Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Vidal: Pirlo Is An Incredible Player

Nov 30, 2014

Arturo Vidal has hailed his team mate Andrea Pirlo and has spoken of the difficulty Juventus faced against Torino.

The Bianconeri earned a last gasp win against their city rivals courtesy of Pirlo’s late strike despite playing the final ten minutes with just ten men after Stephan Lichtsteiner saw red.

“Pirlo is an incredible player, he did everything in the build up for his goal, I simply gave him the ball,” he told Sky Sport Italia after the game.

“It was a difficult game, as it always is against Torino.

“They played with ten men behind the ball and it was never easy.”

He then discussed his new role as a play maker in the line-up.

“I prefer being in the play maker role, it means I am closer to the goal.”

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Player Ratings: Juventus 2 – 1 Torino

Nov 30, 2014

Juventus ran out as 2-1 winners over Torino in the Derby della Mole at Juventus Stadium on Sunday evening.

Arturo Vidal gave the Bianconeri the lead with an early penalty before a goal-of-the-seaon contender from Bruno Peres brought Torino back into the game. The Granata could well have gone on to win the game themselves but a last gasp Andrea Pirlo strike eventually claimed all three points for the Scudetto holders.

Did we get our ratings right? Have your say in the comments below or get in touch on Twitter!

 

Juventus

Marco Storari – 6 – Composed - The late stand in for Gianluigi Buffon didn’t have too much to worry about despite Torino attacking well after falling behind.

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 5 – Dismissed - Spoiled a generally decent performance in his new club role of fullback by getting himself sent off late on for needlessly diving into a tackle to pick up a second booking.

Leonardo Bonucci – 6 – Competent - A very good performance from the Italian international who went toe-to-toe with Fabio Quagliarella and dealt with the busy striker reasonably well.

Giorgio Chiellini – 6 – Undaunted - Along with Bonucci, Chiellini was one of very few players who did their job as expected tonight. Looked comfortable and unfazed as Torino began to turn the screw in the second half.

Patrice Evra – 6 – Experience - The Frenchman had a generally good game with the exception of being outpaced by Bruno Peres for Torino’s equaliser. Made a vital tackle in the last few minutes to deny a great chance for Toro to take a 2-1 lead.

Paul Pogba – 6 – Industrious - Worked hard in the midfield but failed to contribute enough in an attacking regard for his side.

Andrea Pirlo – 6,5 – Clutch - After a quiet display, the playmaker came up big in the vital moments to grab football’s equivalent of a half-court buzzer beater. Would have received a lower rating were it not for his late heroics.

Claudio Marchisio – 6 – Underwhelming - A criticism that can be levelled at most of the Bianconeri players today, but Marchisio was nothing more than a passenger for the most part as Juve’s midfielders struggled to get a strong foothold on the game.

Arturo Vidal - 6 – Liable - Took his penalty well, especially considering the pressure of having to retake it, but it went downhill from there for the Chilean. Must take a large portion of the blame for Peres’ goal as he seemingly gave up on tracking the run of the wingback.

Carlos Tevez – 5 – Struggled - Although he failed to make any telling impact on the game before his late substitution, Tevez showed glimpses of his typical bullish self as he attempted to power his way through the defence.

Fernando Llorente – 4 – Anonymous - Was no more than a passenger in the hour he spent on the pitch and it wouldn’t be shocking to see him dropped ahead of Friday’s trip to Florence.


Substitutes

Alvaro Morata – 4.5 – Invisible - Allegri will have hoped for an upgrade on Llorente in introducing his fellow countryman, but Morata offered little more than his predecessor.

Roberto Pereyra – 5 – Suffered - Failed to impact the game following his introduction, suffered after his side went down to ten men as he was temporarily sacrificed to drop into the vacant right fullback position.

Angelo Ogbonna – No Rating


 

Torino

Jean-Francois Gillet – 6 – Spectator - It’s not often this can be said about a goalkeeper facing Juventus, but Torino’s shot-stopper faced few attempts on target as his side defended as a unit and limited Juve’s chances well. Could do nothing to prevent both goals, especially Pirlo’s last minute winner.

Nikola Maksimovic – 6 – Strong - As is true for the rest of his defensive partners, the Serb was a solid performer defensively and played well as part of a compact unit, limiting Juve’s goals to a penalty and a wonder goal.

Kamil Glik – 6 – Leader - Picked up a booking relatively early on but managed to stay composed and cool headed for the remainder of the game, making a few important tackles to keep Juve at bay for the majority of the match.

Emiliano Moretti – 6 – Assured - One of Toro’s several former Juventus players. Played well in a back three and looked comfortable with and without possession.

Bruno Peres – 6,5 – Fuelled - This rating could be awarded based on nothing more than the goal and that would be fair. The Brazilian wing-back ended a 12-year goalscoring drought for Toro against the Old Lady and did so with a contender for goal of the season.

Alessandro Gazzi – 5 – Sacrificed - Admirably sacrificed himself for the greater good of the team. Broke up several Juventus attacks before passing the ball on to his teammates while he sat back to offer cover to his three defenders.

Giuseppe Vives – 5 – Lost - A rare poor performance in what was almost a flawless Torino display. Offered little to his side in possession and looked lost and out of place when defending.

Omar El Kaddouri – 6 – Workhorse - Despite conceding the penalty which gave the hosts the lead, the midfielder recovered well and was one of the standout players on the pitch.

Matteo Darmian – 6.5 – Energetic - Defended well and offered support in attack. The wingback caused problems for Lichtsteiner when going forward and fulfilled his defensive duties well.

Fabio Quagliarella – 6 – Link - An industrious performance linking the midfield to attack time and time again. Almost grabbed himself a goal too as he snuck in at the near post only to poke the ball wide.

Amauri – 6 – Battler - The veteran striker battled throughout the game and put in one of his better performances since joining the Granata in the summer.


Substitutes

Marco Benassi – 5 – Improvement - Improved on Vives whom he replaced. However, he did concede possession which led to Pirlo’s winner.

Marcelo Larrondo – No Rating

Juan Sanchez Mino – No Rating

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Ventura: Torino Fans
Must Respect Players

Nov 30, 2014

Giampiero Ventura has defended his players following their derby defeat against Juventus insisting that fans must respect his players.

After the Bianconeri secured a 2-1 win with the last kick of the game, Ventura gestured towards the fans with his hand around his neck and the head coach admitted that a fan wound him up.

“A fan made me lose my mind, you cannot insult players after a performance like that,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“A fan like that does not even deserve to come to the stadium.

“We want respect and they must learn the word respect.

“I apologise to everyone for my gesture, but we are human beings too.”

As for the actual game, he lamented his side losing possession at the death.

“You cannot lose the ball with 15 seconds to play, unfortunately we have lost the game.

“Nevertheless, it was a big step forward for us. We put Juventus under pressure and we had the chance to see out the game.

“I feel sorry for the players and the fans as we deserved a win.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: Torino Deserved Draw
Against Juventus

Nov 30, 2014

Massimilliano Allegri feels that his Juventus were lucky to beat Torino and that a draw would have been the right result.

The Bianconeri dominated play before the break for long periods and in spite of a poor second half where the side struggled with ten men late on, they managed to secure a last second 2-1 win in the Derby della Mole.

“The win tonight makes up for the defeat against Genoa, perhaps a draw was a more just result but sometimes football brings back what it previously took away from you,” he told Sky Sport Italia post match.

“The team put in a strong first half, we conceded a poor goal, it is difficult [for a coach] to see a player running 70 metres before scoring.

“In the second half we were not as good as we usually are, after they equalised it became a difficult game.

“Torino play a style where they open up the field and make it more difficult [for the opposition].

“It is worth noting that the players always believed [in themselves] until the very end.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus 2 - Torino 1: Initial
reaction and random observations

Nov 30, 2014

Andrea Pirlo, man.

I seriously sat here in my recliner for about 10 minutes trying to think of a better way to start this thing. But that first sentence above seems like the only appropriate thing to write right now. Just "Andrea Pirlo, man." I don't really know what else to say after such a ridiculous ending in a game that looked destined to finish 1-1 and leave us all frustrated to all hell.

It was the ultimate snatch-and-grab. Juventus just stole a win right when Toro thought they were getting a point away from home. Everybody thought it was going to be a draw. Andrea Pirlo, still full of magnificent moments, had other ideas.

Let's just have the man himself describe the goal, okay?

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@Pirlo_official: "I followed the play and Vidal did brilliantly to spot me at the last moment. I shot, it went in and we're delighted."

On a rainy night in Turin where Juventus looked out of ideas offensively as Torino packed every single player possible behind the ball, there was Pirlo to save the day and bring home another three points. The announcer on my stream was just about ready to put an end to Juventus' home winning streak — and I can't blame him. Just moments earlier Pirlo had skied a chance to get the go-ahead goal, blasting it into the stands as Juve looked for the winner despite being down to 10 mean.

But this time it was different.

Patrice Evra won the ball back on the left wing, Álvaro Morata made the run toward goal. Arturo Vidal made the right decision and passed it to Pirlo, and the bearded wonder did the rest. A completely unexpected goal right before the final whistle. And Max Allegri's reaction? Just walk right on down the tunnel. I guess he was left speechless just like the rest of us.

You know how they say "Fino Alle Fine"? Well, it couldn't be more true after this one.

Andrea Pirlo, man.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@kingarturo23: "Pirlo is an incredibile player. It was all his doing, I just teed him up. He was far out, only he could have scored that."


Random thoughts and observations

As one of my favorite baseball announcers likes to say, "Ownage is ownage." Juventus certainly has some ownage on their city rivals. Sorry, but not all that sorry.

Torino scored a goal in Serie A for the first time in a month and still lost. Poor things.

I'd sure like Juventus to sign Matteo Darmian whenever it's possible. As we saw with Evra's so-so at best showing against Torino, the need for a left back is clearly still there.

And that goal was absolutely insane. Pace to fly past everybody down the wing, power to hammer it home, pure dumb luck that Giorgio Chiellini decided to give Bruno Peres plenty of space to have so much room to shoot.

Juventus had three shots on goal, two of them were goals. Even when they play like crap they're efficient. Well, kinda.

Clean sweep for the month of November. Who here would have thought that would happen after Juventus absolutely labored though October and then had their own last-second loss in stoppage time to Genoa at the end of the month?

Fernando Llorente really, really struggled against Torino. I wouldn't mind seeing Álvaro Morata against Fiorentina on Friday. And from the opening whistle, too. He deserves the chance to start.

We definitely know Stephan Lichtsteiner won't be playing against La Viola in Florence in five days. The first yellow was stupid, the second yellow card was stupid. An argument can certainly be made that says both were preventable, especially the second one. Just a rash tackle when you know you're on a yellow.

Who else was left scratching their head when Max Allegri took Carlos Tévez off for Angelo Ogbonna in the 82nd minute? I understand that the game was looking like it was headed for a draw — especially with Lichtsteiner being sent off a couple minutes earlier — but that was quite an odd sub.

No Gigi Buffon, no problem. (Marco Storari played pretty well, by the way.)

Tarek Khatib @ADP1113
#SKY: Buffon came out running in slippers to celebrate..

Pirlo "Yes, yes, it's a joy that is shared with everyone."

SLIPPERS

One more time good measure: Andrea Pirlo. Man oh man.

Infostrada Sports @InfostradaLive
Andrea Pirlo scores his 1st goal from open play for club & country since 17 March 2012 v Fiorentina (18 set piece goals in between).

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Winning derby in last second
was 'wonderful', says Pirlo

The Juventus midfielder scored a stunning goal in the dying moments
to give his side all three points against rivals Torino.

Nov 30, 2014

Andrea Pirlo was delighted after scoring the decisive goal for Juventus in their 2-1 win over local rivals Torino on Sunday.

The two sides were level throughout the match but the Italy midfielder made the difference with a spectacular strike in the dying seconds, running on to an Arturo Vidal pass and blasting it into the net from distance.

The goal ensured Juve's current winning streak stretches to six games in all competitions, with the Bianconeri dropping points in just two of their league games so far this term.

Pirlo says it was the perfect way to win the derby, particularly after Stephan Lichtsteiner had been dismissed earlier in the match.

"I followed the move, Vidal did well to see me and at the very last desperate second we won it," Pirlo said afterwards.

"It is wonderful to win a derby at the last second, especially when you are down to 10 men. It brings me great satisfaction and we dedicate the win to the fans.

"We are bringing consistency to our results and if they arrive like they did tonight then that is even better."

Juve face an away game against Fiorentina on Friday in their next Serie A outing.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Player Ratings

Nov 30, 2014
 

Juventus

30 M. Storari - Could do nothing to keep Bruno Peres' effort out of the net but was hardly tested again.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - The right-back's passing was poor and he needed protection against Darmian. He was sent off with just over 10 minutes left.

19 L. Bonucci - A competent performance in the heart of the defence as he read the game well to keep Quagliarella quiet.

3 G. Chiellini - The Italy international was unfazed when Torino pressed on and stepped out from the back to good effect.

33 P. Evra - Made some great runs to the byline to cross but he was out of position as Bruno Peres stormed forward to equalise.

6 P. Pogba - The France international worked hard but grew frustrated as his team struggled to test Gillet.

21 ANDREA PIRLO - Struggled to really influence the game for large periods but popped up with a stunning stoppage-time winner.

8 C. Marchisio - Was not really involved in the first half and failed to contribute anything positive to his team's display.

23 A. Vidal - Slotted home a composed penalty to give his side the lead but could have put a tackle in on Bruno Peres ahead of his goal.

10 C. Tévez - Got into some fantastic areas and caused the Torino defence problems, but his shooting let him down on occasions.

14 Llorente - Did not get many chances to shoot at goal and his movement was not particularly sharp.


Substitutes

37 R. Pereyra - Brought on for Marchisio in the 64th minute and worked hard for his team.

9 Álvaro Morata - Came on for Llorente in the 58th minute and was far more lively than his compatriot.


 

Torino

1 J. Gillet - The goalkeeper was unable to deny Vidal from the penalty spot and could do nothing to keep out Pirlo's winner.

19 N. Maksimović - The Serbian centre-back was extremely strong and showed good positional awareness when defending.

25 K. Glik - Made a few important clearances to keep his keeper clear of danger, but was booked for a clumsy tackle.

24 E. Moretti - Played as part of the back three against his former club and was very composed in possession.

33 Bruno Peres - Defended capably and scored an absolutely sensational goal after running the length of the pitch with the ball.

14 A. Gazzi - Put some strong challenges in the heart of midfield and sat back to stifle Juve's creativity.

20 G. Vives - Struggled to get anywhere near the ball and provided no dynamism in midfield.

7 O. El Kaddouri - Conceded the penalty which Juve scored, but worked exceptionally hard to make up for it and was pivotal for his team.

36 M. Darmian - Provided plenty of width on the left, causing problems when he pushed forward while not neglecting his defensive duties.

27 F. Quagliarella - Showed some intelligent touches but his only real effort on goal came off the outside of the post.

22 Amauri - Did not have much of an impact on the game, with his only contribution of not being to create one chance for Quagliarella.


Substitutes

94 M. Benassi - Brought on for Vives in the 53rd minute and was very energetic. However, he lost the ball in his own half ahead of the winner.

9 M. Larrondo - Came on for Quagliarella in the 73rd minute and made some good, penetrating runs.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Andrea Pirlo's Brilliance Decides
Difficult Derby Encounter

Nov 30, 2014
 
Sunday’s Turin derby looked almost certain to end in a draw, with the scores tied at 1-1 and Juventus down to ten men. However, that changed when Arturo Vidal rolled the ball invitingly to Andrea Pirlo on the edge of the Torino box.

It was the goal of a million childhood dreams: time running out in a closely-fought local derby, one chance to win the match from outside the box, a swing of the boot and the ball nestled in the bottom corner of the net.

Game over.

Adam Digby @Adz77
93rd minute & you need a derby winning goal? Everybody relax, Pirlo's got this 
http://vine.co/v/OnPFgT0vu2x

It was a goal of stunning beauty—one which will live long in the memory of supporters on both sides (and another highlight to add to the extraordinary career of its author). With his wonderful sense of timing, the 35-year-old kept the home side’s winning streak alive. The Bianconeri have now been victorious in the last 26 outings at Juventus Stadium.

He also ensured Torino’s poor record in the Derby della Mole continued (their last victory came in April 1995). Yet the goal—and the match itself—also drew a line under a number of other continuing storylines surrounding the two teams.

In the first half, Bruno Peres ran from his own penalty area and smashed a well-hit finish across Marco Storari and in off the far post. Thanks to that fantastic solo effort, the Brazilian ended the Granata’s goal drought in the fixture by netting their first goal against their neighbours since February 2002.

That 23rd-minute effort pulled the two sides level (Vidal had ended his own lean spell in front of goal with a penalty just eight minutes earlier). Pirlo’s free-kick was blocked by Omar El Kaddouri’s arm in the wall and the referee awarded the spot-kick, which had to be retaken due to encroachment on the first attempt.

With a goal and an assist, the Chilean will hope his poor run of recent form—discussed in detail here—has come to an end. But even he was happy to admit the victory was thanks to Pirlo. “It was all Andrea’s doing, all I did was tee him up,” Vidal told reporters, per the official Juventus website. “He’s an incredible player, and only he could have scored that goal.”

It is difficult to argue with that assessment, but Pirlo too will hope the match signifies the end of his own personal slump of failing to live up to his previous high standards. Statistics from WhoScored.com show he is averaging fewer tackles, interceptions and passes per game than in his first three seasons in Turin. He was also notably poor against Malmo in midweek.

Losing the ball cheaply on several occasions, he failed to provide the incisive passes that have become his calling card. But Sunday’s match-winning performance—delivering when La Madama needed him the most—proved once again that writing off the former Milan star is foolhardy in the extreme.

Who Scored shows Pirlo has averaged 1.3 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 67.2 passes per game this season, completing 87.3 percent of those efforts. Yet the same source shows that against Torino he delivered a vastly improved display, making two tackles, two interceptions and 91 passes (his completion rate leapt to 93.4 percent).

With Stephan Lichtsteiner sent off following his second yellow card, it was a superb collective effort from Juventus—capped perfectly by Pirlo. He summed up the feelings of Juventus supporters everywhere shortly after the final whistle, discussing the dramatic victory with Sky Italia.

“It’s wonderful to win a derby at the last second, and especially when you are down to 10 men,” Pirlo said via Football Italia. “It’s a great satisfaction.” On a night when that wonderful swing of his right boot ended so many recent storylines, another of his team-mate's boasts looked perfectly timed.

“We don’t play the Derby della Mole, we win it!” bragged Fernando Llorente on Twitter in the buildup to the game. Thanks to the continued brilliance of Pirlo, the belief of the Spanish striker was proven to be almost as well-placed as the match-winning shot.

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Torino didn't deserve to lose, admits Allegri

Andrea Pirlo's stunning strike in the dying seconds gave the reigning Serie A
champions the victory but the coach is not sure they were worth the three points.

Nov 30, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri believes Torino deserved better than a dramatic 2-1 defeat in Sunday's Turin derby.

The reigning champions extended their winning Serie A run at Juventus Stadium to 25 matches, but they were pushed all the way by their city rivals and, after Stephan Lichtsteiner's dismissal, it looked like Juve's hopes of victory were over. However, Andrea Pirlo's stunning goal from distance decided the tie with just seconds remaining.

And Allegri admitted that he feels the visitors were worthy of a share of the spoils.

"Perhaps a draw would have been a fair result, but this win makes up for the defeat to Genoa, from which we deserved to emerge victorious," he said.

"We played well in the first half but struggled after the break. Torino gave us problems on the counter.

"Credit to the players for tonight's win. They never stopped believing."

The Bianconeri remain top of Serie A with 34 points and their next game is away to Fiorentina on Friday December 5.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Chiellini Praises Torino After Juventus Clash

Dec 1, 2014
 
Juventus’s Giorgio Chiellini has praised both Bruno Peres and Torino after an enthralling Derby della Mole meeting on Sunday evening.

Juventus had taken the lead through an Arturo Vidal penalty before Peres ran the length of the pitch to fire past Marco Storari. The game was eventually settled as Andrea Pirlo bagged a winner in the final seconds of the game.

“Torino played a very good game,”Chiellini told Sky Sport Italia.

“They exploited us and put us into great difficulty.

“There was a great deal of respect on our part and we became disjointed after Peres’ world class equaliser.”

He went on to comment on how it is important to not let the elation of the late winner overshadow what was a lucky escape.

“We are happy and elated to have won it so late, but we must evaluate our performance because some aspects of it were not good.”

Juventus currently sit in first place in Serie A and look to be in a strong position to win their fourth successive Scudetto.

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus 2-1 Torino: Last-gasp Andrea Pirlo
goal wins the Derby della Mole

Andrea Pirlo struck from 25 yards deep into stoppage time to win
the Derby della Mole. Torino still have not beaten Juventus since 1995.

Dec 1, 2014
 
Juventus welcomed local rivals Torino to the stadium on Sunday evening for the 230th edition of the Derby Della Mole. Recent years have seen Juventus dominate the matchup, with the Bianconeri winning 17 of the last 19, with two draws. Torino hadn't even scored in the last 10 games against Juventus, dating back to a 2-2 draw in 2002. Both sides came into the game on the back of European commitments, with Juventus winning in Sweden, while Torino were held 0-0 at home by Belgian side Club Brugge.

This time it was Juventus' opponents taking the field in 3-5-2 formation, with Giampiero Ventura's side looking to soak up pressure and take advantage of their flying wingbacks and the ex-Juventus strike partnership of Amauri and Fabio Quagliarella. Massimiliano Allegri again sent his side out in 4-3-1-2, with the welcome return of Patrice Evra, who took his role back from the suspended Simone Padoin. Gianluigi Buffon was forced to sit this one out after aggravating a shoulder injury against Malmö.

A cold rain welcomed the teams to the pitch as Juve controlled the early minutes. Evra was a constant outlet down the left, and Juventus' high pressure made it difficult for the visitors to build from the back. An early goal was just reward for the pressure, with Vidal stroking home a penalty after Omar El Kaddouri was judged to have blocked Andrea Pirlo's free kick with a raised arm.

Juve's goal seemed to spur Torino forward, and Il Toro got their reward just minutes after the opening goal when Bruno Peres picked up an errant Lichtsteiner cross and tore down Juventus' left flank, leaving Evra and Arturo Vidal in the dust before cannoning a shot in off the far post.

The game flowed back and forth with both sides enjoying decent spells of possession, with Torino getting perhaps the better chances on the break. Juventus struggled to put shots on target for much of the game, and Torino deserves credit for their defensive organization and aggression on the counter, particularly through the wing-backs Peres and Matteo Darmian.

Things seemed to be slipping away from Juventus as the clock ticked down, with Stephan Lichsteiner getting a nasty cut and two quick yellow cards for his troubles. The right back will now be suspended two games, one for the red and another for card accumulation, leaving the Old Lady once again struggling for fullbacks.

Just as the curtain seemed to be closing, with Torino finally getting a point from the Derby, Andrea Pirlo sent the visitors packing with a brilliant first-time hit from well outside the box. It wasn't the best night for the Italian midfielder, with shots over the bar and a few long passes that didn't find their target, but in the end his class told with a stunning winner.

News of Pirlo's last-minute goal was surely met with shaking heads in Rome, where the Giallorossi needed a win over Inter — which they got, 4-2 — to keep Juventus from extending their lead at the top of the table. The late goal should also raise Juventus spirits ahead of the difficult and highly-charged away game at Fiorentina's Artemio Franchi.


MATCH SUMMARY

Juventus dominated the early passages of play, with high pressure keeping Torino pinned deep in their own half. Evra was back in the side after only making the bench in Malmö, and his contribution was immediately noted with a string of crosses from the left. Despite the early domination Juventus struggled to put shots on target, with the final ball often just evading the players in the box.

Torino had an early chance on the counter following a misplaced pass from Lichtsteiner, but Vidal and Carlos Tévez tracked back to concede a free kick which Quagliarella shot harmlessly toward Marco Storari in goal. Soon after Juventus had a dangerous free kick of their own, with Paul Pogba brought down on the edge of the box as he attempted to control Fernando Llorente's layoff with a classy "roulette." The free kick was perfectly positioned for Pirlo, and referee Daniele Orsato gave the wall very specific instructions about where to put their arms.

El Kaddouri failed to follow those instructions, and conceded a silly penalty by blocking the shot with a raised elbow. Vidal's penalty had to be retaken following encroachment, but he sent Torino goalkeeper Jean-François Gillet the wrong way the second time of asking to put Juve into a deserved lead.

Now a goal down, Torino lifted their game and began to more aggressively transition out of their own half. Bruno Peres showed his attacking intent with a dangerous cross towards Amauri. Minutes later the Brazilian wingback did it all himself, scoring what will surely be remembered as one of the goals of the season.

A Lichtsteiner cross from the right missed everyone in black-and-white, eventually falling to Peres' feet. The Brasilian was off like a rocket, leaving Evra in his wake and destroying Vidal's angle as the Chilean made a halfhearted effort to cover. As he neared the box Giorgio Chiellini was slow to react, held in place by the threat of Torino's strikers as Peres lined up the perfect shot, across Marco Storari and in off the post.

After the goal Torino finally had some spells of possession, with Peres and Amauri mishitting decent chances from inside the box. In the final minutes of the first half Juventus regained control, with a couple of well-worked passages of play near the edge of the box featuring Tévez, Vidal, and Claudio Marchisio, but Gillet in the Torino goal was never troubled. One last attack came from Torino as the half came to a close, with Leonardo Bonucci misjudging a long ball to give El Kaddouri time and space, but his cross was well cut out by a backtracking Marchisio.

The second half started much like the first, with Juventus generally controlling things and Evra putting in crosses from the left. There seemed to be a plan from Juventus to work more short corners, as Tévez and Pirlo created several crossing opportunities but were not able to find teammates. In the 52nd minute Torino had another chance on the counter, as Amauri and Quagliarella combined to win a long ball and get behind the Juventus center backs. Amauri's cross looked perfect for Quagliarella, but the Torino striker lost his footing under pressure from Evra.

There were chances at both ends as Amauri directed a header towards goal that was easily handled, while at the other end Gillet was quick off his line to sweep up a ball in behind. Bonucci tried his luck from range, but Gillet reacted well.

Allegri's first substitution was to remove Llorente after an ineffective performance from the striker, bringing Álvaro Morata on in his place. The move had little immediate impact, as Torino continued to threaten with long counterattacking runs down the flanks. The next change to the Juventus team brought Roberto Pereyra on for Marchisio. El Kaddouri continued to try and make amends for his error, but Juventus kept throwing bodies in the way.

Lichtsteiner picked up a head wound in a clash defending a corner, and while he was off receiving treatment Juventus nearly took the lead with a quick break through Tévez and Morata, only for Alessandro Gazzi to get back in the nick of time. Perhaps Lichtsteiner should have stayed off for longer, as his first involvement when back on the pitch was to pick up a yellow for arguing a handball call, resulting in a suspension for card accumulation.

Vidal put the ball in the net for a third time on 76' following good work from Tévez to draw in the defense and feed Roberto Pereyra for the cross, but the linesman's flag was raised. Soon after Lichtsteiner's day went from bad to worse, as he picked up a second yellow for a late challenge on El Kaddouri, meaning an early shower and another game suspension.

Peres continued to try his luck from distance, but fortunately for Juventus his left foot let him down. El Kaddouri had another chance as he cut into the box from the left, but Evra was again alert to come across. Marco Benassi had a chance at the rebound, but this time Vidal got in the block.

Down to 10 men, Juventus still regained the initiative as the clock ticked down, but Torino's dogged defending generally kept the Old Lady from creating good chances. Juventus was often able to get to the byline or cut the ball back across the top of the box, but a Torino player was always alert to block at the decisive moment.

All of the rear-guard action came to nothing however, as in the final minute of stoppage time Andrea Pirlo made the telling contribution. Evra won the ball back high up the field, and the ball made its way through Pogba, Morata, and Vidal who cut it back for one last effort. And this time, Pirlo caught it perfectly. The ball flew into the bottom corner from all of 25 yards, leaving Gillet stranded and Torino, once again, Bianconero.


LE PAGELLE

Storari: 6 Nothing he could do on the goal, stopped what he should have and didn't leave any dangerous rebounds.

Lichtsteiner: 5 A disappointing performance from the Swiss fullback, who had less attacking influence than in recent weeks and rounded it off by getting two quick yellows, meaning he will miss important games with Fiorentina and Sampdoria.

Bonucci: 6 Generally handled Amauri well, holding his own in the aerial duel. Two mistakes in misjudging long balls could have been punished on a different day.

Chiellini: 6 Like his defensive partner, limited Quagliarella and Amauri to scraps, although one comical passage of play early in the second half could have given Torino the lead.

Evra: 6.5 Welcome back! Fresh off an injury layoff the French fullback was constantly putting in crosses from the left, and on another day could have grabbed an assist. Always ready to cover for his center backs, he takes some blame on Peres' goal but really should have had more help.

Pogba: 5.5 An unspectacular display from the young Frenchman, who failed to record either a shot or a tackle. His technique and strength are always impressive, however, and he played a vital role in winning the free kick that led to Juventus' first goal.

Pirlo: 6.5 Another vital goal from the Italian maestro, what more can be said. Struggled at times to find the perfect pass, however still created chances for teammates and hit an incredible winner.

Marchisio: 6.5 The Italian midfielder was everywhere today, running his legs off to cover for those around him and contribute in the attacking third. Did not get as many shooting chances as in other games, which perhaps has to do with Torino's good defending.

Vidal: 6 Took his penalty well both times of asking, and contributed as always to winning the ball back high up the pitch. Could have done more to slow down Peres for the Torino goal.

Llorente: 5 A rough day at the office for the Spanish striker, who could hardly put a foot right. Won a few high balls, but was unable to consistently trouble Gillet or find teammates with his layoffs.

Tévez: 6 Working hard as always, Tévez was critical to Juventus' high pressure, but did not get as many shooting opportunities as he would have liked. When Morata came on and offered more movement things began to open up for the Argentine.
 

 

Substitutes

Morata: 6 Brought movement and pace to the attack and combined well with his teammates. Perhaps in for a starting role on Friday.

Pereyra: 6 Initially brought on to play behind the strikers and then moved to right-back following Lichtsteiner's ejection, the Argentina showed his versatility while always looking to dribble and create.

Ogbonna: N/A Brought on for Tévez as Allegri switched to a very high back three.
 

 

Coach:

Allegri: 6.5 Made the right call in taking Llorente off, which he could have done even earlier. Bringing on Ogbonna for Tévez seemed crazy, but the switch to a high-pressing back three played a role in winning the ball back for Pirlo's winner. Will be disappointed in Lichtsteiner for getting two fairly silly yellow cards, leaving the team short of fullbacks once again.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri Praises Stubborn Visitors;
Chiellini Laments Sloppy Performance

Dec 1, 2014
 
A dramatic Derby della Mole, ended in Juventus bagging all three points. Arturo Vidal’s penalty kick gave the hosts a slender lead, but it was soon equalised by a sensational coast-to-coast goal from Torino’s Bruno Peres. Torino’s equalizer also meant that the side had scored their first goal against Juventus in more than 12 years. Although after Stephen Lichtsteiner was sent off, Juventus’s chances of winning the match looked slim and rare but a Andrea Pirlo goal – virtually with the last kick of the ball, sealed all three points for Juventus. With this win Juventus are running ahead with 34 points while Torino even after a stellar display sit fifteenth. Juventus coach Massimilliano Allegri surprisingly praised their stubborn neighbor.

“Perhaps a draw would have been a fair result, but this win makes up for Genoa [a 1-0 defeat], where we deserved to emerge victorious,” said Allegri.

“We played well in the first half but struggled after the break. Torino gave us problems on the counter.

“Credit to the lads for tonight’s win. They never stopped believing.”

Defender Chiellini was also not behind to praise Torino and their impressive performances and speaking to Sky Italia the rugged central defender said, “Torino played a very good game,They exploited us and put us into great difficulty.

“There was a great deal of respect on our part and we became disjointed after Peres’ world class equaliser.”

“We are happy and elated to have won it so late, but we must evaluate our performance because some aspects of it were not good.”

Meanwhile Andrea Pirlo was more than happy with his last gasp winner. Speaking to Sky Italia the Italian said:

“I followed the move all the way and Vidal did well to see me at the last second. I hit it with all my might and it went in. We’re all ecstatic,”

“It’s brilliant to be able to win the derby in the last minute, especially with 10 men, and it’s a great feeling we’ve treated our fans to.

“The result allows us to continue building momentum. That’s the most important thing, then to win it in the way we did tonight makes it even better.’

The Italian Serie A has often been lamented for being a two horse race and with the form Juventus and AS Roma are in, it could be very well said so. Juventus are on 34 points, AS Roma on 31 and then third place Genoa lack far behind with 23. It is more than evident that the Serie A this season would be race between Juventus and AS Roma.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Another of Andrea Pirlo's peerless
performances gifts Juventus derby win

Dec 1, 2014
 
Snide remarks made about Torino's performances in the Derby della Mole motivated Giampiero Ventura's side yet an exquisite Andrea Pirlo goal in the final seconds of the game ensured another Juventus victory, winning 2-1.

One should never underestimate a Giampiero Ventura side. A good tactician who inspired the likes of Antonio Conte by teaching him the finer points of tactics, his sides are always well balanced and disciplined. Their struggles this Serie A season have been due to their finishing. Always capable of creating chances and well organised in defence, the lack of goals has gone on to create an even bigger problem -- the psychological kind.

Juventus started strongly, playing their usual brand of smooth football as they looked for their opportunities going forward. Exploiting space and rotating the ball, Torino were forced to defend and looked to be suffering. Their night was set to go from bad to worse when they conceded a penalty. Andrea Pirlo took his free kick, which hit the arm of Omar El Kaddouri, who insisted he was only raising it to shield his face. Arturo Vidal converted to make it 1-0.

Then came the equaliser, and what a goal it was from Bruno Peres. giornalaccio rosa dello Sport described it as one Cafu and Maicon would be jealous of, while Massimiliano Allegri called his men daft for allowing it to happen. No one was able to stop the wing-back who ran the length of the pitch before delivering the efficiency the Granata have so desperately needed this season.

The psychological burden was lifted and with the pressure off, Torino began to play with confidence, putting together beautiful passages of play that demonstrated exactly why their particular style of football should occupy a higher position in the table.

Putting the rivalry of a derby aside, the Granata were always going to enjoy this game simply because they faced an opponent that actually plays football. Blessed with pace and the ability to spread play, Torino enjoy facing teams that adopt an attacking approach to the game to leave them with space to utilise.

Juventus run a few risks defensively when playing with the 4-3-1-2 formation. With their men focused on attacking, their defenders were left fending for themselves and often caught in one-v-one situations. The pressure on the Juve back line often led to reckless defending throughout the game with players diving in to tackles in order to ensure their defensive safety.

In the second half, Juve struggled even more, especially with the counter-attacks. Patrice Evra only exacerbated the problem. Simply put, the Frenchman played an atrocious game. While he's adept at crossing and effective going forward, his defending is far below the level required in Serie A, let alone Juventus. Regularly caught out of position and nowhere to be found, he allowed Torino to focus most of their attacks down the right. In fact, 42 percent of their attacking push came down that lane despite possessing arguably more talent and ability on the opposite flank.

To make matters worse, Stephan Lichtsteiner was sent off and with Torino playing a wonderfully organised game, producing several chances from the counter-attack, one believed they could win it. It is precisely here that one must compliment Allegri. While Juventus were helped by the Granata's poor finishing and some might argue their lack of ambition, Allegri helped restore balance to his side when he opted to introduce Angelo Ogbonna, changing Juve's shape to help them deal with their motivated opponents.

In truth Ventura deserved at least a point but the beauty of Juventus lies in the magic they boast within their ranks. When collective power cannot penetrate the toughest of defences, they can always rely on a moment of individual quality to solve the difficult matches. Allegri and his excellent substitutions perhaps deserve the victory but one is not too sure Andrea Agnelli does on this occasion.

Turin was awarded the European Capital of Sport 2015. Given a unique opportunity to advertise the city and it's sporting credentials at the presentation, Agnelli opted to take pot shots at Torino and their recent failure in the Derby della Mole. His remarks, whether in jest or otherwise, not only go against the elegant club culture his father and uncle perpetuated but it provoked needless chatter Italian football can live without.

Agnelli has proved excellent for Juventus, his interviews eloquent, his speeches inspirational. He often reminds us of better times. However, certain comments he and management have made, including ones in response to damning criticism, have disappointed.

Juventus may deserve to be arrogant considering all they have accomplished, but only provincial clubs make snide comments or reply to them. European giants can afford to swallow criticisms because they retaliate on the pitch, winning trophies that are beyond the ambitions of most of their rivals. Agnelli has consciously sought to change the bad culture in Italian football, one that breeds contempt and lowers the tone of the league.

As such, he ought to always be an example, to demand only class and elegance and to speak with humility. Neither he, his family nor his staff should criticise, attack or respond to unwarranted criticism and they should certainly not initiate it. At least Allegri understands that. He may just have been the only one who acted graciously after the Roma game that provoked a thousand opinions and he did well again when he paid tribute to Torino's good performance in his post-match interview on Sunday evening, speaking with honesty and integrity.

Congratulations to the Old lady for her derby win, a victory dedicated to Lucidio Sentimenti, the club's former goalkeeper who passed away on Friday. A legend of the game, he will always be remembered.

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - TORINO

2 - 1

Arturo Vidal (15' Penalty)

Bruno Peres (22')

Andrea Pirlo (93')

Sunday, November 30th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juve sweat for derby victory

The Derby della Mole provided a sterner test than Juventus might have expected, says Alasdair Mackenzie.

Dec 1, 2014
 
It is no understatement to say that the Derby della Mole has been a one-sided affair in recent years. Toro went into this weekend’s fixture with two enormous historic obstacles to overcome. They hadn’t beaten Juventus since 1995 and they hadn’t even managed to score in a derby since 2002.

The match on Sunday will live long in the memory for two very special moments. The first was the manner in which Bruno Peres ended that 12-year wait for a Granata derby goal.

The Brazilian scored his first goal for the club in emphatic style, picking up the ball just outside his own box and burning a path all the way down the right flank, leaving Juve players in his wake, before pinging a bullet shot across goal into the top corner. It was a goal beyond anything in a Torino fan’s wildest dreams. It was a goal that will become printed in the history books of this fixture.

Juventus looked unsettled, like a side that had never expected to be in any position other than total control. The usual routes to goal were not clicking and so they needed something extraordinary, something to match the brilliance of Peres. And they got it.

Andrea Pirlo doesn’t score many from open play but he certainly has a sense of occasion. His thunderbolt from 35 yards arrived with Juve down to 10 men and four seconds left on the clock. It was the most dramatic ending possible and therefore the worst possible heartbreak for Granata fans as they witnessed one of their best derby performances in recent history crumble before their eyes.

Once the storm had calmed, there was one very important thing to take away from the result. Much like in their 3-2 win over Roma at the start of October, the match was frantic, heated and unpredictable and yet the Old Lady emerged with three points. While they were made to sweat more than they might have liked, this was a textbook example of a League match that wins you titles.

However, Roma continue to keep pace. Their clash with Inter was perhaps even more high-octane than the events in Turin, as the two sides exchanged blows before a wonderful Miralem Pjanic free-kick finally settled the score at 4-2. The Giallorossi are continuing to ensure that the defeat suffered against the Bianconeri will remain the only difference between the sides in the table.

Below the top two, things continue to be as chaotic and unpredictable as ever. Milan are back in top-three contention after a solid 2-0 win over Udinese, and big wins for Genoa and Fiorentina showed their intention of keeping pace. Udinese and Lazio both continue to slide down the rankings, after the Biancocelesti were held to a goalless draw away to Chievo.

Threatening to surprisingly leapfrog them are the resurgent Sassuolo, who defeated Verona 2-1. The Neroverdi have bounced back from a rocky start to record three wins and two draws in their last five games and are now only five points off Genoa in third place.

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

-

Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Fiorentina vs. Juventus: Florence still
seething with a sense of injustice

Fiorentina face Juventus at home Friday and there's
plenty of bad blood between the teams.

Dec 3, 2014

A win against Juventus is worth a thousand trophies for Fiorentina, such is the hatred they have for their rivals from Turin.

"I saw people who were 40 or 50, they wept and the emotion was incredible," Giuseppe Rossi said in a recent interview. This was the man who gifted them an improbable win, scoring a hat trick to ensure a 4-2 victory against Juventus in October last season.

As Angelo Di Livio -- a player who featured for both clubs -- says, this match is more important than any other for a Viola fan. They simply despise the Old Lady, a club they believe lack ethics.

This particular match means little to Juventus fans, however. Fiorentina, a lovely club with significant ambitions, cannot be deemed to be on the same level as the Bianconeri. They are not worthy challengers, with neither the European history of AC Milan nor the domestic success of the Rossoneri's neighbours Inter. They're simply another Serie A side who feel wronged by a team that boasts the riches of the Agnelli family and the talent of Europe.

Fiorentina do, of course, have their reasons for their bitter sentiments and the validity of their reasons depend on which side of the fence you stand. In 1982, both sides sat level on points on the final day of the season. The Viola had a goal disallowed against Cagliari and the game ended 0-0 while Juventus won their match and with it, the league, thanks to a dubious penalty that Liam Brady converted. An intense hatred was born.

That final day victory gave Juventus their 20th league title and they became the first Italian side allowed the honour of playing with two golden stars emblazoned on their jersey. The Florentines lost the Scudetto but believed they were the moral winners.

"Meglio secondi che ladri (better to be second than to be thieves)," they shouted.

The Old Lady has never been forgiven and the ill-feeling has only intensified. In fact, the resentment has grown to deplorable levels with some Viola fans unfurling a banner that mocks the Heysel tragedy of 1985. The banner has angered a nation and has even appeared when Juventus have not been playing. As for the rivalry, it grew further with the transfer of Roberto Baggio from Florence to Turin and the ongoing snide remarks exchanged between the Della Valle and Agnelli families.

"We'll celebrate that 1982 Scudetto because we feel it is ours," exclaimed Andrea Della Valle, the patron of Fiorentina, in 2012. Much like Juventus will celebrate the 30 titles they have won on the pitch, one assumes.

An emotionally charged game, it is a match that is especially difficult for the Fiorentina players to play, such is the pressure the fans pile on to their shoulders. However, the last time Juventus travelled to Tuscany to play a Serie A game, they suffered a psychological collapse. Controlling the game in the way Antonio Conte demanded, 14 minutes of madness led them to concede four goals and the city celebrated their demise for weeks.

Vincenzo Montella will be without striker Rossi on Friday and this season, his men have struggled. Too many injuries and suspensions have forced the coach to rotate more often than he would like, while those available have seen their explosive brilliance muted by the coach's attempts to strike the right balance.

They may still possess the ball with brilliance but they are defensively susceptible and less dangerous going forward. But facing the city's greatest rivals will surely give them an added boost and encourage intensity and motivation.

As for Juventus, this is their chance to achieve another away win, against rivals who truly despise them. Demonstrating the efficiency of the 4-3-1-2 formation, they need to secure a win before playing that all-important game against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League next week.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

-

Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Fiorentina vs. Juventus: Issues and Decisions
That Will Shape Serie A Game

Dec 3, 2014

Juventus travel to Florence on Friday evening, the Stadio Artemio Franchi set to host the latest instalment of a storied rivalry.

Fiorentina have grown to loathe the sight of the black and white stripes, seeing the Turin giants as perhaps their most bitter enemy.

A Liam Brady penalty in 1982 and Roberto Baggio’s transfer to the Bianconeri almost a decade later form the basis for those feelings, the bitterness explained in detail here by Bleacher Report's Giancarlo Rinaldi.

Last season saw four meetings between the two, with a Europa League tie adding to their regular encounters in Serie A.

That the Bianconeri won just two of those clashes—beaten 4-2 and held to a draw in the others—was a source of pride for the Viola, given the sheer dominance Juventus enjoyed domestically last term.

Now under the guidance Massimiliano Allegri, the Turin giants are once again in stunning form, winning all six of their fixtures last month.

Keeping four clean sheets, they outscored their opponents by 19 goals to three, their recent switch in formation paying off handsomely for the players and coach. That 4-3-2-1 shape now appears here to stay, and Vincenzo Montella will face a tough task in attempting to match Juve’s recent intensity.

His side have won their last three matches, the last an emphatic demolition of Zdenek Zeman’s Cagliari on Sunday.

Over the following pages is a look at the key issues and decisions which will decide this latest chapter in the story of two bitter rivals.


Can the Viola Stop Andrea Pirlo?

Following his match-winning display in Sunday’s Turin derby, Andrea Pirlo has once again shown he is one of Serie A’s most dangerous midfielders.

The performance will have served as a timely reminder to Fiorentina of just how crucial the 35-year-old is to Juventus.

With that being said, the Viola already know all too well what Pirlo is capable of, the World Cup winner having netted the free-kick which ultimately eliminated them from Europe last season.

Borja Valero and his team-mates in midfield will have to be constantly aware of him, while also monitoring Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba.

The Juventus midfield has slowly begun to round into form, and that makes them a formidable challenge for any opponent.


Juve’s Right-Back Conundrum

Perhaps the only blight on the magnificent derby win enjoyed by Juventus was the sending off of Stephan Lichtsteiner. He will now miss this match through suspension, leaving Allegri with a tough decision to make as to who will step in at right-back.

Martin Caceres has yet to fully recover from injury and Romulo has suffered with problems of his own, meaning Roberto Pereyra could be asked to provide cover. The 23-year-old has been in superb form and has shown he is more than capable of filling the role.

However, against Fiorentina, it will be a tougher-than-usual task.

It may yet fall to Simone Padoin, the midfielder having filled in on the opposite flank in recent weeks. Aside from the Champions League tie against Malmo, the 30-year-old has impressed at left-back and the return of Patrice Evra could see him swap to the right here.


Fiorentina’s Attacking Options

Montella will hope to have Mario Gomez available, the German striker slowly returning to form after missing a month of action due to injury.

He netted his first goal for the club in 259 days against Cagliari, also adding an assist in what was an excellent all-round performance.

Without Gomez—and of course Giuseppe Rossi—Fiorentina have lacked the incisive edge in attack, and his return to full fitness is a huge boost for the side.


Gigi Buffon’s Fitness

It came as something of a surprise on Sunday as Juventus announced Gigi Buffon was unfit and would not play against Torino.

The news had been kept quiet all week, but an ongoing issue with his shoulder flared up after the Malmo game and ultimately forced him to sit out of the derby.

Marco Storari played between the posts instead, and while he is a quality backup, Juventus would clearly prefer to have their captain available.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

-

Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Preview: Fiorentina vs. Juventus

Dec 3, 2014

Juventus have the opportunity to grab their fifth consecutive Serie A victory on Friday if they beat Fiorentina on away turf.

Massimiliano Allegri's side maintained their three-point lead at the top of the league table with a 2-1 triumph over Torino at the weekend.

The Old Lady have just one blemish on their 13-match record in the top flight of Italian football, and they managed to clinch a slender 1-0 win over Fiorentina in this fixture last season.

Roma are the closest challengers to Juve at this point in the season, but Allegri's side have the opportunity to strengthen their position at the top with a six-point gap before their rivals face Sassuolo on Saturday.

Despite Fiorentina having a home advantage on Friday, Juventus have conceded just twice on their travels in seven Serie A contests this season.

For Vincenzo Montella's side, they currently reside eighth in the league standings after grabbing two consecutive victories following an inconsistent period.

Fiorentina, who are unbeaten in the Europa League, are just four points behind third-placed Napoli, but the team have conceded five goals in their last four games.

Despite suffering a 1-0 defeat to Napoli in their last home fixture, the team are expected to head into Friday's encounter with confidence after storming to a 4-0 win over Cagliari.

Plus, Juventus may have one eye on midweek's Champions League encounter at home to Spanish side Atletico Madrid.

Matias Fernandez and Mario Gomez are likely to lead the line for the hosts, while last weekend's goalscorers Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo could start for Juventus.


Fiorentina

Form in Serie A: D W L L W W
Form in all competitions: L D L W W W

Possible starting lineup: Neto; Alonso, Basanta, Gonzalo, Pizarro; Joaquin, Cuadrado, Savic, Valero; Fernandez, Gomez


Juventus

Form in Serie A: W L W W W W
Form in all competitions: W W W W W W

Possible starting lineup: Storari; Lichtsteiner, Evra, Chiellini, BonuccI; Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Pogba; Llorente, Tevez
 

Sports Mole says: 1-2

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

-

Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Savic: 'Let's beat Juventus again'

Dec 3, 2014

Fiorentina defender Stefan Savic was linked with Juventus, but now insists he just wants to beat them on Friday.

It kicks off at 20.45 CET on Friday at the Stadio Artemio Franchi and is one of the biggest grudge matches in Italian football.

“Did Juve want me over the summer? I don’t know anything about that. I am thinking only of Fiorentina, as I have a contract until 2016 and a great rapport with the club,” stated Savic in a Press conference.

“We have already started talking about an extension and my agent is taking care of it.”

Future committed to the Viola, Savic would become a hero to fans if he scored the winner against the Bianconeri.

“It will be a very difficult match, as we all know how strong Juve are. They probably remain the best team in Italy.

“However, we are playing on home turf and we are strong too, so we’ll try to get a result. Don’t forget last season we were trailing 2-0 and turned the situation around to win 4-2.

“When Juve score two goals, they rarely concede four, but we did it.”

Andrea Pirlo netted the last-gasp winner in the Derby della Mole against Torino on Sunday, so how does Savic plan to deal with him?

“When Pirlo’s on a good day, there’s little you can do.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

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Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

‘Fiorentina-Juve bigger than a derby’

Dec 3, 2014

Angelo Di Livio believes Fiorentina-Juventus means more to Viola fans than a derby would.

The two sides meet at Artemio Franchi on Friday night, with the Fiorentina famously harbouring a great antipathy toward the Bianconeri.

The origins of the rivalry date back to the 1981-82 season, when Juve pipped the Viola to the Scudetto.

The bad feeling between the clubs was exacerbated when Roberto Baggio left Florence to join the Old Lady in 1990.

To this day, players signed for the Tuscan side from their Turin rivals are often subjected to 'de-hunchbacking' rituals, a nod to Juventus’ nickname of the ‘Gobbi’ or ‘hunchbacks’, as hunchbacks are seen as lucky in Italy.

Di Livio has played on both sides of the divide, turning out for Juventus between 1993 and 1999 before spending the next six years in Florence, and is well-placed to judge the intensity of the rivalry.

“In Florence there’s a particular atmosphere ahead of this one, you can feel it in the air for two weeks prior,” the former midfielder explained to La Repubblica.

“In Florence it’s a game that means more than a derby. The fans care very much, and the expectation is different than other games.

“In Turin there’s maybe less pressure because the team is used to playing these sorts of games, but I can tell you it certainly means a lot to the Bianconeri fans at least.

“With Juventus when we played at Artemio Franchi you could feel so much energy against you from the Fiorentina crowd.

“The stadium becomes a cauldron, and it’s difficult to play in those conditions. It’s like the atmosphere of the derby between Roma and Lazio, you have to be alert.

“Just look at last season [a 4-2 Fiorentina win]. Juventus were winning without any problems, then the crowd pushed Fiorentina forward and they turned it around dramatically.

“These matches are actually easier for Coaches to prepare for, because from day one there’s the right mood in the camp.

“Everyone wants to play in a match like this.”

Despite his Juventus past, Di Livio inists that he wasn’t involved in any pre-game habits, and backs the Viola to raise their game for the visit of the champions.

“Before matches like this I didn’t do any special rituals. But you could feel it in the air in Florence, during the week the tension would rise and you knew you had to do your best to get a good result.

“Fiorentina are struggling a little bit in the League at the moment, but in these games they have the quality to do well.

“Juve are always strong, especially domestically, but the Viola have a team that plays some of the best football in Italy.

“Montella has had to come up with something new this season because of injuries, but I’m sure they have a bright future ahead of them.

“I’m sure they will fight for Europe.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

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Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Fiorentina-Juventus Preview: Allegri's men
eager to avoid repeat of Artemio Franchi collapse

A stunning Viola comeback saw them win 4-2 in the same fixture last season
and the current Serie A leaders will be determined to prevent another shock.

Dec 4, 2014

Juventus will be hoping history does not repeat itself when they visit Fiorentina in Serie A on Friday.

In the corresponding fixture last season, Juve lead 2-0 midway through the second half and were seemingly on their way to victory.

However, Giuseppe Rossi netted three times in 15 minutes to inspire Fiorentina to a 4-2 comeback success, with Joaquin claiming the hosts' other goal.

That result represented one of just two defeats for Juve in the league last season as - then under the guidance of Antonio Conte - they romped to a third successive Scudetti by 17 points.

Now led by Massimiliano Allegri, the Turin club have made a similarly strong start to 2014-15 and currently hold a three-point lead over Roma after 13 matches.

Their scourge of last term at the Stadio Artemio Franchi will not be present this time around, as Rossi continues his rehabilitation from a serious knee injury.

"I'll have to watch from the stands," Rossi said. "Last year was a beautiful moment, not just for me and my team-mates but all Fiorentina fans.

"I hope we can relive the same emotions on Friday.

"Our objectives are to improve and to get as high up the table as possible. We can improve, and we're doing so."

Friday's clash marks the latest instalment in fierce rivalry that dates back to the conclusion of the 1981-82 campaign, when Juve pipped Fiorentina to the title on the final day of the season.

Former Italy international Angelo Di Livio, who played for both clubs, believes that the visit of Juve represents more than just a game for Fiorentina fans.

"In Florence there's a particular atmosphere ahead of this one, you can feel it in the air for two weeks prior," he told La Repubblica.

"In Florence it's a game that means more than a derby. The fans care very much, and the expectation is different than other games."

Juve come into the encounter on the back of six straight victories in all competitions, while their hosts have strung together three consecutive wins of their own and sit eighth in the table.

Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella will be without Cristiano Lupatelli, who underwent shoulder surgery on Monday.

Juve, meanwhile, will have to contend without right-back Stephan Lichtsteiner, who was sent off in the dramatic 2-1 derby win over Torino on Sunday.


OPTA FACTS

This will be the 151st meeting between these two sides in Serie A: Juventus lead by 69 wins to 32.

Juve are the opponent against which the Viola have suffered the most defeats and conceded the most goals against (244) in the top-flight.

Fiorentina have won only two of their last 25 games against Juve in Serie A, with 12 wins for the Old Lady in the process.
 

LAST FIVE MATCHES

Fiorentina W W W L D

11/30/14 - Cagliari 0 - 4 Fiorentina
11/27/14 - Guingamp 1 - 2 Fiorentina
11/23/14 - Hellas Verona 1 - 2 Fiorentina
11/9/14 - Fiorentina 0 - 1 Napoli
11/6/14 - Fiorentina 1 - 1 PAOK Thessaloniki


Juventus W W W W W

11/30/14 - Juventus 2 - 1 Torino
11/26/14 - Malmö 0 - 2 Juventus
11/22/14 - Lazio 0 - 3 Juventus
11/9/14 - Juventus 7 - 0 Parma
11/4/14 - Juventus 3 - 2 Olympiakos


HEAD TO HEAD

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

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

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Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

‘Fiorentina-Juventus like a derby’

Dec 4, 2014

Fabrizio Ravanelli anticipates a spectacular game this Friday between Fiorentina and Juventus and has in mind a clear favourite.

Penna Bianca played an important role as one of the most prolific Bianconero goalscorers in the 1990s and, having played several games against La Viola himself, is certain that the game on Friday will be one to watch.

“I'm expecting a ‘game’ in capital letters. Both teams come from positive results – Juventus have won all throughout November,” Ravanelli has told Firenzeviola.it.

“Fiorentina, who got back an important player like [Mario] Gomez, come from two away victories in Serie A and one in the Europa League, which finally allowed them to establish some continuity in terms of results.

“In brief, we have all the premises for a good game. And Fiorentina-Juventus seldom disappoints when it comes to spectacle, among other things because in Florence this match is lived like a derby. But for us it's just a game like any other.”

Ravanelli was asked about the players that make a difference in both teams.

“In the ranks of Fiorentina the players who really bring them up a notch in terms of quality are Gomez and [Juan] Cuadrado.

“It's harder to highlight a specific individual when it comes to Juventus, because Coach [Massimiliano] Allegri's squad is full of champions.

“But I don't think that Friday's match will be decided by a single player, rather I expect one of those games in which victory comes only to those who play as a team.

“So it's going to be a duel between Fiorentina and Juventus on the whole, and not between one player and another.

“As a Juventus fan I hope they can have the upper hand, and I expect they'll want to avenge the 4-2 they suffered at the Artemio Franchi in the first round of the past season.

“I think Juve are the favourites. The Viola still haven't found their true identity, while the Bianconeri have picked up an astounding pace.”

Fiorentina and Juventus play tomorrow night at 20:45 CET time at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

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Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Allegri: ‘No lack of confidence’

Dec 4, 2014

Juventus Coach Max Allegri says that the game against Torino is evidence that his team already has the right mindset to meet Fiorentina on Friday.

The Bianconeri took home a close 2-1 in the Derby della Mole last Sunday, but Allegri believes this is no reason to think that Juventus have lost their winning mentality.

“I never said that Torino should have won, only that they could have won,” Allegri clarified in today’s Press conference.

“We suffered three or four counter-attacks in the second half, with the pitch wide open, but we defended fine.

“I think the most important chance was that of [Fabio] Quagliarella, in which [Marco] Storari was very skilled in coming out early and putting him in trouble.

“The game was balanced, Torino used their best weapon, the counter, and we showed enough quality to try and win this game to the end.”

Allegri sees this kind of attitude as evidence that his team is poised to put up a fight on Friday.

“In fact the game's last challenge was won by [Leonardo] Bonucci.

“So there is absolutely no lack of confidence in the team, on the contrary, we're very confident because we know we have to face a team that emerges from two away victories and especially because I think they are one of Juventus' historical rivals, so we must prepare well.

“I'm not worried about some of my players playing too much. Besides, we have Angelo Ogbonna back with us, he's in good condition and he can be an important alternative, as he showed at the beginning of the season.”

Allegri did rue the injuries that have compromised some of his players for much of the rest of the season, but he believes he has sufficient alternatives on the bench to cope.

“The cases of [Kwadwo] Asamoah and Romulo are two unfortunate situations that happened to us. But I think [Patrice] Evra is in a good condition, he's improving, he needs to play.

“We have [simone] Padoin who played some good games on the wing. We have [Federico] Mattiello, who is young, but he's also wilful, with a good run. Of course he needs to refine his technique, but he's the kind of player who will definitely play if he's needed.”

Juventus meet Fiorentina tomorrow at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in the 14th round of Serie A.

“As for Fiorentina, I believe they have recently found their balance, they come from two away games and they won them both, last time in Cagliari by a wide margin, scoring four goals.

“Playing in Florence is never easy, but we've got to do it, and we've got to come out of it with a positive result.”

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

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Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Allegri: ‘No spares in defence’

Dec 4, 2014

Juventus Coach Max Allegri is not worried about squad depth, but admits his defence needs some changes before the end of January.

The Coach and his Bianconeri emerged from a highly successful November, having won every game in the month.

However, an over-reliance on the same starters during an ongoing injury crisis has prompted concern that Juventus may suffer fatigue.

“There are options for changes,” countered Allegri in today’s Press conference looking ahead to tomorrow’s trip to Fiorentina.

“We have [sebastian] Giovinco up front, along with [Kingsley] Coman, and [simone] Padoin can play in as right-back. I'll evaluate him in training today.

“There is [Roberto] Pereyra who can certainly change for one of the midfielders.

“We're doing quite well physically, so tomorrow we'll face the game with great determination.”

Allegri is convinced that Juventus are just as strong in terms of alternatives in the midfield.

“We have [Andrea] Pirlo, [Claudio] Marchisio, [Paul] Pogba, [Arturo] Vidal, Pereyra, and Padoin who can play in the midfield if necessary.

“We also have some of the strikers who can play as offensive midfielders - [Carlos] Tevez, Giovinco, Coman.

“Tevez skipped a few of the home games, and at Empoli. But I'll say it again, more or less everyone is doing fine.

“Of course I have to evaluate their conditions, so I'll do that this afternoon. After training I'll decide who's going to play tomorrow.

“Naturally [Alvaro] Morata wants to play too, all of the players that I train every day want to play.

“From [simone] Pepe who only had 15 minutes of playing time to all the others that I have in the squad, like Coman, who has not been utilised much, to Giovinco himself.

“It's normal that things should be this way, and they have to be, because as I always say a match lasts 95 minutes and the subs from the bench are fundamental, all the more so because being able to swap three players means that those players, at that moment of the match, must play much better than the ones on the pitch.”

However, Allegri admitted that his squad was a bit short in defence.

“In terms of numbers, we've got no-one to spare in defence, because [Andrea] Barzagli is still out and we're hoping to have him back as soon as possible.

“[Kwadwo] Asamoah and Romulo have been lost for several months. [Martin] Caceres is working to come back and we're hoping that will be soon, hopefully as early as in the game against Sampdoria, and if not then, against Cagliari – but he will certainly play before [the Italian Supercup in] Doha.”

In spite of these weaknesses, Allegri bought time when discussing the mercato.

“We will see. The club is vigilant and knows what's needed, especially if our defensive numbers stay this way into January.

“For the moment we must think of playing tomorrow's match and the one on Tuesday, then we'll see. One thing at a time, we'll get to December 22 with some very clear ideas.”

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

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Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Montella: ‘Juve almost unbeatable’

Dec 4, 2014

Fiorentina Coach Vincenzo Montella believes that Juventus are ‘almost unbeatable’ ahead of the pair’s meeting tomorrow night.

The Bianconeri’s visit to Florence is one of the most highly-charged matches of the Serie A season, with a history of animosity between the clubs stretching back to the 1980s when the teams battled for the Scudetto.

The Viola won this fixture last season, with Giuseppe Rossi scoring a hat-trick as the Tuscan side came from 2-0 down to win 4-2.

Antonio Conte was on the Juventus bench that day, but Fiorentina Coach Vincenzo Montella warns that Massimiliano Allegri’s Old Lady will pose just as much of a challenge.

“They’re an almost unbeatable team,” the tactician told reporters in his Press conference ahead of the game.

“Well done to Conte who shaped the team over many years, and Allegri who has kept things going.

“Juve are strong, and I don’t think we can make things difficult for them just with a few surprises in selection.

“They have so many weapons, from Tevez to Buffon, Pirlo to Chiellini.

“They have a lot of good midfielders, while the defence is good too, even if there are some players out.

“It’s an important game. We’re very up for it, even though it’s a difficult game.

“Our opponents are a top side, it will be a really difficult match but we want to get something out of it for ourselves and the fans.

“We will have to sacrifice ourselves for each other, and play with belief as well as humility. You can’t go into games like this unless you’re at 101 per cent.

“The fans have always been right behind us. We know that everything depends on us, but they can give us an extra boost.

“It takes calm heads, as well as a willingness to work for the team to contest this kind of game.”

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

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Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence
Referee: Nicola Rizzoli

Morata to face Fiorentina?

Dec 4, 2014

Juventus could field Alvaro Morata from the start when they travel to Artemio Franchi to face Fiorentina tomorrow night.

Roberto Pereyra could also be given the nod from the first whistle for the Bianconeri, as Massimiliano Allegri looks to shuffle his side ahead of a crucial Champions League tie with Atletico Madrid.

According to Tuttosport, Morata could make just his second Serie A start of the season alongside Carlos Tevez in attack with Fernando Llorente dropping out.

The former Real Madrid man has been impressive for the Old Lady this term, notching four goals in Serie A so far, despite that lack of starting appearances.

Behind the Spaniard, Roberto Pereyra could come into the Juventus engine room to allow Claudio Marchisio to rest ahead of European commitments on Tuesday.

In defence, Allegri doesn’t have the luxury of rotation, with Stephan Lichtsteiner suspended and Luca Marrone, Martin Caceres, Kwadwo Asamoah and Andrea Barzagli still unavailable through injury.

Tuttosport believes that Simone Padoin will fill in for Lichtsteiner at right-back, while Patrice Evra will retain his place on the opposite flank.


Probable Juventus team to face Fiorentina: Buffon; Padoin, Chiellini, Bonucci, Evra; Pererya, Pirlo, Pogba; Vidal; Tevez, Morata

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