Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Solbakken: We can surprise Juve

Sep 16, 2013

Copenhagen boss Stale Solbakken has claimed that his side can ‘surprise’ Juventus when the two face off tomorrow.

http://markting10.nl/

The Danish side host the Serie A champions in their opening Champions League match of the season.

And the Coach has insisted that a win could start their faltering domestic campaign.

“Getting a result tomorrow could represent the turning point of our entire season,” he told a Press conference.

“We’re focusing on the three games that we’ll be playing at home, even though we’re perhaps in the most difficult group.

“Juventus need to win at all costs and perhaps we’ll be able to surprise them. We hope to do the same against Galatasaray. We’ll be playing against superior sides, but perhaps they might underestimate us.

“We need to believe we can do it, otherwise we won’t get a result. We need to stick to our own game plan, have plenty of belief and play to the best of our abilities. If we do just that, who knows, we could well spring a surprise.”

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

FC Copenhagen vs. Juventus PREVIEW –
It’s All in the Mind!

Sep 16, 2013

Can you feel it? It’s that time again… The biggest club tournament in the world is about to kick off, signaling that the 2013/14 season has begun, in earnest. And it’s hard not to be very, very excited about it.

http://markting10.nl/

After the combative 1-1 draw with Inter on Saturday, Juventus head to Copenhagen for the second time in 11 months on Champions League business. Last time around, the Bianconeri were held to a very disappointing 1-1 draw by then Danish champions FC Nordsjælland, a side vastly inferior to Conte’s men.

In the end it mattered little, of course, as Juve reversed the drawing trend after their Nordic experience and won the remaining three group games with an accumulated goal difference of 8-0.

Stale-Solbakken-FCK-managerThis season, the Bianconeri get the chance to prove that they learned a valuable lesson from the get-go. Another visit to Copenhagen awaits, and like last time, the weakest team of the group plays host. It is a must-win game, like it was last year. This time, I suggest we damn well win it!


FC COPENHAGEN

Copenhagen – or FCK, as they are almost exclusively referred to in Denmark – is the powerhouse of Danish football. Build on the foundations of storied clubs KB and B1903 (the first of many club fusions to follow in Danish football), the new project prospered early on, winning the championship in 1993, only to stall significantly for the remainder of the decade.

However, since 2001, when current England manager Roy Hodgson over the course of one season transformed the club from perennial underachievers to a veritable giant on the Scandinavian football scene, the club has won the championship nine times and never finished outside of the top 3 spots.

And while this might not sound terribly frightening as such, being in Denmark and all, it’s worth remembering that the Danes actually beat Manchester United and held Barcelona to a 1-1 draw in the Champions League not that long ago – the latter achievement even getting them into the knock-out stages for the first time ever in 2011.

Those results, however, were achieved with a significantly stronger group of players than the present crop. For while Copenhagen is still the most resourceful Danish club by some margin, things have not been well in the capital for a few seasons now.

Following the departure of their talismanic Norwegian coach, Ståle Solbakken after the successful 2010/11 campaign, three different coaches tried to take over the helm to marginal success. Even if domestic results didn’t show it, barring the shock Nordsjælland title in 2012, the club was in crisis – so much so that Belgian manager Ariel Jacobs, despite having led the club to the Danish championship in 2013, was sacked earlier this season following a run of very poor results, leaving Copenhagen struggling in the league for the first time in over a decade.

Re-enter: Ståle Solbakken. The charismatic Norwegian was reunited with the Danish club in September after having suffered a few blows of his own trying to cope with German and English football, finding little resonance for his ideas either place.

While initial signs have been mixed, it’s widely believed that Solbakken will – over time – reinvigorate the Copenhagen side, implementing again his tried and trusted 4-4-2 formation which, even if significantly weaker across the board from the side he left behind, is more likely to work than his successors’ failed attempts at evolution in his absence.

The Key factor for Copenhagen in this game will be to try and cope with Juve’s pressing, and to strike on counters – Solbakken’s obvious problem being that very few players can actually pull off the moves, crosses and finishes necessary to make such a strategy work. Captain Lars Jacobsen is a tested quality player, and the runs of all-round offensive talent Nicolai Jørgensen will probably names to be aware of for the Juve contingent, but other than those, I fail to see any players really troubling their Juve counterparts.

The Bianconeri will face an ex-teammate in Olof Mellberg, but while his beard is excellent as ever, the seasoned Swede has had a bit of a tough time in Copenhagen so far, being in and out of the team ahead of Solbakken’s arrival.

The (only) real danger posed by Copenhagen lies not in their ability or physicality, but in their status as chihuahua-sized underdogs in this game. No-one expects them to be a match for Juventus, and after their poor start to the season (including a run of eight home game without a victory), most would be satisfied not to be cut in half by the Old Lady.

Except Solbakken, who has a Conte-style winning mentality, and will – all media talk aside – have set up his team extremely well for this encounter, knowing well how much of a boost any kind of result would provide him with going forward. The question is whether effort and will power alone will cut it against the Italian champions, of course…


Probable Formation: (4-4-2/4-4-1-1)
Wiland; Jacobsen, Mellberg, Siggurdson, Bengtsson; Bolanos, Claudemir, Kristensen, Delaney; Jørgensen; Adi


JUVENTUS

You do remember, right? Last year when Juventus somewhat nonchalantly faced that awful Danish team, leaving them a point for their troubles? As I am sure Antonio Conte will tell the players – able to as he now is from the touchline – “let’s not do that again, shall we?” And, I imagine, adding the phrase: “EVER!”

As in any tournament, in the Champions League it’s not the team you’re facing, but the end result you leave with that matters. This is exactly why Conte will do well to remember last year’s trip to Copenhagen.

While it is a different team with a different philosophy Juve will be facing this time around, the mechanics are basically the same: Small team takes on huge opposition, will be dominated but try and make the most of their chances. This is exactly like travelling to the provinces in Italy and should be taken no less lightly than such an excursion. In fact, in group stage involving only six games, any lapse in concentration resulting in dropped points will be punished all the harder.

I realize this is hardly rocket science, but based on last year’s exploits, I don’t mind coming off like a boring old school teacher repeating these clichés. They become such for a reason, you know.

That said, while my fears proved correct the last time around, there is little to suggest they will on this occasion. Juve have had a good start in the league, and whereas a few key absences (Marchisio, possibly Vucinic, Barzagli) could have rattled the Bianconeri of yesteryear the depth of the squad has only increased since, and it should matter little in this context. What matters is keeping a cool head, taking charge and exploiting the chances created.

Again, no science involved – except that of psychology, of course. Luckily, Antonio Conte is a master of that facet of the game and his presence this time should alone be enough to see Juventus bring the three points back to Turin.

The (possible) injuries mentioned earlier aside, there is nothing to suggest that the Mister will change anything ahead of the game in Copenhagen. The 3-5-2 should overpower the Danes’ compact 4-4-2 (or likely 4-4-1-1, with Jørgensen the joker), as long as the basics are covered (i.e. protecting Pirlo and the WB’s putting in a good shift both in offense and defense).

This may seem to some as a great time to tinker with the team, both tactically and in terms of personnel, as the opposition is fairly weak. However, I would prefer to only see like-for-like subs in areas affected. There will be plenty of time to experiment, and the CL, no matter the opponents, is not really the place to do so.

Getting off to a good start in Copenhagen is vital, and the less messing about with players’ heads, the better. If we win the first four group games, we can talk about genuine rotation and experiments!


Probable Formation: (3-5-2)
Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Quagliarella

So… I guess I just spent about 1500 words telling you that Copenhagen is not all that great and Juventus should win this game – just the kind of expert analysis you won’t find anywhere else!

I deliberately waited until now to tell you outright though, as I thought you might enjoy a longer run given this is the CL and I’ll be watching the game live and therefore won’t be able to offer my “expert” views during the game…

There’s only one more thing left to say, really: No more Copenhagen cock-ups, please!

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

UEFA Champions League:
Copenhagen v Juventus

Juventus' quest to end the club's 17-year wait for European success
will see them start their UEFA Champions League campaign in Copenhagen.

Sep 16, 2013

The Turin club were victorious in Europe's premier club tournament and UEFA Super Cup in 1996 but have since endured something of a barren spell in continental competitions, reaching their last final in the 2002-03 season when they were defeated by AC Milan in the Champions League showpiece at Old Trafford.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio Conte's men travelled to Denmark in last season's Champions League and could only take a point from their away match with FC Nordsjaelland.

Juve, though, did manage to remain unbeaten through the group phase before losing 4-0 on aggregate to eventual winners Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

Not that the setback had an impact on their domestic fortunes as Juve secured back-to-back Serie A titles

They are now ready to challenge for silverware on all fronts in 2013-14, particularly after some astute transfers in the close-season as Carlos Tevez, Fernando Llorente and Angelo Ogbonna arrived, adding competition, ability and depth.

While the Italian side have picked up two wins and drew 1-1 at Inter on Saturday so far in Serie A, Group B rivals Copenhagen have endured their worst start to a league season as they lost each of their first three games and could not muster a win until match number seven.

The Danish champions embarked on a 12-match winless streak in the league before beating Viborg earlier this month as Stale Solbakken's managerial return ended an alarming slump.

In a group also containing Galatasaray and nine-time European champions Real Madrid, Solbakken's side are firm favourites to finish bottom.

Copenhagen, however, will take solace from their last Champions League adventure in 2010-11 when they finished second only to Barcelona in the group stages before exiting at the hands of Chelsea in the knockout stages.

Juventus go into Tuesday’s tie on the back of a battling 1-1 draw at San Siro, with Conte optimistic about what the season could bring.

He said: "We played a good game against a team like Inter, who confirmed they will fight for the title. And we could even have gotten a second.

"Serie A is our real objective right now and we can achieve something historic this season. I saw my team play very well at a difficult ground."

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

FC Copenhagen-Juventus Preview:
Bianconeri bid to end European drought

The Old Lady have not lifted the Champions League for 17 years but are strongly
fancied to be serious contenders this term after making three high profile summer signings.

Sep 16, 2013

Juventus travel to Denmark to face FC Copenhagen on Tuesday as many people's dark horses to win this season's Champions League.

http://markting10.nl/

The Serie A champions have won back-to-back league titles but were knocked out of Europe by eventual winners Bayern Munich at the quarter-final stage last season.

They are now ready to challenge for silverware on all fronts in 2013-14, particularly after some astute transfers in the close season, with Carlos Tevez, Fernando Llorente and Angelo Ogbonna all arriving in Turin.

Group B rivals Copenhagen have endured a disastrous season domestically so far, taking seven games to win their first match before embarking on a 12-match winless streak prior to re-appointing former coach Stale Solbakken.

In a group also containing Galatasaray and nine-time European champions Real Madrid, the Danish side are firm favourites to finish bottom.

Copenhagen, however, will take solace from their last Champions League adventure in 2010-11 when they finished second only to Barcelona in the group stages before exiting at the hands of Chelsea in the knockout stages.


Last Five Matches

FC COPENHAGEN

Jul 13, 2013 - VfL Wolfsburg 1 - 2 FC Copenhagen - Friendly
Dec 6, 2012 - FC Copenhagen 1 - 1 Steaua Bucureşti - EL
Nov 22, 2012 - Molde FK 1 - 2 FC Copenhagen - EL
Nov 8, 2012 - FC Copenhagen 0 - 2 VfB Stuttgart - EL
Oct 25, 2012 - VfB Stuttgart 0 - 0 FC Copenhagen - EL


JUVENTUS

Sep 14, 2013 - FC Internazionale 1 - 1 Juventus - Serie A
Aug 31, 2013 - Juventus 4 - 1 Lazio 1 - Serie A
Aug 24, 2013 - Sampdoria 0 - 1 Juventus - Serie A
Aug 18, 2013 - Juventus 4 - 0 Lazio - Italian Supercup
Aug 6, 2013 - Juventus 1 - 1 FC Internazionale - Friendly

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

FC Copenhagen-Juventus Betting Preview:
Visitors value to ease past out-of-sorts hosts

Stale Solbakken's side face a stern test in the Champions League when Antonio Conte's
men are the visitors and our tipster expects the Old Lady to be too strong for the Danes.

Sep 16, 2013

Italian champions Juventus begin their Champions League campaign on Tuesday night when they travel to Denmark to take on FC Copenhagen.

http://markting10.nl/

Antonio Conte’s side are considered by many to be dark horses to win the competition outright and they have been installed as warm favourites by the odds compilers to win against the Danish champions in Copenhagen. The Old Lady are chalked up at just 2/9 (1.22) to claim three points from their trip to Parken.

Copenhagen, now under the stewardship of former Wolves manager Stale Solbakken, have endured a difficult start to the new campaign, with the defending champions having claimed just seven points from their opening eight league fixtures.

Indeed, Copenhagen have won just one competitive fixture this season, so it is little surprise to see them chalked up at a chunky 9/1 (10.0) with BetVictor to defeat Antonio Conte’s men on Tuesday while the draw is available at 19/5 (4.80) with the same firm.

The Italian side, by contrast, have enjoyed a solid start to the campaign, winning three of their opening four fixtures before being held to a 1-1 draw against Inter at San Siro on Saturday evening.

Furthermore, Juventus have netted an impressive 10 goals in four fixtures this season – including a 4-0 Super Cup victory over Lazio – and they should prove too strong for Stale Solbakken’s side here.

With that in mind, the 5/6 (1.83) quote from BetVictor for Antonio Conte’s men to keep a clean sheet in Copenhagen certainly offers plenty of appeal.

However, given Juventus’ superior firepower, better value may lie in snapping up the 23/20 (2.15) quote on offer from BetVictor for The Old Lady to win to nil on Tuesday and that is the recommended play here.

Those seeking to claim big winnings from small stakes are advised to concentrate on BetVictor’s correct score market, with the generous 6/1 (7.0) quote for Antonio Conte’s men to win 2-0 on Tuesday offering excellent value for punters from this clash.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Conte: Juventus are dangerous underdogs

The Bianconeri boss feels his side are dark horses to conquer Europe and believes
Real Madrid have rightly been installed as favourites to win the competition.

Sep 16, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has branded his side as Champions League underdogs, but "dangerous ones" at that.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri join Real Madrid, Galatasaray and Copenhagen in Group B and Conte feels his side have a good chance of proceeding to the knockout stages by coming out on top.

"Juventus can be considered as Champions League outsiders, but dangerous ones," the 44-year-old told reporters at the press conference leading into the first group-stage encounter against Copenhagen.

"We're realistic, but we won't place limits on how far we can go.

"The added year of experience could be fundamental. In the Champions League groups you only have six games and it's difficult to recover after any slip-ups.

"What won't change is the team's philosophy. I'm convinced everyone will give me the responses I'm looking for.

"On paper you would say that Juventus and Galatasaray will battle it out for second place, yet Copenhagen could cause an upset."

And Conte believes that Madrid, fresh from splashing out €100 million on Gareth Bale, are rightly being strongly-tipped to wrestle the trophy from Bayern Munich.

"It's a fascinating group. Real Madrid are chasing their 10th Champions League title and have spent a lot of money. They're favourites."

Juventus will play their first Champions League match of the season on September 17 against Copenhagen.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Mellberg: Juve have changed a lot

Sep 16, 2013

Former Juventus defender Olof Mellberg has conceded that the club is barely recognisable from when he left.

http://markting10.nl/

The Swedish centre-back currently plays for Copenhagen – the Bianconeri’s Champions League opponents tomorrow.

And the veteran has admitted that the Old Lady have changed radically since he departed in 2009.

“The team has changed a great deal since I was there,” he told a Press conference.

“Back then they had plenty of experienced players, such as Del Piero, Trezeguet, Camoranesi and Neved. Now they’re a younger group and have changed their style of play.

“Only Buffon, Chiellini, Marchisio, Giovinco and De Ceglie have remained from my spell in Turin. It’s a completely different side and I think they’ve improved.”

“It will be difficult because we haven’t had much time on the training ground to prepare specifically for this clash. But we’ll give it our best shot and try and get a result.

“We’re aware of the dangers that we could potentially come up against, I played against Carlos Tevez when he was at Manchester United and tomorrow will be a tough battle against a striker of his quality.”

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

FC Copenhagen vs. Juventus: Preview

Sep 16, 2013

Juventus begin their Champions League campaign off the back of a comeback draw in the Derby d'Italia.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri responded with an Arturo Vidal to silence a raucous San Siro crowd, who had erupted in elation moments earlier when Mauro Icardi—the Juventus killer, having scored four times in three matches against the Old Lady—had given Inter the lead.

Juve will be extra motivated in the Champions League this season after a satisfactory return to the competition last year.

It was pleasing to top a difficult group that included the champions Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk, but the humbling given to them by eventual champions Bayern left a sour taste.

Now the Bianconeri begin a new adventure in Denmark against FC Copenhagen—a game that, at least on paper, Juve should win comfortably.

However, the attitude in the camp appears to be very professional, with Leonardo Bonucci commenting on his official website that "every match is a final (in the Champions League) and this is the first."

Copenhagen will not be confident of upsetting the Italians either, as the Danish champions lie 10th in their league after a torrid run that has seen FCK win just one match since April.


Copenhagen Team News

Former Juventus centre-back Olof Mellberg is in line to play against his former club.

The Danish champions have centre-back Kris Stadsgaard out injured, and backup goalkeeper Kim Christensen remains frozen out due to a contractual dispute.

Stale Solbakken will hope to have Nicolai Jorgensen back to top condition after the Dane's recent fitness issues, while new strike Adi Fanendo continues to settle into the side.

Expected XI: Wiland; Jacobsen, Mellberg, Sigurdsson, Bengtsson; Bolanos, Claudemir de Souza, Delaney, Jorgensen; Fanendo, Santin.


Juventus Team News

Antonio Conte has no fresh injuries to concern himself with ahead of the Champions League, with Claudio Marchisio, Martin Caceres, third-choice goalkeeper Rubinho and long-term casualty Simone Pepe the only absentees for Juve.

Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinic have shaken off knocks, but it remains to be seen as to whether Conte will pick them to start Tuesday, as a busy schedule ahead could prompt a little rotation.

Angelo Ogbonna and Fabio Quagliarella will be ready to step in should Conte feel it necessary to rest a couple of players with Hellas Verona awaiting them this weekend in Serie A.

Expected XI: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah; Tevez, Quagliarella.



Key Battle: Adi vs. Ogbonna

Copenhagen will look to get Claudemir on the ball alongside Bolanos, who can drift inside and link with the strikers.

Their cutting edge should come from Adi's runs off the last man into the space behind, so the added pace to the back line that comes from Ogbonna will be crucial for Juve to be able to nullify that threat.

The Nigerian-born Azzurri international has enormous potential and will be looking to prove his worth after his summer switch from Torino.

It is not beyond question that Ogbonna could force his way into the starting lineup over the coming months at Juve, so a Champions League test will be a nice way to measure his capability.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Buffon: Winning the Champions League would be exceptional

The 35-year-old has never won the Champions League,
but believes his team have the talent to change that this season.

Sep 16, 2013

Gianluigi Buffon says winning the Champions League would be an exceptional achievement for Juventus.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri kick off their European campaign against defending Superliga champions Copenhagen on Tuesday in Denmark, a side they have never previously met in the competition.

The Juve shot-stopper believes the club have improved over the summer with the signings of Angelo Ogbonna, Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente, and is hoping that will translate into results on the pitch for the two-time European champions.

“We’ve got two important years behind us and the club have strengthened the team in the transfer market,” he told reporters.

“But proof of this can only come from what happens on the pitch and it will be our enthusiasm and desire to keep surprising that will confirm this feeling.

“Winning the Champions League is an exceptional achievement, and something that hasn’t happened too often for us and other great teams.

“Managing to lift the trophy would be hugely satisfying, not only from a personal point of view, but for the whole environment here: fans, club and team-mates.”

Juventus will face their first test when they travel to the Parken Stadium, a venue they failed to win at in last year’s competition, drawing 1-1 with Superliga outfit Nordsjaelland.

Antonio Conte’s side were drawn in Group B with Real Madrid, Galatasaray and Copenhagen, and Buffon is excited to test himself against some of Europe’s top teams.

He added: “I’m intrigued to see if we’re able to follow up the good things we did last year and improve the results we managed to gain. On paper you could say we’ve developed since then.”

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Champions Club: Real Madrid & Dortmund
favourites for European glory

Nat Coombs is joined by international football writer Peter Staunton and former
Champions League winner Didi Hamann as we preview this season's elite competition.

Sep 17, 2013

The Champions League returns this week, as 32 teams battle it out for a place in the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz stadium.

http://markting10.nl/

Holders Bayern Munich start their title defence in the Russian capital, but with a new manager and ethos yet to settle, will last year's winners still be standing come this season's showpiece? And following a summer of unrivalled transfer activity, which stars will shine brightest in European football's premier competition.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Juventus can win Champions League, says Nedved

The Bianconeri director is optimistic about his side's chances
in Europe and feels they can spring a surprise and go all the way.

Sep 17, 2013

Pavel Nedved believes that Juventus have what it takes to go all the way in the Champions League this term but accepts they may not be the strongest team in the competition.

http://markting10.nl/

The Serie A champions will have to deal with Real Madrid, Galatasaray and Copenhagen in Group B and Nedved is confident that they will progress to the knockout stages.

"There are a few teams that are perhaps a bit stronger, but the strongest team doesn't always win. So I'd say that we could win it if you ask me if we could go all the way," the Juve director told Tuttosport.

"It will obviously be tough, but it's not something that's out of our reach.

"We will be playing against Copenhagen and Galatasaray in our next two games. Then, against Real Madrid, anything can happen.

"We could win or lose versus Madrid, but we will have to collect as many points as possible versus the Danes and the Turks."

Juventus take on Copenhagen in the Danish capital on Tuesday evening in their Group B opener.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Verratti: A PSG-Juventus Final!

Sep 17, 2013

Italian international Marco Verratti has a dream – a Champions League Final between his Paris Saint-Germain side and Juventus.

http://markting10.nl/

The Champions League will begin this evening and the playmaker is hoping PSG and Juve will improve on reaching the quarter-finals in the last campaign.

“An ideal Champions League Final would be PSG versus Juventus,” the 20-year-old told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“A tie between my present and my future? For now all that counts is the present.”

The Turin giants did try to sign the midfielder in the summer of 2012, but refused to match the €12m which PSG handed to Pescara for him.

“I see an even more spectacular Champions League this season,” Verratti continued. “We went out in the last eight last season [to Barcelona], but we did so with our heads held high.

“The club have invested a lot and well. Edinson Cavani gives us more strength, as do Marquinhos and Digne.

“Progress in the European Cup depends on how you get out of the group, on the draws and on injuries. But we can believe we can get to the Final.

“Other outsiders? The Italian clubs. Juve and Napoli have reinforced with intelligence. Milan have Mario Balotelli and we’ll have to see what Kaka can do when in form.”

Paris SG are in Group C with Benfica, Anderlecht and tonight’s opponents Olympiacos.

Juventus have been placed in Group B alongside Real Madrid, Galatasaray and Copenhagen.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Cruyff believes Juve can challenge

Sep 17, 2013

Johan Cruyff believes that Juventus can challenge for the Champions League this season.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri play Copenhagen this evening in their first European match of the campaign, and the Netherlands legend has claimed that Antonio Conte’s men can do well.

“I think it’s likely that they will aspire to win the Champions League,” he told Tuttosport.

“For two years now they have played some great football – football that suits Europe.”

The Barcelona and Ajax hero then commented on Milan and Napoli’s chances.

“Milan are always Milan, but this year they have changed a lot. For me, Kaka is still an unknown in this team.

“Napoli though, are beginners in the competition. I will be following them with curiosity.”

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Pique: 'Juve among favourites'

Sep 17, 2013

Barcelona midfielder Gerard Pique believes Juventus can win the Champions League and Milan “remain complicated rivals.”

http://markting10.nl/

The tournament proper kicks off this evening with Copenhagen-Juventus, then Milan host Celtic and Napoli face Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.

“Juventus will fight for the Champions League, as they are among the group of favourites for the trophy,” Pique told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“Last season they were only stopped by Bayern Munich. They have strength in depth, Andrea Pirlo, a great defence, Gianluigi Buffon and with Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente have definitely strengthened in attack.

“Napoli have Rafa Benitez, who is very competitive, and have signed players from Real Madrid who know what the Champions League is all about. In Serie A they started out scoring a lot and play decisively attacking football. They won’t win the Champions League, but they will have a good run.”

Barcelona are in the same group as Milan, Celtic and Ajax, so have been paired with the Rossoneri for the fifth time in three seasons.

“We know each other well,” smiled Pique. “In recent years they haven’t bought as many players because they are not in a great financial moment, but they remain complicated rivals.

“As for Kaka, Milan need a player like him, whereas Real Madrid are full of them. Kaka didn’t play very much and over time that affected his confidence, so I think that’s why he left. He had his best years at Milan and can be reborn there.

“Mario Balotelli? He’s special, in every sense! A very different player with great quality. He really needs to feel he is the star at the centre of a project and I think he has that at Milan, whereas it was tough for him to feel important at Manchester City.

“He was already decisive last season and I hope he can be again this term.”

Pique also cast his eye over some of the other contenders for the Champions League.

“It’s true that with Carlo Ancelotti they are trying to keep the ball more, but Real Madrid haven’t changed their playing style all that much. With those players and now Gareth Bale, it’s natural to win back possession and hit you on the break.

“Bayern Munich are in development and it’ll take a while to become the football machine Pep Guardiola wants, but this year they can win it all again.

“Chelsea? In the Super Cup with Bayern Munich they had their chances, scored when down to 10 men and could’ve won. It’s the pure Jose Mourinho style – not the most entertaining football in the world, but the way he sees it that doesn’t matter as long as you win.”

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Struggling Danes fear Juventus

Juventus will have nothing to fear when facing FC Copenhagen
on Tuesday, writes Danish sports journalist and commentator Karsten Krogh.

Sep 17, 2013

FC Copenhagen are nowhere near as strong as the team that made it to the last 16 of the Champions League two years ago. They’re currently 10th out of 12 sides in the Danish Superliga. However, they’re probably still favourites for the title as their squad remains the best in Denmark. And they have just signed their old Coach Ståle Solbakken, who led the team to its best season ever 24 months ago. That may be a game changer.

http://markting10.nl/

Two years ago FC Copenhagen sported probably the best Danish club outfit of all time. Led by former Chelsea star Jesper Groenkjaer, by a wide margin the best player ever in the Danish League, the team also had a great centre-forward in Dame N’Doye (now Lokomotiv Moscow), international midfielder William Kvist (now Stuttgart) and a rock solid defence – consisting of, among others, current Bologna defender Michael Antonsson. Swedish ‘keeper Johan Wiland is the only one left of that defence.

FCK won the Danish championship with 26 points to spare the season of 2011 – even if they were also playing European football at the same time. When the campaign ended, almost everyone left. Still, most people expected FCK to win the title easily the next season but they failed to do so. Minnows and neighbours FC Nordsjælland beat FCK by two points and drew Juventus, Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League. FC Nordsjælland were completely outclassed and basically humiliated, conceding a record 22 goals in the group stage alone.

Last season FCK took their title back, although not in a very convincing fashion, and they ended the term with a string of defeats and draws. The poor results continued at the start of this campaign and the club decided to fire Belgian Coach Ariel Jacobs when they had a chance to sign Staale Solbakken, the man who took FCK to their great Champions League season. Solbakken was part of the FCK exodus two years earlier when Bundesliga club FC Köln came knocking. However, Solbakken was a failure in Germany and his later stint at Championship side Wolves wasn’t a success either.

Now he’s back in FCK and his first two games in charge have brought optimism and four points to the title holders. However important Solbakken may be as a lightning rod and motivator, though, he can’t actually play the games for FCK, and it’s still a fact that FCK don’t have much of a team at the moment.

Their defence has conceded 12 goals in eight matches and have only managed to score 11 goals – with four of those coming against relegation favourites Viborg.

The team is struggling everywhere on the pitch. Brazilian midfielder Claudemir, excellent two seasons ago, is nowhere near the same player he was when playing with Kvist in central midfield. Goalkeeper Wiland, excellent for two seasons, has shown signs of weakness lately, and the strikers, Santin and Vetokele, have never been Champions League standard. FCK have bought two new strikers, German Pourie, from Danish club Silkeborg, and 193cm, 22-year-old Nigerian Adi from Slovakian FK AS Trencin but they really shouldn’t be a problem for the likes of Giorgio Chiellini or Leonardi Bonucci.

Coach Solbakken recently stated that the Champions League could turn out to be a somewhat nasty experience for the troubled outfit and that seems to be an understatement. The truth is that this FCK is nowhere as strong as in the recent past and are probably expected to fetch maybe one point in their six games – their home game against Galatasaray. Anything more than that would be a big surprise.

Last season Juventus sensationally drew 1-1 against FC Nordsjælland at Parken in Copenhagen, the same pitch where they’ll be playing FCK on Tuesday. It would be a huge, huge upset if they do anything of that sort again. The likes of Juventus and Real Madrid really shouldn’t have any problems picking up six points against the current FCK.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Juventus probable XI v Copenhagen

Sep 17, 2013

Angelo Ogbonna and Fabio Quagliarella are expected to be named in the Juventus starting XI against Copenhagen in the Champions League on Tuesday.

http://markting10.nl/

Boss Antonio Conte is being tipped to make two changes to the side who began the 1-1 draw at Inter on Saturday.

Ogbonna and Quagliarella will replace Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinic, players who only appeared at the weekend after passing late fitness tests.

Ogbonna, signed in the summer from Torino, is expected to play in the middle of the back-three which will see Leonardo Bonucci moved to the right of the trio.

Italian international Ogbonna has never played in the Champions League before.

Paul Pogba will again be handed a starting shirt as Claudio Marchisio is still sidelined with the injury he picked up in the Italian Super Cup Final.


Juventus probable: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Tevez.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Champions League Preview:
Juventus vs. FC Copenhagen

It all begins again

Sep 17, 2013

THE CHAMPIONS!!!!

http://markting10.nl/

Juventus were drawn into a tough group in this season's edition of the Champions League. Am I going out on a limb with that last sentence? Nah, I don't think so. It's not very often three teams that made it into the quarterfinals the previous season meet the next time around.

There's also this: Juventus don't have to play any of those two to begin the group stage. Instead, Juventus have made a trip to Denmark for the second straight year. But don't worry, there won't be the struggle to figure out how the hell to spell "Nordsjælland" on a regular basis. (And, for the record, I am glad about that.) No, it's just simple spelling this time around, with Juve's trip to Denmark seeing them play FC Copenhagen in the Group B opener for both teams.

While their trip to play Nordsjælland last season was Juve's return to European football, this time the journey to Denmark comes with serious expectations. Juve have added to their squad this summer, reinforcing what was already a Champions League quarterfinalist and two-time defending Serie A champions.

Now, Antonio Conte is looking to build on what is a damn good foundation.

Go right ahead, Mister. You won't find me complaining about wanting to go even further in the Champions League.

GOOD NEWS

Juventus are opening the group stages with FC Copenhagen instead of Real Madrid. Say what you want about opening with a challenge, but I'll take the very good chance to get three points straight away every day of the week.

BAD NEWS

Injuries. Martin Caceres (knee surgery), Claudio Marchisio (knee ligament), Simone Pepe (thigh strain) and Rubinho (pelvic muscle strain) are all recovering from their respective problems. Fun!

And the schedule is busy again. Seven games in about a month. That's rough — with or without the current injuries Juventus are dealing with. More on that in a little bit.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Just how pissed off Juventus are after a Derby d'Italia draw over the weekend.

Antonio Conte likes to win. I like that Antonio Conte likes to win. I think everybody likes that Antonio Conte likes to win. Well, those of us who root for this great club, but I'm not so sure about the others. And even though Conte was pleased with his team's effort against Inter on Saturday, it wasn't a win — and therefore Il Mister can't be completely satisfied...right? This is a great chance for Juve to start Group B action on a really good note and get all three points right out of the shoot before the tougher group games arrive. I'm sure they realize that, and want to have all three points possible in their pocket when they get on the plane back to Turin.

2. The condition of Mirko Vucinic.

After hearing for a week leading up to the derby about Vucinic's injury status and availability, Vucinic was available on Saturday and his performance was, uh, not so good. Maybe that's just Mirko being Mirko and following the trajectory of his career, I dunno. But with everything that was going on during the week and having to shake off an injury in such a short period of time, it's hard to think it didn't play some kind of role — significant or minor — in his performance.

3. The striker situation.

I could, realistically, say this in every preview I write up in the same kind of fashion I did a season ago. But this time, it's not because we don't know who will play on consistent basis. Carlos Tevez will play much more often than he won't. I could go on and on about Fernando Llorente needing a chance to show what he's capable of just to shut people up, but I won't. For all I know, Conte could be planning on changing things for the simple fact of squad rotation and that will be that. Much like the Inter preview, this is basically tied to Vucinic — if he's deemed healthy enough to play, Mirko will most likely play. It's as simple as that.

4. Which Andrea Pirlo shows up.

Conte has made his stand, and we know the maestro is playing.

Now that we've established that Pirlo is playing, let's talk about how he hasn't been the player we've come to know since he arrived the last couple of weeks. Pirlo's not on his best form. That's not some wild theory I'm throwing out there right now, either. The amount of misplaced passes are starting to add up. So are the amount of turnovers he's committing. Conte says he doesn't need rest, so we'll go with that. But I'm just going to sit here and wonder what a night off might do if that okay with all of you. It's not like giving Pirlo a break has helped in the last year or two. Oh wait...

5. The condition of Olof Mellberg's world-class viking beard.

Because before Pirlo's beard, there was Mellberg's beard. And since we'll be seeing an old friend tomorrow night, there's no reason not to pay attention to his glorious facial hair.

6. How much Conte actually rotates the squad — now and in the future.

From Conte's post-match interview on Saturday night:

"I'll need to call on everyone and will rotate the side the side when the moment's right, with the league championship in mind as our realistic objective. I definitely couldn't rotate in a match against Inter."

So, he's established that he will rotate things. How much? That's still to be seen. But it's something I expected him to do more often a year ago and it didn't happen as much as it probably should have. Has Conte learned? I don't know. That's just something he's going to actually have to prove to me — and a lot of other folks around these parts — before we truly believe that squad rotation is going to be happening when the schedule is busy like it currently is. Even with some of his better players injured right now, Conte has the depth at his disposal. It's time to take advantage of it.


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

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

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Copenhagen & Juve UEFA CL Updates

Sep 17, 2013

If we didn’t know for sure, we do now: Mauro Icardi is an official Juve villain.

We were put on watch when he scored three goals against us last season for Sampdoria (two at Juventus Stadium). But nothing provides confirmation like scoring a goal for Inter in a Derby d’Italia.

http://markting10.nl/

Thankfully, Juve’s “bete noire” (as the press are calling him) was neutralized by our own white knight, Arturo Vidal, who equalized minutes later with a quietly incredible strike through four defenders, allowing Juve to leave San Siro with a hard-fought point.

But forget the Derby for now. Tonight, the Bianconeri address the more important matter of Champions League glory.

The dream begins with this evening’s group stage encounter with Copenhagen, as Juventus look to take what they’ve learned from the joys and sorrows of last season’s final-eight performance in Europe’s top competition, determined to get as close as possible to winning it all.


Copenhagen Update: Quagliarella’s Turn?

Antonio Conte is contemplating some smart turnover for tonight’s CL opener.

In an effort to both rest ailing starters Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinic, as well as provide some crucial European experience for Angelo Ogbonna (in a relatively low-pressure, non-Real Madrid environment), the Juve coach is considering starts for both Ogbonna and Fabio Quagliarella, according to several Italian sources.

Fabio looks to be ready, if his performance against Inter was any indication. He certainly claims to be, according to Sky Sport Italia (via Football Italia):

The Coach, as always, makes his decisions. But my objective is to do well in training and convince him to pick me game after game. I’m always ready. When the Coach decides that I need to start a game or come on as a substitute, he knows that he can calmly rely on me. If he decides that it is my turn to play then there would be no problem at all.

Starting both Quagliarella and Ogbonna would be a good move. The former is not shy on European nights, as evidenced by his heroics vs. Chelsea last year. And as mentioned above, this is the perfect opportunity for Ogbonna: a chance to play in a “big” European match that will nevertheless (hopefully) allow for a few rookie mistakes.

As you would expect for such an important match, Andrea Pirlo will start in midfield, but there’s good news on the horizon for those of us who think he’s being flogged to death week after week: Our architect will likely start from the bench next weekend against Verona.

In tacit acknowledgment of their relative unfamiliarity with Copenhagen (see the official site’s summary of the Danish side’s recent exploits for what little we know), Gigi Buffon focused more on Juve’s general goals for this year’s European campaign (via Juventus.com):

Winning a Champions League is an exceptional achievement, and something that hasn’t happened too often for us and other great teams. Managing to lift the trophy would be hugely satisfying, not from a personal point of view, but for the whole environment here: fans, club and teammates.”

I’m intrigued to see if we’re able to follow up the good things we did last year and improve the results we managed to gain. On paper you could say we’ve developed since then.

We’ve got two important years behind us and the club have strengthened the team in the transfer market. But proof of this can only come from what happens on the pitch and it will be our enthusiasm and desire to keep surprising that will confirm this feeling.

Juve may be intent on surprising this year, but the group stage will certainly provide some surprises of its own. This current squad knows very well not to underestimate a side like Copenhagen, who are capable of providing the same stiff competition as Shakhtar Donetsk and compatriots Nordsjaelland did last season.

“Minnow” is a relative term, especially in the Champions League. Beware, Bianconeri.

FORZA JUVE!!!

Conte & the Champions League: Learning from Experience

Antonio Conte expects his men and himself to learn from last year’s Champions League experience — especially from their struggles in the early group stage.

The Bianconeri’s eventual triumph vs. Celtic and sobering defeat at the hands of Bayern Munich in the knockout stages was certainly not a foregone conclusion after the first three matchdays of the 2012-13 campaign. Needing a valiant comeback just to draw with Chelsea and suffering shock stalemates with Nordsjaelland and Shakhtar, Juventus were staring down the very real prospect of crashing out prematurely.

As stated in his press conference yesterday (via Juventus.com), Conte is well aware of the need to start brightly:

The last time we were here we only managed to clinch a point right at the end and risked our chances of getting out of the group stages. You have just six games and it’s always difficult to bounce back from any slip-ups.

Danish champions FC Copenhagen have strangely struggled for form so far this season and even fired a coach in August. Antonio is baffled by this turn of events, but is wisely preparing for a club at their best:

I’m struggling to understand why Copenhagen find themselves in the position they’re currently in. We’ve studied them well, they play good football and always appear to have something over their opponents, even if the final outcome hasn’t always been positive. So we’ll need to pay great attention to them, taking heed of what happened here last year.

Conte finds his squad to be comfortably placed in their group in terms of CL expectations. Real Madrid’s presence makes Juve automatic underdogs, which will take a bit of pressure off the Bianconeri and allow to initially focus solely on progressing further than last season:

It’s a fascinating group. Real Madrid, who have been chasing their tenth Champions League title for years and continue to spend heavily, will be regarded as favourites, at least on paper. We’ll be battling it out with Galatasaray for second place, but we’ll also need to pay attention to Copenhagen, who could cause an upset.

We know that there’s still a way to go and a year’s added experience will help us. We’ll be outsiders, but a dangerous outsider for anyone to face. We know who we are and how far we can go. We won’t place limits on our progress, but we’ll maintain a level of realism which will enable us to keep our feet on the ground.

Of course, the onset of the Champions League fixtures means that the Bianconeri will run through a bit of a gauntlet over the next month: seven matches in 25 days (including Saturday’s match with Inter). So, then, the inevitable question: Who’s going to rest, and when? Also, WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO REST PIRLO?

The answer to that last question might easily be “when Marchisio comes back.” But let’s let Antonio answer for himself:

It’s inevitable that I’ll rotate the side in this important period, looking to grant rest to those who need it in order to have them ready for the next game. What won’t change, however, is our philosophy.

Pirlo doesn’t need a break at present and will start tomorrow. I believe you can change a maximum of four players at a time, in order to avoid upsetting the balance of the side too much, but I’m convinced I’ll get the right responses from everyone.

Last season’s mild turnover can partly be excused by the lack of “quality” in the side, but as far as the media and most tifosi are concerned, there are no such excuses this year. Making turnover decisions is a dangerous game, and Conte will be playing it with ever-higher stakes for both the club’s future and his own.

Giuseppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici have arguably given him what he wanted over the summer. And sure, those signings have to pay off, which is mostly down to the signings themselves. But if Juventus are expected to arrive at the promised “next level” as a club, then Conte is expected to arrive there as a coach, too.

Part of that will entail tactically outwitting the Bayerns, Barcelonas and Real Madrids of the world. But an equally important part will be ensuring that Juve are physically and mentally rested enough to not only balance the demands of multiple important campaigns, but be devastatingly effective in each one.

This season was designed to be an evolutionary one for Juve, but no less of one for Conte himself. He is very much ready to be a next-level coach.

The next level starts tonight.


Previously in Denmark…

Historically, Juve have had precious few adventures on Danish soil, and never with the same club. Tonight will see only the third Bianconeri encounter with a Danish side.

The first occurred on September 15, 1982 in the last-16 of what was then known as the European cup (I’m figuring this is before Heineken took Europe hostage). Here’s the summary from the official site:

A Juve side with six recent world champions, not to mention Michel Platini and Zbigniew Boniek, lined up against Hvidovre for a place in the European Cup quarter-final.

Giovanni Trapattoni’s adventurous attacking formation paid dividends as the Bianconeri ran out 4-1 winners, with goals from Platini, Paolo Rossi, Sergio Brio and Antonio Cabrini putting the Danes to the sword.

Interestingly enough, that fixture became the inspiration for a character in the Danish film Italian for Beginners:

Curiously, the game came to have an impact on Lone Scherfig’s 2000 film “Italiano per principianti”. Telling the story of a tiny community living in the Copenhagen suburbs that go to an Italian-speaking school, it features a powerful example of absolute love for the Bianconeri: one of the main characters is a waiter who practically lives in the Juventus shirt after watching the team beat Hvidovre.

Of course, you’ll remember the second Danish encounter, which took place last year at tonight’s venue, Parken Stadium, against Nordsjaelland, who played us to a draw:

Although the hosts took the lead through a Mikkel Beckmann free kick, the Bianconeri fought back and found an equaliser when Mirko Vucinic converted Mauricio Isla’s cross from the right-hand side 10 minutes from the end.

The Nordsjaelland draw snapped Juve out of their stupor, spurring them on to eventually top the group. Let’s hope this group stage never sees Juve in such dire straits in the first place.

Speaking of history, tonight’s official, Ivan Bebek of Croatia, has handled only one Bianconeri match, that being a 2-1 win at Ajax during the very painful Europa League campaign of 2010.

His linesmen will be Tomislav Petrovic and Miro Grgic, while Dalibor Conjar will be fourth official (and will hopefully remind Conte to use his substitutes).


From the Enemy Camp: Copenhagen Speaks!

Copenhagen find themselves in a strange place at the moment — which could be very dangerous for our Bianconeri.

Defending champions of the Danish Superliga, FC Copenhagen have nevertheless found themselves at the bottom of table following a disastrous start to the domestic season, their coach replaced by a returning hero.

Stale Solbakken recently returned for a second spell in charge, hoping to add to the success of his first. Copenhagen won five league titles between 2006 and 2011, all under Solbakken’s stewardship. His return has already had a galvanizing effect on the squad, who are finally starting to see some positive results towards a successful defense of the Danish crown.

Now Solbakken turns his attention to the Champions League, hoping for a big scalp or two to further boost his club’s domestic confidence (via Juventus.com):

Getting a result tomorrow could represent the turning point of our entire season. We’re focusing on the three games that we’ll be playing at home, even though we’re perhaps in the most difficult group.

Juventus need to win at all costs and perhaps we’ll be able to surprise them. We hope to do the same against Galatasaray. We’ll be playing against superior sides, but perhaps they might underestimate us.

We need to believe we can do it, otherwise we won’t get a result. We need to stick to our own game plan, have plenty of belief and play to the best of our abilities. If we do just that, who knows, we could well spring a surprise.

“Who knows” indeed. The above quote should be a lyric in the official Champions League song.

Although Bianconeri tifosi may be unfamiliar with Copenhagen as a club, they should recognize one relatively friendly face from TDDBC (The Dark Days Before Conte): Olof Mellberg. Asked about his time at Juve, Mellberg’s response was to marvel at the complete overhaul in personnel and philosophy:

The team has changed a great deal since I was there. Back then they had plenty of experienced players, such as Del Piero, Trezeguet, Camoranesi and Nedved. Now they’re a younger group and have changed their style of play.

Only Buffon, Chiellini, Marchisio, Giovinco and De Ceglie have remained from my spell in Turin. It’s a completely different side and I think they’ve improved.

As for the match itself, Conte’s relentless tactical drills should come in handy, if Mellberg’s assessment of Copenhagen’s readiness for tonight is any indication (of course, he could be laying a trap!):

It will be difficult because we haven’t had much time on the training ground to prepare specifically for this clash. But we’ll give it our best shot and try and get a result.

We’re aware of the dangers that we could potentially come up against. I played against Carlos Tevez when he was at Manchester United and tomorrow will be a tough battle against a striker of his quality.

You know what they say about wounded animals, so I won’t repeat it here (and I’ll also pretend it applies to football clubs). Suffice it to say that Copenhagen is exactly the type of club to trip up a Champions League hopeful or two with a bravura performance, especially at home.

If Juve want to avoid the more desperate moments of last year’s group stage, they must leave nothing to chance and dispatch Copenhagen as quickly as possible.

The last thing we need is for things to get “interesting.”

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Line-ups: Copenhagen-Juventus

Sep 17, 2013

Juventus begin their Champions League campaign in Copenhagen with a reshuffled side.

The Bianconeri kick off at the Parken Stadium at 20.45.

http://markting10.nl/

Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinic played in the 1-1 draw with Inter on Saturday despite knocks, so are rested in Denmark along with Kwadwo Asamoah.

Claudio Marchisio, Martin Caceres and Simone Pepe are all still on the treatment table, so Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso and Fabio Quagliarella step into the starting XI.

Juve will be hoping for a better showing than last season, when they were held 1-1 by Nordsjaelland in Copenhagen.

The Danes have had a difficult start to their season, picking up just seven points from eight League matches.

Their line-up includes former Juve defender Olof Mellberg.

The 38,000-seater stadium is sold out, though only 900 of those are expected to be travelling Juventus fans.


COPENHAGEN: Wiland; Jacobsen, Mellberg, R Sigurdsson, Bengtsson; Bolanos, Claudemir, Delaney, Braaten; Adi, N Jorgensen

Copenhagen bench: Jensen, Margreitter, Remmer, Kristensen, Gislason, Santin, Toutouh


JUVENTUS: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Peluso; Quagliarella, Tevez

Juventus bench: Storari, De Ceglie, Padoin, Asamoah, Isla, Giovinco, Llorente

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

Fabio Quagliarella starts for Juventus against Copenhagen

Sep 17, 2013

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has included Fabio Quagliarella in his starting lineup for his side's Champions League clash against Copenhagen in Denmark tonight.

http://markting10.nl/

The Italian striker will start alongside Carlos Tevez in attack for the Serie A champions, with Fernando Llorente left on the bench.

Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal all start in midfield for Juventus.
Meanwhile, Copenhagen have former Bianconeri defender Olof Mellberg in their lineup for the sold-out clash at the Parken Stadium.


COPENHAGEN: Wiland; Jacobsen, Mellberg, R Sigurdsson, Bengtsson; Bolanos, Claudemir, Delaney, Braaten; Adi, N Jorgensen
Subs: Jensen, Margreitter, Remmer, Kristensen, Gislason, Santin, Toutouh

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Peluso; Quagliarella, Tevez
Subs: Storari, De Ceglie, Padoin, Asamoah, Isla, Giovinco, Llorente.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN - JUVENTUS

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)

HT 1-0: Juve trail in Copenhagen

Sep 17, 2013

Juventus had numerous chances in Copenhagen and forced amazing saves, but are trailing 1-0 at half-time.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri began their Champions League campaign in Denmark, where last season they were held to a 1-1 draw by Norsdjaelland. Mirko Vucinic, Kwadwo Asamoah and Andrea Barzagli were rested in favour of Fabio Quagliarella, Federico Peluso and Angelo Ogbonna, while Claudio Marchisio, Martin Caceres and Simone Pepe were injured. Copenhagen were champions of Denmark, but had a terrible start to their domestic season, managing only seven points from eight games.

It was Copenhagen who broke the deadlock with Nicolai Jorgensen, who was able to bundle the ball over the line from four yards after a Pierre Bengtsson free kick was not dealt with properly.

There was almost an equaliser moments later, but Johan Wiland spilled a Carlos Tevez shot and Quagliarella tested him on the follow-up.

Juve had a double scoring opportunity denied by amazing Wiland saves. First the 32-year-old goalkeeper fingertipped Giorgio Chiellini’s header over from point-blank range, then from the resulting corner used his knee to deflect a Paul Pogba effort over the bar from a couple of yards.

Tevez curled off target and Pogba’s header was inches wide, while Stephan Lichtsteiner scuffed his volley from a very promising position.


Copenhagen 1-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Jorgensen 14'

Copenhagen: Wiland; Jacobsen, Mellberg, R Sigurdsson, Bengtsson; Bolanos, Claudemir, Delaney, Braaten; Adi, N Jorgensen

Juventus: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Peluso; Quagliarella, Tevez

Ref: Bebek (CRO)

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

Nicolai Jörgensen (14′)

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)
Attendance:‬ 36524‎

Quagliarella spares Bianconeri's blushes

The forward justified his inclusion in the starting line-up by
cancelling out Nicolai Jorgensen's first-half opener at Parken.

Sep 17, 2013

Juventus had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Copenhagen after dominating much of their opening Champions League encounter in Denmark.

http://markting10.nl/

Nicolai Jorgensen gave the hosts the lead in the 15th minute in the Group B clash before Fabio Quagliarella levelled the scores 10 minutes into the second half.

It was scant reward for a Juventus side that enjoyed much more of the ball and created far better chances, only for wasteful finishing to deny Antonio Conte's side.

Stale Solbakken made one change from the side that drew 1-1 with Esbjerg at the weekend, Igor Vetokele making way for Daniel Braaten.

Conte made three changes from Saturday's 1-1 draw with Inter, with Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso and Quagliarella coming in for Andrea Barzagli, Kwadwo Asamoah and Mirko Vucinic.

The Italian champions had the first effort of note in the fifth minute, Carlos Tevez meeting Andrea Pirlo's cleverly-taken corner but firing wide of the right-hand post from an angle.

Copenhagen took the lead after Juventus failed to deal with Pierre Bengtsson's deep free-kick from the right-hand side.

As a crowd of players jumped to challenge for the ball inside the six-yard box, it fell kindly for Jorgensen, who took a touch and slotted home beyond a helpless Gianluigi Buffon.

Juventus' response was immediate as Johan Wiland made two outstanding saves in a minute to keep his side in front midway through the half, keeping out efforts from Giorgio Chiellini and Paul Pogba when both players looked certain to score.

Tevez then curled his shot a yard over the crossbar in the 32nd minute as Juventus continued to pen their opponents back in search of an equaliser.

The second half began much as the first had ended, with the visitors in the ascendancy, and in the 52nd minute Tevez wasted a golden opportunity to level the scores.

Pirlo's first-time ball over the top caught the home defence square, but the Argentine forward, clean through on goal, saw his effort saved by the legs of Wiland.

Two minutes later, however, Juventus finally got the goal their dominance had warranted as Tevez stepped over Peluso's cross from the left and Quagliarella swept the ball high past Wiland from 10 yards.

Quagliarella was then inches away from a second in the 65th minute, his header from Lichsteiner's cross flicking the top of the bar and bouncing away to safety.

With 20 minutes to go, Jorgensen went close in a rare Copenhagen attack, driving forward before unleashing a shot from 20 yards that flew narrowly over Buffon's crossbar.

Arturo Vidal could have put Juventus in front with 15 minutes remaining after collecting Tevez's headed flick, but his weak effort rebounded away off Wiland's chest.

Moments later, Tevez was again denied by Wiland before Pogba's header bounced just wide of the post with the goalkeeper stranded.

With 10 minutes to go, substitute Sebastian Giovinco was the next man to be denied by the inspired Wiland as Juventus were left searching in vain for a winner.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

Nicolai Jörgensen (14′)

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)
Attendance:‬ 36524‎

Copenhagen hold wasteful Juve

Juventus dominated, hit the bar and forced numerous saves,
but Fabio Quagliarella only got them a 1-1 draw in Copenhagen.

Sep 17, 2013

In the other Group B game, Real Madrid earned a resounding 6-1 victory away to Galatasaray.

http://markting10.nl/

The Bianconeri began their Champions League campaign in Denmark, where last season they were held to a 1-1 draw by Norsdjaelland. Mirko Vucinic, Kwadwo Asamoah and Andrea Barzagli were rested in favour of Fabio Quagliarella, Federico Peluso and Angelo Ogbonna, while Claudio Marchisio, Martin Caceres and Simone Pepe were injured. Copenhagen were champions of Denmark, but had a terrible start to their domestic season, managing only seven points from eight games.

It was Copenhagen who broke the deadlock with Nicolai Jorgensen, who was able to bundle the ball over the line from four yards after a Pierre Bengtsson free kick was not dealt with properly.

There was almost an equaliser moments later, but Johan Wiland spilled a Carlos Tevez shot and Quagliarella tested him on the follow-up.

Juve had a double scoring opportunity denied by amazing Wiland saves. First the 32-year-old goalkeeper fingertipped Giorgio Chiellini’s header over from point-blank range, then from the resulting corner used his knee to deflect a Paul Pogba effort over the bar from a couple of yards.

Tevez curled off target and Pogba’s header was inches wide, while Stephan Lichtsteiner scuffed his volley from a very promising position.

After the restart Wiland was again forced into heroics in the Copenhagen goal. Tevez sprung the offside trap on a ball over the top and was one-on-one when Wiland stuck out a foot to parry the low shot.

Juve finally found a way through when Peluso’s low cross was let through by a Tevez dummy and Quagliarella blasted under the bar from 10 yards. Quagliagol had also scored an equaliser in last season’s Champions League opener away to Chelsea and this was his fifth strike in eight games in this competition for the Bianconeri.

Another fine Peluso cross from the left set up Lichtsteiner, but the scissor-kick volley was well over, as he had the time to control it. Moments later a long-range Andrea Pirlo snapshot was beaten away at the base of the near post.

Quagliarella was very unlucky on 63 minutes, as his glancing header looped up to land on the crossbar with Wiland beaten.

Copenhagen spent most of the second half pinned back, but had a chance too when Jorgensen drilled inches over the bar from distance.

Wiland rushed off his line to close down Arturo Vidal, then the goalkeeper parried a fine Tevez strike and from the corner Pogba’s header glanced just past the far post. Wiland used his legs again on substitute Sebastian Giovinco, as Juve had 22 attempts on goal (nine on target) compared to Copenhagen’s eight.

In stoppages Tevez had the chance to win it, but poked wide from Mauricio Isla's assist from six yards.


Copenhagen 1-1 Juventus

Scorers: Jorgensen 14 ©, Quagliarella 54 (J)

Copenhagen: Wiland; Jacobsen, Mellberg, R Sigurdsson, Bengtsson; Bolanos (Toutouh 79), Claudemir (Margreitter 85), Delaney, Braaten; Adi (Gislason 69), N Jorgensen

Juventus: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner (Isla 85), Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Peluso (De Ceglie 73); Quagliarella (Giovinco 76), Tevez

Ref: Bebek (CRO)

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

Nicolai Jörgensen (14′)

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)
Attendance:‬ 36524‎

FC Copenhagen 1 - 1 Juventus:
Instant reaction and random observations

Sep 17, 2013

I'm starting to think that there is a hex around Juventus whenever they take a trip to Denmark. If you want to disagree with me, go right ahead and do so.

http://markting10.nl/

But Juventus had 33 total shots in their trip to Denmark last year. They recorded 27 total shots against FC Copenhagen on Tuesday night. That's 60 shots towards a Danish goal in two games, a number where you'd think Antonio Conte's men would fly back to Turin with a bunch of goals to their pocket and feeling good about their performance.

Not so fast. Juventus left both of those games with 1-1 draws.

Chances were created. But with those chances came world-class saves from a 32-year-old goalkeeper having a career night between the sticks, lots of missed opportunities and a whooooole lot of frustration created. Conte rotated the squad like he said he would. And that squad delivered — to a point.

They created a ton of chances. They didn't play well — or anything close to the way they went into the international break — but the a rather mediocre performance still produced as many chances as anybody else in the opening matchday. The one problem: They didn't take advantage of them whatsoever.

Yeah, well what good is that if you can only manage to finish one of them? Exactly.


Random thoughts and random observations

•When are we going to be worried about Giorgio Chiellini's form? King Kong had another forgettable showing, the second in as many games.

•Johan Wiland is why Copenhagen came away with a point from this game. Not Juventus' stupid defending on the opening goal. Nope. You're going to need a second hand to count the amount of top-shelf saves Wiland made to keep the score either in favor of Copenhagen or even at 1-1. From one keeper to another, that was a truly unbelievable game. The Man of the Match discussion starts and ends with him.

•I love Antonio Conte. I really do. But you're trying to tell me that Fernando Llorente, a guy who stands 6-foot-5 and thrives on service in the air, couldn't have helped Juventus try and get a goal. How many crosses did the Juve wingbacks attempt against Copenhagen? Okay, so it was close to 50, but there's no reason to think Llorente couldn't have put at least a couple of those on goal no matter what kind of insane form Copenhagen's goalkeeper was in.

•If Juventus are drawn against another Danish side in next year's Champions League I will be enraged.

•It doesn't matter if it's coming off the bench or playing from the start, Fabio Quagliarella scores goals in the Champions League. It's a good thing that the merry-go-round transfer with Genoa and Roma didn't go through. Quagliarella is still a valuable piece to this puzzle. There's no way around it.

•I had no problems with the squad rotation. Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinic had both been hurting over the last few weeks with their respective injuries and Kwadwo Asamoah had played a ton of minutes before, during, and after the international break. Juventus fielded a squad good enough to beat Copenhagen no matter what the situation was. They just didn't get the job done.

•I'm not pushing the panic button by any means. Remember how things started last year in the Champions League. But other than starting against Copenhagen at Juventus Stadium, things couldn't have been drawn up any better for Juve. Unfortunately, they're coming back home to Turin with one point, not three. This team just likes to make things hard on themselves in Europe, I guess.

[Socrates 8430]

F.C. KOBENHAVN 1 - 1 JUVENTUS

Nicolai Jörgensen (14′)

Fabio Quagliarella (54′)

September 17, 2013 8:45 PM
Parken Stadium — Copenhagen
Referee: Ivan Bebek (Croatia)
Attendance:‬ 36524‎

Inspired Wiland denies Juve

Sep 17, 2013

Juventus were frustrated by an inspired performance from FC Copenhagen goalkeeper Johan Wiland as they were held to a 1-1 draw in their Champions League opener in Denmark.

http://markting10.nl/

The visitors missed a succession of chances, especially after the break, as they began their Group B campaign slowly.

At half-time, it looked as though things could have ended up worse, with the Danes leading through Nicolai Jorgensen's 13th-minute goal, but Fabio Quagliarella levelled nine minutes into the second half.

Quagliarella also headed against the bar as the Italians created enough chances to win several games, only to see them go begging thanks to a series of splendid saves by Wiland.

Conte had warned his side ahead of the match that they could not afford the sort of slow start to the competition they had last year, when they drew their opening three games before recovering to qualify.

But his team appeared not to heed his advice.

Carlos Tevez fired wide following an Andrea Pirlo corner as they served an early warning to the hosts, but the Italians fell behind when Pierre Bengtsson swept a free-kick into the area and Jorgensen was on hand to slot the ball home from close range.

Juventus almost responded in the 20th minute, but Wiland produced two superb saves to keep his side in front.

First he tipped Giorgio Chiellini's header from an Arturo Vidal cross over the bar and then, from the resulting Pirlo corner, turned away Paul Pogba's effort.

The Italians kept coming, Angelo Ogbonna heading over and Quagliarella and Tevez shooting over.

Pogba then had another golden chance, only to head wide as the visitors trailed at the break.

Conte's side started the second half in similar vein, Tevez bringing another save from Wiland.

But the 32-year-old keeper was finally beaten in the 54th minute when Federico Peluso fed Quagliarella, who fired high into the net from the centre of the area.

The search was now on for the winner, but still Wiland proved a huge obstacle.

He parried Pirlo's driven shot from just outside the area and then made a rather easier stop to keep out Stephan Lichtsteiner's effort two minutes later.

When Quagliarella beat him again in the 64th minute, the crossbar came to the keeper's rescue as the striker's header stayed out.

Vidal was the next to be denied by Wiland before the wasteful Pogba headed wide from a Pirlo cross.

Still Juventus carved out chance after chance, and produced miss after miss.

Sebastian Giovinco's shot from the right side of the area was blocked by Wiland, who saw Tevez's injury-time effort go harmlessly wide as Copenhagen held out.