Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

'I went to bed with the Old Lady' - Heynckes

The Bayern boss eased the pressure on his side by approaching the pre-match presser

light-heartedly, but assured fans he has been doing extensive homework ahead of the clash.

Apr 1, 2013

Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has given an insight as to how he has prepared for the Champions League quarter-final match against Juventus.

The Bavarians currently dominate the Bundesliga with a 20-point lead over second-placed Borussia Dortmund, while the Bianconeri are in a comfortable position as well, topping Serie A with an nine-point advantage over Napoli.

And Heynckes has insisted he is aware of the threat awaiting them when they meet Antonio Conte's side on Tuesday, and expects an exciting encounter between two European giants.

"I went to bed last night with the Old Lady [Juventus] and I woke up with her," the 67-year-old told reporters at the pre-match press conference.

"I did a lot of research about her, I studied recent games she's played and I was impressed with what I saw.

"It will be a game of high quality with two equal teams. It will be very intensive and with lots of power.

"Juventus are one of Europe’s top teams. On the one hand they are very Italian, but on the other there is a lot of creativity and fantasy in their squad."

He then pointed out the qualities and the rich history of the illustrious Italian club, and spoke highly of their trainer Antonio Conte's work since his arrival in 2011.

"They are physically extremely strong and they are able to run a lot. Juventus are like a myth. They came back like a phoenix," he continued.

"It is a team with a lot of tradition and one of the top clubs in European football.

"Antonio Conte has done many things very well during the last few years.

"He obviously has many good qualities as the team is playing so successfully. The team carries his handwriting."

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Bayern Munich-Juventus Betting Preview:

Visitors can make life tough for free-scoring hosts

Jupp Heynckes' men blasted nine goals past Hamburg at the weekend but Willie Duncan

thinks that Antonio Conte's side are capable of keeping things tight in Munich on Tuesday.

Apr 1, 2013

Bayern Munich were in scintillating form at the weekend as they romped to a 9-2 victory over Hamburg.

Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes will be hoping that his men retain their scoring touch for the visit of Italian champions Juventus in what promises to be an absorbing Champions League clash at Allianz Arena on Tuesday night.

Last year’s runners-up are rated as warm 3/5 (1.60) favourites with BetVictor to take a giant step towards the last four of the competition by claiming a first-leg lead over the Turin-based side on Tuesday.

Meanwhile Antonio Conte’s side, who cruised past Celtic in the last 16, are chalked up at a chunky 5/1 (6.0) with BetVictor to win in Munich. The same firm go 3/1 (4.0) that the match ends in stalemate.

Bayern would appear to be worthy of their favourites tag given the blistering form they have shown this term and, having scored an astonishing 78 goals in just 27 Bundesliga games, there is little doubt they have the firepower to cause problems for Juventus.

However, the Italian side are sure to draw some comfort from Arsenal’s 2-0 victory in this competition at Allianz Arena last month – a result which almost saw the Premier League outfit overturn a 3-1 deficit from the first leg.

It is worth noting that Juventus have conceded just three goals in their last nine matches in all competitions and will hope their defensive solidity can frustrate the hosts.

With that in mind, BetVictor’s even money (2.0) quote for the first goal to arrive after the 28th minute of the match is tempting while the juicy 13/10 (2.30) for Juventus (+1) in the handicap market also looks worthy of support.

Despite Bayern’s undoubted attacking prowess, Jupp Heynckes will be concerned that his side have conceded in six of their last eight matches in all competitions and, when it is considered that Juventus have scored in all but one of their last 23 matches in all competitions, the generous even money (2.0) quote from BetVictor for both teams to score represents outstanding value.

The Serie A league leaders appear to be underestimated by the odds compilers ahead of this clash and the sizable 3/1 (4.0) quote from BetVictor for Antonio Conte’s men to hold Bayern Munich in Bavaria is the value play on Tuesday.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

'Bayern are lacking in leadership' -

Effenberg backs Juventus win

The former Roten midfielder has written off the club's chances of beating Juventus

in the Champions League as they have no leader in their ranks should things go pear shaped.

Apr 1, 2013

Former Bayern Munich captain Stefan Effenberg has tipped Juventus over his former team in the Champions League quarter-final because Jupp Heynckes' side lack a leader when things go wrong.

The ex-German international spent two spells with die Roten where he won three Bundesliga titles and one Champions League.

However, the former skipper believes an "improved" La Vecchia Signora have the edge over his former employers.

“I don’t think they [bayern] are favourites,” the 44-year-old told Ita Sport Press.

“That is because this Juventus side is different from the one that started the competition.

“They’ve improved so much since then, especially in terms of their self-belief,” added the former Fiorentina, Borussia Monchengladbach and Wolfsburg midfielder.

The German club will be confident of their chances having thumped Hamburg 9-2 at the weekend to maintain their 20-point lead over second-placed Borussia Dortmund, but Effenberg believes this will count for nothing against the Bianconeri.

“Should Bayern have an off day there is no real leader in their side who can drag the team along," he continued.

“That is a limitation because a successful side needs to have personality and a competitive nastiness.”

The two teams meet in Munich on April 2 before the return leg in Turin on April 10.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Juventus are outsiders against Bayern, says Conte

The Bianconeri boss feels the Bavarians are favourites for the clash of the sides

and his men will have to focus on the opponents' mistakes in order to gain something in Germany.

Apr 1, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has called for his players to exploit Bayern Munich's weak points despite considering his side to be "outsiders" ahead of their Champions League clash at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday night.

The Bianconeri and Borussia Dortmund are the only two unbeaten teams of this year's European campaign so far, and he Italian trainer does not intend on having this streak interrupted by Jupp Heynckes' men, despite the German's outstanding form and their commanding position in Bundesliga.

"We know we're outsiders and that we're up against one of the main contenders. But we're not here by chance," the 43-year-old told reporters at a press conference. "We’ll look to identify the weak points of an incredibly strong Bayern team.

"It will be a great, combative game. Bayern's 20-point lead over a top side like Borussia Dortmund is a real testament of the strength that they possess.

"We're delighted to be back in the final stages of Europe after a long absence and will look to play our own game. We’re here because we deserve to be.

"Tomorrow we'll be up against an extremely strong side but we can't let that put us off our game. There’s plenty of desire to see how we measure up against Bayern. It's a test that will show us how far we've come."

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

'Juventus the strongest team after Barcelona' - Kroos

The Roten player has labelled the Bianconeri the second-best team in Europe ahead of

the clash beween the two sides, and says Germany's record against Italian teams is irrelevant.

Apr 1, 2013

Bayern Munich midfielder Toni Kroos has admitted Juventus have left an impression on him as he feels they are currently only topped by Barcelona.

Both sides currently enjoy a commanding position in their respective domestic leagues, and Kroos is well aware of the Serie A champions' strengths, especially in defence.

"Juventus, from my point of view, are the strongest team after Barcelona," the 23-year-old told reporters at the pre-match press conference.

"They will be very strong in defence as always. After all, they are an Italian team."

He also commented on the top-class midfield of the Bianconeri and singled out Andrea Pirlo as one of the main threats going into the match.

"They have a strong midfield. So do we. Of course we have to be extremely careful of their key players like Pirlo, but it will be important to establish our style of play. If we are able to do so, we will win this game."

Germany were eliminated from Euro 2012 by Italy, but Kroos does not believe the failure to proceed to the finals of the tournament has any effect on his club team's composure.

He added: "The past does not count. And it is not of interest. We do not care about games between Germany and Italy, we do not care about former games against Juventus or Inter."

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Buffon: Our defence is the best

Apr 1, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon has praised his Juventus teammates ahead of their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.

The Bianconeri travel to the Allianz Arena for a quarter-final with the Bundesliga leaders on Tuesday.

And the veteran goalkeeper has commended his fellow players, calling the Old Lady back-three 'the best'.

“I work with a great defence that’s often underrated,” he told a Press conference. “They’re the best defensive three I’ve ever played behind.

“Conte has done well to revert to a back three and find the right roles for the defenders to flourish.

“A year and a half ago the club had a great intuition and managed to bring Pirlo to Turin.

“I’ve played with many strong players but Pirlo is one of the few who has that little extra above the rest.”

The 35-year-old also commented on their German opponents.

“The two legs against Bayern will be equally as balanced and could well be decided by individual episodes.

“We’re aware of the fact that we can still improve. But it’s nice to come to Munich and try to play our own game.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Vidal: We are a team to be feared

Apr 1, 2013

Arturo Vidal has insisted that Juventus are a team 'to be feared' as they prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Antonio Conte's side will play Jupp Heynckes' men in the last eight of the competition tomorrow, and the Chile international has claimed that the Bianconeri are hungry to progress further.

“After the win against Chelsea [in the group stage] we started to become aware of our potential,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We have demonstrated that we are a team to be feared.

“I am happy to see this team in a quarter-final. We have the hunger to win this competition.

“I think this game can be considered a final. It is a match between two very good teams.

“In my opinion we are the two best teams in the world.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Kroos: Only Barca better than Juve

Apr 1, 2013

Bayern Munich talent Toni Kroos has the utmost respect for Champions League rivals Juventus. “Only Barcelona are better.”

The two teams will meet in the first leg of their last eight tie at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday evening.

“Juventus are a great name in European football and of course they will be a hard and strong opponent,” the international noted to UEFA.com.

“Juve, from my point of view, is the strongest team after Barcelona. They will be very strong in defence like always.

“Our aim is to win the game and it would be ideal not to concede a goal. We want to travel to Italy with best chance of going through to the semi-finals.”

Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes today spoke of his admiration for Juventus’ midfield three of Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio.

“They have a strong midfield, but so do we,” Kroos added. “Of course we have to be extremely careful of their key players like Pirlo, but it will be important to establish our style of play.

“Against Juventus all of us must work a lot, starting from the forwards. Against a team like Juve the whole team must work defensively well.

“If we are able to do so, we will win this game.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

We're outsiders, insists Conte

Apr 1, 2013

Antonio Conte has claimed that his Juventus side are 'outsiders' when they play Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The Bianconeri face the Bundesliga leaders at the Allianz Arena tomorrow in the quarter-finals of the competition.

And the 43-year-old has admitted that his team are up against it, but has insisted that the Old Lady are not in the last eight by fluke.

“We know we're outsiders and that we're up against one of the main contenders,” he told a Press conference. “But we're not here by chance.

“We’ll look to identify the weak points of an incredibly strong Bayern team. It will be a great, combative game.

“We're delighted to be back in the final stages of Europe after a long absence and will look to play our own game.

“Tomorrow we'll be up against an extremely strong side. Bayern's 20-point lead over a top side like Borussia Dortmund is a real testament of the strength that they possess.

“But we can't let that put us off our game.

“There’s plenty of desire to see how we measure up against Bayern. It's a test that will show us how far we've come.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Bayern Munich-Juventus Preview:

Bianconeri hoping to maintain quarter-final dominance

The Old Lady have won all five last-eight games against German opposition, but will be up

against last year's Champions League finalists, who are in stunning form of their own.

Apr 1, 2013

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

BAYERN

Neuer

Lahm, Boateng, Dante, Alaba

Gustavo, Schweinsteiger

Muller, Kroos, Ribery

Mandzukic

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Barzagli, Chiellini, Bonucci

Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah

Matri, Quagliarella

Bayern Munich could welcome back Jerome Boateng and Bastian Schweinsteiger, who both missed the 2-0 second-leg defeat to Arsenal, for their quarter-final showdown with Serie A champions Juventus.

However, Javi Martinez is suspended for the clash, which means Luiz Gustavo should replace the Spaniard. Long-term absentee Holger Badstuber remains sidelined with ruptured knee ligaments.

Brazilian centre-back Dante and Philipp Lahm are in danger of missing the return leg in Turin on April 10 should they pick up a booking in this encounter.

Juventus, meanwhile, have concerns over the fitness of attacker Sebastian Giovinco, who was scythed down by Esteban Cambiasso in their 2-1 Derby d'Italia victory over Inter, although he has been included in the 22-man squad.

Mirko Vucinic is recovering from flu, which means Fabio Quagliarella and Alessandro Matri are likely to be Conte's preferred striking partnership, although Vucinic could be fit to feature.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio are walking a discipinary tightrope as a booking incurred here would mean they miss the next match.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Bayern Munich go into this match in sparkling form having destroyed Hamburg 9-2 at the weekend. Claudio Pizarro grabbed four goals and two assists.

• In the previous meeting Bayern beat Juventus 4-1 in Turin to eliminate them from the group stages in 2009-10 season. Only Gianluigi Buffon and Claudio Marchisio are likely to survive from that starting XI in this game for the Bianconeri.

• Die Roten coach Jupp Heynckes masterminded victory over Juventus when he was Real Madrid boss, guiding them to a Champions League final 1-0 win in 1998.

• Juventus last lost an away match in Europe back in 2010 when they were beaten 4-1 by Fulham in the Europa League.

• Fabio Quagliarella has netted four goals in 248 minutes of action in the Champions League.

• The Old Lady have not reached the last four since overcoming Barcelona in the 2002-03 campaign.

Head to Head

19.10.2004 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Munich 1-0

03.11.2004 - Champions League - Bayern Munich-Juventus 0-1

18.10.2005 - Champions League - Bayern Munich-Juventus 2-1

02.11.2005 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Munich 2-1

30.09.2009 - Champions League - Bayern Munich-Juventus 0-0

08.12.2009 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Munich 1-4

Last Five Matches

FC Bayern München

Mar 30, 2013 - FC Bayern München 9 - Hamburg 2 - Bundesliga

Mar 16, 2013 - Bayer 04 Leverkusen 1 - FC Bayern München 2 - Bundesliga

Mar 13, 2013 - FC Bayern München 0 - Arsenal 2 - UCL

Mar 9, 2013 - FC Bayern München 3 - F. Düsseldorf 2 - Bundesliga

Mar 3, 2013 - Hoffenheim 0 - FC Bayern München 1 - Bundesliga

Juventus

Mar 30, 2013 - FC Internazionale 1 - Juventus 2 - Serie A

Mar 16, 2013 - Bologna 0 - Juventus 2 - Serie A

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

Players to Watch

Franck Ribéry

Bayern have an array of talent across the whole of the starting XI but the key could be to stretching the Bianconeri back three and getting their wingers involved as much as possible. Ribery is the type of player that could really give Juventus problems with his pace, tenacity and sheer brilliance enough to worry one of Europe's best current backlines.

Arturo Vidal

Will be key to the midfield battle with his energy and determination such an important factor in Juventus' success of late; particularly in the Champions League where his standout performance against Chelsea in the group stage was the catalyst for the Bianconeri's impressive run in Europe. Jupp Heynckes will be all-too familiar with the Chilean's pedigree having coached him at Bayer Leverkusen and will be hoping he does not come good against his side on Tuesday.

Prediction

Both teams go into this match on the back of fine form in their domestic leagues with Juventus winning the Derby d'Italia and Bayern putting nine past Hamburg, ensuring the stage is set for a thrilling encounter on Tuesday. Juventus cruised past Celtic in the last 16, while die Roten made hard work of Arsenal, but the Germans will be fully focused on taking a lead with them to Turin - although it will not come easy.

Editor's Prediction

Bayern 2 - 1 Juventus

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Bayern Munich v Juventus Preview

Apr 1, 2013

The Champions League quarter-finals are upon us and boy has it thrown up a big one! European giants Bayern Munich and Juventus lock horns and it has all the makings of a classic. Two teams dominating their respective leagues and heading into this tie in blistering form. Bayern have the experienced head of Jupp Heynckes to guide them while Juventus are under the tutelage of one of the most exciting young managers in the European scene with Antonio Conte. Indeed, it’s a match up worthy of a final and you know the preparations from both sides will respect the magnitude of the occasion.

Team News and Tactical Brief

Bayern Munich

After that 9-2 thumping of Hamburg over the weekend it seems almost blasphemous to even think of Jupp Heynckes tinkering with his starting eleven but Juventus will be a completely different affair. As has been the case for most of the season, Bayern will be without Holger Badstuber. The German international has been out of action since December courtesy a ruptured cruciate ligament. Unfortunately for Heynckes, Badstuber isn’t the only unavailable player, with Javi Martinez’s yellow card against Arsenal earning him a one game suspension.

Manuel Neuer will be the custodian in goal with a back four of Philipp Lahm, Dante and David Alaba being the obvious choices in defense. Questions have been raised about Jerome Boateng and there is speculation that Daniel van Buyten might get the nod to partner Dante in central defense. Going up against a three man backline might surprise Bayern a little in the tactical sense but this will allow Lahm and Alaba a lot more space while attacking. With Juventus’ left flank being a little suspect, Lahm could hold the key while thundering forward. Going up against Lichtsteiner will be a handful for young Alaba but the Austrian has proven his mettle more than once before and will be keen to do so again. A lot will be decided on the flanks.

Martinez’s suspension means that Bastian Schweinsteiger will be partnered by Luis Gustavo in the heart of midfield. Although not on the same plane as Martinez, Gustavo’s defensive abilities will be most crucial if Bayern are to put a dent in Juventus’ midfield trio. With both Marchisio and Vidal tending to move forward often, Schweinsteiger will fancy a fair number of forward forays himself. The wings should be manned by Franck Ribery and Thomas Müller. Both these players have been in scintillating form this season and given Juventus’ 3-5-2 formation, they might well get more space to play with than most think.

Toni Kroos will complete Bayern’s midfield, slotting in behind the striker. Kroos’ attacking ability will undoubtedly be on show but the key role that the German international will play is that of keeping Andrea Pirlo at bay. Having played in a deeper role before, Kroos is no stranger to the dirty work in midfield and shouldn’t be too alien to the role of shutting down Pirlo. Heynckes has his hands full in choosing his striker for this fixture, especially after Claudio Pizarro’s goal fest over the weekend. Yet, it seems unlikely that the Peruvian will get the nod, leaving Mario Mandzukic and Mario Gomez as Heynckes’ options. Gomez has had injury problems and hasn’t been able to replicate his form from last season but his experience will be a massive advantage over the more consistent Mandzukic.

Proabable Starting Line-Up (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Lahm, Boateng, Dante, Alaba; Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Müller, Kroos, Ribery; Mandzukic

Juventus

For Juventus and Antonio Conte, the slender win away at Inter will give them a huge boost. Morale will be running high in the Juventus camp while enthusiasm is never dry when Conte is around. The Italian Champions have no suspensions troubling them and Martin Caceres is the only first team regular that doesn’t make the trip to Munich.

Whispers emanating from Italy suggest Conte is contemplating tinkering his formation. The aim here is to fit in Paul Pogba into the midfield. Pogba’s has grown in stature this season and is relegated to a bench role owing to the sheer quality of players ahead of him. But as these reports suggest, Pogba will be included so as to bolster the Juventus midfield and help them gain a foothold on the proceedings. One might question this idea as Juventus do have a winning formula and such a change comes with a major risk factor, especially keeping in mind the stage of the competition and the caliber of the opponents. For now, this looks fairly unlikely.

While the bulk of the possession has fallen their way in the league, Juventus have looked content with allowing their opponents the ball in Europe. This new philosophy has worked quite well for them as they dispatched off Celtic causing no real upset in Europe. They should adopt a similar philosophy against the Die Roten. It will be intriguing to watch Kroos carry out his assignment of shadowing Pirlo. The two did tussle with each other in the Euros when Germany met Italy with Pirlo coming out on top due to the generous amount of space Kroos offered him.

The defense remains untouched and will aim to remain compact. The wing-backs are vital in this clash as Bayern tend to exploit the quality of Ribery and Muller. Asamoah and Lichtsteiner have a tough job on their hands but a job they are nevertheless, capable of handling. Expect the Swiss International to be the more adventurous of the duo and support the forwards with his typically energetic runs. In attack, Vucinic is expected to start after shaking off a fever. It’s these kinds of games that bring out the best in the Montenegrin and Conte will turn once again to his enigmatic striker in the hope that he pulls off a vintage ‘big game’ display.

Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Vucinic

Players To Watch Out For

Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)

The Frenchman has enjoyed an absolutely wonderful season this time around. Last season’s triple debacle will be something he wants to wipe out of his memory and what better way than to win the Champions League. Putting the sword to this solid Juventus lineup is a must if Bayern are to get through to the next round and who better to do so than a determined Ribery? Lichtsteiner is surely going to have a difficult night against the wily winger.

Arturo Vidal (Juventus)

Vidal was on Bayern’s radar before the Chilean opted to join Juventus. Since then, Vidal has gone on to establish himself as one of the best midfielders in Europe. Vidal embodies everything about Conte’s Juventus. Strong in the tackle, aggressive while capable of creating openings for his team-mates, Vidal ticks all the boxes of a complete midfielder. Expect him to rise to the occasion as he generally does during the big games.

Prediction

Bayern Munich 1-1 Juventus

It will be entertaining, it will be fun as you expect when you have two of the best teams Germany and Italy have to offer showcasing their talents. Juventus will look to snatch an away goal while Bayern will do their very best to hopefully, for them, take a healthy lead to carry to Turin. A gritty low-scoring sdraw is on the cards but don’t be surprised if Bayern manage to edge this game.

Blast From The Past

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

We don’t fear Bayern claims Quagliarella

Apr 1, 2013

Juventus striker Fabio Quagliarella says that his team don’t fear Bayern Munich ahead of their Champions League clash on Tuesday.

The Bianconeri arrived in Munich yesterday, getting set for their first quarter final encounter since 2006.

“We have respect for Bayern, but no fear,” said Quagliarella in the pre-match press conference.

“We’re going there with the same spirit as always, trying to play our game. The coach keeps his choices to himself until the last minute, so we have no idea who is going to play [on Tuesday].”

Quagliarella, 30, has scored 12 goals in 24 appearances in all competitions, including four in Europe.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

UEFA Champions League Quarterfinal First Leg

Preview: Bayern Munich vs. Juventus

Apr 1, 2013

3-5-2 vs. 4-5-1; the Italian champion-elect vs. the German champion-elect; the Old Lady of Turin vs. the Bavarians; the Allianz Arena is set to witness yet another historical showdown between Bayern and Juventus on Tuesday. The Arena has witnessed quite a few sad nights for Bayern. Quite a few of those sad nights came when the opposition was Italian.

Juventus is coming into this one on the back of a win over the side which Bayern lost the 2010 Champions League Finale to, Inter Milan, 1-2. Bayern, meanwhile, was absolutely magnificent as they used textbook football to take apart Hamburger SV 9-2. The Allianz Arena watched in awe as Claudio Pizarro turned back the years to score four. Arjen Robben struck twice as well.

This meeting against Juventus will be a test of Bayern's true mettle.

Bayern, despite bulldozing just about every league opposition, has not always convinced in the Champions League. The Bavarians have already lost twice this campaign; they come up against a side which remains unbeaten in the Champions League. Despite Die Roten's poor record against Italian sides including Juve, the last meeting between these two sides will bring in plenty of fond memories.

In Turin, with their backs against the wall, Bayern went down a goal. An exit looked imminent. However, a penalty from goalkeeper extraordinaire Hans-Jorg Butt brought Bayern back into the game. Strikes from Ivica Olic, Mario Gomez and finally Anatoliy Tymoshchuk saw Bayern win 1-4 in a wonderful night. The home game in Bavaria had ended 0-0.

Juventus has reason to believe coming into this match. Despite winning 9-2, Bayern conceded two clumsy goals from corners against Hamburger SV. That corner was the same corner in which they conceded the second to Leverkusen in the 1-2 defeat in October. In fact, Laurent Koscielny's headed goal against Arsenal was conceded at the same end.

Jupp Heynckes does not have to worry too much about his squad. He has to be smart tactically, however, against a Juventus side that is both Italian and not Italian. Firstly, they know how to cheat just as all Italian teams do. Little pushes and kicks are common. This is not a bad trait however. Italian teams know how to win; winning teams know how to push boundaries when it comes to the rules. At the same time, they play with a lot of imagination.

Bayern plays with a lot of imagination as well. However, aside from a survival match against Arsenal, they have not been pushed to their limits yet. The mentality has not yet been put through a test as rough as the Chelsea test from last season's finale. Oh, Juventus thrashed Chelsea in the group stages by the way.

Juventus has the capability to scare Bayern, of course. However, Bayern has to prove that this is indeed one of the best teams in the history of German football. League and cup dominance do not always translate to European dominance. La Vecchia Signora with the likes of Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Mirko Vucinic and of course Gianluigi Buffon is a side which is incredibly fit and talented.

During the weekend, Sebastian Giovinco was clattered by Esteban Cambiasso and could miss out. Mirko Vucinic, meanwhile, is suffering from flu. Bayern will be without the suspended Javier Martinez. Claudio Pizarro could start after his brilliant weekend performance. Holger Badstuber is still out with a long term injury.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

'Pirlo is a class above the rest' - Buffon

The 36-year-old says the midfielder is one of the best players

he has had the privilege of playing alongside.

Apr 1, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon says Andrea Pirlo has "that little bit extra" and believes Juventus made the shrewdest of moves in bringing him to the club in 2011.

The veteran goalkeeper has faced some of the biggest names in football during his career, and speaking to reporters on the eve of Juventus' Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich, the 36-year-old says the midfielder remains a special talent.

He said: "I have played with many strong players, but Pirlo is one of the few who has that little extra above the rest. The club showed great intuition a year and a half ago when they managed to bring him to Turin."

The Italy goalkeeper also paid tribute to the Bianconeri defence and believes the unit do not get the recognition they deserve.

"I work with a great defence that’s often underrated," he added.

"They’re the best defensive three I’ve ever played behind and I think Conte has done well to revert to a back three and find the right roles for the defenders to flourish."

And Buffon is approaching Tuesday's European tie in relaxed fashion and hopes Juventus play in their usual fashion on the night.

"We’re aware of the fact that we can still improve, but it's nice to come to Munich and we will try play our own game."

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Juve’s game of truth – Tacchinardi

Apr 2, 2013

Juventus’ tie at Bayern Munich this evening will confirm whether they are ready to win the Champions League, says Alessio Tacchinardi.

The Old Lady will face the German giants in the first leg of their last eight European Cup encounter at the Allianz Arena.

“It will be an important test to measure Juve’s European ambitions this season,” the former Bianconero midfielder told Radio Sportiva.

“The Germans are a side who are even one step above Real Madrid and we can expect a hard-fought encounter.

“It will be a very intense and physical game, but Juventus have a 50 per cent chance of qualifying for the next round.”

The Turin outfit started the Champions League campaign with three draws, but they’ve won every match since.

“The win over Chelsea was important, it gave them greater knowledge of the competition,” Tacchinardi added.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Rizzitelli goes for Bayern experience

Apr 2, 2013

Ruggiero Rizzitelli believes that former club Bayern Munich will start their Champions League tie against Juventus as slight favourites.

The Italian spent two years with the outfit after his 1996 move from Torino and he’s looking forward to the two quarter-final encounters.

“If I had to give a percentage in terms of who will qualify, then I’d say Bayern had a 52 per cent chance and Juventus 48,” he told Tutto Juve.

“It will be a well balanced tie, but Bayern have the advantage of having played ties of this stature over the past few years.

“They are in the middle of a great cycle which has seen them take part in two Finals over the past three seasons.

“But Bayern and Juventus are both great teams, probably the strongest in the tournament if you take out Barcelona and Real Madrid.”

When asked how you go about beating Bayern, the former Roma man urged the Old Lady to attack with pace.

“Bayern are physically strong in defence, but slow. Juventus have to take advantage of the velocity of their forwards.

“Players like Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco can do harm and could prove lethal.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Matri 'excited' by Bayern clash

Apr 2, 2013

Alessandro Matri has admitted that he is 'very excited' ahead of their Champions League quarter-final with Bayern Munich.

The Bianconeri face the Bundeliga leaders in Germany this evening, and the 28-year-old has insisted that it will be a 'great game'.

“Everyone wants to play in a game like this one,” he told Topmercato. “We are very excited to be tackling on the Europe's best teams.

“Bayern are having a great season, but we will try and get a good result away from home.

“They have some amazing players like Ribery, Robben and Muller, but if we are prepared tactically, we can have our say.

“I think it will be a great game.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Buffon: 'Neuer can define an era'

Apr 2, 2013

Gigi Buffon praised his Bayern Munich counterpart Manuel Neuer ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash. “He can define an era.”

This evening the first leg of their quarter-final will be played at the Allianz Arena and Juventus goalkeeper Buffon spoke to Sky Sport Italia.

“We face Bayern the same way we faced Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk. That means with the right humility, awareness of our opponents who have great talent and world class individuals.

“This is why we will face them with the right degree of caution, but not forgetting to play our game too.”

Neuer has been mentioned as one of the heirs to Buffon on the world stage and they seem set to exchange shirts tonight after the final whistle.

“I really like Neuer, as he is physically imposing, makes his presence felt in the box, is strong on crosses and has everything it takes to define an era.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Lahm: 'Juve typically Italian'

Apr 2, 2013

Bayern Munich defender Philipp Lahm has called tonight’s Champions League opponents Juventus “a typically Italian team.”

The runaway leaders of the Bundesliga and Serie A go head-to-head in the quarter-final this evening at the Allianz Arena.

“Juventus are dominating the Italian League, which is not an easy thing to do,” Lahm told German newspaper Tz.

“They are a typically Italian team, very organised and with excellent players. However, we are aware of our strengths.

“In attack we have players able to break down any defence. However, we must be concentrated on every single detail right from the start.

“Juve are strong, with a defensive style of play typical of the Italians.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Bonucci: 'We are Juve!'

Apr 2, 2013

Leonardo Bonucci is fired up for tonight’s game with Bayern Munich. “The Germans are strong, but we are Juve and we’re going there to fight!”

The defender wrote a message on his website ahead of the Champions League quarter-final first leg.

“The Germans? Well, what to say... They are strong, among the best, but we are JUVE and WE ARE GOING THERE TO FIGHT, TO WIN THE BATTLE!!” wrote Bonucci.

“I am thinking only of this!! Then, as always, may the best team win and forza Juve. Hugs.”

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Witeczek warns Bayern of Juve's defensive strength

The former Roten man feels his old club will prevail against

the Bianconeri but has warned of the Italians' tactical astuteness.

Apr 2, 2013

EXCLUSIVE

By Tim Rohn

Former Bayern Munich midfielder Marcel Witeczek is expecting the Bavarians to overcome Juventus on Tuesday, but feels the Bianconeri will pose Jupp Heynckes' side problems.

The 44-year-old spent four years at the club during the mid-1990s, and while he remembers several tough games against Serie A teams, he expects his old club to prevail.

"I can remember difficult games against Italian sides from my time at Bayern Munich," he told Goal.com.

"They are teams who work very well tactically and defensively, but also have a lot to offer going forward. This also applies to the current Juve team.

"Bayern are 60 per cent favourites for this match. They play better football. However, they should not underestimate Juventus.

"A first-leg win and a two-goal advantage would be important as the second leg in Turin will be tough."

Bayern are running away with the Bundesliga this season and have reached two of the last three Champions League finals, and Witeczek is impressed with the Roten's progress.

"The current Bayern team have played on a very high level internationally over the last two or three years, which they've shown by reaching the final last year.

"This year, the experience fighting for the Champions League title could play into their hands."

And the former West Germany Under-21 international feels the winners of the competition will be from either La Liga or Bundesliga.

"For me, both German and the Spanish teams are favourites for the title, namely Dortmund, Bayern, Barcelona and Real Madrid," he added.

"If they play each other, their form on the day will be decisive. All four of these teams have outstanding players who are capable of deciding matches on their own.

"I'm not surprised by Dortmund's strong displays in the Champions League this season. They have gained experience and matured. They stopped walking into traps as they did last term.

"Their performances in the group stage have shown that they can surprise any opponent."

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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Pirlo is better than anything Bayern Munich have to offer -

Goal.com previews the Champions League quarter finals

With the last-eight clashes upon us, James Richardson

and our panel of experts discuss the key talking points.

Apr 2, 2013

Juventus veteran Andrea Pirlo is better than anything Bayern Munich have to offer, according to Goal.com's expert Peter Staunton ahead of the side’s Champions League quarter-final clash.

Staunton, James Richardson and Carlo Garganese discovered a mutual love for Toni Kroos too ahead of the clash between the leaders of Serie A and the Bundesliga on Tuesday night.

Staunton said: "Both these teams have been dominating their domestic leagues, and they all have their respective strengths, but the craft and artistry of Pirlo is far and away better than anything Bayern has to offer, aside perhaps of the goalscoring threat of Toni Kroos."

Garganese expanded on Bayern’s attacking riches, adding: "The only weapons that Juventus will be truly scared about are the attacking trio of Kroos, Thomas Muller on the right - who’s having a fantastic season - and on the left Franck Ribery.

"I think if Juventus can stop those three they’ll be confident they can win the tie."

The clash is one of the most highly anticipated of European last eight that is packed with quality, and Garganese is predicting it will be Pirlo and Co. who come through the two legs on top.

He added: "I’m going to tip Juventus. I think it will be very close, it will be decided on the small details, but I think they’ll win the midfield battle and that will be decisive."

Which of the European giants will have the advantage on Tuesday night after the first leg? Will last year’s runners-up be able to surpass the might of the Bianconeri’s midfield?

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Robben: Bayern will challenge Barcelona & Madrid for Champions League glory

The Dutchman is rather optimistic about his side's chances in Europe,

and has insisted that he has no intention of leaving die Roten this summer.

Apr 2, 2013

Arjen Robben is brimming with confidence ahead of the first leg of Bayern Munich's Champions League quarter-final tie against Juventus, and believes the Bundesliga leaders can challenge pre-tournament favourites Barcelona and Real Madrid for the title.

The Bavarians made it to the final of the competition last campaign, and Robben feels they have what it takes to make it to this year's showpiece at Wembley, too, even though he realises Juventus will not be pushovers in the quarter-finals.

"We showed last season that we can be up there with the best in Europe, so we want to be in the final at Wembley. We will challenge the likes of Barca and Real for the title," the Dutchman was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

"If you look at last year's final against Chelsea, again we should never have lost it. But we’ve improved from last year. We are in the quarter-finals and we are top of our league, so you can’t ask for more.

"The tie against Juventus is going to be a tough challenge for sure. They are a team with so many experienced players — people like Andrea Pirlo — and we know how hard they will make it for us."

The Netherlands international then went on to discuss his future at Bayern, and dismissed rumours that he could be on the move this summer.

"Sometimes it's ridiculous what gets written. I have another two years on my contract and I am looking forward to seeing it through," he continued.

"Of course I didn’t want to be on the bench. When you’ve recovered from a few injuries like me, then you’ll understand. I love being on the pitch. When I’m out there, I just want to play football."

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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Vidal gets chance to prove he was

right to choose Juventus over Bayern

The Chilean was all set to sign for the Bavarians before he put pen to paper with

the Old Lady, and on Tuesday he will finally get the opportunity to show why he switched to Italy.

Apr 2, 2013

COMMENT

By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer

There was a time in the summer of 2011 when Bayern Munich fans were relishing the thought of Arturo Vidal’s next appearance on the Allianz Arena turf. But when he finally makes his return to Munich on Tuesday night in a Juventus shirt, he is likely to receive a hot reception from the home crowd due to the bitter war of words that shadowed the course of events which led to him ending up in Turin.

For much of the first month after the 2010-11 season had ended, Vidal looked destined for Munich, whether through the softening of Bayer Leverkusen’s decision not to sell to a fellow Bundesliga club, or by the Chilean waiting a year and leaving die Werkself on a Bosman free.

Leverkusen had originally claimed that Bayern’s bid had not met their valuation, but then changed stance, saying they would not consider FC Hollywood when assessing their sale options on the midfielder.

"Bayern can offer what they want. They will not get him. There is a threshold only for foreign clubs," Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller told Kicker.

Vidal himself was attempting to push through a deal, making it clear he would love to don the famous red shirt. "I want to go to Munich. Now," he told Bild. "I absolutely want the clubs to reach an agreement.

“There is now an official offer from Munich. Before, there were only talks about it, now it is concrete. I wanted to extend last year and [Leverkusen] were not interested."

He continued: "One must forgive me, I would like to take this unique opportunity. One of the best clubs in the world wants to sign me. In addition, my old coach Jupp Heynckes is there. That I have given everything for Leverkusen could not be disputed."

But when Juventus came into the picture, suddenly the transfer horizon looked different, with Leverkusen having a potential buyer they were happy to sell to. Die Roten still held out hope, but they were clearly outsiders in the race.

And as soon as the Old Lady offered the €10.5 million that Leverkusen considered sufficient for a sale, Vidal was suddenly heading for Turin, calling the Old Lady “an institution, the maximum for any player”.

"Bayern also have great players, but Juventus are Juventus,” said Vidal. “And, I also wanted to play football in Italy as football there has a great passion, just like in Chile."

"Vidal has broken his word," Bayern director Uli Hoeness told Bild in response.

I want to go to Munich. Now. I absolutely want the clubs to reach an agreement - Arturo Vidal, June 15, 2011

"It would have taken great backbone to play at Bayer Leverkusen, having made the statement: ‘I am going to Bayern.’ And I would not expect the player to have such backbone.

"I always thought that with that kind of transfer, the odds were below 50 per cent. I thought to myself: if it works, it's nice; if not, it's OK."

Since arriving in Turin, Vidal has transformed the Bianconeri as both an attacking and a defensive proposition.

Off the ball, he provides the battling axis in front of the more vulnerable right side of the Juve back three, sweeping up at the base of midfield in order to restart attacks from higher positions and give the defence as little work as possible.

When in possession of the ball he has the ability to time runs perfectly into the box, works cohesively with Andrea Pirlo to his left and Stephan Lichtsteiner to his right, has a sharp eye for goal and hugely effective passing game to both long and short targets.

Many observers have credited Pirlo as being the inspiration behind Juve’s return to the head of Italian football over the past 20 months, but Vidal’s part in their rise from the ashes cannot be underestimated. He has also had time to explain further his decision not to wait for Bayern, or force through a move to the Allianz Arena.

“Bayern were serious and they came forward, but Juventus showed more of an interest in me,” he told the Corriere dello Sport. “Also, here I have great team-mates like Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio."

And it will be those two who will line up to Vidal’s side at the Allianz in the Champions League quarter-final first leg which has such an undertone for the 25-year-old. They have quickly become one of the most feared midfield trios in football, and the Chilean will be hoping against hope that they help to make his point on Tuesday night.

After turning down Champions League football with Bayern last year and seeing them miss out on the European title by a matter of minutes, his job now is to make them regret not doing more to force through his signing by sending Juventus through to the last four at their expense.

[Socrates 8435]

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.)

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Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Buffon: Bayern clash will show

whether Juventus are a top team

The veteran goalkeeper is keen to measure himself against top opposition

as the Bianconeri have set their sights on a semi-final spot.

Apr 2, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon is desperate to find out whether Juventus can be considered one of Europe's top teams as they prepare for the first leg of their Champions League tie against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.

The Italian champions started the competition as a mere outsider after missing out on Champions League football in the past two seasons, but they have impressed on their way to the quarter-finals as they saw off teams such as Chelsea, Shakhtar Donetsk and Celtic.

"When we started off on our journey that has brought us to where we are today, no-one would have expected us to make such swift progress. But that’s what’s happened and we’ve deserved it," Buffon said at a press conference.

"I don’t know how far off we are from being considered a top team. But this test will tell us a great deal, we’re curious to face it. We’ve got two intense encounters ahead of us and I hope they’re balanced.

"The most important thing is to have no regrets, but I don’t think that will happen. Up until now we’ve always shown maturity when dealing with crucial moments."