Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Lahm: Bayern can unlock any defence

The Germany international realises a difficult task awaits the Bundesliga leaders,

but he is confident Bayern will find a way to beat the Juve back-line.

Apr 2, 2013

Philipp Lahm believes Bayern Munich have what it takes to breakdown any defence as they prepare for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie against Juventus on Tuesday.

The Turin giants have impressed defensively this season, conceding only 19 goals in 30 Serie A appearances so far, yet Lahm has little doubt that Bayern, who put nine past Hamburg on Saturday, will find a way through against the Old Lady.

"Juventus have impressed us. They have dominated Serie A and it will not be an easy task to beat them. They're a typical Italian team, very well organised and with some incredibly talented individuals," Lahm was quoted as saying by TZ.

"But we all know what we're capable of, too. We know that we can unlock any defence. We have some great players and the win over Hamburg showed what we can do.

"Juventus are a good team and they are very strong at the back. They are not an easy team to face, but we want to beat them."

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Bayern play amazing champagne football, says Salihamidzic

The Bosnian is impressed with the Allianz Arena side's recent performances,

and hopes they can go all the way in Europe after narrowly missing out last season.

Apr 2, 2013

Former Bayern Munich wing-back Hasan Salihamidzic has hailed the Bundesliga giants' recent form ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash against Juventus.

The Bavarians impressed at the weekend with a 9-2 league win over Hamburg, and Salihamidzic, who wore the Bayern jersey from 1998 until 2007, is hopeful they can go all the way in Europe this term.

"The champagne football they are playing is amazing – they dominate matches and never give up possession. They simply stifle their opponents," Salihamidzic told Fifa.com.

"Bayern have really matured and are now among the top three in Europe. They've qualified for the final of the Champions League twice in the past three years, only to lose on both occasions unfortunately.

"Over the past three or four years they have become a really strong outfit. They never lose their cool and always remain focused. I really hope they do it this time."

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Appiah backs Juventus to beat Bayern

The former Bianconeri midfielder believes his old side will edge a cagey encounter

over two legs, and revealed what runs through a player's mind prior to such a fxiture.

Apr 2, 2013

EXCLUSIVE

By Juliet Bawuah

Former Ghana captain Stephen Appiah has tipped his old club Juventus to qualify to the semi-final of the Uefa Champions League at the expense of Bayern Munich, although he admits it will be a cagey encounter.

The Old Lady will lock horns with the Bavarian side in the first-leg of their last eight clash at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, and Appiah, who made 48 appearances for the Turin side, believes they will edge the tie over the two legs.

“It’s going to be a difficult game, with two big clubs who are doing well, but I think each of them would use their home game as an advantage," Appiah told Goal.com. "I will go for Juventus to win 2-1, although Bayern are looking scary, but they are an odd team and I believe strongly that Juventus will go through over two legs.”

Appiah, who made his Bianconeri debut in Europe's elite club competition, has stressed the importance of concentration for the players involved as they prepare to compete on one of football's grandest stages.

“At this stage, if you are a player and you know there is a Champions League game ahead, nothing goes through your mind. All you do is lie on your bed and think about the pass that can make a difference in the game," he continued.

"Players will be hoping to win at the same time, although they are scared, and it's true players will play with panic so it is the concentration that makes the difference."

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Bayern Munich are one of Europe's best, says Matri

The Italy forward expressed his excitement at taking on the Bundesliga leaders

and believes the Serie A champions have the tactical expertise to progress to the semi-finals.

Apr 2, 2013

Juventus striker Alessandro Matri has described Bayern Munich as one of Europe's best sides ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash on Tuesday.

The Serie A champions travel to the Allianz Arena in the first leg to face last season's beaten finalists, and Matri has revealed the palpable excitement within the dressing room ahead of the encounter.

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

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

The 28-year-old has warned of the formidable array of attacking talent at Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes' disposal, but believes the Bianconeri have the tactical awareness to nullify such a threat.

He added: "They have some amazing players like [Franck] Ribery, [Arjen] Robben and [Thomas] Muller, but if we are prepared tactically, we can have our say.

"I think it will be a great game."

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Bayern-Juventus tie is 50-50, says Kohler

The 1990 World Cup-winner admitted he is hoping the German side can come out

on top, and expressed his admiration for the work of former team-mate Antonio Conte.

Apr 2, 2013

Former Germany defender Jurgen Kohler believes the Champions League tie between Bayern Munich and Juventus is too close to call.

The 47-year-old, who played for both clubs during his distinguished career, admitted that he would be supporting the Bundesliga side on Tuesday, though he feels the Italian champions' recent results will put them in a confident mood.

"Although I played for four years for Juventus and only two for Bayern, I will be rooting for the German team when I watch the match on Tuesday," he told TZ.

"I would rate their chances of progressing as fifty-fifty.

"Clearly Juventus have to take into account the 9-2 win for Bayern against Hamburg, but the Turin side are themselves leaders in Italy and after the 2-1 win at Inter Milan travel to Munich with a very broad chest.

"And with Antonio Conte, who was once a team-mate of mine at Juventus, the club has a coach who does a huge job."

Kohler also spoke of his belief that Juventus can already consider this season a success after reaching the last eight of Europe's premier club competition for the first time since 2006.

He added: "By the end of last year, Juventus remained 49 league matches unbeaten. That shows how much my former club is making a comeback.

"Juve has had a difficult period since 2006 when they were relegated to Serie B. Reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League can therefore be seen to be a success."

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Line-ups: Bayern-Juventus

Apr 2, 2013

Fabio Quagliarella and Alessandro Matri step out for tonight’s Champions League quarter-final between Bayern Munich and Juventus.

The first leg kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Antonio Conte had several concerns going into the game, as Sebastian Giovinco is nursing a bruised ankle from Esteban Cambiasso’s horror-tackle on Easter Saturday, while Mirko Vucinic missed that trip to Inter with flu symptoms.

Both are on the bench, as Matri and Quagliarella reunite after their fine performance against Inter on Saturday.

Federico Peluso is picked rather than Kwadwo Asamoah, as Stephan Lichtsteiner takes the other flank.

Martin Caceres, Mauricio Isla, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner are all long-term absentees.

Bayern are 20 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga table and a second-string side flattened Hamburg 9-2 on Saturday with Claudio Pizarro netting four.

Juve have a nine-point advantage in the Serie A standings, but more importantly are unbeaten in nine European matches including four consecutive clean sheets.

Arjen Robben and Mario Gomez are only fit for the bench, while Mario Mandzukic leads the 4-2-3-1 system.

Javi Martinez is suspended and Holger Badstuber injured.

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, van Buyten, Dante, Alaba; Luiz Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Muller, Kroos, Ribery; Mandzukic

Bayern Munich bench: Starke, Boateng, Tymoshchuk, Robben, Shaqiri, Pizarro, Gomez

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Matri, Quagliarella

Juventus bench: Storari, Marrone, Padoin, Pogba, Asamoah, Vucinic, Giovinco

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

HT 1-0: Juve trail in Munich

Apr 2, 2013

Bayern Munich went in front within 30 seconds and have had Juventus under pressure ever since, but it’s still 1-0 at half-time.

The Bianconeri were still unbeaten in the Champions League this season and kept five consecutive clean sheets going into the first leg of this quarter-final. Their track record in Munich was perfectly even thanks to a 1-0 win in 2004, a draw and a defeat. Juve also knocked German teams out in all five previous quarter-finals.

Mirko Vucinic was still suffering from flu symptoms, so Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella started in attack. Javi Martinez was suspended and Holger Badstuber injured, but Bayern were fresh from a 9-1 Bundesliga victory over Hamburg.

It was the worst possible start for the Bianconeri. Andrea Pirlo gave the ball away and David Alaba hit a speculative long-range effort that took a deflection off Arturo Vidal. Gigi Buffon was heading the wrong way and had to change direction, but slipped and couldn’t quite get there in time to keep out the shot in the opening 30 seconds.

Juve’s run of four consecutive clean sheets in Europe was ended in bizarre fashion, but did not lose heart and Pirlo’s free kick landed on the roof of the net, then Vidal’s snapshot whistled wide.

Bad news for Bayern, as Toni Kroos hobbled off with a suspected groin strain to make way for Arjen Robben. The Dutch international almost scored within three minutes of coming off the bench, as he pounced on an Andrea Barzagli error to shoot from seven yards, forcing Buffon to parry with his ankle.

Barzagli gave the ball away again in the final third and Franck Ribery’s counter-attack was deflected inches past the near post. From that corner, a Dante glancing header went wide. Daniel Van Buyten also protested as Giorgio Chiellini stopped him getting to another corner.

Bastian Schweinsteiger’s free kick floated just over the far top corner, but Juve were under pressure and continually giving the ball away in the final third. Another error allowed a Thomas Muller counter and Robben fired wide of the near post from a very promising position.

Matri at full stretch just failed to get on the end of a long pass and Manuel Neuer plucked it off his foot. Robben’s weak angled drive was into Buffon’s arms and Ribery flashed a ball across the six-yard box, but Mario Mandzukic couldn’t make contact under pressure from Chiellini.

Schweinsteiger blasted over the bar, but Juve finally created a chance in first half stoppages when Bonucci’s glancing header from a Pirlo corner landed on the roof of the net.

Bayern 1-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Alaba 1 (B)

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, van Buyten, Dante, Alaba; Luiz Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Muller, Kroos (Robben 16), Ribery; Mandzukic

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Matri, Quagliarella

Ref: Clattenburg (ENG)

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Alaba & Muller net as German giants

produce dominant display

Jupp Heynckes' men have one foot in the final four after dominating their

quarter-final first-leg clash with the Italian champions from start to finish.

Apr 2, 2013

Bayern Munich took a significant step towards the semi-finals of the Champions League with a commanding 2-0 first-leg success over a strangely subdued Juventus side at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday evening.

After opening the scoring inside a minute courtesy of a deflected drive from David Alaba, the runaway Bundesliga leaders dominated what many felt would be the most closely contested of the four quarter-finals and were full value for a victory which was deservedly capped by a second-half strike from Thomas Muller.

Bayern had gone into the game on the back of a devastating 9-2 domestic defeat of Hamburg but even they could not have imagined that they would open the scoring against the tightest defence in the Champions League with such ease.

Less than 25 seconds had elapsed when an uncharacteristically sloppy pass from Andrea Pirlo allowed Bastian Schweinsteiger to put Alaba into space some 35 yards out. Even then, there appeared to be little threat to the Juventus goal, but the Austria international’s subsequent strike took a slight deflection off Vidal that deceived Gianluigi Buffon, who, having inexplicably committed himself to a dive to his right, was unable to scramble back across his line to keep out a bouncing ball that was not travelling at any great pace.

Credit to the visitors, they responded well to the concession of such an early goal, and Pirlo fired a free kick just over the Bayern bar seconds before midfield partner Vidal flashed a well-struck shot inches wide as the Bianconeri enjoyed a brief spell of dominance.

The loss of Toni Kroos to injury after 16 minutes appeared further cause for concern for Bayern but the introduction of Arjen Robben coincided with a sustained spell of pressure for the hosts, with the Dutchman very nearly doubling his side’s advantage with a snapshot volley that Buffon did well to block with his feet.

Franck Ribery then saw a low strike unluckily deflected wide by Bonucci, after the industrious Mario Mandzukic had brilliantly dispossessed a sleeping Andrea Barzagli, before Robben squandered another excellent opening on 32 minutes, dragging Muller's terrific cut-back wide of the right post with the entire goal at his mercy.

Juve served a timely reminder of their set-piece threat just before the break when Giorgio Chiellini headed a Pirlo corner just over, but it was clear that the Bianconeri, who had not managed a single shot on target in the opening 45 minutes, would need a drastically improved second-half showing if they were to save an unbeaten away record in European competition that stretched back to 2010.

As it was, Bayern continued to carry the far greater attacking threat and Mandzukic tested Buffon with a low strike after being released into space by Schweinsteiger. The crucial second goal that Bayern undeniably deserved arrived just after the hour mark.

Again, there was some fortune involved. Mandzukic was offside when Luiz Gustavo hit a shot that Buffon was unable to hold, but the hosts deserved their good luck and Mandzukic had to be applauded for the way in which he coolly collected the rebound before leaving Muller with a tap-in.

The beleaguered Bianconeri managed to muster a shot on goal in the final quarter, with Manuel Neuer easily parrying a Vidal shot away to safety, but Muller very nearly added a third Bayern goal at the end of what was already a bitterly disappointing night for the Italians. They must now attempt to overturn a two-goal deficit in the second leg without Vidal and Stephan Lichsteiner, both of whom where booked in Bavaria.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Juve capitulate in Munich

Juventus will need a remarkable performance to reach the Champions League

semi-final after numerous mistakes in their 2-0 defeat to Bayern Munich.

Apr 2, 2013

The Bianconeri were still unbeaten in the Champions League this season and kept five consecutive clean sheets going into the first leg of this quarter-final. Their track record in Munich was perfectly even thanks to a 1-0 win in 2004, a draw and a defeat. Juve also knocked German teams out in all five previous quarter-finals.

Mirko Vucinic was still suffering from flu symptoms, so Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella started in attack. Javi Martinez was suspended and Holger Badstuber injured, but Bayern were fresh from a 9-1 Bundesliga victory over Hamburg.

It was the worst possible start for the Bianconeri. Andrea Pirlo gave the ball away and David Alaba hit a speculative long-range effort that took a deflection off Arturo Vidal. Gigi Buffon was heading the wrong way and had to change direction, but slipped and couldn’t quite get there in time to keep out the shot in the opening 30 seconds.

Juve’s run of four consecutive clean sheets in Europe was ended in bizarre fashion, but did not lose heart and Pirlo’s free kick landed on the roof of the net, then Vidal’s snapshot whistled wide.

Bad news for Bayern, as Toni Kroos hobbled off with a suspected groin strain to make way for Arjen Robben. The Dutch international almost scored within three minutes of coming off the bench, as he pounced on an Andrea Barzagli error to shoot from seven yards, forcing Buffon to parry with his ankle.

Barzagli gave the ball away again in the final third and Franck Ribery’s counter-attack was deflected inches past the near post. From that corner, a Dante glancing header went wide. Daniel Van Buyten also protested as Giorgio Chiellini stopped him getting to another corner.

Bastian Schweinsteiger’s free kick floated just over the far top corner, but Juve were under pressure and continually giving the ball away in the final third. Another error allowed a Thomas Muller counter and Robben fired wide of the near post from a very promising position.

Matri at full stretch just failed to get on the end of a long pass and Manuel Neuer plucked it off his foot. Robben’s weak angled drive was into Buffon’s arms and Ribery flashed a ball across the six-yard box, but Mario Mandzukic couldn’t make contact under pressure from Chiellini.

Schweinsteiger blasted over the bar, but Juve finally created a chance in first half stoppages when Bonucci’s glancing header from a Pirlo corner landed on the roof of the net.

Surprisingly, Antonio Conte made no changes at the break and Buffon parried a Mandzukic counter-attack at the base of the near post. The goalkeeper also had his palms stung by a fierce Alaba free kick.

Bayern remained in control and doubled their lead when Buffon palmed a long-range Luiz Gustavo effort into the path of Mandzukic, who reacted quicker than the Juve defence to roll across for Muller’s tap-in. There were suspicions of offside on Mandzukic in the build-up. It was only the sixth time in all competition this season that Juve had conceded more than one goal.

Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco were thrown on for the ineffective Matri and Quagliarella. Vidal was booked for a handling offence and will be suspended for the second leg.

Juve finally had a shot on goal on 69 minutes when Vidal stung Neuer’s gloves from eight yards, but on the counter Ribery did the same to Buffon. Paul Pogba replaced Federico Peluso, as Juve moved to a 4-4-2 system in the final 15 minutes.

Stephan Lichtsteiner was harshly booked for simulation when he burst into the box and clattered into Dante, as the English referee thought he went looking for the contact. Ribery was fortunate to escape even a free kick when he stamped his studs on Vidal’s calf.

Alaba charged down a Pogba strike in the box, but as the move continued Bonucci ballooned an attempt high and wide. Buffon got down to beat away a Muller snapshot and was glad to see the Bayern forward fire the follow-up over the bar.

Bayern 2-0 Juventus

Scorers: Alaba 1 (B), Muller 63 (B)

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, van Buyten, Dante, Alaba; Luiz Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Muller, Kroos (Robben 16), Ribery (Shaqiri 92); Mandzukic (Gomez 90)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso (Pogba 75); Matri (Vucinic 65), Quagliarella (Giovinco 65)

Ref: Clattenburg (ENG)

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Bayern experience trumps Juve

Apr 2, 2013

It had been heralded as the most wondrous tie of the round, but may well end up as the most one-sided. A brilliantly assured Bayern Munich are well on the way to the semifinals with a performance that was much more emphatic than even 2-0 suggests.

What will be most galling for Juventus will be the fact that they simply didn't give a true account of themselves. This was a meek surrender to defeat from a side who have otherwise shown such strength to go an entire Serie A season unbeaten.

What will be most encouraging for Bayern, though, was that they didn't even have to be at their best to win so commandingly. At times, especially in the second half, they were almost casually strolling as they struck the ball around.

That, however, is not to say they didn't professionally do their job. Most notably, striker Mario Mandzukic often dropped into a holding role in order to abrasively win the ball back and ensure Bayern’s superiority was maintained. It perfectly illustrated the pressing, passing game implemented across the team as a whole. What’s more, it allowed them to overcome the injury to the usually vital Toni Kroos without any notable effect.

With the young midfielder having suffered a muscle tear and set to be out for the rest of the season, however, that may become more of an issue later on in the campaign.

Here, Bayern just brushed Juve off to maintain their balance.

To a degree, that reflected exactly the reality of what these teams are. Since this Bayern core started to come together around the summer of 2009, they have reached two Champions League finals in three seasons.

By contrast, this was only Juventus's second European knockout tie under Antonio Conte, with the first obviously coming in the last 16 against Celtic.

In that, the Italian side suddenly bore all the hallmarks of an otherwise fine team facing a quality of side they aren't usually accustomed to. Indeed, Juve almost looked like the Manchester United team they themselves subjected to such a reality check in the 1996-97 season. Not only did they fail to create a chance of note, they failed to get any kind of foothold on the game and always looked a step behind Bayern.

Of course, the quick-fire David Alaba goal would have unfortunately affected any game plan, but then it's just as telling that Juventus were so disrupted by it.

In the long term, it's of no concern. The club just need to accustom themselves to playing teams of such quality again, and they won't get too many lessons as stark as this.

In the short term, though, it is troubling how far that anxiety spread and how badly some of their most experienced individuals were affected.

Gigi Buffon, for example, uncharacteristically slipped up to allow Thomas Muller to slot home for the clincher.

And, for the opening goal, Andrea Pirlo played a shockingly sloppy pass to open things up for Alaba.

Even worse, it was the first of many from the playmaker. Pirlo ended up with a pass completion of just 51 percent. It may just be coincidence, but the last time he had such an ineffective game was another against a passing-pressing team: the Euro 2012 final.

Bayern may not be quite as good as the Spanish side that beat Italy 4-0 in that match, but they're developing a justifiable reputation of their own.

This game will only fortify the perception that they are finally set to end a 12-year wait for the Champions League trophy they crave above all.

It is mental fortitude, however, that may be the only remaining barrier to doing so. As it stands, this Bayern team have still choked in three big continental occasions, while Arsenal ran them pretty close in the last round.

Juventus's only hope is to try to do the same.

Bayern's lead, however, should strongly mitigate against that.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Player Ratings

Goal.com evaluates the performances of everyone on show at the Allianz Arena, as the Bavarians took control of their quarter-final tie thanks to David Alaba and Thomas Muller.

Apr 2, 2013

FC Bayern München

Manuel Neuer - Did not have a single shot on target to deal with during the opening 45 minutes but did well to parry Vidal's second-half strike away to safety when called upon for the first time.

D. Alaba - Opened the scoring with a deflected strike but it was his all-round contribution which was far more impressive, with the Austrian doing a fine job keeping Lichsteiner quiet for the majority of the game.

Dante - Solid as a rock at the back for Bayern, the Brazilian coped wonderfully well with the movement of Juve's front two, as well as offering a serious aerial threat at the other end.

Daniel Van Buyten - Just like his central defensive colleague, the big Belgian was untroubled at the back, while at the same time causing trouble every time he ventured forward. Indeed, probably should have had a penalty after seemingly being tugged back by Bonucci.

Philipp Lahm - Led by example early on, the seemingly indefatigable skipper offering a wonderful outlet down the right-hand side during the first half. Less influential in the second period, though.

Franck Ribéry - Caused chaos every time he built up a head of steam and his efforts really should have resulted in a booking for Vidal, who took him down twice in the opening half hour alone.

Luiz Gustavo Dias - Once again asked to fill in for the suspended Javi Martinez and played a key role in upsetting Juve's usual rhythm in midfield. Also tried to get forward whenever he could, effectively creating the second goal with a decent strike.

Bastian Schweinsteiger - Used the ball with predictable poise and intelligence, setting up Alaba for the opener before threatening a goal himself just before the break with a powerful drive that went just over.

Toni Kroos - Saw his evening cruelly cut short by injury after an innocuous collision with Lichtsteiner.

Mario Mandzukic - Perfectly illustrated the merits of defending from the front by the way in which he hassled and harried Juve's defenders, with one successful steal creating a great opening for Ribery. Again underlined his alertness by pouncing on the rebound for Muller's goal.

Thomas Müller - A lively presence on the right-hand side, Muller created several openings with his pace and vision, the best of which, a clever cut-back, was criminally wasted by Robben. Capped a fine display by tapping home the crucial second goal.

Substitutions

Arjen Robben - Made an unexpectedly early introduction in place of Kroos and nearly made an instant impact, seeing a snap-shot well saved by Buffon. Continued to cause Juve problems thereafter only for his finishing continually let him down.

Xherdan Shaqiri - Introduced right at the death as Heynckes sought to waste time.

Mario Gomez - Saw a couple of minutes of action at the end after coming on for Mandzukic, who had run himself into the ground.

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon - Took far too long to react to a slight deflection on Alaba's long-range effort, but went a small way towards making amends by blocking Robben's low volley with his feet. However, erred again in spilling Luiz Gustavo's second-half strike.

Andrea Barzagli - Guilty of putting the ball on a plate for Robben with a poor clearance and was then dispossessed by Mandzukic after dallying on the ball during what was an unusually lax display.

Leonardo Bonucci - Another who looked strangely nervous during the first half. Bonucci did get a vital nick on a goal-bound effort from Ribery, though, and improved after the interval. Indeed, could have been worse had it not been for Bonucci.

Giorgio Chiellini - Looked uncharacteristically vulnerable and made a number of clumsy challenges. Also took a massive risk by pulling back van Buyten as the defender tried to get on the end of a Dante header.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Unsurprisingly, was not found wanting in terms of attacking intent, but was unable to provide Juve with anything like his usual levels of penetration down the right wing, though he did create a decent chance for Vidal on 70 minutes. However, his booking is a disaster for Juve.

Claudio Marchisio - Put himself about but to no great effect, struggling miserably to gain a foothold in the midfield battle or get forward in support of Juve's strikers.

Andrea Pirlo - Must take some blame for Alaba's goal after giving the ball away just moments before. Went close with a free as he sought to make amends but he was ponderous in possession far too often and repeatedly had his pocked picked.

Arturo Vidal - Unlucky in that his attempt to close down Alaba resulted in a deflection that really shouldn't have beaten Buffon but so fortunate that he avoided a booking for so long. Still, at least he put himself about and offered a goalscoring threat. A big miss for the second leg.

Federico Peluso - Selected ahead of Asamoah on the left-hand side, Peluso struggled to get to grips with Muller, who, in fairness, was ably supported by Robben and Lahm. Tried to get forward when he could, though, but to no avail.

Fabio Quagliarella - Nowhere near as influential or lively as he was against Inter at the weekend, the former Napoli man struggling terribly to get himself into the game and was replaced by Giovinco not long after the hour.

Alessandro Matri - Just like his strike partner, worked tirelessly but did not manage to hold the ball up well at all and never looked like scoring. Unsurprisingly withdrawn 20 minutes into the second period.

Substitutions

Paul Pogba - Brought on by Conte with 15 minutes remaining in an obvious attempt to add some dynamism and steel to a clearly flagging midfield.

Mirko Vučinić - Thrown on as part of a double substitution midway through the second half but his impact was negligible.

Sebastian Giovinco - Came on alongside Vucinic on 65 minutes but was pretty much anonymous.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Bayern dominated Juventus throughout, says Heynckes

The veteran coach was delighted with his 2-0 win over the Bianconeri

after their preparation work paid off.

Apr 2, 2013

Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes believes his side were worthy victors against Juventus at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.

A 2-0 win for the Germans helped put them in a commanding position ahead of the second leg in Turin next week, and the former West Germany forward feels his preparation work paid off.

"We were very well prepared for this match," he told Sky after the match.

"You could see that in our tactics. We attacked them very early and took Pirlo out of the game collectively. The early goal gave us safety and we played amazingly at some points after that.

"I studied Juventus over and over again. We are happy to have won the match against an Italian without conceding. We played high-class football. We controlled and dominated the match. And against the Italian champions. I must compliment my team."

Meanwhile, Thomas Muller, who scored his side's second goal, was happy with his side's workrate, and feels they forced Andrea Pirlo into submission.

"We played with lots of intensity in both directions. Our defensive work started with the forwards. You could see that we wanted to win.

"I don't think it was just Pirlo having a bad day. We put Juventus under pressure so early and forced them into long balls."

Finally, Bastian Schweinsteiger was relieved that his side got a potentially-crucial second goal ahead of a tough second leg at the Juventus Stadium.

"The result is good. It wasn't easy - the Italians have tactics that no team in the Bundesliga plays. My feeling tells me we deserved more than one goal.

"We did not concede and defended well. It's never easy to play in Turin. It would be good if we scored there."

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Chiellini: Bayern's tempo was incredible

The Italian defender was impressed with the workrate of the German side,

claiming they were worthy winners but asserts that the tie is far from over.

Apr 2, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini has admitted that Juventus could not cope with Bayern Munich's tempo and intensity after the Italian side were comprehensively defeated 2-0 at the Allianz Arena in the Uefa Champions League quarter-final first leg.

The Bianconeri had conceded the fewest goals in the competition prior to kick-off but their 490-minute European spell without conceding was brought to a sudden end when David Alaba struck after just 25 seconds.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italiaafter the game, Chiellini said: "We knew it was going to be a difficult match for us, Bayern played at an incredible tempo and we struggled to keep possession when we were trying to build our game from the back.

"We hoped to earn a better result tonight but there are 90 minutes left; we will have to play with more intensity, like Bayern did today."

Chiellini also admitted that he was concerned by the Bianconeri's lacklustre performance but said they will perform better in the return leg in Turin next Wednesday.

"We know we can play better than today and I'm sure we will. We will continue to dream and we will make sure that we won't have any regrets after the return leg."

Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon added that Bayern deserved the victory and felt that his side were fortunate to escape with a two-goal deficit.

“It’s clear we had some certainties about ourselves, but there’s nothing to say tonight, as they thoroughly deserved the victory and had even more chances to hurt us.

“Our opponents were better on the night, that is the truth. At times we had less sharpness under their pressure and I tried to alternate passes with longer kicks."

The 35-year-old shotstopper also commented on Alaba's opening goal, claiming that a significant deflection off Vidal influenced the direction of the ball.

“Alaba’s shot got a deflection and I was moving towards the right, but the change of direction caught me out. I had already made a step to the right and the ball changed direction mid-air.”

Meanwhile Juve midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who did not enjoy one of his finer performances in a Bianconeri jersey - achieving a pass completion of just 51% accuracy, said he was not happy with his display.

"I am the first to say I’m not satisfied with my performance, as I made many mistakes in such an important match and it’s disappointing," he said.

"We now have to analyse why we had so many misplaced passes. Clearly we need something more in the second leg, as what we did tonight was not enough."

Juventus will look to overcome the two-goal deficit on Wednesday April 10 but they will have to do so without Arturo Vidal and Stephan Lichtsteiner who will miss out through suspension after picking up yellow cards.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Buffon: 'It changed direction'

Apr 2, 2013

Gigi Buffon explains what happened when that David Alaba shot beat him within the opening 30 seconds in Munich.

“We knew that we were facing a great team,” said the goalkeeper after Juventus lost 2-0 to Bayern Munich.

“It’s clear we had some certainties about ourselves, but there’s nothing to say tonight, as they thoroughly deserved the victory and had even more chances to hurt us.

“Alaba’s shot got a deflection and I was moving towards the right, but the change of direction caught me out. I had already made a step to the right and the ball changed direction mid-air.”

Buffon had kept four consecutive clean sheets in the Champions League, unbeaten for 491 minutes of football.

“Our opponents were better on the night, that is the truth. At times we had less sharpness under their pressure and I tried to alternate passes with longer kicks.

“If we arrived at this point it was thanks to our characteristics, so it was only right to continue the approach we have always taken.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Chiellini: 'Tempo and intensity key'

Apr 2, 2013

Giorgio Chiellini admits Bayern Munich’s tempo and intensity were the key, but Juventus “know we can do much better and will continue dreaming to the end.”

The Bianconeri had been unbeaten in nine European fixtures going into the Allianz Arena and kept four consecutive clean sheets, but were beaten 2-0 in the Champions League quarter-final first leg.

“We knew it was going to be difficult. Bayern kept the tempo very high and we struggled to emerge with the ball the way we usually do,” Chiellini told Sky Sport Italia.

“We certainly hoped for better, but there are still 90 minutes left and we won’t give up. We have a week to prepare and will fight to the end.”

Stephan Lichtsteiner and Arturo Vidal were both booked this evening and will be suspended for the second leg in Turin.

“We need a higher tempo and the intensity they used tonight to put us under pressure. We must not think about Bayern, but just about us,” continued Chiellini.

“We know that we can do much better and will continue dreaming to the end with no regrets.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Conte: 'Bayern were superior'

Apr 2, 2013

Antonio Conte admits “Bayern Munich showed they were superior” after beating Juventus 2-0 and refused to criticise his players.

“We certainly faced a very strong team and we didn’t need tonight to tell us that. Bayern are among the favourites for the trophy and in my view were very fired up after losing the Final last season on home turf,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“They are physically strong, have quality and great individuals. I cannot complain about what my players did tonight.

“We have to be honest and say the better team won on the night. Seeing as we are coming back to playing at this level, it has to tell us how far away we are from the top teams in Europe.

“We know football is unpredictable and it’ll be an incredibly difficult task to go through, but we take it as experience and try to improve where we need to improve.

Mirko Vucinic was suffering from flu symptoms and was therefore not fit to start, but Conte denies this changed his plans.

“We had prepared the game in the normal fashion. Inevitably you have to deal with the opponents and tonight Bayern were extremely physical and determined. Compliments to Bayern.

“We have become competitive again in Italy, but need to keep working in order to improve on a continental level too.”

Juve unusually misplaced many passes and gave the ball away repeatedly in the final third, but Conte would not blame anyone.

“Bayern pressed us constantly and kept the tempo up, so we really struggled in the one-on-one due to their physicality too. I can’t get angry or point the finger at someone who could’ve given more this evening. In football you must be honest and admit tonight Bayern showed they were superior.

“We have just started our process 16 months ago and being in a Champions League quarter-final makes us proud. It is another stepping stone on this journey we are on.

“When we managed to keep possession, we caused Bayern problems, but we always missed the final ball or the change of direction. I think Bayern deserve much of the credit for that.

“I have always said the Champions League is a dream for us and we’d follow it, but always aware there are teams at a more advanced level. Also, don’t forget they can pay millions for a single player, whereas we cannot compete on a financial level.

“These games need to help us understand how much of a gap there is from us to the superpowers. I am very happy with my group of players for giving us unforgettable nights. We must prepare for the second leg, which will be very tough, but football can have surprises.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Pirlo: 'Not happy with my performance'

Apr 2, 2013

Andrea Pirlo admits “I am the first to say I’m not satisfied with my performance” after Juventus lost 2-0 to Bayern Munich.

“Compliments to Bayern for showing their strength tonight, but there is also a second leg and we will prepare for that,” the midfielder told Sky Sport Italia.

“When you prepare for such an important game and you go behind after 30 seconds, it certainly influences your approach.

“However, throughout the 90 minutes Bayern showed their superiority. We hope to control the game in the second leg.”

The Bianconeri gave the ball away numerous times in the Champions League quarter-final, particularly with Pirlo in the final third.

“I am the first to say I’m not satisfied with my performance, as I made many mistakes in such an important match and it’s disappointing. We now have to analyse why we had so many misplaced passes.

“Clearly we need something more in the second leg, as what we did tonight was not enough.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Rummenigge 'won't underestimate Juve'

Apr 2, 2013

Bayern Munich Chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge insisted “Juventus are not to be underestimated” in the second leg.

The Germans won the Champions League quarter-final first leg 2-0 at the Allianz Arena, putting them in a very strong position for qualification.

“It was a great advantage that we took the lead after 25 seconds, then the team worked very hard and showed great quality,” Rummenigge told Sky Sport Italia.

“Juve are not to be underestimated, so we are going to Turin very concentrated, as we’ll know they will try to give it their all.

“We are very happy, but there is no euphoria within the club. We know this was the first of two important games, but also that we have a team capable of scoring away from home.”

Antonio Conte argued Bayern were more determined than anyone else because they were so stunned by losing the Champions League Final in Munich last season.

“Without doubt it hurt us to lose the Final at home, as that defeat against a beatable Chelsea side put the whole club in shock. There is hunger and desire to do well this season.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Schweini: 'Bayern need another goal'

Apr 2, 2013

Bastian Schweinsteiger believes Bayern Munich still “need to score a goal” in Turin to knock Juventus out of the Champions League.

The Germans won the quarter-final first leg 2-0 this evening at the Allianz Arena.

“It is a good result, because Juve played a very interesting formation which we don't face in the Bundesliga at all,” the midfielder told UEFA.com.

“I think we did well with that and my feeling is telling me that we scored one goal too few. But it’s good that we did not concede, that was very important.

“You know it will not be easy in Turin, in front of their own fans. They will put in a quite different performance.

“We are in a very good position now, but have not achieved anything so far. We need to score a goal there, then we should be through.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Bayern boss happy with Pirlo plan

Apr 3, 2013

Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has underlined how important it was to nullify the threat of playmaker Andrea Pirlo in the win over Juventus.

The German giants put one foot into the Champions League semi-finals with a 2-0 win over the Bianconeri on Tuesday.

“I’ve studied Juve intensively recently and came up with the tactic we employed,” he commented. “Our aim was to put pressure on them early and take Pirlo out of the game, which worked really well.

“Our preparation was very good and you could clearly see our tactical plan. We attacked very early and so managed to take Pirlo out of the equation.

“My team showed a lot of confidence and we were outstanding during certain phases of the game. I had a distinct plan for Juventus and I believe it worked.”

Heynckes was also delighted that his side managed to keep a clean sheet at the Allianz Arena last night.

“It’s a fantastic achievement to not concede against an Italian team. The way we did it especially impressed me.

“At times we witnessed football of a very high standard. We always controlled the game. It was an outstanding display against a team who are about to win Serie A again.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

It’s not over yet, warns Robben

Apr 3, 2013

Arjen Robben insists Juventus are still alive in their Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich.

The German giants took control of the European Cup tie thanks to a 2-0 victory at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.

However, Robben is wary of the second leg after the events of the last round in their encounters against Arsenal.

“We'll have to wait and see if 2-0 will be enough for us,” the Dutch attacking midfielder commented.

“We've already been warned once. When we played against Arsenal and won 3-1 away everyone was thinking the tie was over…

“That was a good lesson for us.”

Arsenal won the return 2-0, meaning that Bayern sneaked through on the away goals rule.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Neuer: Buffon is still superb

Apr 3, 2013

Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has defended Juventus’ Gigi Buffon over the early goal he conceded in Munich last night.

The Italian was beaten after just 25 seconds when he couldn’t get across his line to stop a long range effort from David Alaba.

“Buffon is a superb ‘keeper,” the German stated. “It was a really difficult one for him when you look at the flight of the ball.

“I know how Alaba shoots and they're dangerous balls to deal with.”

Juventus never really recovered from that early setback and they eventually lost the first leg of their quarter-final Champions League tie 2-0.

“I wasn't expecting us to score such an early goal and I doubt Juve did either,” Neuer added. “It was a bit of a shock for them, but obviously good for us.”

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Beckenbauer slams ‘pensioner’ Buffon

Apr 3, 2013

Franz Beckenbauer likened Gigi Buffon to a pensioner after the Juventus goalkeeper failed to keep out David Alaba’s goal last night.

Bayern Munich took the lead after just 25 seconds when the Italian international, 35, failed to stop Alaba’s long-range effort.

“How was he positioned? He seemed like a pensioner,” the Honorary Bayern Munich President noted after his club’s 2-0 Champions League win. “Alaba shot from 120 metres away…

“I don’t want to upset him, but he should have kept that shot out. Perhaps Gigi didn’t think that Alaba would shoot from so far.

“Bayern were focused from the first until the last minute and Juventus hardly had a shot on goal. The result is tight for us, we should have won by three or four goals.”

Bayern ‘keeper Manuel Neuer defended Buffon after the game.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000‎

Brio didn’t recognise Juventus

Apr 3, 2013

Sergio Brio insists former club Juventus are still not out of the Champions League – but the real Old Lady will have to show up against Bayern Munich.

The Bianconeri lost the first leg of their quarter-final tie 2-0 in Germany on Tuesday, yet the former defender is remaining hopeful.

“Yesterday’s game was the first that Juve have got wrong since Antonio Conte arrived,” the man who won the European Cup in 1985 told Calcio News 24. “It was a bad night under all aspects.

“When players like Gigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo get it wrong, it just underlines that it is not your evening.

“I don’t want to take any credit away from Bayern, they played great, but we didn’t see the usual Juventus – in terms of intensity, character and play.

“Juventus are not invincible so a defeat is acceptable, it’s just a shame that it happened in this game.

“These ties last 180 minutes, though, so qualification is still not settled.

“The Juventus Stadium will need to be an inferno for the opponents. The push of the fans could be decisive. Juve can still do it.”

The two teams will meet in Turin on 10 April.

[Socrates 8414]

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

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

BAYERN 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

D. Alaba (1′)

Thomas Müller (63′)

Allianz Arena - Munich

Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

Attendance: 68000

Conte: Bayern Munich were simply better than Juventus

The Bianconeri trainer was full of respect for the Bundesliga giants

following Tuesday's encounter at the Allianz Arena.

Apr 3, 2013

Antonio Conte has admitted that Juventus were simply not good enough in the first-leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich, following a one-sided 2-0 defeat.

An early goal from David Alaba, followed by a Thomas Muller strike after the break, helped the Bavarians to a comfortable home win, and Conte realises his side now face a tough task to turn things around in the second leg.

"Bayern played a great game. We just came up against a great team tonight. I have to be honest and admit that we simply faced a better side," Conte said at a press conference.

"We knew it would be a difficult game but we also know that football is unpredictable and that we'll have to do something great against such a strong team in the return leg.

"Bayern have great quality but also a great physical condition and a great fighting spirit. They are up there with Barcelona and Madrid in terms of quality yet they are also very angry after losing last season's final at home on penalties. And they proved all their grit tonight.

"Bayern played with great tempo, they won almost every challenge and did not allow us to play our game. Our project started only 16 months ago, so this can be an important lesson, especially to understand what it takes to play at this level. We can just be proud to already be here at this stage."