Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8527]

[Socrates 8527]

[Socrates 8527]

[Socrates 8527]

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Benitez expects Chelsea to get helping hand from Shakhtar Donetsk

The Spaniard has urged the Ukrainian side to "show their level" in their upcoming

Champions League clash with Juventus, a game which has huge implications for the Blues.

Dec 2, 2012

Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez has challenged Shakhtar Donetsk to prove their quality in Wednesday's Champions League clash with Juventus, a game which could make or break the Blues' chances in the competition.

The west London club must beat Nordsjaelland and hope the Italian champions lose in order to seal a place in the knockout stages of Europe's premier competition.

But, despite Mircea Lucescu's side having already sealed their place in the last 16, Benitez feels Shakhtar will still have a point to prove in their final group game.

He told Sky Sports: "We know that a draw would be bad for us but the positive thing is that Shakhtar has a lot of good players and everybody is talking about them, so they have to show the rest of the world that they are really good players.

"When you know the top sides in Europe or in the world are watching you then you have to perform. Obviously, Juve will go for the win but Shakhtar will need to show this level that they have.

"They might finish second and have to play against one of the top sides in Europe and it will be more difficult, so I think they will try to win."

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus squad for Shakhtar

Dec 3, 2012

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has named a 21-man squad for this week’s crucial Champions League game at Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Old Lady need at least a point to qualify for the last 16, while a win would actually see them top the group.

Claudio Marchisio is not included as he is suspended, while Lucio and Nicklas Bendtner are missing with injuries.

Martin Caceres returns after injury, while Giorgio Chiellini is also in the squad although it is unclear whether he will start because of fitness issues.

Squad: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 4 Caceres, 6 Pogba, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 15 Barzagli, 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.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Benitez believes in Shakhtar

Dec 3, 2012

Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez doesn’t think that Shakhtar Donetsk will be content with a draw against Juventus on Wednesday night.

The Ukrainian giants are already qualified and only need a point to win the group, while the Italian outfit need just a point to come second.

“We know that a draw would be bad for us,” Benitez, who replaced Roberto Di Matteo after the 3-0 loss at Juventus, stated.

“But the positive thing is that Shakhtar have a lot of good players and everybody is talking about them, so they have to show the rest of the world that they are really good players.

“When you know the top sides in Europe or in the world are watching you then you have to perform.

“Obviously, Juve will go for the win, but Shakhtar will need to show this level that they have.”

Chelsea need to beat Nordsjaelland this week and hope that the Bianconeri are defeated in their away trip.

“Shakhtar might finish second and have to play against one of the top sides in Europe and it will be more difficult, so I think they will try to win,” Benitez claimed.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Marchisio: Juventus have to beat Shakhtar Donetsk

The Italy international will miss Wednesday's match due to suspension,

but has stressed that the Bianconeri will be aiming for victory.

Dec 3, 2012

Claudio Marchisio has urged Juventus not to settle for a draw in Wednesday's Champions League match away to Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Serie A champions need one point in order to book their ticket for the knockout stages, while their opponents will secure top spot in Group E with a draw.

"A draw is not what we're after. It's a risk for both teams to play for a draw. We have to go there to play our own game and try to win the match," Marchisio was quoted as saying by Tuttosport.

"We are aware of their quality. They sit atop of the group and are the strongest team we have faced so far. It's true that we put in a great performance against Chelsea, but we aren't there yet.

"It will not be an easy game and we will have to put in a performance similar to the one against Chelsea. We have to remain cautious and cannot let them surprise us."

Marchisio will miss the crunch clash in Donetsk due to suspension after picking up his third yellow card of the campaign against Chelsea on matchday 5.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Shakhtar want to beat Juve, says Lucescu

Despite already having qualified, the Hirnyky boss says his side always aims for three

points but has expressed worries about his Brazilian players thinking of the holidays.

Dec 3, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk coach Mircea Lucescu says that his men will always go into matches to come out victorious ahead of the Champions League clash against Juventus.

The Ukrainian champions currently sit top of Group E and are through to the final 16 in the competition, but the Romanian trainer says the table standing will not influence his team's approach.

"Shakhtar is always there to win," the 67-year-old told Tuttosport. "If the game on Wednesday will end in a tie, it will mean that it was fate."

Lucescu also warned that the Bianconeri might go into the fixture with more motivation, since a loss on Wednesday combined with a Chelsea win can still prevent the Italian side from proceeding to the knockout stages of the competition.

"The fact that we are playing against Juve should be motivation enough for us. Great players thrive on these comparisons. Speaking of motivation, it is clear that Juve has more," he continued.

And the coach expressed concerns that his side could be feeling fatigued after a lot of matches in a short amount of time, especially focusing on the Brazilian players in his team.

"It has definitely been a hard time and we are starting to feel it," he said.

"All they think about are the holidays, especially Brazilians who cannot wait to go home, where they will find the summer."

He added: "The danger? Holidays in Brazil."

Lucescu also said he felt there were two favourites to win the Champions League trophy, adding: "In their domestic leagues, they are all strong teams, but in the Champions League it is becoming increasingly difficult for everyone.

"However, I like Barcelona and Bayern."

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

5 Reasons to Believe Juventus Will Win the Champions League

Dec 3, 2012

Rewind back six years to the beginning of the 2006-07 European season. A time where Ronaldinho was gracing the world stage, Cristiano Ronaldo was shining in Manchester, and the Italian national team were at the top of the world.

For Juventus, however, things weren't as pretty. Following the Calciopoli scandal, the Bianconeri found themselves relegated to the Serie B and were sitting bottom of the table.

Seven years on, though, the Old Lady is rebuilt, and after disposing of Chelsea 3-0 in their UEFA Champions League group clash, they are in a box seat to qualify out of their group. Provided they record at least a draw against Shakhtar Donetsk this week, Juve will be through to the knockout phases of the competition.

Despite recent losses to both Inter Milan and AC Milan, Juventus have proven that they are indeed one of the best sides going around Europe at the moment. As such, tifosi everywhere have every right to believe that Antonio Conte's side can go all the way this year and bring the UEFA Champions League trophy to Turin.

Here is why...

Use of a 3-5-2 Formation

During their 49-match unbeaten streak, Juventus adopted what was considered an unorthodox 3-5-2 formation. For any team, let alone one playing in Italy, a back-line comprising of just three defenders can be very easily undone and exploited.

In addition to this, Juve had become accustomed to a 4-4-2 formation in the previous years and signed players accordingly.

Despite this, Antonio Conte established a formation that became seemingly unbreakable. What is interesting to note is that the first time Conte's men were defeated adopting such a tactical mindset was at the hands of Napoli in the Coppa Italia. During this match, Napoli also employed the use of a 3-5-2 system and went on to win the title.

In their recent defeat to Inter, Juventus were also defeated at the hands of a 3-5-2 formation. As such, Juventus' only defeat at the hands of a formation that does not comprise of three defenders is their controversial 1-0 loss to Milan. So why is this important?

Well, in an infographic released on whoscored.com, it was revealed that the most popular formation used across each of the top five leagues in Europe was comprised of four defenders. In actual fact, the Serie A is the only league which features the 3-5-2 lineup in its top three formations of choice.

Juventus' progression in the Champions League would see them face sides that do not adopt a similar formation. The Bianconeri are practically masters at applying the formation, and unless teams have honed its practicalities, they will easily be undone.

The adoption of specialist players, including Kwadwo Asamoah, Mauricio Isla and Andrea Pirlo in this formation has made it almost impenetrable as well as extremely effective.

Any team that comes up against Juventus in the latter phases of the competition will have a very hard time dealing with the organised Bianconeri.

Return of Antonio Conte

After being sidelined for allegations of match fixing during his time with Siena in the Serie B, Antonio Conte is close to returning to the Juventus bench. Conte's return brings with it a renewed hunger for silverware, and considering Conte has only been defeated once at the helm of Juventus (vs. Napoli), his return will have Europe on high alert.

The last time Conte made an appearance in the Champions League was as a player. During this time, he won the trophy and finished runner-up on three separate occasions. One would suspect that defeat in three separate finals will have Conte hungry to bring the title back to Juventus.

His added passion as well as ability to make the tough decisions could see Juventus rise above the rest in the later stages of the competition.

Best Midfield in the World

After prolific showings both domestically and in Europe, Juventus' midfield can very well be considered the best in the world. Conte's setup, as previously mentioned, sees Juve play five strong across the middle of the park.

In the centre of the park, Andrea Pirlo pulls all the strings alongside Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio. It has proved the perfect mix of creativity, work ethic and defensive mindset, with each of the three bringing their own unique quality to the pitch.

With no distinct goalscorer upfront, Juventus' midfield shares the burden of getting goals, and it does so in emphatic fashion...after all, it was Arturo Vidal who netted in both legs against Chelsea and Claudio Marchisio who bagged a double just Sunday morning against Torino.

Alongside Juventus' three central midfielders exist two makeshift wing-backs. During the summer transfer window, Juventus expertly recruited to fill these positions with specialist players. After poaching Kwadwo Asamoah and Mauricio Isla from Udinese, the Bianconeri bolstered their starting 11.

Both Isla and Asamoah rotate with Stephan Lichtsteiner in the role on either wing. The three have proven themselves to be amongst the fittest players in the Serie A and, as such, provide an extra outlet on both flanks in attack and defence.

In conjunction with each other, the centre-of-the-park and wide players ensure that Juventus—on most occasions—keep a majority of possession. In addition to this, the Bianconeri possess depth on the bench in the form of Paul Pogba, Emanuele Giaccherini and Luca Marrone. Each of which is beginning to hone the required skills to tactically play out a 3-5-2 formation.

Juventus Stadium Is a Home Ground Fortress

With just one defeat in all competitions at Juventus' new home ground, the Juventus Stadium is proving somewhat of a fortress for the Bianconeri. The newly built stadium lies on the site of the Stadio Del Alpi—Juventus' former home ground.

Whilst there were some memorable European nights when played at the Del Alpi, it will be up to the new generation of Bianconeri to write the new history books of their new home. If recent form is anything to go by, things are looking very promising.

This year, Juventus—in the Champions League—have recorded two wins and a draw inside the state-of-the-art arena. In addition, they have netted eight times and conceded just once, prolific form for any side in Europe.

Long Overdue

The last time Juventus lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy was during the 1995-96 installment of the competition. Since then, the Bianconeri have made it as far as the finals on three occasions. There is no doubt that the closest they came was a loss in a penalty shootout at the hands of AC Milan in 2003.

It has been 16 turbulent years in Turin, and although numerous pieces of silverware have been won—some revoked—nothing matches the elation of being crowned champions of Europe. Yes, an undefeated Scudetto is an amazing achievement, but until Juventus reclaim Europe's most prestigious title, they can never say they fully recovered from Calciopoli.

They have the team.

They have the coach.

They have the infrastructure.

Juventus have every reason to believe that 2012-13 will be their crowning glory in Europe.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Pirlo: Juventus will help Chelsea Champions League qualification

Chelsea news: Andrea Pirlo says Juventus will go

for a win against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Dec 3, 2012

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo says his side won’t try and play out a draw with Shakhtar Donetsk in their Champions League clash this week in order to secure their progress to the knockout stages and dump Chelsea out of the competition.

Chelsea stumbled to a 3-0 defeat against Juventus last month to leave them on the brink of becoming the first champions to be knocked out at the group stages in the Champions League era.

The Stamford Bridge club’s only chance of progressing is by beating rock-bottom Group E rivals Nordsjaelland on Wednesday and hoping for a Shakhtar victory over Juventus in Ukraine.

Talk in the build-up to the game has centred around whether both Juventus and Shakhtar will protect their own interests by playing out a draw to eliminate Chelsea, but Pirlo says that isn’t something him and his team-mates would ever consider.

"Any talk of playing for a draw is not true of any of the players here at Juventus and I am sure it is not true of the Shakhtar players,” he said. “We want to win the group and I am sure Shakhtar do as well.

"We have no duty to help Chelsea, but we have a duty to ourselves and to our fans to try and win the group. We want to win the group and I am sure Shakhtar do as well.

“Any talk of playing for a draw is not true of any of the players here at Juventus and I am sure it is not true of the Shakhtar players."

Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio echoed the sentiments of his team-mate, and insists the Serie A outfit will be doing all they can to claim three points and top spot in the group.

He said: “A draw is not what we are after. It is a risk for both teams to play for a draw. We have to go there to play our own game and try to win the match.”

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

UEFA Champions League Preview: Shakhtar Donetsk vs. Juventus

Dec 3, 2012

Matchday 6 of the 2012-13 UEFA Champions League is already upon us, and amidst numerous tantalising ties, none perhaps stands out more than Juventus' trip to the Ukraine to face Group E leaders Shakhtar Donetsk. With the Bianconeri not yet guaranteed a place in knockout phases of the competition, Angelo Alessio will field a full-strength side at the Donbass Arena on Wednesday.

Leading In

With Shakhtar Donetsk already comfortably through Group E, it is down to Juventus and Chelsea to fight it out for the remaining qualification spot. Following the Old Lady's 3-0 demolition of the Blues, Juventus gained a two-point upper hand heading into the last matchday.

Despite Chelsea looking likely to defeat FC Nordsjaelland, Juventus simply need to take a point away from their visit to Donetsk to seal qualification. Furthermore, if Chelsea fail to win against their Danish opposition, Juventus' result against Donetsk is meaningless—Juventus will qualify.

Shakhtar Donetsk Team News

With qualification secured, Donetsk have the luxury of fielding a weaker squad against the Bianconeri, giving key players a much needed rest. However, despite this, manager Mircea Lucescu will be looking to leave Group E top of the group—a loss to Juventus would not allow this to happen.

It is no secret that Shakhtar forward Luiz Adriano will miss the clash against the Turin giants following his breach of FIFA fair play. The Brazilian striker was handed a one-match ban by UEFA and will serve it out this Wednesday.

They come into the match following a comfortable 2-0 win against Kryvbas in domestic league action.

Expected Lineup (4-2-3-1): Pyatov; Srna ©, Kucher, Rakitskiy, Rat; Stepanenko, Fernandinho; Teixeira, Mkhitaryan, Willian; Eduardo.

Juventus Team News

Following a 3-0 pumping of crosstown rivals Torino over the weekend, Juventus come into the clash against Shakhtar full of confidence. Despite this, they will count themselves lucky not to succumb to defeat at the hands of the group leaders in their Matchday 2 clash. Although it finished 1-1 in Turin, Juventus were clearly shellshocked by the attacking prowess of their counterparts and cannot afford to go behind early.

Juventus midfielder Simone Pepe is ruled out through injury, but Giorgio Chiellini is expected to make a return to action—albeit off the bench. Arturo Vidal, who was rested on a precautionary basis over the weekend, will return to the starting 11.

The Bianconeri, however, will be without talented midfielder Claudio Marchisio, who will serve a one-match ban after receiving three yellow cards thus far. It is expected that Paul Pogba will slot in for the Italian international.

Expected Line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Bonucci, Barzagli, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Giovinco, Vucinic.

Interesting Stats (courtesy of Eurosport and uefa.com).

- Against Italian opposition, Shakhtar have a very poor record. In fifteen matches in European competitions against Italian teams, they have won just 4-of-15 matches.

- Juventus have fired 38 shots on target in this year's installment of the competition, the most out of any club.

- Shakhtar have netted the equal most goals in this year's competition, scoring 12 times across five matches.

- Currently, head-to-head between the two sides reads: Shakhtar 1, Juventus 1 and one draw (previous encounter).

- Andrea Pirlo's promotion to the first team during his time at Brescia, came under the watch of Lucescu. Pirlo went to debut in Italy two days after he turned 16.

- Lucescu's record against Juventus is just one win out of 10 encounters. That victory came when he was managing Brescia in 1994.

Prediction

Shakhtar 1-2 Juventus.

Despite boasting an impressive win record at home, Shakhtar will come up against a Juventus side hungry to top Group E. Following defeats to Inter and AC Milan in recent weeks, the Bianconeri will be looking to put criticism behind them by sending a message to Europe.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Luiz Adriano banned for Shakhtar-Juve

Dec 3, 2012

Luiz Adriano is suspended for the Shakhtar Donetsk Champions League game with Juventus after he “violated the principles of conduct.”

The striker hit headlines all over the world when intercepting a pass back to Nordsjaelland to score after the ball had been put out of play for an injury.

UEFA opened an investigation and then announced Luiz Adriano has been suspended for one match.

This means he won’t be available for the final Champions League Group E game between Shakhtar Donetsk and Juventus.

The Bianconeri need a point from that match to be sure of qualification.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus must be ruthless against Shakhtar, says Agnelli

The Bianconeri president has insisted that his men cannot afford to lose focus ahead

of matchday 6, and is pleased to see other teams recognise their return to the top.

Dec 4, 2012

Andrea Agnelli demands a ruthless and determined performance from Juventus when they take on Shakhtar Donetsk in their Champions League Group E game on Wednesday.

A draw would be enough for the Serie A champions to secure second spot in their section, and thus qualification for the knock-out stages, but the club's president has warned that the Bianconeri are not there just yet.

"Wednesday's match is incredibly important. We’ll need to face it with determination, anger and ruthlessness," Agnelli told reporters.

"Two completely opposite outcomes could occur, from topping the group, to complete elimination. So we’ll have to be fully focused, because we want to keep our European dream alive."

Juventus impressed with a 3-0 win over Chelsea on matchday 5, and Agnelli realises that the Old Lady's revival has not gone unnoticed elsewhere.

"Last week I was in Moscow for an ECA meeting and hearing important people like Rosell or Karl-Heinz Rumenigge express their pleasure at Juve’s return to the top level, due to the club’s history and tradition, is something that fills us with pride and satisfaction."

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

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus, Celtic and the Champions League teams who can

clinch qualification to the last 16 on matchday six

Holders Chelsea are likely to be heading out given that the Bianconeri only need to pick up

a point in Donetsk, while Groups G and H still have knockout berths up for grabs.

Dec 4, 2012

Juventus, Benfica, Celtic, Galatasaray, CFR Cluj and holders Chelsea will all be aiming to secure themselves a place in the Champions League knockout stage on matchday six.

With 13 of the 16 available slots already filled by the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Barcelona, only Groups E, G and H still have teams vying for a last 16 berth.

The Bianconeri travel to Donetsk knowing that a point against Shakhtar will see them through at the expense of Rafael Benitez's side, who of course lifted the trophy back in May.

Should Chelsea go out, they will be the first defending champions to be knocked out in the group stage since the European Cup was re-branded in 1992.

Elsewhere, SPL champions Celtic know that they must better Benfica's result to make it through to the next stage, but will be given heart by the fact the Portuguese side travel to Camp Nou to face the Blaugrana.

Finally, CFR Cluj must better Galatasaray's result, a difficult task given that they are playing Manchester United at Old Trafford, while the Turks play already-eliminated Sporting Braga.

Before we bring you the qualification scenarios and permutations, here are the Champions League tie-breaker criteria to separate teams that are level on points:

i.) Higher number of points won in the group games between the teams in question

ii.) Superior goal difference in the group games between the teams in question only

iii.) Higher number of goals scored in the group games between the teams in question only

iv.) Higher number of goals scored away from home in the group games between the teams in question only

v.) Superior goal difference from all group games

vi.) Higher number of goals scored from all group games

GROUP A

MATCHDAY SIX:

Dinamo Zagreb v Dynamo Kiev

Paris Saint-Germain v Porto

•Porto have qualified for the last 16, but can secure top spot if they avoid defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

•Paris Saint-Germain have qualified for the last 16 but will finish top of the group if they beat Porto.

•Dinamo Kiev have already secured themselves Europa League football.

•Dinamo Zagreb have been eliminated from European competition.

GROUP B

MATCHDAY SIX:

Olympiakos v Arsenal

Montpellier v Schalke

•Schalke have qualified for the last 16, but can secure top spot if they beat Montpellier.

•Arsenal have also qualified for the knockout phase, but can secure top spot if they beat Olympiakos and Schalke do not beat Montpellier.

•Olympiakos have secured Europa League football.

•Montpellier have been eliminated from European competition.

GROUP C

MATCHDAY SIX:

Malaga v Anderlecht

AC Milan v Zenit St Petersburg

•Malaga have qualified for the last 16 as group winners.

•AC Milan have qualified in second place.

•Zenit and Anderlecht have an equal head-to-head record.

•Zenit will qualify for the Europa League if they better the Belgians' result, if both teams draw, or if the pair win but Zenit finish with a higher goal difference.

•Anderlecht will qualify if if they better Zenit's result, or finish with a better goal difference.

GROUP D

MATCHDAY SIX:

Borussia Dortmund v Manchester City

Real Madrid v Ajax

•Borussia Dortmund have qualified as group winners.

•Real Madrid have qualified in second place.

•Ajax can clinch Europa League football if they match or better Manchester City's result.

•Manchester City will clinch Europa League football if they win, and Ajax fail to pick up three points.

GROUP E

MATCHDAY SIX:

Chelsea v Nordsjaelland

Shakhtar v Juventus

•Shakhtar have qualified, but can secure top spot if they get at least a point against Juventus.

•Juventus will secure a place in the knockout stages if they draw in Donetsk.

•Chelsea can only qualify for the last 16 if they beat Nordsjaelland and Juventus lose. If they do not do that they will play Europa League football.

•Nordsjaelland are out of European competition.

GROUP F

MATCHDAY SIX:

Lille v Valencia

Bayern Munich v BATE Borisov

•Bayern Munich have qualified for the last 16, but can clinch top spot if they match or better Valencia's result.

•Valencia have also qualified and can take first place if they better Bayern's result.

•BATE have secured Europa League qualification.

•Lille have been eliminated from European competition.

GROUP G

MATCHDAY SIX:

Celtic v Spartak Moscow

Barcelona v Benfica

•Barcelona have qualified as group winners.

•Benfica will qualify if they match or better Celtic's result.

•Celtic will advance should they better Benfica's result.

•Spartak Moscow have been eliminated from European competition.

GROUP H

MATCHDAY SIX:

Manchester United v CFR Cluj

Sporting Braga v Galatasaray

•Manchester United have qualified as group winners.

•Galatasaray will qualify for the last 16 if they match or better CFR Cluj's result.

•CFR Cluj will make the last 16 if they better Galatasaray's result.

•Sporting Braga have been eliminated from European competition.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Lucescu jokes about beneficial draw

Dec 4, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk boss Mircea Lucescu has refused to comment on whether they will play for a mutually beneficial against Juventus tomorrow.

The Ukrainian champions and Antonio Conte's side need just a solitary point to both qualify for the knockout stages, but the Romanian Coach has claimed that they will not play for what the Italians call a 'biscotti'.

“Biscotti? I only like them if they are sweet,” he joked at a Press conference. “We are professionals and we want to win.”

He also commented on Conte, who had complained about Lucescu's remarks the last time the two met that the Turin side were 'predictable'.

“A young Coach need to know when to respond and when not,” he said. “If he'd have been managing as long as I have, he would react a different way.”

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus look for win at Shakhtar

Dec 4, 2012

Juventus playmaker Andrea Pirlo does not believe a draw will cut it for the Old Lady tomorrow at Shakhtar Donetsk – and says that the club has no intention of playing for a point.

Pirlo said: “Any talk of playing for a draw is not true of any of the players here at Juventus and I am sure it is not true of the Shakhtar players…we want to win the group and I am sure Shakhtar do as well.”

Juventus’ final match in Group E will be played at Shakhtar’s Donbass Arena and will decide the fate of the reigning champions. Chelsea need to not only notch up a win against Danish new boys FC Nordsjælland, but also require the Italians to fall in the Ukraine.

“We have no duty to help Chelsea, but we have a duty to ourselves and to our fans to try and win the group,” Pirlo added. “You will not get two easy games whoever you face in the last 16.”

Juventus and Shakhtar drew their previous meeting in Italy, with both teams scoring, and the travelling Ukrainians seeing the lion’s share of the possession. All told though both teams were pretty evenly matched at the Juventus Stadium, seeing a similar number of shots – Juve managed 15 while Shakhtar had 12 attempts.

Shakhtar’s talisman Luiz Adriano was banned for a game following his unsporting behaviour in the bizarre match against Nordsjælland, adding an extra twist to the tail.

The striker put three past the Danish champions in their meeting a few weeks ago, and Juve’s defence looks rock solid – sports betting site Ladbrokes have Juventus 1/3 favourites to qualify from Group E.

The Old Lady doesn’t travel all that well though, and with Chelsea’s final game being played on home turf, the London team with a chip on their shoulder could yet oust Juventus from the competition.

Rafa Benitez has a point to prove, and with two draws and a loss under his belt, the Spaniard’s first Champions League encounter at the helm of Chelsea could be a big decider.

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Buffon: 'Juve competitive in Europe'

Dec 4, 2012

Captain Gigi Buffon believes Juventus “have returned to being competitive on a European level,” although tomorrow’s game with Shakhtar has hidden dangers.

The Bianconeri need a point in Donetsk to be sure of qualification for the Champions League knock-outs, sending reigning holders Chelsea out of the tournament.

“The biggest danger behind a game like this is that the third result emerges, the one that wouldn’t make us very happy,” said the goalkeeper in a Press conference.

“More than anything else, we know the quality of our opponents and we respect them a great deal. It’s true they have already qualified, but it’s also true that in these situations a team has nothing to lose and feels no pressure.”

It would be a coup for Juventus to knock Chelsea out in their first year back in the Champions League.

“Over the last four or five months, in which we’ve faced both Serie A and Champions League fixtures, I think we can safely say that the Juventus growth process has been consolidated.

“Regardless of how things go tomorrow, I think taking on a tough group and winning the games we did shows that this team has everything it needs to provoke fear in our opponents.

“Aside from the result, which obviously is fundamental for us, Juve are giving off the impression they have returned to being competitive on a European level.

“Can Juventus win the Champions League? My view is that dreaming costs nothing, but it’s also true we have to be realistic. There are undoubtedly three or four stronger teams out there for various reasons, but as I said three months ago before our first game at Stamford Bridge, we can give anyone a game.”

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Shakhtar vs. Juventus PREVIEW – The Big Game In Ukraine

Dec 4, 2012

Stakes could hardly be higher as group E leaders Shakhtar take on second placed Juventus in the decisive Champions League match in Donetsk on Wednesday. While the hosts are through to the knock-out stages no matter the result, they need a point to secure top spot. As for Juventus, a win, draw or loss will see them first, second or third in the group. Chelsea could in theory slip-up against FCN – but there’s really no reason to over-complicate matters…

So, for Juve, it’s relatively simple: Get at least point – like they have in their last 15 consecutive European games – and they’re through. The tricky part is, of course, that the Old Lady will be facing a fierce opponent in Shakhtar, who have been the most convincing side in group E by some margin, and possibly one of the best teams of the tournament as a whole so far.

While Chelsea will fear that this game will turn out a biscotto (literally, a “biscuit” – what Italians call a game not truly contested) given that a draw will see both teams qualified, there is little to suggest that either of the teams should be interested in giving up the game. While Shakhtar may be tempted to rest certain players, there is still that little matter of the players themselves wanting to shine on the biggest European stage – plus of course the advantage of finishing first in the group. Regardless of the teams fielded, facing the Miners on a cold winter’s night at the Donbass Arena is a frightening prospect for anyone under any circumstances, even a storied and experienced Old Lady.

Shakhtar

As mentioned above, the Ukrainians (along with their Brazilian, Armenian, Croatian etc. teammates) have been playing extremely well in this tournament as well as anywhere else. It seems that after a few seasons of bedding in, the tangerine-clad Miners are now ready to challenge the big boys in earnest.

A very solid squad, coached by the experienced Romanian Mircea Lucescu, Shakhtar have taken another step up from the form the led them to the UEFA Cup trophy in 2009, and they now look like a serious Dark Horse for the finest title in Europe. The team is quick, versatile and stuffed with quality in every position. As evidenced by their stellar performances against both Chelsea and Juventus thus far, they are not a team to crumble under pressure, nor do they leave anything to desire neither tactically nor physically.

As for the game being inconsequential to them, it is fair to say that after the bad publicity surrounding the controversial Luiz Adriano goal in Copenhagen in the latest round (resulting in him being banned for “unsportsmanlike conduct” for the Juve game), the last thing Shakhtar need is to be accused of throwing a game or even playing it safe, especially with the British media hovering above the fixture with the interests of Chelsea on the agenda…

It is hardly necessary to point to Willian, Rat, Srna, Fernandinho, Mkhitaryan etc. as extremely talented players anymore, as they have proven to be on many occasions recently. Assuming Lucescu will field his strongest eleven in order to secure first place in the group, the only question would be which player the tactician chooses to play up front in lieu of Luiz Adriano.

Probable Formation: (4-2-3-1)

Pyatov; Srna ©, Kucher, Rakitskiy, Rat; Stepanenko, Fernandinho; Teixeira, Mkhitaryan, Willian; Eduardo

Juventus

Fresh from a comfortable 3-0 drubbing of intra-city rivals Torino, the Bianconeri should have restored whatever confidence may have been lost losing to Milan at the San Siro a week earlier. The fact is that so far, Juventus have dealt rather well with being back in Europe, as they still sit proudly atop the Serie A table, whilst having further Champions League qualification in their own hands.

Many, this author included, will insist, however, that the two points dropped in Copenhagen was the one real casualty of the tight schedule this fall, but even so, it’s hard not to rue the loss of those points in a tight group, standing on the threshold of a trip to Ukraine in December. But then again, such lessons must be learned by a squad having been out of the Champions League for a rather long while…

With everyone seemingly fit again and all bar the suspended Marchisio (to be replaced with Paul Pogba) available for selection it is not all that hard to predict the line-up Antonio Conte will go for, barring of course the eternal issue of the strikers. Mirko Vucinic and Fabio Quagliarella did well against Chelsea, but Sebastian Giovinco knocks on the door too, given his goals and fine performances recently. Indeed, it seems that the competition for the starting berths has been narrowed down to those three, as Matri and Bendtner for all their hard work still only have managed one goal between them this season.

Regardless of the result, this will be the final game for Juve without their beloved coach on the touchline, as Antonio Conte’s ban expires this week. Surely the Bianconeri will need no further motivation to do their utmost than the possibility of bringing the Mister a chance of breathing in the crystalline air of Champions League fixtures from close range after he returns?

Probable Formation: (3-5-2)

Buffon ©; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Vucinic

The match promises to be a high-paced affair with both teams relentlessly pressing the ball, perhaps Shakhtar a bit less so, instead opting to go for devastating direct plays on the break. The Ukrainians are certainly capable of both approaches, and Lucescu will hope to once more be able to surprise and out-fox Conte as he did for the majority of the reverse fixture in Turin. Conversely, the Juve tactician should be the wiser after that experience and is guaranteed to have his team drilled and geared for the occasion.

A lot is at stake Wednesday night in Donetsk. A fixture that could have been “only” a duel for first place has become a do or die match for Juventus. In principle, the Bianconeri are inferior to no-one, but Reality called ahead of this game to express her concern over the sheer magnitude of the task – because Reality, like most of us, hates being cornered and especially so when it’s freezing. She did remind Juventini world wide that their squad is a very capable one as well, though…

The amount different perspectives and filters you can see this match from/through makes it almost impossible to call. Nevertheless, as much as the idea of a biscotto is a bit far fetched, the very fact that the draw would suit both parties might come into play should the game reach the latter stages still undecided. At any rate, it suffices to say that matches like this one is a test to be passed, and also a taste of what is still to come for Conte’s Juve – hopefully sooner rather than later!

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Shakhtar Donetsk - Juventus Preview:

A point would ensure both sides make the last 16

The Bianconeri go into this match knowing they only need a draw to qualify from Group E

against a Shakhtar side who have already booked their place in the next round.

Dec 4, 2012

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

SHAKHTAR

Pyatov

Rat, Kucher, Rakytskiy, Srna

Stepanenko, Fernandinho

Willian, Eduardo, Teixeira

Mkhitaryan

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini

L'steiner, Vidal, Pogba, Pirlo, Asamoah

Vucinic, Giovinco

Luiz Adriano will be suspended for the hosts after his infamous goal against Nordsjaelland on matchday 5, which means this may well give a chance to former Arsenal striker Eduardo.

Defenders Dmytro Chygrynskiy and Tomas Hubschmann have been suffering with thigh problems recently and are unlikely to make the encounter with the Serie A giants.

Olexandr Kucher will miss Shakhtar's next match in the Champions League if he receives another booking.

Meanwhile, for Juventus, two-goal hero at the weekend Claudio Marchisio will have to watch this one from the stands, having picked up a third booking in Europe against Chelsea on matchday 5.

Paul Pogba started against Torino on Saturday and put in an impressive performance which may be rewarded with a place in the starting XI.

Giorgio Chiellini is walking a disciplinary tightrope as he will miss the Bianconeri's next match if he is cautioned in this one.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Shakhtar Donetsk have already qualified from Group E and any more than a point here against Juventus will ensure they top the standings.

• The miners have recorded 13 victories and just two defeats in their last 19 home games in Europe excluding qualifiers.

• The Ukrainian champions are the joint-top goalscorers with Paris Saint-Germain in this year's Champions League with 12 goals.

• Juventus can book their place in the next round with a draw but will top the group if they beat Shakhtar on Wednesday. If they lose and Chelsea win against Nordsjaelland, they will be eliminated.

• The Bianconeri have picked up five draws in their last five encounters away from home in Europe.

• Mirko Vucinic has gone nine league games without a goal, however, he was on the score-sheet for the Serie A champions against Nordsjaelland in the 1-1 draw on matchday 3.

Head to Head

UEFA Champions League ‎- Oct 2, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Shakhtar Donetsk 1

Last Five Matches

SHAKHTAR DONETSK

Nov 20, 2012 - FC Nordsjælland 2 - Shakhtar Donetsk 5 - UCL

Nov 7, 2012 - Chelsea FC 3 - Shakhtar Donetsk 2 - UCL

Oct 23, 2012 - Shakhtar Donetsk 2 - Chelsea FC 1 - UCL

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

Sep 19, 2012 - Shakhtar Donetsk 2 - FC Nordsjælland 0

JUVENTUS

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

Nov 25, 2012 - AC Milan 1 - Juventus 0 - Serie A

Nov 20, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Chelsea FC 0 - Serie A

Nov 17, 2012 - Juventus 0 - Lazio 0 - Serie A

Nov 10, 2012 - Pescara 1 - Juventus 6 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Willian

The Brazilian has lit up the Champions League with some stunning performances for the Ukrainian champions, and having scored four goals in his last two matches in Europe, the 24-year-old will not be short of confidence heading into this one.

Andrea Pirlo

The Italy playmaker offers plenty of experience and guile to the Bianconeri midfield. He did not have his best performance against Torino on Saturday - blazing over a penalty - but the 33-year-old, who already has three Champions League assists to his name, could be the key to unlocking a stubborn defence on Wednesday.

Prediction

The Juventus camp have came out and insisted they are going to go for the win in this one to ensure top spot in the group. However, given the quality of their opponents at home and the fact that the Bianconeri have drawn their last five matches in Europe away, then, this looks like a safe bet to be a draw.

Editor's Prediction

Shakhtar 1 - 1 Juventus

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Mkhitaryan: 'Shakhtar to beat Juve'

Dec 4, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk are already qualified, but Henrikh Mkhitaryan is confident they can do even better than their draw when Juventus come to town.

The Ukrainians earned a 1-1 draw in Turin in Matchday 2 with Mkhitaryan’s goal and it was considered to be an upset, but Shakhtar proved themselves to be no flash in the pan by topping the group.

Tomorrow evening Juve need only a point to be sure of joining them in the next phase of the competition, a result that would eliminate trophy holders Chelsea.

“We have to step on to the field with great determination,” said the midfielder in a Press conference.

“Everyone thinks we’re relaxed because we are already in the final 16, but we will go out there to win and always multiply our efforts at home in front of our fans.

“When I play, I do not think about the result, as I just focus on what the Coach tells me to do. The most important thing is that the team wins.

“I was happy to score against Gianluigi Buffon in Turin, as he is a world class goalkeeper, but I’d be even happier tomorrow if we win. It’s no good scoring a goal and then losing the game.

“It was very tough for us in Turin, but I think tomorrow will be different because we’re on home turf. I am sure it’ll be a completely new match and we’ll be able to achieve great attacking success.”

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Alessio: 'Juve aren't predictable'

Dec 4, 2012

Angelo Alessio prepares for his final game as stand-in Coach for Antonio Conte and hits back at Shakhtar Donetsk boss Mircea Lucescu’s accusation Juventus are “predictable.”

The assistant manager will no longer have to be Conte’s voice on the touchline, as the ban for failing to report an attempted fix to the authorities expires on December 8.

Alessio’s last task will be to help earn the Bianconeri a point in Donetsk, a result that would mathematically secure their spot in the Champions League knock-outs.

“We are very happy at Antonio’s impending return, but right now we are all exclusively focused on this match.

“Giorgio Chiellini trained yesterday and is regularly at our disposal. Antonio will then decide the starting XI tomorrow,” he said in a Press conference after the defender missed two games with a calf problem.

Shakhtar Donetsk Coach Lucescu, formerly of Inter and Brescia, provoked a stir when he suggested Juve were ‘predictable.’

“He can say we’re predictable, but we create many scoring opportunities. In that case let’s call Barcelona predictable – the same XI play pretty much all the time and everyone knows the style of football they propose, yet they are the best team of recent years,” replied Alessio.

“Lucescu’s words remain just that: words. We are extremely concentrated on this match and absolutely want to reach the next round of the Champions League.

“We’ll be facing the toughest side in the group, as they are the leaders, but we have improved and can get a result.

“We cannot play for a draw and count on being able to get two results. We’ve got to take the game to Shakhtar and play the way we know how. We must fight for every single ball.”

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Shakhtar Donetsk-Juventus Preview: The Ukrainian Adventure

Dec 4, 2012

ONE POINT. JUST GET (AT LEAST) ONE POINT. THAT'S ALL WE ASK.

Throughout the wild and wacky group stage in this season's Champions League, we've seen a lot of things happen. There's been a lot of unpredictability up and down the entire field, but there's no denying that a lot of it has happened in Group E, where the most of our attention is centered.

At the midway point, Juventus had three points after three draws. Remember the freakout that ensued after Juve's draw in Denmark? Man, that was a lot of noise to listen to. It was doom and gloom. There were still three matches to be played, but hope and positivity was the last thing people wanted hear about — which was totally understandable.

Two games, two wins, and a couple of weeks later, things have drastically changed.

Juventus are in position — if things ended the way they are right now — to move onto the knockout stages for the first time in the Andrea Agnelli/Antonio Conte era. But the job isn't done yet. There's still 90 more minutes to go and a positive result between Juve and the knockout stages.

What's needed for Juventus to remain in the Champions League come 2013 is clear: A win will be fantastic, but all that's needed is a draw. Then again, this is Juventus, where winning is the only thing that matters. That's what I'm talking about!

LE CHIAVI

Of the three spots in the knockout round that are still up for grabs, two of them are in Group E. Juventus can still win the group, or be sent to the Europa League. Translation: Things are still completely up in the air. Juve are obviously in a good spot considering they have a two-point cushion over Chelsea thanks to the absolutely wonderful result at Juventus Stadium two weeks ago, but nothing is set in stone. Until the final whistle is blown in Donetsk tomorrow night, there will be quite a few nails being chewed down to tiny proportions around these parts.

GOOD NEWS

Juventus don't need a win to advance, which is a good thing just in case the game doesn't exactly go as we hope. Team that with how much of a complete mess Chelsea since their loss to Juve and subsequent firing of Roberto Di Matteo/hiring of Rafa Benitez, and things are in Juventus' favor. But then again, Juventus need to get at least a point in a place where not too many teams are able to. So don't book your tickets to Turin for a knockout stage game just yet, folks.

And, the disciplinary committee has spoken: No Luiz Adriano because he decided what sportsmanship is and subsequently got banned by UEFA. Well done, lad.

BAD NEWS

No Claudio Marchisio because of yellow card accumulation, which is huge seeing as he always seems to find a way to change the game in these big-time matchups. Obviously having Paul Pogba around eases the pain a little bit, but with Marchisio's awesomeness reigning supreme over the weekend and good form as of late will certainly be missed. Why? Because's it's not just goals and assists when it comes to Il Principino. He brings so much balance to the midfield and does even more that doesn't show up on the stat sheet.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. How awesome Willian's afro is. Don't deny it. You love it, too.

2. How Juventus deal with the elements. I'm no weather guy — nor do I attempt to play one during my day job — buta quick look at the forecast in Donetsk points to one conclusion: It's gonna be cold. I'm not talking about just kinda cold, I'm talking about below-freezing kind of cold.

3. The Paul Pogba Effect. Stepping in for Arturo Vidal is something that Pogba has done without much problem at all this season. Now he has the task of replacing a different kind of midfielder with different kind of responsibilities in Claudio Marchisio. The good things is this: Pogba is a bad, bad man. Oh, and he's good at this whole football thing.

4. The Mirko Vucinic Effect. For me personally, Mirko's Turin derby was very hit-and-miss. Yes, he had two assists and was effective in the second half. But, at the same time, there were a lot of things that the hated Bad Mirko usually does. That's been the trend for him lately — some good moments, sometimes even game-changing, but overall, he hasn't been consistent at all. It's certainly a crucial game and you know what that means — Big Game Mirko or no Big Game Mirko? He hasn't found the back of the end net much at all lately, and has just three goals in 17 games in all competitions. Yeah, about that....

5. How well a rested Arturo Vidal plays. There weren't wholesale changes lineup-wise on Saturday against Torino, but the biggest one that could pay off for Juventus was the fact that Vidal got the night off. His last appearance was, well, not very good to say the least. His performance against Shakhtar back in early October wasn't very good, either. Now, with his battery recharged and his tank full, the usual Vidal will show its face again. I'd sure like that.

6. The battle on the wings. Our old buddy Jorid isn't scared to tell you about how awesome he thinks Darijo Srna is — and I really have no reason to disagree with him on that one. The Shakhtar captain has been known to make a bombing run down the right flank once or twice (slight understatement) over the course of a game. And his partner on the opposite flank, Razvan Rat, isn't too shabby in his own right. That means Stephan Lichtsteiner — who should get the start on the right — and Kwadwo Asamoah will have quite the task to not only contribute offensively, but also control Shakhtar's fullbacks on the defensive end of things.

7. How Shakhtar approaches things. Will they go for the throat and the three points? Will they play things safe, try to just hold onto first place in the group, and get the draw? Juventus' scenario is pretty clear, but so is Shakhtar's. They're top of the group and anything other than a loss keeps them there, so if they come out and play for the tie, I'll be surprised. Shakhtar has the talent to score goals. They've proven it. And there's no reason to think they won't do anything other than play their game tomorrow night. Well, unless Juventus cause them not to, of course...

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Vucinic, Giovinco

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Champions League – Chelsea v Nordsjælland,

Shakhtar Donetsk v Juventus

Dec 4, 2012

Matchday Six in UEFA Champions League promises to be one of the most engaging, with a total of six teams in contention for remaining three slots for qualification to the knock-out stages. European Champions Chelsea, Italian Champions Juventus, Benfica and Celtic are among the teams who are yet to learn their fate in the competition while all four Spanish Clubs in the competition are through to the next round. Here, TheHardTackle previews the games from Group E and Group F.

Group E

Chelsea v Nordsjælland

Stamford Bridge, London

Chelsea take on Nordsjælland in a must win fixture for the Blues. Even that might not suffice as they must rely on Shakhtar Donetsk to defeat Juventus in the other Group E fixture on Matchday 6 of UEFA Champions League. Even though they have been massive underdogs throughout, and were not likely to qualify in any case, they will fancy their chances against Chelsea and go out with heads held high.

The wheels have fallen off the European Champions’ so spectacularly that even the most seasoned observers have been left with their mouths gaping. Munich feels like years ago as Chelsea seem like a team in disarray with no ambition, guile or determination, something that so famously won them their first Champions League and was so characteristic in the early stages of the season. Still, Chelsea prodded through strikingly similar waters last season and emerged victorious, only this time they are no longer masters of their own destiny. Yet, a positive result on Matchday 6 could see a turnaround.

Nordsjælland on the other hand are out of European competitions, certain to finish fourth in the group regardless of any result. Even so, they would like to have a go at Chelsea with absolutely nothing to lose. They will take heart from the fact the European Champions look blunt and out of form. On the domestic front, Nordsjælland are on an indifferent run of form, lagging nine points behind league leaders FC Copenhagen in second place. A positive result at Stamford Bridge would be ideal for a team taking its first steps on the biggest stages of all and for the remainder of their domestic season.

For all their problems, Chelsea are still likely to emerge victorious from this fixture. But it might not prove enough as a first Group Stage exit after qualifying 9 years in succession for the knock-out rounds beckons.

Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Nordsjælland

Shakhtar Donetsk v Juventus

Donbass Arena, Donetsk

One of the most anticipated fixtures on Matchday 6 would be played out between Shakhtar Donetsk and Juventus, in the former’s home stadium. As it stands, a calm, composed draw would be sufficient for both, first placed Shakhtar and second placed Juventus, to waltz through to the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League. But it is not likely to be so simple.

Shakhtar would not want to relinquish the top spot which, by the virtue of seeding rules of UEFA, increases the likelihood of an ‘easier’ opponent in the Round of 16. And even though Juventus are likely to be a shade more defensive and organized than they usually are, Shakhtar will not want to sit back but instead would want to get the security that a first goal might offer them. Juventus would be weary of this, and even though they are more than capable of seeing out a 0-0 draw, the attacking prowess that Shakhtar have displayed throughout this UEFA Champions League campaign is commendable. The confusion of early stages, when both try to weigh out what their opponent is playing for, may set the tone for an interesting game. Chelsea would be peeking around somewhere as well, looking for Shakhtar to bang in a goal.

On the domestic front, both teams continue to dominate and are top of their respective leagues. Shakhtar are on an impressive run, while Juventus put behind the defeat to AC Milan with a comfortable home win against Torino.

For Juventus to get the result they desire, their midfield trio of Pirlo, Vidal and Marchisio would need to stifle Shakhtar’s impressive midfield, especially the duo of Fernandinho and Willian who have been the stars of the campaign so far. With Luiz Adriano suspended for the game, after his ‘unsporting’ goal against Nordsjælland, Henrikh Mkhitaryan would in all likelihood play up front. Likewise, Vidal has emerged as an attacking threat from midfield during this campaign and Shakhtar would need to keep him in check to keep their first position intact. Chiellini would be crucial at the back for Juventus.

The game will end up in a draw, although the attacking quality with both the teams would mean the game ends as a score-draw. The two would qualify for knock-out rounds of UEFA Champions League.

Prediction: Shakhtar 1-1 Juventus

[Socrates 8527]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.)

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Alessio: If Juventus are predictable, so are Barcelona

The Bianconeri assistant coach dismisses claims his team cannot change their line-up

or formation, and says the side must play to win against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Dec 4, 2012

Juventus assistant coach Angelo Alessio has responded to Shakhtar Donetsk trainer Mircea Lucescu's claims that The Old Lady are predictable by saying that the Turin outfit's regular set-up is similar to Barcelona's approach.

Lucescu claimed that Antonio Conte's team were easy to play against as they rarely change their formation or starting line-up, but Alessio feels that his players should concentrate on booking their place in the Champions League knockout stages and not react to comments from the opposition.

"He can say we’re predictable, but we create many scoring opportunities. In that case let’s call Barcelona predictable – the same 11 play pretty much all the time and everyone knows the style of football they propose, yet they are the best team of recent years," Alessio told a press conference.

"Lucescu’s words remain just that: words. We are extremely concentrated on this match and absolutely want to reach the next round of the Champions League."

Juventus head into the match in Ukraine knowing that a draw will guarantee both them and Shakhtar a place in the last 16 of the competition, but Alessio wants the team to play an attacking style and try to win the match.

"We’ll be facing the toughest side in the group, as they are the leaders, but we have improved and can get a result.

“We cannot play for a draw and count on being able to get two results. We’ve got to take the game to Shakhtar and play the way we know how. We must fight for every single ball."

Wednesday's match marks the end of Alessio's time as Conte's representative on the touchline, with the head coach set to make his return to the dugout against Palermo on Sunday, but the 47-year-old says the players must focus on their next match before looking forward to their trainer's return.

"We are very happy at Antonio’s impending return, but right now we are all exclusively focused on this match."

He added: "Giorgio Chiellini trained yesterday and is regularly at our disposal. Antonio will then decide the starting 11 tomorrow."