Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

Juventus-Palermo Preview: Scudetto success just a draw away

Antonio Conte's men are all but champions, however, they face a Rosanero side fighting for their Serie A lives which threatens Bianconeri glory on home turf.

May 4, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

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

PALERMO

Sorrentino
Bergen, Donati, Aronica
Nelson, Barreto, Arevalo, Kurtic, Garcia
Hernandez, Miccoli

A full-strength Juventus side know they are just a point away from clinching the Serie A title against a relegation-threatened Palermo outfit, but it would be premature for the Bianconeri to be popping the champagne just yet, though, as the visitors are in desperate need of the points.
Antonio Conte will continue to play his 3-5-1-1 formation with Claudio Marchisio playing in behind striker Mirko Vucinic which has brought the champions much joy in recent weeks, while it is the usual back three trio for the hosts.

Giuseppe Sannino's men have enjoyed a mini-revival as they hope to avoid the dreaded drop to Serie B, but there are concerns over in-form attacker Josip Ilicic who faces a race against time to be fit for the clash.

Defender Andrea Mantovani is unavailable while Michel Morganella is suspended.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus are just a point away from landing back-to-back Scudettos. They are 11 points clear of Napoli with four games to play.

• The Bianconeri are on a seven-game winning run and have not conceded in over 270 minutes of Serie A football.

• Antonio Conte's men have won their last three games against Sunday's visitors and have not conceded during this time.

• Palermo are unbeaten in their last five matches with wins over Roma, Sampdoria and Inter included in that run. They sit in 17th place level with Genoa (18) on 32 points.

• Attacker Josip Ilicic has scored five in his last five games for the Rosanero.

• Striker Fabrizio Miccoli has netted six times in Serie A and is a former Juventus player.
  
  Head to Head
  
  Serie A‎ Dec 9, 2012 Palermo 0 - Juventus 1Serie A‎ Apr 7, 2012 Palermo 0 - Juventus 2Serie A ‎‎ Nov 20, 2011 Juventus 3 - Palermo 0Serie A ‎ Feb 2, 2011 Palermo 2 - Juventus 1Serie A‎ Sep 23, 2010 Juventus 1 - Palermo 3
  Last Five Matches
  JUVENTUS Apr 28, 2013 Torino 0 - Juventus 2 Serie A 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
  
  PALERMO
  
  Apr 28, 2013 Palermo 1 - FC Internazionale 0 Serie A Apr 21, 2013 Catania 1 - Palermo 1 Serie A Apr 14, 2013 Palermo 1 - Bologna 1 Serie A Apr 7, 2013 Sampdoria 1 - Palermo 3 Serie A Mar 30, 2013 Palermo 2 - Roma 0 Serie A
  
  
  Players to Watch
  

Arturo Vidal

Has been great all season for the hosts, but has hit a rich vein of form recently having netted four times in his last three games and it would not be a shock if he added to his tally on Sunday. Tenacious in the tackle and technically astute going forward, Vidal is one of the best box-to-box midfielders in the world right now,


Josip Iličic

It's touch and go whether he will make Sunday's game, but if he does it will be a massive boost to Palermo's hopes of nicking anything from this match. Five goals in five games, the Slovenian is in red-hot form.

Prediction

Juventus just need a point in this match to win the Scudetto, but in truth it would be surprising if they did not get all three. The Rosanero will be buoyed by the string of performances they have put together in recent weeks, but the Bianconeri will have too much for the visitors.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 2 - 0 Palermo http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

Juventus v Palermo – Team News, Tactics, Line-ups And Prediction

May 4, 2013

The Scudetto is so close, you can almost touch it. Indeed, just a point separates Juventus from their second consecutive Serie A title and from the inevitable celebrations. Their recent run of form has been impeccable and while they may not put in extremely convincing displays, they are getting the job done. The bare minimum to cross the finish line and now for the biggest race in Italy, they are merely a few inches away.

As for Palermo, they’ve shown the heart and belief that comes with the trembling thought of relegation. Giusppe Sannino has spurred them on to a five-game unbeaten run claiming the scalps of Roma and Inter on the way. That string of positive results has seen force themselves into safety, for now. They remain level on points with Genoa but their superior head-to-head record sees them hover above Italy’s oldest club.

Team News and Tactical Brief Juventus

The morale-boosting derby win has given Juventus the opportunity to successfully defend title this weekend. A draw will be enough regardless of Napoli’s result. Conte has continued to experiment with the 3-5-1-1 formation, a tactical set-up that allows him to field eleven of the best players in his squad. The winning hasn’t halted though, as they currently find themselves on a seven-game winning streak, with momentum firmly behind them.

Much has been said about the new formation Conte has introduced. But there’s still not enough clarity surrounding it’s pros and cons. While it does allow Conte to field his strongest set, it also limits the impact of someone like Mirko Vucinic – a player whose ability to hold up the ball isn’t his forte. Vucinic has suffered in this formation and his ability to go missing has been magnified.

Juventus should have the lion’s share of the possession and while the midfield will be packed, the Bianconeri will want to dictate play. With both teams who play with a heavy midfield, this should be a scrappy and tight affair. There won’t be much space for players to maneuver and the team that can work most with the limited space will have a foothold in the game. Juventus do have the far more technical players capable of wriggling out of crowded area and this will go a long way in influencing the tide.

Nicolas Anelka and Simone Pepe are injured while Sebastian Giovinco should return to the squad.

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

Palermo

For a team that looked doomed for Serie B at one point of time, Palermo have seen their fortunes take a dramatic turn. Suddenly, the belief of maintaining their Serie A status is there and the side have been giving it their all. But the road ahead is a long one and the race for survival is only just heating up. Genoa, Torino and Siena have it all to play for in the coming final weeks of Serie A.

Palermo have Josip Ilicic to thank for their resurgence. The Slovenian attacker has got his act together in recent weeks churning out performances of the highest quality that have reflected his undoubted talent. Ilicic remains one of the most mercurial players in the league and has been the protagonist behind Palermo’s excellent run. He remains a doubt for Palermo and will be evaluated closer to the game.

Sannino will stick with his 3-5-2 formation. Morganella is suspended while Mantovani is on the treatment table. The team have no option but to go for a win from the first whistle but whether they will be allowed to, remains to be seen. Rios will be the hard-man in midfield and will screen his back three with the aim of obstructing Juventus’ attacks. Up front, Miccoli is the danger-man for Palermo. Aronica has been exposed time and time again this season with his short-comings as a defender brought to the fore regularly. He will have his hands full with Lichtsteiner bombarding down Palermo’s left flank.

Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2): Sorrentino; Von Bergen, Donati, Aronica; Nelson, Barreto, Rios, Kurtic, Garcia; Hernandez, Miccoli

Player To Watch Out For Arturo Vidal (Juventus)

Juventus’ Chilean hot shot has been playing at a level occupied only by him this season. With 9 goals, Vidal is just three away from equaling Rui Barrios’ record as the club’s most prolific midfielder in a single Serie A season. With unmatched energy and enviable quality, you wouldn’t bet against Vidal slotting in a goal or two past Sorrentino.

Prediction Juventus 2 – 1 Palermo

Both teams have enough motivation to go into this game with the view of bagging the three points. Yes, Juventus need just a solitary point but it isn’t in their DNA to look for the draw. Palermo will have the purgatory of Serie B playing on their mind and with Genoa sniffing down their neck, they will go all out as well. Expect Juventus to edge this contest by the narrowest of margins.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

Anelka back for Juve-Palermo

May 4, 2013

Nicolas Anelka and Mauricio Isla are back in the Juventus squad for tomorrow’s title decider against Palermo.

Coach Antonio Conte named his list of players for the match, as they need only one point to clinch the Scudetto.

The return of Anelka and Isla from injury means Simone Pepe is the only unavailable player.

Juventus squad for Palermo: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 4 Caceres, 6 Pogba, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 13 Peluso, 15 Barzagli, 17 Bendtner, 18 Anelka, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 22 Asamoah, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho, 39 Marrone

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

Sannino ignores Juve party

May 4, 2013

Giuseppe Sannino warns Palermo “do not care about the Juventus Scudetto party,” as they are fighting for their football lives.

The Bianconeri need only one point to clinch the title in Turin on Sunday afternoon, while the Sicilians are battling against relegation.

“It is only natural they would prepare for celebrations this weekend and we’re going into a stadium that cannot wait for the game to end so they can begin the party,” said Sannino.

“We are going to Turin in order to play our game. We have to focus on ourselves and what we need to do. We can’t think about the bus ready to take the Juventus squad through the streets of the city and we do not care about the Scudetto party.

“I think that right now we have something the others do not. I’m sure Antonio Conte won’t like me saying this, but usually those teams who are about to win the Scudetto reach the end of the season in a more relaxed state of mind. I expect he has tried everything to prevent that situation.

“We must face Juve with humility, hard work and suffering, because we will suffer in an arena just waiting to explode. I told the lads clearly we must be a united group. Last season my Siena went to Turin and picked up a point that then proved decisive for safety.”

Sannino had started the campaign on the Palermo bench and was fired after just three rounds, but since his return the team has climbed up the standings.

“I am the same Coach I was a few months ago. The attitude of the lads has changed, something that perhaps was lacking at the start. It’s not a Palermo problem so much as something that happens all over Italy.

“Everything is achieved via hard work and humility, so professionals must be impeccable. This is sport, but it is also a job. Maybe the players realised it when they saw how unhappy the people in the city were. In this sport there are no short-cuts or easy ways out.”

Michel Morganella is suspended, but Josip Ilicic and Fabrizio Miccoli shook off knocks.

Palermo squad for Juventus: Sorrentino, Benussi, Brichetto; Munoz, Von Bergen, Aronica, Dossena, Garcia, Nelson; Donati, Ilicic, Kurtic, Barreto, Anselmo, Arevalo Rios, Formica, Faurlin, Viola; Hernandez, Miccoli, Sperduti, Boselli, Dybala, Fabbrini

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

Juventus-Palermo Preview: Round 35 — All we need is one (point)

May 4, 2013
A Juventus-themed variation on a Beatles classic, maybe?
Different seasons have brought different expectations. This season? Juventus were basically handed the league title before the 2012-13 campaign even began. But, in Antonio Conte's first season as manager, Juve weren't the favorites to win the Scudetto. Yet on an innocent night in Trieste just about a year ago, Conte's first season as manager became one that had silverware attached to it.

And as the seconds go closer and closer to full time and the clock eclipsed 90 minutes into stoppages, we had the impromptu curva of Juventini burst into song. And you know what? It was music to everybody's ears — no matter where you were watching.

Still, even though another Scudetto parade is basically upon us, there are two main differences between Conte's first title-winning season and the second.

1. Juventus needed a serious late-season charge to pass Milan and then capture Scudetto No. 30. It took until the second to last week of the season, and the reward was the video above. But this season, it's been a formality for weeks. Their lead has always been there, and has grown to double digits in recent weeks as the gap between the closest competitors has gotten bigger and bigger.

2. Juventus will get to clinch this title in front of their boisterous home crowd at a sold out Juventus Stadium.

That's the way it should be, really.

There will be a game tomorrow afternoon. A game that will take place against two teams headed in vastly different directions as this season comes to an end and possibly for years to come. But it will also be a celebration of what is likely to happen. All Juve need to clinch No. 31 is one measly point against a Palermo side that is inches away from going back into the relegation zone.

But who really wants to wrap it all up with a draw? Psh, that's no fun in that. So it's simple: Keep the train rollin', fellas. How about another three more points and continue the road to 90 on the season? I don't know about you, but that sounds like a fantastic idea.

GOOD NEWS

I could say where the Scudetto countdown is again, but that'd just be repeating myself. Instead, I will drop this nugget of information on y'all...

This season's defense is looking a lot like last season's defense, isn't it? I was looking at a few stats the other day and I noticed something in regards to the defense that caught my eye. Take a gander if you'd like.

2011-12 goals allowed in Serie A (38 games): 20

2012-13 goals allowed in Serie A (34 games): 21

And seeing as Juventus' schedule the rest of the way consists of some of the worst goal-scoring teams in Italy's top flight, if the 'goals allowed' column pretty much stays put, I wouldn't be surprised at all. Not bad, gents.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. The Juventus Stadium atmosphere. Everybody in attendance and watching around the world knows what's on the horizon. And for the those lucky enough to have a ticket to Sunday's possible title-clincher, they will certainly be at a stadio that's in a festive kind of mood. Juventus Stadium will be predictably loud like it always is, but it will have a different kind of vibe. The tifosi watched Juve clinch the Scudetto on the "road" last season — even though most of the Stadio Nereo Rocco was filled with Bianconeri supporters. This season, they have a chance to clinch the league title in front of their own fans and at their own stadium. Not a bad little thing to have happen on such a historic and meaningful day in Juve's storied history.

2. Whether Palermo puts up a good fight. The club owned by arguably the craziest mofo on the planet is in the midst of fighting for Serie A survival. Hard to believe considering they've gone through 35,000 managers in the last couple of years, isn't it? But Palermo need as many points as they can possibly get in the season's final four weeks. And their schedule post-Juventus isn't easy at all — home against Udinese, away to Fiorentina, home against Parma — so points will certainly be a premium as they look to stay out of the bottom three.

3. Can Arturo Vidal keep his hot streak going? Easy answer: It's Arturo Vidal so of course he can. As pointed out by Football Italia (through the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport) earlier in the week, Vidal is currently in the midst of one of the best seasons by a Juventus midfielder ever. He's scored four goals in the last three league games, with three of those being of the game-winning variety. He's closing the season on an incredibly high note without a doubt, and there's no reason to think he's going to slow down — goals or no goals. He's just that damn good.

4. Can Mirko Vucinic snap out of his current funk? While Vidal is playing his best ball of the season, the opposite can be said about Juventus' much-talked about Montenegrin striker. He's been struggling — a lot. That's no way around it. And you know that's true when WhoScored, who usually loves them some Mirko Vucinic, gives him a pair of sub-6 ratings the past two fixtures. Sure, he's always been hot and cold. But It's definitely been more of the latter than the former lately.

My starting XI (3-5-1-1): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Marchisio; Quagliarella http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

Juventus prepare Scudetto celebrations ahead of Palermo visit

The Bianconeri are one point away from securing a 29th official Italian league title.

May 5, 2013

Celebrations are being prepared in Turin ahead a potential title party for Juventus on Sunday afternoon. The reigning Italian champions need only a point from their home fixture against relegation-threatened Palermo to retain their title with three rounds still remaining of the Serie A season.

It would be a 29th official Scudetto for Antonio Conte's side and a 31st in total, with their 2004-05 and 2005-06 successes having been revoked by the footballing authorities as part of the Calciopoli punishments in 2006.

The Old Lady will be keen to clinch the title in front of their home fans having won last year's title on the road, against Cagliari in Trieste. And midfielder Claudio Marchisio sees that as a huge incentive to get the job done this weekend.

"We now have the opportunity to celebrate the Scudetto with our fans at home," said Marchisio, "Although we will be up against a Palermo side fighting for survival."

The in-form Sicilians have dragged themselves out of the bottom three on goal difference in recent weeks and president Maurizio Zamparini wants his men to focus on their own objectives.

"We are desperate for the win and we'll be going to Turin to win," the chief told Radio Kiss Kiss. "We need the points and we have to try cause an upset.

"We will not go there hoping to spoil Juventus' party, but with the intentions of having our own party."

Should Juve lose today, they could still be crowned as champions later in the day. Napoli host Inter at 20:45CET needing to win to keep alive their hopes of overhauling the Turin side's huge 11-point advantage.

Even if they clinch the title today, Juve will have to wait until their final home fixture against Cagliari next Saturday (May 11) before being presented with the Scudetto trophy, but celebrations are likely to be seen on the streets of Turin throughout Sunday evening if the champions can clinch the point they need for a second successive title.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

'Lippi did not believe Juventus had won the title'

Former Juventus stars Alessio Tacchinardi and Gianluca Zambrotta reflect on the memorable Serie A success on May 5 2002, as Antonio Conte's current charges prepare for glory.

May 5, 2013

Former Juventus midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi has described how Marcelo Lippi could scarcely believe it when they claimed the Serie A title in dramatic fashion on May 5 2002.

The Bianconeri went into the final game of the season away to Udinese two points behind Inter, but a shock 4-2 home defeat to Lazio for the Nerazzurri and a 2-0 win for the Old Lady meant the title found its way to Turin in the most dramatic of circumstances.

Eleven years to the day since their miraculous triumph, Antonio Conte's Juve host Palermo needing just a point to secure back-to-back Scudetto crowns and Tacchinardi took the opportunity to reflect on a memorable day in the calendar for Bianconeri faithful.

"Before entering the pitch at Udinese, none of us expected anything like that," he said in an interview with Tuttosport.

"To lose the championship that way to Lazio [on the final day in 2000] was a sporting tragedy. But on May 5 we were rewarded for that disappointment. I remember, in fact, a beautiful spontaneous hug between those who - like me - had lived the psychodrama of 2000.

"He [Lippi] turned to me because he felt reactions in the stands and, although he had banned radios on the bench, he asked me what was going on at Inter against Lazio. And when I told him the Nerazzurri were losing 4-2, three times he repeated: 'I don't believe you, I do not believe it, tell me the truth.' And then he started to encourage the team with an incredible charge."

Former Juve full-back Gianluca Zambrotta added that the nature of the triumph was almost comparable to winning the Champions League - a feat he was unable to achieve with the Turin club, AC Milan or Barcelona.

"May 5 was my first championship win," he added. "I won't say to win it that way is worth a Champions League, but almost... almost."

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Andrea Romeo

Line-ups: Juventus-Palermo

May 5, 2013

Juventus need only one point to start the Scudetto party, but Palermo have every intention of spoiling it as they fight for survival.

The Juventus Stadium in Turin is a powder keg this afternoon with two clubs highly motivated and fired up.

Antonio Conte’s men have already planned their celebrations in the city, as one point will be enough to mathematically secure the title.

Everyone is available apart from the injured Simone Pepe, but Conte sticks with the 3-5-1-1 system that allows Paul Pogba in midfield, Claudio Marchisio in a more advanced role and a lone striker Mirko Vucinic.

Palermo clambered out of the bottom three last week with a victory over Inter and their confidence is sky high.

Michel Morganella is suspended and Andrea Mantovani injured, but Fabrizio Miccoli and Josip Ilicic lead the attack.

JUVENTUS: Buffon, Barzagli, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah, Marchisio, Vucinic

Juventus bench: Storari, Caceres, De Ceglie, Giovinco, Peluso, Bendtner, Padoin, Giaccherini, Quagliarella, Matri, Isla, Marrone

PALERMO: Sorrentino; Von Bergen, Donati, Aronica; Nelson, Barreto, Arevalo Rios, Kurtic, Garcia; Ilicic, Miccoli

Palermo bench: Benussi, Munoz, Viola, Dossena, Dybala, Hernandez, Anselmo, Fabbrini, Boselli, Faurlin, Brichetto, Formica

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo Attendance:‬38000‎ Vidal spot kick seals second successive Scudetto for battling Bianconeri

The Chilean stepped up to the mark for the Old Lady once again, slotting home a second-half penalty awarded for a needless push by Massimo Donati on Mirko Vucinic.
May 5, 2013
Juventus claimed their second successive Serie A title with a hard-earned 1-0 win over relegation-threatened Palermo in Turin on Sunday.

The Bianconeri performed poorly but fortune smiled on them, with Fabrizio Miccoli striking the post before Arturo Vidal made the crucial breakthrough from the spot after Massimo Donati had been penalised for a senseless shove into the back of Mirko Vucinic.

With the pressure off, Antonio Conte's men could even have added a second in the closing stages, with Fabio Quagliarella thumping a shot against the bar, and even though Paul Pogba saw red late on for spitting at Santiago Garcia. But one goal still proved sufficient to secure a Scudetto that has been theirs for the taking for some time now.

Juventus had gone into the game knowing that they needed only a draw to clinch the title but it was clear right from the very first minute that victory was the only thing on their minds, with wing-backs Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah taking turns to terrorise the Palermo defence during an early Bianconeri onslaught.

For all Andrea Pirlo’s probing, though, Juventus struggled to break through a disciplined Rosanero rearguard, which was being diligently protected by Egidio Arevalo Rios, who repeatedly pilfered possession back for his side during a dynamic display.

However, Lichtsteiner prised Palermo open just before the half-hour mark with a wonderfully weighted through-ball for lone striker Mirko Vucinic, who held off Massimo Donati well only to then see Stefano Sorrentino save well with his feet.

That near miss failed to lift the Bianconeri, though, and a wayward header from Pogba was the best they could must before the conclusion of a surprisingly ineffective first half from the home side’s perspective.

In truth, they did not improve much after the interval and were extremely fortunate not to have fallen behind five minutes after the restart when Miccoli found some space in the area for the first time and very nearly made it count, unleashing a shot that deflected off Giorgio Chiellini but then came back off the base of the right post.

However, just as it appeared that Palermo might be poised to prolong Juve's wait for the title, a rush of blood to head allowed the hosts to break the deadlock right out of the blue. Paul Pogba lofted the ball into Vucinic, who, with his back to goal, represented little threat to the Palermo goal. However, Massimo Donati inexplicably elected to barge into the back of the Montenegrin, leaving the referee with little option but to point to the spot.

Vidal unsurprisingly punished Donati’s stupidity by coolly rolling home the resulting penalty, though his task was aided by Sorrentino’s rather bizarre decision to jump ridiculously early.

Juventus suddenly looked like a different side and Vucinic very nearly doubled the hosts' advantage on 66 minutes when he connected with Pogba's chip in behind, but the striker's volley was well saved by Sorrentino.

Quagliarella then rattled the bar with a thumping strike from the edge of the area, just moments after coming on in place of Vucinic, before Pogba was sent off for spitting at Santiago Garcia during an eventful ending to an otherwise dull encounter.

Palmero pushed forward in a bid to aide their bid for survival, but to no avail, with Juventus holding on quite comfortably to spark wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo Attendance:‬38000‎ JUVE CAMPIONI D'ITALIA!

An Arturo Vidal penalty got the party started, as Juventus beat Palermo to clinch the 2012-13 Scudetto!
May 5, 2013
There was a real party atmosphere in Turin, as the Bianconeri needed just one point to mathematically clinch the title. Everyone was available apart from Simone Pepe, while Palermo’s Michel Morganella sat out a ban. The Sicilians were desperate to spoil the celebrations, as they needed points to avoid sliding back into the bottom three.

This game was on May 5, the 11^th anniversary of the legendary Juventus Scudetto victory in 2002, surpassing Inter on the final day of the season.

Paul Pogba’s long-range effort was charged down, Arturo Vidal hit a screamer just wide and Andrea Pirlo fired over the bar. Mirko Vucinic ran on to a long pass and held off Massimo Donati to get the shot away, but Stefano Sorrentino beat it round the base of the near post.

Gigi Buffon punched away a Fabrizio Miccoli free kick, but the first half ended goalless.

Straight after the restart Palermo went extremely close to taking a shock lead, as Miccoli’s angled drive went past Giorgio Chiellini and Buffon’s fingertips to thump the base of the far post.

Donati barged Vucinic in the back when he was trying to chest down a Pogba assist and the referee pointed to the spot. Vidal stepped up and coolly converted low into the near bottom corner. The Chilean then ran into the stands to hug Simone Pepe, who missed practically the entire season through injury.

Pirlo was ready to tap in when Steve Von Bergen intercepted the Vucinic pass at the back stick, then Chiellini got in front of Santiago Garcia to nod inches wide of the upright.

Sorrentino used his knee to parry a Vucinic volley at the near post, then beat away a Vidal strike after Pogba was closed down in the box. Abel Hernandez turned Chiellini to flash an effort inches past the base of the upright.

Sorrentino got his hand to a Pogba solo effort, but the French teen rather ruined his afternoon when receiving a red card for spitting at Salvatore Aronica.

Juventus: Buffon, Barzagli, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah (Peluso 66), Marchisio, Vucinic (Quagliarella 79)

Palermo: Sorrentino; Von Bergen, Donati, Aronica; Nelson, Barreto, Arevalo Rios (Faurlin 79), Kurtic, Garcia; Ilicic (Dybala 71), Miccoli (Hernandez 65)

Ref: Romeo

Sent off: Pogba 83 (J)

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo Attendance:‬38000‎ Juve seal Serie A title

May 5, 2013

Juventus wrapped up their 29th Serie A title with a narrow home win over relegation-threatened Palermo.

A second-half penalty from Arturo Vidal was enough to see Juve crowned champions for the second successive season with three games to spare.

Paul Pogba's dismissal for spitting at an opponent left the home side having to play out the final seven minutes with a man less, but Antonio Conte's men held on to spark the celebrations at the Juventus Stadium.

It was a different story for Palermo though, whose defeat combined with Genoa's win over Pescara means they are now three points adrift of safety and looking in serious danger of going down.

With a point still needed to seal the title, Juve coach Conte took no risks and named his strongest team against a Palermo side who have been in good form recently during an unbeaten five-match run that has brought them three wins.

Juve soon stamped their authority on the game and appeared to want to wrap things up as quickly as possible to allow them to enjoy the occasion with the full stadium already preparing for the title celebrations.

However, they were unable to turn their domination into goals as Palermo stood firm.

The Sicilians' resistance lasted just under an hour before Massimo Donati was adjudged to have pushed Mirko Vucinic inside the penalty area and a penalty was awarded.

Vidal stepped up to place his shot low into the bottom right-hand corner with Stefano Sorrentino diving the other way.

Palermo now needed two goals to put Juve's title party back on ice and the home fans responded in anticipation of the final whistle which was still half an hour away.

Those 30 minutes still had to be played, though, and Juve forward Fabio Quagliarella was keen to make the most of his chance after replacing Vucinic.

He struck the crossbar in the 81st minute with a fine shot from outside the penalty area.

Pogba followed suit with a shot which Sorrentino saved well, but the French midfielder then reacted badly to a push by Salvatore Aronica, spitting at the Palermo defender and earning a straight red card.

It was the only blot on an otherwise perfect afternoon for the Bianconeri as the celebrations for their latest Italian title began.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo Attendance:‬38000‎ Lippi: Juventus have no rivals in Italy

The 65-year-old says the Old Lady were runaway champions this season, while Gianluigi Buffon believes "failure was not an option" for the club.

May 5, 2013
Marcello Lippi has claimed that Juventus "have no rivals" in Serie A following their successful title defence against Palermo on Sunday.

The Bianconeri wrapped up their second straight Scudetto with three matches to spare, having moved 14 points clear of nearest challengers Napoli thanks to a 1-0 victory, and their former coach believes the side have blown away the competition.

"I want to congratulate everyone at Juventus. This Scudetto is proof that Juve are constantly growing. Of course, the compliments are extended to the club's board," the Guangzhou Evergrande boss told TMW.

"This team have no rivals in Italy, they are the strongest and also did well in Europe. The most important player of the season? Other than the usual suspects, I liked Barzagli the most so I pick him."

Meanwhile, club captain Gianluigi Buffon was adamant his side were obliged to retain their crown this season.

"When you have a duty to win, failure is not an option. We were really good today," the goalkeeper told reporters after the match.

"This is a Scudetto victory that I liked particularly because we played as a group from day one and overcame our rivals at the most crucial moments.

"Subsequently, we were also able to secure the title. Conte? He knows what the future holds, I don't have too many doubts about him."

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo Attendance:‬38000‎ 'I'm realising a dream by coaching Juventus' - Conte

The Bianconeri boss insists there is no reason for him to leave following their latest Scudetto triumph and is planning to hold talks over his future.

May 5, 2013
Antonio Conte has admitted that he has realised "a dream" by taking charge of Juventus in the wake of the side's Serie A title success.

The Old Lady beat Palermo 1-0 on Sunday to defend their Scudetto in convincing style, having accumulated a 14-point lead over Napoli, but the coach has been linked with a summer exit following reports that he and the club are at loggerheads over transfer policy.

Nonetheless, Conte is ready to hold talks with the Bianconeri hierarchy over their future plans after confessing his love for the reigning Italian champions and has outlined his ambitions of launching another assault on the Champions League next season.

"The future? I'm feeling great at Juventus and at the place where I always hoped to be when I started coaching," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"My dream was to coach Juventus when I was a player here and to win, especially after only two seasons, is exceptional.

"It's right to sit down with the club in a serene way, I will always be grateful to [president] Andrea Agnelli. I will always have a debt towards him and I hope that all matters regarding the club remain transparent.

"I want everything for the good of the club. Raising the bar means that we still have to fight for the Scudetto, but also improve our progress in Europe.

"Fans are calling for the Champions League, but we must be realistic and figure out where we can go."

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo Attendance:38000‎ Conte: I'll never stop thanking my team

The 43-year-old coach heaped praise on his side for winning consecutive league titles and has cited the defeat to Inter earlier in the campaign as the worst moment of the season.

May 5, 2013
Juventus boss Antonio Conte has paid tribute to his team having being named as champions of Italy for a second successive year following the 1-0 victory over Palermo.

The Bianconeri went into Sunday's match knowing a point would be sufficient in securing back-to-back Scudetto titles and, speaking to Sky Italia after the game, the 43-year-old coach revealed he is forever indebted to his squad for successfully defending their Serie A crown.

"We are happy and satisfied. The credit goes to the players who have been extraordinary for the entire season. I am proud of them as it was not easy to win another championship," he told Sky Italia.

"The Champions League sapped some energy out of us, but the team were outstanding in all respects. I'll never stop thanking them.

"I must also thank the club and my staff, especially for their work at the start of the season because of my ban."

The 43-year-old then reflected on a number of difficult moments on the journey to retaining their title and believes the defeat to Inter in November - which ended Juve's 49-game unbeaten streak - prompted a sense of mortality within the squad.

"Most difficult moment of the season? The home defeat to Inter made us reflect on many things after the beginning of the season had gone so positively," said Conte.

"Against the Nerazzurri came our first defeat. The result brought our feet back to the ground. The match that made me feel sick to the stomach was the one at home against Sampdoria."

Juventus bowed out of Europe after going down 4-0 to Bayern Munich over two legs in the Champions League, but Conte believes the club's two recent league titles more than make up for their percieved failure on the continental stage.

He added: "The Champions League? After our elimination against Bayern, we were on the receiving end of criticism. There was talk beforehand that Juventus were not on the Bavarians level, but after the first leg I remained quiet as the German side were superior.

"The essence of Juve is winning, we always aim to win every tournament in which we participate. At the end of the season, I shall speak with the club. The fans must be satisfied, first and foremost though, because in these two years we have forged ahead together."

The newly-crowned champions travel to Atalanta on Wednesday.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo
Attendance:‬38000‎

Buffon: 'A different feeling'

May 5, 2013

Juventus captain Gigi Buffon reveals this Scudetto “has a different feeling to last year’s, but that doesn’t mean it is an inferior feeling.”

The Bianconeri beat Palermo 1-0 this afternoon to secure their second consecutive Serie A title and will today travel round the city on an open-top bus.

“I am very happy, because this has a different feeling to last year’s, but that doesn’t mean it is an inferior feeling,” Buffon told Mediaset Premium.

“In all of these weeks we put one brick at a time to secure our victories, appreciating this Scudetto bit by bit.

“The difference from last year is that we had nothing to lose, whereas this time we were forced to win otherwise it would’ve been treated like a failure.

“There was a lot of responsibility on our shoulders, as it isn’t easy to win again in that situation.”

Juventus and their fans are all waving signs with ‘31’ as they continue to include the two Scudetti stripped in the Calciopoli scandal.

“In 12 years at Juventus I finished first on seven occasions, including Serie B, so winning helps you to win.

“Antonio Conte? I don’t think there are any doubts over his future, but it’s only normal to discuss things with the club at the end of each season.”

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo
Attendance:‬38000‎

Conte: 'Juve and the ice bath'

May 5, 2013

Antonio Conte thanked the Juventus players – even if they dumped him in an ice bath – and confirmed he must sit down with the club.

The Bianconeri secured their second consecutive Scudetto after beating Palermo 1-0.

“We are very happy and satisfied. The credit goes to these extraordinary lads who went through a tough and tiring season, but were always on point,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“I am proud of them, as it was not easy to win this year despite being favourites, as we knew the Champions League would take a lot of energy out of us.

“We won the title with a triumphant march to secure it four rounds early and I will never stop thanking the players, plus the club and my staff who more than ever had to take a key role thanks to my time in the stands.”

Conte spent the first four months of the season in the stands, as he sat out a ban for failing to report a potential fix to authorities while he was at Siena. He always denied the charges, but assistants Massimo Carrera and Angelo Alessio had to take the bench during his suspension.

“The home defeat to Inter helped us understand certain things, as we had started this season a bit too confidently considering the performances. There were some games, such as against Genoa, where luck was on our side.

“The game with Inter got our feet back on the ground, though the players were certainly not arrogant beforehand.

We realised we had to put in a little more grit and determination to confirm the title.

“I think the strangest match, which hurt the most, was the home defeat to 10-man Sampdoria. It was incredible and I got really angry, but also understood it was a freak result that must never happen again. We learned from it.”

The squad is about to go on an open-top bus around the city, but the celebrations have already begun in the locker room with Conte dumped into an ice bath wearing only his underwear.

“I was getting ready to have a shower and was violently kidnapped by my players! They could either throw me in the bath with hot water or the one with cold, but as soon as I saw their approach it was clear which one they’d choose!”

In Saturday’s Press conference Conte hinted that his future was not entirely secure, as he would have to sit down with the club to discuss the projects.

“I am very happy at Juventus and always hoped to come here when I started my coaching career. It was my dream to come back to Juventus and win. What I said yesterday was at the end of two extraordinary seasons when we achieved targets ahead of schedule, it makes sense to sit down with the club and discuss the projects.

“The bar has been raised higher and there is also an economic crisis in Italy. I thank President Andrea Agnelli, who wanted me here at Juventus and for that I will be always grateful. I want what is best for everyone.

“Raising the bar means if we didn’t win the title next year then it would be treated as a problem. We also finished in the top eight in Europe, in front of clubs like Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City, who have enormous economic potential.

“We must be very realistic to see what we are capable of doing and where we can end up. I remember the moment we went out against Bayern Munich, we were inundated with criticism from people saying we weren’t up to the task. Every now and then in football you have to sit back, relax and admit the other team was stronger. We doff our hats to Bayern.

“We also know that Juventus always start to win every tournament, but we have to start the season with clear objectives and not raise expectations beyond what is reasonable.”

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 35 - 5-5-12 (3:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Arturo Vidal (59′ - PG)

Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: AndreaRomeo
Attendance:‬38000‎

Del Piero: 'Watching Juve win...'

May 5, 2013

Alessandro Del Piero sent a moving message to his former Juventus teammates. “I never thought what it’d be like to see this team win without me.”

The legend left the Bianconeri last summer after another Scudetto celebration, but is now in Sydney watching today’s title celebrations from afar.

“Since I left Juventus, I’ve never thought what it’d be like to see this team win without me,” he wrote on his website alessandrodelpiero.com.

“I never did, until a few days ago, when the numbers of the rankings secured the second title in a row, after the one of the Great Return.

“I tried to imagine it, but in my "film" the images were rather blurred: the final whistle, my friends who rejoice, the cup ready to be lifted, the roar of our supporters. And at this point, with the roar of fans, everything starts to become sharper, and come into focus. The leading actors are the fans. You, guys, are the leading actors.

“For those who play football, at least for me, it’s great to see fans rejoice, hear them shout for joy, make them explode with excitement and happiness.

“That's why when the "movie" from my mind moved to reality, when Juventus has won again the title (what a nice verb is "to win again" ...), my first thought was about those who were celebrating this victory. And this time I am one of them.

“I want to applaud to my teammates, to a fantastic team, that will always stay in my heart. A round of applauses to Gigi, who deserved to lift the trophy as captain.

“I applaud to all who dedicated this triumph to me last year, I'm happy to exchange this gesture: to re-affirm that you are the best is a great challenge. My applauses to the work of the society, to the technical staff, and to all those who work behind the scenes.

“Who knows Juventus well, is well aware that it's just not possible to stop at one victory. You have to win once again. And again and again.

“ONE LOVE
Alessandro”

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

[Socrates 8331]

If Juventus play their cards right,
they can now build a Serie A dynasty

With a second successive Scudetto now under their belts, Antonio Conte's side
could dominate the Italian league for the foreseeable future.

May 6, 2013

COMMENT
By Kris Voakes

If last season’s Scudetto was about redemption, this one has made a serious statement. Juventus are champions of Italy again and the celebrations witnessed on the streets of Turin on Sunday could well become an annual feature of Serie A over the foreseeable future such is the Bianconeri’s position of dominance right now.

There were fanciful claims at various stages this term that a veritable Scudetto ‘race’ was on, but the truth is that the Bianconeri have been simply untouchable since beating Parma on opening night. They may well have lost their 18-month long unbeaten league record to Inter in November and gone down in three further games since then, but their consistency of force has been such that there is little hope of a true challenge to them for a couple of years at least.

Last term they drew a huge number of games, but this time they’ve had the wherewithal to eke out three points where previously they may have had to settle for one. Whenever any side has got even remotely close to Juve’s points tally, the champions have upped their game and pulled clear once more. They have clinched the title with three rounds to spare and that is a more than fair reflection of just how superior they have been.

One of the charges levelled at Antonio Conte this season has been his unwillingness to shuffle the pack ahead of Champions League fixtures, but that has simply exemplified his will to make Juve the undisputed number one in Italy. In the bel paesemore than anywhere else, success in the league comes above and beyond everything else, and Conte’s approach has summed up Juventus’ burning desire to leave their traditional rivals trailing far behind.

For four years after Calciopoli, Inter dominated. They won the heavily-handicapped 2007 title by 22 points and also triumphed with something to spare in 2009, but in 2008 and 2010 it took goals in the second halves of their final games to clinch the title. In comparison, having secured their first crown since those dark days in Serie B in the penultimate round of 2011-12, this season has shown just how much Juventus are building a potential empire, one which will take quite a coup to halt.

With Gianluigi Buffon set to go on in goal for a number of years yet, there has been a great consistency about their defensive line this term. And when Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci or Giorgio Chiellini have been missing, Martin Caceres has shown to be an able enough replacement. Ahead of them, the first-choice ‘MVP’ midfield has been superbly supported – infiltrated even – by the rise of Paul Pogba, with Emanuele Giaccherini only 11 months removed from participating in Euro 2012 for Italy and the versatile Simone Padoin and talented Luca Marrone still to show their best.

Consider the form of Stephan Lichtsteiner, arguably the best wing-back in the game right now, and Kwadwo Asamoah, who has slotted in superbly on the left, and Juve are perhaps two good strikers away from boasting the kind of quality and quantity in every position that many other clubs are struggling to attain in more than one department. AC Milan have a forward line which could be truly explosive in the coming years, but their defence is regularly shot to pieces and the midfield line needs serious attention too. Inter, meanwhile, need a severe overhaul, while Napoli have flair but no depth in the attacking departments and nothing much of anything defensively.

It all adds up to a huge advantage for the Old Lady on the pitch, and simply mirrors the gap which currently exists off it. The club’s balance sheet is something of an anomaly in Italian football in the 21st century, with huge profits being made since the move to Juventus Stadium. With the muscle necessary to strengthen their first team, the international pull to continue making money like no other Serie A club and the kind of matchday revenue that only they can rake in due to their unique ownership of their own stadium, the Bianconeri simply appear to be an unstoppable machine at this moment in time.

The truth is that the only thing that can possibly stop Juventus from dominating Serie A for at least the next half-decade is Juventus themselves. With anything approaching careful management, they will win the Scudetto again next year, and it will take something extraordinary for them to even be challenged in the following campaign. And given two more years of trophies, profits and increased revenue streams, they can surely only be in an even stronger position in relation to the rest of the country.

So congratulations once more to Juventus, the best team in Italy last season, this season and a few seasons still to come.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Nedved hails Juventus winning mentality

The former Czech Republic international believes the current squad's exploits are hugely
commendable and has set his sights firmly on helping the side progress even further.

May 7, 2013

Pavel Nedved has hailed Juventus' winning mentality after they secured their second consecutive Serie A title with a 1-0 win over Palermo at the weekend.

The former midfielder, currently part of Juve's board of directors, feels the current crop of players has progressed rapidly in the last couple of seasons and is confident they can continue to deliver trophies in the near future.

"The players possess the winning mentality that Juventus is all about. Everyone’s done really well, be it the coach or the group of players. I think they’ve all improved since last year’s triumph, so you can only take your hat off to them," Nedved told the official Juventus website.

"I think the applause should go to the coach and all the players because, like I said, everyone’s improved in so many aspects – progressing in the Champions League and winning the Scudetto by this kind of margin is a really difficult thing to do.

"Even after two Scudetto titles and a Super Cup victory, there are still other targets in mind, so we have to sit down and discuss how we can improve and what’s required to keep on winning."

Juventus meet Atalanta, Cagliari and Sampdoria in their remaining three Serie A games.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo
Referee: Marco Guida

Juve lose stars for Atalanta

May 7, 2013

Juventus are making the trip to Atalanta without Gigi Buffon and Andrea Barzagli tomorrow evening.

Already crowned champions of Italy for the second year running, the Bianconeri visit Bergamo for the midweek Serie A round.

The official club website confirms Buffon is suffering from an inflamed tendon in his left thigh and Barzagli has an inflamed Achilles tendon.

Also absent with minor injuries are Nicklas Bendtner and Kwadwo Asamoah, while Paul Pogba begins his three-match ban for spitting at an opponent.

Juventus squad for Atalanta: 3 Chiellini, 4 Caceres, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 13 Peluso, 18 Anelka, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 31 Branescu, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho, 39 Marrone

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo
Referee: Marco Guida

Atalanta punish Livaja again

May 7, 2013

Atalanta have dropped Marko Livaja for tomorrow’s game with Juventus due to ‘disciplinary reasons.’

This is the second time the Inter-owned striker has been left out of the squad since joining in January.

It is reported Livaja reacted angrily towards a teammate during a game between ranks in training and is punished by Coach Stefano Colantuono.

This was due to be his comeback, as the forward missed the last round due to suspension.

Atalanta are also without the injured Igor Budan, Riccardo Cazzola, Guido Marilungo and Franco Brienza.

Atalanta squad for Juventus: Bellini, Biondini, Bonaventura, Brivio, Canini, Capelli, Carmona, Cigarini, Consigli, Contini, De Luca, Del Grosso, Denis, Ferri, Frezzolini, Giorgi, Lucchini, Moralez, Parra, Polito, Radovanovic, Raimondi, Scaloni, Stendardo, Troisi

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo
Referee: Marco Guida

Atalanta - Juventus Betting Preview:
Champions to maintain their strong form after clinching the Scudetto

Antonio Conte may have already led his side to a second successive title, but Al Hain-Cole
thinks the boss will be as determined as ever as he chases a club record.

May 8, 2013

After securing their 29th Serie A title at the weekend, Juventus interrupt their celebrations for tonight’s trip to face Atalanta.

La Vecchia Signora’s first back-to-back title in a decade was clinched courtesy of a highly impressive eight-match winning streak, and they are favourites at 23/20 (2.15) with BetVictor to extend that run to nine in Bergamo.

With just one win in their last seven, the hosts will be grateful for the seven-point cushion that currently separates them from the relegation zone with three games remaining, and they are outsiders at 13/5 (3.60) to come out on top this evening.

Five of the last nine matches at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia have resulted in a draw, and you can get odds of 23/10 (3.30) on this one finishing all square.

While one might expect the champions to relax after getting their hands on the Scudetto, the fiercely competitive Antonio Conte has targeted maximum points from the last three games in order to break the club’s previous record points haul of 91, set under Fabio Capello.

Although some players may be rested, the former Siena coach is still set to field a strong enough team to maintain the Bianconeri’s dominant record over Stefano Colanutano’s side.

La Dea have not beaten Juventus in almost 10 years, and have lost nine of their last 10 encounters with the Turin giants, making those 23/20 (2.15) odds look far too good to miss on the away win here.

Conte’s men ran out 2-0 winners in this fixture last season, and it would come as no surprise if we see a repeat performance this time out.

The visitors have won three of their last four league away games by that same 2-0 margin, while Atalanta have been on the wrong end of the same result twice in their last four matches, so it is well worth having a tipple on the 11/1 (12.00) odds on offer for that scoreline coming in on Wednesday.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo

Referee: Marco Guida

Colantuono praises champions Juventus

May 8, 2013

Stefano Colantuono is content Atalanta had a little part to play in Juventus’ Scudetto success this season.

The Old Lady wrapped up their second consecutive title on Sunday with the help of former Nerazzurri players Simone Padoin and Federico Peluso.

“I congratulate Juventus on their Scudetto triumph and boss Antonio Conte on the extraordinary job he’s done over the past two years,” the 50-year-old noted.

“I’m happy for Padoin and Peluso as well,” he added. “They are two magnificent lads who have earned their opportunity to play for a big club.

“They did well with us and are also doing a good job in Turin.”

Atalanta will entertain Juventus in Serie A this evening.

“They are the best team in Italy and it will be very tough,” the former Palermo man commented. “We’ll need to be extremely alert and try to stop them from playing.

“A positive result wouldn’t be impossible with a bit of luck on our side. We’ll give it a go.”

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo
Referee: Marco Guida

Juventus like Bonaventura – agent

May 8, 2013

The agent of Atalanta’s Giacomo Bonaventura says his client has a reason to impress Juventus officials this evening.

The 23-year-old has been one of the Nerazzurri’s most consistent performers this season and he could be targeted by bigger clubs at the end of the campaign.

“It is no secret that Bonaventura is held in high esteem by boss Antonio Conte and sporting director Fabio Paratici,” Giocondo Martorelli told Tutto Juve.

“And it is obviously pleasing to know that he is being followed and is rated by the big clubs, but for now he is just concentrating on Atalanta.

“Anyhow, any side that is interested will have to firstly talk to Atalanta given that he is under contract with them.

“Right now, there is no one between Inter, Fiorentina, Napoli, Juventus and Roma who are leading the chase.”
Bonaventura has scored seven goals in 32 League games this term.

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

[Socrates 8331]

Serie A Week 36 - 8-5-12 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo
Referee: Marco Guida

MATCH PREVIEW

May 8, 2013

Atalanta could mathematically secure their Serie A status with victory over the champions, who will be looking to finish the season in style.

A 2-0 defeat away to Parma last week prevented the Orobici from achieving safety, but it would now take a monumental disaster for them to be relegated. Palermo would need to win their last three games and Atalanta would need to collect no more than a point for that to occur.

Juventus meanwhile are kings of the mountain and are currently 10 games unbeaten in Serie A. Antonio Conte knows that it is job done but will not want to see his results slip as the Bianconeri face a team against whom they have a very strong record.

Just one more point will match last season’s Scudetto winning 84 points, whilst three more wins will beat the ill-fated 2005-06 campaign in which they accrued 91.

Franco Brienza, Cristiano Del Grosso, Guido Marilungo and Riccardo Cazzola are all injured for the hosts, while Igor Budan, Stefano Lucchini and Facundo Parra are also doubtful to start.

The champions are without the injured Gianluigi Buffon, Simone Pepe and Andrea Barzagli. Paul Pogba is suspended for spitting at Salvatore Aronica.

Keep an eye on: Fabio Quagliarella (Juventus) - The Neapolitan should have a rare start with which to entertain the crowd and add to the eight goals and three assists he has contributed in the League this season.

Form Guide: Atalanta (W L D D L) Juventus (W W W W W)

Last season: Atalanta 0-2 Juventus

Stat fact: In the last 10 editions of this tie, Atalanta have won just one, back in February 2001. They have drawn one, and lost eight.

Atalanta (probable): Consigli; Raimondi, Stendardo, Canini, Del Grosso; Carmona, Cigarini, Biondini; Bonaventura; Moralez, Denis

Juventus (probable): Storari; Caceres, Marrone, Chiellini; Padoin, Giaccherini, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Matri

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