Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: 'Angry at this draw'

Mar 2, 2015

Max Allegri was “very angry” after Juventus fumbled a Scudetto match point against 10-man Roma.

The nine-point gap is unchanged at the top of the table, but the Bianconeri conceded the equaliser when they were playing against 10 men. Is this therefore a wasted opportunity?

“It is a step forward, but considering the way the game was going we really should’ve done better. We played badly in the final 20 minutes,” he told Sky Sport Italia after a 1-1 draw.

“I was happy until the 70th minute, as we allowed Roma nothing and improved after the break. Once we took the lead, we played another six or seven minutes well, but then sort of stopped playing.

“We leave the field very angry after this draw. It’s true nine points are a good margin, but we have got to start winning away from home, as we haven’t done so in three games now.

“It’s not easy for Roma, but there are many points still up for grabs. It’s disappointing to only get a draw from this game and we even risked losing it on another free kick.
“We need to improve, as sometimes we lose sharpness and focus. We are still a long way off our objective and have conceded too many goals recently. We also have to improve in our control of the game when in front.

“Once Roma get into gear and have a series of free kicks around the box, that is naturally going to give confidence to the opposition.

“The lads did very well to slow Roma’s tempo and stop them going on the counter. However, we need to be less hasty when in the lead and know when to control the match.”

Carlos Tevez curled in a magnificent set-piece. Has he been learning from Andrea Pirlo?

“He has been training on free kicks this week. Seeing as Andrea was injured, we needed to find someone who could take the free kicks. He’s extraordinary, we all knew that already.”

Kingsley Coman was the first substitution, replacing Alvaro Morata.

“I wanted to introduce him earlier, but there were three free kicks in a row and I don’t like to remove someone who is good in the air on a free kick situation.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Marchisio: 'Juve have regrets'

Mar 2, 2015

Claudio Marchisio said Juventus “cannot make these mistakes” after dropping a lead to draw with 10-man Roma.

Carlos Tevez had put the Bianconeri in front before Seydou Keita’s equaliser sparked a period of late pressure.

“If we look at the result, then it was another important performance from Juve to get a point away to the second-placed team,” Marchisio told Sky Sport Italia.

“Considering the way the match went, especially in the second half, there are bound to be regrets. We had taken the lead and had other opportunities to finish it off with an extra man, but didn’t take them.

“On a night like this we really cannot make these mistakes.”

Marchisio filled in for the injured Andrea Pirlo in the deep-lying playmaker position, but isn’t getting any ideas about replacing the ‘Maestro.’

“We are beyond comparison! We’re completely different players and the whole world knows what Andrea can give.

“I try to give my best with my own characteristics in that role when I am given the opportunity.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: Roma Played With Courage

Mar 2, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri praised the courage of Roma’s 10 men in the draw against his side at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Monday night.

Carlos Tevez put Juventus ahead from a free kick after Vasilis Torosidis had been dismissed for a second yellow card, but Seydou Keita dragged the game level when his header nestled in the visitor’s net in the 78th minute.

“Roma showed a lot of courage. [Rudi] Garcia made three crucial changes and at that point, the numerical advantage meant nothing because our players were tired,” he told Sky Sport.

Allegri felt disappointed that his side surrendered their lead, in a game where Roma failed to register a shot on Gianluigi Buffon’s goal until the 78th minute, stating that there is a lot to go in the season despite possessing a nine point lead over the Giallorossi at the top of the table.

“I’m happy with my team’s performance until the 70th minute, but then we stopped playing. Roma did well to push us at the end when we were not alert enough,” he said.

“This draw has made us leave the field feeling pretty angry. A nine point advantage is still a big lead, but there’s still a long way to go in the season.”

In the absence of rested Paul Pogba and injured Andrea Pirlo, the former AC Milan boss was delighted with the effort of goalscorer Carlos Tevez.

“He had been practising free kicks this week given Andrea’s absence. He is an extraordinary player, and we found that out for sure tonight,” he said.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Player Ratings: Roma 1-1 Juventus

Mar 2, 2015

 

Roma

26 M. De Sanctis - Could do nothing to keep out Tevez's free kick but was hardly tested for much of the match.

35 V. Torosidis - Struggled to supply the forwards from the right and was dismissed after picking up two yellow cards.

44 K. Manolas - A good performance from the Greek as he timed his challenges well, making a number of crucial tackles.

2 M. Yanga-Mbiwa - Had a few shaky moments which offered Juve opportunities but he improved after the interval.

25 J. Holebas - The left-back got a number of crosses in from the left and was a positive outlet throughout.

15 M. Pjanić - Did not see enough of the ball close to goal and therefore struggled to create, as there was also little movement.

16 D. De Rossi - Sat very deep in midfield and attempted a number of long passes in behind the defence which rarely came off.

20 S. Kéita - Offered an option through the middle, making surging runs off the ball and getting into the box, and scored the equaliser.

27 Y. Gervinho - Did not get the opportunity to run at the defence with them sitting so deep, and he contributed very little.

10 F. Totti - Dropped off the front line and left his team without a focal point, while also being guilty of slowing the play

8 A. Ljajić - The Serbian regularly ran down dead ends and gave away possession by trying to do too much.


Substitutes

24 A. Florenzi - Came on for Ljajic in the 65th minute and provided the assist for the equaliser.

7 J. Iturbe - Brought on for Totti in the 71st minute and proved lively, drawing the free kick which resulted in Keita's goal.

 

4 R. Nainggolan - Replaced De Rossi in the 73rd minute and added some much-needed intensity.

 

 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Stayed alert and judged when to come off his line well, also making a great save from a Manolas header.

4 M. Cáceres - Was quick to get across and cover and gaps left by Lichtsteiner but lost Keita as he headed in the equaliser.

19 L. Bonucci - Put in a strong performance aerially, ensuring he was first to the ball from most deliveries.

3 G. Chiellini - Conceded the free kick which led to Roma's equaliser, but he was barely tested by Roma's attack.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Proved very adventurous on the right but was also solid defensively for the entirety.

23 A. Vidal - The Chilean distributed the ball well and worked extremely hard to offer support on the counterattack.

8 C. Marchisio - Sat deepest in midfield, launching counterattacks and screening the defence.

37 R. Pereyra - Proved very dynamic in midfield, protecting without possession but also racing forward on the break at every opportunity.

33 P. Evra - The left wing-back was beaten for pace by Torosidis on a couple of occasions but didn't let him get too many crosses in.

9 Álvaro Morata - Took his time when tracking back and lacked a clinical touch in the box.

10 Carlos Tévez - Managed to forge chances with little service, netting the winner with a sublime goal direct from a free kick.


Substitutes

11 K. Coman - Brought on for Morata in the 83rd minute.

20 S. Padoin - Came on for Lichtsteiner in the 91st minute.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: Juventus very angry after Roma draw

The Bianconeri looked set to pull 12 points clear of their title rivals thanks to
Carlos Tevez's free kick but they were pegged back by Seydou Keita's deflected header.

Mar 2, 2015

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri was furious after his players blew a gilt-edged opportunity to effectively end Roma's Scudetto hopes at the Stadio Olimpico on Monday.

The Bianconeri looked set to open up a 12-point lead at the top of the Serie A standings when Giallorossi defender Vasilis Torosidis was dismissed for a second bookable offence in the 64th minute and Carlos Tevez curled the resulting free-kick into the top corner to put the visitors ahead.

However, Juve switched off at a set-piece 14 minutes later, allowing Seydou Keita to earn Roma an unlikely share of the spoils with a header that found its way into the back of the net via Claudio Marchisio.

Allegri was thus bitterly frustrated that the reigning Italian champions had squandered the chance to put the game - and indeed the title race - to bed.

"I was happy up until the 70th minute because the team played a truly great game," he told Sky Sport Italia. "We didn't concede anything to Roma and created some chances.

"We grew a lot in the second half, took the lead and played well for another six or seven minutes.

"But then we stopped playing and we didn't do what were were supposed to do on a technical level.

"Roma pressed well, thanks to some of the changes they made, and we could even have lost the game at the end.

"As a result, we left the field very angry. That's three away games in a row that we've failed to win [Roma, Cesena and Udinese]."

Juve are still nine points clear with 13 rounds remaining but Allegri says that the Italian champions are taking nothing for granted.

"We will now allow our concentration levels to drop, even if we still have a big lead and have the head-to-head record in our favour," the former AC Milan boss said.

"We must start picking up more points on the road, as the league still has a long way to go.

"And we first of all have to stop conceding goals. We've conceded too many lately.

"We must also use the ball better in order to create more chances."

Allegri was, at least, enthused by the way in which Tevez did a fine job filling in for regular set-piece specialist Andrea Pirlo, who missed the game in the Italian capital through injury.

"Because Andrea wasn't available, Carlos practiced free-kicks in training all week," he added. "He's an extraordinary player - not that we only discovered that tonight."

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Tevez: Juventus Shoudn’t Relax
In Such An Important Game

Mar 2, 2015

Juventus striker Carlos Tevez was disappointed at how the side played for the final 20 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Roma on Monday night.

The Argentine international put the Bianconeri ahead with a free-kick, before Seydou Keita equalised for the hosts, and Tevez has stated that it is an honour to have his free-kick compared with those of current UEFA president and Juve legend Michel Platini.

“It’s an honour to be compared to [Michel] Platini,” he told Mediaset. “We also have [Andrea] Pirlo who takes them really well, I’m glad that I scored.

“It’s a shame that we didn’t win, we played well for 70 minutes, but we can’t relax in such a decisive game.

“My future? I want to stay at Juventus, I feel at home here.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Garcia: Roma only thinking of
second place after Juventus draw

The Frenchman says the Giallorossi have given up on the Scudetto after failing
to reduce their nine-point deficit to the Bianconeri.

Mar 2, 2015

Rudi Garcia has all but thrown in the towel in the fight for this season's Serie A title, admitting that Roma's sole concern after Monday's 1-1 draw with Juventus is holding onto second place.

The Giallorossi claimed an unlikely point at the Stadio Olimpico, with Seydou Keita levelling the game with a deflected header after the hosts had fallen a man and a goal down when Carlos Tevez converted the free-kick that had resulted in the dismissal of Vasilis Torosidis for a second bookable offence.

Garcia was enthused by his side's resilience and said that the Giallorossi will keep fighting right until the end of the season.

However, the Frenchman nonetheless conceded that Roma had needed to reduce their nine-point deficit to Juve to keep their Scudetto hopes alive, and that their primary goal now has to be keeping third-placed Napoli at bay.

"It was a very tactical game, decided on set-pieces," the Frenchman told Sky Sport Italia. "I saw an exceptional reaction on the part of Roma, who were a goal and a man down.

"We're still alive. Otherwise, we would not have played like this at the end of the game.

"We didn't play for the draw. It was simply that it was a tight, tactical game without any chances.

"But then we saw great desire and we deserved a second goal in those final 30 minutes.

"There are a lot of games left but now we need only to think about defending second place, which is what we have done this evening because we have gained a point on Napoli [who were beaten by Torino]."

Roma are four points clear of Napoli, and six ahead of fourth-placed Lazio.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Tevez: I'm as p****d off
as Allegri after Roma draw

The Argentine was disgusted that the Bianconeri failed to defeat
their Serie A title rivals despite having a one-goal and one-man advantage.

Mar 3, 2015

Carlos Tevez admitted that he was just as "p****d off" as Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri after Monday's 1-1 draw at Roma.

The Argentine opened the scoring 64 minutes into the top-of-the-table clash at San Siro with a sublime, curling free-kick that had been awarded for a foul that had resulted in Giallorossi defender Vasilis Torosidis being shown a second yellow card.

Juve thus looked perfectly poised to put 12 points between themselves and second-placed Roma but they allowed their hosts to snatch a draw through Seydou Keita's late, deflected header.

Bianconeri boss Massimiliano Allegri was furious that his side had thrown away two points and his frustration was shared by his star striker.

"The coach is right to be annoyed," Tevez told Sky Sport Italia.

"We cannot give away an important game like this, with a man more in the final 20 minutes after having done well for 70 minutes.

"I'm also very p****d off. We're a strong team and the character of the squad pleased me this evening, but we cannot throw away games right at the end."

As for his fantastic free-kick, Tevez admitted that he had been taking pointers from Juve's regular dead-ball specialist Andrea Pirlo, who missed the trip to Rome through injury.

"I always see Andrea in training and it's important for me to copy his style a little," the former Manchester City striker added.

"He's my model. Who'll have precedence when he returns? Andrea, without a doubt."

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus' apprehension keeps them
from extending points gap over Roma

Mar 3, 2015

We hoped for freedom of expression, we hoped for magical moments but the tactical match between Roma and Juventus was decided by two set pieces. And while the goal celebrations proved entertaining, this 1-1 draw was anything but riveting.

Considering the nine-point gap at the top of the table and Roma's current woes, one expected Juve to play with an air of nonchalance -- such is their attitude when they feel secure. It was therefore surprising to see them the more motivated of the two, the side that quickly took control of the game in a match Roma had to win to prove they are worthy challengers.

Organised and self assured, Juventus opted to revert to the 3-5-2 formation and barely noticed the absence of Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba, with Claudio Marchisio doing an excellent job in bossing the midfield. They weren't flamboyant and they were barely entertaining but they looked entirely comfortable, patiently playing their game and missing their chances as we have come to expect of them.

Massimiliano Allegri adopted a tactical approach. He wanted his men to control the tempo, slow it down as much as possible and close down all gaps to make life difficult for an opponent who regularly profits from quick movements up top. Frustrating the home side, the Old Lady may not have had many shots on goal (one on target, 10 overall), yet their attacking game focused on provoking errors and exploiting Roma's mental fragility. This was a game focused on demonstrating their predatory nature.

One could hardly expect more from Allegri's 3-5-2; it's a safe and organised formation with little room for brilliance.

The result was good enough, the game was controlled, yet there is a recurring theme to Juve's performances: the players play within themselves. This was visible against Borussia Dortmund, in this match against Roma and against several other sides before them. The Bianconeri hesitate too much, hesitate in trusting their instincts and expressing themselves.

Such prudence is perhaps the reason why players such as Roberto Pereyra err at the final moment, frustrating onlookers with his inefficiency. If the player was offered less time to think and forced to rely on his instinctive play, one cannot help but feel his finishing would improve as would his overall decision making. One need only watch his goal against Hellas Verona in the Coppa Italia to see how, when the player is in full flight, his technique is infallible. There is no time to contemplate his actions only time to rely on instincts.

Tough games will always force sides into a cautious approach but the Giallorossi, especially in the first half, were there for the taking. At times, Juventus needn't focus on control so much but have fun with the game, especially against a back line that demonstrated their fragility and mental weakness as players argued with one another.

In Serie A, whether they play within themselves or otherwise, Juve are likely to win. At the Stadio Olimpico, against their toughest challengers, their superior quality was clear to see. However, if they believed in their instincts a little more, they may well perform better in the Champions League. They have to trust that they are not only a wonderful unit but a team packed with quality and technique, whose expressive style of play may well earn them the prestige they desire.

Against the Giallorossi, the Old Lady will be disappointed to have walked away with only one point, especially considering their numerical superiority in the end. Once again the squad surrendered to indifference around the time pride revived their opponents. A wasted opportunity to truly widen the gap at the top of the table, Allegri was furious in his post-match news conference and this is an issue they must address.

They simply cannot continue to give up points even if they feel a result is secure. It is a bad habit that may well come back to haunt them.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Roma 1-1 Juventus: Bianconeri maintain

9-point lead at the top of Serie A table

Juventus' poor late display allowed Seydou Keita's headed goal
to nullify the advantage given by Carlos Tévez's neat free-kick goal.

Mar 3, 2015

"Siamo noi, siamo noi! I campioni dell'Italia siamo noi..."

For 14 minutes, this was one of the two things that went over and over again through my mind. The other one was the image of Andrea Barzagli and Simone Pepe running in wild celebrations to congratulate Carlos Tévez for his stunning free-kick goal. Probably one of the best quarters of an hour lived in the last months.

But then what all juventini dreaded, happened.

It is quite hard to explain how, after playing some great first 70 minutes — allowing Roma the possession of the ball, but at the same time, containing them and leaving no spaces for attacks — Juventus lost their cool, started making silly fouls and looked under much more threat against a 10-men-team, eventually conceding a cheap goal from a set piece. It looked like it was Juventus who had a man sent off and not the other way around.

It is a bit disappointing — not because the team didn’t win, but because of the careless manner the end of the game was treated. Whether there is a nine-point or a 12-point gap at the top of the table is probably an irrelevant discussion at the moment. Okay, there would be no way Juventus would lose the fourth consecutive Scudetto after gaining a double-digit advantage, but the current lead is not something to be thrown away either.

What really matters, however, is the psychological advantage. Even if it is just the beginning of March and all this Scudetto talk may sound absurd, winning against Roma at the Olimpico would just have been that final blow to their hopes of claiming a fourth Scudetto. Not in a row for them, but rather... er, fourth in Roma’s history.

Max Allegri needs to work his magic again, as he has already done with great effect in several occasions in the past, and make sure players stay focused for the reminder of the season. Getting back to the winning ways away from home might help as well. There is also the first leg of the semi-final in Coppa Italia and the most important match of the season so far, the meeting with Dortmund on the Signal Iduna Park in the Champions League.

There is so much coming on in the space of two weeks that it is almost frightening to think of — especially with the injury problems at the moment. That’s why the available players need to be in the right set of mind and Allegri the man to make sure this happens. Drifting off during matches like Juventus did in the last part against Roma, even for just 10 minutes, could prove more costly than ever.

It could also cause certain people, who for some reasons keep seeing images of Andrea Barzagli and Simone Pepe celebrating, regain consciousness and stop dreaming with the eyes wide open — and this is most distressing, indeed.

Juventus played the perfect game for the first 70 minutes, allowing Roma the possession of the ball. They created next to nothing, however, as their attacks were too slow and predictable, while the midfield was simply bossed by the bianconero trio.


MATCH SUMMARY

In a first half with no shots on goal and a couple of teams appearing to be taunting each other, Juventus happily gave away possession, waiting to hit on the counter. It was them who had the first notable action of the game, as Roberto Pereyra found Stephen Lichtsteiner unmarked on the right side and the Swiss delivered a low cross that was cleared by the defence. The ball reached Arturo Vidal, but his shot was poor and wide off the goal.

Lichsteiner and Pereyra were, incidentally, Juventus’ best players in the first part of the game, alongside Leonardo Bonucci. The Argentine midfielder was at the heart of another potentially dangerous action in the 22nd minute when he found lots of space on the right wing and sent a low cross for the lurking Alvaro Morata, only for Kostas Manolas to deflect the ball inches wide of the post for a corner kick.

Another half-decent chance was wasted by Juve five minutes later. Arturo Vidal played Patrice Evra inside Roma’s box but the Frenchman’s first-time cross got too much spin on it, reaching none of the players waiting in the area.

The dull first half saw a final moment of action in the 43rd minute and the same Pereyra was the one to start it, after getting past Jose Holebas, who was waiting for referee Daniele Orsato to blow the whistle for a foul. No such whistle came though and Tévez received the ball just inside the box but his shot was slightly deflected and went behind for a corner kick.

The first chance of the second half belonged to Juventus as well. Pereyra – him again – recovered a ball just inside his own half and found Vidal on the left flank but his left-footed shot from outside the box narrowly missed the target.

Roma defender Vasilis Torosidis was sent off in the 62nd minute after he saw his second yellow card of the game for tripping Vidal, who almost got through on goal, outside the penalty area.

In the absence of Andrea Pirlo, Tévez stepped up to take the free-kick and he didn’t fail to deliver, giving Juventus the lead. The Argentine curled his effort brilliantly over the wall and into the net past a motionless Morgan De Sanctis, scoring his 15th goal of the Serie A campaign.

Pereyra and Tévez both had half-chances to extend Juventus’ lead in the following minutes but it was Roma who started to press more, even though they were playing with 10 men. Gianluigi Buffon was called into action for the first time in the game in the 72 minute. Alessandro Florenzi delivered a great cross from a free-kick and Manolas leaped over the defenders to send a header near the post, pushed behind for a corner by Buffon.

Juventus made several silly fouls in their own half and following one of these set pieces, Roma managed to equalise in the 78th minute. Florenzi took another free-kick from the right side of Juve’s box and found Seydou Keita at the far post, who beat Martin Caceres to the ball and sending his header into the net, despite Claudio Marchisio’s efforts to keep the ball out.

There was a late surge from Roma who were pushing for a winner, but they couldn’t create another decent opportunity to score and the game ended in a stalemate, ensuring Juventus maintain the 9-point at the top of the table.


PLAYER RATINGS

Buffon: 6 Had literally nothing to do in the first hour of the game, but his positioning at the goal was a bit weird.

Caceres: 6 Was at fault for losing Keita at the goal, but worked well with Lichtsteiner to keep Gervinho quiet and had a steady game overall

Bonucci: 6.5 By far the best Juventus’ defender. Especially good in first half, clearing a lot of balls and winning all his aerial duels. Also delivered some good long balls that were welcomed in Pirlo’s absence

Chiellini: 6 Poor performance from the Italian, who seemed rather shaky lately for Juventus. Committed a silly foul just outside his box that lead to Roma’s goal

 

Lichtsteiner: 6 The Swiss had a better performance than in many of his games this season, especially in the first half when he bossed the right flank. Decent contributions in attack and managed to contain Gervinho when needed

Vidal: 6.5 Won the free-kick from which Tévez scored and was very lively in midfield in the second half – definitely better that what she showed often this season

Marchisio: 7 Great performance from Il Principino, who once again proved he can easily fulfil Pirlo’s role. Good vision and ball distribution, topped with great work in defending

Pereyra: 7 Juventus’ most active and dangerous player – worked tirelessly in midfield, starting almost all the attacking moves. Most welcomed performance, giving the fact Pirlo is out for at least two weeks.

 

Evra: 6 Decent game from the Frenchman, although he wasn’t very involved in the game. Booked for a late tackle on Torosidis in the first half and had to take extra care from then

 

Morata: 5.5 After some brilliant recent performances, the Spaniard was set to have that one-off. Was kept very quiet by Manolas and rarely linked-up with Tévez or any of the midfielders

Tévez: 7.5 Wasn’t as involved as usual in attack but, as top players usually do when they have the quiet game, managed to make his mark when it mattered the most, scoring a fantastic free-kick.


Subs:

Coman: 6 Replaced Morata in the 83rd minute and would have had a good opportunity, had he paid more attention at his positioning when he received a ball from Tévez, as he ran offside

Padoin: N/A Replaced Lichtsteiner in the stoppage time


Coach:

Allegri: 6.5 Got his work done nicely, as Juventus had little problems in containing Roma for most of the game and would have even gotten away with the three points if it wasn’t for the late slump.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

ROMA - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Carlos Tévez (64')

Seydou Kéita (78')

Monday, March 2nd, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Marchisio: Don't compare me to Pirlo

The midfielder feels he is not at the same level as his illustrious
team-mate and was pleased Juventus managed to deny Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.

Mar 3, 2015

Claudio Marchisio says he is a completely different player to Andrea Pirlo and should not be compared to his Juventus team-mate.

The 29-year-old was used in his fellow Italy international's role in the 1-1 Serie A draw with Roma on Monday due to the latter's injury and put in a good performance in front of Juve's defence.

Nevertheless, Marchisio was quick to stress he is not at the same level as Pirlo in the latter's position.

"There are comparisons that can’t be made between two completely different players," Marchisio told Sky Italia. "We know what Andrea offers us.

"Personally speaking, I have undergone an important evolution in a role which I enjoy playing. With the attributes and qualities I possess, I’ll try to help the team out."

The central midfielder then went on to voice his satisfaction with the Scudetto holders' draw against second-placed Roma, although he feels they could have bagged the full three points with a bit more luck.

"We secured an important result in Roma’s own backyard. It’s not easy to come away from here, at the home of Serie A’s second-placed side, with our nine-point advantage still intact.

"Nevertheless, there’s regret at leaving with a draw.

"We started well and were able to break the deadlock. We created chances when we had numerical supremacy but were unable to put the game to bed."

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Coppa referees announced

Mar 3, 2014

The AIC has announced the referees for this week’s Coppa Italia semi-finals, with Paolo Valeri taking charge of Juventus-Fiorentina.

The semi-finals are a two-legged affair, the first of which take place this week as Lazio welcome Napoli and the Viola look to defeat Juventus in Turin.

Paolo Valeri will take charge of the latter fixture on Thursday night, as Vincenzo Montella’s men look to reach the final for the second year in a row.

Also looking to make a second-consecutive final are the Partenopei, whose trip to Rome will be officiated by Antonio Damato.


Referees for the Coppa Italia semi-finals:

Lazio-Napoli - Antonio Damato
Juventus-Fiorentina - Paolo Valeri

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Marchisio Aiming To End Juventus Drought

Mar 3, 2014

Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio is desperate for the club to end a 20-year wait for Coppa Italia glory by reclaiming the peninsula’s premier cup competition this season.

The Bianconeri have gone 20 years since winning the trophy, with their last win coming in 1995 – since then they have been beaten in three finals, most recently in 2012 when they were soundly beaten 2-0 by Napoli.

He tweeted following his side’s game against Roma: “Now we start the workout… head on to the Coppa Italia now. Another goal for us to reach.”

The Azzurri international added on his side’s 1-1 draw in the capital: “There is regret for not having brought home the three points, but we are always up there… +9!”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus - Fiorentina Preview:
Allegri demands improvement

The Bianconeri drew 1-1 with 10-man Roma on Monday
and the Italian is keen to see a better performance on Thursday.

Mar 4, 2014

Juventus host Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg on Thursday with coach Massimiliano Allegri demanding an improved showing from his players.

On Monday, the reigning Serie A champions took the lead against title rivals Roma, who had been reduced to 10 men, through Carlos Tevez's wonderful free kick.

However, just when it seemed Juve would close out the win and extend their lead at the top of the table to 12 points, Roma found an equaliser through Seydou Keita 12 minutes from time.

The Bianconeri still hold a commanding nine-point advantage with 13 games remaining, but, as they turn to their attentions to the cup, Allegri has called for a better display.

"We need to improve, as sometimes we lose sharpness and focus," he said.

"We are still a long way off our objective and have conceded too many goals recently. We also have to improve in our control of the game when in front."

Although Allegri was disappointed with the draw against Roma, Juve have lost only once in their past 23 games in all competitions - and that was after a penalty shootout against Napoli in the Super Cup.

Meanwhile, Fiorentina - who lost out to Napoli in the final of last year's Coppa - are in fine form themselves and come into this meeting at Juventus Stadium on the back of a 12-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

The last of those outings saw Vincenzo Montella's side triumph 1-0 at Inter, a victory which left them fifth in Serie A, just three points adrift of a Champions League qualification spot.

Mohamed Salah came off the bench to score the winner at San Siro on Sunday and Montella was quick to praise the Egyptian, who has netted three goals in four appearances since joining on loan from Chelsea.

"I wanted to make the most of Salah's extraordinary form, that is why I chose him ahead of Alberto Gilardino," Montella said.

"I know that when a player is going through that kind of form, it's the duty of a coach to encourage it.

"I think he can play any position in attack. He attacks the space well and is very good at getting straight into the tempo of a game when coming off the bench."

Juve's influential playmaker Andrea Pirlo missed the meeting against Roma with a calf problem and remains a doubt.

For the visitors, Nenad Tomovic suffered a head injury against Inter and is thought unlikely to play, while Stefan Savic and Khouma Babacar are struggling with muscular problems and are being monitored.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus  D W W D W

3/2/15 - Roma 1 - 1 Juventus
2/24/15 - Juventus 2 - 1 Borussia Dortmund
2/20/15 - Juventus 2 - 1 Atalanta
2/15/15 - Cesena 2 - 2 Juventus
2/7/15 - Juventus 3 - 1 Milan


Fiorentina W W D D W

3/1/15 - Internazionale 0 - 1 Fiorentina
2/26/15 - Fiorentina 2 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur
2/22/15 - Fiorentina 1 - 1 Torino
2/19/15 - Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 1 Fiorentina
2/14/15 - Sassuolo 1 - 3 Fiorentina


HEAD TO HEAD

12/5/14 - Fiorentina 0 - 0 Juventus
3/20/14 - Fiorentina 0 - 1 Juventus
3/13/14 - Juventus 1 - 1 Fiorentina
3/9/14 - Juventus 1 - 0 Fiorentina
10/20/13 - Fiorentina 4 - 2 Juventus

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

'Juventus, our duty to win Coppa Italia'

Mar 4, 2014

Coach Max Allegri says it is the 'duty' of Juventus to win the Coppa Italia after 20 years, and will be looking to field the 'ideal side'.

The Old Lady will be up against Fiorentina tomorrow at 20:45 (local time) to dispute the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia.

Allegri, in his pre-game conference, stressed the cardinal importance of being in the right form.

“What matters is that everybody is in a good condition,” he said.

“There are some Juventus players who have covered more than 30 games.

“This year we have players who had much more playing time than last season, while others had a little less.

“But we have many games now and we need everyone at their best.

“Against Fiorentina I may field the ones who played the most so far and maybe give them a rest on Monday against Sassuolo.

“The Coppa Italia is an important objective for Juventus. It's been 20 years since we last won it, so it's our duty to make a run for it.

“Therefore I'll be looking to field the ideal side for tomorrow's game.”

In spite of this, the former Milan tactician still hasn't chosen the exact components to make up his starting XI.

“I still haven't decided the starters who will take to the pitch tomorrow.

“[Andrea] Barzagli is definitely feeling better, I'll make my mind up about him today.

“Of course he hasn't played in eight months other than some friendlies, so I'll have to evaluate his situation. But we'll decide together.

“Tomorrow is a Coppa semi-final, so we need the best possible formation.

“The result will be decided over 180 minutes against Fiorentina, one of the most in-form teams of the championship.

“They play good football and they have a good physical and mental condition. [Coach Vincenzo] Montella's teams aren't just technically skilled, they also play very well.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri: 'We switched off against Roma'

Mar 4, 2014

Juventus Coach Max Allegri warns against 'switching off' versus Fiorentina the way they did against Roma.

The Old Lady face a very intense schedule, with Monday's Serie A game against Roma and tomorrow's Coppa clash against Fiorentina sandwiched between the two Champions League games against Borussia Dortmund.

Allegri took the opportunity of today's pre-game press conference to look back on the game against the Giallorossi.

“I think the team played a good game for 70 minutes, giving up nothing to Roma and creating some dangerous situations.

“We showed that we were very compact, and also very mature.

“After the goal we did quite well for another 4-5 minutes, then we switched off a little, and when you switch off in a football game it no longer matters if you're 11 versus 10. Nothing matters at all.

“We were faced with a team that had gathered courage and that were throwing themselves forward with nothing to lose.

“At a moment like that, if you slip out of the game, then getting back into it is hard, not to say impossible.

“I think there's a lesson there, and it must help us grow.

“Inbetween the 90 minutes against Dortmund and the 70 minutes against Roma, our team only conceded one goal against Dortmund, and it came after an accident by [Giorgio] Chiellini.

“So I think we did really well for 160 minutes, even though the last 20 minutes ought to be erased.

“They are only important because they teach us that this team still has to improve and that a game is never over till it's over, especially when the two teams are balanced in terms of technique and strength.”

Allegri was also asked whether this was not a recurring problem, as his team arguably 'switched off' against Inter, Sampdoria and Cesena.

“Maybe we still don't understand this concept well enough. Maybe we have to change, in which case finding the way will be down to me.

“I'll have to teach the lads how to handle games like these.

“But these are all different games. Against Sampdoria we allowed one shot, maybe one-and-a-half, and we conceded a goal.

“In Rome we allowed three free kicks in the last 15 minutes, after going 70-75 minutes giving up only one of them.

“This is what I mean when I say that we switched off.

“Against Inter it was yet another game, because we should have closed on a different result after the first half, and we ended up allowing Inter to draw.

“We even took some risks because we almost made the same mistake against Roma as we did against Inter at the last minute, when [goalkeeper Gianluigi] Buffon came all the way out to the midfield.

“These situations show you that you have to keep your head in the game, because once you're out you lose your sense of order.

“Then, when you're in a condition of disorder, the team that desperately chases the game is clearly advantaged.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Versatility and depth Juve’s key

Juventus may have surrendered the lead in the Scudetto showdown,
but Luca Cetta saw Bianconeri versatility and depth as winners on the night.

Mar 4, 2014

It wasn’t the knock-down drag-out Scudetto showdown neutrals hoped for. For a long time it looked as if Roma had no answers to a Bianconeri wall determined to give captain Gianluigi Buffon a comfortable evening. As they entered the Stadio Olimpico for the top-of-the-table affair, Juventus enjoyed a nine-point cushion over the Giallorossi. Carlos Tevez temporarily pushed the advantage out to 12, but a late Seydou Keita header maintained slim Roman ambitions.

For Juventus the aim was not to lose. And for long periods they were in control of a game Roma needed to win. Weathering the late Lupi storm completed the job. Juve’s major victories on Monday were for tactical variation, versatility and squad depth.

Massimiliano Allegri’s initial reaction to the draw was one of anger. Understandable, given he had just seen his team relinquish maximum points against 10 men. “It is a step forward, but considering the way the game was going we really should’ve done better,” he stated. The Coach saw it as a missed opportunity to hammer home the margin between the clubs. It was a theme continued by his players, Tevez claiming Juventus “got it completely wrong after 70 fine minutes” and Claudio Marchisio regretting their inability to put the game to bed.

Another point of contention with the boss was dropping points on the road for a third successive match after Udinese and Cesena. Juventus have equalled in their last three away fixtures what was the season total on their travels beforehand – after Sassuolo, Genoa and Fiorentina.

But that shouldn’t take away from what was gained. The Turin club retained their advantage with a performance that should encourage rather than worry. They were measured in their approach, hinting at the style shown against Borussia Dortmund and one to possibly emerge in the second leg. Juve had just 35 per cent possession to half-time, but Buffon was rarely called into action. In reverting to a 3-5-2 from the start for just the second time in 2015, the Bianconeri hardly lost a step.

Allegri was forced into changes and got the maximum from those replacements. Martin Caceres did a fine job as the third defender. Midfield looked a problem area for the Old Lady in the lead-in and a re-shuffle was on the cards. Andrea Pirlo limped off against Dortmund and will even miss the second leg. Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal were day-to-day propositions and potential replacement Stefano Sturaro didn’t make the trip due to his own injury concern. The Chilean recovered just in time.

Marchisio stepped up as he has done prior in the absence of Pirlo and while offering a different interpretation of the role, Juventus still tick. Roberto Pereyra has been the first choice replacement for any midfield absentee, but normally in an advanced role. On Monday it was part of the midfield three and he too looked assured. Tevez took over free-kick duties and gave his best Pirlo impression to open the scoring. “I always try to copy Pirlo’s position and it’s important to watch him in training. Of course Andrea is still first choice!” Kingsley Coman’s pace gave Roma something to think about in the final moments.

That versatility and depth adds to Juve’s ominous presence. In losing two of their regular starting midfielders and altering the formation they did not fold, rather showed another facet of their game and remained in control of proceedings. Credit must go to Allegri for his preparations on both a tactical and personnel level. He’s shown flexibility and no matter who takes the field, has faith in the players to carry out the task.

With Roma remaining at arm’s length attention turns to the Coppa Italia tomorrow. Juventus host Fiorentina in the first leg of the semi-final as they fight on three fronts. Expect to see others get their chance to shine. The trip to Dortmund inches ever closer, but beforehand are domestic duties to tend to. Knowing they can perform even without key players makes the Bianconeri an even more frightening opponent.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri: Pogba to start against Viola

Mar 4, 2014

Juventus Coach Max Allegri admits that Fiorentina may dominate possession, but expects to fight back with the likes of Paul Pogba.

The pre-game press conference held by the Bianconeri Coach ahead of the Coppa Italia semi-final was the opportunity to discuss a variety of topics, but of course Allegri started out from his direct opponents.

“Fiorentina are a team that handle the ball quite well, thanks to the skills of their players and the mentality instilled in them by [Coach Vincenzo] Montella.

“For our own part we're a group that can command our games, so we'll see who has the strength to dominate tomorrow.

“But that's not essential to win a match. Often you can win with the least possession or lose with the most.

“What matters is that you read the game correctly. You must interpret the clash correctly from the word go.

“Pogba and Sturaro are both doing well. Pogba already came to Rome but I didn't want to risk him, so he's certainly going to be in this match. Sturaro's doing better and will be on the bench.”

Asked about his team's weaknesses, the former Milan Coach identified them in dead-ball situations.

“Almost all of our recent trouble came from free kicks. We've got to work on that, we need to pay greater attention.

“In three different situations we stopped marking our man, so we need to start working in a different way.

“We need a solution that guarantees greater security, because we took 4-5 goals always in the same way and in the same position, aside from that by [Roma's Seydou] Keita on Monday.”

It was pointed out to Allegri that the Bianconeri are still fighting for all three major competitions, and this was a source of pride but also of responsibility for the Coach.

“We have an obligation to try and reach the end of all three competitions we're in. Now we're in a critical, decisive moment of the season.

“We're in the semi-final of the Coppa Italia, so we're either going to the final or back home.

“The same goes for the Champions League Last 16. In any case we've reached one objective, which was that of getting to the month of March in a condition to challenge for all competitions.

“The Scudetto will be decided later on. Until our victory is mathematically guaranteed, the championship is always open.

“So we have to think match by match even in Serie A, seen how we dropped a lot of points against the smaller teams, and that's where you win the Scudetto.

“Now we have four matches coming up in which we absolutely have to do well.

“As for Marco Reus, Borussia have some truly great players and he's one of them. He has real talent.

“I believe he's one of the best players in Europe in terms of technique and speed, but we'll see. If he's there then we'll face Borussia with Reus, otherwise we'll face them without Reus.

“But what matters to us is getting to the end of the game and reaching our objective.”

Finally, Allegri was asked whether the cause of his team dropping points against smaller teams could have something to do with the lack of competition and incentives that Juventus find in Italy.

“It's absolutely not true that there is no competition in Italy. Roma are a team of extraordinary quality and they proved it over the last year-and-a-half.

“The same goes for Napoli, while Fiorentina are growing and Inter built a very good team over the January transfer window.

“Games have to be won, championships have to be won. Nobody gives us anything for free and it's hardly a given that Juventus should win the Scudetto.

“This is all the more true when you consider that it would be the fourth consecutive Scudetto. This is an historic feat that only a few teams in the world have achieved.

“It would be my first one with Juventus, and the fourth for the players.

“We must not lose sight of the main and extraordinary objective of the season.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Montella: 'Competitive but lack depth'

Mar 4, 2014

Coach Vincenzo Montella admits Fiorentina lack depth, but says they'll be 'competitive' against Juventus anyway.

The former Roma Coach faces a major test tomorrow as his team plays the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final against Juventus, and he understands the magnitude of the event.

“It's a special game for me. I felt that way even before coming to Florence. There are greater incentives to win, sure enough.

“We don't have much depth, but we'll be competitive as a team.

“Borja Valero is doing everything he can. Pizarro will have to be evaluated over the next few hours. Basanta has a great question mark hanging over him.

“We don't want to risk Tomovic and Savic. We'll see about Mati Fernandez, he did some good work in training today, while Aquilani is ready.

“As for Gomez, he had some trouble in the last game, he wasn't giving me any guarantees. But I saw him developing in the last few days, and now he's fine.

“Mohamed Salah? The objective of every Coach is to keep developing a player, all the time.

“He must keep going this way. He managed to get into the team's mechanisms right away and we're perfectly happy. Often when you try to improve a player at all costs you end up making him worse.”

Another benefit that Montella is keen to reap from tomorrow's game is the qualification to next year's Europa League, which is granted to the Coppa Italia winner.

“Since this is a semi-final, there's only one obstacle to overcome. Tomorrow represents the most direct path to reach European qualification.

“The fact that Juventus are playing with their best XI represents yet another reason to do well.

“It's understandable that they would play with their starters. After all, they already have a great lead in the championship.

“They're the best in Italy, and this represents a challenge for us. We expect a tough game.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Gomez back for Juve-Fiorentina

Mar 4, 2014

Mario Gomez is back for Fiorentina’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Juventus, but many others miss out.

It kicks off on Thursday at 20.45 CET and is the first leg in Turin.

Gomez was ruled out of the Viola’s 1-0 victory away to Inter at the weekend.

The German international returns to the squad, but Khouma Babacar, Stefan Savic and David Pizarro join the absentee list.

It means there are only two pure strikers available for Vincenzo Montella.

Ciprian Tatarusanu is still sidelined, so Norberto Neto is again expected to go in goal.


Fiorentina squad for Juventus: Neto, Rosati, Lezzerini; Alonso, Basanta, Gonzalo, Pasqual, Richards, Rosi, Vargas; Aquilani, Badelj, Borja Valero, Kurtic, Lazzari, Diamanti, Mati Fernandez, Salah, Ilicic, Joaquin; Gilardino, Gomez

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Fiorentina will make it tough for Juventus - Montella

Despite heading into the Coppa Italia semi-final with several injury
worries, the coach is sure his side can give the Turin side a difficult test.

Mar 4, 2014

Vincenzo Montella has promised that Fiorentina will put Juventus under pressure in Thursday's Coppa Italia semi-final, despite going through an injury crisis.

Montella's side boast a 12-match unbeaten run going into their first-leg meeting with the Serie A champions in Turin, but will have to contend with a number of concerns, with Borja Valero, David Pizarro, Jose Basanta, Stefan Savic, Nenad Tomovic and Matias Fernandez all doubtful.

Montella, though, still fancies his side's chances against Massimiliano Allegri's men.

"Matches with Juventus for me are always special, even before I arrived in Florence," he said on Wednesday.

"When you meet the strongest team there are more incentives and motivations.

"Borja Valero is doing everything possible to recover, Pizarro also. We will evaluate prior to departure.

"Basanta is still a question mark, we will not risk Savic and Tomovic, Badelj is fine, Babacar no. Mati Fernandez did a good workout.

"We will still have a competitive team, but we will be forced into making some changes."

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus squad for Fiorentina

Mar 4, 2014

Stefano Sturaro is back in the Juventus squad for tomorrow’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Fiorentina.

The first leg kicks off in Turin on Thursday at 20.45 CET.

Ex-Genoa midfielder Sturaro was ruled out of the 1-1 draw with Roma on Monday night by an ankle injury in training, but returns to the side.

Paul Pogba is also thought to be fully recovered, though Andrea Pirlo, Romulo, Kwadwo Asamoah and Luca Marrone remain unavailable.


Juventus squad for Fiorentina: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Morata, Tevez, Coman, Llorente, Barzagli, De Ceglie, Bonucci, Padoin, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Storari, Matri, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

JUVENTUS V FIORENTINA COPPA ITALIA PREVIEW

Mar 4, 2014

 

Juventus

Juventus will have to put Monday night’s disappointing draw behind them as they head into the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia against a Fiorentina side undefeated in their last 12 matches.

The Bianconeri had all but ended Roma’s title-challenge after going ahead through Carlos Tevez but the Giallorossi fought back to net a late equaliser and earn a vital point. Both Juve players and the management were quite vocal in agreeing that they should have won the game while coach Max Allegri warned they can’t ‘switch-off’ against Fiorentina as they did against Roma.

“Fiorentina are a team that handle the ball quite well, thanks to the skills of their players and the mentality instilled in them by Montella.” Allegri told reporters in his pre-match press conference earlier today.

“For our own part we’re a group that can command our games, so we’ll see who has the strength to dominate tomorrow.

“But that’s not essential to win a match. Often you can win with the least possession or lose with the most.

“What matters is that you read the game correctly. You must interpret the clash correctly from the word go.

“Pogba and Sturaro are both doing well. Pogba already came to Rome but I didn’t want to risk him, so he’s certainly going to be in this match. Sturaro’s doing better and will be on the bench.”

After switching from 4-3-1-2 to the tried and trusted 3-5-2 against Roma, Allegri may make yet another formation change. Sky Sport Italia suggest Juve will lineup 4-3-3, similar to the formation used against Parma in the quarter finals last month.

Marco Storari could start in goal with Martin Caceres reverting to right-back and Simone Padoin coming in for Patrice Evra at left-back. Andrea Barzagli has recovered from his injury woes and might make his first start of the season alongside Angelo Ogbonna.

Andrea Pirlo will be out for at least another 3 weeks leaving Claudio Marchisio the clear choice to replace him at the base of midfield with Paul Pogba confirmed to start as well. Arturo Vidal and Roberto Pereyra were both exceptional against Roma, albeit for different reasons, so it could be a toss-up between the two for the final midfield spot. Up front, Fernando Llorente will spearhead the attack while Kinglsey Coman and Simone Pepe on either flank to offer some width in attack.

 

Predicted Lineup

4-3-3: Storari; Caceres, Barzagli, Ogbonna, Padoin; Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba; Coman, Llorente, Pepe
 

Injured

Asamoah and Romulo (Recovering from surgery), Andrea Pirlo (ankle)

 

Suspended

None


 

Fiorentina

Fiorentina are in a very good moment: they haven’t lost a match since January 6, they have won seven of their last eleven games, they have cut down the gap from Napoli’s Champions League-qualifying third place to just three points and they have knocked Tottenham out in Europa League. But, most importantly, it feels like that the whole squad is clicking and the vibe around them is excellent.

The midseason acquisitions have added quality and depth, especially up front: Mohamed Salah (three goals in four matches) has those Cuadrado-esque pace and unpredictability and is a good scorer, Alessandro Diamanti hasn’t lost his trademark playmaking ability in his hiatus in China and Alberto Gilardino is a valuable replacement in a department that has often been injury ridden.

The lineup is pretty much up in the air and we’ll have to wait for the squad list to see who’s available and who’s not. In this particular match, the problems lie in the defense for La Viola. Gonzalo Rodriguez is the only healthy centre-back available: Josè Maria Basanta, who has a minor thigh muscular injuries, will probably be forced to play through pain, or the coach will have to come up with a creative solution to field a respectable defensive line, maybe fielding the fullbacks Micah Richards and Marcos Alonso as centre-backs.

After the January window, Montella has used 4-3-3 more often than his usual 3-5-2, basically because Salah and Diamanti have been indispensable. However, there’s a chance to see a three-man defense on Thursday, considering the injuries, just to have one more body in front of Norberto Neto (what a weird game it will be for him…). They intended to rest the Egyptian winger against Inter, but he had to be subbed in because Khouma Babacar got hurt (he won’t be available for at least a couple of weeks). They are eking out Mario Gomez’s appearances as of late, turning him in a sort of Cup specialist, and he has bitten Juventus before.

In the midfield, Mati Fernandez, Borja Valero and Alberto Aquilani are all banged up. Milan Badelj has started to perform well recently and he’ll fill in for the injured David Pizarro. Jasmin Kurtic is the backup option if the others aren’t healthy enough. As far as the attack is concerned, Montella will likely go with his best trio Salah-Gomez-Diamanti, but a little bit of rotation is always possible is a cup game and Joaquin or Josip Ilicic could crack into the starting lineup.

So far in this season, they have been an excellent road team: they have collected 24 points in 13 matches (record 7W 3D 3L) and they trail only to Juventus in this category. They have a very good defense, as they have conceded 24 goals, third in the League behind Allegri’s side and Roma (but they’ll have some absences…).

Since Montella took over, they have always played a very European brand of football, with a lot of proactive possession, off-the-ball movement, trying to control the game and having territory dominance. If you mix that with very skilled players, you obtain a remarkable result, even though Fiorentina haven’t always been able to fulfill its potential and looked inexplicably flat in some games. However, they have caught fire in the last few matches and Juventus will have to be extremely careful in this first leg of the Coppa Italia semifinals.

 

Predicted Lineup

4-3-3: Neto; Richards, Rodriguez, Basanta, Alonso; Aquilani, Badelj, Valero; Salah, Gomez, Diamanti.

 

Injured

Rossi (knee), Bernardeschi (ankle), Tatarusanu (back), Babacar (thigh), Pizarro (thigh), Savic (thigh), Tomovic (neck), Lupatelli (shoulder).


 

Formation

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus V Fiorentina – Coppa Italia Preview

Mar 5, 2014

Juventus host Fiorentina in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final in Torino on Thursday evening.

La Viola have only won five of the 40 matches they’ve played against La Vecchia Signora, although they’ve only played Juventus once in the Coppa Italia before.

That fixture came in the 2005/06 season, which ended in a 2-2 draw before the replay saw the Bianconeri run out 4-1 winners.

Their most recent meeting in the league, however, ended in a goalless draw, but Fiorentina have lost 18 times in Serie A to the reigning champions.

Juventus are joint with Roma in holding the most Coppa Italia titles, on nine each, while Fiorentina have only won it six times.

However, The Old Lady last won the tournament in 1995, while the Gigliati last won it in 2001.

Recent form favours Massimiliano Allegri’s side, who haven’t lost since the end of October last year and have won three out of their last six league games, scoring 13 goals.

The Italian champions have gone unbeaten in their last 16 matches, which is a current record streak in Europe’s top five leagues.

Vincenzo Montella’s men aren’t too far away from that, though, having also won half of their last six in Serie A and not losing since the start of January.

Fiorentina will be without goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu who was injured in late February, and influential striker Khouma Babacar who was injured in their clash with Inter on Sunday evening.

Octavio and Mounir El Hamdaoui are also missing after their injuries in January, while Giuseppe Rossi, Federico Bernadeschi and Cristiano Lupatelli also remain out.

Meanwhile, key Juventus player Andrea Pirlo remains injured as well as Stefano Sturaro and Luca Marrone, while Kwadwo Asamoah and Romulo are also missing after picking up knocks last year.


Form Guide: Juventus (W-D-W-D-W-D) Fiorentina (D-D-W-W-D-W)


Expected Starting XIs

Juventus: Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Caceres; Evra, Vidal, Marchisio, Pereyra, Lichtsteiner; Tevez, Morata

Fiorentina: Neto; Pasqual, Basanta, Rodriguez, Richards; Borja Valero, Badeli, Mati Fernandez; Ilicic, Salah, Diamanti

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus vs. Fiorentina: Team News & Preview

Mar 5, 2014

The last week has seen Juventus and Fiorentina each enjoy two excellent results, one which saw them move closer to their domestic goals while also earning impressive victories against widely respected continental opposition. The Bianconeri followed up their win over a resurgent Borussia Dortmund with a draw against AS Roma that enabled them to maintain a nine-point advantage over their closest rivals.

Meanwhile, La Viola eliminated Tottenham Hotspur from the Europa League, and then beat Inter in Milan to move back into the top five and within just two points of the third place they so dearly covet. That would of course see Vincenzo Montella’s men earn a berth in next season’s Champions League, which would be a remarkable achievement for the Tuscan outfit.

The two clubs will now put those matters aside, going head-to-head in the Coppa Italia semi-final, with Thursday seeing the first leg take place in Turin. With the return encounter not taking place until next month, this match will offer both teams the opportunity to rest and rotate their players after a busy run of fixtures.

It will also provide Montella with another chance to test his ability against one of the league’s more astute coaches, having recently earned wins over Rudi Garcia, Roberto Mancini and Mauricio Pochettino. Massimiliano Allegri has similarly shone at Juventus, his decisions almost certainly key to Monday’s stalemate with the Giallorossi, as discussed in detail here.

The two clubs share a bitter rivalry, one which intensified during the 1982 Scudetto race and reinforced by Roberto Baggio’s move to Turin. With the Bianconeri having eliminated Fiorentina from last year’s Europa League at the Last 16 stage, the Viola will need no further encouragement to try and upset the reigning Serie A champions, who last won this competition as long ago as 1995.


Player to Watch

With both teams likely to rest many of their high-profile names, the man to watch here could well be Norberto Neto. The Fiorentina goalkeeper is out of contract this summer, and it seems he is now unlikely to extend his stay at the Stadio Artemio Franchi once that deal expires.

Frozen out back in December, his replacement Ciprian Tatarusanu impressed, but has since picked up an injury which forced Montella to turn to Neto once again. The Brazilian has kept two clean sheets since returning to the line up, holding both Tottenham and Inter at bay with some impressive saves.

The added intrigue comes in the form of his next destination, with Gianluca Di Marzio reporting via his own website that the player has agreed to join Juventus this summer. However, that is something Neto denied back in October, as he told ESPN (h/t Forza Italian Football):

I confess I was not aware of any Juventus interest and I think it is just a rumour. I do not think I would go anyway. There is a big rivalry between the two teams and I think it will stay this way!

I would not do it for the fans who I admire so much. My goal is to continue to play with Fiorentina.


Key Battle

Both teams undoubtedly take their strength from the quality they possess in midfield, with the likes of Borja Valero and David Pizarro more than capable of matching the star-studded options available to Juventus. It remains to be seen if Paul Pogba will recover in time, and Andrea Pirlo is certain to miss out following the calf strain he suffered against Borussia Dortmund.

That could well see a number of reserve players step up, with Martin Caceres likely to retain his place in the Bianconeri back line. The Uruguayan has impressed when fit this term, but is likely to have a tough task when faced with new Fiorentina signing Mohamed Salah.

Brought on loan from Chelsea, the Egyptian flyer has already recorded four goals and one assist in less than 400 minutes of action for La Viola.


Odds (via OddsChecker)

Home win: 4/7

Away win: 6/1

Draw: 10/3