Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (17')
Leonardo Bonucci (28')

Saturday, April 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Tevez And Bonucci Take Juventus
15 Points Clear Atop Serie A

Apr 19, 2015
 
Juventus took a big step towards their fourth straight Serie A title with a 2-0 win over second-placed Lazio which stretched their lead at the top to 15 points. It also gave them a boost for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Monaco, where the Italian side lead 1-0 from the first game. The Aquile had won eight on the bounce and leapt into second place, so another victory would take them within nine points of the leaders. It was also a precursor to the Coppa Italia Final on June 7. Stefan de Vrij, Marco Parolo, Stefan Radu, Filip Djordjevic, Santiago Gentiletti and the suspended Pedro Luis Cavanda and Diego Novaretti missed out, while Federico Marchetti started despite fracturing his nose. Juve missed Paul Pogba, Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, Martin Caceres and banned Angelo Ogbonna.

Having overtaken neighbours AS Roma by moving into second place last weekend, Lazio travelled to Turin on Saturday evening hoping to continue their surge up the Serie A table. But faced with the only team to have scored more goals than theBianconeri this term, Massimiliano Allegri told reporters at his pre-match press conference on Friday that the side from Italy’s capital would represent a tough challenge to them. Lazio’s impact made it impossible for Allegri to rest too many players despite facing a Champions League quarter-final second leg against AS Monaco on Wednesday. The coach named a very strong lineup, opting to bench only Alvaro Morata, Roberto Pereyra and Stephan Lichtsteiner from the XI that beat the Ligue 1 side 1-0 last week. Andrea Barzagli, Simone Padoin and Alessandro Matri came in to replace that trio, the Bianconeri switching to a 3-5-2 formation in order to curtail the attacking threat of Lazio.

Lazio were the side who took the initiative first as they started the match confidently, with captain Stefano Mauri bursting into the area only to be stopped by Giorgio Chiellini after only two minutes. The visitors applied further pressure, forcing Gianluigi Buffon to fluff his lines but ultimately managing to defend his goal. Juventus then looked to get off the mark, as midfielder Claudio Marchisio tried a stinging shot from far out; though it skimmed across the grass resulting in an easy save for Federicho Marchetti. The Biancocelesti continued to force Juventus within their own half as they maintained their high pressing, winning a free-kick from a dangerous range after French defender Patrice Evra unintentionally handled the ball; though the set piece was eventually hit too high by Mauri. Thereon the home side took control of the game, as they began to regain ground and almost immediately after Arturo Vidal managed to flick the ball onto Carlos Tevez who latched onto the pass and steamed past Lazio’s defence, slotting a tidy finish into the far corner. Miroslav Klose promptly looked to reply to the goal with a chance of his own, but the German veteran managed to horribly scuff his shot from close range. Deficiency in front of goal for Lazio consequently cost them as they were once again hit on the counter to concede the second goal of the game. Centre-back Bonucci picked up the ball from within his own half before surging forward untouched by the Aquile midfield, Tevez made a deceptive run clearing space for the 27-year-old Italian to hit a sublime shot, which he buried beneath Marchetti from the top of the box. The Bianconeri then had a chance to finish off the game on the stroke of half-time as Padoin sent in a gorgeous cross only to be headed a whisker wide of the post by Evra.

Antonio Candreva came on after the restart, sending Senad Lulic to left-back. It seemed to work, as they notched up a series of corners with Candreva shots and crosses charged down, pinning the hosts back into their own half. Claudio Marchisio was booked for a dreadful tackle on Lulic and will be suspended for next week’s Turin Derby. Chiellini’s handling offence blocked a Candreva through ball right on the edge of the box, from which the midfielder unleashed a rocket of a free kick that Buffon fingertipped against the bar. It was raining heavily and Lucas Biglia tried to take advantage, his piledriver from 25 meters punched bizarrely by Buffon to bounce off the ground. Alvaro Morata brilliantly turned Basta only for his pull-back to be intercepted for a corner and Buffon stopped Candreva’s swerving cross from reaching Klose. It got even worse for Lazio, as in the final minute 20-year-old Danilo Cataldi received a straight red card for a tackle from behind as Tevez was breaking away on the counter. Felipe Anderson almost got a consolation goal, his volley desperately parried by Buffon’s feet in a one-on-one situation. The run of eight consecutive victories came crashing to a halt, as another statistic was confirmed instead. Lazio have not won any of their last 21 Serie A meetings with Juve, home and away, managing just six draws.

Juventus and Lazio are also set to face each other in the Italian Cup final in June.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (17')
Leonardo Bonucci (28')

Saturday, April 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Vidal: Juventus closer to title after
'perfect' performance against Lazio

The Bianconeri moved 15 points clear of Stefano Pioli's side at the top of the Serie A
table thanks to a 2-0 victory over their second-placed opponents in Turin

Apr 19, 2015
 
Arturo Vidal admitted that Juventus are now on the verge of clinching their fourth successive Scudetto thanks to a "perfect" performance in Saturday's 2-0 win over title rivals Lazio.

The Biancocelesti had arrived in Turin on an eight-game winning streak that had propelled them into second place in Serie A, 12 points behind their hosts.

However, Juve effectively put the game to bed by the half-hour mark thanks to early goals from Carlos Tevez and Leonardo Bonucci.

Massimiliano Allegri's men still have seven matches to play but Vidal confessed that the Scudetto is now within touching distance.

“It was a perfect display by us tonight," Vidal is quoted as saying by his club's official website. "We played an incredible game against an extremely strong side.

"It’s an important victory and our fourth successive title is edging ever closer.

"We must win our next three games before we can definitely say it’s ours."

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (17')
Leonardo Bonucci (28')

Saturday, April 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Juve ease past Lazio to warm up for
Champions League decider vs. Monaco

Apr 19, 2015
 
Juventus' 2-0 win at home to Lazio on Saturday night was just the result and performance required to maintain confidence ahead of their Champions League showdown with Monaco.

High-flying Lazio had won eight games on the bounce ahead of the trip to Turin but were comprehensively beaten by an impeccable Juve. Stefano Pioli may be a great coach in charge of a well-balanced team but when presented with a real challenge, Lazio's limitations were exposed.

Juventus have been a strong side for well over three years. Tthe difference between this side and the one that drew 1-1 Nordsjaelland in the Champions League back in November 2012 is stark -- and it's in attack.

In Carlos Tevez, who opened the scoring against Lazio, the Serie A champions have a man with the experience and skill to finish off the chances this side creates.

Having overcome a minor injury, he was back to displaying his world class style and devotion to the side, controlling proceedings and providing a constant threat. The night will be remembered for Leonardo Bonucci's goal, however, which was magnificent on so many levels.

Andrea Pirlo's reading of the game allowed him to take possession and Bonucci immediately made the run forward to give the playmaker an option for the pass.

Dribbling his way forward with courage, Bonucci's task was facilitated by the superb running of the two forwards, Tevez and Alessandro Matri, who widened the pitch and diverted the two Lazio defenders' attention away to make it a clean finish for the centre-back.

Hard and low with the skill of a forward, the centre-back's goal was astonishing to watch and fully merited.

Despite their courageous style of play, Lazio were naive. They are a beautifully organised and attack-minded side but they've yet to truly understand the notion of balance and how to execute their ideals without exposing their limitations. They boast skill, stamina and spirit but they lack intelligence and experience. Playing against the strongest side in Italy, it was always going to be tough for them.

Juventus defended tightly, in a clear organised fashion. Lazio needed to overload their attacks to overwhelm their opponent but they were just too predictable.

They improved in the second half, but with every passing match you learn more about why Juventus rule Serie A.

They may not be the fittest, but their intelligence makes the difference. Knowing how to operate on and off the ball, they react to most situations well. The challenge is to translate this into Europe.

It helps they boast star-quality players and after a difficult season, Arturo Vidal deserves praise for his recent performances, capped by a fine display against Lazio that earned him a standing ovation. It is difficult to be sure whether the Chilean will recover his beautiful touch going forward but his ability to neutralise his opponents and intelligent, attacking runs made the difference on Saturday night. This was the real Vidal.

It may have been first against second but it was clear that for yet another year, Juventus do not have clear challengers for the title.

They play above and beyond what any other Italian team can muster and another title is a mere formality.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (17')
Leonardo Bonucci (28')

Saturday, April 18th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Juventus 2-0 Lazio: Juve get back on track
with comprehensive win over Lazio

Carlos Tevez and a fine solo effort from Leonardo Bonucci saw Juve triumph over an in-form
Lazio team, opening up a whopping fifteen point lead over the Biancocelesti and Roma in second.

Apr 19, 2015
 
Coming into Saturday night's game on the back of eight straight league victories, Lazio was supposed to pose a stiff challenge. In reality, the game turned out similar to the win over Lazio at the Olimpico this season. Granted, it was not as easy, but it still felt fairly standard.

Lazio, who has more scorers with seven or more goals than any other team in the top five European leagues, enjoyed more possession and had more attempts on goal, but were only sporadically dangerous. Felipe Anderson didn't have his best, most influential game — also a result of our stifling midfield. Their other in-form player at the moment, Antonio Candreva, strangely started on the bench in this key game. This latter move, I believe, took something away from Lazio, as despite having more possession they struggled to be consistently incisive — which Candreva's presence would have helped, with his crossing and his ability to take on and beat defenders.

As was the case last week, one can't help but look past this game towards the big European game midweek. Although Max Allegri and the players will (rightfully) talk about the importance of this game, losing this game would not have stopped Juve's march to the title. Juve would have had to lose three more times in the remaining seven games for either Lazio and Roma to get close (and Roma can't win games, so...).

Regardless, Juventus won and now have a fifteen point lead; surely insurmountable. Now it's officially time to think about Monaco on Wednesday. But first, a recap of the game on Saturday.


MATCH SUMMARY

Juventus took a while to get going in this one. The first chance for the Bianconeri came from Claudio Marchisio's long range shot, which was comfortably wrapped up by Lazio goalkeeper Federico Marchetti, on twelve minutes. Chances came sparingly in the early stages of the game, but Tevez broke the deadlock on sixteen minutes; a defensive clearance was headed on in midfield by Arturo Vidal, which released Tevez to beat the offside trap and slot home one on one with Marchetti. It was possibly his first touch of the game. One-nil to Juventus.

Lazio had their first clear chance on twenty-four minutes, after a poor clearance by Giorgio Chiellini went straight to Miroslav Klose, whose finish took a deflection off of Bonucci to balloon over for a corner. This proved an important intervention by Bonucci, who would go on to be important a couple plays later. The ball was won in midfield and Bonucci made an unexpected run forward, who was then found by Andrea Pirlo. Bonucci continued forward, and with the forwards (Tevez and Alessandro Matri) making brilliant runs off the ball and drawing defenders away and creating space, Bonucci fired a drive low and hard under Marchetti in goal. The keeper could arguably have done better, but it was still a great run and finish by the defender.

The first chance did not see many clear cut chances, with Lazio being restricted mainly to midfield play. In-form talisman Felipe Anderson was kept in check, only showing a few flashes of brilliance which in the end led to nothing. Danilo Cataldi had a shot from long range, which went wide, and was the last real chance for Lazio in the first half. Juve's last chance came via a Pirlo free kick, which disappointingly went straight into Marchetti's arms. Two-nil to Juve at the half.

Much like the first, clear cut chances were few and far between. Juventus' first came on sixty-two minutes, with Vidal curling an effort wide of the far post. Soon after the referee blew for a handball by Chiellini on the edge of the box, which also saw the defender pick up a yellow card. The resulting free kick was blasted on goal by Antonio Candreva and pushed over by Gigi Buffon. Lazio were playing well, despite not getting the breakthrough. Lucas Biglia fired a shot on goal which Buffon required an uncomfortable looking save from Buffon between the sticks.

The second half petered out, with Juventus seemingly comfortable with the 2-0 win and Lazio accepting of their fate. There were still a few incidents of note though. Cataldi — who otherwise had a solid game for Lazio - saw red for a late foul on Tevez. A few minutes later, another error by Chiellini teed up Felipe Anderson for a chance just inside the box, but Buffon was equal to the Brazilians shot and the danger was cleared.


PLAYER RATINGS

Buffon: 6.5 Looked uncomfortable making some of the few saves that he had to make, but was solid and didn't look like conceding.

Barzagli: 6.5 Good game by Andrea as he continues to make his way back from his lengthy injury. Inadvertently help set up the first goal.

Bonucci: 7.5 Great performance by Leo. A top-notch defensive performance was capped off by a splendid solo goal. Man of the match.

Chiellini: 5.5 Another shaky performance by a player that used to be our most dependable defender. Two big mistakes that led to clear chances for Lazio — bailed out both times by Bonucci and Buffon respectively - and also had a handball, giving up a free kick for Lazio which forced a save from the keeper. If we are to have any chance at an unprecedented treble, we need the old Giorgio back.

Padoin: 6 Solid game from Simone, typically unspectacular. Nothing more to say, really.

Marchisio: 6 Not his best, most involved game, but did not do much wrong other than picking up a silly yellow card which will see him sit out the derby next week through suspension.

Pirlo: 6 Decent performance by Pirlo, also working his way back from a lengthy layoff. Hopefully he does better midweek against Monaco.

Vidal: 6 With every game recently, he's playing more like his old self (sans the goal scoring). Here's hoping it continues, as we'll need him at his best for this final run-in.

Evra: 6 Picked up a yellow for a poor tackle on a Lazio player; other than that, another solid game by the French veteran.

Matri: 5.5 Not a great performance, but not a terrible one either. Didn't have any chances of his own in dangerous positions. His run drew defenders on Bonucci's goal.

Tevez: 6 Got the first goal and his run off the ball created space for Bonucci on the second. Not an overall great performance, but still did enough to help bring home the three points.


Subs

Morata: 5 Came on for Matri, but did not add much more than the man he replaced.

Pereyra: 5 Came on to give Pirlo a rest; today was not much more than making sure he stays sharp for the big midweek game.

Sturaro: N/A.


Coach

Allegri: 6.5 In what was supposed to be a difficult match - and there were some tricky moments — Juve came away with a standard 2-0 victory. Reverting to 3-5-2 from the start, Juve controlled the game from start to finish without always having more possession. The credit for this goes to Allegri, who ensured that Juve played a calm, measured game and running few risks - outside of the odd mistake from Chiellini. Sure to win the Scudetto, his good work has Juventus on course for a possible domestic double and as an outside bet for the Champions League.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Collum ref for Monaco-Juventus

Apr 20, 2015

UEFA have designated the referees for the return leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, with William Collum assigned to Monaco-Juventus.

The Bianconeri are carrying the hopes of the Italian peninsula as they take a 1-0 lead into the second round in Monaco.

Scottish referee William Collum will officiate the game, UEFA have confirmed today.


Champions League quarter-final second leg referees

Atkinson – Bayern Munich-Porto

Moen – Barcelona-Paris Saint-Germain

Brych – Real Madrid-Atletico Madrid

William Collum – Monaco-Juventus

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Vidal is Juventus doubt

Apr 20, 2015

Arturo Vidal is a doubt for Juventus’ Champions League clash with Monaco after being struck down with tonsilitis.

The Chilean midfielder gave the Bianconeri a 1-0 advantage to take into the second leg of their quarter-final, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win at Juventus Stadium.

However, SportMediaset is now reporting that 27-year-old is battling acute tonsilitis, and will be evaluated by the club’s medical staff tomorrow.

Acute tonsilitis is the most extreme form of the infection, where the tonsils become so swollen that it is difficult to take on foods or liquids.

Vidal has already been hospitalised with tonsilitis this season, missing a trip to Verona in January.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

JUVE DON’T WANT TO BID FAREWELL
TO UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JUST YET

Apr 20, 2015

The end of the European football season is drawing near, following a gruelling schedule over the last two years that has included the FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

The 2015 UEFA Champions League Final takes place in Berlin’s Olympiastadion on 6th June. Once the competing finalists are decided there is bound to be the usual high demand for tickets among supporters. Despite such a taxing schedule for players, ex-Juventus coach Ciro Ferrara believes that two veteran stars can still provide the quality and guile required for the Bianconeri to be there themselves.

Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo, at 37 and 35 years of age, may be in the twilight of their playing careers but that fact does not deter Ferrara from making the prediction.

“We are talking about two phenomena,” he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “They have made history in world football, not just in Italy. In their case, age does not matter…Gigi and Andrea have unique experience.”

“Why can’t they reach the final?”

First, of course, Juve must expand on their narrow 1-0 Quarter Final first leg win over AS Monaco. The match was one in which old hand Pirlo had a big part to play—but it was a calculated gamble by coach Massimiliano Allegri to even start his midfield maestro, who has been suffering from a calf muscle strain.

After the game, Allegri praised Pirlo’s role in the victory: “Set pieces can be decisive in these games and I needed a touch of quality on the passes in midfield to break through those tiny spaces. In fact his pass was decisive for the penalty.”

Pirlo returned the praise, claiming that Ferrara’s past experience of leading AC Milan to the latter stages of the UCL has brought Juve a “so much peace” and a “sense of security.”

Buffon, meanwhile, took the opportunity after the game to reassure his coach, team-mates and Juve fans that he was not entertaining the idea of retirement just yet.

“A player stops when he feels that he is no longer what he was before on the pitch,” Buffon said. “Looking at it objectively, that is not my case. I will continue to keep playing as long as I am doing well, otherwise it would be a waste. Why bid farewell to football if you are playing well?”

One could also say the same about this year’s UEFA Champions League. Although still to play a second leg and so many quality teams still involved, at this late stage of the competition, why bid farewell?

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Preview: AS Monaco vs. Juventus

Apr 20, 2015

Juventus travel to AS Monaco on Wednesday aiming to close out their Champions League quarter-final.

The runaway Serie A leaders, who are still in the running for three trophies this season, hold a 1-0 lead from last week's first leg in Turin, where Arturo Vidal scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot.


Monaco

It would be fair to say that Monaco are probably the surprise name in the quarter-finals of the Champions League - a competition that they are participating in for the first time in nine years.

The principality outfit have a history of punching above their weight in Europe, having surprised many to reach the 2003-04 final, but they have hardly romped their way into the last eight this year.

Leonardo Jardim's side have won less matches en route to this stage than any of the other seven remaining teams and were perhaps fortunate to top a group in which Benfica were first seeds.

A 3-1 victory at Arsenal was a result that got them noticed, and they then rode their luck to protect their first-leg lead and knock out the Gunners on away goals in the last round.

Their 1-0 defeat at the Juventus Stadium last week means that they cannot take the same approach on Wednesday. Instead, Monaco must push forward in search of a goal without which they will be eliminated. Their attacking limitations are exemplified by the fact that none of their players have scored more than once in Europe this campaign.

Regardless of their Champions League fate, Monaco will be able to took back on this transitional season - prior to which they sold several their big-name players to focus on developing younger talent - with a great deal of pride.

They are third in the Ligue 1 table and on course to qualify for the Champions League again next term, although three draws from their last four games have created a six-point gap which will be stretched to nine should Paris Saint-Germain win their game in hand.

Recent form (all competitions): W D D W L D


Juventus

The Champions League door may be opening for Juventus at just the right time, with tournament favourites Real Madrid and Bayern Munich - the last two winners - both in genuine danger of exiting at the last-eight stage.

Juve will expect to capitalise on their comparatively friendly quarter-final draw, particularly now, having prevented Monaco from scoring an away goal in the process of establishing a slim first-leg advantage.

The Old Lady have not gone beyond the last eight since losing in the final to Italian rivals AC Milan in the 2002-03 season, but are certainly in the form that makes them contenders for a third European Cup triumph, and first in 19 years.

Most bookmakers price them at 8-1 to win the competition, but those odds could plummet depending on the results of the other quarter-final ties.

There is little point betting on the outcome of the Serie A title race, however. Juve have surged clear of Roma since returning from the winter break and now hold a 15-point lead at the top with seven games remaining this term.

It is now Lazio - Juve's opponents in June's Coppa Italia final - who are second in the table, but their faint championship ambitions were ended courtesy of Massimiliano Allegri's side's 2-0 victory in Turin at the weekend.

Carlos Tevez and Leonardo Bonucci bagged the goals which secured Juve an eighth win in nine in all competitions, with a shock defeat at bankrupt Parma their only slip up. Ominously for Monaco, they had kept clean sheets in their three previous away games, including a thumping 3-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the last 16.

Recent form (all competitions): W W W L W W


Team News

In-demand midfielder Paul Pogba is one of four absentees for the visitors, along with Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo and Martin Caceres.

Allegri rested Alvaro Morata, Roberto Pereyra and Stephan Lichtsteiner against Lazio, but all three should return, with Andrea Barzagli among those to drop out as Juventus revert to a four-man defence.

Up front alongside Morata will be Carlos Tevez, whose 26 goals this season is over three times as many as former Manchester United teammate Dimitar Berbatov, but the Bulgarian's experience may see him get the nod over highly-rated youngster Anthony Martial for the hosts.

Monaco are missing key men Geoffrey Kondogbia and Jeremy Toulalan in midfield and so Fabinho could be asked to sit in front of a defence which will include Layvin Kurzawa and Aymen Abdennour after their weekend off.

Tiemoue Bakayoko missed the stalemate with Rennes and is also a doubt for this one.


Monaco possible starting lineup:

Subasic; Toure, Abdennour, Wallace, Kurzawa; Fabinho, Moutinho, Silva; Ferreira Carrasco, Matheus Carvalho; Berbatov


Juventus possible starting lineup:

Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pereya; Tevez, Morata


Head To Head

Prior to last week's first leg, these two sides had only previously met in the semi-finals of the 1997-98 Champions League.

A repeat of Monaco's 3-2 win at the Stade Louis II that year, in which a certain Thierry Henry was on the scoresheet, would not be enough for the French club to progress.

Juve won the two-legged tie of 17 years ago, only to go on to lose to Real Madrid in the final of the competition.


We say: Monaco 0-2 Juventus

Monaco have had a good run, but Juventus could prove to be one hurdle too many for Jardim's men. An away goal would almost certainly put the tie beyond the goal-shy hosts, and Juventus just seem too dangerous not to score.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Toulalan back for Juventus?

Apr 20, 2015

Monaco midfielder Jeremy Toulalan could feature against Juventus, having trained with the squad this morning.

The combative Frenchman had been struggling with a thigh injury, and played no part in the weekend draw with Rennes.

However, the principality club has announced on its official website that the 31-year-old has returned to training.

“All players were on the field for training on Monday morning, including the captain, Jeremy Toulalan,” Les Rouges et Blancs revealed.

“Toulalan and Nabil Dirar returned to the group, Geoffrey Kondogbia undertook a supervised workout on Monday."

The Ligue 1 side will be looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, with an Arturo Vidal penalty giving the Bianconeri the advantage in the tie.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Arturo Vidal misses training
on Monday due to tonsillitis

Apr 20, 2015

There are things you are totally okay with hearing about two days before a decisive Champions League quarterfinal match. Then there are things you don't even want any kind of piece of two days before a decisive Champions League match that Juventus just so happens to be taking a 1-0 aggregate lead into.

Consider the next sentence you will read more of the latter than the former.

Missing out was Arturo Vidal, with the midfielder currently suffering from a light bout of tonsillitis. His availability for Tuesday's sitting will be monitored in the morning.

(Source: juventus.com)

Arturo Vidal is suffering from a bout with acute tonsillitis. Of course he is. It comes right as he is getting back in form and starting to resemble the Vidal of old. Of course. It comes right as Juventus are about to travel to France and try to qualify for the Champions League semifinals for the first time in over a decade. Of course, of course, of course.

The 'light bout' is the good part of it, I guess. Everything else? Not so much.

Yet this is the complete opposite of what we wanted to hear less than 48 hours before Juve make the trip to Monaco for the second leg of the Champions League quarterfinals on Wednesday night. Vidal has been playing so well as of late, and with Paul Pogba already out injured, it will be another blow to a Juventus side that is playing its best football of the season over the last four or six weeks.

Let us hope that the Tuesday morning examination brings good news and that Vidal is on the traveling party list announced by Max Allegri later in the day.

At least Allegri has four healthy central midfielders to choose from if Vidal is to miss out on Wednesday night's second leg. I'll take a Roberto Pereyra-Andrea Pirlo-Claudio Marchisio midfield in a 3-5-2 formation if VIdal isn't able to go from the start. That isn't full strength, but it's far from the end of the world. (At least we hope.)

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

-

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Monaco V Juventus – Champions League Preview:
Bianconeri Eyeing First Semi Final In 12 Years

Apr 21, 2015

Juventus are set to travel to face Monaco on Wednesday at the Stade Louis II in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final tie.

The Bianconeri have the advantage heading into the return fixture having overcome the Monegasque club 1-0 in Turin courtesy of a penalty from midfielder Arturo Vidal.

Both sides are eyeing a first semi-final qualification for over a decade. The last time Monaco were in the semi-final was in the 2003/2004 season when they finished as runners-up, whilst the last time Juve reached the last four was a season before in 2002/2003 when they also finished second.

Monaco reached the quarter-finals by causing an upset, as they defeated English giants Arsenal on away goals. Leonardo Jardim’s men beat the North London outfit 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium in London before going on to lose 2-0 in Monaco, thus progressing on away goals.

On the other hand, the Bianconeri reached the last eight by dispatching German giants Borussia Dortmund 5-1 on aggregate, having decided the tie in the away fixture when they won 3-0.

The only meeting between both sides at this level dates back to the 1997/1998 season in the semi-final of the Champions League when Juve overcame the principality outfit 6-4 on aggregate, a tie that saw former Juve captain Alessandro Del Piero net a hat-trick in La Vecchia Signora’s 4-1 win in the first leg.

Recent form also suggests that it’s going to be anything but an easy game for either side. In their past 10 games, the hosts – who sit third in Ligue 1 – have lost only thrice; on the other hand, Juve have only succumbed to defeat twice in their past 10 games.

Bianconeri coach Massimiliano Allegri is set to miss the services of Paul Pogba, Kwadawo Asamoah, Romulo, and Martin Caceres due to injury, whilst reports also indicate that Andrea Barzagli might be dropped as La Vecchia Signora will play with four at the back.

Jardim on the other hand will only miss Lacina Traoure for Wednesday. The trio of Geoffrey Kondogbia, Jeremy Toulalan, and Nabil Dirar were reportedly going to miss the game after picking up knocks, but all three featured in training on Monday.


Form Guide: Monaco (L-L-W-W-W-L) Juventus (W-W-W-D-W-W)


Expected Starting XIs

Monaco: Subasic; Raggi, Carvalho, Abdennour, Kurzawa; Kondogbia, Fabinho, Moutinho; Carrasco, Berbatov, Martial.

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pereya, Pirlo, Marchisio; Vidal; Tevez, Morata.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Monaco - Juventus Preview:
Evra ready for 'fearless' hosts

The visitors carry a 1-0 lead into the second leg and the left-back
says they must be ready to take the game to Leonardo Jardim's men.

Apr 21, 2015

Patrice Evra has urged Juventus not to sit back on their first-leg lead but to take control of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final tie against Monaco.

The Italian champions travel to the Stade Louis II with a 1-0 lead from last week's first leg in Turin - Arturo Vidal's penalty settling a hard-fought match.

With the slender advantage, Massimiliano Allegri's side are favourites to progress to the semi-finals.

But Evra, who spent four years at Monaco between 2002 and 2006, stated that there is plenty of work to do and pointed to Monaco's spirited performance in the first leg as proof Juve cannot rest on their laurels.

"I was not surprised by Monaco in the first leg," he told Canal Plus. "They have not at all been underestimated.

"They gave a very good game. Against them in the first leg we were favourites. I think a lot of players felt that pressure.

"In the return leg, it will be different and we can take control of the game."

Monaco upset the odds to reach the last eight by beating Arsenal on away goals and Evra and believes they can pose a challenge for any side.

"When they won against Arsenal I was really proud of the team," he added. "They were fearless."

Juve, who defeated Monaco 6-4 on aggregate to reach the 1997-1998 Champions League final, make the trip boosted by a 2-0 victory over Lazio in Saturday's top-of-the-table clash in Serie A.

That result that left them 15 points clear at the summit in their march towards a fourth consecutive title.

By contrast, Leonardo Jardim's side have stuttered in recent weeks and a 1-1 draw against Rennes on Saturday made it three league matches without a win on home turf.

Third-placed Monaco are four points clear of Marseille and Saint-Etienne, while Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain are six points better off than the Principality club - with the champions also having a game in hand.

Head coach Jardim has stressed the importance of cutting out the errors against Juve.

"We lacked intensity at the end of the match against Rennes," he told reporters. "We started to feel fatigued. We'll recover and correct the small things for the match against Juventus."

Vidal will be assessed ahead of the game after missing training on Monday due to tonsillitis. Paul Pogba [hamstring] is unlikely to feature, while Juve team-mates Kwadwo Asamoah [knee], Martin Caceres [ankle], Luca Marrone [thigh] and Romulo [groin] are also absent.

Monaco are without Lacina Traore [leg], while Tiemoue Bakayoko [thigh] is a doubt.


OPTA FACTS

Monaco have lost their two European away games against Juventus, but they won their only meeting with the Bianconeri at home (3-2 in the 1997/98 semifinals).

Monaco have lost just one of their five European games at home against Italian sides (W3 D1), the first trip of any Italian club to the Principality (1-3 against Inter in the 1963/64 European Cup first round).

Juventus have lost just one of their last seven games in European competitions against French sides (W4 D2).

Monaco have lost two successive Champions League games for the first time since March 2005.

Monaco have kept three clean sheets in their last four CL games at home, but they have not scored in two of them either.

Juventus have won five of their last six CL games (D1), keeping four clean sheets in the process.

La Vecchia Signora have won two successive CL games away from home for the fourth time in the competition’s history but they have never win three in a row.

Monaco have lost three games in the Champions League this season, more than any other quarter-finalist (W4 D2).


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Monaco D L W D D

2015/04/18 - Monaco 1 - 1 Stade Rennais
2015/04/14 - Juventus 1 - 0 Monaco
2015/04/10 - Caen 0 - 3 Monaco
2015/04/07 - Monaco 0 - 0 Montpellier
2015/04/03 - Monaco 1 - 1 Saint-Étienne


Juventus W W L W W

2015/04/18 - Juventus 2 - 0 Lazio
2015/04/14 - Juventus 1 - 0 Monaco
2015/04/11 - Parma 1 - 0 Juventus
2015/04/07 - Fiorentina 0 - 3 Juventus
2015/04/04 - Juventus 2 - 0 Empoli


HEAD TO HEAD

2015/04/14 - Juventus 1 - 0 Monaco

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Monaco vs. Juventus: Team News

Apr 21, 2015

Juventus travel to Monte Carlo on Wednesday evening, visiting the Stade Louis II for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash with AS Monaco. The Bianconeri hold a slender 1-0 advantage over their opponents and come into the encounter in arguably better form than Leonardo Jardim’s side.

Held 1-1 by Rennes on Saturday—a major blow to their Ligue 1 title hopes—the Portuguese coach made no fewer than six changes to his lineup, although he did retain the 4-2-3-1 formation seen at Juventus Stadium just a week ago.

Meanwhile, this past weekend saw the Italian champions take a huge step toward securing a fourth-consecutive league title, easing past second-placed Lazio by a 2-0 margin. Massimiliano Allegri also made changes, switching to a 3-5-2 framework which allowed him to rest Stephan Lichtsteiner, Roberto Pereyra and Alvaro Morata from the outset.

The coach also withdrew Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo during the second half, with the former putting in yet another superb display as he slowly returns to his best form. Juventus will need just that as they seek a first semi-final berth in over a decade, 2003 marking the last time they reached that stage in Europe’s elite competition.

AS Monaco were Champions League runners-up 12 months later, but their record against Italian sides does not make good reading. Indeed, they have emerged victorious in just one of their six previous knockout ties against clubs from the peninsula, beating AS Roma back in the 1991-92 campaign.


Predicted Lineups

AS Monaco (4-3-3): Subasic, Raggi, Carvalho, Abdennour, Kurzawa; Kondogbia, Fabinho, Moutinho; Carrasco, Berbatov, Martial

Juventus (4-3-2-1): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pereyra, Tevez; Morata


Key Battle

Perhaps the key clash over this opening 90 minutes will be between AS Monaco’s Aymen Abdennour and Juventus striker Carlos Tevez. The Tunisian defender has been in superb form this season, undoubtedly the rock upon which Jardim’s strong back line is built and has turned in some truly impressive Champions League performances.

According to WhoScored.com statistics, the 25-year-old has averaged two tackles, 3.2 interceptions and 6.2 clearances across five appearances in the elite European competition. Yet he can expect to be given a torrid time by Argentinian star Tevez, arguably one of the continent’s most in-form stars.

As discussed in this previous column, the 31-year-old has been simply sensational for the Bianconeri this term, weighing in with 26 goals and eight assists in all competitions. Those tallies include six goals in eight Champions League outings, and he was undoubtedly the star as Juve eliminated Borussia Dortmund in the previous round.


Player to Watch

If Tevez has taken on the starring role, Arturo Vidal is perhaps the man to watch on Wednesday evening, the Chilean slowly returning to the form which saw him become widely recognised as one of the best midfielders in the world over recent seasons.

Knee surgery and a hurried return to feature in the World Cup have undoubtedly restricted his impact this term, but his well-struck penalty was the difference between the two sides last week, and the 27-year-old believes he is now back to somewhere near his best.

“I feel good, I’m 100 per cent fit and hope to end the season in the right way,” he told Sky Italia (h/t Football Italia) shortly after helping his side to that win over Lazio at the weekend. Securing their passage to the next round would certainly do just that, and Vidal could be the key to eliminating AS Monaco.

His availability came into doubt on Monday, however, skipping training due to "a light bout of tonsillitis," per the club's official website. Juventus will hope he recovers in time, as he is hugely important to the side, particularly in Paul Pogba's continued absence.


Odds (via Odds Shark)

Home win: 23-10

Away win: 13-10

Draw: 21-10

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Berbatov: ‘Monaco can beat Juventus’

Apr 21, 2015

Monaco striker Dimitar Berbatov insists they can beat Juventus - ‘the semi-final is within our reach.’

The Bianconeri will travel to the principality tomorrow night for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final, after winning 1-0 in Turin.

However, despite failing to secure a potentially vital away goal, Bulgarian striker Berbatov believes his side are still in with a chance.

“The Champions League semi-final is within our reach,” the former Manchester United man told Tuttosport.

“We can do it against Juventus. We’re a good team, we’ve already shown that both against Arsenal, and a week ago in Turin. We absolutely did not deserve to lose.

“In the first half we should have had a penalty, if the referee had given it, it would have been a different game.

“Then in the second half we had a non-existent penalty given against us, but that’s football.

“We look forward with confidence and optimism, we’re preparing well for the comeback. We know that Juve are a team which creates a lot, but also gives opportunities.

“We know we have the ability to get to the next round.”

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Monaco - Juventus Betting: Allegri's men excellent
value to chalk up another clean sheet

The Italian champions won 1-0 in the previous fixture and our tipster is expecting
a similar outcome when they meet again in Wednesday's Champions League fixture.

Apr 21, 2015

Juventus will look to book their place in the last four of the Champions League when they travel to take on Monaco in the return leg of their quarter-final on Wednesday.

Massimiliano Allegri’s men hold a 1-0 lead from last week’s first-leg tie in Turin and the Italian champions are chalked up as favourites with Paddy Power to secure their passage in style in Monaco.

Leonardo Jardim’s side will feel the tie is not beyond them, but the enormity of the task facing the Ligue 1 outfit is reflected by the quote from Paddy Power for a home win, while Monaco can be backed at a chunky with the same firm to progress to the next round of the competition at the expense of Allegri’s men.

Monaco are enduring a disappointing run of form at present, having won just one of their last five matches in all competitions and they will need to be at their best if they are to upset the Serie A leaders.

By contrast, Juve stretched their lead at the top of the table to 15 points with an impressive 2-0 win over Lazio at the weekend and, with a further meeting to come against Stefano Pioli’s side in the Coppa Italia final in June, Allegri’s side will be dreaming of claiming a famous treble.

It is worth noting that Juve have conceded just one goal in their last nine matches in all competitions and, having secured a first-leg advantage on home turf last week, the Bianconeri look to represent decent value at to keep another clean sheet in Monaco.

Remarkably, eight of Monaco’s nine Champions League fixtures thus far this term have featured fewer than three goals and, therefore, it is somewhat unsurprising that Paddy Power offer just that there are no more than two goals scored at the Stade Louis II.

The visitors are excellent value at to secure their place in the semi-finals of the Champions League with a win but, given Juventus’ remarkable defensive record, punters are encouraged to take a chance on the juicy quote for Juve to win to nil when these two sides go head-to-head in this Champions League crunch.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Ancelotti: ‘Juventus important for calcio’

Apr 21, 2015

Carlo Ancelotti says Juventus getting to the Champions League semi-finals would be ‘important’ for Italian football, and discusses Alvaro Morata.

The Bianconeri face Monaco tomorrow night knowing that if they avoid defeat they can advance to the last four in the competition for the first time since 2003.

“Juventus, as well as Napoli and Fiorentina in the Europa League are doing well,” Ancelotti told Corriere dello Sport.

“They can get to the semi-finals, and if they were to do so it would be a positive thing, it could encourage a revival in the League, where - particularly in terms of top spot - there’s been little competition.

“In particular, Juventus have the ability to get to the semi-finals of the Champions League, which would be big for an Italian team, and would be important for everyone in Serie A.

“Juventus’ biggest strength is definitely the consistency that they’ve managed to maintain, despite changing Coach.

“Juventus got a good result in the first leg, but only holding a one-goal lead after the first leg is always difficult.”

Striker Alvaro Morata joined the Italian champions from Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid this summer, and Los Merengues have a buyback clause on the forward.

However, the former Milan Coach seemed to indicate that Morata would stay in Turin.

“He’s young, he has quality and enthusiasm, and he can have an important future with Juventus.”

Ancelotti also assesed the other Champions League ties, and believes Bayern Munich are on the brink after their 3-1 first leg defeat to Porto.

“I think it will be hard for them to recover,” Ancelotti mused.

“It’s difficult, because a two goal deficit is not insignificant, and it’s especially difficult against a team like Porto who are in great form.

“Apart from Barcelona, who have a very good lead [over Paris Saint-Germain, all the other ties are finely poised.

“For us [against Atletico Madrid]? It’s a difficult game, but the whole club is confident. It’s true that we have some players out, but the most important thing is the confidence that we can reach the semi-finals.

“Injuries aside, the team is doing well, and our performance at the Calderon [in the first leg] was very encouraging.”

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Morata: Juventus don't need superstars to win Champions League

The Spanish forward feels the Bianconeri's spirit makes up for their lack
of superstars and he is confident they can go far in Europe.

Apr 21, 2015

Alvaro Morata believes Juventus can go all the way in the Champions League even without the presence of superstars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Turin giants have one foot in the semi-finals after last week's 1-0 win over Monaco in Turin and will hope to wrap up the last-eight clash at the Stade Louis II on Wednesday.

Morata won European club football's elite competition with Madrid last year alongside Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, but he feels the lack of superstars at Juventus is not necessarily a bad thing.

"Look at the past editions of the tournament, even last season's one. Some teams went far in the competition and they weren't made of just superstars. Sometimes dedication and a strong spirit can be enough," Morata told Tuttosport.

"Juventus have an extraordinary team spirit. When I arrived here, I was amazed in discovering how great players like Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo made a big effort to make me feel welcome.

"With this kind of spirit, we can definitely go far - even to Berlin for the final. Why not?

"It will be difficult and we all are aware of this, but not impossible. We must keep the faith."

Juventus last won the Champions League in 1995-96, when they beat Ajax after penalties.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

AS Monaco v Juventus: Preview

Apr 21, 2015

Coach Leonardo Jardim believes Monaco's march to the Champions League quarter-finals is proof that clubs do not have to splash the cash in order to achieve European success.

Four years have passed since Dmitry Rybolovlev's takeover prompted a slew of big-name arrivals at the Stade Louis II, with the likes of Radamel Falcao, James Rodriguez and Joao Moutinho signed for hefty transfer fees.

But the Russian billionaire has tightened the purse strings in recent seasons and, with most of Monaco's expensive signings subsequently moving on, Jardim has been forced to nurture young talent after finding his options in the transfer market somewhat restricted.

Monaco's new-found financial prudence is beginning to yield results, however, with Les Rouges et Blancs third in Ligue 1 and still in with a chance of qualifying for the semi-finals of European football's premier club competition for the first time in 11 years.

The principality club host Juventus at the Stade Louis II on Wednesday looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the quarter-final first leg and Jardim, who replaced Claudio Ranieri last June, is proud of what he has achieved in his 10 months at the helm.

``We went from the worst qualified team in the fourth pot, to winning the group, to knocking out a European giant in Arsenal (in the last 16),'' he told BeIN Sports' The Ligue 1 Show.

``Right now, you could say that Monaco's coach is very proud of his players. We've shown that we don't need to make big investments to go far in this competition.

``The club changed its strategy and the project (in the summer). They have stayed ambitious but the onus was placed more on the development of young players.''

Jardim's young guns will have to be on top form if they are to advance to the semi-finals past a Juventus side 15 points clear at the top of the Serie A standings and well poised after Arturo Vidal's spot-kick winner in Turin last Tuesday.

Juve are bidding to reach their first Champions League semi-final for 12 years and boss Massimiliano Allegri is taking nothing for granted ahead of Wednesday's encounter.

``The clean sheet at home gives us a slight advantage, even though it won't be straightforward,'' he told his club's official website.

``We now know our opposition: they're very well organised in defence and possess technique and physicality in forward areas.

``I'm optimistic, even though we know we'll have to put in a good performance and score to reach the next round. They're a complicated side to play against. Monaco don't give you an inch out there.''

Monaco will be without striker Lacina Traore and midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko, who are both nursing leg injuries.

Juventus are without midfielder Paul Pogba (hamstring) and defender Martin Caceres (ankle).

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Vidal trains with Juventus

Apr 21, 2015

Arturo Vidal appears to be fit for Juventus’ crucial clash with Monaco, after training with his teammates this afternoon.

The Chilean midfielder was a doubt for the Champions League quarter-final second leg, after being struck down with tonsillitis.

However, Vidal has trained with this teammates at Vinovo this morning, and will fly to Nice with the rest of the squad before making a coach trip to the principality.

The Bianconeri hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg, and know that they need only a draw to advance to their first Champions League semi-final since 2003.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Juventus stand to gain more
than a semifinal with a win at Monaco

Apr 21, 2015

No longer a dream but an obligation, Italy and beyond expect Juventus to defeat Monaco on Wednesday night. Not only are they the champions of Italy and about to be crowned the same again for the fourth year running, but Juve's experience is greater, their players are better and the style of play is more beautiful.

Progression in the competition will help the club improve on a sporting level, but the financial rewards can hardly be ignored either. The Bianconeri have already made €77.5m from their participation in Europe's elite competition. Further wins would bring in more revenue for a club that desperately wants to compete at the highest level and keep hold of their best players.

If Juventus president Andrea Agnelli's dreams really do come true and Juventus manage to reach the final of the competition, they would stand to make approximately €100m. Let's put that in perspective: Lazio, who currently occupy second place in Serie A make €84m in revenue a year. Their total annual revenue is far below what the Old Lady would make from simply participating in the Champions League, making it impossible for any other Italian sides to provide proper competition.

Now here's where it gets interesting for the competition. Roma have been forced to live in a paradoxical state of mind. While they cheered for the Bianconeri against Lazio, hoping the Turin giants win the Scudetto and not let the Biancocelesti anywhere near it, they should also be cheering on for Monaco and whomever Juventus face next if they progress in the competition.

When Juventus beat Borussia Dortmund, the capital club saw their share of the market pool from participation in the Champions League dwindle. With every new height Juve reach, Roma get less and less money. Currently Roma stand to make €15m from the market pool, but if the Bianconeri reach the semifinals, the amount goes down to €13.3 and it will become €12.6 if the Turin club reach the final.

With every win in Europe, Juventus condemn their competitors that little bit more and soon the taste of domestic bliss will no longer be as sweet. With more money, the Old Lady can construct better squads and invest in more projects to reclaim her rightful position amongst the top in Europe.

According to the figures published by the Deloitte Football Money League in January 2015, Juventus earned €279.4m in revenue from 2013-14 -- not to be confused with the turnover figure. Should they make it to the semifinals, they will surpass the €300m mark -- a huge achievement for a side that under 10 years ago were battling it out in Serie B after suffering the humiliation of demotion.

However, it could all end now and the club must not get ahead of themselves. Monaco are a tough competitor and have shown themselves to be master defenders and great interpreters of manager Leonardo Jardim's tactics. Sadly for them, they could only muster a draw over the weekend against Rennes, who scored a late equalizer. However, what was interesting was the opponent's approach.

As Rennes grew in intensity, Monaco quivered, dropping back deeper and deeper until they were overwhelmed. "The fortress surrendered," as one headline put it and Allegri will hope his men can play with the same intensity, if not more, to manage a result away from home. When attacked, Jardim's men prioritise defence and turn off their attacking ambitions. Simply put: As long as they're made to defend for the entire game, they will struggle to hurt the Old Lady.

Having enjoyed their 'underdog' status despite the beauty of the squad, Juventus stuttered at home against the Principality side in the first leg as they attempted to overcome the pressure of being favourites, perhaps for the first time in this competition. It's one thing to win and another to live up to the expectations of so many. After all, according to Transfermarkt, Juventus' squad is worth nearly three times that of Monaco's.

Certain players admitted to feeling anxious during last week's first leg, while others accept this is part of a steep learning curve that they continue to walk down. Allegri is not yet certain whether to play the 3-5-2 formation in which the coach can make the most of Andrea Barzagli's excellence, or go for a 4-3-1-2 to give the side more of an attacking impetus. Assessments and evaluations will be made in training when the tactician can better understand if Arturo Vidal is available.

The very definition of intensity, the Chilean has reportedly been diagnosed with acute tonsillitis, but management are hopeful he can start Wednesday evening's game to provide the usual grit and determination. Without him, Juventus lose a little steel but the club is optimistic. This is their chance for glory. Can they cope with the pressure?

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Pereyra Crucial to Juventus' Champions League Progress

Apr 21, 2015

When Paul Pogba limped off midway through the first half of Juventus' 3-0 Champions League second-leg win over Borussia Dortmund and was ruled out for much of the rest of the season, a cruel blow was dealt to the Italian champions' continental hopes and dreams.

Pogba has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the world, and his match-winning performances this season have led to rumours linking him with transfers to some of Europe's richest clubs.

Yet while his injury and subsequent absence was a blow, the wound was nowhere near terminal. Roberto Pereyra has had a lot to do with that.

The Argentine joined the club on loan from Udinese at the start of this season and has gradually won over any doubters with his displays in a multitude of positions. Indeed, in the aforementioned game against Dortmund, following Pogba's substitution, Pereyra's drives caused the Germans serious problems.

Before the hour mark, he took the ball from deep inside his own half, shrugged off the attention of his markers and burst through midfield to supply Alvaro Morata with an opportunity which was saved. Later, he did something similar but instead teed up Carlos Tevez, who tucked away the third goal.

Such moments are microcosms of Pereyra's overall game. His haircut is similar to that of his team-mate, Arturo Vidal, but their style is what makes them even harder to distinguish. Like Vidal, Pereyra is an energetic all-rounder who enjoys haranguing the opposition and loves playing in Massimiliano Allegri's diamond midfield.

Allegri has utilised the diamond in tandem with the 3-5-2 that his predecessor Antonio Conte honed to such perfection in the past. Juve use both well, but in different circumstances. The former is used for a more high-tempo brand of play, while the latter is used as a sort of defensive comfort blanket.

Pereyra can operate well in either but particularly seems to enjoy the diamond. As Bleacher Report's Sam Tighe explained: "The outside central midfielders have to be pure athletes; the amount of running...and fanning wide they have to do off the ball to protect their full-backs is remarkable."

Pereyra is a hard worker and a dynamic, athletic player. Essentially, he is perfect for the diamond midfield, where he, Vidal and Claudio Marchisio act as links bringing together defence and attack.

If Juventus expect to go deep in the Champions League, they may have to accept having less possession against certain opponents. Thus, transition football could well come to the fore, and Pereyra will be willing and able to oblige in this regard.

Arguably, he is even better suited to it than Pogba. According to WhoScored.com, Pereyra is a more direct player than Pogba. While not capable of such majestic moments of skill, he has an average of 1.4 dispossessions per game, 1.2 less than Pogba. He also has just 1.3 bad touches per game, 0.6 less than the Frenchman.

Additionally, Pereyra's passing is slightly more accurate, with an average pass success of 86.7 percent compared to Pogba's 83.8 percent. Pereyra is an extremely effective player, and when it comes to pressing and counterattacking the best in Europe, he will be an important cog in the Juventus machine.

His versatility only adds to his value. Pereyra has switched between positions throughout the season but has rarely appeared flustered by the changes. As a right wing-back, a central-midfield runner or an attacking-midfield nuisance, he has often done his job with aplomb.

While Juventus are without one of the finest individual talents in world football in Pogba, they enter Wednesday's crucial away clash with Monaco with a dependable, efficient and flexible team player in his place.

Pereyra might not produce the same flashes of inspiration, but at a time when Juve could find their backs against the wall, he can provide exactly what they need.

[Socrates 8516]

MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Vidal set for Monaco start

Apr 21, 2015

Arturo Vidal is in the Juventus squad travelling to Monaco for the Champions League quarter-final and could well start.

The first leg ended 1-0 in Turin and the decider kicks off tomorrow evening at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

Vidal had been in doubt after skipping training due to a bout of tonsillitis, but did take part in today’s session.

It’s reported Coach Max Allegri will change his system, having used a 4-3-1-2 for the first leg, adopting a 3-5-2 in Montecarlo.

The idea is to have the back three of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.

Stephan Lichtsteiner and Patrice Evra would surround Vidal, Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio.

In attack Alvaro Morata gets the nod alongside Carlos Tevez.


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

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MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Allegri expecting tough Monaco clash

Apr 21, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has warned his players to expect a tough second leg against Monaco in the Champions League quarter-finals.

The Italian champions travel to the Stade Louis II on Wednesday having earned a narrow 1-0 win in Turin last week.

Despite admitting that he is confident of seeing his side progress, Allegri concedes that it will probably be a difficult encounter.

"The clean sheet at home gives us a slight advantage, even though it won't be straightforward," he told the club's official website. "We now know our opposition: they're very well organised in defence and possess technique and physicality in forward areas.

"I'm optimistic, even though we know we'll have to put in a good performance and score to reach the next round. They're a complicated side to play against. Monaco don't give you an inch out there."

Juventus are currently romping away with the Serie A title thanks to a 15-point lead at the top of the table.

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MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Jardim: 'Mature Monaco to beat Juve'

Apr 21, 2015

Monaco Coach Leonardo Jardim told Juventus they have “the capability and intelligence” to win the quarter-final.

The first leg of this Champions League tie ended 1-0 in Turin with an Arturo Vidal penalty, so the decider is tomorrow evening at the Stade Louis II.

“It will be difficult, as is normal for a game at this level,” said Jardim in a Press conference. “The Champions League is totally different to Ligue 1.

“We have the capability and intelligence to play a great game, just as we did against Zenit.

“We mustn’t lose our heads, as Juventus are extremely experienced and if we are not mature about it, then we could run into a lot of problems.

“It’s down to certain players to make the difference tomorrow on the field. Motivation is also fundamental and the full stadium will push us on to give more.”

Asked about Carlos Tevez, Alvaro Morata and the possible change to 3-5-2, Jardim was confident.

“Juve have great players all over the team, not just in attack. There is no single area where they are weaker.

“We have prepared how to face any tactical situation Juventus throw at us.”

Jeremy Toulalan remains in doubt after missing the first leg.

"We'll evaluate tomorrow whether he can start the match. If not, then Fabinho is ready to step in."

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MONACO - JUVENTUS

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Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Stade Louis II., Monaco
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Abdennour: 'Monaco can stop Juve'

Apr 21, 2015

Monaco’s Aymen Abdennour assures he “knows what to do to stop” Juventus stars Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata.

The first leg of the Champions League quarter-final ended 1-0 in Turin and the decider is at the Stade Louis II tomorrow evening.

“I and my teammates know what we have to do to stop Tevez and Morata,” declared the defender in a Press conference.

“We need to play a patient and intelligent game without the anxiety or haste of trying to score straight away. The important thing is not to concede.

“It’s a special game and we want to win it against a very organised side, one of the best in the world. We want to achieve something great.

“We are a young team, but an ambitious one, and we have the qualities to go through to the semi-finals. We have to run harder than ever and give our best.

“The stadium will be full and the fans will give us even more strength.”