Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

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

Juventus-Chievo Preview:
Bianconeri hoping to return to winning ways

Antonio Conte is without Giorgio Chiellini and Mirko Vucinic
as his side aim to extend their lead at the top of Serie A.

Feb 15, 2014

Juventus can bounce back from their surprise draw with Verona by continuing their flawless Serie A home record against Chievo on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio Conte's side sit nine points clear of Roma at the top of the table, while the Flying Donkeys arrive in Turin just a point clear of the relegation zone aiming to do something no other team has managed in the league this term - avoid defeat at Juventus Stadium.

Juve's on-loan Southampton striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo returned to training on Friday after suffering with flu, but Simone Pepe (thigh), Giorgio Chiellini (calf) and Mirko Vucinic (knee) are all expected to miss out. Andrea Barzagli will be assessed.

Chievo have taken just 18 points from 23 outings this term, but head coach Eugenio Corini remains optimistic about their chances in Turin.

http://markting10.nl/

"We're up against a battleship, but you just have to look to Verona to see that sometimes Juve are susceptible," he said.

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

http://markting10.nl/

New loan signing Leandro Paredes is still not ready to make his Chievo debut, and Corini is also without Adrian Calello, Luca Rigoni (flu) and Bostjan Cesar (suspended).

Juve have not lost to Chievo in their previous seven Serie A meetings, with the Turin club's last defeat to the Flying Donkeys coming in January 2010.

http://markting10.nl/

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Sep 25, 2013 - Chievo 1 - 2 Juventus
Serie A ‎- Feb 3, 2013 - Chievo 1 - 2 Juventus
Serie A ‎- Sep 22, 2012 - Juventus 2 - 0 Chievo
Serie A ‎- Mar 3, 2012 - Juventus 1 - 1 Chievo
Serie A ‎- Oct 16, 2011 - Chievo 0 - 0 Juventus

http://markting10.nl/

Last Five Matches

JUVENTUS

Feb 9, 2014 - Hellas Verona 2 - 2 Juventus - Serie A
Feb 2, 2014 - Juventus 3 - 1 FC Internazionale - Serie A
Jan 25, 2014 - Lazio 1 - 1 Juventus - Serie A
Jan 21, 2014 - Roma 1 - 0 Juventus - Coppa Italia
Jan 18, 2014 - Juventus 4 - 2 Sampdoria - Serie A


CHIEVO

Feb 8, 2014 - Udinese 3 - 0 Chievo - Serie A
Feb 2, 2014 - Chievo 0 - 2 Lazio - Serie A
Jan 25, 2014 - SSC Napoli 1 - 1 Chievo - Serie A
Jan 19, 2014 - Chievo 1 - 2 Parma - Serie A
Jan 13, 2014 - FC Internazionale 1 - 1 Chievo - Serie A

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

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

Juventus vs. Chievo Preview: Round 24 —
Getting back on the horse...or Flying Donkey

Feb 15, 2014

Over the course of Juventus' current 15-game unbeaten run, it's hard to look at many of those games and say something along the lines of "Boy, that was a disappointing result." That's probably because up until a couple weeks ago, all Juventus was doing was win, win, win.

http://markting10.nl/

But what last Sunday brought us was a disappointing result. When you see Juventus is 2-0 up after 30 minutes, you usually think that three points is going to come with Antonio Conte's squad back to Turin. Especially the way they have been playing in domestic competition since, oh, that stupid day in Florence back in October.

And with that, Juventus look to bounce back from that disappointing result in Verona against Hellas' bitter rivals, Chievo. That's pretty convenient, isn't it? Yeah it is, but that's also just how the schedule has fallen this season. Some teams get natural rivals on back-to-back weekends, Juventus get the double dose of Verona within a seven-day period.

Chievo comes to Juventus Stadium tomorrow afternoon in a much different position than their city rivals. Instead of challenging for a spot in Europe, Chievo are sinking fast. They haven't won a game in months, having only picked up a handful of points over their current winless run.

http://markting10.nl/

Not exactly the worst team to have come to town after a frustrating game the week prior now, is it?

Or we could just read what a certain Uruguayan defender named Martin Caceres had to say during an interview with JTV on Friday.

http://markting10.nl/

"Our clash with Chievo is a very important game, especially after the two points dropped in Verona. We need a perfect performance, then we'll turn our attentions to the Europa League."

I agree with what you have to say, Mr. High Socks. Keep speaking the truth. And wearing high socks, of course.

http://markting10.nl/

GOOD NEWS

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

This has been a Juventus unbeaten streak update.

More good news? Chievo haven't won a game since early December when they beat Sassuolo 1-0. That's a total of nine games in all competitions. No wonder they've gone tumbling down the Serie A table and enter the weekend one point out of the relegation zone.

http://markting10.nl/

BAD NEWS

Injuries are back! Isn't this exciting?! No, not really.

Mirko Vucinic is out 'several weeks,' according to the Juve doctors. Simone Pepe is injured again. Then there's Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini, who are both tipped not to be in the starting lineup this weekend. If you're in favor of some squad rotation, you very well could see it tomorrow afternoon. (And that's not exactly the worst thing in the word.)

http://markting10.nl/

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. How much anger will Juventus take out on Chievo?

Short answer to my own question: Hopefully a lot. Why? Because it hasn't been a very common occurrence to see Juve being the ones throwing away a two-goal lead during Conte's time as manager. Judging by the fact that the players saw Monday's day off canceled, I am going to think that Conte was a little more than angry about what happened against Hellas. And in the past when Juve have done something stupid or have a disappointing result, the next game is the one where they take things out on their opposition. Remember when they had that 2-2 draw against Real Madrid earlier this season? Well, the next game Conte's men went out and smacked Napoli in the face for a 3-0 win. That's how it's done. And that's the kind of angry Juventus team should show up at Juventus Stadium tomorrow afternoon.

http://markting10.nl/

2. What Juventus' defense is going to look like.

Andrea Barzagli didn't play due to injury against Hellas Verona. Giorgio Chiellini had to leave in the second half because of his own injury situation. That's...not very good news. Well, it would be if you don't have good players waiting in the wings to fill the void. Luckily for Conte, he's got a couple defenders in Martin Caceres and Angelo Ogbonna who are there when need be. Considering the injury situation, both Caceres and Ogbonna will be playing from the start tomorrow afternoon. And that's not a bad thing — especially the way Caceres played last Sunday in Barzagli's place. The guy is pretty good, ya know. Even without the high socks.

http://markting10.nl/

3. Will one of Paul Pogba or Arturo Vidal start from the bench?

Or, as an alternative question: Will Claudio Marchisio get a start against Chievo? It does seem like one of them will get a rest with Principino stepping into the starting lineup this weekend. If it's simply because of a resting thing with the Europa League on the horizon or because Conte isn't happy with their recent performance, I don't know. But when you watched some of the Juve players on Sunday against Hellas Verona, it didn't seem like some of them had the usual gas in the tank like most weeks. Sounds like a day off for somebody is in order, and a start for Marchisio is just around the conrer.

http://markting10.nl/

4. Fernando Llorente's impact.

I don't mention the big Spaniard for a week and he doesn't score a goal. Is this some kind of coincidence? Yes. Okay, maybe not, but let's just pretend it is for the sake of being nice. When he was subbed off in the 66th minute last Sunday for Dani Osvaldo, it was the first time since early December he had been replaced that early in a game. It was pretty easy to understand why Conte decided to throw on Juve's newest striker — Llorente really wasn't doing much of anything at all. Maybe playing against one of the worst teams in Serie A will get Llorente going again. That'd be cool.

http://markting10.nl/

5. Can Juventus effectively defend set pieces?

In case you haven't noticed, Juventus defending set pieces without much effectiveness was a common theme against Hellas Verona last weekend.

'Strong' hasn't been something about Juve's defense in recent weeks, especially six days ago in Verona. Where did both of Hellas' goals come from last Sunday? Well, set pieces. Yeah, not very strong there. And while Juventus were quite average in the second half last weekend, you'd like to think that if they eliminate the mistakes on set pieces, they probably come away with three points rather than just one. Maybe that's just my head putting some positive spin on a disappointing game, but if Juve get back to 'strong' rather than 'facepalm' then they're only that much better overall.

http://markting10.nl/

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Tevez

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

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

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

Osvaldo set for first Juventus start

Feb 15, 2014

Pablo Osvaldo could start for Juventus for the first time in their Serie A clash with Chievo this Sunday after Mirko Vucinic injured his knee in training.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri announced on their official website on Thursday that Vucinic has been ruled out for at least a fortnight after damaging his meniscus.

That could pave the way for Osvaldo -- on loan from Southampton until the end of the season -- to make his first start with coach Antonio Conte pondering a three-pronged attack against the Flying Donkeys.

http://markting10.nl/

Conte is unhappy about the way his team threw away a two-goal lead at Hellas Verona last weekend, and may also leave out Paul Pogba with Claudio Marchisio returning to the starting XI.

Kwadwo Asamoah and Stephan Lichtsteiner will also move into a back four in the absence of the injured Giorgio Chiellini.

That way, Conte has room for an extra striker, and following the Montenegrin's injury, that should give Osvaldo the chance to prove himself also to Italy coach Cesare Prandelli, who has explained the real reason behind the striker's omission from his Confederations Cup squad last summer.

http://markting10.nl/

It had been claimed Osvaldo was left out for breaking a code of conduct for an altercation with the then Roma coach Aurelio Andreazzoli.

"I didn't exclude him for arguing with Andreazzoli, like many people think, but because he was the only player not to pick up his runners-up medal after the Coppa Italia final defeat to Lazio," Prandelli said.

Just as long as Osvaldo helps Juventus win a third straight Scudetto, and picks up his own souvenir in May, a place in Prandelli's World Cup squad is his for the taking.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

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

Preview: Juventus vs. Chievo

Feb 15, 2014

Juventus will be confident of a 12th consecutive home league win when they host struggling Chievo on Sunday.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri can stretch their lead at the top of the Serie A table to 12 points ahead of Roma's match against Sampdoria later that evening.

They are currently on a 15-match unbeaten run and are firm favourites to seal their third successive Scudetto this season.

Chievo meanwhile, travel to the Juventus Stadium just a single point above the relegation zone.

http://markting10.nl/

They have been in poor form recently and suffered a 3-0 defeat against Udinese last weekend, to make it nine league games without a win.

Juventus are without the injured Giorgio Chiellini and Mirko Vucinic, while Andrea Barzagli returns after missing last weekend's 2-2 draw with Hellas Verona.

Chievo defender Dario Dainelli has failed to overcome an injury and will not travel to Turin, while Bostjan Cesar is suspended.

http://markting10.nl/

Recent form

Juventus: WWWDWD

Chievo: DDLDLL

http://markting10.nl/

Possible starting lineups

JUVENTUS: Buffon, Bonucci, Barzagli, Ogbonna, Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah, Tevez, Llorente

CHIEVO: Puggioni, Frey, Canini, Bernardini, Sardo, Hetemaj, Rigoni, Bentivoglio, Drame, Paloschi, Thereau

http://markting10.nl/

Sports Mole says: 3-0

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - CHIEVO VERONA

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

Line-ups: Juventus-Chievo

Feb 16, 2014

Juventus revamp their squad and look to Sebastian Giovinco as they try to get back on track against Chievo.

http://markting10.nl/

It kicks off at the Juventus Stadium at 15.00 CET.

The Bianconeri are still top of the Serie A table, but their winning streak has hit problems recently with a Coppa Italia exit to Roma and 2-2 draw with Verona.

Antonio Conte was so furious at his side for throwing away that 2-0 lead against Hellas that he cancelled their day off this week.

http://markting10.nl/

With the Europa League coming up on Thursday, the Coach rests several star players and gives Giovinco a rare start alongside Fernando Llorente.

Some changes are forced upon him, as Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli, Mirko Vucinic and Simone Pepe are all injured.

Martin Caceres and Angelo Ogbonna come in for a completely revamped defence. Daniel Osvaldo is on the bench after suffering from flu this week.

http://markting10.nl/

Conte hopes he’ll be able to celebrate a win on his 100th Serie A game as Juventus Coach.

Chievo have never won in Turin with three draws and seven defeats. They and are struggling to break away from the relegation zone, but Coach Eugenio Corini is a former Juve player.

http://markting10.nl/

Bostjan Cesar is suspended, while Dario Dainelli and Luca Rigoni are sidelined. Michael Agazzi gets his Chievo debut in goal after a January transfer from Cagliari.

The Flying Donkeys are still furious after their defeat to Juventus earlier this season, when Alberto Paloschi had a good goal disallowed in the final minutes.

http://markting10.nl/

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Giovinco

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Isla, Peluso, Padoin, Pogba, Tevez, Osvaldo, Quagliarella


CHIEVO: Agazzi; Frey, Canini, Bernardini; Sardo, Guana, Radovanovic, Hetemaj, Drame; Stoian, Thereau

Chievo bench: Puggioni, Squizzi, Claiton, Kupisz, Lazarevic, Bentivoglio, Obinna, Mbaye, Pellissier, Rubin, Paloschi

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Bianconeri bounce back
to extend Serie A advantage

A week after dropping points in Verona, the Bianconeri ultimately cruised to a comfortable
victory thanks to goals from Kwadwo Asamoah, Claudio Marchisio and Fernando Llorente.

Feb 16, 2014

Juventus returned to winning ways by defeating Chievo 3-1 in Antonio Conte's 100th match at the helm to move 12 points clear of Roma at the top of Serie A.

http://markting10.nl/

The reigning champions triumphed under coach the former Italy international for the 70th time in the league to continue their perfect home record this season.

Conte's side controlled the first half, which was highlighted by Kwadwo Asamoah's stunning goal.

Asamoah nipped in between two Chievo players after a darting run and then finished a one-two with Fernando Llorente with a superb 20-yard curling effort.

http://markting10.nl/

Claudio Marchisio tapped in to double Juve's lead, although Chievo got back into the game in bizarre circumstances, as Stephan Lichtsteiner's clearance hit Martin Caceres and went in.

Juve had let a two-goal lead slip against Chievo's local rivals Verona last week, but Llorente's header calmed nerves and sealed the result.

The hosts, without Giorgio Chiellini due to a calf problem, started brightly despite Carlos Tevez and Paul Pogba dropping to the bench.

http://markting10.nl/

Llorente and Andrea Pirlo shot over in the first 10 minutes before Asamoah's effort in the 17th minute left Chievo goalkeeper Michael Agazzi, on debut after a move from Cagliari, with no chance.

Llorente then curled against the crossbar, although it would not have counted due to a foul in the build-up, before Agazzi's day went from bad to worse.

The 29-year-old spilled a routine free-kick from Pirlo that bounced in front of him and Marchisio benefited, stealing in ahead of Gennaro Sardo to tap in from close range.

http://markting10.nl/

A promising Boukary Drame run amounted to nothing for Chievo, who almost found themselves three goals down after the break when Leonardo Bonucci was agonisingly close to meeting a Pirlo free-kick at the far post after Cyril Thereau's inadvertent flick-on.

The Turin crowd was silenced in the 51st minute though as, under pressure, Lichtsteiner smashed a clearance into the backside of Caceres, leaving Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon stranded as the ball looped into the net.

Before any jitters could creep in, however, the league leaders restored their two-goal advantage seven minutes later, as a Pirlo corner - which came after a dangerous free-kick of his was tipped wide - was nodded in by Llorente, after Agazzi came for the ball and missed it.

http://markting10.nl/

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo - making his home debut - and Tevez came off the bench in the latter stages for Juve but the Southampton loanee could only blaze over from close range with a late chance.

It mattered little though as Juventus celebrated Conte's milestone in style.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juventus see off Chievo

Juventus had a scare after the restart with Martin Caceres
putting into his own net, but swept Chievo aside 3-1.

Feb 16, 2014

The Bianconeri were forced to reshuffle with Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli, Mirko Vucinic and Simone Pepe injured, so Sebastian Giovinco allowed Carlos Tevez a rare rest. Michael Agazzi made his Chievo debut following a loan move from Cagliari, but Bostjan Cesar was banned with Luca Rigoni and Dario Dainelli sidelined.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio Conte was so furious at Juve dropping a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Verona last week that he cancelled their day off.

Andrea Pirlo fired over the bar after Nicolas Frey’s rather clumsy challenge on Fernando Llorente prevented him from turning. Roberto Guana risked a second yellow card in the opening minutes.

Juventus broke the deadlock with a moment of magic from Kwadwo Asamoah, who gathered in midfield and exchanged passes before curling a powerful finish from the edge of the box into the top corner.

http://markting10.nl/

Llorente hit the crossbar, but only after handling the ball.

Juventus doubled their lead on the half-hour when Agazzi only beat away an Andrea Pirlo free kick into the path of Claudio Marchisio from six yards.

After the restart Pirlo’s free kick was deflected inches past the far stick by Gennaro Sardo, but Juve shot themselves in the foot.

http://markting10.nl/

A Chievo counter-attack was trying to set up Sergio Pellissier in the middle, but Stephan Lichtsteiner kicked his clearance on to teammate Martin Caceres and the ricochet flew past Gigi Buffon into the empty net. It was the sixth game in a row that Juve had failed to keep a clean sheet.

The scenario was painfully similar to last week against the other Verona club, as the Bianconeri appeared to not turn up for the start of the second half. Pellissier had a shot charged down in the box and Agazzi fingertipped a Pirlo free kick round the base of the post.

From that corner, Agazzi flapped at Pirlo’s set play and allowed Llorente to nod in undisturbed.

http://markting10.nl/

Giovinco drilled just wide of the near post and Leonardo Bonucci decisively charged down a Guana header in the area – possibly with an arm, but they were so close it could not be considered voluntary.

Giovinco was substituted by Carlos Tevez and there were some jeers from the crowd, to which Conte reacted angrily, embracing the Atomic Ant and shouting at the fans.

Marchisio sprung the offside trap on a classic Pirlo ball over the top, but Agazzi stuck out a foot to deny him. Buffon also needed a save with the last kick of the game.

http://markting10.nl/

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner, Vidal (Padoin 85), Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente (Osvaldo 71), Giovinco (Tevez 71)

CHIEVO: Agazzi; Frey, Canini, Bernardini; Sardo, Guana, Radovanovic, Hetemaj, Drame (Rubin 64); Stoian (Pellissier 46), Thereau (Obinna 78)

Ref: Valeri

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Bianconeri down Flying Donkeys

Feb 16, 2014

Juventus defeated Chievo 3-1 at Juventus Stadium on Sunday in Serie A.

http://markting10.nl/

Goals by Kwadwo Asamoah and Claudio Marchisio gave the Bianconeri a comfortable first-half lead, but Fernando Llorente needed to score a third in the 58th minute in order to neutralise a raid by the Flying Donkeys that had led to an own goal by Martin Caceres.

After a better start to the game, Juventus got the first chance to take the lead. Angelo Ogbonha found Llorente in the box after six minutes, the Spaniard turned to beat a defender, but his finish was very inaccurate.

The Flying Donkeys got their first opportunity a quarter of an hour into the match, but Cyril Thereau’s long-range free kick ended up high above Gianluigi Buffon’s goal.

http://markting10.nl/

They were punished just two minutes later when Asamoah advanced through several Chievo defenders, exchanged quick passes with Llorente and curled the ball into Michael Agazzi’s top-right corner from the arc in front of the penalty area.

The Bianconeri kept knocking on the door and got a second goal through Marchisio. A tricky free kick by Andrea Pirlo was saved by Agazzi, but the ball went into Marchisio’s feet and he gratefully finished in the open net from a very close range.

Chievo started the second half with a burst of energy and for the opening three minutes made Buffon work more than the entire first half, but could not find the finishing touch.

http://markting10.nl/

On the other end, an Andrea Pirlo corner was met by Llorente’s header that went high.

The Flying Donkeys responded with a run by Sergio Pellissier on the right, the captain’s cross it in the middle went as far as Stephan Lichsteiner, but the Swiss international’s clearance met Caceres’ back and deflected into his own goal, cutting Juventus’ lead in half.

Chievo continued to control the tempo and saw a few dangerous shots bravely blocked by Bianconeri defenders. In the 58th minute, however, Llorente restored his team’s two-goal lead by connecting well on Pirlo’s corner and heading in from close range – 3-1 Juventus.

http://markting10.nl/

After 88 minutes, a pass by Pirlo found Marchisio completely unmarked in the penalty area, but Agazzi’s right foot denied the midfielder his second goal.

Another dangerous Juventus corner in the last minute of the regular 90 gave substitute Pablo Osvaldo an opportunity to make it 4-1, but the winter arrival blasted his shot above the goal in what was the last good chance for either team in the match.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Initial reaction and random observations

Feb 16, 2014

It had all the makings of a repeat of history from just seven days ago in Verona.

http://markting10.nl/

Juventus got the 2-0 lead 30 minutes into the game against Chievo just like they did against Hellas Verona. Juventus were clearly the better team in the first half against Chievo just like they were against Hellas Verona. And, just like what happened against Hellas Verona, Juventus' stupidity and a lackluster start to the second half meant their opposition had a chance to get right back in the game.

There was just one difference this Sunday compared to the previous one against Hellas Verona: Juventus didn't blow their 2-0 lead. Their hand was hovering over the candle, but they never got burned.

Thanks to Fernando Llorente's 10th goal of the season, Juventus didn't let history repeat itself in Turin against Chievo. The final scoreline read 3-1 in favor of Juve, though I'm sure there were a few more nervous moments after Stephan Lichtsteiner's attempted clearance bounced off of Martin Caceres' backside and into Gigi Buffon's goal.

http://markting10.nl/

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Llorente: An element of doubt crept in when Chievo scored, but we immediately got the third and managed to win the game. #JuveChievo

That's the difference between this Sunday and last Sunday — when things looked like they were about to go to hell again, Juve weathered the storm. Were there nervous moments? Sure, without a doubt. Just rewind to some of those passes around Buffon's 18-yard box and try to not have your heart rate jump up a little bit.

Amazing how it all works, isn't it? It's a whole lot easier to get three points when you're busy not blowing the lead your worked so hard in the first half to get.

http://markting10.nl/

Random thoughts and observations

• Ray Hudson on Kwadwo Asamoah's goal during the highlights at halftime: "It was a cross between Arabia and a sledgehammer." I mean, the dude has a point. It was a pretty glorious goal to open the scoring. Makes you wonder what Asamoah could do if he played more of a central role from time to time...

Now sing for us, Asa! #BOH

• That was a classic kind of Claudio Marchisio game, wasn't it? Obviously the goal that ended up being the game-winner will get a lot of the play, but he worked his absolute tail off on the defensive side of the ball. How many times did we see him sprinting back after a corner to slow down a Chievo counter or make a key tackle that ended something that was developing? This was the good Marchisio showing up Sunday. No doubt about it.

http://markting10.nl/

• By his standards, Llorente had a relatively quiet day overall. I'm sure a lot of strikers would love to have a "quiet" game and get a goal and an assist. But much like a week ago against Hellas, Llorente just seemed a little bit off the mark. Even with that, he had a quality assist on Asamoah's opener and the goal off an Andrea Pirlo corner (!!) that slowed down Chievo's second-half charge.

• You may have noticed the whistles that accompanied Sebastian Giovinco as he was leaving the pitch while being subbed off in the second half. Bad move? Oh hell yeah. Giovinco looked every bit of a player that hadn't stepped on the field in a competitive match for almost a month. Big group, small group, whatever — you don't do that to your own players...unless it's Jonathan Zebina. Antonio Conte had every right to be upset about what went down at Juventus Stadium. That's just a manager supporting his players. I wouldn't want it any other way, to be honest.

• Conte threw down one hell of a response towards the always outspoken Fabio Capello in his post-match interview. Somebody grab the popcorn because shots have been officially fired and Conte doesn't look like he's going to slow down this barrage any time soon.

http://markting10.nl/

• Juventus unbeaten run update: 16 games, 43 goals scored, 9 goals allowed.

This has been a Juventus unbeaten run update.

• A check of the Serie A table tells us this important piece of information: Plus-12 over Roma. Now we root for Manolo and Friends to keep it that way.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Player Ratings

Goals from Kwadwo Asamoah, Claudio Marchisio and Fernando Llorente give Antonio Conte
a win on his 100th match in charge of the club, taking Juve 12 points clear at the top.

Feb 16, 2014

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - The Azzurri No.1 was a spectator for the majority of the game but produced a good save in the closing stages to deny Hetemaj.

Martín Cáceres - The Uruguayan put in a solid defensive performance and he failed to afford the Chievo attack any space to manoeuvre. However, he scored an unfortunate own goal when the danger should easily have been cleared.

Leonardo Bonucci - An assured performance from Bonucci who made a number of brilliant blocks and hardly put a foot wrong in the defence.

Angelo Ogbonna - Had a magnificent first half but found life more difficult with Pellissier's introduction. Missed a sitter in the final moments.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - The Swiss wideman was rarely exposed defensively but he did not offer as much of an attacking threat as Conte would have liked. He was largely culpable for Chievo's goal.

Claudio Marchisio - Justified his inclusion with a superb midfield display. Showed good reactions to poke home the second goal and was at the heart of most Juventus attacks.

Andrea Pirlo - Pulled the strings effortlessly in midfield and his dangerous set-pieces led to the goals for Marchisio and Llorente.

Arturo Vidal - A typically tenacious box-to-box display from the Chilean who broke up play excellently and distributed the ball to good effect.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Troubled the Chievo defence with his quick footwork and he opened the scoring with a splendid effort.

Sebastian Giovinco - Failed to seize his opportunity and was whistled off the pitch by sections of the Juventus crowd. Showed glimpses of his quality with some good turns and movement but was frequently muscled off the ball.

Fernando Llorente - He was a constant thorn in the Chievo defence with his strong hold-up play and aerial ability. Provided the assist for Asamoah's goal before heading in the third to seal the win.

http://markting10.nl/

Substitutions

Simone Padoin - Entered the action as a late substitute but did not have sufficient time to make an impact.

Carlos Tévez - Helped to stretch the tiring Chievo defence late on but failed to test Agazzi.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo - Hoped to endear himself to the Juventus fans with a committed display and although he did not have many opportunities to showcase his finishing, he linked up well with the likes of Tevez and Pirlo.

http://markting10.nl/

CHIEVO

Michael Agazzi - Not the finest debut for the Chievo newboy who made a few good saves to deny the Juve attack. However, he should have done better with Pirlo's free kick which led to the second goal.

Nicolas Sebastien Frey - A tough-tackling performance from the centre-back who was walking a disciplinary tightrope after an early caution. However, he did well to contain the threat of Giovinco.

Michele Canini - The on-loan Atalanta defender struggled to cope with the physical presence of Llorente and often found himself too static in marking situations.

Alessandro Bernardini - The on-loan Livorno man was Chievo's most impressive defender and he made a number of crucial interceptions and headers to deny the Juve attack.

Gennaro Sardo - Found it difficult to mark Asamoah in the first half but improved as the game wore on and offered a good attacking outlet on the overlap.

Roberto Guana - Struggled to get to grips with Marchisio and Vidal in the midfield although he nearly scored with a late header.

Ivan Radovanovic - The Serbian produced a tireless display in the middle of the pitch and looked tidy in possession.

Perparim Hetemaj - The Finnish international afforded Juventus too much space in the midfield although he did show glimpses of his attacking quality in the second half.

Boukary Dramé - The Senegal international was Chievo's liveliest attacking option in the first half and restricted Lichtsteiner's impact down the right.

Adrian Stoian - The Romanian forward struggled to get on the ball and his lack of movement ensured he was easily marked by the Juventus defence. Was substituted at half-time.

Cyril Thereau - Ran his socks off up front for Chievo and looked a threat when Pellissier was introduced in the second half.

http://markting10.nl/

Substitutions

Matteo Rubin - Added fresh legs and good width to Chievo for the final half hour.

Victor Obinna - The former West Ham striker joined the action as a late substitute and offered a more direct goal threat, going close at the death.

Sergio Pellissier - Made a superb impact from the bench and gave Chievo the urgency they needed. Put the Juventus defence under pressure for the goal and will be expecting a start next time out.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juventus respond to Capello's criticism

Feb 16, 2014

It’s strange to think this Juve side would even understand the word fear. Yet when Martin Caceres scored that own goal just as the second half began, a few worried that a collapse would ensue.

http://markting10.nl/

Hellas Verona had managed to score twice in the second half last week to draw 2-2 while the loss against Fiorentina last October will never be forgotten. Yet, thankfully and for the sake of Antonio Conte’s implanted hair, Juventus stayed on course for the win and managed a third goal to ease the pressure.

If it was entertainment one was looking for then perhaps this was the wrong match to win. Juventus played for the points, doing what was needed to seal a win while Chievo’s tactics were made abundantly clear. Their aim was to play a cautious game, restricting the involvement of Juve’s runners from midfield and defending in numbers in a desperate attempt to restrict the Bianconeri’s penetrative style of play.

Sitting deep in their own half, their hard work was in vain when they allowed Kwadwo Asamoah the room to dribble and finish a perfect chance to award his side the opening goal of the game on the 17th minute.

http://markting10.nl/

The Old Lady spent much of the first half looking for ways to pierce through the defence. Cynical and possessing dogged determination, Juventus took advantage of their superior technical skill and predatory nature to punish any mistake made by the opponent. It took an alert Claudio Marchisio to jump on the error committed by goalkeeper Michael Agazzi to make it 2-0 but in essence, it was an unfair contest.

Chievo deployed in a defensive 5-3-1-1 formation simply had too little quality in their squad to halt the opponent let alone attempt a worthwhile attack.

In the second half, the Flying Donkeys needed to bolster the side and Eugenio Corini brought on Sergio Pellissier who caused the Juve back line a headache. Ambitious and intelligent, his movements gifted his side the opportunity to hope for a comeback whilst Juve’s inability to cope with the loss of their starting centre-backs resulted in the usual defensive catastrophes (pardon the exaggeration). Caceres scored the own goal and fear set in. Was a collapse inevitable for this side that drop their concentration levels in the second half?

http://markting10.nl/

Fernando Llorente guaranteed the win when he scored Juve’s third to seal the three points, allowing the home fans to feel relief.

It wasn’t the greatest of wins but it was an important one to keep up the pace especially considering the possible fatigue the team may suffer in the next month on account of their schedule that includes Europe League matches.

In his post match interviews, Conte took the chance to vent against Fabio Capello’s statements made earlier this week. Never one to boast about the beauty of Serie A in this current state, the Italian league may be suffering but it’s not an easy competition by any stretch of the imagination. For Capello to blame Juve’s poor performance in the Champions League on the lack of competition faced in Serie A is simply wrong.

http://markting10.nl/

Let us make this perfectly clear, a team’s performance in Europe’s prestigious competition does not indicate the strength of the league they play in. Why? Simply because Bayern Munich's Champions League win does not make the Bundesliga the best league in Europe much in the same way Bayer Leverkusen’s humiliating loss to a weak Manchester United make it a poor one this term.

A team’s performance reflects only on the club and not the league. This Juventus more than showed it’s capabilities when pitted against the likes of Real Madrid this year and Chelsea last season. Problems occur, mistakes are made or as we saw this season, the squad started the new term with a less than determined attitude. The failure was all theirs and not of Italy’s league.

Much has been said about the lack of competition Bayern Munich are facing this season in their domestic league while we are yet to forget the supposed ‘lack of competition’ in La Liga. However, both leagues produced Champions League winners in the last three years.

http://markting10.nl/

Conte is learning when it comes to European competition and the squad, as he rightly points out, is growing each day. Presently, Juventus are a team few can defeat in this current state. They are well oiled, fluid and capable of offering alternatives in attack. Last year, they were limited to a set style of play, perhaps too dependent on certain individuals but Conte has focused on the unity of his side to forge ahead since his early days in charge. It is now made clear, more than ever before, that the dynamic of this team unit matters when it comes to the results and how far it has grown.

It is only a matter of time before the Old Lady makes her mark on Europe. In much the same way Borussia Dortmund managed to improve after dropping out in the first round two years ago.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juventus 3-1 Chievo Verona:
6 Things We Learned

Feb 16, 2014

Juventus returned to winning ways against a poor Chievo side, but a 3-1 scoreline was the least that Antonio Conte could have expected.

http://markting10.nl/

In a rather disjointed performance at times, the Old Lady were frustrated by the Flying Donkeys, who had several openings themselves.

Goals from Kwadwo Asamoah, Claudio Marchisio and Fernando Llorente were enough, though, so the calamitous own-goal scored by Martin Caceres did not prove costly.

Here are six things we learned.

http://markting10.nl/

Asamoah's Versatility Could Cushion Blow of Pogba or Vidal Exit in the Summer

Kwadwo Asamoah has shown he is able to impact a game through the middle of the pitch in recent weeks.

Whether that is by using Paul Pogba as a decoy overlapping a run on the left wing, or by combining with quick one-two passing combinations to be released into space through the middle when the opposition chooses to man-mark Juve's centre-midfielders.

Asamoah shone through the latter on Sunday—to devastating effect, too.

http://markting10.nl/

The Ghanaian broke the deadlock against Chievo with a stunning strike from just outside of the penalty area, proving he can bring this to his game moving forward.

It poses the question as to whether he could return to the position that had originally brought his name to the attention of Juventus whilst he was playing at Udinese.

Should the Bianconeri lose one of their star centre-midfielders—Paul Pogba or Arturo Vidal—Conte will have to decide upon a strategy to replace one of the team's key players.

http://markting10.nl/

Claudio Marchisio may return to a starring role, meaning they would probably need to identify a cover, rather than a starting option in the summer.

Asamoah would be able to provide this, meaning that Juve could reinvest the funds raised from a hypothetical sale of Pogba or Vidal to strengthen another area of the team.

http://markting10.nl/

Giovinco's Juve Future Is Doomed

Sebastian Giovinco's Juventus career has never taken off, partly because he has never been afforded time to settle into the first team.

"Formica Atomica" has always needed to win a place in the line-up with substitute appearances or during lower priority matches when Antonio Conte has rested the first-choice forward pairing.

It was the latter for Giovinco on Sunday, as Carlos Tevez was given a rest, so the former Parma star was paired with Fernando Llorente.

http://markting10.nl/

But the 27-year-old was unable to impress, again, which led to jeers as he was substituted in the second half.

The player was clearly frustrated and looked to make a move for the tunnel immediately, but Conte wrapped an arm around the player and spoke some comforting words.

With Dani Osvaldo brought in on loan, starts will become even tougher to come by for Giovinco. With his relationship with the fans souring from both ends, a fresh start in the summer appears inevitable.

http://markting10.nl/

Chemistry Not Right When Back 3 Is Changed

With Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli missing the game through injury, Conte was forced to change his defence against Chievo.

The Bianconeri's balance at the back without one, let alone two of its starting centre-backs was clearly compromised.

Leonardo Bonucci was joined by Martin Caceres and Angelo Ogbonna, who struggled to adequately fill in the qualities needed of the defence vacated by the absences of Chiellini and Barzagli.

http://markting10.nl/

It was a disaster in miscommunication between Stephan Lichtsteiner and Martin Caceres for the own goal that gifted Chievo a way back into the game on Sunday.

It poses the question as to whether Conte should change the shape of the defence should any of the regulars be missing.

Caceres can easily fill in at full-back, while Ogbonna is still not comfortable as one of three centre-backs, compared to the two centre-back formation that he shone in for Torino.

http://markting10.nl/

Llorente Is the Front-Runner for Bargain of the Season

Fernando Llorente scored his 10th goal of the season in just 21 matches in the league.

With one-third of the season still remaining, Llorente has matched the highest total in the league from any player during Conte's first two seasons in charge—although Carlos Tevez has also achieved this feat and has three more goals than him this season.

http://markting10.nl/

With Llorente arriving on a free transfer, and the fact that he is in the prime of his career, it surely puts him at the top of a hypothetical "best bargains from the summer transfer window" list.

Luca Toni, Ciro Immobile and Jose Callejon are also high up in the goalscoring charts and could rival the Spaniard for the title of "the best bargain from the summer transfer window."

http://markting10.nl/

Juve's Added Goals the Key to a Probable Third Consecutive Scudetto

Fernando Llorente added his 10th league goal of the season, meaning that Juve now have three goalscorers having reached double figures this season.

Llorente, Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal have 34 league goals between them now.

That is more than the top three scorers over the entire season from Conte's first two seasons in charge.

http://markting10.nl/

Last season, Mirko Vucinic, Fabio Quagliarella and Sebastian Giovinco combined for 24 goals, while the year before, Vucinic, Alessandro Matri and Claudio Marchisio managed 28 over the course of the entire campaign.

Conte's side are on track to break the team total of goals for a season, too.

http://markting10.nl/

In his first season in charge, Conte's side scored 68 goals (1.79 goals/game). Last year, they scored 71 goals (1.87 goals/game), and this season, they already have 59 goals in 24 games so far (2.46 goals/game).

So goalscoring is something that has clearly improved—and the win over Chievo was a good example, as they put three past the visitors without ever finding a flow to their game.

http://markting10.nl/

Conte Correct in Reaction to Capello, Juve Better Than Ever, but...

Antonio Conte's Juve proved again on Sunday that they can methodically grind out results and comfortably beat Serie A opponents when they are not at their best.

It was not a scintillating performance, but it is a credit to Conte that his tactics enabled the Bianconeri to overwhelm opponents at times and find plenty of opportunities, even when they aren't quite playing to their potential.

Fabio Capello has criticised Conte and this Juventus side over the past three seasons, in particular their inability to crack Europe.

http://markting10.nl/

But Conte reacted vociferously, noting to Sky Sport Italia (via Football Italia), "Capello's [Juventus] sides broke records...but I don’t remember their style of football."

Capello said that Conte's side were only dominant due to the poor quality of Serie A lately, but Conte responded swiftly, saying: "Maybe next year I’ll ask us to be enrolled in the Premier League... I’d say someone who makes these comments is annoying and disrespectful."

Conte knows he must bide his time to prove his worth in Europe, with some critics pointing to the failure in the Champions League as a sign that this team is not great.

http://markting10.nl/

But although this was not a memorable victory, it proved once again that Juve always react to dropping points—that is the sign of a great side.

To have the character to win the next match on each of the four times that they have dropped points this season demonstrates their mental toughness to never allow a "crisis" to develop.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Conte: 'Capello disrespectful'

Feb 16, 2014

Antonio Conte gave Fabio Capello both barrels after he criticised Juventus this week. “There’s more stink in his house.”

http://markting10.nl/

This week former Juve Coach Capello gave an interview suggesting Conte’s team couldn’t succeed in Europe because Serie A was not competitive enough, so it was too easy for them to win the Scudetto.

“Maybe next year I’ll ask us to be enrolled in the Premier League... I’d say someone who makes these comments is annoying and disrespectful to record-breaking campaigns over two years,” Conte told Sky Sport Italia.

“Capello’s sides broke records and their two titles were revoked, but I don’t remember their style of football. I remember Marcello Lippi’s team and even Giovanni Trapattoni's, as they played well, but Capello’s era is famous only for the revocation.

http://markting10.nl/

“I think this Juventus is more complete in every area than my first season. We were on a charge the first time and were the only side to stop Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s Milan winning the Scudetto.

“This is the third season and in my view we have improved in every respect: tactically, physically and psychologically.”

Capello also criticised Conte’s decision to take away Juve’s day off after a 2-2 draw with Hellas Verona last week.

http://markting10.nl/

“I didn’t expect any particular response. It can happen that I need to raise my voice a bit to keep us on the right path, but after the draw in Verona it was only right we didn’t just ignore that. I simply made the squad notice we shouldn’t drop points if we are to achieve something historic with a third consecutive Scudetto.

“History teaches us that keeping the concentration for three years in a row is not simple. This Juventus side is achieving it, but when there are moments I see the tension drop then it’s up to me to revive it. Some say I do that badly, some don’t.

“I can’t do anything now without everyone asking for a poll on whether I ‘slapped’ the players or hand-fed them. I don’t like people who try to act like teachers when they don’t know the situation and frankly ought to look into their own houses, as there’s probably more stink there.”

http://markting10.nl/

Conte also snapped at the crowd in the Juventus Stadium when they jeered Sebastian Giovinco during a 3-1 win over Chievo.

“I find it truly unfair this atmosphere that has emerged around Giovinco. I don’t even want to talk about it. Everyone should look to their conscience.”

Again the Bianconeri were 2-0 up at half-time only to concede straight after the restart, though this time it was a Martin Caceres own goal.

http://markting10.nl/

“It is difficult to keep the same intensity for 95 minutes. At the moment we can’t afford not to, as the moment we drop the concentration levels by a millimetre anything could happen.

“Chievo scored with their first chance, which to be honest we scored ourselves! There are moments in a season when any shot can turn into a goal, so you’ve got to watch out with Roma and Napoli coming up behind you.”

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS 3 - 1 CHIEVO VERONA

Kwadwo Asamoah (17′)
Claudio Marchisio (29′)

Martín Cáceres (51′-O.G.)

Fernando Llorente (58′)

February 16, 2014 - 3:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Corini content after loss to Juventus

Feb 16, 2014

Chievo’s coach Eugenio Corini said after the 3-1 defeat to Juventus on Sunday that if the team plays in a similar manner for the rest of the season, they have a good chance of avoiding relegation.

http://markting10.nl/

After trailing 2-0 at halftime, the Flying Donkeys started the second half much better and put the Bianconeri under good pressure that paid off when Martin Caceres scored an own goal.

“Juventus are a very good team that had huge motivation to win after the draw with Hellas Verona,” Corini told Rai Sport.

“They played a decent first half, but in the second half we played as equals.

http://markting10.nl/

“We were in the game until the end and we need this spirit to end our battle for survival.”

After the loss, Chievo dropped to 19th in the table, two points below safety.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Barzagli back for Juve?

Feb 17, 2014

Defender Andrea Barzagli could be fit in time for Juventus’ Europa League Round of 32 clash with Trabzonspor on Thursday, according to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

http://markting10.nl/

It is reported that the next two days will be decisive in determining whether or not he is ready, but if not Martin Carcares, Leonardo Bonucci and Angelo Ogbonna will all likely start.

Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Mirko Vucinic are all definitely ruled out, as is Fabio Quagliarella who was not even named in the Old Lady’s European squad.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

UEFA Europa League:
Juventus v Trabzonspor

Juventus host Trabzonspor in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday
eyeing redemption after a surprise exit from the UEFA Champions League.

Feb 18, 2014

The two teams have never met in competitive action, but go head to head in the first leg of the last 32 with Juve looking to avenge their recent disappointment at the hands of another Turkish side.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio Conte's men were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League in the group stages as Super Lig champions Galatasaray progressed instead after a 1-0 winner-takes-all victory against Juve in the final Group B game.

Gala held Juve to a 2-2 draw in Turin earlier in a group stage campaign that saw Conte's side earn just one victory, which came against minnows Copenhagen.

Juve's exit from the Champions League came as a surprise, however the Serie A leaders will now be focused on extending their pedigree in the second-tier competition.

http://markting10.nl/

The defending Italian champions have won the tournament on three occasions, although all of those triumphs came when the Europa League was known as the UEFA Cup.

They are, though, sure to face a stern test on Thursday against a side that has yet to lose in the Europa League this season.

Trabzonspor should be accustomed to facing Serie A opposition after twice drawing with Lazio on the way to topping Group J.

http://markting10.nl/

However, their domestic campaign has been less fruitful and they head into the clash without a permanent manager after Mustafa Resit Akcay's resignation earlier this month.

A 4-2 defeat to Akhisar Belediyespor prompted Akcay's decision to step down, with assistant Hami Mandirali taking temporary charge of a side who are ninth and without a Super Lig win in four games.

Forward Emre Gural scored a double on his return to the starting line up in the 2-2 draw at Karabukspor on Saturday, staking his claim for another start.

http://markting10.nl/

Juventus are set to be without defender Giorgio Chiellini due to a thigh injury, while striker Mirko Vucinic is unavailable with a knee problem.

Defender Andrea Barzagli is on the mend after a tendon problem, with Conte set to make a late decision on his fitness.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Chiellini hails Juventus Stadium

Feb 18, 2014

Giorgio Chiellini believes “the Juventus Stadium makes the difference” as they host Trabzonspor in the Europa League.

http://markting10.nl/

The first leg of the Round of 32 tie kicks off on Thursday at 19.00 CET.

“The Juventus Stadium makes the difference, because it frightens those who have to face it,” Chiellini told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

The Europa League Final will be played here in May and naturally the Bianconeri hope to be there, having entered this competition via the Champions League.

http://markting10.nl/

Chiellini won’t be able to play on Thursday, as he is out of action with a calf injury and teammate Andrea Barzagli is also in doubt.

“The calf is feeling better. Fortunately it wasn’t a serious injury. I’ll try to recover as soon as possible, because we have many important games over the next few weeks.”

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Conte ‘to concentrate on football’

Feb 19, 2014

Juventus Coach Antonio Conte has refused to discuss his long term future in Italy after his public row with Fabio Capello.

http://markting10.nl/

The tactician was asked whether his recent exchanges with compatriot Capello and the subsequent criticism he has received had made him want to seek a future outside the peninsula.

“Seriously, I think it’s better to concentrate on the football being played on the pitch as we are approaching a very tough period in the season,” Conte said to the journalists gathered at his pre-match Press conference ahead of the Old Lady’s Europa League tie with Trabzonspor.

“There are less and less games to play in the league and we are in the knockout rounds of the Europa League, so if we want to move forward we must only concentrate on the football.”

http://markting10.nl/

The 44-year-old added that he was taking the Europa League very seriously and explained that he would need a contribution from his entire squad over the coming months.

“I’ve noticed that in the next 52 days, including the national team’s match, the players will have to play 16 games.

“This shows that we all need to be ready, the entire squad needs to be available because I really will need all of them.

http://markting10.nl/

“There is the league and also the Europa League, which we want to honour to the best of our ability.

“We will therefore be looking to approach every match in the best way possible and rotate the squad where we feel necessary.

“The target is always to do well game by game.

http://markting10.nl/

“The Europa League is a very prestigious tournament but we now need to be strong, not just physically but also mentally.

“I have great faith in all the squad.

“Winning the Europa League in our second season back in Europe would be an extraordinary achievement.

http://markting10.nl/

“We know that we underachieved in the Champions League this season and it was our fault.

“But now we have the Europa League and we want to progress.

“I really don’t know if Juventus are favourites to win it or not, if a lot of people think that then I thank them!

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“But we know that even for the favourites, the journey from here to winning the final is a very, very long one.”

Finally, Conte commented on his opponents.

“We are playing a team who finished top of a group including Lazio, we know they are very good going forward,” he said.

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“It’s also a very experienced squad, with players like Zokora, Bosingwa and Malouda.

“We are only thinking about Thursday’s game and doing well in it.”

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Ogbonna: Defence improving

Feb 19, 2014

Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna says his side have improved defensively from earlier in the season following a change of formation.

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The Old Lady have regularly been operating with a three man defence this season and the 25-year-old believes his team have now successfully made the transition.

“I think that with the passing of time we have got used to that way of playing,” Ogbonna said at the pre-match Press conference ahead of his side’s Europa League tie with Trabzonspor.

“This is thanks to the continuity of playing this way and thanks to the coaching. I think things are more fluid now.”

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The Azzurri defender also stated his team’s intention to take the Europa League seriously, with the final set to take place at Juventus Stadium.

“We are very concentrated, but not just for this competition.

“We went out of the Champions League but even then we were concentrated for every match.

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“We will not disrespect the Europa League, we will play to the best of our abilities and look to do everything until the end.

“Our intention is to progress, we know there are a lot of games but we know the most important thing is to get a positive result.”

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Wenger: 'Juve and Napoli favourites'

Feb 19, 2014

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has tipped “Juventus or Napoli” to win the Europa League.

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The two Italian teams entered the tournament after going out of the Champions League, in Napoli’s case only on goal difference when finishing level with Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund on 12 points.

“Every year in Geneva we discuss this double possibility that the teams who fail in the Champions League automatically become favourites for the Europa League,” Wenger told Eurosport.

“I think that is the case for Juventus, who seem the best constructed side and I don’t think they’ll have problems tomorrow against Trabzonspor.

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“The same is true for Napoli, who begin as favourites against Swansea and for the competition in general.”

The Bianconeri have an extra reason to be favourites, as the Final will be played at the Juventus Stadium in Turin.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Juventus squad for Trabzonspor

Feb 19, 2014

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

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The first leg of the Europa League Round of 32 fixture kicks off at 19.00 CET on Thursday.

Chiellini, Barzagli and Vucinic are still suffering from injuries and have not recovered in time for this tie, though the only one of the trio who had any chance of making it was Barzagli.

Daniel Pablo Osvaldo is included, while Fabio Quagliarella was removed from Juve’s UEFA squad list.

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

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Europa League final is Juventus' destiny - Chiellini

With the final to be held on home turf in Turin, the Italy international
is determined to deliver European success to the Bianconeri faithful this season.

Feb 19, 2014

Giorgio Chiellini believes that Juventus are destined to lift the Europa League on home soil this season.

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The Bianconeri suffered a disappointing group-stage exit from the Champions League this term after a shock loss to Galatasaray on matchday 6.

However, they were handed a place in Europe's secondary competition and the Italy international is determined to progress all the way to the final, which will be held in Turin.

"We hope to fulfill our dream of playing in the cup at home. It would be a sign of destiny for all of Juventus," he told Tuttosport.

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"So, make no mistake, we will be approaching this journey with our usual enthusiasm."

Meanwhile, Chiellini has spoken of his enthusiasm for the club which he joined from Fiorentina back in 2005.

"I love everything about this club. Their story, for example, has more charm thany anyone else's. You realise what Juve really is.

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"You shudder whenever you hear your name sung by 40,000 people. It makes all the difference because it scares the opponent."

Juventus' Europa League round-of-32 tie is against Trabzonspor, with the first game taking place in Italy on Thursday at 19:00CET.

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Conte: Juventus to honour Europa League

The Bianconeri boss believes it would be an "extraordinary" achievement if they could
win the competition and has hinted at widespread changes in the coming weeks.

Feb 19, 2014

Antonio Conte says it would be an extraordinary achievement for Juventus if they secured the Europa League this season.

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The Serie A champions are set to play Trabzonspor in the last 32 of the competition on Thursday at Juventus Stadium having dropped out of the Champions League in December. Conte has named a strong squad with only Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinc absent.

With Juve on course for a third straight Serie A title, the Bianconeri coach is keen to ensure all of his squad remain available for a tough fixture run-in but insisted he would look to "honour" Europe's second-tier club competition.

"In the next 52 days, including the international fixtures, the players will feature in 16 games. We all need to be ready for this," he told reporters.

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"I need a full squad at my disposal for the upcoming run of fixtures. We want to honour the Europa League as best we can.

"Winning the Europa League would be extraordinary. It's an opportunity we all need to take and I expect everyone to contribute.

"We're up against a team who won their group ahead of Lazio. They've got some strong players in forward areas."

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Juve finished third in Group B of the Champions League following a last-gasp defeat to Galatasaray in a game that had to be rearranged due to snow in Istanbul.

Conte's men join the likes of Napoli, Porto and Ajax in dropping down to the Europa League and the Italian is wary of the challenge his side face in trying to win the competition.

"Thanks to whoever thinks Juve are favourites, but there's a long road ahead and we'll need to be at the top of our game to progress," he continued.

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"We're focused and need to be determined if we want to make progress and achieve important things.

"The Europa League is a goal we want to achieve. With all the players we have here, I've got great belief in my squad."

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Juventus-Trabzonspor Preview:
Bianconeri seek European redemption

Antonio Conte's side were knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage prior
to Christmas but have a second chance at success on the continent in the Europa League.

Feb 19, 2014

Juventus host Trabzonspor in the Europa League on Thursday eyeing redemption after a surprise exit from the Champions League prior to the winter break.

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Antonio Conte's men were knocked out of the competition in the group stages by another Turkish outfit - Super Lig champions Galatasaray - and face tomorrow's visitors for the first time in their history.

The defending Italian champions have won the tournament on three occasions, although all of those triumphs came in the Europa League's former Uefa Cup format.

They are, though, sure to face a stern test on Thursday against a side that has yet to lose in this season's competition and who have already fared well against Italian opposition, having drawn twice with Lazio on their way to topping Group J.

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However, their domestic campaign has been less fruitful and they head into the clash without a permanent coach after Mustafa Resit Akcay's resignation earlier this month.

A 4-2 defeat to Akhisar Belediyespor prompted Akcay's decision to step down, with assistant Hami Mandirali taking temporary charge of a side who are ninth and without a Super Lig win in four games.

Forward Emre Gural scored a double on his return to the starting line up in the 2-2 draw at Karabukspor on Saturday, staking his claim for another start.

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Juventus are set to be without defender Giorgio Chiellini due to a thigh injury, while striker Mirko Vucinic is unavailable with a knee problem.

Defender Andrea Barzagli is on the mend after a tendon problem, with Conte set to make a late decision on his fitness.

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Last Five Matches

JUVENTUS

Feb 16, 2014 - Juventus 3 - 1 Chievo - Serie A
Feb 9, 2014 - Hellas Verona 2 - 2 Juventus - Serie A
Feb 2, 2014 - Juventus 3 - 1 FC Internazionale - Serie A
Jan 25, 2014 - Lazio 1 - 1 Juventus - Serie A
Jan 21, 2014 - Roma 1 - 0 Juventus - Coppa Italia


TRABZONSPOR AŞ

Feb 15, 2014 - Kardemir Karabük 2 - 2 Trabzonspor AŞ - Super Lig
Feb 9, 2014 - Trabzonspor AŞ 2 - 4 Akhisar Bld. - Super Lig
Feb 3, 2014 - Çaykur Rizespor 0 - 0 Trabzonspor AŞ - Super Lig
Jan 25, 2014 - Trabzonspor AŞ 1 - 1 Besiktas - Super Lig
Dec 29, 2013 - Trabzonspor AŞ 2 - 1 Antalyaspor A.S. - Super Lig

[Socrates 8430]

JUVENTUS - TRABZONSPOR

February 20, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Aleksei Kulbakov (Belarus)

Taking a closer look at Trabzonspor

Feb 19, 2014

While we have enjoyed watching Juventus success on the domestic front, it's time for them to prove their worth in Europe and their first Europa League match pits the Italians against the Black Sea giants of Trabzonspor.

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The Bianconeri directors were really hoping to avoid a Turkish team simply because they did not want to make another unlucky journey to the country. It's difficult to forget that fateful night in Istanbul when Galatasaray knocked Juventus out of the Champions League. However, Trabzonspor are delighted with the prospect of facing the Italian side, who seem to struggle to play they way they know how against Turkish opposition.

Yet Trabzonspor, it must be noted, should not be feeling too confident considering the current problems they are suffering. Yet to manage a win in 2014, they have struggled to collect points and sit ninth in the league, 17 points behind first-place Fenerbahce. Their coach Mustafa Akçay -- a man renowned for his work with developing young players -- stepped down after the 4-2 loss to Akhisar Belediyespor, leaving the club in the hands of Hami Mandirali, a former club legend.

Usually deployed in their 4-2-3-1 formation, their defence is the reason behind their initial success this season and their powerful displays in the Europa League, although on average they still concede 1.3 goals a game. Attack-wise, they have managed only 30 goals this season; efficient and fluid they are not reliant on any particular striker but, like Juventus, their goals are shared and very much based on team effort. That said, a lack of quality in the final third has proved problematic.

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In the Europa League this season Trabzonspor boasts an astonishingly great record on the road, securing five wins out of six away from home and going undefeated in all 12 matches. Possessing strength of character and ability to do the basics well, they like to absorb the pressure before using their predatory nature to hurt the opponent on the counter-attack. They are efficient and pragmatic, but it seems they have lost the ability to intimidate the opponents in their usual way.

Great at exposing gaps on the field and making the most of mistakes committed by the opponent, they boast an excellent player in Olcan Adin. Versatile and technical, the right-sided player is the team's top goalscorer both in Europe and in the Super Lig, and was the side's only bright spark in Akçay's last game in charge against Akhisar Belediyespor.

Of course one cannot forget Florent Malouda; the Frenchman has put in some impressive displays for the side but, thankfully for the Old Lady, will be sidelined for Thursday night's match in Turin.

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With the Coach gone and Mandirali at the helm, it remains to be seen how much the tactics and style of play will change. In his first match in charge, Mandirali did not change much but it makes preparing for that match that bit harder for Antonio Conte, who is uncertain as to how the Turks will play.

Sadly for the Italian Champions, neither Giorgio Chiellini nor Andrea Barzagli will be fit to take part in the match and there's a worry that Conte will opt against playing his usual starting line-up, preserving them instead for the upcoming Turin derby.

As a result, it seems that Martin Caceres and Angelo Ogbonna will join Leonardo Bonucci at the back whilst Mauricio Isla and Federico Peluso will take charge in the wide areas. Claudio Marchisio will line up from the outset alongside Paul Pogba but Fernando Llorente will be rested, giving Pablo Osvaldo the opportunity to play alongside Carlos Tevez.

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Whilst Juventus are tough to beat even when the squad players are playing, there is a worry they may underestimate the ambition of a Turkish side desperate to achieve something and climb out of their current dark moment. For the sake of Italy, Juventus cannot treat this competition with disdain especially, as they can afford to perform well in all the competitions in which they partake.

A victory on Thursday will help dispel rumours that the Bianconeri are only fit to win domestic challenges.