Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Mazic to ref Olympiacos-Juve

Oct 20, 2014

Milorad Mazic will be in charge of Juventus’ Group A match against Olympiacos in Athens on Wednesday night.

Last month, the 41-year-old Serbian referee was in charge for Italy’s Euro 2016 qualifier in Oslo, a match won 2-0 against Norway.

During the summer, the official was on the pitch for two World Cup games in Brazil – Germany-Portugal and Argentina-Iran.

Juventus travel out to Greece in the third matchday of the Champions League group stage this midweek with all four teams in Group A level on points.

For the game, Mazic will be assisted by Milovani Ristic and Dalibor Djurdjevic.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

An energetic Juventus needed
to combat Olympiakos pressure

Oct 20, 2014

With Roma being thought of as the best Italy has, at least according to Bayern director Karl-Heinz Rummenigge whose comments are also somewhat self-serving, it truly is time for Juventus to show Europe why they are better. Qualifying out of the group and reaching the latter stages of the Champions League is more important that winning another Scudetto, at least it is so for many of the fans.

The draw against Sassuolo will be forgiven and indeed forgotten if the Bianconeri manage a comprehensive win against Olympiakos on Wednesday night. Six points against the Greeks in the next two games should stand the Italian champions in good stead but it certainly won't be easy.

Michel, the coach of the Greek Giants, was never renowned as a coach that could cope with consistently winning during a long season in his home country of Spain, but when it comes to knockout games such as the ones we find in Europe, he prepares his team impressively. Each player is aware of the task and his insatiable appetite for studying the opponent ensures that his side always know how to expose the weaknesses of his opponents.

Against Atletico Madrid, he mirrored Diego Simeone's tactics, demanding his side play with the same intensity and forcing Los Rojiblancos to take the initiative. This is not how the Spanish side like to play and they were made to suffer, eventually losing the match. Essentially, Michel's side is rather similar in that they, too, prefer the opponent to possess the ball. Against Malmo, especially towards the end of the match, we saw how ineffective they are when they had the ball, passing it round endlessly without creating any worthwhile opportunities.

A team that likes to attack via the wings, they may have lost quality at the back but they have interesting players to look out for, especially in midfield. Luka Milivojevic loves to takes shots from distance while Ibrahim Afellay is highly mobile on the right, often moving into the middle making life difficult for those tasked with keeping him quiet. While Kostas Mitroglou failed to impress at Fulham, he's back to his goal-scoring ways with the Greek champions, playing like the efficient centre forward to those who regularly watch him.

Olympiakos' greatest strength is in disrupting their opponent's game. They do not like to be dominated and they thrive on frustrating those they take on. In truth, if we are to analyse all the teams in this group, only Juventus enjoy playing a possession-based game, the others prefer to play a reactive one.

As such, it is vital Juve manager Massimiliano Allegri plays a humble style of football, considering this is an away match. The Karaiskakis Stadium is a thrilling ground with a hostile environment; the fans play their part in hopes of intimidating the opponent. While it's important to never lose one's identity, it's also vital Allegri realises the strength of the opponent to play a clever game, one that is passionately intense but also somewhat different than what he is used to in Italy.

The Greeks will press and they know how to work hard. Their defence is worthy of admiration and they would like nothing more than for Juventus to rotate the ball endlessly, creating space for them to attack at the back. This means the Italians must be disciplined and energetic but also incredibly fast. This is not the time to ask Andrea Pirlo to pull the strings and the players to play small passes; but a time to surprise the opponent, forcing them to attack before than exploiting the space made available.

Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich before them have demonstrated how a lot of pressure affects the Italians. This is why it's important they understand how to draw in their markers to create space for others, using their intelligence and pace. It is perhaps for this reason that it appears the coach wishes to start Alvaro Morata up front, banking on his acceleration and determination to make the difference.

The young Spaniard has experience playing in Europe. Having made his debut against Schalke in the round of 16 in March 2014, he scored to ensure his team won 3-1 in the Bernabeu and was chosen to play for 40 minutes in the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid.

Thought to provide a little more mobility going forward than the struggling Fernando Llorente, the onus will be on him to cover more space but still provide the tactical benefits his national teammate manages -- that of pushing the centre backs back in order to offer his teammates more room to play between the lines.

Carlos Tevez has especially benefitted from the extra room he's been given to drop back and act as a number 10. Not only can he influence the game more, creating and leading, but his timely arrivals into the box as well as his intelligence has led to more goals than we imagined.

Arturo Vidal should also be making his return and one hopes he will put in a memorable performance to demonstrate the superiority of his team. Can Allegri win this tactical battle?

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

FOURFOURTWO

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

UEFA Champions League:
Olympiacos v Juventus

Olympiacos will bid to make Juventus their latest scalp
at the Karaiskakis Stadium when they meet in the UEFA Champions League.

Oct 21, 2014

The Greek side welcome Massimiliano Allegri's men to Piraeus having suffered a surprise 2-0 reverse at Malmo in their last European outing.

But the hosts can have considerable hope of victory given their recent record at home in Europe's premier club competition, with a plethora of the continent's leading teams coming away from the Karaiskakis with nothing.

Atletico Madrid became the latest side to lose at the venue as they succumbed to a thrilling 3-2 defeat in the Group A opener last month, with Olympiacos suffering just two losses in their last 10 home Champions League games.

And, with Manchester United, Benfica and Arsenal all having been beaten by Olympiacos in Greece in recent times, Allegri and his players will need no reminder of the task facing them on Wednesday.

History is on the side of Juve, who have yet to lose to Olympiacos on Greek soil and won 7-0 in the last encounter between the two in Turin in 2003, a result that still stands as the hosts' heaviest defeat in European football.

Things have changed drastically since that meeting, though, and a Juve outfit that has fallen way behind the leading sides in top European competition head into the match having lost four of their last five Champions League away games.

Allegri's side were disappointing going forward as they were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Atletico in the second round of group fixtures and were equally unimpressive in a 1-1 Serie A draw with Sassuolo last weekend.
However, the visitors are expected to be boosted by the return of Chile playmaker Arturo Vidal.

Vidal missed the Sassuolo game due to apparent fatigue following the recent international break, but the 27-year-old is reportedly set to be restored to the starting XI.

Andrea Pirlo is the man expected to drop out for Vidal, while striker Fernando Llorente will likely miss out because of back problem.

Defenders Andrea Barzagli (heel) and Martin Caceres (thigh) are also sidelined, along with midfielder Romulo, who has a groin injury.

Attacking midfielder David Fuster is in contention for Olympiacos after returning to action in Saturday's 3-2 league success over Ergotelis, but defender Dimitris Siovas and forward Jorge Benitez both have thigh complaints and are set to miss out.

Michel could be forced into a change at the back with Giannis Maniatis – who has played in both group games so far – one booking away from a suspension.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Olympiakos v Juventus: Preview

Oct 21, 2014

Olympiacos goalkeeper Roberto Jimenez Gago has stressed the importance of his team returning to winning ways in the Champions League when it hosts Juventus on Wednesday.

The Greek outfit lost 2-0 at Malmo last time out having previously won its Group A opener 3-2 against Atletico Madrid.

Olympiacos lie fourth in the standings, level on three points with all three group rivals after two games played.

With last season's runners-up Atletico favourites to win the pool, Jimenez Gago is aware his team needs to see off the Italian champions to enhance its chances of a top-two finish.

``We are going to give everything to beat Juventus,'' the former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper said to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. ``This game is very important and we cannot fail.

``We came close to reaching the quarter-finals last season and we want to reach that stage this time around.

``Juve is a top club just as Atletico is but in our stadium, we can beat anyone.''

Olympiacos have lost just two of their previous 10 Champions League home games and have beaten the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal in Piraeus in recent seasons.

``The Karaiskakis stadium is a little bit like Atletico's Calderon stadium,'' Jimenez Gago said. ``The fans really help the team and we really feel they can give us a hand.

``We know we are not the strongest team in the competition and that is why we need the support of our fans and they deliver.''

The hosts head into the encounter in buoyant mood after Saturday's 3-2 win at Ergotelis lifted them to third place in the Greek Super League, three points adrift of leaders PAOK FC.

Juve, meanwhile, have never lost to Olympiacos in Greece but the Bianconeri have fallen in four of their last five away games in Europe's elite club competition.

Massimiliano Allegri's side travels to Greece having seen its perfect run in Serie A come to an end in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Sassuolo.

The outcome saw Juve's lead at the top of the league table cut to one point after seven games played.

``We've taken a step back but we are ready to get back on track,'' Juve defender Leonardo Bonucci said on his official website. ``Now we face a Champions League final and I think this game arrives at the right time for us.

``We will go to Athens hungrier than ever.

``Atletico have lost there but we only have one thing on our mind and that is to win.''

With Fernando Llorente struggling with a back problem, Allegri is set to hand Spanish striker Alvaro Morata his first start. Morata will play alongside Carlos Tevez in Juve's attack.

The Italians will be bolstered by the return of Chilean midfielder Arturo Vidal, who missed the clash at Sassuolo with fatigue.

The visitors are without injured defenders Andrea Barzagli and Martin Caceres while Olympiacos will be at full strength.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Olympiakos - Juventus Preview:
Allegri's men face tough test in Greece

Massimiliano Allegri's Bianconeri will be desperate to bounce back from their 1-0 defeat
against Atletico Madrid but the hosts boast a formidable record in their own backyard.

Oct 21, 2014

Olympiakos will bid to make Juventus their latest scalp at the Karaiskakis Stadium when they meet in the Champions League.

The Greek side welcome Massimiliano Allegri's men to Piraeus having suffered a surprise 2-0 reverse at Malmo in their last European outing.

But the hosts can have considerable hope of victory given their recent record at home in the competition, with a plethora of the continent's leading teams coming away from the Karaiskakis with nothing.

Atletico Madrid became the latest side to lose at the venue as they succumbed to a thrilling 3-2 defeat in the Group A opener in September, with Olympiakos suffering just two losses in their last 10 home Champions League games.

And, with Manchester United, Benfica and Arsenal all having been beaten in Piraeus in recent times, Allegri and his players will need no reminder of the task facing them on Wednesday.

History is on the side of Juve, who have yet to lose to Olympiacos on Greek soil and won 7-0 in the last encounter between the two in Turin in 2003, a result that still stands as the hosts' heaviest defeat in European football.

Things have changed drastically since that meeting, though, and a Juve outfit that has fallen way behind the leading sides in top European competition head into the match having lost four of their last five Champions League away games.

Allegri's side were disappointing going forward as they were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Atletico in the second round of group fixtures and were equally unimpressive in a 1-1 Serie A draw with Sassuolo before this game.

However, the visitors are expected to be boosted by the return of Chile playmaker Arturo Vidal. The midfielder missed the Sassuolo game due to apparent fatigue following the recent international break but the 27-year-old is reportedly set to be restored to the starting XI.

Andrea Pirlo is the man expected to drop out for Vidal, while striker Fernando Llorente will likely miss out because of a back problem. Defenders Andrea Barzagli (heel) and Martin Caceres (thigh) are also sidelined, along with midfielder Romulo, who has a groin injury.

Attacking midfielder David Fuster is in contention for Olympiakos after returning to action in Saturday's 3-2 league success over Ergotelis but defender Dimitris Siovas and forward Jorge Benitez both have thigh complaints and are set to miss out.

Michel could be forced into a change at the back with Giannis Maniatis – who has played in both group games so far – one booking away from a suspension.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Olympiakos Piraeus W L L W W

18/10/2014 - Ergotelis 2 - 3 Olympiakos
01/10/2014 - Malmö 2 - 0 Olympiakos
27/09/2014 - Atromitos Athens 1 - 0 Olympiakos
23/09/2014 - Panachaiki 0 - 1 Olympiakos
20/09/2014 - Olympiakos 3 - 0 Veria


Juventus D W L W W

18/10/2014 - Sassuolo 1 - 1 Juventus
05/10/2014 - Juventus 3 - 2 Roma
01/10/2014 - Atlético de Madrid 1 - 0 Juventus
27/09/2014 - Atalanta 0 - 3 Juventus
24/09/2014 - Juventus 3 - 0 Cesena


HEAD TO HEAD

10/12/2003 - Juventus 7 - 0 Olympiakos Piraeus
30/09/2003 - Olympiakos Piraeus 1 - 2 Juventus

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Olympiakos vs. Juventus: Key Issues
That Will Shape Champions League Game

Oct 21, 2014

No other Champions League pool is as finely-poised after two rounds as the one in which Juventus find themselves. Group A sees all four sides level with three points each, no team able to establish themselves and take command as yet.

Matchday Three seems set to provide a key stage in the quest for qualification to the knockout rounds, with Atletico Madrid hosting Malmo and the Bianconeri traveling to Greece to face Olympiakos. They do so in relatively poor form, their recent results beginning to cause concern among fans of the Turin giants.

Their controversial win over Roma was immediately after their loss to the Spanish champions, while this past weekend saw Sassuolo hold Juve to a 1-1 draw. Having dropped points in the league for the first time this term, Massimiliano Allegri knows a win on Wednesday evening is now even more essential.

Over the following pages is a look at the key issues which may decide this encounter, with Juventus determined to leave Athens with all three points.


The Confidence of Juventus

The effects of those recent results may be the most influential factor in this match, as the constant pressure to win games begins to build upon the Juventus squad. If those poor performances continue at the Karaiskakis Stadium, Olympiakos will be ready to capitalise upon the weaknesses displayed by the Bianconeri.

Having already overseen a victory of Atletico Madrid, their coach Michel has proven he is unafraid of the biggest sides, showing he is an excellent tactician. Allegri will need to match the Spaniard’s awareness, selecting a team and tactics capable of overcoming the reigning Greek champions.


The Fitness of Arturo Vidal

While there is no doubting the quality which runs through this Juventus side, the importance of Arturo Vidal simply cannot be understated. The Chilean midfielder remains the central figure in this Bianconeri team, the driving force which pushes the club to excel in the biggest matches.

Having recovered from knee surgery before the World Cup, the early part of his 2014-15 campaign has been interrupted by a string of related ailments. The player insists he is in good health, taking to Twitter to declare his knee “is very good,” per Football Italia.

Juventus will need a strong performance from the 27-year-old in order to deliver victory, and they will hope he can shine once again.


Struggling Strikers to Start Scoring?

If Vidal is now recovered and ready to play for Juventus, it seems the same cannot be said of Fernando Llorente, with the striker reportedly suffering with a back complaint. Media reports on the peninsula (h/t Football Italia) appear to indicate that injury will see him sidelined on Wednesday, with Alvaro Morata set to start in his place.

Llorente’s form and his failure to score this season has already proven to be a concern for the Bianconeri, and was discussed here last week. However, the other strikers available to Allegri have done little better, with Morata’s goal against Atalanta seeing him as the only forward other than Carlos Tevez to net this term.

Sebastian Giovinco and Kingsley Coman have shone in their brief appearances, but Juventus need the trio to make a more significant contribution if they are to progress in the Champions League.


Defensive Issues to Address

The season began in incredible fashion for the Juventus defence, registering consecutive clean sheets in their opening six games of the campaign. Since then, however, the Bianconeri have allowed four goals in their last three fixtures, with Allegri struggling to find a consistent lineup due to a combination of injuries.

Andrea Barzagli remains sidelined with the calf complaint that has seen him fail to make a single appearance this term, and he has since been joined by Martin Caceres. The Uruguayan has been sorely missed in recent weeks.

With Angelo Ogbonna expected to start alongside Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini once again, Juventus will hope that the three men can hold Olympiakos at bay.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Juve list 21 for Olympiacos

Oct 21, 2014

Juventus have listed 21 players in their squad to take on Olympiacos, with Arturo Vidal returning after sitting out Saturday’s trip to Sassuolo.

The Chilean midfielder had been rested by Allegri in Juve’s draw after reporting back from international duty showing signs of fatigue.

Young midfielder Federico Mattiello also travels to Greece with the squad, but Andrea Barzagli and Martin Caceres are still absent through injury.

Fernando Llorente, who has been described as a doubt to start this match with reputed back pain, also makes the cut, having trained with his teammates this morning.


Juventus squad to face Olympiacos: Buffon, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Pogba, Marchisio, Morata, Tevez, Coman, Giovinco, Llorente, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Storari, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra, Mattiello

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Turan: Juve toughest team faced

Oct 21, 2014

Atletico Madrid’s Arda Turan says Juventus are the toughest team he’s faced in his time at Vicente Calderon.

The Bianconeri visited Atleti in the last round of Champions League matches, with Turan's header sealing a 1-0 victory for the Spanish champions.

Despite that victory, the Turkey international has singled out the Old Lady as the toughest test his side have faced of late.

“In my four years here, the toughest game I’ve experienced was that Champions League home game against Juventus,” Turan has told FIFA’s official website.

“Against Barcelona you know they’ll have the lion’s share of possession, against Madrid you need to stop their counter-attacks, but the Juve game was just tremendous.

“We have a lot in common - they are very strong and they made us really run and work hard. We didn’t play especially well, but we stuck to our style and managed to win.”

Turan then looked ahead to his side’s trip to Malmo, with Juventus taking on Olympiacos in the other Group A match, and believes the Swedish side’s resilient performance on matchday one in Turin means they must be respected.

“We’ll need to be careful against Malmo – we have a lot of respect for them.

“At home they play very well and remember they went in 0-0 at half time away to Juve. This is the Champions League and if we’re careless or adopt an attitude of ‘we’re a big team, we’ll win all our games’, then we’ll be eliminated pretty quickly.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Michel: 'Allegri's Juve still strong'

Oct 21, 2014

Olympiacos Coach Michel insists Antonio Conte’s Juventus was “not stronger” than the current incarnation.

The two teams meet in Athens on Wednesday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) for the Champions League.

“We know how to face games in this competition and proved last year that we are capable of it,” said Michel in his Press conference.

“Tomorrow we must decide if we are up to the standard of this tournament. We respect Juve, but also want to continue our journey. We are honoured that people are talking about us outside of Greece.”

Olympiacos already impressed this season, as they earned a shock 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid here, but lost 2-0 away to Malmo. Michel was asked whether Alberto Botia’s form was a problem.

“This season we conceded four goals, the same as last term. I don’t like commenting on one specific player, as the responsibility is on the whole team.

“I can’t say how the game will go, as I didn’t expect the Atleti match to end 3-2 either. We are going into a top level game and if Kasami scores with a header then great, but we’ll see if he plays or not, as I don’t want to give Allegri too much information!

“It is not the first time we’ve faced a 3-5-2 formation. We know well how Juve will attack and defend, so we’ll be ready.”

Juventus have changed with the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri after three years of Conte and Marcello Lippi said this team is “less ferocious” than in the past.

“Conte’s Juve was certainly distinctive, but not stronger than Allegri’s side. They are different and cannot be compared. I don’t think Lippi was trying to be critical,” continued the Spanish Coach.

“Fernando Llorente hasn’t scored yet this season, while Alvaro Morata is an excellent player. When he was 15 years old I got him to move from Getafe to Real Madrid.

“I’d prefer that neither of them play tomorrow, but I have a predilection for Morata.”

The Bianconeri are locked in a Scudetto battle with Roma, so have Giallorossi defenders Kostas Manolas and Vasilis Torosidis given Michel any advice?

“I spoke to both of them and they talked to me in Greek, which was a problem... They will certainly support Olympiacos tomorrow.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Buffon: Olympiacos Have Improved

Oct 21, 2014

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has said that Olympiacos have significantly improved in recent years.

The Bianconeri are set to face the Greek giants on Wednesday in the UEFA Champions League group stage, and the Italian international was quick to say that the side have improved since Juventus defeated them 7-0 in 2003/04.

“This is not the Juventus team which won 7-0? More than anything it’s a better Olympiacos side,” he said in the press conference.

“The comparisons are useless; I’d say we have enormous potential.

“The game tomorrow will be very tough, the crowd and players will be very passionate.

“However, it’s the players who take the field and Olympiacos have really good individuals, they deserve respect after their UEFA Champions League run last season.”

Buffon then went on to rubbish claims that the Bianconeri played a defensive game against in their 1-0 away loss to Atletico Madrid.

“I heard some comments that Juve only defended in Madrid,” he said. “Being on the pitch, I can say that this was far from the case.

“Despite not having clear-cut chances in Madrid, there were several situations that were in our favour; we showed great personality and strength in that game.”

The Italian international stated that the side are capable of reaching the quarter-finals of the competition, and must prove so starting against Olympiacos.

“We’ve played only four games since the game against Celtic in 2013,” he said. “We can finish in the top eight, and we must prove that tomorrow.”

The goalkeeper then went on to speak about the words of Roma keeper Morgan De Sanctis regarding the two sides’ meeting.

“I have a faded memory of what was said,” he said. “His words do not bother me, after all the game was a long time ago.”

Speaking about the renewing of his contract, Buffon said that he has not yet renewed, but claims that there are no barriers preventing him for doing so.

“I haven’t yet renewed my contract,” he said. “However, there are no problems at all.

“We are in talks, and things will be defined soon.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Arturo Vidal set to return
for Juventus away to Olympiakos

Oct 21, 2014

Arturo Vidal will make his return to the Juventus starting XI for the trip to Olympiakos on Wednesday night, coach Massimilian Allegri has confirmed.

The Chilean was left behind in Turin at the weekend as Juve dropped their first points of the season at bottom-placed Sassuolo. There had been rumours he was left out for disciplinary reasons -- refuted by the player on Sunday -- but now he is ready to start in Greece.

"It did him good to stay in Turin at the weekend," Allegri said at a news conference. "He's far better now. The days working in Turin have improved his condition. He can't be 100 percent yet, but I still hope we will get to see a great Vidal for 90 minutes.

"As for the rest of the team, I've still got to make up my mind."

One of the choices Allegri has to make is who to line up with Carlos Tevez in his attack. In view of a hectic schedule of matches, he may give Fernando Llorente a rest.

"It will be either [Alvaro] Morata or [Fernando] Llorente, we'll just have to see," said the Juve coach. "Morata's improved a lot after being injured. He still has to settle into his new surroundings, but he's fit."

Allegri is cautious about rotating his side too much, considering that the Champions League, or at least reaching the knockout stages, is one of his priorities.

"Tomorrow's going to be important, but not decisive," he added. "We need to get as many points as we can from these two matches [against Olympiakos].

"I've got a great deal of respect for Olympiakos. They beat Atletico, they've got a great coach who has given them a Spanish mentality, and then they have some top quality players."

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Allegri: Olympiakos double-header a knockout tie

The Bianconeri boss believes that a six-point haul from his side's back-to-back
clashes with the Greeks would put the Old Lady in a great position to reach the last 16.

Oct 21, 2014

Massimiliano Allegri believes Juventus' Champions League double-header with Olympiakos is "practically a knockout tie".

The Bianconeri currently top Group A, while their Greek opponents are bottom, but both sides have three points apiece after two rounds of action.

Consequently, Allegri believes that back-to-back wins over Olympiakos would put Juve in a fantastic position to reach the last 16.

“It’s still not a decisive game, but an important one nonetheless," he told reporters at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

"The two matches with Olympiakos are practically a knock-out tie and we need to come away with as many points as possible.

"It won't assure us of qualification but will give us a good chance of progressing to the next round.

“We need to have plenty of motivation because it’s important for us to progress in the Champions League. We can’t put a foot wrong tomorrow.”

Juve opened their European campaign with a 2-0 win over Malmo but they were beaten 1-0 by Atletico Madrid last time out.

Given Olympiakos defeated the Spanish champions 3-2 in Piraeus, Allegri is unsurprisingly taking nothing for granted ahead of Tuesday night's game at Karaiskakis Stadium.

“There'll be a great atmosphere and the Olympiakos fans will be trying to urge the team on any way they can," the former AC Milan boss mused.

"They're at home, of course. However, the supporters can't come onto the pitch - only the players will be out there.

“We have plenty of respect for Olympiakos. They beat Atletico Madrid, play good football and their coach (former Real Madrid ace Michel) has equipped them with a Spanish mentality.

"They possess quality individuals and we’ll need to play with intensity in order to limit their best attributes.

"It'll be a tough match for us, but so too will it be for Olympiakos.”

Meanwhile, Allegri admitted that he has yet to decide upon his starting line-up, revealing that he could opt to replace Fernando Llorente - who has yet to score this season - with fellow Spaniard Alvaro Morata.

"Morata is young and possesses great quality," he acknowledged. "I’ll see whether or not he or Llorente gets the nod.

“Those who will definitely play are Stephan Lichtsteiner, Angelo Ogbonna, Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci, Carlos Tevez, Arturo Vidal and Gigi Buffon.

"I still have a few doubts to resolve as far as the others are concerned."

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

UEFA Champions League Preview:
Juventus vs. Olympiacos — Go Greece lightning

Oct 21, 2014

Before we delve into this preview any further, let's take a look at what the Group A standings look like after two incredibly unpredictable games.

Team ......Points.. Goal Differential
Juventus....... 3...... +1
Atlético Madrid 3...... 0
Malmö.......... 3...... 0
Olympiacos..... 3...... -1

Just like we all though, right? Riiiiiight.

As you can see, there's a common theme here. It's not difficult to figure out, so we don't have to reach for our college degrees to support claims about discovering out these things. All four teams have won one game, lost one game, and stand on three points after about 180 minutes or so of Champions League action this season. The goal differentials are the only things that aren't the same, which is why Juventus find themselves in the top spot.

Even with the group a total mess right now, Juventus finds itself in the same kind of deal it does last time they were away from home in the Champions League — holding the chance to get a little breathing room at the top of the group. They're not going to Spain time, rather off to the land of ancient mythology and grandeur. Juventus vs. Olympiacos is the third game for both clubs in Group A, otherwise known as the official midway point of what has been a virtually unpredictable Champions League group stage to date.

Does the matchup, at least on paper, swing things in Juventus' favor? Well, of course. Outside of their next game against Alético Madrid, everything should be swinging in Juve's favor because they're the second best team in the group. But as we've seen in recent games, Juve are a team that aren't close their best right now. One day they can put in a so-so kind of performance and still manage to beat somebody like Roma, the next they can play a sub-par game and draw with Sassuolo.

Say Good Juventus — or even Somewhat Good Juventus — shows up tomorrow night in Greece, what would that mean? Well beside the obvious of giving Juventus a better chance at three points, it would put them in a good position to actually get through this interesting group with two of the final three group stage games at Juventus Stadium.

Or, we can just see what Max Allegri has to say on the matter...

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Allegri: "Tomorrow is important, not decisive. We need to come out of the two games with as many points as possible in order to go through"

GOOD NEWS

If Juventus wins, they'll be tied at the top of the table at the very least. I'd say that's good news considering how Group A currently looks after two rounds.

BAD NEWS

For one, Juventus aren't exactly rolling over the Greece country lines with a bunch of momentum. It's not like a frustrating 1-1 draw against Sassuolo will give you a bunch of wind in your sails anyways.

Secondly, the usual folks are still injured. That means no Andrea Barzagli, no Martín Cáceres and Romulo or Luca Marrone. Then again, we've been used to them being hurt for weeks now, so it's not exactly a surprise to see them on the injury report these days.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. The status and effectiveness of Arturo Vidal.

I hate to break it to the Italian press, but Vidal didn't play against Sassuolo because of getting back late to Turin after international duty, not because Max Allegri hates his guts. Sorry to kill that story, guys, but that's just how it goes. And now that Vidal has returned to Italy after being with the Chilean national team, gotten a few training sessions in, one has to think that Vidal's place in the starting lineup will be restored and everything will be back to normal. "Getting back to normal" means Vidal actually gets back to playing like the Vidal of old — commanding the midfield, making an impact on both offense and defense, doing just about everything and then some. We're not talking about the Vidal that was almost non-existent in Madrid a few weeks back. Juventus need Vidal to be Vidal — and not just Wednesday night, but going forward from here on out.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Allegri: "Vidal is a lot better and the work he's done over the past few days has enabled him to improve his physical condition." #UCL

2. The status and effectiveness of Paul Pogba.

For maybe the first time all season this past Saturday, we saw the Pogba we're used to seeing. The same Pogba who makes impressive runs that leave would-be tacklers in the dust. The same Pogba who scores fantastic goals and makes them look almost routine at the same time. The same Pogba who is just one of the best players on the field because he's a complete monster when on form. I won't go as far as to scream "HE BACK!" from the top of the closest hill because Pogba had one good game. That's just being a little too much for my liking. But after a not-so-hot start to the season, it was good to see Pogba put in a really good showing with so many important games on the horizon. Basically, keep it going, Paul. And score a couple more awesome goals while you're at it.

3. Is this the game that Álvaro Morata gets his first Juventus start?

A secondary or alternate question could be this: With the way Fernando Llorente is playing right now, why wouldn't you at least try to shake things up alongside Carlos Tévez? We know Llorente's form is arguably as bad as its ever been since he's put on a Juventus jersey. What we don't know is what Juventus will look like when Morata gets his first Juventus start. That day will come, we just don't know when. Until that point, though, we are left to wonder just what things might look like based on what Juve's €20 million summer signing has done off the bench. Morata will obviously bring different characteristics to the field if he does indeed get the start. That may just be what Juve's attack needs to get going once again and not be so Tévez-dependent.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Allegri: "Morata is a quality player. He’s come on a great deal and I’ll see whether it's him or Llorente who get the nod tomorrow." #UCL

4. Andrea Pirlo or Claudio Marchisio?

We've talked about the other two central midfielders, so why not the other spot? Seeing as Vidal should start and Pogba should start, we're left to decide between two midfielders for one spot. Pirlo hasn't been all that great since he returned from injury two-plus weeks ago. On the other hand, Marchisio was very good more often than not while filling in for Pirlo the first month of the season. It could be a simple decision for Allegri, one that hinges on what kind of game he wants his squad to play in a very hostile atmosphere at the Karaiskakis Stadium.

5. Patrice Evra or Kwadwo Asamoah?

Common logic tells me that Asamoah was simply held out against Sassuolo for the same kind of reasons Vidal was — a long trip back to Turin that resulted in him being one of the last internationals to return. It was the same. While Asamoah returned to the starting lineup the first post-international break Champions League game last month, it was as a central midfielder, meaning Evra was starting out on the left wing not matter what. But both are available for selection now, and given Evra's less-than-stellar form this season, it should be Asamoah starting at left wingback tomorrow night. But as we saw when Allegri filled out the starting lineup against Atlético Madrid three weeks ago, we won't know for sure until an hour before kickoff.


My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio Pogba, Asamoah; Tévez, Morata

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/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Olympiakos V Juventus – Champions League
Preview: No Greek Tragedy For Allegri’s Men

Oct 22, 2014

Greek giants Olympiacos will square off against Juventus on Wednesday evening at the Stadio Giorgios Karaiskaki, in their Champions League group stage tie.

Coach Michel will be looking to elevate his side from fourth position in the group standings, following a 2-0 loss to Swedish team Malmo on matchday 2.

Indeed, Juventus will also be seeking a convincing victory after a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Spanish champions Atletico Madrid.

The clash will be the fourth meeting between the clubs, with the Old Lady winning the last tie 7-0 in Turin in the 2003/2004 season.

While the Greeks have the home advantage they do not boast an excellent home record against Italian opposition. They have recorded 2 wins and 4 losses. Their last home victory over a Serie A side was in the 1979/80 UEFA Cup where they narrowly defeated Napoli 1-0.

In addition, the Bianconeri have fared reasonably well against Greek opposition and boast 12 wins and four losses.

Despite this, coach Massimiliano Allegri’s side, enters the match off the back of a disappointing 1-1 draw with Sassuolo in the Serie A, yet the reigning champions still maintain the top position in the league.

French international Paul Pogba has been in brilliant form for Juventus, continually making scintillating plays forward. Argentinian star, Carlos Tevez, is currently leading the scoresheet for the old lady with a total of eight goals.

Olympiacos will enter the match with a renewed confidence following their 3-2 victory over Ergotelis FC, which saw a double from Greek International Kostas Mitroglou and a penalty to Alejandro Dominguez.

The match saw the return of Spanish attacking midfielder, David Fuster, following a groin injury which left him sidelined since September 23.

Both clubs have suffered injury setbacks with midfielder Jorge Benitez and central defender Dimitris Siovas both sidelined with thigh problems.

Andrea Barzagli is still yet to play for the Bianconeri this season following heel surgery during the summer break. Uruguayan Martin Caceres and Italian Luca Marrone are both out of action for the Bianconeri with thigh grievances.

Striker Fernando Llorente joins the casualty list with a back strain, with Allegri still considering whether to include the Spaniard in the line-up.

Conversely, Michel will have nearly a full list to select his starting eleven.

Juventus must keep a close eye on Fuster who is rearing to contribute for his side, as well as 28-year-old Ibrahim Afellay, whose speed and creativity with the ball could be key in a potential victory for the Greek side.


Expected starting XIs

Olympiacos: Jimenez, Masuaku, Botia, Avlonitis, Salino, Maniatis, Milivojevic, Fuster, Durmaz, Mitroglou, Dominguez.

Juventus: Buffon, Lichsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Evra, Pirlo, Marchisio, Pogba, Tevez, Llorente.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Allegri has Marchisio-Pirlo choice

Oct 22, 2014

Massimiliano Allegri reportedly faces two selection headaches ahead of Juventus’ trip to Olympiacos.

According to reports, the Coach is weighing up whether to start with Andrea Pirlo or Claudio Marchisio in the third matchday of the Champions League in Greece.

Alongside this are apparent doubts over whether Alvaro Morata or Fernando Llorente should partner Carlos Tevez in attack.

La Stampa reports that Allegri will select a midfield consisting of Paul Pogba, the returning Arturo Vidal and either Marchisio or Pirlo. Tuttosport believes that Marchisio is slight favourite to be entrusted with the role, as ‘Il Principino’ is seen as offering better defensive cover than Pirlo.

However, the veteran’s ability to open up opponents with one moment of magic could yet see him given the nod.

Further forward, Allegri will decide between two Spaniards to face Olympiacos, as he commented in his pre-match Press conference.

Fernando Llorente has been preferred to Alvaro Morata in both Champions League games thus far, but Tuttosport speculates that the more mobile Morata could line-up to face the Greek side.

La Stampa also believes the former Real Madrid man could make his first Juventus start, especially if Llorente is not judged as having fully recovered from a back injury that hampered the Spanish international during Juve’s 1-1 draw at Sassuolo.

Elsewhere the Bianconeri are likely to name an unchanged back-three, while Kwadwo Asamoah will replace Patrice Evra at left-wing-back, after the former Manchester United man struggled in the position in the Sassuolo game.

Carlos Tevez is a certainty to be handed a start in attack, after a blistering start to the season which has seen the Argentinean notch eight goals in eight games across all competitions for the Old Lady so far this season.


Probable Juventus XI to face Olympiacos: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Marchisio, Vidal, Asamoah; Tevez, Morata

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Maifredi: Juve will find it tough

Oct 22, 2014

Former Juventus Coach Luigi Maifredi believes the Bianconeri face a difficult game when they face Olympiacos tonight.

The Old Lady faces a Champions League opponent who overcame Atletico Madrid at home on Matchday 1, and Maifredi believes his old side will find it tough in Athens.

“It’s always difficult to play in Greece,” the 67-year-old has told Tuttomercatoweb.

“They’ll make it a game which is more about physicality rather than about technique, where Juve are stronger.

“Juve are coming off a poor performance against Sassuolo, whilst in certain games in the League things haven’t gone quite right.

“But Juventus are a strong team and I expect that tonight they’ll recover their confidence and be confirmed as a big player in Europe.”

Maifredi also spoke about Roma’s heavy defeat to Bayern Munich, and believes the mental side of Roma’s game let them down.

“Yesterday was a heavy defeat. It was one of those games where it only takes the opening goal, and one team loses morale and concentration and can no longer fight back.

“Everything becomes easy for the other team and the game is essentially over.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Gattuso advises Allegri

Oct 22, 2014

Gennaro Gattuso reveals Max Allegri “called me for advice” on Juventus opponents Olympiacos.

“Allegri called me for advice and I explained to him how much Greek football has improved over the last few years,” Gattuso told SportDay.

“You don’t score three goals and beat Atletico Madrid 3-2 by fluke.”

The former Milan player is currently Coach of OFI Crete and therefore familiar with the current Olympiacos form.

“Olympiacos are a great team and have an important mentality. The match will be decided in midfield, where Juve have Pogba and Vidal. Pirlo is not at his best, but the other two are the most dangerous.

“Dominguez has great technique, but the most important player for Olympiacos is Qassam.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Juventus To Partner Morata
With Tevez Against Olympiacos

Oct 22, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri will opt for Alvaro Morata to partner the in-form Carlos Tevez in attack against Greek champions Olympiacos in tonight’s Champions League clash, leaving Fernando Llorente to settle for a place amongst the substitutes.

Andrea Pirlo will once again be preferred to Claudio Marchisio in the centre of midfield alongside Paul Pogba.

The Bianconeri arrived in the Greek capital on top of Group A on goal difference, with each team gaining three points from two games played.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Line-ups: Olympiacos-Juventus

Oct 22, 2014

Juventus start Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo and Alvaro Morata against Olympiacos in the Champions League.

The Bianconeri need a boost after their 1-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid, but the Spanish champions already lost here 3-2 this season.

Max Allegri is without Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Romulo and Luca Marrone.

Fernando Llorente has not scored yet this season and is struggling with a back problem, so he makes way for ex-Real Madrid striker Morata alongside Carlos Tevez.

Claudio Marchisio is dropped in favour of Vidal, who starts after he was rested for the 1-1 Serie A draw with Sassuolo on Saturday, and Pirlo.

Olympiacos are strong on home turf, having beaten Atletico Madrid here 3-2. That was a fourth consecutive Champions League home victory after Benfica, Anderlecht and Manchester United all fell here.

Jorge Benitez and Siovas were injury doubts going into this game for Coach Michel, but Ibrahima Afellay is surprisingly benched.

Juventus famously beat Olympiacos 7-0 in Turin in the 2003 Champions League group stage. Their record against the club on Greek soil is two wins and two draws.


OLYMPIAKOS: Roberto; Elabdellaoui, Botia, Abidal, Masuaku; Maniatis, Kasami; Milivojevic, Dominguez, N’Dinga; Mitroglou

Olympiakos bench: Megyeri, Giannoulis, Avlonitis, Afellay, Durmaz, David Fuster, Diamantakos


JUVENTUS: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah; Morata, Tevez

Juventus bench: Storari, Evra, Pereyra, Marchisio, Llorente, Giovinco, Coman

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Marotta: 'Olympiacos-Juve battle'

Oct 22, 2014

Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta expects “a sporting battle” against Olympiacos tonight.

“It is an important game, there is a lot at stake,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

“We know that we are taking on a good team, so this will be a sporting battle. Olympiacos beat Atletico Madrid here and we therefore need to be very motivated. It will be a battle.”

Fernando Llorente and Claudio Marchisio are dropped in favour of Alvaro Morata and Arturo Vidal.

“Juventus must have a competitive squad, not just the starting XI. The Coach then makes his evaluations.”

The Bianconeri need a boost after their 1-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid and Saturday’s 1-1 Serie A draw at Sassuolo.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

HT 1-0: Olympiacos upset Juventus

Oct 22, 2014

Juventus are trailing 1-0 to Olympiacos at half-time after a goal from ex-Palermo player Patjim Kasami.

Elsewhere in the group, Atletico Madrid and Malmo are goalless at the break.

This was a head-to-head in Athens, as all four teams in the group had one win and one defeat going in. The Bianconeri missed Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Romulo and Luca Marrone, but Alvaro Morata and Arturo Vidal were picked rather than Fernando Llorente and Claudio Marchisio. The Greek side had to do without Jorge Benitez and Siovas, but dropped Ibrahim Afellay.

Juve adopted their all-blue away strip, scrapping the green version that had brought criticism in their 1-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid.

The hosts had an aggressive start and after six minutes Gigi Buffon flew to fingertip the Alejandro Dominguez free kick out of the top corner.

Juve had a great chance to take the lead on 11 minutes, as Morata’s header from an Andrea Pirlo corner was redirected by Carlos Tevez, but Omar Elabdellaoui performed a decisive goalline clearance.

Tevez had the ball in the net, but was offside when Stephan Lichtsteiner flicked on the corner. Dominguez threatened again with a smart half-volley flashed across the face of goal.

Pirlo gave the ball away repeatedly in midfield and was penalised for it when sparking an Olympiacos counter-attack, as it was pulled back for Patjim Kasami to side-foot into the near bottom corner. Kasami is no stranger to Juve, as he used to play for Palermo.

Pirlo’s free kick found Giorgio Chiellini, who on his weaker foot was unable to steer it towards goal from close range. The veteran went for goal on another set play, only to turn over the bar.

Olympiacos 1-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Kasami 36 (O)

Olympiacos: Roberto; Elabdellaoui, Botia, Abidal, Masuaku; Maniatis, Kasami; Milivojevic, Dominguez, N’Dinga; Mitroglou

Juventus: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah; Morata, Tevez

Ref: Mazic (SRB)

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

P. Kasami 35'

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Olympiakos 1-0 Juventus: Kasami strikes
as Old Lady stumble in Athens

Kostas Mitroglou's cut-back was expertly swept home by the Swiss
midfielder to give the Greek champions another shock victory in the group.

Oct 22, 2014

An outstanding second-half performance from Olympiakos goalkeeper Roberto helped earn his side a 1-0 win over Juventus on Wednesday.

With the Greek side leading thanks to Pajtim Kasami's first-half goal at the Karaiskakis Stadium in this Champions League Group A encounter, Spaniard Roberto produced a string of superb saves after the interval to ensure they claimed all three points.

In the space of 15 minutes midway through the second period, he made remarkable stops to deny Alvaro Morata, Paul Pogba and Carlos Tevez on what was a frustrating night for Massimiliano Allegri's men.

Former Fulham man Kasami had earlier struck a low finish into the bottom left-hand corner as Olympiakos continued their strong recent run of results at home on Europe's biggest club stage.

Over the past 12 months, Olympiakos have beaten Benfica, Anderlecht, Manchester United and Atletico Madrid on their own soil, and this result against the Italian champions represented their fifth consecutive home victory in the Champions League.

Juve, who dropped points in Serie A for the first time this season on Saturday with a 1-1 draw at Sassuolo, had Chile international Arturo Vidal back in the side after he was rested at the weekend, but the midfielder failed to have a telling impact as Olympiakos held on to move onto six points at the halfway stage in the group - three more than Juventus.

The hosts made a bright start, Kostas Mitroglou flicking a half-chance wide before Alejandro Dominguez brought a flying save out of Gianluigi Buffon with a free-kick in the opening seven minutes.

Juve went close themselves five minutes later as Tevez's stabbed effort was headed off the line by Omar Elabdellaoui as Olympiakos failed to deal with Andrea Pirlo's corner.

Tevez did have the ball in the net in the 20th minute, but his header was rightly disallowed for offside as the hosts showed further hesitancy from a Pirlo set-piece.

The game continued to ebb and flow, and a superb touch and volley from Dominguez flashed across the face of goal in the 27th minute.

Ten minutes before the break, Olympiakos opened the scoring with a well-worked goal.

Dominguez led the break and played the ball to Mitroglou, who laid a pass back into Kasami for the midfielder to fire left-footed beyond Buffon from the edge of the penalty area.

Morata went close with a left-footed volley six minutes after the interval.

Kasami should have doubled his and Olympiakos' tally on the hour mark, but he rolled the ball wide from six yards after being teed up by the influential Dominguez.

Juve almost took advantage of that miss five minutes later, but Roberto brilliantly parried Morata's thumping effort from eight yards.

Roberto performed heroics once more as the game entered the final quarter of an hour, clawing away Pogba's cross before keeping out Tevez's close-range effort with his legs.

With nine minutes remaining, he pulled off another outstanding save, reacting sharply to tip Morata's fierce drive onto the crossbar as Juve continued to press hard for an equaliser.

But a leveller did not arrive as the Greek side held on for a battling victory that puts them in pole position to qualify for the knockout stages.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

P. Kasami 35'

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

CL: Juventus crash in Athens

Oct 22, 2014

Juventus suffered a second consecutive Champions League defeat, falling 1-0 to Olympiacos with a stunning Roberto performance in goal.

Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid crushed Malmo 5-0, including a goal from Alessio Cerci, so the Spanish and Greek sides top the group with a three-point advantage over Juve and Malmo.

This was a head-to-head in Athens, as all four teams in the group had one win and one defeat going in. The Bianconeri missed Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Romulo and Luca Marrone, but Alvaro Morata and Arturo Vidal were picked rather than Fernando Llorente and Claudio Marchisio. The Greek side had to do without Jorge Benitez and Siovas, but dropped Ibrahim Afellay.

Juve adopted their all-blue away strip, scrapping the green version that had brought criticism in their 1-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid.

The hosts had an aggressive start and after six minutes Gigi Buffon flew to fingertip the Alejandro Dominguez free kick out of the top corner.

Juve had a great chance to take the lead on 11 minutes, as Morata’s header from an Andrea Pirlo corner was redirected by Carlos Tevez, but Omar Elabdellaoui performed a decisive goalline clearance.

Tevez had the ball in the net, but was offside when Stephan Lichtsteiner flicked on the corner. Dominguez threatened again with a smart half-volley flashed across the face of goal.

Pirlo gave the ball away repeatedly in midfield and was penalised for it when sparking an Olympiacos counter-attack, as it was pulled back for Patjim Kasami to side-foot into the near bottom corner. Kasami is no stranger to Juve, as he used to play for Palermo.

Pirlo’s free kick found Giorgio Chiellini, who on his weaker foot was unable to steer it towards goal from close range. The veteran went for goal on another set play, only to turn over the bar.

Sport Mediaset claimed that Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta went into the locker room at half-time to give the players a stern talking-to after that ineffectual performance.

After the restart, Lichtsteiner scuffed a volley not far wide, as did Luka Milivojevic, while Pirlo was substituted after hoofing a free kick off target.

Dominguez pulled back for Kasami, whose angled drive shaved a coat of paint off the base of the far post.

Tevez curled over, though Morata had a great chance when he combined with Tevez, spun round and forced Roberto into a reaction save from point-blank range.

Morata also nodded a Vidal cross over the bar and saw Botia charge down his shot in the six-yard box. Juve started to increase the pressure, as within 30 seconds first Roberto flapped a Paul Pogba cross-shot out from under the bar, then Vidal pulled back for Tevez and forced the goalkeeper to parry with his leg.

The Bianconeri moved to a 4-2-3-1 system for the final 13 minutes and Roberto again was alert on a Pogba cross-shot when Eric Abidal ducked out of the way.

The Olympiacos goalkeeper was decisive on the resulting corner, brilliantly palming a powerful Morata strike on to the bar with one hand. Roberto again got down quickly for another one-handed save on the Tevez daisy-cutter. Olympiacos held on for their fifth consecutive Champions League home win.


Olympiacos 1-0 Juventus

Scorers: Kasami 36 (O)

Olympiacos: Roberto; Elabdellaoui, Botia, Abidal, Masuaku; Maniatis, Kasami (Giannoulis 90); Milivojevic, Dominguez (Fuster 85), N’Dinga; Mitroglou (Afellay 69)

Juventus: Buffon; Ogbonna (Pereyra 77), Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba (Giovinco 87), Pirlo (Marchisio 57), Vidal, Asamoah; Morata, Tevez

Ref: Mazic (SRB)

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

P. Kasami 35'

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Olympiakos 1-0 Juventus:
Roberto’s Heroics Deny The Bianconeri

Oct 22, 2014

Juventus were defeated 1-0 by Olympiakos at the Karaiskakis Stadium in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night.

The lone goal of the game came courtesy of a first-half strike by Pajtim Kasami; with Olympiakos goalkeeper Roberto producing many saves to deny the Bianconeri.

The home side started the game off brightly when Alejandro Dominguez unleashed a powerful free-kick which was turned away by Gianluigi Buffon.

La Vecchia Signora came close to making it 1-0 minutes later when Carlos Tevez notched onto Alvaro Morata’s header, only to see his attempt get cleared off the line by Omar Elabdellaoui.

Tevez had the ball in the back of the net minutes later, but it was ruled out for offside.

The Kokkinoi soon had their opening goal with a very a swift counter attack which was finished off by former Palermo man Pajtim Kasami, placing his strike in the bottom right corner.

Juventus had the chance to equalise early on in the second half, but Stephan Lichsteiner saw his left-footed go inches wide of the post.

The hosts should’ve doubled their lead moments later, Alejandro Domiguez darted down the left-hand side before pulling the ball back to Kasami, but the Swiss international’s finish went centimetres wide of the post.

It was Alvaro Morata who had the next chance to score; the Spaniard managed to turn away from his marker only to see his powerful finish saved by Roberto.

The former Real Madrid man could’ve equalised with twenty minutes remaining when he latched onto Arturo Vidal’s cross from the right-hand side, but the Spaniard’s header went over the bar.

Morata was once again at the centre of trouble; Tevez managed to slot the ball through to the striker but Alberto Botia managed to interfere in the nick of time.

Paul Pogba then attempted a swerving shot from outside the area, but the advanced Roberto managed to recover and punch it away from danger.

The Frenchman then spotted Arturo Vidal on the far post, and the Chilean managed to pull the ball back for Tevez, but Roberto was once again the hero.

The Spanish goalkeeper once again imposed his presence, this time he managed to keep out Pogba’s intended cross, before keeping out Morata’s volley seconds later.

Five minutes from time, Roberto once again managed to produce a stunning save to deny a powerful attempt from Tevez.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

OLIMPIAKOS - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

P. Kasami 35'

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Georgios Karaiskákis Stadium, Piraeus
Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia)

Buffon: 'Juve regrets in Greece'

Oct 22, 2014

Gigi Buffon had “regrets” at the poor Juventus first half in their 1-0 Champions League defeat to Olympiacos.

“We had a very good second half, creating many scoring opportunities, but were unable to get the game back on track,” the goalkeeper told Sport Mediaset.

“We deserved a point considering the number of chances, but there are also regrets at a ‘normal’ first half.

“If we had played the whole game at this tempo, it would’ve been a different result. At half-time the Coach adjusted two or three things, modifying some positions and it went much better.”

This is Juve’s second consecutive Champions League defeat, so now Atletico Madrid and Olympiacos lead the group on six points, while Juventus and Malmo have three.

“Every defeat makes an objective more complicated. Despite it being a good performance, this was the kind of match Juve should not lose.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166