Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Champions League: Shakhtar target victory

over Juventus in key clash for Chelsea

Dec 4, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk coach Mircea Lucescu has pledged to go for victory against Juventus despite having already reached the UEFA Champions League knockout stages.

The Ukrainian champions have been among the most impressive sides in this year's competition, securing qualification from Group E with a game to spare.

They welcome second-placed Juve to the Donbass Arena, where defending European champions Chelsea will be hoping Shakhtar come out on top.

The Blues are third in the pool and their head-to-head record is inferior to both teams above them, meaning a draw would see Juventus join Shakhtar in the last 16 regardless of the result at Stamford Bridge.

A point, though, would not be enough for Lucescu, who wants to end the group stage in style. "This game represents a big exam for us, against a team with great tradition, history and players," Lucescu said. "This is a game that transcends normal fixtures.

"Regardless of our qualification status, football is football, we're professionals and we'll take to the field with the desire to win.

"We're up against an incredibly strong side, who play a type of football I appreciate. They know our strengths and we know theirs. We're fully motivated and determined to show our hunger on the pitch."

Shakhtar will be without Luiz Adriano after the striker received a one-match ban for his controversial goal against FC Nordsjaelland on matchday five. Juventus will also be missing a key player as midfielder Claudio Marchisio serves his own one-match ban.

"The loss of Marchisio is a big blow for Juventus," Lucescu added. "Perhaps his absence will cause Conte to make certain tactical changes."

Veteran Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon confessed to losing sleep over what he hesitantly referred to as the "third result". A Chelsea win coupled with a Juve defeat in Donetsk would see the Bianconeri slip out of the top two and into the Europa League.

Buffon said: "Our biggest concern is that third result, the one we really don't want to think about. It's the trap that we fear falling into.

"We know how good Shakhtar are and we respect them. But they have already qualified and so they will possibly be a bit more relaxed. No matter what happens, I think winning the games we have won in such a tough group shows we have what it takes to inspire fear in our opponents."

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

The Dossier: What Juventus must do

to stop Shakhtar exploiting them again

The Bianconeri need just a point from their trip to Ukraine to progress at Chelsea's

expense, but a repeat of their under-par performance on matchday 2 could spell danger.

Dec 5, 2012

TACTICAL ANALYSIS

By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer

There is needing a point, and there is needing "only" a point. Those are two very different scenarios, and it is the former which faces Juventus as they make the trip to play Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday night knowing a draw from their final Champions League Group E fixture will send them into the last 16.

Their slow start to the European campaign - particularly the costly 1-1 draw with Nordsjaelland in Copenhagen - has come back to bite them as they fly to Ukraine with their future in the competition still on the line. And while they come up against a side already assured of a place in the knockout phase, they cannot take it for granted that their hosts will be happy to take a share of the spoils. If anything, they will want to maintain the excellent form they have shown to this point, which was rarely more in evidence than when they picked the Bianconeri apart in their 1-1 draw in Turin in October.

JUVENTUS V SHAKHTAR: 02/10/12

MULTI-FACETED: But Vidal's ability to sweep & Marchisio's

attacking threat from the left failed in Turin

That night, Juve were expected by many to turn in another convincing performance after outplaying Chelsea in their opening fixture, but instead they were subjected to the most thorough examination of their tactical structure since Antonio Conte arrived at the club in the summer of 2011. They managed to get out of the game intact thanks to Leonardo Bonucci’s driven effort from a right-wing corner three minutes after going behind, but few Juventini left Juventus Stadium feeling better about their side's hopes than they had before kick-off.

At Stamford Bridge, we had seen signs of Juve in their pomp. Arturo Vidal had been his domineering best in the right channel, covering space behind Stephan Lichtsteiner and Andrea Pirlo well in order to give extra protection to Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli, while to the left of Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio was given the freedom to regularly make a nuisance of himself in and around the final third. It has been the classical Juve midfield set-up since Conte put the three centre-midfielders together: Vidal working, Pirlo creating and Marchisio exploiting.

But in the 90 minutes that followed, Mircea Lucescu’s side asked so many more questions of the Old Lady than Chelsea would eventually manage over 180. The wily Romanian was insistent that his team would get the best out of their ability by playing to their strengths, and to a large extent that also coincided with Juventus’ lesser-spotted weaknesses.

With Willian asked to spend much of his time loitering in the space between Juve’s lines of defence and midfield, the Miners were able to find cheap possession in advanced territory. Tomas Hubschman was asked to slide across and fill in for Razvan Rat as the left-back made regular forays down the flank, thereby tying up Stephan Lichtsteiner and forcing Barzagli to step up and mark Willian whenever Vidal was caught in an advanced position after one of his regular raids into the Shakhtar half.

While Barzagli has been very consistent in his strength and aerial ability since arriving from Wolfsburg in January 2011, the 37-cap World Cup winner has sometimes had a tendency to struggle with more technically gifted adversaries. Willian made the most of the Italy international’s fragility, regularly cutting inside Barzagli to send testing balls through for Luiz Adriano (suspended on Wednesday night) and the supporting Henrik Mkhitaryan and Alex Teixeira, all of whom were able to find space on the right up against Giorgio Chiellini due to the attacking nature of Kwadwo Asamoah and Marchisio's roles.

SHAKHTAR'S ANSWER IN TURIN

PRINCE WILLIAN: The Brazilian played in the space

between the lines, exploiting Juve's right

As Shakhtar forced them back, Juventus were made to start attacks from a less comfortable deeper platform, with the back three chased down regularly and pressed into losing possession cheaply. To add to that, players like Marchisio, Pirlo and Asamoah, who are infinitely more comfortable with the ball than without it, were stripped of their more adventurous nature. This was not the Bianconeri we had become used to in Serie A for the previous 12 months.

Shakhtar’s goal emanated from just such a situation. Mirko Vucinic lost the ball in midfield after dropping in to help develop an attack, and as soon as Fernandinho burst into the Juve half, Willian was in support with Vidal still back-tracking. With the Ukrainians then sending the ball between several pairs of feet, Marchisio was too easily attracted to the man in possession and with each pass he increasingly lost sight of Alex Teixeira’s run into the right channel. When Willian’s original shot was blocked, he then found his countryman in acres of space with Marchisio nowhere to be seen.

Of course, this time around Marchisio is suspended, but the plan would need to be the same whether he was available or not. Greater care must be given to filling the gaps in Shakhtar’s outside left and outside right positions, where Willian and Alex Teixeira got too much freedom last time around. If anything, Paul Pogba may well be better placed to carry out the role than Marchisio, given that he spent much of his youth career at the heart of midfield with a fair degree of defensive responsibility.

Still, the naturally attacking wide men - Lichtsteiner and Asamoah - must not be afraid to attack, even if they must be wary of the dangers they are leaving behind.

Conte’s message must be simple as he waves his players off ahead of one final stint in the stands before his ban ends. Juventus must play to their own strengths, but need to be more switched on in terms of the midfield five's defensive responsibilities. Failure to do so could see the Old Lady sent to the Europa League after Christmas.

Their biggest 90 minutes of the season lie ahead. "Only" a point? Hardly!

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Buffon: Juventus should be feared

The experienced goalkeeper believes that the Bianconeri have already proven their worth

in Europe, and has insisted they are ready for the decisive game against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Dec 5, 2012

Gianluigi Buffon feels that Juventus have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with in the Champions League with their performances so far in Europe.

The Serie A champions currently sit second in Group E with nine points from five games, and a draw against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday will see them through to the knock-out stages, regardless of whether Chelsea beat Nordsjaelland due to the Italian side's superior head-to-head record over the reigning European champions.

"I think our run so far has shown that we should be feared by everyone we come up against," Buffon said at a press conference.

"Of course, the result against Shakhtar and qualification are both fundamental, but the impression we’re giving this year is that we’re back to being competitive on a European level.

"If we play as we’re able to then I believe we have every chance of ending the group unbeaten. We’re ready. It wouldn’t be such a bad thing if we manage to win the group and avoid a handful of potential winners."

Wednesday's encounter in Donetsk is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Chiellini ready for Juve return

Dec 5, 2012

Giorgio Chiellini will reportedly return to the Juventus side for this evening’s crucial Champions League game at Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Italian international is a doubt given that he hasn’t played since limping out of the 3-0 win over Chelsea in the same competition.

However, stories on Wednesday are suggesting that the stopper has passed a fitness test and will start in the Ukraine.

Boss Antonio Conte, who will return to the bench this weekend, is set to field a 3-5-2 system that will be without the suspended Claudio Marchisio.

Summer signing Paul Pogba is expected to start in place on the Italian international. Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco could be the front two.

Juve need a draw to qualify for the last 16, while a win would actually see them top the group.

Juventus probable: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Vucinic, Giovinco.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juve play to win, says Bonucci

Dec 5, 2012

Leonardo Bonucci has rejected talk that Juventus will be playing for a draw at Shakhtar Donetsk this evening.

A point in the Ukraine will be enough for the hosts to win the group and the Italian outfit to qualify second, thus knocking champions Chelsea out of the competition.

However, the centre-back has defended his side against accusations that they will play out a convenient draw.

“These things make me laugh,” the Italian international noted. “Juventus are a great side who always play to win. And Shakhtar will not be giving out gifts.

“I can understand why Chelsea fans fear elimination, but they have to take that out on their own team…”

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Angelo Alessio "very optimistic" of Juventus win

Dec 5, 2012

Juventus assistant coach Angelo Alessio has said that he is "very optimistic" about winning against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Wednesday.

A win for the Italian champions in Ukraine will see them qualify for the last 16 as Group E winners, while a draw will send both sides through to the knockout rounds.

"I think we have been improving from game to game, so I am very optimistic about the match in Donetsk," he said.

"We should concentrate from the start, stay focused and fight for every ball. Control of the ball will be crucial, as we need to press them and not allow them to play the football they want to play.

"Our actions during the opening minutes will be very important."

Juventus are currently second in the group with nine points from five matches, a point behind leaders Shakhtar and two ahead of third-placed Chelsea.

[Socrates 8328]

CHAMPIONSLEAGUE.CA

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Shakhtar Donetsk vs. Juventus preview

Dec 5, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk hosts Juventus on Wednesday in a crucial Champions League Group E match. The winner will not only claim the group, but if Juventus picks up at least a point, they’ll eliminate the holders Chelsea from the competition.

In their last meeting in Turin, Shakhtar took the game to Juve, but thanks to a little luck and some lackluster finishing from the Ukrainians, the Italian champions escaped with an undeserved point. The Eastern European giants pounded the Bianconeri on the counter with their pace, technique, and quick passing. This will be key for both sides as Juventus was also hammered on counter attacks by AC Milan 10 days ago. Juve will need to be wary of the forward runs of Fernandinho along with the intricate ball movement from Willian, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Alex Teixera. Right back Dario Srna will also be making runs forward and playing almost like a winger, so Juventus needs to watch out for him as well. If not, it’ll be a long day for the Scudetto holders.

Shakhtar needs to watch out for a few things from their opponents. Firstly, the defence. Whenever there’s a free kick in Juve’s defensive third or a goal kick, Gianluigi Buffon always plays it short to one of his defenders, who then proceed to knock a long ball forward into the attacking third. Shakhtar’s front four must close down those defenders, that’s what Chelsea failed to do and they got torn apart. Inter did this to Juventus a month ago and ended the 49 game undefeated streak. It’s a small detail that goes unnoticed, but it’s more integral to Juventus’ attack than some may think.

There’s also the midfielders and wingbacks. Kwadwo Asamoah and one of Mauricio Isla or Stephan Lichtsteiner will be bombing forward and back all game, so it’s important to break out of the defence quickly and to shut down the flanks when Juventus moves forward. As for the central part of the pitch, Andrea Pirlo needs to be man marked, but surely Mircea Lucescu has already told Mkhitaryan to do so. They also can’t forget Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba as they tend to be “destroyers” to opponents, but they’re far from it. They’ll be lurking around the top of the box and will occasionally dart into the penalty area and have a shot.

The lineups are missing some significant starters. For Shakhtar, they’ll be without striker Luiz Adriano as he serves a one match ban for his unsportsmanlike goal at Nordsjaelland two weeks ago. Midfielder Tomas Hubschman has a thigh injury, so he’s doubtful for the game along with center back Dmytro Chygrynskiy. They’ll be deploying their usual 4-2-3-1. Juventus’ only absence is Claudio Marchisio as he’s serving a ban for yellow card accumulation, so Pogba is likely to occupy his role. The other two dilemmas for Antonio Conte will be who to play at right wingback. Isla will get the nod if Conte wants a more attacking option and Lichsteiner will play if the coaching staff wants to be more defensive. The striking partnership will most likely be Fabio Quagliarella and Mirko Vucinic, but that can change.

Shakhtar is already through to the round of sixteen, but they’re not the kind of team who wants to roll over for someone else. They’ll take the game to Juventus and the visitors will obviously be giving it their all as they try to progress to the next stage. Don’t expect a stale moment during this match, because it’s going to be a fun one.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Alessio: Juventus cannot play for a draw

Dec 5, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk manager Mircea Lucescu recently had some words for Juventus, claiming that the Italian team is “predictable”, and stand-in coach Angelo Alessio aims to prove him wrong.

With Antonio Conte soon returning to the sidelines as head coach on December 8, Alessio plans a win against Shakhtar to secure a spot for Juve in the next round of the Champions League, and what a departing achievement it would be for the fill-in coach if he can do so.

Although the Bianconeri are excited for the return of Conte, they are completely focused on their upcoming match, especially with top defender Giorgio Chiellini ready to be put back into action after a recent calf injury left him on the bench for two games.

“We are very happy at Antonio’s impending return, but right now we are all exclusively focused on this match,” Alessio told the press

“Giorgio Chiellini trained yesterday and is regularly at our disposal. Antonio will then decide the starting XI tomorrow,” he said during a press conference.

“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.

“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.”

Describing Juve as “predictable” may not have been the best move for Shakhtar’s head coach, and may provide any extra motivation needed for Alessio and the Serie A leaders to grab the win.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Line-ups: Shakhtar-Juventus

Dec 5, 2012

Giorgio Chiellini, Paul Pogba and Sebastian Giovinco are in the starting XI as Juventus must earn a point at Shakhtar Donetsk to continue their Champions League adventure.

The Bianconeri leapfrogged Chelsea with their 3-0 victory in Turin, so will be secure of qualification if they avoid defeat in Ukraine tonight or Nordsjaelland emerge unbeaten from Stamford Bridge.

Mircea Lucescu’s Shakhtar have already sealed their spot in the last 16 and are eager to keep hold of top spot.

Luiz Adriano is suspended for breaking the fair play rules after his infamous goal against Nordjsaelland, where his teammates were trying to give back the ball following time out for an injury and he pounced to score undisturbed.

Eduardo is chosen to fill in for Luiz Adriano, while Tomas Hubschman and Dymtro Chygrynskiy are injured for Shakhtar.

Chiellini returns to the Juventus line-up after missing two games with a calf problem, while Leonardo Bonucci is also fit following a bout of flu.

Arturo Vidal is also back after a ban ruled him out of the Turin Derby on Saturday, while Pogba steps in for the suspended Claudio Marchisio.

Giovinco is chosen as the partner for Mirko Vucinic in attack, while Kwadwo Asamoah and Stephan Lichtsteiner take the wings.

SHAKHTAR DONETSK: Pyatov; Srna, Kucher, Rakitskiy, Rat; Fernandinho, Stepanenko; Alex Teixeira, Mkhitaryan, Willian; Eduardo

Shakhtar bench: Kanibolotskiy, Kryvtsov, Gai, Kobin, Ilsinho, Douglas Costa, Devic

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Vucinic, Giovinco

Juventus bench: Storari, Caceres, Padoin, Giaccherini, Marrone, Quagliarella, Matri

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR - JUVENTUS

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

HT: Juve threaten Shakhtar

Dec 5, 2012

Juventus had a strong penalty shout in Donetsk and Sebastian Giovinco went very close, but it’s still 0-0 with Shakhtar at half-time.

In the other Group E game, Chelsea are leading Nordjsaelland 2-0 at the break with a debatable David Luiz penalty and Fernando Torres effort after both Nicolai Stokholm and Eden Hazard had earlier spot-kicks saved.

The Bianconeri needed a point to be sure of reaching the Champions League knockouts, whereas the Ukrainians were already qualified. Juve would only go out if they lost here and Chelsea beat Nordsjaelland under new manager Rafa Benitez.

Paul Pogba stepped in for the suspended Claudio Marchisio, while Giorgio Chiellini made his comeback from a calf injury. Luiz Adriano was banned for Shakhtar after his ‘anti-sporting’ goal that went viral around the world, replaced by Eduardo. It was also Angelo Alessio’s final game on the Juventus bench, as Antonio Conte’s ban in the betting scandal expires this week.

Shakhtar started very aggressively and Andrea Barzagli was fortunate to get away with an error on the edge of his own box. Arturo Vidal was booked for a shirt-tug on Willian after just seven minutes and Mirko Vucinic volleyed well over from a Sebastian Giovinco cross.

Andrea Pirlo and Giorgio Chiellini were furious on 21 minutes, as the free kick found the defender’s header, which struck Fernandinho’s hand. The referee waved play on.

The Italians got more control of the midfield as the half wore on and Vidal just failed to control a long ball when he had sprung the offside trap.

Mirko Vucinic created a fantastic opportunity when he pounced on an Olexandr Kucher error, rode another tackle and rolled across for Sebastian Giovinco who unmarked hit a daisy-cutter inches wide of the upright.

Chiellini’s calf problem flared up again and he requested a substitution, but changed his mind and was able to continue going into half-time.

Vucinic intercepted a Yaroslav Rakitskiy pass in the final third, but then the Shakhtar defender did enough to get in his way and a free kick went against the striker. Pogba lost his balance when trying to push through in the box, then Darijo Srna risked an own goal on Stephan Lichtsteiner’s dangerous cross towards Pogba. Giovinco went for goal from distance and it was caught by Andriy Pyatov in stoppages.

Shakhtar Donetsk 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Shakhtar Donetsk: Pyatov; Srna, Kucher, Rakitskiy, Rat; Fernandinho, Stepanenko; Alex Teixeira, Mkhitaryan, Willian; Eduardo

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

Ref: Eriksson (SWE)

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104‎

Own goal gifts Bianconeri top spot

The Serie A champions will enter the round of 16 draw as group winners

after a narrow victory in Ukraine which saw them leapfrog their hosts in the standings.

Dec 5, 2012

Juventus clinched top spot in Group E with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in their Champions League clash at the Donbass Arena on Wednesday evening.

Needing only a point to qualify for the round of 16, an own goal from Olexandr Kucher shortly before the hour mark sent the Bianconeri to victory, leap-frogging the Ukrainians who were forced to settle for second place, with champions Chelsea dropping into the Europa League despite their victory over FC Nordsjaelland.

Paul Pogba was handed a start in midfield for the visitors, with Sebastian Giovinco and Mirko Vucinic tasked with leading the charge up front. Shakhtar named a strong team despite already sealing qualification, but Luiz Adriano was banned after his controversial goal during the game against Nordsjaelland.

The match took some time to get going, with the first sniff of an opportunity falling Juve’s way when Giovinco clipped a pass through to Vucinic, whose first-time volley from an angle was sent into orbit.

The pair would combine again, this time Vucinic playing the role of provider after holding off multiple Shakhtar defenders and teeing up Giovinco at the edge of the box for a shot that crept just wide of the post.

Neither side seemed in any hurry to commit great numbers forward, though Juve did manage a late flurry to end the first half. Stephan Lichtsteiner’s volleyed cross had to be cleared expertly by Darijo Srna, before a swerving drive from Giovinco from 30 yards out forced Andriy Pyatov into a difficult save.

The pattern changed completely in the second half. Shortly after the restart, Gianluigi Buffon was forced to punch a dangerous free kick back into his own area, where Alex Texiera connected, but his effort went over the bar.

Moments later, Andrea Pirlo had a great chance after evading his marker at the edge of the box, but his shot clipped the post on its way out. Shakhtar countered almost immediately and Henrik Mkhitaryan was released on goal, but he too failed to find the target when in range.

The breakthrough was coming, though, and it went Juve’s way. A low, hard cross from Lichtsteiner was contested by Giovinco and Kucher, with the Shakhtar man’s final touch leading the ball over the goal-line.

Shakhtar nearly got back into the match with 20 minutes remaining, as Razvan Rat's telling cross was deflected onto the post after a messy scramble in the box. Not long after, a Juve counterattack saw Vucinic round Pyatov, but the visitors were able to get men back to take the sting out of the attack, with Pogba eventually firing wide.

With time trickling away, Shakhtar seemed to accept their fate, and failed to really test Buffon in the closing stages as Juve finished in control of the match and the group.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Juve win group after Donetsk triumph!

Dec 5, 2012

Juventus are not only through to the Champions League last 16, but also finished top of their group after a 1-0 victory away to Shakhtar Donetsk.

In the other Group E game, Chelsea crushed Nordjsaelland 6-1 in a game where both sides had penalties saved, but the result was irrelevant and the English club become the first reigning champions to go out in the first round.

The Bianconeri needed a point to be sure of reaching the Champions League knockouts, whereas the Ukrainians were already qualified. Juve would only go out if they lost here and Chelsea beat Nordsjaelland under new manager Rafa Benitez.

Paul Pogba stepped in for the suspended Claudio Marchisio, while Giorgio Chiellini made his comeback from a calf injury. Luiz Adriano was banned for Shakhtar after his ‘anti-sporting’ goal that went viral around the world, replaced by Eduardo. It was also Angelo Alessio’s final game on the Juventus bench, as Antonio Conte’s ban in the betting scandal expires this week.

Shakhtar started very aggressively and Andrea Barzagli was fortunate to get away with an error on the edge of his own box. Arturo Vidal was booked for a shirt-tug on Willian after just seven minutes and Mirko Vucinic volleyed well over from a Sebastian Giovinco cross.

Andrea Pirlo and Giorgio Chiellini were furious on 21 minutes, as the free kick found the defender’s header, which struck Fernandinho’s hand. The referee waved play on.

The Italians got more control of the midfield as the half wore on and Vidal just failed to control a long ball when he had sprung the offside trap.

Mirko Vucinic created a fantastic opportunity when he pounced on an Olexandr Kucher error, rode another tackle and rolled across for Sebastian Giovinco who unmarked hit a daisy-cutter inches wide of the upright.

Chiellini’s calf problem flared up again and he requested a substitution, but changed his mind and was able to continue going into half-time.

Vucinic intercepted a Yaroslav Rakitskiy pass in the final third, but then the Shakhtar defender did enough to get in his way and a free kick went against the striker. Pogba lost his balance when trying to push through in the box, then Darijo Srna risked an own goal on Stephan Lichtsteiner’s dangerous cross towards Pogba. Giovinco went for goal from distance and it was caught by Andriy Pyatov in stoppages.

Shakhtar had their first shot on goal within 60 seconds of the restart, Gigi Buffon comfortably controlling a long-range Rakitskiy strike.

Moments later Buffon had to change direction to punch away a powerful Rakitskiy free kick, then Fernandinho blasted the follow-up wide.

Pirlo went close too, as he drilled an angled drive from the edge of the box that clipped the outside of the post. It was wide open now, as Henrikh Mkhitaryan went on the counter and flashed a shot wide.

Juventus broke the deadlock on 56 minutes, as Lichtsteiner was on the edge of the offside trap down the right and fired a fierce cross for Giovinco, but it looked as if Kucher got the final touch from six yards to bundle it over the line.

Lichtsteiner went on another blazing run and this time his shot was deflected wide for a corner. However, Shakhtar had no intention of finishing second in the group – which defeat to Juventus would mean – so fought back and hit the post with substitute Ilsinho from point-blank range, getting between two defenders.

There was absolute chaos in the Shakhtar box, as Vucinic went clear on goal from the centre-circle and took it past the goalkeeper who was well out of the box, but he narrowed the angle and rolled across for Giovinco, who had a shot charged down and Vidal fired the follow-up wide.

Vucinic and Vidal got in each others’ way, so the header from Lichtsteiner’s cross was scuffed. Mkhitaryan was booked for simulation, then set up a chance that Mark Devic saw charged down. Lichtsteiner went clear again down the right, but his cross was between Giovinco and Vucinic.

Chiellini was harshly booked for a shirt tug at the 87th minute, meaning he’ll be suspended for the next match, as they seemed to be wrestling each other in midfield.

A scuffle broke out in the final minute as Kucher clattered into Buffon, so Lichtsteiner reacted angrily in defence of his teammate, but the goalkeeper restored calm.

SHAKHTAR DONETSK 0-1 JUVENTUS

Scorers: Kucher og 56 (J)

Shakhtar Donetsk: Pyatov; Srna, Kucher, Rakitskiy, Rat; Fernandinho, Stepanenko; Alex Teixeira (Ilsinho 65), Mkhitaryan, Willian; Eduardo (Devic 46)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Vucinic (Matri 88), Giovinco (Giaccherini 92)

Ref: Eriksson (SWE)

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

UEFA Champions League Group E wrap:

Juve seal top spot, Chelsea eliminated

Dec 5, 2012

Juventus clinched top spot in Group E with a 1-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk, while defending champions Chelsea bowed out despite winning 6-1.

Needing only a point to qualify for the Champions League round of 16, an own goal from Olexandr Kucher shortly before the hour mark sent the Bianconeri to victory, leapfrogging the Ukrainians, who were forced to settle for second place, with third placed Chelsea dropping into the Europa League despite their victory over FC Nordsjaelland.

The match took some time to get going, with the first sniff of an opportunity falling Juve's way, when Sebastian Giovinco clipped a pass through to Mirko Vucinic, whose first time volley from an angle was sent into orbit.

Neither side seemed in any hurry to commit great numbers forward, though Juve did manage a late flurry to end the first half. Stephan Lichtsteiner's volleyed cross had to be cleared expertly by Darijo Srna, before a swerving drive from Giovinco from 30 yards out forced Andriy Pyatov into a difficult catch.

The pattern changed completely in the second half. Shortly after the restart, Gianluigi Buffon was forced to punch a dangerous free-kick back into his own area, where Alex Texiera connected, but his effort went over the bar.

Moments later, Andrea Pirlo had a great chance after evading his marker at the edge of the box, but his shot clipped the post on its way out.

The breakthrough was coming though, and it fell Juve's way. A low, hard cross from Lichtsteiner was contested by Giovinco and Kucher, with the Shakhtar man's final touch leading the ball over the goalline.

Shakhtar nearly got back into the match with 20 minutes remaining, as Razvan Rat's telling cross was deflected onto the post after a messy scramble in the box.

With time trickling away, Shakhtar seemed to accept their fate, and failed to really test Buffon in the closing stages as Juve finished in control of the match and the group.

Chelsea were relatively impressive in annihilating Group E minnows Nordsjaelland 6-1 but a points haul of 10 was not enough to prevent the European champions becoming the first holders to fail to qualify for the last 16.

The win was Rafael Benitez's first in charge since taking over two weeks ago after two scoreless draws and a loss to West Ham in his first three games.

The manager could at least take solace in a less poisonous welcome from the home fans and a brace of goals from his underperforming striker Fernando Torres, which were supplemented by a David Luiz penalty, a Gary Cahill header and Juan Mata and Oscar strikes.

Joshua John scored what turned out to be a consolation for the visitors but there could have been even more goals had Nicolai Stokholm and Eden Hazard not traded penalty misses in a crazy few minutes before Luiz showed them how it was done.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Juventus End Shakhtar's Emphatic Home Run to Top Group E

Dec 5, 2012

Italian Champions Juventus have secured their place in the UEFA Champions League knockout round in emphatic fashion, offering Shakhtar Donetsk a defensive masterclass at the Donbass Arena. The 1-0 defeat of the Ukrainian side ensures the Bianconeri finish top of Group E, joining Shakhtar in the knockout phases of the competition.

From the onset, the Bianconeri looked set to prove a point, not willing to sit and rest on their laurels. Sebastian Giovinco looked dangerous early, and when the Italian cut in from the right side and unleashed a shot at Andriy Pyatov, Juventus' intentions were made clear.

Shakhtar's Brazilian duo of Fernandinho and Willian were looking dangerous as per usual, but a resolute Giorgio Chiellini nullified the exploits of the home side's midfielders early on.

A foul on Kwadwo Asamoah 20 minutes in gave Juventus an opportunity to open the scoring from a set-piece. Andrea Pirlo lifted a ball into the box, and after a goalmouth scramble, Juventus' claims for a penalty due to a handball were waved away by Jonas Eriksson.

It wasn't until the 30th minute that Juventus and the game really kicked into gear. Following patient build-up play from both sides, Mirko Vucinic did remarkably well to latch onto a Stephan Lichtsteiner pass. The Montenegrin expertly used his body to shake off a challenge from Eduardo before finding Giovinco in the box unmarked. The Italian ultimately dragged his left-footed shot wide—much to the delight of the Shakhtar faithful.

Amidst stoppages to tend to injuries to Vucinic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, the game was mostly played in the middle third of the field in the first half. With Chelsea leading FC Nordsjaelland by this point in the match, the travelling Bianconeri were on edge, with a single Shakhtar goal enough to send them out.

In the closing phases of the first half, Giovinco almost opened the scoring. After picking up the ball from within the Shakhtar half, the Atomic Ant unleashed a 30 yard drive at Pyatov. Despite the swerve, Shakhtar's keeper was able to comfortably save it, and the first half finished 0-0.

Shakhtar began the second half the brighter of the two sides, introducing Marko Devic to the fray. Following a free-kick by Darijo Srna, Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon could only manage to parry the ball away to Alex Teixiera. The Brazilian's quickly taken shot went wide of the post.

With the game opening up in the second half and Chelsea taking full control of their tie in England, Juventus found themselves with their hearts in their mouths when Mikhitaryan decided to unleash a furious drive at Buffon from a tight angle. The Armenian's drive flew to the left of Buffon's upright—albeit marginally.

Despite experiencing an extended scoring drought, Juventus forward Mirko Vucinic was proving influential in Juve's attack once again. And when he found Lichtsteiner unmarked down the right hand side, the Swiss international found the feet of Giovinco in the box. After a small tangle, Olexandr Kucher inadvertently found the back of his own net, giving Juventus a one goal lead.

With their home record looking broken Shakhtar continued to press forward. Desperation to preserve this record ultimately resulted, however, in a booking for simulation. Mkhitaryan tried to draw a penalty from a Barzagli challenge after receiving minimal contact from the Italian and despite protests was shown a yellow card.

Juventus proved why they are real contenders in this year's competition, comprehensively dominating possession late. Fans will be disappointed in the harsh booking of Giorgio Chiellini—which will see the Italian miss the Old Lady's next clash. 1-0 it finished, Juventus and Shakhtar progressing ahead of the defending European Champions.

Full Time: Shakhtar Donetsk 0-1 Juventus.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Player Ratings

Goal.com was on hand to cast a critical eye over events at the Donbass Arena

as a second-half own goal decided the match and the group in the Bianconeri's favour.

Dec 5, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk

Andriy Pyatov - Could have been a little more assertive one the goal; otherwise, not much to do.

Olexandr Kucher - Involved in the decisive moment of the game, as he came off second best against Giovinco when challenging for a cross and ended up sliding the ball into his own net.

R. Raţ - Beaten far too many times defensively, as his shoddy positioning was all to easy for Juve to exploit. Should have tracked back a lot better.

Darijo Srna - Produced one fantastic clearance to block a dangerous cross from Lichtsteiner and generally held his own at the back. Did not often find an opportunity to get forward an support Shakhtar on the counter, though.

Yaroslav Rakytskyy - Could not be faulted much for his performance at the back. Let one or two attacks pass him by, but made up for it with some otherwise determined defensive play.

Taras Stepanenko - A bit of a non-factor in midfield as he did not do much to stop Juve controlling the second half, and was also uninspiring when on the ball.

Fernandinho - A deterrent for the Juventus midfield as he was able to step in and make a number of tackles to disrupt play, while showing the ability to advance the ball forward as well. An underrated display.

Willian - Gave his team a few moments of thrust and directness when he broke with the ball from his own half. His pace was difficult to deal with and he won his side a fair number of free kicks.

Henrik Mkhitaryan - Try as he might, the Armenian could not make much happen in attack. Broke clear on one occasion, but steered his shot wide. Below-par overall.

Alex Teixeira - Apart from one ballooned shot from close range, he offered his team little in the way of an attacking threat and was replaced in the second half.

Eduardo - Virtually anonymous, as he barely got a sniff on goal. The Juve defence marked him well - the amount of touches he got on the ball could have probably been counted on one hand.

Substitutions

Ilsinho - Held possession well in the middle, but did not look to step outside his comfort zone.

Marko Devic - Offered his side little off the bench.

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon - Never forced to display his best, as Shakhtar's lack of clear chances meant that he was a spectator for most of the match. But he was a commanding presence throughout.

Giorgio Chiellini - Won virtually everything thrown his way in the air and hardly put a foot wrong when defending on the ground. Shakhtar found him a very difficult opponent to get past whenever they attacked the Juve goal.

Andrea Barzagli - Stood firm alongside the rest of the Juventus back three and rarely look troubled by the infrequent pressure Shakhtar put on his goal. Did what he had to do with little fuss.

Leonardo Bonucci - Looked to snuff out danger as soon as it appeared and generally took a no-nonsense approach to getting rid of the ball in dangerous areas. Extremely committed at the back and stuck to his task very well.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Got forward on occasion and was able to put in a few testing deliveries into the opposition penalty area. One such delivery ended up making the difference, as Kucher was forced to bundle into his own net for the only goal of the game.

Paul Pogba - Solid in possession and picked his moments to surge into the attacking third to good effect. A mature performance that belied his tender years.

Andrea Pirlo - Became more and more influential in the second half after a fairly subdued opening 45 minutes. Clipped the post with a low shot from the edge of the box and was afforded more space to display his range of passing.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Solid, if unspectacular, as he took few risks when advancing into the opposition half, while tracking back well to help out the defence.

Arturo Vidal - Mopped up loose ends extremely well in midfield, as he was incredibly successful in harrying opposition players into mistakes or rushed passes. His play was one of the main reasons that Shakhtar failed to create anything meaningful for most of the game. Had one or two cracks at goal, too, but his accuracy let him down.

Mirko Vučinić - Linked well with Giovinco at times and gave his side a good outlet up front. His hold up play was hugely important, as it afforded Juventus a focal point to build their attacks around.

Sebastian Giovinco - Buzzed about with a lot of energy in attack, but after missing a good first half chance, it looked not to be his day. However, he never let his head drop and his determination was important in forcing an own goal off Kucher.

Substitutions

Emanuele Giaccherini - Replaced Giovinco in the dying seconds.

Alessandro Matri - Thrown on in place of Vucinic with two minutes remaining.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Nothing is impossible for Juventus now

The Bianconeri completed a wonderful turnaround with a display of great control and

concentration to earn a 1-0 win against Shakhtar and claim top spot in Champions League Group E.

Dec 5, 2012

COMMENT

By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer

Six weeks ago they looked dead and buried. Trailing late in the game against Nordsjaelland on matchday three and staring down the barrel of a two-point return from their first three games, Juventus resembled Rocky Balboa being beaten black and blue by Apollo Creed after making the step up to fight on the biggest stage. But in true Hollywood fashion, they wouldn't give up without a fight.

Against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday night, the Bianconeri completed the fairytale ending by winning 1-0 at the Donbass Arena to clinch top spot in Champions League Group E. It took Sylvester Stallone’s character in the famous film franchise two cracks before he finally got the big prize, but Juve did it in one. Where Balboa fought with the heart, the Old Lady had all that and more.

Needing a point to progress, they could have taken a cagey approach, but instead they entered the match with real authority. With wide midfielders Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah tucking in a little more than usual and Arturo Vidal given the detail of forcing Willian to play in front of their midfield instead of between the lines, Juventus got their tactics just about perfect. There were fleeting moments of worry when the Miners occasionally broke in behind to stretch their back three, but this was nothing like the game Shakhtar dominated for long spells in Turin in October.

Whenever the home side looked to build attacks, they were having to do so from a much deeper starting position than in the first clash, meaning Gianluigi Buffon was rarely troubled, and Chelsea fans had next to no chances to get excited about any hope of progressing at the Italians’ expense.

As the first half developed, Juve looked more and more capable of turning the screw, and they eventually got the goal their discipline and structure deserved after the interval, albeit in fortuitous fashion. Lichtsteiner appeared to be offside when he collected a ball on the right and sent a pass towards Sebastian Giovinco, and then as the ‘Atomic Ant’ looked to convert, it was instead turned in by defender Oleksandr Kucher. Fortunate? Undoubtedly. Undeserved? Not at all.

From then on, there was never a moment’s doubt. Shakhtar had a few chances, but never seriously looked like getting one goal, let alone the two it would have taken to eliminate the Bianconeri.

This was a display of a side that has many of the faculties necessary to go far in the Champions League. They have mixed flair, technical ability and energy to become the best team in Italy. Now in Europe they have shown they have guts and determination, discipline and belief. They have fought two notable heavyweights in this competition and come out on top. It is they who have accounted for the European champions, while they have also taken four points against a team many of the big-hitters in the last 16 will be dreading being drawn against.

With the likes of Andrea Pirlo and Vidal (who kept the outstanding Willian in his pocket all night) among the best in the world in their positions, Juventus have the groundwork in place to challenge. If they can strengthen in January – Giovinco’s two first-half misses showed yet again that the striking department needs more quality – then there will surely be more reason to believe. Juventus are in this for the long haul, with the sequel to come in February and March. The Italian stallions are only just getting started.

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Bonucci: I want Real Madrid next

The Juventus defender was in a buoyant mood after his side's victory over the Ukrainian

champions, claiming that Los Blancos would be the perfect test of their mettle.

Dec 5, 2012

Leonardo Bonucci has revealed that he wants to face Real Madrid in the last 16 of the Champions League following his side's 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetskon Wednesday.

Juventus only needed a point from their trip to Ukraine to secure progression from Group E, and Sebastian Giovinco's goal in the second-half confirmed their place in the knockout stages.

The Old Lady could face one of Madrid, Porto, Arsenal, Valencia, Celtic or Galatasaray in the next round of the tournament after being seeded and Bonucci has set his sights on a trip to the Santiago Bernabeu.

"Looking at the seeds, they are the most prestigious teams," he told reporters after the match.

"Only Real Madrid stand out in the second pot, but when you reach this level they are all difficult. I want Real Madrid in the next round as I have never played at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"We have grown over the course of the competition, proving we have grown in confidence, belief and that we study our opponents carefully.

"We came here to play our game and we said we would not be playing for a draw."

Bonucci's team-mate Stephan Lichtsteiner, meanwhile, named Celtic as his preferred opponent, and explained the inspiration behind his celebration in the aftermath of Giovinco's winner.

"I celebrated by doing the 'Pinocchio' gesture of a long nose because Giovinco said he scored when I clearly saw Kucher's deflection," he added.

"I have to praise the team, as we all played a great game. It isn't easy for anyone to win here, so it must be seen as a real achievement.

"We feel like ourselves again after an ugly performance against AC Milan, and now we want to continue like this."

"They are all wonderful games to go into and complicated opponents. I would like to play Celtic."

[Socrates 8328]

The 16 teams who have qualified

for the Champions League knock-out stage

The likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United are familiar faces, while

Borussia Dortmund, Shakhtar Donetsk and Malaga will not be underestimated in Europe this season.

Dec 5, 2012

The 2012-13 Champions League group stage has been completed and now only 16 teams remain in Europe's premier club competition.

All four Spanish sides cruised through, as did each of the three German teams, while the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea missed out on making it into the knock-stage of the elite Uefa tournament.

Below, we look at the 16 teams left in the competition ahead of the Uefa draw on December 20, including the odds that each side has been given to lift the trophy.

AC MILAN

The Italian giants had a hit-and-miss group stage campaign, as they won twice, drew twice and lost twice. However, due to results in other fixtures, they sneaked into the last 16 ahead of Zenit St Petersburg by a single point, but behind Group C victors Malaga.

Their stuttering Serie A form does not necessarily equate to an early exit in the Champions League for the Rossoneri - last season, eventual winners Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League but managed to conquer Barcelona and Bayern Munich en route to the coveted trophy. Star forward Stephan El Shaarawy - who has been spectacular this season - will hope some of his team-mates start scoring as frequently as him in 2013 should they hope to win silverware.

Odds to win the Champions League: 50/1 with Paddy Power

ARSENAL

Arsenal are another team who have had an indifferent 2012-13 season but scraped into the last 16 by a point in second place. The Gunners started brightly enough, but one win and two losses in their final four games could have cost them dearly.

Arsene Wenger, head coach at the north London club for well over a decade now, has not led Arsenal to a Champions League final since 2006, when Barcelona beat them. Six years later and the Blaugrana have repeatedly been an unsurpassable object for the Premier League giants, and their second-place finish means that another knock-out stage clash against the Catalan giants is far from unforeseeable.

Odds to win the Champions League: 25/1 with Paddy Power

BARCELONA

Barcelona have not been as impenetrable as usual in the group stage this term. Defensive injuries affected their 'Goals Against' tally, and they were beaten by Celtic in a shock result in November. However, wins scattered in other fixtures allowed them to ease away from their opponents and finish comfortably top of Group G.

Unsurprisingly - considering their recent record in the Champions League, and the incredible array of talent at their disposal - Barca are favourites to reclaim the trophy. They have reached at least the semi-final stage in the five most recent seasons, and have won the competition three times in the last seven years.

Odds to win the Champions League: 5/2 with Paddy Power

BAYERN MUNICH

Last years' runners up were assured of their spot in the last 16 with a game to go, when a draw to Valencia allowed them progress due to BATE's inability to beat Lille.

Die Roten have been rampant in the Bundesliga and have been amongst the form teams this season anywhere in Europe. With the likes of Mario Gomez, Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery, Toni Kroos, Mario Mandzukic and Thomas Muller to choose from in attack, and seasoned Germans such as Bastian Schweinsteiger, Philipp Lahm and Manuel Neuer behind them, Bayern are in a fantastic position to take Europe by storm this season. Bayern are up there with the likes of Barca and Real Madrid as favourites to win this time around.

Odds to win the Champions League: 7/1 with Paddy Power

BORUSSIA DORTMUND

Borussia Dortmund might have headed into the Champions League group stage tentatively, but they exit it as one of the best bets to make it far in the competition this season. Their conquering of this year's 'Group of Death' - which included Real Madrid, Manchester City and Ajax - in unbeaten fashion was exquisite, and they will not be underestimated in the knock-out matches.

Robert Lewandowski, Mario Gotze and Marco Reus are all key assets to the reigning Bundesliga champions, who may choose to focus their efforts on the Champions League if they fail to make ground on Bayern in the German league.

Odds to win the Champions League: 15/2 with Paddy Power

CELTIC

Fun fact: Had Celtic's two consecutive matches with Barcelona in Group G been in the knock-out stage of the competition, they would have taken the Spanish giants to extra time! Could they have lasted until penalties in that situation? They will be hoping that the resilience they showed against Tito Vilanova's side comes in handy in the last 16 after the Scottish side squeezed into second place ahead of Benfica.

The odds of Neil Lennon's lads taking the trophy are predictably high, and only a mad man or incredibly optimistic Bhoys fan would ever seriously think they can win the continental competition this campaign. However, just making it this far can be considered a success for the SPL side, and you can bet that their Celtic Park supporters will be roaring them on in 2013 when the 1967 European Cup winners' knock-out stage starts.

Odds to win the Champions League: 100/1 with Paddy Power

GALATASARAY

Galatasaray finished with a flurry in Group H to allow themselves access into the last 16 at Cluj and Braga's expense. A home win against Manchester United was celebrated by coaches, players and fans alike, and they followed through on that euphoria by ensuring they equalled Cluj's result at Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

The Turkish team are another example of an underdog that could worm their way into the quarter-final - or even semi-final - stage should they be given a beneficial draw against an out-of-form club. However, Champions League success is nothing but a pipedream, and Galatasaray lifting the trophy in May would be one of the biggest shocks this tournament would ever see.

Odds to win the Champions League: 100/1 with Paddy Power

JUVENTUS

Juventus survived a difficult Champions League group finish top of Group E following three successive victories in their final three games.

Having helped knock out reigning European champions Chelsea at the group stage of the tournament, Juventus enter the latter stages among the favourites to become the newly-crowned victors. Their superb winning streak in Serie A - which ran for 49 games before Inter beat them 3-1 on their own turf in November - shows that they are capable of consistency, but cup competitions are all about performing when it matters, which the Italian side will need to prove on their return to the knock-out round of the Champions League.

Odds to win the Champions League: 11/1 with Paddy Power

MALAGA

Malaga were one of the surprise packages of the group stage, taking a very open Group C by the scruff of its neck and finishing top of the pile with considerable, unbeaten ease. The club may not have been amongst the favourites at the start of the competition, nor may they be amongst the favourites now, but their form this season on the European stage has been undoubtedly impressive.

What will be a test for the Andalusian club is how they handle the knockout pressure. Will they maintain their superb streak and plough forwards into the tail-end stages of the tournament, or could they crumble like many had predicted they might at the start of the season when the groups were drawn?

Odds to win the Champions League: 50/1 with Paddy Power

MANCHESTER UNITED

After a humiliating group stage exit for Sir Alex Ferguson last season, the Red Devils romped their way to victory in Group H, being assured of top spot with two games to go. However, the results did not reflect a number of negatives in their midweek performances, and often it took late comebacks and a lot of luck to assure themselves of three points.

United's recent (in fact, ever-present) history in the Champions League has acquired them favourites status, but, having been fairly unconvincing defensively at times, they will need to up their game if they want to reclaim the trophy which they have not lifted since 2008. The added firepower of Robin van Persie will help them no doubt; as will their status as top seeds due to finishing top of their group, though Real Madrid, AC Milan and more could still await the Premier League giants.

Odds to win the Champions League: 9/1 with Paddy Power

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN

Under the wing of Champions League-winning coach Carlo Ancelotti, Paris Saint-Germain finished top of Group A on a very respectable 15 points out of a potential 18. Having an illustrious squad list that includes Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Javier Pastore, Thiago Silva, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Jeremy Menez has helped get them this far, but the last 16 could throw them a curveball in the form of a team with more experience at this level together.

As Manchester City have found out continuously on the continental stage, however, throwing together world class players does not necessarily equate to a world class team. The Ligue 1 club are in the shadows of the heavy favourites such as Real Madrid and Barcelona, and their inconsistency - especially when Ibra is unavailable or out-of-sorts - makes them a tough one to want to gamble on.

Odds to win the Champions League: 22/1 with Paddy Power

PORTO

Their loss in the final group match against Paris Saint-Germain meant that they finished behind the cash-rich French club, but their confidence heading into the knock-out stages will be high nonetheless.

Porto have pedigree in recent years in the Champions League, winning it under Jose Mourinho, and in 2011 they conquered the Europa League under Andre Villas-Boas. Current head coach Vitor Pereira may not be a name on anybody's tongue just yet, but an unexpected run deep into the European tournament would no doubt get the likes of Roman Abramovich gazing down at the Portuguese club once more.

Odds to win the Champions League: 40/1 with Paddy Power

REAL MADRID

Real Madrid's season has been a peculiar one to date, and their Champions League and La Liga progress mirror each other. In both instances they have been completely overshadowed by another club unexpectedly (Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona), and yet they are continuing to record huge scorelines in their favour (4-1 at home to Ajax, 5-1 Athletic Bilbao).

However, as always, los Blancos head into the last 16 amongst the favourites to take the title home. At their disposal they have a head coach - Jose Mourinho - who has won the title with two different clubs; a Ballon d'Or nominee in the superstar form of Cristiano Ronaldo; and a squad of expensively-assembled players that can rival any other squad on the planet, on paper. But that's the problem: this is all on paper. Madrid have not made the final of the elite tournament since 2002, and have only succeeded in getting into the quarter-final twice in the last eight seasons (admittedly, both were on the last two occasions under Mourinho). If the Spanish giants want to conquer Europe once more then they will need to shake off their recent failings and forget about their shaky history in the past several years.

Odds to win the Champions League: 10/3 with Paddy Power

SCHALKE

Schalke are yet another example of a German team which impressed in the Champions League group stage. They dented Arsenal's impeccable home record on the European stage by beating them 2-0 earlier this season and ensured they finished above the Premier League side in Group B with a draw against reigning Ligue 1 champions Montpellier.

The Konigsblauen being back in the knock-out stage of the competition is not too surprising, as they barged their way into the semi-finals in the 2010-11 season, before being knocked out by Manchester United. They will at least avoid the Red Devils in the last 16, but troublesome potential opposition in their next European clash include Real Madrid or Porto. It will take a monumental effort to repeat their last-four run from two seasons ago, but, based on the current climate in German football, it would not be too surprising to see Schalke shuffle deeper into the tournament.

Odds to win the Champions League: 50/1 with Paddy Power

SHAKHTAR DONETSK

Calling Shakhtar Donetsk a surprise package would be unfair on a team that has a growing number of players high up of the 'To-Buy' list of top clubs around the world. Willian, Henrik Mkhitaryan and Fernandinho have sparkled against Nordsjaelland, Juventus and Chelsea this season as the team turned Group E on its head and made it a battle between three upper-tier teams instead of the two-way battle some had suspected it would be.

Shakhtar are arguably one of the dark horses for the Champions League crown, having gone unbeaten for the whole of 2012 before a last-gasp goal from Victor Moses allowed Chelsea to beat them 3-2, despite the Ukrainian side having outplayed them at times at Stamford Bridge. They have etched their way up the list of favourites with their attacking prowess in European clashes this campaign, but they will need to consign history to dust and take Ukrainian football to another level if they want to succeed in the top European competition.

Odds to win the Champions League: 25/1 with Paddy Power

VALENCIA

Finally, we come to Valencia, who are one of the tougher teams to predict right now as they fired their head coach on December 1 due to their poor Liga form, despite having already qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League under Mauricio Pellegrino.

They secured qualification for the knock-out rounds in their penultimate clash, with a draw against Bayern Munich - the sort of result against a top team that they will hope they can repeat against other prestigious opponents as the business end of the tournament begins.

Odds to win the Champions League: 50/1 with Paddy Power

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Chiellini: 'Juve can fight anyone'

Dec 5, 2012

Giorgio Chiellini believes Juventus “proved we can challenge anyone in Europe,” but hopes they don’t draw Real Madrid.

The Bianconeri won their group thanks to a 1-0 victory away to Shakhtar Donetsk, eliminating reigning Champions League holders Chelsea.

“We proved again tonight that we are a great team who can challenge anyone in Europe. I think Shakhtar Donetsk can go all the way and are one of the form teams right now, so winning here was a huge achievement,” said the defender.

“We gave 110 per cent here tonight and it was a shame we risked to the very end, as we probably deserved to score more goals.”

He made his comeback from a calf injury and had looked ready to come off after around 30 minutes in Ukraine.

“My calf got hard towards the end of half-time and I asked for Martin Caceres to warm up so I wouldn’t leave my teammates unprepared. It started to relax a bit and so I was able to continue.”

Juventus go through as group leaders, so will be seeds in the draw, but there are some dangers in the second pot such as Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid.

“It would be a great shame and paradoxical for us to finish top of the group and draw Real Madrid, but either way we have proved Juventus are tough and can challenge anybody.”

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Lucescu: 'Juve were hungrier'

Dec 5, 2012

Shakhtar Donetsk manager Mircea Lucescu said “Juventus wanted this win much more,” but also complained about the referee.

“Juventus played a good game, prepared well, were aggressive and won the midfield battles, then took advantage of a refereeing error. In my view, the goal was offside,” said the former Inter Coach.

The 1-0 Champions League result at the Donbass Arena was sealed by an own goal, though Stephan Lichtsteiner seemed to be offside when putting in the cross.

“To reach a certain level, you need to have talent and history, but also a certain political strength in football,” continued Lucescu on Mediaset.

“I thought a draw would’ve been the right result and we really missed Luiz Adriano, as our strikers were unable to do what Adriano does, particularly when helping out in midfield.

“Juventus really were hungry for this game and they closed us all over the field, giving us very little space. Fortune favours the brave and it did tonight.

“It’s true there could’ve been a penalty for both teams too. I don’t say the referee decided the match. I just saw that it was offside, while there was a clear penalty not awarded on Willian in Turin. We must wait a few years before we are as respected as the big European clubs.

“It was a balanced match and a draw was right, but you could see Juventus wanted it much more than my players. Now we have a month off and perhaps my players were already thinking about their holidays.

“It’s also possible some of my players were thinking about the transfer market, as they are young and lately there has been far too much talk around them. You can see a fraction of a second makes all the difference at this level.”

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Alessio: 'Conte, Mission Accomplished'

Dec 5, 2012

Juventus assistant manager Angelo Alessio said they “achieved this mission” of Champions League qualification, but can now hand over to Antonio Conte.

“It’s very satisfying that we have achieved this mission, as winning here and finishing top was exceptional. We have to thank the squad, as despite Antonio’s absence from the touchline they were entirely at our disposal,” he noted of the 1-0 victory away to Shakhtar Donetsk.

Not only did the Bianconeri qualify for the last 16, but they also won Group E and knocked reigning holders Chelsea out of the tournament.

“We have been growing throughout the competition, culminating in the great performance against Chelsea and tonight’s victory.

“We knew all about Shakhtar and that they are based mainly on individual talents, though they caused us some problems on the counter-attack. Once you block their creative centres, they are not very organised, so we were able to neutralise them.”

Conte was in the stands of the Donbass Arena and cameras caught him shouting at director Fabio Paratici. His ban for failing to report a potential fix to the authorities – a charge he has always denied – expires this week, so Conte will be back on the bench from Sunday.

“It was difficult to do without Antonio, but the team knows what it has to do and how it must move, so they helped the situation immensely. We had to call a few players today who weren’t keeping their positions,” continued Alessio.

“I know what Antonio has been through over the last few months. I want to thank the staff who worked so hard to achieve this fundamental objective of qualification.”

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Giovinco: 'I contributed to goal'

Dec 5, 2012

Sebastian Giovinco would like to take at least a bit of credit for the goal that allowed Juventus to beat Shakhtar Donetsk.

At first it had seemed as if the Atomic Ant had bundled Stephan Lichtsteiner’s cross over the line, but it proved to be an own goal off Olexandr Kucher.

“Never mind, the important thing is that we won and qualified – in first place, too. We played a great game and are very happy with this performance,” Giovinco told Mediaset.

“I did get a touch to the ball, but I don’t know if my deflection was decisive or not, as we were very close.

“If I didn’t get in front of him and make it difficult then he probably would’ve been able to clear.”

Juve are seeds in the draw for the last 16, meaning they will face one of these teams: Porto, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Valencia, Celtic and Galatasaray.

“Right now we must focus on Sunday and won’t worry about the draw until it happens.”

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Bonucci: 'Bring on Real Madrid!'

Dec 5, 2012

Leonardo Bonucci is feeling thoroughly confident after Juventus won their Champions League group. “I want Real Madrid in the next round.”

The Bianconeri needed a point to be sure of qualification this evening, but finished top of Group E after a 1-0 victory away to Shakhtar Donetsk.

“Looking at the seeds, they are the most prestigious teams. Only Real Madrid stand out in the second pot, but when you reach this level they are all difficult,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

Juve are seeds in the draw for the last 16, meaning they will face one of Porto, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Valencia, Celtic and Galatasaray.

“I want Real Madrid in the next round, as I have never played at the Bernabeu. We have grown over the course of the competition, proving we gained in confidence, belief and that we study our opponents carefully.

“We came here to play our game and we had said there would be no calculations or playing for a draw.”

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

Lichtsteiner: 'I'd like Celtic tie'

Dec 5, 2012

Stephan Lichtsteiner created the Juventus goal to beat Shakhtar Donetsk and “would like to play Celtic” in the Champions League Round of 16.

The Swiss winger got down the right and his cross to Sebastian Giovinco was bundled over the line by Olexandr Kucher.

“I celebrated by doing the ‘Pinocchio’ gesture of a long nose, as Giovinco said he’d scored when I clearly saw Kucher’s deflection!

“I have to praise the team, as we all played a great game. It isn’t easy for anyone to win here, so must be seen as a real achievement.

“We found ourselves after an ugly performance against Milan and now we want to continue like this.”

The Bianconeri will face Porto, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Valencia, Celtic or Galatasaray in the next round.

“They are all wonderful games to go into and complicated opponents,” said Lichtsteiner. “I would like to play Celtic.”

[Socrates 8328]

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

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

SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.)

Donbass Arena - Donetsk

Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Attendance: 50104

‘Three teams for Juve to avoid’

Dec 6, 2012

Alessio Tacchinardi thinks that Real Madrid are not the only side who former club Juventus need to avoid in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The Spanish giants are the big danger of the second-placed teams who the Italians could face, but the ex-midfielder respects two other sides.

“Juventus, having finished first, should fear nobody – no matter who they draw,” he told TMW on Thursday.

“That was proved by their performances against Chelsea and then Shakhtar over these last few months.

“However, it would obviously be better if they didn’t face Real Madrid, but Arsenal and Porto are also difficult opponents.

“The Portuguese side play a really technical brand of football.”

The draw for the last 16 takes place next Thursday and the Old Lady could face Porto, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Valencia, Celtic or Galatasaray.