Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Briaschi: Atletico Madrid Should Be Worried About Juventus

Dec 8, 2014
 
FIFA agent and former Juventus striker Massimo Briaschi believes that Atletico Madrid should fear the Old Lady ahead of the Champions League clash between the two clubs on Tuesday.

The 56-year-old has expressed his confidence in the Bianconeri and feels the Italian giants will be able to overcome the Spanish side in the competition’s final group stage match in Turin as he admits that Massimiliano Allegri’s men have remained impressive with their performances this season thus far.

Briaschi spoke to Tuttomercatoweb.com about Tuesday’s meeting between Juventus and Atletico Madrid and praised Juve striker Carlos Tevez, while also commenting on the Serie A team’s chances of advancing to the knockout phase of the Champions League at the top of Group A.

“I think they can do it,” said the agent. “Juve struggled against Fiorentina a bit on Friday but they have the right players needed to beat the Spaniards.

“It’s true that Atletico are a tough obstacle to overcome, but the Juventus players are of absolute value. It’s good for Allegri to be sure of what he has while playing at home.

“It’s Atletico who must be worried. To finish the Champions League group stage at the top of their group would be a boost for Juve, and a great event. To close down first place would be very important.

“Tevez was rested for most of the Fiorentina match because he remains the strongest striker in Juve’s rotation. He may not be at top form in each game, but great players do not make mistakes in the games that count.

“The Bianconeri have now been leading the Serie A for a lifetime, but it’s not conceivable that they will always be brilliant.

“This isn’t a time of decline because of Friday night, because Fiorentina are a very good team. I’m not worried at all.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Juventus name squad for Atletico

Dec 8, 2014
 
Max Allegri has named the 20 players which will form the Juventus squad for tomorrow’s crucial game with Atletico Madrid.

Kingsley Coman misses out after complaining of muscular pain following Friday’s draw with Fiorentina, while the Bianconeri are still without long-term casualties Martin Caceres and Andrea Barzagli.

The game kicks off at 19.45 UK time at Juventus Stadium tomorrow night, with the Old Lady needing at least a draw to be sure of progression to the Last 16.

A win by two goals or more would see the Italian champions top the group, but a defeat coupled with a win for Olympiacos at home to Malmo would see Juventus enter the Europa League.


Juventus squad for Atletico Madrid: Buffon, Storari, Rubinho, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Bonucci, Lichsteiner, Evra, Mattiello, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Vidal, Pereyra, Morata, Tevez, Giovinco, Llorente.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

JUVENTUS V ATLETICO – CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BUILD UP

Dec 8, 2014
 
With just 24 hours to go until Juve’s Champions League match against Atletico, we round up the press conferences, player quotes and squad lists ahead of tomorrows game.


Juventus

Max Allegri gave his pre-match press conference earlier today and talked about the Atletico squad, Juve’s progress to the last 16 and exactly what is at stake for the Bianconeri.

“I don’t envy Atletico Madrid, Fortunately I am Juventus Coach, so I’m training a team which is not only made up of good players, but lads with the right mentality. I think that’s the main asset this team has, because otherwise they wouldn’t have been able to win three Serie A titles in a row, the [two] Super Cups and be leading the League again this season and be on the verge of qualifying for the next round of the Champions League.”

“It’s hard to say if we’re stronger than them or less strong, we’re two very good teams, and this year we have the opportunity to make it to the knockout stages and try to have a good Champions League campaign. I have a strong team, which is capable of playing in these kind of matches as we demonstrated in the first five group games. Even though we lost in Madrid and Athens I think that was undeserved. We were a bit too cautious in Madrid, and in Athens we didn’t score, but the team has always given consistent performances.”

“Tomorrow we’re at home, we have the fans on our side, and we are in good condition. We’re facing a team that has won 10 out of their last 11 games so we know it will be a very difficult game. For Juventus to improve upon what we did last season, we must qualify for the Last 16. It’s our number one goal. The League is a different thing, because it will be decided at the end of May, so at the moment qualification is our main target, and tomorrow we have a chance to hit it.”

“Last year [with Milan] was a different situation, because it was a Last 16 game, so it was in-or-out. This year it’s a game where we’re playing for first place [in the group], and they’re trying to defend first place. We’re playing both for top spot and for qualification, while they only have to think about defending first place. So it’s definitely a different game from last year, not least because of the situation.”

“As far as the game goes, the objective for tomorrow is qualifying for the Last 16. Of course we must do everything we can to try and win it, though winning with a two-goal differential won’t be easy because they are a team that doesn’t allow for many goal-scoring chances. They are also very strong on free-kicks.”

“I don’t even think about the Europa League, I don’t take it into consideration.”

“I think they are two excellent teams. Atletico have achieved some great, outstanding results. Let us not forget that they won La Liga and they lost a final [the Champions League] that they were on the verge of taking away. I think Juventus are a team that is doing – and has done – some great things in the Italian League. The club has played several Champions League Finals. It falls within the norm that Juventus should now return to the Last 16, and it’s very important.”

“Tomorrow’s game is going to be different, we will play at home, we’ll have all of our supporters behind us until the end. I am certain that they’ll give us a substantial push. Besides, it’s such an important game that we’ll come into it with great desire, great enthusiasm and especially a great strength to try and win it. Of course, we might still come second even if we win.”

“I still haven’t decided who’s going to play tomorrow. One of the two will certainly play. I will choose tomorrow morning.”

“As for the other players, I don’t like to talk about turnover. I think this team has an important squad that lets me change things according to the game and the moment. Not to mention that we play once every three days and thinking of covering the whole season with 11 players is practically impossible if you want to keep up a certain intensity. In the end you risk paying the price for it. Besides I think that the individual qualities of these players are important, so when two or three players are changed the team shouldn’t suffer any kind of trauma. On the contrary, the team must stay the same from technical and tactical point of view.”


Juventus squad for Atletico Madrid: Buffon, Storari, Rubinho, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Bonucci, Lichsteiner, Evra, Mattiello, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Vidal, Pereyra, Morata, Tevez, Giovinco, Llorente.

Note – Kingsley Coman misses out after complaining of muscular pain following Friday’s game against Fiorentina.



Atletico Madrid

Atleti coach Diego Simeone called Juve – Atletico a ‘ game unlike any other’ while highlighting how Andrea Pirlo might cause them problems.

“Tomorrow is a very important match,” Simeone declared in his Press conference.

“We’re playing against a massive club, which has great players and it will be a game unlike any other. Tomorrow is also very important to see who finishes first, who finishes second and also to see who will get through the group, because if Juventus lose they may not get through.”

When asked about facing Andrea Pirlo who was absent from the game in Madid, the coach was quick to warn of the dangers he might pose.

“Firstly, he’s a fantastic player. We should pay him a lot of attention because he’s a player with great mental speed.

“He’s also brilliant on free kicks and we will watch him very carefully.”

“I think my time at Catania was the most important of my career,” Simeone reflected.

“I think in the Italian league teams don’t always play the same way, in a game if Coaches see something wrong they’ll change the system they’re playing.In Spain we change the systems less, with the players being prepared for maybe on or two systems. Here in Italy it’s more difficult for Coaches, and there’s definitely a lot of Italian football in me.”

Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke praised Juve’s midfield strength and the chance to play at the Juve stadium.

“It’s always nice to play in a stadium like this, for the atmosphere, It’s always nice to play in Europe and we hope it will be a good day tomorrow.

“Their midfield? They are very strong, we saw that already at [Atletico’s stadium] the Calderon, even though they were without [Andrea] Pirlo who is a great player.

“I think it will be a great game and a fierce battle tomorrow night.”


Atletico Madrid squad for Juventus: Moyá, Oblak, Juanfran, Gámez, Giménez, Godín, Lucas, Siqueira, Gabi, Tiago, Saúl, Mario Suárez, Koke, Cristian Rodríguez, Arda, Cerci, Raúl García, Griezmann, Raúl Jiménez, Mandzukic

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

UEFA Champions League Preview:
Juventus vs. Atlético Madrid — Taking care of business

Just a nice, relaxing evening of football awaits us all tomorrow night. Or maybe
just 90 minutes of absolutely stress and the biting off of our fingernails. Either/or...

Dec 8, 2014
 
Because Juventus suddenly discovered they actually have to play half-decent football to even have a chance of getting out of the Champions League group stage, they enter Tuesday night's final group stage game knowing they have a really good chance to get into the knockout round. And with it, they know exactly what each result will mean for them and their future in Europe's premier club competition.

A quick refresher course, if you will, of what each result means:

A win by at least two goals would give Juventus three points and the top spot in Group A. And because of it, a good chance to get a nice draw for the round of 16 next week.
A draw means Juventus take second place in the group and advance to the knockout round. Simple as that and then pray Juventus get a somewhat favorable draw — at best probably — next week.
A loss ... well, we don't even want to think about that for a second straight season.
Pretty easy to figure out, right?

Well, that's basically the short nuts and bolts of it all. But Juventus aren't trying to get to the next round of the dance by playing some cupcake squad from Serie B like they were this time last year in the Coppa Italia. Nah, it's just the defending La Liga champions and Champions League finalists coming to Turin, one that has already beaten Juventus once already this season and made then look absolutely terrible in the process.

While Juventus are coming off a rather drab and relatively listless draw against Fiorentina on Friday night, the Juventus we've seen in the last six weeks is different than the one that showed up in Spain on the first day of October. And because of that, they've put themselves in a good position to get to the knockout stage.

That is, if they take care of business at Juventus Stadium on Tuesday night.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "It's crucial for us to get to the last 16. We need to put in a strong display from a technical standpoint."

Despite the fact that Juventus is playing such a damn good team, they couldn't have really asked for anything better considering how they started the group stage out. They've got the game at Juventus Stadium, they will have a fired up and rowdy crowd singing in full force giving them plenty of support. It's got all the makings of a classic European clash between two very good teams.

Juventus don't need to win to get into the knockout stage. We all know that and will certainly be reminded of it. But, please, if they want to go ahead and rise to the occasion and grab the top of the group, you won't find me objecting to it.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@ClaMarchisio8: "We already know all about Atleti. We're fully up to speed on their abilities and are aware they’re strong on set pieces."
 

 

GOOD NEWS

Atlético Madrid will be out on of their two standout center backs, João Miranda, because of a hamstring injury. And while Diego Godín is still around and looking to terrorize Juventus' strikers, at least his badass partner in crime won't be around.

BAD NEWS

While Juventus are playing well these days, there's still the chance that they don't make it out of the group stage for the second consecutive season if everything lines up totally against them. They need a lot of things to go wrong, but it's still a possibility. So until Juventus either get a draw or a win Tuesday, I'm not going to feel completely at ease.

See, aren't you glad I didn't talk about all the injuries in this section for once? Eh, maybe not a good alternative to go with instead. Oh well.
 

 

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Is it back to a four-man defense for Juventus?

I mean, Allegri has to, right? One of the biggest reasons why Allegri decided to go to a 3-5-2 formation against Fiorentina was that there was no Stephan Lichtsteiner available. Well, guess who's back? Yeah, this guy. There are still plenty of injuries because of course there are. Howoever, having Lichtsteiner back not only gives Juventus their No. 1 right back, but also gives Allegri the ability to go back to his more preferred 4-3-1-2/4-3-2-1 formation that has worked so well the last month or so. We don't even have to look far to see the difference in the two systems' effectiveness, too. When Allegri switched to a three-man backline against Fiorentina, it was night and day — and not in a good way — in terms of how the team looked. I don't want to see that happen again in such an important game, and neither should Allegri.

2. Can Juventus break down the relentless Atlético defense?

Atlético Madrid might be a little bit of last season's pace when it comes to goals allowed in La Liga, but that doesn't mean they've suddenly become a terrible defense. Not even close. We can just look at what happened in Juventus' visit to Madrid earlier this season. Atlético put on a defensive clinic, keeping Juve's attack almost completely quiet despite a noticeable margin in possession numbers. No matter who starts alongside Carlos Tévez — more on Fernando Llorente and Álvaro Morata in a bit — their task is to try and create scoring chances against a defense that can lock down even the most world-class of attacking squads. See? Nothing to worry about. (Right....)

3. Can Juventus keep the relentless Atlético counterattack relatively quiet?

Defend and then hit their opponent on the counter. This is Atlético's style. It's not a secret, and Juventus have been one of the many teams to find it out first hand in their 1-0 loss in Spain. Even though Juventus created a relatively small number of scoring chances, they still had nearly 60 percent of the possession. Why? Because Atlético did what Atlético does. And it's not like this is going to suddenly change just because they're away from home. Simeone has drilled his squad so well that it's pretty much second nature. They will defend like madmen and then they will try to break their opponent on the counterattack. If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right?

4. Is this the time for Álvaro Morata to get his chance to shine?

Allegri stepped up to the mic at his pre-match conference and his first questions was basically this: Morata or Llorente?

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "Morata and Llorente are very much part of my plans, both are quality players."

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "Morata and Llorente could even play together, even though they're yet to do so this season."

Well, I think it's safe to say that's pretty much no help to us at all. So as much as Allegri can skirt around questions and answer it with no definitive answers, there's a decision to be made. Will Llorente, who scored the game-winner against Malmö a couple weeks ago, get yet another chance to play from the opening whistle? Or will Morata, the €20 million summer signee who has started just three games in all competitions this season, get his chance to partner with Tévez? Maybe another question/talking point should be if Allegri will make the kind of big-time decision in such a crucial European game or play it safe like he has most of the year and go with Llorente once more.

5. Containing Atlético's Super Mario.

Here's what Mario Madnzukic has done since the middle of October: 10 games played, eight goals scored.

We talked a couple weeks ago about the absolute roll Carlos Tévez was on after he declared he was in the form of his life, but Mandzukic is on quite a vein of form of his own. The last time he stepped on the field in the Champions League, he almost singlehandedly beat Olympiacos as he dropped a hat trick on the Greek champions in a 4-0 win. It doesn't really matter if Simeone lines Atlético up in a 4-4-2 or a 4-4-1-1 or whatever, Mandzukic is going to be the focal point of the Spanish champs' attack. That means Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini will have to be on top of their game if they want to keep the Croatian striker relatively quiet tomorrow night.

 

My starting XI (4-3-1-2): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio; Vidal; Tévez, Morata

 

OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 8:45 P.M. IN ITALY; 2:45 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 11:45 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Simeone: Atletico braced for 'best Juventus'

The Bianconeri only need a draw to seal their place in the 16 but know that a victory
by two clear goals would see them pip the Rojiblancos to top spot on the head-to-head record.

Dec 8, 2014
 
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has warned his players to expect a raucous atmosphere and the "best Juventus" in Turin on Tuesday night.

The Rojiblancos sit three points clear at the top of Group A and have already qualified for the knockout stage of the Champions League, thanks in no small part to a 1-0 win over the Italian titleholders on matchday two.

Massimiliano Allegri's men need a draw to ensure their progression at the expense of third-placed Olympiacos but can still finish first if they defeat Atleti by two clear goals.

As a result, Simeone believes the Italian champions will go all out for victory in front of their home fans.

"It is an important match," the Argentine told a news conference on Monday. "At home, they are even stronger, with a very good atmosphere.

"We have to play with our heads. What we're going to find here will be very different [to their previous meeting at the Vicente Calderon] and it is not going to be like what we have experienced in other stadiums.

"Tomorrow's game is different, with respect to those who we have already played [Olympiacos and Malmo].

"It is also very important to see who finishes first, who finishes second and also to see who will get through the group, because if Juventus lose they may not get through [Olympiakos need an eight-goal swing to progress].

"Juventus, because of their history, are not allowed to fail to qualify. All this will be in the game, on the field. We have to play the game well.

"I'm expecting the best Juventus. Tomorrow [Tuesday] we will have to deal with the atmosphere of a final."

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Allegri: ‘Atleti game is special’

Dec 8, 2014
 
Massimiliano Allegri says Juventus’ crunch Champions League tie with Atletico Madrid is a ‘special’ occasion.

The Bianconeri are in the unusual position of both being able to qualify as group winners, and having the threat of elimination hanging over them.

The Old Lady need at least a draw with the Spanish champions to guarantee their place in the Last 16.

“It’s a special game, different from the usual,” Allegri explained to Sky Sport.

“We’re playing for qualification for the knockout stages, against a team that are already qualified, but are aiming for first place.

“If we beat them by two goals we’ll go top. We’ll have all the passion of our stadium on our side, that will be fundamental for us.

“Everyone has to sacrifice and work for the team in this game, we can achieve qualification.

“Atletico are a team which usually makes their opponents play poorly, and they work really hard for each other.

“Most importantly, they have good players, who can change a game at any time, especially on set pieces and on the counter-attack.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Juve won't accept failure, Atletico's Simeone warns

Dec 8, 2014
 
Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is expecting a very different challenge in Tuesday's Champions League Group A clash at Juventus to when Atletico humbled the Italian giants in the Spanish capital in October.

Atletico's 1-0 victory over Juve at their Calderon stadium means Simeone's men can afford to lose by a single goal and still finish in top spot, when they would avoid fellow group winners in next Monday's draw for the last 16.

While Atletico are already assured of their place in the knockout round, Juve need a draw to be sure of qualifying ahead of third-placed Olympiakos Piraeus, who host Malmo.

"They (Juve) are even stronger at their home stadium," Simeone told a news conference previewing the game in Turin.

"We will have to play with a lot of intelligence," added the Argentine, who faced Juve seven times during his playing career in Serie A, winning four and drawing two.

"What we will experience here will be very different, it will not be like what we have gone through in other stadiums.

"Because of their history, because of their status they will not allow themselves to fail."

Juve should have talismanic Italy playmaker Andrea Pirlo back for Tuesday's game after he missed the match in Madrid through injury.

Massimiliano Allegri's side are on a nine-match unbeaten streak at home in Europe and have lost just one of 14 games in continental competition at their new Juventus Stadium.

"We will be able to see a fantastic footballer on the pitch," Simeone said of Pirlo's return.

"We will have to stay very focused to combat his mental speed. He gives his team a plus when it comes to vertical play and dead-ball situations."

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Juventus Were ‘Chickens’ Against Atletico Madrid;
Need To Rectify That: Allegri

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus’s manager Massimiliano Allegri has expressed his thought on the Old Lady’s first encounter against Atletico de Madrid. Juventus lost 1-0 to Atletico de Madrid, in a game which was boring – as per neutral’s point of view. With Juventus entertaining the Spanish outfit at home, and stakes high, an enticing encounter could be on the cards.

“We lost in Madrid and in Athens and I don’t think we deserved to. We were chickens in Madrid, and in Athens we didn’t score. We’re at home tomorrow, though, and the fans will get behind us, plus we’re in good shape. We’re playing to snatch first place, they’re playing to defend it.” said Allegri.

If Juventus are to snatch the first place from Atletico Madrid, then they have to defeat the Spanish outfit by a goal difference of two goals. Although Juventus’s attacking contingent has lacked goals in Europe, it would be bolstered by the return of Carlos Tevez, who was rested and featured only 30 mins against Fiorentina.

“Winning by two goals will not be easy as they don’t give you many chances. It’s going to be very difficult and we can’t lose track of our objective, which is to go through but also to come first as that would allow us to face a runner-up in the draw.”

“It’s going to be a different game [to the reverse fixture]. We’re at home and have the fans behind us. Maybe we’ll win and it’s not enough to come first. It’s fundamental that Juve reach the last 16. We’ve got to try to win but they’ll be looking to defend top spot.”

Allegri, was also quick to praise Diego Simione, gaffer of Ateltico de Madrid. Allegri said, “[Diego] Simeone’s doing a great job and winning the league is not easy when you are up against Real Madrid and Barcelona. Reaching the Champions League final is also a great achievement. He does deserve to win the FIFA World Coach of the Year award, but so do Carlo Ancelotti and the Germany coach [Joachim Löw]. They all deserve it for what they’ve done.”

Although Juventus has suffered purple patches in the past at the European level, the Turin based club would look to draw inspiration from their nine match unbeaten streak at home at would look to grab all three points by force.


Possible lineups

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Marchisio, Pirlo, Pogba; Vidal; Tévez, Llorente.

• Out: Asamoah (adductor), Rômulo (knee), Barzagli (ankle), Cáceres (thigh), Coman (thigh)

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Juventus V Atletico Madrid – Preview:
Bianconeri Look For Decisive Point To Prove

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus host Atletico Madrid on Tuesday evening, knowing that a draw will see them join their group rival in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The Spanish giants are already safely through to the knock-out stages, but Juve still need at least a point to ensure they progress at the expense of Greek side Olympiacos, who currently sit in third place.

In fact, should the home side win by two clear goals, they would top the group, potentially getting a more favourable opponent in the next round.

However, Massimiliano Allegri’s men go into the match after a less than impressive goalless draw away to Fiorentina. The Bianconeri toiled throughout the match, failing to dominate their opponent as they have done in previous rounds of Serie A.

The coach’s decision to rest in-form striker Carlos Tevez visibly blunted their attack, as Allegri’s team selection was undoubtedly conditioned by the impending European cup tie.

The Argentine will start on Tuesday and should also be joined by Claudio Marchisio, Simone Padoin and Stefan Lichsteiner in the line-up, all of whom were also given a chance to rest before this crucial match.

The only question mark surrounds who will partner the ‘Apache’ at the point of the Juventus attack. Alvaro Morata has probably done enough to edge himself ahead of Spanish compatriot Fernando Llorente, especially given Llorente’s average display on Saturday night at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Allegri is also expected to return to a back four, after having used a three man defence in the aforementioned 0-0 draw. Padoin should flank Giorgio Chiellni and Leonardo Bonucci on the left, with Lichsteiner stepping back into his familiar role on the right.

In stark contrast, Atletico triumphed 2-0 away to Elche this weekend, winning their fifth straight game in all competitions, their 10th victory in 11 games. Coach Diego Simeone will head to Turin with confidence, given his side need only avoid defeat to ensure topping the group.

Juventus fans can be comforted by the fact that whilst at AC Milan, Allegri never failed to get his team through to the second phase in Europe and even defeat at the hands of the Spaniards would not spell disaster, as long as fourth placed side Malmo manage to get something from their game with the Greeks.


Expected Starting XIs

Juventus (4-3-1-2): Buffon; Lichsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Padoin; Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio; Vidal; Tevez, Morata

Atletico Madrid (4-2-3-1): Moya; Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, Ansaldi; Tiago, Koke; Raul Garcia, Saul, Arda; Mandzukic.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Llorente: ‘Atletico complicated team’

Dec 9, 2014
 
Fernando Llorente describes tonight's rivals Atletico Madrid as ‘complicated’, but affirms Juventus are playing to win.

The Spaniard is up against a team he faced several times before in La Liga tonight, as the Bianconeri square up against Los Colchoneros for a result to book their place in the Champions League's Last 16.

The forward believes that facing them won't be easy, but he is confident his team's winning mentality can pull them through.

“Atletico is a complicated team, similar to the Italian teams because they knows how to close up and then counter,” Llorente conceded on Radio Cope

“We'll try to win it, like we always do. In the last few years we proved that we are the strongest in Italy.

“Personally I feel better, I returned to having an optimal rhythm and physical condition.”

Llorente was asked about his teammates and was full of praise, starting from his fellow striker Alvaro Morata.

“He has incredible quality for his age, he really can get very far.

“[Andrea] Pirlo is an extraordinary player, fundamental, he should always play. And [Paul] Pogba can become one of the best in the world.

“In the summer I had a few offers but I never thought I'd leave Juventus.”

Llorente was asked whether he would return to the national team, and he left an open door to the prospect.

“We'll see, I'm going to do my best in the club and if this prize should arrive, then I'd be over the moon.”

Juventus play Atletico Madrid tonight at 20:45 Italian time at the Juventus Stadium.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Morata: ‘Juve can send message’

Dec 9, 2014
 
Alvaro Morata sees tonight’s match with Atletico Madrid as ‘special’, and the opportunity for Juventus to ‘send a message’ to Europe.

The Spaniard is competing with compatriot Fernando Llorente for a starting spot in tonight's Champions League clash at home to Los Colchoneros, which has Juve’s progression to the Last 16 up for grabs.

“We now have an opportunity to put our name back on the map in Europe,” Morata told Onda Cero this week.

“We can send a message that Juventus are back.

“We're at home and we know that we can beat any team here.

“The crowd are going to give everything. Very few stadiums in Spain will look like ours.

“The Champions League is the pinnacle for all players at club level. Anyone can beat anyone.

“You can have a bad game and go home, or you have a bit of luck and win the competition.

“The important thing is to be in the next round. It motivates me to play against all teams, but this is special because they are Spanish and are Atleti, a team that has been at the highest level for a few years. No-one can fail to be motivated to face Atleti.”

Morata was especially impressed with Atletico Coach Diego Simeone, who is one of the three candidates for this year's coaching Ballon d'Or.

“With Simeone in charge they have had an incredible few years. Every year some very important players have left but they have managed to create a new competitive team.

“Atleti have many variations to their game, they can hurt you through their combinations, whilst from midfield they have players who drive forward.

“Any of their players can win a game in a moment. Their wingers are also very attack-minded.”

Morata also took the opportunity to offer his opinion on who the next Ballon d'Or should be.

“Casillas and Sergio Ramos deserve the Ballon d'Or, but for the last few years Cristiano has been above the rest, so he'd be the most worthy winner.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Vialli: ‘Juve must target first’

Dec 9, 2014
 
Gianluca Vialli has praised Juventus’ ‘change of mentality’ and says they cannot consider second place in the Champions League group stage.

The Bianconeri can secure top spot in Group A this evening with a victory by two clear goals against Atletico Madrid, whilst a lesser win or a draw would mean a second place finish.

Ahead of tonight’s match, one of the club’s protagonists from their continued prominence in the 1990s believes that merely booking passage to the next round is not enough.

“The Bianconeri must think about emerging from the group as first-placed,” Vialli has said to Tuttosport.

“In Malmo the team showed great physical strength, besides which I saw many positive things.

“For example, after scoring the goal that gave them the lead, they did not fall back.

“It's a nice change of mentality. Now Juventus must think of progressing in first place. Full stop.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

Line-ups: Juventus-Atletico Madrid

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus start Carlos Tevez, Fernando Llorente and Patrice Evra in tonight’s Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid, but Claudio Marchisio is taken ill.

It kicks off in Turin at 20.45 CET and qualification as well as the group leadership are at stake.

Juve will go through with a draw or if Olympiacos fail to beat Malmoe, but a victory by two clear goals over already-qualified Atleti would top the group.

The only way the Bianconeri can be eliminated is if they lose and Olympiacos win, as the Greek side have a superior head-to-head record.

After the 0-0 draw away to Fiorentina on Friday interrupted a run of six consecutive victories, Max Allegri returns to the 4-3-1-2 system.

Arturo Vidal is the trequartista behind strikers Tevez and Llorente, who are preferred to ex-Real Madrid forward Alvaro Morata.

Claudio Marchisio is not even on the bench due to flu symptoms, so Roberto Pereyra starts and the bench looks surprisingly thin.

Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, Kingsley Coman, Martin Caceres and Andrea Barzagli are still out of action, but it’s veteran Evra who is picked at left-back rather than Simone Padoin.

Atletico Madrid have already qualified, but field their best line-up to avoid losing the group leadership, which is worth an ‘easier’ draw in the knockouts.

Miranda and Cristian Ansaldi are the only absentees for Diego Simeone’s men, who were beaten in extra time by Real Madrid in last season’s Champions League Final.

Mario Mandzukic is the centre-forward supported by Arda Turan, Koke and Raul Garcia, benching Antoine Griezmann and Alessio Cerci.

Mario Suarez is also preferred to Tiago in midfield. Diego Godin is one to watch, especially on set pieces where Atletico Madrid provide a real aerial threat.

Juve lost 1-0 in Madrid thanks to an Arda Turan goal, but the Bianconeri had 61 per cent possession and failed to get a shot on target.

Juve are unbeaten in nine European home ties, while Atleti have won five of their last Champions League away fixtures.

The referee is Scottish official William Collum.


Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pereyra, Pogba, Pirlo; Vidal; Tevez, Llorente

Juventus bench: Storari, Ogbonna, Pepe, Padoin, Mattiello, Giovinco, Morata


Atletico Madrid: Moya; Juanfran, J Gimenez, Godin, Siqueira; Mario Suarez, Gabi; Raul Garcia, Koke, Arda Turan; Mandzukic

Atletico Madrid bench: Oblak, Jesus Gamez, Tiago, Saul, Rodriguez, Cerci, Griezmann

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

-

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)

HT 0-0: Atleti scare Juve

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus dominated possession, but Gigi Buffon made the only two saves as it’s 0-0 with Atletico Madrid at half-time.

At the break, Olympiacos are winning 1-0 over Malmo, so as things stand would go through in third place. However, if the Greek side win and Juve lose, the Italians will be out of the Champions League.

The Bianconeri would qualify with a point and a victory by two clear goals means taking top spot from already-qualified Atleti. Claudio Marchisio was a late addition to the absentee list suffering from a fever, joining Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, Kingsley Coman, Martin Caceres and Andrea Barzagli. The Spaniards missed Miranda and Cristian Ansaldi, but surprisingly dropped Tiago and Antoine Griezmann, while Alessio Cerci was again benched.

Juve were unbeaten in nine European home ties, while Atleti won five of their last six Champions League away fixtures.

Gigi Buffon needed the first desperate save with his trailing hand after six minutes on Koke at the near post following a defensive error, while Fernando Llorente just failed to get the final touch to a Paul Pogba assist from six yards. Carlos Tevez saw his shot charged down by Diego Godin’s arm from point-blank range, so could not be considered voluntary.

Arturo Vidal gave away a counter and then brought down Raul Garcia for the inevitable booking. From that free kick, Buffon had to palm a Jose Maria Gimenez header out from under the bar.

The hosts absolutely dominated possession with over 70 per cent in the opening half-hour, much as they had done in Madrid, but Diego Simeone’s defence held firm. Llorente’s looping header was plucked out from under the bar on a Pogba pass.

Both Jose Maria Gimenez and Siqueira went into the book, but Vidal risked a second on 40 minutes by stopping a Gabi counter-attack.

Atleti continued to have the only shots on target, as Mario Suarez stung Buffon’s gloves from outside the box following a Pogba error.


Juventus 0-0 Atletico Madrid (Half-Time)

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pereyra, Pogba, Pirlo; Vidal; Tevez, Llorente

Atletico Madrid: Moya; Juanfran, J Gimenez, Godin, Siqueira; Mario Suarez, Gabi; Raul Garcia, Koke, Arda Turan; Mandzukic

Ref: Collum (SCO)

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Juventus 0-0 Atletico Madrid: Serie A
champions clinch round of 16 berth

Massimiliano Allegri's men have booked their ticket for the knockout
stages after a scoreless draw at home versus the Liga outfit.

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus have recorded a 0-0 draw versus Atletico Madrid in Tuesday's Champions League Group A match in Turin.

The Italian giants saw their hopes of reaching the knockout stages dashed on matchday six at Galatasaray 12 months ago, but there was to be no repeat on this occasion despite a toothless performance in attack from the Serie A champions.

Massimiliano Allegri's men controlled the Turin clash, but struggled to convert their possession into decent attempts on goal, often restricted to long-range efforts.

Goalkeeper Miguel Angel Moya was also in good form for already-qualified Atletico when required, as he kept his fifth clean sheet in a row in this season's competition.

The Spanish champions - despite being second best for long periods - created the game's best chance in the sixth minute, but Koke, through on goal, was denied by veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.

The stalemate meant that Juve finished second in Group A with 10 points - one more than Olympiacos, who beat Malmo 4-2. Atleti topped the pool with 13 points from six matches.

Juventus, who knew they would seal qualification with a win or draw, regardless of other results, received an early scare when Buffon charged off his line to deny Koke.

It was an excellent Atletico move involving several one-touch passes that led to Koke's chance, but Buffon was equal to the task.

The visitors - not employing their regular high-pressing game - were comfortable to let Juve have the ball, and as a result, they dominated the first half, with Stephan Lichtsteiner starring down the right.

Paul Pogba also impressed, but for all of Juve's domination, they created few meaningful chances.

Fernando Llorente twice forced saves from Moya, while Diego Godin did well to block a Carlos Tevez strike, but their lack of cutting edge was causing headaches for Allegri.

And Atleti offered a reminder of their threat on a rare foray forward two minutes before half-time, when Buffon produced a diving save to keep out Mario Suarez's curling effort.

An Arda Turan corner almost crept in five minutes after play resumed, but Juventus were again in control, with Arturo Vidal's 25-yard effort forcing a fine save from Moya.

Pogba was next to try his luck from distance and his shot was spilled by Moya, meaning Atletico had to desperately clear with Tevez lurking.

The home fans' joy at Malmo's initial equaliser to make it 1-1 against Olympiacos - in which a draw would have seen Juve qualify, even with defeat - was short-lived as the Greek giants quickly restored their lead.

That put the pressure back on Juve, who were struggling to find a way through a packed Atletico defence.

Vidal shot at Moya on a counter-attack 16 minutes from time, while Pogba also fizzed an effort wide, but there was to be no late drama - in stark contrast to Olympiacos' exciting win.

But it mattered little for Juve, who did enough to book their spot in the next round.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Juventus 0-0 Atletico Madrid:
Stalemate Seals Bianconeri Progression

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus drew 0-0 with Atletico Madrid at the Juventus Stadium on Tuesday night in the UEFA Champions League.

Although Atletico had a few chances, it was a game that Massimiliano Allegri’s side dominated but no goal had arrived.

The first half was dominated by the Bianconeri while Los Colchoneros were content with sitting back and hitting on the counterattack.

Atletico midfielder Koke pounced on the loose ball and Gianluigi Buffon slid quickly to block the shot; Paul Pogba crossed for Fernando Llorente but Miguel Angel Moya saved the Juventus striker’s chance.

Tevez had a shot blocked by the Atletico Madrid defence and they also cleared away an Andrea Pirlo free-kick, before Jose Gimenez had a chance for Atleti but his looping header was tipped over the bar by Buffon.

Pirlo had a free-kick which just went over the bar and Pogba then crossed the ball for Llorente but Moya made a save from the forward’s header.

Despite the Juve dominance, Atletico had some chances near the end of the half; Arda Turan’s shot went wide after he just cut-in from the left, Buffon parried away Mario Suarez’s long-range shot and the Juventus goalkeeper then saved from Raul Garcia’s half-volley.

At the start of the second half, Atletico were denied by the woodwork after a corner and Pogba had a shot blocked by Gimenez.

Arturo Vidal’s angled drive was pushed away for a corner by Moya after a Juve counterattack and Moya also made a save from Pogba’s long-range effort.

Diego Simeone’s side were very tight in defence and Juventus struggled to test Moya from close range; Vidal tried his luck from distance after 75 minutes but the Atleti keeper was able to push the shot away.

Llorente then had a clash with Raul Garcia and he came off temporarily with a bleeding nose.

Only one minute of stoppage time was played but the draw ensured Juve’s progression to the Round of 16 of the 2014-15 UEFA Champions League.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Juve, Atletico Both Advance on 0-0 Draw

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus secured passage to the UEFA Champions League latter stages on Tuesday night with a 0-0 draw against Atletico Madrid at Juventus Stadium, but will have to make do with a second-seed berth.

The Bianconeri needed a victory by two goals or more to qualify in first place from Group A but didn't manage it; Carlos Tevez came the closest to breaking the deadlock, and Fernando Llorente struggled with the shackles of Diego Godin all night.

It leaves the Old Lady and Massimiliano Allegri the prospect of facing a group winner come February in the round of 16, but for now the club will celebrate reaching the latter stages. Atletico go through top of the group as expected, continuing to play in that same Diego Simeone way.

The match began in frantic fashion as Atletico Madrid entered the Juventus box inside 20 seconds, only for the ball to be hacked clear. Carlos Tevez then countered at pace down the right-hand side and won a free-kick that Andrea Pirlo drove into the wall.

Gianluigi Buffon was called into action to retain his side's slim chances of netting a two-goal advantage in the sixth minute, saving a shot by Koke at close range when the Spaniard really should have scored.

From there the Bianconeri settled into the match and dominated the ball, with Atleti dropped into a 4-4-2 shell and defending in compact fashion. Juve totalled 70 percent possession in the first 20 minutes, per WhoScored.com, but struggled to carve out any major chances.

The best looks came from the right, as the central zones were too clogged; Stephan Lichtsteiner was frequently freed up into space for a cross, but the titanic Diego Godin beat Fernando Llorente to almost every header.

One cross, from Paul Pogba, found its mark in the entirety of the first half. The Spaniard looped a header toward goal, but the claim was easy for Miguel Angel Moya.

Dermot Corrigan @dermotmcorrigan
Llorente not over involved but does get his head on latest cross from Pogba, but from awkward position and easy save for Moya.

The second half drew up more of the same in terms of frustration for Juve, as Atleti sank into an even deeper 4-4-2 with every player behind the ball. They continued to threaten on the counter—Gabi smacked the outside of the post from a set piece on a rare foray forward—and continued to stifle the home side in attack.

A loose ball ricocheted to Pogba who saw his shot blocked by Jose Maria Gimenez, then another long-distance strike by the Frenchman was spilt but then hacked clear by Godin.

By the 70th minute Juventus had completed 391 passes in comparison to Atleti's paltry 130, per Sky Sports' live TV statistics, effectively summarizing the pattern of the game.

For the final five minutes both sides accepted a draw—Atletico particularly happy to do so given their status as group leaders—and the Bianconeri simply knocked it across the back line until the final whistle sounded.


Grades

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon 6
Stephan Lichtsteiner 7
Leonardo Bonucci 6
Giorgio Chiellini 6
Patrice Evra 6
Arturo Vidal 6
Andrea Pirlo 6
Paul Pogba 7
Roberto Pereyra 6
Carlos Tevez 6.5
Fernando Llorente 6


Atletico Madrid

Moya 6
Juanfran 7
Diego Godin 9
Jose Maria Gimenez 7
Guilherme Siqueira 5
Koke 6
Mario Suarez 6
Gabi 7
Arda Turan 6.5
Raul Garcia 6
Mario Mandzukic 6

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

CL: Juve share Atleti spoils

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus got the point they needed against Atletico Madrid, so both teams go through to the Champions League Round of 16.

The Bianconeri would qualify with a point and a victory by two clear goals means taking top spot from already-qualified Atleti. Claudio Marchisio was a late addition to the absentee list suffering from a fever, joining Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, Kingsley Coman, Martin Caceres and Andrea Barzagli. The Spaniards missed Miranda and Cristian Ansaldi, but surprisingly dropped Tiago and Antoine Griezmann, while Alessio Cerci was again benched.

Juve were unbeaten in nine European home ties, while Atleti won five of their last six Champions League away fixtures.

Gigi Buffon needed the first desperate save with his trailing hand after six minutes on Koke at the near post following a defensive error, while Fernando Llorente just failed to get the final touch to a Paul Pogba assist from six yards. Carlos Tevez saw his shot charged down by Diego Godin’s arm from point-blank range, so could not be considered voluntary.

Arturo Vidal gave away a counter and then brought down Raul Garcia for the inevitable booking. From that free kick, Buffon had to palm a Jose Maria Gimenez header out from under the bar.

The hosts absolutely dominated possession with over 70 per cent in the opening half-hour, much as they had done in Madrid, but Diego Simeone’s defence held firm. Llorente’s looping header was plucked out from under the bar on a Pogba pass.

Both Jose Maria Gimenez and Siqueira went into the book, but Vidal risked a second on 40 minutes by stopping a Gabi counter-attack.

Atleti continued to have the only shots on target, as Mario Suarez stung Buffon’s gloves from outside the box following a Pogba error.

Straight after the restart, Gabi tried to curl in directly from a corner and hit the outside of the near post with Buffon scrambling. Pogba’s strike was charged down, then Moya made his first save on a Vidal snapshot after 57 minutes.

The Bianconeri stepped up the pressure and a Pogba screamer from distance was spilled by Moya, but Roberto Pereyra ballooned over from a corner and the goalkeeper was quick to capture a Vidal curler.

Llorente accidentally collided with Gimenez, but was able to continue with a large cut to his nose. Another Pogba solo effort whistled just wide, but as they reached the last five minutes on 0-0, both teams seemed to settle for a point apiece and not run further risks. There was only one minute of stoppages, as neither side made a single substitution.


Juventus 0-0 Atletico Madrid

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pereyra, Pogba, Pirlo; Vidal; Tevez, Llorente

Atletico Madrid: Moya; Juanfran, J Gimenez, Godin, Siqueira; Mario Suarez, Gabi; Raul Garcia, Koke, Arda Turan; Mandzukic

Ref: Collum (SCO)

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Buffon: 'Juve deserved more'

Dec 9, 2014
 
Gigi Buffon felt “considering the performances,” Juventus should’ve secured qualification long before a 0-0 with Atletico Madrid.

“I think at the end of the day, considering how it got complicated after three games, we did well to get it back on track and reached the final match knowing at least a point would be enough,” the goalkeeper told Sky Sport Italia.

“Considering the performances we put in throughout the round, I think we deserved to secure qualification one or two games ago.”

The Bianconeri could’ve topped the group with a win by two clear goals this evening, but Buffon insisted it would’ve made little difference in the draw.

“If you finish top, you’re still going to meet the strong clubs. If you’re better than them on the pitch, then you win, it doesn’t matter when you face them.

“Atletico Madrid are now a prestigious side among the top four or five in the world. Their journey in Europe in recent years confirms that and so does this season after a slightly shaky start. I think they’ll be protagonists in the Liga and Champions League.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Pogba: '100 per cent not enough'

Dec 9, 2014
 
Paul Pogba hailed Atletico Madrid’s defensive qualities and said to go forward Juventus “must give more than 100 per cent.”

The Old Lady progressed to the knockouts thanks to a 0-0 home draw against Atleti.

“We prepared the game well and played against a great side with a lot of Champions League experience, reaching the Final last season. I think we did well,” the Frenchman told Sky Sport Italia.

“Atletico Madrid kept tight and there were few spaces, so I tried a few times from distance. Everyone knows they are strong defensively and we tried, but the aim was to qualify and we are very happy to have achieved it.

The Bianconeri finished second in Group A, so will take on one of the group winners in the Round of 16.

“We are playing to go forward and that means facing the strongest teams in Europe. It’s what we want.

“With the team we have today, we can go far. We also know that we have to give more and games are not easy, so we must give 120 per cent. 100 per cent isn’t enough.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Allegri: 'No Juventus risks'

Dec 9, 2014
 
Massimiliano Allegri confessed Juventus “didn’t want to compromise qualification” in their 0-0 with Atletico Madrid.

The Bianconeri would’ve topped the group with a victory by two clear goals, but a point was enough to beat Olympiacos to second place.

“It’s always complicated against Atletico, as they defend very well with tight lines, so it’s not easy to find passes between the lines,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“We risked on a few occasions, Buffon did very well in the first half with a save and we had chances too. In the second half we tried to win, but at the same time not risk losing. We didn’t want to compromise a qualification I thought was thoroughly deserved, as we did not deserve to lose against Olympiacos and Atleti in Madrid.

“Of course we need to improve, as against these big clubs there are times when you have to defend and protect yourself – something Atletico Madrid do for most of the game.”

This means Juve will take on one of the group winners in the next phase of the competition.

“The level of European teams is three or four who are far above the rest: Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea.

“The rest of us are battling and we are aware of our qualities. We can slowly improve our self-confidence and I think we have played a good group with undeserved away defeats in Athens and Madrid.”

Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone took a very defensive approach in Turin and allowed Juve over 70 per cent possession in the first half-hour.

“It’s an honour if Mandzukic marks Pirlo. This team has for years made the most of its characteristics, pressing opponents, leaping on you the moment you get the ball and are very strong in the air. When Arda Turan and Raul Garcia find space, they do damage.

“This side has been getting results for years and their possession might not be great, but they remain one of the toughest teams to face.”

Neither side made any substitutions during the 90 minutes, leading to just one minute of stoppages.

“Our objective was to try to break the deadlock and if that didn’t happen to not risk losing a very important qualification.

“I have to thank the lads tonight, as they gave me more success. I have been in the Champions League for five seasons, four at Milan, and have reached the knockouts every time. The Coach can have an impact on the team, but mostly when he does damage!” laughed Allegri.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Player Ratings: Juventus 0-0 Atletico Madrid

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus played out a 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid at Juventus Stadium on Tuesday evening to secure qualification for the next round of the Champions League.

The Bianconeri needed only a draw to guarantee their passage and Atletico came to Turin with a defensive game plan from the outset. Koke went closest for the Rojiblancos while Carlos Tevez was Juventus’ best threat going forwards.

 

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon – 6.5 – Consistent - Called into action early, producing a fine stop to deny Koke. The busier of the two keepers and keeps playing at a high level.

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 6.5 – Marauding - Had the better of his opposite number, Siqueira, giving Juve some width on the right. Barely tested defensively.

Leonardo Bonucci – 6.5 - Strong - Another strong outing from the centre back and like Chiellini made sure that Atletico had few chances

Giorgio Chiellini – 6.5 – Reliable - Much like his partner in the centre of defence kept the visitors quiet.

Patrice Evra – 6 – Roaming - Ventured forward before the break, forced into a more defensive mindset after the restart.

Roberto Pereyra – 5.5 – Poor - Virtually invisible, his only contribution was to fire an optimistic shot wildly over the bar.

Andrea Pirlo – 6 – Below-par - Ensured the Bianconeri dominated possession handsomely, he could not find the killer pass and was stifled by the hard grafting Atletico midfielders.

Paul Pogba – 6 – Driven - Provided the energy of the Juve midfield and looked one of the more interesting and lively players on the night.

Arturo Vidal – 6 – Underwhelming - Not his usual self, an early error lead to a booking and he provided very little in the final third.

Carlos Tevez – 6 – Bullish - Continuously caused the Atletico defence problems with his direct running game, less effective as the game went on.

Fernando Llorente – 5.5 – Struggled - Another quiet outing for the Spanish target man, had one headed chance in the first half that was comfortably saved.


 

Atletico Madrid

Miguel Angel Moya – 6 – Comfortable - Untroubled until midway through the second half, spilled a Pogba shot into a dangerous area although never looked like losing his clean sheet.

Juanfran – 6 – Unspectacular - The only weak links in the Rojiblanco line up were the full backs, despite being outplayed not much came down his flank.

Jose Gimenez – 7 – Imperious - Put in a strong performance, he made sure there was no path through him to Moya’s goal.

Diego Godin – 6.5 – Dependable - The Uruguayan rarely put a foot wrong and easily kept Tevez and Llorente at bay.

Guilherme Siqueira – 5 – Lucky - Struggled to cope with Lichtsteiner, lucky to not have received a second booking several time.

Gabi – 6 – Pressing - Was key to closing down the creative engine room of the Juventus midfield

Mario Suarez – 6.5 – Deep-lying - Booked midway through the first half, happily sat in front of the back four preventing any space for the hosts.

Arda Turan – 6 – Nifty - Demonstrated his fine footwork and close control on several occasions.

Koke – 5.5 – Unremarkable - Denied by a brilliant Buffon save in the opening exchanges, settled into more of a deep role as time went on.

Raul Garcia – 5.5 – Ineffective - Failed to provide any real chances in the game, tended to stick at the heart of midfield.

Mario Mandzukic – 5.5 – Isolated - A quiet night for the Croatian, was never likely to have much of a chance in such a defensively minded set-up.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Simeone: 'Nobody wants to face Juve'

Dec 9, 2014
 
Diego Simeone said Atletico Madrid “did what we had to” and warned “it won’t be good to pick Juventus in the draw.”

The Colchoneros secured the 0-0 in Turin to win Group A, going through with Juve in second place.

“We played the game we needed to play in order to finish top. It was a very tight first half with two important scoring opportunities and Juve created a few dangers down the right,” Cholo told Sky Sport Italia.

“After the break we did what we had to do: clammed up and waiting for them to take the initiative. We expected it to be tough, as Juve are a strong side with many champions and can certainly go forward.

“Juventus are an excellent side with Marchisio out and some lads on the bench who are very talented. I can assure everyone it won’t be good to pick Juventus in the draw.

“We are happy, as for the second year running we topped our group and for Atletico Madrid that means a lot in the Champions League. We calmly await what destiny brings us in the next phase.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance: 39219

Three Points: Juventus vs. Atletico Madrid

Dec 9, 2014
 
Three things from the 0-0 draw between Juventus and Atletico Madrid in a Champions League Group A clash that sends both teams through to the last 16 of the competition.


1. Atletico's Uruguayan centre-backs stand firm

Juventus began the game clearly in a hurry. Carlos Tevez looked especially keen to get things moving immediately. Within the first 100 seconds he had taken a super quick throw-in to launch a break, made a barreling run into the Atletico penalty box and then won a free kick from 20 yards out -- the home team was playing with a lot of intensity, getting to loose balls and were a second ahead of their rivals.

Atletico were pushed right back to defending on the edge of their penalty area, putting a lot of pressure on the visitors' Uruguayan central defensive pair. But neither fresh-faced teenager Jose Maria Gimenez nor grizzled veteran Diego Godin looked too worried. Juventus were putting a lot of crosses into the box, but without causing too much danger. In one 60-second spell, Gimenez was up over Juve No. 9 Fernando Llorente to head away a dangerous Stephan Lichtsteiner cross from the right, with moments later his international colleague Godin rising to clear a ball whipped in from the other side by left-back Patrice Evra.

One-time Spain international Llorente had a tough time and was probably aware that plenty of people back home were watching. He had two sights of goal in the first half, both from Paul Pogba balls in. But the first time he could get nothing on the cross, and the second he had to twist backwards and was unable to put any power on his header.

One moment in the second half summed up Llorente's increasingly frustrating night -- a simple ball was played into his feet around the edge of the area, but Gimenez read it and muscled him away. The Basque centre-forward ended up fouling his marker, and then suffered a bloody nose as the youngster accidentally caught him with an arm as they both tumbled to the ground.

Long before the end it was clear that Atletico's fifth consecutive clean sheet in the competition was in the bag. Colchoneros fans who may have been concerned when regular Joao Miranda hurt his hamstring on international duty with Brazil need not have worried; their Uruguayan pairing have things covered.


2. Diego Simeone wins tactical battle -- again

In the first meeting between the teams, Atletico kept it tight in the first half, then shifted into a more attacking version after the break to deservedly win 1-0. On Tuesday, entering as group leaders, they could just remain in a "what we have, we hold" mode, and there was little Juventus could do about it.

With his three-man central defensive scheme having failed at the Calderon, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri started with a four-man defence for the return game, with veteran playmaker Andrea Pirlo deepest in a midfield diamond. Juve's very high-tempo start led to a much more open game than at the Calderon, with the opening quarter hour bringing more chances than in the full 90 minutes of their first meeting.

But Atletico soon closed things down, and the penalty-area excitement dried up. The home side's domination of the ball brought them up to a 72.1 percent share of possession just before the half-hour mark -- as boasted by Juve's own Twitter feed:

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
STAT: 72.1% possession for the Bianconeri after 39 minutes of play.

However they had just one Tevez blocked shot and a Llorente header easily saved by Atletico goalkeeper Miguel Angel Moya to show for it.

When Atletico did get a decent spell of pressure just before the break, they managed three efforts at goal in just a few minutes. They also came closest in the first half -- with Koke's shot well saved by Gianluigi Buffon. Few teams are better at turning meagre possession into chances created. The halftime stats showed Juve 61.8 percent to 39.2 percent on top in possession. But Atletico were 6-4 up in shots, and 3-1 on efforts on target.

In the second half Juve edged ahead in the shots statistic -- but they were all from long range. Pogba came closest with a swerving effort which Moya spilled but Godin cleared. At the tip of the midfield diamond Roberto Pereyra, who had a difficult night in an area full of Atletico players, swung at a bouncing ball 25 yards out and sent it high and wide. Arturo Vidal was not over involved, either, with his showing summed up in a clipped nothing ball from the centre of park which went over Llorente's head and into Moya's arms. At the base of midfield Pirlo was also well watched by the hard-working Mario Mandzukic dropping back from centre-forward.

So whatever tactical innovation Allegri tried had some joy in the early stages, but Diego Simeone soon ended all the fun. On the other side Atletico's shape never changes much, but all the players know their roles really well, have full confidence in their teammates and work really, really hard. It does not sound too special -- but it's got the Argentine unbeaten now through six European matches against Serie A sides -- Lazio, Milan and now Juve -- as Atletico boss. The first five were all victories, and the draw here was as good as a win as it secured top spot in the group.


3. Juve still to convince in Europe

The longer the second half went on, the more likely it was that the game would remain goalless. Knowing that an Atletico goal could lead to elimination as Olympiakos were beating Malmo in the group's other game, Juve became more cautious, with the full-backs not venturing up the field so much. Atletico were comfortable -- they were winning the group, so had little incentive to throw men forward, either.

Even if there is no shame in coming in second in a group won by last year's finalists, Tuesday night's performance -- and their six games so far -- have yet to show that Juventus are convincing contenders at this level. A team which dominated Serie A through recent seasons under previous coach Antonio Conte was unable to make much of an impression on Europe. And the performances in this group have suggested that pattern is continuing through the current campaign under Allegri.

As a second-place side, Juventus could now well face a tough draw in the last 16 -- with tournament favourites such as holders Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Chelsea all potential opponents. Given their history and domination on home ground, the 'Old Lady' should be thinking of competing with these sides as equals, but they have yet to prove themselves as close to an elite European team.

Juve might say that there are financial reasons for this, but their squad has many more high-profile international players than Atletico's. Still, though, on the evidence so far, you'd definitely back Simeone's men to go further in this year's competition.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166