Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Allegri: 'No pressure on Milan'

Apr 21, 2013

Massimiliano Allegri gave credit to Juventus for their defending tonight and insisted Milan “must not feel pressure” after Fiorentina closed the gap to one point.

The Rossoneri suffered their first defeat of 2013, but with two points from three rounds now have only the most slender of leads in third place.

“The lads put in a good performance, allowing little and controlling the ball,” Allegri told Mediaset Premium after a 1-0 defeat in Turin.

“We conceded on a penalty, but have to stay calm and pick up as many points as possible to maintain our advantage. We must not feel pressure looking at other results, as we already know that we have to pick up points regardless of what the other teams do.”

Milan used Robinho, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giampaolo Pazzini and Kevin-Prince Boateng together, but barely troubled Gigi Buffon.

“El Shaarawy played well, especially in the first half, then Juventus closed us down and allowed very few spaces.

“Robinho did well last Sunday against Napoli, but today he sacrificed himself on the right and it’s only normal he’d struggle after such a long time out.

“Juventus defended very well and lately we are having difficulty creating chances in the final third. So far we have done, including against Juventus, so there is everything to suggest we’ll have a different campaign next year.”

Allegri was asked if he will still be on the bench at San Siro for 2013-14.

“We’ll see. I don’t want to talk about that now. Besides, I already have a contract, so I am happy to stay here.”

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Vidal wants Juventus to finish in a flurry

The Chile international asserts that the Bianconeri will not become complacent despite

holding an 11-point lead over Napoli and dismisses reports of a move away from Turin.

Apr 21, 2013

Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal expressed his delight after his side's narrow 1-0 Serie A victory over AC Milan and wants the side to finish the season in a flurry.

The Chile international struck the only goal of the game when he dispatched a 57th-minute penalty past substitute Rossoneri goalkeeper Marco Amelia.

Speaking to Premium after the game, Vidal said: "We have to continue like this until the end. There are still five major games and we have to finish the season as we did last year."

Should Napoli fail to win away at Pescara on Saturday, Juventus could claim the Serie A title with victory in their local derby against Torino on Sunday.

Asked whether he would prefer to win the title in the derby or in front of the home fans against Palermo the weekend after, Vidal insisted that the team's focus was to concentrate on the next match.

"We're thinking of Torino, already from tomorrow we will focus [on that] and we will see if we will get the

result."

With seven league goals and seven assists this season, Vidal has been identified as a transfer target for clubs all over Europe. However, the Chilean was determined to squash speculation and pledged his future to the Old Lady.

"I'm happy here and my family are happy, and I'm proud to wear the Juventus jersey."

Juventus hold an 11-point lead over Napoli and require four points to win the league with five games remaining.

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Allegri: Milan not worried by Fiorentina

A 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Turin on Sunday night has piled the pressure

on the Rossoneri, who now have the resurgent Viola breathing down their necks.

Apr 21, 2013

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri remains confident that his side will qualify for next season's Champions League despite seeing their lead over fourth-placed Fiorentina cut to a solitary point on Sunday.

The Viola recorded a remarkable 4-3 win over Torino at the Artemio Franchi during the afternoon, while the Rossoneri lost 1-0 to leaders Juventus in the evening kick-off in Turin.

With five rounds of the season remaining, Italy's third and final Champions League berth is clearly now well and truly up for grabs, but Allegri is backing his side to keep Fiorentina at bay.

"We are not worried," the Rossoneri boss told Sky Sport Italia. "We have lost our first game of the year. Now we must try to do well in the next games to hold onto third place.

"We know that Fiorentina are a good side. We threw away a match point by not winning in Florence despite being 2-0 up. No our calendar becomes easier. I am confident."

However, Allegri was still left counting cost of Milan's misfortune in Turin, with the Rossoneri losing both Christian Abbiati and Massimo Ambrosini to injury before gifting their hosts the game-winning penalty with a defensive mix-up between Ignazio Abate and Marco Amelia.

"It was an evenly balanced game in which we conceded very little to Juve," the former Cagliari boss mused.

"It was a game that seemed destined to end in a draw, but then we were punished for our only error in defence.

"Unfortunately we have also lost two players to injury and even [Riccardo] Montolivo was not at his best, physically."

Allegri was keen, though, to defend top scorer Stephan El Shaarawy, after another lacklustre display from a player who shone so brightly during the first half of the season.

"He's a boy of 20 that has done very well up until now, but it's normal that there can be a dip [in form]," he argued. "Physically, he's fine, but he must understand these difficult moments can happen."

Allegri is in no doubt that El Shaarawy will bounce back and he firmly believes that Milan will also benefit from their experiences this term.

"The true value of Milan will be seen next season," he claimed. "Then we will be know if we can compete with Juve.

"We have had a great second half of the season; but I hope we don't undo all that in the remaining games."

Milan host Catania next weekend, while Fiorentina travel to Genoa to take on Sampdoria.

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Boateng subjected to racist abuse before Juventus game

The 26-year-old Ghanaian was targeted during the warm-up, while Bianconeri fans

also displayed offensive flags about Mario Balotelli during the game.

Apr 21, 2013

AC Milan midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng was subjected to racist abuse before Sunday's Serie A clash with Juventus in Turin.

The Ghanaian was targeted by certain sections of the home support during the warm-up and responded to the insults by putting his finger over his mouth.

However, it was not until the stadium announcer intervened, calling for those aiming slurs at Boateng to desist, that order was finally restored.

Juventus supporters also displayed a banner during the game which read: "No to racism; yes to jumping", which was a reference to a previous slogan about another Milan player, Mario Balotelli: "If you jump, Balotelli dies".

Both Balotelli and Boateng have been the victims of racist abuse in the past, with the latter having left the field after being singled out by Pro Patria fans during a friendly game in January.

The 26-year-old's stand drew praise from leading figures throughout the sporting world and eventually led to him being asked by both Fifa and the United Nations to participate their respective campaigns against racism.

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Conte casts doubt on Scudetto success in Turin derby

Juve coach says he does not care where his Juventus team win the points

which ensures they are champions following their 1-0 win over AC Milan on Sunday.

Apr 22, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has insisted that it will be tough to be crowned as Scudetto winners against local rivals Torino next Sunday following their 1-0 win over AC Milan.

The Bianconeri took another step toward retaining their Serie A crown against the Rossoneri thanks to Arturo Vidal's second-half penalty strike, ensuring their lead over second-placed Napoli stays at 11 points.

The result which means that - depending on how Napoli fare against Pescara next weekend - Conte's men could secure the title by beating Torino in their next Serie A clash, though the 43-year-old coach has played down talk of winning the Scudetto in the Derby della Mole.

"I don’t want to think about when or against whom the decisive victory could come, I’m only interested in closing off the Scudetto race," Conte told reporters.

"After that, we can celebrate and relax following a very demanding season. We know all about Torino’s desire to beat us and about the hidden dangers that await us in Sunday’s derby."

Meanwhile, Juve defender Giorgio Chiellini revealed that the dressing room is aware of how close they are successfully defending their title but does not necessarily believe victory in Sunday's derby will ensure 2012-13 success.

"We now know how far away we are after this victory and we can now just think about ourselves without looking elsewhere," he said. "But I don’t think we’ll wrap up the title on Sunday.

"We’ll give our all in the derby, both for our fans and to take us closer to our goal. But with all respect to Pescara, I think Napoli will win.

"The 11-point gap is considerable, we’ve done well to win difficult games over the past few weeks and take the wind out of the sails of the chasing pack."

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Juventus deserve Serie A success, insists Barzagli

The former Wolfsburg star has hailed his side's performances this term

in the big games and admitted Milan made life difficult for Juve.

Apr 22, 2013

Andrea Barzagli believes Juventus fully deserve their Serie A success this season as they rose to the occasion in the games when it mattered most.

The Scudetto holders beat third-placed AC Milan 1-0 on Sunday evening to maintain their 11-point lead over Napoli, and Barzagli insists Juventus have been even more convincing than last term.

"We’ve won extremely difficult away games, against Inter and Lazio for example, and now [at home] against Milan. We deserve to be top of the league," Barzagli was quoted as saying on the official Juventus website.

"At times last season, also when playing at home, we struggled to break the deadlock. However, this year we’ve managed to bring more intensity to our displays and make the best of the chances created."

The centre-back then reflected on Sunday's hard-fought win over Milan and admitted things were not easy for Juve.

"It was a very difficult game, at least in the first half. Milan made us chase them, moved the ball around well and we weren’t particularly aggressive," Barzagli added.

"We upped the tempo after the interval and things changed."

Juventus resume Serie A action on Sunday when they travel to city-rivals Torino.

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Galliani: It should have been 0-0

Apr 22, 2013

Adriano Galliani insists that his Milan side deserved at least a point from their trip to Juventus on Sunday.

The Rossoneri lost the game 1-0 thanks to an Arturo Vidal penalty after Marco Amelia brought down Kwadwo Asamoah.

“It was one of those games that was always going to end 0-0, but then there was that episode,” the Vice-President noted.

“It is always tough to talk when we lose games, but I don’t think we deserved to lose. We played a good game.

“At 0-0, there weren’t many chances either for us or for Juventus. We slipped up a bit with our finishing.”

Milan, 18 points behind leaders Juve, are now just a point clear of fourth-placed Fiorentina with five games left.

“Now we have to hang on to third place to get into the Champions League preliminary stages which is very important,” Galliani continued.

“We shouldn’t be afraid now.

“Also, there won’t be the present gap between ourselves and Juventus next season…”

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Chiellini: Not a great Juve, but…

Apr 22, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini has conceded that Juventus may not have impressed onlookers in the 1-0 win over Milan on Sunday night.

“It wasn’t our best game of the season,” the stopper noted. “We faced a great team who have had an incredible revival. They stopped us from playing in the first half.”

Juve, who became the first side to beat Milan in the League during 2013, are now just four points away from the Scudetto with five games left.

“We now know how far away we are after this victory and we can now just think about ourselves without looking elsewhere,” he added.

Juventus could actually wrap up the title this weekend against city rivals Torino if the result of the Napoli game goes in their favour.

“But I don’t think we’ll do it on Sunday. We’ll give our all in the derby, both for our fans and to take us closer to our goal.

“But with all respect to Pescara, I think Napoli will win their game.

“The 11-point gap is considerable, we’ve done well to win difficult games over the past few weeks and take the wind out of the sails of the chasing pack.”

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 33 - 21-4-12 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (57′-PG)

Juventus Stadium — Turin

Referee: Luca Banti

Attendance: 38000

Juventus fined €30,000 following Boateng incident

The Ghanaian was racially abused by Bianconeri supporters on Sunday

and the Italian authorities have moved quickly to punish the club.

Apr 22, 2013

Juventus have been fined €30,000 after AC Milan's Kevin-Prince Boateng was the victim of racist abuse in Sunday's clash between the two sides.

The Rossoneri midfielder had been targeted by Bianconeri supporters during the warm-up and as a result the Serie A disciplinary committee have moved quickly to punish the club.

Juve, meanwhile, have released an anti-racism statement regarding the incident, stressing their disgust at the actions of a minority of fans.

"Juventus Football Club reminds its fans and the media that it is heavily involved in projects dedicated to integration and is against any form of racism or discrimination," a statement on their official website read.

"Such behaviour does not represent the position of the club, its millions of fans or even the vast majority of spectators at Juventus Stadium, which is something unique in Italian football.

"This statement is not in any way intended to contest the decision of the sporting judge."

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus focused on derby win

& not Scudetto, says Asamoah

The Ghana international revealed that he does want to contemplate winning Serie A

until the title is secured while he admitted his favoured position is still a central role.

Apr 23, 2013

Juventus midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah has insisted that he and his team-mates will not be thinking about winning Serie A when they take on Torino in the Turin derby on Sunday.

Should the Bianconeri triumph at their local rivals this weekend and Napoli lose then Antonio Conte's side will seal a second successive Scudetto.

The 24-year-old did admit that a win would be a big stepping stone towards a triumphant campaign but said he will be looking at the game as a local derby and nothing more.

"We are thinking we want to win the derby and then we will think of winning the Scudetto," he told Tuttosport.

"The derby is a tough game and requires the utmost concentration. The championship is there, we're getting closer, but it's not worth thinking about."

Asamoah has been used mostly on the wing this season but he admitted that he would prefer to play in a more central position despite feeling he has progressed due to his positional change.

He added: "I have discovered that I can also be useful in that position. My favourite position remains that of midfielder, but I am very happy to have learned to do well on the wing."

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Chiellini puts champagne on ice

Apr 25, 2013

Juventus’ Giorgio Chiellini doesn’t expect to celebrate Scudetto success at the end of Sunday’s derby against Torino.

The Old Lady could, in theory, wrap up the title this weekend if Napoli fail to beat Pescara and they defeat Toro.

“We’re not thinking about the title,” he stated on Thursday. “We’re just keen to win our encounter because it is an important game. We shouldn’t be thinking about partying.

“I honestly don’t think that Napoli will take a false step because they have a big objective and that is to maintain second place.

“With all due respect to Pescara, who will certainly play their game, I don’t think that Napoli will have any problems.”

Juventus will certainly retain the title with four points over their next two matches against Torino and Palermo.

“The history of the championship shows that the team which has the best defence wins,” he stated when asked about the Old Lady’s rearguard.

“The defensive solidity of a team makes the difference. But I’m not talking about two, three or four defenders, I think it is the whole team that counts, their defensive organisation.

“If I’m not mistaken, we conceded even fewer goals last season. But, this time around, we have one of the best attacks too, if not the best.”

Juve have conceded 20 goals in Serie A, 12 less than Napoli. They also have the joint best attack with Roma thanks to their 64 goals scored.

While Juve’s domination at home continues, their Champions League dream was shattered by a Bayern Munich side who this week beat Barcelona 4-0 over 90 minutes.

“That game does re-evaluate our ties against them,” the Italian international noted. “They were incredible.

“We were given the worst possible team in the last eight. But we are certain that we did an excellent job and that we played against the best.”

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Cairo: Derby always special

Apr 26, 2013

Torino President Urbano Cairo has admitted that the derby match against Juventus is 'always special'.

The Toro face Antonio Conte's side on Sunday afternoon, and could play host to the Bianconeri's Scudetto-winning party if results go their way.

The club's owner though, has insisted that his team will give their all to stop that happening.

“The derby is always a special game,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “The emotion has to be forgotten if we are to play as well as possible.

“The most important thing for us is to play well and put in a good performance.

“Hopefully, after that, everything will fall into place.”

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Chiellini: Juventus not champions yet

The Italy international has made it clear that the reigning

champions must focus on their own match against city rivals Torino.

Apr 26, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini has stressed Juventus cannot afford to get carried away in the race for the Scudetto as he feels the title race is not decided yet.

The Serie A leaders will be crowned champions if they beat Torino at the weekend and second-placed Napoli spill points against Pescara, but Chiellini has insisted there is no reason to start celebrating already.

"It’s an important game and we want to do well and win. However, with all due respect to Pescara, I don’t think Napoli will drop points," Chiellini said at a press conference.

"We mustn’t think about celebrating or pay attention to matters which are unrelated to the game. It’s important we stay alert.

"It would be madness to underestimate our opposition, but I don’t think any of us will be doing that. We mustn’t let up in our quest for the Scudetto.

"Yes, the title’s near, but until you reach it there’s always hope for the chasing pack."

Sunday's Turin derby is scheduled to kick off at 15:00CET.

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Conte: 'Derby never like the others'

Apr 27, 2013

Antonio Conte knows the Turin Derby is open to any result, including an early Scudetto party. “It’s the title of ferocity, hunger and consistency.”

The Bianconeri could mathematically seal the title this weekend if they beat Torino and Napoli fail to defeat Pescara. Click here for the Serie A match previews.

“The derby is always an important game, especially between two teams who play attacking football constructed on possession and ideas,” said the Coach.

“They are particular events and I remember two, when we won the Scudetto and Toro were relegated, yet we lost both editions. That proves the strength on paper counts for nothing.

“The derby can never be a game like the others and the rivalry is a wonderful thing, having two teams from the same city in the top flight. It’s great seeing Toro back at a strong level, even if the table shows they are still fighting for survival. We know that we are facing an excellent team and must be extremely focused.

“In a derby, the determination counts just as much as the tactics. Torino will be very motivated and we must match them. We’re ready for this game under every aspect.

“Of course I hope both Juve and Toro can achieve their objectives this season. Could there be crowd trouble if we win the Scudetto tomorrow? The fact we’re considering that is reason to be ashamed. Besides, we got insulted and had things thrown at us everywhere we went.

“I have had a house in Turin for years and now consider myself an adopted Torinese. I have the utmost respect for Torino and their fans.”

Now 11 points clear of Napoli at the top of the table and potentially able to secure the title this weekend, Conte is finally letting his guard drop when discussing this subject.

“This Scudetto is extraordinary because it’s not easy to reiterate success in Italy, especially if you start as favourites. If the title does arrive, then it will be the title of ferocity, hunger, determination, consistency – all things we proved that we have more of than the others.”

The Coach was asked about next season, including the links with Luis Suarez and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

“It is disrespectful to discuss transfers right now, so any questions you have about that should be aimed at director Beppe Marotta,” shrugged Conte.

“Serie A remains among the most difficult in the world, even if the so-called ‘top players’ aren’t as present. It is inevitable that they’ll go where they get incredible wages and in Italy clubs cannot afford contracts worth €10m per season.”

Juve were beaten 4-0 on aggregate by Bayern Munich in the Champions League, but the Germans thrashed Barcelona 4-0 in just the semi-final first leg this week.

“The Germans confirmed their strength against Barcelona. However, that game should not console us. We have to aim high, because we are Juventus. We understood our current status, but that just means we have to improve.”

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Giovinco for Turin derby

Apr 27, 2013

Sebastian Giovinco is back in the Juventus side for the Turin derby, but Mauricio Isla pulls out with a muscular problem.

The Bianconeri face their arch rivals Torino in the Derby della Mole on Sunday afternoon.

Atomic Ant Giovinco returns to the squad for the first time since he sprained his ankle three weeks ago.

Chilean winger Isla is not included, as he picked up a muscular problem in training.

Nicolas Anelka is still absent along with Simone Pepe.

Juventus squad for Torino: Buffon, Storari, Rubinho; Chiellini, Caceres, De Ceglie, Peluso, Barzagli, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Giaccherini, Marrone, Vucinic Giovinco, Bendtner, Quagliarella, Matri

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Flamini: Juventus deserve Scudetto

The Frenchman has admitted that the Turin side deserve a second-consecutive Serie A success.

Apr 27, 2013

AC Milan midfielder Mathieu Flamini believes that Juventus deserve the Serie A title as they have dominated the 2012-13 campaign.

The Turin giants currently hold an 11-point lead over second-placed Napoli and will be crowned Italian champions if they beat Torino on Sunday and the San Paolo side drop points against Pescara.

"Juventus deserve the title. They have dominated this season," Flamini was quoted as saying by Corriere dello Sport.

"We made a pretty poor start to the season. We recovered in the second half of the season, but it was too late to compete for the title. We cannot forget about our start."

The Frenchman then went on to stress that Milan will do their utmost to finish in third place this season in order to secure Champions League qualification.

"We are aiming for third place. Finishing third is very important to the team, the fans and the entire club. We want to win as much as possible and coming in third is possible.

"We did not lose a single game in Serie A from December until last Sunday [against Juventus]. The defeat versus Juventus was just an incident."

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Conte warns Juventus not to underestimate Torino

The Bianconeri coach is eagerly anticipating the Derby della Mole and feels

it would be a big performance if they win their second consecutive Scudetto.

Apr 27, 2013

Antonio Conte has stressed that Juventus cannot afford to take Sunday's derby against Torino lightly if they are to record a positive result.

Torino have picked up only one point from their last four games and sit 16th in the Serie A table at the moment, yet Conte has insisted that form will count for little ahead of Sunday's clash.

"We need to be fully alert on Sunday. The form guide goes out the window in these games," Conte stated at a press conference.

"The derby is always an important encounter. Both teams look to dictate the game and keep possession. The derby is never a game like the others. Torino have had an exceptional season, we know we’ll be up against a fine team."

Juventus will be crowned Italian champions if they claim victory in the derby and Napoli drop points against Pescara on Saturday.

"We’ll definitely watch tonight’s game. Regardless of the outcome, we know we’ll have a battle on our hands tomorrow," Conte added.

"Reclaiming the title isn't easy in Italy, especially when you start off as favourites.

"If we are to win the Scudetto, it will be the title of ‘desire and consistency’, the aspects we’ve had over other teams."

Conte also reiterated that Serie A is no longer a preferred destination for the game's biggest stars due to the lack of financial resources in Italy.

"Top names will go where they're paid the most. There are few teams in Italy, perhaps none at all, who can afford €10 million in salary."

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Torino-Juventus Preview: Bianconeri looking

to win record 31st Scudetto at home of local rivals

Antonio Conte has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the Derby della Mole

encounter as his side target a seventh straight league victory.

Apr 27, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

TORINO

Gillet

D’Ambrosio, Glik, Ogbonna, Masiello

Cerci, Basha, Gazzi, Santana

Bianchi, Barreto

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah

Marchisio

Vucinic

Torino coach Giampiero Ventura will be forced to make at least two changes to the side which lost 4-3 to Fiorentina last weekend, as Giuseppe Vives and Matteo Darmian are ruled out through suspension.

The pair join former Juventus midfielder Matteo Brighi on the sidelines, who has failed to recover from a muscle strain which has kept him out of the last four matches.

Top goalscorer Rolando Bianchi impressed after coming off the bench against Fiorentina and with two goals in his last three games, the 30-year-old is predicted to replace Riccardo Meggiorini up front.

Should Napoli fail to beat Pescara on Saturday evening, Juventus could claim back-to-back league titles with victory.

Antonio Conte has no fresh injury concerns and is expected to once again adopt the 3-5-1-1 formation which he has utilised to good effect in recent weeks.

Giorgio Chiellini is therefore expected to join Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci in the heart of defence, whilst Claudio Marchisio is once again likely to play in the hole behind lone striker Mirko Vucinic.

After winning the penalty in the 1-0 win over AC Milan last weekend, Kwadwo Asamoah is likely to keep his place at left wing-back, with Stephan Lichtsteiner on the opposite flank.

Nicolas Anelka's injury nightmare continues, with the striker having enjoyed only 35 minutes in the Bianconeri jersey to date this season, and the 34-year-old is yet to recover from a calf muscle injury.

Sebastian Giovinco should return for the clash against Palermo next weekend, whilst Simone Pepe remains a long-term casualty.

DID YOU KNOW?

• A double from Claudio Marchisio and a goal from Sebastian Giovinco handed Juventus a 3-0 victory over the Granata in the reverse fixture back in December.

• Torino have not scored in the seven previous editions of the Turin derby. Their last goal against the Bianconeri was scored by Benoît Cauet in a 2-2 draw back in 2001-02.

• The Old Lady are unbeaten in 13 matches against their local rivals. Their last defeat came in a 2-1 home loss back in 1995.

• Despite languishing just seven points above the relegation zone, Torino top goalscorer Rolando Bianchi has more Serie A goals (10) this season than Juventus' leading marksman Mirko Vucinic (9).

• The Bianconeri are the only team in Serie A not to have received a red card this season. Giampiero Ventura's side have had 5 dismissals.

• If Juventus acquire more than seven points from their remaining five matches, they will better their points tally of 84 from last season's unbeaten campaign.

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Dec 1, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Torino 0

Serie A ‎- Mar 7, 2009 - Torino 0 - Juventus 1

Serie A ‎- Oct 25, 2008 - Juventus 1 - Torino 0

Serie A - Feb 26, 2008 - Juventus 0 - Torino 0

Serie A - Sep 30, 2007 - Torino 0 - Juventus 1

Last Five Matches

Torino

Apr 21, 2013 Fiorentina 4 - Torino 3 - Serie A

Apr 14, 2013 Torino 1 - Roma 2 - Serie A

Apr 6, 2013 Bologna 2 - Torino 2 - Serie A

Mar 30, 2013 Torino 3 - SSC Napoli 5 - Serie A

Mar 17, 2013 Torino 1 - Lazio 0 - Serie A

Juventus

Apr 21, 2013 Juventus 1 - AC Milan 0 - Serie A

Apr 15, 2013 Lazio 0 - Juventus 2 - Serie A

Apr 10, 2013 Juventus 0 - FC Bayern München 2 - UCL

Apr 6, 2013 Juventus 2 - Pescara 1 - Serie A

Apr 2, 2013 FC Bayern München 2 - Juventus 0 - UCL

Players to Watch

Alessio Cerci

The 25-year old winger has been crucial to Torino's survival bid, contributing six goals and seven assists, and deservedly made his international debut for Italy against Brazil last month. With a tendency to cut inside from the right flank, Cerci possesses fantastic crossing ability and is capable of scoring the odd screamer, as Fiorentina will testify after last weekend.

Arturo Vidal

The Chilean midfielder has become one of the most integral pieces of Antonio Conte's winning formula with his tireless workrate and contributions at both ends of the pitch. Along with one of the highest tackling rates in Europe (5.1 average tackles per match), Vidal also has also popped up with some crucial goals and leads the Bianconeri's assists charts with seven.

Prediction

Full of confidence and with seven consecutive league wins under their belt, it would take something truly special for Torino to end their 13-game winless streak against their city rivals, Juventus. With an almost fully-fit squad and the division's best away record, Antonio Conte's side should have enough quality to see off the Granata threat and edge ever closer to retaining the Serie A title.

Editor's Prediction

Torino 0 - 2 Juventus

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

MATCH PREVIEW

Apr 27, 2013

Victory for Juventus in the Derby della Mole could secure another Scudetto, while Torino are aiming to ensure their survival.

Torino were involved in a chaotic contest at Fiorentina. They found themselves three down just past the half hour mark, but Paulo Barreto offered hope on the stroke of half-time. Ex-Viola boys Mario Santana and Alessio Cerci incredibly drew Toro level, but they were undone by a late Romulo winner.

Giampiero Ventura was angry that Granata went behind by three, but also that they failed to win when level. He’s also anxious Torino quickly secures their Serie A status. “The sacrifices it took to get back into Serie A must be defended right to the end.” They’re currently seven points clear of the bottom trio.

Matteo Brighi sits out the Derby due to injury, joining suspended pair Giuseppe Vives and Matteo Darmian – sent off in Florence - on the sidelines.

Juventus inched ever-closer to back-to-back championships with a slender 1-0 victory over Milan on Sunday. In a game of few clear-cut chances, Kwadwo Asamoah was felled in the penalty area and Arturo Vidal emphatically drilled home the spot-kick to seal victory for the Bianconeri.

That leaves Juventus within four points of the Scudetto with five matches remaining. Antonio Conte’s men could even celebrate championship success this weekend should Napoli fail to beat Pescara. A Juve win would then be enough. If not, maximum points in the Derby will leave them within a whisker.

Sebastian Giovinco, Nicolas Anelka and Simone Pepe remain on the sidelines, while Conte looks set to once again go with the 3-5-1-1 formation utilised in recent weeks.

Juve claimed the first Derby this season, while Toro have not tasted city success since dual triumphs in 1994-95. The Old Lady hold the edge in Torino-hosted affairs, winning 26 duals to 19. There have been 23 further draws.

Keep an eye on: Rolando Bianchi (Torino) – The captain could well be lining up for his final Derby della Mole and will aim to leave his mark on proceedings by scoring a goal that can all but assure the Granata’s Serie A survival.

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

Last season: Not played

Stat fact: Torino have been kept scoreless in the seven previous editions of the Turin derby. Their last goal was in a 2-2 draw back in 2001-02.

TORINO (probable): Gillet; D’Ambrosio, Glik, Ogbonna, Masiello; Basha, Gazzi; Cerci, Bianchi, Barreto, Santana

JUVENTUS (probable): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Marchisio; Vucinic

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Torino v Juventus: Preview

Apr 27, 2013

Juventus could clinch their 31st Scudetto at the home of their city rivals Torino tomorrow, adding an additional incentive to the 227th Derby della Mole.

Should Napoli fail to win in Pescara tonight, victory for the Bianconeri at the Stadio Olimpico would see them win a second successive Serie A title, a ``ferocious'' one, according to coach Antonio Conte.

``This game is not like any other,'' he said. ``If last year our Scudetto was a miracle, this would be a ferocious one.

``It would be one born out of our desire, determination and consistency. All of the qualities which we have shown more than our rivals.

``It's not easy to win the league two years in a row, especially not in Italy.''

Unsurprisingly, Juve sold out their contingent of tickets for the city derby within hours, but there are fears that many of their followers have also got their hands on tickets for the home fans' sectors.

``The fact that we are having to consider potential problems means we should all be ashamed,'' said Conte.

``To think that a game of football could cause violence is disgraceful.

``I've been saying it for a long time. In Italy, we get met with stones and insults being thrown our way - is that normal?''

For Torino, the derby is also crucial in terms of avoiding relegation.

They are just seven points clear of the bottom three and cannot afford to drop any more points.

``If we had got something out of those games we lost incredibly, like Cagliari, Parma, Napoli or Fiorentina, we would be safe and even heroes, but instead we are suffering,'' Coach Giampiero Ventura told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

``Bring on the derby because certainly we won't lose our concentration in this match.

``The league table says that this is a very important game for us, but it is still a derby, which is a game unto itself.

``You can make predictions about other games, but not a derby. You just have to play it and see.''

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Preview: Torino vs. Juventus

Apr 27, 2013

Should Napoli fail to beat Pescara on Saturday, Juventus can wrap up the Scudetto with victory over fierce local rivals Torino the following day.

The hosts are almost safe from relegation and a win over Juventus would give them a huge boost in the battle to stay up.

Juventus have won their last six in the league and are unbeaten since the middle of February; the 1-0 win over AC Milan last time moved them 11 points clear.

For Torino, Alessio Cerci is expected to recover from a knock in time to start, but Rolando Bianchi is more of a doubt. Both Giuseppe Vives and Matteo Darmian are suspended.

For Juventus, Nicolas Anelka could return although the game might come too early for Sebastian Giovinco.

Recent form

Torino: LWLDLL

Juventus: LWLWW

Possible starting lineups

Torino: Gillet; Rodriguez, Glik, D'Ambrosio, Ogbonna; Gazzi, Stevanovic, Cerci, Santana; Barreto, Meggiorini

Juventus: Buffon; Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Marchisio; Vucinic

Sports Mole says: 0-3

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Serie A Preview: Torino v Juventus

Apr 27, 2013

Juventus go into the 227th Turin derby on Sunday knowing that a win could secure them the Serie A title.

Should second-placed Napoli lose at Pescara 24 hours earlier, Antonio Conte's men would be able to carve out an unassailable lead at the summit with victory.

And they will certainly be confident of doing so, having not lost to their fierce local rivals since 1995.

The reverse fixture in December ended in a 3-0 win for Juve, but they will be shorn of one of their goalscorers that day, Sebastian Giovinco, due to injury.

However, the reigning Italian champions go into the game having earned a win over Milan in their last outing and looking to stretch their unbeaten league run to nine.

Vice-captain Giorgio Chiellini is confident in Juventus' ability to win the game, but is not expecting to be celebrating the title just yet.

"It’s an important game and we want to do well and win," he told the club's official website.

"I honestly don’t think Napoli will slip up. They have an important objective which is to consolidate second place as soon as they can, especially seeing as Milan could win all their games from now until the end of the season. With all due respect to Pescara, I don’t think Napoli will drop points.

"However, we mustn’t think about celebrating or pay attention to matters which are unrelated to the game. It’s important we stay alert.

"Looking back at this season’s first meeting, we had some problems in the first half against a very organised side. Besides, it’s a derby encounter and the form book goes out the window for these games.

"It would be madness to underestimate our opposition, but I don’t think any of us will be doing that. We mustn’t let up in our quest for the Scudetto. Yes, it’s near, but until you reach it there’s always hope for the chasing pack."

Torino, meanwhile, face a battle at the other end of the table with the season nearing its conclusion, as they sit just two places above the relegation zone.

Giampiero Ventura's men are seven points clear of 18th-placed Palermo, though they have not won a league game since their 1-0 victory over Lazio in March.

Matteo Brighi, who has not featured since that win, though he is set to return from injury on Sunday.

Perhaps surprisingly given the clubs' fates this season, Torino's top league scorer Rolando Bianchi has notched more goals than any of his Juventus counterparts.

The former Manchester City forward has hit the back of the net on 10 occasions in Serie A, while Mirko Vucinic leads the way for Juve with nine.

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Torino v Juventus Preview –

Team News, Tactics, Line-ups And Prediction

Apr 27, 2013

It’s derby day in Turin! And it’s more than just a matter of bragging rights at this business end of the season. The Derby Della Mole seldom fails to loft up memorable moments. Two teams that have been locked in conflict and remain bitter rivals face each other on Sunday night in Serie A’s main event. For Torino, it’s a matter of survival while for Juventus, a win could seal the Scudetto for them. It may also make the champions nostalgic when they return to the Olimpico, a stadium they called home for many years.

An exciting and heated contest, the Turin derby has a lot on the line this time around. Torino will be looking for revenge as they were put to the sword with authority in the reverse fixture. Juventus put three past their neighbors in what was a routine victory for them. Juventus would lick their lips at the prospect of winning the Scudetto on their former stomping ground and a win against their traditional rivals would just be the icing on the cake.

Team News and Tactical Brief

Torino

The Granata are 7 points above the dreaded drop zone but haven’t yet mathematically secured their Serie A status. It has all gone downhill recently for Giampiero Ventura’s men as they have recorded just one point in their past four games. To his relief though, the points they have under their belt gives them a six point cushion over fellow relegation threatened outfit, Siena.

Ventura will stick with his elastic 4-2-4 formation. Brighi is out injured while Darmian and Vives will have to sit this one out on account of suspension. Ventura’s formation is heavily dependent on bringing out the best of his wide men. Cerci and Santana have been key players for Torino this season. The former has undergone a renaissance which earned him a call up to Prandelli’s national team. While his talent is beyond doubt, he is equally capable of going missing for spells during games. If not for his ridiculous hair-do, he wouldn’t be too hard to miss when he’s really off his game. Nevertheless, with 6 goals and 7 assists to his credit, he remains the most dangerous outlet for the home side.

Expect Torino to sit back and absorb Juventus’ pressure and try to break at them on the counter. The two wide advanced wingers should find space behind the Juventus wing-backs. The two central midfielders – Gazzi and Basha – have a herculean task ahead of them as try to stifle the Juventus midfield. Their constant running in every direction and their ability to negate the influence of Juventus’ midfielders will go a long way in deciding the outcome of this game.

Probable Starting Line-up (4-2-4): Gillet; D’Ambrosio, Glik, Ogbonna, Masiello; Basha, Gazzi; Cerci, Bianchi, Barreto, Santana

Juventus

Juventus will head into this game with the knowledge of whether they can conquer the Scudetto during the weekend. Napoli play a day before the Bianconeri and any slip-up on their part would offer the reigning Champions to successfully defend their title. Although, it is a question of ‘when’ rather than ‘if’ for Juventus, they would prefer to wrap it up as quickly as possible.

Antonio Conte is expected to field his recently favored 3-5-1-1; a formation that is still in its infant stage. With similar results – two wins out of two – but contrasting performances, taking a call on it may seem a bit premature. For now, this maybe the best time to experiment for Juventus with the Scudetto all but in the bag. In a sense, it does allow Conte to field the best 11 players in his squad all at once. Team chemistry is not quite there yet as players adapt to different roles. What it does assure, is a heavily packed midfield, which can decide the level of control Juventus might take.

Mirko Vucinic as the lone man has probably the most difficult role of all the Juventus players. A target-man is an unfamiliar position for him yet he has to hold up the ball and feed the runners that dart into the box.

Anelka, Giovinco and Pepe are on the treatment table for Juventus.

Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-1-1): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Marchisio; Vucinic

Player To Watch Out For

Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)

The darling of Juventus, Marchisio has seen a dip in his form. The new formation has brought with it a change in role for Il Principino, a role that he will take time to adjust to. Having come through the ranks of Juventus, this game will be a bit extra special for him and he will be well aware of what a win means to the fans. Marchisio is very likely to be the only player to start from Juventus who has been bought up in Turin. Expect a strong performance from him.

Prediction

Torino 0-2 Juventus

Juventus are heavy favorites if the form guide is anything to go by but as is all too common knowledge, the form book does go out the window in derby games. Yet, it is hard to look past a Juventus victory for the sheer difference in quality in the two sides. The Bianconeri should come away with the three points and who knows may pop the champagne bottle and celebrate Serie A glory in their old stadium.

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

[Socrates 8333]

Serie A Week 34 - 28-4-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Olimpico Stadium - Turin

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus-Torino Preview: Round 34 —

Taking no bull from il Toro

Apr 27, 2013

The Stadio Olimpico brings back some bad memories. It's not exactly like the six years that Juventus played in the stadio was all that memorable. Well, the first couple were. The others? Yeah, not so much. It's a place where Juve experienced some good times, but also some of the darker days in the recent history of the club.

Now, Juventus return to their old stomping grounds in a completely different state of mind.

Antonio Conte's men are just a win and a draw away from a second consecutive Scudetto. Don't tell to the Italian press, though. They're too busy churning out transfer rumors like their lives depend on it. Hey! You guys here the one where Juve are going to sign Luis Suarez for €45 million with a side order of fries? So there's that. Which can be nice — unless you believe every single word they spit and then trouble will likely ensue.

But don't tell that newspaper nonsense to Conte. I get the feeling that he's ready for this one. (Then again, when was the last time he wasn't?)

The Turin derby may not be the kind of heated rivalry that's currently in Juventus' world like Inter and Milan, but it's special in it's own kind of way. And with the added bonus of it being an official away match in an actual away stadium, who knows what may happen.

Well, while that may be a mystery until kickoff takes place, shall the final points in the Scudetto chase continue to be lowered. That certainly would be nice. Winning the title on May just has such a nice ring to it.

GOOD NEWS

Scudetto countdown is at four points. Is there really anything else you need to know other than that?

Also of note: Sunday's derby will be Andrea Barzagli's 100th appearance in a Juventus jersey. Has time flown by or has time flown by? Not bad for a guy who was picked up for €300,000 and a couple of bags of peanuts. Well done, Beppe. And well done, Andrea.

BAD NEWS

The second go-around of the 3-5-1-1 resulted in a completely boring game against Milan. Not exactly what we were expecting now, huh? Now, for the third straight week, Conte's latest formational switch will again see a different set of tactics test it against Torino. We've seen it against the 4-1-4-1 of Lazio, then the 4-3-3 of Milan, now the 4-2-4/4-4-2 hybrid of Torino, which Conte is probably a little familiar with. Or maybe it's a lotta familiar with seeing as Giampiero Ventuna was the man who replaced Conte at Bari a few years back.

Still, a new week a new set of challenges. Hey, sounds like just about every other week.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. The atmosphere inside the Stadio Olimpico. Giorgio Chiellini talked about how Sunday's game is a great occasion for the city of Turin. And he's got a point. But unlike the first derby this season at Juventus Stadium, the second edition will more likely be a stadio divided rather than one that has the vast majority of the crowd supporting the same team.

"It's clear that games against the likes of Milan, Inter and this year Napoli have a greater importance, as does the Champions League. But the derby is something that's felt in Turin and both sets of fans want supremacy in the city, even just for bragging rights.

"Apart from the fact that the league table doesn't fully reflect Torino's season, the derby is completely different game. It brings added motivation and throws up situations that aren't seen in other games."

2. Mirko Vucinic. The 3-5-1-1 had one good game, one meh game and Juventus' hot-and-cold striker has simply followed suit with the system he now plays in. Vucinic was bad, to say the least. Not all that surprise seeing as that the up-and-down roller coaster ride has been the way his season has gone. And even though the Scudetto is just a few mere points away, the role Vucinic plays within the squad — regardless of the system — and his performance will always be put under the microscope.

3. Claudio Marchisio. He's a Turin boy who starred in the season's first Turin derby. Coincidence? I think not. However, much in the same line of Vucinic, Marchisio struggled to make a serious impact in his newfound advanced role in Conte's 3-5-1-1 system. Eh, well, you could say pretty much half the squad's showing last weekend. Will it be the Lazio Marchisio that shows up or the Milan Marchisio? I think I know which one I'm hoping for. And it's just the kind of game where Principino seems to find a way to make a huge imprint on the final outcome. Ya know, a Turin boy going up against another Turin club.

And hey, he'll have bragging rights in his house again. Not bad.

My starting XI (3-5-1-1): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Marchisio; Vucinic

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