Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 4 - 0 SASSUOLO

Carlos Tévez (15′)
Federico Peluso (28′)
Carlos Tévez (45′)
Carlos Tévez (68′)

December 15, 2013 - 6:30 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Dominating Serie A as only they know how

Dec 15, 2013

It has almost become predictable. When it comes to Serie A, Juventus secured yet another win and yet another clean sheet and to top it all off, they didn't even break out in a sweat. The 4-0 victory over Sassuolo on Sunday goes some way to demonstrating the clear superiority of this Bianconeri side, yet leaves a bitter taste in one's mouth. This domestically invincible team will no longer have the opportunity to challenge Europe's best in the Champions League this season.

http://markting10.nl/

Not even the changes in midfield were enough to provide Sassuolo with some hope of competing in this match. Andrea Pirlo may be injured, but Paul Pogba delighted in the role on Sunday, improving steadily as he pulled the strings and directed play.

Alongside him, Kwadwo Asamoah reprised his former role in midfield, a position he occupied when at Udinese and his dynamism and dazzling, penetrative runs proved effective.

The newly promoted side boast attack-minded coach Eusebio Di Francesco, who has taught the side to always look forward. That led to disastrous defensive displays in the early part of the season, evidenced by the match against Inter. Since then, Di Francesco has worked on tightening the back-line, encouraging more disciplined performances against the bigger sides.

http://markting10.nl/

In last week's match against Chievo, Di Francesco lined up his men in a 4-3-3 formation with Simone Zaza, Domenico Berardi and Antonio Floro Flores all up top in the hunt for a goal which never came. However, against the Old Lady, it was made abundantly clear that the onus was on neutralising threats and containing pressure. The away side chose to bolster the midfield and not start Zaza, choosing to play a 3-5-1-1 that mirrored Juve's shape.

The problem is that the Neroverdi are a side built to attack and struggle when they are forced to curb their enthusiasm and remain cautious -- especially when the opponent attacks from all angles of the pitch like Juve did. There is a reason why Sassuolo have the worst defensive record in Serie A.

With Pogba controlling, Arturo Vidal was on hand to make timely runs forward while Asamoah exhibited his brilliance at driving forward and getting back in time to attend to his defensive duties when his side lost possession. Antonio Conte's team moved fluidly and fluently, their passing accurate, their chemistry electric and their appetite for winning insatiable.

http://markting10.nl/

Di Francesco attempted to reinvigorate his side when he asked them to press higher up the pitch in the latter half of the game. The introduction of Zaza injected the side with some vitality; he was hungry and not so overawed by the status of his opponents. However, the changes were too little, too late; Juventus had already scored goals and were happy to just control play.

The match was vital for the development of certain players and we have already seen a steady improvement in performances from the likes of Mauricio Isla and Federico Peluso. This blog hasn't been too kind to the latter, but his ability to score or provide an important assist in his last few outings for the Bianconeri merit praise for the player who, despite not being seen as a starter, is always ready to perform when called upon by Conte.

Isla has also demonstrated his growth as a player, combining well with his Chilean compatriot Vidal Sunday. His crossing proved more accurate, his understanding of the patterns of play more visible. But nothing is as appreciated as his assists, key passes and the timely interceptions. It's high time Juventus start enjoying Isla's performances.

http://markting10.nl/

However, the game belonged to Carlos Tevez. Criticised for having not scored in the Champions League, he needed a performance like this to lift the mood and quieten the critics. Always on hand to uncover gaps, his predatory nature allowed him to jump on any mistake committed by the opponent and take full advantage. His swift reactions and mobility up top proved essential and he more than deserved his hat trick -- his first in Serie A.

Yet watching all this predictable brilliance only serves to remind many that when it mattered in Europe, Juve failed to light up the stage. While it's vital to note that the side's procrastinating forced them into a do-or-die situation in Istanbul, they were more than good enough to beat Galatasaray and the match should never have been played under those conditions.

Until February, only Italy will be allowed to enjoy Juve's overwhelming performances. After that, the less glamorous European sides still alive in the Europa League will be privy to, and perhaps defeated by, Conte's winning machine.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 4 - 0 SASSUOLO

Carlos Tévez (15′)
Federico Peluso (28′)
Carlos Tévez (45′)
Carlos Tévez (68′)

December 15, 2013 - 6:30 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Tevez: Juventus have shown their strength

Dec 15, 2013

Carlos Tevez believes Juventus’ 4-0 win over Sassuolo has shown the side have excellent mental strength.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri bounced back after being eliminated by Galatasaray in the Champions League on Wednesday.

“To win a game like today was not easy, especially after the Champions League elimination,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

http://markting10.nl/

“We wanted to advance in that competition.

“This victory [over Sassuolo] will help us to come to terms wight he defeat in Turkey and demonstrate that this group is mentally strong.”

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 4 - 0 SASSUOLO

Carlos Tévez (15′)
Federico Peluso (28′)
Carlos Tévez (45′)
Carlos Tévez (68′)

December 15, 2013 - 6:30 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Player Ratings

Goal was on hand to witness Carlos Tevez's first hat-trick for Juventus,
as the home side put Sassuolo comprehensively to the sword.

Dec 15, 2013

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - The veteran goalkeeper had very little to do other than collect a couple of loose balls and punch a dangerous cross clear of danger.

Andrea Barzagli - Made two important clearances following Sassuolo set pieces and had a steady game.

Leonardo Bonucci - Made a couple of good interceptions on the edge of the penalty area, as the Juventus defence nullified any threat once the strikers took the ball into feet.

Giorgio Chiellini - A strong performance from the Italy international, who didn't switch off once. When Zaza took to the field, the 29-year-old was alive to any danger, stealing the ball from his feet.

Mauricio Isla - Delivered some excellent balls from the right hand side, causing Longhi plenty of problems and got to the byline regularly.

Arturo Vidal - An all-action performance from the Chilean, whose dummy and shot were vital to Tevez grabbing the game's breakthrough goal. Created plenty of chances for himself in the second half.

Paul Pogba - A confident and assured performance from the France international. Passed the ball well and embarked on several driving forward runs.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Very positive from a more central position and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet. Committed defenders and drove into the penalty area with worrying regularity.

Federico Peluso - Took his header well, making a good run before giving Pegolo no chance. Offered width on the left hand side and got forward often in the first half.

Carlos Tévez - The Argentine's first hat-trick for the club, making it a memorable night for the summer signing. A complete display.

Fernando Llorente - Linked up well with Tevez, knocking down plenty of balls for his strike partner in the first half. Unfortunate to slip at the back post in the second half when it looked as though the Spaniard could find the back of the net.

http://markting10.nl/

Substitutions

Paolo De Ceglie - A solid performance from the substitute, as he helped to keep Sassuolo's right hand side quiet, which had been causing Juventus a few problems while Peluso was on the field.

Fabio Quagliarella - Wasn't afraid to shoot, trying his luck from all kinds of angles and distances in the final 10 minutes of the game. A positive showing from the 30-year-old.

http://markting10.nl/

SASSUOLO

Gianluca Pegolo - Could do little about any of Juventus' goals, as they were either from very close range, or his defenders played him into trouble.

Lino Marzorati - Was forced to make several poor challenges, as a result of being well beaten. A little sluggish and slow to threats.

Paolo Bianco - Struggled to make an impact on the game. Won a couple of headers but found it hard to keep tabs on Tevez and deal with midfield runners.

Luca Antei - Made two good tackles, but was often bullied and overrun by either the physically imposing Llorente or the marauding Asamoah.

Marcello Gazzola - Popped up in advanced areas throughout the game, as Sassuolo's right flank was their only real outlet. Struggled defensively but aided his side going forward.

Luca Marrone - Worked hard for the entire 90 minutes, delivering a few useful balls in the opposition penalty area and breaking up play reasonably well.

Francesco Magnanelli - Battled in the centre of midfield, but was always going to be outclassed by a trio including Pogba and Vidal. Had one opportunity all game, but saw it blocked.

Jasmin Kurtić - An ineffectual performance from the Slovenian, who was rightly substituted. Had a couple of headed opportunities at the back post, but was relatively anonymous.

Alessandro Longhi - Had one of Sassuolo's only chances, but struggled against the pace of Isla on Juventus' right flank. Pegged back in his own half for much of the game.

Simone Missiroli - Was always a willing runner, but provided little in the way of cutting edge. The forward would always be on the move, but offered nothing in terms of linking midfield to attack.

Antonio Floro Flores - Was blocked by Juventus' defense. A poor game.

http://markting10.nl/

Substitutions

Raman Chibsah - Energetic running from the Ghanian, who nipped in to deny a clear Juventus scoring opportunity within minutes of taking to the field. His fresh legs helped an overrun Sassuolo midfield.

Simone Zaza - Willing to pull the trigger, the substitute looked to be the most likely Sassuolo player to find the net. Caused Barzagli a few problems and tested Buffon twice.

Gaetano Masucci - Was thrown on for the last quarter of an hour and looked reasonably lively, feeding Zaza on several occasions.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 4 - 0 SASSUOLO

Carlos Tévez (15′)
Federico Peluso (28′)
Carlos Tévez (45′)
Carlos Tévez (68′)

December 15, 2013 - 6:30 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Conte: Juventus over European exit

The Bianconeri boss is adamant that his side have put their Champions League
disappointment behind them after recording a resounding victory in Serie A.

Dec 15, 2013

Antonio Conte believes Juventus are over their European exit after they swept aside Sassuolo 4-0 on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

The Old Lady were dumped out of the Champions League by Galatasaray midweek but their coach was pleased with his side’s response after Federico Peluso and Carlos Tevez's hat-trick fired them to victory.

“Clearly there is disappointment at going out of the Champions League,” admitted the Bianconeri boss when speaking to Sky Italia after the final whistle.

“But this has to give us more determination and motivation, because we were eliminated and did not deserve it.

http://markting10.nl/

“Serie A is a long and exhausting process, so you need a lot of intensity week after week. We should’ve been more focused in the second half, but it is great to see an eighth consecutive clean sheet.

“These lads are doing extraordinary things, as we won 14 games out of 16 in the league this season.”

Despite their incredible domestic form, Conte says that his side cannot take Scudetto success for granted and that the disappointment suffered at the Turk Telekom Arena should serve as an important lesson.

http://markting10.nl/

“If we continue along this path, then it can only do us good,” the 44-year-old continued.

“This win might’ve been taken for granted by some people, but in Serie A you can’t take anything for granted.

http://markting10.nl/

“We have turned over a new leaf after Istanbul, as we had to. I always tell the lads to put the past behind them.

“The elimination was disappointing, especially as we were unable to really play the final game, but we put ourselves in that situation and have to learn from it.”

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 4 - 0 SASSUOLO

Carlos Tévez (15′)
Federico Peluso (28′)
Carlos Tévez (45′)
Carlos Tévez (68′)

December 15, 2013 - 6:30 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Di Francesco: 'Juve were superior'

Dec 15, 2013

Sassuolo boss Eusebio Di Francesco admits “Juventus were superior” in a 4-0 hammering.

http://markting10.nl/

“We had started well, but there was a big difference in quality between the two teams. They have such great physical strength, technique and ability to cut through defences,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We tried to attack, as we usually do, but it was difficult to come here and get points. We gave away opportunities and that was something we could ill afford.

“In order to build a team, Sassuolo spent a certain amount of money and Juve spent far more. Therefore, it’s normal to see such a big gap.

http://markting10.nl/

“However, we cannot afford to make any mistakes in these situations and Juventus were superior. Without Domenico Berardi, I didn’t have any alternatives for that side of the trident, so I changed system.

“Juventus play one-on-one even from the back three, so it’s not easy to play against the Bianconeri.”

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 4 - 0 SASSUOLO

Carlos Tévez (15′)
Federico Peluso (28′)
Carlos Tévez (45′)
Carlos Tévez (68′)

December 15, 2013 - 6:30 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Mauro Bergonzi
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Conte: 'Take nothing for granted'

Dec 15, 2013

Antonio Conte insists Juventus “could not take for granted” their 4-0 victory over Sassuolo.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri shook off their Champions League elimination with an eighth straight Serie A win, all achieved with clean sheets.

“These lads are doing extraordinary things, as we won 14 games out of 16 in the League this season,” Conte told Sky Sport Italia.

“Clearly there is disappointment at going out of the Champions League, but this has to give us more determination and motivation, because we were eliminated and did not deserve it.

http://markting10.nl/

“Serie A is a long and exhausting process, so you need a lot of intensity week after week. We should’ve been more focused in the second half, but it is great to see an eighth consecutive clean sheet.

“If we continue along this path, then it can only do us good. This win might’ve been taken for granted by some people, but in Serie A you can’t take anything for granted.

“We have turned over a new leaf after Istanbul, as we had to. I always tell the lads to put the past behind them. The elimination was disappointing, especially as we were unable to really play the final game, but we put ourselves in that situation and have to learn from it.”

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

[Socrates 8430]

Napoli & Juventus bounce back - but Champions
League nightmares remain fresh in the mind

After a bruising double-elimination for the Italian giants in Europe,
it was business as usual for both in Sunday's Serie A fixtures.

Dec 16, 2013

COMMENT
By Kris Voakes | International Football Correspondent

It was midway through the last decade that the word 'bouncebackability' was introduced into the footballing lexicon, and on Sunday it was demonstrated in its purest form as Italy's fallen European heroes got straight back on their bikes.

http://markting10.nl/

Napoli had been widely accepted to be the most unfortunate of the Champions League's departing clubs, finishing with 12 points in the commonly accepted Group of Death thanks to a 2-0 win over Arsenal but still finding themselves short of what was needed to reach the last 16. But by Sunday, they were taking their future back into their own hands, despatching Inter with a great deal of confidence.

Abysmal decision-making by Yuto Nagatomo led to the first of their four goals, with Gonzalo Higuain lashing home a left-foot strike that the Japanese wing-back could not have teed up better had he tried. The scores were levelled when Esteban Cambiasso netted after a vital touch from Ricardo Alvarez left the Inter skipper free of Christian Maggio, but before long Dries Mertens put Napoli back in front after Blerim Dzemaili capped a superb burst forward by holding off Andrea Ranocchia and laying the ball off beautifully for the Belgian.

Mertens was soon returning the favour, capitalising on a lost ball from Hugo Campagnaro and firing in a low shot which was too much for Samir Handanovic to handle, allowing Dzemaili to drill home the loose ball. Nagatomo halved the lead by tucking in a low Fredy Guarin cross, but after the interval Inter's hopes were hampered by Alvarez's debatable sending-off and destroyed by Jose Callejon's clincher from Lorenzo Insigne's centre. Even a Handanovic penalty save from Goran Pandev wasn't going to take the shine off the hosts' performance.

http://markting10.nl/

The result will have come as a massive boost to Rafa Benitez, who was facing Inter for the first time since they sacked him in December 2010 immediately after they had been crowned the world club champions. Having been brought in to take the club on an extra step from the Walter Mazzarri regime, a victory over his predecessor was just the shot in the arm he will have needed following the disappointment of midweek.

Napoli may well have beaten Arsenal, but they didn't do so convincingly enough to progress, and their league form has not been overly impressive over the past five weeks either. There remained signs against Inter that there is significant room for improvement, particularly defensively, but the result was the perfect response to their recent travails.

Many questions have also been asked of Antonio Conte since Juventus' Champions League exit at the hands of Galatasaray on Wednesday, but four days on it was Carlos Tevez who did all the talking for his coach.

http://markting10.nl/

The Argentine will have gone five-and-a-half years without a goal in the Champions League by the time he next gets the opportunity to play in the competition, but he netted a hat-trick in the 4-0 win against Sassuolo on Sunday as the Bianconeri made their first step back into the limelight following their snow-bound setback in Istanbul.

It will take more than a victory over newly-promoted opponents for Conte to be allowed to forget about his failures in Europe, but he'll take whatever he can get right now. Nothing less than a third successive Serie A title will be good enough now for a set of supporters who have been reintroduced to the feeling of success in recent seasons, and the coach's desire to win on the continent with his beloved Juve should only be strengthened by the events of the past week.

http://markting10.nl/

Benitez's stock may have suffered a slight jolt in midweek, but he was back on track by Sunday night. Trophies remain the Spaniard's goal, and with Napoli having been long shots for a Champions League win he is as close to winning silverware this morning as he was seven days ago.

Conte might also have been back to winning ways at the weekend, but his reputation will take somewhat longer to repair itself. Three points mark only the beginning of the long road back.

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

[Socrates 8430]

Europa League draw: Juventus face Trabzonspor

Managerless Tottenham have been pitted against Dnipro while Porto travel
to Eintracht Frankfurt, Napoli meet Swansea and Fiorentina face Esbjerg.

Dec 16, 2013

Juventus have been drawn against Trabzonspor in the round of 32 in the Europa League.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri meet the Turkish side as Napoli - who joined them in the draw after dropping out of the Champions League - take on Premier League outfit Swansea City.

Tottenham, who sacked manager Andre Villas-Boas on Monday, have been pitted against Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk, while Ajax travel to Salzburg and Porto visit Eintracht Frankfurt in two intriguing last 32 encounters.

Elswhere, Olympique Lyonnais face Chornomorets Odesa, Fiorentina meet Esbjerg, Valencia tackle Dynamo Kiev and Shakhtar Donetsk take on Viktoria Plzen.

http://markting10.nl/

THE LAST 32 DRAW

Tottenham vs Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk
Rubin Kazan vs Real Betis
Napoli vs Swansea City
Trabzonspor vs Juventus
Sevilla vs Maribor
Shakhtar Donetsk vs Viktoria Plzen
Olympique Lyonnais vs Chornomorets Odesa
Ludogorets vs Lazio
Fiorentina vs Esbjerg
Salzburg vs Ajax
Basel vs Maccabi Tel-Aviv
Eintracht Frankfurt vs Porto
Genk vs Anzhi Makhachkala
Dynamo Kiev vs Valencia
Benfica vs PAOK
Slovan Liberec vs AZ Alkmaar


The ties for the round of 16 were drawn as follows:

THE LAST 16 DRAW

Slovan Liberec or AZ Alkmaar vs Genk or Anzhi Makhachkala
Ludogorets or Lazio vs Dynamo Kiev or Valencia
Eintracht Frankfurt or Porto vs Napoli or Swansea
Olympique Lyonnais or Chornomorets vs Shakhtar or Viktoria Plzen
Sevilla or Maribor vs Rubin or Betis
Tottenham or Dnipro vs Benfica or PAOK
Basel or Maccabi Tel-Aviv vs Salzburg or Ajax
Trabzonspor or Juventus vs Fiorentina or Esbjerg

[Socrates 8430]

Nedved wanted to avoid Turkey return

Dec 16, 2013

Juventus director Pavel Nedved isn’t overly enthusiastic about a Europa League trip to Trabzonspor in the last 32.

http://markting10.nl/

After being knocked out of the Champions League at Galatasaray last week, the Old Lady will return to Turkey in February.

“I’m not that happy about having to go to Turkey again,” Nedved told TMW on Monday. “Things haven’t gone too well for us there in the recent past.

“It will be a tough and long away trip. We will have to find the right motivation to play it as Juventus.”

http://markting10.nl/

Reaching the Final, to be staged at the Juventus Stadium, is now a target for the Old Lady but they could face rivals Fiorentina in the last 16 if they both progress.

“Fiorentina? Let us just think about one game at a time,” the former Czech international continued.

“The Europa League is not a competition that you should under-estimate, there are good sides who are tough to take on.

http://markting10.nl/

“We have to take it step by step.”

Juve, at home first, will play Trabzonspor on February 20 and 27.

[Socrates 8430]

Montella: 'Shame about Juve draw'

Dec 16, 2013

Vincenzo Montella is disappointed with Fiorentina’s Europa League draw, as they could face Juventus in the next round.

http://markting10.nl/

The Viola will play Esbjerg in February and the Bianconeri take on Trabzonspor, but their paths are due to cross if they both progress.

“Esbjerg are a good side and playing in Denmark in February certainly won’t be easy,” declared Coach Montella.

“The climactic conditions in the away leg will certainly have an effect on the tie, but must not represent an alibi.

http://markting10.nl/

“As for the possibility of an Italian derby, we’ll have to see if both teams get through their respective rounds.

“Assuming it does go well, it would’ve been better to face an Italian side a bit further down the road.”

There had already been talk of a potential Juventus-Fiorentina Final, especially as it will be played in Turin.

[Socrates 8430]

Coppa Italia schedule confirmed

Dec 16, 2013

The Coppa Italia Round of 16 schedule has been drawn up with Roma-Sampdoria and Udinese-Inter on January 9.

http://markting10.nl/

This phase of the tournament begins on Wednesday December 18 with Juventus hosting Serie B side Avellino, while the other fixtures are spread out through January.


Coppa Italia

Round of 16

Juventus-Avellino (Dec 18, 21.00 CET)

Fiorentina-Chievo (Jan 8, 21.00 CET)

Roma-Sampdoria (Jan 9, 18.00 CET)

Udinese-Inter (Jan 9, 21.00 CET)

Lazio-Parma (Jan 14, 21.00 CET)

Catania-Siena (Jan 15, 16.00 CET)

Milan-Spezia (Jan 15, 18.00 CET)

Napoli-Atalanta (Jan 15, 21.00 CET)

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - AVELLINO

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus to make Coppa Italia changes

Dec 16, 2013

Juventus boss Antonio Conte is expected to make a number of changes to his strongest side against Avellino in the Coppa Italia.

http://markting10.nl/

The Old Lady will entertain the Serie B outfit at the Juventus Stadium on Wednesday night and the Coach wants to give some fringe players action.

According to reports, goalkeeper Gigi Buffon will be rested, thus allowing Marco Storari an opportunity with the gloves.

In defence, Martin Caceres and Federico Peluso may be used in place of Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini.

http://markting10.nl/

Simone Padoin and Paolo De Ceglie could get a chance in midfield.

Fabio Quagliarella is expected to start in attack alongside Sebastian Giovinco if the latter recovers from a foot injury.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - AVELLINO

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus coach Antonio Conte keen
to keep up Coppa Italia form against Avellino

Juventus go into Wednesday's Coppa Italia last 16 match
against Avellino invigorated by their impressive run of form in Serie A.

Dec 17, 2013

The Turin giants won 3-0 at Sassuolo on Sunday to clinch their eighth straight league victory.

http://markting10.nl/

The outcome coupled with Roma's 2-2 draw at AC Milan allowed the Bianconeri to extend their lead at the top of the standings to five points.

"We are getting extraordinary results," Juve coach Antonio Conte said. "We have won 14 and lost just one of our 16 league games this season.

"Now we have to turn our attention to the Coppa Italia, which is an important competition."

http://markting10.nl/

Not since the 1994-95 campaign, have Juve lifted the Coppa Italia.

Conte is set to ring the changes against Avellino in view of Sunday's match at Atalanta, Juve's last game of the year.

Marco Storari will replace Gianluigi Buffon in goal while attacking pair Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez, who struck a hat-trick at Sassuolo, will be rested in midweek.

http://markting10.nl/

Conte is set to field Sebastian Giovinco and Fabio Quagliarella in attack.

Avellino know they face an almost impossible task to surprise Juve in Turin.

"We are aware that we face the strongest team of all and we know it will not be easy," Avellino coach Massimo Rastelli said. "Juve are going through a fantastic run of form.

http://markting10.nl/

"But we have arrived to this point and we want to show the same determination that has allowed us to be fifth in the standings in Serie B.

"We know our strengths and our limits and we will give our all against Juventus."

The Campania outfit go into the match on the back Saturday's 1-1 draw at Trapani.

http://markting10.nl/

The outcome lifted Rastelli's side four points behind Serie B leaders Palermo.

Avellino beat Frosinone 2-1 earlier this month to continue their Coppa Italia adventure.

The winner of Wednesday's match will face Fiorentina in the quarter-finals of the competition.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - AVELLINO

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus vs Avellino - Coppa Italia match preview

Dec 17, 2013

Tomorrow night will see Juventus take on guests from Avellino, small town near Naples. Wolves from south come to Turin with plans of making some serious upsets. This will be the first game in last 16 round of this season’s Italan Cup.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio Conte is probably going to mix thing up regarding his starting eleven for this encounter. The opportunity may get some of the players that weren’t granted much playing time since august. Marco Storari will replace Buffon between the posts, while Ogbonna could start from the first minute, in front of previously mentioned Storari.

Rest will be given to Tevez and Llorente. Favorites for their positions are Quagliarella and Sebastian Giovinco. Vidal is suspended, although Conte probably wouldn’t field him anyways. Marchisio is set to return after sitting out Sassuolo game on Sunday, due to suspension.

Avellino will field their best eleven, even though their fans requested Primavera (Avellino U-19 team) players. Reason for that ‘’protest’’ is Lega Calcio decision to move this game from January to December 18th. Even president of this team complained about it, stating that this date suits neither to them, nor to Juventus. He even said that Avellino fans won’t be present at Juventus stadium tomorrow night.

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However, Juventus announced that all tickets have been sold out, and even 4000 away fans are coming to Turin.

There have been 26 official encounters between these two sides throughout history. Juventus won 15 of them, while Avellino managed to win just two. Last time they’ve met, Avellino was defeated with 1-4 at their own stadium, in Italian Cup.

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Probable Lineups

JUVENTUS (3-5-2): Storari; Peluso, Ogbonna, Caceres; De Ceglie, Asamoah, Pogba, Marchisio, Isla; Giovinco, Quagliarella.

AVELLINO (4-4-2): Seculin; Bittante, Izzo, Pisacane, Zappacosta; Millesi, Arini, D’Angelo, Schiavon; Castaldo, Galabinov.


Men to watch

Juventus: Giovinco – He returns to some first team playing time after an injury, and he’ll be looking to put his best performance to impress Conte. Tevez and Llorente seem to have found chemistry, results are there, and therefore Giovinco must lift his game up if he’s aiming for the first team spot.

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Avellino: Castaldo – With five goals and four assists Castaldo presents biggest threat for Juventus that Avellino has to offer. But, this 31yrs old centre-forward will have to put his best to cause Bianconeri at least some sort of trouble.

http://markting10.nl/

Previous meeting: Avellino 1-4 Juventus (30.08.1995)


Author’s Prediction: Juventus 3-0 Avellino

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - AVELLINO

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus News – Coppa Italia Avellino,
Europa Cup Trabzonspor

Dec 17, 2013

Now comes the return of the Coppa Italia on Wednesday evening.

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Juve ease into this year’s competition by playing host to Serie B side Avellino. Juve have come awfully close to winning the competition under Conte, losing first in the final to Napoli and then in the semi-final to Lazio; perhaps this year they can finally concentrate on winning the damn thing. The Bianconeri have had an indifferent attitude towards the competition in recent years, but as with the Europa League, no club actually wants to lose anything, anywhere, at any time — especially one coached by Antonio Conte.

So don’t be fooled by the second-stringers and unfamiliar opponents — expect business as usual in Turin on Wednesday night.

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Coppa Italia Update: Expect Turnover for Avellino

Certainly, Avellino are not to be taken lightly, despite being a Serie B side.

As we’ve seen many, many times before, Italian minnows are capable of eluding Serie A sharks on any given matchday. And considering that this is a one-off knockout match (only the semi-finals are two-legged these days), a loss here would be deeply embarrassing.

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Still, Juve have priorities, and the Coppa Italia will never be their highest. Thus, Antonio Conte is planning on fielding a predominantly second-string lineup on Wednesday evening.

It starts in defense, where Marco Storari will take up his traditional role as Juve’s Coppa goalkeeper. In front of him, expect a change or two, specifically a start for Angelo Ogbonna and possible appearances from Martin Caceres (great!) and Federico Peluso (not so great — despite his goal on Sunday, the young man is a red card waiting to happen). Of course, Conte always has the option of starting one of his main three center-backs, though we’re hoping he gives them all a rest.

If any area of the pitch is problematic in turns of turnover, it’s the midfield. Paolo De Ceglie should start on the left wing, while Simone Padoin and Mauricio Isla will vie to start on the right wing. However, with Paul Pogba and Kwadwo Asamoah both deserving a rest and Arturo Vidal disqualified due to reaching his yellow-card limit in the semi-final last year, there’s also a chance that Padoin plays in central midfield. Thankfully, Claudio Marchisio should be fresh, having sat out his suspension on Sunday, which means that at least one slot in central midfield will be filled by a regular.

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While it wasn’t ultimately surprising that Conte went with his usual Carlos Tevez – Fernando Llorente pairing for Sassuolo, as it was an important match for the club’s morale, one could tell that Fabio Quagliarella was just itching to get onto the pitch. He will almost certainly start this time around and will probably be paired with Sebastian Giovinco (if healthy — he’s dealing with an ankle injury sustained in the training friendly with Chieri). If Seba isn’t up to it, then one of our workhorses will likely be trotted out again, since Mirko Vucinic is still unavailable.

It remains to be seen if the early Champions League exit has increased the appeal of the Coppa Italia for Juventus, but we shouldn’t really expect an answer on Wednesday. It’s just too early to feel any sense of urgency — and as we know very well by now, Juve tend to ease themselves into even the most urgent of new campaigns.

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We can assume that two forces will be fighting for supremacy: the understandable inclination to take it easy against a secondary side in a tertiary tournament; and the natural instinct for victory, no matter how small. Here’s hoping the latter conquers the former.

This is where having a coach like Antonio Conte comes in handy: He’s always going to take it seriously — and he’ll scream at anyone who doesn’t.

ANDIAMO, RAGAZZI!!!

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Turkish Reprise: Juve Face Trabzonspor in Europa League

Super-Lig side Trabzonspor will visit Juventus Stadium on February 20 for the first leg, then host Juve in Trabzon a week later on the 27.

And there’s a twist: Should Juve make it past Trabzonspor, they could very well face old friends Fiorentina, who will play Danish side Esbjerg. That could mean three more matches with the Viola this season—and three more opportunities to avenge Juve’s loss in October.

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Unfamiliar with Trabzonspor? Juventus.com supplies a letter of introduction, excerpted below:

Juventus’ Europa League Round of 32 opponents Trabzonspor are the most domestically successful Turkish club outside of Istanbul, and have emerged unbeaten from their 12 European games so far this season under manager Mustafa Reşit Akçay.

Founded in 1967, Trabzonspor have clinched six Turkish league championships and were the first team based outside Istanbul to do so. They won three in a row between 1978 and 1980 under legendary coach Ahmet Suat Özyazıcı (who has led them to all of their league triumphs bar the last two), and have also lifted a total of eight Turkish cups.

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They are currently seventh in the Turkish Super Lig, and in the Europa League they topped Group J ahead of Lazio (who they held to a goalless draw in Rome four days ago).

Another team not to be taken lightly — and did we mention they’re from Turkey?

Just in case we’ve all forgotten (or are blocking out the memory, as the case may be), Trabzonspor president Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu was quick to play up the idea of a sequel to Nightmare in Istanbul. Via Football Italia:


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I wouldn’t see this as an unlucky draw.

After having faced Lazio in the first round, I wanted with all my heart to face another Italian team. Juve were knocked out of the Champions League by a Turkish team and we can give them the pleasure of being eliminated by a Turkish side again!

We believe in our chances and usually do well against Italian opponents. If we are at the top of our game, then we can beat Juventus home and away, as we have many fans and playing the first leg in Turin can be an advantage. If we get a good result there, we can hope for a draw on our own turf.

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Wow. Those are bold statements — and it’s probably a big mistake to state them to this Juventus squad at this specific point in time.

Suddenly, the Europa League is infinitely more exciting, no?

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Irrati Refs Coppa Clash

Unfamiliar foe, unfamiliar referee.

Massimiliano Irrati of Tuscany (dun-DUN-DUN!) will hold the whistle for the inaugural Coppa Italia match with Avellino.

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When it comes to the black-and-white, he’s as green as they come: Massimiliano has never officiated a Juventus match.

Irrati’s linesmen are Filippo Meli (close call there) and Salvatore Longo. Leonardo Baracani is the fourth official; in addition to presiding over substitutions and announcing injury time, he will hopefully remind our boys to take things seriously out there.

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Get to Know the Biancoverdi!

Ah! If it isn’t our old friends Avellino…

Wait — who are they exactly?

We must be forgiven for are unfamiliarity with the Biancoverdi, but as the Mothership informs us, this is an old (founded in 1912), valiant side who have surmounted some serious obstacles just to get to Serie B in recent years:


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In 2009, debts meant that the club had to abandon professional football altogether and return to amateur action, but it was refounded soon afterwards and began life in Serie D.

Last season, Avellino won Group B of the Lega Pro division to secure promotion to Serie B.

Avellino’s history also intersects at several points with past and present Bianconeri:


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In 1978 they reached Serie A, a legendary triumph for the town and the Campania region. They remained there for a decade, and Antonio Conte’s current right-hand man Angelo Alessio starred in their highest ever league finish: eighth in 1987.

Ex-Bianconeri player Zbigniew Boniek was Avellino manager between 1994 and 1996, and another former Juventus hero Antonello Cuccureddu took over from Zdenek Zeman in 2004, contributing to promotion to Serie B.

There have been two previous Coppa Italia matches with Avellino in Turin, and you’ll be glad to know that both times Juventus have sent the Biancoverdi crashing out. The first meeting came in 1981 in the second leg of the quarter-final (under the old format):


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Giovanni Trapattoni’s men had got an excellent foothold in the tie thanks to a 3-1 away win at the Stadio Partenio-Lombardi, and they finished off the job with a 3-2 victory in the return leg at the Stadio Comunale.

In an extraordinary coincidence, all three of Juventus’ goals that day arose from free-kicks. First it was Vinicio Verza who took advantage of a quickly-taken Franco Causio effort to smash the ball into the net, and the other two were both own-goals.

Giorgio Repetto was the author of the first with a deflection on an Antonio Cabrini header, and it was the Juve wing-back Cabrini who also brought about the second as his shot went in off Sergio Giovannone.

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I wouldn’t expect a repeat of that anomalous match on Wednesday — not without Andrea Pirlo out there.

The second encounter was also a quarter-final fixture seven years later; this one was more of a squeaker.

The two teams were drawn together again on 2 March 1988 during Rino Marchesi’s second season in charge of the Bianconeri. And after a 1-1 draw in the first leg, this time it really was all to play for in the second.

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Ex-Juve man Massimo Storgato hit the post to set the home crowd’s nerves jangling in Turin, but in the end a 38th minute header from Sergio Brio was enough to ensure the Bianconeri’s spot in the semi-final of the cup.

According to the official site, Avellino are capable of lining up both in a 3-5-2 or a 4-3-1-2, which, combined with Juve’s relative unfamiliarity with them, could cause an unpleasant surprise or two. At the moment, the club are suffering from draw-itis in Serie B, while each of their Coppa encounters have been tight contests; still, any Italian side is not to be taken lightly, least of all a club that has steadily risen so quickly from financial ruin.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - AVELLINO

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Coppa Italia: Juventus vs. Avellino
Rapid Fire Preview

Dec 18, 2013

Quietly, almost out of nowhere, the Coppa Italia has snuck up on us. Maybe it was the fact that Juventus didn't take part in the first couple of rounds of the tournament, maybe it was something else. But the Coppa Italia has arrived and will be part of Juve's schedule as long as they want it to be.

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So here we are. Coppa Italia, Juventus. Juventus, Coppa Italia. Good to see you two get acquainted again.

The round of 16 sees newly-promoted Serie B side Avellino come to Juventus Stadium to face Antonio Conte and his cast of characters. Coming off a 4-0 shellacking of Sassuolo over the weekend, Juve was able to respond the way many hoped they would after the mess that was their Champions League exit a week ago.

But now the quest for a silver star on Juve's jersey officially begins as they hop into the Coppa Italia round of 16.

I'd like a silver star. It'd look cool on the jersey next season. How 'bout it, fellas?

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WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. The unofficially mandatory squad rotation in the Coppa Italia.

There will be squad rotation because that's what happens when teams play in the Coppa Italia. Even with some of the injuries Conte is dealing with right now, the reserves will play because that's what the Coppa italia tells us to do. Or, at least, it's an unwritten rule of the competition. There will be changes. To what extent, though, we're still waiting to see what the starting lineups look like. And who really knows what it comes to the mind of Conte.

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2. The probable combination of Sebastian Giovinco and Fabio Quagliarella.

With the Coppa Italia comes squad rotation. We know that because I just spent a decent amount of time writing about it. The thing is, though, some of the players who could play tomorrow against Avellino haven't seen the field much at all in recent weeks. That's true for both Giovinco and Quagliarella, who haven't played much lately for their own respective reasons. Especially so for Giovinco, who has appeared in only eight Serie A games so far this season due to injury. If he does get the get a spot in the lineup like a lot are predicting, it will his first start in six weeks. Time for Super Seba to make a difference? I'm all for it.

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3. The sharpness of Marco Storari.

The life of a backup goalkeeper isn't exactly the easiest. That's especially true when you're playing behind somebody like Gigi Buffon, who hasn't missed much time at all the past couple of years. But the Coppa Italia is Marco Storari's time, the only competition he gets consistent playing time these days. The biggest thing that you usually worry about when it comes to a backup who doesn't play much is just how much rust may be there. Storari's lone appearance this season was in Juve's 2-1 win over Hellas Verona on Sept. 22, a game where he didn't have to make a save.

That's a long time to go in between appearances. Luckily for us, it's not the first time Storari has been in this situation before. Hopefully, for our sake, he doesn't play like some keepers who haven't been in a game in three months.

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4. What, exactly, Avellino brings to the table.

I can tell you this right now: I haven't seen Avellino play. Ever. I know, shame on me. The only Avellino-related piece of information I can supply is that it's where Tony Soprano's family is originally from. Because of that, I'll snag this bit of information from Juventus' official website:

The Serie B outfit have slowed a little of late — they have recorded a win, a loss and three draws in their five most recent league fixtures — but their current position of fifth in the table is no mean feat for a newly-promoted side.

So now that we have that out of the way, we can move forward. Avellino has been one of what seems like the yearly surprise teams in the Coppa Italia. Rarely do you see Serie B sides in the round of 16, but here they are. And come Wednesday night, they'll be playing at Juventus Stadium for what will probably be the only time for a lot of their players. Regardless of who is playing for Juventus tomorrow, it's going to be quite the task for the newly-promoted side.

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My starting XI (3-5-2): Storari; Caceres, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Isla, Padoin, Pogba, Marchisio, De Ceglie; Quagliarella, Giovinco

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - AVELLINO

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus probable XI vs Avellino

Dec 18, 2013

The giornalaccio rosa dello Sport expects Antonio Conte to make some significant changes to the Juventus starting XI against Avellino tonight.

http://markting10.nl/

The Old Lady will entertain the Serie B outfit in the Coppa Italia and the Coach is keen on giving some of his squad players competitive action.

Marco Storari should start in goal behind a defence containing Martin Caceres, Angelo Ogbonna and Federico Peluso.

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The five-man midfield may consist of Marco Motta, Claudio Marchisio, Simone Padoin, Kwadwo Asamoah and Mauricio Isla.

In attack, Fabio Quagliarella should be partnered by Sebastian Giovinco.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Bianconeri set up Fiorentina clash

Antonio Conte's side cruised to victory on Wednesday night thanks
to three first half goals and will face the Viola in the last-eight.

Dec 18, 2013

Juventus set up a Coppa Italia quarter-final clash with Fiorentina after beating Avellino 3-0.

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The Bianconeri opened the scoring after just seven minutes through Sebastian Giovinco's wonderful, curling effort.

The forward controlled a pass from Fabio Quagliarella on the edge of the box before shifting the ball onto his right foot and dispatching a fine effort into the far corner.

It didn't take long for the Serie A champions to double their advantage. Six minutes later it was 2-0 to the home side, with Giovinco again at the heart of the goal.

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The Italy international delivered a fine free-kick into the penalty area which found the head of the unmarked Martin Caceres and the defender was left with the easiest of finishes.

Juve were all but out of sight and with just nine minutes remaining of the opening period they all but booked their place in the quarter-finals of the competition.

Another brilliant free-kick from Giovinco caused all sorts of problems in the visitors' box and this time Quagliarella was on hand to prod the ball home at the near post to make it 3-0.

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Juve's dominance continued in the second half as Avellino goalkeeper Giuseppe Di Masi just about held on to Quagliarella's powerful free-kick, while Stephan Lichsteiner should have scored when he steered wide one-on-one in injury-time.

Antonio Conte's side couldn't add to their tally before the referee blew his full-time whistle, but their first half efforts proved enough and the Viola now await in the last-eight of the Coppa Italia.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus beat Avellino in Coppa

Dec 18, 2013

Juventus are through to the quarter-finals of the Coppa Italia after a comfortable 3-0 win over Avellino.

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Sebastian Giovinco, Martin Caceres and Fabio Quagliarella all scored in the opening 45 minutes to see the Old Lady progress.

Boss Antonio Conte made nine changes to the side that beat Sassuolo on Sunday, but the result was never in doubt.

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Goals: 7' Giovinco, 17' Caceres, 35' Quagliarella

Juventus (3-5-2): Storari; Caceres, Ogbonna, Peluso; Motta (82' Lichtsteiner), Padoin, Marchisio, Asamoah (69' Bouy), De Ceglie; Giovinco (82' Pepe), Quagliarella.

Avellino (3-5-2): Di Masi; Izzo, Peccarisi, Pisacane; Zappacosta, D'Angelo, Togni (46' Schiavon), Arini (72' Angiulli), Millesi; Herrera, Castaldo (55' Galabinov).

Ref: Irrati.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus 3 - Avellino 0:
Initial reaction and random observations

Dec 18, 2013

It was all setup for a lopsided scoreline. The two-time defending Italian champions against a newly-promoted side in Serie B. Regardless of how well Avellino was playing, it was always going to be an uphill battle the Biancoverdi.

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Turns out, Avellino never had a chance to start the journey up the proverbial mountain before Juventus totally took control of things.

First-half goals from Sebastian Giovinco, Martin Caceres and Fabio Quagliarella put the game away a mere 35 minutes after it started. Juventus dominated the visitors, which isn't exactly surprising despite Juve rolled out the 'B' squad on Wednesday night.

Following the script of Serie A champs vs. Serie B newbies, Juventus went up early, got a comfortable lead, and then took the foot off the gas. As we saw after the game when the two managers shook hands, there was a clear respect between the two clubs. Juventus should have won by a convincing margin, and did just that. Nothing more, nothing less.

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All of this with nine new players in the lineup. Not bad, gents. Business taken care of. Now it's on to the quarterfinals where Juve will meet either Roma or Sampdoria. I'll take Roma for 500, Alex.


Random thoughts and observations

•A lot of chatter on the Twitter machine before kickoff — and during the game — about not having any primavera kids on the bench for tonight's game. I guess I'm kinda split on the whole thing. The Coppa, at least as Antonio Conte has shown since becoming manager, is the chance for the reserves to get the playing time they normally don't get in Serie A. But at the same, Juve were playing a Serie B side, which really could have been a chance to give the youngsters some serious playing time that doesn't involve them going out on loan.

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I don't know. I'm not completely outraged and finding the need to throw things at the wall about it all. Maybe a little disappointed is the way to go.

•Marco Motta, starting on the right wing, wearing the No. 16 jersey. Somewhere Mauro Camoranesi is shaking his head along with the rest of us.

•Even with the score 3-0 in the second half, Avellino's traveling fans were having the time of the lives, singing at full voice. Pretty awesome to see no matter what the scoreboard said. Respect.

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•Juventus are on cruise control, passing the ball around the midfield in the second half when suddenly, the crowd starts going nuts. Why? It was because Simone Pepe started warming up on the sidelines. When the 82nd minute arrived, the oft-injured winger made his long-awaited return to competitive action. Probably the most meaningful 10 minutes on the field in a blowout win in quite some time. Welcome back, Speedy.

OptaPaolo @OptaPaolo
396 - Simone Pepe's last game for Juventus was dated back November 2012: 396 days ago. Return.

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•Sebastian Giovinco: One goal, two assists. By my calculations, Super Seba had a hand in every goal Juventus scored against Avellino. Say what you want about it being against a Serie B team, but Giovinco was the most lively player during Juve's first-half blitz. Even more impressive considering how little he has played the past two months or so.

•Martin Caceres just shows up and plays well whenever he's called upon by Conte. At the same time, he must love to score goals in the Coppa Italia. I like this guy.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Juventus vs Avellino - Coppa Italia match report

Dec 18, 2013

Juventus eliminated Avellino out of the Coppa Italia with three goals from the first half. Sebastian Giovinco, Martin Caceres and Fabio Quagliarella all scored for the home team, and allowed them to advance into quarter-finals.

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This was the last game scheduled for current calendar year of this Italian Cup edition. Juventus welcomed guests from Avellino and beat them with 3-0.

First goal arrived at 7th minute of the game. Fabio Quagliarella left the ball for Sebastian Giovinco who placed it with curly right-footer in the back of the net. Beautifully taken shot by Atomic Ant, as Juventus fans like to address him.

Nine minutes later it was 2-0. Giovinco took a free kick from outside the box; Martin Caceres followed it with perfect timing, and directed the ball behind Avellino goalkeeper. Juventus was pilling up the pressure.

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With 35 minutes on the clock, Fabio Quagliarella scored Juventus third goal of the night. It was yet again Sebastian Giovinco who assisted for the goal, after another well taken free kick.

Half time ended with three goals to none for Conte’s men.

Second half was slow paced, and boring for the neutrals. Juventus fans, however enjoyed themselves on the stands, as well as the guests from south of Italy. They came in numbers, and filled up away sector of Juventus stadium.

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At 59th minute Di Masi showed some skills by stopping Quagliarella’s shot. Ten minutes later, Avellino goalkeeper saved Motta’s header after corner kick taken by Giovinco. It was an amazing save by Di Masi.

With eight minutes left to play, Simone Pepe entered the pitch, substituting Sebastian Giovinco. Home crowed welcomed his return with ovations and applause. He was absent from the field for more than a year, due to injury.

Lichtsteiner who substituted Motta could and should have scored at 89th minute, after great vision and pass from Marchisio, but he failed to hit the target completely.

It ended with the same result as first half. Avellino is out of Coppa Italia.

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Score: Juventus 3-0 Avellino

Scorers: Giovinco 7’, Caceres 16’, Quagliarella 35’

Yellow Cards: Bouy 82’

Red Cards: -

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Lineups:

JUVENTUS: Storari; Peluso, Ogbonna, Caceres; De Ceglie, Asamoah (Bouy 68’), Marchisio, Padoin, Motta (Lichtsteiner 82’); Giovinco (Pepe 82’), Quagliarella.

AVELLINO: Di Masi; Peccarisi, Izzo, Pisacane, Zappacosta; Millesi, Arini (Angiulli 71’), D’Angelo, Togni (Schiavon 46’); Castaldo (Galabinov 55’), Herrera.

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Man of the Match: Giovinco – Just as we predicted, Giovinco got the chance from Conte and he used it. Tonight he scored the first Juventus goal, and then went to assist next two, for Caceres and Quagliarella.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Conte snubs media following Coppa Italia win

The 44-year-old was accused of ignoring a match-fixing attempt during the week
and elected not to speak following his side's 3-0 victory over Avellino.

Dec 19, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte refused to speak to the media in the wake of his side's 3-0 win over Avellino on Wednesday.

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The former Siena boss served a touchline ban last term for failing to report match-fixing activity during his time at the Tuscan club.

Ferdinando Coppola, a goalkeeper during Conte's time at the club, accused him of knowing of an attempt to fix a match between the Artemio Franchi outfit and AlbinoLeffe on May 29 and letting the players decide what to do.

Conte had released a statement slamming the allegations, which were widely picked up by Italian media, and duly refused to speak to reporters after his side's victory in Turin.

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Meanwhile, Fabio Quagliarella scored his side's third goal of the straighforward Coppa Italia victory and spoke of his delight at having taken his first-team chance.

"We’re pleased. Tonight’s victory belongs to a group that always trains well and does everything our boss asks of us.

"The players change, but the result is the same. I’m also happy for my goal as it’s always satisfying to put in a good performance when called upon."

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Pepe: Juve nightmare is finally over

The former Udinese player has made his comeback after more
than one year out of action due to physical problems.

Dec 19, 2013

Simone Pepe has voiced his delight with his return to match action for Juventus in the 3-0 Coppa Italia win over Avellino on Wednesday after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

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The 30-year-old had last featured for the Serie A champions on 17 November 2012, 396 days ago, in a goalless Serie A encounter with Lazio and he has thanked the fans for their support during a difficult period.

"It’s been a long way back but I feel I can say the nightmare is finally over," Pepe was quoted as saying on the official Juventus website.

"I need to work to regain full fitness and reach the same levels as my team-mates.

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"I’m not one who easily gets emotional, but I must admit I felt it when I heard the crowd’s roar. I need to thank the fans, as well as my family and team-mates, for supporting me throughout."

Pepe then went on to discuss Juventus' chances of winning silverware this term and stressed that they have what it takes to enjoy a successful campaign.

"I think this team has developed even further since I was last in action, especially from a psychological point of view. There’s a long way to go, but we could certainly enjoy a satisfying season. Juventus have everything in place to do so."

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Quagliarella hails Juventus II

Dec 19 2013

Fabio Quagliarella has applauded Juventus’ fringe players who convincingly beat Avellino 3-0 on Wednesday.

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Boss Antonio Conte rested a host of first team regulars for the Coppa Italia tie, making nine changes to the side that beat Sassuolo 4-0 on Sunday.

“The players change, but the result is the same,” the 30-year-old noted. “We’re pleased.

“Tonight’s victory belongs to a group that always trains well and does everything our boss asks of us.

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“I’m also happy for my goal as it’s always satisfying to put in a good performance when called upon.”

Sebastian Giovinco and Martin Caceres were also on the scoresheet.

Juventus will play the winner from the Roma-Sampdoria tie in the last eight of the competition in January.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 0 AVELLINO

Sebastian Giovinco (7′)
Martín Cáceres (17′)
Fabio Quagliarella (35′)

December 18, 2013 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

Caceres: Juventus want Coppa

Dec 19 2013

Winning the Coppa Italia is a serious objective for Juventus this season, says defender Martin Caceres.

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The Old Lady began their Cup campaign last night with a convincing 3-0 win over Avellino despite boss Antonio Conte’s decision to rest key players.

“It was an important game,” Caceres, who scored at the Juventus Stadium, told Rai after the encounter. “It was the first match of a Cup competition that we want to win!”

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Juventus, who are looking for their tenth Coppa success, will play Roma or Sampdoria in the last eight next month.