Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Allegri: 'Courageous Juve'

May 13, 2015

Max Allegri reveals he told Juventus to “have courage” against Real Madrid to earn their spot in the Champions League Final.

He won the Scudetto, reached the Coppa Italia Final and is now in Juve’s first Champions League Final for 12 years.

“I have an extraordinary group of players. It was an impressive semi-final with chances for both sides, though we should’ve done more with our opportunities in the first half,” he told Sport Mediaset.

“We’ve earned our place in the Final and now that we’re there we hope to do well!”

A 2-1 first leg victory in Turin was followed by a 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu this evening.

“In the second half they had two or three clear chances, as did we, so I cannot say anything to the team for what they did tonight and throughout the whole year.

“We’re also in the Coppa Italia Final and we have to prepare for that too, as it is an important objective.”

Because the Champions League Final is on June 6, the Coppa Italia Final with Lazio moves from June 7 to May 20.

“I knew the game would go like this tonight. I told the lads they needed courage and to play well technically.

“I think it is also important for Italian football than one of our teams is back in the Champions League Final.

“Isco and Rodriguez aren’t particularly strong defensively, so I told my players the more we push them towards their own goal, the better.”

The Final is against Luis Enrique’s Barcelona, who obliterated Bayern Munich in the semi-final and are on their way to the Liga title.

“Barcelona are an almost impossible side to play against, but it’s one thing to face them over two legs and another in a one-off match. Anything can happen there.

“We are in good physical shape, they have a stratospheric front three and we go to Berlin convinced we can bring home the trophy.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Morata hurt by Bernabeu jeers

May 13, 2015

Alvaro Morata admits he was hurt at Real Madrid fans jeering him in the Bernabeu, but Juventus “can continue dreaming.”

The 1-1 draw in Madrid secured qualification for the Champions League Final after winning the first leg 2-1.

“I am very happy. First of all I thank the fans who were in the stadium and I say we’ll give our all to win this Final.

“It will be very difficult, but we can do it against Barcelona in Berlin,” Morata told Sport Mediaset.

“This club hasn’t been in a Champions League Final for 12 years, but we can continue growing and dreaming.”

Morata scored in both legs and refused to celebrate against his old club, but was still jeered as he left the field for a substitution.

“The situation was difficult for me. I didn’t celebrate, I just did my job, I am a Juve player and didn’t deserve that.

“I dedicate the goal to my family, my girlfriend and my fans who are always with me. Also to my agent, who was tough last summer.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Morata nails shut Carlo's coffin
as Bianconeri head to Berlin

The Spaniard had the last word against his former coach
by scoring the goal that sent Juventus to the Champions League final.

May 13, 2015

By Kris Voakes | International Football Correspondent

As it turned out, Alvaro Morata’s first-leg goal was only the appetiser. The big slice of humble pie was served up for Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday as the striker sent Juventus to the Champions League final at the expense of the club that let him leave last summer.

It was by no means an epic Bianconeri display as they played completely within themselves and lost the advantage of their 2-1 lead from Turin reasonably early in the proceedings, but Morata was not about to let Madrid and Carlo Ancelotti off the hook so easily.

Scoring a goal which would prove to be a consolation was not enough for the 22-year-old. He wanted to have the last laugh.

“I don’t understand what happened,” he told Onda Cero earlier this season of his final days in Madrid.

“I went from playing well to being sat on the bench. I wasn’t asking to be in every starting line-up, but I wanted better treatment. I barely had any relationship with Ancelotti.”

The Italian coach will now always remember the name Morata for what he did in the 57th minute of this Champions League semi-final second leg. When Iker Casillas only punched a wide free-kick as far as Paul Pogba, the Frenchman returned the ball into the penalty area. There, Morata was given time and space to hit a bouncing effort beyond the Spain captain.

It was the goal which eliminated Real Madrid from the competition and it will also send Ancelotti heading for the job centre once the Blancos have stumbled to the end of their damp squib of a season.

Twelve months after playing a bit-part in Madrid’s Champions League triumph, Morata will return to the main event – almost certainly as a starter – with a hugely worthy Juventus side.

While not altogether convincing during the group stage, with lifeless losses at Atletico Madrid and Olympiakos threatening to put a stick in their spokes, Juve have been almost exemplary in the knockouts.

Many belittled their achievements in seeing off Borussia Dortmund and Monaco, claiming they’d been presented with an easy route through. After beating Real Madrid, nobody can now say they’ve had things all their own way.

“I think it’s brilliant for Juventus because we’ve worked for this and now we’re back,” Pavel Nedved told Sky Sports before Wednesday’s second leg.

They are indeed back, and Morata is not the only one to thank for that. Carlos Tevez’s goals, Andrea Pirlo’s direction, Gianluigi Buffon’s organisation, Massimiliano Allegri’s flexibility… they are just the beginning of the reasons for Juve’s success so far.

It is a triumph that will hit Carlo Ancelotti harder than anyone.

“Juventus is a team that I never loved and will never love,” he said of the Old Lady in his autobiography. “I could only see them as an enemy.”

Now, more than ever, he has every reason to feel physically sick at the mention of Juventus’ name.

The Bianconeri are heading for Berlin, while Ancelotti is destined for the exit.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Marotta: 'Juve try to keep Morata'

May 13, 2015

Beppe Marotta hails Max Allegri’s “intelligence” and said Juventus will try to keep Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid.

This is the first Bianconeri Champions League Final since 2003, extraordinary considering Allegri only took over from Antonio Conte when pre-season training had already begun.

“The Coach, the club and the team work in symbiosis. We supported the staff in the best possible way, then Allegri proved himself to be an excellent Coach with great intelligence both on and off the field,” director Marotta told Sport Mediaset.

Now Juve will face Barcelona in the Final in Berlin on June 6 after eliminating Real Madrid 3-2 on aggregate.

“A Final can be affected by many things. For example, tonight it was extremely hot, so you need to reach that appointment in excellent physical shape.

“Barcelona and Real Madrid are fighting for the title, while we can gestate the squad better during the period diving us from the Final.

“On paper Barcelona are stronger, but there are so many elements that can make the difference, including good luck.

“When the draw in Nyon paired us with Real Madrid, few expected Juventus to make it, so we’ll see what happens with Barcelona.

“It’s also true that just being here in the Final is something to be very proud of indeed.”

Morata scored two of Juve’s three goals against Real Madrid, but the Merengues still have a buy-back option on the striker.

“Unfortunately, we could not do the deal differently. Morata scored in both legs, so sank the club he came from. That’s the joy of football.

“We’ll enjoy him for the moment, but it’s up to the player and he said many times he wants to remain with us.

“With that on our side, we’ll try to overturn the buy-back option.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Buffon: Juventus will not be
tourists in Champions League final

The 37-year-old is determined to end his wait to lift Europe's
greatest club prize after his side put out holders Real Madrid.

May 13, 2015

Gianluigi Buffon says Juventus "will not be tourists" in next month's Champions League final against Barcelona in Berlin and will do their utmost to win their third European title.

The Serie A champions recorded a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday to book their ticket for the showpiece on June 6 after a 2-1 home win last week.

Cristiano Ronaldo gifted Carlo Ancelotti's side the lead in the first half when he converted a spot-kick, only for former Madrid man Alvaro Morata to level the scoring with a volleyed shot from close range.

The 3-2 aggregate win saw Juventus reach their first Champions League final since 2002-03 and Buffon is confident they can cause an upset against Barca, who knocked out Bayern Munich.

"We will not be tourists in Berlin," the veteran goalkeeper told the official Uefa website.

"When you have the chance to play a Champions League final, you have to win it."

Juventus last met Barcelona in the quarter-finals of the Champions League in 2002-03, when they beat the Catalans 3-2 on aggregate, before eventually losing the final to AC Milan after penalties.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Player Ratings: Real Madrid 1-1 Juventus

(2-3 Agg)

May 13, 2015

Juventus drew 1-1 with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, making it through to the Champions League final.

Alvaro Morata scored the all-important equaliser in the second half, cancelling out Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty from earlier in the match giving the Bianconeri a 3-2 win on aggregate.

 

Real Madrid

Iker Casillas – 6 – Blameless - One good save from Arturo Vidal but could do little with the Morata strike, though kept the tie alive with a cracking stop from Claudio Marchisio in the second half.

Dani Carvajal – 5.5 – Quiet - Little link up play with Gareth Bale down the right despite getting forward numerous times. Seemed tired in the second half and had little overall impact.

Raphael Varane – 6 – Despondent - Did a decent job snuffing out the threat of Carlos Tevez but paid for the profligacy of the Real Madrid forward line.

Sergio Ramos – 5.5 – Lacking - Didn’t concede too much in the centre but failed to knit the rear guard together to stop the Morata goal after his defence made a mess of dealing with the initial cross.

Marcelo – 6 – Alive - More left wing than left back, was probably Real’s most constant threat. Some dangerous crosses and clever dribbling made it a busy evening for Stephan Lichtsteiner.

Toni Kroos – 5 – Invisible - Seemed a bit lost early on and failed to find his way into the match. Made Andrea Pirlo look like a box-to-box midfielder, such was the lethargy of the German’s display.

Isco – 5 – Stale - Quality to burn, quick feet and super technique but ultimately disappointed by failing to impose himself given his undoubted ability. Lost the battle against Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio.

James Rodriguez – 6 – Flicker - Looked a yard off the pace to begin with but won the penalty which gave the home side something to cheer about. Had the tools to unlock the Juve backline but let down by final ball just when it was most needed.

Cristiano Ronaldo – 6 – Heart - At the centre of everything the Spaniards created. Didn’t miss with a crucial spot kick but was thwarted by a stern Juventus defensive display. Ultimately ran out of ideas.

Karim Benzema – 5.5 – Tired - Good early chance which he blazed over and a constant danger throughout the first 45 minutes but fizzled out in the second period.

Gareth Bale – 5 – Unrecognisable - The Welshman is currently like a super computer, with every possible program installed and ready to go if only someone had the password to log in. Can’t be helping playing out on the right when much of his past success has come from the left.


Substitutes

Javier Hernandez (67 mins) – 5 – Limp - Failed to add anything to the Madrid attack.


 

Juventus

Gianlugi Buffon – 7 – Spectacular - Rolled back the years as he pulled off a string of super saves in the first half and looked as safe as ever. A captain the team can be proud of.

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 7 – Valiant - Had his hands full with Marcelo but like Evra, left every ounce of energy on the pitch working the entire length of the field.

Leonardo Bonucci – 7 – Indomitable - Horribly mistimed a jump in the first few minutes but after that was as strong and organised as we would expect. Repelled everything that was thrown into the box alongside his partner in crime, Giorgio Chiellini.

Giorgio Chiellini – 7.5 – Boss - A monster performance despite the unnecessary foul on James Rodriguez for the penalty but put that out of his mind and defended like a true old-school Italian centre back. Literally a human force-field in front of Buffon.

Patrice Evra – 7 – Courageous - Plenty of endeavor down the left side, his defensive work was invaluable. Fearless and inexhaustible, made sure Gareth Bale was ‘just another player’.

Claudio Marchisio – 7.5 – Awesome - The lungs of the side and surely the heir to the Juve regista role next season. Almost goes unnoticed at times but his off-the-ball running is marathon-esque. Cut him open and the kid bleeds black and white, magnificent on the night.

Andrea Pirlo – 6 – Blunt - The mind is still as sharp as ever but the legs are no longer able to keep up with the pace of such an encounter. Misplaced a slew of passes though was no worse than names such as Kroos, Bale or Isco…fortunately.

Paul Pogba – 6 – Adequate - Some flashes of what we know he can do but looked like he needed another 90 minutes under his belt after only his second game back from injury. Too many errors for such an important match but bailed out by Marchisio and Vidal.

Arturo Vidal – 7.5 – Warrior - He is back. Battled for every ball and alonsgide Claudio Marchisio won the midfield battle. The identikit of the complete midfielder and the player all Juve fans adored 12 months ago.

ALVARO MORATA – 8 – Conqueror - The youngster never looked overawed by the occasion and hit that all important Juventus goal in front of his former supporters. Not one for the future, but a striker of the present and a potential match-winner come the final in Berlin. Heroic performance from the Real Madrid ‘reject’.

Carlos Tevez – 7 – Sacrifice - Had to drop deep for much of the first half in search of the ball and was often swamped by white shirts as soon as he had possession. But his commitment to the cause was crucial, took one for the team you might say tonight.


Substitutes

Andrea Barzagli (79 mins) – 6.5 – Steel - Blocked up any holes that might have appeared in the final few minutes of the game.

Fernando Llorente (84 mins) – N/A

Roberto Pereyra (89 mins) – N/A

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Allegri: Juventus Have To Believe
They Can Win The Champions League

May 13, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has stated that his side must have belief if they want to overcome Barcelona in the Champions League final on June 6.

A 1-1 draw against Real Madrid on Wednesday night at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium was enough to see the Bianconeri make their first final in 12 years after winning 3-2 on aggregate, and the former AC Milan coach heaped praise on his players.

“I have an amazing group of players,” Allegri told Mediaset Premium. “We played a good game, with both sides having their fair share of chances.

“In the second half we had a couple of good chances we failed to finish off.

“The boys deserve it, now we hope everything goes well in the final.

“Before the final in Berlin we have the Coppa Italia final [against Lazio], which is very important.”

La Vecchia Signora’s progression marks the first time an Italian side has reached the final since Inter’s triumph in 2010, and the former Rossoneri coach stated that his side must maintain belief they can win the Champions League.

“Playing in the Bernabeu is never easy, it needs courage,” he started. “In the first half we suffered a bit, especially down the right-hand side, but we improved in the second half.

“It is important for Italian football to have a team in the final again, and the boys did well.

“In the first half we could’ve done much better, but it’s normal because Real Madrid played a totally different game to the one in Turin.

“Barcelona? Anything can happen, we are in good physical condition. They have a fantastic front three [composed of Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suarez], but we have to go to Berlin with belief that we can bring home the Champions League.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Ramos: 'Juve deserved it'

May 13, 2015

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos congratulated Juventus on a “deserved” Champions League Final.

The reigning trophy holders went out 3-2 on aggregate in the semi-final, losing 2-1 in Turin and drawing 1-1 at the Bernabeu this evening.

“The truth is that it’s tough to recover from a Champions League elimination,” said Ramos.

“We’re a team fighting to win trophies and were favourites to defend our European title.

“Juventus deserved it. After the first goal, we thought it was all done. We must congratulate Juventus because they did better than us over both legs.

“We failed to score more goals than them at home and weren’t good enough front of goal.

“After their goal, we were a little down emotionally because we were having a good match until then but didn’t take advantage of our chances.

“It’s not easy when you have to come back from behind and stay on the shore. This must be a lesson for us. If you make mistakes in the Champions League, you’re out.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Tévez: Juventus Deserve To Reach
Champions League Final

May 13, 2015

Carlos Tévez has insisted that Juventus deserved to reach the Champions League final after Wednesday’s 1-1 draw against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu sent the Bianconeri through to their first final in twelve years.

The Old Lady will now play Barcelona on June 6 in Berlin after winning 3-2 on aggregate against the current Champions League holders.

“We deserved to reach final and now in Berlin we will face a great team like Barcelona, but our strength is as a team,” the Argentine told Sky Sport Italia.

“The coach? He has made us stronger and he prepared us perfectly for these two games, he always gives the players the credit, but much of it is his.”

Tévez, has declined to comment on his own future, and will now concentrate on facing his fellow countryman Lionel Messi and Barcelona as the Bianconeri target their fourth Champions League title.

“Returning to Argentina? I have not decided anything,” he stated.

“Messi? He’s the best player in the world and as we’ve seen in the semi-final and he can do crazy things, he’s from another planet.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Ancelotti: Real Madrid Regret
First Leg Performance

May 13, 2015

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has stated that his side regret their performance in the 2-1 first leg defeat against Juventus in the Champions League semi-final.

The title holders were eliminated by the Bianconeri on Wednesday night after a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, however the former AC Milan coach praised his side’s performance.

“We prepared well for the game, and we tried until the end,” Ancelotti said. “We could’ve done more after going ahead, but we gave everything and did what we could.

“We could’ve finished off our chances better but this is football. The only thing we regret is the first leg. It makes no sense now to speak about refereeing.”

There have been rumours linking Ancelotti with a move away from the Spanish giants following the end of the current campaign, but the Italian remained coy on his future.

“We must finish the season on a high note, and then we’ll see what the board say,” he said.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

It was hard not to celebrate 'bittersweet'
Bernabeu goal, admits Morata

The Spanish striker found it tough to face his old club on Wednesday
but insists his decision not to celebrate his strike was the right one.

May 13, 2015

Juventus striker Alvaro Morata struggled to contain mixed emotions after eliminating boyhood club Real Madrid in the semi-finals of the Champions League.

The 22-year-old opted to leave the Santiago Bernabeu side for the Serie A champions in July 2014 after failing to win over head coach Carlo Ancelotti, and has since reignited his career in Turin.

Madrid's decision to let go of Morata came back to haunt them in the Champions League, with the attacker scoring in both Juventus' 2-1 home win as well as Wednesday's 1-1 draw in the return which saw their title defence come to an end.

"This is exceptional. I was very emotional to score a goal, but it was a bittersweet feeling," Morata told Canal+.

"It was quite hard not to celebrate the goal. It was a weird feeling. But I would react the same again a thousand times.

"It was hard to play against Madrid. I have to thank the fans who have always supported me."

The striker went on to admit that Barcelona will be tough opponents in next month's final but is adamant there are no favourites in such a game.

"We have fought hard to make it to the final, but it does not end here. We now want to win the Champions League and make history.

"The match against Barcelona will be different because they are a great team. But we must not stop dreaming. They are not favourites when one game decides it all. We are a great team as well."

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Vialli: Juventus Deserve To Play
The Final Against Barcelona

May 13, 2015

Former Italy centre forward Gianluca Vialli believes that Juventus, of all teams, deserve to play the Champions League final against Barcelona in Berlin after they overcame Real Madrid in the semifinals.

The Bianconeri drew Real Madrid 1-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final in order to advance to the final of the competition with an aggregate score of 3-2 over the two legs.

“I cannot think of another team that deserve to play the final against Barcelona other than Juventus,” said the 50-year-old to Sky Sport Italia.

Vialli also pointed out that the Old Lady have had some luck in this competition but appreciated the way in which the side approached the Los Blancos.

“They have been fortunate to have good draws in the quarterfinals and then they faced Real Madrid with the right spirit and the right head,” he continued.

However, the former Juventus player felt that Barcelona are too good at the moment for any team.

“I feel that Luis Enrique’s side are playing on a different planet at the moment.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Vidal: 'Game of our lives'

May 13, 2015

Arturo Vidal said Juventus will play “the game of our lives” against Barcelona in the Champions League Final.

They’ll clash on June 6 in Berlin after the Bianconeri eliminated Real Madrid 3-2 on aggregate.

“Barcelona have extraordinary players, but so do we and in Berlin we’ll play the game of our lives,” Vidal told Sky Sport Italia.

“We have a very united squad, we are all brothers here because we’ve known each other for a few years now.

“What Juventus have is a great team.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus 1 (3) - Real Madrid 1 (2): Initial
reaction and random observations

May 13, 2015

Juventus have gotten pretty good at this whole celebrating advancement in the Champions League at the opponent's home stadium over the last couple of months. They did so in Germany, they did so in France, and after Wednesday night's 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabéu, they've done so in Spain as well.

And it was so fitting that the goal that got them there was off the foot of a player Real Madrid cast aside last summer.

Álvaro Morata came back to haunt the club he grew up at just as was the case in the first leg. Morata scored Juventus' first goal in Turin, and he did the same in Madrid. This time, though, Morata's goal leveled the score at 1-1 on the night, but put Juve up 3-2 on aggregate and forced Real Madrid to try and get even once more.

That never happened.

Max Allegri might have waited a little too long to bring on the anticipated entrance of Andrea Barzagli once Juventus got the goal to put them up 3-2 on aggregate, but once they did, it was lockdown time. That's exactly what they did. Real Madrid pushed everybody forward and Juventus didn't break once. Not one time. Allegri turned to the Great Wall of Barza and Juventus' defense turned in one hell of a second-half performance.

Squawka Football ✔@Squawka
Juventus' defensive display by numbers:

34 clearances
15 blocks
10 tackles won
10 interceptions

Great effort.

No, Allegri didn't just have Juventus sit back and park the bus from the opening kickoff. In fact, before Juve fell behind on that oh-so-interesting first-half penalty, Juve were playing relatively okay. They were attacking with numbers, driving the ball forward, but not taking advantage of the chances they did have. (And there were chances.)

They were rattled after falling behind 1-0. But they rebounded. Oh did they rebound. Morata's goal gave them the lead, and the defense gave them the win on aggregate. It was as complete of a two legs as Juventus could have even imagined playing when they saw they were drawn up against the defending European champions a few weeks ago.

And it just showed how far this team has come since the beginning of the season.

Some of us thought Juventus might be taking a step back with the departure of Antonio Conte. Instead, this team has gotten to the pinnacle in Europe, the top of the mountain for the fourth straight year in Serie A and into the Coppa Italia final for the first time in a couple of years.

Now we can take this treble talk seriously. No more walking cautiously around the subject. This is legit now, folks.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "#UCLfinal? Incredible but true. Credit to the lads, it's a great evening for them and Italian football as a whole."


Random thoughts and observations

After everything he and the club has been through since the last time they were in the Champions League final, how good do you think this celebration felt for Gianluigi Buffon?

Let's not forget that Juve's defense was deluged with shots in the first half. Buffon made a couple of huge saves — one on Gareth Bale's long-range hammer of a shot, the other to deny Karim Benzema at the near post. Buffon was as vocal as anybody out on the field as the minutes ticked away. It was Buffon in a nutshell. A great captain leading his team to a Champions League final.

Max Allegri said there would be goals. And, what do you know, there were a couple of goals. He seems to be getting a lot of things right these days, folks.

Morata has four goals in his last six Champions League games. That's pretty good, if you ask me. He's been so damn good this season, and now he's finding the scoring touch that eluded him for about a month after the two Borussia Dortmund games. The best part? Like Carlos Tévez, he's so much more than just the goals. He was GREAT in both legs against his former club. G-R-E-A-T.

For as solid as Paul Pogba looked against Cagliari over the weekend, he definitely showed the rust from nearly two months on the sideline for most of the game against Real Madrid. Maybe it was the short rest, or just not having many minutes under his legs after his return from injury.

But let's not forget, if it wasn't for Pogba's header back to Morata, Juve might not be celebrating their spot in the Champions League final right now. Just one moment where Pogba's big-play ability came through.

Remember when we thought Patrice Evra being a regular start might be a big liability? Well, he continued to show what kind of silent yet important contributor he has been. Dude is listed at 5-foot-8, but he is just a complete monster when it comes to winning balls in the air. Considering how many cross Real Madrid sent in as they looked for a second goal, that proved to be just that much more important.

This wasn't written down in my notebook for this game, but it can be applied to a lot of games lately: STOP DOING STUPID THINGS, GIORGIO CHIELLINI.

Saw this on the Twitter machine earlier: Juventus' midfield cost less than 1/3 of what it took for Real Madrid to sign James Rodriguez. Not bad, huh?

Anybody know what happened to the Golden Ball winner in the second half? Maybe he just tired himself out while celebrating that first-half goal of his. He certainly wasn't even close to being a major factor in the second half.

I'm just going to sit back and watch the fallout in Madrid from this loss. Who knows who will be around in the aftermath of Real Madrid not getting to the final and having the chance to not only repeat as European champions, but beat their arch-rivals in the process. Juve crashed the Clásico party. (I'm okay with that.)

I think they're gonna need to reschedule the Coppa Italia final, guys. (I'm okay with that.)

Just in case you forgot about the last time Buffon and Pirlo were in Berlin...

We back, baby. Just like in 2003, it took beating Real Madrid in the semifinals to get there.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Evra: 'Allegri changes the menu'

May 13, 2015

Patrice Evra reveals his half-time advice to Juventus and why Max Allegri’s “menu” was crucial in the Champions League.

The ex-Manchester United full-back has remarkable experience in this competition and was a valuable asset when eliminating Real Madrid 3-2 on aggregate.

“The Champions League Final was an objective from the first moment Juventus called me,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“Every time I play in this competition, I get the feeling I’m going to the Final. I try to do my work on the field, but I thank those who wanted me and my experience here.”

Juve had won the first leg 2-1 in Turin and secured qualification with a 1-1 at the Bernabeu.

“We were never afraid. At half-time, when 1-0 down, I told the lads it’d end like this. I knew we had to suffer, but that we’d do it.

“I told them it was impossible that we’d leave there without scoring a goal and that proved to be the case.

“A lot of credit must also go to Coach Allegri, as he always changed the menu, by which I mean the formation.

“Now we’ll see what menu he has in store for us in Berlin.”

Juventus will face Barcelona in the Champions League Final in Berlin on June 6.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Kroos: Ancelotti not to blame
for Champions League exit

The Germany international has given his coach his support in the wake
of Wednesday's draw with Juventus and says poor finishing cost his side.

May 13, 2015

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has refused to point the finger at head coach Carlo Ancelotti following the titleholders' Champions League semi-final exit at the hands of Juventus.

The Santiago Bernabeu side needed to overcome a 2-1 first-leg defeat in Wednesday's return at home and appeared to be on their way to the final in Berlin halfway through following Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty.

Alvaro Morata then dealt Madrid a huge blow with his 57th-minute equaliser and Madrid failed to find a second to force extra-time.

Wednesday's result means Madrid are likely to end the 2014-15 campaign trophyless, with Barcelona four points clear at the top of La Liga with two games to play, yet Kroos feels Ancelotti should not be blamed for what looks set to be a disappointing season.

"It is not up to the team to decide the coach's future," the Germany international told Sky.

"All I can say on the matter is that Ancelotti is a great coach.

"We came very close to reaching the final and when you look at the way we played, this would not have been possible had we had a bad coach. I hope everybody realises that."

The former Bayern Munich midfielder admits his side were too wayward with their finishing after creating a number of chances against Juventus in each half.

"We put in a very good performance in the first half. We should have scored more goals as we created a lot of chances, just like we did in the second half.

"Our inability to convert our chances was decisive in the end. We had every chance of making it to the final here.

"Our goal this season was to win titles, so it is clear that his is very bitter."

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Player Ratings: Real Madrid 1-1 Juventus

May 13, 2015

Juventus progressed into the final of the Champions League for the first time since 2003 this evening courtesy of a 3-2 aggregate victory over holders Real Madrid.

Protecting a 2-1 first-leg advantage, Juventus found themselves behind in the tie at the halfway stage of the second leg this evening courtesy of a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty.

However, Alvaro Morata scored against his former club to nudge his side back in front and set up a showdown with Barcelona in Berlin on June 6.

 

REAL MADRID

Iker Casillas 6 Has been criticised by his own fans of late and may be in for a bit more stick after this one. Should have done better with Morata's strike having got plenty on the ball, while a foul throw late on would have been comical had it not been so important, alleviating the pressure and handing Juventus the chance to see the game out. On the flip side, he did make one particularly good save from Marchisio at 1-1 to keep his side in the tie.

Dani Carvajal 7 Was a good attacking outlet for his side throughout the first half, often finding space out wide as Madrid dominated proceedings for the opening 45 minutes.

Raphael Varane 6 Didn't have too much to do defensively, with Tevez and Morata only involved in fits and starts. Unable to prevent Morata's decisive goal, though.

Sergio Ramos 6 Back in defence after a shocker in the first leg and looked a lot more comfortable. Posed a threat in the opposition box too, but couldn't test Buffon with his efforts.

Marcelo 7 Able to spend the majority of his time on the front foot, which is exactly how he likes it. Proved to be a constant threat down the left, swinging in a number of crosses that were begging to be tucked away.

Kroos 6 Like Isco, was neat in possession and helped Real to create a number of good chances in the first half. Did not have things all his own way in the second, however, and began to get a little overrun by Pogba and Pirlo.

Isco 6 Went through the game being tidy in possession but without ever really threatening to unlock the Juventus defence or endanger Buffon's goal himself.

James Rodriguez 6 Came close with a powerful drive from range and won the penalty for his side, but ultimately didn't have a big enough say to turn the tie in Madrid's favour.

Cristiano Ronaldo 7 Looked to be in the mood throughout the first half, scoring from the spot and having a number of other shooting opportunities. Was uncharacteristically quiet after the break, however, failing to have a single effort on goal in the second half.

Karim Benzema 6 Back from injury and caused Juventus plenty of problems in the first half. Like Bale, though, he lacked the killer touch this evening and was eventually replaced by Hernandez with more than 20 minutes remaining.

Gareth Bale 5 Had a host of chances to make himself the hero but, not for the first time this season, will probably be portrayed as the villain. Missed one absolute sitter but was the only Madrid player to consistently threaten Buffon's goal - the ball just would not go in for him.


Substitutes

Javier Hernandez 6 His movement was menacing at times, but he never really looked like scoring during his cameo.


 

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon 7 Made a number of good saves to give himself the chance of claiming the one major trophy that has so far eluded him. Only beaten by a cleanly-struck Ronaldo penalty.

Stephan Lichtsteiner 6 Had his hands full with the overlapping runs of Marcelo, in addition to Ronaldo, all evening. The only member of the back four who didn't win their personal duel.

Leonardo Bonucci 7 Similar to Chiellini's display without the drawback of conceding a penalty. Those two will be vital when it comes to keeping out Barcelona's front three in the final.

Giorgio Chiellini 7 Once again Juventus' defence came to the fore in this match, with Chiellini leading the way. His clumsy challenge to concede the penalty is a major blot on his copybook, but otherwise he was very strong at the back.

Patrice Evra 7 Contributed to another frustrating night for Bale, although the amount of chances that the Welshman had suggests that Evra wasn't always carrying out his defensive duties.

Claudio Marchisio 7 Sent one powerful low drive zipping past the post before squandering arguably his side's best chance of the night when he was denied by Casillas. Thankfully for him, it didn't prove to be a costly miss.

Andrea Pirlo 6 Struggled in the first half as Madrid prevented him from dictating the tempo of the match, but was able to play something more like his normal game after the break.

Paul Pogba 7 Only recently returned from injury and there were certainly signs of rustiness. However, he grew stronger as the match wore on, setting up Morata for the equaliser before going on to dominate the midfield battle in the final half an hour or so.

Arturo Vidal 7 Set up Marchisio's one-on-one chance, but most of his best work came off the ball this evening as he chased down the Madrid midfielders.

Alvaro Morata 7 Scored against his former club again, this time netting the decisive goal to send his side through. A muted display for long periods, but he came up with the goods when needed.

Carlos Tevez 6 Won't make the headlines like he did after the first leg, but worked his socks off up front. Had little reward in terms of goalscoring chances, but he at least kept the Madrid defenders on their toes.


Substitutes

Andrea Barzagli 6 Replaced Pirlo with a little over 10 minutes to go and helped his side to see out the draw they needed to progress.

Fernando Llorente 6 Handed a five-minute cameo at the end and helped to hold the ball up when his side needed to relieve some pressure.

Roberto Pereyra 6 Only on the field for a matter of minutes having replaced Pogba to wind the clock down.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Chiellini: 'Juve can beat Barcelona'

May 13, 2015

Giorgio Chiellini said Juventus are “convinced we can beat” Barcelona in the Champions League Final after eliminating Real Madrid.

The showdown for the trophy is in Berlin on June 6, Juve’s first Final since 2003.

“This is the most wonderful and important match of my career, as it is for everyone I expect,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

“We proved that we deserve to be here, so now we go to Berlin convinced we can win because we are strong and can beat anyone.”

The 2-1 victory in Turin was followed by a 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu.

“It was an incredible night and we want to enjoy it to the full, because this doesn’t happen every day.”

Real Madrid were only able to score from a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty, which Chiellini gave away for a challenge on James Rodriguez.

“On the field it seemed an exaggerated decision, but on the replay a touch like that can end up in a penalty.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Allegri hails 'extraordinary result'
as Juventus see off Real Madrid

The Bianconeri will meet Barcelona in the Berlin final after a deserved
two-legged success over the defending champions which keeps their treble hopes alive.

May 13, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri was happy to delay talk of a treble for Juventus and focus on an "extraordinary result" for his side against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Allegri masterminded a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu which put Juve through 3-2 on aggregate to set up a meeting with Barcelona in the Champions League final in Berlin on June 6.

Both teams could come into the match needing to win to land a domestic and European treble. Barca are on the cusp of reclaiming the Liga title and will meet Athletic Bilbao in the final of the Copa del Rey, while Scudetto champions Juve will take on Lazio in the final of the Coppa Italia.

Allegri, however, is happy to celebrate the triumph in the Spanish capital for the time being.

He told Mediaset: "It is an extraordinary result, to eliminate Real Madrid. This team has overcome lots of hurdles. Apart from the Monaco game we always played well. The team is very secure in itself and improving all time.

"Getting to the final is a great satisfaction for us, we deserved this result. We played a great match and perhaps we could have taken advantage of our opportunities in the first half.

"It is not easy to play at the Bernabeu but the boys played with great concentration and for this they deserve praise. I think it's important for our football to have an Italian team in the Champions League final."

As for the treble, Allegri added: "I'm not thinking about that. On Wednesday we have the Coppa final, another important objective."

Allegri accepted facing a Barcelona side that beat Bayern Munich in the last four looks a daunting prospect, but he retains hope that the trophy can return to Italy for the first time since 2010.

"We know Barcelona are a team against which it is almost impossible to play but we aware of our capabilities. In a single match anything can happen. They are deadly in front of goal but we know what we can do and will try to bring home the cup."

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Player Ratings: Madrid 1-1 Juventus
(agg 2-3)

Alvaro Morata punched the Bianconeri's ticket to Berlin with the decisive
goal against his former side, ending the holders' defence of their title.

May 13, 2015
 

Real Madrid

 

1 I. Casillas - Got fingers to Morata's effort but would have been a lot to ask for him to keep it out. A few spectacular saves, most notably on Marchisio, gave his side a chance to send the tie to extra-time.

15 D. Carvajal - Some last-ditch tackles proved timely and his positional play at the back was flawless.

2 R. Varane - Read the game well, though wasn't put under a ton of pressure. Worked well with Carvajal.

4 Sergio Ramos - A clumsy challenge on Vidal awarded Juventus the free kick which ultimately resulted in the equalizing goal. Not nearly enough of a threat from set-pieces.

12 Marcelo - His attacking presence was invaluable, delivering some truly exquisite balls into the area. Spent virtually the entire match as a winger and was one of the most consistent members of the attack.

8 T. Kroos - Tremendous contributions at both ends, covering a ton of ground and providing some excellent cover for the back four. An under-appreciated asset in midfield.

23 Isco - Responsible in possession, linking up well with Marcelo, but needed to offer more creativity himself.

10 J. Rodríguez - Did well to win the penalty which resulted in the opening goal. Lacked physicality, however, which limited his impact in midfield.

7 Cristiano Ronaldo - An emphatic finish from the spot put his side in front and he was typically influential throughout. Provided great service for his team-mates, but failed to test Buffon himself from open play.

9 K. Benzema - A constant menace up top, displaying excellent skill on the ball, but lacked the clinical nature needed in front of goal. Subbed off after 67 minutes.

11 G. Bale - Put in a much more convincing performance, testing Buffon throughout, though he was very wasteful with his chances. Should have walked away with at least a goal.


Substitutes

14 J. Hernández - Moved well off the ball and caused a nuisance in attack, but never did look like scoring.


 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - A world-class performance from the veteran, stopping everything thrown at him from open play. Was beaten only by a clinical Ronaldo penalty.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Beaten for pace on a few occasions and struggled to contain Marcelo, but managed to do just enough to keep him frustrated.

19 L. Bonucci - Communicated well with his defence partners and did brilliantly to keep everything in front of him.

3 G. Chiellini - A clumsy challenge to concede a penalty in the first half, but atoned for his error with a flawless performance in defence from then on out.

33 P. Evra - Lacked the pace and physicality to keep up with Bale, but his experience proved vital as Real Madrid piled on the pressure late on.

8 C. Marchisio - Great understanding in midfield, blanketing Isco and limiting his influence. Came so close to putting Juventus in front in the second half but was denied by Casillas.

21 A. Pirlo - Tracked back to force a Bale shot inches wide from close range. It was perhaps his best contribution, as he never did create much in attack.

6 P. Pogba - Impressive stuff from the Frenchman, battling his way though 89 minutes of tireless action after only just returning from nearly a two-month absence. His header set up Morata for the Juventus goal.

23 A. Vidal - A typically committed and feisty performance from the Chilean. Brilliant ball movement in attack and contributed nicely in defence to help see out the draw.

9 Álvaro Morata - The hero for Juventus, coming back to haunt his former side with a clinical finish, chesting Pogba's pass down and bouncing a shot past Casillas.

10 C. Tévez - Tremendous work rate up top, holding the ball up well and linking up nicely with his team-mates, though never threatened to score himself.


Substitutes

15 A. Barzagli - Didn't miss a beat defensively as he helped see his side through to Berlin.

37 R. Pereyra - A brief cameo, replacing Pogba for stoppage time to run time out the clock.

14 F. Llorente - On with five minutes left and held the ball up on a couple of occasions to relieve the pressure on his goal.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

GIANLUIGI BUFFON: “IT SEEMED
LIKE DESTINY”

May 13, 2015
 
Gianluigi Buffon believes it was Juve’s “destiny” to reach the Champions League Final in Berlin, the site of Italy’s 2006 World Cup victory.

The Bianconeri eliminated Real Madrid 3-2 on aggregate to book their place in the final against Barcelona on June 6.

“It seemed like destiny, but it really did go the way we hoped,” Buffon told Sport Mediaset after tonights victory.

“Mind you, we mustn’t go there to be tourists. We are there to play a game that means a huge amount for all of us.

“I am so proud of my teammates, of all the work we’ve done and the journey we’ve made.

“You don’t get the chance to play a Champions League Final often, so we can’t do it by halves. We’ve got to give our all.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

MAX ALLEGRI: ‘ANYTHING CAN
HAPPEN IN THE FINAL’

May 13, 2015
 
Juventus coach Max Allegri believes ‘anything can happen’ in the Champions League Final against Barcelona.

Speaking after his side’s 3-2 aggregate victory over Real Madrid, the Bianconeri boss reflected on a memorable night and Juve’s first Champions League Final for 12 years.

“I have an extraordinary group of players. It was an impressive semi-final with chances for both sides, though we should’ve done more with our opportunities in the first half,” he told Sport Mediaset.

“We’ve earned our place in the Final and now that we’re there we hope to do well!

“In the second half they had two or three clear chances, as did we, so I cannot say anything to the team for what they did tonight and throughout the whole year.

“We’re also in the Coppa Italia Final and we have to prepare for that too, as it is an important objective.”

The Champions League Final will be played on June meaning Juve’s Coppa Italia Final against Lazio will move from June 7 to May 20.

“I knew the game would go like this tonight. I told the lads they needed courage and to play well technically.

“I think it is also important for Italian football than one of our teams is back in the Champions League Final.

“Isco and Rodriguez aren’t particularly strong defensively, so I told my players the more we push them towards their own goal, the better.

“Barcelona are an almost impossible side to play against, but it’s one thing to face them over two legs and another in a one-off match. Anything can happen there.

“We are in good physical shape, they have a stratospheric front three and we go to Berlin convinced we can bring home the trophy.”

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Tevez: Messi is from another planet -
but Juventus are ready for Barcelona

The Argentine striker is relishing the prospect of facing the Catalans
and their talisman and has praised the tactical approach of Massimiliano Allegri.

May 14, 2015
 
Carlos Tevez says compatriot Lionel Messi is "a player from another planet" - but is looking forward to facing Barcelona in the Champions League final.

Juventus secured a place in their first European final since 2003 following a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid on Wednesday which sealed a 3-2 aggregate victory.

Messi helped inspire Barcelona to a 5-3 aggregate triumph over Bayern Munich in the other semi-final but, while Tevez admits the 27-year-old can do "crazy things", he is confident in his own side's chances.

"Messi is the best player in the world, even in the semi-finals he did crazy things. He is a player from another planet. I never had problems with him," Tevez told Sky.

"We deserve this final. Now we go to Berlin for a big challenge against Barcelona. Ours is really a team, no one would have bet on us but we've done something great."

Tevez was also keen to praise the tactical planning of head coach Massimiliano Allegri as Juve continue to chase an historic treble.

"Allegri prepared these two games perfectly. He always gives all the credit to us but much of it belongs to him," he said.

The former Manchester City striker has been linked with a return to Argentina in the summer but he insists his future remains far from certain.

"I've not decided anything," he said simply.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Morata & Buffon help send
Juventus to Berlin

May 14, 2015
 
An epic night, an epic victory and the Old Lady lives on. Juventus are in the Champions League final and deservedly so, for no club has toiled as hard to return to glory.

No fluke, no controversy, Juventus reached the final by playing 180 minutes of intelligent football. Understanding the duality required of champions, they defended with might and attacked with panache, making the most of spaces and mistakes to take their chances. They were tactically intelligent and mentally strong, knowing how and when to alter formations to neutralise and punish the opponent. While hesitations and anxiety will always rear their ugly heads, leading to certain missed chances and desperate moments of defending, the players fought off the words of the naysayers and matured before the fans' very eyes. Neither the occasion nor Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty-taking abilities shook their faith. They believed until the end.

The match started well for the side that looked to dispel fears of a defensive approach. Juventus fluidly passed the ball along in a 4-3-1-2 formation, highlighting the absence of a genuine ball winner within Los Blancos' midfield. However, their dominance lasted for a mere 15 minutes, as Carlo Ancelotti's men soon responded. Taking control and using their paces, Real Madrid launched attack after attack via the left wing as Marcelo combined with his teammates to terrify the Bianconeri.

What a difference Karim Benzema made to the home side. With his intelligence in the final third, Real Madrid played with assertion and consistently looked to strike, missing only luck to convert certain opportunities they created.

Things had to change at halftime. Juventus were reminded of their quality and ability to score a goal by the coach and the veterans of the side. With ice in his veins and wonderful composure, it was Madrid's former youth player, Alvaro Morata, who delivered the away goal, the winner that sent the Bianconeri to Berlin. Demonstrating remarkable respect for his former side, he smiled but refused to celebrate. In his place, 14 million fans in Italy were crying with joy.

United in their dreams, Juve's president, coach, management and players reached the final in Berlin the Juve way -- by staying true to their fiscal responsibilities and style of play. They defended with dignity and took their chances as and when they came. They refused to splash the cash on the stars so many insisted were required to win, instead opting to invest. They invested in youth, the resurrection of forgotten players, in a stadium and in an urban project that will revive the city of Turin. Slowly but surely, with great devotion and prudence, Juventus made it -- without the shortcuts and without the controversy. Grande Juve, it was truly a magnificent win.


Player ratings

Gianluigi Buffon, 7 -- A leader, a legend and a man who still knows how to time things perfectly, he closed down angles and rushed out at precisely the right times to frustrate the opponents.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, 5 -- Struggled desperately with Marcelo's brilliance on the left flank. Couldn't restrain the player yet made a few dazzling runs forward.

Leonardo Bonucci, 7 -- The charismatic defender managed a composed and experienced performance at the back to fill the squad with defensive confidence. Rarely made an error.

Giorgio Chiellini, 6 -- Despite conceding a penalty, the defender played a good game to redeem himself. Managing the highest amount of interceptions and clearances, it was Chiellini who continually halted Madrid's attacks.

Patrice Evra, 7 -- His experience and veteran mind has made all the difference. While he was lucky not to have conceded a penalty, he was the man heading the ball out of danger while always believing in the win.

Claudio Marchisio, 7 -- His positioning was stupendous on so many occasions, but he failed to make the most of a beautiful chance. Nonetheless, a tactically intelligent midfielder, he fought defensively and threatened offensively with his timely runs.

Andrea Pirlo, 5 -- Perhaps Juve's worst player on the night, the midfielder not only squandered possession on several occasions but facilitated Madrid's counterattacks and was incapable of impacting the match with his geometry.

Paul Pogba, 6 -- Not one of his best games despite his eagerness. While he always looked forward and exploited the space in midfield, he lacked the tenacity to win the duels he often does and looked like a man who is still in recovery.

Arturo Vidal, 6 -- A warrior, a fighter and a man who made vital interceptions to block the opponent, Vidal is a bundle of energy. However he often opted for the horizontal pass when the game required better incisive passing.

Alvaro Morata, 7 -- The youngster with the composure of a veteran, he never once allowed the occasion to get to him and consistently looked to make penetrative runs forward. His goal gave Juve the win.

Carlos Tevez, 6 -- By his own great standards, the Argentine underwhelmed, even if his offensive intelligence was still very much evident on the pitch.


Substitutions

Andrea Barzagli, NR -- Replaced Pirlo in the 79th minute and helped keep the nervy moments to a minimum in the final 10 minutes.

Fernando Llorente, NR -- Came on for Morata in the 84th minute and added fresh legs when it was needed most.

Roberto Pereyra, NR -- Substituted on for Pogba in the 89th minute.

[Socrates 8514]

REAL MADRID - JUVENTUS

1 - 1

Cristiano Ronaldo (23')

Álvaro Morata (57')

Juventus win Aggregate 3-2

Semi-final - 2nd leg
Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Real Madrid cannot match Juventus'
energy and exit the Champions League

May 14, 2015
 
Two images toward the end of this match symbolized perfectly Real Madrid's defeat to Juventus in the Champions League semifinal.

The first came with a handful of minutes left. Dani Carvajal, ordinarily a buzz-bomb of a player, was unable to accelerate beyond a gentle trot in trying to recover his position as Juventus broke forward yet again. Not only could he not catch up but, when the move slowed and the ball broke loose, the full-back was so exhausted that he made only a desultory challenge to win possession when, in fact, regaining the ball was utterly vital.

He was like a rag doll, his limbs not in full communication with body or brain.

Later came a still starker image.

This is the "San Iker" competition. Real Madrid's goalkeeper has three winner's medals and a personal affiliation with the Champions League, one that regularly brings out his best. Indeed, on Wednesday he produced two of his trademark saves in the second half, diving to his left to deny Claudio Marchisio and then palming away a Paul Pogba pile driver. Those stops kept Madrid in this semifinal, kept the small candle of hope flickering in the face of a Turin tornado.

So when, in the dying seconds, Casillas raced out to the touchline to take a throw-in, it just looked like a captain, a leader and a winner about to launch one last offensive. Instead he got in such a muddle, without being pressurized by a Juventus player, that he couldn't even complete the simple task to Marcelo. Casillas sort of held the ball in front of his head and then dropped it for the full back -- it was a foul throw and perhaps the most bizarre image of the entire Champions League season.

However, it was representative of Madrid's general state of mental and physical fitness. What Carvajal and Casillas did, respectively, speaks of guys who are far from their peak.

There was an inability to reach deep inside and produce vital energy, an inability to complete a simple action that should have been as natural as breathing.

These things happen when you are not in key shape.

Yes, it's worth commenting that it was a steam bath of a night in Madrid with the temperature excessively high for early May. But that was the same for both teams and, boy, how Juventus coped!

In an echo of when Madrid were thumped 4-0 by Atletico Madrid earlier this season Los Blancos were vastly outrun. In the end, there was something like an 8 kilometre difference in distance covered by the Italian champions compared to the now deposed European champions.

That is a stamina chasm.

The numbers also show Madrid's passing was down compared to their season averages, a further sign of sloppiness, tiredness and imprecision, which suggests they were not properly fit for task during this trophy run-in.

So, of course, everyone turns to the manager. With two trophies -- albeit the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup -- in the bag you can't call this season an all-out failure. However, Carlo Ancelotti stands accused -- and convicted -- of some very strange decisions in recent months, decisions that have come home to roost.

His declaration that the "BBC" of Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo would start together whenever fit was an injustice to Jesé and Javier Hernandez and left Madrid significantly overdependent on their front three.

The inability to keep reserve full backs Fabio Coentrao and Alvaro Arbeloa in competitive shape cost a great deal as they were variously exposed by Atletico, by Schalke and, last weekend, by Valencia.

Ancelotti continued to state that his players were fine fitness-wise when it was patently clear that they were not. Given the Italian's son works in the Madrid fitness department, perhaps there has been a slight protective tone to those words.

And then there are the small, housekeeping decisions on which a season can turn, such as when and whether to drop Bale and the concept of letting Keylor Navas oust Casillas when his form dipped. There was the question of how to use Asier Illarramendi correctly and whether it was a wise idea, having succeeded once vs. Atletico, to continue with the risky deployment of Sergio Ramos in midfield in the first leg vs. Juventus.

All of these things required fine-tuning and aren't crimes of a heinous nature, but are elements that combined together to make a potentially historic season become a losing experience.

And all of that continued into this game. His players were being outworked and outrun in both offensive and defensive situations and what did Ancelotti do, pretty unforgivably? He omitted to use all three of his substitutions.

Juve manager Max Allegri made three changes with the intention of adding freshness and extra running from Fernando Llorente, Andrea Barzagli and Roberto Pereyra, but also to make tactical adjustments and to give his players a brief rest and eat up the clock a little bit while each substitute was coming on.

Ancelotti didn't see the need, and potential game-changers like Jese and Pepe were not given even 10 minutes during a time when the surge in determination and naked will to win should have been titanic for Madrid.

Now, of course, comes the inquest, and Bale's work will be clinically scrutinized.

While the Welshman had an active match and made Gianluigi Buffon work to keep Juve in the tie, he'll be hung out to dry by some parts of the Spanish media.

Above all, Bale should have scored with a back-post header that was lofted up for him by his strike partner, Ronaldo.

It was there to be tucked away, not directed over the bar. Again, that marginal difference between getting the jump right and nodding the ball home and timing the leap incorrectly before nudging the ball over has a lot to do with physical and mental freshness.

If Bale is to stay at the Bernabeu then a lot of serious thought, most of it from the player himself, needs to be given to work rate, attitude, fitness and learning Spanish. But, also, is Ronaldo's position on the left sacred? Couldn't Bale be tried in the role in which he made his name at Spurs?

How, above all, are Ronaldo and Bale to unite and make the whole greater than the sum of the parts rather than, as now, make it look as if they are playing, running, thinking and making decisions at cross-purposes?

Ancelotti, you'd imagine, probably won't be the man authoring such decisions.

Madrid are short in a number of positions, most notably goalkeeper, central midfield and goal scorer. There's a chap from Juventus who is doing quite well at the moment, Mr. President. His name is Alvaro Morata.