Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000‎

Honours even in top table clash

Mar 1, 2013

Gokhan Inler cancelled out an early Giorgio Chiellini goal to earn Napoli a draw against Juventus in a top-of-the-table clash at the Stadio San Paolo.

Juve appeared to be on course for a nine-point cushion at the top of the table when Chiellini headed them in front in the 10th minute, while they scuppered further chances to increase their lead.

Napoli then levelled just before half-time with a deflected effort and had the better chances to win the game in the second half, but ultimately had to settle for a point which maintains the six-point gap between the two sides.

Just 13 seconds were on the clock when Marek Hamsik turned Goran Pandev's cross wide.

However, it proved to be a rare threat to Gianluigi Buffon's goal as Juventus immediately gained control of the match, taking the lead in the 10th minute.

Andrea Pirlo sent in a cross from the left which was met by Chiellini, who had stayed up following a corner, and he used strength and determination to head the ball unstoppably past Morgan de Sanctis, beating Miguel Britos in the air.

Two minutes later, Stephan Lichtsteiner wanted a penalty when he went down under the challenge of Inler, but referee Daniele Orsato waved away his appeals.

Mirko Vucinic failed to replicate Chiellini's determination when he headed a cross wide of the far post midway through the first half before De Sanctis denied him with an excellent reflex save.

Napoli were struggling to get into the game, but a break in the 43rd minute saw them level through Inler. His shot took a deflection off the head of Leonardo Bonucci, which lifted the ball above the hand of Buffon.

At the end of the half, Edinson Cavani and Chiellini clashed in the penalty area with both receiving a yellow card, although the Napoli forward was fortunate not to receive more.

The home side then improved in the second half with Buffon having to earn his money.

He turned Hamsik's shot wide for a corner before parrying another effort from the Slovakian midfielder with Blerim Dzemaili sending the rebound wide.

The game then fizzled out with both sides seemingly happy with a point each, although the draw only really helps Juventus, who maintain a six-point lead at the top of the table with a superior head-to-head record over their opponents.

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Serie A: Napoli 1 Juventus 1

Mar 1, 2013

Juventus remain six points clear at the Serie A summit after being held to a 1-1 draw by Scudetto rivals Napoli at the Stadio San Paolo.

Antonio Conte's men looked poised to take a giant step towards retaining their title after taking an early lead through Giorgio Chiellini, but Gokhan Inler's deflected drive drew the home side level just before the break.

Napoli looked the slightly more pinching victory during the second period but Juventus held on quite comfortably to keep their nearest challengers at bay in the title race.

The only pre-match doubt Conte had was whether to start Chiellini, who took a knock to his ankle against Siena last weekend. He decided to take a gamble on the Italy international - and it paid off spectacularly just 10 minutes in, Chiellini rising above Miguel Britos to powerfully head a terrific cross from Andrea Pirlo past Morgan De Sanctis.

The goal was harsh on Napoli, who had actually begun the brighter of the two, with Marek Hamsik particularly prominent early on. However, the tide turned and Mirko Vucinic had already squandered one decent headed opening when he butchered a gilt-edged opportunity to double the visitors' advantage.

Leonardo Bonucci - of all people - dissected the Napoli defence with a perfectly weighted pass from deep that Arturo Vidal, in a sensational demonstration of special awareness, controlled before immediately flicking inside to Vucinic.

The Montenegrin took an age to decide how best to finish, allowing De Sanctis to narrow the angle sufficiently to block the Bianconeri forward's belated strike on goal away for a corner.

Such profligacy rarely goes unpunished at the top level and so it was that Napoli managed to haul themselves level during a dramatic conclusion to a compelling opening 45 minutes.

There appeared to be little danger to the Juventus goal when Inler picked up possession some 30 yards out but the Swiss international's well-struck drive from distance took a big enough deflection off the head of Bonucci, sending it flying over the despairing dive of Gianluigi Buffon.

That was the first stroke of luck Napoli benefitted from on the night; the second arrived in the dying seconds of the first half when star striker Edinson Cavani inexplicably avoided a straight red card for a blatant forearm into Chiellini's face.

In his defence referee Daniele Orsato did not see the incident, but quite why he decided to brandish only a yellow after being informed of what had happened by one of his assistants was utterly mystifying.

Napoli did their utmost to make the most of their undoubted good fortune, with Hamsik drawing a fine stop out of Buffon shortly after half-time. Vucinic responded in kind, bringing the best out of De Sanctis, as Juve redoubled their efforts to all but end the title race.

Napoli were left to curse their own inability to draw to within three points of their opponents after wasting a terrific chance to snatch a vital win.

Just moments after Cavani had headed straight at Buffon, Hamsik again found some space in between the Juve midfield and defence. The Slovak unleashed a powerful drive that Buffon found too hot to handle, but Lorenzo Insigne, who had replaced the grossly ineffective Goran Pandev, snatched at the rebound and dragged the ball wide. And with it, went Napoli's best chance to breathe new life into the Scudetto race.

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Napoli vs. Juventus: 5 Things We Learned

from This Pivotal Serie a Match

Mar 1, 2013

In a feisty 90-minute affair which ended in a 1-1 tie, Napoli and Juventus didn't do much to assert themselves in a new position in the Serie A. A win for the Bianconeri would've effectively sealed the Scudetto title, while a Napoli triumph would've given them serious hope to mount a surprising comeback to challenge for the title.

Here are the top five things we learned from yet another heart-pumping Italian affair!

Juventus Are Another Team with Giorgio Chiellini

The rugged Giorgio Chiellini provides the most toughness at the back for Juventus. During his absence due to injury, the Bianconeri were forced to employ a makeshift defensive three at the back and suffered the consequences by losing a couple of valuable points.

Chiellini's leadership and aerial ability were felt instantly against Napoli, as he soared high to score a thundering header for the 1-0 lead.

Napoli Needs to Keep Hold of Edinson Cavani

The Uruguayan hitman was deemed surplus at Palermo, so Napoli took a chance on him right away, and he has increased his value tenfold.

Despite currently undergoing a scoring dry spell in Serie A, El Matador is the main reason why Napoli is in second place this season, as he's the leading goalscorer in the league. After having sold Ezequiel Lavezzi to Paris St-Germain, Napoli cannot afford to lose another world-class talent.

These Two Teams Really Do Not Like Each Other

In an interview with Il Corriere Della Sera a few months ago, Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio fervently stated his displeasure with facing Napoli, saying he can't stand them and whenever he has to play them something extra ticks inside his head.

The aggression was on full display today—we witnessed a constant wrestling match between defender Giorgio Chiellini and El Matador Cavani.

Edinson Cavani vs. Giorgio Chiellini Becoming an Incredible Matchup

It's quickly becoming one of the best individual matchups in Serie A every time Giorgio Chiellini and Edinson Cavani square off. Tons of illegal tugging, pushing and the occasional cheap shot—today provided no shortage of action, as Chiellini opted on pulling the Uruguayan's hair. As a more painful revenge, Cavani went for an old-fashioned elbow to the head which should have been a clear red card.

Overall, a tantalizing 90 minutes between these two legends.

The Scudetto Isn't Sealed

First place in the Serie A is still up for grabs. Juventus has yet to face Inter, Lazio, Milan and a tricky Catania team aiming for a surprise European spot.

11 match days remain for the rest of Serie A to catch up to the mighty Bianconeri, and I have a feeling it'll go down to the wire.

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

What Napoli vs. Juventus Taught Us

About the Serie A Title Race

Mar 1, 2013

Juventus escaped the cauldron of the San Paolo with a point, despite weathering a second-half storm from Napoli.

The Partenopei started slowly, which is a concern for Walter Mazzarri considering the experience that numerous members of the squad possess.

Mazzarri might be even more concerned that it was one of his most important players who revealed the atmosphere around the side, Marek Hamsik stated in an interview on the Sky Italia broadcast as he was walking towards the tunnel at half-time that "it was normal (to be nervous) in a game of such magnitude."

Ultimately the Slovakian summed up exactly why Juventus will be champions again and why Napoli, despite a wonderful cycle under Mazzarri, will never be champions with the current crop of players.

The mentality was evident from the game, and Napoli lost the match in the opening few minutes when the Partenopei were caught sleeping at a corner.

Andrea Pirlo took it short, and after exchanging a one-two with Mirko Vucinic, the 33-year-old, despite a lack of pace, drifted past Valon Behrami and crossed from the byline to the back post, where Giorgio Chiellini stole a march on Miguel Britos to head home the opening goal.

It was a really sloppy goal to concede for Napolib and it quickly nullified the huge advantage of the noisy, 55,000-strong crowd.

While Napoli would grow into the game and probably edge it over eventually—with the two teams so evenly matched—the damage had already been done.

This last-chance saloon for Napoli proved to us that they were never truly contenders and that due to a lack of genuine competition for the Bianconeri, calcio enthusiasts put the Neapolitans on that pedestal in order to generate excitement.

It worked for a few weeks, but when a "title contender" draws two successive matches 0-0, at home to Sampdoria and then away to Udinese—the Friuli are a tricky proposition in fairness, having only been defeated once at home this season—in the buildup to this clash, we soon realised that it never was a title race.

With two wins in just those two games, Napoli would have entered Friday's match with Juventus two points off the top and potentially one win away from usurping the current champions, but as Hamsik so candidly revealed, exhaling deeply after a frantic 45 minutes, it was "normal" to be nervous in such games.

And that is just it, to be champions, every game is big and everybody wants to beat you, so unfortunately Napoli have not been able to keep us intrigued by the happenings at the top of Serie A.

When we dissect the squad of Napoli, it is no wonder why they have fallen short this season.

Immediately you think back to the sale of Ezequiel Lavezzi to PSG and whether El Pocho could have made enough of a difference over the course of a season to put Napoli into a title-winning position.

Goran Pandev was well-suited to his role last season as a backup, and Lorenzo Insigne has sparkled at times this season, but the young star—despite maybe exceeding expectations this season—has not come close to filling the gaping void left by the Argentine star.

Edinson Cavani has been as good as ever this season, but against the best defence in the league, that had the luxury of the returning Chiellini, Mazzarri's side's famous frantic counter attacks have not had the same punch this season without the penetration of Lavezzi.

Napoli sprung plenty of counter attacks against the Bianconeri on Friday, but it was Cavani, and Cavani alone who was looking to drag the Juventus centre-backs out of position and create space for others to dash into.

Friday's game was intriguing—when 55,000 fans show up at the San Paolo, you take notice—but not for the reasons that it was built up to be.

This was no title decider, it was merely a realisation that Juventus are the best team on the peninsula, and a second successive scudetto awaits in May.

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Player Ratings

Goal.com evaluates the performances of everyone involved at the San Paolo, as Gokhan Inler's

deflected strike earns the home side a draw which keeps their title hopes alive.

Mar 1, 2013

SSC Napoli

Morgan De Sanctis - Given no chance by Chiellini for the opener but kept his side in the game by coming out on top in a pivotal one-on-one with Vucinic. Also did well to parry a searing strike from Vucinic away to safety.

Miguel Angel Britos - Drafted into the defence in place of Alessandro Gamberini and was caught out badly for the game's opening goal, allowing Chiellini to get the jump on him. Involved in a sickening collision with Inler not long after so it was only wise that Mazzarri removed him at the break.

Hugo Armando Campagnaro - Did not put a foot wrong at the back for the Partenopei and was also never afraid to step out of defence.

Paolo Cannavaro - A disciplined defensive display, save one reckless lunge on Lichsteiner that earned him a booking.

Christian Maggio - Pegged Peluso back inside his own half and caused problems every time he got in behind. Indeed, he whipped over one sublime cross that an in-form Cavani would have done better with.

Marek Hamsik - A threat right from the off, even if his first two strikes on goal were dreadfully wayward. Fared much better with a low drive at the start of the second half that Buffon did well to push around the post. It was another Hamsik strike that resulted in the rebound that Insigne really should have buried. Overall, Napoli's best attacker.

Juan Camilo Zúñiga - Did a fine job keeping Lichsteiner reasonably quiet. Attacked when he could, too, even occasionally popping up in central attacking positions.

Valon Behrami - Not quite as eye-catching as Inler in the Napoli engine room but played a key role in upsetting Juve's much-vaunted midfield trio. Passing was crisp and accurate, releasing Hamsik into space in the lead up to the Insigne chance with one particularly nice ball.

Gökhan Inler - Flirted with disaster by bundling Lichsteiner off the ball in the area but offered Napoli plenty of drive and determination in the middle of the park and his industry was rewarded with a fortuitous deflection off the head off Bonucci just before the break. Continued to cause problems with his powerful runs from midfield throughout the second half.

Edinson Cavani - Another outing without a goal for the Uruguayan, whose obvious frustration at being marked out of the game manifested itself in a quite brutal forearm smash into the face of Chiellini. Incredibly lucky to have stayed on the field and it would have felt wrong if he'd decided the game in Napoli's favour by heading home Maggio's cross late on.

Goran Pandev - Got the nod ahead of Insigne and started well, barging his way past Chiellini inside the opening 15 seconds to set up a chance for Hamsik. However, he was a passenger for the remainder of his time on the field.

Substitutions

Blerim Dzemaili - Came on for the dazed and confused Britos during the interval but did not make much of animpact.

Pablo Armero - Thrown in place of a shattered Inler with just over five minutes to go.

Lorenzo Insigne - Replaced the ineffective Pandev midway through the second half and offered a far greater attacking threat. Still, he really should have scored when Buffon parried the ball into his path.

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon - Had actually had very little to do before being cruelly beaten by Inler's deflected shot from distance. However, he made three fine stops during what was a far busier second half for the Bianconeri defence.

Andrea Barzagli - Distribution was a tad erratic at times but did a fine job in ensuring that Napoli got nothing going down their left-hand side. Indeed, was coolness personified throughout, as exemplified by the way in which he dealt with an awkward cross from the right while under pressure from Cavani.

Leonardo Bonucci - Played the pass of the game, splitting the Napoli defence with a stunning ball from deep inside his own half which really should have ended with Vucinic scoring Juve's second. From a defensive perspective, kept Cavani very quiet.

Giorgio Chiellini - What a game! A fitness doubt beforehand, Chiellini looked a little vulnerable early on, getting outmuscled by Pandev just seconds after the kick-off. But he quickly got himself back up to speed and made a crucial sliding tackle to cut out Hamsike's through-ball for Cavani. His goal, meanwhile, was wonderfully taken.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Did not do anywhere near as much damage down the right wing as he usually does, primarily due to the presence of Zuniga. His crossing was particularly poor.

Claudio Marchisio - Did not carry the same attacking threat as per usual, but worked tirelessly. Indeed, his performance was best summed up by the way in which he raced back to regain possession for his side in midfield after being caught offside in the Napoli area seconds before.

Andrea Pirlo - The veteran playmaker had already set about supressing Napoli's bright start when he crossed for Chiellini to break the deadlock. Continued to dictate the tempo thereafter, even during what was a far more uncomfortable second period for Juve.

Arturo Vidal - Put in some terrific tackles and also broke forward supremely well, creating two wonderful chances for Vucinic. However, faded after the break.

Federico Peluso - Did not offer anything like the same attacking thrust as Lichsteiner on the opposite flank but still managed a couple of rampaging runs. However, struggled at times to get to grips with Maggio and was also booked for a stupid foul on the edge of his own area.

Mirko Vučinić - Dropped deep to good effect at times early on, holding the ball up well and creating time and space for others with characteristically deft lay-offs. However, his finishing continues to let him down, with the Montenegrin wasting a glorious chance to double Juve's lead midway through the first half.

Sebastian Giovinco - Fired a shot straight down De Sanctis' throat some seven minutes but rarely threatened thereafter. Created openings for Vucinic and also worked harded defensively, doing enough to put off Hamsik when the Slovak was shaping to shoot in the area. But then, that's not what he's picked for.

Substitutions

Paul Pogba - Replaced Vucinic for the last few minutes as Juventus looked to shore things up in midfield.

Simone Padoin - Introduced in place of Marchisio in the dying seconds.

Alessandro Matri - Took over up top from Giovinco for the final 15 minutes and looked more lively than the man he had replaced.

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Conte satisfied after 'strong' display in Napoli draw

The Italian tactician was happy with his side's performance but lamented

his team's inability not to take advantage of their impressive first-half display.

Mar 1, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte was left satisfied with his team's showing against Napoli but believes the side could have built on their first-half showing.

The top two teams in Italy shared the spoils after a 1-1 draw and while content, Conte was regretful of how his side were unable to take advantage after dominating the opening period.

“Considering the first half, we could taste the victory and the chance to put Napoli further behind,” Conte told Sky Sport Italia.

“It didn’t happen, but we put in a strong performance in terms of character despite a very fiery atmosphere. I compliment the players on keeping their heads in this stadium.

“We did well not to lose our calm and stay in the game at all times. There are 11 rounds to go and it’s all open, so we have to keep pedalling at full pace to stay out in front.

“The Scudetto is far away on a mathematical level, as we are six points in front – which is a good advantage – but there are another 33 available. Don’t forget we still have to play Milan, Inter and the revelation Catania.

“We must always be gritty, determined and motivated to get the points, because every match is difficult and a surprise is always around the corner.

“There is no more time for fun and games or slip-ups. If we do well, then we’ll get there, but if we don’t then it’s only right that someone else finishes first. That’s why we have to keep our heads down.”

Conte also hinted that the commitment of playing in the Champions League has taken its toll on his players while looking ahead to next week's round of 16 second-leg tie with Celtic, and says he is not taking anything for granted.

“This season the Champions League has to be taken into account and it takes away energy, both physical and psychological. I appealed to the team to stay on point, as we need everyone from here to the end,” he continued.

“Winning the Scudetto would be a huge achievement. We’re 3-0 up in the first leg against Celtic, but I’m nowhere near relaxed. Until the referee blows the final whistle, I will not relax.

“While the game is open, you still give your opponents the sensation they can turn it around. We had several chances to finish it off and going 2-0 up would’ve been a heavy psychological blow for Napoli."

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

My battle with Cavani was only on the field, says Chiellini

The Italian defender left everything on the pitch between him and the Uruguayan star

despite some heated exchanges and feisty clashes at the San Paolo.

Mar 1, 2013

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has revealed he and Napoli's Edinson Cavani left the field on friendly terms despite being engaged in tussles during the Serie A clash at the San Paolo which ended 1-1.

Before half-time, Cavani was adjudged to have elbowed Chiellini in the face while the Italy international was seen to pull the Uruguayan's hair.

Despite their on-field exchanges, Chiellini has assured that there are no hard feelings between the two.

“We spoke afterwards and it’s only right that for 90 minutes we knock each other about, but at the final whistle it’s all over," Chiellini told Sky Sport Italia.

“What happened can be seen on the footage. It stays on the pitch - it is a great challenge to be taking on champions.

“It was an important game that wouldn’t decide anything, but we sent a signal we want to win the Scudetto again and deserve to be top of the table,” continued Chiellini.

“It was a decent performance and we hoped to win, but the draw is overall the right result.”

Chiellini was a doubt to play before the match but managed to play the full 90 minutes and even got himself on the scoresheet.

But he admitted the match had taken its toll, explaining: “The ankle still hurts a lot.

"I have to thank the medical staff, as we worked together all day and even at night at my home.

“I am glad that I was able to help the team, though I still need to improve my fitness levels and I can only do that by playing.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Conte: 'Juve tasted victory'

Mar 1, 2013

Antonio Conte couldn’t help but have regrets after Juventus fumbled a lead against Napoli. “We could taste the victory.”

The Bianconeri have not conquered the Stadio San Paolo since 2000, when Conte was playing in midfield, as today they were held to a 1-1 draw.

“Considering the first half, we could taste the victory and the chance to put Napoli further behind,” Coach Conte told Sky Sport Italia.

“It didn’t happen, but we put in a strong performance in terms of character despite a very fiery atmosphere. I compliment the players on keeping their heads in this stadium.

“We did well not to lose our calm and stay in the game at all times. There are 11 rounds to go and it’s all open, so we have to keep pedalling at full pace to stay out in front.

“The Scudetto is far away on a mathematical level, as we are six points in front – which is a good advantage – but there are another 33 available. Don’t forget we still have to play Milan, Inter and the revelation Catania.

“We must always be gritty, determined and motivated to get the points, because every match is difficult and a surprise is always around the corner.

“There is no more time for fun and games or slip-ups. If we do well, then we’ll get there, but if we don’t then it’s only right that someone else finishes first. That’s why we have to keep our heads down.”

This match was brought forward to Friday evening so Juventus could prepare for the Champions League Round of 16 against Celtic.

“This season the Champions League has to be taken into account and it takes away energy, both physical and psychological. I appealed to the team to stay on point, as we need everyone from here to the end,” continued Conte.

“Winning the Scudetto would be a huge achievement. We’re 3-0 up in the first leg against Celtic, but I’m nowhere near relaxed. Until the referee blows the final whistle, I will not relax.

“While the game is open, you still give your opponents the sensation they can turn it around. We had several chances to finish it off and going 2-0 up would’ve been a heavy psychological blow for Napoli.

“Their fans never stopped cheering them on and neither did ours, as I could hear our supporters behind my bench. It can’t have been easy for them to make themselves heard in that atmosphere!

“Napoli were much more careful after the break, sitting back and leaving us possession in midfield so they could attack the space. Inevitably you have to calculate the options in these games, as there was no need to go crazy on the attack or run unnecessary risks. I consider that a show of maturity from the lads.”

Conte was asked about the tussle between Giorgio Chiellini and Edinson Cavani. The defender pulled his hair and the striker reacted with an elbow to the face.

“Giorgio is seeing if Cavani has hair gel in… As for the elbow, the footage is there and everyone can make their own judgement on it. These situations happen in a tense game and you judge for yourselves.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Chiellini: 'All fine with Cavani'

Mar 1, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini revealed there were no hard feelings after his tussle with Edinson Cavani. “We knock each other about, but at the final whistle it’s all over.”

The pair continually wrestled during the 1-1 draw at the San Paolo this evening and controversy surrounds an incident before half-time.

Chiellini was spotted pulling Cavani’s hair and the Uruguayan reacted by swinging an elbow into the side of his face, but the Napoli striker escaped with only a yellow card.

“What happened can be seen on the footage,” said the Juventus defender on Sky Sport Italia.

“We spoke afterwards and it’s only right that for 90 minutes we knock each other about, but at the final whistle it’s all over. It stays on the pitch and is a great challenge to be taking on champions.”

The pair proved it was all behind them by embracing and exchanging shirts after the match.

“It was an important game that wouldn’t decide anything, but we sent a signal we want to win the Scudetto again and deserve to be top of the table,” continued Chiellini.

“It was a decent performance and we hoped to win, but the draw is overall the right result.”

Chiellini was a major doubt to feature after suffering an ankle injury this week, but played 90 minutes and even scored a goal.

“The ankle still hurts a lot. I have to thank the medical staff, as we worked together all day and even at night at my home.

“I am glad that I was able to help the team, though I still need to improve my fitness levels and I can only do that by playing.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Inler: 'Napoli-Juve draw was fair'

Mar 2, 2013

Gokhan Inler scored Napoli’s equaliser in the Scudetto battle and feels the draw with Juventus “was the right result.”

The Swiss midfielder unleashed a screamer that took a deflection to beat Gigi Buffon in last night’s 1-1 draw.

“I think it was the right result,” said Inler. “We had a really bad start, then improved and in the second half did much better.”

The gap at the top of the table remains six points after this head-to-head, so do the Partenopei still believe in their title hopes?

“There are 11 rounds to go and we must always play to our best in order to bring home a great result.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Peluso 'surprised' by Naples start

Mar 2, 2013

January signing Federico Peluso admits even he wasn’t expecting to be in the starting XI for Napoli-Juventus.

The former Atalanta midfielder was an unexpected pick in last night’s 1-1 draw at the Stadio San Paolo.

“I honestly wasn’t expecting to start, but the Coach keeps everyone in mind. We are all ready when called upon,” confessed Peluso.

“Antonio Conte was directing me from the touchline. I try to fill different roles and do not have a preference, as I know that being versatile I have more opportunities to play.

“There is always the desire to win here at Juve and the Coach is very good at transmitting that mentality to the squad.

“I hoped to settle in quickly after my transfer, as I already knew Conte from our work together at Atalanta.”

Juventus are now six points clear of Napoli and have one foot in the Champions League quarter-finals after winning the first leg 3-0 away to Celtic.

“That Champions League game gave us back our self-belief, but the hiccups we had in January hadn’t really knocked us down. We were already aware that we were overcoming that difficult moment.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Conte: 'No Mazzarri handshake'

Mar 2, 2013

Antonio Conte revealed his rapport with Napoli Coach Walter Mazzarri has hit rock bottom. “We didn’t shake hands or even look at each other. It’s better that way.”

The Juventus tactician has often exchanged barbed comments with Mazzarri, but they were actively staying apart during last night’s 1-1 draw at the San Paolo.

“Did I have a row with Mazzarri during the game? No, I never spoke with Mazzarri. Never, never, never,” said Conte in his Press conference.

“We didn’t even shake hands. I can assure you we didn’t even look at each other. Each to their own bench. It’s better that way.”

Conte then lambasted Napoli and the media for ‘pressuring’ the refereeing designator Stefano Braschi into appointing Daniele Orsato for the big game.

“I criticised referees and I paid for it, again and again and again. When I make a mistake, I always take responsibility and say ‘I got it wrong.’ Others never seem to make a mistake and always pin the responsibility on someone else.

“Braschi has been put under huge pressure to choose the right referee for this game. A certain newspaper mounted a campaign all week against Nicola Rizzoli. I am not just making this up, it is clear to see.

“If we have reached this point, to pressurise and change Braschi’s decisions... Braschi has to be left alone to do his job.

“The referees are all talented and everyone makes mistakes, we must all just deal with it. When they get it wrong, I admit that I sometimes get angry and pay the price with fines and bans.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Asamoah 'safe' after bus attack

Mar 2, 2013

Kwadwo Asamoah is thankful he emerged “safe” from Naples after his window was smashed by rocks thrown at the team bus.

The Juventus midfielder was sitting at the window when the bus drove into the Stadio San Paolo last night.

Hooligans pelted the vehicle with eggs, bottles and even rocks, one of which smashed the window in front of Asamoah.

“Hello to everyone,” wrote Asamoah on his Twitter feed.

“For all those asking, I am fine, thank God. I’m happy to have escaped safe and with a point from this game. Have a good weekend.”The Ghanaian midfielder was not in the starting XI for the 1-1 draw last night, but director Beppe Marotta assured it was a technical decision and had nothing to do with the pre-match fright.

There have been numerous arrests of Juventus and Napoli fans after the game on Friday evening, as there were scuffles, objects were thrown and cars set alight around the stadium.

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

[Socrates 8435]

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

1 - 1

Giorgio Chiellini (10′)

Gökhan Inler (43′)

San Paolo Stadium - Napels

Referee: Daniele Orsato

Attendance: 60000

Juventus strengthen grip on Scudetto but brutal

Cavani elbow proves review rules must change

The Bianconeri moved closer to a second straight title with a 1-1 draw at San Paolo,

but the evening's flashpoint reminded football of a point of law that needs to be addressed.

Mar 2, 2013

COMMENT

By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer

The final whistle blasted, the two players turned to each other, shared an embrace and exchanged shirts. Giorgio Chiellini even paid tribute to Edinson Cavani when interviewed by local TV shortly afterwards. It was one of those moments that capture sport at its best. The pair had spent 90 minutes going at one another hammer and tongs, yet when all was said and done, the respect between the two shone through.

Cavani will consider himself a very lucky man though, with his vicious elbow on Chiellini during first-half injury time providing the flashpoint in Napoli’s 1-1 draw against Juventus. Having had his hair pulled by the Italy international defender, then felt himself dragged back by the shoulder, the Uruguayan unleashed a malicious elbow in the face of his marker.

What Chiellini did was wrong, but Cavani had no right to react the way he did. The Napoli marksman was booked by referee Daniele Orsato and remained on the field for the last 45 minutes of the contest. On another night he would rightly have seen red and left the Partenopei a man short.

That he didn’t owed much to Orsato’s leniency. Having been informed by the goal-line official at the south end of the ground that it had been an elbow from the Napoli striker which had felled Chiellini, the man in the middle had no decision to make but to reveal the red card. Bewilderingly, the yellow followed instead, leaving Juve to fight on against a full complement when they should have been up against 10 men.

There can be no doubting that Orsato’s decision was the wrong one, and the greatest fear in the mind of most neutrals during the second half was that Cavani might go on to score a winning goal which would lead to all sorts of recriminations afterwards.

But while Serie A’s top scorer did not grab a goal, the yellow card he received could have further consequences on the title race. Because thanks to Orsato’s brandishing of a caution, no action can now be taken against the Uruguayan under the current laws of the game. With a video review not deemed appropriate for incidents which a referee has already ruled on, Cavani cannot face a ban for his moment of madness.

On another night Cavani would rightly have seen red and left the Partenopei a man short ... Now, in the next three matches, he could score the goals that propel Napoli back into the title race.

The reality is that he should be forced to sit out at least the next three matches for what was a blatant and downright brutal assault, and because the Lega Serie A’s disciplinary commission can take no further action says much about the stupidity of some of the practices in the current game.

Yes, it may be opening a can of worms to delve into reviews of incidents which have been judged already by match officials, but when such a bad decision has clearly been made, the punishment must remain the same as it would be had a player been dealt with correctly in the first place.

In the next three matches, Cavani could score a handful of goals that propel Napoli back into the title race at a time when Juventus have plenty of other things on their minds. Thankfully for the powers-that-be, it is now an unlikely scenario given that the 1-1 draw on Friday night theoretically puts the Bianconeri a further half-point ahead of the Campania outfit thanks to their superior head-to-head record, but a red card and a three-match ban would have ensured that the Uruguay international is in no position to alter the course of the Scudetto until the beginning of April.

Had Cavani bagged the winner, there would have been hell to pay. Napoli would have moved within three points with a new spring in their step and a full-strength side with which to tackle their next three fixtures. Orsato was lucky that Gianluigi Buffon and Juve held out. And he was fortunate that Blerim Dzemaili somehow missed a clear opportunity to win the game when Buffon parried a shot straight to him.

As it was, the champions of Italy grabbed the point they deserved regardless of Cavani’s continued presence, and with a six-point lead now bolstered by their positive record against Napoli, it will take something special to stop them from recording a 29th official Scudetto triumph. While football’s governing bodies have yet another reason to look into the reformation of some of their policies, Juventus have proven once more they are a class above the rest of the league whether they’re up against 10 men or 11.

NEXT UP...

•Napoli's latest draw gives Lazio an opportunity to close in on second place with a victory against Milan on Saturday night. While the Biancocelesti have not won away to the Rossoneri since 1989, the absence of Mario Balotelli from the home side's line-up will be considered a boost to Vladimir Petkovic's side. Victory for the capital club would not only put them within three points of an automatic Champions League place, it would also hand them a five-point lead over Milan in the tussle for the top three, meaning Massimiliano Allegri's men would be back under pressure in the Champions League race. Just as it was now or never for Napoli against Juve, Saturday's clash is Lazio's best hope of keeping Milan at arm's length for the remainder of the season.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Juventus will win the Scudetto, says Sergio Brio

The retired defender is convinced that no team in Italy can match the Bianconeri

and believes they are destined to retain their title this term.

Mar 4, 2013

Juventus legend Sergio Brio is certain the reigning Serie A champions will win the league title again this season.

The Old Lady hold a six-point advantage over second-placed Napoli, following their 1-1 draw with the Partenopei on Friday, and the former centre-back has been impressed with the Bianconeri's continued improvement.

"Juve are the best team in Italy since Conte has changed the methodology of tactics. When you see Juve play, you are satisfied," the 56-year-old told Radio Anch'io.

"I do not see teams that could get between Juve and the Scudetto.

"Napoli have made a statement but they lack continuity, which means a lot in Serie A.

"Juve have it in their own hands. They have two or three tougher games left but the others are within their reach."

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

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Celtic's Ledley remaining optimistic of result against Juventus

The Hoops midfielder hopes his team can get off to a good start in the second leg

of their Champions League last-16 clash with Italy's Old Lady despite losing the first leg 3-0.

Mar 4, 2013

Celtic midfielder Joe Ledley insists "anything can happen" as his side prepare for their Champions League clash against Serie A champions Juventus after losing the first leg 3-0 at Celtic Park.

The Scottish Premier League leaders are facing a likely European exit after goals from Alessandro Matri, Claudio Marchisio and Mirko Vucinic left the bianconeri on the cusp of the quarter finals.

Ledley expressed his disappointment at being benched for the first tie, but hopes to make his mark in the return match after scoring the opening goal in Celtic's 2-1 Scottish Cup quarter-final win over St Mirren on Saturday.

"Hopefully I will be starting on Wednesday and we look forward to it," he told the The Glasgow Herald. "It is a fantastic arena and a fantastic team to play against and you just never know in football, anything can happen.

"The first half is going to be key and if we get 1-0 up then you never know. We know it is going to be difficult because they have been brilliant this season, we just need to, hopefully, get a good start."

Celtic manager Neil Lennon will also welcome back defender Charlie Mulgrew who has missed the last three games with a muscle injury, and is glad to have the 26-year-old ready for action once more.

"We will see what we have got and where we are in terms of injuries," he told reporters. "I don't think we picked up any injuries today, the substitutions were basically tactical. There might be a few bumps and bruises but nothing too serious and we will have Charlie back, that's a bonus because he is very important to us."

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Juventus changes for Celtic

Mar 4, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte could rest some of his first team regulars in this week’s Champions League game against Celtic.

With a 3-0 first leg advantage, Conte is pondering changes to his usual starting XI for Wednesday’s return in Turin.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal are candidates to be ‘dropped’ given that they are one yellow card away from suspension.

Giorgio Chiellini, scorer of the goal in the 1-1 draw at Napoli on Friday, may also be given a breather after just returning to full fitness.

Mauricio Isla is being tipped to start on the right of Conte’s 3-5-2, while Paul Pogba may net a place in the middle.

Kwadwo Asamoah, who didn’t start in Naples, will return to the line-up, as should Alessandro Matri in attack.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

'I'll never forget that game in Istanbul'

Mar 4, 2013

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo has warned his teammates against complacency when they come up against Celtic this Wednesday.

The Serie A champions host their Scottish counterparts in the second leg of their last 16 Champions League clash.

But the veteran playmaker has insisted, despite holding a 3-0 lead, the tie is not over – comparing it with Milan's 2005 Champions League against Liverpool

“I will never forget that game in Istanbul,” he told the Scottish Sun. “I will keep that in mind when I face Celtic.

“Following the result in Scotland we have a chance to go through to the quarter-finals.

“But we have to stay focused and must not think that the game is already won.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Lubomir Moravcik gives Celtic

no chance against Juventus

Mar 4, 2013

Former Celtic midfielder Lubomir Moravcik has written off the Scottish club's chances of qualifying for the Champions League quarter-finals.

The Scottish champions lost 3-0 to Juventus in the first leg of their last-16 tie at home last month.

"I hoped they would keep a clean sheet against Juventus because then they would have a chance of going through," he told UEFA.com.

"They conceded three goals, so now it's mission impossible. In football there are surprises, but not miracles."

The second leg of the tie is in Turin on Wednesday.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Preview: Juventus vs. Celtic

Mar 4, 2013

Celtic will have to produce one of the biggest turnarounds in Champions League history if they are to advance from their last-16 European tie with Juventus in Italy on Wednesday.

Juventus recorded a 3-0 win at Celtic Park last month, leaving the Scottish outfit with an almost impossible task to book their place in the quarter-finals of the competition.

The home side enter the match having won three of their last five matches in all competitions, a run of form that has left them top of Serie A with 59 points.

Celtic are also top of their domestic division, some 16 points clear of nearest challengers Motherwell, while they have also recently booked their spot in the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup.

In order to stand a chance of progressing, Celtic need to score at least three times. However, Juve have conceded just eight goals in 14 home league matches this season, losing just twice in the process.

The home side could continue with the same team that drew with Napoli last week, but former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba and Alessandro Matri are both pushing for starting berths after appearing from the bench.

Celtic boss Neil Lennon could recall Georgios Samaras to his starting side at the expense of Anthony Stokes, who has just returned from injury. Meanwhile, Adam Matthews is expected to continue alongside Joe Ledley in midfield.

Recent form:

Juventus: WWLWD

Celtic: WDWLW

Possible lineups:

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Chiellini, Peluso, Barzagli, Bonucci; Lichtsteiner, Marchiso, Pirlo, Vidal; Vucinic, Giovinco

CELTIC: Forster; Izaguirre, Wilson, Kayal, Ambrose; Matthews, Ledley, Wanyama, Forrest; Samaras, Hooper

Sports Mole says: 3-1

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Juventus vs Celtic PREVIEW:

William Wallace and the Scots come to Torino in Last Stand

Mar 4, 2013

Juventus this week return home for the second leg of the Champions League round of 16, with the luxury of having one eye towards the quarter finals. Having won handily over a fortnight ago in Glasgow, three away goals should serve as sufficient cushion to ensure a spot in the final eight, at a time when the Serie A season is neither ‘heating up’ nor a foregone conclusion. Tactics will most certainly be key (if not boring) as Antonio Conte will surely look to hammer the nail into the Bhoys’ coffin while Neil Lennon’s side will be hoping for a miracle.

During the first leg, Juventus seemed in a precarious position for the entire opening 60 minutes or so. Despite having taken the lead early via Alessandro Matri from a fortuitously mistimed long ball, things were not easy to watch for most tifosi, certainly not for cynical me. As time went on however, it appeared that this was intentional rather than a the result of Juve team playing far away from home up north in hostile territory. Indeed it appears that Conte got it spot on the first time, opting to have his typically possession-happy team absorb pressure away from home, allowing Celtic to tire themselves out. While my cardiologist is yet to forgive il mister, the end result was a nearly insurmountable aggregate lead for the trip home.

CELTIC

If Celtic are on the fringes in the Champions League, someone forgot to tell them that in the Scottish Premier League. Since the SPL resumed after the winter break, Celtic have been on an absolute tear, particularly at home – underscoring just how impressive and important the first leg victory was for Juve. Their last game at Celtic Park was a 5-0 thrashing of Dundee, Celtic are a full 16 points clear of first place in the league table and have recently qualified for the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup. With Rangers cast to the lower divisions, Scotland remains Celtic’s stomping ground and a fine consolation.

To make matters even more dire for the Hoops, they will have to do without captain Scott Brown. With Juventus’ biggest asset its midfield, the Bhoys’ center pitch will have to match up without the Scottish number 8. Aside from being short-staffed for options on the pitch, someone else will thus have to wear the armband and reserve the right to complain to the referee when those Italians roughhouse back on set-pieces.

Speaking of which, one of Celtic’s biggest offensive assets are its ability to score off of set-pieces. This fact was certainly noticed by the Juventus defense and in particular Stephan Lichtsteiner, who made sure to keep Gary Hooper from obstructing Buffon on corners the first time around. This will undoubtedly continue surely to more protest. Aside from the sheer hypocrisy on display from the Celtic players employing physical play against the Juventus defense yet crying foul in the face of, erm, physical play, the squad would do well to focus first on playing over a severe victim complex in the second leg. Ironically known for being a hard man himself during his own playing days, boss Neil Lennon can complain all over Twitter or request as much clarification from UEFA as he wants, but playing the part of helicopter parent to his bhoys is not the best strategy to play during the knockout stages of a tournament.

Probable Formation: (4-4-2)

Forster; Lustig, Wilson, Ambrose, Izaguirre; Kayal, Rogic, Commons, Forrest; Hooper, Samaras

JUVENTUS

A tough January slowly has melted into a relatively calmer February, and Juventus will hope that recent history repeats itself with the spring thaw bringing easier fortunes. Juventus limped into Glasgow earlier in February coming off a few domestic struggles but were able to quickly turn their fortunes around before Valentine’s Day. Indeed the form displayed at Celtic Park would be the turning point, notwithstanding a tough loss in Rome the following Saturday in what would be the team’s third game in seven days. Combined with some Napoli missteps, and a 1-1 draw last week keeps Juventus a comfortable six points at the top of the table, with a head-to-head advantage over the second place Neapolitans. It is perhaps appropriate and to the team’s good fortunes that they enter this midweek fixture with a fairly sizable advantage.

All things considered, it would thus not be shocking to see a few alterations to the squad selection. Antonio Conte will have some decisions to make in what will be his first Champions League match on the actual bench at Juventus Stadium. Claudio Marchisio, Arturo Vidal and Celtic supporter favorite Stephan Lichtsteiner are all sitting on yellow cards, so Conte could opt to sit any of the above to ensure their availability against whomever Juventus could draw in the quarter finals. Considering that the calibre of teams remaining that aren’t AC Milan (who will be seeded in the other side of the brackets for the next draw), that may be a prudent strategy, lest they risk becoming over confident and risking a complete meltdown this week.

Juve were meanwhile hoping to count on Giorgio Chiellini returning from injury, who would have certainly relished his return back to Champions League action after a few months out from a lengthy injury layoff. As of Monday, reports were that he was not practicing due to yet another ankle knock. Meanwhile his understudy, Martin Caceres, is doubtful with a knock of his own. Other than he and Simone Pepe, Conte will probably have his choice of squad at his disposal.

Probable Formation: (3-5-2)

Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Barzagli; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamaoh; Matri, Giovinco

Juventus have done themselves a huge favor with their decisive performance in Scotland. Celtic Park is a tough place to play while Celtic themselves are no walkover of a team. They’ve proved it this UCL defeating Barcelona at home. With that, Juventus shouldn’t rest too easily on their laurels. Their opponents are dangerous and certainly capable of scoring three quick goals on a counter-attack if allowed to do so.

The key to this match will be tactics, ball possession, and pace. Juventus will likely choose to reverse tactics from last time, and attempt to control possession and thus the game from the outset. They’ve now gone four straight games and 400+ minutes without conceding a goal, and will need only to play ball for 90 minutes rather than the win. Certainly, the play will likely show it. The key will thus be the midfield, as it normally is when Juventus plays. While knockout games such as this place an imperative on putting the game away early during the home leg, the hard truth for Celtic is that they’re already “put away” early. If Juventus can play their game, they’ll look in like Flynt for the quarter finals.

In the event that the widely-predicted scenario does occur and Juventus advance, it may be best to make a few things clear from now. If an Italian team wins generally against a British one, it’s because they cheated. If said Italian team plays in a physical nature, they disregard the rules. Note the difference between this situation and that of a British (especially English) team employing a bit of rough-housing, which will inevitably be described with terms such as “gutsy,” or “gritty” by fine publications such as the Sun the next day. If the opposite were to occur without consequence, the referee was clearly biased and/or taking the piss. Regardless of outcomes, the British remain the best in the world at football.

But alas, I am getting ahead of myself. Regardless of whatever hard feelings linger from the first leg, this Celtic team is still that of quality, perhaps underrated. I had a dream a couple of nights ago that I turned the match on during the first half and Celtic were two goals in the bag already. While no bookmakers are setting the odds for my nightmare scenario, I cannot be any more than cautiously optimistic at this stage. Nor can I express anything but a healthy respect for the bhoys in hoops on the pitch, and will hold off from planning my quarter final previews just yet.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Pirlo: I'm using Liverpool defeat to prepare for Celtic

The Italian refuses to believe the Champions League tie against the Scots is over,

and insists the Old Lady must put in a good performance to avoid a shock defeat like in Istanbul.

Mar 4, 2013

Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo says he is using the defeat to Liverpool in the 2005 Champions League final to prepare himself with the Serie A leaders set to host Celtic.

The 33-year-old was part of the AC Milan team that threw away a 3-0 lead in the second half to the Merseyside club in Istanbul in 2005, and eventually lost the match in a penalty shootout.

The experienced midfielder insists that the bad memory will spur him on in the second-leg encounter, as his current club hold the same advantage against Neil Lennon's side, and he will ensure that his team-mates do not underestimate their opponents.

"I will never forget the game against Liverpool in Istanbul - for all the wrong reasons," Pirlo told the Scottish Sun. "And it is a game I will be reminding myself of before Celtic.

"We are in a very strong position and expect to progress after the result in Glasgow - but we can't think all we need to do is turn up.

"Celtic for a start will be wounded.

"They are a very proud football club and have a very proud set of fans. It will have hurt them to see the way they were beaten at their home - and if we are complacent, then that is when they could have their revenge.

"If we stay professional and concentrate then I am confident we can progress.

"We respect our rivals but to fail against the Scots in Turin would be one of the biggest disasters in the history of this club."

Despite their spot in the quarter-finals being all but secure, the former AC Milan maestro concedes that the Serie A club are not favourites to win the competition.

"We have to be realistic, we know we are not favourites for the Champions League. People will look at Bayern, Real Madrid, Manchester United and even after their defeat, Barcelona," Pirlo added.

"The most important thing we can do is stay focused against Celtic in Turin — and then we can see what the draw brings after that."

However, his Chilean team-mate midfielder Arturo Vidal insists the tie is over, and other clubs will be fearful of drawing Juventus in the next stage of the competition.

He said: "It is impossible for Celtic to beat our score from the first leg. It would take a miracle for them to go through.

"The difference between the two clubs is huge and it is up to us to show in this game we are in contention to win the Champions League.

"I think this team can go far in the competition."

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Conte: Celtic tie not over yet

Mar 5, 2013

Antonio Conte is refusing to underestimate the Champions League game against Celtic despite Juventus’ 3-0 first leg advantage.

The Old Lady have one foot in the last eight of the competition, but the tactician is keen to underline that the tie is not over.

“Tomorrow’s game is important,” he noted. “We still have to play 90 minutes against a proud side who will want to recover the score from the first leg.

“It will be an important test for everyone – the players, me and the club. Celtic are a side who never give up. We need full concentration tomorrow.

“The result of the first game means we have a serious chance of qualification, but football can surprise if you don’t face a game in the right way.”

The advantage has seen suggestions that Conte could rest a few players – especially Stephan Lichtsteiner, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal who are a booking away from suspension.

“Those players who are on a yellow card will still be on a yellow card after tomorrow’s game too,” he continued.

“I’ll have to evaluate things. Some people will play, while others could be rested. It depends on who else is available.”

Juventus were clinical in Glasgow, but Celtic boss Neil Lennon felt that the Italian side’s ‘grappling tactics’ at set-pieces should have been punished by the referee.

“At every corner, there is a Celtic player blocking the goalkeeper. That is systematically a foul as the rulebook says so.

“If Lennon is moaning about referees then he’s ready to work in Italy as everyone does that here. Joking aside, Celtic are doing really well and he is a prepared tactician.”

Juventus will go into the game after collecting a 1-1 draw at second-placed Napoli where they faced a hostile atmosphere.

“We arrived at the stadium in a hardly serene state given that we were escorted by the police and our bus had windows smashed. The team, though, were not intimidated and that didn’t affect our quality.”

Conte was also questioned on suggestions that he could be targeted by Chelsea and Real Madrid at the end of the season.

“It’s obvious that certain rumours are pleasing to hear. We are doing well at home and abroad. When you work well, it is normal to be noticed.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Mjallby promises attacking Celtic

Mar 5, 2013

Celtic assistant Johan Mjallby has insisted that his side will attack Juventus in their last 16 Champions League tie tomorrow.

The Scottish champions travel to Turin trailing 3-0 from the first leg, and the 42-year-old Coach has claimed that his men will go out and try to win the match on Wednesday.

“We have to defend with more confidence this time,” he told BBC Sport. “We created a lot of chances in the first leg, but we have to be more courageous.

“We need to take the field with the right mentality. We have to use the set piece, because we've been successful in that area.

“We have a mountain to climb, but we believe we can overcome it.

“We'll be more attacking. I watched their game against Napoli and they played the same way as they did against us.

“They limited their opponents, and were again very rough at corners and free kicks. We have to be ready for that.

“I hope the referee is strong if this happens again.

“If this is to be our last European game of the season, then we want to do it in style.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Last 16 - 6-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

JUVENTUS - CELTIC

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Firay Aydinus (Turkey)

Ambrose: Celtic won't give up

Mar 5, 2013

Efe Ambrose believes that his Celtic side have what it takes to overcome Juventus in the Champions League tomorrow.

The Scottish champions trail 3-0 ahead of their last 16 second leg tie on Wednesday, but the Nigeria international is confident his team can beat the odds and progress to the quarter-finals.

“Anything is possible in football,” he told the club's official website. “Never say never.

“We have to go there and meet them head-on, because I think there is still a chance for us.

“At Celtic Park we played well, but we were unlucky. We'll see how it goes in Italy, but whatever happens we must not give up.”