Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA - JUVENTUS

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus News – Parma Updates

Nov 1, 2013

Now that’s more like it.

Two matches, two clean sheets, six goals.

http://markting10.nl/

In what is shaping up to be their first comprehensively dominant week since September, Juventus dispatched first Genoa and then Catania at home, remaining in complete control for 180 minutes. In this often tumultuous season, for once things went exactly to plan: We expected two wins, we got them.

Remember that feeling?

The two matches were full of encouraging signs. The Bianconeri shook off some tactical torpor to provide a diverse attack, bombarding both opponents (especially Catania) from left, right (well, mostly left) and center. Fernando Llorente continues to round into shape, while Carlos Tevez is somehow sustaining the all-pressing, constant-movement, selfless-but-still-scoring performances that immediately endeared him to the Ju-niverse at large.

http://markting10.nl/

Even Paolo De Ceglie was back in the mix on Wednesday, providing dangerous crosses and his charmingly frantic, late-for-work-in-the-big-city sprints up and down the left flank. He might end up giving Kwadwo Asamoah some serious competition.

Best of all, Juve’s defense was once again formidable: The worst slip-up vs. Catania was a literal one, due to a very wet pitch, and was immediately remedied by a timely Giorgio Chiellini tackle. Otherwise, Juve had refreshingly little to worry about.

The only purple rain on our parade came from Fiorentina, who failed to draw or beat Napoli, thus keeping Juve level with the latter in second place. Typical Viola — they won’t give an inch.

http://markting10.nl/

Now comes a potentially tricky date at mid-table Parma, who should prove to be a much trickier proposition than either Genoa or Catania. Added to the danger is the natural tendency to look forward to next week’s fateful rematch with Real Madrid, the same bad habit that perhaps had a hand in the Fiorentina defeat. Antonio Conte’s men will need to concentrate here, because unlike the minnows of the two previous matches, Parma can fight back.

In this relatively tranquil week (only this year can we call a week with three matches “tranquil”), before Real Madrid Part 2 and a showdown with Napoli, Juve’s mission is simple: keep up the pace in Serie A. Roma simply must slip up sometime (don’t worry — I never uncrossed my fingers from last week) and when they do, our 11 leoni need to pounce.

Steady as you go, Vecchia Signora!

http://markting10.nl/

Parma Updates

With one eye on Real Madrid next week, Antonio Conte will likely tweak his lineup for Parma, while still sticking to a 3-5-2 formation.

In defense, Leonardo Bonucci will be kept in Turin to rest ahead of Real (of course, Giorgio Chiellini is infamously unavailable for that fixture). Angelo Ogbonna will thus join Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli in front of Gigi Buffon. Although Martin Caceres acquitted himself well in defense against Catania, it looks like Conte plans to have him start against Madrid, especially if opts to use a 4-3-3.

In the midfield, Simone Padoin and Kwadwo Asamoah will start on the wings. Thankfully, Andrea Pirlo will receive what we hope will be a truly restorative rest before next week, which means Arturo Vidal, Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio will give us a glimpse of a potentially Pirlo-less future.

http://markting10.nl/

In attack, Carlos Tevez will start — he is simply essential. However, Fernando Llorente will be saved for Madrid, and so Sebastian Giovinco will shake off his nagging foot injury sustained against Milan and look to add to his goal tally (it was a bit sad to see his repeated attempts against Catania, most of them fired straight at the keeper). Conte seems to be a firm believer in starting players against ex-clubs or clubs with which they’ve experienced some sort of heated rivalry. Time to show Parma what they’re missing, Seba!

Although Parma represents a much bigger threat than their previous two opponents, there’s no reason to suggest that a newly galvanized Bianconeri squad won’t handle their own affairs on Saturday, while waiting for Roma and Napoli to make a mistake.

Just don’t think about Madrid, Old Lady. I think we’re all happy to do that for you.

FORZA JUVE!!!

http://markting10.nl/

Celi Refs in Parma

Domenico Celi of Bari will officiate the Parma match on Saturday (I imagine he’d prefer Sunday).

As with many referees, Juve have a wonderful record when subjected to the Pugliese’s whistle — but this one’s a cut above. The Bianconeri have eight wins and a draw in nine matches — fantastic by any standard.

http://markting10.nl/

Celi’s linesmen will be Galloni and Passari, while Costanzo is the fourth official. I’m guessing that if Juve win, all three of Celi’s assistants will have their first names published by the official site from now on.

Great motivator.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA - JUVENTUS

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi

Conte: Juventus will respond to Roma form

Nov 2, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has called on his side to use Roma’s flawless start as cause to bring their own game on to even higher levels.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri have been the champions of Italy for the past two seasons but now look to face real competition from Rudi Garcia’s Giallorossi who have taken 30 points from a possible 30 on offer.

“Roma are doing something extraordinary because to win 10 games in a row is not easy for anyone and I include even the great sides from the past in that,” Conte said.

“I compliment them and say well done but this will spur us on because now, unlike last season where we always led, we are now chasing.”

http://markting10.nl/

Roma go to Torino on Sunday night but ever the Bianconero to the core, Conte will refuse to cheer on his city rivals during that clash.

“Cheer on Torino? I am a fan of Juventus and I will concentrate only on my own team because we face a difficult game away to Parma.”

The Old Lady boss revealed that he will be rotating his squad although he would not state specifics and has Fabio Quagliarella back from injury while Mirko Vucinic and Stephan Lichtsteiner face late fitness tests.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA - JUVENTUS

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi

Line-ups: Parma-Juventus

Nov 2, 2013

Sebastian Giovinco faces his former teammates, as Juventus visit Antonio Cassano’s Parma in the early kick-off.

http://markting10.nl/

Serie A Week 11 opens at 18.00 CET.

The Atomic Ant was co-owned by Parma until the summer of 2012 and returns to the Stadio Tardini wearing the Juventus jersey.

He partners Carlos Tevez, as Mirko Vucinic and Stephan Lichtsteiner are still out, while Fabio Quagliarella is only fit for the bench.

http://markting10.nl/

Andrea Pirlo and Leonardo Bonucci are rested, while Gigi Buffon is also an ex-Parma man.

Antonio Conte celebrates his 100th Serie A match as a Coach.

Amauri takes on his old club and lines up alongside Cassano, supported by surprise hitman Marco Parolo and Jonathan Biabiany.

http://markting10.nl/

Stefano Okaka, Gabriel Paletta, Daniele Galloppa and Nicola Pavarini are unavailable for Coach Roberto Donadoni, but Alessandro Lucarelli returns from suspension.

This is a tough fixture for the Bianconeri, as they have won just once in their last five visits to the Stadio Tardini.

http://markting10.nl/

PARMA: Mirante; Cassani, Lucarelli, Mendes; Biabiany, Gargano, Marchionni, Parolo, Gobbi; Amauri, Cassano

Parma bench: Bajza, Rossetto, Felipe, Benalouane, Rosi, Mesbah, Obi, Valdes, Munari, Acquah, Palladino, Sansone


JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Chiellini, Ogbonna; Padoin, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Giovinco

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Caceres, De Ceglie, Peluso, Llorente, Motta, Pirlo, Quagliarella, Isla

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Pogba snatches late winner

The midfielder struck the only goal of the game to ensure
the Bianconeri remain within touching distance of leaders Roma.

Nov 2, 2013

Paul Pogba scored the only goal of the game as Juventus beat Parma 1-0 on Saturday evening.

http://markting10.nl/

The midfielder's strike 13 minutes from time helped to heal the wounds caused by Juve's capitulation at Fiorentina, where they surrendered a two-goal half-time lead on their way to a 4-2 defeat.

Pogba tucked home the rebound from eight yards on 77 minutes after Fabio Quagliarella's long-range effort came back off the crossbar, to secure a third league win on the bounce for the visitors.

With both sides having played on Wednesday, there were six changes in each team as the respective coaches looked to keep their squads fresh, with Andrea Pirlo and Fernando Llorente among those that Juventus coach Antonio Conte opted to rest.

http://markting10.nl/

The first chance of note came in the 11th minute, Massimo Gobbi dragging his angled effort wide of the post following patient approach play by the hosts.

Juventus threatened for the first time four minutes later, as Carlos Tevez linked up with strike partner Sebastian Giovinco inside the area before firing his effort straight at Antonio Mirante.

Arturo Vidal, who scored the Bianconeri's first in their 4-0 win over Catania on Wednesday, was next to test Mirante in the 26th minute when his cleanly hit strike from 35 yards was comfortably gathered by the goalkeeper.

http://markting10.nl/

Seven minutes later Vidal was at it again, this time dragging a 25-yard shot narrowly wide after being set up by Tevez.

After a quiet first half, the home side went close to breaking the deadlock in the 52nd minute when Amauri's clever back heel rolled wide of the left hand post after Jonathan Biabiany had outwitted Giorgio Chiellini down the right-hand side and pulled the ball across the six-yard box.

With clear opportunities at a premium, Tevez wasted a glorious chance to put his side ahead with 20 minutes remaining. After being picked out by Simone Padoin's low cross in the middle of the box, the Argentine was denied by the legs of Mirante.

http://markting10.nl/

But the game's decisive moment was just around the corner as Pogba tucked home from close range after Quagliarella, on as a replacement for Tevez, struck the crossbar from 25 yards.

That goal was enough to secure all three points and leaves Juventus two points behind leaders Roma, who play Torino on Sunday.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Juventus take the Tardini

Paul Pogba got the goal for a 1-0 Juventus victory away to Parma,
but Fabio Quagliarella deserves much of the credit.

Nov 2, 2013

Sebastian Giovinco and Amauri faced their former teammates at the Stadio Tardini, where the Bianconeri had won just one of their previous five visits. Mirko Vucinic and Stephan Lichtsteiner were injured with Andrea Pirlo and Leonardo Bonucci rested, while the Ducali missed Stefano Okaka, Gabriel Paletta, Daniele Galloppa and Nicola Pavarini. Pedro Filipe Mendes received only his second start in defence.

http://markting10.nl/

Gigi Buffon was almost taken by surprise on an early Angelo Ogbonna backpass and Antonio Conte, marking his 100th Serie A match as a Coach, moved Arturo Vidal to the Pirlo role in front of the defence.

There was more danger with Massimo Gobbi sent clear down the left, but his cross-shot flashed across the face of goal with nobody ready to tap in.

Carlos Tevez ran on to a Giovinco backheel flick to test Antonio Mirante, as did Arturo Vidal from distance. Vidal went close with a daisy-cutter that skimmed the near post and Gobbi blasted over for the hosts.

http://markting10.nl/

Juventus wanted a free kick just before the break for Alessandro Lucarelli’s challenge on Giovinco right on the edge of the box, but the referee waved play on.

Straight after the restart Jonathan Biabiany flung himself in Kwadwo Asamoah’s path to charge down a shot from eight yards. Tevez got to the by-line and pulled back for Giovinco, but the Atomic Ant fired straight at Mirante.

Parma immediately went on the counter with Biabiany and Amauri tried to score with a backheel flick, but was inches away from getting it on target. Amauri has not scored yet this season.

http://markting10.nl/

Pirlo was thrown on to shake things up, but Mattia Cassani’s volley from a corner sailed over.

On 70 minutes Simone Padoin put in a low cross to the near post for Tevez’s first time shot, but Mirante performed a desperate reaction save with his legs from close range.

Conte’s other substitutions proved decisive, as Fabio Quagliarella created a goal within 60 seconds of coming off the bench. His extraordinary curler from distance smacked against the crossbar and Paul Pogba was quickest to the follow-up.

http://markting10.nl/

Parma laid a late siege on Juve, but Buffon only really had to smother at Amauri’s feet.


PARMA: Mirante; Cassani, Lucarelli, Mendes (Felipe 69); Biabiany, Gargano (Sansone 82), Marchionni (Obi 86), Parolo, Gobbi; Amauri, Cassano

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Chiellini, Ogbonna; Padoin, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio (Pirlo 63), Asamoah; Tevez (Quagliarella 76), Giovinco (Llorente 76)

Ref: Celi

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Ducali downed by lone Pogba goal

Nov 2, 2013

Juventus left it late for victory against Parma at the Ennio Tardini on Saturday evening in Serie A but ultimately did enough to secure the 1-0 win.

http://markting10.nl/

A lone goal from Paul Pogba proved decisive in this encounter as the Bianconeri look to make up ground on Roma in their hunt for a third Scudetto.

The first half was a very fraught affair and in truth, little or no real chances to speak of were created by either side with Arturo Vidal’s drive from distance midway through the first half being the first real chance created but it was straight at Antonio Mirante.

In the absence of Andrea Pirlo who was on the bench for the Bianconeri, there was that lack of creativity while the Ducali were happy to try and take their chances on the counter.

http://markting10.nl/

Sebastian Giovinco was guilty of hardly troubling Mirante once more with an effort at the start of the second half while Amauri and Mattia Cassani both had decent efforts at the other end that ended up off target.

Substitute Fabio Quagliarella then drove a wicked strike at goal moments after coming on with under 15 minutes remaining and although it rattled the bar, Pogba was on hand to follow it up with the finish and ensure Juve do not lose touch with the leaders.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Juventus dig deep to triumph at Parma

Nov 2, 2013

Paul Pogba scored a 77th-minute goal to give Juventus a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Parma this evening.

http://markting10.nl/

It was the home side who carved out the game's first chance, but Massimo Gobbi's cross-cum-shot from the left side of the box evaded everyone in the middle.

In the 12th minute Carlos Tevez played an intricate one-two with Sebastian Giovinco on the left flank before scuffing an effort towards goal, which Antonio Mirante gratefully grabbed at the second attempt.

The rest of the half passed without further goalmouth action, although Giovinco had claims for a penalty waved away and Arturo Vidal sent a long-range effort down the throat of Mirante.

http://markting10.nl/

The second half exploded into life immediately after the break as both sides had chances aplenty at either end.

Tevez and Pogba got in each other's way in the box before Jonathan Biabiany threw himself in the way of Kwadwo Asamoah's shot within seconds of the restart.

Alessandro Lucarelli then fouled the Italian international Giovinco on the edge of the box and the striker stepped up himself, but his effort deflected off the wall and over the bar.

http://markting10.nl/

Tevez and Giovinco linked up once more in the 52nd minute, with the former feeding the latter from the byline, but the diminutive Italian fired his shot straight at Mirante.

Within 20 seconds, Parma went agonisingly close. Biabiany skipped away from Giorgio Chiellini down the right wing and fed Amauri, whose attempted flick rolled across the face of goal and inches wide of the far post.

Tevez was gifted an opportunity to give his side the lead in the 70th minute, but the Argentine's drilled effort from 12 yards was straight at Mirante.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio Conte made two substitutions with 15 minutes remaining, as Giovinco and Tevez made way for Fernando Llorente and Fabio Quagliarella, and the changes paid dividends immediately.

Quagliarella spun and sent an arcing shot towards goal which crashed back off the crossbar and into the path of the onrushing Pogba, who slotted home from six yards.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Pogba downs Parma

Nov 2, 2013

Paul Pogba scored the only goal at Parma to ensure Juventus maintained their winning run ahead of a crucial Champions League tie against Real Madrid in midweek.

http://markting10.nl/

Pogba decided a hard-fought encounter 13 minutes from the end when he was quickest to the ball after Fabio Quagliarella's long-range effort crashed back off the crossbar.

The Frenchman still needed to keep his cool to beat Parma goalkeeper Antonio Mirante and secure a third win on the spin since Juve were beaten at the Bernabeu a fortnight ago.

That reverse has left Antonio Conte's side in grave danger of missing out on the knockout stages ahead of Madrid's arrival in Turin this week.

http://markting10.nl/

Despite the importance of that match, Conte named a near full-strength side - with Andrea Pirlo and Quagliarella the most notable names on the bench - although the Italy internationals were needed to be called upon before Pogba was able to finally end Parma's resistence.

Juve's win moved them two points behind leaders Roma, who Conte and his staff can watch close up on Sunday when they travel to Torino.

The champions had to weather an early storm as Amauri twice went close before Massimo Gobbi slid a pass across the face of goal that a backtracking Giorgio Chiellini did well to avoid at the back post.

http://markting10.nl/

Juve tested Mirante for the first time when Carlos Tevez played a one-two with Giovinco - who returned the ball via a backheel - but the defence closed in and Tevez forced a shot straight at the keeper.

Arturo Vidal then flashed a low shot just wide of a diving Mirante while Amauri lashed high over at the other end.

Juve's search for a winner after the break was initially frustrated by Mirante who clawed another Tevez effort out of the corner following more good lead-up work from Giovinco.

http://markting10.nl/

The diminutive forward then himself shot over before another athletic Mirante save denied Tevez.

With time ticking down it appeared Parma might hold out for a point only for Pogba to strike.

Substitute Quagliarella's stunning 25-yard shot crashed off the crossbar and, while Mirante recovered after initially being wrong-footed, Pogba kept his cool to steer the ball beyond him and grab victory.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Player Ratings

Goal takes a look at every player on display as Antonio Conte celebrates
his 100th Serie A game in charge of the Bianconeri with his first victory at the Tardini.

Nov 2, 2013

PARMA

Antonio Mirante - Produced a number of fine stops from Tevez and Giovinco from close range as he kept Juventus out for long periods. Was left motionless by Quagliarella's effort and was powerless to stop Pogba converting the rebound.

Mattia Cassani - A strong performance in the centre of defence as he put his body on the line every time it was required, taking nasty knocks from Pogba on a couple of occasions.

Alessandro Lucarelli - A mean defender and a mean performance, as he bullied ex-Parma frontman Giovinco off the park. Even Tevez struggled at points with the physicality as Juve struggled in general to create clear-cut openings.

Massimo Gobbi - Was guilty of spurning one of the hosts best chances in the opening period when he passed up the chance to shoot, but continuously troubled the visitors from deep when countering.

Pedro Mendes - Fitted it in well as part of a back three despite his limited appearances for the Gialloblu this season. Was particularly unlucky to see yellow in the first half but kept his head well before being subbed.

Walter Gargano - A quiet display from the usually authoritative Uruguayan. Didn't have the effect he's capable of in a midfield that was never really claimed by either side throughout the tie.

Marco Parolo - Looked to link up with the front two, picking up on knock-downs and lay-offs to decent effect, but failed to impose himself on the game in any way, shape or form.

Marco Marchionni - Sat deep as Parma looked to implement a counterattacking style. Resulted in Marchionni being left out of the action, his frustration showing with niggling fouls before he was eventually subbed.

Jonathan Biabiany - Parma's biggest threat throughout the game. Conte's men were well aware of the danger possessed by the winger's pace but still couldn't prevent him from creating a couple of glorious opportunities.

Amauri - A clever attacking display, with some intelligent off-the-ball work and hold-up play. All that intelligence though seemed to escape him in front of goal, trying to backheel into an open goal when he would've been smarter to place it home.

Antonio Cassano - Showed glimpses of his former self by instigating some smart passages of play and training ground moves. Doesn't appear to have the movement to get into those goalscoring positions anymore, though.

http://markting10.nl/

Substitutions

Felipe - Replaced Mendes but did nothing to change the shape of proceedings.

Obi - Came on in the dying stages but didn't make any impact.

Nicola Sansone - Introduced too late to influence the game.

http://markting10.nl/

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - Won't keep many easier clean sheets this season, as Parma created little and were wasteful in front of goal when they did manage to open Juve up. Had a couple of long-range efforts to deal with but was largely a spectator.

Andrea Barzagli - Took a couple of whacks early on but carried on bravely and helped provide Juve with some much-needed width.

Angelo Obinze Ogbonna - Showed he had strength and pace in abundance to repeatedly snuff out Parma counterattacks several times. Kept Cassano at bay with his strength and looked the part in a Juve defence that looked largely impenetrable.

Giorgio Chiellini - Managed to wander forwards on occasions and take aim at goal, so little was he troubled defensively. Was troubled by Amauri every so often but a fairly comfortable evening nonetheless.

Simone Padoin - A mixed bag of a performance that featured a first-half booking, but proved a viable attacking threat in the second, setting up Tevez on more than one occasion from his forays down the right.

Claudio Marchisio - Perhaps not his greatest game for the Bianconeri, the midfielder struggled to find any rhythm in an overcrowded midfield. Booked for steamrollering Amauri and was hooked off for Pirlo as Juve searched for a winner.

Paul Pogba - Was the grateful recipient of the loose ball after Quagliarella's effort cannoned off of the crossbar but still had to show a cool head to finish. Took up wide positions all night to give his side an added attacking dimension.

Arturo Vidal - Guilty of wasting possession all too often for the Bianconeri in a frustrating display. Shots from range that never troubled and giving away possession all too cheaply, a performance to forget.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Gave the Juventus midfield natural width alongside the three central players. Predominantly featured on the left-hand side and was able to swing in a number of crosses, but struggled to find either of the front two.

Carlos Tévez - Will always be a nuisance, whatever team he plays against, and was no different here, although could be accused of being a little wasteful in front of goal in the second half.

Sebastian Giovinco - Struggled with the physicality of the Parma back three but didn't disgrace himself on another return to his former club, winning a number of free kicks and constantly threatening to get in behind, too.

http://markting10.nl/

Substitutions

Andrea Pirlo - Replaced Marchisio and quickly took command of the midfield as Juve went in search of all three points.

Fernando Llorente - Came on late but didn't do anything to affect the game.

Fabio Quagliarella - Proved a 'super sub' once more, as it was his audacious effort that looped onto the crossbar and then back into the path of Pogba, who fired home the rebound.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Random thoughts and observations

http://youtu.be/Cc2R_7vImYs

Nov 2, 2013

I like to think of Fabio Quaglirella as a player who tries to emulate how you sometimes feel like playing a game on FIFA14. He does things that most people would only try when they're playing in manager mode or trying to beat some 12-year-old sitting in the living room online.

http://markting10.nl/

Let's just say having creativity and thinking off the cuff when Quagliarella attempts a shot on goal is something he definitely does not lack.

Take his shot that led to Paul Pogba's goal in Juventus' 1-0 win over Parma on Saturday night at the Tardini as a prime example of just how unorthodox Quagliarella can be any time he think it's a goal-scoring opportunity. It wasn't anything close to textbook. Well, it's "textbook" in the mind of Quagliarella, where normal shots probably trying to chip the keeper from 40 yards out.

http://markting10.nl/

That was Quaglirella's first touch after coming on as a substitute for Carlos Tevez in the 76th minute. He hadn't even been on the field for 60 seconds and his attempt on goal basically says something along the lines of "Eh, screw it. Let's let it fly, man." Maybe he saw something Parma keeper Antonio Mirante had been doing throughout the game when it comes to being off his line a little more than he should and Quagliarella saw it while he was on the bench, I don't know.

But the end result, which was incredibly impressive enough with Quagliarella's shot hitting the crossbar, was the game-changing moment that Juve needed in an otherwise lackluster game that was on the border of turning into one of those classic shoulda-coulda-woulda games.

No style points to see here. But Juventus got three points. And like pretty much every game, that's what matters most.

http://markting10.nl/

Random thoughts and observations

•If you were working on not very much sleep like I was while watching Juve-Parma, it wasn't best thing in the world to help keep you awake. It was a boring, drab game that really didn't feature anything more than a couple of exciting moments in 90-plus minutes. There were 19 total shots between the two teams, six of which actually were on goal. For comparison's sake, Juve had 22 shots total against Catania on Wednesday night. Yeah, this one was definitely not one that kept you on the edge of your seat. Well, if you weren't on the edge of your seat for the sole purpose of staying awake, that is.

•Three clean sheets in a row. Say what you want about the overall performance, but having a zero next to the opponent's name is something we've become quite accustomed to during Antonio Conte's tenure as manager. That's more like it.

•If Angelo Ogbonna can ever figure out how to settle down right at the beginning of rather than doing stupid back passes to Gigi Buffon with little room for error, he'll be a pretty solid defender. Who knows how much of these dicey moments he's had have to do with him not playing much this season, but it'd be nice if I didn't have to ask these kinds of things three minutes into a game. Just a suggestion.

http://markting10.nl/

•Andrea Barzagli is just amazing sometimes. And to be honest, it's probably the least flashy kind of amazing you will ever see out of a player. It's just quiet, unassuming brilliance. Whenever somebody talks about a bargain on the transfer market, your response should be two simple words: Andrea Barzagli." That's it.

•Carlos Tevez had a relatively quiet game in a Juventus jersey. No, really, it's possible, guys. Better now than, say, the next time Juventus takes the field.

•This is your semi-regular reminder that Paul Pogba is still 20 years old. You're welcome.

http://markting10.nl/

•On night where a lot of players had sub-par games, Claudio Marchisio is one of the first names on the list. Maybe it was just one of those games where he's completely invisible. All I know is that he wasn't good at all. The decision by Conte to replace Marchisio with Andrea Pirlo was the right one. Juve needed a spark and Marchisio was far from providing one.

•Can we talk about Tuesday's game now? Yeah, I think we can. Real Madrid arrives in Turin in less than 48 hours. Let the fun (hopefully) begin.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Conte hails 'incredible' Quagliarella

The Bianconeri boss credited his side's victory at the Tardini to the forward, while revealing
that several key players will be unavailable for Tuesday's clash with Real Madrid.

Nov 2, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte was effusive in his praise of 'super-sub' Fabio Quagliarella following the striker's performance in Saturday's 1-0 win at Parma.

http://markting10.nl/

The former Napoli forward, who has not been assured a first-team place at the Bianconeri this season, made a big impact after coming off the bench at the Tardini, as it was his effort that struck the crossbar and then fell invitingly for Paul Pogba to slot home the winner.

In a game of few chances, Conte lauded his team for their clinical edge, crediting them for retaining their focus in keeping pace at the top of Serie A.

"We always want to see shots like that from Quagliarella," the Bianconeri boss told reporters after the match. "It was an incredible strike, the kind he can do - even if sometimes he tries too much.

http://markting10.nl/

"Paul also did very well to follow it up and keep his finish down, which was not easy. I saw the right mentality. We rotated the squad and this also gives us an advantage in the long run.

"On Tuesday, we play against Real Madrid, but the lads did well to keep their concentration."

Quagliarella's prospects of netting a starting berth against Carlo Ancelotti's men in the upcoming Champions League Group B clash have not only been boosted by his key contribution against Parma, but also the news that Mirko Vucinic has been ruled out of the Turin tie.

http://markting10.nl/

"Mirko and Stephan Lichtsteiner cannot recover in time for Tuesday," Conte revealed. "They haven’t trained with the rest of the side yet and to be honest I don’t know if they’ll be back for Napoli [next weekend] either.

"Marchisio played well at a high intensity for 60 minutes. He has been a regular this season, so I opted to give him a slight rest in the second half.

http://markting10.nl/

"I'm convinced he'll soon be back to the old Marchisio."

Despite their fine domestic form, the Italian champions are still looking for their first win in Europe, and failure to do so on Tuesday would leave them on the brink of an early exit.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Conte: 'Juve played the long game'

Antonio Conte said Juventus “played the long game” for their
1-0 win over Parma and revealed his clumsy celebration.

Nov 2, 2013

“We won as Juve, as a great team who wanted the win and ran very few risks. We played the long game and did better, so I am happy with the performance,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

http://markting10.nl/

“On Tuesday we have an important test against Real Madrid and some might’ve unconsciously thought about that game, but the lads did well to keep their concentration.

“I saw the right mentality. We rotated the squad and this also gave us an advantage in the long run.

“Mirko Vucinic and Stephan Lichtsteiner cannot recover for Tuesday. They haven’t trained with the rest of the side yet and to be honest I don’t know if they’ll be back for Napoli either.”

http://markting10.nl/

Conte slightly over-celebrated when Paul Pogba turned in the rebound from Fabio Quagliarella’s shot against the bar.

“Usually Angelo Alessio holds me up when I celebrate, but this time he didn’t hold me and we both fell over!

“We always want to see shots like that from Quagliarella. It’s an incredible strike, the kind he can do, even if at times he over-does it and makes me angry. He had one from 40 metres into the top corner when I was Coach of Atalanta.

http://markting10.nl/

“Paul also did very well to follow it up and keep his finish down, which was not easy.”

Angelo Ogbonna had a few nervous moments in the back three and has still not found his confidence.

“We signed Angelo from Torino, where he played with real character and charisma. This was a big step up for him and he also had to change his approach, as at Juventus anything you do is amplified in the media.

http://markting10.nl/

“He has all the qualities to become a very strong defender and that’s why we signed him. He needs to be more determined, especially in the tackle, and be aware of what he can give to this side.

“Claudio Marchisio played well at a high intensity for 60 minutes and has been a regular this season, so I opted to give him a slight rest in the second half. I’m convinced he’ll soon be back to the old Marchisio.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Donadoni has Parma-Juve regrets

Roberto Donadoni has regrets over Parma’s defeat to Juventus.
“We put in the performance and ran few risks”.

Nov 2, 2013

Paul Pogba secured the 1-0 result when turning in a Fabio Quagliarella shot off the crossbar.

http://markting10.nl/

“We put in the performance and ran few risks. I can only compliment everyone and if we continue like this with a little more concentration, the results will come,” said the Coach.

“It’s a shame that recently we don’t reap what we sow. We need to be sure we’re more prepared in the final third.

“Details make the difference and against Juventus you can’t get even the slightest thing wrong. They were able to score with a great move from Quagliarella and moments like that can change a game.

http://markting10.nl/

“We lost, but the performance shows us we are on the right track,” continued Donadoni.

“The regrets remain that we didn’t take our scoring opportunities.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance:‬ 12000‎

Parma condemn Pessotto banner

Parma have released a statement condemning their own supporters
for an insulting banner against Juventus.

Nov 3, 2013

In Saturday’s 1-0 victory for the Bianconeri, someone in the Stadio Tardini crowd displayed a banner referencing Gianluca Pessotto’s suicide attempt.

http://markting10.nl/

The Juve director jumped from a window at the club’s offices in 2006 and was in critical condition, but has now fully recovered.

“Parma FC distance themselves from what happened at the Tardini against Juve and the display of a shameful banner against Gianluca Pessotto.

“We renew all our respect for the Vice-Director of the Bianconeri Youth Academy, hoping a similar incident is never repeated.”

http://markting10.nl/

It's sadly not the first time a banner has referenced this incident, as Milan were fined for a similar insult.

Meanwhile, Fiorentina could also be in trouble after racist chants were heard against Mario Balotelli and Sulley Muntari at San Siro last night.

It’s possible the Viola will be ordered to play with a section of their stands behind closed doors or warned with a fine.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

PARMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Paul Pogba (77′)

November 2, 2013 - 6:00 PM
Ennio Tardini Stadium — Parma
Referee: Domenico Celi
Attendance: 12000‎

Pogba targets Real Madrid scalp
after 'invaluable' victory over Parma

The 20-year-old midfielder is in a bullish frame of mind ahead of the visit
of los Blancos thanks to his winner in the Bianconeri's league win at the Tardini.

Nov 3, 2013

Paul Pogba has quickly turned his attention to toppling Real Madrid after Juventus picked up what he felt was an "invaluable" victory over Parma on Saturday evening.

http://markting10.nl/

The France international scored the only goal of the game at the Tardini, pouncing on the rebound after Fabio Quagliarella's long-range effort had come back off the crossbar.

The win moved the Italian champions to within two points of Serie A leaders Roma, much to the relief of Pogba, who is glad that Juve can now approach their must-win Champions League clash with Madrid on Tuesday in a positive frame of mind.

"The win over Parma? Invaluable," the 20-year-old is quoted as saying by his club's official site. "This was a difficult and important game, but we have done what we wanted to do.

http://markting10.nl/

"Parma are going through a good moment in terms of form and it was not easy to beat them.

"I was thinking that Fabio's shot was going in, but I followed it anyway and I managed to score as a result.

http://markting10.nl/

"But now we're thinking about Real. We must win, because it's a vital game."

Juventus have just two points from their first three games in Champions League Group B and currently lie third behind Galatasaray and leaders Madrid.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Conte: 'Fans can beat Real Madrid'

Antonio Conte called for the Juventus Stadium to make
its mark against Real Madrid. “The fans can push us to victory”.

Nov 3, 2013

The Bianconeri are fresh from three consecutive victories with clean sheets, including Saturday’s 1-0 win away to Parma.

http://markting10.nl/

They now turn their focus to Tuesday night, when Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid visit Turin in the Champions League

“Madrid have been constructed to win their 10th European Cup, but we must not be afraid,” Conte told JTV.

“We have already shown in Madrid what we can do. I hope the Juventus Stadium is going to be a boiling cauldron on Tuesday night, so that the fans can push us to victory.”

http://markting10.nl/

Juve lost 2-1 at the Bernabeu, but only with Giorgio Chiellini harshly sent off at the dawn of the second half.

Real Madrid were also in action on Saturday, beating Rayo Vallecano 3-2 with a Cristiano Ronaldo brace and Karim Benzema.

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Pogba: 'Juve must beat Madrid'

Paul Pogba scored the Juventus winner against Parma
and now targets Real Madrid. “We need to win this time”.

Nov 3, 2013

The Bianconeri conquered the Stadio Tardini yesterday evening and host Carlo Ancelotti’s men in the Champions League on Tuesday.

http://markting10.nl/

“It was a very difficult and important game, so it is fundamental that we got the three points here,” Pogba told Sky Sport Italia.

“Parma were one of the form teams of the last few weeks and we won a tough fixture. I honestly thought Fabio Quagliarella’s shot was going in, but I followed it up anyway and managed to score on the rebound off the crossbar.

http://markting10.nl/

“Now we must be ready for Real Madrid, as we need to win this time in the Champions League.”

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Howard Webb to referee the Juventus-Real Madrid match

This will be the fifth time the English ref officiates a Real Madrid Champions League match.

Nov 3, 2013

English referee Howard Webb has been appointed as the official for the Champions League fourth group stage fixture between Juventus and Real Madrid (Tuesday, 8:45 p.m.). The 42-year-old referee has previously officiated four other Real Madrid matches in the Champions League and is best known for his refereeing performance in the World Cup final in South Africa between Spain and the Netherlands.

http://markting10.nl/

The last time that Webb refereed a game for the Whites was last season in the second leg of the Champions League semi-finals between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. He had previously officiated the first leg of the semi-finals against Bayern in Munich in 2011-2012 and the Milan-Real Madrid match-up in the 2010-2011 group stage. Webb refereed a Real Madrid game for the first time on 18 September 2007 against Werder Bremen at the Santiago Bernabéu.

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Juve can beat Madrid at home, says Marchisio

The Bianconeri midfielder believes his side can take heart from their performance
at the Bernabeu going into the vital clash with Carlo Ancelotti's side.

Nov 3, 2013

Claudio Marchisio is certain that Juventus can overcome Real Madrid with the support of their own fans in Tuesday's Champions League clash.

http://markting10.nl/

The Serie A champions fell to a 2-1 defeat at the Bernabeu last month to leave them third in Group B, two points adrift of second-placed Galatasaray.

But Marchisio feels his side have the ability to get a result against Carlo Ancelotti's men this time around, aided by a vocal home support back in Italy.

"Madrid have plenty of strong players up front who sometimes help out less in defensive areas, thus putting their backline under pressure," he told the club's official website.

http://markting10.nl/

"We managed to defend well in Spain, enjoy possession and cause them problems.

"In Turin, we’ll be able to count on the support of our fans, who will provide a red-hot atmosphere at the stadium.

"We haven’t had a great deal of time in which to prepare for the game, but encounters like these provide plenty of motivation by themselves."

http://markting10.nl/

Saturday's 1-0 victory over Parma left Juve two points behind Serie A leaders Roma, who have a game in hand, and Marchisio is intent on winning a third straight successive Scudetto.

"We mustn’t give in and need to be ready to pounce on any slip-ups. We’re perfectly calm as we’ve always responded positively and are enjoying an excellent championship season.

"We must look to continue this when we face Napoli next week."

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

UEFA Champions League:
Juventus v Real Madrid

Juventus' UEFA Champions League hopes hang by a thread
going into Tuesday's showdown with Group B leaders Real Madrid.

Nov 3, 2013

Antonio Conte's men managed just two points from their opening three games and, with second-placed Galatasaray facing rock-bottom Copenhagen, a home defeat to Real could leave them five points adrift of a qualification spot for the last 16.

http://markting10.nl/

But Conte, who saw his side lose 2-1 at the Bernabeu, believes the home fans can make the difference.

"I hope the Juventus Stadium is going to be a boiling cauldron on Tuesday night, so that the fans can push us to victory," he told Juventus TV.

"We have already shown in Madrid what we can do.

http://markting10.nl/

"Madrid have been constructed to win their 10th European Cup, but we must not be afraid."

Juve were boosted on Saturday by the return from injury of influential forward Fabio Quagliarella, who played the last 15 minutes of the 1-0 win at Parma.

They will be without defender Giorgio Chiellini, though, after he was sent off in the reverse fixture last month.

http://markting10.nl/

The Serie A champions have lost just once in the league - a 4-2 defeat at Fiorentina, where they had led by two at the break - and have leaders Roma in their sights.

But at a club that has twice been crowned European champions, the demand to do well in continental competition is high.

Victory against a Real side that has reached the semi-finals in each of the last three seasons would signal Juve's intent, but Carlo Ancelotti's charges represent a substantial challenge to overcome.

http://markting10.nl/

The 3-2 win over Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, in which Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to take his season's tally to 22 in all competitions, came on the heels of a 7-3 triumph over Sevilla, underlining the visitors' goalscoring threat.

Ronaldo scored both goals in the meeting between the two sides in Spain, moving him into third in the competition's all-time scorers list.

The Portuguese is six shy of Barcelona's Lionel Messi and 15 short of overhauling Real legend Raul, who has 71.

Ancelotti's side will secure their place in the knockout stages with a victory.

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Preview: Juventus vs. Real Madrid

Nov 3, 2013

Two of European football's biggest clubs meet for a second time in two weeks on Tuesday night as Juventus host Real Madrid in Champions League Group B.

http://markting10.nl/

The previous fixture at the Bernabeu finished in Real's favour as Cristiano Ronaldo's first-half brace proved to be enough for victory against a Juve side that had Giorgio Chiellini sent off early in the second half.

Since that defeat, Juve have won three straight games in Serie A without conceding a goal.

They will be without Chiellini on Tuesday night, with Andrea Barzagli the most likely replacement in the heart of defence.

http://markting10.nl/

Victory for Madrid in the last gameweek took them six points clear at the top of the group and if they beat Juve they will all but guarantee a place in the last 16.

Gareth Bale sat out the previous game against the Italian champions but his recent performances for Los Blancos are likely to earn him a start.


Recent form

Juve: WWWLLW

Real: WLWWWW


Possible starting lineups:

Juve: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Barzagli, Isla, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie, Tevez, Llorente

Real: Lopez; Carvajal, Pepe, Ramos, Marcelo; Alonso, Modric; Bale, Isco, Ronaldo; Benzema


Sports Mole says: 1-1

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

UCL Preview: Juventus v. Real Madrid

Nov 3, 2013

Italian champions Juventus will host Real Madrid on Matchday 4 in the UEFA Champions League group stage on Tuesday, 5 November 2013.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri enter Tuesday’s clash in third-place in Group B, seven points behind leaders Madrid and two points adrift of second-placed Galatasaray, who are scheduled to face Danish giants F.C. København at Parken Stadium in midweek.

A Cristiano Ronaldo double ensured Madrid all three points when these two sides met at the Bernabéu last month, but Antonio Conte’s side have since won three straight Serie A fixtures against Genoa, Catania and Parma, respectively.

http://markting10.nl/

Team News

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini will miss Tuesday’s match after being sent off in the reverse fixture on 23 October, but Fabio Quagliarella (thigh) is available for selection after returning from injury against Parma at the weekend.

Xabi Alonso (broken foot) could make his first Champions League start of 2013/14, having made his first competitive appearance of the season against Sevilla last week.

Real Madrid do not have any new injury concerns, but Carlo Ancelotti will surely be worried about his side’s recent defensive record.

Los Blancos have conceded five goals and given up four penalties in their last two La Liga matches (both wins).

http://markting10.nl/

Manager Quotes

Antonio Conte: ”I hope the Juventus Stadium is going to be a boiling cauldron on Tuesday night, so that the fans can push us to victory.

“We have already shown in Madrid what we can do.

“Madrid have been constructed to win their 10th European Cup, but we must not be afraid.”

http://markting10.nl/

Carlo Ancelotti: “We need to change – we have to lose our superficiality. The second half was a disaster.

“Against Sevilla, we were leading 3-0 but we allowed them to get back into contention. The same thing happened tonight and it’s not by coincidence.

“We need to change and lose the superficiality we’re showing out on the pitch. You cannot let the other team back into a game you are winning when you have the quality Madrid has.

http://markting10.nl/

“I will talk to the players in private, not here. I’m not happy with what happened.”


Match Facts

Juventus have kept three consecutive clean sheets since conceding four goals at Fiorentina on 20 October.

Cristiano Ronaldo — 15/4 to score two or more goals on Tuesday night — has bagged seven goals and one assist in three Champions League matches this season.

http://markting10.nl/

Madrid trio Bale, Benzema and Ronaldo have combined to score 10 goals in the last two games.


Betting Odds

Juventus (6/4); Real Madrid (7/4); Draw (5/2)

http://markting10.nl/

Match Prediction

Juventus 2 – Real Madrid 2

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Marchisio: 'Juve ready for Real'

Nov 3, 2013

Claudio Marchisio believes Juventus have rediscovered their solidity just in time to face Real Madrid in a “red-hot atmosphere.”

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri have won three on the bounce in Serie A with clean sheets and host the Spaniards in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

“Previously we gave very little away but conceded goals, now we’re not just keeping clean sheets; we’re also preventing our opponents from having shots on goal. It’s important,” said the midfielder in a Press conference.

Juve were beaten 2-1 at the Bernabeu two weeks ago, but did well even after Giorgio Chiellini was harshly red carded.

http://markting10.nl/

“Chiellini’s sending off changed the game, but even when down to ten we played an excellent game in terms of our attention and chances created.

“We must do this again on Tuesday night, whilst being cautious of their threat on the counter through the likes of Angel Di Maria, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, who all break with extreme pace.

“Real have plenty of strong players up front who sometimes help out less in defensive areas, thus putting their backline under pressure. We managed to defend well in Spain, enjoy possession and cause them problems.

http://markting10.nl/

“Plus, in Turin, we’ll be able to count on the support of our fans, who will provide a red-hot atmosphere at the stadium. We haven’t had a great deal of time in which to prepare for the game, but encounters like these provide plenty of motivation by themselves.”

Carlo Ancelotti is under pressure after some stuttering performances and Marchisio is not surprised.

“It was the same with Jose Mourinho and other managers they’ve had. It’s just like it is here at Juventus, if you’re off top spot, even after two back-to-back titles, people talk about problems.

http://markting10.nl/

“Real have great champions, can spend a great deal of money and are surrounded by huge expectations.

“Ancelotti is an excellent manager who has done well wherever he’s been. I wish him all the best in Madrid, but only domestically, not in the Champions League…”

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Coentrao ruled out of Juventus clash

The former Benfica star faces a spell on the sidelines
after picking up an ankle injury in the win over Rayo Vallecano.

Nov 4, 2013

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti will be without Fabio Coentrao for his side's Champions League clash with Juventus after the left-back suffered an ankle problem.

http://markting10.nl/

The Portugal international picked up the knock in Madrid's 3-2 Liga win over Rayo Vallecano and was forced to leave the pitch in the dying minutes of the first half of the encounter.

The 25-year-old underwent further examination at the weekend to determine the extent of the injury and Madrid have now announced that Coentrao will be out of action for a while.

http://markting10.nl/

"After tests carried out on Fabio Coentrao at the Sanitas La Moraleja Hospital, it has been confirmed that he has a sprained left ankle, which will continue to be monitored," a statement on the club's official website reads.

Coentrao's absence means that Marcelo is likely to be reinstated at left-back for Tuesday's match in Turin after he was rested for the game against Rayo.

http://markting10.nl/

Madrid currently sit atop of Group B with nine points from three games and will qualify for the knockout stages with a win over Juve.

[Socrates 8445]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

November 5, 2013 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Howard Webb (England)

Real's forward thinking covers defensive cracks in Vallecas

Nov 4, 2013

Carlo Ancelotti was not a very happy man after watching his Real Madrid side beat an ambitious Rayo Vallecano 3-2 in the southern capital suburb on Saturday evening. Once again, Real had the game by the scruff of the neck, as it had against Sevilla during the midweek round of fixtures, and once again from a commanding position of three-nil up the opposition almost wriggled free of a stranglehold earned from goals by Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.

http://markting10.nl/

"That this has happened in two consecutive games is not a coincidence," the Italian said after a match in which his multi-multi-million collection of world superstars almost had its pants pulled down by a club so devoid of liquidity that it only recently emerged from bankruptcy. However, Rayo played the more flowing football for large periods of the match, winning the battle for possession of the ball as it had against Barcelona earlier in the season. But possession is one of those statistics that generally fail to reflect the bigger picture: the impression that Real left in the working-class Vallecas neighbourhood is that it actually operates better without the white sphere under its control for too long. Given time to think, Ancelotti's players over-elaborate. Hitting forward with instinctive movement, there is little any side can do against his brutally efficient front line.

Ronaldo opened the scoring on a break, neatly nutmegging a Rayo defender and slotting home past Rubén on three minutes and Real ploughed a similar furrow during the first 45 minutes, surging forward whenever the chance arose. Gareth Bale again excelled in his right wing role, providing two assists, although Ancelotti's attempt to crowbar both the Welshman and Angel di Maria into the side did not come off. The Argentinean, playing in an unfamiliar role on the left in the first bank of midfield, was muted and offered little going forward or defensively. If Bale is to continue in the starting 11, Ancelotti will have to get his salt and pepper shakers out again to work out a way to accommodate the in-form Di Maria as well.

http://markting10.nl/

It is little coincidence either that Real went to pieces when Asier Illarramendi replaced Xabi Alonso at half time. The young Basque holding midfielder is doubtless a fine player but, much like Sergio Canales before him, perhaps snapped up from a lesser Liga light a little before his time. Real went into the break 2-0 up and added a third after the restart, but a few minutes later was only a goal to the good, Pepe and then Marcelo incurring penalties in quick succession that Valencia loanee Jonathan Viera coolly slotted past Diego Lopez.

Credit for Rayo's imposing second half performance is entirely reserved for its charismatic coach, Paco Jemez. This is a man who described his side as "the shit of La Liga" after a loss early this season, but boldly proclaimed he had had a dream going into this game in which his team had given Real a "good going over." Dreams in Vallecas, it seems, do come true. Jemez reacted to Alonso's substitution early by moving to three at the back and throwing on striker Joaquin Lavirrey, and his team had the better of the second half by a fair margin, only the elastic reactions of Lopez preventing Alberto Bueno from levelling matters on 65 minutes.

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Ancelotti has proven himself reluctant to similarly chance his arm so far in his Real Madrid tenure, but on Saturday he had little choice in his own changes. Fabio Coentrao landed awkwardly in the first half and although he came back on was unable to continue, Marcelo coming off the bench. Alvaro Arbeloa was introduced before Dani Carvajal got himself sent off -- which he should have been for challenge on Iago Falque that was worthy of a second caution -- and Illarramendi for Alonso was a natural switch made in light of the number 14's lack of game time this season.

Still, Ancelotti's mantra for his side is to control the rhythm of games, keep the ball and remain composed at the back; Real failed to do any of these things as Rayo pressed for an equalizer. Youngster Adrian Embarba almost scored a minute after coming on and went close again shortly afterwards as Rayo camped out in Real's half. A couple of trademark breaks tested the home side's resolve, Ronaldo drawing a fine save from Ruben after Saul has almost capitalized on a defensive communication break down at the other end. Tito might have earned Rayo a well-deserved point with a glancing header as Real's defense again went to sleep in stoppage time, and there is little doubt that a draw would have been a fair result considering Rayo's refusal to be cowed by its illustrious opposition.

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For Ancelotti, the story of Real's season -- one that should be keeping him awake at night -- was replayed again on the turf of the Vallecas Stadium: his forwards can only keep the side's defensive frailty from being fatally exposed for so long.

"Thinking that when you're winning 3-0 the game is over is a serious mistake. It's happened twice now, but I'm sure it won't happen a third time. The problems we had were because of their good pressure upfield. Defensively, the second half was a disaster,” the Real coach noted.