Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000

Confident Bianconeri lock up victory

Feb 24, 2013

Juventus defeated Siena 3-0 at the Juventus Stadium in Serie A action on Sunday afternoon.

Stephan Lichtsteiner struck in the first half before Sebastian Giovinco and Paul Pogba scored in the second.

Juventus had the first opportunity of the game in the seventh minute off an Andrea Pirlo free kick, but his effort was a little too high.

A few moments later, Giovinco, from a Pogba assist, had a go, but he was just wide of the left post.

Pogba tried a couple of shots of his own not too long after, but both missed to the left.

Another midfielder attempted from distance, this time it was Claudio Marchisio, who saw his effort saved by Gianluca Pegolo.

It was Giovinco that then made the goalkeeper work just past the half-way point of the first half. Mirko Vucinic found the Italian international, but Pegolo stopped the follow-up.

Finally at the half-hour mark, Juve got their breakthrough. Vucinic played in a lovely ball to Lichtsteiner, who made no mistake in tapping it into the net from close range to make it 1-0 for the hosts.

The first chance of the second interval arrived after an hour of play through Pirlo, as he hit a long distance shot, but he missed just left of the far post.

Finally, just after 70 minutes, Siena recorded a shot, but Francesco Bolzoni’s effort was high and wide to the left following the corner.

Things went from bad to worse for the visitors. After winning a free kick, Pirlo took the set piece, found Giovinco, who powered it high past Pegolo for the 2-0 tally.

Seconds expired when Innocent Emeghara smacked a header towards goal, but was saved by Gianluigi Buffon.

Giorgio Chiellini came on as a substitute on 77 minutes, making his return after a three month absence due to a calf injury.

Christian Terlizzi was close with his opportunity, but he found the left post instead of the mesh.

Just as added time approached, Pogba displayed some brilliant footwork, then shot from 25 metres into the net for Juve’s third goal.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000

Juventus Win 3-0 vs. Siena: 6 Things We Learned

Feb 24, 2013

Seeing Juventus vs. Siena on the schedule isn't exactly something that gets your average calcio fan excited.

However, it turned out to be a bit of a show when all was said and done. Siena's Gianluca Pegolo kept it a lot closer than it could have been. Still, a 3-0 win for Juve means most of the show was the Bianconeri's class as they moved the ball so well all afternoon.

Juventus showed why they're Italy's best; they were just too much for lowly Siena. Here are six things we learned after Sunday's match.

1. Juventus Control Their Own Destiny in the Scudetto Race

They haven't necessarily locked it down. A lot can happen over the next three months. But with a seven-point lead after Sunday's action, Juve would really have to lose concentration to not finish with the Scudetto this season.

It's not a sure thing, though. They travel to second-place Napoli on Friday.

They've done all they can to put pressure on the Partenopei ahead of Friday's clash. Napoli travel to Udinese Monday staring down a seven-point deficit.

2. There's More to Juventus Than Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo

Stephan Lichtsteiner and Mirko Vucinic really played well Sunday.

Lichtsteiner had Juve's first goal. It was pure effort that made it happen, but that's who Lichtsteiner is. It was an important break in a scoreless tie that beat Gianluca Pegolo, who before then looked unbeatable.

For Vucinic's part, he was like a conductor at the front, setting up fellow teammates with one incredible ball after another. He didn't end up with an assist, but his creativity was unbelievable throughout the match.

3. Paul Pogba Has a Bright Future Ahead of Him

Paul Pogba was another huge force for Juventus Sunday. He ended up with the Bianconeri's third goal, and it was pure class.

He had a few other chances before he finally converted and played the ball really well throughout the match.

More impressive than anything else: Pogba's only 19 years old.

For fans worried about how much longer Andrea Pirlo will play, a young promising midfielder like Pogba may make the thought of il maestro's absence a bit easier to deal with.

Just a little.

4. Relegation or Not, Pegolo Shouldn't Play for Siena Next Season

There are way too many clubs in the top flight that need an upgrade at keeper for Gianluca Pegolo to continue to go down with Siena's sinking ship.

Yes, he surrendered three on Sunday, but throughout the season he's been a major factor in Siena's success, though limited.

It's not so much that he's great, as there are a lot of other top clubs that need to upgrade at 'keeper. And Pegolo would be a tremendous upgrade for some.

Just ask Napoli fans how they feel about Morgan De Sanctis...

5. The Juventus Back Line Is Very Much Improved

The road has been bumpy without Giorgio Chiellini, but Juventus endured.

Leonardo Bonucci, Federico Peluso, Martín Cáceres and Andrea Barzagli have been better in recent weeks.

But now that Chiellini's back, that back line is going to get a lot stronger.

The vice-captain has been sorely missed and will be just the boost Juve need at the back as they advance in Champions League and head toward the end of the Serie A season.

6. Andrea Pirlo Is Must-See TV Every Time He's on the Pitch

If you're a calcio fan, you've known this for years. But with not too many years left, you should really carve out some time to watch this guy work every time he steps on the field. Even if Juve is playing a cellar dweller like Siena.

If you're not a regular Serie A watcher or are just new to the beautiful game, you need to get to know Andrea Pirlo.

Watching il maestro in action will more than explain all the outrage surrounding his absence from FIFA's World XI.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000‎

Player Ratings

Goal.com rates the players on show at Juventus Stadium, as the Bianconeri

extended their lead at the summit of Serie A to seven points.

Feb 24, 2013

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - Forced to push a Rosina cross out of play for a corner early on, but was rarely tested by the lackadaisical Siena front line until the 70th minute when he had to tip Emeghara's header onto the bar.

Andrea Barzagli - Impenetrable in the heart of the Juventus backline and ensured that a clean sheet was kept having hindered the impact of Emeghera.

Leonardo Bonucci - Booked in the first half following a late sliding challenge, but a faultless performance from the Italian.

Federico Peluso - After allowing Rosina in early to force a Siena corner in the opening exchanges, Peluso recovered from this stuttering start to perform solidly in the back three beside Barzagli and Bonucci.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Broke forward expertly and linked up well with Vucinic to fire an effort over the bar before his goal on the half hour mark.

Paul Pogba - A quiet afternoon for the Frenchman until his 89th-minute drive from distance that left Pegolo beaten.

Andrea Pirlo - Typically masterful in the middle of the Juventus midfield, fired a free kick over in the first half before sending a delicate chip just inches wide of the Siena post on the hour mark.

Claudio Marchisio - Regularly linked with up Vucinic expertly and forced a great save from Pegolo with a curling effort in the first half.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Broke down the flanks with purpose and Belmonte struggled to contain the Ghanaian. Could've had himself an assist had Pogba made a decent connection with his first-half strike.

Mirko Vučinić - At the hub of everything. Pushed forward for Juventus and provided the assist for Lichtsteiner's goal. Siena really struggled to contain him before his second-half withdrawal.

Sebastian Giovinco - A dominant performance from the Italian, who secured the win for Juventus with a stunning strike midway through the second half.

Substitutions

Giorgio Chiellini - Continued his comeback from injury with a brief 15-minute cameo, and didn't put a fault wrong as he attains match fitness.

Emanuele Giaccherini - Entered the fray late on, but could've netted after curling just wide of the Siena post in added time.

Alessandro Matri - Replaced Vucinic just after the hour mark, and may not have offered a similar threat to the Montenegrin, but was a handful during his time on the pitch.

SIENA

Gianluca Pegolo - Could do little to prevent goals from Lichtsteiner, Giovinco and Pogba, but did well to deny Marchisio and Giovinco expertly. Didn't deserve to be on the losing side.

Felipe - Had a good game, all things considered, but was never able to deal with the marauding Lichtsteiner. A lack of cover from his team-mates didn't aid his cause.

Matteo Rubin - Pushed forward well, but was regularly contained in his own half to help Felipe deal with the threat of Lichtsteiner.

Jorge Filipe Avelino Teixeira - Struggled with the threat of the returning Asamoah, and was never really able to help play the ball out as well as he'd hoped.

Christian Terlizzi - Almost gave his side a glimmer of hope in the second half having struck the post, but was unable to prevent Siena conceding three.

Nicola Belmonte - Pushed forward well and did what he could to help out Teixeira with the threat of Asamoah, but was never going to exert himself as well as he could've liked as a result.

Francesco Valiani - Never able to provide the necessary support that Emeghara needed and, as a result, Siena's attack continuously broke down.

Francesco Della Rocca - Booked in the first half and was never really able to make his mark as a result. Struggled with Vucinic dropping deep and Marchisio.

Alessandro Rosina - Forced Buffon into action early on, but couldn't build on his blistering start. Subbed in the second half.

Francesco Bolzoni - Continuously attempted to make things happen for his team. A tough task considering the opposition, but did well to stifle the threat of Pogba prior to his goal.

Innocent Emeghara - A handful for the Juventus defence, forcing Buffon into action with a goal-bound header in the final 15 minutes of the game. Dealt with well by Bonucci.

Substitutions

Valerio Verre - Not enough time to make an impact.

Salvador Agra - Gave Siena the attacking threat that Rosina failed to provide, but in the end, it was too little too late for the lowly Serie A side.

Nicola Pozzi - While Valiani struggled to make his mark, Pozzi was the same which often left Emeghara isolated.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000‎

Conte 'irritated' by boo boys

The Juventus coach has admitted he was disappointed to hear some sections

of the Bianconeri support booing the players during their comfortable 3-0 victory over Siena.

Feb 24, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has slammed some sections of the home support for not getting behind the team during their 3-0 win over Siena.

Goals from Stephan Lichtsteiner, Sebastian Giovinco and Paul Pogba ensured what turned out to be a comfortable victory for the hosts, who extend their lead at the top of Serie A to seven points.

However, Conte was left disappointed, despite the victory, as the Bianconeri faithful resorted to jeering the players, particularly goalscorer Giovinco, before they eventually took control of the game.

“Unfortunately booing is becoming a bad habit at this stadium, supporters can’t boo the lads’ first mistake," he told the official club website.

“I’ll remind them that this team has done extraordinary things, but above all brought back a sense of belonging and pride to all Bianconeri fans.”

He told Rai Sport: “At times certain murmurs of complaint from the stands really irritate me, as I find them inopportune. People forget that 18 months ago Juve were seventh.

“They ought to be enthusiastic at having players like Giovinco, so I do not agree with those who jeer.”

Conte was pleased, however, with the way his side handled a potentially tricky encounter as Beppe Iachini's men had gone three games unbeaten before Sunday's clash.

He continued to the official club website: “We took to the field with a good approach, showing great respect for Siena who possess all the characteristics required to stay up.

“They’re in good form and came into the fixture following important results. I knew it wouldn’t be easy and that’s why I kept the tension high.

“Congratulations to the lads, they really did well today. I’m happy about Giovinco’s goal and for how it came about. We always look to work on every little detail, including set pieces.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000

Conte: 'Juve fans mustn't jeer'

Feb 24, 2013

Antonio Conte criticised the Juventus Stadium fans for jeering Sebastian Giovinco. “At times they really irritate me.”

Giovinco scored in the 3-0 victory over Siena, but the supporters in Turin were not always fully behind the side.

“We should enjoy today’s victory, as we had to win and it was not easy,” Conte told Rai Sport.

“Siena are in great shape and they deserve compliments for their performance. We got three points and did very well in psychological terms to control the game.

“At times certain murmurs of complaint from the stands really irritate me, as I find them inopportune. People forget that 18 months ago Juve were seventh.

“They ought to be enthusiastic at having players like Giovinco, so I do not agree with those who jeer.”

Next Friday there is the Scudetto showdown with Napoli, as the gap at the top is currently seven points awaiting the Partenopei’s trip to Udinese tomorrow.

“We will go to Naples with humility and play with a more relaxed state of mind thanks to today’s win,” added Conte.

The tactician has been linked with Chelsea and dropped a hint he is considering it.

"I am attracted by the idea of working overseas."

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000

Buffon expects ‘real’ Juve in Naples

Feb 25, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon has insisted that Juventus will face Napoli in Serie A on Friday with their usual game plan.

The Bianconeri currently have a seven-point lead over the second-placed Azzurri who will face Udinese later today.

But Buffon insists that the points difference between the two clubs will not have any effect on the way they will prepare for the tie.

“We’ll go and play Napoli without making any calculations,” the custodian noted. “That’s also because when we try to do that, things don’t add up.

“We need to approach the Napoli tie in the way we always face matches, without straying from our usual game.”

Buffon again underlined his worth to the Old Lady on Sunday during their 3-0 victory over struggling Siena.

“We played a good game against a side in good form,” he added. “We knew they would cause us difficulties and that’s how it went, but we tackled them in an intelligent manner.

“I work with passion and the desire to show that I’m still an important goalkeeper, and when I say this I don’t mean being the fifth or sixth best in the world.

“I’ve still got the will to amaze and this enables me to focus and face training and games in the right way.

“When I realise that I’m approaching a game with little concentration then I think back to the error against Sampdoria and I re-find the right mentality.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000

Juventus’ Pogba enticed to shoot

Feb 25, 2013

Paul Pogba has revealed that the atmosphere at the Juventus Stadium urges him to shoot from distance.

The young Frenchman netted with another long-range effort on Sunday when he capped off the 3-0 win over Siena.

“The Coach and my teammates always tell me to have a go,” the midfielder noted. “And sometimes I feel that the stadium is encouraging me to shoot as well.

“I had the chance to against Siena and it came off – even though the most important thing is that the team won.”

Pogba has already scored five League goals this term and the teenager is dreaming of many more strikes in the Old Lady’s stripes.

“The attention from other clubs doesn’t interest me,” the summer signing from Manchester United continued.

“I really like it here and I want to play in this shirt for a long time. I’m happy because I’ve already scored five goals in my first year at Juventus.

“I have a great will to learn and I like listening to others. That’s how I’m learning the language, also thanks to my teammates, especially Simone Pepe, who is always talking.”

With the Siena victory now archived, the player is looking forward to Friday’s game against second-placed Napoli.

“We have to go into that one looking to win. We need to play with ruthlessness and concentration, as we did against Siena.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.)

3 - 0

Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′)

Sebastian Giovinco (74′)

Paul Pogba (89′)

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Domenico Celi

Attendance: 38000

Lichtsteiner: Napoli clash will not decide Scudetto race

The Switzerland international believes his side still have a long way to go,

while Paul Pogba has set his sights on the full three points against the Partenopei.

Feb 25, 2013

Juventus wing-back Stephan Lichtsteiner believes a win over Napoli on Friday would not guarantee the Bianconeri the Serie A title.

Juve currently hold a seven-point lead over the Partenopei, who have a game in hand, and Lichtsteiner has insisted that the Scudetto race is by no means decided just yet.

"If we were to win against Napoli [on Friday], it would make it really tough for them, but it still wouldn’t be decisive in terms of the race for the Scudetto," Lichtsteiner was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

"There will still be 11 games left and with so many remaining, it will be far from over."

Young midfielder Paul Pogba, meanwhile, has stated that the Serie A leaders will be gunning for victory against Napoli.

"It’s a contest we have to go into looking to win. We need to play with ruthlessness and concentration, as we did against Siena."

Juve recorded a 2-0 home win over Napoli earlier this season.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Juventus will win the Scudetto, says Galliani

The AC Milan CEO has lost all hope of securing the league title this term,

but says his side should aim for a second-placed finish instead.

Feb 25, 2013

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani is certain that Juventus will go on to retain their Serie A crown.

The Bianconeri currently hold a handsome lead at the top of the table, but after the Rossoneri enjoyed an upturn in form, the 68-year-old is optimistic ahead of the remainder of the campaign.

"Will Juve win Serie A? Absolutely. That's what I think," the 68-year-old told Rai Sport.

"But after the two matches of Napoli and our next match, we could think about the second place. Now it's too early to talk about it, however."

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

[Socrates 8422]

Celtic's Brown to miss Juventus tie with abductor injury

The Hoops’ skipper is unlikely to recover in time for his team’s Champions League trip

to Turin where the Scottish side will aim to come back from a 3-0 home defeat.

Feb 26, 2013

Celtic midfielder Scott Brown will miss the Scottish side's crunch Champions League second leg match in Juventus next week.

The Hoops will have to overturn a 3-0 deficit to reach the next round, and will need to do it without their captain as Brown is still suffering from an abductor injury that has kept him out of several games recently.

Brown will also miss the first competitive games of new Scotland manager Gordon Strachan’s tenure – World Cup qualifiers against Wales and Serbia.

Celtic boss Neil Lennon told reporters: "Scott is out indefinitely.

"We are still waiting to hear from the specialist, whether it requires surgery or not and I am hoping that we will get a definitive answer by the end of the week."

Lennon also spoke about the returns of defenders Mikael Lustig and Charlie Mulgrew from their own injury lay-offs.

The Northern Irishman added: "Lustig is still out and Charlie Mulgrew, they are the only three absentees. Lustig is out for two to three weeks, it is bone bruising so it could even be longer.

"So I imagine he will miss Juventus. We are hoping Charlie will be fit for Juventus and the game at the weekend.

"Kris Commons is back from his virus and Lassad Nouioui has had a bit of a virus but he is in the squad."

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Bonucci: Juventus are going to Napoli to win

The Italy defender believes the win over Siena has given the team confidence

as they look to stretch their lead at the top of the Serie A table to nine points.

Feb 26, 2013

Defender Leonardo Bonucci has explained that Juventus will be doing all they can to win when they face Serie A title rivals Napoli on Friday.

The Italy international believes the 3-0 win over Siena on Sunday has given Antonio Conte's side confidence ahead of the Scudetto showdown, with Vecchia Signora knowing a win would put them nine points clear of their nearest rivals at the top of the table.

"Getting the victory against a good Siena side was crucial,” he wrote on his official website.

"Now we have a six-point advantage over Napoli and it must give us confidence for the trip to the San Paolo.

"We are going to Napoli in order to win and play our most important game of the season. That is our objective, to be Juventus."

Despite being six points clear of their next opponents, Conte's team have been in indifferent form, winning just four of their eight league matches since the winter break.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Chiellini ready to start for Juve

Feb 26, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini should be fit enough to start in Juventus’ Scudetto tie at Napoli on Friday night.

The defender picked up an ankle injury on his return to action against Siena on Sunday, but he’s expected to be ready for the Stadio San Paolo showdown.

The medical staff are set to give the Italian international the green light to begin from the first minute against the Azzurri.

The 28-year-old has only made 14 League appearances so far this season after being restricted by injuries.

He’s not started a game in the Italian top-flight since the 3-0 win over Atalanta back on December 16.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Bonucci: 'Juve want Naples win'

Feb 26, 2013

Leonardo Bonucci assures Juventus are “going to Napoli in order to win” in Friday’s Scudetto showdown at the San Paolo.

The defender wrote a message to the supporters on his official website this afternoon.

“Getting the victory against a good Siena side was crucial,” he said of Sunday’s 3-0 triumph.

“Now we have a six-point advantage over Napoli and it must give us confidence for the trip to the San Paolo.

“We are going to Napoli in order to win and play our most important game of the season. That is our objective, to be Juventus.

“As always, may the best man win.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus not thinking about six-point advantage - Peluso

The January signing has urged his team-mates to remain focused winning

each match as they prepare to take on Scudetto rivals Napoli on Friday.

Feb 27, 2013

Juventus defender Federico Peluso has said that the team are not thinking about their six-point lead at the top of Serie A.

Antonio Conte’s side look ever-more likely to retain their Scudetto title, but the former Atalanta man is remaining calm over the situation ahead of their top-of-the-table clash with Napoli on Friday.

"We can’t be thinking about the six point advantage, we’re just concentrating on ourselves," Peluso told the club’s official website.

"We know what our aims are and what we want to achieve game after the game. Friday’s match is obviously important and so we hope to come out on top."

The 29-year-old also urged his team-mates to remain focused in their Champions League tie at home to Celtic on March 12.

“The Scots were very good from dead ball situations so we have to be aware of that threat," he added.

“In the first leg, Celtic showed they are a great team who can cause problems for us. Overall we need to stay very focused for the entire match.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

‘Napoli-Juventus not decisive’

Feb 27, 2013

The destination of the Scudetto won’t be decided by Friday’s Napoli-Juventus clash, says Stephan Lichtsteiner.

First take on second in Naples as the Old Lady look to consolidate their six-point advantage over the Azzurri.

“It won’t be decisive as far as the destiny of the title is concerned,” the Bianconero told RAI. “There will still be 11 games remaining after it.”

Napoli have drawn their last three matches in Serie A, but the Swiss international fully respects their opponents.

“They are an excellent side and it’s difficult for anyone to play at the Stadio San Paolo,” he explained. “It won’t be easy.

“Edinson Cavani and Marek Hamsik are excellent footballers who are doing very well, as are the many Swiss players they have in the team.

“Napoli have plenty of individuals who are capable of making the difference and also possess a consolidated style of play.

“We’ll need to remain alert and prepare for the game as best we can. But we’ll go there to impose our style of play and avoiding errors will be important.”

Juve have had a problematic start to 2013 after winning just four of their eight League games, losing twice against Sampdoria and Roma.

“It’s normal to go through a sticky patch throughout the course of a season,” he added. “Sometimes the ball doesn’t seem to want to go in, while the opposition score with their first attempt.

“It happened to us, but we’ve done well to put it behind us.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Caceres and Anelka sidelined

Feb 27, 2013

Martin Caceres and Nicolas Anelka are doubts for Juventus’ game at Napoli on Friday because of fitness issues.

The two players skipped training at Vinovo on Wednesday as they continue to struggle with persistent back pain problems.

Training will resume on Thursday afternoon after boss Antonio Conte has spoken to journalists ahead of the big Scudetto tie.

Defender Caceres has appeared in 14 League games this season and has stood in for Giorgio Chiellini while he has been absent. The latter should be available for the San Paolo showdown.

Anelka, a striker, joined the club in January from Shanghai Shenhua. The 33-year-old has only made one 23-minute substitute appearance in Serie A so far.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Peluso: Forget the League table

Feb 27, 2013

Juventus will pay no attention to the League table when facing Napoli on Friday night in Serie A, insists Federico Peluso.

The Old Lady are six points clear of the second-placed Azzurri and their Scudetto credentials will be underlined should they avoid defeat at the Stadio San Paolo.

However, the January signing from Atalanta has insisted that his side will go into the game making no calculations.

“We can’t be thinking about the points advantage,” Peluso told Juventus Channel. “We’re just concentrating on ourselves.

“We know what our aims are and what we want to achieve game after game. Friday’s match is obviously important and so we hope to come out on top.”

Juve will go into the tie after returning to winning ways with a 3-0 triumph over Siena at the weekend after the 1-0 loss at Roma.

“We sent a strong message against a side that had recently achieved great results against big teams,” the Italian international added.

“It was a really important win. We showed our ability and took another step in the right direction, but now we are thinking about the remaining 12 games.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Cannavaro: 'Juve are beatable'

Feb 27, 2013

Fabio Cannavaro has played for both Juventus and Napoli, so tells his hometown club “the Bianconeri are beatable.”

On Friday evening the top two go head-to-head in a Scudetto showdown at the Stadio San Paolo.

“I expect a tough game, because Juve never give in and they’ll make it very difficult,” Cannavaro told Radio Kiss Kiss.

“Napoli must prove they have grown, that they can play these games and send important signals. They are coming off some not great performances and people expect a lot.

“There is everything they need to do well in this match, because facing Juventus really boosts your motivation.”

His younger brother, Paolo, is the Napoli captain, but Fabio won’t be in the stands of the San Paolo.

“I’ll be watching in Dubai. Napoli should not be afraid, because the Bianconeri may be strong, but they are beatable.

“It should not be seen as the game of the year or the encounter that can save a season. It ought to be considered a match that can give them the fire to push forward till the end. Anything is possible at the San Paolo.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Matri: 'I dream of Naples goal'

Feb 27, 2013

Alessandro Matri admits he is “dreaming of a decisive goal in Naples. Juventus give their best under pressure.”

The striker is fighting with Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco for a starting spot at the Stadio San Paolo on Friday evening.

“We did not let ourselves get intimidated by the cauldron of Celtic Park, so I don’t see why it should affect us on Friday,” Matri told Il Messaggero newspaper.

“Juventus give their best under pressure. We are going to play as if we were joint leaders with Napoli rather than six points in front.

“A victory there would not lock down the Scudetto, but a nine-point gap would be a lot. We are just focused on winning and won’t make calculations.”

Matri has been repeatedly linked with a move away from Turin, especially as Fernando Llorente will arrive from Athletic Bilbao in June.

“I have a four-year contract. I am happy here and have matured, so I want to continue winning here. I convinced Antonio Conte with hard work in training and by scoring, which is crucial for a striker.

“I feel that I am an important player and want to play my cards. It’s better to be one of five forwards at Juventus than a first choice elsewhere.

“You cannot understand what it means until you pull on the Juventus jersey. I was at Cagliari before, but that was different.”

The Bianconeri are Serie A leaders and in good stead to reach the Champions League quarter-finals.

“The Final at Wembley would be a dream,” added Matri. “The goal I’d love to score would be in that Champions League Final, but I’d be happy with the decisive goal against Napoli. I’d do anything to find the net there.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Behrami: 'Juve are not stronger'

Feb 27, 2013

Valon Behrami is confident Napoli can upset the Serie A leaders on Friday. “Juventus are not stronger than us and we must attack them.”

The top two teams go head-to-head at the Stadio San Paolo on Friday evening, kick-off at 19.45 GMT.

“The crowd will give us a hand, that is for sure,” Behrami told the official Napoli radio station.

“Walter Mazzarri has been great at being able to read the various moments we’re going through. Right now he is trying to take the tension off us, as he knows this type of match provides its own motivation.

“There are six points between us, so this game will be the tipping point where we understand who we are and what we can do. It will give a verdict and I’m sure on Friday night we’ll know if we have to look ahead or over our shoulders.

“It is also important we don’t get too unrealistic, as second place is something important that is worth defending. We proved that we can target bigger objectives, but it depends on us.”

Diego Armando Maradona visited Naples this week and urged the team to go for the victory.

“Maradona is right, we must attack Juventus,” continued Behrami. “He is a symbol of Napoli and his words are important, as it’s wonderful to know this champion is cheering us on.

“On paper, Juventus are not stronger than Napoli, but if we calculate their experience, then they have a slight advantage.”

The Bianconeri rely heavily on their midfield trio of Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio.

“I am ready for battle. Will I score? It’ll take a miracle! I ask the fans not to forget that this Napoli is doing very well and try not to get downhearted over a few recent results that weren’t too positive.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Nedved: 'Conte like Lippi and Capello'

Feb 27, 2013

Juventus director Pavel Nedved hails Coach Antonio Conte ahead of the showdown with Napoli. “He’ll no doubt catch up with Marcello Lippi and Fabio Capello.”

The tactician has only been on the Bianconeri bench for 18 months, but already won the Scudetto unbeaten, the Italian Super Cup and reached the Coppa Italia Final.

“Conte is a true star,” Nedved told Sky Sport Italia and the official Juventus website.

“I really like his way of thinking. He manages to get his humility across and that leads to successful results. A comparison with Lippi and Capello? His relative youth means that he hasn’t won as much as them as a Coach yet, but he’ll no doubt catch up with them. He’s one of the best.

“To become a top Coach you have to be able to get your ideas across to the players, to get your personality across. He knows how to do that, and when I go to the stadium and watch Juve play, I really enjoy myself.

“The side has strength of character, it presses the opposition, the players are always looking to score.”

Juve are six points clear at the top of the table and visit second-placed Napoli on Friday evening in a Scudetto showdown.

“It’s not going to be a match point in the title race,” insisted Nedved.

“There are still 11 games to go and there’s still everything to play for. Napoli have some excellent players, some world-class players, as well as an excellent Coach. They can win the Scudetto just as much as we can. The game will be important, but there’ll be a lot more games after it.

“Playing in such an atmosphere is the best any player could hope for and it’s exceptional to feel that first hand. The games at the San Paolo are always good ones and I always enjoy them, as a player before and now as a club official.

“During the 2006/07 season Juve and Napoli were both playing in Serie B and today they find themselves battling with each other for the Scudetto: that means that both clubs have worked exceptionally hard since then.”

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Chiellini: Napoli can cause Juventus trouble

The Italy international has warned that Walter Mazzarri's men will not

be pushovers, and has been impressed with the Partenopei's rise in recent years.

Feb 28, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini has warned his Juventus team-mates not to underestimate the threat posed by Napoli in their Serie A clash on Friday.

Just six points separate the two sides going into the San Paolo fixture, and the Italy international has been impressed with the Partenopei's rise in recent years.

"The match could go either way. It won’t be decisive because there is still a long way to go in the championship, but it will of course be important for both teams," Chiellini told Sky Sport Italia.

"Napoli have improved immensely. They have an ambitious president, and since [Walter] Mazzarri arrived, they’ve taken a further step up in quality.

"The club has not only become competitive in Italy, but also in Europe, as they showed last year over two legs against Chelsea."

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Napoli-Juventus Betting Preview:

Expect the Bianconeri to strike first

The hosts need to win in order to maintain the pressure at the top of the table,

but Al Hain-Cole thinks that their poor form in front of goal could put them in trouble early on.

Feb 28, 2013

Although there is still almost a third of the Serie A season left to play, Friday’s clash between Napoli and Juventus could quite reasonably be described as an early title decider.

A win for Walter Mazzarri’s men would bring them back to within three points of the league leaders, while defeat would leave them with a mountain to climb.

Unfortunately for the hosts, they go into this match without a win in their last five games, and are underdogs at 2/1 (3.00) with Bet Victor to pick up a crucial three points.

In contrast, Antonio Conte has guided his side to four wins in the last five matches, and sees them start the game as favourites at 31/20 (2.55).

Last year’s corresponding fixture at the Stadio San Paolo resulted in a thrilling 3-3 draw, and you can get odds of 23/10 (3.30) on this one finishing all square once again.

However, an equally high-scoring encounter seems unlikely this time round, as the Partenopei appear to have lost their touch in front of goal recently.

The hosts have failed to score in their last four competitive matches, so are unlikely to come out in prolific form against a team that has kept three clean sheets in their previous four.

The Bianconeri, on the other hand, can usually be relied upon to start on the front foot, and have taken the lead in eight of their last 10 games.

With the visiting team sure to start more confidently in attack, they are the obvious choice to get the ball rolling on Friday, at healthy odds of 9/10 (1.90).

In fact, the travelling support may not have to wait for too long at all before starting the festivities, as their club have hit the back of the net inside the opening 20 minutes in three of the last five games.

With this in mind, it makes sense to back Juventus scoring their opening goal within the first 27 minutes, at inviting 12/5 (3.40) odds.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Match point for Juventus

Feb 28, 2013

Juventus will wrap up the Scudetto win a win at Napoli on Friday night, former striker Nicola Amourso has stated.

Although there are still 12 rounds of the campaign to go, Amoruso has told TMW that the Old Lady can put their hands on the title this weekend.

“It’s certainly a crucial stage of the season,” Amoruso, who also played for Napoli, told TMW. “If Juve win then it’ll be all over.

“Antonio Conte’s side certainly arrive at the fixture in good shape, but I think Walter Mazzarri’s side will get themselves out of their hardly brilliant moment.

“Napoli will certainly be very determined because this is the last chance they have for their dream that they call the Scudetto.”

Juventus have a six-point advantage over a Napoli side who have drawn their last three games in Serie A.

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

[Socrates 8422]

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Vucinic on Napoli and Jovetic

Feb 28, 2013

Juventus’ Mirko Vucinic says the tie at Napoli will not decide anything, while he would welcome Stevan Jovetic to the club.

Speaking to Tuttosport on Thursday, the striker pondered a number of issues – starting with Friday’s Scudetto clash in Naples.

“It won’t decide anything as the race is still long,” Vucinic, whose side are six points clear of the Azzurri, stated.

“It’s also a lot harder in the second half of the season, as the sides who are fighting to stay up really start to give it their all and it is difficult to take anybody on.

“I know what the atmosphere will be like at the San Paolo, but I’m not worried by it. We’ll just have to react to it like we did at Glasgow against Celtic – it’ll pretty much be like that.”

Vucinic is the only untouchable figure in the Juventus attack and there is talk that Montenegro teammate Jovetic could be signed in the summer from Fiorentina.

“We play close together in the national side and we often switch positions with each other. I’d like to do that at Juve as he is a fellow countryman and is a really strong player.

“However, there is Beppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici here who work on transfers, it is up to them to decide,” he noted.

“My future? I don’t look at it. I live one day at a time, but I’m happy in Turin. England? I’m not interested.”

The former Roma player was also asked for an opinion on Paul Pogba, the French teenager who has been a revelation since his summer move from Manchester United.

“I’ve only see talents emerge at the age of 19 on a few occasions, but nobody is like him,” he assured. “He has to grow in peace. If he continues to work as he is doing then he’ll be a champion.”

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