Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8445]

Lippi: Juve need to believe

Oct 9, 2013

Marcello Lippi has outlined how he sees Juventus as capable of playing ‘two great games’ against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

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The Bianconeri will come up against Carlo Ancelotti’s Madrid in matchdays three and four of the Champions League group phase continuing later this month.

Juve have won four of the last five matches between the two teams in the competition and the author of more than one of those is optimistic for Antonio Conte’s chances of continuing the run.

“We always did well - when we went to Madrid and back in Turin,” mused Lippi to Tuttosport today.

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“Yes, as far as I am concerned I have only great memories - the narrow defeat in Spain and then the home victory in the knockout stages to progress to the next round and the semi-finals.

“Of course, now this is not the knockout phase this time, but these remain two very important games - a win would again give great impetus to Juventus’ season.

“The recipe is…simple - belief in their own ability, no awe of the opponent, organisation. The important thing is to believe and this Juve is very similar to my Juventus - they have all the characteristics that they need.

“Besides, Madrid are not so brilliant, so… You will see, we can expect two great games from Juventus.”

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The World Cup-winning tactician cast his eye over the start to the Serie A season, which sees Roma leading the way.

“It’s really a great championship. It is as I said it would be, that if Roma found themselves well with a new Coach, that they would have a great season. And they have started with great success.

“Then there is a Napoli that is solid, combative, with quality. And I do not disregard even Fiorentina - I note with pleasure that Beppe Rossi is back to his level.

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“Juve? They are taken for granted. In my grid they are in pole position. And they are as strong as before, more than before.

“I read and hear of a drop in hunger, grit, but I do not think so. They have simply changed the expectations of the surrounding environment, but in reality I believe that a team of Antonio Conte’s remains favourite, ready to repeat itself.”

[Socrates 8445]

Platini backs Juventus to beat Real Madrid

The former France international feels the Bianconeri are capable of winning
Europe's grandest prize this season and has defended the stadium ban imposed on AC Milan.

Oct 10, 2013

Uefa president Michel Platini believes Juventus are fully capable of beating Real Madrid in this season's Champions League group stages.

The Bianconeri laboured to draws against Copenhagen and Galatasaray in their opening two fixtures, meaning they already sit four points behind Carlo Ancelotti's men in Group B.

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Juve midfielder Paul Pogba claimed this week that his side will win at least one of their two clashes with the Spanish giants, and Platini is also of the opinion that anything is possible in this season's tournament.

"I agree with him [Pogba]. Football has levelled off, especially in the Champions League - everyone can beat everyone else, and anyone can lose against anyone. Chelsea, for example, lost in London to Basel," he told Tuttosport.

When asked if Juventus could go all the way in this season's Champions League, he added: "Why not? Last season, returning after a year of 'purification' without Europe, they reached the quarter-finals. If the draw is not particularly malignant ..."

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The Serie A champions currently find themselves two points behind pace-setters Roma, who have won all seven of their opening league games under new boss Rudi Garcia.

Although the form of the Giallorossi so far this season has taken many by surprise, Platini insists he was never in any doubt as to the abilities of his compatriot following his achievements in Ligue 1.

"The Italians underestimated him. In France, we knew how good he was," said Platini. "He showed that immediately. After all, you can't win a title with Lille if you're not of that calibre.

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"We're only at the beginning of October, and Juve are still there. Of course, with a fit [Francesco] Totti, Roma can reach any goal."

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani recently hit out at a stadium ban imposed on the club after alleged chants by supporters against southern Italians, but Platini is hopeful such sanctions will eventually discourage fans from showing any kind of discriminatory behaviour.

"We have no more than two solutions: punish the players, or punish the fans," said the former Ballon d'Or winner.

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"Initially, you have the temporary suspension of the game, then the closure of a section in the 'offending' stadium, and finally closing the whole stadium.

"Playing behind closed doors is penalising. Maybe, someday, someone who frequents the stands will understand this and will not carry out certain behaviour."

[Socrates 8445]

Ljajic: 'Only Juve challenge Roma'

Oct 12, 2013

Roma have a perfect record and Adem Ljajic isn’t shying away from the Scudetto. “Only Juventus are stronger.”

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The Giallorossi have been careful to avoid talking about the title despite starting with seven consecutive victories, conceding one goal and scoring 20.

“I am always an optimistic type, but I must admit I didn’t expect us to do so well,” Ljajic told Il Tempo newspaper.

“So far Roma have been fantastic, but we must continue taking it one game at a time, just like Rudi Garcia asks. It’s the only way we can win something.

“Scudetto? I said before I arrived from Fiorentina that only Juventus are stronger than this Roma side. Another four or five, including us, can fight for second place.

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“Our minimum objective is to qualify for Europe, then at the end of the day we’ll see where we are.”

The Lupi already passed one big test by beating Inter 3-0 at San Siro, while next weekend they face Napoli.

“The Partenopei are candidates for the Scudetto and have champions of international level, but if we play the way we did in the first seven games then we’ll certainly beat them,” continued Ljajic.

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“We are not inferior to Napoli. I was out of the Inter game because I had problems with my back and thigh, but I am ready for the next game.”

The Serbia international had been heavily linked with Milan before making the move to Roma, but insists it was all speculation.

“I never spoke to anyone at Milan. We didn’t agree for a contract extension with Fiorentina and my agent told me Roma were among the clubs interested. ‘Let’s go there,’ I said. I am very happy with my choice, as you can see from the table...”

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Montella: 'Napoli for the title'

Oct 13, 2013

Vincenzo Montella tips Napoli to win the Scudetto ahead of Juventus and Roma, then reveals his secret Fiorentina tactic.

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“Napoli will fight for the Scudetto, as they have a great chance of winning it this year,” the Viola Coach told La Nazione newspaper.

“Juventus are the strongest team in terms of structure and they are accustomed to winning, but the difference could be in the motivation.

“Roma are very balanced and travelling on the wings of enthusiasm at the moment, while Inter can make life difficult for any team.

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“I believe Napoli will finish on top with Juve second and Roma third. Mind you, I always get predictions wrong...”

Fiorentina face arch rivals Juventus next weekend and Montella has a cunning plan.

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“We’ll try to play worse football than we did last season, but hope we’ll win instead. I know how much this game means to the fans and we’ll try to make them happy. Our supporters are passionate, but also demanding.”

Montella is also pleased that Juan Cuadrado returned from international duty two days early after picking up a ban for Colombia.

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

[Socrates 8445]

Madrid could be the turning point for Juve, says Vialli

The Azzurri legend believes that the Bianconeri can use the match against
los Blancos to bounce back from their initial struggles in Europe this term.

Oct 14, 2013

Former Italy international Gianluca Vialli says the matches against Real Madrid could be the turning point for Juventus in the Champions League.

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The Bianconeri have drawn both of their matches against Copenhagen and Galatasaray in the group stages of the competition so far.

But Vialli feels Antonio Conte's men can be successful in the upcoming fixtures with los Blancos, and turn the momentum in their favour.

"Juventus can take advantage of an important opportunity," the 49-year-old told Tuttosport.

"If they were to get a result in Spain, it would change the course of the season, going beyond all expectations.

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"The one with the Real could be the turning point of the race, but in the end I think for Juve the most important challenge in the group may be the one at Galatasaray.

"I think that they will do well in this Turkish adventure, Juve will have to be careful, however.

"At Juventus nothing is missing to make an impact in the Champions League."

Juventus have won back-to-back titles in the Serie A in 2011-12 and 2012-13, but the former attacker is convinced that the league will be more balanced this term.

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"For Juventus, this year is much more difficult than the last two seasons.

"On one side there are two to three teams that have strengthened a lot, thus becoming competitive for the championship.

"On the other hand opponents now know the strengths and weaknesses of Conte's team and have begun to take countermeasures."

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Table-toppers Roma will meet second-placed Napoli on Friday, but Vialli does not think the match will be an early challenge for the league title.

"At this time the Roma are very comfortable, but Napoli work great as a collective. It will be a good game, but it is too early to consider it a challenge for the Scudetto already."

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Montella: Juve a major challenge

Oct 14, 2013

Vincenzo Montella has commented on Fiorentina’s ‘major challenge’ when they face Juventus this weekend.

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The Viola host the Bianconeri on Sunday, and the Coach has admitted he is aware that it will be a tough match for his men.

“I am aware how important this major challenge is,” he told reporters. “It’s important for the club and all the fans.

“We are preparing to do better than we did last year – even though we did quite well against Juve.

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“Our goal is to satisfy the fans. We want to win.”

Montella then commented on his early experiences in Florence and the controversy surrounding ‘territorial discrimination’ in Italian stadium.

“I make the most of this beautiful city every day. I wake up ever yday and am thankful that I live here.

“The atmosphere in the city is beautiful, and the fans reflect that – they are demanding but also warm.

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“For me, territorial discrimination is the same as chanting against someone because of the colour of their skn.

“However, I do find it excessive that whole stadiums are close because of a few people.”

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Lichtsteiner in, Vucinic out

Oct 14, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has some good and some bad news ahead of their game with Fiorentina this weekend.

The Bianconeri travel to Florence on Sunday for a tough encounter with Vincenzo Montella’s men.

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But they will have to do so without Mirko Vucinic, who has failed to recover from the injury he picked up in the 2-2 draw with Galatasaray.

The Turin side can call upon Stephan Lichtsteiner though, who is back in contention despite pulling out of the Switzerland squad.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Pizarro to miss Juve clash?

Oct 14, 2013

Fiorentina could be without the experienced David Pizarro for this weekend’s clash with Juventus.

The veteran midfielder missed training for the Chile national team this afternoon as they prepare for a World Cup qualifier with Ecuador.

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Reports suggest that Pizarro has picked up a muscle injury, although the extent of the knock has not been revealed.

The 34-year-old is likely to be out of the match in Santiago, but it remains to be seen if he will but enough to face the Bianconeri on Sunday.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Paul Pogba on the wing?

Oct 14, 2013

"Doesn't it seem strange to have a Sunday without Juventus?" asked the official club's Twitter account. It does seem bizarre to pass a weekend without a match to keep the masses entertained. However, off-pitch matters never cease to make the headlines and the latest discussion surrounds the position of right wing-back.

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Next weekend, Juventus will travel to face Fiorentina in a high-pressure match. Vincenzo Montella has already said he would happily play a far less aesthetically pleasing style of football if it means a win and a chance to make the fans happy. The Viola supporters view Juve as a great rival and a team they despise greatly. A win would be celebrated gleefully and Montella would do all that he can to ensure pleasure.

Juventus are somewhat struggling with injuries, especially in that wide right position. Stephan Lichtsteiner is still recovering from his problems and it is thought Antonio Conte would rather rest him in view of the Champions League clash against Real Madrid than force his return against Fiorentina. Meanwhile, Mauricio Isla picked up an injury in his left thigh in the World Cup qualifier against Colombia and will need to be assessed. With Martin Caceres still in need of time to recover fully, who will Conte play on that important Sunday afternoon?

Simone Padoin hardly impressed in the match against Milan, but as this blog has suggested before, why not allow Paul Pogba the opportunity to show off his skills on the right? His technique and attacking ability are certainly better exploited when the youngster is played through the middle. However, in moments like this, necessity really is the mother of invention.

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What Conte has insisted upon for some time now is a winger capable of creating numerical superiority with penetrative runs down the flank. Pogba, with his talent for holding on to the ball and intelligent thinking, will certainly create uncomfortable situations for the opposition if he is played in the wide area. More than that, his tireless running and stamina make him a good option on the flanks, considering his ability to both contribute in attack as well as secure the defence.

Of course, he's less able to exhibit his real talents and it seems somewhat wasteful for that position to be made his on a regular basis, but with Claudio Marchisio still assured of a place in midfield, why not play Pogba as a winger?

The Bianconeri have already benefited from the player's ability to stretch out the opponent's back-line while his pinpoint crosses have been a delight for a team so rarely accustomed to accuracy in the wide areas. It may be a stopgap solution but right now, it might be the only way to improve the manner in which the Bianconeri attack.

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With most of their attacking passages of play going through the centre, Juve are more predictable this season and have less variety going forward. It is at this time that alternatives become important for their game to open up different options on the pitch. With an additional player available, one who capable of overwhelming the opponents, there will be more gaps for the likes of Marchisio or Arturo Vidal to exploit with their timely runs into the box.

With all four on the pitch, opponents will struggle to cut off the creativity within the side and the alternatives going forward should prove effective.

It is up to Conte to make the decision and many still believe he will opt for Padoin on the right in the match against Montella's men. It will be interesting to see if he continues the experiment he started against Milan.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Mirko Vucinic set to miss Fiorentina,
doubtful for Real Madrid, according to reports

Oct 14, 2013

When Mirko Vucinic's pulled lame and grabbed his hamstring in Juventus' Champions League tie against Galatasaray earlier this month, it wasn't good. You could basically see the moment something went wrong, and then seconds later Vucinic was grabbing his leg in obvious pain.

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Now, a few weeks later after some recovery time, it seems like it's almost a certainty that the Montenegrin striker won't be coming back for a couple of rather important games about FIorentine and Real Madrid coming out of the international break.

I guess I have one less option to worry about in the match previews, right? Well, for the time being, at least. It's too bad. I was ready to break things down for all of you guys and gals.

But now we're down one fewer option than a lot of us assumed would be in the mix to get serious playing time against two pretty good teams. And so is Juve heading into a very important three-day stretch for a pair of crucial matches both domestically and in the Champions League.

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We know Carlos Tevez will start Juventus' next two games as long as he's fit and ready to roll. But who will be his strike partner coming Sunday afternoon in Florence and three days later in Madrid is up in the air. Could this finally be the time when Antonio Conte fully lets Fernando Llorente loose for two games in a row? Or, will Mr. Champions League, Fabio Quagliarella, look to continue to strive on the European stage? Maybe Sebastian GIovinco?

All questions are fair game at this point with Vucinic still struggling to regain full fitness. With six days separating us from kickoff against the Viola, there will be plenty about who should get the chance to start next to the guy who currently wears Juventus' No. 10 jersey.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Jovetic believes Viola can defeat Juventus

Oct 15, 2013

Despite nearly joining Juventus over the summer, former Fiorentina forward Stevan Jovetic believes the Gigliati can beat the Bianconeri on Sunday.

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Jovetic joined Manchester City over the summer but he still holds a soft spot for the Viola, and the 23-year-old is confident that his former club can get one over on their hated rivals this weekend.

“I always follow Fiorentina because I still have many friends there and I left only two months ago,” the Montenegrin international told Tuttosport.

“I have a lot of affection for Florence, for the fans and my former teammates, I still love you all. I have seen many of the Viola’s games.

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“They have played well so far while in a few games they have been unlucky. They are still a great team for whom I was very fond of and certainly will be cheering for now.

“The Viola will win 1-0 with a goal from Giuseppe Rossi.”

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Jovetic admits he was aware of the Bianconeri’s interest in him over the summer, but states he was happy to leave for a club outside of Italy.

“It’s true that there was interest from Juve but the president wanted €30 million and I chose to go overseas,” Jovetic concluded.

Jovetic scored 40 goals in 134 appearances in all competitions for the Viola from 2008 to 2013.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Fiorentina 'wouldn't swap' with Juve

Oct 15, 2013

Fiorentina director Daniele Pradè insists he “wouldn’t swap” his team or Coach Vincenzo Montella with Juventus.

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The two arch rival clubs go head-to-head this weekend and there’s no love lost between them.

“Would I exchange Antonio Conte with Montella? Absolutely not. He’s the tactician we’re counting on and we’re growing together,” director of sport Pradè told Radio Blu.

“I do have to recognise Conte is a Coach capable of transmitting his character to the squad. Juventus are a winning side and we too are trying to bring in a winning mentality.

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“This is a match that means a great deal to everyone in Florence and it’s different to all the others. We know how much the fans and club want to do well.

“What do Juventus have more than Fiorentina right now? Their ability to deal with results. Their team was constructed in order to win, whereas we have a different budget, but I still wouldn’t change our squad with theirs.

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“After all, we have 12 players away on international duty at the moment, whereas Juventus have only nine.

“We are convinced that we can start an important era at Fiorentina.” (Yes, like 50 years ago!)

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

[Socrates 8445]

Juventus have quality players, warns Ancelotti

Madrid's boss believes the signings of Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente has added
an extra dynamic to the side and feels Real Madrid will have to be at their best to beat them.

Oct 17, 2013

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has warned of the quality at Juventus' disposal ahead of next week's Champions League encounter.

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The Spanish champions host the Serie A holders on Wednesday with four points separating the sides after just two rounds of matches, but Ancelotti insists they will face a stern test to record a win at Santiago Bernabeu.

"Juventus are very motivated and very well organised, with quality players," the 54-year-old was quoted as saying on the official Uefa website.

"They've signed some important players in the summer, like Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez who have given the team some extra quality.

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"They have played together for three years under the same coach and it's a well-structured club. Those are their biggest qualities."

Juventus have collected two points from their opening two Group B games with Copenhagen and Galatasaray, while Madrid have recorded wins in each of their first two games.

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Rossi looking to defeat Juventus

Oct 15, 2013

Fiorentina’s Giuseppe Rossi is dreaming of a weekend goal against Juventus – a club who he admits came close to signing him in the past.

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The striker is now back to full service after missing the majority of the last two seasons with a recurring knee problem.

“We are coming off two horrible home draws against Cagliari and Parma,” he told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “We need three points.

“Now I’m thinking of a goal against Juventus because I live in the present and not the future. Don’t ask me about the Maracana, the World Cup, the Champions League.

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“All I want to do right now is try to beat Juventus.”

The Old Lady, who are aiming for a third successive Scudetto, are currently in second place after winning six and drawing one of their seven League games so far this term.

“If you are able to limit the influence of Andrea Pirlo then you have a nice advantage,” added the former Parma and Manchester United man.

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“Juve are in pole position for the title, but the other teams are close.”

Rossi joined Fiorentina in January from Villarreal, 18 months after Juventus contacted the Spanish club for his services.

“Talks with Juventus a few years ago were very active, but then Villarreal qualified for the Champions League and they didn’t sell anyone.”

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

[Socrates 8445]

Ancelotti promises a better Real

Oct 17, 2013

Carlo Ancelotti has warned Juventus to expect an improved Real Madrid side when the two meet in the Champions League next week.

“We are trying to change something, to play more possession football and this change takes time,” Ancelotti told the Corriere della Sera after his summer move from Paris Saint-Germain.

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“Indeed, so far we have played games badly and our problems have been compounded by the fact that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have always won.

“We have to play better, the criticism that we have received has been with substance. Here the fans are demanding and they are right to be.

“As a Coach I can say that in the next matches, Malaga and Juventus at home, and Barcelona at the Camp Nou, we will do better.

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“This is also because we cannot play worse than we did against Levante and Elche.”

The 54-year-old knows Juventus well given his previous coaching stint with the Old Lady of Italian football.

“I do not know if Juve have dropped in intensity or not,” the tactician continued. “I only know that the Italian League has increased in competition.

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“They seem to be a solid team, with a well-defined style of play.

“Andrea Pirlo is always a guarantee and will continue to be for a long time. I wanted him with me at Chelsea but it was not possible. For Andrea we will be prepared – he will be marked by two bulldogs.

“Why the poor relationship between me and the Juve fans? To a section of their fans I was always considered an opponent. I have always been seen with the shirt of Milan or Roma.”

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Giovinco or Llorente for Juve?

Oct 17, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte will have to decide whether to start with Sebastian Giovinco or Fernando Llorente against Fiorentina on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

The tactician’s attacking options have been reduced for the Tuscan trip given the injuries to Mirko Vucinic and Fabio Quagliarella.

Conte will now use the next three days to decide whether Giovinco or Llorente will begin alongside Carlos Tevez in attack.

The latter has been a regular fixture in the side so far this season given that he has appeared in all seven of the side’s League games this term.

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The Argentine and Arturo Vidal are the club’s top scorers in the championship thanks to three goals each. Tevez is currently 7/1 in the Serie A top goalscorer market.

Juventus, who will face Real Madrid in midweek, are expected to be tested in Serie A on Sunday at the Artemio Franchi.

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Juventus are odds-on with Paddy Power to win Serie A, but there are doubts over whether they can collect a third successive championship.

Although they have won six and drawn one of their seven League games so far, they have already conceded six goals in the process.

The Bianconeri are currently joint second in the Italian top flight with Napoli, two points behind leaders Roma. Those two teams will play each other in Rome tomorrow night.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Marchisio: 'Pizarro like Pirlo'

Oct 18, 2013

Juventus man Claudio Marchisio praised Fiorentina’s David Pizarro as “the best after Andrea Pirlo” in midfield.

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The two sides go head-to-head on Sunday at 15.00.

“It is going to be a very difficult game,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “We saw it last season, as the trip to Florence was probably the only one where we were unable to impose our style on the opposition.

“We are going to encounter a fiery atmosphere, as their Coach Vincenzo Montella has put his stamp on the team and they have so much quality in midfield.

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“They have Pizarro, who after Pirlo is perhaps the best in that role. He creates the Fiorentina play and has great quality, so if we are able to block him then we’ll cause them a few problems.”

There is a bitter rivalry between the two clubs and their fans, which has sometimes spilled out on to transfer dealings.

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“Who is this game more important for? Both sides need to drop as few points as possible in this phase of the tournament, so we can keep up with the leaders.”

Roma and second-place Napoli face off this evening, so it is an opportunity for Juventus to take advantage.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Who should play against Fiorentina,
Sebastian Giovinco or Fernando Llorente?

Oct 18, 2013

Sometimes, injuries can make things awfully tough on a manager. He might lose an important player or two at a certain position and have to completely shuffle the deck in order to try and replace what he now sees sitting in the stands for the time being. Other times, though, it can make a manager's job easier. Personnel choices get cut down and potentially easy to make.

http://markting10.nl/

We're not exactly sure which one of these two options Antonio Conte's choice for Juventus' forward partnership against Fiorentina this Sunday falls into, but we know a thing or two already.

Mirko Vucinic is hurt. Fabio Quagliarella is hurt. Juventus are left with three strikers on the roster unless everybody's favorite superhero, Nicklas Bendtner, is walking through the Turin airport any time soon. This could be a good thing when it comes to narrowing down the choices Cone has to line up and roll with against Fiorentina. Or, it could make the decision of who to start next to Carlos Tevez just that much harder.

http://markting10.nl/

We know Tevez will play. That's as safe of a bet as there is right now. But who will play next to him? That's still up in the air until Conte possibly tips his hand during his pre-match press conference on Saturday or we see the lineups less than an hour before kickoff in Florence.

David Amoyal @DavidAmoyal

Fiorentina-Juve: Giovinco is favored over Llorente to partner with Tevez, Padoin is ahead of Isla & Motta to replace Lichtsteiner (GdS)

So, who you got?

http://markting10.nl/

The case for Fernando Llorente

We've been waiting for the day when the stars align and the tall Spaniard gets his shot at consistent playing time in a Juventus jersey. And this could very well be his first chance to really get a stranglehold on a starting spot over the next couple weeks with both Vucinic and Quagliarella battling injuries.

The devil's advocate will say that Llorente got his first shot at "consistent" playing time when he got the start against the two Verona-based clubs late last month. But two games isn't exactly what you call a huge sample size to say whether or not somebody is back to being who they used to be after such a long period of time away from the field.

http://markting10.nl/

I think it's safe to say Llorente showed some flashes during his two-game stint in Juventus' starting lineup last month. He was clearly nowhere near full strength three-plus weeks ago, but it would have been hard to imagine he would be. His goal against Hellas Verona was a beauty, a classic kind of header. He was able to get involved in the build up play and showed a few of his tricks and flicks in the process.

Was that enough to convince Conte that Llorente is ready to take a step up or two in competition? I don't know. But I also haven't seen what Conte has seen in training the past two weeks over the international break in which Llorente could very well have continued to understand and establish his knowledge of his manager's system.

So I'll leave this here to ponder: If the plan was to have Tevez and Llorente be the starting striker tandem, no matter how long it took the latter to adjust and shake off the rust, why not roll it out in two of the biggest matches this season thus far?

http://markting10.nl/

The case for Sebastian Giovinco

We talk about how little Llorente has played this season, but Giovinco has played a fewer amount of minutes by a pretty good margin. Outside of his start in the Turin derby, Seba has played all of 34 minutes in three appearances off the bench in Serie A thus far. That's, uh, not very much at all.

What does this all mean? Well, I'm not exactly sure other than Giovinco is rested.

Okay, so maybe there's more to it than that.

http://markting10.nl/

He obviously has very different characteristics than the other strikers on the Juve roster. He won't have a physical presence that somebody like Llorente would be up front, but that's just stating the obvious. His added flair alongside Tevez could be what is needed to break down a Fiorentina defense that has been, at least by the statistics, one of the better collective units so far this season. They might not be in their best form right now, but we saw last season just how a Vincenzo Montella-managed Viola side can keep Juventus under wraps.

Just don't expect him to be on the receiving end of very many crosses, you guys. (Even though he will now score the game's lone goal with his head since I've typed that last sentence.)

He wants to be a part of this Juventus team, right? Well, if he gets the chance to play, it's time to show he deserves even more opportunities when everybody is healthy.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Preview: Fiorentina vs. Juventus

Oct 18, 2013

Fiorentina will host Juventus in Serie A on Sunday as bitter rivals clash for the first time this season.

Juve travel to Tuscany looking to maintain an unbeaten start to the campaign and have a terrific record at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, going 15 years without a league defeat in Florence.

http://markting10.nl/

Bianconeri coach Antonio Conte has selection issues ahead of the clash, with Arturo Vidal yet to report for training after missing his flight back from international duty.

Vidal's absence could give Paul Pogba the chance to return in central midfield alongside Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio, while Sebastian Giovinco is hoping to partner Carlos Tevez in attack.

Fiorentina are still without Mario Gomez through injury, but Giuseppe Rossi should be fit to lead the line after featuring for Italy in midweek.

http://markting10.nl/

Recent Form:

Fiorentina: WDWLDD

Juve: WDWWWW


Possible lineups:

FIORENTINA: Neto; Tomovic, Rodriguez, Savic; Cuadrado, Ambrosini, Borja Valero, Aquilani, Pasqual; Joaquin, Rossi

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Giovinco


Sports Mole says: 1-2

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

How Juventus Will Line Up Against Fiorentina

Oct 18, 2013

Juventus travel to Florence this weekend to start a massive few days for the Bianconeri.

http://markting10.nl/

A rivalry with the Viola will be resumed before the Old Lady look to put some life into their Champions League campaign with Real Madrid a few days later.

With Napoli and Roma starting the season superbly, alongside poor results against Copenhagen and Galatasaray, Antonio Conte will have to go all-out at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Sunday.

Gianluigi Buffon's form has been patchy of late and it is not just his club form that has been discussed recently.

http://markting10.nl/

During the international break, the Italian press ran plenty of stories contemplating whether Federico Marchetti or Salvatore Sirigu could legitimately grab a starting place this late in the day as the World Cup approaches.

The 20-year-old goalkeeping sensation Nicola Leali—currently on loan at Serie B outfit Spezia—was also mentioned and could compete with Buffon as early as next season for a starting role.

Marco Storari's future is unclear with an agreement yet to be reached on a renewal to his current deal, and it appears unlikely that Conte would consider dropping Italy's No. 1 just yet.

http://markting10.nl/

The back three is almost assured with Angelo Ogbonna yet to provide a serious threat to any of Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini or Andrea Barzagli.

Stephan Lichtsteiner missed the last match against Milan, as well as both international matches for Switzerland against Albania and Slovenia, with a thigh injury, and it appears as if his absence will be prolonged.

Mauricio Isla has been dreadful when afforded an opportunity to stake a claim for a regular place in the side, pushing Conte to select the less-dynamic Simone Padoin, who performed adequately enough against the Rossoneri in the Swiss right-midfielder's absence to keep his place this weekend.

http://markting10.nl/

Most fascinating is the selection dilemma for the three centre-midfield places, as Paul Pogba has proven in Claudio Marchisio's absence that he is ready to claim a starring role.

l'architetto @juventus_fc_fan

Vidal missing the Fiorentina game could be a blessing in disguise. He played both of Chile's games. I would rather have him rested for Real.

Now that Il Principino is fit again though and Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo remain some of Conte's most trusted troops, there is a doubt as to who will feature in Juve's midfield for the big matches.

http://markting10.nl/

Conte's decision has been made easier for the Serie A clash against Fiorentina though, as El Guerrero returned late from his international duty with Chile, angering the Mister and prompting him to consider dropping the 26-year-old.

We can expect Vidal to miss out this weekend, but moving forward, there is still a mystery as to who will be the one to miss out on a more regular basis.

Kwadwo Asamoah endured a lengthy journey during the international break, playing for the Black Stars in Ghana against Egypt, but it is expected that he will be fresh enough to feature from the start.

http://markting10.nl/

Tarek Khatib @ADP1113

Juve went from having Bendtner & Anelka as 4th & 5th strikers to Llorente & Giovinco - some upgrade that one.

The strike force will be led by Carlos Tevez, of course, but even with injuries to Mirko Vucinic and Fabio Quagliarella, Conte has another selection problem.

Sebastian Giovinco scored a stunning goal to seal the victory against the Diavolo in the last round, but Formica Atomica will face a battle with Fernando Llorente to start next to El Apache.

Given that the Viola's defence is more physical than agile, the former Parma star could be more effective against the likes of Gonzalo Rodriguez and Stefan Savic.


Expected XI: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Marchisio, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Giovinco.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

MATCH PREVIEW

Oct 18, 2013

Fiorentina host Juventus on Sunday, hoping to break the Old Lady’s 15-year unbeaten run in Florence.

Juve are La Viola’s bitterest rivals. Throughout history, the animosity has often reached boiling point. There was the 1981-82 Scudetto, when a controversial penalty and disputed disallowed goal handed the title to Giovanni Trapattoni’s Juventus at the expense of a furious Fiorentina.

http://markting10.nl/

The 1990 UEFA Cup defeat to the Turin side is another sore point. The choice of Avellino as Fiorentina’s ‘home’ ground - the Artemio Franchi was suspended - was seen to favour Juve, who won 3-1 on aggregate. On the same day, Roberto Baggio announced he was swapping Viola for Bianconeri. It was the ultimate betrayal.

The most recent flare up occurred last summer. With Dimitar Berbatov reportedly on a plane to Florence - fans were ready to greet him at the airport - reports emerged suggesting Juventus had intercepted the deal. They were true. Ultimately, the Bulgarian rejected both, signing with Fulham. A Fiorentina statement, however, branded Juve ‘arrogant’ and insisted Berbatov ‘didn’t deserve our city’.

With both sides scrambling around Serie B and then having subsequent struggles in the top flight, the rivalry perhaps lost a bit of its edge for a time.

http://markting10.nl/

The arrival of first Antonio Conte at Juventus, then Vincenzo Montella at Fiorentina has revived both clubs. The heat has grown once more.

History has often favoured Juventus. A 3-2 win in Turin five years ago was an all too rare victory for Fiorentina.

On and off the pitch the Old Lady have always seemed to have the edge. But the Viola are trying to fight back. Their ability to keep Stevan Jovetic out of Juve’s clutches was key, while Montella has built an exciting side.

http://markting10.nl/

However, to beat Juventus on Sunday, they will have to show character, a facet that has deserted them this term. A spirited showing at Dnipro aside, Fiorentina have thrown away advantages against Inter, Parma and Cagliari. In contrast, Juventus have come from behind in four matches.

It is that ability to win regardless of the performance that gives them the edge. It is worth a seven-point advantage at this stage - potentially the difference in a Scudetto challenge.

Fiorentina must show they can take that next step. They are close. Sunday offers an opportunity to make such a statement, while ending 15 years of frustration. Montella insists his wants to ‘satisfy the fans’. With Mario Gomez and David Pizarro unavailable, the Coach will call on Joaquin and Massimo Ambrosini.

http://markting10.nl/

For Conte, Sebastian Giovinco is set to be preferred to Fernando Llorente. Simone Padoin will also start, while Fabio Quagliarella and Mirko Vucinic are injured.


Keep an eye on: Sebastian Giovinco (Juventus) – Reborn? No-one is quite sure. The Atomic Ant’s composed finish against Milan was out of keeping with his sometimes flustered nature in front of goal. Now 26, Giovinco is no longer a promising youngster. He needs to prove his worth to Juve. Having seemingly moved ahead of Llorente in Conte’s thinking, he has a chance to do so.


Form Guide: Fiorentina (D W L D D) Juventus (D W W W W)


Last season: Fiorentina 0-0 Juventus

Stat fact: It is 15 years since Fiorentina beat Juventus at the Stadio Artemio Franchi


Fiorentina (probable): Neto; Tomovic, Rodriguez, Savic; Cuadrado, Ambrosini, Borja Valero, Aquilani, Pasqual; Joaquin, Rossi

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Giovinco

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Aquilani: 'If I score against Juve...' IF!

Oct 19, 2013

Fiorentina’s Alberto Aquilani faces his former Juventus teammates on Sunday. “I have no regrets and will celebrate if I score.”

http://markting10.nl/

The midfielder spent the 2010-11 campaign on loan in Turin from Liverpool, but has now settled down in Florence.

He’ll take on the Bianconeri on Sunday afternoon at 15.00.

“There is the desire to win and this game means a lot to the fans, but I have no need for revenge,” he told Rai Sport.

http://markting10.nl/

“It is all in the past for me and I have no regrets. I want to put in an important performance and will celebrate if I score.

“Since coming to Florence I’ve realised this game is completely different to the others and the fans gave us such enthusiasm. We want to repay them on the field.”

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

[Socrates 8445]

Ancelotti's toughest week: Malaga, Juventus
& Barcelona to test the coach's credentials at Real Madrid

The Italian has admitted his side are playing poorly, but must now find the formula
in a tricky seven-day spell which culminates in the Clasico at Camp Nou next Saturday.

Oct 19, 2013

COMMENT
By Ben Hayward | Spanish Football Writer

It was a brutal assessment. In a stark interview with Corriere della Sera this week, Carlo Ancelotti revealed his discontent at the way his Madrid side have been performing so far this season. "We can't play any worse," he admitted. But on Friday, in front of the Madrid media, the discourse was somewhat more positive: "We have to play better..."

http://markting10.nl/

They do. Although Real's record of six wins out of eight and one draw in La Liga so far this season is respectable by the standards of most teams, some of those results have hidden a multitude of sins in some dismal displays and the capital club already find themselves five points behind both Barcelona and Atletico in the title race. And now, less than four months into his tenure at the Santiago Bernabeu, Ancelotti faces his toughest test to date: Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday and then Barca in the Clasico at Camp Nou in La Liga next weekend.

http://markting10.nl/

Before that, however, Malaga visit the Bernabeu and Ancelotti's men must win to remain in touch with their two main rivals in La Liga. A meeting with Ancelotti's former club follows as the Italian champions turn up in the Spanish capital on Wednesday. "Juventus are very motivated and very well-organised, with quality players," Ancelotti told Uefa this week - although Madrid will nevertheless be expected to defeat the Bianconeri on home soil in what is the first of two key clashes with Antonio Conte's men in the Champions League.

And then comes the Clasico at Camp Nou next Saturday. Ancelotti's predecessor, Jose Mourinho, lost his first fixture against the Catalans by five goals to nil in November 2010. Already under pressure, Ancelotti can ill afford a repeat of such a scoreline and, worse still, a loss would mean an eight-point deficit, with hopes of reclaiming La Liga looking slimmer still. Last season, Madrid fell behind early on and were never able to catch up; this term, Ancelotti's side are also in danger of slipping too far off the pace in October. Defeat, therefore, would be disastrous.

http://markting10.nl/

"This team, for all the individual quality it has, should be playing better," Ancelotti said on Friday. "We need to improve defensively and in the speed of our play. It is the start of an important week - Malaga, Juventus and Barcelona - and the team is focused to try and win [those games]."

Wise words, but Madrid must now respond on the pitch. And even though the Italian went on to discuss his close relationship with Madrid president Florentino Perez, he knows only winning will be enough to silence the doubters in what has been an unconvincing start to his reign at Real. Over to you, Carlo.

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Fiorentina-Juventus Betting Preview:
Expect both sides to score at the Artemio Franchi

La Viola have been waiting for 15 years to secure a victory over their bitter rivals,
but Al Hain-Cole expects them to at least find the net in a high-scoring encounter.

Oct 19, 2013

Fiorentina will be looking to get back to winning ways when they welcome bitter rivals Juventus to the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

La Viola have picked up just two points from the last available nine in Serie A and are slight 27/20 (2.35) outsiders with BetVictor to emerge victorious against the champions.

Antonio Conte's men are undefeated so far this season and are available at 6/5 (2.20) to pick up a fifth-consecutive win in Tuscany.

Having drawn each of their last two home games, the hosts are on offer at 23/10 (3.30) to settle for a point once again this time out.

http://markting10.nl/

The home crowd have waited 15 years since their side last overcame their hated opponents at the Artemio Franchi but will be hard-pressed to end that run seeing as the visitors have only lost three of their last 38 league fixtures on the road.

However, with just two home defeats in their last 25, Vincenzo Montella's men are a force to be reckoned with in their own back yard and may take some optimism from the sloppiness that seems to have crept into la Vecchia Signora's usually impenetrable defence recently.

http://markting10.nl/

Having conceded four goals in their last two matches in all competitions, Conte's outfit have now kept just one clean sheet in their last eight games and will surely come under threat against last season's second top scorers, who have hit the back of the net in 40 of their last 45 league fixtures.

A bet on both teams to score would have paid out in 13 of Fiorentina's last 17 Serie A matches on home soil and seven of Juventus' last eight matches in all competitions, so looks to be where the smart money lies when they come face to face, at generous 9/10 (1.90) odds.

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

[Socrates 8445]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

October 20, 2013 3:00 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium — Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Conte wants Vidal talks

The Chilean could face punishment after returning late from international duty
this week, while the Bianconeri boss also warned his side to be "alert" against Fiorentina.

Oct 19, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has hinted Arturo Vidal could face punishment after he arrived back late from international duty.

The Chilean did not return to Turin until late on Friday after missing his flight following his country's 2-1 victory over Ecuador that sealed their place in next year's World Cup finals.

http://markting10.nl/

Vidal was subsequently unable to train on Friday ahead of the crucial clash with Fiorentina on Sunday, much to the frustration of Conte.

"I haven't spoken to Vidal yet," he told a press conference. "I need to understand why he was so late.

"He wasn't at training yesterday either.

http://markting10.nl/

"Will he be punished? The rules are the same for everyone."

Juventus' trip to Florence comes just days prior to a crucial Champions League clash with Real Madrid, but Conte made it clear he is not distracted by the visit to Santiago Bernabeu next Wednesday.

"Real Madrid do not interest me. I don't wish to be rude, but right now the only thing in our heads is Fiorentina," he said.

http://markting10.nl/

"The Viola are a great team with a wonderful project in place. This side was built to improve upon last season’s fourth-place finish, so they are not a surprise.

"Anyone who faces them is on the alert.

"If we want to do something extraordinary this year, then we'll have to fight to get it. If we are aware of that fact, then we can do it."

http://markting10.nl/

Roma moved five points clear of Juve with a 2-0 win over Napoli on Friday, and Conte is under no illusions as to the threat posed by Rudi Garcia's side in the title race.

"Roma-Napoli was a match between two candidates for the Scudetto," added the 44-year-old. "They will be in the race right to the end."

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