Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Tacchinardi: Napoli stronger than Juve

Oct 16, 2012

Alessio Tacchinardi has admitted that Napoli are a better team than his former club Juventus ahead of their match-up this weekend.

Walter Mazzarri's side travel to Turin to face the Bianconeri on Saturday, and the 37-year-old regista has conceded that the Partenopei are in a better position going into the game.

“It is going to be a tough game because Napoli are very solid,” he told Radio Mana Mana. “And they have not conceded a goal away from home so far.

“Mazzarri's team are stronger than Juve, but it is always annoying to play the Bianconeri.”

He also commented on the recent controversy surrounding the Juventus and Napoli players in the Italian national team, as the San Paolo side President Aurelio De Laurentiis remarked that the Old Lady's section of the squad had received preferential training programmes.

“The recent controversy will be a strong stimulus for the Juventus players who want to show that they are superior to Napoli,” he said. “Juve will be motivated side, that's for sure.”

The one-time Villarreal man also spoke about the recent injury to Gianluigi Buffon, and the rumours that the veteran goalkeeper could have played-up the injury to stay fresh for the weekend's Serie A clash.”

“Saying that is disrespectful to someone who is a great champion. Gigi is a guy who has never shied away from anything, and has always given his soul for the national team.

“I just hope that he will recover in time.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Napoli's Serie A title hopes ride on Edinson Cavani

Oct 16, 2012

In their last 55 competitive matches, Juventus have lost only once.

Invincible on their way to the last Serie A title, steadfast so far on their return to the Champions League, the one small blight on the reign of Antonio Conte, the coach who took over Juventus 16 months ago, is May's Coppa Italia final: Napoli 2, Juventus 0.

Although Juve would exert a modicum of revenge – Conte's team won 4-2 – when the clubs met again in the Italian Super Cup, the Old Lady can hold little doubt that the most vibrant current challenge to the throne comes from Naples.

Juventus have seen little from either AC Milan or Inter Milan since August to cause trepidation, Conte's team have comfortably beaten Roma and by the time they play third-placed Lazio in a month's time, they will have a clearer idea about whether Lazio's bright start to the campaign has enough fuel to sustain itself.

Of Napoli's resources, the longer-term forecast is ominously strong. They are putting much of the energy into their league campaign that, 12 months ago, they injected into the Champions League and intend unleashing more of it on Juve in Turin on Saturday.

Napoli's involvement in the elite European competition meant they were compromised on too many Serie A weekends last season. Their attitude to the Europa League, where they now spend two Thursdays a month, is less committed.

Walter Mazzarri, the head coach, left out a raft of senior players for the 3-0 defeat against PSV Eindhoven, eager to preserve his team's position breathing down the neck of Juventus at the summit of the domestic game.

"We have learnt a lot from being in the Champions League," said Mazzarri, "and we are playing with great maturity now."

Although Napoli lost Ezequiel Lavezzi, the ingenious Argentine, from their formidable attacking roster in the transfer window - he moved to Paris Saint-Germain - they persuaded the striker Edinson Cavani and Marek Hamsik to stay and, with Goran Pandev, formerly of Lazio and Inter, in fine form, Lavezzi has scarcely been missed.

Cavani occupies his customary position at the top of Serie A's scoring chart, with six goals so far.

The Uruguayan has recently talked of his ambition to overtake Diego Maradona in the register of Napoli goalscorers. He needs another 43 on top of his 73 – in two and a bit seasons so far – to get there. It indicates he intends a long stay. He knows he would need to be part of a title-winning team to become even half as feted among Neapolitans as Maradona still is.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Quagliarella wary of Napoli threat

Oct 17, 2012

Fabio Quagliarella says the game against Napoli will mean more to him than its significance on the outcome of the Scudetto this season.

The joint leaders will meet in Serie A on Saturday, a game that will see the Italian international face his former club.

“It will be a special game for me,” he noted. “However, it won’t be a decisive encounter in terms of who will win the title.

“It should be a great game, between two top sides.

“Napoli have been aiming for the Scudetto for the last two seasons and they could cause us some difficulties. We’ll have to be alert.”

The 28-year-old, who moved to Juventus from Napoli in 2010, has scored two goals in four League appearances this term – but he’s only started twice.

“I hope to be in the starting XI, but it is the Coach who decides these things…”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Buffon at risk for Juve-Napoli

Oct 17, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon is still at risk for Saturday’s clash with Napoli, but Claudio Marchisio’s shoulder is not a problem for Juventus.

The two players picked up injuries on international duty this week and there are still concerns ahead of the 18.00 kick-off.

Goalkeeper Buffon missed last night’s 3-1 win over Denmark due to a thigh problem and today the official Juventus website confirmed there is bruising to the left thigh.

“His condition will be monitored day by day.” This suggests Buffon is by no means certain to feature in the Scudetto showdown.

Marchisio underwent tests at the Clinica Fornara and found “no important lesions” to the shoulder, so he will be able to resume training tomorrow.

Elsewhere in the squad, Mirko Vucinic returned from international duty with a slight flu and is undergoing treatment.

Simone Pepe is still training separately after a long lay-off, while Paolo De Ceglie is undergoing a separate training schedule after a left thigh problem.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus-Napoli to set records?

Oct 17, 2012

Juventus could break their gate receipts record at the Juventus Stadium when Napoli come to town on Saturday.

According to expectations, the Turin giants should bring in more than the €1,717,458 which they netted after 40,102 fans turned up for last season’s win over Inter.

Their current highest attendance at their 41,000 arena this season was against Roma thanks to the 39,221 fans present.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Matri and Quagliarella to start

Oct 18, 2012

Sky Sport Italia are speculating that Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella will start for Juventus in their tie against Napoli.

The two teams will meet at the Juventus Stadium on Saturday and the duo are being tipped to be in the first XI.

Mirko Vucinic is a doubt given that he returned from international duty with a cold, while Sebastian Giovinco suffered a knock to his ankle while with Italy.

Matri has one goal in four Serie A appearances this season, while Naples-born Quagliarella has two in four.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Cannavaro picks Napoli over Juve

Oct 18, 2012

Fabio Cannavaro has admitted that he will be supporting Napoli against Juventus when his two former clubs meet this weekend.

Cannavaro enjoyed spells with both Italian giants and they’ll face off at the Juventus Stadium as co-Serie A leaders on Saturday evening.

“I have great respect for Juventus, a club who gave me a lot and I won two Scudetti with them,” the 2006 World Cup winner told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“However, I’m a Neapolitan and Napoli are the club where I grew up. The heart always wins.”

Cannavaro still has family ties with the outfit given that brother Paolo is the current captain at the San Paolo.

“Paolo has been one of the protagonists in the club’s re-launch since their bankruptcy,” Fabio continued.

Juventus will start the tie as slight favourites, but Cannavaro believes that Walter Mazzarri’s side could become the first away team to win at the Old Lady’s new ground.

“Juventus are the most complete squad in the Division and Napoli are the only team right now who can take them on,” he added.

“There is not a great deal of difference when you look at the quality in both teams.

“Character is what could make the difference and the desire to win, the conviction in your own abilities. Neither team should be scared of the other.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Mazzarri: Napoli & Juve are the best

Oct 18, 2012

Napoli boss Walter Mazzarri believes his side's match against Juventus on Saturday is between the best two teams in Serie A.

The 51-year-old Coach has given his thoughts on the first seven games of the season, and the performances of a number of Italian teams.

“It is too early to judge,” he told QS. “But Juventus and Napoli are probably the best two teams. There are other though, who follow us closely.

“Roma, for instance, have a lot of talent. And Inter are a side that people thought had been left for dead, but have instead kicked into life this year.

“Lazio have a brilliant, technical team and are serious contenders. You cannot count out Milan either. They have a great tradition and experience, and will be back amongst the top soon.

“And last but not least, you have to remember Fiorentina. They have played well and have produced some great results. They have been the big surprise of the season.”

The Partenopei currently lie in second place in the table, and travel to Turin on Saturday to face the Bianconeri.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Fabio Cannavaro: I will support Napoli against Juventus

The 2006 World Cup winner says his former clubs look to be in a two-horse race

for the Scudetto but will be supporting the Partenopei, who are captained by his brother.

Oct 18, 2012

Former Italy international Fabio Cannavaro says he sees Juventus and Napoli as the key contenders for this season's Serie A title, but will be backing the Azzurri when the two clash on Saturday.

The retired World Cup winner began his career with hometown club Napoli, before taking in two spells with the Bianconeri, during which time he was awarded the Fifa World Player of the Year award - the now Ballon d'Or - in 2006.

"The match will not be decisive, but it will give us important information," the 39-year-old told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

"The preparation of Conte and Mazzarri is the secret of the two teams.

"I do not make predictions. It does not seem right to do so. It is not a matter of the heart versus the head.

"I have great respect for Juve, whom gave me so much, where I won two championships.

"The heart, however, dominates this profession. I am Neapolitan and Naples are the team from where I grew up."

The former defender also spoke of his family ties to Napoli, who are now captained by younger brother Paolo Cannavaro.

"Paolo was and is one of the protagonists of the great revival of the club after the failure," said the 136-capped international, who also talked about the two team's title chances.

He added: "Juve are the most complete team in the league and Napoli are the only club that can currently counter them.

"Character could be decisive, the will to win and above all, the belief in one's own strength.

"In short, neither of them will be afraid of the other."

Juventus and Napoli share the summit of the Serie A table going into Saturday's tie, with the former currently ahead on goal difference after seven games played each.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus and Napoli showdown will not decide the Scudetto, claims Ancelotti

The Paris Saint-Germain coach has given his views on the high-profile Serie A fixture,

suggesting that the Bianconeri still hold the upper hand over their southern rivals.

Oct 18, 2012

Former Milan and Juve boss Carlo Ancelotti does not believe that Saturday's big clash between Napoli and Juventus will determine this season's Scudetto winner.

The current Italian champions are once again leading the way on the peninsula, however, Napoli are following closely and are considered by many as a genuine challenge for this year's league title.

Ancelotti, who coached Juventus around the turn of the milennium, has asserted that his former side are the slightly better team and may just get the better of the Partenopei when the two meet on Saturday.

"I think Juventus will win. But, Napoli are an organised team with great individuality. Though, this game will not decide anything in terms of the title race," Ancelotti was quoted saying by Corriere del Mezzogiorno.

"These are the games that give players added motivation. I do not believe fatigue will play a part. Juventus and Napoli are at the top not by chance. They have shown how strong they are, they have character and great organisation. I am expecting a very good game.

"Who of the two is the favourite? Maybe Juve. Playing in front of their fans means they will play with a twelfth man. Technically, however, the teams are equal. They were even in the Supercoppa Italiana played in August in China. Only mistakes and certain events could separate them then."

Ancelotti then spoke about Ezequiel Lavezzi who signed for Paris Saint-Germain from Napoli over the summer but has since failed to sparkle in Paris.

"Lavezzi? A player who has done great things. When there was an opportunity to sign him, we took it. We did not want to miss the chance," he continued.

"At the beginning of the season he was a bit unlucky, first with suspensions and then with injuries. He has not been able to play at his best, as a result. But, he will recover."

The much-travelled Italian tactican then warned Juventus about the threat of Edison Cavani and suggested that their Champions League's commitments may be a problem in their bid for back-to-back Serie A titles.

"Cavani? He is an extraordinary player with enormous quality and he scores lots of goals. Napoli, however, are not just about him. They are very well organised and play great football. Though, Juventus must mind the threat of Cavani. Games are won with individuality sometimes," he added.

"There is still a long way to go in the Italian league, which is the most beautiful and the most unpredictable league. The team that wins this game will gain in many ways, aside from the three points. But, it will not determine this season's champions."

"Juventus' Champions League participation could distract them from the title race. The Champions League can take away energy and cause you to drop points, domestically. However, not now but more so when the knockout stages begin in March."

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Vucinic out of Juve-Napoli?

Oct 18, 2012

There are increasing reports that Mirko Vucinic will not be able to recover in time for Saturday’s Juventus-Napoli clash.

The Bianconeri face a series of problems going into the 17.00 BST kick-off, which you can watch LIVE on your computer.

Vucinic returned from international duty with a bout of flu and the latest rumours are it will be “practically impossible” for the Montenegrin to play tomorrow afternoon.

Gianluigi Buffon is also expected to miss out after picking up a thigh problem with Italy, but there is more optimism over Claudio Marchisio’s shoulder.

If Vucinic doesn’t make it, then there is a race between Fabio Quagliarella, Alessandro Matri and Sebastian Giovinco – who knocked his ankle when playing for Italy against Armenia – for the two striker spots.

Napoli thought they could be without Edinson Cavani after his flight was delayed while on international duty with Uruguay on Thursday.

He did finally arrive in Rome on Thursday evening at around 19.00 local time and travelled down to Naples, but it means he’ll only have one training session before the Juventus clash.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juve-Napoli ref is 'frightening'

Oct 19, 2012

Former referee Graziano Cesari expects huge problems after Antonio Damato was assigned to Saturday’s Juventus-Napoli Scudetto showdown.

“It is a very surprising decision and I really did not expect that,” Cesari told Mediaset Premium.

“He is not a top class official and has never even taken charge of a Champions League match. Will he be able to survive the pressure?”

There is even more controversy around this match after the fiery Italian Super Cup in August, which saw Napoli refuse to attend the trophy ceremony in protest due to two players being sent off.

“Damato is an outsider and they decided to promote a youngster. They did the same with Paolo Valeri for the Milan derby and we all know how that went...

“He is a calm referee who has done well this season. I am only frightened by the fact he is still in the third tier. He lacks experience of big games, so Juventus-Napoli is immediately the most important match of his entire career.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Mazzarri media blackout

Oct 19, 2012

Napoli Coach Walter Mazzarri will not hold a Press conference ahead of tomorrow’s top of the table battle with Juventus.

The club confirmed there will be no traditional pre-game talk with the media, as he prefers to focus only on the football.

It does not seem likely that any of the players or assistants will speak either, leaving Napoli in a media blackout.

This is a highly contentious encounter, especially after the tension of the Italian Super Cup back in August.

Juventus won that match 4-2 in extra time in Beijing and Napoli boycotted the trophy ceremony in protest at their two red cards.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Marchisio 'takes fizz out of Napoli'

Oct 19, 2012

Claudio Marchisio believes Juventus need to “take the fizz out of” Napoli in tomorrow’s Scudetto showdown.

The joint Serie A leaders go head-to-head in Turin at 17.00 BST, a game you can watch LIVE on your computer.

“This is the big match of the moment,” he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “Winning isn’t important for the Scudetto, as there is still far too long to go.

“However, on a psychological level the three points could take the fizz out of Napoli. It’d hit their confidence and stop the atmosphere getting too fired up. Napoli improve year after year and if they were to gain confidence then they could cause us problems.

“I’ll be honest, the first weeks of the campaign would suggest the title is a two-horse race. We are the best teams, the most organised and complete. Juve and Napoli also play the most convincing football. Having said that, there are always dangers lurking around the corner, as Inter, Milan, Lazio and Roma must be respected.

“Who is stronger? In a one-off game, anything can happen, but over the course of a campaign I’d say Juve. In my view we are superior in terms of individuals, our history and how accustomed we are to winning.”

Napoli did beat Juventus in the Coppa Italia Final in May, then the Italian Super Cup in Beijing ended bitterly with two red cards and a 4-2 Bianconeri win in extra time.

“What did I think when Napoli boycotted the Super Cup trophy ceremony? I thought our football had lost another good opportunity to impress the rest of the world.”

Walter Mazzarri continues to criticise that refereeing performance and any wrong move can spark a powder keg of controversy.

“It was a game that effectively did become easier for us after the red cards, but I keep hearing people say that Napoli would certainly have won if they had all 11 men on the field. I won’t stand for that,” continued Marchisio.

“They took the lead twice and we caught them both times. Juve took the initiative, while Napoli only acted on the counter.”

The Italy and Juventus midfielder had praise for several members of the Napoli squad.

“By selling Ezequiel Lavezzi, they have become more of a team. They may not be as creative, but with Goran Pandev they are extremely efficient in front of goal. He’s a great team player, while Marek Hamsik is certainly today among the top players in Europe.”

This week Antonio Cassano revealed he had repeatedly rejected a move to Juventus because the club wanted “good little soldiers” to follow orders.

“I don’t want to cause controversy with Cassano. I can only say that at Juventus there is a unique mentality, in that the team comes before all else. This is taught to us from the first day. Don’t forget stars like Zinedine Zidane and Alessandro Del Piero played here too.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Giovinco ignores Napoli

Oct 19, 2012

Sebastian Giovinco is glad Juventus are “irritating” due to their success and will not even consider the possibility they could lose to Napoli tomorrow.

They are joint Serie A leaders and go head-to-head at 17.00 UK time on Saturday, a game you can watch LIVE on your computer.

“I don’t know how a Napoli win could affect the Scudetto race, because I have not even taken that option into consideration,” the Atomic Ant told Tuttosport.

“Our victory wouldn’t change anything either, as we would continue with the same approach. That’s the way we work here, we keep our heads down and focused on the next target.

“Napoli are a strong side and there has to be a reason they are level on points with us. We respect them, but have no fear.”

There is bad blood between the clubs after the Italian Super Cup in August, where Juve won 4-2 in extra time and Napoli boycotted the trophy ceremony in protest at referring decisions.

“At the start I hadn’t even noticed they weren’t there! I was too happy with the victory to think about anything else,” smiled Giovinco.

“It is normal to see that when a team like Juve wins and keeps on winning, they are going to get irritating for the other sides. Because of that, the media try to blow every tiny thing out of promotion. To be honest, I expected that and do not care. I hope to be irritating for another 10 years, then I can retire.”

The former Parma starlet has essentially replaced Alessandro Del Piero in the Juve set-up, but struggled to make an impact for Juve and Italy this season.

“I think my season has been more than good so far. I realise I could’ve done better, because I had many chances to score a few more goals, but overall it’s going alright.

“I divide critics? Good, as only the mediocre are in the middle of the road. The way I see it, you’re better off in Heaven or Hell. I know I need to score more goals, but at the same time people have to remember at Parma I had the free kicks and penalties, whereas with Juve they belong to Andrea Pirlo.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Carrera: 'Juve waiting game'

Oct 19, 2012

Angelo Alessio is back on the bench for Juventus-Napoli, but Massimo Carrera held the Press conference as doubts remain over Gigi Buffon and Mirko Vucinic.

The joint Serie A leaders go head-to-head at 17.00 UK time on Saturday, a game you can watch LIVE on your computer.

Antonio Conte remains banned, but assistant manager Alessio’s suspension has now expired, so he is back on the bench.

“Alessio will be the stand-in Coach, as this is the hierarchy. I will enthusiastically return to being a technical advisor,” smiled Carrera.

“After international duty all clubs have problems to deal with and the same is true of Juventus. We certainly won’t complain.

“After the training session Buffon will tell us if his thigh is hurting and he feels prepared to play. We will also evaluate whether to call Vucinic, as he is debilitated by a bout of flu and in worse condition than Gigi.”

Claudio Marchisio also hurt his shoulder while playing for Italy, but is expected to be fit in time to start.

There has always been tension between these clubs, which only intensified after the Italian Super Cup in August, as Juve’s 4-2 win in extra time came after two Napoli red cards.

“Both Juventus and Napoli play using a 3-5-2 system, but we view football in a more attacking way, while they focus primarily on the counter-attack and individual moments of skill. After all, we have scored six more goals than them.

“Napoli are targeting the Scudetto and they have everything it takes to win it, but other teams can enter that race too. Will I shake Walter Mazzarri’s hand? Of course, I have no problems.”

Carrera also replied to Antonio Cassano, who said he turned down a move to Turin because they wanted ‘good little soldiers’ at the club.

“At Juventus there are professionals who behave in the best possible way to achieve success.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Nedved: 'Mazzarri was unsporting'

Oct 19, 2012

Pavel Nedved looks forward to tomorrow’s Juventus-Napoli encounter, but notes Walter Mazzarri was ‘unsporting’ after the Italian Super Cup.

The Czech legend is now a member of the Bianconeri backroom staff and gave his view on the last time these teams met back in August.

“I don’t like controversy and was shocked by Mazzarri’s comments this week when he said Napoli were right not to attend the Super Cup presentation ceremony,” noted Nedved.

“After losing the Coppa Italia, Juventus all lined up to shake hands with the Napoli players and the referees. That was sporting behaviour.

“This won’t be a decisive match for the Scudetto, as it is still too early, but it will be a great game between two of the best Italian teams.”

Gigi Buffon and Mirko Vucinic are at risk after picking up problems while on international duty, while Edinson Cavani only had one training session when his flight back from Uruguay was delayed.

“I hope Cavani is a little tired,” laughed Nedved. “In truth, I don’t understand this controversy and am surprised by that mentality. Your country stands above anything else and I really doubt our players were around the world this week thinking about anything except their international games.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Mazzarri: Cavani looking well

Oct 19, 2012

Walter Mazzarri has claimed that Edinson Cavani is fit and raring to go ahead of Napoli's game against Juventus on Saturday.

The Uruguay international was delayed in his return from international duty on Tuesday, but the 51-year-old Coach has adamant that the striker is in top form.

“Cavani hasn't been with us for 10 days now,” he told a Press conference. “But he looks well. I will assess the situation tomorrow and speak with my players.

“I do not care about the delays. I only care about what happens on the field.”

He also spoke about the Bianconeri and the possible exclusion of first-choice goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who may miss the game through injury.

“Their selection does not change anything for us,” he said. “Buffon is obviously a great champions, but so is Marco Storari.

“Andrea Pirlo is absolute class, but Juventus are not just Pirlo – they have a great squad.

The former Sampdoria man then remarked on his own team, and the importance of getting the three points against Antonio Conte's men.

“Our team has improved a lot, and we have reached a level of great maturity. Last season we struggled with both League and Champions League commitments, but it has helped us grow.

“I've heard a lot of the Juve players, stars like Buffon, Pirlo and Giorgio Chiellini compliment us. They have said that if they don't play at their best, we will make difficult. To hear these things is nice.

“Victory would be a great positive and a defeat would be a negative, that is obvious. But there are a lot of games left to go, and there is still only three points to play for.

“I think it will be a good game.”

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus without Buffon & Vucinic

Oct 19, 2012

Juventus will be without goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and striker Mirko Vucinic when they host Napoli on Saturday.

The Bianconeri have announced their 22-man squad for the top-of-the-table clash at Juventus Stadium tomorrow, and have confirmed that the veteran shot-stopper and the Montenegrin forward will miss the game through injury.

The Partenopei have also announced their squad for the game, as Edinson Cavani and Eduardo Vargas are named after South American international duty.

Juventus:

Goalkeepers: Storari, Rubinho, Branescu

Defenders: Lucio, Chiellini, Caceres, Barzagli, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner, Isla

Midfielders: Pogba, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Giaccherini, Marrone

Forwards: Giovinco, Bendtener, Quagliarella, Matri

Napoli:

Goalkeepers: De Sanctis, Rosati, Colombo

Defenders: Aronica, Cannavaro, Campagnaro, Fernandez, Gamberini, Grava, Uvini

Midfielders: Behrami, Donadel, Dossena, Dzemaili, Hamsik, Inler, Maggio, Mesto, Zuniga

Forwards: Cavani, Insigne, Pandev, Vargas

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

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Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Marchisio: Juventus superior to Napoli

The midfielder is looking to deal Walter Mazzarri's men a psychological blow

on Saturday, and believes the Old Lady are the better team of the two.

Oct 19, 2012

Claudio Marchisio is brimming with confidence ahead of Juventus' Serie A match at home against Napoli on Saturday and is determined to bag the full three points in order to deal the Partenopei a psychological blow in the Scudetto race.

The Italy international has admitted that the San Paolo side have grown a lot over the past few years, but believes the Bianconeri are the better side of the two overall.

"In a single game, anything can happen, but we're superior to Napoli on the long term. We have the better players, a more impressive history and are used to winning," Marchisio told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

"We have to stay alert, though. They are a team on the rise and showed in the Coppa Italia final what they can do.

"We want to beat them in order to deal their morale a blow. The title race is still long, but it would be a psychological blow for them if we grab the full three points."

Juventus and Napoli sit joint first in the Serie A table with 19 points from seven games ahead of Saturday's matc in Turin.

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

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Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus - Napoli Betting Preview:

Bianconeri to take charge in Turin after the break

Both sides look to defend their unbeaten records in Serie A this season on Saturday

and Adam Bate expects it to be the home side celebrating when the final whistle blows.

Oct 19, 2012

It’s a huge game in Italy on Saturday when Juventus host Napoli in Turin. They are currently the top two in Serie A, both undefeated with identical records and only separated by goal difference.

Of course, Juventus’ unbeaten sequence extends back rather further than their visitors, having not lost at home in the league since March 2011 or indeed anywhere since May of last year.

While Napoli haven’t tasted defeat in the league, the Bianconeri did beat them 4-2 in the Italian Super Cup after extra-time at the start of the season.

Juventus are 79/100 (1.79) with Marathon Bet to win this game and go three points clear at the top of the table.

Walter Mazzarri’s Napoli side are 41/10 (5.10) to finally end the home side’s unbeaten run.

The draw is available at 27/10 (3.70) with Marathon Bet.

While a win for the visitors could be a big ask here, they are 28/25 (2.12) in the double chance market to avoid a first defeat.

But it’s to the other markets we must look for the best bets here.

Two of Juventus’ three home games this season were 0-0 at half-time and it is clear Andrea Pirlo & Co are prepared to be patient.

With Napoli yet to concede a goal at all on their travels in Serie A so far this season, there looks to be good chance this one could be goalless at the interval. That scenario is 21/10 (3.10) with Marathon Bet.

But it’s worth remembering that Juve won both those games that were goalless at the break – running out 2-0 winners each time.

In fact, they have won all of their home league games in this campaign.

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus - Napoli Preview:

Expect fireworks in this top-of-the-table Serie A clash

The Partenopei would love nothing better than to end the Bianconeri's

unbeaten record, but Antonio Conte's will be equally motivated on Saturday.

Oct 19, 2012

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Storari

Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah

Giovinco, Matri

NAPOLI

De Sanctis

Campagnaro, Cannavaro, Gamberini

Maggio, Inler, Behrami, Zuniga

Hamsik

Pandev, Cavani

If there was not enough of an incentive for Napoli to attempt end Juventus' unbeaten record this season already, then perhaps the fact that the last time these two sides met, it ended in controversy with the Azzurri having two men sent off and their coach Walter Mazzarri was dismissed for dissent in a fiery encounter in the Supercoppa Italiana back in August.

And if this 4-2 defeat they suffered did have any effect on the Partenopei, then based on results this season in Serie A, it has only made them more determined to do well as they have started their first seven games undefeated, setting up this top-of-the-table-clash with Juventus.

The Bianconeri, meanwhile, are looking to make it a staggering 47 league games unbeaten, but will have to make do without the services of the ever-reliable Gianluigi Buffon who picked up a thigh injury in Italy's victory over Armenia last Friday.

Another doubt for Antonio Conte's men is Claudio Marchisio who sustained a shoulder problem, though, he is expected to be available with Emanuele Giaccherini waiting in the wings.

The two players who received their matching orders in the last match, Napoli duo Goran Pandev and Juan Zuniga, will be looking to make amends at Juventus Stadium on Saturday with coach Mazzarri having a fully fit squad to choose from.

But all eyes will naturally be on striker Edinson Cavani who has been the most prolific forward in Serie A this year.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus striker Fabio Quagliarella, played for Napoli in 2009-2010 and could strike against his old club on Saturday.

• The Bianconeri and Napoli have scored the most goals this season - 31 between them - but Azzurri striker Edinson Cavani tops the scoring charts with six strikes.

• Juventus' recent record over the Partenopei is poor, with only three victories in their last nine.

• Napoli inflicted Juventus' only defeat last season in Italy beating them 2-0 in the Coppa Italia final.

• Marek Hamsik has scored five goals against Juventus; more than against any other club, and has three goals and three assists to his name this season.

• In the last six meetings between Napoli and Juventus, there have been 24 goals shared between them.

Head to Head

TIM Supercup - Aug 11, 2012 - Juventus 4 - SSC Napoli 2

Coppa Italia ‎- May 20, 2012 - Juventus 0 - SSC Napoli 2

Serie A ‎- Apr 1, 2012 - Juventus 3 - SSC Napoli 0

Serie A ‎- Nov 29, 2011 - SSC Napoli 3 - Juventus 3

Serie A ‎- May 22, 2011 - Juventus 2 - SSC Napoli 2

Last Five Matches

Juventus

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

Oct 2, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Shakhtar Donetsk 1 - UCL

Sep 29, 2012 - Juventus 4 - Roma 1 - Serie A

Sep 25, 2012 - Fiorentina 0 - Juventus 0 - Serie A

Sep 22, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Chievo 0 - Serie A

SSC Napoli

Oct 7, 2012 - SSC Napoli 2 - Udinese 1 - Serie A

Oct 4, 2012 - PSV 3 - SSC Napoli 0 - EL

Sep 30, 2012 - Sampdoria 0 - SSC Napoli 1 - Serie A

Sep 26, 2012 - SSC Napoli 3 - Lazio 0 - Serie A

Sep 23, 2012 - Catania 0 - SSC Napoli 0 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Andrea Pirlo

If Napoli let the talented 33-year-old sit and dictate play like he is so accustomed to doing for Antonio Conte's side, then, it could yet well be a long night for the visitors. He has shown critics that, despite heading into his twilight years, he is still capable of turning in a performance for the national side too, the Partenopei would be foolish to ignore the threat of Pirlo.

Edinson Cavani

Has been the man to watch for the Azzurri this season and already has six goals to his name in Serie A, good control with the ball at his feet and strong in the air, Cavani is arguably the complete centre forward and may well fancy his chances of grabbing a goal or two, in Buffon's absence, for Walter Mazzarri's men.

Prediction

There are usually plenty of goals when these two sides clash, and although Napoli have perhaps had the edge over their rivals in recent encounters, home advantage may just give the Bianconeri leverage in this one.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 3 - 2 Napoli

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

MATCH PREVIEW

Oct 19, 2012

Juventus and Napoli refuse to acknowledge it as such, but this top of the table clash is being described as an early Scudetto decider.

Juventus made it six wins from seven with a nervy victory in Siena a fortnight ago. Claudio Marchisio broke the deadlock with five minutes remaining, after Andrea Pirlo’s early free kick was cancelled out on the stroke of half time. That propelled Juve to 19 points and a place atop Serie A on goal difference.

After a recent schedule which included Champions League action plus matches with Fiorentina and Roma, stand-in Coach Massimo Carrera admitted the Old Lady lacked sharpness and determination in Tuscany. The break came at the right time, although with 16 of 25 squad members on international duty it did not allow for much rest. It is something Juve will have to come to grips with over the upcoming weeks.

After missing Italy’s win over Denmark on Tuesday, Gianluigi Buffon is a doubt to feature. Marco Storari is on standby. Mirko Vucinic returned from international duty sick, meaning Alessandro Matri may be fielded from the opening whistle. Marchisio went off injured in Milan but is expected to start. Simone Pepe remains on the road to recovery,

Napoli have been dubbed this term’s ‘anti-Juve’ - the side most likely to challenge the Bianconeri. So far so good on that front for the Partenopei, who claimed a 2-1 win over Udinese last time out to sit equal first. Even Juve midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini admits Napoli are in better shape currently, however he says it remains to be seen whether they can keep pace with the champions.

The Azzurri are raring to go and Walter Mazzarri stresses his side “will not be happy with a draw” in Turin. While he is aiming for victory the tactician does not believe much can be concluded from a Round 8 contest – something also noted by Bianconeri players. Goran Pandev has brought up the bitterness of August’s 4-2 Super Cup defeat, but Mazzarri is purely concerned with toppling Juve this weekend.

Napoli will assess the condition of Miguel Britos ahead of the trip, with the Uruguayan the only player in doubt for the clash. Edinson Cavani will hope to shake off the effects of jet lag after a long journey home following Uruguay’s 4-1 defeat in Bolivia.

Juve were dominant in a 3-0 win last season, continuing their strong record at home against Napoli. In 67 past encounters they have won 40 and lost on just seven occasions.

Keep an eye on: Paolo Cannavaro (Napoli) – The Neapolitan is raring to go against the Azzurri’s old rivals. As captain he will look to lead by example at the back, where he forms part of Serie A’s meanest defence, who are up against Serie A’s best attack.

Form guide: Juventus (W W D W W) Napoli (W D W W W)

Last season: Juventus 3-0 Napoli

Stat fact: Napoli will need to turnaround a poor recent record in Turin to claim top spot outright. They have won just once since a memorable triumph in 1988-89 - a 3-2 victory 20 years later.

Juventus: Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Matri

Napoli: De Sanctis; Campagnaro, Cannavaro, Gamberini; Maggio, Inler, Behrami, Zuniga; Hamsik; Pandev, Cavani

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus v Napoli: Preview

Oct 19, 2012

Juventus coach Massimo Carrera says goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is touch and go as to whether he will be fit to face Napoli in their top of the table clash tomorrow.

Both sides have 19 points with six wins and a draw from their seven Serie A matches and Carrera is unsure whether his number one will recover from a thigh injury in time for the match at the Juventus Stadium.

"We will have to evaluate Gigi's condition after our final training session,'' he said. "It will be up to him to tell us whether he can play or not.

"Many clubs have players who have come back from international duty with knocks, but Juve are not a club who go around crying.''

Carrera has guided Juventus to an unbeaten start to the Serie A season but assistant manager Angelo Alessio will take charge in the absence of manager Antonio Conte for the next few months.

Conte's suspension for his part in a match-fixing scandal has been shortened to six months, allowing him to return in December, while Alessio, who was also banned, is now free to work again after a successful appeal.

That means Carrera, who has been in charge since Juventus defeated Napoli in the Supercoppa, goes back to being a regular part of the backroom staff.

"Alessio will be back because there is a hierarchy to be respected,'' said Carrera, whose record in charge of the Bianconeri makes for positive reading with eight wins and two draws.

"Angelo is Conte's first assistant, I am just a technical assistant. I know what my role is.

"I took his place, but now I go back to doing my job with maximum respect. I am happy to be part of Antonio's backroom staff.''

Napoli's preparations for tomorrow's game have been complicated by the late return of Edinson Cavani from international duty.

Due to a delayed flight from South America, he missed a connection and only set foot back on Italian soil this morning.

"I don't care at all about the delay, I base my decisions on the players I have got and our opponents and I will try to pick the best team I can to face Juve,'' said Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri.

"I saw Cavani today and he looked well. I will evaluate them all tomorrow and choose the right team then."

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

[Socrates 8329]

Serie A - Week 8 - 20-10-2012 (6:00 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

The Big Match Tactical View: Juventus v Napoli

Juventus have a long unbeaten record to protect, while Napoli struggle away

from home against the big boys - can Walter Mazzarri's side pull off a shock victory?

Oct 19, 2012

Match Odds: Juventus 1.79, Napoli 5.0, The Draw 3.9.

It's impossible to consider Napoli's chances of winning this match without recalling their dreadful record away top 5 clubs in the past couple of seasons - they've collected just two points and conceded 18 goals in those eight games. We also have to bear in mind that Juventus are unbeaten in 46 league games, and are yet to lose at their new stadium.

Yet Juve have recently lost to Napoli - in the Coppa Italia final back in May, when Walter Mazzarri recorded a 2-0 victory over Antonio Conte thanks to an Edinson Cavani penalty and a Marek Hamsik breakaway goal. The subsequent 4-2 Supercoppa debate was followed by Napoli complaints about controversial refereeing decisions - this now feels like a proper rivalry, and with both sides on 19 points from a possible 21 at the top of the table, this is a huge game.

Tactically, it should be fascinating. 3-5-2 is now Juventus' default shape, but Conte originally started using that formation exclusively against other sides who played three at the back - primarily Udinese and Napoli. "All teams who play 3-5-2 cause us problems," admits Mazzarri - so it's difficult to see Conte choosing any other system.

Conte is a big admirer of Christian Maggio, Napoli's right-wing-back, and his decision to change formation last year was partly to get a player tracking him up and down the line. Marcelo Estigarribia wasn't good enough defensively to stop him at the San Paolo, but Paolo De Ceglie did a good job in Turin and he could start ahead of Kwadwo Asamoah here. On the other side, Stephane Lichtsteiner is a better player than Juan Zuniga, and will force the Colombian back towards his own goal.

In the centre of midfield, there should be a frantic two-versus-two clash - Gokhan Inler and Valon Behrami against Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal. All are mobile, combative and feisty - this will be a tremendous battle.

More crucial, however, is the contest between Juvents' deep-lying playmaker Andrea Pirlo and Napoli attacking midfielder Hamsik. The Slovakian successfully nullified Pirlo last season, although at the expense of his own attacking ability - he needs to stop Pirlo playing forward passes, but then storm forward on the break, turning Juve's probable three-versus-two advantage at the back into a more dangerous three-versus-three.

Mazzarri rarely makes surprise selection decisions - a minor change in defence might be on the cards, but that's about it - but Conte's selection upfront is unknown. So far this season he's favoured Sebastian Giovinco behind Mirko Vucinic, but reports from Italy suggest he'll favour a combination of Alessandro Matri and Naples-born Fabio Quagliarella. If I were Conte, I'd go for Matri to hold the ball up and occupy the Napoli centre-backs, then tell Giovinco to float around in the hole just behind, taking advantage of the fact neither Inler nor Behrami are natural holders, and will be drawn higher up into a midfield battle.

The game's star player is Cavani - likely to be fielded upfront with support from Goran Pandev to his right. Cavani has a decent record against Juventus and, will hope Maggio and Zuniga get forward and supply him with crosses.

There have been 24 goals in the last six games between these sides in all competitions, and it's unusual - but right in this case - to see Over 2.5 goals at 1.86 in a match between Serie A's top two. Still, I don't see a great deal of value in that market. Instead, I like the look of a sending-off at around 3.6, primarily because of the aforementioned midfield battle - but also because of the past refereeing controversies, which will make this a tempestuous encounter.

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