Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Verona-Juventus Preview: Serie A's surprise
package hoping to upset league leaders

The hosts have a fine home record but they have lost their last two at the Marc'Antonio
Bentegodi and this weekend welcome a Bianconeri outfit in scintillating form of late.

Feb 8, 2014

Verona will need to rediscover their imposing home league form if they are to halt Juventus' seemingly relentless march towards the Serie A title.

http://markting10.nl/

Andrea Mandorlini's charges have been one of the surprise packages in Italy's top flight this term, and sit fifth in the table with 35 points from 22 matches.

A superb record at the Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi has been a significant factor in the club's success, with eight of their 11 league victories this season coming on home soil.

However, Verona have been beaten in their two home fixtures since the turn of the year, going down 3-0 to Napoli and 3-1 to Roma.

http://markting10.nl/

Verona got back on track with a 2-1 triumph at Sassuolo last time out and will retain hope of springing a huge upset on Sunday.

Antonio Conte's side are gunning for a third straight league title and have shown no signs of loosening their grip on the Scudetto.

Juve have dropped points on just three occasions this term, with their only league defeat coming at the hands of Fiorentina in October.

http://markting10.nl/

Since that game, the champions have won 13 out of 14 Serie A matches, the latest a comprehensive 3-1 home triumph over Inter last Sunday that saw Stephan Lichtsteiner, Giorgio Chiellini and Arturo Vidal find the net.

Juve's success is in no small part down to their attacking prowess. Strikers Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente have combined to account for 20 of their team's 54 goals, the highest tally in the league.

Nevertheless, Verona forward Luca Toni has warned his former club they are in for a fight on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

"We face them calmly. Beating Sassuolo interrupted a run of three defeats," he told Il Giornale. "We will go into the field as 11 lions to cause them problems."

Juventus welcome back goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon from suspension, but centre-back Andrea Barzagli is doubtful with a thigh muscle injury.

http://markting10.nl/

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Sep 22, 2013 - Juventus 2 - 1 Hellas Verona
Serie B ‎-‎ Apr 27, 2007 - Hellas Verona 0 - 1 Juventus
Serie B ‎- Dec 9, 2006 - Juventus 1 - 0 Hellas Verona


Last Five Matches

HELLAS VERONA

Feb 2, 2014 - Sassuolo 1 - 2 Hellas Verona - Serie A
Jan 26, 2014 - Hellas Verona 1 - 3 Roma - Serie A
Jan 19, 2014 - AC Milan 1 - 0 Hellas Verona - Serie A
Jan 12, 2014 - Hellas Verona 0 - 3 SSC Napoli - Serie A
Jan 6, 2014 - Udinese 1 - 3 Hellas Verona - Serie A


JUVENTUS

Feb 2, 2014 - Juventus 3 - 1 FC Internazionale - Serie A
Jan 25, 2014 - Lazio 1 - 1 Juventus - Serie A
Jan 21, 2014 - Roma 1 - 0 Juventus 0 - Coppa Italia
Jan 18, 2014 - Juventus 4 - 2 Sampdoria - Serie A
Jan 12, 2014 - Cagliari 1 - 4 Juventus - Serie A

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Juventus vs. Hellas Verona Preview:
Round 23 — Highway to Hell-as

Feb 8, 2014

Sometimes at the beginning of a preview, I like to focus on the two teams that will be playing. Or try to be funny in some kind of way. Or maybe both. This time, though, I'm going to go in a little bit of a different direction.

http://markting10.nl/

When Hellas Verona came to Juventus Stadium in late September, it was the beginning of something new. No, Juve were still playing consistently inconsistent at the time. They were coming off 1-1 draws with Inter and FC Copenhagen. Not exactly what you'd call building serious momentum at the beginning of the season.

Why am I bringing up the last time Juventus played Hellas Verona?

Because it's the first game Fernando Llorente started in a Juventus jersey.

http://markting10.nl/

I'm not talking about when he started against Everton in the International Champions Cup at AT&T Park. Although, I can say I was there, so that's kinda cool, I guess. But the first official game Llorente started as a Juve player was Juve's 2-1 win over Hellas at Juventus Stadium on Sept. 22.

Since that game in September, Juventus have done exactly what pretty much everybody who follows calcio expected them to do when the season began — show why they're the top team in all of the country. They might not have taken the best of routes — like, you know, getting smacked in the face by Fiorentina — but they're playing they way they should right now. What people didn't expect, though, is that Verona would be chillin' four spots behind Juve in the table. If the season ended today, Hellas Verona — yes, that has Luca Toni leading them in scoring with 10 goals — would finish in fifth place and go into the Europa League.

http://markting10.nl/

Now, as things come full circle for Llorente against Hellas Verona, his team looks to do exactly what they've been doing lately — winning. They've done that quite a bit in the last three-plus months. Well, in Serie A anyway as they look to win an unprecedented third straight league title.

That'd be cool with me. You, too, I assume. Then again, who am I to judge?

http://markting10.nl/

GOOD NEWS

Juventus unbeaten streak update: 14 games, 38 goals scored, 6 goals allowed.

This has been a Juventus unbeaten streak update.

Oh, and one more thing...

Luca Cetta @l_cetta
With 59 points, Conte's Juve equals Capello's 2005-06 points total after 22 matches. It's a record for the three-point era. (GdS)

That's pretty good, right?

http://markting10.nl/

BAD NEWS

Let's see here...

Outside of maybe Andrea Barzagli, everybody who will be wearing a Juventus jersey is healthy. Juventus enter Sunday's action nine points up on second-place Roma. They haven't been beaten in a league game since the middle of October.

I'd say there's not really much of anything bad news-worthy going on right now.

http://markting10.nl/

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. What role, if any, will Dani Osvaldo play?

Rumors at the beginning of the week had Juventus' newest player impressing in training and, so much so, that he'd possibly getting some serious playing time because of it. While I don't doubt that Osvaldo has been working hard to make a good first impression on Antonio Conte, I find it highly unlikely that the Juve manager will break up his No. 1 partnership of Carlos Tevez and Llorente. That means, if logic prevails, Osvaldo will be starting from the bench Sunday afternoon. Whether he stays there for the whole 90 minutes is another matter entirely.

http://markting10.nl/

2. Leonardo Bonucci and the search for a mistake-free game.

I'm not talking about a bad pass here and there that don't mean much at all or anything like that. I'm talking about the mishaps that turn into something big for the other team. It happened against Inter last weekend in the Derby d'Italia — and that's not the first time this season a Bonucci miscue has lead to something happening in Juve's third of the field. This doesn't mean Bonucci is playing poorly, because he's not. But there's only so many times one can play with fire until they get seriously burned, right? I'd say so.

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3. Will it be Andrea Barzagli or Martin Caceres on the right side of Juve's three-man defense?

If the Great Wall of Barzagli isn't available to start, then having Caceres play is the next best option. Not just because he has high socks and a rockin' hairstyle, but because he's actually quite good at this football thing. And Caceres' presence also signifies another thing besides high-sock lovefests — just how the world doesn't end when Barzagli can't take the field. Do Juve start conceding goals at a crazy rate when Caceres plays? Nope. And that's what Conte will be hoping for again if Barzagli isn't a go.

http://markting10.nl/

4. Can Juventus slow down Vernoa's good vibes at home?

How good have Hellas Verona been at home this season? Juventus' official website will tell us.

There have been no half measures in Verona's home record this season: eight victories, three defeats and not a single draw are the results they've recorded at the Bentegodi.

I'd say that's rather successful. The list of clubs who have more wins than Hellas Verona at home this season is a pretty short one. First is Juventus, second is Roma. That's it. Just two teams have been better at home than Verona. Even with three losses in their last four games, home has been a happy place for Verona. That's not a surprise based on where they are in the table. If you're in the top third, you're almost always successful on your home ground. Verona is definitely following that line of reasoning. The one bad note of Verona's home record: They've allowed 14 goals in 11 home matches this season. Not exactly rock-solid defense to have when Serie A's best attack is coming to town.

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5. What Verona's midfield is like minus Jorginho.

Since the talented 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder left for Napoli, things haven't exactly been so good for Verona. They've lost three out of their last four, with the only win coming against a Sassuolo side that has seemingly changed over half of its regular starting lineup to try and stave off relegation. Some of it may be that be the Verona train slowing down from its first-half surge, but some of it certainly has to do with the fact that Jorginho — one of Serie A's revelations this season — isn't in their midfield anymore.


My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Tevez


OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 3 P.M. IN ITALY; 9 A.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 6 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Mandorlini: 'Nothing is impossible'

Feb 9, 2014

Verona host leaders Juventus this afternoon and Coach Andrea Mandorlini notes “nothing is impossible.”

http://markting10.nl/

It kicks off at the Stadio Bentegodi at 15.00 CET.

“I don’t feel the responsibility of having the chance to break the Scudetto race open by holding the leaders,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“I experience this game by remembering the mantra that nothing is impossible in football. Juve are extraordinary and so far we have paid a heavy price for mistakes against the big clubs, so we must keep our concentration at the maximum throughout.

http://markting10.nl/

“The Bianconeri are having a remarkable campaign, but we must be relaxed against them, because we’ve earned respect on the pitch.”

Mandorlini was asked the now traditional question ahead of any Juventus match: how will you deal with Andrea Pirlo?

“We have prepared something, but nothing particularly special. We need to limit his range and we’ll see if we are able to do that.

http://markting10.nl/

“Antonio Conte is the best Coach in Italy and deserves all the praise he receives. I respect him a great deal. Juve have to start winning in Europe too, but I’m sure that won’t take them long to achieve.”

Verona sold Jorginho to Napoli in January, but Marquinho is ready for his debut after arriving from Roma.

http://markting10.nl/

“Marquinho is ready and I’m sure he’ll give us a big hand. Luca Toni has always given us a great deal and will continue to do so against the Bianconeri.”

Verona can’t yet count on striker Michael Rabusic, as his international transfer hasn’t come through in time for this game.

http://markting10.nl/

Verona squad for Juventus: Rafael, Nicolas; Agostini, Cacciatore, Moras, Marques, Gonzalez, Albertazzi, Pillud; Hallfredsson, Marquinho, Donati, Donadel, Martinho, Romulo, Cirigliano, Sala; Cacia, Toni, Gomez Taleb, Iturbe, Jankovic

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Hellas Verona v Juventus – Team News,
Tactics, Lineups And Prediction

Feb 9, 2014

The commanding 3-1 victory in the Derby D’italia proved that the draw against Lazio the previous weekend was but a minor slip. Is there any stopping Juventus? That’s the question on the lips of Calcio followers, most of whom would agree that Juventus simply cannot be stopped. And you would be inclined to agree with that general notion. Unbeaten in the league since October, which turned out to be their only loss so far, Juventus have a 9 point lead at the top of the table (although Roma do have a game in hand).

As for their opponents, Hellas have been the revelation of the season and few would have predicted them to be among the top 5 spots in February. Yet what seems like a dream for them is a reality. Last weekend saw them claim three points off of fellow newcomers Sassuolo. January has been a difficult month for the Verona based outfit as they succumbed to three losses against Milan, Napoli and Roma. They also waved goodbye to one of their best players of the season, Jorginho, who left for greener pastures at Napoli.

http://markting10.nl/

Team News and Tactical Brief

HELLAS VERONA

With 35 points on the board, security is all but certain for Verona. They have the safety net well in sight and with a good few months of football left, they can perhaps aim for higher accolades. Few would say Verona have been punching above their weight but there’s no doubt that their position is well justified. The departure of Jorginho is a blow, there are no two ways about it, and it will take them time to get over the loss of their gifted play-maker but it’s hard to hold on to your jewels when the big clubs come sniffing around.

Coach Andrea Mandorlini has Donati and captain Maietta as doubtful for this game. He is expected to head into this game with a 4-3-3 formation. Much of Verona’s success has been credited to the form of veteran striker Luca Toni. The former Juventus man has netted 10 goals so far making him an outside favorite for a spot in Cesare Prandelli’s Azzurri World Cup squad. The chances are bleak but the motivation is evident. His audacious chip against Sassuolo last weekend remains one of his best goals.

http://markting10.nl/

Alongside the raw power of Toni is the guile and trickery of Juan Iturbe; a player who has captured the imagination of Serie A followers with his fearlessness and direct running. He will have his work cut out for him against the formidable duo of Asamoah and Chiellini but his burning pace could prove useful on the counter. The creativity from midfield will flow through the boots of Emil Hallfredsson who displayed his shooting range against AS Roma.

Possible Starting XI (3-4-2-1): Rafael; Cacciatore, Moras, Marques, Agostini; Romulo, Cirigliano, Hallfredsson; Iturbe, Toni, Gomez

http://markting10.nl/

JUVENTUS

Juventus came out of the blocks all guns blazing against Inter and managed to maintain that tempo for the best part of 60 minutes. It saw them build a cushion for themselves that allowed them to take their foot off the gas. Rolando’s goal was the only blemish on an excellent evening for the Bianconeri. It was a game that highlighted the gap between two great rivals of Italian Football.

Antonio Conte will continue to boycott the standard pre-game press conferences as a method of protest against the alleged prejudiced reporting by the media. The Juventus manager has his full squad to pick from with only Andrea Barzagli in doubt after he suffered a minor injury against Inter. Deputizing for him should be the more than capable Martin Caceres. While the rest of the eleven should remain the same outfit that took the field against Inter.

http://markting10.nl/

It was an explosive tempo that caught Inter off-guard last weekend and it could just be Verona’s undoing as well. To maintain that intensity is easier said than done and that is a part of the reason of you don’t see much of it especially towards the end of the season. Despite that, Juventus have controlled games at their own pace and you’d expect them to do the same against the Gialloblu.

Possible Starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente

http://markting10.nl/

Player To Watch Out For

Carlos Tevez (Juventus)

The diminutive Argentine is suffering a mini drought having failed to find the back of the net this calendar year. Against Hellas in the reverse fixture, Tevez had one of his more productive games and brought the Champions back on level terms. There might be no better time for him to get the monkey off of his back and end his barren patch.

http://markting10.nl/

Prediction

Hellas Verona 0-2 Juventus

The Bentegodi hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Juventus in recent times with games against Hellas’ rivals Chievo, particularly tricky. It’s hard not to assume that Juventus will control the game and boss their opponents around like we’re accustomed to them doing. With a wealth of talent at their disposal and the morale boosting win against Inter to back them, the scales tip in favor of a Juventus win, yet again.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Line-ups: Verona-Juventus

Feb 9, 2014

Serie A leaders Juventus visit high-flying Verona with Daniel Osvaldo ready for his debut.

http://markting10.nl/

It kicks off at the Stadio Bentegodi at 15.00 CET.

The Bianconeri have seen their lead at the top of the table whittled down to six points, but could break away as Roma face Lazio in the Derby della Capitale this afternoon.

They are fresh from thrashing Inter 3-1 and have Osvaldo on the bench for the first time after his loan move from Southampton.

http://markting10.nl/

Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente lead the way to begin with, supported by Paul Pogba, Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo.

Andrea Barzagli is injured and Fabio Quagliarella dropped, but so Martin Caceres gets a rare start in the back three.

Gianluigi Buffon returns from his one-match ban to take on the gloves.

http://markting10.nl/

Verona have stuttered since selling midfield dynamo Jorginho to Napoli, but can still count on the goals of Luca Toni, here facing his former club.

He is flanked by Juan Manuel Iturbe and Bosko Jankovic, while ex-Fiorentina man Romulo is in midfield.

http://markting10.nl/

VERONA: 1 Rafael; 3 Albertazzi, 25 Marques, 18 Moras, 29 Cacciatore; 10 Hallfredsson, 30 Donadel, 2 Romulo; 15 Iturbe, 9 Toni, 11 Jankovic

Verona bench: 12 Nicolas, 98 Borra,4 Pillud, 5 Donati, 6 Martinho, 7 Marquinho, 8 Cacia, 14 Cirigliano, 21 Gomez Taleb, 23 Gonzalez, 26 Sala, 33 Agostini


JUVENTUS: 1 Buffon; 3 Chiellini, 19 Bonucci, 4 Caceres; 26 Lichtsteiner, 23 Vidal, 21 Pirlo, 6 Pogba, 22 Asamoah; 10 Tevez, 14 Llorente

Juventus bench: 30 Storari, 34 Rubinho, 5 Ogbonna, 7 Pepe, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 12 Giovinco, 13 Peluso,18 Osvaldo, 20 Padoin, 33 Isla

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri

HT 0-2: Tevez double in Verona

Feb 9, 2014

An early Carlos Tevez brace has given Juventus the half-time lead away to Hellas Verona.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri’s lead at the top of the table was down to six points, but they hoped to take advantage of the Rome Derby this afternoon. Daniel Osvaldo was on the bench awaiting his debut, while Andrea Barzagli was injured and Gigi Buffon returned from suspension. Verona opted for Bosko Jankovic alongside Juan Manuel Iturbe and ex-Juve striker Luca Toni, but Domenico Maietta was still sidelined.

Andrea Pirlo curled in a free kick after three minutes that Carlos Tevez saw deflected off Emil Hallfredsson, forcing Rafael into an acrobatic save under the bar.

It was an early warning that Verona did not heed, as Juve took the lead moments later. Kwadwo Asamoah burst past Fabrizio Cacciatore and his shot was parried into the path of Tevez to tap in.

http://markting10.nl/

Luca Toni pounced on a Leonardo Bonucci error, but Arturo Vidal’s tackle was decisive to stop him making the most of it.

Tevez doubled both his tally and the Juventus advantage at the Bentegodi when he ran on to a Paul Pogba through ball and placed his angled drive past Rafael at the near post. However, his leg was offside.

Verona had penalty appeals for a Martin Caceres handling offence, but it ricocheted around in the area and may well have struck his leg instead.

http://markting10.nl/

It was almost a first half hat-trick for the Apache, but his right-foot shot from the edge of the box was over the bar.


Verona 0-2 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Tevez 4, 21 (J)

Verona: Rafael; Albertazzi, Marques, Moras, Cacciatore; Hallfredsson, Donadel, Romulo; Iturbe, Toni, Jankovic

Juventus: Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente

Ref: Doveri

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Last-gasp Juanito strike denies Bianconeri

Antonio Conte's side looked to be on course for all three points after Carlos Tevez
scored twice, only for the striker to strike in the fourth minute of injury-time.

Feb 9, 2014

A 94th-minute equaliser from Juanito saw Verona salvage a last-gasp 2-2 draw at home to Juventus.

http://markting10.nl/

Carlos Tevez struck twice in the first half to put the visitors in complete control, with the 30-year-old taking his tally for the season to 13 with two close-range finishes.

Former Juventus forward Luca Toni pulled a goal back seven minutes after the break, and with time running out the Argentine substitute rose to meet a Romulo cross and head past Gianluigi Buffon.

Despite the disappointment, Juve are now unbeaten in 15 league games, although they missed a chance to extend their advantage at the top of Serie A after Roma were held by Lazio in the Rome derby.

http://markting10.nl/

The visitors, who welcomed Buffon back after suspension, started at a high tempo and were rewarded with the opening goal in the fourth minute.

Kwadwo Asamoah raced past Fabrizio Cacciatore on the left and saw his low shot parried by Rafael, before Tevez latched onto the rebound to find the net from six yards.

Verona put together some neat passing moves as they looked to respond, but more slack defending in the 21st minute allowed Tevez to double his tally.

http://markting10.nl/

The Argentina international sprung the offside trap to receive a perfectly weighted throughball from Paul Pogba, and fired through Rafael's legs from close range.

Juventus were in complete control for the remainder of the first half, denying their hosts a shot on target.

Verona finally got themselves into the game after the interval and halved their deficit in the 52nd minute through Toni’s sixth goal in his last six league appearances.

http://markting10.nl/

Romulo delivered a free-kick to the near post for the striker, who got ahead of Leonardo Bonucci and headed low past Buffon.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo was handed his debut midway through the second half and the Southampton loanee had an immediate impact.

He saw a low shot clip the post on its way wide, and had a goal disallowed soon after as Asamoah was adjudged offside before squaring to the striker.

http://markting10.nl/

Buffon made a late save to deny Toni a second goal, before Juve central defender Giorgio Cheillini limped out of the match with 15 minutes remaining due to an apparent calf injury.

Verona subsequently saw a penalty shout turned away as Stephan Lichtsteiner appeared to handle the ball inside his own penalty area when challenging Toni.

However, it did not matter as Juanito rose highest to head home a dramatic equaliser.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Juve held by Verona comeback

Carlos Tevez gave Juventus a 2-0 lead on Daniel Osvaldo’s debut,
but Verona clawed back a point in stoppages.

Feb 9, 2014

The Bianconeri’s lead at the top of the table was down to six points, but they hoped to take advantage of the Rome Derby this afternoon. Daniel Osvaldo was on the bench awaiting his debut, while Andrea Barzagli was injured and Gigi Buffon returned from suspension. Verona opted for Bosko Jankovic alongside Juan Manuel Iturbe and ex-Juve striker Luca Toni, but Domenico Maietta was still sidelined.

http://markting10.nl/

Andrea Pirlo curled in a free kick after three minutes that Carlos Tevez saw deflected off Emil Hallfredsson, forcing Rafael into an acrobatic save under the bar.

It was an early warning that Verona did not heed, as Juve took the lead moments later. Kwadwo Asamoah burst past Fabrizio Cacciatore and his shot was parried into the path of Tevez to tap in.

Luca Toni pounced on a Leonardo Bonucci error, but Arturo Vidal’s tackle was decisive to stop him making the most of it.

http://markting10.nl/

Tevez doubled both his tally and the Juventus advantage at the Bentegodi when he ran on to a Paul Pogba through ball and placed his angled drive past Rafael at the near post. However, his leg was offside.

Verona had penalty appeals for a Martin Caceres handling offence, but it ricocheted around in the area and may well have struck his leg instead.

It was almost a first half hat-trick for the Apache, but his right-foot shot from the edge of the box was over the bar.

http://markting10.nl/

Hellas had a frantic start to the second half, as Bonucci rushed back to stop Romulo after a nutmeg on Giorgio Chiellini, then from that corner Vidal handled to clear a Toni header.

Verona were clearly fired up and got a goal back when Romulo’s free kick was curled on to the head of Toni, who got in front of the defenders at the near post. There were again suspicions of offside.

Chiellini and Vidal charged down a couple more Toni attempts, while Antonio Conte threw on ex-Southampton striker Daniel Osvaldo for his debut. He nearly scored within 90 seconds, as he sprung the offside trap on Pirlo’s pass, drew out the goalkeeper and his angled drive clipped the base of the far upright.

http://markting10.nl/

Chiellini limped off with a suspected calf strain and Verona thought they had equalised when Toni half-volleyed another free kick, but Buffon flew for a fingertip save at the base of the near post.

Marques risked a straight red for his two-footed tackle on Vidal, which left a gaping hole in the Chilean’s sock.

http://markting10.nl/

Lichtsteiner handled in the box during stoppages, but it hit him after Toni’s deflection, so was considered involuntary.

Verona were pouring forward for the entire second half and earned a deserved equaliser in stoppages. A free kick was taken quickly, Romulo was allowed to cross and Juanito Gomez Taleb got in front of defenders for a glancing header.

http://markting10.nl/

VERONA: Rafael; Albertazzi, Marques, Moras, Cacciatore (Gomez Taleb 86); Hallfredsson, Donadel (Cirigliano 69), Romulo; Iturbe, Toni, Jankovic (Martinho 62)

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Chiellini (Ogbonna 75), Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah (Peluso 80); Tevez, Llorente (Osvaldo 66)

Ref: Doveri

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Verona battle back to rescue
last gasp draw

Feb 9, 2014

Verona held Juventus to a 2-2 draw at the Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi on Sunday afternoon in Serie A.

http://markting10.nl/

Carlos Tevez netted himself a brace early in the first half, before the hosts struck back through Luca Toni and Juanito Gomez Taleb to earn themselves a valuable point against the Serie A leaders.

The Bianconeri dominated proceedings from the get-go with the hosts finding themselves on the back foot and defending for much of the first opening minutes. The first chance of the game fell to Andrea Pirlo, who saw his free-kick just turned over the bar by Rafael in the second minute.

Tevez struck two minutes later for his first goal of the game after the Verona shot-stopper was unable to handle Kwadwo Asamoah’s low cross, instead parrying it into the path of the Argentine who easily flicked it into the open net.

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The hosts’ focal point of attack, veteran striker Toni, saw a half-chance come his way after a mix-up between Gianluigi Buffon and Martin Caceres around the quarter hour mark but the situation was quickly snuffed out by Arturo Vidal tracking back to provide cover.

Tevez grabbed his second of the game about five minutes later after linking up well with Paul Pogba. Again, as had happened previously, Verona got another opportunity through Toni but he quickly found himself crowded off the ball by a swarm of Bianconeri defenders.

The Argentinian attacker was hungry to complete his hat-trick and had an opportunity shortly after the half-hour mark after being set up by strike partner Fernando Llorente; however he blasted his effort well wide.

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The last ten minutes petered out with Toni appearing to be on his own little island due to a lack of creative verve from his side’s midfield and Juventus content to take their foot off the gas as the two sides headed into the tunnels with the visitors enjoying their two-goal advantage.

Still, despite the visitors starting off dominating proceedings immediately after the restart, with Pogba having an early effort snuffed out by Rafael, Verona were keen on getting themselves back in the game.

They finally got the result they were looking for when Toni steered in Romulo’s free-kick, beating Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini to head past a stranded Buffon and halve the deficit in the 52nd minute.

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The goal appeared to spark the hosts into life as they attempted to ask more questions of their opponents’ back-line and coach Antonio Conte opted to haul off the seemingly frustrated Llorente in place of Pablo Osvaldo.

The new signing nearly marked his debut with a goal after being set up by a vintage through ball from Pirlo, only to see his effort skim just wide and hit the post with Rafael beaten.

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With a goal in hand, Verona continue to threaten and Juventus nearly found themselves in a similar situation where Toni attempted to divert home another Romulo free-kick; however this time, Buffon was quick to get down and make a smart save to keep his headed effort out.

But, just as it appeared that the Bianconeri would escape with all three points, substitute Juanito headed home the equaliser, much to the joy of his side’s supporters.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Initial reaction and random observations

Feb 9, 2014

For as goos as Juventus' first half was, the second half was the polar opposite. You want a comparison on how to play football and then how to not play football, watch what Juventus just did.

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Go ahead. Do it. That's the prime example of how to build a lead through flat out domination and then give it all back in the dying embers of a game because you flip your switch off.

This is how good Juventus was in the first half.

Juventus possession: 71 percent

Hellas Verona possession: 29 percent

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And this is what the result of such first-half dominance was.

Juventus goals: 2

Hellas Verona goals: 0

Juve built the lead through a pair of goals from striker Carlos Tevez, as the Argentine striker broke his 2014 duck in quick fashion with his first-half brace. Everything was rolling at that point. Juve were dominating, Antonio Conte was running up and down the sidelines celebrating goals.

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Here I was ready to talk about how Juventus, carried by Tevez, kept rolling through Serie A during their current unbeaten run — and then it all came crashing down. Yep. An incredibly poor second half was capped off by Juan Gomez Taleb's 95th-minute equalizer. Talk about disappointing. If that isn't, I don't know what is.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Conte: There were some serious lapses of concentration in the second half. Hopefully this will serve as a lesson for the future #VeronaJuve

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Just frustrating. Incredibly, incredibly frustrating on so many levels. Juve do all that work in the first half to put in that kind of performance after the break and see the lead disappear with a completely lackluster second half.

At least the margin atop Serie A is still plus-9 after Roma and Lazio played out a scoreless draw. So we've got that going for us, which is nice.

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Random thoughts and observations

• According to WhoScored, Andrea Pirlo had 107 touches in the first half. Let me repeat that: 107 touches IN THE FIRST HALF. It was good for a 94 percent pass completion rate. That's just so incredibly insane. If only they kept that first-half mojo going...

• You realize how lucky we are to have a backup like Martin Caceres just chillin' on the bench most games? Put him on just about any other club in Italy and he's probably a starter. On this Juve team, he's started only four games after today's game.

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• Just a reminder of the first-half possession numbers...

Juventus: 71 percent

Hellas Verona: 29 percent

That's good, right?

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• Could Juventus have put away the match late in the first half or early in the second half? Maybe, but it's not like they were peppering Verona's goal and just failing to convert on their chances over and over and over again. If they kept the pressure up from the first half, though, you'd like to think a third goal would have come at some point.

• Speaking of second-half subs: Dani Osvaldo's debut was pretty okay. That's not just because he hit one off the outside of the far post on his second touch in a Juventus jersey, although it certainly helped make a good first impression.

• Food for thought: Claudio Marchisio was about to come on just as Giorgio Chiellini got hurt. That's rather unfortunate timing, don't you think? I haven't seen anything from Conte saying who Marchisio was going to come on for, but you had to think it was for either Arturo Vidal or Paul Pogba considering neither of them were playing all that well. And with the way Verona were playing in the second half, this was the kind of game where Marchisio's defensive work rate would have really been useful.

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• Can somebody please remind the Juventus players how to properly defend a set piece? This is getting quite annoying. Thank you.

• You better thank Gigi Buffon for his miracle save in the second half or we'd possibly be talking about a loss rather than a 2-2 draw. Thank you again, San Gigi. You're pretty darn good.

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• Juventus unbeaten streak update: 15 games, 40 goals scored, 8 goals allowed.

This has been a Juventus unbeaten streak update.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Verona force Juventus to drop points

Feb 9, 2014

A first half defined by Juve's dominance; the second a story of suffering.

http://markting10.nl/

Hellas Verona, the newly promoted side with a penchant for the risky and the confidence of a giant picked themselves up after going 2-0 down to score two in the second half and grab a point off the champions of Italy.

Managing only a 2-2 result, Juventus have dropped points again on account of a second half collapse, but thankfully, so did Roma.

The Bianconeri deserved a symphony of compliments in the first half as they played a beautiful game in the first 45 minutes. Asserting their confidence, superior technical skill and fluidity, they overwhelmed their opponents as they pushed forward and played the ball out with ease. Verona were visibly rattled and a little intimidated and it took only four minutes for Juventus to grab the opening goal.

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Despite attempting to close down the space and defending with nine men, Verona struggled to contain the vertical passes going down the middle. While at times Juve frustrate with their inaccuracy, they impressed with their precision on this occasion, managing 90% accuracy and 71% ball possession in the first half. They simply controlled proceedings, making the right runs forward and converting two of their three shots on goal.

It has to be said that Carlos Tevez, who scored both of Juve's goals was a few inches offside for his second and yet despite that, Verona needed to address their poor defending. Although they started out with a clear plan on how to halt their opponents, they soon fell apart, confusing themselves and each other and seemed unaware of how to contain Juve's overwhelming pressure. Once again it seemed another Italian side had succumbed to the power of the Turin giants, unable to provide a real challenge.

The only negative point of the Bianconeri performance in the first half was Arturo Vidal's display. Disinterested and almost absent, the Chilean was regularly found nodding off in crucial times to gift the opposition possession and place his team under pressure. Antonio Conte was furious and brought Claudio Marchisio on to warm up on the touch line in hopes of provoking a reaction from his energetic midfielder.

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And then everything changed in the second half. Andrea Mandorlini, who was seen clutching his face with his hands on the touchline, utterly frustrated with the performance of his men, must have thrown a few boots around during the halftime break. His players returned to the pitch determined, eager and not even slightly intimidated for the second half.

Pressing harder and pushing forward with greater confidence, they began to put Juventus under pressure. Verona, who had already managed eight goals from set pieces prior to this match, managed one in the 52nd minute. Luca Toni, who had already managed to trouble the Juve defence on a few occasions in the first half, headed in Verona's first to rattle the away side who suddenly seem incapable of dealing with set pieces.

Was it offside? Perhaps, but now the roles were reversed and the Gialloblu were in the driver's seat, inspired by the rallying calls of the home crowd. Juventus, perhaps resting on their laurels, allowed the home side too much room to operate. Lacking in concentration and not concerned with expending too much energy, Verona proved that when Conte's team is not 100% committed to the job, they can be forced to suffer and they can even be defeated.

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While Pablo Osvaldo came on and immediately had his say, nearly making it 3-1 for the Old Lady, Conte has to thank Gianluigi Buffon for an excellent save to deny Verona a second goal at the time. Stephan Lichtsteiner was also lucky to escape without punishment for his handball. More care must be taken by Juve when the time comes to deal with a set piece, and it was made abundantly clear how much a certain Andrea Barzagli was missed. Without the centre-back, the Juventus back-line lack composure and a true leader capable of organising the defence and minimising the chaos that ensues in his absence.

Yet what happened in the Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi is similar to what happened in that defeat against Fiorentina. Juventus simply took their foot of their gas and when they do so, it only takes one goal from the opponent -- in this case a last-second Gomez equalizer -- to make them panic as Conte pointed out in his post-match comments.

If they hope to secure yet another title, they must learn that they can never relax.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Verona 2-2 Juventus:
6 Things We Learned

Feb 9, 2014

Juventus slipped up at Verona after leading 2-0, which proved to be a rare lapse of concentration and professionalism from the champions in a 2-2 draw on Sunday.

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A Carlos Tevez double had given the Bianconeri a comfortable lead, but Luca Toni gave Hellas some hope and the Old Lady failed to see out the game.

Juanito Gomez stretched for a header, deep into stoppage time, and with Gianluigi Buffon already committed, the smallest of deflections allowed the ball to divert past the Azzurri No. 1.

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Wild scenes followed of celebrations, led by the manager Andrea Mandorlini, and with Roma being held by Lazio, perhaps Juve missed a chance to close the title race.

Here are six things we learned.

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Title Race Still Alive

Juve's lead at the top of the league is nine points, but Roma have a game in hand, so theoretically that gap could be cut to six points.

With Roma also having the luxury of hosting their rivals at the Olimpico later in the season, Rudi Garcia will be suggesting to his players that the gap could be as little as three points.

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Obviously Roma would have to beat Parma when they replay their match that was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch last week, and with Roberto Donadoni's side currently in a decent spell of form, that will prove a tough ask.

But with Juve still holding European commitments, Roma may find themselves still in with a chance as the season builds to a crescendo.

Juve need to be mindful of the fact that if they allow the gap to decrease to three points or less going into their second meeting, the Giallorossi will have every chance of claiming the title late on in the season.

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Carlos Tevez Still Top Dog in Attack

Carlos Tevez reaffirmed his position in the attacking hierarchy for Juventus.

The Argentine scored a smart brace to take his tally for the season to 13 goals, a superb return in his debut campaign in Italy.

With Fernando Llorente surge in form over the past couple of months, aligned with Tevez dropping off the pace somewhat recently and the signing of Pablo Osvaldo, the former City star's place was a little less secure than before.

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But Tevez proved how alive he is inside the penalty area, which is critical for a side like Juve who possess several sharp shooters from outside the area.

His second goal was ruthless, gliding past the defender before driving the ball between the goalkeeper and the near post.

Tevez will remain the cornerstone of this side's attack while Conte maintains the 3-5-2 system, whether he will be able to hold off Llorente and Osvaldo when Conte inevitably switches to the 4-3-3 is another question.

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Romulo Filling the Void Left by Jorginho

Romulo has taken his game up a notch since the departure of Jorginho in January.

The Brazilian has stepped up indirectly, as Marco Donadel is the most central figure of the midfield.

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But Romulo is making up for the loss of creativity from Jorginho, with his consistent delivery from set-pieces in the channels, the former Fiorentina player chalked up two assists today.

With a range of passing to help develop Verona's attack, as well as to flick a switch and bypass the midfield into the feet or chest of Luca Toni, the 26-year-old is entering the best period of form he has experienced in Italian football.

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Mandorlini Is a Candidate for Manager of the Season

Andrea Mandorlini should be manager of the year in Serie A 2013/14.

The Italian tactician has done a marvelous job for Hellas, who were promoted from Serie B last season.

Not only will Verona stay up comfortably, but they are still in with a very good chance of making Europe for next season.

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To make matters tougher for Mandorlini, he has needed to cope without star player Jorginho since January, after the Brazilian was sold to Napoli.

There are still some months left of the season, but it seems to me that Mandorlini is the leading candidate for manager of the season.

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Osvaldo Adds a Different Dimension

Pablo Osvaldo made his debut for Juve against Verona and he immediately showed what he can do in a cameo performance.

The Azzurri international brings diversity to Juve's attack, by operating inside the penalty area and remaining alive when the Bianconeri manoeuvre the ball from one side of the pitch to the other.

Osvaldo has a wonderful first touch, but, unlike Tevez, he is strong enough to manipulate the position of the defender he is up against to release a team mate into a channel of space inside the penalty area.

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Osvaldo combined particularly well when the play was coming from the left, with Kwadwo Asamoah and Paul Pogba performing delicate passes into the striker's feet, before he would return the ball or work a yard of space and unleash a snap shot.

Osvaldo also pulls away from his marker very quickly and with his willingness to take the shot on first time, he was able to strike a post.

More is to come from the player on loan from Southampton, who will tend to play mostly from the start in the Europa League, but it is a promising start.

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Asamoah's Role Slightly Altered by Pogba's Movement

Kwadwo Asamoah's role in the side has changed noticeably in recent weeks.

The Ghanaian was a centre-midfield upon arriving in Turin, but Antonio Conte has transformed him into a left-midfielder, to pretty good effect.

Despite holding down a place in the side, it is evident at times that Juve miss a more natural wide player on the left, in contrast to Stephan Lichtsteiner's complete game on the right.

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But in recent weeks Asamoah has been more willing to venture inside, often persuading Paul Pogba to drift to the wing and use his run as a decoy to facilitate a passage inside.

The pair combined pretty well throughout the game against Verona and it could be a tactic that is continued over the coming weeks to make Juve's attack less dominant towards the right flank.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Last-gasp Verona take two points
away from the Bianconeri

Juventus enter panic mode in second half and squander their two-goal lead.

Feb 9, 2014

That was hard to swallow.

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A tough game away to a determined side begun better than any of us could've hoped - with two goals in 20 minutes for a 0-2 Juventus lead. Not only that, but we dominated Verona on their own ground for the full first 45 minutes. Everyone was up to their task, defensively and offensively. Tevez rediscovered his goal-scoring touch and blasted two in the net like it was scrimmage. Pirlo orchestrated everything to the T, and it seemed like the win was safe in the bag. All that was left was a formality second half during which the Italian champion should hold on to a well deserved 2 goal lead and go home with the 3 points.

As they say, it happens to the best of 'em. With just 30 seconds left on the clock deep in injury time, Juanito equalized leaving Juventus no time for rebuttal. 2-2, final whistle, shock, disappointment.

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I won't even go into the "positives" after last night's game. The Roman derby tie is weak consolation. A 15-match unbeaten run means little when you tie a game you are supposed to win. This is Juventus, our standards are the highest in Italy. Winning, as many of you know, is the only thing that matters.

I won't make excuses either. It's a long season, it's a long 90 minute match, but to be the champion you have to beat the best and stay mentally focused against the weak. Freak incidents happen, but this was not one of them. We single-handedly let Verona back in a match we had already won. Not closing out the game, poor possession, atrocious set-piece defending - all things that led to that last minute tie and the 2 lost points.

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MATCH SUMMARY

Only Andrea Barzagli was missing from Juve's starting 11, but the ever-confident Caceres stood proudly in his place. Marchisio was once again left on the bench for young revelation Paul Pogba.

Verona lined up a 4-3-3 which was basically a 5-4-1 waiting for the counter. Former Bianconero Luca Toni stood alone in Juve's half waiting for the long ball forward to start the counter.

The foam hadn't settled from my first poured beer and Juventus were up 0-1. Kwado Asamoah took a shot on goal after a great run down left, whose rebound was converted by the foxy reflexes of Carlitos Tevez. It was the first goal in a while for the Argentinian, but it would not be the last on the night either.

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As they have done all season, Pogba and Tevez connected for Carlitos' second just 15 minutes later. Not even 22 minutes were played and Juventus were playing with a comfortable 2 goal lead.

After a dominant first half, the second 45 minutes took a quick turn for the worse. On the first dangerous set piece of the night, Verona exploited our weakness and Luca Toni pegged one back just 7 minutes into the second half. Juve's response was minimal, as the quality of our passing fell exponentially while real scoring chances were hard to come by. Dani Osvaldo, wearing the Juve shirt for the first time ever, almost doubled our lead once again but his first shot on the night hit the outside of the woodwork.

Just as Verona's efforts seemed to yield no game-tying results (much to the thanks of Gigi Buffon), substitute Juanito connected on another header from yet another set piece in the dying seconds of the game to shock Juventus and steal 2 points from the champions. Unfortunately on this one, Gigi couldn't do much about it.

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LE PAGELLE

Buffon: 7.5 - Had no chance to save either of the two goals, but made sure a third one didn't go in with a fantastic save late in the second half. Was a bit too comfortable on the ball while passing it around with our defense. Would hate to see something like that cost us in the future.

Caceres: 7 - Replaced Barzagli without missing a beat once again. Held his own against the taller and stronger Toni. Was at the right place at the right time on a few occasions to clear any danger. On top of all that, pushed hard in attack, especially in the first half.

Bonucci: 6.5 - Had a great first half and didn't let anything slip through the middle. I do, however, put blame on him and Chiellini for the first goal. They are both playing the offside trap off the set piece and when that fails, they allow Toni to take a free header from 5 meters. No physicality whatsoever on those plays. They need to really up their defending of set pieces.

Chiellini: 7 - Same issues go for Chiellini. He had an overall better game than Bonucci, but the defending on that first goal was atrocious. Limped off in the second half visibly frustrated with something.

Lichtsteiner: 6.5 - Provided a lot of width and worked very hard to be an option in attack. However, he has a beautiful tall Spaniard in the box that led the Serie A in headers scored at the start of the match only to attempt 3 crosses, one of which kinda sorta found a target.

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Vidal: 7 - He's usually one of our best players, so this was an off night for Arturo. He just couldn't seem to get it going in attack. Was snapping at player's ankles defensively as usual and had the most tackles out of anyone on the team (8), but contributed little offensively.

Pogba: 6.5 - Despite the lovely assist to Tevez, Pogba had another frustrating game for himself and for the fans. His touch was way off, he gave away possession too easily, and fouled way too much. He also failed to closed down Romulo for the cross of the tying goal, though the same blame can go to Peluso. Maybe a little rest on the bench will suit him so he can get his young inexperienced head back together. We wouldn't want to burn him out this early, would we?

Pirlo: 7.5 - Verona did most things right in their tactical set up - they pressed high early and if our passing beat that, they put 10 men behind the ball deep. They had players just bursting out in attack on the counter and they fed off of Toni. The only thing they sacrificed was a marker on Pirlo, who in turn had a field day because of it. Andrea found plenty of space, played the ball equally well to the left and to the right, set up many potential chances with his long balls, and even took a few shots albeit none on target. My only complaint with him remains - he needs to step on the ball when the other team has momentum and qualm our nerves with possession football.

Asamoah: 7 - Was very active along the left up until getting subbed out for Peluso. Did well defensively and set up the first goal. Similarly to Lichtsteiner, he could've delivered more crosses in the area for Llorente.

Tevez: 8 - For the first time in 2014, Tevez scores and gets man of match for his performance. Two great goals showing his goalscoring touch is slowly coming back. After weeks of frustrations, missed shots, and woodworks, it was nice to see a big smile on his face again. Our team should've really made sure we won this one for him.

Llorente: 7 - Played the distributor role all night and had no real chances to score. Could've guarded the ball a bit better on occasion. Right now it looks like it's either the Tevez or the Llorente show each night and I'm totally fine with that, as long as we get the three points.

Subs:

Osvaldo: 7 - I'll be honest, I don't rate Osvaldo as high as some. I still think he's the 3rd or 4th best striker on our team. That said, he had a very positive debut and almost scored with his first shot! Linked up with Tevez very well despite not having played with him much (if at all). I'd love to see how he does with Vucinic alongside him, that would be a very interesting partnership backup.

Ogbonna: sv -

Peluso: sv -


Coach:

Conte: 6.5 - I'm going a bit harsh on Conte today. His impact during the game is limited, yes, but he could've done a lot more with better substitutions. Marchisio was NECESSARY in midfield in the last 30 minutes. He could've easily kept Asamoah in and taken Pogba out for Marchisio. Would this have changed it all? You never know. But you have to put your team in the best position to win and Peluso on for Asamoah is not cutting it.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Player Ratings

Juan Gomez's injury-time header completed a fine comeback by Andrea Mandorlini's
side after Carlos Tevez scored twice early on to put the Serie A leaders in control.

Feb 9, 2014

HELLAS VERONA

Rafael - Saved well early on as Hallfredsson inadvertently sent his header towards his own goal. Should have done better with Asamoah's cross for the opener before he was beaten at his near post for Tevez's second. Solid thereafter.

Michelangelo Albertazzi - Poor clearance in the second half almost put his side in trouble, but put in a decent display otherwise. Kept Lichtsteiner uncharacteristically quiet.

Vangelis Moras - Outpaced by Tevez for the second goal but recovered well to put in a solid display. Excellent header denied Llorente an opportunity in the second half.

Rafael Marques - Possibly should have come across to help Moras with Tevez's second but showed good strength at the heart of the defence. Booked late on for challenge on Vidal.

Fabrizio Cacciatore - Showed good feet when allowed time and space and carried the ball forward well. Should have done better against Asamoah for the opener.

Emil Hallfredsson - A display full of power and strength from midfield. Regularly won the ball for his side and looked to push forward at every opportunity.

Marco Donadel - Allowed Pirlo far too much space in the first half but was at his combative best as he moved clear of his back four after the break. Limped off midway through the second half.

Rômulo - Poor in the first half but recovered to claim two assists with superb crosses into the box from the right. Set-pieces caused plenty of problems.

Juan Iturbe - Quiet throughout as he struggled to get involved with Verona attacks. Not his best performance in an attacking sense.

Luca Toni - Isolated in the first half but proved a real handful in the second period as he pulled one back with a fine header before seeing a decent effort well saved by Buffon.

Bosko Jankovic - Robbed Vidal in the first half but failed to make the most of his opportunity. Replaced in the second half after a disappointing showing.

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Substitutions

Martinho - Showed good pace on occasion after replacing Jankovic. Lacked some quality with his final ball.

Ezequiel Cirigliano - Replaced Donadel in midfield and helped shield the defence well as the visitors pushed for a third goal.

Juanito - Brought on for the final moments but had enough time to get in front of his man and nod home a late equaliser.

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JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - Had no chance with either goal as two fine headers saw him beaten. Superb save denied Toni late in the second half, though poor footwork almost put his side in trouble before half-time.

Martín Cáceres - Carried the ball forward well as well as making some key challenges in defence. Struggled with Hallfredsson's power at times.

Leonardo Bonucci - Superb in open play as he won multiple headers and made a number of clearances. Switched off for Toni's goal and should have got across quicker Gomez's late equaliser.

Giorgio Chiellini - Allowed Toni to get in front of him for Verona's first, though did make some excellent blocks on the edge of his own box. Limped off late on.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - A quiet afternoon until he was fortunate to get away with a late handball inside his own area. Saw Mandorlini square up to him at the end of the first half.

Paul Pogba - Superbly weighted through ball sent Tevez clear for his second though cut a frustrated figure at times. Attempted plenty of long-range shots but committed far too many fouls.

Andrea Pirlo - Was everywhere in the opening 20 minutes as his passing allowed the visitors to dominate. Team struggled as he faded in midfield. Conceded late free-kick from which Gomez's goal came.

Arturo Vidal - A typical high-energy display as he made crucial interventions in both boxes. Tackles in defence were key, though blew late chance to seal the points.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Cross from the left helped create the opener for Tevez but lacked any quality on other occasions he got forward. Substituted late on as he tired.

Carlos Tévez - Instinctive finish brought him the opener before a well-timed run saw him slot home his and Juventus' second. Busy thereafter as he chased a hat-trick.

Fernando Llorente - Outmuscled far too often as Marques and Moras got the better of him. Held up the ball at times but substitution saw Conte's side become more dangerous.

http://markting10.nl/

Substitutions

Angelo Ogbonna - Replaced the injured Chiellini late on but had little impact on the match.

Federico Peluso - Got forward well in late substitute's appearance but lacked quality with balls into the box.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo - Hit the post with only his second touch back in Serie A before seeing a goal rightly ruled out for offside. Gave his side an added spark in the second half.

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Conte slams Juve lapses

The Bianconeri coach has warned his side that losing concentration will
undermine their good work earlier in the season after being held by Hellas Verona.

Feb 9, 2014

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has criticised his team's late lapses in concentration as the Italian champions threw away a two-goal lead against Hellas Verona.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri had led 2-0 through a Carlo Tevez double, but Luca Toni got the hosts back in the match at the Marc'Antonio Bentegodi before Juanito nicked a draw deep into stoppage time.

And Conte believes his defenders have to be wary of late comebacks and keep their concentration.

"Games last 95 minutes and one lapse will get punished," he told reporters.

http://markting10.nl/

"We have to be careful not to undermine the good work we have done so far. We need to remain alert, especially from dead ball situations, otherwise we'll be punished like we were today.

"We need to show the same determination and hunger we've witnessed over the past two years, otherwise it will become very difficult for us.

http://markting10.nl/

"There were some serious lapses in concentration in the second half. Hopefully, this will serve as a lesson for the future.

"Now I'll make my assessment and we'll see. Marchisio and Osvaldo are ready."

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Tevez unhappy with Juve draw

The Argentine scored twice in the 2-2 stalemate with Hellas Verona,
but is only concerned with winning the Scudetto.

Feb 9, 2014

Carlos Tevez says he was unhappy despite scoring two goals for Juventus after they drew 2-2 gainst Hellas Verona on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri threw away a two-goal lead in the dying moments at the Marc'Antonio Bentegodi, having raced into the lead thanks to the Argentine's double.

But Tevez says he is more concerned about the team's fortunes in the Serie A title race than scoring goals for personal glory.

"I cannot be happy, even though I scored two goals. We drew a game we needed to win. We are Juventus, it's ot a result for us.

http://markting10.nl/

"I'm only interested in winning the Scudetto, not scoring 20 goals. In the second half, we did not have the intensity and Verona had more courage.

"It's true, we were very uninspired, but it's not because we are mentally tired, you just have to work hard in the week as the coach asks."

http://markting10.nl/

Juventus added Southampton forward Dani Osvaldo to their ranks in the January and Tevez revealed his delight at the signing.

"Osvaldo is a great addition for us, we had some good exchanges despite the short time we've had to work together."

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Conte: 'Inexplicable collapse'

Feb 9, 2014

Antonio Conte blasted “inexplicable” Juventus after they fumbled a 2-0 lead in Verona. “It’s a cold shower of humility.”

http://markting10.nl/

Carlos Tevez had put them in a comfortable position, but Luca Toni and a Juanito Gomez Taleb goal in stoppages sealed the 2-2 result.

“It’s inexplicable,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia. “The game lasts 90 minutes, not 45. It’s not acceptable to be punished by two set plays on two distractions. It wipes out all the good work we did until then.

“We could’ve done a lot, lot better. It leaves me perplexed how we could dominate the game for the first half and then end up like this. We had a similar problem against Inter, as one goal and we panic.

http://markting10.nl/

“We concede far too many goals from dead ball situations and we’ve got to be focused, as there’s little I can do in tactical terms or studying opponents. It’s a question of concentration.

“It’s a shame we drew this game against a Verona side that created few opportunities. I have to compliment them for their determination.”

Daniel Osvaldo made his debut and almost scored, hitting the woodwork 90 seconds after coming off the bench.

http://markting10.nl/

“Everyone has to remember they have to earn their place. Don’t forget we’ve got Claudio Marchisio on the bench in good shape and Osvaldo ready to play in attack. I’ll evaluate everything and make my choices.

“Motivation must always be at the maximum, otherwise we end up like we did today. It’s a real shame to lose these two points.”

Conte was told an intriguing statistic, which is that Juventus have not kept a clean sheet this season when one of the first choice back three were missing.

http://markting10.nl/

“We also conceded goals with the three supposed first choices. It is not justification, as here we saw some serious distractions. It’s not good enough.

“This draw has to be a cold shower of humility and in that sense can be useful for the future. There are no first choices, no benchwarmers. It’s a revolving door policy for this team and it’s good for the players to put me under pressure in my decisions.”

The gap at the top of the table remains untouched, as Roma were also held to a 0-0 draw by Lazio.

http://markting10.nl/

“Regardless of what the others did, this is a wasted opportunity,” concluded Conte.

“Only we could’ve let Verona back into the game. Let’s learn from this and be aware the Scudetto isn’t won yet. In previous years we won it with determination, aggression and strength. It won’t be easy to repeat that.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Mandorlini: Objective is survival

Feb 9, 2014

Andrea Mandorlini enthused at Verona’s draw with Juventus, but considers that survival remains the club’s key objective.

http://markting10.nl/

The Gialloblu have enjoyed a so-far successful return to Serie A and, in recording a 2-2 draw at home to League leaders Juventus on Sunday, find themselves sixth in the table.

“Are we aiming for Europe? We continue to point to survival,” Coach Mandorlini, however, has considered on Radio Anch’Io Sport today.

“Then we will see if we have the strength to go further.

http://markting10.nl/

“Is this Verona similar to that [which won the title] in 1984-85? I do not know, the situations are a little different and that team has remained legendary even after so many years and I would not like to make risky comparisons.

“We have players who have been with me since Serie C and who, with this stadium and this environment, have contributed something incredible.

“The future? I am very happy here, but it is not the time to talk about these things now.”

http://markting10.nl/

Both clubs benefited in yesterday’s 2-2 draw from missed offside calls to score goals, but Hellas also saw two handball claims in the Juve penalty area turned away. Mandorlini had commented yesterday on the game also.

“We were unlucky in some episodes. There were errors on either side, but the end result counts and we do not think about anything else.

“To me, Vidal’s touch looked an instinctive gesture, but I thought the touch from Lichtsteiner was clear. Yet, seeing the images at the end, Vidal’s touch looks to be clearer.”

http://markting10.nl/

Mandorlini also fronted up to Lichtsteiner at half-time after a clash on the sidelines when the Swiss appeared to ignore the Coach handing him the ball back for a throw-in during the first half.

“It was a personal thing, but it is already over with and not worth going back on.

“We managed together a successful game for another Sunday. Here we faced the best team in the League, who have put great pressure on us from the first minute, and for the first half we were not there.

http://markting10.nl/

“At the break we looked at each other and compacted in the second half. In the end we were rewarded with a major achievement.

“Against Napoli and Roma, we were unable to play our usual game, particularly at home, but here we did and we brought home a good result.

“We had to think about Pirlo in certain situations and in the second half we did so by playing shorter and aggressively.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

VERONA 2 - 2 JUVENTUS

Carlos Tévez (4′)
Carlos Tévez (21′)

Luca Toni (52′)
Juanito (90+4′)

February 9, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium — Verona
Referee: Daniele Doveri
Attendance:‬ 20000‎

Hellas Verona clarify
Toni’s Juventus celebration

Feb 11, 2014

Hellas Verona have released an official communication stating that Luca Toni’s goal celebration during his side’s 2-2 draw with Juventus was not aimed at head coach Antonio Conte or anyone at the Bianconeri.

http://markting10.nl/

Images broadcast on Sky Sport 24 showed Toni touching his hair in a manner that some deemed to be a dig towards his former side after scoring his side’s first goal of the afternoon.

An official statement released on the club’s website states that, “Toni celebrated in his typical exuberant manner, however as he returned to midfield he instinctively touched his hair.

“This gesture of touching your hair had nothing to do with Juventus and that the veteran forward holds all professionals in high esteem.”

http://markting10.nl/

While the striker also found time to comment on the accusations.

“The act of touching your hair is dedicated to a person who brings luck.” said Toni.

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

[Socrates 8450]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus News – Chievo Updates,
Verona Draw Reactions

Feb 11, 2014

Sometimes you go for Shakespeare but wind up with Dickens.

http://markting10.nl/

Instead of playing out an epic tragedy at Hellas Verona’s expense, Juventus fell victim to a baffling tale of two halves, dominating the first 45 minutes only to emerge from the halftime break as their own negative image: timid where they were once aggressive, pinned back instead of pressing and — most worrisome of all, seemingly afraid to make a mistake — which they ultimately did.

And spare a thought for Carlos Tevez, who ended his goal drought with two superbly taken strikes, only to see his valiant efforts and heroic performance canceled.

So how did it happen? How does the best club in Italy cough up a two-goal lead for a dispiriting 2-2 draw after all but destroying Verona’s will in the first half? How did Verona turn the match around with what seemed like only minimal tactical adjustments—or more accurately, how did Juve let them?

http://markting10.nl/

And most importantly, how do the Bianconeri stop this type of thing from happening again?

Juve’s second-half suffering — and Antonio Conte’s reaction to it — have made for some interesting headlines over the past few days, re-igniting the debate over everything from Juve’s prospects in Europe next year to whether or not there are internal problems at Vinovo. Of course, most of this media attention is hypocritical in the extreme; it only exists because it’s Juventus, and because Juventus are Italian champions.

Certainly there are worse fates in calcio than winning 19 football matches, losing one and drawing three — especially when Roma fail to capitalize on this supposedly momentous recent stalemate with one of their own.

http://markting10.nl/

Having said that, we are Juventini, and thus we reserve the right to worry (hopefully to a healthy degree). We’ll do a little bit of that today, but we’ll also look towards our second date with a Veronese club — this one at home, where our performances tend to have happier endings.

The choice between “the best of times” and “the worst of times” is a no-brainer — and Juve will look to start peaking again.

Verona: Act II, Scene I starts now.

http://markting10.nl/

Chievo Updates: Marchisio Likely to Start, Chiellini OK

The individual fates of Claudio Marchisio and Giorgio Chiellini were not only inextricably linked on Sunday, but they also profoundly affected Juve’s destiny.

Marchisio’s energy in central midfield was desperately needed to stave off Verona’s onslaught in the second half, but the Chiellini’s injury forced Antonio Conte to send in Angelo Ogbonna in Claudio’s place, thus depriving Juve at one stroke of one of the best defenders in the world and the much-needed infusion of spirit and tactical knowhow which could have helped secure all three points.

Thus, having sat out Verona, Claudio will likely start against Chievo to spell one of the central midfielders, especially with the first Europa league match immediately to follow.

http://markting10.nl/

Happily, it looks as though Chiellini avoided serious injury, according to the official site:

"The defender today underwent medical examinations which ruled out muscular damage, instead revealing an area of inflammation in the soleus muscle. His conditions will be monitored over the coming days.”

Still, Giorgio is an official question mark for Chievo, as remains Andrea Barzagli:

"Andrea Barzagli, meanwhile, continues to train separately from the rest of the group. The 32-year-old today underwent further medical tests which revealed a progressive improvement in the condition of the inflamed area in his gastrocnemius muscle.”

http://markting10.nl/

Andrea Barzagli, meanwhile, continues to train separately from the rest of the group. The 32-year-old today underwent further medical tests which revealed a progressive improvement in the condition of the inflamed area in his gastrocnemius muscle.”

Yikes! Should both be unavailable, we could be looking at a makeshift defense of Martin Caceres, Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna — all very good, often great defenders, but will they make a cohesive unit? Maybe Arturo Vidal might be willing to make a triumphant return to center-back!

Otherwise, Dani Osvaldo, who made a very positive (and almost spectacular) Bianconeri debut, is suffering from flu-like symptoms and missed training, but he should be available this weekend. In any event, the starting attack will likely remain Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez, the latter of whom should finally be back to scoring regularly following his fine work on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

No one is suspended, but Vidal, Pogba and Tevez remain one yellow card away from missing a match, according to the Mothership.

More on the Chievo clash later this week.

Do some work and get some rest, ragazzi!

http://markting10.nl/

Conte’s Reaction to Verona: Right or Wrong?

Antonio Conte’s reaction to the Verona draw has sparked a minor controversy which, this being Juventus, the press has tried to fan into a major one.

The media, with help from an old friend, have been quick to paint Conte as something of a calcio dictator, not based on any post-match comments but rather his decision to revoke Juve’s typical day off following a match.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio’s comments to Sky Sport after the match were honest, critical and direct, as they always are (via Juventus.com):

"There are no explanations for what happened today. Games last for 95 minutes and it’s not enough to be in full control for the first half.

We were punished twice from dead ball situations and we need to be a lot more determined, otherwise we risk jeopardizing all the good work we’ve done up until that point.

We’d already seen this happen against Inter and we need to be a lot more focused. It’s a shame to have conceded in the last minute during a game in which, apart from the goals themselves, Verona didn’t cause us any major problems.”

http://markting10.nl/

Football Italia’s version of the Sky Sport comments featured their usual biting, slightly sensational tone, highlighting Conte’s assertion that the match should be a “cold shower of humility” (the media loves humility, especially from habitual winners).

FI also included an interesting, pot-stirring question from the press core, as one member asked Conte if he realized that Juve have failed to keep clean sheets whenever the Barzagli-Bonucci-Chiellini trio weren’t playing together. Conte rightfully dismissed the dubious import of such “findings”:

"We also conceded goals with the three supposed first choices. It is not justification, as here we saw some serious distractions. It’s not good enough.”

http://markting10.nl/

So far, so typical, as far as post-match reactions go; we’ve all seen worse. And yet, the very facts of the draw itself, Juve’s split-personality performance and Conte’s revoking rest for his squad have combined to keep the story in the news, even if the media failed to pin the “crisis” tag on the club.

Fabio Capello of all people weighed in with a rather simplistic view of things (which in all honesty may be down to Football Italia’s translation). He specifically criticized Conte for not giving the squad the day off:

"I have never been in favour of those kinds of things. They are not part of my way of thinking. I like to reason with the players, talk with them and think of solutions.”

http://markting10.nl/

Does Capello think Conte isn’t doing all of those things by holding an extra training session? Does he think Antonio’s making them run laps until all of them cry or pass out, just to show who’s boss? It’s valid to criticize Conte for pushing his squad — indeed, they’ve looked exhausted in the second half of recent matches (see below) — but it’s silly to think that Conte’s doing so for egotistical or arbitrary reasons, or that he’s somehow less competent a coach for doing so.

Despite his reputation for scorched-earth intensity, Conte is intelligent enough to know his players’ physical limits on days between matches, and since the past few weeks have seen only one fixture per week, this is an optimal time to crack the whip and demand a bit more. He has enough experience by now with this group to know which approaches work at which times for which players.

http://markting10.nl/

As much as we may worry about injuries or stamina, the fact is that these young men play football for a living (and are paid handsomely for it). They expect to and are expected to play almost every day within their physical limits.

Rest assured that Conte and the expert technical/medical staff at Vinovo know what they’re doing.

http://markting10.nl/

So What Happened? Set Pieces, Exhaustion & Fate in Verona

As with any event based on moment-to-moment contingency (that is to say, all events), it’s impossible to say for sure what definitively went wrong in the second half at Verona. But if there are no plausible excuses, there are a few specific match events or aspects of Juve’s performance that may provide some explanation.

The first aspect is the obvious one: Both Verona goals came from set pieces, which Conte rightly pointed out are matters of concentration more than of tactical preparation. It’s been a weak point this entire season, and I’m sure Conte is working on the problem as we speak (even in his dreams) but ultimately, it’s down to the players to keep alert in those situations.

The second is that Juve sometimes lose the nerve that makes them great. The loss of second-half momentum was to some degree natural: as with Inter, the Bianconeri basically killed off the match very early on and momentarily grew complacent, since it seemed as if Verona couldn’t muster any resistance (even as a Juve fan, the first half felt interminable precisely for that reason — there was no competition). But the real problem here is that when Luca Toni scored to make it 2-1, Juve were not galvanized into putting the match on ice but rather fell into a crisis of confidence eerily like the one suffered in Florence.

http://markting10.nl/

It’s one thing to tactically absorb pressure to hit on the counterattack; on Sunday it seemed as if Juve had no alternative — inexplicably, they weren’t in control. Why that’s happening this season, I don’t know. It could be part of the natural ebb and flow of a year’s campaign, or maybe there’s a serious divide in quality/confidence between the official starting XI and the role players occasionally called to action. I imagine it could have some relation to the next factor.

The third factor is that despite the wrongheaded reasoning behind criticism from Capello and others of Conte’s strenuous physical regimen, the question of fatigue does seem relevant. Any second-half strategy must take into account the fact of inevitable fatigue, but lately Juve really seem to be struggling with how hard they’re working, and in result they lapse into trying to hold leads rather than add to them — which is very unlike Juve under Conte.

The central midfield in particular looked especially beleaguered on Sunday. Arturo Vidal played through the pain of many hard tackles and ran himself ragged, like he always does; Andrea Pirlo, despite his usual efficiency and ability to change games at any time, was noticeably fading and ultimately gave up the free kick that doomed Juve to the draw; and Paul Pogba not only lapsed into his recent habit of fouling players in frustrated exhaustion, but he physically didn’t have the stamina to properly close out the cross which allowed Verona to equalize.

http://markting10.nl/

The pressing game is made to surprise the opponent from the opening whistle with an unrelenting aggression, but over time, the body must in fact relent. Antonio’s approach is physically unsustainable for all 90 minutes of every single match — even with his meticulous preparation. And when faced with inevitable fatigue, players have to make choices to conserve energy for other plays, other tasks.

I think teams are figuring out that if they limit Juve’s damage in the first half, they can wait for them to tire and pounce. Conte’s next frontier as a coach seems to be the implementation of a more conservative tactical variation hinted at in some matches this season, one in which the Bianconeri lay off the pressing a bit and let the match come to them. But that requires confidence without the ball, which makes Juve’s behavior in the second half all the more worrisome.

The final factor in the match was fate itself. Giorgio Chiellini’s injury fatally ruptured Conte’s substitution pattern. The introduction of Dani Osvaldo was inspired, especially when he almost scored in spectacular fashion less than two minutes after coming on, and Claudio Marchisio’s entrance was imminent, making for a solid foundation to hold off Verona with midfield stability and the threat of a new counterattack. Then Giorgio had to go off, and the next logical move was to sub out Asamoah, who was dead tired.

http://markting10.nl/

Had Claudio entered the game, spelling any one of the central midfielders, would Pirlo have made that exhausted foul which led to the quick-start free-kick equalizer? Would Paul Pogba have surrendered so many frustrating fouls? Would Juve have been a bit quicker to react to Verona’s quick startup on that final free kick? Who knows, but it’s clear that physical and mental fatigue played their parts in Verona’s comeback.

So although Juve’s second-half performance was dispiriting, maybe even concerning, a variety of events, influences and mitigating circumstances all fed into it. The best Conte and his men can do is improve what they can and try to anticipate such contingencies in the future.

http://markting10.nl/

And, as Conte himself mentioned after the match, these setbacks have practical uses. And every time Juve have met with a setback this season, they’ve used it as a springboard to greater success.

May they do so once more.

ANDIAMO, RAGAZZI!!!

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

[Socrates 8450]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Conte to reward Marchisio with start

Feb 12, 2014

Antonio Conte is set to reward Claudio Marchisio’s professionalism by giving him a start against Chievo this weekend.

http://markting10.nl/

The Italy international has been on the bench for the last two Juventus matches, with the Coach preferring to go with a midfield triumvirate of Arturo Vidal, Paul Pogba and Andrea Pirlo.

The 28-year-old has got his head down and kept working however, and Tuttosport claim that the Bianconeri boss will give the midfielder a starting place this weekend as reward for his hard graft.

http://markting10.nl/

Several Premier League teams, as well as Ligue 1 outfit Monaco, are said to be interested in signing Marchisio at the end of the season.

But the paper claims that the Juve graduate wants to remain with the club for the remainder of his career.

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

[Socrates 8450]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Corini: No team is unbeatable

Feb 14, 2014

Eugenio Corini has insisted that ‘no team is unbeatable’ as his Chievo side travel to face Juventus on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

The Gialloblu go to Turin this weekend looking for three points against the table-topping Bianconeri.

And the Coach has claimed that despite their obvious quality, the Old Lady can be beaten.

“Juve will want to bounce back [from last weekend],” he told reporters. “But so do we.

http://markting10.nl/

“We want to redeem ourselves after a negative result last time out against Udinese.

“We’re up against a battleship, but you just have to look to Verona to see that sometime Juve are susceptible.

http://markting10.nl/

“Football has taught us over the years that no team is unbeatable. We will go there with that message in our heads.

“We want to be a real headache for them.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

Serie A not competitive enough for Juventus - Capello

The veteran coach feels that the Bianconeri are too far ahead of the rest
in the Scudetto race to be able to mount a serious challenge for the Champions League.

Feb 14, 2014

Former Juventus boss Fabio Capello believes that Serie A is not competitive enough to produce a Champions League-winning team.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri reached the quarter-finals of the competition last term, but were eliminated at the group stage this time out after a shock loss to Galatasaray in Istanbul.

And the 67-year-old feels that high-profile player exits in recent seasons have made the Italian top flight ill-equipped to challenge other top leagues.

"The Italian league is not competitive enough," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport when asked why they suffered an early European exit.

http://markting10.nl/

"Roma, Napoli and Fiorentina have sold Lamela, Cavani and Jovetic, their best players, abroad.

"They replaced them well, but in the meantime, Conte and Marotta added Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente and created an even bigger gap."

[Socrates 8450]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Barzagli and Chiellini miss Chievo

Feb 15, 2014

Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinic are out of Juventus-Chievo tomorrow.

http://markting10.nl/

It kicks off at 15.00 CET.

Vucinic will be out for several weeks after spraining his right knee in training, while Barzagli and Chiellini both have injuries too.

http://markting10.nl/

Daniel Osvaldo is included despite suffering from flu this week, so Fabio Quagliarella is drafted back into the squad.

He had been ignored recently after refusing a transfer in the January window.

http://markting10.nl/

Juventus squad for Chievo: Buffon, Storari, Rubinho; Caceres, Ogbonna, Peluso, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner; Pogba, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Isla; Tevez, Giovinco, Llorente, Osvaldo, Quagliarella

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

[Socrates 8450]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

MATCH PREVIEW

Feb 15, 2014

Juventus will aim to put last week’s disappointing draw behind them as they take on struggling Chievo.

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The Serie A leaders lost their long-standing winning streak at Lazio, but returned to the winners list by dismantling Inter. They looked to carry that form into Sunday’s clash with Verona and appeared to be cruising when Carlos Tevez netted twice in the opening 21 minutes. Yet a second half comeback stalled the Old Lady.

Coach Antonio Conte was livid as his side were rocked by Luca Toni’s early second half goal. He noted it was the same story as against Inter, with his side panicking after conceding one goal. Also worrying is that half of the 18 goals Juventus have conceded this term have come from set pieces.

Andrea Barzagli returns following a one-week stop, but Giorgio Chiellini and Mirko Vucinic are both sidelined through injury.

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Chievo’s winless run was extended to eight matches by Udinese. Eugenio Corini felt it was an even contest until Antonio Di Natale broke open the game just before the hour mark. While 17th and just a point above the relegation zone, two recent draws have come at Inter and Napoli.

The Flying Donkeys’ inability to find the net is not aiding their cause. Only four goals scored during this winless run is testament. With 16 in 23 matches, they are the equal lowest scorers, along with Catania. Unlike the Sicilians - or other sides in the bottom three - their 32 goals conceded is on par with mid-table sides, highlighting their attacking deficiencies.

The suspended Bostjan Cesar and injured Adrian Calello will certainly skip the trip to Turin. Dario Dainelli and Leandro Paredes are hoping to prove their fitness in order to take part.

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Chievo are winless in Turin. In 10 prior contests the Bianconeri have enjoyed seven victories.


Keep an eye on: Claudio Marchisio (Juventus) – Relegated to the bench in recent weeks in favour of Paul Pogba, the Turin-born midfielder is set to be rewarded for his hard work in training with a start. This is a big chance for Marchisio ahead of a crucial run of matches domestically and in Europe.

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

Last season: Juventus 2-0 Chievo

Stat fact: While without a victory in Turin, Chievo have claimed three draws from their last five visits.

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Juventus (probable): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente

Chievo (probable): Puggioni; Frey, Canini, Bernardini; Sardo, Bentivoglio, Rigoni, Hetemaj, Drame; Thereau, Paloschi.

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