Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Player Ratings: Juventus 3-1 Napoli

May 23, 2015

Juventus overcame a poor Napoli side 3-1 in Serie A on Saturday evening, leaving the Parenopei struggling to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

The Bianconeri went ahead at the Juventus Stadium thanks to Roberto Pereyra before David Lopez stuck away Lorenzo Insigne’s saved penalty. Stefano Sturaro and Simone Pepe then made sure of the three points late on.

As a result, Napoli need Roma to beat Lazio in the Derby della Capitale on Monday if they are to have any hope of making the Champions League next season.

 

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon – 7 – Save - Saved Lorenzo Insigne’s penalty and was called upon another four times with the best being a great reaction save from David Lopez. Arguably kept Juve in the game and was key in them getting the three points.

Simone Padoin – 6 – Back - Made sure of his defensive duties first and foremost. Only ventured forward on occasion. But solid enough.

Andrea Barzagli – 6 – Half - Didn’t have too much to contend with in the first half and was taken off at half-time. Coped well against Higuain.

Angelo Ogbonna – 5.5 – Trouble - Found life tough against Higuain and was bailed out by Barzagli, while Mertens’ pace was also an issue for the defender.

Kwadwo Asamoah – 5.5 – Hand - Unlucky to give away the penalty. The ball hit his hand but he didn’t know much about it. But all in all did well in his first start since November 2014.

Paul Pogba – 6 – Fitness - Didn’t over exert himself as he clearly has one eye on Berlin, and used the game to get closer to full match fitness. Had a better first half, as he got up and down the pitch well, but rarely affected the game as much as his midfield partners.

Claudio Marchisio – 6.5 – Protector - Broke up the play well and seems a perfect fit in the ‘Pirlo role’. Excellent distribution and protecting his defence.

Stefano Sturaro – 7 – Special - All about his goal. Great all-round performance, everywhere on the park and then rounded it off with a great turn and shot to grab the three points.

Roberto Pereyra – 6.5 – Runner - Took his goal brilliantly and his pressing of Gargano caused Napoli lots of issues.

Alvaro Morata – 6 – Butted - A little quiet given his recent exploits. His pace was an issue for the Napoli defence, then took a blow to the face for his troubles.

Kingsley Coman – 7 – Dangerous - Perfect ball over the top for Pereyra’s goal. Dangerous on the counter with his pace, dribbling and trickery, whilst also dropping back to help out the midfield.


Substitutes

Leonardo Bonucci – 6 – Air - Dominated in the air and held off Napoli well as they pushed forward in the second half.

Andrea Pirlo – 6 – Calm - Brought an air of calm to the Juve midfield, took over where Marchisio left off and sparked a good few counters for the home side.a

Simone Pepe – N/A - Bagged late penalty.


 

Napoli

Mariano Andujar – 5.5 – Alone - Could have done little about the goals conceded as his defence went walkabout on both.

Christian Maggio – 6 – Average - Did nothing too bad, but nothing too good. Perhaps his crossing could have been a bit better.

Raul Albiol – 5.5 – Slow - Too easily turned on Sturaro’s goal and let down by defensive partner Britos as he tried to limit Juve’s strikers. Coman’s pace was a problem.

Miguel Britos – 4 – Thug - Absolute meltdown late on as he head-butted Morata and was rightly given a straight red, as well as conceding a penalty. Static for the opening goal and looked a liability all game with Morata and Coman causing problems with their pace.

Faouzi Ghoulam – 5.5 – Space - Left copious amounts of space behind him when he went forward. Always available when Napoli went forward, but his delivery needs work.

David Lopez – 7 – Alert - Was the best on the pitch for Napoli. Alert enough to follow up on saved penalty and smash home the rebound. Could have had another but for a brilliant piece of goalkeeping by Buffon. Also went close with a header.

Walter Gargano – 5 – Suffered - Doesn’t have the necessary quality to compete in the Napoli midfield. Didn’t have the necessary pace or physicality to cope with any of Juve’s midfield trio.

Lorenzo Insigne – 4.5 – Indecisive - Had a poor penalty saved by Buffon. His decision making was woeful as well.

Jose Callejon – 5 – Absent - Operated too far from goal to have an impact. Played some nice combinations with his fellow attackers, but might as well not have been on the pitch.

Dries Mertens – 6.5 – Pace - An early shot was saved by Buffon. His pace was a weapon that wasn’t properly exploited.

Gonzalo Higuain – 5 – Poor - Did little in the opening 45 minutes and was rightly taken off at half-time. Questions now must be raised over whether the Argentinian will be at Napoli next season.


Substitutes

Manolo Gabbiadini – 6 – Fight - Came on at half-time and showed much more fight than Higuain. Some good exchanges on the edge of the areas, but could find the killer touch. Denied by Buffon late on.

Marek Hamsik – 6 – Late - Helped Napoli develop their attacks, but unable to breakdown a resolute Juve defence.

Jorginho – N/A
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Juventus beat Napoli to cap
Serie A title triumph in Turin

May 23, 2015

Juventus won their final home game of the season against Napoli 3-1 in a celebratory atmosphere as they lifted their fourth consecutive Serie A trophy.

Massimiliano Allegri's side paraded the Coppa Italia before the game and were presented with the league title after it, while their fans paid a moving tribute to the 39 people killed in the Heysel disaster 30 years ago this month.

Amongst all that there was time for Roberto Pereyra, Stefano Sturaro and Simone Pepe to earn Juve the win. David Lopez scored Napoli's goal but the result left them relying on a Lazio slip-up if they are to qualify for the Champions League, and they also had Miguel Britos sent off in injury time.

Dries Mertens and Lopez had early efforts saved for Napoli but they fell behind in the 13th minute when Kingsley Coman threaded the ball through and Pereyra finished right-footed from just outside the six-yard box.

A flurry of activity just after the 20-minute mark saw Coman and Paul Pogba's shots blocked for Juve while Mertens and Lopez were off target.

Pogba sent a free-kick just over before, with this the nearest Juve home game to next Friday's Heysel anniversary, the home crowd honoured their fallen colleagues in the 39th minute.

A large flag reading "39 Rispetto [respect]" was accompanied by the message: "No one truly dies if they live on in the hearts of those who remain," while the crowd also held up the names of the individual victims.

Faouzi Ghoulam and Christian Maggio were unable to find an equaliser before half-time but it came five minutes after the restart.

Kwadwo Asamoah conceded a penalty with a handball and though Lorenzo Insigne's shot was saved, Lopez followed up to score.

Pogba headed Claudio Marchisio's corner wide and Maggio was similarly off target at the other end.

France midfielder Pogba forced a low save from Mariano Andujar, while Mertens' shot was blocked before Napoli went closer still in the 69th minute.

The ball dropped to David Lopez on the edge of the box and he clipped a volley goalwards, which was brilliantly saved one-handed by Gianluigi Buffon. The keeper also kept out Marek Hamsik's header from the resulting corner.

But Juve restored their lead when Sturaro turned superbly through the visiting defence and burst away at pace before finding the top corner, with even a slight deflection off Maggio unable to detract from the aesthetic pleasure of the goal.

Buffon almost blotted his copybook moments later when he failed to get to a Napoli corner and was lucky to see Lopez head wide.

Juve broke at speed after a free-kick and the referee played a good advantage when Coman was cynically hacked down, but Morata's poor cross saw the chance wasted.

Ghoulam was booked for the foul at the next stoppage, which came when Coman was yellow-carded for seeking some retribution of his own.

Napoli's match then ended acrimoniously as Britos headbutted Morata off the ball, earning himself a red card and conceding a penalty which Pepe, widely expected to leave Juve this summer, stroked coolly down the middle for his first goal since April 2012 to spark further delighted celebrations.
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Allegri: Juventus Had To
Win In Final Home Game

May 23, 2015

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has insisted that his team would not allow themselves to drop points in their final home game of the campaign.

They collected their Scudetto crown, his first at Juventus Stadium, after a 3-1 victory over Napoli on the penultimate weekend of the season.

A reflective Allegri told Sky Sport Italia after the celebrations had begun to die down: “We had to end the season at Juventus Stadium in the best possible way. The players are in good condition and they played well, especially in the second half.

“There is not much for us to complain about. I enjoyed watching them play. When I arrived at the club, there was a bit of skepticism but the whole team has worked together to keep winning.

“I am also happy about the ovation from the fans. I have a good relationship with them and have always worked with professionalism. On the outside, it may seem strange because I do not take part in big celebrations but inside, I feel strong emotions.”

Understandably, attentions now begin to turn to June 6 – the small matter of a Champions League final against Barcelona, Lionel Messi and the chance for a treble.

“The game must be played out on the pitch then and not before it,” he said, wary of overcomplicating things. “Messi? He is always unpredictable. This year they are playing differently because they have a striker.

“Playing against them is always difficult and you have to be very good because their passing trajectories can be deadly. Defensively, we want to play the perfect game.”
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

JUVENTUS 3-1 NAPOLI SERIE A
WEEK 37 PLAYER RATINGS

May 23, 2015

Juventus celebrated the Scudetto in style by crushing Napoli 3-1 in their final home game of the season.

Goals from Roberto Pereyra and a stunning effort from Stefano Sturaro put Juve in charge before Simone Pepe converted his penalty in the dying seconds of the game to secure the result.


Gigi Buffon 7.5 - Performed a string of superb saves including an Insigne penalty. In imperious form, just as he has been all season.

Simone Padoin 6.0 - Barely had anything to do – A few tackles and some good man-marking on Insigne and Mertens but rarely ventured into the opponents half.

Andrea Barzagli 7.0 - Played really well, denied Higuain any space to operate and made some timely interceptions

Angelo Ogbonna 7.0 - Solid over 90 mins, barely put a foot wrong and made some vital clearances to deny Napoli clear chances on goal. Brilliant

Kwadwo Asamoah 6.5 - A huge display on his return after six months out through injury. Made his customary runs down the left and even managed to get a shot off. Good to see him back.

Paul Pogba 7.0 - Had a number of shots and tried his best to create opportunities for his teammates. Solid display

Claudio Marchisio 7.0 - Kept Juve ticking over, passing, tackling and pushing the team forward. Had a great moment where he nutmegged a Napoli player and beat two others to retain possession.

Stefano Sturaro 7.5 - Outstanding display from the youngster topped off by one of the best goals of the season. Immense.

Roberto Pereyra 7.0 - Scored a great opening goal, latching on to Comans ball to fire past Andujar. A little restricted in the second half but a great performance overall.

Alvaro Morata 6.5 - A frustrating night for the youngster, tightly marked by the Napoli defence, he still managed to provide and assist and earn a penalty.

Kingsley Coman 7.5 - Simply superb from the first minute. Strong in the Napoli half, shrugged off defenders, created chance after chance and provided the perfect assist for Pereyra’s opener.


Substitutes

Leonardo Bonucci N/A

Simone Pepe 6.5 - Scored a penalty late on to tie up the result.

Andrea Pirlo N/A
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Juventus 3 - Napoli 1: Initial
reaction and random observations

May 23, 2015

Regardless of the result, it was going to be a party at Juventus Stadium because of what was happening after the final whistle sounded. Win, lose or draw, the Scudetto was on hand and prepped for the post-game trophy presentation in which Juventus would be covered in even more confetti than they were a few days ago after winning the Coppa Italia.

So much confetti. Oh so much confetti.

But you know what made it better?

A convincing win over Napoli to put the cherry on top. That's exactly what happened, as Juve recorded a 3-1 win over their rivals from the south to close out the home portion of the 2014-15 Serie A season. Goals from Roberto Pereyra, Stefano Sturaro and a stoppage-time penalty kick from Simone Pepe closed out Juve's home account, one that has undoubtedly been a massive reason why Juventus lifted the Scudetto for the fourth time in as many seasons after the game.

So, as we get ready to enter the 2015-16 season in three or four months, this is what Juventus' home form is going to look like. I'm just going to go out on a limb right now and say that's incredibly impressive.
 

Squawka Football ✔@Squawka
Juventus' last 47 Serie A home games:

WDWWWWWWDWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWDDWWWWWWWWWDW

Goals: 108
Conceded: 23

Twenty-three goals conceded in their last 47 home games. That's something that makes this former goalkeeper smile. And sure it makes Juventus' current goalkeeper and captain smile as well. You know what also makes Gigi Buffon happy? Lifting the Scudetto over his head.

Just to add to that, Juventus is closing the season on an eight-game unbeaten run in competitions after losing 2-1 to Torino in the Turin Derby last month. That includes two games against Real Madrid, the Derby d'Italia, the Coppa Italia final and now a win over Napoli.

Yep, the same Napoli team that desperately needed to win in Turin on Saturday to have any kind of hope of getting the third and final Champions League spot next season.

And while it was Sturaro who was the one who scored the eventual game-winning goal and subsequently karate kicking the crap out of his goal celebration, it was Buffon who gave Juventus the chance to even win the game. Crazy save after crazy save Buffon made — including the penalty that lead to Napoli's lone goal — in quick fashion. It was only fitting that on his 900th career appearance as a professional, Buffon was instrumental in another Juventus victory.

Even a Juventus team that was filled with reserves.

Although, some of Juve's reserves aren't even close to being reserves.

They showed that against Inter last weekend and they showed once again in Juventus' home finale against Napoli.

Then they celebrated with the Scudetto. Sounds like a nice little Saturday, if you ask me.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "It was an emotional one for me and a great day of celebration, capped off with a win in front of the fans."


Random thoughts and observations

Both of Juventus' first two goals against Napoli were just so pretty. So, so pretty.

The creator of the first goal, Kingsley Coman, had easily one of his best games in a Juventus shirt. The young Frenchman was everywhere, creating all kinds of trouble for the shaky Napoli defense. It's the kind of game that makes you think Coman could have — and maybe should have — gotten more playing time this season. Obviously that can't be changed no so late in the season. But to see him playing so well alongside Álvaro Morata gives plenty of hope for what might develop in the future.

So, so happy Kwadwo Asamoah was able to play a full 90 minutes after being out for such a massive amount of time. We hadn't seen Asamoah on the field in a Juventus jersey since Juve beat Olympiakos in the Champions League group stage at the beginning of November. Just think about how much has happened — both good and bad — since that game.

(For the record, it was a weak handball call, too.)

Angelo Ogbonna celebrated his 27th birthday on top of another Scudetto on Saturday. And like Coman, he played pretty darn well in the process.

Watching Sturaro play well virtually every time he steps onto the field makes the decision to end his loan spell at Genoa early and bring him to Turin in January even that much smarter. That goal was a thing of beauty, and he just continues to be an absolute battering ram in the center of the park. He didn't have the Arturo Vidal-like tackle numbers, but he was his usual endless motor self. Props for the goal celebration, too.

Games where Juventus players can bring their kids on the field will always be good days.

At times I couldn't tell which team was the one who had nothing truly to play for and which one was trying to get back into the top three in the Serie A standings. Juventus definitely didn't just coast through this game and then turn things over for the Scudetto celebration.

It would be wrong of me not to acknowledge the wonderful tribute the curva had for the 39 victims of the Heysel disaster. A great touch from a great crowd at Juventus Stadium.

Rubinho has now taken part in more Scudetto celebrations (3) than games he's played in (2) since coming to Juventus. Just thought I'd throw that out there.

Exactly two weeks to go before that game in Berlin. Not that I'm counting down or anything.
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Juventus' Impressive Win over Napoli
Means Tough Choices for Allegri

May 23, 2015

A match that started with the Coppa Italia being paraded around Juventus Stadium ended with the Bianconeri collecting the Serie A trophy, as Juventus defeated Napoli 3-1. But for the Italian champions, all roads lead to Berlin.

Although it perhaps should not, there is no denying that the prospect of a Champions League victory has overshadowed their domestic double.

The 2014-15 campaign is already one of La Madama’s most successful seasons of all time, but given that European Cup/Champions League success is an accomplishment that has been achieved only twice before in the club’s storied and glorious history, a victory over Barcelona would undoubtedly make it their single greatest.

With that in mind, Massimiliano Allegri once again named a vastly rotated starting XI to face Napoli, but he knew the visitors were desperate for points. Indeed, nothing less than victory would do for Rafael Benitez’s side, who already trailed third-placed Lazio by three points with just two matches left to play.

Despite having no need to chase the points, Juventus would take the lead through Roberto Pereyra, only for the Partenopei to equalise early in the second half. David Lopez put away the rebound after Lorenzo Insigne had his penalty saved by Gigi Buffon.

Yet the Bianconeri would win the match, a wonderful piece of individual skill from Stefano Sturaro handing them the lead before Simone Pepe added a third goal via the penalty spot. Miguel Britos was sent off as Napoli’s Champions League hopes imploded, but there were a number of performances from the home side that will only add to Juve’s own dreams of that ultimate triumph.

A number of players will be assured of their place against Lionel Messi and company on June 6, but some of those on the fringes undoubtedly made a strong case for inclusion here. Perhaps the most difficult choices will come in midfield, and the scorers of those first two goals enjoyed impressive outings.

Both Pereyra and Sturaro have started in huge games this term already, with the latter surprisingly getting the nod against Real Madrid in the semi-final of Europe’s elite competition. Aside from his well-taken goal, the 22-year-old made two tackles, two interceptions and three clearances according to statistics from WhoScored.com.

His play perhaps outshone that of his Argentinian team-mate, and if it came to a straight choice between them, Sturaro may have shown enough over the past few games to merit a place. Further back, another solid showing from Andrea Barzagli will lead to further debate over the formation Juve opt for, with the Italian allowing Allegri to field a back three.

Should the coach line his side up with a four-man defence however, it is likely to be the former Palermo man—who left the field at half-time—who is left out, the partnership between Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini growing stronger as the season has progressed.

The attack saw an eye-catching display from Kingsley Coman, linking well with Alvaro Morata and creating the opening goal of the game for Pereyra. His Spanish partner played the pass that lead to Sturaro’s goal however, and it is likely to be he who plays alongside Tevez when the final against Barcelona gets underway.

“A win like this and playing in front of fans like ours, it was the perfect day,” a visibly overjoyed Sturaro said to Sky Italia shortly after the final whistle (h/t Forza Italia Football). “We always give our best and that’s where our strength comes from. Even when we cannot win, we give it everything.

“Winning always helps you win the next match, and we do it to best prepare ourselves for Berlin.”

They have certainly done that, and now Massimiliano Allegri has some difficult choices to make.
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Player Ratings: Juventus 3-1 Napoli

The Bianconeri extended their home unbeaten run in the league
while ending the Partenopei's Champions League hopes.

May 23, 2015
 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Incredibly unlucky not to have picked up a clean sheet, after denying Insigne from the penalty spot, but could do little to keep out the rebound from Lopez. Two spectacular saves late on allowed his side to get forward and grab a winner.

20 S. Padoin - Didn't get forward much with his hands full defensively, doing a good job of forcing Mertens to drift inside to get in possession.

15 A. Barzagli - Marshalled the back line with real authority, keeping a close eye on Higuain and limiting the visitors' chances in attack. Replaced at half-time, earning a well-deserved rest.

5 A. Ogbonna - Committed himself to a number of challenges and was a constant physical presence in defence. Did well to keep everything in front of him.

22 K. Asamoah - Unlucky to concede a penalty shortly after the restart as a result of a handball. He was slightly off the pace early on, making his first start since November due to injury, but sprung to life in the second half.

6 P. Pogba - Ran tirelessly in midfield, covering every blade of grass. Contributed nicely at both ends of the pitch.

8 C. Marchisio - A typically influential performance from a deeper-lying role. Replaced with 20 minutes to play.

27 S. Sturaro - A tremendous turn and finish into the top corner secured all three points for his side. Looked very capable in possession.

37 R. Pereyra - A tidy run and delicate finish saw him open the scoring after 13 minutes.

9 Álvaro Morata - Chances were limited for the Spaniard, as he was more of a peripheral figure in attack. Found a bit more space in the second half as Napoli pushed forward.

11 K. Coman - Played a lovely ball over the top to set up Pereyra for the opening goal. Looked a constant threat in possession, always eager to take on a defender.


Substitutes

19 L. Bonucci - Hardly missed a beat, replacing Barzagli for the second half.

21 A. Pirlo - His defensive contributions proved important, replacing Marchisio with 20 minutes left.

7 S. Pepe - A late substitution, but a nice gesture from his team-mates letting him take the penalty in extra time, which he converted.


 

Napoli

45 M. Andújar - Needed to come off his line to challenge Pereyra on the opening goal, but could do little to keep out Sturaro's effort.

11 C. Maggio - Lacked quality in attack, but his defensive contributions were sound as usual.

33 Albiol - Failed in playing the offside trap, allowing Pereyra through to open the scoring.

5 M. Britos - Did well to limit the chances of Morata, but his night ended in disaster as he was sent off for a senseless headbutt on the Spaniard in stoppage time.

31 F. Ghoulam - Got forward well on the overlap, but his crossing often left something to be desired.

19 David López - A lovely effort to stick with Insigne's penalty to slot home the rebound, and was denied a second goal by a world-class stop from Buffon.

77 W. Gargano - Prominent in possession, but couldn't create much going forward before being replaced in the second half.

24 L. Insigne - A lovely ball over the top played Mertens through inside five minutes, but that was the first and last creative contribution as he struggled to test the Juventus defence from then on out.

7 José Callejón - Needed to be much more decisive in possession. Played a few decent balls into the centre, but did little to test Buffon himself.

14 D. Mertens - A constant threat in attack in the first half, always looking the likeliest to create for his side, but faded a bit as the match wore on.

9 G. Higuaín - Limited to a role as a spectator before being replaced at the break.


Substitutes

23 M. Gabbiadini - His movement off the ball proved vital in helping create space in attack for his side, something Higuain failed to offer.

17 M. Hamšík - Came close to putting his side in front just minutes after coming on, but Buffon denied his header from a corner.
 
8 Jorginho - On for the final 10 minutes but didn't see enough of the ball to make a positive impact on the match.
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Juventus 3-1 Napoli: Juve continue to win at home
thanks to Pereyra, Sturaro, Pepe and Buffon

May 24, 2015
 
Wait a second ... You mean to tell me that the black and white team had nothing to play for and the blue team was playing for a chance to compete in Europe next season?

Admit it, if you just found out that Juve were more than 15 points ahead of Napoli, you would have asked that question too. When I watched the match, it looked like Juventus were the more incisive, more determined, and more convincing side of the two. Maybe they didn't want to lose their streak at home; or maybe the substitutes wanted to show their coach that they too deserve minutes against Barcelona; or maybe all of the players have bought into the idea that at Juve winning is not important, it is the only thing that matters.

If you ask me, it was all of the above.


MATCH SUMMARY

Before the game started, the 10th Coppa Italia was paraded in its new home. Good thing the Juventus Museum is big enough to hold all of these trophies.

Now let's talk about the match. I thought Juventus were going to have a poor display with their minds firmly set on the game against Barca. Nothing could have been farther from the truth. The defense was decided to not let anything past them, the midfield convinced to fight for every ball, and the attack was ready to make Napoli pay. Juventus started with a somewhat rotated side with two very notable inclusions: Kwadwo Asamoah and Kingsley Coman. These two had less than 600 Serie A minutes before today and were eager to make an impression. Coman started things off after 13 minutes with an exquisite pass to put Pereyra in front of goal with plenty of time. The Argentinian coolly finished to make it 1 - 0.

The game continued and Juventus were having almost too much fun. Paul Pogba was running circles around Napoli players and Claudio Marchisio was showing his immense talent. There really wasn't too much of note in the first half, except that Juventus showed to be at a markedly different level than Napoli.

In the second half, Rafa Benitez brought in Manolo Gabbiadini and the ex-Juve owned player changed things quite a bit. He carried the team on his back and brought more pace and creativity to Napoli's attack. From one of these attacks, the ball hit Asamoah's hand in the area and the ref awarded a penalty. Did the bal hit Asamoah's hand? Sure. Was it intentional? Hardly. Insigne's penalty was saved by Gigi, but unfortunately Buffon couldn't do anything on the rebound shot from David Lopez.

Napoli tried hard to score a goal but they met a resolute Juventus defense and a monstrous Gigi Buffon who stopped everything that came his way. There was one nervy moment when Gigi came out but failed to punch the ball which barely missed the net. Juventus weathered the storm and in the 77th minute took the lead. Stefano Sturaro received a pass from Álvaro Morata and turned his man to score a beauty in the top left corner. If you had a poor stream, no one will fault you if you thought Carlos Tevez scored the goal. Sturaro's movement was that of a top forward and a welcome surprise.

Napoli continued to try but at that point Juventus came closer to the third than Napoli to tying things. After a few missed chances, Britos had himself sent off after a ridiculous headbutt on Morata in the 18 yard box. Despite the ball being far away from the play, the referee awarded a penalty as is his right to do so. Pepe took the penalty to seal an impressive show of force with a team missing some of its stars.

After that came the celebrations and the fourth scudetto of the Andrea Agnelli era was lifted by Gigi. So I guess this game finished the same way it started, with a brand new trophy being paraded around the tifosi. Not a bad day to be a Juventino.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon 7.0 Had one terrible play when he was caught in no man's land. With that being said, he saved Juve at least two goals when the match was tied.

Padoin 6.5 Regular Padoin game, he didn't light the world on fire but he also didn't look like Zebina on the flank.

Barzagli 7.0 A rock at the back. Allegri has some tough decisions ahead of the upcoming Champions League final.

 

Bonucci 6.5 Came on for Barzagli at the half. Solid defensive display.

Ogbonna 6.5 Didn't do anything to convince me he is not surplus to requirements.

Asamoah 7.0 Under regular circumstances he would get a 6.5 or even a 6, but after coming from a lengthy injury he gets some points for effort. He run himself to the ground and has much match sharpness to recover. He will be a welcome "addition" to the team next season.

Pogba 7.5 Playing with no pressure allowed him to show all his skill and just have fun. He is growing every game and making a case to start in Berlin in a couple of weeks.

Marchisio 8.0 His game was really flawless today. I wouldn't be surprised if next year Marchisio pushes Pirlo to the bench as the team seeks to rejuvenate itself.

Sturaro 7.5 The kid is having the time of his life. Six months ago he was almost and unknown player. Now he has won one scudetto, a Coppa Italia, played an important role in a Champions League semifinal, and scored his first goal for Juventus. By the way, he was WhoScored man of the match.

Pereyra 7.5 He is slowly improving in the worst feature of his game: his scoring ability. Coolly finished off a good chance like a veteran. He will also be important in the rejuvenation of Juve.

Coman 8.0 His assist was a thing of beauty, no news there. But, did you know he also had a game high three tackles? He has much room to grow but the potential is there.

Morata 7.5 He was always involved in the attack and assisted Sturaro's goal. He provoked Britos on the penalty incident. Although he is not a hot head like Berardi, he can still get into trouble like most players his age and today he could have received a red for instigating Britos (red against Roma, red against Fiorentina).


Allegri 7.5 Keeping a team motivated after three scudetti is a feat. Keeping a team motivated after winning a historic double is incredible.

Aside: A few months ago I said that I didn't know if Allegri was a good coach or just a coach riding in this machine that Conte created. Although I still believe that Conte was responsible for lighting the fire in this group of players, Allegri has been able to play with this fire in ways in which Conte never could. Allegri has demonstrated that he can win long tournaments (Serie A) and elimination tournaments (Coppa Italia). Although I don't think we will be ever breaking 95 points in Serie A with Allegri, we are becoming a more unpredictable team at the hands of our coach. And I couldn't be happier, so thanks Mister, sorry for doubting you.


Summary

Juventus played with more urgency and incisiveness than a Napoli team in need. Sidelined players got time on the ball, well-established players got some minutes on their legs, and youngsters got to show that they can contribute in the future. Two different trophies were paraded around a Juventus stadium that has seen much silverware in the past few years. So long Juventus stadium, see you in a few months when we fight for every ball all over again.
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Juventus defeat Napoli to underline
their winning mentality in Serie A

May 24, 2015
 
Critics often like to tell us that Italian football isn't competitive enough. Teams apparently adopt negative approaches to games and once they sense their inferiority, they stop fighting.

While the likes of Bayern Munich and Chelsea have nothing left to play for, Juventus continue in their quest for success and managed yet another victory as they won 3-1 against Napoli on Saturday afternoon.

A second-string squad playing only for pride, Massimiliano Allegri's men proved they simply like to win. This was by no means an easy match, and fights took place all over the pitch. It was a feisty affair considering Napoli desperately needed a win to still be in with a chance of qualifying for the Champions League next season.

Rafael Benitez's men turned up having failed to score a single league goal at Juventus' new stadium. But with the champions heavily rotating the squad, this was Napoli's chance to score and perhaps even grab the win -- yet it was Juve who started the game with confidence and composure, needing only 13 minutes before they made their superiority count with Kingsley Coman delivering a beautiful chip for Roberto Pereyra to score.

The Bianconeri were in total control in a stadium that was in celebration mode, singing and cheering on their men. When it came to the 39th minute, a giant banner was held with the number 39 emblazoned on it to commemorate the 39 lives lost in the Heysel Stadium disaster 30 years ago. Their names held aloft for the world to acknowledge. Juventus remembered and will never forget.

The second half saw a more determined Partenopei side that began to create an abundance of chances but overcoming a well-organised Juventus defence proved difficult. Gonzalo Higuain simply couldn't outwit Andrea Barzagli and was replaced while Gianluigi Buffon, regardless of the occasion, remains imperious.

With a soft penalty awarded to the visitors, the chance to score in this stadium finally arrived only for Buffon to make a save but he couldn't rescue his team from the rebound and David Lopez equalised. Kwadwo Asamoah gave away the penalty with his clumsiness, and while his eagerness will always be appreciated, he is far from the refined product Juve came to love. It will take time to recover his old form and he was often caught making silly mistakes on the pitch.

Thankfully for him, the Bianconeri refused to be beaten and each player fought with great intensity. Stefano Sturaro in particular played a beautiful game. A newcomer with the attitude of a veteran, he simply refused to surrender and played an immensely well-balanced game.

The warrior then produced a goal that will remain in the minds of many for weeks to come. Exploiting space in superb fashion, he skilfully turned and struck an outrageous goal that put Juve in the lead. Carlos Tevez immediately leapt up and applauded the most unexpected piece of magic witnessed on the pitch. Sturaro truly has been a revelation.

Coman also impressed. The player had previously struggled in recent matches, especially when paired with Fernando Llorente, but he played a powerful game against Napoli. His mobility and ability to overcome defenders make him an interesting addition to the side. He likes to leave his mark even if his decision-making desperately needs to be improved. With a little more time awarded, he can certainly develop into an instrumental player.

The more Juventus fought, the more frustrated Napoli grew until their stars began to surrender to their frustrations with Miguel Angel Britos head-butting Alvaro Morata to concede a penalty and receive a red card. Simone Pepe duly converted to record his first goal for the Old Lady since 2012.

Juventus, along with Parma and Cesena, have proved that regardless of relegation, trophies or the occasion, a win must always be chased. No side regardless of their size or objectives should ever roll over and accept defeat.

With the Coppa Italia and league title in their hands, Juventus defeated Napoli as they did Inter Milan last week, proving they are a team that will always strive for success.
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Napoli’s Britos Apologises
For Head Butt On Morata

May 24, 2015
 
Napoli centre back Miguel Britos has issued an apology for his assault on Juventus forward Alvaro Morata during their 3-1 loss in Turin on Saturday evening.

Reacting to a perceived trip on him as he jogged away late in the game, the Uruguayan responded by planting a firm head butt on to Morata.

Speaking through the club’s official Twitter account @SSCNapoli, he stated: “I apologise to everyone for my action.

“I know that it was wrong and I am sorry.”

Britos was issued with a straight red card for the incident and further disciplinary action seems set to follow.”
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

3 - 1

Roberto Pereyra (13')

David López (50')

Stefano Sturaro (77')
Simone Pepe (92' Penalty)

Saturday, May 23rd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Britos banned for three games

May 26, 2015
 
Napoli’s Miguel Britos has been handed a three-game ban for headbutting Juventus striker Alvaro Morata.

The match at Juventus Stadium was in stoppage time when the defender butted his opponent, which resulted in a penalty for the Bianconeri.

The Lega Serie A has taken a strong line on the incident, banning the Uruguayan for three matches.

Juventus have also been fined €15,000, after their fans were heard singing chants “expressive of discrimination on the grounds of territorial origin”.
 
 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Preview: Hellas Verona vs. Juventus

May 28, 2015
 
Juventus remain firmly on track to secure an historic treble this season, but before heading to Berlin for the Champions League final, they must round off their successful Serie A campaign.

League title already in the bag, the Old Lady take on Hellas Verona this weekend with the hope of prolonging their unbeaten run into next week's showpiece final on the European stage.


Hellas Verona

Having overachieved on their return to the Italian top flight last season, finishing in the top half of the table on the back of an impressive set of results, the target this time around for Verona was to consolidate their place in Serie A.

With just one set of fixtures left to play, Andrea Mandorlini's men have done exactly that. One defeat in their opening six games set the tone, with a current 14-point gap between themselves and the bottom three in the division.

An unlikely win against the champions on Saturday will not quite be enough to secure another top-10 spot, but finishing within the same vicinity as fallen Milan giants Inter and AC certainly marks a fine return for the campaign.

The three-point hauls have dried up in recent weeks, however, with just the one win - at home to Empoli earlier this month - to their name over the past five matchdays.

While at times the Gialloblu's defence has let the side down - only three teams have conceded more than their tally of 63 goals against up the other end - Verona have one man in particular to thank.

At the grand old age of 38, Luca Toni continues to rack up the goals. In fact, should the hosts keep out Juventus star Carlos Tevez this weekend, then it is likely that the Italian World Cup winner will finish as the league's top scorer.

Toni may be tempted into ending his career on foreign shores, but keeping hold of the 21-goal striker will prove key to the Mastini's hopes next term.

Recent form: WDLDWD


Juventus

So far, so good for Juventus in terms of this season's ambitions. A domestic league title firmly in the bag, combined with their recent Coppa Italia success, ensures that things are looking good for Massimiliano Allegri's men at this moment in time.

They are not content with stopping there, either, having booked their place in the Champions League final thanks to a gutsy performance over two legs against current holders Real Madrid.

A season that began with seven league wins on the bounce looks likely to end in a similar manner, with victory over Hellas on Saturday enough to take the Bianconeri's record to 89 points out of a possible 114 for the campaign.

Allegri deserves huge credit for adapting his side to the challenge of competing on three fronts through this gruelling campaign, which looked to be heading towards a stalled finish at one stage.

Two defeats in three games last month, including a shock 2-1 reverse at arch-rivals Torino, allowed others to cut the gap somewhat. But Juve's hopes of retaining their title have never truly looked in doubt right from day one.

Now they have the chance to round things off in style domestically speaking, by building on their two previous victories against Mandorlini's charges this season ahead of that crucial meeting against Barcelona at the Olympic Stadium.

Recent form in Serie A: LWWDWW
Recent form (all competitions): WDDWWW


Team News

There has been plenty of transfer talk surrounding Juventus in recent days, both in terms of incoming and outgoing targets, but focus right now is very much on their final two games.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Old Lady made nine changes to their starting lineup last time out, bringing in Kingsley Coman to lead a much-changed side.

With the European Cup final closing in, Allegri may be tempted to leave Madrid-linked Paul Pogba on the bench, although Tevez may be thrown in to keep the 20-goal forward ticking over.

Meanwhile, Pierluigi Gollini is likely to return to the bench for Verona, while Mounir Obbadi, Eros Pisano and Ivan Martic are all major doubts for the final-day clash.

Toni scored twice in the 2-2 draw against relegated Parma last time out, and he is expected to start in what could potentially be his final game for the club.


Hellas Verona possible starting lineup:
Rafael, Sala, Agostini, Marquez, Moras, Tachtsidis, Obbadi, Hallfredson, Toni, Jankovic, Fernandinho


Juventus possible starting lineup:
Buffon, Ogbonna, Barzagli, Padoin, Asamoah, Marchisio, Morata, Sturaro, Pereyra, Tevez, Coman


Head To Head

Verona have picked up just two points from their last seven league meetings against Juve, while they have only won one of the last 16 Serie A encounters.

However, the last two league encounters at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi have ended in 2-2 draws, which offers more than a glimmer of hope for the home side.

The mid-table club can also take consolation from the fact that they have recouped more points (18) from losing positions than any other top-flight side in Italy this campaign, meaning that the champions are likely to be made to fight all the way in their final league game.

Juventus also brushed aside their opponents 6-1 en route to winning the Coppa Italia earlier this year, with Sebastian Giovinco - now at Toronto - bagging a brace.


We say: Hellas Verona 1-3 Juventus

The visitors may have one eye on the small matter of a Champions League final, but they are likely to prove too strong for a Verona side camped firmly in middle ground right now.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Hellas Verona V Juventus – Preview:
Old Lady Looking To Finish With A Flourish

May 29, 2015
 
Hellas Verona host Serie A champions Juventus at the Stadio Bentegodi on Saturday evening in the Bianconeri’s final test before the Champions League final.

Juventus will face Barcelona in European football’s showcase event in Berlin next Saturday, but must first overcome the challenge of a Verona side hoping to finish above rivals Chievo.

The hosts are currently two points ahead of the Flying Donkeys and could yet finish the season as high as 11th place if other results go their way.

Although Massimiliano Allegri’s Juve wrapped up the league title weeks ago, they should be firing on all cylinders in order to carry some momentum into their big night in Berlin.

Evergreen Hellas striker Luca Toni will be hoping to score against his former club and has been on sensational form, scoring six goals in his last six matches.

The 38-year-old will hope that his side have learned their lesson after two heavy defeats against the Old Lady already this season.

Juve knocked Verona out of the Coppa Italia in January with a whopping 6-1 win, before recording an emphatic 4-0 victory over the Gialloblu in the league only three days later.

Despite that record, Hellas coach Andrea Mandorlini will be encouraged by his side’s recent form, as they have now lost only once in seven matches.

The visitors’ form has hardly fallen since they secured the title either and they arrive at the Bentegodi on the back of knocking Real Madrid out of the Champions League, beating Lazio in the Coppa Italia final and recording league wins over Inter and Napoli.

Artur Ionita and Juanito Gomez could be absent for the home side due to injury problems.

Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli has also been struggling with a niggle and could join Martin Caceres and Romulo on the absentees list.

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


Expected Starting XIs

Verona: Rafael; Sala, Marquez, Moras, Agostini; Obbadi, Tachtsidis, Hallfredsson; Jankovic, Toni, Fernandinho

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Chiellini, Bonucci, Evra; Pogba, Marchisio, Sturaro; Vidal; Morata, Tevez

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Verona - Juventus Preview: Ogbonna
seeks strong Champions League warm-up

In their penultimate game of the season, the Bianconeri will hope to put
in a good performance ahead of their Champions League final next week.

May 29, 2015
 
Angelo Ogbonna has urged Juventus to finish their Serie A season in style as they play their final game before facing Barcelona in the Champions League final.

Juve have already clinched the league title and Coppa Italia and victory over Barca next week will see them lift a historic treble.

Before then, though, the Bianconeri have to complete their domestic campaign and centre-back Ogbonna is keen to put on a show.

"We are already preparing for June 6," Ogbonna told Juve's official website. "We want to have a good match against Verona to end our season in the best possible way before looking towards the Champions League final."

Ogbonna pin-pointed two moments that have defined as Massimiliano Allegri's men's season, adding: "There's the Coppa Italia, which we finally won after 20 years with a great final and a great semi-final against Fiorentina in Florence.

"Perhaps that was the real turning point of the season, along with the 3-1 away win in the league against Napoli in January."

Few would back against Juve finishing off their season strongly, considering they have lost just three times in the league this season.

However, the Bentegodi has proved a difficult ground for Juve, with the club's last two visits both finishing 2-2.


OPTA FACTS

Verona have picked up just two points in their last seven league meetings against Juventus.

Verona have won only once over their last 16 Serie A matches agasint the Old Lady, losing 12 times.

The last two league clashes between Verona and Juventus at the Bentegodi have both ended with a 2-2 draw.

Verona have never repeated the same result twice in a row in their last six Serie A fixtures - their last game ended in a draw against Parma.

Juventus are unbeaten in their last five league games (W4 D1), after they had lost two of the previous three.

Verona have recouped 18 points from trailing situations, a league-high this season.

Juventus have netted the most goals from outside the box across the top five European leagues this season (21).

Carlos Tévez has scored five goals in his three league appearances against Verona, his favourite opponent in the Italian top-flight.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Hellas Verona D W D L D

2015/05/24 - Parma 2 - 2 Hellas Verona
2015/05/17 - Hellas Verona 2 - 1 Empoli
2015/05/10 - Chievo Verona 2 - 2 Hellas Verona
2015/05/03 - Hellas Verona 0 - 1 Udinese
2015/04/29 - Sampdoria 1 - 1 Hellas Verona

Juventus W W W D D

2015/05/23 - Juventus 3 - 1 Napoli
2015/05/20 - Juventus 2 - 1 Lazio
2015/05/16 - Internazionale 1 - 2 Juventus
2015/05/13 - Real Madrid 1 - 1 Juventus
2015/05/09 - Juventus 1 - 1 Cagliari


HEAD TO HEAD

2015/01/18 - Juventus 4 - 0 Hellas Verona
2015/01/15 - Juventus 6 - 1 Hellas Verona
2014/02/09 - Hellas Verona 2 - 2 Juventus
2013/09/22 - Juventus 2 - 1 Hellas Verona
2007/04/27 - Hellas Verona 0 - 1 Juventus

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

'Juve duty to play well'

May 29, 2015
 
Max Allegri looks forward to the 'final conclusion' to Juventus' season after the game against Hellas Verona.

The Bianconeri conquered the Scudetto several weeks ago and are expected to field a dress-rehearsal formation against Verona ahead of the Champions League final in Berlin, but the 47-year-old wished to open his Press conference on a different note.

“Before anything else I'd like to start by remembering what happened 30 years ago, a black page in the history of sports and Juventus,” he said, in reference to the Heysel Stadium disaster, which saw the death of 39 supporters.

“I think today the only thing to be done is to commemorate the victims and be close to their families.

“Tomorrow is an important game because it's our last test before the Champions League final.

“It's not Allegri's Juve, it's just a team that played an extraordinary season. We're short of the final conclusion, the Champions League.

“We have to wait seven days because it can't be played any earlier.

“So tomorrow we have a duty to play a good game, especially to make sure our levels of tension stay high.

“We're in a good physical condition, but tomorrow our minds mustn't go to Berlin. That wouldn't make sense.

“Our minds must go only to Verona, so we can close the championship in the best possible way.

“I'll choose my formation today, though I have a lot of players who picked up yellow cards and may be suspended for the Supercup, so I'll have to think about it.

“The fact that a player doesn't play tomorrow doesn't mean he isn't ready for the final.

“The team is doing well. I have a lot of players who put in a lot of matches, but the final gives you so much drive that it makes no difference whether you've played an extra game or not.

“Andrea Barzagli? We won't know whether he can play until Tuesday or Wednesday.

“He's progressing well. I'm not going to say how likely it is that we'll see him against Barcelona, because it's an injury, but all the staff is working to bring him back.

“As for Pogba, he's doing fine. It's understandable that after the second game in Madrid – I mean the second after his game against Cagliari – he should have picked up his condition again.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Allegri: Juventus Focused On Hellas Verona, Not Barcelona

May 29, 2015
 
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has urged his players to remain focused on ending their Serie A season on a high and not on the upcoming Champions League final against Barcelona.

The Italian champions are expected to convincingly defeat 13th-placed Verona when they travel to the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on Saturday.

And the 47-year-old has insisted that the team are in good shape and motivated coming into their final domestic fixture.

“It is the last test before the final. It’s not ‘Allegri’s Juve’ but a team that has done a fantastic this season,” he told reporters.

“We haven’t played for seven days. Now we have to try to keep the focus high and go to and play Hellas Verona, with Verona with on our mind, and not Berlin.

“The team is well, so many players have played a lot. The final has different motivations though.

“For us it is normal to have enthusiasm, it’s hard to repeat a season like this, most of what has been done was difficult.”

Allegri then went on to address the team’s injury issues, and has reassured the club’s supporters that things are progressing nicely.

“We will not know about Barzagli until Tuesday,” the tactician continued. “I do not know if he is proceeding well, the medical staff are all doing their best.

“Pogba is fine and normal after the second game in Madrid and has had a good run, as have the others.”

When asked about how Juventus will take on Barcelona in the final, Allegri admits it will be hard to contain the Catalan’s world-class players.

“When you play these challenging games with great players, if we have the right approach, we will deserve the win,” Allegri said.

“We have to be calm and play with enthusiasm.

“We face two teams with different characteristics, we have to be as if we were playing Real, if not more so.

“It is a single game, but now there is no need to talk of Barcelona. On Sunday the guys will rest and will resume working on Monday to prepare for the week ahead.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Hellas Verona v Juventus: Preview

May 29, 2015
 
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri is stressing the importance of winning Sunday's game at Hellas Verona in order to avoid going into their Champions League final against Barcelona on the back of a loss.

The Serie A champions end the campaign at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi before facing Barca in next week's top European game in Berlin.

``This is our last test before the final,'' Allegri said to the Italian press. ``Now we must try to maintain our level of high concentration and go to Verona with our minds on Sunday's game and not on Berlin.''

Juve, under first-year coach Allegri, have already captured their first domestic double in two decades after winning the Coppa Italia against Lazio.

They head into the final round of the season 16 points clear of second-placed Roma in the standings.

``We've had an extraordinary campaign,'' Allegri said. ``We are just missing the icing on the cake.

``We are all excited about the final and I believe we can play a great game against Barcelona.''

Carlos Tevez is expected to start at Hellas having been rested in last weekend's 3-1 triumph over Napoli.

The Argentinian forward is Juve's top scorer this season with 20 league goals, the same as compatriot Mauro Icardi of Inter Milan, and both players are one goal shy of Hellas Verona's Luca Toni, who leads the Serie A goalscoring charts.

``I will give Tevez the possibility to try to overtake Toni as the top goalscorer in the league,'' Allegri said. ``Although I believe both players are worthy of the award.''

Toni, who struck twice for Hellas Verona in Sunday's 2-2 draw at Parma to leapfrog Tevez and Icardi into first place, is ready for the challenge.

``I am calm and hoping to take my chances,'' he said. ``Finishing as the top scorer in Serie A would be very satisfying for me and my team, because it is thanks to them that I have 21 goals.

``No Verona player has ever been capocannoniere (top scorer) in Serie A.''

Toni, 38, won the award by scoring 31 goals for Fiorentina in the 2005-06 campaign and came close last season when he finished in second place with 20 goals, two fewer than then Torino forward Ciro Immobile.

``He has given us so much in the past two years,'' Hellas coach Andrea Mandorlini said. ``We hope we can help him on Sunday.

``It would be a fantastic achievement and well deserved.''

Hellas are 13th in the standings, one place and two points above city rivals Chievo.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Juventus name squad for Verona

May 29, 2015
 
Massimiliano Allegri has named a 22-man Juventus squad for the trip face Verona tomorrow evening.

The only surprise inclusion is 16-year-old goalkeeper Mattia Del Favero, who is included in the travelling party ahead of third-choice ‘keeper Rubinho.

The Brazilian customarily makes a cameo appearance in the last game of the season, but that honour could now go to the young shot-stopper.

Having failed to play a single game this season, Rubinho now has twice as many trophies with Juventus as appearances, having won three Scudetti and the Coppa Italia, while only actually taking to the field twice.

The match represents the Bianconeri’s last domestic appointment of the season, but they still have the Champions League final with Barcelona to look forward to on June 6.


Juventus squad to face Verona:

Buffon, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Morata, Tevez, Coman, Llorente, De Ceglie, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Storari, Matri, Evra, Pereyra, Del Pavero.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

HELLAS VERONA V JUVENTUS PREVIEW

May 29, 2015
 

 Juventus

There’s very little at stake for Juventus in the final Serie A match, a week before the much anticipated Champions League final. The coach Massimiliano Allegri stated that they would like Carlos Tevez to be the top scorer of the League, but given how much he rested over the last few weeks, they wouldn’t be very disappointed if he didn’t win the symbolic award. A shoot-out between the two contenders Tevez and Luca Toni would be riveting.

This is the final tune-up before the Berlin game and the rotation will be moderate. In the pre-game presser, Allegri said that they don’t want the players who are one yellow card away from disqualification to risk losing the Super Coppa, which should be played in the summer this year (against Lazio). Therefore Giorgio Chiellini, Arturo Vidal, Roberto Pereyra and Stefano Sturaro are likely to be benched (Paolo De Ceglie is in the same condition but I doubt he’ll be at Juventus in August).

If he strictly followed this principle, the coach would have a strange squad at disposal, very limited in the midfield and especially with no options at CAM. So it’s possible that Pereyra or Sturaro will make an appearance anyway and then it’ll be up to them to be cautious, and, no disrespect, but having them sidelined wouldn’t be as bad as having Vidal or Chiellini suspended.

The main goal is to avoid what happened in the last game when Andrea Barzagli suffered a thigh problem. Barzagli has been only a borderline starter this season because of his health issues, but not having him at disposal on June 6 would deprive Allegri of the possibility of using a three-man defense (the first Bayern Munich game showed that it’s not effective, but if you are up one goal with few minutes to go, that’s a no brainer). A rectus femoris strain usually heals in three weeks, let’s see if they’ll be able to speed up the recovery.

Juventus can’t afford to lose any starter: it’s very easy to suffer an injury so deep into the season because of the wear and tear. Leonardo Bonucci and Stephen Lichtsteiner have a lot of mileage on them (4,5k and 3.9k minutes this season), Patrice Evra and Andrea Pirlo are aged. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them on the bench. If Pereyra and Vidal was indeed preserved, it would mean that Simone Pepe or Kingsley Coman would be forced to play out of position in the hole. Fernando Llorente is the favorite to start over Alvaro Morata. A typical three-man attack with both Spaniards sitting is a possibility. Rubinho, Luca Marrone. Kwadwo Asamoah aren’t in the squad list for unknown reasons.


Probable lineup

4-3-1-2: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Evra; Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pereyra; Llorente, Tevez.

Injured players

Barzagli (thigh), Caceres (ankle), Romulo (thigh).


 

  Hellas Verona

All in all, Hellas Verona had a pretty boring season: last season’s campaign was an exploit and it’s understandable that they have taken a step back since they had much less talent on the roster this year. The have been solid, but they didn’t have an explosive offensive talent like Juan Manuel Iturbe or an interesting reclamation project like Romulo. They had a bunch of veterans: some matched expectations, some were a little below average. Nico Lopez, who replaced Iturbe, had some good moments but didn’t break out the way they hoped and also Campanharo, a possible new Jorginho, didn’t pan out. However, only once they slipped towards the dangerous zones of the table, but they brilliantly recovered and navigated with ease through the final stretches. They are sitting comfortably in thirteenth position with 45 points.

While they don’t have any more team goals to achieve, they do have one more objective they are pushing for: they want Luca Toni to win the scorers’ chart. He has a one-goal advantage over Tevez and Mauro Icardi going into the final match day. That’s not surprising because Hellas Verona is the only team that really plays for one man, since Udinese have slowly shifted away from Antonio Di Natale.

Therefore we can expect tons of crosses and long balls, with every member of the squad committed to feeding the centre-forward in the box, which is really no different from what they’ve been doing all season long. Toni has never had the speed and the agility, but he’s powerful, he constantly outmuscles defenders, he’s always aware of where the goal and the goalkeeper are, he has a bag of old man’s tricks he can use in every situation and he mastered the art of scoring while out of balance.

It’s the end of the season, so it’s normal that there are some bruises here and here. Artur Ionita, an early spark that quickly faded, is definitely out with a thigh injury, Munir Obbadi, Rafa Marquez and Eros Pisano are dealing with minor thigh problems but they might play through them. Guillermo Rodriguez is the most likely replacement for the Mexican CB if the physical issue ultimately sidelines him.

Anyway, Mandorlini has plenty of option to mold his usual 4-3-3, also thanks to the stud Jacopo Sala, who can cover the whole right flank. It looks like he’ll play in the defense, with Alessandro Agostini on the other wing. But Sala might move to the midfield if Obbadi wasn’t ready to play. Juanito Gomez seems to have recovered from a minor injury and he’s slated to start up front, probably sharing time with the Brazilian trickers Fernandinho, who’s been getting loud cheers from Bentegodi in his rare appearances.

It’s the final game of the season so it might be the right opportunity to give a chance to some youngsters who haven’t got much playing time like Pierluigi Gollini, Ivan Martic, Mattia Valoti and Frederick Sorensen. We’ll see if Mandorlini will rely on them.


Probable lineup

4-3-3: Rafael; Sala, Moras, Marquez, Agostini; Obbadi, Tachtsidis, Hallfredsson; Juanito Gomez, Toni, Jankovic.

 

Injured players

Ionita (thigh), Pisano (thigh).

 

Formation

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Juventus vs. Hellas Verona Preview: Round 38 —
Last call ... in Italy, at least

May 29, 2015
 
When I've rolled out the match preview that involved "Round 38" the last few seasons, it has usually come with the mention of something like "We'll see you all in a couple of months. Have fun with all the transfer rumors now!" It's pretty much the official declaration that the actual season is just 24 hours from ending and the absolute silly one is just a couple of hours away from getting underway.

Except this season's Round 38 post isn't the last preview of the season. Oh no, there's still one more game to be played after the 2014-15 Serie A season comes to a close. It's not for the Coppa Italia; we've already done that. It's much, much bigger than that.

Seven days from tomorrow, Juventus will embark on their biggest game since the 2003 Champions League final. And it's no coincidence that it's against one of the teams they beat the last time they made a run into the biggest game European football has to offer. It's no offense to Hellas Verona, really. They're just the final game before that game in the grand old city of Berlin on June 6.

Juventus vs. Hellas Verona is the final game of the Serie A season. But it's not Juventus final game of the 2014-15 season. See the difference? Good, because there's an obvious difference to identify. One game is against Hellas Verona, the other is against everybody's odds-on favorite to win the Champions League this season in Barcelona. (Gee, Juventus in an underdog kind of role in the Champions League. Where have we seen that one before...?)

Juventus have gotten their Scudetto celebration out of the way last week. Same goes for winning the club's 10th Coppa Italia. So all that matters is one thing — that same Champions League final next Saturday in Berlin. Juventus' trip to the Bentegodi is the last warm-up for that final against the Spanish champions. Just one, and that's it. Finish the Serie A season and then it's nothing but a week full of "CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL! CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL! CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL!"

My gut tells me that Juve are playing relatively well right now. And here's confirmation of that.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
Form guide? We head into Saturday's #VeronaJuve with four wins and a draw from our last five @SerieA_TIM matches.

And you know what would be a good thing heading into the Champions League final? Yeah, extending that good run of form. Nobody wants to see Juventus lay an egg with such a monumental match just a week away. Well, maybe Barcelona, but that's just a guess on my part.


GOOD NEWS

This isn't the las game of Juventus' season!


BAD NEWS

But it's the last Serie A game of the season. I've kinda liked this season, too.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Luca Toni vs. Carlos Tévez for the Serie A scoring title.

Outside of the fact that Juventus will be playing in the Champions League final in eight days, this is the biggest storyline heading into the Serie A finale for both teams tomorrow night. It's not very common to see two direct competitors for the Capocannoniere play against one another on the final week of the season. And while Mauro Icardi is also in the race to win the Serie A scoring crown, he plays for Inter and therefore will be disregarded. (Sorry, not sorry.) Max Allegri said at his pre-match press conference that Tévez will play on Saturday, which means he'll have the chance to pull level or leapfrog Mr. Numero Uno on the final weekend of the season. And you know what Tévez did the last time he faced Hellas Verona? Yeah, he scored a brace in Juventus' blowout win in Turin back in mid-January. If Juve keep Hellas Verona scoreless, well then Tévez has a shot to tie Toni with 21 Serie A goals at the very least.


2. Who sits, who plays?

With the Champions League final a week away and no games to be played between tomorrow's Serie A finale and a week from Saturday, I wouldn't be surprised to see Allegri field a relatively Juventus A lineup compared to the Juventus B one we've seen the last few weekends. But we also know that regardless of what Max says at his pre-match press conferences, any kind of general, nondescript comment about the starting lineup should just be translated to something like "Yeah, just wait to see the starting XI tomorrow, folks." The luxury Allegri has is that he could give somebody like Andrea Pirlo or Patrice Evra two weeks off between games. That's not exactly something every manager gets to do on a regular basis. And when you take into consideration that Barca will be playing in the Copa Del Rey final on Saturday, it's not like they have a chance to do massive squad rotation.


3. Who starts alongside Tévez in attack?

It really is a toss up at this point. Allegri could decide to stick with the Tévez-Morata partnership with the Champions League final seven days away. Or, Mad Max could decide to give the young Spaniard most of the game off at the very least to ensure that he goes into the final as rested as anybody. Some folks are thinking that it will be Fernando Llorente starting next to Tévez, others have a hunch and are predicting it will be Alessandro Matri. At this point, it doesn't really matter. If Morata plays, then that's great. If Morata rests, then we'll know exactly why. And it's not like Morata hasn't been playing well lately. Out of all the Juventus players, Morata is certainly one of the most in-form ones — especially in Europe. Maybe we could ask some of his former Real Madrid teammates to remind us about that...


4. Can everybody stay healthy.

Dear God I hope so. The last thing Juventus needs right now is somebody getting hurt. And that's on top of the waiting game we're currently playing with Andrea Barzagli and his recovery from the thigh injury he suffered against Napoli last weekend.


My starting XI (4-3-1-2):

Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba; Pereyra; Tévez, Morata

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Mandorlini: Hellas Verona Will Produce A Big
Performance Against Juventus

May 30, 2015
 
Hellas Verona coach Andrea Mandorlini hopes his side can end the Serie A season on a high and stop the rot against champions Juventus.

The Gialloblu have suffered against Massimiliano Allegri’s team this season, losing heavily at the Juventus stadium 6-1 and 4-0 in Coppa Italia and Serie A, respectively.

Mandorlini doesn’t believe Juventus will be distracted by their upcoming Champions League final with Barcelona but is drawing inspiration from their last encounter at the Stadio Bentegodi, when Verona fought from 2-0 down to claim a 2-2 draw.

“We will try our best to produce one last big performance,” the 54-year-old told the press.

“It has been difficult for us in Turin and, while we have since achieved our season’s objectives, but we have not forgotten about those results.

“I am convinced that Juventus will come here ready to compete, so we must be prepared mentality and physically for the match.

“The game last year [a 2-2 draw] is still fresh in the memory and it would be nice to repeat it, even though it will be difficult.”

Evergreen Hellas striker Luca Toni has scored six goals in his last six matches to go into the final round of fixtures top scorer in Italy with 21 goals.

The 38-year-old is one strike ahead of Inter’s Mauro Icardi and Juve’s own Carlos Tevez, and could clinch his second Capocannoniere crown against his former club on Saturday evening.

“Toni vs Tevez? We of course will all be rooting for Luca, and we must do everything we can to help him,” Mandorlini added.

“In addition, we need to be stand firm in defence to neutralise the threat from Tevez, who has already scored against us this season.”

While Hellas have only lost once in their last seven outings, they have only avoided defeat to Juventus three times in 14 top flight meetings, with their sole victory recorded 15 years ago.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Line-ups: Verona-Juventus

May 30, 2015
 
Juventus have a dry run for the Champions League Final, as Carlos Tevez battles Luca Toni for top scorer.

It kicks off at 18.00 CET.

Going into the final round of the Serie A season, Toni is Capocannoniere with 21 goals, followed by Tevez and Mauro Icardi of Inter on 20.

They go head-to-head at the Stadio Bentegodi and await tomorrow’s Inter-Empoli to see what Icardi can give in reply.

It would be a huge achievement for Toni to win, as he turned 38 this week and last took the Serie A crown nine years ago.

Fernando Llorente gets the nod ahead of Alvaro Morata, while Simone Padoin and Angelo Ogbonna step in for not 100 per cent fit Stephan Lichtsteiner and Andrea Barzagli.

Arturo Vidal is also rested, as he’d likely start against Barcelona rather than Roberto Pereyra.


Verona: Rafael; Sala, Moras, Marquez, Agostini; Greco, Tachtsidis, Hallfredsson; Gomez Taleb, Toni, Jankovic

Verona bench: Benussi, Gollini, Rodriguez, Saviola, Obbadi, Nico Lopez, Marques, Valoti, Campanharo, Fernandinho, Martic, Fares
 

Juventus: Buffon; Padoin, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Evra; Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pereyra; Tevez, Llorente

Juventus bench: Storari, Del Favero, Chiellini, Pepe, Morata, Coman, De Ceglie, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Matri

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

-

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

HT 0-1: Pereyra steals the spotlight

May 30, 2015
 
A stunning strike from Roberto Pereyra has given Juventus the half-time lead away to Verona, though Fernando Llorente hit the bar.

The Bianconeri played many of their top stars a week before the Champions League Final with Barcelona, resting only Arturo Vidal, Giorgio Chiellini, Alvaro Morata and not 100 per cent fit Andrea Barzagli.

This was also a head-to-head for the Capocannoniere title, as going into the final round Luca Toni had 21 goals, Carlos Tevez and Inter’s Mauro Icardi 20.

Toni almost went up to 22 after five minutes, but Gigi Buffon did just enough to force his shot wide from six yards.

A Juanito Gomez Taleb header was over the bar from a corner, while Tevez and Paul Pogba aimed weak efforts. Claudio Marchisio’s volley into the ground bounced over from 12 yards.

Toni again threatened, as he turned wide from close range after Emil Hallfredsson somehow stopped the ball rolling out of play.

Fernando Llorente could not have come closer after 34 minutes, as his volley smacked against the bar with Rafael beaten.

Juve really should scored when Roberto Pereyra dribbled to the by-line and rolled across the face of goal, but nobody was there to tap it in.

Pereyra decided to take matters into his own hands and scored a magnificent goal. He curled right into the far top corner where it was simply impossible to reach, a Del Piero-esque effort from 20 metres. Pereyra scored his debut Serie A goal against Verona and confirmed his Hellas hoodoo.

Tevez turned a defender inside out only for the finish to be deflected on to the side-netting.


Verona 0-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Pereyra 42 (J)

Verona: Rafael; Sala, Moras, Marquez, Agostini; Greco, Tachtsidis, Hallfredsson; Gomez Taleb, Toni, Jankovic

Juventus: Buffon; Padoin, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Evra; Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pereyra; Tevez, Llorente

Ref: Di Bello

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

2 - 2

Roberto Pereyra (42')

Luca Toni (48')

Fernando Llorente (57')

Juanito Gómez (90'+)

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Verona 2-2 Juventus: Last gasp
Juanito denies Bianconeri

The visitors were on course for victory but an injury-time goal
denied them all three points on the final day of the Serie A season.

May 30, 2015
 
Juventus were denied victory on the final day of the Serie A season after Juanito's injury-time equaliser saw Verona snatch a late 2-2 draw.
Having already secured their first domestic double for 20 years, the champions began slowly and were twice nearly punished by Verona's veteran striker Luca Toni before the break.

Fernando Llorente cannoned a volley off the bar as Juventus gradually began to build momentum and they took the lead just before the break through Roberto Pereryra, who produced a breath-taking strike from 25 yards.

But the hosts fought back, and the lively Toni was on hand to finish off a sweeping counterattack just after half-time.

The visitors restored their lead just before the hour mark when a lovely move behind the defence allowed Llorente to fire home, before Carlos Tevez was denied late on from the spot.

Things went from bad to worse for Allegri's side, though, when Simone Pepe was sent off, and the resulting free-kick saw Juanito head home a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser.

The result is sure to disappoint Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri, whose side will need a substantially improved performance if they are to beat Barcelona in Berlin and earn an historic treble.

Tevez returned to spearhead Allegri’s attack, but it was Capocannoniere rival and ex-Juventus striker Toni who fashioned the first chance after six minutes, latching on to Juanito's deflected pass inside the area before poking wide.

Juanito headed Emil Hallfredsson's fizzed corner over the bar nine minutes later, as the visitors struggled to find their usual fluency.

Claudio Marchisio powered a vicious volley into the ground and wide on 23 minutes, but Verona continued to threaten, with Toni prodding just wide from close-range following Hallfredsson's whipped cross.

Llorente nearly marked his own return to the Juventus starting line-up with a goal just after the half hour mark, but his crashing volley came back off the bar.

Yet the visitors were not to be denied and took the lead four minutes before the break when Pereyra cut in from the left and curled home a stunning effort.

But Verona kept going and were rewarded for their efforts early in the second half when a superb counter-attack allowed Hallfredsson to play in Toni, who this time made no mistake in stroking home for his 22nd goal of the season.

The Italian was denied a second on 54 minutes after slicing wide, and the visitors soon seized the initiative.

A trademark ball from Andrea Pirlo over the defence found Simone Padoin, whose cushioned header teed it up for Llorente to fire into the net.

Tevez came close to wrapping up the win at the other end by driving wide 10 minutes from time and the Argentine should have made sure of victory with an 88th-minute penalty but saw his weak effort saved by Rafael.

And things got worse for the visitors in stoppage-time as Pepe was red-carded for scything down Mattia Valoti in the centre circle, with the resulting free-kick into the box finding the head of Juanito, who earned his side a well-earned point.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

VERONA - JUVENTUS

2 - 2

Roberto Pereyra (42')

Luca Toni (48')

Fernando Llorente (57')

Juanito Gómez (90'+)

Saturday, May 30th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium, Verona
Referee: Marco Di Bello

Toni on target in Juve thriller

Luca Toni got his 22nd goal for Capocannoniere, but Carlos Tevez
missed a penalty, Simone Pepe saw red and Verona pegged Juventus back 2-2.

May 30, 2015
 
The Bianconeri played many of their top stars a week before the Champions League Final with Barcelona, resting only Arturo Vidal, Giorgio Chiellini, Alvaro Morata and not 100 per cent fit Andrea Barzagli.

This was also a head-to-head for the Capocannoniere title, as going into the final round Luca Toni had 21 goals, Carlos Tevez and Inter’s Mauro Icardi 20.

Toni almost went up to 22 after five minutes, but Gigi Buffon did just enough to force his shot wide from six yards.

A Juanito Gomez Taleb header was over the bar from a corner, while Tevez and Paul Pogba aimed weak efforts. Claudio Marchisio’s volley into the ground bounced over from 12 yards.

Toni again threatened, as he turned wide from close range after Emil Hallfredsson somehow stopped the ball rolling out of play.

Fernando Llorente could not have come closer after 34 minutes, as his volley smacked against the bar with Rafael beaten.

Juve really should scored when Roberto Pereyra dribbled to the by-line and rolled across the face of goal, but nobody was there to tap it in.

Pereyra decided to take matters into his own hands and scored a magnificent goal. He curled right into the far top corner where it was simply impossible to reach, a Del Piero-esque effort from 20 metres. Pereyra scored his debut Serie A goal against Verona and confirmed his Hellas hoodoo.

Tevez turned a defender inside out only for the finish to be deflected on to the side-netting.

The second half started with a bang, as Hallfredsson went on the counter and spread the play down the left for Toni, who took a touch to beat Buffon at the near post. It was his 22nd Serie A goal of the season, extending his lead at the top of the Capocannoniere charts.

Toni volleyed a Jacopo Sala cross wide, then Angelo Ogbonna was decisive to stop him tapping in a knocked-down free kick.

However, it was Juventus who restored their lead somewhat against the run of play. Andrea Pirlo’s divine chipped pass was pulled back from the by-line by Simone Padoin for Llorente to tap in.

Juanito Gomez Taleb had the ball in the net, but only after a very obvious handling offence, while Juanito had penalty appeals for a coming together with Ogbonna.

Rafael Marquez hauled Llorente down for a penalty, as he wasn’t even pretending to go for the ball. This gave Tevez the opportunity to add another goal to his tally, but Rafael fingertipped it round the base of the post!

There was bedlam in stoppages, as substitute Simone Pepe received a straight red card for his truly silly tackle from behind on Mattia Valoti. It was a terrible way to mark what is probably his final game for Juventus.

Moments later, Verona equalised, as a free kick was curled into the box for Juanito Gomez Taleb to bend the header into the far bottom corner. The Hellas squad went mad, as even Coach Andrea Mandorlini sprinted under the curva to celebrate.

Toni now has to wait for Icardi’s performance against Empoli tomorrow to see if he’ll win the Capocannoniere title again after 2005-06.


Verona:

Rafael; Sala, Moras, Marquez, Agostini; Greco (Obbadi 59), Tachtsidis (Saviola 84), Hallfredsson; Juanito Gomez, Toni, Jankovic (Valoti 74)

Juventus:

Buffon; Padoin, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Evra (Lichtsteiner 59); Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio (Sturaro 46); Pereyra (Pepe 77); Tevez, Llorente

Ref: Di Bello

Saved penalty: Tevez 88 (J)

Sent off: Pepe 92 (J)

 

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