Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Federico Peluso (63′)

Stefano Mauri (86′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Petkovic: 'Never stopped believing'

Jan 22, 2013

Vladimir Petkovic insists Lazio “deserved” their Coppa Italia semi-final draw against Juventus, “because we never stopped believing.”

The Biancocelesti snatched a late equaliser with Stefano Mauri for their 1-1 result in the first leg, which could prove to be a precious away goal.

“The draw is the right result because we never stopped believing, even when Juventus were pinning us back,” said the Coach.

“We had a few difficulties against a great side like Juventus, but we deserved that equaliser. We created many chances earlier, but were not determined enough.

“I was not satisfied with some of the movements in defence, but it went well. I am very happy with how the team reacted and hope we can play with the same belief in the second leg.”

The decider is at the Stadio Olimpico next Tuesday.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Federico Peluso (63′)

Stefano Mauri (86′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Player Ratings

Goal.com takes a closer look at those involved in Tuesday's dramatic Coppa Italia tie,

which finished level thanks to an equaliser from Stefano Mauri with just five minutes to play.

Jan 22, 2013

JUVENTUS

Marco Storari - Had one heart-stopping moment with a fumbled cross that was recovered well, but otherwise was rarely troubled by toothless Lazio. Caught out for the goal by a teasing corner.

Andrea Barzagli - Put in typically calm, assured performance in the middle of defence, shackling Mauri and never putting a foot wrong - even turning up in attack to almost set up Vidal.

Leonardo Bonucci - Almost let Mauri in with a mistimed header, but was solid until a muscle injury forced him off before half-time.

Federico Peluso - The hero of the hour for Juventus, at least for 20 minutes, as he finally ended the stalemate in the second half with an excellent goal to hand his side the advantage.

Mauricio Isla - Juve's resurgence in the second half coincided with the appearance of the Chilean out wide. Worked non-stop to reach the byline and pinned Lazio back with his crossing.

Arturo Vidal - Had two golden chances to put his side further ahead, and was desperately unlucky to see one slip agonisingly wide and the other hit the post. Always busy and aggressive in the middle.

Claudio Marchisio - Was forced to play in a more advanced role than usual, but battled hard and almost gave Juve an early lead with a surge checked by Marchetti.

Luca Marrone - Made an impact with several wonderful passes, including one that almost played in Matri for an opener, but was generally quiet.

Emanuele Giaccherini - Troubled Marchetti with one tremendous strike from distance, and played in Peluso with a cross of the highest quality to break the deadlock.

Paul Pogba - Got better as the game progressed, minimising the absence of Pirlo with an impressive display both on the ground and in the air. Went close with a header.

Alessandro Matri - The net once more eluded the striker, but it should not take away from a busy performance leading the line and unsettling Lazio.

Substitutions

Martín Cáceres - Replaced Bonucci at the end of the first half, and defended diligently.

Paolo De Ceglie - Committed a cardinal error in letting Mauri escape in the last seconds, and paid dearly.

Mirko Vučinić - Had the chance to put Juve 2-0 up shortly before Mauri's strike, but could not take advantage.

LAZIO

Federico Marchetti - The star of the show for the Romans, producing several top-class saves to keep his side in the game when Juve threaten to romp home.

Michael Ciani - Always strong in the air, went close in the first half with a header and few Juve men got the better of the French defender.

Giuseppe Biava - Tried hard to anchor the Lazio defence, but was at times stretched as Vidal, Marchisio & Co. broke at will through the middle.

Luis Cavanda - Occasionally unsettled Juventus on the right wing as he pushed forward, but his crossing was not up to scratch to take advantage.

Lorik Cana - Pushed into the centre of defence, and was troubled greatly by the movement of Matri as the Juve forward probed across the area.

Stefano Mauri - An anonymous, disappointing figure for large stretches of the match - until he popped up to save his team in the final minutes and put them in the driving seat.

Cristian Ledesma - Could not get his team firing in the middle of the park, and was pulled off with 20 minutes remaining as Lazio sought an equaliser.

Hernanes - Not the Brazilian's day. Wasteful in the pass, handing far too much possession to the home side. Also struggled to deliver from set-pieces.

Alvaro Gonzalez - A performance full of fight and sacrifice from the Uruguayan, even if he was forced to play on the back foot for the majority of the encounter.

Senad Lulic - Struggled throughout the game to contain Isla on the left flank, overlapped and outpaced by the Chilean while only sporadically offering an attacking threat.

Sergio Floccari - A frustrating evening for the striker, left as the lone man up front and starved of the service he needed inside the area.

Substitutions

Stefan Radu - A short cameo for the defender at the death.

Cristian Brocchi - Made a late appearance in place of the disappointing Hernanes.

Antonio Candreva - Lazio's second hero, an impeccable delivery in the corner was what the Romans had been lacking and it teed Mauri up for the equaliser.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Federico Peluso (63′)

Stefano Mauri (86′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Juventus duo face fitness tests

Jan 23, 2013

Leonardo Bonucci and Paul Pogba will undergo tests on Wednesday after limping out of Juventus’ Italian Cup game last night.

Bonucci was replaced before half-time in the 1-1 draw against Lazio with an injury after sustaining a back and possible thigh issue.

Meanwhile, the young Frenchman seemed to suffer some sort of thigh problem in the closing stages of the semi-final first leg encounter.

Juventus, who are in the middle of an injury crisis, will face Genoa at home in Serie A on Saturday.

[Socrates 8328]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 22-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Federico Peluso (63′)

Stefano Mauri (86′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Antonio Damato

Barzagli: Marchetti was extraordinary

Jan 23, 2013

Lazio goalkeeper Federico Marchetti was the reason why Juventus were frustrated in the Coppa Italia, says Andrea Barzagli.

The Italian international produced a string of fine saves at the Juventus Stadium where he was only beaten by a controversial Federico Peluso goal.

Lazio then hit back late in the game with a strike from Stefano Mauri ahead of next week’s semi-final second leg in Rome.

“Marchetti pulled off some extraordinary saves,” the centre-back noted after the 1-1 draw. “There were two or three rebounds in the area that didn’t fall in our favour either.

“Is Marchetti enhanced against Juventus? It’s not just against us, as he is having a great season. He is a very good goalkeeper and showed that with some amazing saves in the League contest, as well as today in the Coppa Italia.

“We conceded the equaliser from our mistake and it’s a shame because Marco Storari was barely called into action throughout the entire game.”

Juventus did create chances despite an injury crisis which saw midfielder Claudio Marchisio used in a more advanced position.

“Everyone put in excellent performances,” the Azzurri stopper continued. “Our entire squad displays full commitment and that was evident against Lazio.”

Barzagli was also asked for an opinion on Luca Marrone – the youngster who played alongside him in Juve’s three-man defence on Tuesday.

“Marrone possesses great quality,” he commented. “He’s good at man marking and can withstand physical contact.

“He’s very good as a central midfielder, but he also knows how to adapt well as a central defender. When he’ll be able to play more regularly he’ll also gain consistency and will be the future of Juventus.”

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Pirlo and Bonucci problems

Jan 24, 2013

Andrea Pirlo and Leonardo Bonucci remain major doubts to feature for Juventus against Genoa on Saturday evening.

The Bianconeri welcome Genoa to Turin at 20.45 on Saturday and continue to struggle with injuries.

Pirlo is still not 100 per cent fit due to a right calf problem and could well be rested so as not to risk further setbacks so close to the Champions League ties.

Bonucci limped off in evident pain during the first half of the Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio on Tuesday.

The defender has a bruised hip after falling awkwardly and is undergoing physiotherapy, but there are reports he could grit his teeth to play on.

Bonucci revealed his injury status with a message on Twitter.

Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco are also carrying knocks and will need to be evaluated tomorrow.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Juve name Genoa squad

Jan 25, 2013

Antonio Conte has named his 21-man squad for Juventus' Saturday night clash with Genoa.

Andrea Pirlo is still missing following injury, but Sebastian Giovinco and Fabio Quagliarella return after missing Tuesday's Coppa Italia semi-final with Lazio.

Primavera striker Stefano Beltrame also retains his place in the squad.

Full squad: Buffon, Caceres, Pogba, Marchisio, Vucinic, De Ceglie, Giovinco, Peluso, Barzagli, Bonucci, Padoin, Vidal, Giaccherini, Lichtsteiner, Quagliarella, Storari, Matri, Isla, Rubinho, Beltrame, Marrone

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Juventus-Genoa Preview:

Ballardini's baptism of fire against Bianconeri

The new Grifone coach has barely been in the job a week but already has an uphill

battle on his hands as he attempts to steer the club away from relegation.

Jan 25, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres

Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Vidal, Marchisio, De Ceglie

Quagliarella, Vucinic

GENOA

Frey

Pisano, Granqvist, Manfredini, Moretti

Rossi, Kucka, Matuzalem, Antonelli

Immobile, Borriello

New Genoa coach Davide Ballardini could probably not have an envisaged a more difficult opener when his side travel to Turin to face Serie A champions and current leaders Juventus.

But there is hope for the 49-year-old, as the Bianconeri are without key injured players Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Pirlo, while Kwadwo Asamoah is at the Africa Cup of Nations.

It means Paul Pogba, who scored a stunning double last weekend for the Old Lady, is likely to continue in midfield.

Meanwhile, the visitors will be without defender Juan Manuel Vargas and striker Bosko Jankovic for the trip to Juventus Stadium, but January signing Thomas Manfredini from Atalanta looks almost certain to start at the back.

Ciro Immobile, who has been linked with Juventus, is likely to start up front. New signings Ruben Olivera (loan) and Enis Nadarevic could be on the bench.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus' win against Udinese was their first victory in 2013, but Conte's men are still going strong as they top Serie A, five points ahead of second-placed Napoli.

• The last time these two sides met, the Bianconeri ran out 3-1 winners with Kwadwo Asamoah grabbing the clincher.

• The Old Lady have only ever lost once to their opponents, back in 2009, when the Grifone won 3-2 and finished fifth in Serie A that year.

• Davide Ballardini becomes Genoa's third coach already this season having replaced Luigi Del Neri and Luigi Di Canio, respectively.

• Ballardini has already taken charge of the Rossoblu before, between November 2010 and June 2011. He lost both matches to Juventus that time and has only ever beaten the Bianconeri once in eight attempts, back when he was coach at Palermo.

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Sep 16, 2012 - Genoa 1 - Juventus 3

Serie A ‎- Mar 11, 2012 - Genoa 0 - Juventus 0

Serie A ‎- Oct 22, 2011 - Juventus 2 - Genoa 2

Serie A ‎- Apr 10, 2011 - Juventus 3 - Genoa 2

Serie A ‎- Nov 21, 2010 - Genoa 0 - Juventus 2

Last Five Matches

Juventus

Jan 22, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Lazio 1 - Coppa Italia

Jan 19, 2013 - Juventus 4 - Udinese 0 - Serie A

Jan 13, 2013 - Parma 1 - Juventus 1 - Serie A

Jan 9, 2013 - Juventus 2 - AC Milan 1 - Coppa Italia

Jan 6, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Sampdoria 2 - Serie A

Genoa

Jan 20, 2013 - Genoa 0 - Catania 2 - Serie A

Jan 13, 2013 - Cagliari 2 - Genoa 1 - Serie A

Jan 6, 2013 - Genoa 2 - Bologna 0 - Serie A

Dec 22, 2012 - FC Internazionale 1 - Genoa 1 - Serie A

Dec 16, 2012 - Genoa 1 - Torino 1 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Paul Pogba

The man of the moment. The 19-year-old showed his undoubted class in the last round where he produced two top-class goals to ensure a healthy victory over Udinese. The midield prospect is strong in the air and has great vision and awareness of players around him. And as the evidence suggested against the Zebrette, he is more than capable of finding the net from long distance.

Ciro Immobile

Has been often linked with a move to Juventus so may have a point to prove here in front of the hosts. Genoa have lacked the firepower upfront to cause teams any real trouble especially on their travels. Seven goals in 10 away games speaks volumes for their striking woes but the 22-year-old, who scored against Inter recently, will be determined to ensure that Juventus do not have it all their own way.

Prediction

Genoa have struggled on the road this season having only managed to get eight points out of a possible 30. Defensively they seem quite solid, but going forward they have lacked a clinical edge in front of goal. Juve will be too strong for their opponents and should comfortably beat the Grifone here.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 3 - 0 Genoa

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

MATCH PREVIEW

Jan 25, 2013

Davide Ballardini could not be faced with a tougher task for his first game in charge of Genoa as they go to the home of champions Juventus.

It is not his first time in charge of the club - he was there for most of the 2010-11 season, enjoying reasonable success.

"Compared to the past this situation is different," he said. "But my philosophy remains the same - keep the ball on the ground, attackers giving depth, and the midfield and defence helping them in going forward. All players must defend, starting from the forwards."

The sacked Luigi Del Neri felt that the team's struggles were due to their position in the League table and the subsequent pressure to win games, but Ballardini is keeping things simple as he looks to keep them in Serie A.

"My job is to listen, observe, and then take action, particularly with those who I have already coached at Genoa, and those who can be leaders, like Sebastien Frey."

They'll take on a Juventus that has had to exert energy in midweek in the Coppa Italia first leg against Lazio, though Coach Antonio Conte has been rotating to ensure a degree of freshness is maintained.

"I knew that we were not in crisis despite the last two results," he said after their win against Udinese last week. "For there is no second team - they are all potential starters, then I have to make choices. I am changing a lot of players for each game but it does not change the competitiveness of the team."

He will have to make a one or two enforced changes for Saturday, as he confirmed in midweek that it will be "hard to recover Sebastian Giovinco and Andrea Pirlo."

The Coach should have Leonardo Bonucci back after a blow to his coccyx, but Giorgio Chiellini and Simone Pepe are still a few weeks away from a return.

Genoa will miss Juan Vargas, again, along with Bosko Jankovic.

Keep an eye on: Paul Pogba (Juventus) - Pirlo could well miss his third straight game, but Pogba is ensuring his absence is not felt too much. Two fine goals against Udinese confirmed a string of top performances, a fact recognised by Conte in the week.

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

Last season: Juventus 2-2 Genoa

Stat fact: During his last stint as Genoa Coach, Ballardini's first loss was a 2-0 home defeat to Juventus.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Vucinic

GENOA: Frey; Pisano, Granqvist, Manfredini, Moretti; Rossi, Kucka, Matuzalem; Bertolacci; Borriello, Immobile

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Juventus v Genoa: Preview

Jan 25, 2013

Emanuele Giaccherini is setting his dream of winning the treble with Juventus to one side for tomorrow's Serie A meeting with Genoa, who are under new management.

The former Cesena midfielder realises the Bianconeri are under increased scrutiny as they bid to retain the Serie A title, to progress to the last eight of the Champions League and to book a place in the Coppa Italia final.

But Giaccherini feels Juventus are good enough to win all three competitions and dismissed concerns over dropped points against Sampdoria and Parma.

He told juventus.com: "Last year, we earned a record number of points and were undefeated through a victorious Serie A campaign. So obviously when we don't win, it's big news.

"We have a five-point lead on Lazio and Napoli and we'll be giving our all in the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final.

"We dream of being able to win everything but we're keeping our feet firmly on the ground and just concentrating on our next game against Genoa.

"I scored against the Rossoblu earlier in the season, but that's in the past. I am staying focused on the present and on Saturday's game.

"We have to win and try to extend our lead at the top.''

Juventus made significant moves to improve their future prospects this week, first by handing a two-year contract extension to veteran goalkeeper and club captain Gianluigi Buffon, and then by announcing the summer arrival of Spain striker Fernando Llorente.

Giaccherini said of the Athletic Bilbao man: "He's a great player and he'll strengthen our team but we shouldn't forget about our current strikers who are just as good.''

Andrea Pirlo, Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner are all missing through injury, with defender Leonardo Bonucci struggling for fitness.

Bosko Jankovic and Juan Vargas are missing for Genoa, who arrive in Turin under their third head coach of the season in the shape of Davide Ballardini.

Former Juventus boss Luigi Del Neri left the Rossoblu in the relegation zone and three points from safety with a return of two wins from 13 games, but Ballardini is cautiously optimistic he can make a difference.

"Tomorrow we need a compact and organised team that knows how to defend,'' he said. "It will have to be an excellent performance in Turin.

"We have a squad full of highly professional lads who want to pull us out of this situation. I know we can have a great game.

"Genoa will need to have the intensity of a knight on horseback going into battle.''

Juventus have emerged victorious from four of their last five attempts at this fixture, with Genoa failing to claim a league win in this game since 1991.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Juventus-Genoa Betting Preview:

Old Lady set for comfortable home win

Antonio Conte's side are usually dominant in Turin, and Jamie Dickenson is backing a win

to nil for the hosts against lowly Genoa, with Paul Pogba and Mirko Vucinic scoring.

Jan 26, 2013

Juventus host relegation-threatened Genoa looking to increase their grip on the top of the Serie A table.

The home side have lost just twice at Juventus Stadium this season - having gone unbeaten on home soil in the previous league campaign - and William Hill go as short as 1/5 (1.20) for another victory on their own patch here.

Genoa have only won two of their 10 away trips in the campaign so far, in what has been a disappointing term for Davide Ballardini's side.

The Rossoblu did win at Atlanta and Lazio earlier in the season however, and are priced at a huge 12/1 (13.0) to pick up all three points at Juventus.

The draw is available at 11/2 (6.50), but neither of those results appears likely given the hosts greater quality and dominance at home.

For better value, it may be worth backing Juve to win to nil at 3/4 (1.75), a bet that has come in during three of the Old Lady's last four home league matches.

Genoa are a side that have struggled to score goals away from home this season, with their paltry return of seven goals from 10 away days being the joint-second worst in the division.

The Bianconeri have the best defensive record in Serie A - both home and away - and thumped Udinese 4-0 last weekend in the league.

That game saw ex-Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba score twice from long-distance, and the goal that broke the deadlock was rifled in with great technique.

Mirko Vucinic also scored in that game, and with the news that Fernando Llorente is to join the Turin club on a free transfer in the summer, the Montenegro striker will be anxious to add to his tally of six goals for Juve this season.

Backing both players to score again against Genoa offers odds of 5/1 (6.0), and is worth a punt for the value bet considering this game could be quite one-sided.

Pogba is fast becoming a first-team regular for the Italian giants, while Vucinic is an exceptionally talented frontman who knows he must get on the scoresheet more often.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Ballardini demands 'intense' Genoa

Jan 26, 2013

Davide Ballardini makes his Genoa debut against Serie A leaders Juventus tonight and warns “we will have to make intensity our key characteristic.”

The Grifone fired Gigi Del Neri last Sunday, so Ballardini becomes the third Coach of the season to sit on their bench.

He already has experience of the club, having salvaged their season from November 2010 to May 2011, but makes his comeback at the Juventus Stadium at 19.45 GMT. Click here for a match preview.

“We have a squad of professionals who want to take themselves out of this situation,” said Ballardini.

“We have always tried to get the result with good football and organisation. We need a compact squad, capable of defending as well as attacking.

“It will require a great performance in Turin, but we have a good squad and can play well here.”

Eros Pisano returns from suspension, while Cristobal Jorquera and Daniel Tozser have recovered from injuries.

There are reports Ballardini will adopt a 3-5-1-1 system with Andrea Bertolacci supporting a lone striker, though the creative midfielder could also be used in the hole behind Marco Borriello and Antonio Floro Flores.

“There’s no point talking about systems right now. Genoa will have to make intensity its key characteristic. We can also play with two strikers, as long as everyone works hard.”

Genoa squad: Antonelli, Bertolacci, Borriello, Donnarumma, Floro Flores, Frey, Granqvist, Immobile, Jorquera, Kucka, Manfredini, Matuzalem, Nadarevic, Moretti, Olivera, Pisano, Rossi, Said, Sampirisi, Tozser, Tzorvas

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Line-ups: Juventus-Genoa

Jan 26, 2013

Paul Pogba, Mirko Vucinic and Fabio Quagliarella lead Juventus out against Genoa on Coach Davide Ballardini’s debut.

The Bianconeri aim to maintain or even extend their lead at the top of the table when taking on the Grifone at 19.45 GMT. Click here for a match preview.

Andrea Pirlo, Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner are still out injured, so Pogba is again picked in midfield.

Quagliarella steps in after recovering from a muscular problem, as birthday boy Sebastian Giovinco is not 100 per cent fit.

Genoa make their debut under Coach Ballardini, who is their third tactician of the campaign after Gigi De Canio and Gigi Del Neri.

He has to do without Bosko Jankovic and Juan Manuel Vargas for this trip to Turin, where Genoa haven’t won in 22 years.

Ciro Immobile, who is co-owned by Juventus, is chosen to partner new arrival Antonio Floro Flores.

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Vucinic

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Peluso, Marrone, Padoin, Giaccherini, Isla, Beltrame, Giovinco

GENOA: Frey; Antonelli, Granqvist, Manfredini, Pisano; Moretti, Matuzalem, Kucka, Olivera; Floro Flores, Immobile

Genoa bench: Donnarumma, Rossi, Jorquera, Borriello, Said, Tozser, Nadarevic, Sampirisi, Bertolacci

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

HT 0-0: Genoa cause Juve problems

Jan 26, 2013

The Davide Ballardini effect is showing, as Genoa have kept out Juventus in the first half and caused them a few scares too.

The Bianconeri had the chance to break away at the top of the table after Lazio’s surprise slip-up against Chievo earlier today. Andrea Pirlo, Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner were still injured, while birthday boy Sebastian Giovinco was on the bench. Genoa made their debut under new Coach Davide Ballardini, who replaced Gigi Del Neri this week, but missed Bosko Jankovic and Juan Manuel Vargas.

Genoa’s last victory in Turin was in 1991 when Thomas Skuhravy was on target with the only goal. They had an aggressive start, though, as Gigi Buffon plucked a looping Ciro Immobile header out of the air, then a corner went past two Juve players until Eros Pisano ballooned over.

A Mirko Vucinic shot was charged down by Thomas Manfredini after good work from Paolo De Ceglie, then Arturo Vidal wasted a great chance when his first touch let him down. From that corner, Martin Caceres drilled just over the bar from eight yards.

Claudio Marchisio ran behind Andreas Granqvist to get on the end of Paul Pogba’s pass over the top, but was a fraction too late as he came sliding in.

Vidal’s free kick floated over the bar and Antonio Floro Flores wasted a golden opportunity on the counter-attack.

Leonardo Bonucci soared above the crowd to nod a Marchisio free kick just wide. Fabio Quagliarella went so close when getting between centre-backs to toe-poke a Stephan Lichtsteiner cross inches off target with Sebastien Frey rooted to the spot.

JUVENTUS 0-0 GENOA (Half-Time)

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Vucinic

GENOA: Frey; Antonelli, Granqvist, Manfredini, Pisano; Moretti, Matuzalem, Kucka, Olivera; Floro Flores, Immobile

Ref: Guida

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000‎

Borriello returns to haunt Bianconeri

The enigmatic striker, who is currently on loan to the Rossoblu from Roma netted

a header shortly after coming on as a substitute to cancel out Fabio Quagliarella's opener.

Jan 26, 2013

Juventus blew the chance to move eight points clear at the summit of Serie A by being held to a 1-1 draw at home to a resilient Genoa side on Saturday evening.

Despite dominating possession and territory in the first half, the league leaders rarely tested Sebastien Frey in the Rossoblu goal, but the hosts belatedly made the breakthrough early in the second half through Fabio Quagliarella.

However, ex-Bianconero forward Marco Borriello came off the bench to level matters on 68 minutes and the visitors held on to claim a point that boosts their bid to avoid relegation, while at the same time offering second-placed Napoli the opportunity to close to within three points of Juventus should the Partenopei prevail in Parma on Sunday.

Undoubtedly buoyed by the news that Scudetto rivals Lazio had been surprisingly beaten at home by Chievo, the Bianconeri began brightly, with Arturo Vidal ghosting in behind the Genoa defence to latch onto a wonderful ball over the top from Leonardo Bonucci, only to be dispossessed by the scrambling Luca Antonelli. Claudio Marchisio, meanwhile, did manage to get a shot away when he broke the visitors’ offside trap midway through the first half but the Italy international fired badly wide.

However, for the most part, Genoa were doing a fine job repelling the home side’s advances, with Luca Antonelli, Andreas Granqvist and Thomas Manfredini taking it in turns to be in the right place at the right time. In addition, former Juventus forward Ciro Immobile, who has been linked with a more permanent return to Turin, was also threatening sporadically at the other end.

Still, the league leaders really should have opened the scoring just before the break when the effervescent Stephan Lichsteiner whipped a wonderful ball into the area. However, after doing well to get in front of Granqvist, Quagliarella prodded wide. The former Napoli hitman made amends, though, nine minutes into the second half, netting with the aid of a deflection off Granqvist after Lichtsteiner had pulled the ball back invitingly across the six-yard box.

His defence now having been breached, Genoa coach David Ballardini decided to make some changes and sent former Turin misfit Borriello on in place of the tiring Immobile. The on-loan Roma striker's first contribution was to get booked for cynically hauling down the rampaging Lichsteiner but his next intervention was far more positive, Borriello heading home Juraj Kucka's cross at the far post.

Jolted by that bolt from the blue, Juventus immediately went back on the front foot, with Lichtsteiner testing Frey from distance with a low drive. Substitute Sebastian Giovinco then struck the post with a sublime free kick before Stefano Beltrame drew another terrific save out of Genoa's No.1.

Try as they might, though, the home side were unable to snatch all three points, their sense of frustration only compounded by the referee's refusal to point to the spot after Granqvist had accidentally handled in the area in the final seconds of injury time.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Borriello pegs back Juventus

Marco Borriello scored at the Juventus Stadium to give Genoa a hard-fought 1-1 draw against his old club

on Coach Davide Ballardini’s debut, but the Bianconeri were furious. Juve had two penalty appeals, including one in stoppages.

Jan 26, 2013

The Bianconeri had the chance to break away at the top of the table after Lazio’s surprise slip-up against Chievo earlier today. Andrea Pirlo, Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner were still injured, while birthday boy Sebastian Giovinco was on the bench. Genoa made their debut under new Coach Ballardini, who replaced Gigi Del Neri this week, but missed Bosko Jankovic and Juan Manuel Vargas.

Genoa’s last victory in Turin was in 1991 when Thomas Skuhravy was on target with the only goal. They had an aggressive start, though, as Gigi Buffon plucked a looping Ciro Immobile header out of the air, then a corner went past two Juve players until Eros Pisano ballooned over.

A Mirko Vucinic shot was charged down by Thomas Manfredini after good work from Paolo De Ceglie, then Arturo Vidal wasted a great chance when his first touch let him down. From that corner, Martin Caceres drilled just over the bar from eight yards. There was a potential penalty appeal from Genoa when Eros Pisano's header struck Vucinic on the arm.

Claudio Marchisio ran behind Andreas Granqvist to get on the end of Paul Pogba’s pass over the top, but was a fraction too late as he came sliding in.

Vidal’s free kick floated over the bar and Antonio Floro Flores wasted a golden opportunity on the counter-attack.

Leonardo Bonucci soared above the crowd to nod a Marchisio free kick just wide. Fabio Quagliarella went so close when getting between centre-backs to toe-poke a Stephan Lichtsteiner cross inches off target with Sebastien Frey rooted to the spot.

After the restart Juve again threatened from a dead-ball situation. A free kick found Caceres at full stretch at the back post, but Frey did well to parry from point-blank range.

Juventus broke the deadlock when Lichtsteiner ran on to a Vucinic through pass to get behind Ruben Olivera and pulled back from the by-line for Quagliarella’s tap-in. It took a final touch off Granqvist, but appeared to be rolling in anyway.

Marco Borriello came off the bench and scored Genoa’s equaliser against his former club. Juraj Kucka curled a cross to the back post, where Borriello got his diving header to the ball first from point-blank range. The striker, who was never wanted by Juve fans, refused to celebrate.

Vucinic’s header accidentally hit teammate Pogba in the box, but he really should’ve done better moments later. A long-range Lichtsteiner strike was palmed away by Frey straight into his path, but the Montenegro hitman was far too sluggish to get on the loose ball and Genoa were able to clear.

A Sebastian Giovinco free kick flashed all the way across the face of goal, but Kucka got a crucial touch to stop Caceres tapping in at the back post.

Bad news for Genoa, as Floro Flores hobbled off with 15 minutes to go when all the substitutions had been completed.

Vucinic wanted a penalty for a blatant Luca Antonelli shirt-tug as he went to tap in Emanuele Giaccherini’s cross from six yards, but the referee and his various assistants waved play on.

Giovinco almost marked his birthday with a fantastic goal, but his free kick curled over the wall and dipped to thump the near post.

Juventus threw on 19-year-old Stefano Beltrame and he nearly scored, unleashing a fierce strike that Frey beat away with great difficulty. The final stages were a siege on the Genoa goal, especially as they were down to 10 men due to the Floro Flores injury.

In stoppages Bonucci couldn’t get enough power to a header at the back stick and Frey was able to capture it.

In the 93rd minute Juventus were absolutely livid. Granqvist stumbled during a desperate clearance and kicked the ball on to his own hand. Under the Italian rules, a ricochet off another part of the body on to the arm cannot be considered voluntary.

It was a corner and with the last kick of the game Frey flew to beat away Giaccherini’s strike. The tension spilled over after the final whistle with Lichtsteiner taking his protests particularly far and Antonio Conte enraged.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio (Beltrame 83), De Ceglie (Giaccherini 73); Quagliarella (Giovinco 70), Vucinic

GENOA: Frey; Granqvist, Manfredini (Rossi 66), Moretti; Pisano, Matuzalem, Kucka, Olivera (Bertolacci 59), Antonelli; Floro Flores, Immobile (Borriello 59)

Ref: Guida

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Borriello returns to haunt Juve

Jan 26, 2013

Juventus failed to take full advantage of second-place Lazio's stumble against Chievo as they were held to a 1-1 draw by struggling Genoa.

Fabio Quagliarella put Juve in front in the 54th minute and they appeared comfortable with their lead, until Marco Borriello equalised in the 68th minute.

Juve threw everything forward in search of a winner and had two penalty appeals turned down as tempers flared at the end.

With finding the net in mind, Juve director general Beppe Moratta claimed former France striker Nicolas Anelka is on the brink of signing for the Turin club.

The only person keeping his cool was Genoa coach Davide Ballardini, who celebrated his return to the Genoa bench with a point which halt a run of two consecutive defeats.

There were only a matter of inches separating Juventus from taking the lead three twice in the first half, and then again just after the interval.

Claudio Marchisio was first to go close in the 22nd minute, but he shot wide at full stretch, unable to get the right direction on his shot.

A minute before half time, there was a repeat when Quagliarella could not find the target as he lacked an inch to make a more telling touch to the ball.

And in the 51st minute, Martin Caceres was the same distance away from getting enough of a touch on the ball in front of Sebastien Frey, who was able to push the ball away.

The home team finally gained the lead in the 54th minute.

A goal was in the air and Stephan Lichtsteiner provided the ball which Quagliarella shot towards goal, and Andreas Granqvist could only help it on its way in.

Juve failed to build on their lead, though, and they were punished in the 68th minute when their former striker Borriello reached Juraj Kucka's cross at the far post to head Genoa level with their first attempt on goal of the match.

Genoa were reduced to 10 men five minutes later when Antonio Floro Flores limped off the field with an injury, but all three substitutions had already been made.

There was nothing else the Rossoblu could do but get all 10 men behind the ball and try to defend the remaining 15 minutes.

The Bianconeri threw everything they could at them, and they had a strong appeal for a penalty waved away when Mirko Vucinic had his shirt tugged inside the penalty area.

Sebastian Giovinco curled a free-kick against the left-hand post, but Juve simply could not find a way through.

With 20 seconds of the game remaining, Juve had another penalty appeal turned down by the referee when Granqvist handled involuntarily in the area, prompting furious scenes with Juve coach Antonio Conte racing on to the field to confront the referee at the final whistle, but Genoa had the point they were looking for.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000‎

Player Ratings

Goal.com evaluates the performances of everyone on show in Turin, after a game in which

the Rossoblu snatched a surprise draw thanks to former Bianconero Marco Borriello.

Jan 26, 2013

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - A somewhat awkward header from Immobile aside, he was a virtual spectator during the first half and, in truth, had little to do in the second half other than pick the ball out of the net.

Martín Cáceres - His passing wasn't great but he was very composed defensively and was once again a threat a set pieces. Really has been a fine signing for Juventus.

Paolo De Ceglie - An always willing runner down the left-hand side, he gave Pisano plenty to think about, even nutmegging the defender at one point. However, his final ball still leaves a lot to be desired.

Andrea Barzagli - Was not unduly troubled by the Genoa front two, to be brutally honest, though he was called on to make a fine sliding challenge on Antonio Floro Flores after the striker had built up a head of steam. Still, good players make the game look easy and Barzagli is a good player.

Leonardo Bonucci - Did not actually have too much to do defensively, allowing him to step into midfield a lot - and to great effect, the defender putting Vidal in on goal with a pass that even the absent Pirlo would have been proud off. He also flashed a header wide from a Vidal free kick. A real leader.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - As per usual, the Swiss looked to get in behind at every opportunity. He was kept pretty quiet by the Genoa defence in the first half, although he did whip over a wonderful cross that Quagliarella really should have converted. However, it was he who effectively made the breakthrough in the second period, teeing up Quagliarella for the opening goal. Later went close to getting the winner, which would have been fitting given how inspirational he had been.

Paul Pogba - The odd loose pass aside, Pogba kept things ticking over nicely in midfield and his deft through-ball for Marchisio midway through the first half deserved a better finish from his fellow midfielder.

Claudio Marchisio - Caused problems with his runs from midfield in the opening 45 minutes but probably should have opened the scoring after ghosting in behind Granqvist 21 minutes in. Faded badly in the second half.

Arturo Vidal - Offered plenty of energy and endeavour but was perhaps lucky to avoid a booking for a lunge on Antonelli. Also took too long to get a shot away after making a splendidly timed run in behind the Genoa defence early doors. Not his best night's work.

Mirko Vučinić - Repeatedly dropped deep in order to get himself on the ball, but his passing was off and he was also caught in possession a couple of times. His furious protests at the end probably stemmed from his frustration with his own failings.

Fabio Quagliarella - Recently linked with a move to Fiorentina, the striker was given a rare chance to shine and he took it. He spurned a great chance to break the deadlock after getting on the end of a cross from Lichsteiner but made amends after being set up by the Swiss for a second time early in the second half.

Substitutions

Emanuele Giaccherini - Took over from De Ceglie with just 18 minutes remaining and was far more effective than the man he replaced, even going close to nicking all three points with a long-range strike.

Sebastian Giovinco - Came on for Quagliarella for the final 20 minutes and went so close to conjuring up a winner with a stunning free kick.

Stefano Beltrame - Tested Frey with a stinging drive from distance after coming on in place of the subdued Marchisio. A very lively cameo.

GENOA

Sebastien Frey - Despite Juve's dominance in the opening period, Frey was very rarely called upon. However, he was kept very busy after the break, particularly in the final 20 minutes, during which he made superb stops to deny Lichsteiner, Beltrame and Giaccherini.

Andreas Granqvist - Was fortunate to see Marchisio fire wide after completely losing the Italy international and was later booked for a badly mistimed challenge on the same player. However, given how much he had done to keep Juve at bay, it seemed cruel that it was he who deflected Quagliarella's shot past Frey. Got a huge slice of luck, though, at the death after accidentally handling in the area.

Luca Antonelli - Turned in a fine performance, with the way in which he got back to block an effort from Vidal, after the Chilean had sneaked in behind him, typifying his spirited contribution.

Thomas Manfredini - Solid as a rock at the heart of the Genoa defence. Manfredini made a succession of timely tackles and crucial blocks before being forced off midway through the second half.

Emiliano Moretti - Absolutely worked his socks off and did a fine job getting back to help out Antonelli by doubling up on Lichtsteiner, who was a constant threat down the right wing.

Eros Pisano - Should have done better after a corner dropped for him in the area 12 minutes in and while it's difficult to fault his endeavour, he was undoubtedly the weak link in Genoa's defence, even being nutmegged by De Ceglie at one point.

Ruben Olivera - Put in a number of fine challenges, most notably on Pogba early on, but his distribution was poor at times and it was no surprise that he was hauled off shortly after Genoa had fallen behind.

Matuzalem - Never afraid to put the boot in, the Brazilian perhaps went a tad too far on occasion, most notably when he levelled De Ceglie with a high challenge. Still, his aggression played a key role in upsetting Juve's midfield three for long periods.

Juraj Kucka - A tremendously dynamic presence in the middle of the park for Genoa, the Slovak won plenty of ball and even put Juve on the back foot with a couple of surging runs and provided his front two with plenty of support. His assist for Borriello's equaliser simply capped what was already an oustanding performance.

Ciro Immobile - Initiallly caused Juve's back three problems with his clever movement but the closest he went to scoring was a tame header that Buffon easily dealt with. Anonymous after the restart and was replaced by Bonucci just before the hour.

Antonio Floro Flores - Always keen to run directly at the Juventus back three but all too often he ran up blind alleys. Never stopped running but never looked remotely like scoring.

Substitutions

Marco Rossi - Thrown on in place of Manfredini midway through the second period and played his part in a heroic defensive effort from the visitors.

Andrea Bertolacci - Came on for Olivera 15 minutes into the second half but while he worked hard, he didn't really contribute.

Marco Borriello - The former Bianconero took over up front from Immobile for the final half hour and looked set for a rather ignominious cameo until he showed his old predatory instincts by popping up at the back stick to head home.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Conte: 'Ref should be sacked!'

Jan 26, 2013

Antonio Conte claims tonight’s referee should be sacked. “He said he ‘didn’t feel ready’ to give the penalty. That’s not normal. I cannot tolerate this.”

Juventus were furious in stoppages during their 1-1 draw with Genoa when Andreas Granqvist mistimed a clearance, accidentally kicking the ball up on to his own arm.

The referee and his assistants only awarded a corner, judging the handling offence to be involuntary. At the final whistle, Conte and his players crowded round referee Marco Guida.

“I think they went over the line today,” said Conte on Sky Sport Italia.

“I accept it if they admit they didn’t see the incident, but hearing a referee say ‘I didn’t feel ready’ to give the penalty is not normal. This is not football. I think in these cases saying ‘shame on you’ is the very least one can do.

“I would’ve accepted it if he hadn’t seen it, but the goal line referee said it was a penalty. The arm must be close to the torso, the rules are clear. In these cases, you’ve got to give up your refereeing licence.

“Clearly tomorrow I will tell my lads about the positive and negative aspects of the evening, but I cannot tolerate what happened.

“Let’s definitely not hear the media breaking our balls over pro-Juve and anti-Juve errors, because errors are everywhere for and against everyone.”

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Ballardini: 'Genoa can complain too'

Jan 26, 2013

Davide Ballardini insisted Genoa deserved their point in Turin and had their own penalty incidents to complain about.

Juventus were furious after the 1-1 draw, as Andreas Granqvist handled in the box during stoppages, but only after it had ricocheted off his boot on to the arm.

“Talking about individual incidents is a great limitation of our football culture,” snapped Ballardini on Sky Sport Italia.

“In that case, we could talk about the Mirko Vucinic handling offence in the first half, but we’d never hear the end of it.

“I liked my team in the first half, because we didn’t allow Juve much space and in fact caused them a few problems.

“After the break we got it wrong on their goal, but did well and were lucky to equalise. We played like this today because Juventus really know how to spread the opposition with their wingers and then hit you with central runs.”

Genoa played the last 15 minutes with 10 men, as Antonio Floro Flores limped off when all the substitutions had been completed.

“I wanted him to come off straight away when he felt the pain, as otherwise he risked causing serious damage.”

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Marotta: 'Ref is from Naples'

Jan 26, 2013

Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta stirred up huge controversy by suggesting referee Marco Guida didn’t give a penalty “because he is from Naples.”

The Bianconeri were furious after a 1-1 draw with Genoa, as in stoppages Andreas Granqvist accidentally kicked the ball on to his arm in the box.

“There are six officials around the pitch, but no synchronicity between them,” slammed Marotta.

“You can’t go in with your arms raised and then be given the benefit of the doubt because of your mistake.

“This is a period in which different situations have been occurring, but the fact remains the goal line referee was not listened to.

“I will only say that it is a mistake. The referee Guida is from Naples, so perhaps that is why he felt he was in a difficult position. He is a young official, so it’s normal to be under pressure in certain situations.”

Marotta was pressed on this suggestion Guida had wanted to favour Napoli, who are in second place and fighting for the Scudetto.

“I am sure he is a good man, I am just discussing the error. If referees are not assigned to clubs from their own region, there must be a reason.

“Assigning such a young official to this game made it difficult for him. Imagine if a referee from Turin had gone to officiate Napoli.”

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Conte: 'Bad thoughts about ref...'

Jan 27, 2013

Antonio Conte vented even more rage at the Juventus-Genoa referee in his Press conference. “I go home with bad thoughts in my mind.”

The Coach was furious after the 1-1 draw with Genoa, as in stoppages the ball ricocheted off Andreas Granqvist’s shin and on to his arm. The referee judged it to be ‘not deliberate’ and therefore waved play on.

“I did not get angry at the penalty that wasn’t given, let’s be clear. I was angry at the rest,” said Conte in his post-match Press conference.

Conte claimed referee Marco Guida had said he “didn’t feel ready” to give the penalty. It is reported that Guida denied using this phrase.

“To err is human, I can accept an error if I’m told that the incident could not be seen properly, just as other incidents weren’t seen like the shirt-tug on Mirko Vucinic, the push on Paul Pogba or the penalty for Genoa...

“However, if an incident is so serious that the assistant tells you it’s a penalty, then you have to give it. How can we even discuss this?

“I go home with a thousand thoughts in my head, because hearing a referee tell me he ‘didn’t feel ready’ is absurd. I say a referee, for or against Juve, must give the penalty right to the last minute. I am a man of sport, but I do not accept this sort of thing and I never will. Tonight I go home with bad thoughts in my mind.”

Conte raged against those trying to tell him that handball must be deliberate to qualify as a foul.

“The rules speak clearly. This is not a penalty that can be given, it is a penalty. Let’s not change the cards on the table, otherwise tomorrow I’ll read the papers with ‘dubious penalty not given to Juve.’ It’s not dubious, it is stonewall. Otherwise I’ll see people in bad faith.

“Be objective. If Leonardo Bonucci had a situation like this, tomorrow you’d have splashed the headline ‘Clear penalty denied to Genoa.’

“I saw one team that was attacking and one that was defending with 11 men. They denied us three penalties.”

General manager Beppe Marotta suggested Guida was nervous about giving the penalty because he is from Naples and Napoli are challenging Juve for the Scudetto.

When asked about this comment, Conte refused to respond and asked for another question.

“Do I fear a fine or ban for what I said? Oh great, now they’ll suspend me for saying ‘Shame.’ If there’s a goal line official who gives a penalty and the referee ignores him, what are we talking about? Does this seem like sport to you? Then I’ll hear some Saint on television moralising from his armchair.

“We are talking about something very strange that happened here. A human error is one thing, but when an official says it’s a penalty and the referee doesn’t give it, then doubts are going to arise.”

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Conte: Referee has to hand back licence

The Bianconeri coach was harsh in his comments towards the match-official, after watching

several credible penalty appeals to break the deadlock against Genoa fall on deaf ears.

Jan 27, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte launched a tirade at referee Marco Guida in the aftermath of his team's controversial 1-1 draw against Genoa on Saturday evening.

Ex-Bianconeri hitman Marco Borriello cancelled out Fabio Quagliarella's opener to ensure the spoils were shared in Turin, but what defined the match proved to be two calls for penalties being turned down.

"The referee should take some responsibility. Even a blind man would have seen that [handball by Andreas Granqvist in the box]," a visibly furious Conte fired at reporters after the match.

"In these cases, you've got to hand back your refereeing licence. I cannot tolerate what happened. Even the goal-line referee said it was a penalty. I think in these cases, saying ‘shame on you’ is the very least one can do.

"I can accept it if they claim not to have seen the incident, but hearing a referee say they didn't feel like giving the penalty is not normal. This is not football.

"For a long time, we've been well-mannered and valued fair play, but now I have seen too many incidents go against us. Parma once said that everyone was entitled to complain except Juventus. Now the incidents are there for all to see.

"Now I'd rather not hear the media breaking our balls over pro-Juve and anti-Juve errors, because errors are everywhere for and against everyone."

Despite the unlikely setback, the Old Lady are still on course to retain their Scudetto, after second-placed Lazio capitulated in a shock home defeat by Chievo.

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Referee felt pressure because he was from Naples, suggests Marotta

The official stopped short of claiming the referee favoured title-rivals Napoli

after several controversial decisions against Genoa, but questioned why he had been selected.

Jan 27, 2013

Juventus director Giuseppe Marotta has queried why referee Marco Guida, from Naples, was assigned to officiate the Old Lady's match against Genoa on Saturday.

Guida controversially turned down several penalty appeals from Antonio Conte's men which meant the Italian champions dropped two points, which could allow fellow Scudetto contenders Napoli to close within three points at the top with a win on Sunday.

"The referee Guida is from Naples, so maybe that's why he felt under certain pressure," explained Marotta to reporters after the match.

"I am sure he is a good man, but if these referees are not assigned to the matches of clubs originating from their region, there has to be an underlying reason.

"I am just discussing this error. He's young, and being assigned to our game must have been difficult for him. Imagine the fallout if a Turin referee had taken charge of a Napoli match."

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

[Socrates 8328]

Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Conte, Bonucci and Chiellini among Juventus staff

banned over Genoa protestations

Multiple Bianconeri personnel have been punished for their parts in an

ugly exchange with officials in the aftermath of Saturday's Serie A encounter.

Jan 28, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte, defenders Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, forward Mirko Vucinic and director Giuseppe Marotta have all been banned for criticising referee Marco Guida following his decision not to award the Old Lady a penalty against Genoa.

The Bianconeri were incensed when Guida and his assistants failed to whistle for handball against Andreas Granqvist in the dying seconds of the 1-1 draw at Juventus Stadium.

Sporting judge Gianpaolo Tosel has since decided to ban Conte and Bonucci for two games and hand the pair €10,000 fines, stating that their punishment was for "intimidating the referee and an additional official, insulting them and then reiterating the comments in the dressing room after the game".

Injured defender Giorgio Chiellini ran from the stands to confront the officials and as a result will now be banned for one game, while Vucinic has been handed an identical sanction for protesting despite numerous warnings.

Marotta, meanwhile, has been suspended from duty until February 18, while the club will also have to pay €50,000, in addition to the individual fines dished out.

The Turin giants travel to Chievo next Sunday before hosting Fiorentina six days later in Serie A.

One positive for the club, however, is the announcement of the signing of Ecuador Under-20 midfielder Jose Francisco Cevallos on loan from LDU Quito.

The 18-year-old will stay at Juve until the end of the season, with the reigning Serie A champions retaining the option of making the deal permanent in the summer.

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

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Serie A Week 22 - 26-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

1 - 1

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

Marco Borriello (68′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Marco Guida

Attendance: 38000

Juventus hit by bans post Genoa

Jan 28, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte and defender Leonardo Bonucci have been banned for two games in the aftermath of the Genoa row.

The Old Lady were left furious at the end of the 1-1 draw after they were denied, what they felt, was a clear penalty. Conte and Bonucci both confronted the referee.

Giorgio Chiellini has been stopped for one game too after the injured stopper came on to the pitch to argue with officials.

Bianconeri director general Beppe Marotta, meanwhile, has been suspended from duty until February 18.

The Turin giants will face Chievo this weekend and then Fiorentina in Serie A.

Conte and Bonucci have also been fined €10,000 each. Juventus, as a club, will have to pay out €50,000.

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