Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Insigne proud of Del Piero praise

Mar 30, 2014

Lorenzo Insigne was “very happy” to hear praise from Alessandro Del Piero ahead of tonight’s Napoli-Juventus.

AMAZONIAN

Sydney FC star and Bianconeri legend Del Piero commented on the game and had particular praise for Insigne.

“Lorenzo was very happy to read Alex Del Piero’s words, especially as he has never disguised that he takes him as a role model both as a player and as a person,” said Insigne’s agent Antonio Ottaiano.

“Del Piero is right and Lorenzo is aware that he needs to work every day, with sweat and sacrifice, to cultivate his talent.

AMAZONIAN

“Insigne has shown his humility many times, always putting himself at the disposal of every Coach who worked with him.

“Once again, Del Piero showed his greatness by giving advice to a young talent for Naples and Italy. Lorenzo hopes to follow in Del Piero’s footsteps, wearing the jersey of the team he always supported – Napoli – and to also reach the same heights with the Nazionale.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

'Conte is the Messi and Ronaldo
of coaches,' says Ravanelli

The former Bianconeri striker says the Italian is the only
difference between the club and rivals such as Napoli.

Mar 30, 2014

Fabrizio Ravanelli has hailed Juventus trainer Antonio Conte as the "Lionel Messi" of coaching.

AMAZONIAN

The Bianconeri face third-placed Napoli at San Paolo on Sunday and have the opportunity to extend their lead over Rafael Benitez's men to 23 points.

But Ravanelli feels that the substantial gap between the two sides is not down to the respective qualities of the two squads, rather the unique ability of Conte.

"Between these two roses [Juventus and Napoli], there are 20 points," the 45-year-old wrote in his column for Tuttosport.

AMAZONIAN

"Conte is the difference. Antonio is the best coach ever - he's the Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo of technicians. I prefer him to Rafa Benitez, but also to all others - including a huge names like Jose Mourinho.

"What Conte has done for Juve no one else in the world has ever managed to do. As long as Antonio is there, Juve will always win the Scudetto - that can be up to 5-6 titles in a row."

The retired forward, who won a Serie A and Champions League whilst at Juventus, also paid tribute to Carlos Tevez, who he sees as a big loss for the game with Partenopei.

AMAZONIAN

"Tevez's absence will be felt heavily," Ravanelli continued.

"But you can bear it for a game. In everything he does - chasing, fighting, defending - I see my spirit in him.

AMAZONIAN

"He has scored 19 goals and he is fantastic. It would be great for Argentina to play Tevez and Higuain together. I do not understand why Argentina boss Alejandro Sabella ignores the possibility of them playing together. A trident with Lionel Messi would be a fairy tale."

Juventus look set to retain their Serie A title, sitting top with 81 points from 30 games - currently 14 ahead of Roma in second.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

What Rafa Benitez and Napoli must do
to end Juventus’ Scudetto dominance

The southerners were tipped as Serie A title challengers in August, but find
hemselves 20 points behind their rivals, so how can they reach the Bianconeri's level?

Mar 30, 2014

COMMENT
By Carlo Garganese

At the start of the 2013-14 season there was a buzz around Naples that hadn’t been present since the glory days of Diego Maradona in the late 1980s.

AMAZONIAN

After splashing out just under €90 million on new recruits – acquiring another Argentine star in Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain – and led by a proven winner, Rafa Benitez, there was a real belief among Neapolitans that their side could claim a first Scudetto for almost a quarter of a century.

Despite the loss of Edinson Cavani to PSG, the players themselves were confident too.

"The fans are asking us for the title? We hope this can be the right year for Napoli to win the Scudetto," said Marek Hamsik.

AMAZONIAN

"I am playing for a great club that will fight to win the Scudetto," promised Pepe Reina.

Even Maradona offered his royal seal of approval through his lawyer Angelo Pisani: "Maradona is sure that Higuain's Napoli can trouble Juventus. Diego has predicted that Higuain will be the top scorer in Italy. He is optimistic, Napoli are worthy of the Scudetto."

A fantastic start to the campaign, which saw Napoli win their opening four league matches – scoring 11 goals in the process – and drop just five Serie A points from an available 33, only further strengthened these convictions. As did the impressive Champions League matchday one victory over last year’s finalists Borussia Dortmund.

AMAZONIAN

But a 3-0 thumping at the hands of reigning Serie A champions Juventus in Turin on November 10 hit Napoli’s title aspirations hard and it is a blow they have never recovered from. As the two sides prepare to meet again at the San Paolo on Sunday night, a mammoth 20 points separate the hosts in third from the visitors in first.

Former Juventus and Italy boss Giovanni Trapattoni believes that the gap between the two sides is not as big as the Serie A table suggests.

"Juventus this year have been incredibly consistent but, in terms of the quality of their play, they are not 20 points better than Napoli," he stressed.

AMAZONIAN

Nevertheless, if Napoli are to seriously challenge their bitter northern rivals next season then there are a number of weak areas in their squad that they must address.

First of all, goalkeeper Pepe Reina – whose loan deal must be made permanent in the summer at all costs – is not protected by his defence. None of Napoli’s right-back options are good enough – including first choice Christian Maggio. The Italy international was an outstanding attacking wingback at his peak in a 3-5-2 system but has never been defensively or tactically sound. He is simply unsuited to a four-man backline and at the age of 32 is on a downward slope.

On the other side, Faouzi Ghoulam has performed well since arriving from Saint-Etienne in January but he is still somewhat unproven. In the centre of defence, Raul Albiol and Federico Fernandez are steady - but steady doesn't cut the mustard at elite level. Compare Juventus’ backline of Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli to that of Napoli’s and the difference in quality is astronomical. ‘Defences win championships’ is one of the few footballing cliches that actually holds some truth.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli’s attacking midfield options are enviable and few in Serie A can boast the dynamism and explosiveness of Dries Mertens, Lorenzo Insigne, Jose Callejon and Marek Hamsik – even if the Slovakian has been horribly out of form in 2014. But the shield behind these stars is far from bullet-proof.

Jorginho, who joined from Verona at the start of the year, has the potential to develop into an exceptional all-round regista but Napoli’s other options in the centre of the park cannot offer the protection that an Arturo Vidal or Paul Pogba can, or even a Daniele De Rossi, Kevin Strootman or Radja Nainggolan at Roma. Napoli turned down the chance to sign the latter in January and it is a decision they probably now regret.

The southerners need a combative defensive midfielder to complement the more cultured Jorginho. Benitez’s old favourite Javier Mascherano is a possibility this July and his type would fit the bill perfectly, even if he will have just turned 30.

AMAZONIAN

In attack, Napoli possess arguably the best first striker in Serie A in Gonzalo Higuain but this season they have been too over-reliant on the ex-Madrid man. A team fighting on two fronts needs at least two quality options in the centre forward role. Backup Duvan Zapata has fallen well short of the required grade, while Goran Pandev is not naturally a striker and lacks the pace to operate as a lone frontman. An alternative to Higuain has to be located ahead of 2014-15.

Benitez must also address some of his own weaknesses. As impressive a strategist as he often is in big matches – this term Napoli have defeated Dortmund, Arsenal, Inter, Milan home and away, and eliminated Roma from the Coppa Italia – the Spaniard continues to drop too many points against smaller outfits, as was also the case during his time at Liverpool. Napoli have failed to beat Sassuolo, Parma, Udinese, Chievo and Genoa at home, while faltering against the likes of Cagliari, Livorno and Bologna away. Juventus steamroll such opposition, as their incredible 26 wins from 30 games demonstrates.

Should Napoli cure most of the above problems ahead of next season – and it would be fantasy football to expect a panacea – only then can they harbour serious aspirations of ending the Serie A dominance of a Juventus machine that win, lose or draw on Sunday will soon claim a third successive Scudetto.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Napoli-Juventus Betting Preview:
La Vecchia Signora to edge a tight encounter

Rafa Benitez's men have been struggling for goals in recent weeks, and Al Hain-Cole
expects them to come unstuck against the league leaders' miserly defence on Sunday.

Mar 30, 2014

After ending Parma’s 17-match unbeaten streak with a 2-1 home victory in midweek, Juventus face another difficult test as they travel to the Stadio San Paolo to take on Napoli on Sunday.

AMAZONIAN

Having recorded a comfortable 3-0 win over these opponents in Turin back in November, Antonio Conte’s men are 6/4 (2.50) favourites with Paddy Power to complete the double with an eighth consecutive victory.

I Partenopei bounced back from last weekend’s 1-0 home defeat against Fiorentina with a 4-2 victory at Catania on Wednesday and are available at 9/5 (2.80) to come out on top in this one.

This fixture has resulted in a draw in each of the last two Serie A seasons and you can get odds of 9/4 (3.25) on them sharing the spoils once again this time out.

AMAZONIAN

Having seen his side score just nine times in the previous nine games, Rafa Benitez will have been delighted with Wednesday’s four-goal haul, particularly as Duvan Zapata scored twice after replacing the tired Gonzalo Higuain up front.

However, putting four past the bottom club is hardly ideal preparation for a game against the runaway league leaders, who have conceded just twice in their last 10 fixtures and kept five consecutive clean sheets on the road.

With this in mind, Sunday’s clash is likely to follow the pattern of Napoli’s previous six Serie A fixtures in featuring under 2.5 goals, which you can back at odds of 8/11 (1.73).

AMAZONIAN

That bet would also have paid out in nine of La Vecchia Signora’s previous 10 games, so should be more than safe considering they are missing suspended top-scorer Carlos Tevez for the trip down south.

Nevertheless, the champions’ irrepressible winning habit should see them come out on top in a tight encounter, available at tempting 9/2 (5.50) odds.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Inler: 'Anything can happen'

Mar 30, 2014

Gokhan Inler warned “anything can happen in 90 minutes” when Napoli welcome Juventus tonight.

AMAZONIAN

“It is a very special game for all of us and anything can happen in 90 minutes. It might just take one goal to win it and we’ll do everything we can,” the Swiss midfielder told Sky Sport Italia.

“We have to focus on our own path and get as many points as possible. This will be another chance to bring three points home.

AMAZONIAN

“It will be a strong Napoli, we want to win this game and know how good Juventus are, as they are having a record-breaking campaign.

“We’ll play our way and see what happens at the end.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Line-ups: Napoli-Juventus

Mar 30, 2014

It’s Gonzalo Higuain and Lorenzo Insigne against Fernando Llorente and Daniel Osvaldo in Napoli-Juventus.

AMAZONIAN

The big game kicks off at the Stadio San Paolo at 20.45 CET.

Leaders Juve visit third-placed Napoli, who are still in the race to catch Roma in second and want revenge for their mauling in Turin earlier this season.

Capocannoniere Carlos Tevez is suspended for the visitors, who are also without Andrea Barzagli, Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso, Fabio Quagliarella and Simone Pepe.

AMAZONIAN

This means Osvaldo steps in to partner Llorente in a new forward line and the man on loan from Southampton has a lot to prove.

His performance this evening could well decide whether or not Juve make his move permanent.

At the back Martin Caceres again steps in, while Paul Pogba, Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo form a world class midfield.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli are fresh from a 4-2 win away to Catania on Wednesday night and the only absentees are Christian Maggio, Juan Camilo Zuniga and Rafael Cabral.

Higuain leads the way with support from Insigne, Marek Hamsik and Jose Callejon, while Gokhan Inler joins Jorginho in midfield.

Faouzi Ghoulam returns from suspension at left-back, while the versatile Paulo Henrique is on the right.

AMAZONIAN

The Juventus team bus was pelted with eggs both on its way from the airport yesterday and towards the stadium this evening.

Many of the supporters have been at the San Paolo for hours already to avoid traffic jams and soak up the atmosphere.

AMAZONIAN

NAPOLI: Reina; Henrique, Fernandez, Albiol, Ghoulam; Inler, Jorginho; Insigne, Hamsik, Callejòn; Higuain

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Osvaldo

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Llorente: 'Victory step towards title'

Mar 30, 2014

Fernando Llorente admits a Juventus win at Napoli tonight “would be a very big step towards the title.”

AMAZONIAN

“I am ready for my San Paolo debut. You can tell it’s a tough arena, but we are all prepared for this game and aware of how important it is for us,” Llorente told Sky Sport Italia.

Capocannoniere Carlos Tevez is suspended, so the Spaniard will be partnered by Daniel Osvaldo.

“We are coming here to give it our all so we can win the Scudetto. I think a victory today would be a very big step towards the title, as Roma aren’t giving up and neither must we.

AMAZONIAN

“Napoli are a great side with very talented players, so we must do the same way we did at the Juventus Stadium against them. We also hope for a bit of luck, naturally.

“I’ve heard the atmosphere here is extraordinary and I can’t wait to experience it.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Gonzalo Higuain returns for Napoli against Juventus

Mar 30, 2014

Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain has been restored to the starting lineup for his side's Serie A clash with leaders Juventus this evening.

AMAZONIAN

Higuain was left on the bench for Wednesday's 4-2 win over Catania, coming on for the final 11 minutes as Rafael Benitez's side eased to a comfortable victory.

The Argentine is one of four changes for Napoli from that midweek win, with Raul Albiol, Faouzi Ghoulam and Gokhan Inler also coming into the side.

Juventus, meanwhile, have made just the one change to the side that edged past 10-man Parma on Wednesday, with goalscorer Carlos Tevez missing out through suspension.

AMAZONIAN

Pablo Osvaldo comes in for the former Manchester City striker as Juventus look to move 14 points clear at the top of the table.


Napoli: Reina; Albiol, Henrique, Fernandez, Ghoulam; Inler, Hamsik, Jorginho; Higuain, Callejon, Insigne

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

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Benitez: 'Fans lined the streets'

Mar 30, 2014

Rafa Benitez admits “it looked like a Champions League game with fans lining the streets” to cheer on Napoli’s team bus.

AMAZONIAN

The Coach spoke to Sky Sport Italia ahead of tonight’s Serie A clash with leaders Juventus. Click here for the line-ups.

“It looked like a Champions League game with so many fans lining the streets to cheer us on. You can tell how much it means to the supporters, but for us it has to mean only three points,” said the Coach.

Carlos Tevez is top scorer, but cannot play this evening because he is sitting out a one-match ban.

AMAZONIAN

“We knew from the start the squad was so strong that they could play even without one of their stars.”

Napoli are in third place and can still push to catch Roma, even if they won 2-0 at Sassuolo this morning.

“Roma’s victory was to be expected at Sassuolo. We know we have to play our games, win every one and see where we end up.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Marotta: 'Juve had police escort'

Mar 30, 2014

Juventus director Beppe Marotta hit back at Rafa Benitez and revealed the welcome in Naples was “not as bad as last year.”

AMAZONIAN

The general manager spoke to Sky Sport Italia ahead of tonight’s Serie A showdown at the Stadio San Paolo.

“We are forced to play every game with huge motivation, because all our opponents play the game of their lives against us.

“The journey to the stadium was better than last year, certainly, but it still doesn’t seem right that a football team has to be accompanied to the stadium by a police escort with armoured vehicles. There were some eggs thrown and a few insults, but overall not that bad.”

AMAZONIAN

There is a huge security presence around this game and reports police confiscated fireworks that were hidden in baguettes, frisking both Juventus and Napoli fans on their way in.

Marotta commented on Napoli Coach Benitez’s claim Juventus have a huge advantage in the Scudetto race due to their larger revenue.

“Coaches should primarily talk about football and leave the economic side to directors. If it was a compliment, then I’ll take it, but I didn’t see that approach taken in the papers.

AMAZONIAN

“Juventus are one of the oldest clubs in Italy and a global brand, while if we increased our revenue in recent years it is down to the hard work of the President, directors and management.”

Roma Coach Rudi Garcia said today that he hopes Napoli win, as he still believes they can catch Juventus at the top of the table.

“It seems only right that Garcia is in charge of Roma and has to motivate his men to the end, but we are motivated too and have no intention of easing off. We have an advantage, but still know we have to bring out quality and determination in every match.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

HT 1-0: Napoli lead Juventus

Mar 30, 2014

Jose Callejon gave Napoli the half-time lead over Juventus after heroics from Gigi Buffon, but it was marginally offside.

AMAZONIAN

This has always been a huge fixture in Serie A and also in Serie B, as both clubs were promoted together in the 2006-07 campaign. Going into the San Paolo there were 20 points separating first from third, but Capocannoniere Carlos Tevez was suspended with Andrea Barzagli, Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso, Fabio Quagliarella and Simone Pepe sidelined. The Partenopei missed Christian Maggio, Juan Camilo Zuniga and Rafael Cabral, but Faouzi Ghoulam returned from suspension.

Bad news straight away for Juve, as Arturo Vidal started limping after 90 seconds and then fell to the ground pointing to his right knee. Replays suggest it seemed to buckle under him after a pass, but he continued after a few minutes of treatment.

Gigi Buffon needed a stunning save from point-blank range when a wayward effort was redirected by Jose Callejon. From the resulting corner Buffon parried and Marek Hamsik had the ball in the net, but was correctly flagged offside.

AMAZONIAN

Buffon was called into action again on nine minutes, flying to flap Hamsik’s first-time shot out from under the bar from seven yards.

Napoli were dominating the early play and pinning Juve back into their own half. The first Bianconeri opportunity came after 25 minutes, as Fernando Llorente struggled to turn so Stephan Lichtsteiner fired straight at Pepe Reina.

Insigne was very lively and his pull-back flashed across the face of goal, behind Kwadwo Asamoah and Higuain to find Callejon, whose effort stung Buffon’s gloves.

AMAZONIAN

Llorente just failed to get his head to a Lichtsteiner cross, held off by Paulo Henrique, but Napoli finally found their breakthrough.

Callejon got round the back of Asamoah on the very edge of the offside trap to come sliding in and volleyed Insigne’s floated cross from the left. It was an extremely close decision, as his head appeared to be offside by a matter of inches.

Daniel Osvaldo turned an overhead kick off target and in first half stoppages Higuain fell under Chiellini pressure, but seemed to lose his balance and the referee waved play on.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli 1-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Callejon 37 (N)

Napoli: Reina; Henrique, Fernandez, Albiol, Ghoulam; Inler, Jorginho; Insigne, Hamsik, Callejon; Higuain

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

Ref: Orsato

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Callejon and Mertens keep
Serie A title race alive

The Spaniard's first-half finish and the Belgian winger's clinical
second ensure the Bianconeri's lead at the top of the table remains at 11 points.

Mar 30, 2014

Napoli ensured the Serie A title race will remain alive for a while longer after Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens gave them a 2-0 win over Juventus on Sunday.

AMAZONIAN

The Spaniard prodded home from close range in the first half to put the hosts in front, although he was fortunate to escape an offside flag following Lorenzo Insigne's cross.

Mertens sealed the win in the closing minutes with a well-taken finish to leave Juve's lead at the top at 11 points following Roma's win over Sassuolo.

The defending champions went into the match on the back of seven straight wins in the league and Inter's record points total of 97 looked very much in their sights, but Napoli's commanding display and win has put that in doubt.

AMAZONIAN

Defeat for Juve - only their second in Serie A in 2013-14 - means their lead at the top of the table stands at 11 points after Roma won earlier in the day at Sassuolo, but Antonio Conte's men remain very much in line to secure a third successive title.

Conte's counterpart Rafael Benitez made the point of highlighting the two sides' differing revenues in the build-up and Juve's financial firepower was encapsulated by Italy international Pablo Daniel Osvaldo replacing the suspended Carlos Tevez in attack.

However, it was the hosts who looked more dangerous in the early stages and Buffon produced a crucial save after just six minutes, parrying away Callejon's close-range flick.

AMAZONIAN

Marek Hamsik had a goal disallowed for offside a few moments later, but went close to netting legitimately in the 10th minute as Buffon acrobatically tipped his effort over following Henrique's cut-back.

The visitors finally tested Pepe Reina with 25 minutes on the clock, but he collected Stephan Lichtsteiner's tame left-footed shot with ease.

Juve's attacking threat continued to dwindle and they found themselves behind in the 37th minute, as Callejon directed Lorenzo Insigne's deep cross past Buffon, despite appearing to be offside.

AMAZONIAN

After an inept first-half performance, Juve offered a little more from an attacking perspective in the second period, but Napoli still looked dangerous on the break and solid at the back.

Despite their improvement, Juve had to rely on Buffon once again to keep them in the game in the 60th minute, with the veteran palming Faouzi Ghoulam's free kick on to the roof of the goal.

Hamsik should have wrapped up the three points with 12 minutes to go as hit a gentle effort at Buffon, but Mertens made sure a few moments later, latching on to Goran Pandev's lofted pass before rifling into the net to secure a 2-0 win.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli bring down Juventus

Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens have blown the Scudetto race
open by beating Juventus 2-0 in a San Paolo firecracker.

Mar 30, 2014

The Bianconeri suffered only their second Serie A defeat of the season, the other being a 4-2 at Fiorentina in October. It is also the first time they have failed to score this season. Roma are now 11 points adrift, but with a game in hand against Parma to be played on Wednesday.

AMAZONIAN

This has always been a huge fixture in Serie A and also in Serie B, as both clubs were promoted together in the 2006-07 campaign. Going into the San Paolo there were 20 points separating first from third, but Capocannoniere Carlos Tevez was suspended with Andrea Barzagli, Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso, Fabio Quagliarella and Simone Pepe sidelined. The Partenopei missed Christian Maggio, Juan Camilo Zuniga and Rafael Cabral, but Faouzi Ghoulam returned from suspension.

Bad news straight away for Juve, as Arturo Vidal started limping after 90 seconds and then fell to the ground pointing to his right knee. Replays suggest it seemed to buckle under him after a pass, but he continued after a few minutes of treatment.

Gigi Buffon needed a stunning save from point-blank range when a wayward effort was redirected by Jose Callejon. From the resulting corner Buffon parried and Marek Hamsik had the ball in the net, but was correctly flagged offside.

AMAZONIAN

Buffon was called into action again on nine minutes, flying to flap Hamsik’s first-time shot out from under the bar from seven yards.

Napoli were dominating the early play and pinning Juve back into their own half. The first Bianconeri opportunity came after 25 minutes, as Fernando Llorente struggled to turn so Stephan Lichtsteiner fired straight at Pepe Reina.

Insigne was very lively and his pull-back flashed across the face of goal, behind Kwadwo Asamoah and Higuain to find Callejon, whose effort stung Buffon’s gloves.

AMAZONIAN

Llorente just failed to get his head to a Lichtsteiner cross, held off by Paulo Henrique, but Napoli finally found their breakthrough.

Callejon got round the back of Asamoah on the very edge of the offside trap to come sliding in and volleyed Insigne’s floated cross from the left. It was an extremely close decision, as his head appeared to be offside by a matter of inches.

Daniel Osvaldo turned an overhead kick off target and in first half stoppages Higuain fell under Chiellini pressure, but seemed to lose his balance and the referee waved play on.

AMAZONIAN

Juventus seemed more aggressive after the restart and Reina smothered a Lichtsteiner effort, but Buffon again came to the rescue by fingertipping Ghoulam’s free kick on to the crossbar.

Mirko Vucinic was the final substitution in place of an unhappy Osvaldo and immediately curled off target. The visitors were having a lot more possession in the second half and Vucinic knocked down a cross for Claudio Marchisio, but it was just over his head.

Ghoulam needed a well-timed sliding tackle to block Isla as he was pulling the trigger inside the penalty area.

AMAZONIAN

Juve were dominating now and Hamsik sprung the offside trap from a Pandev slide-rule pass only to scuff his finish at Buffon.

Dries Mertens came off the bench and scored with a classic route one game. It was a Reina long throw from a corner, Pandev’s cross-field pass and Mertens held off Marchisio to smash an angled drive across Buffon into the far bottom corner. The Belgium international had only been on the field for a couple of minutes.

There were six minutes of stoppages, mainly due to a pause for bottles being thrown while Pirlo was trying to take a corner. Reina rushed off his line to anticipate Vidal, while Insigne set up Mertens to balloon over. Vidal was booked for simulation when he dragged his foot looking for Blerim Dzemaili’s leg in the box and did not protest the decision.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli: Reina; Henrique, Fernandez, Albiol, Ghoulam; Inler, Jorginho; Insigne, Hamsik (Mertens 79), Callejon (Dzemaili 89); Higuain (Pandev 73)

Juventus: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba (Marchisio 60), Asamoah (Isla 53); Llorente, Osvaldo (Vucinic 69)

Ref: Orsato

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli end Juventus' 23-match unbeaten streak

Napoli have condemned Serie A leaders Juventus to just their second defeat of the season
this evening, ending their 23-match unbeaten streak with a 2-0 victory at the Stadio San Paolo.

Mar 30, 2014

The hosts almost broke the deadlock after just six minutes when Gokhan Inler's shot deflected into the path of Jose Callejon, who was then denied by a fine stop from Gianluigi Buffon.

AMAZONIAN

Buffon was called into action again four minutes later when Marek Hamsik latched on to a cross before curling an effort towards goal, but the Juve keeper was equal to it.

The visitors' first real sight of goal came with 26 minutes on the clock as Pablo Osvaldo set up Stephan Lichtsteiner, who drew a routine save from Pepe Reina.

Napoli responded with another chance of their own three minutes later as Faouzi Ghoulam's cross from the left found its way to Callejon, whose shot once again kept out by Buffon.

AMAZONIAN

Callejon was not to be denied for much longer, however, as he opened the scoring eight minutes before half time with a close-range finish from another Ghoulam cross.

Juventus looked to pull a goal back before the break through Osvaldo's acrobatic effort, but he couldn't steer his shot on target.

The visitors began to step up the pressure in the second half and had a chance to level things up 10 minutes after the restart when Lichtsteiner found himself in an advanced position, but once again Reina was equal to his effort.

AMAZONIAN

Buffon was soon back in action again, however, palming Ghoulam's fierce free kick over the bar before denying Hamsik's low curling effort from the edge of the box.

Napoli got their crucial second goal with nine minutes left as Dries Mertens made an immediate impact off the bench, latching on to Goran Pandev's pass before drilling his shot past a stationary Buffon.

The visitors could not respond in the closing stages of the match as Napoli held on for three points that edge them within six of second-placed Roma in the table.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli vs. Juventus: Score,
Grades and Post-Match Reaction

Mar 30, 2014

Napoli ended Juventus’ 22-match unbeaten streak in Serie A with a hard-fought but ultimately deserved 2-0 victory on Sunday evening.

AMAZONIAN

Jose Callejon finally got the better of Gianluigi Buffon midway through the first half before Dries Mertens’ brilliant finish with 10 minutes remaining clinched the match, as Italy’s likely champions suffered just their second defeat of the campaign.

Buffon was perhaps the busiest player on the pitch over the course of the 90 minutes, saving twice from Callejon in the first half before producing breathtaking acrobatics to deny Marek Hamsik and Faouzi Ghoulam on either side of the break.

Despite the defeat, Antonio Conte’s side remain 11 points clear at the top of the table, although AS Roma can reduce that margin to eight if they win their game in hand.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League are enhanced by the triumph, however, as they now lead Fiorentina by 12 points in the race for third.

They are also just six points behind Roma, keeping alive the possibility of finishing second and avoiding a play-off to enter Europe's most lucrative competition.

"This is a very important win, because it keeps us close to Roma," Napoli's Lorenzo Insigne said, per AP. "We're going to fight until the end."

AMAZONIAN

Paolo Bandini @Paolo_Bandini
So here's a thought: Juventus's lead could be down to just five points by the time they next play in Serie A.

Sam Tighe @stighefootball
#Napoli were absolutely incredible tonight. Truly excellent. Ghoulam, Hamsik, all of them.

Juventus were in trouble almost from the off, as Napoli showed real attacking intent from almost the first whistle. Callejon warmed up Buffon with a shot on goal that the Italian was more than equal to, before Hamsik forced him into a stretching save that drew gasps from the crowd inside San Paolo Stadium.

AMAZONIAN

Callejon was again denied by Buffon shortly after, having been played through by Lorenzo Insigne, but soon after the Spaniard would finally win the battle. It was a controversial goal for Juventus, who had seen Giorgio Chiellini forced off the pitch to change his shirt after bleeding on it from a facial wound.

The captain was still trying to get back into position as Insigne swung a cross in right where he should have been, and Callejon ghosted in behind his man to turn a close-range shot past the frustrated Buffon.

In the second half Napoli continued to press, but Buffon was back to being an immovable object in the Juventus goal. Ghoulam was the latest to be denied, the full-back’s fine free-kick somehow tipped away by the in-form veteran.

AMAZONIAN

Conte made changes—bringing on Mauricio Isla, Claudio Marchisio and Mirko Vucinic to change the shape and threat of his attack—but it was a move from Napoli boss Rafael Benitez that would seal the points with just under 10 minutes remaining.

Infostrada Sports @InfostradaLive
43 - The Serie A record for scoring in most matches in a row ends at 43 as Juventus lose 2-0 at Napoli. Juve's 2nd league defeat of season.

Mertens was not named in Benitez’s starting XI, but he made the difference off the bench, evading Claudio Marchisio to latch onto Goran Pandev’s high ball before dragging a powerful shot across Buffon and into the far corner.

AMAZONIAN

Juventus had a handful of shots throughout the match, but few of any real clarity and danger, with Stephan Lichtsteiner forcing Pepe Reina into action from a couple of half-chances and Pablo Osvaldo squandering an opening or two.

A surprising six minutes of injury time offered the visitors a glimmer of hope of a dramatic late comeback—but after Reina rushed from his line to thwart Arturo Vidal’s burst toward goal the points were secured.

AMAZONIAN

NAPOLI Player Ratings

Pepe Reina 8
Henrique 7
Federico Fernandez 7
Raul Albiol 7
Faouzi Ghoulam 8
Gokhan Inler 7
Jorginho 7
Lorenzo Insigne 8
Marek Hamsik 7
Jose Callejon 8
Gonzalo Higuain 6
Substitutions
Goran Pandev 7
Dries Mertens 7
Blerim Dzemaili 6

AMAZONIAN

JUVENTUS Player Ratings

Gianluigi Buffon 8
Martin Caceres 6
Leonardo Bonucci 5
Giorgio Chiellini 6
Stephan Lichsteiner 6
Arturo Vidal 5
Andrea Pirlo 5
Paul Pogba 5
Kwadwo Asamoah 6
Pablo Osvaldo 5
Fernando Llorente 6
Substitutions
Mauricio Isla 6
Claudio Marchisio 6
Mirko Vucinic 6

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli 2-0 Juventus: 6 Things We Learned

Mar 30, 2014

Juventus travelled to Naples on Sunday evening knowing they already possessed a comfortable 11-point lead in the Serie A standings. The two-time champions also carried with them a superb run of form that had seen Antonio Conte’s men win their seven previous matches, dropping a mere four points over their last 22 league fixtures.

AMAZONIAN

For their part, Napoli bounced back from last weekend’s 1-0 loss at home to Fiorentina with a 4-2 win over Catania on Wednesday. That victory, coupled with Fiorentina’s failure to defeat Sampdoria earlier on Sunday, meant the southern side had a nine-point cushion over the fourth-placed Viola.

Over the following pages are six things the game highlighted about these two teams as Napoli outplayed Juve, going on to win the game 2-0.

AMAZONIAN

Juventus Sorely Miss Carlos Tevez

While reluctant to describe Juventus as over-reliant on Carlos Tevez, it’s clear they miss the Argentinean when he is not in the lineup. He was unavailable for this match after picking up a suspension for the accumulation of yellow cards, and his absence took its toll on the Bianconeri.

Yet such is the influence of the 30-year-old, it is impossible to imagine any side not missing his contribution. He has had an incredible impact on Juve, already weighing in with 18 goals and six assists since arriving from Manchester City.

AMAZONIAN

Conte’s Tactical Shift Helps Defensively but Blunts the Attack

In recent weeks, Juventus have begun bringing the ball out at the back from wide areas, allowing Leonardo Bonucci to become a true defender instead of a second playmaker behind Andrea Pirlo. While that has improved the solidity of the Bianconeri back line, it has blunted their buildup play.

Without his excellent long-range passing, Juve have struggled to break down well organised opponents and Napoli under Benitez are certainly that.

AMAZONIAN

Mauricio Isla Is Slowly Playing into Form

After arriving from Udinese in the summer of 2012, Mauricio Isla missed almost an entire season with injury, making just eight league starts for Juve last term. He has made the same number this term as niggling injuries have limited his impact, but he is slowly showing signs of returning to the heights he reached at his previous club.

He was a constant threat to Napoli after his second-half introduction, adding to good recent performances against Trabzonspor and Fiorentina.

AMAZONIAN

Jose Callejon Is a Genuine Star

Jose Callejon arrived at Napoli with much less fanfare than his former Real Madrid teammate Gonzalo Higuain, but the Spaniard has been sensational. He has instantly settled in Serie A, repaying the faith shown in him by Rafael Benitez this past summer.

The 27-year-old has notched 11 goals and three assists thus far for the southern club, becoming a devastating force whether selected out wide or just behind Higuain. That he has still yet to be capped by the Spanish national side is unfathomable.

AMAZONIAN

Marek Hamsik Stuck to His Task Well

Marek Hamsik was asked to track Andrea Pirlo, a tactical choice that looked to prevent Juventus’ patient approach in midfield. It was an intelligent move, but one which would only pay dividends if the Slovakian stuck to his task.

He did precisely that, limiting the Juve man’s touches by denying him the ball, and the Juventus attack suffered as a result.

AMAZONIAN

Dries Mertens Highlights Improved Napoli Depth

While Napoli fans still lament the sale of Edinson Cavani, it is undeniable that the squad has been vastly improved as a result. Where before they relied almost exclusively on the Uruguayan star, they now have a number of attacking stars contributing.

The introduction of Belgian winger Dries Mertens showcased that new depth, netting less than two minutes after his introduction and sealing the points for the home side.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli 2 - Juventus 0:
Initial reaction and random observations

Mar 30, 2014

The form guide had said Juventus hadn't lost since the middle of October. And with that comes the comments of "Juventus is playing great football right now!" because they see a 22-game unbeaten run and nothing else.

AMAZONIAN

The fact is, though, Juve hadn't been playing as well as some people probably thought they were. They were winning, but it wasn't exactly with the same kind of dominant fashion they were doing things with when the unbeaten run get underway.

And on Sunday night, the so-so overall form Juve has been showing for these past few weeks finally got punished by a team capable of doing some pretty good things.

Napoli were good — really, really good. Juventus? Not even close to being very good. Pretty much the complete opposite, to be honest. If not for Gigi Buffon doing all kinds of wonderful Gigi Buffon things in goal over the course of the first half, the 2-0 final score in favor of Napoli could have been a lot worse. The defense was getting stretched by Napoli's attack, the 2013-14 edition of the M-V-P midfield wasn't doing anything at all. And with Napoli having the big share of the possession, the Carlos Tévez-less attack barely saw any of the ball.

AMAZONIAN

What could go wrong outside of Buffon going into God Mode pretty did go wrong.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Conte: "It wasn’t a good first half from us. Napoli played well and pinned us back. We were up against an excellent team." #NapoliJuve

Frustrating? Hell yeah it was frustrating. Nobody likes to lose to any team, let alone somebody who is one of the best in the league and a pretty heated rival over the years. But it isn't like Juventus got worked by a team currently sitting 10th in Serie A. Napoli is a talented squad that can make you pay for your mistakes. Juventus came out like crap, didn't snap out of it until the second half, and Napoli made them pay.

AMAZONIAN

OptaPaolo @OptaPaolo
22 - Tonight’s defeat against Napoli ended Juventus’ 22-game unbeaten streak in Serie A (W20, D2). Stopped. #NapoliJuve

You just hope that this loss works in the same fashion the last one in Serie A did. The best thing that could happen is that this negative can be turned into a positive and away Juve goes on another unbeaten run.

I trust Antonio Conte. So should you.

AMAZONIAN

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Buffon: "Sometimes certain losses can spark the start of great runs and feats. It’s often happened in the past, and I hope we see it again"


Random thoughts and observations

• I trust the guy, but man oh man did Conte get out-coached by Rafa Benitez.

• No Carlos Tévez, no party. It's as simple as that.

AMAZONIAN

• Juventus played like crap. It's as simple as that.

• Fernando Llorente and Dani Osvaldo aren't a good partnership and it's really starting to show the past couple of times they've been paired together. Way, way too static. It's as simple as that.

• And that just shows how important Tevez is to the attack. It's not just that he works his tail off every game or that he's scoring goals at a pace we haven't seen from a Juve player in years, it's also because he just compliments Llorente so well. It's the right kind of partnership that plays so well off each other. Osvaldo and Llorente? Not even close.

AMAZONIAN

• A not-so-negative thought for a second: How good was Buffon against Napoli? It seems like pretty much every save he makes these days are of the spectacular variety. It's really unbelievable that he can be so good so often. But then again, it's Buffon, so maybe we shouldn't be so amazed whenever he does something God-like.

Oh, and he's 36 years old. Just in case you forgot, guys.

AMAZONIAN

• Shots. Fired.

• Remember when Juventus imploded against Fiorentina back in October and the very next game was a European tie against Real Madrid? Forget the final scoreline, that was one of Juve's best games of the season. Basically what I'm trying to say is this: Can we get angry Juventus against Lyon on Thursday night? I know Lyon isn't close to being Real Madrid on a talent level, but it'd sure be nice to see Juve show up big time in Europe and let some anger out. Just a thought.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Player Ratings

The Partenopei outclassed the league leaders, ending the Bianconeri's 22-game
unbeaten run with goals from Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens either side of half-time.

Mar 30, 2014

SSC NAPOLI

Pepe Reina - May have expected to have been tested more by Juventus, but he had a rather comfortable night in between the sticks. Showed good judgement when coming off his line.

Henrique - The defender played as a makeshift right-back but played with all the flair of a traditional Brazilian full-back. His combination play down the right with Callejon was particularly impressive.

Federico Fernández - Was content to have the Juve forwards standing up against him for most of the game. His distribution from the back was good, though, as he played some quality passes from deep.

Raúl Albiol - The centre-back showed good strength up against Llorente and Osvaldo. He was able to track their movement well and kept them under wraps.

Faouzi Ghoulam - An impressive performance as he pushed up to support the forwards, although his deliveries weren't always the best. He was still solid at the back up against Lichtsteiner too.

Gökhan Inler - Regularly found space just inside the final third and provided some penetrating passes from that area. He made a couple of clumsy challenges when defending, though.

Jorginho - Did not stand out in the centre of the park, but he was industrious and effective as he dropped into any vacated space to keep his side compact.

Lorenzo Insigne - Was extremely bright as he displayed his excellent dribbling ability on the left flank. He breezed past Caceres frequently and supplied a lovely assist for Callejon's opener.

Marek Hamsik - Forced a save from Buffon early on, and it was as a result of the drifting across the pitch that he did so well throughout the game.

José Callejón - The Spaniard's movement was brilliant all night, never more so as he lost Asamoah to slot home the opening goal in the first half, and he could have had more.

Gonzalo Higuaín - Worked extremely hard in attack but the chances just didn't come his way. His movement was decent, but he did not test Buffon.

AMAZONIAN

Substitutions

Blerim Dzemaili - Brought on for Callejon in the 89th minute.

Dries Mertens - Came on for Hamsik in the 79th minute and scored a stunning goal to secure the three points.

Goran Pandev - Replaced Higuain in the 73rd minute and held up the ball well, also assisting Mertens' goal with a terrific clipped pass.

AMAZONIAN

JUVENTUS

GIANLUIGI BUFFON - Made a number of important saves, particularly from Callejon and Hamsik in the first half, to keep the score close for much of the game.

Martín Cáceres - The Uruguayan was beaten by Insigne too easily on a few occasions. However, he did his best to get out to the wide areas and support Lichtsteiner.

Leonardo Bonucci - Failed to read the movements of the Napoli attackers and was far too static at times. He was slow to react on the deck and gave away some needless free kicks.

Giorgio Chiellini - Was put under a lot of pressure due to leaving too much space between himself and Asamoah. He was out of position on the opener after arguing with Benitez off the pitch.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Was penned back for much of the opening stages but when he did get the chance to attack he supplied some quality balls into the box.

Paul Pogba - Made a couple of powerful runs through the midfield but ultimately was a peripheral figure in the game before being replaced just after the hour mark.

Andrea Pirlo - It took him a while to stamp his mark on the game as Napoli dominated possession early on. He then began to stroke some lovely passes across the pitch, but his set-pieces were sub-par.

Arturo Vidal - Took an early knock in the opening minutes but carried on playing. However, he failed to display his usual dynamism in the middle of the park during a disappointing outing, and was booked for a late dive when staying on his feet could have earned him the penalty he was after.

Kwadwo Asamoah - The Ghanaian gave far too much space to Callejon in the wide areas and he allowed the Spaniard to get away from him to slot home the opening goal.

Fernando Llorente - The Spaniard's touch let him down on a couple of occasions and he did not put in enough work to occupy the defenders and get a shot away.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo - Spent a lot of time chasing long balls as his link-up play with Llorente was non-existent. His best attempt was a wild scissor kick as another game passed without him even hitting the target.

AMAZONIAN

Substitutions

Claudio Marchisio - Replaced Pogba in the 61st minute and was guilty of being too weak in the challenge as Mertens got away from him to score Napoli's second.

Mauricio Isla - Came on for Asamoah in the 53rd minute and provided far more quality in the opposing final third. He was always looking to get in behind and fired in some good crosses.

Mirko Vučinić - Brought on for Osvaldo and provided the sort of combination play that had been absent with the Italian and Llorente up top together.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli have played that
well all season - Insigne

The forward dedicated his side's 2-0 win over Juventus to the San Paolo supporters
and said he is hopeful of being included in the Italy squad for the World Cup.

Mar 30, 2014

Napoli forward Lorenzo Insigne says the team were simply playing to their usual standard in Sunday's convincing win over champions Juventus.

AMAZONIAN

Goals from Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens sealed a comfortable victory for Rafa Benitez's side, bringing the league leaders' 22-match unbeaten run in Serie A to and end.

Insigne - who set up Callejon for the opener - believes the Partenopei have consistently performed to the level they showed on Sunday this season and dedicated the win to the San Paolo's vociferous support.

"I salute the stands, the fans gave us a big helping hand. We repaid their confidence by beating the champions of Italy," he told Sky Sport Italia.

AMAZONIAN

"Winning was important, it allows us to lock down third place without giving up on second.

"The best performance of the season? We always play like that, it gives us great satisfaction."

AMAZONIAN

Insigne added his hopes that Italy coach Cesare Prandelli will be pleased enough with his performances this term to hand him a spot in the squad for the World Cup this summer.

"I'm giving my best to Napoli, I'm happy and I hope to be rewarded by Prandelli at the end of the season," he added.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Benitez: 'Napoli stronger on the night'

Mar 30, 2014

Rafa Benitez reiterated Juventus still have more “strength in depth, but with a starting XI anything can happen.”

AMAZONIAN

The Partenopei ended Juve’s 22-round unbeaten run with a 2-0 victory, although there are still 17 points separating them in the Serie A table.

“No performance is ever perfect. It was tonight a top level game against a top level team. I said the squad would make the difference over a season, but in the starting XI anything can happen,” Benitez told Sky Sport Italia.

“More than motivation against the smaller sides, we need the same level of concentration and intensity that we showed today. It’s not easy, as we don’t have as much strength in depth as Juventus and it becomes even tougher when you see Roma ahead of us aren’t making any mistakes.

AMAZONIAN

“It was key to have possession, which in the first half was remarkable as Juve only had 38 per cent. We could’ve scored more, but by keeping possession we ensured Juve couldn’t hurt us.

“We know that we can’t change anything now. We played many games at a high level and it’s tough to maintain that level throughout the season without remarkable strength in depth, especially when it’s a Champions League game followed by a less important fixture.

“This step up in mentality is what we need to reach the level of a side like Juve. A Coach must try to keep that intensity up, but it requires time and experienced players who are prepared to sit on the bench. Today Tevez wasn’t playing, so Osvaldo and Vucinic were ready.

AMAZONIAN

“This is a winning squad that can cover all areas, which again is why I mentioned the revenue of the two clubs.”

Paulo Henrique arrived in January and has been an impressive addition, providing more balance to the side as a right-back.

“We are talking about a centre-back, which is his main role. When he is close to our area he has the tendency to come back and help. He has experience and is strong in the air, which was very useful against Llorente tonight.”

AMAZONIAN

Roma boss Rudi Garcia said today he wanted Napoli to win, but will he regret that now?

“I think Garcia has the same mentality as we do, that he is targeting Juve just as we are targeting Roma. Teams must always aim higher.”

AMAZONIAN

Benitez snapped at Jose Mourinho this week and was asked what he felt seeing Chelsea lose to Crystal Palace with Liverpool top of the Premier League table.

“Chelsea? Nothing. My family is at Liverpool and my friends, but at the moment I have to focus on Napoli. The atmosphere and the fans are very similar. The big difference is that the stands are closer to the pitch and the players really feel that passion.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Conte: 'Benitez, check your stats'

Mar 30, 2014

Antonio Conte told Rafa Benitez to “check his calculations,” but confessed Napoli deserved to beat Juventus.

AMAZONIAN

“It certainly wasn’t a good first half performance, in terms of approach, character or anything,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia after a 2-0 defeat at the Stadio San Paolo.

“Napoli played a very good first half and we paid the price for the fact we’ve got such a packed fixture list and the injury emergency means the same players have to play all the time.

“We were facing a Napoli side that was built to win and not to take part. After all, a club that spends more than €100m on the transfer market cannot be happy just to take part.”

AMAZONIAN

It was a reference to Benitez repeatedly pointing out Juve have to be favourites thanks to their revenue, which is much higher than any of the other Serie A clubs.

“The revenue issue is one of opinion. You can make €500m revenue, but it depends on how much you invest in the squad. Napoli spent more in one year than Juventus have in three,” continued Conte.

“We paid out €25m, but covered that expenditure with sales like Emanuele Giaccherini. I hope Benitez will stop saying this or at least check his calculations. It’s important to say the truth and not just spreading stories that have no real basis in fact.

AMAZONIAN

“The numbers are there, you can look at them. Juventus spent €25m on the transfer market this summer and Napoli spent €100m in order to go out of the Champions League in the group phase and the Europa League in the Round of 16.

“We try to reply on the field by winning and hope to do so again this season.”

Carlos Tevez was suspended and Juve really missed the Capocannoniere this evening.

AMAZONIAN

“Let’s not forget Mirko Vucinic was out for two and a half months, Sebastian Giovinco returned this week and we’ve had a big emergency situation. It is inevitable Fernando Llorente would feel tired, as he is playing all the time. Daniel Osvaldo does well when called upon. Carlos is clearly a leader and someone who makes his presence felt in fiery games like this.

“Napoli did well to peg us back and we were also not aggressive enough to contrast them. We were playing against a very good side and it can happen when playing every three days to pay a price for fatigue.

“They seemed hungrier in the first half, but we had a strong reaction after the break and nobody could’ve complained if we had equalised. Of course, looking at the 90 minutes Napoli deserved the win.”

AMAZONIAN

Conte was also asked about Jose Mourinho’s comments this week, in which the Chelsea manager said Juventus could not consider it a success to win the Europa League when they were constructed to win the Champions League.

“Mourinho was not talking about Juventus. He discussed Porto, Benfica and Napoli, so I think he was trying to make what Benitez did winning the Europa League last season with Chelsea seem less impressive. His real target was Benitez.”

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli still not at Juventus' level, says Benitez

The Spanish coach claims his side must develop a stronger mentality to compete in multiple
tournaments during a season and once more pointed to the Bianconeri's better revenue.

Mar 30, 2014

Napoli boss Rafa Benitez believes his side must develop a stronger mentality if they are to reach the same level as Juventus.

AMAZONIAN

The Partenopei sealed an impressive 2-0 win over the league leaders on Sunday, and while he was impressed with his side's display, Benitez feels his charges must maintain their concentration throughout the season if they are to challenge for supremacy in Serie A.

"No performance is ever perfect. Tonight it was a top-level game against a top-level team. I said the squad would make the difference over a season, but in the starting XI anything can happen," Benitez told Sky Sport Italia.

"It's not easy, as we don't have as much strength in depth as Juventus and it becomes even tougher when you see Roma ahead of us aren't making any mistakes.

AMAZONIAN

"It was key to have possession, which in the first half was remarkable as Juve only had 38 per cent. We could have scored more, but by keeping possession we ensured Juve couldn't hurt us.

"We played many games at a high level and it's tough to maintain that level throughout the season without remarkable strength in depth, especially when it's a Champions League game followed by a less important fixture.

"This step up in mentality is what we need to reach the level of a side like Juve."

AMAZONIAN

Antonio Conte took a swipe at Napoli in his post-match interview, claiming they have developed very little despite investing over €100 million in the squad this season, but Benitez once again pointed to Juve's better financial turnover as proof that the Bianconeri should not complain over spending.

"A coach must try to keep that intensity up, but it requires time and experienced players who are prepared to sit on the bench. Today Tevez wasn't playing, so Osvaldo and Vucinic were ready.

"This is a winning squad that can cover all areas, which again is why I mentioned the revenue of the two clubs."

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Napoli deserved winners against tired Juve

Mar 31, 2014

Juventus have not lost a Serie A match since October 2013, but on Sunday night they deserved to lose to a tactically astute Napoli side that scored a 2-0 result to secure a home victory. Just as it looked like the Scudetto was virtually guaranteed, Roma need only a win on Wednesday to close down the gap at the top to eight points.

AMAZONIAN

While Napoli manager Rafa Benitez's tactics were questioned in the reverse fixture due to his decision to play a passive game that relied on counterattacking football, one can do nothing but applaud his team on Sunday night who played with intelligence, passion and with great intensity. Making the most of an exhausted Juve side, Napoli simply refused to sit back and watch the Bianconeri secure another win with a halfhearted display as has been seen from them in recent weeks. The Partenopei defended astutely, played aggressively and watched with a wry smile as the Old Lady struggled to raise her game.

While goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon rescued the side several times in the opening twenty minutes, the Azzurri's movement and relentless energy saw them first to every ball, desperate to close down space and effective when in possession. Their opponents, on the other hand, resembled a diamond drowning in sand, unable to dazzle, unable to breath.

With Napoli cutting off Juve's routes to goal, the Bianconeri were not only poor at penetrating via the wings but also not allowed to deliver the perfectly accurate vertical ball through the middle. Andrea Pirlo was effectively marked, Fernando Llorente could barely hold the ball up while Arturo Vidal's performance perfectly encapsulated his team's display -- that of exhaustion. Unable to cover the ground necessary, his usual hunger and intensity on the field went missing leaving a shell of a man desperate for some time off.

AMAZONIAN

Juventus were simply too tired, not only physically buy psychologically too. The midfield that is regularly attentive to runs and excellent at closing down space was a little absent-minded, leaving the back-line to fend for themselves on several occasions.

Napoli, showing their ambitions and a big game mentality, took advantage of the situation. They imposed their aggressive and energetic style of play, used Gonzalo Higuain and his attacking teammates to press high up the pitch and forced Juventus to defend. It didn't take long before the Azzurri finally cashed in on a goalscoring opportunity when the ever mobile Jose Maria Callejon overcame Kwadwo Asamoah to strike and score their opening goal.

In Juve's defence, the Spaniard was marginally offside, while the goal was scored when Giorgio Chiellini was off the pitch, attending to his injury. Nonetheless, Napoli deserved to be in the lead.

AMAZONIAN

In the second half the Old Lady attempted to raise her game. Sitting further up the pitch, the penetration on the wings somewhat improved but when it came to actually creating chances, Juventus simply seemed out of ideas. The team dearly missed Carlos Tevez and his mobility. A player that seems to never surrender to exhaustion, his mentality may well have proved the difference on the night.

Instead, Juve fans were subjected to the Llorente-Pablo Osvaldo partnership that simply doesn't work. While the tired Spaniard disappointed, Osvaldo tried to make an impact but just isn't yet that familiar with the team's patterns of play and not the right player to deploy on the night. Mirko Vucinic's arrival on the pitch immediately improved matters for the Bianconeri but a goal still seemed too ambitious for manager Antonio Conte's men on the night.

AMAZONIAN

In fact, it was the home side that managed another to further compound Juve's misery on the night. Napoli goalkeeper Pepe Reina set the attacking wheels in motion when he delivered a perfect ball only for Goran Pandev to deliver an delicious pass for Dries Mertens to slot in. An impressive finish, Napoli demonstrated just how to counter-attack effectively to make it 2-0.

In truth, this was perhaps the worst domestic performance that has been seen from the Bianconeri this season. Against Fiorentina, Juventus scored and dominated the match only to concede four in 14 minutes of madness. However, on Sunday night, the Old Lady simply didn't compete and with so many injuries and players forced to play many matches in quick succession, one has to accept this result. Napoli deserve to celebrate their victory.

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

[Socrates 8450]

NAPOLI 2 - 0 JUVENTUS

José Callejón (37′)
Dries Mertens (81′)

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato
Attendance:‬ 42000‎

Serie A wide open again, claims Buffon

The goalkeeper insists Napoli were fully deserving of their 2-0 win on Sunday
and suggested that the defeat has given Roma a lifeline in the title race.

Mar 31, 2014

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes the Serie A title race has been blown wide open by his side's 2-0 loss to Napoli on Sunday.

AMAZONIAN

Jose Callejon opened the scoring midway through the first half at the Stadio San Paolo before Dries Mertens' effort with nine minutes left to play secured all three points for the third-placed Partenopei.

The reigning Scudetto holders remain 11 points ahead of Roma in Italy, although they have played a game more than Rudi Garcia's men.

"Without going in search of whatever excuse, I have to say that Napoli deservedly won and that we we did not express ourselves adequately," Buffon told Mediaset Premium.

AMAZONIAN

"The Scudetto is wide open because Roma are in great shape. They have all of the credentials to make it a race for the finish line should be slip up again.

"The loss does not bother me ahead of the Europa League last eight. In the end, sometimes losses precede big wins, which has often happened for us in the past. Let's hope that's the case again."

Juve visit Olympique Lyonnais on Thursday in the opening leg of their last-eight European tussle with the French giants.

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

[Socrates 8450]

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)

Juventus could face hooligan problem
as they prepare for trip to Lyon

Apr 1, 2014

Juventus are in danger of a potential violent hooligan attack when they travel to Lyon for the first leg of their Europa League quarter final tie.

AMAZONIAN

There is growing concern from local police that the Lyon supporters may cause problems for the Bianconeri as they are set to stay at hotel that is located close to the Stade de Gerland.

According to Tuttosport, the police have been placed on maximum alert because of events that took place over the weekend during the derby match between St. Etienne and Lyon.

AMAZONIAN

Reports suggest that hundreds of hooligans tried to barge into the hotel that housed the visiting team, St. Etienne, forcing local police to intervene and calm the situation. The mob also attacked the away side’s bus before security personnel escorted the St. Etienne coach to the bus.

With the Bianconeri set to stay at the Novotel Gerland, which is even closer to Lyon’s stadium than the hotel in which St. Etienne stayed at during the weekend, local police are already hard at work to prevent a similar situation from taking place on Thursday.