Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

 

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Juventus vs. Real Madrid: Score and Grades

May 5, 2015

Juventus stunned Real Madrid in their Champions League semi-final first leg as Carlos Tevez inspired his team to a 2-1 win on Tuesday night at the Juventus Stadium.

Goals from Alvaro Morata and a penalty from the brilliant Argentinian were enough to give the Italian champions a solid advantage going into next week's second leg.

But Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a vital away goal for the visitors, setting up a fascinating return.

Madrid started the match with Sergio Ramos in midfield in order to limit Juve's attacking threat, while the Old Lady included 22-year-old Stefano Sturaro in a surprise tactical pick.

Juventus took control from the opening minutes, pushing Real Madrid back and dictating the tempo of the match. And it was the Italian side who took the early lead through former Los Blancos starlet Morata.

Tevez's industry and work were rewarded as the Argentinian drove into the box before firing a shot on goal. Iker Casillas saved the attacker's powerful effort, but Morata got to the rebound first and fired home.

Prior to that strike, Morata had failed to score during all of April, as highlighted by WhoScored.com:

WhoScored.com ✔@WhoScored
Álvaro Morata: Morata's goal vs Real Madrid is his first for Juventus in all competitions since netting against Borussia Dortmund in March

BBC Radio 5 Live's Pat Nevin also called the action as Morata scored, with the striker conflicted by the effort against his former team:

Real's players were claiming for offside but the English officials have got that right. The ball that was played in found Carlos Tevez in such a great position - no-one picked him up. Tevez had acres of space, and Alvaro Morata, the pain of trying not to celebrate was etched on his face. He was trying to be cool about it but he must be bursting inside.

Bleacher Report's Matteo Bonetti congratulated Tevez on his part in the goal:

Matteo Bonetti ✔@TheCalcioGuy
Goal all because of that rifle from Tevez. He has been world class every single moment of this season.

But Madrid sprung into life after conceding the goal. It appeared Juve were happy to allow Los Blancos territory, content to soak up the pressure and form counter-attacks, as described by football writer Michael Cox:

Michael Cox @Zonal_Marking
Juve trying to tempt the Real press so they can knock balls over the midfield into the front two quickly

Madrid's growing presence in the game eventually manifested itself in an equaliser, as Ronaldo scored from close range in the 27th minute to level the match. James Rodriguez expertly lifted the ball to the far post, leaving Ronaldo with an open goal to aim at.

ESPN's Paul Carr and Squawka.com both noted that CR7 passed Barcelona's Lionel Messi as the highest all-time goalscorer in the Champions League:

Paul Carr @PCarrESPN
Cristiano Ronaldo scores his 76th Champions League goal, passing Lionel Messi for most in UCL history.

Squawka Football ✔@Squawka
Cristiano Ronaldo has now scored 37 goals since 2012/13 in the Champions League, at least 13 more than any player.

James smashed a header against the bar late in the first half in an opportunity he should have converted. Both teams were happy with level terms as they made their way to the dressing rooms at half-time.

The second half started at a much more sedate pace, with the home team keen to keep possession and resist a negative final score.

But they were pleasantly surprised when they once again picked the lock of the Madrid defence and won a penalty in the 56th minute.

The brilliant Tevez was once again Madrid's tormentor. Real right-back Dani Carvajal brought down the former Manchester United player after a swift Juve counter-attack.

The striker picked himself up and made no mistake from the spot to put Juve 2-1 up. The Football Collective captured the moment and celebration on social media:

Football Collective @fbcollectivecom
Carlos Tevez scores his 50th goal for Juve, 29 across all competitions this season

Madrid increased the pressure on their hosts, desperate to grab another equaliser, but the threat of a Juve breakaway was always present.

Ronaldo and Toni Kroos both went close with efforts, thought the game started to slip away from the Spanish giants.

Gareth Bale made his presence felt as the Old Lady sat back in numbers, but the Welshman struggled to find his best creative form.

The heroic Giorgio Chiellini, who stopped much of Madrid's good attacking work, suffered a cut midway through the half. But the team bandaged him up, and he continued to play in order to preserve the victory.

And with the game ticking to its conclusion, Los Blancos dominated the ball as they hunted for an opening. Javier Hernandez took a heavy fall in the box in an attempt to win a penalty, but the official waved away the incident.

Tevez was substituted off to heroic cheers on 85 minutes, having worked tirelessly in his usual electric manner. His replacement, Fernando Llorente, almost punished the Galacticos as they flooded forward. The Spanish striker rounded Casillas on the break but was unable to find a shot or pass.

Juve saw out the remaining time like an old-fashioned Italian defensive unit, always strong in possession and frustrating their opponents until the final whistle.

The Serie A champions take a precious one-goal advantage to the Bernabeu for the second leg, but Madrid have the vital away goal.


Relevant Player Grades

Carlos Tevez: A-

The Argentinian was a great player during his years in South America and the Premier League, but he has become more dangerous during his time in Turin. On Tuesday night, the player terrorised the Madrid defence, and his involvement will be key in the second leg.

Cristiano Ronaldo: C+

It was a difficult night for the Portuguese kingpin, but he still managed to convert his chance when given the opening. Ronaldo's goal record speaks for itself, and Madrid will not retain their title without a huge effort from CR7.

Gareth Bale: D

It was a tale of two halves for the Welshman, who failed to make an impact in the opening period but recovered in the second half to help push his team forward.


Post-Match Reaction

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti was disappointed with his team's performance and defeat, but relieved Los Blancos gained a vital away goal, per RMadridHome:

RMadridHome @RMadridHome
Ancelotti: "We could've played better but the away goal gives us confidence to pay better in the return leg."

RMadridHome @RMadridHome
Ancelotti: "We left too much space in the back, and we lacked precision in front of goal too."

Juve manager Massimiliano Allegri was delighted when he spoke with Sky Sports Italia. He was pleased with the effort his team showed and believed his side were deserved winners, per Football-Italia.net:

I am very happy with what the lads did. This is the right reward that they deserved, as it’s not easy to reach the Champions League semi-final and especially to play against Real Madrid. We played with great intensity and allowed Real Madrid very little, but could’ve done better in the pace of creating our play in the first half.

It’s a shame, as we could’ve done better with the Llorente chance, but I’d have been happy beforehand to get a win over Real Madrid. Now we can prepare for a week and can fight it out in Madrid.

The second leg takes place in Madrid on May 13, with the Galacticos hoping they can reverse their first-leg deficit.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Morata: 'Our work is not done'

May 5, 2015

Alvaro Morata scored as Juventus beat his old team Real Madrid, but warned “we cannot think our work is done.”

The Spaniard opened the scoring in the 2-1 first leg Champions League semi-final victory.

“It was great because we won, not because I scored a goal. It’s two legs and we cannot think our work is done. We must approach the second leg as if it’s still 0-0,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We must put in an almost perfect performance. Real Madrid have in my view the strongest squad in the world.

“I have many friends there, but this was a football match, so I didn’t really speak to anyone. When I go to Spain we can have dinner.

“When I arrived at Juventus my thought was that we had to be here in the semi-final at least. Now we are here, why not push to go all the way?”

Morata also spoke to Spanish media, revealing he made a "pact" before the game not to celebrate if he scored.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Buffon: Juventus Know The Second Leg
Against Real Madrid Will Be Difficult

May 5, 2015

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has said the return fixture against Real Madrid will be a tough task.

La Vecchia Signora beat the Spaniards 2-1 on Tuesday night at the Juventus Stadium in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final, meaning they have a one goal advantage going into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu in a weeks time, but Buffon has said it won’t be easy.

“We know that a 2-1 win at home is good, but we are confident it won’t be easy at the Bernabeu,” the 37-year-old told the press.

The Italian champions won their fourth straight Scudetto last weekend, despite a coaching change at the beginning of the season.

Juventus captain Buffon, however, said that Allegri’s take on things has been useful.

“The tactics of Allegri have helped, and we have had a positive impact and we look convincing.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Player Ratings: Juventus 2-1 Real Madrid

May 5, 2015

Juventus defeated Real Madrid 2-1 at the Juventus Stadium in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

Alvaro Morata opened the scoring for the home side in the ninth minute before Cristiano Ronaldo’s header leveled proceedings around the half hour mark. Carlos Tevez then netted a penalty after being brought down in the box with half an hour remaining.

 

Juventus

Gianlugi Buffon – 6 – Spectator - Was hardly tested by the attacking contingent of Real Madrid and honestly could not have done anything about the goal.

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 6.5 – Opportunistic - The right full back went forward at every presentable opportunity. Was lively throughout the game.

Leonardo Bonucci – 7 – Rock - Put his body on the line to block a number of shots. Had good positioning sense as well and grew in confidence as the game progressed.

Giorgio Chiellini – 7 – Quiet - Never really involved himself in the game as much as his centre-back partner but defended pretty well, especially in the second half.

Patrice Evra – 6 – Decent - Played a lively game and was much involved in his side’s build up play, displaying good vision and ball control.

Claudio Marchisio – 7 – Workhorse - The Italian worked his socks off on the night as he kept a tight hold over the Real Madrid midfield. Played a clever pass to Tevez that initiated the Bianconeri’s first goal.

Andrea Pirlo – 5.5 – Unimaginative - The veteran had a pretty poor game by his standards. He also lost possession on more than a couple of occasions to present the Los Blancos the opportunity to counter attack.

Stefano Sturaro – 6.5 – Tidy - Did a pretty useful job in midfield, tackling hard in midfield and never giving any space on the ball for the away side.

Arturo Vidal – 7 – Versatile - The Chilean was enthusiastic and commanded the midfield well, committing himself to tackles, winning headers and playing with full passion.

Carlos Tevez – 7.5 – Decisive - Scored the match winner from the penalty spot after he was fouled at the end of a brilliant run. Always kept Casillas on his toes, shooting whenever the opportunity presented itself.

Alvaro Morata – 8 – Scintillating - Managed to score the first goal of the game and kept growing in confidence, as his dribbling and hold up play were exquisite.


Substitutes

Andrea Barzagli – 6.5 – Solid - Came on in the second half to strengthen the Old Lady’s central defence.

Fernando Llorente – 5 – Wasteful - Had two brilliant opportunities towards the end of the game but failed to capitalize on both the chances. Provided some solid hold up play.

Roberto Pereyra – N/A


 

Real Madrid

Iker Casillas – 5 – Erroneous - Should have handled the initial shot from Carlos Tevez which led to the first goal better. Also looked nervy every now and then, though wasn’t helped by his defence.

Dani Carvajal – 4.5 – Silly - Made a mistimed tackle on Tevez inside the box that lead to the penalty. Moreover, kept losing the ball every now and then, granting Juventus possession. Could have been sent off after a number of mistimed tackles that weren’t punished.

Pepe – 5 – Ignorant - Never really formed a strong partnership with Varane at the back. Was given a hard time by both Tevez and Morata.

Raphael Varane – 5 – Immature - Made a silly mistake towards the end of the game that could have cost his side the tie. Played really carelessly at times and didn’t look comfortable at all.

Marcelo – 5 – Pathetic - Was directly responsible for Juventus’s first goal. His game was filled with misplaced passes and silly fouls that shifted the momentum towards the home side. Tried to get forward, but as expected left gaps at the back.

James Rodriguez – 6.5 – Spark - Played a brilliant lob pass to create the Real Madrid’s equalizer. Looked highly threatening in the first half but was kept under control following the break.

Sergio Ramos – 4 – Shocking - Tried very hard to impress in central midfield and as a consequence was outrun and snatched off the ball by the Bianconeri. The weak link in Madrid’s side with Sturaro having a field day against him.

Toni Kroos – 6.5 – Calm - Despite his side not being on the ascendancy for most periods, Kroos showed his maturity in midfield and operated with authority.

Isco – 6.5 – Lively - Formed a stable link between midfield and attack for the away side and also did his fair share of work helping out the defence.

Gareth Bale – 5.5 – Dull - Apart from a Bale-esque run with the ball in the early exchanges of the game, the Welshman put in a lackluster and ineffective shift.

Cristiano Ronaldo – 7 – Unlucky - The Portuguese never really got the service he required, playing centre forward for most periods. However, got one clear cut chance from which he scored to bring his side level.


Substitutes

Javier Hernandez – 5 – Ineffective - Was brought on following Juventus’s second goal but failed to cause Buffon any worries.

Jese Rodriguez – N/A

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Juve star Morata shows Madrid
what they're missing

The former Madrid front man haunted his old side with
an excellent display in attack as the Serie A champions won in Turin.

May 5, 2015

If Real Madrid were missing one thing on Tuesday it was the guy doing most of the damage for Juventus as the Italian side recorded a thrilling 2-1 victory in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final in Turin.

Alvaro Morata’s impact on the Bianconeri in his 78-minute display would have been noteworthy whatever the state of Madrid’s attack, but the lack of a viable focal point for the visitors only underlined the huge difference the Spaniard’s transfer has made to both clubs.

While Carlo Ancelotti didn’t trust Javier Hernandez enough to give him a starting shirt, the loss of Karim Benzema to injury left the former Juventus boss without a recognised number nine. Yet at the other end of the pitch, the man they sold to the Italian champions for €20 million last summer was busy giving a demonstration of his ability to change a game at the business end of a Champions League season.

Not only did Morata net the first goal of the game, turning home Iker Casillas’ weak parry from Carlos Tevez’s original shot, but he also delivered a classic prima punta performance.

With his back to goal, the 22-year-old took pressure off his side at vital times and brought team-mates into play. In the channels, he carried the ball with belief and with verve. And in front of goal, he was sharp and dangerous. When he did find the back of the net, he would have had every right to celebrate joyously in front of the Real Madrid bench. His humility in deciding not to rub it in was just another plus point from his performance.

"I never said a bad word about Real Madrid. I'm very fond of them," Morata told TVE after the game. "Some people are looking for things that are not there.

"I always said I would not celebrate if I scored because I always want Real to win when I am not playing against them. I am grateful to the coach and the club but I am with Juventus, and they are my club now."

If anything, Juve didn’t leave Morata on quite long enough. As Madrid pushed for a second equaliser late on, Fernando Llorente’s lack of pace meant the Bianconeri didn’t cash in on a glaring opportunity to double their advantage.

Moments later the former Athletic Bilbao man missed an even greater chance from three yards out. One got the feeling that Morata would have lapped up at least one if not both of those openings, and that would really have left Madrid in a hole.

Morata wasn’t Juventus’ only hero, though. Tevez, predictably, had a big say in both goals, while Arturo Vidal looks back to somewhere near his very best and Andrea Pirlo continues to confound the passing of time. At the back, Giorgio Chiellini once again finished a game modelling a blood-stained headband, such is his constant will to fight for the cause.

Madrid are still the favourites to reach a second successive final having pocketed an away goal to soften the damage. But not only do they need Benzema back in time for next Wednesday’s return game at the Bernabeu, they will also have to manage Morata and Tevez much more ably than in Turin.

Juve have the edge thanks to Alvato Morata, and right now Real Madrid will be cursing the day they let him leave.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Lichtsteiner: 'Madrid not used to Juve'

May 5, 2015

Stephan Lichtsteiner said Real Madrid clearly “are not accustomed to playing such an organised side” as Juventus.

The Bianconeri won the first leg of the Champions League semi-final 2-1 in Turin.

“I thought we had a great game, especially when defending. It’s always tough against Real Madrid, but I don’t think they are accustomed to playing against such an organised side as us,” the right-back told Sky Sport Italia.

“It was very tough down that flank against Ronaldo, Isco and Marcelo, so we can only be happy to have won 2-1!

“They created very little and we can be happy with both the performance and the result.

“We knew they were very important players who can always make the difference if you get distracted. We saw some extraordinary videos of the great things these players have done.

“We managed to neutralise them and now we have to prepare for the second leg at the Bernabeu.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Pirlo: Champions League final
just one battle away

The veteran playmaker was buoyed by Juventus' victory over Real Madrid but is taking
nothing for granted ahead of next week's return clash at the Santiago Bernabeu.

May 5, 2015

Andrea Pirlo has his sights set on the Champions League final after Juventus dented Real Madrid's hopes of retaining their European crown with a 2-1 first-leg win in Turin on Tuesday.

Alvaro Morata opened the scoring against the club with whom he won the trophy last season, tapping in a rebound from a Carlos Tevez strike.

Cristiano Ronaldo levelled matters with a header in the 27th minute but Tevez converted from the penalty spot just before the hour mark to give Juve a slender advantage ahead of next week's second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Pirlo is thus aware having one foot in the final means nothing if they cannot back up their opening triumph with a solid showing in the Spanish capital.

"There we go! Now we want to reach the Champions League final," the 35-year-old playmaker told Sky Sport Italia after the final whistle.

"We'll battle all the way. We've won this game now we have to play the other leg with the same conviction.

"We're hoping the final in Berlin is on our horizon. At the Santiago Bernabeu next week we need to compete in the same way to have that chance, though."

When asked if he would leave Juve if they lift the Champions League, Pirlo added: "Before considering that we must win the trophy. Then we'll see."

Juventus remain on track for a treble in Massimiliano Allegri's first season in charge, with the Scudetto (their fourth in a row) secured on Saturday and a Coppa Italia final against Lazio to look forward to next month.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Tevez spearheads spirited Juventus
victory over dismal Real Madrid

May 5, 2015

Three observations from Juventus' 2-1 victory Tuesday over Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal.


1. Tevez the hero as Juve show they are a force to be reckoned with

Carlos Tevez was the Juventus hero with a goal and assist as his team shocked Real Madrid in Turin. Tevez was a pivotal player in the game right from the start, causing all kinds of havoc by floating off strike partner Alvaro Morata and regularly finding pockets of space amid the disorganisation of Madrid's midfield and defence.

Such movement paid dividends just eight minutes in, when the Argentine sprinted free into a huge gap in between Pepe and Marcelo. Tevez's shot was struck so low and powerfully that Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas could only parry the ball away, leaving Morata with a tap-in.

Tevez continued to be a major thorn in Madrid's side, and he got further reward 12 minutes into the second half. Madrid had a corner, but Marcelo's shot cannoned back off teammate Toni Kroos and the rebound was fortunate, falling to Tevez around the halfway mark to start a counterattack. Tevez furiously ran toward goal, backing Dani Carvajal into his own penalty area, and then tempting the Madrid right-back into a rash challenge to earn a penalty. Tevez gleefully knocked home the spot kick to give Juve a lead they wouldn't relinquish.

Tevez was still very involved after his penalty. Even as Madrid reorganised in a bid to come back into the game, the former Manchester United player was regularly able to receive the ball from a teammate and hold possession by beating his man or drawing a foul.

Juventus have recently been crowned Serie A champions for the fourth consecutive year; however this is their first appearance in the last four of the Champions League since 2003. They looked well at ease on this stage and might have won by more. Substitute Fernando Llorente also blew two very good chances for a third late on.

Juve's time away from Europe's elite means that Tevez's seven goals in the competition are the most scored by any Bianconeri player since David Trezeguet in 2001-02. He will have at least one more game to add to that tally, and maybe a third if Juve qualify for the final.


2. Ronaldo's away goal could still be vital

Madrid came into the game as big favourites to progress from the tie, and their fans and pundits were growing increasingly confident of Los Blancos becoming the first side in the Champions League era to retain the trophy.

However, the visitors did not look at all like a composed, experienced outfit as Juventus dominated the opening stages. Casillas, a three-time winner of the competition, hoofed the ball straight to Italian midfielder Claudio Marchisio inside the first minute. It was therefore less of a surprise when more mayhem in the Madrid defence was punished just eight minutes in by the opening goal.

The difference in intensity between the two teams was striking and summed up in one minute midway through the first half with the score still at 1-0, when Ronaldo dawdled on the ball and Arturo Vidal nicked it from him. Raging at not being given a free kick, Madrid's talisman spent a few seconds chasing opponents trying to win the ball back before stopping and throwing his hands in the air in frustration. Moments later, Juve's veteran playmaker, Andrea Pirlo, was up the pitch intelligently pressing Carvajal and pushing him back toward his own goal. The home side looked much more switched on and in control.

Carlo Ancelotti's use of defender Sergio Ramos in midfield had worked in the previous round against Atletico and last weekend at Sevilla in La Liga, but it came up short here. Five times in the opening half, Ramos was dispossessed in dangerous areas.

But Madrid were back in the game on 27 minutes. Isco and Carvajal helped get James Rodriguez around the back of the Juve defence, and his lobbed pass was nodded home by the unmarked Ronaldo two yards from goal. Out of nothing the La Liga side were back in the tie -- and Ronaldo became this season's joint-Champions League top scorer on nine goals, level with Shakhtar Donetsk's Luiz Adriano.

The equaliser steadied Madrid, and they began to play some nice football through midfield at times. A beautiful move lead to an Isco cross, which was headed against the crossbar by James. It would have been a great goal to demonstrate the strength of Ancelotti's side. But Real soon slipped back into a muddle.

Something was still not quite right about Madrid's shape, and Ronaldo and Gareth Bale were not really getting into the game up front. Ancelotti sending on Chicharito Hernandez and changing to 4-3-3 in the second half helped a bit, but still they struggled to make any clear chances.

Optimistic fans of Los Blancos fans will say Madrid did not play well, but got a 2-1 result with Ronaldo's away goal leaving them still well-placed for next week's second leg -- if they score one at home and keep Juve off the scoreboard, Real Madrid would go through to the final on away goals. Of course, more critical voices would counter that Ancelotti was out-thought and unable to deal with the losses through injury of Karim Benzema and especially Luka Modric. The answer will come next Wednesday at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.


3. Morata sends a message to his former team

There were few tears shed in Madrid last summer when Alvaro Morata was sold to Juventus for 20 million euros.

It wasn't surprising that Morata began the game like he had something to prove. He ran in behind the Madrid defence inside the opening four minutes, but a poor touch let him down. He was again away from marker Pepe moments afterward, only for his attempted lob to drop into the relieved arms of Casillas.

The 22-year-old soon had his reward for a persistent start. Madrid's defence and midfield were cut wide open by a sharp Juve passing move, and Morata followed up in classic poacher's fashion -- remaining onside -- to bundle the rebound over the line after Tevez's shot was parried.

The Juve No. 9's constant work rate was outstanding, giving his former teammates no peace. Raphael Varane, just six months older, was lucky not to concede a penalty just before halftime when he lost the ball and then hacked down his former teammate. Referee Martin Atkinson did not award the spot kick, to sighs of relief from Madrid's fans.

Morata got goals in 37 senior appearances before leaving the Bernabeu last summer. He has 12 in 37 games now for Juve, and this one must have been sweet. The Madrileno received a huge ovation from the Juventus Stadium when substituted with 13 minutes remaining. He may not have been much loved in his hometown, but Tuesday night suggests he has found a home in Turin.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Juventus Prove They Belong with Champions
League Semi-Final Win over Real Madrid

May 5, 2015

After a 12-year absence, Juventus returned to the final four of the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, topping Real Madrid in Turin, 2-1, in the first leg of a mouthwatering semi-final clash.

Their lack of pedigree in recent years meant the Bianconeri were understandably viewed as the outsiders among the teams left in the draw.

Indeed, this was only the club’s third season back in the elite competition since Andrea Agnelli took control of Juventus. Bayern Munich dealt them a lesson in the 2012 quarter-finals before Juventus crashed out in the group stage last term.

This season however, the Grand Old Lady of Italian football has been an entirely different proposition.

Losses to Atletico Madrid and Olympiakos in two of their first three matches saw Massimiliano Allegri finally abandon the 3-5-2 framework so beloved by predecessor Antonio Conte. In its place, the former Milan boss deployed his side in a formation he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport (h/t FootballItalia) was “4-3 and then we’ll see.”

The results improved immediately, and the club marched emphatically past Borussia Dortmund and AS Monaco to bring them to the brink of what would be their first final since 2003.

As kick-off approached and the two teams were announced on Tuesday, it was clear Allegri had once again chosen that now-favoured tactical setup, fielding Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal just behind former Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata.

The one surprising choice in the coach’s starting XI was Stefano Sturaro in place of Roberto Pereyra, as Allegri opted for the defensive qualities of the former rather than the more incisive style of the latter. With Vidal in that more advanced role, it quickly became apparent the plan was to harass the reigning European champions in hopes of cutting off the supply line to their star-studded attacking line-up.

That approach almost paid dividends in the opening minutes when Tevez pressured Iker Casillas into a mistake that led to a chance that Vidal should have made more of. The Bianconeri would make amends just moments later, however, as the Real Madrid goalkeeper spilled Tevez's low shot, leaving Morata with the simplest of tap-ins during the eighth minute.

The 22-year-old did not celebrate against his old club, showing respect for the team he has supported since childhood. “I’d give anything to win,” Morata told AS (h/t Football Italia) in the buildup to the game, but his hopes would take a blow just 19 minutes later when a long, patient passing move led to an almost inevitable goal for Cristiano Ronaldo.

But Juventus were determined to prove they deserved their place in such company, turning in a superb all-round performance that showed they could match the continent’s best. According to statistics from WhoScored.com, the Bianconeri ran Real Madrid close in terms of shots (13-12 in favour of the Spanish side) and passes (556-508 in favor of Madrid), despite surrendering 52 percent of possession to Carlo Ancelotti’s men.

Juventus would grab the lead just before the hour mark when Tevez earned a penalty after Dani Carvajal hauled him down. The Argentinean would smash home the spot-kick, taking his tally for the season to 29 in all competitions as he struck for the seventh time in 11 Champions League outings.

Writing about Tevez's contribution, Dermot Corrigan at ESPN FC noted:

Carlos Tevez was the Juventus hero with a goal and assist as his team shocked Real Madrid in Turin. Tevez was a pivotal player in the game right from the start, causing all kinds of havoc by floating off strike partner Alvaro Morata and regularly finding pockets of space amid the disorganisation of Madrid's midfield and defence.

As he has on a number of occasions, Allegri would then return to a back three to protect that advantage, and the final whistle saw the 2-1 scoreline preserved ahead of next Wednesday's second leg.

The coach expressed pride in the performance shortly afterward but also lamented a late chance that fell to Fernando Llorente, as he told Sky Italia (via Football Italia):

I am very happy with what the lads did. This is the right reward that they deserved, as it’s not easy to reach the Champions League semi-final and especially to play against Real Madrid. We played with great intensity and allowed Real Madrid very little ... It’s a shame, as we could’ve done better with the Llorente chance, but I’d have been happy beforehand to get a win over Real Madrid.

Having already sealed the Serie A title, Juventus' weekend league fixture at home to Cagliari is ultimately meaningless, but this latest victory shows the club have certainly earned their place among the continent’s best.

Real Madrid will no doubt respond with a strong performance on home soil in the second leg, but if Juventus can replicate their first-leg performance, their making the final is by no means out of the question.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Absent Bale, renegade Ramos - Madrid's
loss was all their own making

There were problems all through the team as Carlo Ancelotti's side threw away
a golden opportunity to take an advantage back to the Santiago Bernabeu next week.

May 5, 2015

Real Madrid live to fight another day. The European champions' shaky defence of their continental crown continued with a narrow defeat at Juventus on Tuesday night. It should have been better for Carlo Ancelotti's side - but it could have been much worse.

Juve controlled the opening phases of this game and had Madrid on the rack, particularly after Alvaro Morata had given the Italians the lead against his old club. But when Cristiano Ronaldo restored parity with a headed equaliser, the game was there for Real to win.

James Rodriguez rattled the crossbar with a diving header late in the first half. It was a key moment, perhaps a turning point. Nevertheless, the initiative was with Madrid at the break. But in the second half, Juve took advantage of Real's defensive deficiencies.

Earlier this week, coach Carlo Ancelotti was asked to compare Sergio Ramos to the great defenders he has managed - Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, Fabio Cannavaro, Alessandro Nesta, Thaigo Silva and John Terry among them - and surprisingly concluded that the Spain centre-back is "the most complete" of them all.

For the third important game in a row, however, Sergio started in midfield. That, in itself, was a damning indictment of so-called specialist defensive midfielders Asier Illarramendi (signed for €38m), Sami Khedira (€14m) and Lucas Silva (€14m) by Madrid in recent seasons.

Ramos gave the ball away constantly in a dreadful display that merely served to highlight how Madrid are still struggling to come to terms with the loss of Xabi Alonso in big games, with no real replacement ready to step in. Perhaps the best one of all is Casemiro, but he has inexplicably spent the season on loan at Porto.

Behind Ramos, there were plenty of other problems. Raphael Varane is out of sorts, his head apparently turned by talk of a summer transfer. Meanwhile, Marcelo was exposed by Juventus as the Italian side had planned, with notes from Massimiliano Allegri's assistant caught by a Marca cameraman reading "Madrid's left side is weak" ahead of this match. And Dani Carvajal's clumsy challenge gave Carlos Tevez the spot-kick that allowed him to win the game from the penalty spot.

There was absolutely no need for the right-back to dive in and Ancelotti's doubts over the defender - who was the last man and extremely lucky to stay on the pitch - appear justified at times like these.

Further forward, James and Isco impressed, with the latter setting up the former for the great chance that hit the bar late in the first half. But both players are most comfortable operating behind a striker and Madrid's midfield lacks the necessary balance in games like these - especially with Luka Modric missing through injury.

Perhaps Madrid's poorest player of the entire evening, however, was Gareth Bale. The Welsh winger is back from injury and his return was supposed to be a boost. Instead, he displaced the in-form Chicharito in the starting line-up and was conspicuous by his absence for most of the night's action.

Effective as part of a front three, Bale looked lost in a two alongside Ronaldo and has never been truly at home for Madrid out on the right. With Cristiano spending most of his time in the centre these days, the former Tottenham midfielder should start in his favoured position on the left. As it stands, however, he doesn't deserve to be in the team.

"It wasn't just Sergio," Ancelotti said afterwards. "We made more mistakes than usual - also because Juve played at a high tempo. The result is not good, but it's not that bad. Getting to the final depends on winning at the Bernabeu."

There will be plenty of food for thought for the Italian ahead of that second leg. The good news is that Madrid won't play away in the Champions League again this season.

But the bad news is that, with a performance like this one, it is hard to see how they will overcome Juventus next Wednesday - let alone Barcelona or Bayern Munich in the final.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Evra: Juventus Are Aiming
To Win The Champions League

May 5, 2015

Juventus defender Patrice Evra has praised teammate Carlos Tevez, and has said that his side must prepare well for the return fixture against Real Madrid.

La Vecchia Signora defeated the Spaniards 2-1 at the Juventus Stadium in the first leg of their semi-final on Tuesday night, with Tevez getting the winning goal from a penalty, and Evra has said that the Argentine international is a brilliant player.

“He’s a champion and he’s working hard, he’s a very good professional,” the 33-year-old told ITV Sport.

“He’s had a fantastic year, but his and our main target is to win the Champions League.”

The French international warned that the victory on Tuesday wasn’t enough, and that the side must now focus on the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu in order to have success.

“We did good stuff in the first leg of the semi-final, and we need to make sure we get ready for the second leg.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Juventus 2 - Real Madrid 1: Initial
reaction and random observations

May 5, 2015

Following the Champions League semifinal draw, I was perfectly okay with Juventus being the underdog against Real Madrid. It's not like Juventus narrowly beating Monaco in the quarterfinals was suddenly going to flip a lot of opinions about the team that is about to play the defending European champions. And it's a role that Juve is perfectly okay with being in no matter what the situation is.

Well, the underdogs just beat the favorites and did so in a pretty impressive fashion.

Juventus will head to the Santiago Bernabéu in the exact same situation they were in going to Germany against Borussia Dortmund in the round of 16. The same two players that scored in the first leg against Dortmund found the back of the net against Real Madrid, with Álvaro Morata haunting his former team and then Carlos Tévez putting Juventus up 2-1 from the penalty spot early in the second half.

It was, as we've seen a lot in this run toward the finish line in the second half of season, Juventus rising to the occasion on the big stage when the game has cried out for it once again. Juventus looked great early on, putting Madrid under massive pressure that quickly lead to an early lead. It tapered off when Cristiano Ronaldo tied it at 1-1. But the pressure returned in the second half, and Juve clearly got the aggregate scoreline they deserve going into the second leg in Spain.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@gianluigibuffon: "What’s important is us travelling to Madrid with the door still open for a place in the final."

Think about it: This is a Juventus team that could have had its foundation completely shook back in July when everything happened with who was managing the team. But it didn't even close to doing so because of who's around these days. A lot of it has to do with Max Allegri, but a lot of it also has to do with the players that are there themselves. This is a Juventus group that has been through it, has leaders like few teams do, and can overcome a lot of things thrown their way because of the past.

Those same players put in one hell of a performance against the defending and 10-time European champions. It was the kind of game Juventus needed to get the job done at home. And, because of it, the Champions League final is within sight. Like, legitimately in sight. My goodness.

Message sent. These underdogs are here to play — and play pretty darn well while they're at it.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "I’m really pleased with the lads’ display tonight. The result is a deserved reward from a game that wasn’t easy."


Random thoughts and observations

There's just something about Juventus playing well on the fifth day of May, isn't there? That's the kind of performance from the Juve I know and love.

With the injuries Real Madrid had in the midfield, there was the chance for Juve to truly dominate in the middle of the park. The way Arturo Vidal played, I think we can say they came close to doing that.

Paul Carr @PCarrESPN
Arturo Vidal led Juventus with 82 touches vs Real Madrid. He was everywhere.

Like I said on Sunday, Vidal being the true Vidal of old will be a huge boost for Juventus against Real Madrid. As the last month or two has gone by, it seems as though Vidal is building on each performance — something that is so crucial for somebody trying to regain the kind of form he has been in the previous three seasons.

Dani Carvajal could have been shown three or four yellow cards tonight. Funny how he doesn't get a card on the most obvious one of them all Tuesday night.

The tactical flexibility Allegri has at his disposal was once again put to good use once Juve went up 2-1. Out went Stefano Sturaro, in came Andrea Barzagli and the shift to the 3-5-2 formation. It worked out just as well as Allegri could have drawn it up — Juve locked things down defensively and Madrid didn't have many legitimate scoring chances in the final half-hour or so.

Speaking of Sturaro, how about that ballsy choice from Allegri to go with the 22-year-old midfielder instead of Roberto Pereryra? Sturaro was really good in his first ever Champions League start. And what a stage to have it come on, too. The youngster answered the call, and Allegri looked pretty smart once again. Good on him for having a gut feeling about who to play and going against what everybody else's logic said by playing Sturaro.

Forget the foul that allowed Juventus to get the penalty kick because that's one of the easiest calls of the night. How about that run from Tévez to even get to that point? There wasn't as much weaving in between defenders like his memorable goal against Parma earlier this season, but the ground covered ... oh man.

Once again, thank you very much, Manchester City, for one of the best buys Juventus has ever made.

This is how Morata's goal looked with all that passing in the build-up. What a beautiful thing.



OptaPaolo ✔@OptaPaolo
27 - I passaggi prima della rete di di Alvaro Morata: record per un gol in questa Champions. Squadra.

It's not a big game until Giorgio Chiellini is bleeding like crazy and wrapped up like a mummy.

If Fernando Llorente scored that header at the back post late in the second half, though...

Ninety minutes away from the Champions League final. Just like we thought would happen on the day Max Allegri was hired to replace Antonio Conte. My goodness.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Real Madrid scalp just reward
for Juventus - Allegri

The Bianconeri coach was thrilled with the performance of his side against the reigning
European champions in Turin but was disappointed that they did not win by a bigger margin.

May 5, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri has hailed the 2-1 triumph over Real Madrid as a "just reward" for Juventus' efforts in Tuesday's semi-final first leg.

The Bianconeri had only lost one of their last 53 competitive games on home soil (in addition to 46 wins and eight draws) and continued their excellent run of results in front of their own fans courtesy of goals from Alvaro Morata and Carlo Tevez, with Cristiano Ronaldo's headed eqauliser sandwiched in between.

Fernando Llorente had a gilt-edged chance to make it 3-1 late on but he headed straight at Iker Casillas from Andrea Pirlo's teasing free kick.

However, that was the only quibble Allegri had after a rousing performance from his side against the reigning European champions.

"I am delighted with how my players played," the former AC Milan boss told Sky Sport. "This is the just reward they deserved as it’s not easy to reach the Champions League semi-final, and especially not easy to play against Real Madrid.

"We played with brilliant intensity and allowed Real Madrid very little leeway.

“It’s a shame we didn't win by more - we could have done better with the Llorente chance, but I’d have definitely taken a win over Real Madrid before kick-off.

"I can only take my hat off to the players. Now we will prepare for the game for a week so we can fight it out in Madrid."

Juve host Cagliari in a meaningless Serie A match on Saturday - as they won the league last weekend - before travelling to the Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg of their semi-final on Wednesday.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Ancelotti: Real Madrid paid price
for lack of patience against Juventus

The former Bianconeri boss admitted his side had underperformed
in the first leg in Turin but remains confident they can get through to the final.

May 5, 2015

Carlo Ancelotti blamed a lack of patience and quality for Real Madrid's Champions League semi-final defeat at Juventus on Tuesday.

The visitors were sloppy throughout and eventually succumbed to a 2-1 first-leg loss thanks to an Alvaro Morata tap-in and a Carlos Tevez penalty either side of a Cristiano Ronaldo header.

Ancelotti, going up against his former club, was disappointed with the outcome but remains confident his side will progress to next month's final in Berlin by winning next week's second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Madrid coach told TVE: "The game could have gone better for us. We tried but not always with the right quality or efficiency.

"We tried to have control of the game. We had bad luck as well because we could have scored to make it 2-1 but instead we conceded. It does not leave us happy but we still have the confidence that we can come back.

"We lost patience. The game did not start well, we left space between the lines which cost us a goal. Then we played well. We tried to continue [in that vein] but we could not."

Ancelotti again played central defender Sergio Ramos in midfield - a tactic that worked so well in the second leg of the quarter-final against Atletico Madrid - but the Spain international struggled to make any kind of positive impact.

"It was not just a bad game for Ramos," the Italian trainer said. "We lost precision passing out of defence too. The match seemed straightforward when we were playing well. But Juve are dangerous on the counterattack."

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Morata: Home win means nothing
against Real Madrid

The former Blancos forward was buoyed by the Bianconeri's 2-1 win in Turin
but pointed out that next week's return clash at the Bernabeu will be far more "dangerous".

May 5, 2015

Alvaro Morata has pleaded with his Juventus team-mates not to get carried away by their 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg.

The 22-year-old forward tapped in the opener for Massimiliano Allegri's men in Turin against the club with whom he became a European champion last season before being sold to the Bianconeri for €20 million.

Cristiano Ronaldo equalised for Carlo Ancelotti's side before Carlos Tevez secured the win for Juventus but Morata thinks it would be foolish to think they are any nearer to next month's Champions League final in Berlin.

"I'm happy, we've won, which is always very difficult against Real Madrid," the Spain international told TVE.

"It was a good result, but we have to work because Madrid are the best in the world in my opinion and it will be difficult to eliminate them.

"When you win it is always good. Yes, it's good result. But at the Santiago Bernabeu it will be much more dangerous and we have to work hard this week to have a chance.

"Against Madrid you have no advantage. We know their players and the second leg awaits us."

Morata also discussed his decision not to celebrate his strike, which he says was out of respect to the club who fashioned him into a professional footballer, but stressed that his loyalties now lie with the Italian champions.

"I'll never said a bad word about Real Madrid, I'm very fond of the club who raised me," he added. "Some people are looking for things that are not there.

"I always said I would not celebrate if scored against them because I want Madrid to always win - except for when they're facing me. I am grateful to the coach and the club but now I am with Juventus; they are my club now."

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Vidal: Juventus Dream Is To Win
The Champions League Final In Berlin

May 5, 2015

Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal says that his side is one step closer to winning the Champions League, after they beat Real Madrid 2-1 in the first leg of the semi-final at Juventus Stadium on Tuesday night.

Goals by Alvaro Morata and Carlos Tevez twice gave the home side the lead, but a Cristiano Ronaldo goal inbetween gave the Bianconeri a slim lead heading in to next week’s second leg in Madrid.

“We played really well against a very good side and are happy to take a lead to Madrid, but we need to play like that for 90 minutes in the second leg if we are to progress,” Vidal told Sky Sport Italia after the game.

“It will be another semi-final at the Santiago Bernabeu and we have to go there and play our own game.

“We are only thinking about our dream and after tonight it is a bit closer, to go to Berlin and win the Champions League.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Sturaro Praises Midfield Performance
Against Real Madrid

May 5, 2015

Juventus starlet Stefano Sturaro has praised the impact of his side’s midfield, during the 2-1 Champions League semi final first-leg victory over reigning champions Real Madrid.

Goals from Alvaro Morata and Carlos Tevez were enough to see off Los Blancos, who retaliated with a Cristiano Ronaldo strike, and Sturaro has picked out the midfield in particular as being worthy of praise.

“I had roughly the same tasks as Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal, and we had to turn back to help the midfield cope,” reflected the 22-year-old to Sky Sport Italia, after a tense fixture at the Juventus Stadium.

“Sometimes we suffered, but before us we had great players.

“When they attacked on the outside of midfield we had a little bit of fatigue, but we did not suffer too much.”

The return fixture will be held at the Santiago Bernabeu on 13 May, with the aggregate victor earning a place in the final in Berlin on 6 June.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Player Ratings: Juventus 2-1 Madrid

Goal took in the action in Turin, where the home side dug deep to protect their narrow
advantage, frustrating los Blancos in the second half and securing a lead for the second leg.

May 5, 2015
 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Could have been a little more commanding on Ronaldo's goal, but he was faultless otherwise, saving well from Kroos.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - The right-back attacked a lot during the opening exchanges and apart from one burst by Ronaldo, he was solid at the back.

19 L. Bonucci - Could have reacted quicker to close out Ronaldo for Madrid's goal, but his second-half defensive performance more than made up for it.

3 G. Chiellini - Bloodied, bandaged and brilliant. The Italy defender pulled out all the stops to snuff out any hint at a chance inside his area.

33 P. Evra - Like Lichtsteiner on the opposite flank, he married efficient attacking support with sound defence, though Madrid's goal originated down his side.

8 C. Marchisio - Had his customary attempts from long range but never tested Casillas. Ran his socks off to harry his Blancos counterparts.

21 A. Pirlo - Some enticing deliveries from crosses and dead balls, though he was caught in possession a few times. Still, made one vital tackle during the closing stages.

27 S. Sturaro - The biggest game of his career, and he passed the test with flying colours. His awareness on the left forced Madrid into some careless turnovers and he displayed an excellent understanding with Evra.

23 A. Vidal - Didn't have much impact in the final third once again, and even though his was an honest shift, there was again a sense that the Chilean is not back to his standards of previous years.

10 Carlos Tévez - Once again the match winner for Juventus. His early shot was saved but then turned in by Morata for the opener. The Argentine subsequently won and converted the second-half penalty that decided the first leg.

9 Á. Morata - In the right place at the right time to prod in a rebound against his former club, and it was his timely pass that released Tevez in the build-up to the penalty.


Substitutes

15 A. Barzagli - Didn't put a foot wrong at the back.

14 F. Llorente - Helped out defensively, but fluffed his lines at the death when presented with a header at the back post.

37 R. Pereyra


 

Real Madrid

1 I. Casillas - Hard to blame him for either goal and he was quick off his line to stop a few Juve breaks from becoming critical.

15 Daniel Carvajal - The right-back was too slow to keep up with Tevez and conceded the penalty that gave Juve a crucial advantage for the second leg.

3 Pepe - Aggressive at the right moments, though he was beaten to the punch by Morarta during the build-up to the opener.

2 R. Varane - Missed his connection once, whch allowed Llorente through, and he was lucky to not see a few lapses punished.

12 Marcelo - Caught dreadfully of position for the opener and could have been punished further during a nerve-inducing first half.

10 J. Rodríguez - Rattled the woodwork with a diving header, and was on hand to create two chances for his team with his deliveries into the box.

4 Sergio Ramos - Drafted into a midfield role but was all over the place, coughing up possession and failing to protect his defence.

8 T. Kroos - Came close with a pair of long-range efforts and his distribution restored a sense of normalcy to a few Madrid attacks.

23 Isco - One encouraging burst set up a header for James that hit the bar, but he wasn't direct enough at the right moments.

11 G. Bale - Apart from a good cross for Ronaldo, his return to the starting XI was the definition of anti-climactic.

7 Cristiano Ronaldo - Netted a close-range header to give his side a priceless away goal, but he too struggled to break the resistance of Juve, especially in the second half.


Substitutes

14 J. Hernández - Couldn't continue his vein of scoring form off the bench.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Carlos Tevez, Stefano Sturaro lead
Juventus to victory over Real Madrid

May 5, 2015
 
The stadium roared with nervous energy. After 12 long years Juventus were back in the semifinals of the Champions League about to play the greatest team in Europe, Real Madrid. The team stepped onto the pitch with confidence, but the fans were somewhat scared; was the Old Lady going to play to her potential or would Cristiano Ronaldo and co. destroy her usually strong defence?

Juventus started the match in confident fashion, playing a direct style of football while demonstrating their fluid passing game. Consistently looking to exploit the space Real Madrid often leave behind, Arturo Vidal had an early chance only to watch it pass him by. Pushing forward with confidence and intelligence, it didn't take long before Carlos Tevez made the difference.

A man who knows how to punish the opponent, he exploited the space left behind by Raphael Varane and shot at the goalkeeper only for Alvaro Morata to convert. The stadium erupted. Not only had Juventus scored but they were playing to expectations, with determination and intensity.

Sadly with the Italians, courage never lasts long and they immediately looked to sit back. Of course, it takes only one mistake to concede and Cristiano Ronaldo soon equalised to psychologically hurt the Old Lady and she never quite recovered her confidence for the remainder of the first half.

Without Luka Modric, Real Madrid played a poor game by their own standards. While they are always dangerous going forward, their inaccurate passing made it difficult to truly mount serious attacking threats. Rarely did Gareth Bale actually attempt to take on his markers while Juve's organisation consistently frustrated the Galacticos.

Without Karim Benzema raising the level of play in the final third and Modric to control the midfield, Carlo Ancelotti's men suffered and were capable of conceding more. Caution dictated Juve's moments and they were constantly prioritising defensive organisation to offensive power.

One thing you have to admire about the Bianconeri was how they remained focused from start to finish. Massimiliano Allegri perfectly pinpointed Madrid's weaknesses and his men followed the instructions well, frustrating James Rodriguez (their main creative outlet) and forcing Sergio Ramos to play one of the worst games he's ever played in a Madrid shirt. His passes inaccurate and his decisions bizarre, he simply couldn't manage the basics on a night Toni Kroos needed him to better control the game so that the German could push up to help the attack. Allegri did a fine job by entrusting the inexperienced Stefano Sturaro to play a decisive role.

The second half saw Tevez once again intimidate the opponent with his skills, winning the penalty that secured the 2-1 result. Despite holding the advantage and watching Madrid stutter to combine effectively, the Bianconeri chose to play a reactive game after their second goal. It frustrated the fans, but the Italians still had their chances and Fernando Llorente failed to convert a glorious late opportunity. One hopes these moments will not come back to haunt them.

Eventually changing formations to allow for greater defensive strength, Juventus held on for the win and ensured Madrid couldn't score more than the one away goal. With Paul Pogba possibly back for the second leg, there is a chance Juventus can grab a goal at the Bernabeu, but they will need to be as alert defensively if they want to continue their European dream, especially as Benzema will also be available.


Player ratings 

GK Gianluigi Buffon, 6 Alert and ready, he is quite possibly the safest pair of hands in Europe. Aware of Real Madrid's strength from distance, he stood confidently and looked to quickly distribute when he had the opportunity. Dino Zoff may prefer Iker Casillas but Buffon proved he is the best.

DF Stephan Lichtsteiner, 5 He wasted a glorious goal-scoring opportunity with Juve up 1-0, but while he pushed up offensively, he had some trouble at the defensive end. Was never quite organised enough and always looked capable of pushing the referee over the edge. Must be calmer in certain situations.

DF Christian Bonucci, 6 A leader. An early yellow card impeded him and his usual heroic style of defending, but Bonucci didn't surrender his confident attitude.

DF Giorgio Chiellini, 6 How often has this man been a liability, but you will not find a Juventus fan in the world who doesn't worship his passion. Throwing himself wholeheartedly into every tackle, he is the Bianconeri's warrior and took a nasty hit to the face requiring bandages in the second half. Commanded Juve's defence well from start to finish.

DF Patrice Evra, 6 At times, he can be defensively fragile, but his experience proved important on Tuesday night. Evra was very attentive to the details and while age has robbed him of certain strengths, his intellect never faded against James, Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo.

MF Stefano Sturaro, 7 His presence was a surprise, but his performance showed why Allegri always knows best. He showed great confidence to take on Dani Carvajal, used his energy to help the defence and dominated the area. He played with the experience of a World Cup winner.

MF Andrea Pirlo, 6 When it comes to exquisite passing, Pirlo is the maestro, but while he may hypnotise the opponent, those who watch him will know he didn't play his best game on Tuesday night. Too many turnovers and squandered possession. Also looked a little out of rhythm.

MF Claudio Marchisio, 7 Too cautious at times for fear Marcelo would use his pace to hurt Juve, the midfielder should have pushed more and been more aggressive in pinning his opponents back. However, he was one of the few who showed no fear when faced with the likes of Ronaldo and played like he belonged to a footballing giant, always believing in the win.

MF: Arturo Vidal, 6 Always runs so much and fights so hard but still not courageous with his passing and still hasn't rediscovered his magical touch on the ball. A warrior nonetheless with some excellent tackles on the night. If only he scored his chance!

FW Alvaro Morata, 7 His positioning was tremendous, he always knew where to be and how to exploit the space hence the goal. His awareness, tactical intelligence and incredible work rate have made him a fan favourite. A keen fighter.

FW Carlos Tevez, 8 He is no doubt Juve's shining star, their soul and their heartbeat. The man who understands better than most how to roam between the lines, he caused havoc, punished Madrid's mistakes and continuously looked to create and score. The best player on the team.


Substitutes

DF Andrea Barzagli, 7 Replaced Sturaro after 64 minutes. Never a player Allegri wants to leave out as his intelligence allows for defensive solidity while his composure on the ball allowed the team to stay calm as Real sought a late equaliser.

FW Fernando Llorente, NR Replaced Morata after 78 minutes.

FW Roberto Pereyra, NR Replaced Tevez after 86 minutes.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg

Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.

Juventus Stadium, Turin

Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Sergio Ramos admits: I played

poorly against Juventus

The Spaniard, who again played in midfield in the absence of Luka Modric, is unhappy with how

he performed in Turin but thinks Los Blancos can turn the tie around.

May 5, 2015

 

Sergio Ramos has accepted that he played poorly as Real Madrid were defeated 2-1 by Juventus in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg.

The Spaniard, a defender by trade, continued his recent redeployment in central midfield as a result of the injury-induced absence of Luka Modric.

Ramos was slammed for constantly giving away possession in a "dreadful display" as goals from Alvaro Morata and Carlos Tevez either side of a Cristiano Ronaldo header gave the hosts the win they craved.

The makeshift midfielder admitted it was not a game he or the rest of his Madrid team-mates would look back upon fondly, but stressed the semi-final remains very much winnable for the reigning European champions.

"It was a bad game in general. I played poorly, but this does not worry me," Ramos told reporters after the game. "I trust coach Carlo Ancelotti and he trusts me.

"There is still a second leg to go and we can turn the tie in our favour. In this position - midfield - we run more, but I will not highlight any individual error of anyone.

"It won't be hard at all to play better at the Santiago Bernabeu next Wednesday than we did today. I'm sure everything will change. Giving up is not my nature, it's not philosophy and it's not in DNA."

Before clashing with Massimiliano Allegri's side in next Wednesday's decider in Madrid, Ancelotti's men will host Valencia in a difficult Liga clash as they look to keep pace or close the gap on leaders Barcelona with three games to go.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Real Madrid have to go out and kill
Juventus in second leg - James

The Colombian is confident the Santiago Bernabeu faithful can roar their side
through to the final next Wednesday, arguing that the Blancos were unlucky to lose in Turin.

Keep talking Real!

May 6, 2015
 
James Rodriguez has called on Real Madrid to go out and "kill" Juventus in their Champions League semi-final, second leg on Wednesday week.

Los Blancos will go into the return fixture 2-1 down on aggregate after an early Alvaro Morata strike and a second-half Carlos Tevez penalty - either side of a Cristiano Ronaldo header - earned the Bianconeri victory in Tuesday's opener in Turin.

However, James is still confident the defending champions will still reach the final in Berlin, believing that the Santiago Bernabeu faithful could make the difference on the night.

The Colombia international told TVE: "The result is not bad, we have to have faith. We are at home with our fans in the stadium. The Bernabeu has to get behind us.

"We have to recover and think about next week, because it will be hard. They are going to be back defending, they are strong but we must have faith. We have to go out and kill them.

"The tie is level. We have to go out and win. I think Real will get to the final."

James felt Madrid did not get the breaks at the key moments at Juventus Stadium and it was the former Monaco man who was most out of luck when he headed an Isco cross against the bar four minutes before half-time.

"If you see some of the decisive moments, they had a bit of luck," the attacking midfielder added. "I saw the ball hit the bar and I think their defender got a touch."

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Max Allegri: We Have To Deliver
A Masterpiece In Madrid

May 6, 2015
 
Alvaro Morata and a Carlos Tevez penalty saw Juventus beat Real Madrid 2-1 in the Champions League semi-final. The second leg is at the Bernabeu next Wednesday and the Bianconeri can qualify even with a draw. This was the Bianconeri’s first Champions League semi-final since 2003, when they eliminated Real Madrid 4-3 on aggregate.

On an evening laced with sub-plots, Álvaro Morata, the Madrid-born, former Real striker, who played as a substitute in the Spanish club’s Champions League final victory over Atlético last season, had opened the scoring. He refused to celebrate. Madrid’s equaliser, inevitably, came from Cristiano Ronaldo, a close-range header, which was his 54th goal of the season. It also put him clear of Lionel Messi on the all-time Champions League scoring chart with 76. Sergio Ramos laboured in defensive midfield while Gareth Bale, having just returned from a calf injury, was peripheral. It was a hugely enjoyable game, and Juventus deserved their advantage purely because of their energy and spirit of adventure, which was epitomised by Tevez. After a Kroos corner was cleared and Marcelo’s shot was blocked, Juventus broke with two-on-two. It was remarkable to see the champions so exposed. Marcelo cynically took out Morata yet Tevez scuttled on and Carvajal abjectly failed to check him. Worse, he was deceived by a burst of pace from Tevez and sent him sprawling. The only surprise after the penalty award was that Carvajal was not booked. Allegri switched to five at the back after 64 minutes and there were one or two nervous moments for his team. Yet the full-time whistle brought a surge of excitement.

Max Allegri was still not entirely content after Juventus beat Real Madrid, but praised their “intensity.”
“I am very happy with what the lads did. This is the right reward that they deserved, as it’s not easy to reach the Champions League semi-final and especially to play against Real Madrid,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“We played with great intensity and allowed Real Madrid very little, but could’ve done better in the pace of creating our play in the first half. It’s a shame, as we could’ve done better with the Llorente chance, but I’d have been happy beforehand to get a win over Real Madrid. Now we can prepare for a week and can fight it out in Madrid.”

Allegri started out with 4-3-1-2, but then moved to 3-5-2 with Andrea Barzagli coming off the bench. Which system will he use at the Bernabeu was a question posed to him.“You’re asking too much! The game just ended! I think tonight the lads defended very well with four, though it was not easy to leave Andrea out. I had to make a choice and he did great coming off the bench. With Bonucci booked, I had to take fewer risks and have another defender near him.”

The real surprise was picking Stefano Sturaro rather than Roberto Pereyra, a player who only had four minutes of Champions League experience before this. “I made this choice because, Pereyra can change the game off the bench and Sturaro was in good shape. I needed someone with legs to help the defence. The lads did very well to defend with four in midfield and then to take turns blocking Sergio Ramos. The players know I am very demanding on control and the passage of play, so I feel we could’ve done better in the first half to pass it around quickly and get the ball between the Real Madrid midfielders. That doesn’t take away from the fact they did very well and I am very happy with what they are doing. We started the Champions League in a certain way and it’s different to Serie A, we need to face these games with more calm and maturity. It’s practically impossible to press a team for 90 minutes and they can score in 10. It’s important to read the game, know when it’s time to slow down, time to step up the pace and change gear. The team has definitely improved on that.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

Juventus 2-1 Real Madrid: Bianconeri take slim
lead to Spain after first-leg win in Turin

An Alvaro Morata tap in and a Carlos Tevez penalty give Juve the advantage
against the defending champs in the first leg of the semi-final.

May 6, 2015
 
"May 5 has always proved a momentous day for us. Let's keep that good run going tonight!" Those were the words tweeted by the official Juventus Twitter account Tuesday morning, as preparations — mentally and physically — for the big first leg semifinal clash against Real Madrid were underway. Indeed, the 5th of May is a day that has been kind to us on occasions past; who can ever forget the unexpected title triumph of 5 May 2002? Not this gobbo, that's for sure!

Personally, I felt a mix of excitement and caution. I knew that Juventus could get past Real Madrid, but of course that is different from actually getting past them. As the Champions League anthem rang out through the speakers at the bar I watched the game at, my stomach turned. It's been so long since Juventus has been at this stage in Europe's top club competition, the nerves were really jingling! I was 17 years old the last time we were at this stage. Since I started supporting the Old Lady, I've seen us lose 3 finals ('97, '98 and '03). I rushed home from school to see us get beaten at home and knocked out after taking an away goal back to Turin against Manchester United in '99.

Surely you can understand my nervousness, right?

Ninety minutes later, and while the win is clearly positive (even though Juve conceded, a win's a win, right?), I still err on the side of caution. This tie is FAR from over. Cristiano Ronaldo's uncontested header on twenty-seven minutes gives an offensively stacked Real Madrid team all to play for going back to the Santiago Bernabéu.

Juve's first-leg performance was reminiscent of the first leg against Dortmund, with the only notable difference being that after conceding an equalizer, it was Real who looked more likely to score next (while against Dortmund, it was Juve who were more aggressive). One of the similarities that stuck out most prominently was the fact that we could - and should - have won the game by more.

Regardless, the boys deserve praise for generally playing a smart, intense game, making few mistakes and granting a potent Real attack few clear chances. In the end, Real only had three shots on goal; by contrast, Juve had seven.

The second leg's in eight days' time ... let's see if we can keep our dream alive.


MATCH SUMMARY

It took less than a minute for the Bianconeri to signal their intent to win this leg; Claudio Marchisio found Arturo Vidal making the run into the box, the Chilean chose to go to ground easily rather than get a shot off. Not two minutes later, Juve were on the attack again; this time it was Stefano Sturaro (making his first — and unexpected — start in the Champions League) gathering Tevez's pass and firing low but straight at Iker Casillas in the Real Madrid goal. There was no let up from Juve and next to try his luck was Morata, who shrugged off the challenge of Pepe and attempted a lob, but it was easy pickings for Casillas to save.

As the saying goes, "pressure busses pipe," and all Juve's early pressure eventually caused Real's defensive pipe to burst! On nine minutes, a twenty-plus passing move, resulted in Marchisio finding Tevez in the box in loads of space. El Apache shot through the legs of Raphaël Varane, his shot parried by Casillas right into the path of the ex-Madridista Morata, who simply tapped in. It was Morata's first goal for Juve since his goal in the second leg of the round of sixteen tie against Dortmund. As was expected, the young Spaniard decided against celebrating his goal.

This goal appeared to wake Real up, as they then started to come more into the game. They had two chances in quick succession. The first came on twelve minutes, as midfield maestro Toni Kroos tested Gigi Buffon from long distance, with the Italian international pushing his bouncing shot around the post. From the resulting corner, Isco lined up a similar shot from distance, but this one was straight at Buffon. Varane headed over after rising highest on a corner on nineteen minutes. One twenty-three minutes Ronaldo, from Isco’s pass, sliced through the inside left channel but dragged his finish badly.

Real Madrid eventually got what they were looking for. James Rodríguez finished off a wonderful passing move with a lobbed pass over Vidal's outstretched lunge for an inexplicably wide open Ronaldo to head home from less than six yards out. Juventus switched off and were caught ball-watching, with Stephan Lichtsteiner failing to track CR7's run.

Real closed out the half on the front foot, and should have gone into the break in the lead. Isco's cross from the left met Rodríguez's diving header, only for the Colombian's effort to hit the underside of the bar and bounce out! It was a let off for Juventus, who had ceded momentum to Real after the equalizer. On a closer look, it appears as if Sturaro got a vital touch to put the ball onto the crossbar!

One all at the end of a pulsating half of football.

The second half, in contrast to the first, spluttered a bit at the start. Both teams had their moments, without either creating anything clear cut. But that all changed on fifty-five minutes. After a Kroos corner was cleared, Juventus suddenly broke with a two-on-two. Marcelo took out Morata (which saw the Brazilian booked) but Tevez continued his run into the Real box. The Argentine's run was eventually ended by a rash Dani Carvajal tackle that got all player and no ball; penalty to Juventus!

In the melee that followed the awarding of the spot kick, Vidal somehow managed to talk himself into a yellow card. Meanwhile, referee Martin Atkinson failed to brandish any card to Carvajal for his challenge, which at the very least deserved a yellow card. Confusing indeed, but alas Juventus had the chance to go back in front in this tie. El Apache took the spot kick duties...and confidently placed his shot down the centre as Casillas dived to his left! 2-1 to the Old Lady!

Max Allegri decided it was time for a more conservative approach, and introduced Andrea Barzagli for the impressive (in the circumstances) Sturaro. This meants a switch to 3-5-2. This changed worked well, as Real's attack was kept at bay, with only another long range effort from Kroos of note for the visitors. Juventus, on the other hand, had two further chances to increase their lead.

On eighty-six minutes, a missed interception by Varane led to substitute Fernando Llorente (who came on for Morata) rounding Casillas and crossing into the middle where unfortunately, there were no black and white shirts. Tevez was withdrawn a few minutes earlier, and one can't help but think that he would have been in the position to finish that play.

The last chance of the game came in stoppage time. The disappointing Andrea Pirlo curled in a great ball to the far post for the wide open Llorente, who headed into the ground and allowed Casillas to eventually fumble to safety.

The game ended 2-1 to the host — a deserved victory, but one that should have been by a larger margin.


PLAYER RATINGS

Buffon: 6.5 Surprisingly was not troubled as much as one would have expected coming up against this Real Madrid attack. Did what little he had to with ease and was unfortunate to concede.

Lichtsteiner: 5.5 Dealt with the threat posed by Ronaldo, Marcelo and Isco on the left fairly well — often aided by Marchisio or Vidal. However, he did lose Ronaldo on the Real goal, which obviously costs him marks. Got forward when the opportunities arose, but his final ball was often found wanting. Solid performance nonetheless.

Bonucci: 6.5 Picked up a booking early on for a foul on Gareth Bale, and needlessly gave away possession late on which could have been costly. Other than those incidents, gave a confident and assured performance and continues a great personal campaign.

Chiellini: 7 You know Giorgio has had a great game when he leaves the field bloodied and bandaged. A vintage display, he dealt with the threats posed by Real's forward players with relative ease. Imperious tonight, hopefully this marks a return to form for Giorgio.

Evra: 6.5 Aided in part by the poor performance of Bale, Evra had a comfortable evening. He did his defensive duties without much fuss, and got forward in attack when possible. Could not have asked for much more.

Sturaro: 6.5 Based on some of my prior match reports, it may be apparent that I did not rate the young midfielder. However, thrown in at the deep end for his first Champions League start, he put in a top class display. Appearing confident on both sides of the ball, Sturaro's hard work also saved what would have been a certain goal from Rodríguez's diving header.

Pirlo: 5 The worst Juve player on the night. Despite covering a lot of ground, Pirlo's usual pinpoint accurate passes often failed to hit their target and he gave away the ball a number of times, once which led to a Real Madrid break. His best moment of the match came from his free kick in stoppage time which resulted in Llorente's header.

Marchisio: 6.5 Another top notch performance from Il Principino. Involved in the first goal, he was also involved in other key plays for Juventus. Was not fooled by Ronaldo's trickery on any of the occasions he was up against him, and even one-upped Isco. Well done.

Vidal: 6.5 King Arturo continues to make Juve fans salivate with his performances of late. He was everywhere against Real, doing everything. Let's hope that his return to form is permanent, because we'll need it. Loses 0.5 of a grade because he got himself booked and is now on a tightrope for the second leg.

Morata: 7 Got the opening goal against his former (possibly future) employers, and was a thorn in their side all game. His movement off the ball and hold up play was quite good, the latter could still do with some work though. He worked his socks off as well, as was evident by him visibly being out of breath when he was substituted.

Tevez: 7.5 Had an assist and scored a penalty, which he won with his brilliant solo run. It's becoming harder to find words to describe Tevez when he puts in these types of performances in big games. Was visibly irritated when he was subbed out, which only shows he hunger to succeed at this stage.


Subs

Barzagli: 6.5 Came on for Sturaro and slotted in seamlessly alongside Bonucci and Chiellini in a back 3. Continued his great form since coming back from injury.

Llorente: 5 Held the ball up well, and did well to round Casillas but was unfortunate to have not been able to get a shot in on goal himself. He should have scored his header on that Pirlo free kick.

Pereyra: N/A Came on late for Tevez and did not make much of an impression.


Coach

Allegri: 7.5 Was tactically spot on! Barring a period just after the equalizer, Juventus were really under pressure from Real's attack. His decision to start Sturaro instead of Pereyra looks to have been a master stroke. Juve's intermittent pressing of Real's midfield and defence, along with their staunch defensive organization, did the trick as Real were forced off their game for the most part. Now, Allegri has to plan for the return leg.

In 2013, Allegri went to the Nou Camp with his Milan team leading 2-0 and lost the second leg of that round of 16 tie by a score of 4-0. This Juventus team is much better than that Milan team, and this Real Madrid not as explosive as that Barcelona team. But Real will be coming at us with all that they have on May 13th, and it will be up to Allegri and the team to respond appropriately. We are so close but still so far.

Oh, why can't it be May 5th everyday?!

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

ALLEGRI: ‘VICTORY WAS THE
RIGHT REWARD FOR JUVENTUS’

May 6, 2015
 
Juventus coach Max Allegri praised his team’s performance against Real Madrid declaring the win ‘the right reward that they deserved.’

Speaking after his sides 2-1 victory against the current title holders, Allegri gave credit to his players while discussing his change in tactics.

“I am very happy with what the lads did. This is the right reward that they deserved, as it’s not easy to reach the Champions League semi-final and especially to play against Real Madrid,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“We played with great intensity and allowed Real Madrid very little, but could’ve done better in the pace of creating our play in the first half.

“It’s a shame, as we could’ve done better with the Llorente chance, but I’d have been happy beforehand to get a win over Real Madrid.

“Now we can prepare for a week and can fight it out in Madrid.”

Allegri began the game with 4-3-1-2 but switched to a 3-5-2 after Juve went ahead and he was asked which system he would use in Madrid.

“You’re asking too much! The game just ended! I think tonight the lads defended very well with four, though it was not easy to leave Andrea out. I had to make a choice and he did great coming off the bench.

“With Bonucci booked, I had to take fewer risks and have another defender near him.”

Perhaps the surprise of the night was Stefano Sturaro who was handed his first Champions League start at just 22 years-old.

“I made this choice because, Pereyra can change the game off the bench and Sturaro was in good shape. I needed someone with legs to help the defence.

“The lads did very well to defend with four in midfield and then to take turns blocking Sergio Ramos.

“The players know I am very demanding on control and the passage of play, so I feel we could’ve done better in the first half to pass it around quickly and get the ball between the Real Madrid midfielders.

“That doesn’t take away from the fact they did very well and I am very happy with what they are doing.

“We started the Champions League in a certain way and it’s different to Serie A, we need to face these games with more calm and maturity. It’s practically impossible to press a team for 90 minutes and they can score in 10.

“It’s important to read the game, know when it’s time to slow down, time to step up the pace and change gear. The team has definitely improved on that.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

2 - 1

Álvaro Morata (8')

Cristiano Ronaldo (27')

Carlos Tévez (57' - Penalty)

Semi-final - 1st leg
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Martin Atkinson (England)

GIGI BUFFON: ‘JUVENTUS V REAL
WAS LIKE A BOXING MATCH’

May 6, 2015
 
Gianluigi Buffon believes Juventus proved themselves against Real Madrid while comparing the game to a boxing match.

The Bianconeri edged ahead of Real Madrid in a 2-1 victory in the first lef of the semi-final in Turin.

“We could’ve won 3-1 and they could’ve equalised for 2-2, so with a clear head – which I don’t have right now! – we are happy,” the captain told Sky Sport Italia.

“The important thing tonight was to prove we could play the Champions of Europe on level terms. I think even 1-1 would’ve been acceptable.

“It was a bit like a boxing match, we took turns hitting each other, and I expect the second leg will be similar.

“Real Madrid are a great team, but at this level even though on paper they are stronger than us, we can challenge them in terms of hunger, enthusiasm and athleticism.

“The great thing about football is that the strongest don’t always win. In the short term the best on the night win, in the long-term it’s the strongest overall who win.”

Buffon was kept on his toes for much of the game and had to perform a smart stop on toni Kroos.

“It was a save that let’s say had an elevated level of difficulty,” he smiled.

Gigi was also questioned on why he turned his back during Carlos Tevez’ all important penalty.

“I’ve been doing that since the 2006 World Cup Final. I just focused on a single Italy fan and when he got up, I knew we’d scored!”