Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8435]

All the bans after Week 22

Jan 28, 2013

Juventus will also be without Mirko Vucinic for their game at Chievo as his booking at the weekend means he’ll miss Week 23.

Bianconeri boss Antonio Conte and defender Leonardo Bonucci were given two match bans today for taking their protests too far after Saturday’s 1-1 against Genoa.

However, striker Vucinic has also been ruled out of the Verona trip as he was yellow-carded in the draw at the Juventus Stadium.

Giorgio Chiellini’s one-match stop is irrelevant as he is injured anyway.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Lazio-Juventus Preview: Conte seeks goals

in bid to overturn the Biancocelesti's slender advantage

The Bianconeri must score in the Stadio Olimpico if they are to stand any chance

of progressing to their 15th Coppa Italia final after a 1-1 first-leg draw.

Jan 28, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

LAZIO

Marchetti

Cavanda, Biava, Ciani, Radu

Candreva, Ledesma, Cana, Hernanes, Mauri

Floccari

JUVENTUS

Storari

Caceres, Barzagli, Bonucci

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marrone, Giaccherini

Giovinco, Quagliarella

Stefano Mauri's late equaliser at the Juventus Stadium gave Lazio a vital away goal ahead of the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final.

Aware that they must score, Juventus will most likely start with two strikers. Fabio Quagliarella could retain his starting berth up front after scoring in the 1-1 draw with Genoa at the weekend, while Sebastian Giovinco is pushing for a start having been left on the bench in the previous match and he could replace Mirko Vucinic.

Andrea Pirlo should return to training later this week but the 33-year-old is ruled out of Tuesday's contest against the Biancocelesti. With Kwadwo Asamoah on international duty with Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations, Arturo Vidal, Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio are expected to continue in central midfield. Emanuele Giaccherini could replace Paolo De Ceglie on the left wing.

Lazio's top goalscorer Miroslav Klose is still sidelined through a muscular injury, meaning that Sergio Floccari should continue up front, although Czech Republic forward Libor Kozak could start.

Lazio are likely to employ a four-man defence, with Luis Pedro Cavanda and Stefan Radu poised to start in the wing-back positions. Michael Ciani and Andre Dias are vying for the chance to partner Giuseppe Biava in central defence whilst Antonio Candreva is expected to return to the XI, having missed the first leg.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Lazio have failed to beat Juventus in their last nine meetings, losing six. Their last triumph over the Bianconeri came back in April 2009 when goals from Mauro Zarate and Aleksandar Kolarov gave the Biancocelesti a 2-1 Coppa Italia victory.

• Juventus are searching for a record tenth Coppa Italia title. Only Roma have lifted the trophy as many times as the Old Lady.

• Lazio have lifted the Coppa Italia on five occasions, most recently in 2009 under the stewardship of Delio Rossi.

• Antonio Conte has appeared in a Coppa Italia final on three occasions as a player, winning the trophy as part of the 1995 Juventus side.

• Lazio's 1-0 loss to Chievo on Saturday was their first defeat in 17 matches.

• Lazio faced Juventus in the 2004 Coppa Italia final where they secured a 4-2 aggregate win over two legs.

Head to Head

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

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

Serie A ‎- Apr 11, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Lazio 1

Serie A ‎- Nov 26, 2011 - Lazio 0 - Juventus 1

Serie A ‎- May 2, 2011 - Lazio 0 - Juventus 1

Last Five Matches

Lazio

Jan 26, 2013 - Lazio 0 - Chievo 1 - Serie A

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

Jan 19, 2013 - Palermo 2 - Lazio 2 - Serie A

Jan 13, 2013 - Lazio 2 - Atalanta 0 - Serie A

Jan 8, 2013 - Lazio 3 - Catania 0 - Coppa Italia

Juventus

Jan 26, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Genoa 1 - Serie A

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

Players to Watch

Federico Marchetti

The Lazio shot-stopper pulled off a fine string of saves in the first leg to keep the Biancocelesti in contention for their sixth Coppa Italia title. Federico Marchetti has established himself as one of the finest goalkeepers in the division and will need to be on his best form once again if Lazio are to frustrate the Italian champions.

Arturo Vidal

With nine goals and seven assists to his name in all competitions this season, Lazio will need to keep the Chilean midfielder quiet if they are to stand any chance of progressing to the final. Arturo Vidal struck the post in the first leg and has shown many times this campaign that he has a knack of being in the right place at the right time.

Prediction

Vladimir Petkovic's side succeeded in restricting Juventus to very few shots on target in the first leg and if they can replicate their defensive resilience, Lazio's away goal could prove the decisive factor between the two sides.

Editor's Prediction

Lazio 0 - 0 Juventus

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

'Juve must be stronger than one result'

Jan 28, 2013

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has tried to put recent indiscretions behind him and has asked fans for extra support as they face Lazio.

The Bianconeri travel to Rome to face the Biancocelesti in the second-leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final tomorrow.

And the 25-year-old defender has insisted that the team are desperate to reach the final, whilst also admitting that he has to forget the fact he will now be banned for two games following incidents after Saturday's 1-1 draw with Genoa.

“A team like Juventus, a team that wants to be the best in Italy and one of the best in the world, must be stronger than one bad result,” he told the club's official website.

“We have to improve, be humble and have the desire to get better.

“So far this season we have won nothing. We now go and play Lazio, who themselves have come off the back of a bad defeat.

“We travel to Rome with enthusiasm, positivity and a will to win and get to the final.”

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Pirlo in Juve squad for Coppa semi

Jan 28, 2013

Juventus have named their 21-man squad for the Coppa Italia semi-final second-leg against Lazio on Tuesday.

The main news for Bianconeri fans is the return of Andrea Pirlo, who has missed the last three matches with injury.

The 33-year-old however, is back for the match at Stadio Olimpico, as the Old Lady look to make the final for the second successive year.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Klose ready to face Juve tonight

Jan 29, 2013

Lazio have only now named their squad for tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Juventus, which includes Miroslav Klose.

Coach Vladimir Petkovic was keeping his cards very close to his chest ahead of the second leg, having drawn 1-1 in Turin last week.

German striker Klose returns to the side and could even start, as he hasn’t featured since January 13 due to a left thigh injury.

He only returned to full training on Monday, but there are reports he could play from the beginning.

Andre Dias is available again after a three-match Coppa Italia ban.

Lazio squad: Marchetti, Bizzarri, Carrizo;Biava, Cavanda, Dias, Konko, Radu, Zauri, Ciani, Stankevicius; Cana, Ledesma, Mauri, Candreva, Lulic, Gonzalez, Brocchi, Hernanes;Floccari, Kozak, Rozzi, Klose.

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Mauri targets Juventus scalp on way to Coppa Italia final

The experienced campaigner is eagerly anticipating this week's

cup encounter and is determined to make it to the final.

Jan 29, 2013

Lazio midfielder Stefano Mauri has set his sights on reaching the Coppa Italia final at the expense of Juventus ahead of Tuesday's semi-final encounter.

The Stadio Olimpico side held the Bianconeri to a 1-1 draw in the first leg last week, and Mauri is determined to seal the deal in the return fixture.

"The Juve game is worth a great deal. It’s important to get to the Coppa Italia final. We’ve overcome every hurdle with ease so far, aside from the Siena game," the 33-year-old said to reporters.

"We’ve won the trophy in the past and it’s something we want to do again. It would represent a special feeling, for us and for the entire city."

Mauri then went on to stress that the congested calendar does not make it easy for Lazio, but feels they're up for the task.

"It’s not easy playing every three days, because you’re never able to work to your full capacity. Having said that, we’ve had a good opportunity to recharge our batteries over the holidays."

Tuesday's second leg is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET.

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Coppa line-ups: Lazio-Juventus

Jan 29, 2013

Miroslav Klose leads the charge as Lazio host Juventus in tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final second leg.

The first leg ended 1-1 in Turin, so the Bianconeri must score to have any hope of going through to the Final. It kicks off at 19.45 GMT.

Andrea Pirlo returned to the squad after several games out with a calf problem, but is not risked from the start at the Stadio Olimpico.

German striker Klose has not featured since January 13 due to a left thigh injury, but resumed full training yesterday and is thrown into the starting XI.

As ever in the Coppa Italia, Marco Storari is first choice goalkeeper rather than Gianluigi Buffon.

Sebastian Giovinco partners Mirko Vucinic, while Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio are rested in favour of Simone Padoin and Emanuele Giaccherini.

LAZIO: Marchetti; Konko, Biava, Ciani, Dias; Radu, Hernanes, Ledesma, Mauri, Gonzalez; Klose

Lazio bench: Bizzarri, Carrizo, Zauri, Cavanda, Stankevicius, Lulic, Cana, Brocchi, Candreva, Kozak, Rozzi, Floccari

JUVENTUS: Storari; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Isla, Giaccherini, Padoin, Peluso, Vidal; Vucinic, Giovinco

Juventus bench: Buffon, Rubinho, Lichtsteiner, Caceres, De Ceglie, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Quagliarella, Matri

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

HT 0-0: New penalty row in Lazio-Juve

Jan 29, 2013

Both Juventus and Lazio had strong penalty appeals rejected in the first half, as it’s still 0-0 in the Coppa Italia semi-final second leg, 1-1 on aggregate.

The Biancocelesti had the advantage after a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Stefano Mauri scoring that precious away goal. Miroslav Klose returned for his first game since January 13, while they retained a three-man defence to mirror Juve. Andrea Pirlo was only fit for the bench, but Paul Pogba was rested in the Bianconeri midfield.

Just days after the huge controversy of Juventus-Genoa, the Bianconeri were again absolutely furious on eight minutes. Mirko Vucinic ran on to a poor backpass and appeared to be brought down by Federico Marchetti right at the by-line, but the referee and his linesman only awarded a corner.

Sebastian Giovinco’s free kick curled over from a very tight angle and Marchetti intercepted a Vucinic ball across for Giovinco in the six-yard box.

Hernanes blasted over from the D after good work from Stefan Radu down the left. It was Lazio’s turn to be angry on 29 minutes, as Mauricio Isla clumsily chested down the ball in the box and Klose pounced, falling under his challenge. Once again, the referee waved play on.

Juve continued to pour on the pressure in the first half, but defensive bodies charged down efforts from Giovinco and Emanuele Giaccherini. The Atomic Ant had a very promising counter-attack only to run into Andre Dias. It was intense, but above all tense, as players from both teams contested every decision.

In first half stoppages, Marchetti had his palms stung by a fierce strike down the right side of the box by Vucinic.

Giovinco should’ve scored with the last kick of the half, but after spinning brilliantly to get away from two defenders, he scuffed his shot into the arms of Marchetti.

Lazio 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time, 1-1 on agg)

LAZIO: Marchetti; Biava, Dias, Ciani; Konko, Gonzalez, Ledesma, Hernanes, Radu; Mauri; Klose

JUVENTUS: Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Isla, Vidal, Marrone, Giaccherini, Padoin; Vucinic, Giovinco

Ref: Banti

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

2 - 1

Alvaro Gonzalez (53′)

Arturo Vidal (90+2′)

Sergio Floccari (90+3′)

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Floccari nets dramatic injury-time winner to seal final berth

Arturo Vidal thought he had cancelled out Alvaro Gonzalez's opener in second-half

stoppage time but the Biancocelesti striker struck to send his side into the showpiece.

Jan 29, 2013

Lazio booked a spot in the Coppa Italia final with an astounding 2-1 victory over Juventus, providing them with an aggregate win at Stadio Olimpico.

The Biancocelesti knew that they would progress if they could keep their opponents off the scoresheet and such a notion was evident in their extremely defensive mentality.

The Old Lady were allowed to dictate the tempo of the game but Alvaro Gonzalez's second-half header appeared to have justified Vladimir Petkovic's tactical decisions. Arturo Vidal thought he had taken the game to extra time when he struck late on but Sergio Floccari had other ideas with a header moments later to crush the visitors.

Juve were on top from the off and felt they should have been awarded a penalty after just eight minutes as Mirko Vucinic beat Federico Marchetti to the ball in the area and a collision followed. However, the referee only awarded a corner suggesting he believed the keeper made some connection with the ball.

Lazio struggled to ease that early pressure as the Bianconeri controlled possession, penning the Rome outfit back inside their own half.

But for all their time on the ball, Antonio Conte's men struggled to find a way through the compact Biancocelesti defence. It was not until the 25th minute that the Serie A champions got in behind as Emanuele Giaccherini switched the play to Mauricio Isla but the Chilean's cutback was too close to Marchetti.

Both side's were defending in large numbers and after Miroslav Klose had seen a penalty appeal turned down on the half hour mark, the game's first save finally came in first-half stoppage time.

After Vucinic had seen his individual effort batted away by Marchetti, Giovinco popped up one minute later but after a brilliant turn he sent a tame attempt straight at the goal.

Those misses proved costly as eight minutes after the restart Lazio, against the run of play, took the lead. Cristian Ledesma's superb cross was flighted to the back post where Gonzalez ghosted in behind Federico Peluso to head in the opener.

The match momentarily opened up but Petkovic's men soon regained their composure and reverted to their conservative approach.

Eager to step up his side's search for a goal, Conte introduced Andrea Pirlo with 20 minutes remaining and the breakthroguh came in the second-minute of added time. Giuseppe Biava failed to deal with a cross into the area and the ball fell to Vidal who smashed it past Marchetti, breaching the previously stoic defence.

However Lazio were unperturbed and immediately ventured back up the other end and won their first corner. Stefano Mauri swung the ball in and Floccari got on the end of it, glancing a header past the idle Marco Storari and into the far corner.

Claudio Marchisio then missed a near-open goal at the death after Giovinco's shot was parried aside, in what proved to be Juve's last chance.

With their first win in 10 meetings against the Turin outfit, Lazio booked a spot in the final where they will face either fierce rivals Roma or Inter.

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

2 - 1

Alvaro Gonzalez (53′)

Arturo Vidal (90+2′)

Sergio Floccari (90+3′)

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Coppa: Lazio beat Juve for the Final!

Jan 29, 2013

Lazio are through to the Coppa Italia Final after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Juventus, as Arturo Vidal thought he’d forced extra time until Sergio Floccari’s stoppage-time header. They will face either Roma or Inter in the Final in May.

The Biancocelesti had the advantage after a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Stefano Mauri scoring that precious away goal. Miroslav Klose returned for his first game since January 13, while they retained a three-man defence to mirror Juve. Andrea Pirlo was only fit for the bench, but Paul Pogba was rested in the Bianconeri midfield.

Just days after the huge controversy of Juventus-Genoa, the Bianconeri were again absolutely furious on eight minutes. Mirko Vucinic ran on to a poor backpass and appeared to be brought down by Federico Marchetti right at the by-line, but the referee and his linesman only awarded a corner.

Sebastian Giovinco’s free kick curled over from a very tight angle and Marchetti intercepted a Vucinic ball across for Giovinco in the six-yard box.

Hernanes blasted over from the D after good work from Stefan Radu down the left. It was Lazio’s turn to be angry on 29 minutes, as Mauricio Isla clumsily chested down the ball in the box and Klose pounced, falling under his challenge. Once again, the referee waved play on.

Juve continued to pour on the pressure in the first half, but defensive bodies charged down efforts from Giovinco and Emanuele Giaccherini. The Atomic Ant had a very promising counter-attack only to run into Andre Dias. It was intense, but above all tense, as players from both teams contested every decision.

In first half stoppages, Marchetti had his palms stung by a fierce strike down the right side of the box by Vucinic.

Giovinco should’ve scored with the last kick of the half, but after spinning brilliantly to get away from two defenders, he scuffed his shot into the arms of Marchetti.

After the restart Arturo Vidal was booked for a crunching tackle on Michael Ciani, meaning he’ll be suspended for the next Coppa Italia game.

Lazio were more attacking in this second half and took the lead with Alvaro Gonzalez diving header on to a Cristian Ledesma curling pass over the top to the back post. Gonzalez celebrated by holding up the jersey of Lionel Scaloni, who completed his transfer to Atalanta today. Juve now needed a goal just to force extra time.

There was a very nasty clash of heads between Luca Marrone and Hernanes. The Brazilian came off much worse and seemed to lose be out cold mid-air. He regained consciousness, but was bleeding heavily when stretchered off for Senad Lulic.

Giovinco and Klose went down in the box again, but neither seemed worthy of a penalty. Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio were thrown on for the final Juventus push to get this semi-final back on track.

Ciani’s sliding block charged down Giovinco’s shot and Sergio Floccari stumbled as he was lining up his finish on the counter-attack.

It was getting increasingly desperate from last year’s beaten Finalists, as Giovinco was booked for simulation and Fabio Quagliarella blasted off target from distance. Pirlo rolled a free kick wide for Mauricio Isla, but Andre Dias did well to intercept the pass to Quagliarella.

The Olimpico crowd jeered angrily as six minutes of stoppages were awarded, but it did take some time to remove Hernanes from the pitch.

Juventus only needed 60 seconds of it to draw level, as a cross was flicked on and Stefan Radu was caught napping, as Vidal burst in behind him to blast under the bar from nine yards.

It seemed to be enough to force extra time, but moments later a corner found Floccari’s glancing header in at the back post from six yards. The crowd went wild after this dramatic finale.

It still wasn’t over, as Juve went straight up the other end and should’ve scored. Giovinco forced a desperate save from Marchetti from point-blank range and Marchisio somehow turned the follow-up wide at the back post! It would’ve put Juventus through to the Final on away goals.

It went right down to the wire, as the Bianconeri had a free kick just outside the area that Pirlo floated in for Vidal’s header wide. Even goalkeeper Storari had gone up for that set play at the 97th minute.

LAZIO 2-1 JUVENTUS (3-2 on agg)

Scorers: Gonzalez 53 (L), Vidal 91 (J), Floccari 93 (L)

LAZIO: Marchetti; Biava, Dias, Ciani; Konko, Gonzalez (Cana 86), Ledesma, Hernanes (Lulic 62), Radu; Mauri; Klose (Floccari 70)

JUVENTUS: Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Isla, Vidal, Marrone (Marchisio 70), Giaccherini (Quagliarella 76), Padoin (Pirlo 68); Vucinic, Giovinco

Ref: Banti

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

2 - 1

Alvaro Gonzalez (53′)

Arturo Vidal (90+2′)

Sergio Floccari (90+3′)

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

The Old Lady Crashes Out of the Coppa Italia

Jan 29, 2013

And we are out.

I have had to write a number of game recaps and reviews, but this one hurts quite a bit. This team was built around an airtight defense, but, since Giorgio Chiellini's injury and Kwadwo Asamoah's AFCON departure, our defense has been anything but airtight. Juventus did play against one of the best teams in the league, but to allow thre goals in two matches is simply poor. Some may look at some poor refereeing decisions, but when the team defends in the way we did today, there is simply no excuse.

There is really not much to write about this game that hasn't been said before. Our midfield suffered without Andrea Pirlo, however Luca Marrone showed that he may be better at playing that position than Pual Pogba (it is never a bad thing to have competition). Our attack did little with the few chances created and our defense was abysmal. For this reason it is hard to pick a Man of the Match, if I had to pick one I would give it to Arturo Vidal for never giving up.

Also, one thing that was clear from this encounter is that the difference between our starters and our bench is very large. Simone Padoin, Emanuele Giaccherini, and Federico Peluso are no Asamoah, Claudio Marchisio or Chiellini (I know, thank you Captain Obvious). With that being said, those on the field played at the best of their abilities, the unfortunate part is that the shoes they had to fill were immense. You could see the increase in quality once Marchisio, Pirlo, and Vidal were on the pitch. This just shows that some players should be sold in the summer to make room for better reserves (notice that I am not calling for a mass exodus as that would be unnecessary). Also, my call to calm as I said before is that injuries are temporary, we just need to hold on until some of our starters return from injury (or AFCON).

The last thing I need to get off my chest is Sebastian Giovinco's constant flopping. The kid is small, so it is easy to push him off the ball. But when he is trying to milk that for every foul the ref is going to catch on. For a large portion of the match he was looking for fouls that would not be given under normal circumstances, let alone in a Coppa Italia semifinal. Today Giovinco was the boy who cried wolf too many times and the team paid for it. C'mon son, stay on your feet.

Besides that there is not much to add. Juventus could have sent the game into extra time and bought themselves more playing time, heck Giovinco or Marchisio could have sent us through in the dying minutes but it wasn't to be (who here thinks that Anelka could have finished one of those chances?). The best team over two legs was Lazio who will probably raise the trophy in May. Now Juventus' focus can return to the other two competitions. One good thing to look forward is that with Marchisio, Vidal, and Pirlo returning from injury this team is going to be looking a lot better.

[Socrates 8435]

Coppa Italia - Semi-final - 29-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

2 - 1

Alvaro Gonzalez (53′)

Arturo Vidal (90+2′)

Sergio Floccari (90+3′)

Olimpico Stadium - Rome

Referee: Luca Banti

Player Ratings

Goal.com rates the players on show as Sergio Floccari sends the home fans into raptures

with a late winner after Arturo Vidal thought he had sent the game to extra time late on.

Jan 29, 2013

LAZIO

Federico Marchetti - The keeper was largely untroubled until a pair of efforts from Vucinic and Giovinco late in the first half which he kept out. He commanded his area well before another save from Giovinco in stoppage time helped keep hold of the win.

Michael Ciani - Provided a strong, physical presence at the back and got his head to the majority of passes sent over the top. Alongside Radu he managed to limit the influence of Isla and kept things pretty tight.

Giuseppe Biava - The centre-back was at the heart of a stoic defensive unit which almost shut out Juventus for the full 90 minutes. He failed to deal with a cross which Vidal subsequently fired home but was solid for every other moment.

Abdoulay Konko - The right-back kept close tabs on Giaccherini and for the large part he succeeded in restricting his influence in the wide areas. He became more adventurous in the second half and provided some relief for his side by pressing up the pitch.

Andrè Dias - A brilliant performance at the back from the Brazilian as he was extremely aware of his surroundings, regularly beating Juve players to the ball with some well-timed challenges. He did not put a foot wrong.

Stefan Radu - Did not provide sufficient width for a team playing with three at the back. His ventures forward were sporadic and ineffective at best. Defensively, though, he did well to keep Isla out of the game.

Stefano Mauri - Was unable to provide a creative spark in behind Klose and left the German starved of service. He vanished in the second half until his corner was headed home by Floccari.

Cristian Ledesma - Always had his head up in order to look for the best possible pass, unfortunately he had to do this inside his own half for the first period. Nevertheless, he put in a decent display and supplied an exquisite cross for Gonzalez's goal.

Hernanes - Failed to supply the creativity in the middle of the park, meaning that his side never stretched the Bianconeri. He had one effort at goal and that never looked like worrying Storari.

Alvaro Gonzalez - Floated around the middle of the park, consistently looking for the ball. He did very little of note until he ghosted in at the back post to head his side into the lead early in the second half.

Miroslav Klose - Looked extremely isolated throughout as service to the German striker was almost non-existent. He at least tried to challenge for the majority of aerial balls but did not get a chance to test Storari.

Substitutions

Senad Lulic - Replaced Hernanes on the hour mark and added some more energy to the midfield. He was hungry for the ball and chased everything down.

Lorik Cana - Brought on for Gonzalez in the 86th minute and did not impact on the game.

Sergio Floccari - Replaced Klose with 20 minutes and had a decisive impact on the game with a brilliant late header. He had also been full of running beforehand.

JUVENTUS

Marco Storari - Had virtually nothing to do in the entire first half as Lazio failed to worry the keeper. There was very little opportunity for him to impress in the second but he was left rooted to the spot as the hosts put two past him.

Andrea Barzagli - It was a relatively comfortable night at the back for the former Wolfsburg man. He did not have very much to contend with and made no fuss when he was in possession.

Leonardo Bonucci - Dealt with whatever was thrown at him, though that was hardly anything. He read the play well, stepping out from the back and winning the ball more often than not. A comfortable evening for the centre-back.

Federico Peluso - Showed good judgement as he timed his tackles well and was not afraid to get stuck in. He did not stray from his defensive team-mates but allowed Gonzalez in behind to head in the opener.

Mauricio Isla - Did not see a lot of the ball as he rarely pushed forward down the right. He did not have to track back very often and should have used that to his advantage a bit more. The one time he got in behind he sent in a poor cross.

Arturo Vidal - Was caught in possession far too often and struggled to get forward and supply some support to the front two. He did not drive his team forward, but popped up late on with an opportunistic goal.

Luca Marrone - Sat the deepest of the Old Lady's midfielders and did his best to try and orchestrate the attacks for his side. While not every pass he struck may have been pinpoint, he did show some awesome vision and a lot of potential.

Simone Padoin - A distinctly average performance from the Juve man as he struggled to get involved in the action in a congested midfield. He was withdrawn for Andrea Pirlo in the 68th minute.

Emanuele Giaccherini - Began the game at a frantic pace, continually buzzing around on the left side. Under the watchful eye of Konko he found his space restricted but still managed to get on the ball and use it well.

Mirko Vučinić - Was perhaps unlucky not to receive a penalty in the eighth minute, but continued to try and pester the stalwart Lazio defence. He had a rasping shot saved just before the break but was forced to create that all on his own.

Sebastian Giovinco - Found it difficult to weave his magic on the game as he was closed quickly when he received the ball. He attempted to drop deeper but fared no better. He should have got a goal with one of his two efforts that came either side of the break.

Substitutions

Claudio Marchisio - Replaced Marrone in the 70th minute and missed a golden opportunity to qualify but hit the ball wide of an open goal.

Andrea Pirlo - Came on for Padoin in the 68th minute but did not quite have the desired impact. His range of passing did stretch the Lazio defence, but it was not game changing.

Fabio Quagliarella - Added another dimension to the attack after replacing Giaccherini with 15 minutes remaining but could not trouble Marchetti.

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 23 - 3-2-2013 (12:30 p.m.)

1 - 2

Alessandro Matri (10′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (42′)

Cyril Thereau (52′)

Marc'Antonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi‎

Attendance: 9500‎

Battling Bianconeri restore three-point advantage

The Serie A leaders appeared to be cruising to victory in Verona, after fine strikes

from Alessandro Matri and Stephan Lichsteiner, but Cyril Thereau set up a tense finish.

Feb 3, 2013

Juventus restored their three-point advantage at the summit of Serie A with a battling 2-1 victory over Chievo at the Marc'Antonio Bentegodi on Sunday.

The reigning champions took the lead early on with a stunning volley from Alessandro Matri, before doubling their advantage just before the break after Stephan Lichsteiner fired home at the end of a deadly counterattack.

Cyril Thereau dragged the hosts back into the game when he fired home shortly after half-time, but Juve held on to put some daylight between themselves and second-placed Napoli.

The Bianconeri went into the game a side under pressure, having seen the Partenopei draw level with them at the top of the table by defeating Catania the night before. In addition, the champions were also without coach Antonio Conte and defender Leonardo Bonucci through suspension, with the pair banned for their hostile reactions to last weekend’s draw at home to Genoa.

However, this Juventus side has proved to be a resilient beast over the past year or so, and they began brightly in Verona, taking the lead just 10 minutes in with a sublime strike. Arturo Vidal pounced on a loose ball some 30 yards from goal, before lofting a wonderfully weighted pass in behind the Chievo defence, that Matri finished off with a crisp left-footed volley.

It could so easily have been 2-0 moments later, but Giovinco dragged his shot wide after a well-worked one-two with strike partner Matri. Chievo, meanwhile, threatened for the first time midway through the first half when Luca Rigoni prodded the ball through for Alberto Paloschi, but the latter’s effort on goal was easily saved by Gianluigi Buffon.

Buoyed by that break, the hosts began to take more risks but this left them increasingly exposed at the back, and their enterprise was brutally exploited by the Bianconeri just before the break. Matri was again involved, advancing into the area before pulling the ball across the box for Giovinco, who showed tremendous awareness in backheeling the ball into the path of the supporting Lichsteiner. The Swiss had been denied by Christian Puggioni just moments before, after being put in on goal by Andrea Pirlo, but the wing-back made no mistake this time around, lashing the ball into the top right corner.

A rout appeared a distinct possibility as the sides left the sun-drenched field at half-time, but Chievo returned a side transformed after the interval and halved their deficit on 52 minutes when Thereau found the bottom left corner of the Juve goal, after the ball had dropped nicely for him on the edge of the area.

The Old Lady suddenly looked ruffled but, guided by Andrea Pirlo, they quickly regained their composure and ultimately dealt quite comfortably with everything Chievo threw at them in the final half hour to collect three precious points.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 23 - 3-2-2013 (12:30 p.m.)

1 - 2

Alessandro Matri (10′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (42′)

Cyril Thereau (52′)

Marc'Antonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi‎

Attendance: 9500

Juventus conquer Chievo

Juventus maintained their three-point lead at the top thanks to a comfortable 2-1 victory

away to Chievo, thanks to well-worked goals by Alessandro Matri and Stephan Lichtsteiner.

Feb 3, 2013

The pressure was on the Bianconeri, as last night Napoli joined them on top of the table. Antonio Conte and Leonardo Bonucci began two-match bans for insulting the referee after a 1-1 draw with Genoa, while Mirko Vucinic was also suspended. Claudio Marchisio joined Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner on the treatment table after the Coppa Italia semi-final exit to Lazio midweek.

Chievo have upset sides like Roma and Lazio so far this season, but were without Gennaro Sardo, Luciano and Boukary Drame. The Flying Donkeys have beaten Juve only once in 21 games, home and away in all competition, in a 1-0 at the Bentegodi in January 2010.

Juve broke through after just 10 minutes with a wonderful goal. Arturo Vidal chipped up a pass for Alessandro Matri’s precise left-foot volley across Cristian Puggioni.

Alberto Paloschi had one effort charged down and another captured at the near post by Gigi Buffon, while Sebastian Giovinco went on a smart run and pulled his finish across the face of goal from close range.

Andrea Pirlo pulled a free kick to the edge of the box for a fierce Vidal volley that was crucially deflected round the post.

Buffon timed his intervention perfectly, rushing off his line to tackle Paloschi in the box like a seasoned defender. Paolo De Ceglie did enough to put off Paloschi when he tried to finish a Cyril Thereau counter-attack from 10 yards.

Puggioni smothered a Pirlo free kick and Stephan Lichtsteiner forced a save out of Puggioni after his handling offence was not spotted.

Lichtsteiner was on target soon after with a well-worked goal. Giovinco burst forward on the counter, exchanged passes with Matri in the box and then his cheeky backheel flick allowed Lichtsteiner to smash a rising finish into the far top corner from eight yards.

Eugenio Corini introduced two January buys at half-time, Francesco Acerbi and Felipe Seymour. Chievo were more determined after the break and found their way back into the game.

Paloschi knocked down a long pass with his back to goal and Thereau smashed the daisy-cutter into the far bottom corner from just inside the penalty area.

Paul Pogba couldn’t quite get good contact on a dangerous Paolo De Ceglie cross, so it was deflected off Dario Dainelli just past the near post for a corner.

Chievo were definitely more in the game in this second half, though Puggioni caught a deflected De Ceglie strike. However, Juventus settled after a period of pressure and took home all three points.

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

Chievo: Puggioni; Sampirisi (Seymour 46), Dainelli, Andreolli, Cesar (Acerbi 46), Jokic; Hetemaj, L Rigoni, Cofie (Pellissier 74); Thereau, Paloschi

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Caceres; Lichtsteiner (Padoin 79), Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, De Ceglie; Matri (Isla 89), Giovinco (Quagliarella 58)

Ref: Bergonzi

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 23 - 3-2-2013 (12:30 p.m.)

1 - 2

Alessandro Matri (10′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (42′)

Cyril Thereau (52′)

Marc'Antonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi‎

Attendance: 9500‎

Player Ratings

Goal.com evaluates the performances of everyone involved at the Marc'Antonio Bentegodi,

after a game in which the Serie A champions were left hanging on at the death.

Feb 3, 2013

CHIEVO

Christian Puggioni - Confident under the high ball, Puggioni also made a couple of fine saves, with his close-range stop from Lichsteiner arguably the pick of the bunch. Absolutely nothing he could have done about either Juventus goal.

Dario Dainelli - Fine performance in difficult circumstances at the heart of the Chievo defence. Made a series of vital interventions, most notably when he deflected a goal-bound effort from Vidal wide for a corner.

Marco Andreolli - One of Chievo's more reliable performers at the back, Andreolli put in a succession of crunching tackles and also looked confident on the ball. However, he lost his man more than once.

Bostjan Cesar - Was given no end of trouble by Giovinco, and was booked for hacking down the diminutive attacker after he had executed a one-two with Matri. Wisely taken off at half-time.

Bojan Jokic - Let Lichsteiner know he was there inside the opening three minutes with a crude challenge, but that was to no avail, as he failed dismally to keep up with his persistent threat.

Mario Sampirisi - A Chievo defender who actually did quite well in trying to cope with the movement of the Juve front two, so his removal before the start of the second half came as something of a surprise.

Isaac Cofie - Was willing to mix it right from the off, tussling for possession with Pogba before chopping down De Ceglie. However, his aggression eventually led to a booking and he could have collected another had he not been withdrawn.

Luca Rigoni - Distributed the ball calmly and effectively in the middle of the park, and was also responsible for manufacting one of Chievo's better openings by slipping Paloschi in for a shot on goal. Did his utmost to upset Pirlo's rhythm by snapping at the playmaker's heels at every opportunity, but ultimately it proved a fruitless approach.

Perparim Hetemaj - Always keen to drift over to the left-hand side to double up on Lichsteiner with Jokic, but there was to be no containing the Juve wing-back. On the plus side, though, Hetemaj caused problems when he got forward to join the Chievo attack and played a part in Thereau's goal.

Alberto Paloschi - Very nearly put straight in on goal by Marrone just three minutes in, but was beaten to the ball by Buffon. Called the Bianconeri skipper into action later in the half with an angled effort from inside the area, but the forward was always stretching and therefore unable to generate much power behind his strike.

Cyril Thereau - Was nowhere near as involved as Paloschi in the opening 45 minutes, though the Frenchman did whip over a couple of inviting crosses. However, he came to life in the second period, dragging the home side back into the game with a decent strike from just inside the area.

Substitutions

Francesco Acerbi - Introduced during the interval and looked a far, far better option at the back than Cesar.

F. Seymour - Came on in time for the start of the second half but did not manage to impose himself on proceedings.

Sergio Pellissier - Thrown on with 15 minutes to go as Chievo pressed for an equaliser but did not get a single sight of goal.

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - Swept up nicely at the back after being put under pressure by Marrone's poor pass and then got down well at his near post to deny Paloschi. Also used his feet to good effect to frustrate the latter again later in the half.

Andrea Barzagli - Picked out some nice passes, particularly during the first half, and was rarely ruffled at the back. Another strong showing from one of Juve's most consistent performers.

Luca Marrone - Put his side in jeopardy early on with a loose pass in the direction of Alberto Paloschi, but his skipper was alive to the danger and picked up the pieces. Defended well thereafter.

Martín Cáceres - Dominant as ever in the air and also predictably composed in possession. Looked a little shaky at times in the opening exchanges of the second half, but, overall, the Uruguayan did very well.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Undeniably ruffled by his roughhouse treatment at the hands of the Chievo defence but he took revenge in the most effective manner, firing home emphatically just a couple of minutes after being denied by Puggioni.

Paul Pogba - This was not one of his more barnstorming displays but he was decent on the ball and, as per usual, covered acres of ground and recovered possession with great regularity.

Andrea Pirlo - As usual, always a threat in dead-ball situations, teeing up Vidal for a volley and then testing Puggioni with a decent effort from distance. His passing was also of a predictably high standard, with one sublime ball putting Lichsteiner in on goal.

Arturo Vidal - Created Matri's goal with a measured chip in behind the Chievo back-line and very nearly doubled the Bianconeri's lead with a well-executed volley that was deflected wide by Dainelli. Not quite as eye-catching in the second half but the significance of his contribution could not be questioned.

Paolo De Ceglie - Reasonably solid defensively and also produced the odd decent delivery, but he just does not offer the same attacking threat as Lichsteiner and Juve will be eagerly awaiting Asamoah's return.

Sebastian Giovinco - Should have at least hit the target after being put in on goal by Matri midway through the first half, but he did at least test Puggioni with a low drive from the edge of the area soon after. Teed up Lichsteiner for Juve's second with a sublime backheel, but that was to be his last notable contribution as he was replaced by Quagliarella before the hour mark.

Alessandro Matri - Made the most of a rare opportunity to start, breaking the deadlock with a tremendously well-taken volley before playing a key role in the visitors' second by pulling the ball across the box for Giovinco, with whom he formed a terrific partnership.

Substitutions

Mauricio Isla - Replaced Matri late on as Juve looked to shore things up at the back.

Simone Padoin - Thrown on with 10 minutes remaining in place of Lichsteiner but did not catch the eye.

Fabio Quagliarella - Came on in place of Giovinco with just over half an hour remaining, but while the forward put himself about, he was unable to press his claims for a regular starting berth.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 23 - 3-2-2013 (12:30 p.m.)

1 - 2

Alessandro Matri (10′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (42′)

Cyril Thereau (52′)

Marc'Antonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 9500

Lichtsteiner delighted with crucial Juventus victory

The defender believes Sunday's win was important for the side

after a disappointing run of results during January.

Feb 3, 2013

Stephan Lichtsteiner has spoken of his delight after Juventus returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory at Chievo.

The right-back scored what proved to be the winning goal shortly before half-time, after Alessandro Matri had given the visitors the lead in the 10th minute. Cyril Thereau set up a tense finish by pulling a goal back in the second half, but the Bianconeri held on to record their first league victory since January 19.

"Today’s victory was very important for us. We dropped many points in January, which was also down to an element of bad luck," the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

“We struggled a bit in the second half and could have handled things a little better after the restart. We’re still top of the league, but we know we’ll need to remain alert because Napoli are a great side, as are Lazio and Inter.”

Bianconeri assistant coach Angelo Alessio praised his side for the manner of their win, and assured reporters that they always had the game under control.

“The game was always in our hands," he added.

“In the first half we scored two goals and could’ve had more. We only failed to control the match properly in the opening 10 minutes of the second half."

Alessio concluded by admitting Napoli are the biggest threat to Juve retaining their Serie A crown, pointing to the number of new signings the Partenopei have made during January.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 23 - 3-2-2013 (12:30 p.m.)

1 - 2

Alessandro Matri (10′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (42′)

Cyril Thereau (52′)

Marc'Antonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 9500

Alessio: 'Juve always in control'

Feb 3, 2013

Juventus assistant manager Angelo Alessio never felt anxious during the 2-1 win over Chievo. “The game was always in our hands.”

With Coach Antonio Conte suspended for insulting the referee, Alessio was on the touchline at the Stadio Bentegodi.

“The game was always in our hands,” he assured. “In the first half we scored two goals and could’ve had more. We only failed to control the match properly in the opening 10 minutes of the second half.

“It is becoming a recurring theme that we concede on our opponents’ first shot on goal, but we were in control and it was important to earn the three points today.”

When asked why Juve were so tense recently, with their virulent protests after the 1-1 draw with Genoa, Alessio was surprised.

“We didn’t lose our cool. We are relaxed and have always played to the best of our abilities. Now we continue along our path, knowing it is more difficult than last season.

“Napoli are our main antagonists and strengthened in January, but we are aware of our strengths.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 23 - 3-2-2013 (12:30 p.m.)

1 - 2

Alessandro Matri (10′)

Stephan Lichtsteiner (42′)

Cyril Thereau (52′)

Marc'Antonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 9500

Buffon: 'Juve were complacent'

Feb 3, 2013

Gigi Buffon admits Juventus “were complacent in January” after securing a 2-1 victory over Chievo, but welcomes the pressure piled on them by Napoli.

The Bianconeri went into the Christmas break with an eight-point lead, which was quickly whittled down to three, and were eliminated in the Coppa Italia semi-final.

“It was a bit of a difficult time, because analysing the games we did not win, you could tell we weren’t in our best form,” the goalkeeper told Sky Sport Italia.

“In January it all went wrong for us and we were a little complacent too. Now we are in the battle for the Scudetto and finally the opponents are revealing themselves, so we are not just challenging our own records. It’s much more fun this way.

“It is very motivating to play knowing you cannot afford to get anything wrong. There are 15 games to go and everything is still up for grabs. I welcome more Scudetto rivals.

“The same is true of preparing for the Champions League against Celtic. Certain players perform better under pressure. At the end of December people acted like we’d almost won the Scudetto already, but that is not the case.”

Napoli are now just three points adrift and had been level top of the table overnight.

“When they earn five wins and draw one in six games, including a victory away to Parma in the final minutes, it is clear they believe in their capabilities.

“Napoli have been playing together in this group for many years and are consolidated, so have everything it takes to win the Scudetto.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 24 - 9-2-2013 (6:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Fiorentina hail golden Pirlo

Feb 7, 2013

Juventus playmaker Andrea Pirlo has won the praise of Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Montella ahead of this weekend’s meeting.

“I would have given Pirlo the Golden Ball,” the former Roma and Catania tactician told Tuttosport. “It would have been a reward for an exceptional career.”

Viola technical director Eduardo Macia mirrored Montella’s view. “Pirlo deserved the Golden Ball,” he added. “He’s been playing at the highest levels for 15 years.”

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi was given the 2012 FIFA Ballon d’Or prize ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo or Real Madrid and Barca’s Andres Iniesta.

Pirlo – who ranked seventh behind Xavi, Radamel Falcao and Iker Casillas – won the Scudetto last year, as well as helping Italy to the Final of Euro 2012.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 24 - 9-2-2013 (6:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Viola’s Toni targeting Turin triumph

Feb 7, 2013

Luca Toni insists Fiorentina are capable of defeating former club Juventus in Turin on Saturday.

“We can beat them because we are a strong side,” the summer signing told the Corriere dello Sport on Thursday. “We cause problems for every team that we face.

“Our Coach Vincenzo Montella is right when he says nobody has walked all over us this season. And we caused them problems in the first game (0-0) this season.”

The 35-year-old, seven goals in 19 ties this term, spent a difficult year at Juventus following his January 2011 arrival from Genoa.

“I got injured in my second game, but Gigi Del Neri asked me to grit my teeth,” the World Cup winner continued. “Then Antonio Conte arrived as boss and I was forced to pack my bags.

“I have no regrets though. I simply told Conte that he could have told me his plans for me sooner. At the start he said I was part of his project, then he changed his mind.”

Toni then outlined his admiration for Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic and defender Andrea Barzagli.

“Vucinic is the player to be feared. He may not score that many goals, but he creates goals. He can also dribble past players.

“The absence of Giorgio Chiellini? To be honest, I would prefer it if I could take away Barzagli from their defence. He’s the best in Italy in his role.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 24 - 9-2-2013 (6:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Marchisio wants to play, but…

Feb 7, 2013

Juventus’ Claudio Marchisio is keen to return to action after injury, but he doesn’t know whether he’ll be risked against Fiorentina.

The midfielder has been sidelined for the last week with a hip problem, but he is well on the road to recovery.

“Everything is going well,” the Italian international stated on Thursday. “I’m always keen to play, but we’ll have to see.

“Now we have a few days before the Fiorentina and the Champions League ties to carefully evaluate if I can return.

“These things will be considered now that everyone is back from international duty.”

Juventus are still League leaders, but Napoli’s run of form means that the Azzurri are now just three points shy of the Old Lady.

“The championship is saying that Napoli are our biggest rivals at the moment,” the former Empoli player added.

“Napoli have done some great work over the years and this season, more than ever, they are showing their true worth.

“They’ll be looking to take us on for the Scudetto right until the very end. But we are just thinking about Fiorentina...”

It will be a big month for Juventus seeing as they will take on Celtic in the first leg of their last 16 European Cup tie on Tuesday.

“The Champions League, along with Serie A, is an objective. They are important targets, but we just have to take things one game at a time.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 24 - 9-2-2013 (6:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Caceres: Juventus’ week of truth

Feb 8, 2013

Martin Caceres has underlined how big the next week will be for Italian champions Juventus.

The Old Lady will entertain Fiorentina on Saturday as they look to maintain their lead at the top of the table, before travelling to Scotland for the first leg of their last 16 European Cup tie.

“We’re conscious of the fundamental week that lies ahead,” the Uruguayan international told Mediaset and Sky Sport Italia.

“The Champions League is a fascinating competition, Celtic are a great side and we’re playing away from home.

“But for now we’re purely focused on the Fiorentina game. Regardless of the opposition, we always take to the field to do our best and win.

“Results wise, we didn’t have a brilliant January, but it’s now behind us.”

Caceres has been brought into the first team in recent weeks following the injury sustained by Giorgio Chiellini.

“It’s inevitable that we’ll feel the loss of a player like Chiellini,” the versatile stopper continued.

“But we’re all great players here and we’ll do everything to compensate for his absence. We know that everyone’s contribution is required.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 24 - 9-2-2013 (6:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Juventus to rest duo

Feb 8, 2013

Sebastian Giovinco and Claudio Marchisio will start on the bench in Juventus’ game against Fiorentina, claims the Corriere dello Sport.

The duo have been struggling with injuries that saw them miss out on Italy’s 1-1 draw with Holland in midweek.

Although the youth team graduates are ready for action, boss Antonio Conte will not risk them from the start on Saturday evening.

Conte is thought to be saving them ahead of Tuesday’s game in Glasgow against Celtic in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The Corriere dello Sport adds that Stephan Lichtsteiner and Andrea Barzagli should be available this weekend after returning from international duty with fitness concerns.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 24 - 9-2-2013 (6:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Juventus lose Bonucci appeal

Feb 8, 2013

Leonardo Bonucci will miss Juventus’ game against Fiorentina after his two-match ban was confirmed.

The defender picked up a 180-minute suspension for his protests at the end of the 1-1 draw with Genoa, when he felt the Old Lady should have been awarded a late penalty.

Bonucci sat out the 2-1 win at Chievo Verona, but his club appealed his punishment in an effort to have him available for Saturday.

Luca Marrone is set to replace Bonucci in the middle of Antonio Conte’s back-three against the Viola.

Juventus’ attempt to get their €50,000 fine wiped was also rejected.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 24 - 9-2-2013 (6:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Toni eyes 'historic' Juventus scalp

The boyhood Bianconeri fan feels Fiorentina have what it takes to defeat his former

employers on Saturday, but coach Vincenzo Montella insists they must be "perfect" to win.

Feb 8, 2013

Fiorentina striker Luca Toni believes his side "can make history" by beating Juventus in the crucial Serie A clash.

Toni realised a boyhood dream when he signed for the current Scudetto champions back in 2011, but his short spell in Turin came to an abrupt end when he joined UAE outfit Al Nasr.

Now plying his trade for Viola, the 35-year-old is relishing the prospect of facing his old employers, and insists his current side are capable of picking up all three points given their performances so far this season.

He told Corriere dello Sport: "I was a Juventus fan from a young age but when I moved to Modena I just started supporting the team I was playing for.

"I injured myself during my second game for the club and Luigi Del Neri told me not to give up. But then Antonio Conte arrived and told me to pack my bags.

"Fiorentina can make history. We are strong and we give every opponent we face a lot of trouble. No one has ever truly dominated us and in the reverse fixture we dominated them."

Viola coach Vincenzo Montella has warned that his side will need to be "perfect" in order to triumph at Juventus Stadium, and stated he hopes that the burgeoning rivalry between the sides will not boil over during the match.

"We have prepared well for the game and we’ll need to be perfect," the former Catania coach told a press conference.

"It’s true that the rivalry between Juventus and Fiorentina, also at management level, has intensified, but we have to keep that within the context of a sporting rivalry.

"We must transform that into positive energy and not arrogance."

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