Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8435]

Kroos unhappy at facing Juventus in Champions League

The Germany international is full of respect for the Serie A champions,

while Manuel Neuer is also wary of the Bianconeri but believes they can progress.

Mar 15, 2013

Bayern Munich midfielder Toni Kroos feels that the Bavarians were unfortunate to be paired with Juventus in Friday's draw for the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Kroos believes that only Barcelona would have been a worse outcome, and has stressed that Bayern need two great performances if they are to reach the final four.

"Juventus knocked last year's Champions League winners out of the competition at the group stage. It's the least good draw after Barcelona," Kroos told the official Bayern website.

"We'll need two top performances to go through. It would be optimal if we won the first leg while keeping a clean sheet. Arturo Vidal has emerged as a top-class player with Juventus."

Meanwhile, Manuel Neuer is full of respect for the Serie A champions as well.

"Juventus are a big name and a great team. Italian teams are always well organised, but I still think we definitely have a chance of going through.

"We're looking forward to both games and we're delighted to be starting at home."

The first leg will take place at the Allianz Arena on April 2.

[Socrates 8435]

Nedved: Bayern among most feared in Champions League

The former Juventus midfielder has warned of the threat the Bundesliga leaders pose

after the two teams were drawn against each other in the Champions League last eight.

Mar 15, 2013

Juventus director Pavel Nedved believes Bayern Munich are to be one of the "most feared" sides remaining in the Champions League this season.

The reigning Italian champions were drawn against die Roten in the quarter-finals on Friday morning after the Bianconeri comfortably overcame Celtic, while Bayern went through after putting out Arsenal on away goals.

And Nedved knows the side are going to be in for a tough match when they play Jupp Heynckes' outfit.

"The Germans are strong and skilled, but above all they’re experts in this situation and that’s their main characteristic," the 40-year old told Sky Italia.

“We’ll be up against a side who are among the most feared in the competition. Bayern are a team with experience in this competition. But we’re also aware of our strengths."

He added: “We’re very proud to be here as representatives of Italy and above all among the best eight in Europe. It’s the maximum as far as we’re concerned, after plenty of suffering.

The first leg will be played on April 2 at the Allianz Arena followed by the return leg at Juventus Stadium on April 10.

[Socrates 8435]

Juventus can eliminate Bayern - Cannavaro

Speaking from Cambodia, the 2006 World Cup winner thinks La Vecchia Signora can raise

their game to defeat the Bavarian club, but cannot see much between the two sides.

Mar 15, 2013

EXCLUSIVE

By Will Jones

Fabio Cannavaro has tipped his former side Juventus to eliminate Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals.

The former Bianconeri defender believes the Serie A league leaders have what it takes to overcome the four-time European Cup winners and progress to the semi-finals.

Speaking to Goal.com in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, at the Tiger Street Tournament where players from all over the world can meet in a 5-a-side competition, he said: "Juventus can eliminate Bayern Munich.

"It won't be easy, but they can play at the Germans' level.

"All four games seem very balanced and can go either way. It is the quarter-finals, of course only very good teams can make it this far."

The Italian left the Old Lady for Real Madrid in 2006 where he won two La Liga titles, and here he went on to outline his ideal final.

He said: "It is hard to say which team is favourite to lift the trophy, but my dream would be to see a final between my ex-teams Juventus and Real Madrid."

The Champions League draw sees his former team face die roten in Munich on April 2 before hosting the two-time European Cup winners in northern Italy on April 10.

[Socrates 8435]

‘Hit Bayern on the counter’

Mar 15, 2013

Alessandro Costacurta believes that Juventus can hurt Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Old Lady were paired with the German giants this morning and will start the tie as underdogs.

However, former Milan and Italy defender Costacurta thinks that the Turin outfit will have a chance of reaching the semi-finals.

“It will be very difficult for Juventus,” Costacurta told Sky Sport Italia. “The level of German sides is always high and they have an important mentality.

“Bayern, though, do suffer when they are counter-attacked seeing as their central defenders are their weak point.”

[Socrates 8435]

Nedved: Bayern will be a battle

Mar 15, 2013

Pavel Nedved has accepted that Bayern Munich will be tough to beat, but he has underlined that his Juventus side are ready for the fight.

The Old Lady will face Bayern in the last eight of the Champions League following today’s draw in Nyon.

“It was a difficult draw to choose an opponent from,” the former midfielder, now a club director, commented.

“Bayern are one of the most difficult that we could have netted, they have international experience and they are very good.

“We’ll know how to prepare for the game with humility and respect, as well as with a free mind.

“The Germans are hard to face as they are meticulous – they don’t overlook anything. It will be a battle between two very good teams.”

Juve are the last remaining Italian side in the competition after Milan were knocked out by Barcelona this week.

“I’m proud of Juventus, a club who are representing Italy in Europe,” added the former Czech international.

“We have to live through this experience in the best way possible as we are back amongst the greats of Europe.”

Nedved also clarified his comments about Zlatan Ibrahimovic earlier this week after he claimed that he’d like him back in Turin.

“I have spoken to PSG director Leonardo here about Ibrahimovic. I just made some technical judgements about him and PSG.

“Ibra belongs to them and that is the only truth.”

[Socrates 8435]

Bayern last team to beat Juve

Mar 15, 2013

Who were the last team to beat Juventus in the Champions League? Bayern Munich – their next opponents in the competition.

The two teams met in the tournament back in December 2009 and the German outfit collected a 4-1 win in Turin.

The European giants have surprisingly only met on six occasions in the past and all have come in the continent’s most prestigious competition.

Juve have the upper hand with three wins, two losses and one draw. They have scored six and conceded seven.

From the 14 players who last faced Bayern, when Juve were bossed by Ciro Ferrara, there are four Juventini who are still in their squad today.

Juventus versus Bayern in 2009: BUFFON, CACERES, Legrottaglie, Cannavaro, Grosso, Camoranesi, Felipe Melo (GIOVINCO 81), MARCHISIO, Diego (Amauri 65), Del Piero (Poulsen 46), Trezeguet.

[Socrates 8435]

Neuer: Bayern confident of win

Mar 15, 2013

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer believes his side have what it takes to defeat Juventus in the Champions League.

The Bianconeri play the Bundesliga side in the quarter-finals of the competition in the first week in April.

And the 26-year-old shot-stopper is confident that his men will defeat Antonio Conte's team.

“The Italian teams are always very organized,” he told uefa.com. “But we have what it takes to get through to the semi-final.”

[Socrates 8435]

Schweini: Juve are always tough

Mar 15, 2013

Bastian Schweinsteiger has highlighted the threat posed by Andrea Pirlo when his Bayern Munich side play the Bianconeri.

The Bundesliga leaders have been drawn against Antonio Conte's men in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

And the Germany international has insisted that the Turin giants will be a tough proposition.

“Juventus are a great team,” he told uefa.com. “Italian players are always physical and you can rely on players like Andrea Pirlo to put in a good performance.

“Facing Juventus is always tough – especially at a tactical level.”

[Socrates 8435]

Kroos: Juve hardest after Barca

Mar 15, 2013

Bayern Munich man Toni Kroos has claimed that 'only Barcelona' would have been a tougher draw than Juventus.

The Bundesliga leaders will play the Bianconeri in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

And the 23-year-old has admitted that his team are in for a tough challenge.

“Juventus have eliminated the winner of the last Champions League [Chelsea],” he told uefa.com.

“So I think, for us, they are the hardest team to face after Barcelona.

“To win we have to give our best and do not concede a goal at home – that will be crucial.

“Arturo Vidal has become a key player for them.”

[Socrates 8435]

Matthaus: 'Juve can win Champions'

Mar 15, 2013

Lothar Matthaus claims that “if Juventus beat Bayern Munich, then they’ll win the Champions League” after their quarter-final draw.

The two giants were paired together in the tournament and the first leg will be in Germany on April 2, with the return in Turin on April 10.

“It will be a very entertaining tie with two teams who start on level terms,” Matthaus told ItaSportPress.

“I don’t see Bayern as the favourites, because the Juve I saw in the Champions League against Celtic seemed very strong to me.”

Matthaus is a Serie A legend due to his time at Inter and had two lengthy spells playing for Bayern Munich.

“Antonio Conte has done well to instil a winning mentality in his players. If they don’t suffer a heavy defeat in Munich, then they could well qualify in the new Juventus Stadium that pushes the team forward with its passion.

“Bayern have more experience, but over 180 minutes this is only a slight advantage. If Juventus play the perfect game in Germany and go forward, they will win the Champions League, as the enthusiasm and self-belief will sky-rocket.”

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Bologna-Juventus Preview: In-form Rossoblu

looking to upset odds against Bianconeri

The hosts have came into form at the right time of the season with three wins on the bounce

ensuring they avoid the relegation battle, while the visitors continue to march on.

Mar 15, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

BOLOGNA

Curci

Garics, Antonsson, Cherubin, Morleo

Perez, Taider,

Kone, Diamanti, Gabbiadini

Gilardino

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah

Giovinco, Vucinic

Juventus can play their strongest side against Bologna on Saturday and will be buoyed by the return of midfielder Arturo Vidal who was suspended for last week's 1-0 win over Catania.

He is likely to replace Paul Pogba, who scored a last-minute winner against the Rossoblu back in October, and received a call up to the France squad for the double-header against Georgia and Spain.

Antonio Conte, however, has Martin Caceres, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner unavailable, though none of them would have been likely to make the starting XI had they been fit.

Sebastian Giovinvo, whose agent recently declared his client was content at Juventus Stadium despite rumours of an exit in the summer, is expected to continue alongside Mirko Vucinic, however, Alessandro Matri could also be in contention to partner the Montenegrin.

Meanwhile for the hosts, Stefano Pioli will be forced into making one change as defender Frederik Sorensen has been ruled out of the encounter after the injury he suffered against Inter last week. Nicolo Cherubin is likely to deputise in his absence as he is preferred to Naldo.

It is a special game for Bologna's Manolo Gabbiadini as the 21-year-old, who has netted five times this season in Serie A, will be desperate to impress against the Old Lady - his parent club.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Bologna are on a promising run just now having seen off Inter 1-0 last weekend to record their third victory in a row.

• The Rossoblu have just won one match in their last 25 against the Old Lady (in all competitions), and that came back in February 2011 when Marco Di Vaio grabbed a double to give them a 2-0 victory.

• Stefano Pioli's men have only been beaten three times at home this season: Parma, Milan and Inter have taken maximum points away from the Dall'Ara.

• Juventus have recorded the two wins in their last five matches away from home in Serie A.

• The Bianconeri are 10 league games unbeaten as the visitors. The last time Bologna won at home against the Old Lady was in 1998 - a 3-0 success that day.

• The last two league games at Dall'Ara have ended in draws.

Head to Head

Serie A - Oct 31, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Bologna 1

Serie A ‎- Mar 7, 2012 - Bologna 1 - Juventus 1

Coppa Italia ‎- Dec 8, 2011 - Juventus 2 - Bologna 1

Serie A ‎- Sep 21, 2011 - Juventus 1 - Bologna 1

Serie A ‎- Feb 26, 2011 - Juventus 0 - Bologna 2

Last Five Matches

Bologna

Mar 10, 2013 - FC Internazionale 0 - Bologna 1 - Serie A

Mar 3, 2013 - Bologna 3 - Cagliari 0 - Serie A

Feb 26, 2013 - Bologna 2 - Fiorentina 1 - Serie A

Feb 17, 2013 - Catania 1 - Bologna 0 - Serie A

Feb 10, 2013 - Bologna 1 - Siena 1 - Serie A

Juventus

Mar 10, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Catania 0 - Serie A

Mar 6, 2013 - Juventus 2 - Celtic 0 - UCL

Mar 1, 2013 - SSC Napoli 1 - Juventus 1 - Serie A

Feb 24, 2013 - Juventus 3 - Siena 0 - Serie A

Feb 16, 2013 - Roma 1 - Juventus 0 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Alessandro Diamanti

When this talented No.10 is on song, the Rossoblu always have a chance. Scored a wonder goal against Cagliari a couple of weeks back demonstrating his excellent ability with his left foot as he curled one in from way out on the far right. A bit temperamental and could hardly be compared to Vidal's effort and work rate but has as much flair and vision as any of the leading Serie A stars and could be the key to unlocking a tight Bianconeri defence.

Arturo Vidal

The midfield 'warrior' is back and could be the difference between the two sides this weekend. The Chilean has an energy, a drive, a determination which helps to inspire those around him. If he is not spraying passes about, making clever runs or finding pockets of space to create chances in, then, without the ball, he is just as impressive, constantly hussling and harriing the opposition into making a mistake. His boundless enthusiasm can drive Juventus forward to victory on Saturday.

Prediction

This has the makings of a very tight encounter. The hosts by their own admission are on a great run of form having recorded three straight victories including the scalp of Inter, while Juventus continue to grind out results while others below them drop points. The Bianconeri have a good record against the Rossoblu but there have been a few draws in there, too and this could be another one on Saturday.

Editor's Prediction

Bologna 1 - 1 Juventus

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Conte respects Bologna threat

Mar 15, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte is not under-estimating this weekend’s opponents Bologna. “They’re in good form.”

The Old Lady tactician spoke to the media this morning, before the Champions League draw was made, ahead of Saturday’s match at the Dall’Ara.

“We’ll probably be up against the most in-form team in the Division tomorrow,” he commented.

“They’ve won their last three games, they are virtually safe and they’ll be looking for an exploit against us.

“They’ll have that possibility seeing as they have players like Alessandro Diamanti, Alberto Gilardino, Manolo Gabbiadini and others. Boss Stefano Pioli, too, is doing an excellent job.

“We expect a tough match.

“Diamanti? It’s hard to talk about players who I don’t train. I want to congratulate him for what he is doing, he deserves a big club.

“I’ll pick the best team possible, knowing that whoever comes on from the bench will be up to the job.”

Turning to the Champions League, where Juve were later paired with Bayern Munich, Conte admitted that he was saddened by Milan’s exit this week.

“I was disappointed. After 15 days, Milan faced Barcelona in the same way but they came up against a phenomenon.

“We in Italy are two or three steps below teams like Barcelona. Milan did everything possible to get through.

“We’re proud to be the only Italian side, along with Lazio, left in European competition.

“The Champions League is a dream, we are not one of the favourites, but we’ll take on whoever we get.

“I didn’t join Juventus to just participate. That is not part of the DNA of this club. The target was to become protagonists again and we have managed to do that in a short space of time.

“The draw will be great to watch, but our Champions League right now is tomorrow against Bologna.”

An international break will follow this weekend’s round of action.

“International breaks take a lot of our players away, but we are proud to give so many to national sides. Paul Pogba being an example,” he said after the Frenchman received his first cap.

“He’s making big strides. He’s already on a good road, but he has to be kept on it as he has great ability. He’s changed a lot since the first day I saw him – he’s now much more certain in himself, calmer.”

Conte also used the conference to silence rumours that Juventus are interested in re-signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

“It’s a topic that has nothing to do with me and it is a negative topic for our environment, especially for the players here who are doing their all.”

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Trio back for Juventus

Mar 15, 2013

Martin Caceres, Arturo Vidal and Paolo De Ceglie are all back in the Juventus squad to face Bologna on Saturday evening.

Coach Antonio Conte announced his players for the trip to the Stadio Dall’Ara at 19.45 GMT tomorrow.

Vidal returns from his one-match ban, while Caceres and De Ceglie have shaken off long-term injuries.

The only remaining absentees are Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner.

Juventus squad for Bologna: Buffon, Storari, Rubinho; Chiellini, Caceres, De Ceglie, Peluso, Barzagli, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner; Pogba, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Giaccherini, Isla, Marrone; Vucinic, Giovinco, Anelka, Quagliarella, Matri

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Pioli: 'Ready for Juventus'

Mar 15, 2013

Bologna won three on the bounce and Stefano Pioli feels “this is the right time to take on Juventus” as they clash on Saturday evening.

The Stadio Dall’Ara hosts the Serie A match at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.

“Our journey this season has been unusual and not at all easy, but if there is ever a right time to take on Juventus, then this would be it,” said the Coach.

His Rossoblu are fresh from three consecutive victories, including a 1-0 at San Siro against Inter last week.

“Juve are the strongest team in Italy. They do not seem to have any weak points and put everything on to the field, including technique, organisation and intensity.

“In order to get a positive result, we need an exceptional performance. This is the most prestigious match of the season, as it is against the reigning Scudetto holders and the only Italian team left in the Champions League.

“We will not hide the difficulties of this game, but at the same time we won’t rule anything out either. Letting Juventus get close to our penalty area would not be wise, so we aim to attack them and be pro-active.

“We have great respect for Juve and Antonio Conte, who is a great Coach, but we also want to give it a go. We’re in great shape right now and need to lift the bar even higher, as our performance must be another improvement on the last.”

Panagiotis Kone returns from suspension and the only injury absentee is defender Frederik Sorensen.

Bologna squad for Juventus: Agliardi, Curci, Lombardi; Abero, Antonsson, Cherubin, De Carvalho, Garics, Morleo, Motta, Naldo; Guarente, Kone, Krhin, Pazienza, Perez, Taider; Christodoulopoulos, Diamanti, Gabbiadini, Gilardino, Moscardelli, Pasquato

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

[Socrates 8435]

Di Livio backs Juventus to win Champions League

The former Bianconeri player is tipping his old side to conquer Europe this season

and was happy to see them avoid Barcelona in the quarter-final draw.

Mar 15, 2013

Former Juventus midfielder Angelo Di Livio believes his former club can go all the way in the Champions League.

The 46-year-old was a member of the last Bianconeri team to win the European Cup back in 1996 and he thinks that the time has come for them to return to lift the famous trophy once again.

"I think the time is ripe to win back the cup with the big ears," Di Livio was quoted in Tuttosport.

"At the beginning of the Conte era there was scepticism, but, they have done very well and are now among the favourites.

"But it was good that they avoided Barcelona in the quarter-finals, they are an almost perfect team. But, Bianconeri are also very good and they will win at least win the Serie A barring any major drop off.

Di Livio, who now works as a football commentator, then reflected on his 1996 success with the Old Lady with fondness.

"I often think back to that victory," he added.

"A year later came the Intercontinental as well. Gianluca Vialli I remember was crying like a child and I was jumping around mad with a bandana on my head. It felt like a dream but it was all true."

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

MATCH PREVIEW

Mar 15, 2013

League leaders Juventus face a tough trip to in-form Bologna in Saturday's late kick-off.

Emanuele Giaccherini's last minute winner against Catania last weekend opened up a nine point lead for the Bianconeri at the top of Serie A.

While Napoli have stuttered, Juventus' run of just two defeats in 14 matches has given them an advantage that will be difficult to over-turn. There are, however, still some tough obstacles that stand between The Old Lady and a second consecutive Scudetto, including this weekend’s trip to Emilia-Romagna.

Bologna's victory against Inter at San Siro was their third in a row, while only Milan have acquired more points over the last six games than the Rossoblu. Such an impressive run has put Stefano Pioli's side within reach of a top 10 finish.

The former Chievo Coach's success this term has been built on a mix of experience and youth. Whilst revitalising the likes of Diego Perez and Alberto Gilardino, he has also gotten the best out of youngsters Saphir Taider and Juventus-owned duo Manolo Gabbiadini and Frederik Sorensen.

Gabbiadini, in particular, has impressed, contributing five goals. And despite his ties with Juventus, he will not be holding back on Saturday.

"When I take to the field of play I do so focused with the task that my coach has given me. With all due respect to which opponent I have in front of me, I will not be affected by anyone."

The Italian Under-21 international is likely to start, with Pioli expected to make only two changes from the side that defeated Inter. With Sorensen injured, Niccolo Cherubin will step in, while Panagiotis Kone should replace Lazaros Christodoulopoulos.

Juventus Coach Antonio Conte has no new absentees, with long-term casualties Martin Caceres, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe the only players unavailable. The tactician is also boosted by the return of Arturo Vidal.

Bologna have only been beaten three times at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara this season and not since Parma's 2-1 victory in December. With tough ties against Inter, Lazio and Milan on the horizon, Juventus will be wary of a slip up that could reopen the Scudetto race.

One to watch: Paul Pogba (Juventus) - “I've never seen a player of 19 with such quality. He has no rival in his position at his age. There is nothing to say except he is exceptional.” Stephan Lichtsteiner is certainly impressed, but he is far from the only one. Pogba was handed his maiden call up to the French national side this week. With five goals in 21 appearances and another inspired display against Catania last weekend, it is difficult to argue with the former Juventus midfielder Didier Deschamps’ decision.

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

Last season: Bologna 1-1 Juventus

Stat fact: Juventus have only lost once in their last 24 matches against Bologna

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

BOLOGNA: Curci; Garics, Antonsson, Cherubin, Morleo; Perez, Taider; Kone, Diamanti, Gabbiadini; Gilardino.

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

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Bologna v Juventus: Preview

Mar 15, 2013

Juventus head coach Antonio Conte believes tomorrow's Serie A game at Bologna is just as important as next month's Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich.

The Bianconeri's reward for dispatching Celtic at the last-16 stage is a double-header against last season's runners-up, one of the more heavyweight clashes in this year's final eight.

But the German challenge takes a back seat for now as Juve concentrate on extending their nine-point lead at the top of the table when they take on in-form Bologna at the Renato Dall'Ara.

Conte told juventus.com: "For now Bologna is our Champions League final. Winning tomorrow would send a clear message to the rest of the league, but it won't be easy."

"We are going up against the team in the best form in Serie A, who have claimed three straight wins against top teams and have virtually secured their survival."

"They have a great coach in Stefano Pioli and some high-quality players. Bologna are in great physical shape too and will want to give us a game. They will play very openly and we will do the same."

The 43-year-old also took the time to urge fans of the Turin club to cheer on their reigning champions rather than sing insulting songs about rival teams.

Juve were handed a 4,000-euro fine this week as a section of supporters were overheard chanting abuse about AC Milan players during a 1-0 win over Catania.

"Recently we received a little fine for some chanting at our stadium," Conte added. "I am asking the fans to focus instead on supporting the team because it's best we hear them singing for Juve and the players."

"Other teams don't really care when you sing songs about them. I hope that certain things do not happen again and I hope that we do not end up playing behind closed doors because of stupidity."

The injured trio of Martin Caceres, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe sit out at the Dall'Ara, where Juve have failed to win since November 2010.

Defender Fredrik Sorensen is Rossoblu boss Pioli's only injury concern ahead of the champions' arrival, with a fourth consecutive league win a real possibility.

Victories over Fiorentina, Cagliari and Inter Milan have propelled Bologna into 10th place and Pioli is pleased to have proved the doubters wrong.

"I'm very pleased and happy for my players who are reaping the benefits of a job well done," he told La Repubblica. "The team has been the subject of criticism in the last few months but I think we deserve compliments."

"Bologna have made a quantum leap in results and that's helped us become more aware of our own ability. It would have been easy for us to lose our way but instead we were great and the players believe in themselves."

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Juventus-Bologna Preview:

Round 29 — A Pre-Spring Break Party?

Have you ever realized that international breaks aren't much of a break

for a lot of Juve players? Just a thought. As you were...

Mar 16, 2013

For all the right reasons, a lot of attention 24 hours before Juventus' game against Bologna on Saturday night at the Dall'Ara has been put on the back burner because of the Champions League news. There's a reason why it's covered the way it is. And there's a reason why there's so much attention put on it.

Heck, even Juventus' official website rolled out a headline that read "Focus split between Bologna and European Draw" on Thursday afternoon after the day's training session. It's there. Everybody knows it. It's consuming our minds. It's the Champions League, people. The Champions!!!!

In actuality, though, Juve's trip to Bologna is not only the final game before the two-week international break, it's a mark of what's down the road — the final stretch of the 2012-13 season. After Saturday's match, there's only nine more. If that's not the signal of that we're about to hit the sprint to the finish, I don't know what else will.

Well, maybe when there's only five games left, but that's beside the point.

The objective is pretty clear, though: Juventus win on the road against Bologna and there's a chance to put even more distance between the rest of the competition. If some people think the Serie A race is done and dusted now, what would a a double-digit lead do? Yeah, I know what you're thinking.

GOOD NEWS

A nine-point lead with 10 games left to play certainly isn't a lock that the title race is over, but it's definitely a damn good sign — especially with Napoli completely struggling the way they are right now.

And what does Antonio Conte have to say about his team's latest victory? Well, see for yourself...

BAD NEWS

One of the things I was looking forward to the most was to see how well Frederik Sorensen was playing since the last time we saw him taking on Juventus back in October. However, the 20-year-old Danish defender picked up a knock and is unlikely to play against the club that brought him to Italy. Dammit.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Can Mirko Vucinic snap out of his funk? It doesn't really matter how he's playing, really, because Antonio Conte is going to play him and make him a focal point of the attack. But unlike the up-and-down trend of form throughout his career, Vucinic has been consistently meh the last month or so. Clearly that's going to have to change if Juventus want to create more scoring chances instead of turning the ball over in the final third, but that's pretty much a given. To be honest, it doesn't really matter who he's paired up with up top. When Vucinic plays well, so does Juventus.

2. Striker selection. Nice transition, huh? I'll take the bow later. I'm assuming Vucinic will be playing because, well, I haven't heard anything to the contrary. So who's gonna be alongside our favorite striker who may or may not be sporting a mustache? Odds are Sebastian Giovinco since he's pretty much started every game the past few weeks. I'm still sporting my #TeamMatri shirt, but I'm not putting money on him starting even though I think he should be.

3. What will the Juve-owned kids do? We already know one of them won't be there, but there's still one big one to keep an eye on. His name is Manolo Gabbiadini. You might have heard of him. We've written about him in the not-so-distant past. He's almost exclusively been employed as a left winger of sorts since Bologna went to the 4-2-3-1 full time. His stats on the season may not blow your mind away, but he's consistently playing. And at his age, that may be the most important thing of all.

4. How much will Bologna miss Iceman Sorensen? Another great transition. I won't ask for a round of applause, though. But Sorensen's performances in the center of Bologna's defense has had a lot to do with their recent performances. (You can read more about that here if you feel so inclined.) The injury he picked has put a slight dent in what has been one heck of a few months for the young Dane, who has shot up Bologna's seasonal ratings chart in the process.

5. Controlling Alessandro Diamanti. I mentioned Sorensen being one of WhoScored's top-rated players this season, well here's the No. 1 guy. Diamanti has been damn good this season, excelling in the middle of the "3" of Bologna's 4-2-3-1 formation. He scores goals, he creates goals, he does about everything in between offensively for Bologna. He's a very good player who has a very unique set of skills. No, he's going to be starring with Liam Neeson in Taken 3 or anything, but he'll be looking to make a big impact on Saturday.

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Matri

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

[Socrates 8435]

Will Bayern rid their Chelsea demons against Juventus,

or will it be Germany v Italy at Euro 2012 again?

The Bavarian giants are among the favourites to win the Champions League, but they have

a huge psychological hurdle to overcome against the Bianconeri in the quarter-finals.

Mar 16, 2013

COMMENT

By Kris Voakes in Nyon

There is something strange about the final tie drawn from the pot in any football draw. Whereas the earlier match-ups are met with either a sigh, a murmur, a gasp or a giggle, the exact make-up of the last fixture seems to take some time to set in with the assembled dignitaries as they work out which two teams remain undrawn.

Friday's Champions League quarter-final draw here in Nyon had a very different feel, though. The very second Barcelona were drawn out, it took those present all of a millisecond to realise that, while Paris Saint-Germain had been handed the toughest draw of all, what was left was the most fascinating contest of all.

The clash between Bayern Munich and Juventus is truly one that will represent a modern rivalry of epic proportions. While FC Hollywood stand for the burgeoning force that is the Bundesliga, they are also a reminder of the German failures of recent times. Beaten finalists after underwhelming performances in both 2010 and 2012, their squad contains a handful of players who have also made a habit out of promising much and delivering little with the German national side.

On the other side of the fence are Juve, a club whose embarrassing 4-1 home defeat to Bayern in 2009 was a sign of where the club was at the time. Pavel Nedved sat in the stands that night with his head in his hands, his eyes fighting back tears. On Friday, the Czech was amongst the Juve delegation which met the news of their Bayern re-match with the confidence that this is a very different Bianconeri beast to the one dumped so unceremoniously out of Europe by Die Roten three seasons ago.

And there is plenty of reason for the former Juve winger to believe, given the fascinating link between the club and Italy's national side over the years too. The current incarnation of Antonio Conte's club is just the latest to have their successes reflected by those of the Italian national side. As the Azzurri have risen from the ashes of their 2010 World Cup disaster, so too has the Old Lady recovered from her state of ill health just a couple of short years ago.

Never was this better exemplified than last summer, when Juve's Scudetto triumph was followed up by an unlikely run to the final of Euro 2012 for Cesare Prandelli's Italy side, which just so happened to be heavily-laden with Juve players. And it was in their semi-final victory over Germany that they showed the greatest signs of just how good they can be.

That result also crowned a hugely dissatisfying period for die Nationalmannschaft's Bayern contingent who had been tipped to topple Spain in the final. Just weeks earlier, those same players had suffered the heartache of a defeat in the Champions League final to Chelsea. They were overwhelming favourites, they were on their home turf, they were meant to be reaching the crescendo they'd threatened for so long, and yet they fell short yet again. It was like Germany's 2006 World Cup campaign all over again, when Italy snatched a win with two goals late in extra-time in the Dortmund semi-final.

A Bayern side that has combined wonderful attacking football with clever pressing, the intelligent use of pace and real heart still has very little to show for it, while Juventus have quickly returned to the top of Italy's tree. Juve have what Bayern want: that ability to grind teams down when it really matters. The Bianconeri may not have shown it for a while, but there's no denying it's in their DNA. Bayern have been playing well for a long time, but come the big night they have always found themselves wanting.

However, psychology works in two ways. You either just can't win (like Spain prior to 2008) or you just can't lose (like Spain ever since). Bayern have so much in place, and all they appear to be missing is their threshold moment; that result which proves both to themselves and to the wider world that they can rise to the big occasion. Yet Juve have that Italian knack of standing tall at the most important moments, offering Bayern one of the toughest tests they could have been given in the last eight.

The two clashes will provide a fascinating insight into the psyche of Bayern Munich, and may give the clearest indication yet as to whether die Roten are finally ready to shake off their nearly-men tag. This will be the last eight's most enlightening fixture by some distance.

[Socrates 8435]

Heynckes: Juventus are extremely strong in defence

The Bayern coach expects the Turin giants to cause his side trouble,

while Matthias Sammer is full of respect for the Serie A champions, too.

Mar 16, 2013

Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has praised Juventus' strength in defence after the Bavarians were paired with the Italian champions in Friday's draw for the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The 67-year-old is not just wary of the Bianconeri's quality at the back, though, and expects the quarter-final tie to be a tight affair.

"I know Juventus very well. They're the best Italian team at the moment and they have a fantastic new stadium. They're really high calibre, really tough opponents," Heynckes told the official Bayern website.

"They’re extremely strong in defence and have lots of attacking quality. We'll see great football, two fantastic knockout cup nights.

"I hope we have our noses in front at the end of the day, but it's an evenly-matched pairing."

Sporting director Matthias Sammer, meanwhile, is equally respectful for the Bianconeri and expects the tie to be well contested.

"Both teams are dominating their domestic championships. The Italian league is once again moving in the right direction, and that includes bringing on young players. They've long ago climbed out of the trough.

"Juventus are traditionally strong with good players. Form on the day in both matches will decide who goes through. Mentally and in terms of focus, a top-calibre team like Juventus is just right."

The first leg is scheduled to take place on April 2 at the Allianz Arena.

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Conte: Bologna can trouble Juventus

The successful coach has stressed that the Scudetto holders

cannot afford to underestimate this weekend's opponents.

Mar 16, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has warned his players that Saturday's Serie A encounter against Bologna will not be an easy match.

The Turin giants comfortably sit atop of the league table, but Conte has stressed that the Felsinei will not be pushovers as they have been in fine form in recent weeks.

"Winning on Saturday would send out a clear message to the rest of the championship - but it won’t be easy," Conte said at a press conference.

"We’re facing Serie A’s in-form team, who have registered three consecutive successes over excellent sides. They’re virtually safe and will be gunning for victory against the league leaders.

"Bologna certainly have the possibility of achieving a result. They have an excellent coach in [stefano] Pioli and quality players. They are at the peak of their physical and mental form and will want to dictate the game."

Bologna currently sit 10th in Serie A with 35 points from 28 games.

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

[Socrates 8435]

Beckenbauer: Juventus-Bayern Munich tie on a knife edge

The legendary sweeper believes the two sides will be difficult

to separate, despite his allegiance with the Bavarians.

Mar 16, 2013

Franz Beckenbauer has admitted that Bayern Munich were handed a "tough draw" in the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Friday after they were paired with Juventus.

The Bavarians ran out 4-1 victors in the two sides' last meeting back in 2009 - also in Europe's elite club tournament - but their former captain is under no illusions as to the difficulty of the tie that the Bundesliga leaders have been given.

"It is a tough draw. It's 50-50, although it's not such a good thing that Bayern kick the tie off at home," Beckenbauer told Sky Sport Deutschland.

"Whoever leads the Italian league with a nine-point advantage can obviously play football. Malaga or Galatasaray would have been more feasible, but a draw cannot be requested."

Former Bayern trio Stefan Effenberg, current CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and ex-midfielder Lothar Matthaus were also all wary of the Italians' threat.

"It will be an unpleasant task. Juventus can take on any opponent in the world, are incredibly strong defensively and have a superior clock-ticker in Andrea Pirlo," said 1999 Champions League runner-up Effenberg.

Meanwhile, Rummenigge noted: "This is not a dream draw. Although we won 4-1 the last time we played them, we will nonetheless need two more good days in the office to reach the semi-finals.

"I hoped that Bayern would have been paired with another opponent," concluded FCB legend Matthaus.

"They found their style this season and will have two key players available in Franck Ribery and Bastian Schweinsteiger this time around."

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Line-ups: Bologna-Juventus

Mar 16, 2013

Juventus aim to break further away at the top of the table, but visit giant-killers Bologna this evening.

The Stadio Dall’Ara hosts the 19.45 GMT kick-off, click here for a match preview.

The Bianconeri are nine points clear at the top of the table and through to the Champions League quarter-finals against Bayern Munich, so confidence is sky high.

Arturo Vidal returns from his one-match ban, while Martin Caceres and Paolo De Ceglie are also back in the squad.

Only Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe remain on the treatment table.

Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco are chosen to lead the attack with Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio in midfield, but Federico Peluso and Simone Padoin are surprise choices out wide.

Bologna are also feeling good about their chances this evening, as they are on a run of three consecutive victories, including results over Fiorentina and Inter.

Frederik Sorensen is the only injury absentee, but Panagiotis Kone returns from suspension to complete the inspirational front line with Alberto Gilardino, Alessandro Diamanti and Juventus-owned Manolo Gabbiadini.

The stadium is sold out, but there are reports that 10,000 tickets have gone to Juventus fans, as many support the club in the city.

BOLOGNA: Curci; Garics, Antonsson, Cherubin, Morleo; Perez, Taider; Kone, Diamanti, Gabbiadini; Gilardino

Bologna bench: Agliardi, Lombardi, Naldo, De Carvalho, Krhin, Pazienza, Abero, Guarente, Motta, Christodoulopoulos, Pasquato, Moscardelli

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Vucinic, Giovinco

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Marrone, De Ceglie, Giaccherini, Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Isla, Asamoah, Anelka, Quagliarella, Matri

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

-

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

HT 0-0: Juve stutter in Bologna

Mar 16, 2013

Gigi Buffon had a moment of panic on Alberto Gilardino, though Juventus have since been in control as it’s still 0-0 at half-time in Bologna.

Both sides were brimming with confidence going into this game, as the Bianconeri were nine points clear at the top of the table and welcomed Arturo Vidal back from suspension. Bologna had won three on the bounce, including against Fiorentina and Inter, while Panagiotis Kone’s ban had expired, but Juve were unbeaten at the Dall’Ara since 1998.

The hosts so nearly took the lead after five minutes when Gigi Buffon rushed out of the penalty area to tackle Alberto Gilardino and was fortunate that the Alessandro Diamanti follow-up was deflected wide off Giorgio Chiellini for a corner. Buffon was also lucky his tackle was clean, otherwise it would’ve been a straight red.

Gianluca Curci smothered at the end of a Sebastian Giovinco mazy run through a group of players in the box, then Vidal blasted over from the edge of the box. Diamanti wasted a counter-attack by blasting well wide and Andrea Pirlo also fired over from distance.

Simone Padoin dribbled away from players down the right side of the box and flashed a ball across the face of goal, but Vucinic wasn’t quick enough to stick out a leg and deflect it in with the goalkeeper already beaten.

Diamanti required treatment before the break after an accidental elbow in side of the head from Pirlo and was clearly dazed.

In first half stoppages Juve went on the counter and Vidal again couldn’t keep his shot down.

Bologna 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

BOLOGNA: Curci; Garics, Antonsson, Cherubin, Morleo; Perez, Taider; Kone, Diamanti, Gabbiadini; Gilardino

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Vucinic, Giovinco

Ref: Bergonzi

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

[Socrates 8435]

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

0 - 2

Mirko Vučinić (62′)

Claudio Marchisio (74′)

"Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna

Referee: Mauro Bergonzi

Attendance: 34415‎

Vucinic and Marchisio extend Bianconeri's Serie A lead

The Bianconeri took their time in making the breakthrough, but finally found their rhythm

in the second half as goals from the striker and midfielder earned maximum points.

Mar 16, 2013

An excellent second-half display was the key for Juventus as they took another giant leap towards the championship, dispatching Bologna 2-0 on Saturday evening to go 12 points clear at the top of Serie A.

The defending champions struggled early on break down a dogged rival, but once Mirko Vucinic gave his side the lead it was all too easy, and victory was assured when Claudio Marchisio doubled the Old Lady's advantage.

Looking for a win that would further cement their status as runaway favourites for the 2012-13 Serie A title, Juve started brightly and immediately began pushing forward in search of an opener. It was Bologna, however, who played patiently and on the break, that had the game's first clear chance.

Gianluigi Buffon came steaming out of goal and performed a well-timed tackle on Alberto Gilardino outside of his area, but the veteran goalkeeper had left the net unguarded. The rebound fell to Alessandro Diamanti, and it took a vital intervention from Giorgio Chiellini to deflect the midfielder's shot over the bar and prevent a goal.

Sebastian Giovinco was quiet in the opening minutes, but when the forward sprung to life he almost turned the game in Juve's favour. Taking the ball from Federico Peluso, he performed an impeccable nutmeg to break free of his marker and go through against Gianluca Curci, but the shot lacked venom and was saved comfortably.

Seconds later, an intelligent lay-off from Mirko Vucinic opened the net up for Arturo Vidal, but from the edge of the box the Chilean blazed well over.

The Old Lady continued to probe, dominating possession, but chances were few and far between against a Bologna side who defended deep in their own half and effectively. Simone Padoin was the architect of one of the league leader's few clear opportunities, wriggling free down the right flank and firing in a low cross. Vucinic was waiting, but could connect and Mikael Antonsson came to the rescue for the hosts, intercepting and clearing well. Juve shaded the first 45 minutes, but went into the dressing rooms with the game still poised at 0-0.

The visitors came out after the break resolved to take the advantage, and Giovinco went close to obliging in the first minutes after the restart. A slick build-up stretched the Rossoblu back line and left the striker with space, and his looping effort flew agonisingly close to Curci's left post as it went wide. Bologna, however, were still very much in the game; Gilardino thought he had opened the scoring after heading in an impeccable Diamanti free kick, only to see his celebrations cut short by the linesman's raised flag.

The match was opening up, and Curci had to react well to stop Giovinco's left-footed effort after the forward twisted away from the attentions of Nicolo Cherubin. With just over an hour played, Juventus finally made the breakthrough they so desperately desired.

Vucinic had enjoyed few chances on goal, but did brilliantly to turn Naldo with his back to goal and clean through with Curci, powered an unstoppable shot to put his side in the ascendancy.

Juve were boosted by that goal, and never looked like relinquishing their hold on the game. Victory was assured 17 minutes from the end. Bologna's defence was ripped open by a brilliant sequence of passes, and Claudio Marchisio was the beneficiary as he stayed onside and stroked the ball passed Curci to put his team 2-0 up, and end the game as a contest.

The win puts the Bianconeri well out in front at the summit of Serie A, as they enjoy a 12-point lead over their rivals. Second-placed Napoli can cut the deficit to nine once more with victory on Sunday over Atalanta at the San Paolo.

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