get upset, because I know what my career has been and how well I’ve been doing over the past two years. I got it wrong in Munich, but that can happen – we are not infallible.

“Seeing Bayern’s superiority over both legs, maybe it was better that we made those mistakes then, as we will avoid doing the same in a more balanced tie.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Pogba: 'We did all we could'

Apr 10, 2013

Paul Pogba could only take his hat off to Bayern Munich after they knocked Juventus out of the Champions League.

The German giants won both quarter-final legs 2-0 to go through.

“There was nothing we could do against them. They are a great team, they’re stronger than us and we saw that over these two games,” the French midfielder told uefa.com.

“I’m happy with our efforts but we played against a better team, with more experience. We hope to be ready for next time.

“We would have liked to score early but they didn’t let us, they played a great game, so there was nothing we could do, especially after they managed to score.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Robben: 'Juve a terrific team'

Apr 10, 2013

Arjen Robben warns Bayern Munich’s achievements in knocking Juventus out should not be underestimated. “They are a terrific team.”

The German side swept through to the Champions League semi-final by winning both legs 2-0, home and away.

“If you win 2-0 away against Juventus it is an amazing result,” Robben told uefa.com.

“They are a terrific team, the best in Italy, who are very strong at the back. It was a great performance from us.

“We knew we had won the Bundesliga already so now we can focus on the Champions League. We also have a German Cup semi-final coming up so we are in some big games.”

The semi-finalists are Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

“We'd like to be kept apart from Dortmund, but you don’t have a choice in these things. What comes comes. They are big games, the semi-finals, featuring four great teams. It's nice to be there.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

‘Bayern Munich are best in Europe’

Apr 11, 2013

Roberto Bettega and Gianluca Vialli believe that former club Juventus were knocked out by the best side in the Champions League.

The Old Lady exited the European Cup on Wednesday against a Bayern Munich team who, after winning the first leg 2-0, won by the same scoreline in Turin.

“The best side won,” Vialli, who lifted the trophy with the Old Lady in 1996, commented. “Bayern have been the strongest side on the continent for two years now.

“They have some young players, but they are used to playing in these games. This German side is solid and complete.

“But Juventus have now understood what is needed to arrive at the highest levels, they require a leader in attack.”

Bettega, an ex-striker and club official, said: “Juventus were faced with the best in the competition, better even than Real Madrid and Barcelona.

“Having conceded the first goal tonight, the light went out for Juventus. At that point there was no longer the necessary reaction to combat Bayern.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Heynckes still rates Juventus

Apr 11, 2013

Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has praised the ability of Juventus despite their comfortable 4-0 aggregate victory over the Old Lady.

The German giants booked their place in the semi-finals of the Champions League on Wednesday by collecting another 2-0 win, this time in Turin.

“We’re in the last four after beating a side of the highest level,” he insisted. “And I am sure that my players really enjoyed themselves in this stadium.

“It is a beautiful theatre for a great spectacle like a game of football.”

Juve started the second leg well, but Bayern kept them out and struck them down with two second half goals.

“It's not easy for players to be fully focused on a game after you've won the League just four days before,” he added.

“That appeared to be the case in the first 20 minutes when we often lost possession too easily and weren't fluent in our game going forward.

“However, we slowly took control of the match and improved a lot in the second half. In the end we fully deserved the win.

“We discussed a few tactical matters at half-time. The tactical organisation had to improve and that's what happened in the second half.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823‎

Beckenbauer makes Buffon U-turn

Apr 11, 2013

Franz Beckenbauer insists he was wrong to describe Juventus' Gigi Buffon as a pensioner. “He’s still one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”

The German legend criticised the 35-year-old after his showing in the Champions League first leg defeat at Bayern Munich.

However, the Honorary Bayern President has now admitted that he should not have said what he did about the Italian international.

“I retract my words,” Beckenbauer stated after last night’s second leg tie which also ended 2-0 in his club’s favour.

“When you are live on television then you can say foolish things. But I was just referring to the two goals that he conceded in Munich, especially the first, and not his career.

“I tried to be ironic, saying that Alaba shot from 120 metres away, but the joke was not understood. Unfortunately you can’t cancel out words spoken on television.

“Buffon is no longer a kid, but he remains one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”

Buffon last night insisted that he wasn’t particularly bothered by Beckenbauer’s criticism. “My father was harsher,” he smiled.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

Buffon: Bayern on another level to Juve

The experienced goalkeeper has no regrets as he has stressed the Bianconeri gave

it their all but simply lacked the experience to trouble the Bavarians.

Apr 11, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon has admitted that Bayern Munich were simply too strong for Juventus in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Serie A champions were beaten 2-0 at the Juventus Stadium on Wednesday after previously losing the first leg 2-0 and Buffon feels the Bundesliga giants were on another tier of quality.

"I thought we could have played at their same level tonight but Bayern proved I was wrong. I think they can win the Champions League," Buffon was quoted as saying on the official Uefa website.

"The dream is over tonight. We tried to play our game, we have no regrets, we did the best we could. Unfortunately it was not enough because we faced a team that, from every point of view, are better than us.

"They were in better shape, they played better, they have more experience - they're just better than us. We have to improve and grow up, the big difference between them and us is experience: they have played together for a few years and went far in Europe in the last few seasons.

"I knew they were strong but, to be honest, I did not think they were that strong. I was even more impressed tonight [Wednesday] than in Munich. Because in the first leg we did not give our all, but tonight we did; still, there was nothing we could do."

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

Brilliant Bayern show why the Champions

League is theirs to lose

Die Roten overcame Juventus with minimal fuss on Wednesday to record a second victory

against the Italian champions, giving further evidence of their growing superiority in Europe.

Apr 11, 2013

COMMENT

By Kris Voakes

There was a palpable feeling of inevitability as Mario Mandzukic slotted home Bayern Munich’s killer first away goal against Juventus on Wednesday night. They had simply been the best team on the night just as they were eight days earlier at the Allianz Arena, proving worthy 2-0 winners in both legs. And if the oft-used phrase ‘the best team won’ is to be uttered at Wembley on May 25, then surely it will be die Roten lifting the Champions League trophy aloft.

Over the last two midweeks, the Bavarian giants have once more shown everybody that they are the best team in Europe right now and must surely be considered as the favourites to win this season’s competition.

Yes, they have fallen at the final hurdle with regularity in recent times - with defeats in 2010 and particularly 2012 hitting them right where it hurts - but, just as they have blown away the opposition in the Bundesliga this term, they are primed to deliver on the continent as well.

Many observers are too quick to automatically install Barcelona as favourites simply because they are still in the competition but, just as was the case 12 months ago, the Blaugranahave shown significant frailties of late that most are willing to overlook simply because Lionel Messi wears blue and red.

Yet those same critics are all-too-willing to rule out Bayern as serious front-runners because of nothing more than the events of years gone by. Very few give credence to the idea that the German champions may simply be more driven and more determined as a result of last season’s final defeat to Chelsea, as well as the participation of many of their players in Germany’s no-show against Italy in the Euro 2012 semi-final which followed soon after.

Hard evidence tells us that Bayern are the continent’s most in-form side. While the more pragmatic Real Madrid are shaping up for a serious run at La Decima, it is die Roten who truly have the team to fear. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and a backline including the likes of Philipp Lahm, Dante and David Alaba will be difficult for even Messi to contemplate breaching, especially given the support and direction ahead of them which dictates that Bayern spend little of their time without the ball in most games.

In possession, they are frightening, showing an ability to play at high speed for long periods. With the industry and artistry of Javi Martinez and Bastian Schweinsteiger feeding the forever-threatening front four, consisting at various times of top quality players like Mandzukic, Thomas Muller, Toni Kroos, Franck Ribery, Mario Gomez and Arjen Robben, they are simply the most formidable all-round unit in the European game as it stands.

The fear is that they will not get the praise they deserve for just how good they are unless they are triumphant in north-west London in six weeks’ time. If they fail again, they will simply be written off as the lovable, laughable nearly-men that some critics are too quick to want to label them as.

But the reality is very different and if a fifth Champions League triumph is what it takes for them to receive the headlines that they have earned with their magnificent football this term let us all hope that is what they achieve. In realistic terms, it is now Bayern’s trophy to lose.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

What Juventus must do to challenge

for the Champions League next season

The Bianconeri were outplayed by Bayern Munich in their quarter final but, with the right

additions and adjustments, they can catch the Germans, Barcelona and Madrid.

Apr 11, 2013

COMMENT

By Carlo Garganese

Losing to Bayern Munich is nothing to be ashamed of. The newly-crowned German champions have reached the Champions League final twice in the last three editions, boast numerous world class players - both young and experienced - and have comfortably been Europe's best team this season.

In the aftermath of Juventus' emphatic 4-0 aggregate defeat on Wednesday night, coach Antonio Conte even suggested that this may be the "best Bayern team of all-time". Barring another mental collapse, die Roten will probably win the Champions League in May.

When you consider where Juventus were just two years ago - set to finish seventh in Serie A for a second successive campaign - and where they have come from following their crushing Calciopoli-enforced relegation to Serie B in 2006, it is something of a miracle that the Bianconeri are already mingling with the continent's elite once again.

Some would argue that, given their relative financial resources, Juventus have no right to be challenging Europe's three strongest teams, all of whom take their place in Friday's Champions League semi-final draw in Nyon - Bayern, Barcelona and Real Madrid. The Bavarians alone earned €128 million more than Juve in the last year. Madrid passed the €500m revenue mark in recently topping Deloitte's Money League for an eighth successive season. Barcelona were in second place with €483m, with Juventus down in tenth with 'just' €195.4m.

'JUVE WILL HAVE €35-40M TO SPEND'

THE BIANCONERI'S SUMMER TRANSFER PLANS

"This summer Juventus are likely to have €35-40m to spend, but this figure can be increased by selling the likes of Felipe Melo, Reto Ziegler and Jorge Martinez.

Juventus have two key positions they wish to strengthen: a centre-back who can act as a vice-Giorgio Chiellini and a centre forward. Conte's preference for the former role is Torino's Angelo Ogbonna. The current options in attack are Porto's Jackson Martinez, Barcelona's Alexis Sanchez and Fiorentina's Stevan Jovetic.

Juve will buy out the remaining half of Kwadwo Asamoah's contract from Udinese and will explore a financially-viable way of doing the same for Mauricio Isla. In January, Giuseppe Marotta laid the foundations for signing Sampdoria's Andrea Poli. Sassuolo starlet Gaetano Berardi, 18, is also a possible acquisition.

In terms of outgoing players, contrary to reports, Vidal has not been offered to clubs and is not on the market but the presence of Pogba means that this is a situation worth monitoring. With the arrival of Fernando Llorente, one of Fabio Quagliarella or Alessandro Matri should depart. Paolo De Ceglie's future is also uncertain."

Romeo Agresti | Juve Correspondent, Goal.com Italy

But this doesn't mean that Juventus can't maintain their phenomenal progress, especially as their new economic and sporting structure - with their own stadium - is already reaping rewards. Coach Antonio Conte, director general Giuseppe Marotta and president Andrea Agnelli are not miles away from constructing a Champions League-winning outfit. The jigsaw is missing a few pieces, but with a few smart moves it can be completed.

Most importantly, Juventus must not fail in the summer transfer market. Last pre-season, the Bianconeri splashed out €53m on new players - more than Barca and Madrid - but, while their outlay strengthened the squad and secured some promising youngsters such as the potentially world-class Paul Pogba, there was no significant improvement of the first team that had cruised to the 2011-12 Scudetto unbeaten.

This summer, Juventus must throw all of their budget at one or two top class individuals. The Rafa Benitez philosophy of buying five good players instead of two great ones does not work at big clubs. In terms of solidity and organisation, Juventus are the equal of anyone but what is missing is star quality in the final third; quality that Bayern have in spades through Franck Ribery, Arjen Robben and Thomas Muller.

A world-class attacker who can beat opponents, such as the previously-linked Luis Suarez, is a necessity - even if it means paying slightly over the odds.

But in order to finance Suarez-like operations, Juventus must not sacrifice Arturo Vidal. The sale of the Chilean is not impossible right now, with the thinking in some circles that Pogba is a more-than-able replacement. But selling Vidal would be suicide. The 26-year-old is the world's best ball-winner - executing the most tackles in the whole of Europe last season, and the most in the Champions League group stages. Andrea Pirlo turns 34 in May and despite his unique playing style is approaching the end of his career.

To win the Champions League, though, you don't just need top class players but also a top class coach. Antonio Conte has been a revelation since taking charge in May 2011. His leadership and motivational qualities are Jose Mourinho-like, with his iconic video at Vinovo demanding his troops "spit blood" perfectly typifying his coaching style. But there are still question marks over Conte's tactical ability, an attribute that is so important in Europe. In tight knockout games, outthinking your opponent strategically and making the right substitution is often the difference between success and failure. A key reason for Manchester City's Champions League shortcomings is Roberto Mancini's tactical debility. The same goes for Arsenal under Arsene Wenger.

In Munich, Conte failed to be proactive or even reactive in dealing with Bayern's pressing and dominance in wide areas and waited until Bayern were 2-0 up before finally making a substitution. It is too early to write Conte off tactically, but this is an area of football that you can't really teach - you either have a natural grasp for tactics or you don't. In this respect, it may benefit Conte to employ a right-hand man who can bring this expertise to the Juventus bench. Current assistant Angelo Alessio may not be that man.

As well as contemplating whether 3-5-2 is the ideal formation going forwards, Conte must learn to rotate his squad better and rest key players ahead of big Champions League games. Ten of the team who started in Munich took to the field at San Siro against Inter three days earlier. With Juventus nine points clear at the top of Serie A - and the Scudetto practically a certainty - Conte should have been smarter. If the Bianconeri want to win the Champions League then they may need to make some sacrifices in Serie A. Unlike Juve, Bayern are in prime physical condition for the business end of the season because they have spent the last month or so resting key players in domestic matches.

Ultimately, Juventus will also need the gods on their side. Despite being outplayed, Bayern's two goals in Munich emanated from a freak deflection and an offside. Almost every team that has won the European Cup has ridden their luck at some point of the competition, the most obvious example being Chelsea last year. Franz Beckenbauer's Bayern deserved to lose all three of their consecutive finals from 1974-1976. Arrigo Sacchi's AC Milan class of '89 - perhaps the greatest club team of all time - were losing 2-1 on aggregate at Red Star Belgrade and down to nine men in their second round second leg when the game was abandoned due to fog with just over half an hour to go. Milan won the replay on penalties.

Juventus fans will naturally be disappointed after their elimination on Wednesday night, especially as they did not show their true colours in the tie, but this outfit is not far away from the summit. With a good transfer market, some tactical tinkering and a bit of luck, the Old Lady can certainly challenge for the 2013-14 European crown.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

Heynckes: Bayern too sloppy early on

The experienced coach feels the Roten lacked focus in the opening stages

of the game and has set his sights on more silverware this season.

Apr 11, 2013

Jupp Heynckes feels that Bayern Munich were too sloppy in the opening stages of Wednesday's Champions League match versus Juventus, but was pleased with the way they responded after the interval as the Bavarians eventually recorded a 2-0 away win (4-0 aggregate).

Bayern initially struggled against the Serie A leaders as they seemed to lack focus but they dominated proceedings in the second half after making a number of tactical changes.

"It's not easy for players to be fully focused on a game after you've won the league just four days before," he told reporters at the post-match press conference.

"That appeared to be the case in the first 20 minutes when we often lost possession too easily and weren't fluent in our game going forward, but slowly we took control of the match and improved a lot in the second half.

"We discussed a few tactical matters at half-time. The tactical organisation had to improve and that's what happened in the second half. In the end we fully deserved the win."

Bayern have received their fair share of praise so far this season, yet Heynckes has stressed that they are not getting carried away as they are desperate to win more silverware after clinching the Bundesliga title at the weekend.

"We have received a lot of praise in the last few weeks. The positive aspect of this is that we recognised the praise but never let it influence our performances," he added.

"We are having a very good season with some fantastic displays. We are Bundesliga champions, but we still have other goals. We will see if we are on the same level as Madrid or Barcelona."

The draw for the semi-finals takes place in Nyon on Friday.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

'Juventus have a lot of work to do' - Conte

The 43-year-old has stated that the Old Lady cannot compete with the elite

just yet and has urged his team to shift their attention to Serie A again.

Apr 11, 2013

Antonio Conte has admitted that Juventus still have a long way to go before they can measure themselves with the European elite following their Champions League elimination at the hands of Bayern Munich.

The Bianconeri crashed out of European football this season on Wednesday with a 2-0 home loss after previously being defeated in the first leg 2-0.

Conte feels Bayern are simply too good for Juventus at this stage and, with Pep Guardiola set to take the reins in the summer, he predicted that the next few seasons could see the Bavarians dominate on the continent.

"We have a lot of work to do, we already knew that. In any case, I congratulated my players because what we have done in the last 18 months is amazing," Conte said at a press conference.

"Nobody likes to lose, but you have to admit it when you face a team that is so stronger than you. They have played two finals in the last three years, so we knew there was a big gap between them and us.

"Bayern are really strong, individually and collectively, they can do wonderful things and they fight for every ball. It's tough to play against them and we did everything we could. We just have to admit they're better than us.

"I don't think we could have done anything more and the way the fans reacted at the end proves it. Bayern will be one of the best teams in Europe for many years to come."

Conte then went on to urge his men to turn their focus to Serie A again as they are looking to retain the Scudetto.

"We woke up from our dream - now we have to focus on the league again, and fast, because we want to win our second Scudetto in a row which would be a great achievement."

Juve currently hold a nine-point lead over second-placed Napoli in the Italian top tier.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

JUVENTUS 0 - 2 BAYERN

Mario Mandzukic (64′)

Claudio Pizarro (90+1′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)

Attendance: 40823

Marotta: There's a gap between

Italian football and other countries

The Bianconeri director was left frustrated with the difference in class

between his side and Bayern, but was pleased with their European campaign.

Apr 11, 2013

Giuseppe Marotta believes Juventus' Champions League quarter-final loss against Bayern Munich was further proof that Italian clubs are not in a position to challenge the European top teams.

The Serie A champions were beaten 2-0 in Wednesday's return in Turin after previously losing the first leg by the same scoreline, and Marotta feels there is a big gap between Italian football and the game in other countries.

"Unfortunately, there is currently a gap between football in Italy and other countries," Juve's general director was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

"Just look at Bayern, they had double the turnover of any Italian team. It’s impossible for us to spend €40 million on players at the moment. We know we have to grow and improve, and we’ll work towards that."

Nevertheless, Marotta was pleased with Juventus' performances in Europe this campaign.

"This new management only took over in 2010, so we would have happily settled for being in the Champions League quarter-finals and playing against a great team like Bayern," he continued.

"It’s been an important experience for us, so the thanks of the entire club goes to Antonio Conte and his team."