Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Conte: Rest of Italy wants Juventus
eliminated from Europa League

Even though a Bianconeri triumph would do wonders for the nation's falling coefficient,
the coach says that it would be naive to think that everyone will support the Old Lady.

Apr 10, 2014

Antonio Conte has dismissed the notion that everyone in Italy will be hoping that Juventus win the Europa League for the good of the domestic game, claiming that nobody in the country cares about the Uefa ranking.

The Bianconeri progressed to the last four of the tournament on Thursday night, defeating Olympique Lyonnais 2-1 in Turin to go through 3-1 on aggregate.

When it was put to Conte during his post-game interview on Sky Sport Italia that it was a good result for Italian football in terms of the country's Uefa coefficient, which has fallen dramatically over the past five years, the coach countered: "In Italy nobody cares about the ranking. Everyone else wants us eliminated.

"People are either Juventini or anti-Juventini. Let's not beat around the bush: it's a question of local pride.

"We wouldn't expect Juve to support Inter, so we won't be hypocritical by saying that we want Inter fans to cheer on Juve."

Andrea Pirlo opened the scoring in Turin with a fourth-minute free kick but Jimmy Briand equalised soon after with a header and the hosts were ultimately indebted to a deflected Claudio Marchisio strike for sealing their place in the final four.

Conte admitted afterwards that he had been distinctly underwhelmed by what he felt was a sense of complacency among both his players and the club's fans.

"We fell asleep for Lyon's goal," Conte fumed. "It's that simple. We thought it was going to be easy.

"I want everyone to remember it's always a battle and we have to keep pushing.

"I'm referring to the crowd too, as they should always support this team. I didn't like the crowd that much tonight."

The Uefa coefficient determines the seedings and amount of European places allocated to a country. Italy currently sit fourth, well behind leaders Spain, England and Germany, but only just ahead of Portugal.

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Garde: Lyon came close to upsetting Juventus

The coach was impressed with his side's efforts over the two legs, saying there was
not too much between the two sides despite the superior talent at the Old Lady's disposal.

Apr 10, 2014

Remi Garde praised his Olympique Lyonnais players despite their elimination from the Europa League at the hands of Juventus on Thursday.

The Ligue 1 underdogs lost 2-1 in Turin to exit the competition 3-1 on aggregate, although they were within one goal of progression for 50 minutes of action courtesy of Jimmy Briand's equaliser on the night.

Garde was proud that his side had kept the tie competitive until Samuel Umtiti’s own goal midway through the second half at Juventus Stadium eventually killed off any hopes of progression.

“I must say I am proud of my players,” the Lyon boss told reporters.

“At half-time we thought that we were getting close to a huge achievement because we only needed to score one more goal and we knew we would have chances after the break.

“It is always disappointing when you go out of a competition, but we have to recognise Juve’s superiority - even if over the two legs we did not see that much difference between the teams.”

Clearly reluctant to speak negatively about his side’s exploits over the two legs, Garde said the most frustrating element had been losing a goal so late to Leonardo Bonucci in the first leg, which made his side’s task more difficult.

He continued: “I have no regrets for this game - maybe for the first leg.

“The three goals we conceded were unusual. Andrea Pirlo’s free kick was marvellous, but we conceded in the first leg after 85 minutes and today Claudio Marchisio scored with a deflection.

“I would have rather Juve showed their superiority over us by having to score better goals, but we cannot honestly have too many regrets.”

Lyon return to action on Sunday when they face the first of two meetings in as many weeks against French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Marchisio: 'It wasn't easy'

Apr 10, 2014

“It wasn’t easy to reach the semi-final of the Europa League,” said Claudio Marchisio after Juventus beat Lyon.

The midfielder got the second goal in a 2-1 victory in Turin, securing passage 3-1 on aggregate.

“It wasn’t easy to reach the semi-final of the Europa League. We started well tonight, then conceded an equaliser,” Marchisio told Mediaset.

“My goal was fortunate, but now we will play the semi. Our objectives are to keep going to the end in every competition.”

Carlos Tevez had scored today, but his European goal drought continues after five years because it was flagged offside.

“The important thing is that we win and that the team wins. Tevez is a great champion and he proves that when he doesn’t score too.

“Our team has grown also thanks to Tevez.”

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Chiellini criticises Juve crowd

Apr 10, 2014

Giorgio Chiellini criticised the fans at the Juventus Stadium for their reactions during the Europa League win over Lyon.

“We are very satisfied,” he told Sky Sport Italia after a 2-1 victory, 3-1 on aggregate.

“At times people take Juventus success for granted, but we saw that over two legs Lyon played to the death, man-marked us for 180 minutes and it becomes difficult to score in those circumstances.

“We did well to take our chances, though perhaps lost some sharpness during the second period of the first half. That came back after the break and I thought we deserved qualification.

“We got a little swept along by the crowd, as when we were 1-0 up they acted as if we were meant to go forward and win 4-0.

“As soon as the equaliser went in, they started grumbling and that can really hurt confidence, create frustration and prompt us to lose our sharpness. That’s when passes are misplaced and we are under pressure.”

When asked who he’d prefer to face in the semi-final, Chiellini shrugged off the question.

“The only thing that interests me is coming back here in May for the Final. We want to play the Final on our turf, as it’s something that might never happen again in the history of this club. It’s too important to miss out on.”

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Asamoah: 'Juve not in great shape'

Apr 10, 2014

Kwadwo Asamoah confirmed Juventus are “physically not in great shape” and lost their focus against Lyon.

The Bianconeri won 2-1 on the night, 3-1 on aggregate, to reach the Europa League semi-final.

“It was very important for us, as it wasn’t easy. We saw in tonight’s game that it was not simple against an opponent like Lyon, who played better than in the first leg,” the Ghanaian told Sky Sport Italia.

“We were able to do some of the things we studied in training. The tempo lowered a little and we lost concentration on the corner, so that’s where the game changed a bit.

“We kept our calm and moved the ball around patiently to keep possession, as physically we’re not in great shape, so we had to make the ball work for us.

“We are playing every three or four days, so it’s not easy.”

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Pirlo: 'A mini-Champions League'

Apr 10, 2014

Andrea Pirlo explained his favourite free kick technique and said the Europa League is “a mini-Champions League.”

The midfielder curled another trademark set piece in during the 2-1 win over Lyon, which sent Juventus through to the semi-finals.

“This is a fortunate period for me and I hope it continues,” Pirlo told Sky Sport Italia.

“I try to vary the free kicks. In the first leg I was unlucky, as the wall jumped except for one player whose foot got in the way. This time I decided to go over the wall.

“The most enjoyable is always over the wall. It’s a classic and I’ve been doing those since I was a kid.”

Benfica, Sevilla and Valencia are the other semi-finalists and the draw is on Friday.

“These are three strong teams who are accustomed to the Champions League, so we can say this is like a mini-Champions League. We’ll wait to see who we get tomorrow in the draw.”

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Conte: 'Nothing easy for Juve'

Apr 10, 2014

Antonio Conte snapped at those who “think everything is easy just because we are Juventus” after reaching the Europa League semi-final.

The Bianconeri become the first Italian side to reach a European semi-final since Fiorentina in 2007-08, having beaten Lyon 2-1 on the night, 3-1 on aggregate.

The other semi-finalists are Benfica, Sevilla and Valencia, who crushed Basel 5-0 in extra time.

“I think that when we reach these levels, we meet excellent teams who are well organised,” the Coach told Mediaset.

“It’s not that just because we are called Juventus we are greeted by a red carpet ushering us through to certain victory.

“Anyone who thinks everything is easy just because we are Juventus is deeply wrong. There is always a journey to go through.

“This season, even though the competition is different, we are still having an important journey in Europe. Juventus hadn’t reached this phase in Europe for 10 years.”

Carlos Tevez again failed to score, as his goal drought in UEFA competitions stretches back to 2009.

“I am happy because he played a very good game. Now we are going into a very important match against Udinese.

“We’ve got to keep our feet on the ground and not forget three years ago this team wasn’t even in the Europa League.

“We have won a great deal over the last two years and are protagonists this season too. The fans must stay close to the team for 90 minutes and I hope this can happen, so we never forget the past.

“We cared about reaching this objective and hope all of Italy can be happy with it. We represent Italy and that has to bring satisfaction, as there hadn’t been a European semi-finalist for six years.”

Conte elaborated on this point in a later interview with Sky Sport Italia.

"Nobody gives a damn about the UEFA ranking in Italy. They are either Juventini or anti-Juventini. Let's not beat around the bush, it's a question of local pride. We wouldn't expect Juve to support Inter, so we're not so hypocritical as to say we want Inter fans to cheer on Juventus.

"What happened on the goal? We fell asleep. It's that simple. We thought it was going to be easy. I want everyone to remember it's always a battle and we have to keep pushing. I am referring to the crowd too, as they should always support this team. I didn't like the crowd much tonight.

"As for the semi-finalists, I'd say Benfica are the strongest opponents we could get in the draw tomorrow."

[Socrates 8449]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 OLYMPIQUE LYON
(Juventus win 3-1 on aggregate)

Andrea Pirlo (4′)

Jimmy Briand (18′)

Samuel Umtiti (68′O.G.)

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)
Attendance:‬ 40710‎

Garde: 'Juve are superior'

Apr 10, 2014

Lyon Coach Remi Garde conceded “the best team won” after a 3-1 aggregate Europa League defeat to Juventus.

“I have no regrets for this game, though maybe for the first leg,” he said in his Press conference.

“The three goals were a little unusual. Andrea Pirlo’s free kick was marvellous, but we conceded in the first leg at the 85th minute and today Claudio Marchisio scored with a deflection.

“I would’ve preferred Juve to show their superiority with better goals, but we cannot have regrets really. The best team won.

“At half-time we thought that we were getting close to a huge achievement, because we only needed to score one more goal and knew we’d have chances after the break.

“There are always regrets when you go out of a competition, but we have to recognise Juve’s superiority, even if over the two legs we didn’t see that much difference between the teams. I must say I’m proud of my players.”

Garde also pointed out Lyon came close to causing an upset despite a series of injuries.

“What were we missing? Maybe half of our team, even if I can’t complain about those who played tonight. We would’ve had other solutions in recent games and perhaps reached this tie with fresher legs.”

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

‘If Buffon says Scuffet is ready…’

Apr 11, 2014

Francesco Guidolin is satisfied that Simone Scuffet is ready to go to the World Cup, if Gianluigi Buffon says so.

The Italy No 1 has already issued his public support for the Udinese 17-year-old to make Cesare Prandelli’s 23-man squad to go to Brazil this summer, and the Zebrette Coach isn’t disagreeing.

“If Buffon says Scuffet is ready for the World Cup, that’s good enough for me,” Guidolin has told reporters this week.

“I like the Juventus goalkeeper - he is smart, he always shows his face and he is wise.

“Scuffet is amazing, the son every parent would want to have. I do not think that will change and he is a guy who has received an excellent education.

“I see him as a guy with great prospects and firm values.”

Guidolin, whose Udinese will host Juve on Monday night, was asked about the speculation over his future at the club beyond the end of this season.

“The first thing to do is to consider that everyone is under discussion, starting with the Coach, especially in the season finale which is the part of the season which you remember the most.

“If you feel challenged then it means that you are motivated and this is the first step.

“We will be professional until the end, I want maximum effort, concentration and determination.

“I believe that the group has a chance to get a points total of between 45 and 50 points in the League.”

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Conte to end media blackout

Apr 12, 2014

Antonio Conte will give his first pre-match Press conference in three months ahead of Udinese-Juventus.

The tie kicks off on Monday at 20.45 CET.

Conte had not spoken to the media before a Serie A game since the meeting with Sampdoria in January, insisting the media questions would only distract the team.

However, in a surprise move the club announced that Conte will be sitting down at a Press conference on Sunday and taking questions from the gathered media.

The Coach had been speaking to journalists after games and was contractually obliged to hold conferences before Europa League ties, but otherwise had avoided the Press.

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

MATCH PREVIEW

Apr 12, 2014

With the title in sight, Juventus travel to Udinese on Monday for one of their toughest remaining fixtures.

Antonio Conte’s side are closing in on a third straight Scudetto. For the young tactician, the aim will be to secure the title before Juventus face nearest rivals Roma in Week 37. That can be achieved with a run of four consecutive victories.

On paper, Udinese are Juventus’ most challenging opponent in the lead up to a potential showdown at the Stadio Olimpico. Should the Old Lady negotiate the Zebrette, then just Bologna, Sassuolo and Atalanta will stand between her and the Scudetto.

While that run of fixtures appears favourable, Udinese have the potential to complicate matters. They may not have had the kind of superhuman campaign that otherwise has come to be expected from them, but their recent form at the Stadio Friuli is impressive.

Last season, they lost just once at home, but with the stadium under reconstruction, the atmosphere has lacked its usual intensity. As a result, performances have suffered, though their last five outings in Udine have yielded four wins and four clean sheets.

Further cause for optimism is provided by Juventus’s physical condition. Progression to the latter stages of the Europa League has stretched a tiring squad.

Suspensions and injuries to the likes of Andrea Barzagli haven’t helped, but Juve appeared a bit laboured in Thursday’s 2-1 victory against Lyon, as noted by midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah, “Physically we’re not in great shape, so we had to make the ball work for us. We are playing every three or four days, so it’s not easy.”

Conte is expected to make three changes to face Udinese, with Fernando Llorente, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Paul Pogba coming back in. Barzagli, however, is still out, as is Simone Pepe.

Conte’s opposite number Francesco Guidolin will also be forced into some alterations. Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu is suspended, so Andrea Lazzari is expected to start, while Antonio Di Natale and Dusan Basta also return.

Keep an eye on: Simone Scuffet (Udinese) - The 17 year-old has been one of the revelations of the season. His calm and composed nature are more befitting of a veteran. Scuffet has performed heroics to secure results against the likes of Internazionale and Milan in recent weeks and will likely need to do some once more if Udinese are to dent Juventus’s Scudetto challenge.

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

Last season: Udinese 1-4 Juventus

Stat fact: Udinese and Juventus have drawn the fewest games in Serie A this season.


UDINESE (probable): Scuffet; Heurtaux, Danilo, Bubnjic; Basta, Lazzari, Allan, Pereyra, Gabriel Silva; Fernandes; Di Natale

JUVENTUS (probable): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Tevez

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Udinese v Juventus– Team News,
Tactics, Line-ups And Prediction

Apr 13, 2014

With only 38 points from 32 games and currently sitting in 14th place, Udinese are having a mediocre season to say the least. Entering 2014 with six wins, Udinese have registered only five wins since then and a total of sixteen losses this season paints a picture of gloom for a club who won plaudits in the past few years for maintaining a healthy model of buying cheap and selling them for profit yet managing to do reasonably well in the league. Udinese patron Giampaolo Pozzo will be counting on the new stadium (The project has set a completion date of the 2014-15 season) which will no doubt give them and their fans something positive to look forward to. One of the biggest problems Udinese had for the last few seasons is the lack of comparable substitutes; while their starting lineup is decent, they do not have the depth to fill in once injuries inevitably plague the team. Despite playing the worst season in recent history, Udinese did not feel necessary to make any changes to their disaster of a squad. The Zebrette look on course to match their performance of 2009-10 season where they finished a lowly 15th. Udinese have managed only 35 goals this season and as expected Antonio Di Natale is once again their top scorer with 11 goals which by his standards is a paltry return.

Fresh from their midweek victory over Lyon and the subsequent qualification to the semi-finals of the Europa League, Juventus will be looking to keep up their winning habit as we approach the business end of this season. With Roma winning on Saturday, the Bianconeri will be aiming for three points to restore their eight-point lead at the top of the table. Juventus are unbeaten against Udinese under the stewardship of Antonio Conte and they would be looking to extend this run on Monday evening.


Team News and Tactical Brief

UDINESE

Udinese coach Guidolin will field a 3-5-1-1 formation with teenage sensation Simone Scuffet on goal. Scuffet has been the only major talking point for Udinese in what has been a woeful season for them. Danilo will be marshaling the three men defence. The Brazilian has done reasonably well but he will have to be on the top of his game to neutralize the in-form Fernando Llorente. He is expected to be joined by inexperienced Croat Igor Bubnjic and Frenchman Thomas Heurtaux. Left fullback Gabriel Silva has had a good season so far and is rumored to be on Inter Milan’s wish list for next season. He will be looking to stretch Lichtsteiner with his pace and direct runs.

In the middle of the park Allan Marques is the creative outlet for Udinese along with Andrea Lazzari and a lot will depend on how they can dictate the play against a strong Juventus midfield. On the right, Dusan Basta will be looking to trouble Asamoah who will have to keep a check on his darting runs. The midfield trident will be completed by the Argentine Roberto Pereyra who has been a bright spot in the team this year and will be looking to put up a good display against the club who are reportedly interested in his signature.

Age finally seems to be catching up with Antonio Di Natale whose performances have lacked the sharpness so far this term. Di Natale has managed 11 goals this season including the winner against Milan few weeks back but his overall game looks a bit rusty. He delivered a lively performance in the reverse fixture where he was denied only by the heroics of Buffon. Udinese will be hoping that Di Natale has a simliar outing on Monday as well. Portuguese teenager Bruno Fernandes is expected to start behind him in attack. Having scored 3 goals in 12 appearances, Fernandes has looked quite lively in the games he has started so far and has drawn comparisons with the legendary Rui Costa.

Possible starting XI (3-5-1-1): Scuffet; Heurtaux, Danilo, Bubnjic, Silva; Lazzari, Allan; Basta, Pereyra, Fernandes; Di Natale

JUVENTUS

Juventus will lineup in their tried and tested 3-5-2 formation with Gianluigi Buffon in goal. The trio of Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci and Martin Caceres (tenth successive game as a starter) will make their ninth consecutive start at the back. The emergency situation in defence after the injuries to Andrea Barzagli and Angelo Ogbonna has not been felt thanks to the solid displays of these three who ensured that Juventus came out unscathed from a congested fixture list with minor hiccups. The fullback positions will be taken by Stephan Lichtsteiner and ex-Udinese man Kwado Asamoah.

Arturo Vidal complained about a thigh strain after the midweek game so he is expected to sit out this game. Paul Pogba will start after his midweek rest and he is expected to be partnered in midfield by the two goal scorers against Lyon: Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio.

Fernando Llorente finally got on the scoresheet after a barren run of eight games and is expected to build on his confident display. He will be partnered by Carlos Tevez as Conte has decided to go in with his first choice pair upfront.

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


Players to Watch Out For

Roberto Pereyra (Udinese)

The impressive Argentine has been one of the brightest spots this season for Udinese and the Furlans will be hoping for a similar show from him as they host the champions this week. Roberto Pereyra has won plenty of admirers this season including Juventus and he will be looking to put up a confident show in front of his suitors on Monday.

Fernando Llorente (Juventus)

The Spaniard will be looking to continue his goal-scoring run here. He already has fond memories of this fixture as he headed in the winner last time these two teams faced each other. Apart from goals, Llorente will be looking to act as a fulcrum for his teammates to dislodge the opponents challenge.


Prediction

Udinese 0–2 Juventus

This should be a comfortable victory for the visitors without too much fuss. Udinese do not look equipped enough to possess an answer to the questions thrown at them and could find the Juventus pressure overwhelming.

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Udinese-Juventus Preview: Bianconeri

hoping to restore giant lead at the top

Antonio Conte's men are looking to restore their eight point lead
over Roma but face one of their most difficult remaining fixtures.

Apr 13, 2014

Juventus visit Udinese on Monday hoping to become the first away side to win at Stadio Friuli since January.

Udinese may sit 14th in the table but they are unbeaten in their last seven home matches in all competitions.

That run has involved five wins, including triumphs against Fiorentina and Milan, and Juve, who top the league by five points with a game in hand in their bid for a third successive title, will need to be at their best.

Antonio Conte's men have looked comfortable at the summit for much of the second half of the campaign, but the second-placed Roma have shown no signs of conceding defeat in the title race by going on a run of seven consecutive victories.

The top two are scheduled to meet on May 9, but Conte will be keen to wrap up the title before that showdown.

Monday's trip to Udinese is arguably the most difficult of their matches between now and the fixture at the Stadio Olimpico, with Bologna and Atalanta to face at home and a trip to strugglers Sassuolo.

Former Udinese man Mauricio Isla knows the challenge Juve will face against Francesco Guidolin's side.

"It will be a tough match, because even though Udinese are no longer what they were two years ago, they have important players like Di Natale, Roberto Pereyra, Luis Muriel…and they also give 100 per cent whenever they face Juve," he told JTV.

"We'll have to be on our guard and play in the way we know how, because it's important to win when you're six games from the end."

And Chilean Isla expressed his gratitude to Udinese, whom he left for Juve in 2012.

"I'm grateful to Udinese for all that they gave me. I spent some fantastic years there, it was a happy time and it's thanks to that experience that I'm now part of the best team in Italy," he added.

Juve will be concerned with the fitness of Arturo Vidal, who revealed he was suffering with a knee problem after being withdrawn during Thursday's 2-1 Europa League win over Lyon, which sealed their place in the semi-finals, where they will face Benfica.

Carlos Tevez is still battling a thigh problem, and has been substituted in his last three games, while defender Andrea Barzagli (calf) continues to struggle. Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu is suspended for Udinese.


Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Dec 1, 2013 - Juventus 1 - 0 Udinese
Serie A -‎ Jan 19, 2013 - Juventus 4 - 0 Udinese
Serie A ‎-‎ Sep 2, 2012 - Udinese 1 - 4 Juventus
Serie A ‎-‎ Jan 28, 2012 - Juventus 2 - 1 Udinese
Serie A ‎- Dec 21, 2011 - Udinese 0 - 0 Juventus


Last Five Matches

UDINESE

Apr 6, 2014 - Fiorentina 2 - 1 Udinese - Serie A
Mar 31, 2014 - Udinese 1 - 0 Catania - Serie A
Mar 27, 2014 - FC Internazionale 0 - 0 Udinese - Serie A
Mar 23, 2014 - Udinese 1 - 0 Sassuolo - Serie A
Mar 17, 2014 - Roma 3 - 2 Udinese - Serie A


JUVENTUS

Apr 10, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais - EL
Apr 7, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 0 Livorno - Serie A
Apr 3, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 0 - 1 Juventus - EL
Mar 30, 2014 - SSC Napoli 2 - 0 Juventus - Serie A
Mar 26, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 1 Parma - Serie A

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Conte: 'It's Juve against everyone'

Apr 13, 2014

Antonio Conte held his first pre-match Press conference in three months to say “it’s systematically Juventus against everyone.”

The Coach had refused to speak to the media before Serie A games since January, though he was contractually obliged to do so ahead of Europa League ties.

He broke his silence to prepare for Monday night’s trip to Udinese, which kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT). Click here for a match preview.

“Why did I decide to talk now? There are only six games left to play, so I’ve rested my voice enough to get through the rest of the season,” smiled Conte.

“The Scudetto is not won already, which I already said again and again even when people considered the title race to be over. I knew that it would be a head-to-head with Roma right to the end.

“The choices of squad rotation I’ve made so far have in my view been the right ones, even when criticised at the time.

“Don’t forget we are also doing very well in the Europa League and have reached the semi-final against Benfica. Time has proved me right.

“It is certainly a stressful year both mentally and physically. At the moment we are boosted by challenging for the Scudetto and Europa League, which must give us the strength to reach the end in the best way.

“Arturo Vidal will come with us to Udine, but he has this pain in his knee and we’ll decide tomorrow whether or not he’ll play.”

Conte snapped at Roma’s suggestions they felt victimised by video evidence used against Daniele De Rossi and Mattia Destro this term.

“I know what Juventus represent in Italy, that there are pro-Juventini and anti-Juventini. It might be sporadic for Roma to feel they are alone against everyone, but for us it’s systematic.

“Before we had become likeable, because we were struggling, but now we have regained our rightful place. We’re happy with that and everything that comes with it.

“Do some say the only difference between Juve and Roma is made by referees? I won’t even answer that question,” added Conte.

“Anyone who faces Juventus puts in the performance of a lifetime. It has become normal for us to expect that.”

Daniel Osvaldo is on loan from Southampton and increasingly likely to be sent back to Saints, as he has struggled for playing time recently.

“I can only speak highly of Osvaldo because he works hard and settled into the group well. He will give us a hand from here to the end of the season so we can achieve our objectives.

“My own future? It is irrelevant at this moment. It’s better to concentrate on the end of the campaign so we can do as best we can.”

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Ferrara: 'Juve can do Double'

Apr 13, 2014

Ciro Ferrara firmly believes Juventus can do The Double by winning Serie A and the Europa League.

The Bianconeri are top of the table and will face Benfica in the semi-final of the UEFA competition.

“I hope they can do The Double,” ex-Juve star and Coach Ferrara told the Corriere dello Sport.

“Antonio Conte is doing such a great job and recognition on a European level would give further credence to his project.

“The Scudetto seems to be within Juve’s reach and they cannot snub the Europa League semi-final.

“Benfica look to be the most fearsome of the three teams Juventus could’ve picked in the draw, but that means if Juve go through then the Final should be simpler.”

The other semi-final is an all-Spanish affair between Valencia and Sevilla.

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Conte: Juve are where they belong

The Bianconeri boss says he and his side can learn from the experience of juggling
Serie A and Europa League but feels they deserve to be competing on two fronts.

Apr 13, 2014

Juventus coach Antonio Conte says he is happy to see his side battling in two competitions at this point in the season, but stressed the Serie A race remains wide open.

Rudi Garcia's Roma made it seven league wins in a row against Atalanta to cut the gap between them and leaders Juve, who make the trip to Udinese on Monday, to five points. Meanwhile, the Bianconeri are through to the Europa League semi-final, having been drawn with Benfica after they knocked out Lyon on Thursday.

Conte reflected on a difficult season for his team but feels their achievements are a fair reflection on their talents, however, he believes it is where they belong.

"It's been a hard season physically and mentally but we're still in the running on two fronts," the coach said. "We're living in the moment.

"We've returned to our rightful position in the league and we're proud of that.

"Juggling two competitions? This is where we wanted to be. It's all good experience for me, the players and the club."

Serie A's top two meet on May 9 at the Stadio Olimpico and Conte has refused to take anything for granted when it comes to securing a third straight Scudetto.

"The title race is still open. I expected the head-to-head with Roma to go down to the wire."

Juve's goals of late have come from various sources, with the likes of Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente all chipping in.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo is yet to score in the league since he joined Juve on loan from Southampton in January, but Conte backed the forward to find the net sooner rather than later.

"Osvaldo has come in here and worked his socks off. He'll help us achieve our targets this year," the 44-year-old added.

"Opposition teams pull out all the stops when they're up against Juve but we've come to expect that."

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Guidolin: 'Juve don't snub anyone'

Apr 13, 2014

Udinese boss Francesco Guidolin was full of praise for Juventus ahead of tomorrow’s game and has the secret to their success.

It kicks off on Monday at 20.45 CET.

“Juventus are the best team in Serie A, the most consistent and over three years have always improved thanks intelligent planning,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“They don’t announce results. They go out and get them. That’s the difference with the other clubs, as Juventus never snub any opponent. @@

“Antonio Conte was destined for greatness, as over the last three years he has proved he’s a great Coach. I absolutely have to compliment him for his work.”

Emmanuel Badu sits out a ban, while Andrea Lazzari is sidelined, but top scorer Antonio Di Natale has shaken off a knock.

“We must know how to suffer under pressure in this game. I think Giampiero Pinzi and Maurizio Domizzi will be available, but we’ll decide after the final training session.”

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Antonio Conte wary of Roma revival

Apr 13, 2014

Antonio Conte is expecting Roma to push his Juventus team right to the wire in the race for the Scudetto in Serie A this season.

Rudi Garcia's men disposed of Atalanta in Rome on Saturday to reduce the deficit to just five points in the standings, with Juve set for a trip to Udinese on Monday.

The Bianconeri have additional fixtures on the horizon having drawn Benfica in the semi-final of the Europa League, but Conte does not believe that his side's European commitments will hinder their domestic aspirations.

"The title race is still open. I expected the head-to-head with Roma to go down to the wire," told Sky Sport Italia.

"It's been a hard season physically and mentally but we're still in the running on two fronts. We're living the moment.

"Juggling two competitions? This is where we wanted to be. It's all good experience for me, the players and the club."

Monday's trip to Udine is scheduled to kick off at 8.45pm.

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Juventus squad for Udinese

Apr 13, 2014

Arturo Vidal is in the Juventus squad travelling to Udine, but Andrea Barzagli is still out of action.

The Serie A clash kicks off at the Stadio Friuli on Monday at 20.45 CET.

Vidal is suffering from a knee problem and makes the trip, but Antonio Conte hinted he could be rested for this game.

Defender Barzagli has still not recovered, so Martin Caceres is again expected to start with Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.


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

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Udinese v Juventus: Preview

Apr 13, 2014

Juventus coach Antonio Conte expects the challenge of competing for honours on two fronts to invigorate rather than hinder his ambitious players.

Victory at Udinese on Monday night would see Juve pull eight points clear of Roma - 3-1 winners against Atalanta on Saturday - in the Serie A table ahead of the five-game run-in, while Portuguese league leaders Benfica await in the semi-finals of the Europa League later this month.

Conte, who believes the Giallorossi will push his Scudetto-chasing side right until the very end, says Juve are in a good position to clinch their third straight title but is asking his squad to channel their energy in the right way.

He told juventus.com: "The title race is still open. I've always said that.

"I expected the head-to-head with Roma to go down to the wire. They're a strong adversary and will fight until the end.

"Juggling two competitions? This is where we wanted to be.

"It's all good experience for me, the players and the club because it helps us better understand how to face these challenges now and in the future.

"It's been a hard season, physically and mentally, but we're still in the running on two fronts and that's stimulating for us.

"It must spur us on to approach the final stage of the season in the right way."

Turning his attention to Monday's opposition, Conte is fully aware that Udinese will be out to avenge the 4-1 defeat they suffered at the Stadio Friuli in this fixture last season.

"Opposition teams pull out all the stops when they're up against Juve, but we've come to expect that," he added.

Chilean midfielder Arturo Vidal is expected to travel east despite ongoing concerns over a knee injury, but defender Andrea Barzagli is unavailable while the season is already over for midfielder Simone Pepe.

Udinese, meanwhile, are without on-loan Fiorentina midfielder Andrea Lazzari through injury and Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu serves a one-match suspension.

Zebrette boss Francesco Guidolin admits beating Conte's ``steamroller'' would represent a dream come true as he strives to fire his club towards the top half of the table before a disappointing campaign dribbles to an end.

"I don't need too many words to describe Juve," he told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "They're just a steamroller.

"They're the best, strongest and most consistent side in Serie A.

"Over the last three years they have steadily improved in terms of performance.

"Their management has developed a clever system of gradually introducing major players and they have now created a team that can compete with the biggest teams in Europe."

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Juventus vs. Udinese Preview:
Round 33 — The finish line is in sight

Did you hear that Roma cut Juve's lead to five points?
Strange, I haven't heard anything about it the past day or so...

Apr 14, 2014

For weeks we've been hearing the same old rambling from the masses who follow Italian football and everything that comes along with it. "Oh, the Scudetto race is over! The Scudetto race is over!" And you know what? It very well may be. Sure, Roma cut Juventus' lead to five points with their 3-1 win over Atalanta on Saturday night. But it's not exactly like Roma and the team they're chasing play on the same day at the same exact time.

Why do I bring this up? Because it's true — to a point.

Juventus have been in front of the pack for months just like they were a season ago. Just a few more points and Antonio Conte will have his third Scudetto in as many years. It's close, but it's still not officially locked up. And as long as that's the case, there will still be talk about how close Roma may or may not be in the standings. That's just how it's gonna be until we see players in black and white jerseys running around the field because they just clinched another league title.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Conte: "The title race is still open. I expected the head-to-head with Roma to go down to the wire” #UdineseJuve

Juventus' schedule has all of six Serie A games left. This time next month, Juve will be stepping onto the Juventus Stadium field for their final game of the season. That season against Cagliari won't just be a few days after the Europa League final in Turin, but also a Scudetto celebration — one filled with another parade

And let's be honest, who doesn't like Scudetto parades through Turin?

Exactly my point. Scudetto parades through Turin are great. Don't you dare disagree.

The first of those final six games is just 24 hours from now as of this post going live to the world wide web. It's Juventus' annual trip to the Stadio Friuli to face Francesco Guidolin and his squad of players who will probably be sold for 10 times more than the price they were bought for in a year or two from now.

But this isn't the same high-flying Udinese team we've seen in previous seasons. Entering the weekend, they sat in 14th place, a very easy way to figure out that this has been one of the more up-and-down years under Guidolin.

Could that mean a second straight league win for Juve? I sure as hell hope so. It's time to wrap up this Scudetto as quick as possible. Enough waiting. There's a Scudetto parade through Turin to take part in.


GOOD NEWS

If I told you that a Francesco Guidolin-managed Udinese side would be averaging barely over a goal a game, would you believe me? Well, it's the truth. Udinese has played 32 games and scored all of 35 goals. By contrast, Juventus has scored twice as many goals in as many games. That doesn't seem like the Udinese of the last few seasons, right?


BAD NEWS

Arturo Vidal's knee hurts. More on that in a little bit.

Andrea Barzagli is still hurt and not included in the 22-man squad going to the Friuli. Luckily Martin Cáceres is awesome.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Gianluigi Buffon vs. Simone Scuffet.

It's not very often in this day and age that we get to see a goalkeeper on one end of his career going up against another whose career is really just beginning. While San Gigi isn't done between the sticks and probably playing his best ball of the season right now, the reality is that he's 36 years old and isn't going to play forever. Scuffet is on the completely different end of the spectrum, currently taking Serie A by storm at the tender age of 17. In all of 11 league games, Scuffet has gone from relative unknown outside of Italy to possibly being one of Italy's three goalkeepers at the World Cup this summer in Brazil. Go ahead and think about what you were doing at his age and then think about the kind of season Scuffet is currently having since making his debut. Yeah, not bad.

2. Arturo Vidal's health status.

This is quite a big one, of course, because of how awesome Vidal is. And when a guy comes out and publicly states in the press that his knee has been bothering him for weeks, I'm pretty sure a few more eyebrows were raised when Vidal was included in the traveling squad for tomorrow night's game. That might mean the knee is feeling okay, it might mean that Antonio Conte is trying to play some tricks on Udinese entering the game. Many of the predicted lineups aren't falling for it, saying that it will be Paul Pogba-Andrea Pirlo-Claudio Marchisio in the center of the park on Monday. And just like I said a few days ago, if Vidal says the knee is hurting, don't you even dare risk it, Juventus. He's too important.

3. Kwadwo Asamoah vs. his old friends.

Even though Juventus hasn't been playing all that great as a team the last month or two, Asamoah is having a very good season — especially as of late. Even though he has been playing pretty much every game possible, he's not showing any kind of signs of fatigue. He just keeps truckin' and putting in damn good performances. And because of what club he played for before signing with Juve a couple of summers ago, the Udinese game is always going to be special for Mr. BOH. I would like to image that he's going to try a little extra harder against his former manager, but that's just me thinking out loud here.

4. Fernando Llorente's impact.

First the first time in over a month, we were able to celebrate a Llorente goal — twice! — last Monday. He was stuck on 11 goals for a good amount of time, and you know that had to be sneaking into his head a little bit. Or a lot, who knows. But with his two goals last Monday against Livorno, Llorente is back to his scoring ways. Maybe it was the new haircut and elimination of the beard, I don't know. But here's what I do know: If this is the start of another string of really good games from Llorente, it's coming at a pretty convenient time. Not just as Juve hit the stretch run in league play, but also because that little thing called the Europa League semifinal is right around the corner.

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Cáceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Tévez

OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 8:45 P.M. IN ITALY; 2:45 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 11:45 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Udinese-Juventus Betting Preview:
Relentless champions to grind out another victory

Despite the Zebrette's strong home record and watertight defence, Al Hain-Cole sees
value in backing Antonio Conte's men to edge things in a tight encounter at Stadio Friuli.

Apr 14, 2014

Juventus will be looking to re-extend their lead to eight points at the top of Serie A when they travel to Stadio Friuli to take on Udinese on Monday night.

Antonio Conte's men slipped to a 2-0 defeat at Napoli in their previous away game in the league but are 8/13 (1.62) favourites with William Hill to pull off a fifth consecutive victory against these opponents.

Unbeaten in six on home turf, the Zebrette are available at 5/1 (6.00) to keep the title race interesting by recording a shock win over the runaway leaders.

The pair have only drawn six of a combined 64 league fixtures between them so far this campaign, but you can get odds of 15/4 (4.75) on them cancelling each other out this evening.

After falling to their first defeat in 24 league game at the San Paolo two weeks ago, la Vecchia Signora's reaction served to remind any doubters exactly why they look destined to collect a third consecutive Scudetto.

Without really dominating, Conte's side have collected three wins from three, including two hard-fought victories over a stubborn Olympique Lyonnais side that saw them progress serenely to the semi-finals of the Europa League.

This knack of grinding out results will certainly come in handy tonight, when they take on a home team that have conceded just twice in their last six games in front of their own fans, picking up four clean sheets in the last five.

Considering under 2.5 goals have been scored in 12 of the visitors' last 14 fixtures in all competitions, odds of 8/11 (1.73) seem extremely generous on no more than two going in against Francesco Guidolin's stubborn side.

Nevertheless, having won six of their last seven games on the road, Juventus must surely be backed at 23/10 (3.30) to come out on top against Udinese once again in a tight encounter.

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Line-ups: Udinese-Juventus

Apr 14, 2014

Juventus look to Sebastian Giovinco and Fernando Llorente against Antonio Di Natale’s Udinese tonight.

The concluding Serie A Week 33 ficture kicks off at 20.45 CET.

Juve need a victory to keep their eight-point advantage over Roma, otherwise the title race could be re-opened in a dramatic final month.

Andrea Barzagli and Simone Pepe are still injured, while Arturo Vidal is on the bench after complaining of pain in his knee.

Carlos Tevez is rested in favour of Giovinco, who impressed in recent substitute appearances, alongside Llorente.

Angelo Ogbonna also gives Leonardo Bonucci the chance to catch his breath.

Udinese have secured their Serie A safety and can therefore play without pressure, especially as captain Di Natale is back from injury.

They look a different team with him leading the way and the veteran hitman is supported by Bruno Fernandes.

Andrea Lazzari is sidelined and Emmanuel Badu banned, so Hasan Yebda steps into midfield.

There is another battle on the field, as Udinese’s 17-year-old goalkeeper Simone Scuffet has been tipped to be the heir to Gigi Buffon for Italy.


UDINESE: Scuffet; Heurtaux, Danilo, Domizzi; Basta, Yebda, Allan, Pereyra, Gabriel Silva; Bruno Fernandes; Di Natale

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Giovinco

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

No Carlos Tevez for Juventus

Apr 14, 2014

Carlos Tevez has been left out of the Juventus starting XI for this evening's Serie A clash against Udinese.

Tevez was withdrawn with 12 minutes of normal time remaining in Juve's 2-1 victory over Lyon in the Europa League on Thursday night, and he will start tonight's game on the bench as Sebastian Giovinco comes into the side.

Fernando Llorente also comes into the side for the match as Antonio Conte makes five changes overall, bringing in Stephan Lichtsteiner, Paul Pogba and Angelo Ogbonna too.

Udinese, meanwhile, welcome talismanic striker Antonio di Natale back into their starting XI, one of four changes for Francesco Guidolin's side.

Dusan Basta, Maurizio Domizzi and Hassan Yebda also come into the team as the hosts look to prevent the league leaders moving eight points clear.


UDINESE: Scuffet; Heurtaux, Danilo, Domizzi; Basta, Yebda, Allan, Pereyra, Silva; Fernandes; Di Natale
Subs: Brkic, Naldo, Bubnjic, Muriel, Mlinar, Lopez, Widmer, Pinzi, Maicosuel, Zielinski

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Chiellini, Ogbonna, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Marchisio, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Giovinco
Subs: Vucinic, Tevez, Peluso, Osvaldo, Bonucci, Padoin, Vidal, Quagliarella, Storari, Isla, Rubinho

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

[Socrates 8449]

UDINESE - JUVENTUS

April 14, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Friuli Stadium — Udine
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Lichtsteiner: 'Roma breath on neck'

Apr 14, 2014

Stephan Lichtsteiner said Juventus “feel Roma’s breath on our necks” ahead of their trip to Udinese.

“We have to do our duty tonight,” the Swiss international told Sky Sport Italia.

“Roma are doing really well and want us to feel their breath on our necks, which is only right, but we want to respond the way only we know how.”

The gap at the top of the table is five points, but a win would allow Juve to expand it back to eight points.

“We are a fantastic squad with 25 players all at the top level, so whoever goes out there gives their best,” continued Lichtsteiner.

“Udinese will be a great duel, especially as they also play 3-5-2, so it’ll be one-to-one battles all over the field.”

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