Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

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

Llorente: 'I'm a little isolated'

Dec 9, 2014
 
Fernando Llorente admits he’s “a little too isolated” in the box with this new Juventus system after a 0-0 with Atletico Madrid.

The Spanish striker needed treatment during the match for a nasty cut to the bridge of his nose.

“It’s just a cut, I’m fine, nothing broken. A little bit uglier maybe!” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s the dream for every player to be in a game like this. Any of the teams we face in the next round will be the same for us, they are all tough at this stage.

“We are a very difficult opponent for anyone we come up against, so we can beat anybody.”

Llorente struggled to get some of his trademark headers this evening.

“Atletico are so strong in the air and I didn’t perhaps move the right way to shake off the marking. Am I a little too isolated in the box? At times, as Tevez goes out to get the ball, but we did well in the first half and I remember a great Pogba assist that I was so close to turning in.

“It is very important to play as a first team pick for Juventus. I try to give everything in each game and prove I can help the team any way I can.”

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

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GAME 6 –
JUVENTUS V ATLETICO PLAYER RATINGS

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus just edged a tight 0-0 at the Juventus stadium, giving them the point they needed to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League.

 

Juventus Ratings

 

Gianluigi Buffon - Tested early on by Koke and made a superb one handed save. Kept Juve in the game late on when beating away Mario Suarezs’ effort from distance. Superman - 7.5 / 10

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Juve certainly looked better for having him in the team. Ran the right flank with his usual industry and tried to deliver useful crosses into the box. Defensively solid and won Juve a series of dangerous free kicks in the Atlti half. - 6.5 / 10

Leonardo Bonucci - Made runs out of the box and helped his team in attack when bringing the ball out to try and create something. Left nothing to chance when heading the ball out on more than one occasion. - 6.5 / 10

Giorgio Chiellini - Drew fouls when he needed to, strong in the box and rarely put a foot wrong. Kept his composure late on as Juve played out the draw. - 6.5 / 10

Patrice Evra - A good display from the veteran full back. Defensively sound if slightly lacking in the attack. Linked up with Pogba as usual and gave a decent account of himself. - 6.0 / 10

Roberto Pereyra - Failed to really threaten the Ateltico defence, his passing left a lot to be desired on occasion but definitely an improvement from his display at RWB. - 6.0 / 10

Andrea Pirlo - A typically Pirlo-esque display with lots of distribution but no end product. Had limited chances but didn’t capitalise on the free kicks and corners Juve had - 6.5 / 10

Paul Pogba - At the heart of the few positive moments Juve had. Played better on the left with Evra, played a perfect ball into the box but Llorente headed over and managed to test Moya with an effort from outside the box. - 6.5 / 10

Arturo Vidal - Reckless tackles early on made way for a few decent efforts from distance but not much else in terms of creativity. - 6.0 / 10

Carlos Tevez - Looked lively in the first half by trying to get in amongst the Atleti defence but failed to make more of an impact in the game. Set up Pogba and Vidal’s shooting chances late on. - 6.5 / 10

Fernando Llorente - Had a great chance from Pogba’s cross but failed to capitalise. Yet another frustrating night for the Spaniard who held the ball up well but lacked any real service from his teammates. - 6.0 / 10

 

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: Juventus Pleased To
Progress To Round Of 16

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has said that his side are pleased to have reached the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

The Bianconeri ensured progression to the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League with a 0-0 draw against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night, and the Frenchman said that the Bianconeri are happy with progress out of the group.

“We played against a great side,” he told Sky Sport. “They know how to play in this competition.

“We tried to get a goal, but they are really strong defensively.

“However, we are really pleased to have progressed out of the group, we know that we can go far.”

Pogba then went on to say that there is no specific team he’d like to face in the Round of 16.

“I have no preferences,” he said. “We want to go far in this competition.”

La Vecchia Signora’s opponent will be decided in the draw in Nyon on Monday.

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

Tevez: 'Champions League starts now'

Dec 9, 2014
 
Carlos Tevez said “the Champions League starts now” for Juventus, but Atletico Madrid “made it impossible to play.”

The Bianconeri were held to a 0-0 draw in Turin, enough to see both teams through to the Champions League Round of 16.

“I think this evening we saw a game of two halves,” Apache told Sky Sport Italia.

“In the first half we had chances and they played more open football. After the break Atleti closed up in defence and made it impossible to play.

“The Champions League starts now for us and I have no preferences on who we face in the next round. Whoever we pick, we pick. The important thing for us was to get through to the knockouts.

“The Coach always tells us that to win we need to suffer under pressure all together. We win with the sacrifice of everyone. This is the Juventus mentality.

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: Qualifying More
Important Than Top Spot

Dec 9, 2014
 
Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon says qualifying was all that mattered after the Bianconeri progressed to the Champions League knock out stages with a goalless draw against Atletico Madrid.

Victory by a two goal margin at the Juventus Stadium would have seen the Italian champions pip Atletico to top spot in Group A, however Buffon has stated that top spot was not a priority for Massimiliano Allegri’s squad.

“Nothing changes; if you want to go far in the competition you must face the strongest teams,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “If you finish first you still meet the big teams.

Juventus lost back to back away trips to Atletico and Olympiacos in their road to progression, and Buffon has stated that qualification was tougher than it should have been.

“In the end, qualification was more complicated then it should have been,” Buffon added. “After stumbling in the opening three group matches, we were been very good and it was a bonus to only need a point this evening.

“But I think our performances mean we deserved to qualify with matches to spare, but at least we got the job done.”

Juventus’ opponent is set to be decided on Monday in the draw which is set to be held in Nyon.

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: Juventus can go far in Champions League

The Frenchman was in optimistic mood after his side booked their ticket for the round
of 16 and backed the Bianconeri to reach the latter stages of the competition.

Dec 9, 2014
 
Paul Pogba is confident Juventus can go far in the Champions League after they reached the knockout stages of the competition by recording a scoreless draw with Atletico Madrid.

The Serie A champions would have clinched top spot in Group A with a win by two goals, but Pogba stressed that making it to the round of 16 was all that mattered for Juve.

"We know that our team can go very far, but we must give even more because the games aren’t easy," Pogba told reporters.

"Atletico kept it very tight. There was little space between the lines. The draw? It doesn’t matter. The most important thing was going through.

"Atletico are a strong team. We played with great personality against a side that reached last year’s Champions League final."

Gianluigi Buffon was equally delighted with his side's progress and stressed that Juventus do not fear any opponent.

"Finishing first or second makes little difference. You’ll need to face the strongest teams sooner or later.

"Atletico are an excellent team. They’ll definitely be one of the front runners in La Liga and the Champions League.

"The situation looked complicated for us after three games, but we did well to turn it around and get through."

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

TEAM RATINGS

Dec 9, 2014
 

Juventus

1 Gianluigi Buffon - Made some key saves early in the first half to keep the game level, but had little to do from then on.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Very eager to get forward and showed great pace to beat Siqueira seemingly at will.

19 L. Bonucci - Involved throughout for his side, making himself available in attack.

3 G. Chiellini - Was not put under considerable at the back. Had an easy day for the most part with Atletico playing for the draw.

33 P. Evra - Did not venture forward as much as his full-back partner, but made himself an option in attack.

37 R. Pereyra - Not nearly direct enough in possession, often looking back to defence as a passing option. Appeared to be lacking in confidence.

21 A. Pirlo - Uncharacteristically lacked finesse with his delivery from set-pieces.

6 P. Pogba - Had great success along the left, doing well to create space for himself. Sent some very promising balls into the box in the first half, but Llorente failed to take advantage.

23 A. Vidal - Was very wasteful in possession, attempting shots from out which never troubled Moya. Despite his presence in the final third, he was unable to create much in terms of scoring chances.

10 C. Tévez - Looked lively early on, but his influence waned as the match progressed.

14 Llorente - Lacked service, which made his job a lot more difficult. Did get a few promising deliveries from Pogba and Lichtsteiner early on, however.


 

Atlético Madrid

1 Moyá - Was tested often by Juventus and rose to the task, though the majority of shots came from outside the area.

20 Juanfran - Defensively sound, reducing the threat of Evra surging down the left flank.

24 J. Giménez - Was a rock at the back, making some very important blocks and reading the game well.

2 D. Godín - Kept everything in front of him and commanded the back line well. Was up to the task defensively, containing the ambitious Tevez.

3 Guilherme Siqueira - Beaten for pace often in the first half by Lichtsteiner, but did much better in the second, as Turan came back to offer his support.

4 Mario Suárez - Did very well to keep Vidal in check, and helped track the runs of Pogba and Evra off the ball.

14 Gabi - Provided good cover for the back line and frustrated Juventus in attack by clogging up the middle and taking away space.

8 Raúl García - Tested Buffon with a few good attempts in the first half, but even more impressive was his willingness to track back.

6 Koke - Sent some encouraging balls into the area early on. Had Atletico's best chance of the match in the first 10 minutes, being played clean through on goal, but was denied by a great save from Buffon.

10 A. Turan - His defensive work proved very important, as he helped keep Lichtsteiner at bay, after the Swiss defender had his way in attack throughout the first half. Offered some creativity in the final third despite limited chances.

9 M. Mandžukić - Showed good work ethic, constantly chasing the ball, and did not show any signs of frustration despite getting little to no service up top with his side playing for the draw.

 

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 - Atlético Madrid 0:
Initial reaction and random observations

Dec 9, 2014
 
And now all of us can truly exhale.

Juventus are through to the Round of 16 in the Champions League after their scoreless draw with Atlético Madrid in Turin on Tuesday night. Job done, nothing more nothing less. We can rage all we want about the overall performance and how Juventus took their foot completely off the gas in the second half. But you know what? Juventus is one of the 16 teams that will still be in Europe's premier club competition come early 2015.

That's a lot more than we can say compared to 12 months ago. So maybe that means Max Allegri is officially better than Antonio Conte because he made it out of the group stage? That's a different discussion for a different time.

But I digress.

Making it out of the group stage after being completely embarrassed and tossed into the Europa League last season was — and should have been — a huge priority for this team. And after the way they started things this year with two losses in the first three games, making it out is something to be happy truly about. That's it. Nothing to grumble about when it comes to being one of those funny bouncing balls at next Monday's draw.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@gianluigibuffon: "Finishing first or second makes little difference. You’ll need to face the strongest teams sooner or later."

Juventus' group wasn't easy. We found that out when Juve stumbled in both Greece and Spain earlier in the group stage. But even with those two losses, they took care of business in the second half of the fixtures. They beat Olympiacos at Juventus Stadium, they won on the road against Malmö, then they did enough to get the necessary point against Atlético Madrid at home.

That is what was needed — and I'm perfectly okay with it.

Hey, biscotto does sound good as the sun pops out from the rain clouds where I'm sitting in my office chair. It worked for Juventus on Tuesday night, that's for sure.


Random thoughts and observations

Seriously, though ... Juventus don't go through to the knockout round if it wasn't for Buffon's first-half performance. Three huge saves, including the spectacular one that is shown above. Just another day in the life of a man who so deservedly deserves the 'God' moniker.

Atléti are a supremely defensive-minded team, and their shutout streak in the Champions League is reflective of that. So when they drop EVERYBODY behind the ball from what seemed like the opening whistle and don't change a damn thing, you pretty much know what they're going for.

Over 67 percent of the possession, just 11 total shots. That's a testament to the defensive effort by Atlético Madrid, but also how Juventus also struggled to truly break down their opponent.

Another quiet night for Fernando Llorente. Sure, he was isolated up top for a large part of the game, but he did have a couple of chances in front of goal — most notably whiffing on a cross in the first half.

Another player who had a really quiet night: Arturo Vidal. Just when we thought 'Hey, maybe he's starting to turn a corner and regain some kind of form!' he doesn't play well at all against Atléti. I'm trying to sit here and figure out what is truly going on with a player who has been so explosive and great the last three years, but I can't. He's not playing well, and hasn't been for months. It's getting close to being the middle of December and the midway point of the Serie A season now. This isn't some kind of thing that lasts a handful of games anymore.

Patrice Evra ... wasn't that bad. I was worried, but hey, Atlético sitting back and doing not much of any sort of attacking negated any kind of potential meltdowns from Juve's new left back.

No substitutions used. For either team. When was the last time we can say that?

It sure is going to be nice to be in the Champions League knockout stage draw next week rather than the draw that's happening a few minutes after. A lot better than 12 months ago, I can tell you that.

 

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 – ATLETICO CHAMPIONS
LEAGUE POST MATCH

Dec 9, 2014
 
Max Allegri insisted Juventus ‘ didn’t want to compromise qualification’ while Carlos Tevez says “the Champions League starts now” for Juventus. Here’s a roundup of the post match comments.


Max Allegri

“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,” Allegri 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. 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.”

Diego Simeone took a surprisingly defensive approach to the match allowing Juventus to dominate possession for much of the game.

“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.”

“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!”


Diego Simeone

“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,” the Atleti coach told Sly 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.”


Carlos Tevez

“I think this evening we saw a game of two halves,” Carlitos told Sky Sport Italia.

“In the first half we had chances and they played more open football. After the break Atleti closed up in defence and made it impossible to play.

“The Champions League starts now for us and I have no preferences on who we face in the next round. Whoever we pick, we pick. The important thing for us was to get through to the knockouts.

“The Coach always tells us that to win we need to suffer under pressure all together. We win with the sacrifice of everyone. This is the Juventus mentality.


Fernando Llorente

El Rey Leon took a nasty bang to the nose but was quick to reassure fans.

“It’s just a cut, I’m fine, nothing broken. A little bit uglier maybe!” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s the dream for every player to be in a game like this. Any of the teams we face in the next round will be the same for us, they are all tough at this stage.

“We are a very difficult opponent for anyone we come up against, so we can beat anybody.”

“Atletico are so strong in the air and I didn’t perhaps move the right way to shake off the marking. Am I a little too isolated in the box? At times, as Tevez goes out to get the ball, but we did well in the first half and I remember a great Pogba assist that I was so close to turning in.

“It is very important to play as a first team pick for Juventus. I try to give everything in each game and prove I can help the team any way I can.”


Paul Pogba

“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,” Pogba 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. 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.”


Gianluigi Buffon

“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.”

“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

Juventus did not want to risk losing
in goalless draw, Max Allegri says

Dec 10, 2014
 
Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri said his side's goalless draw was a deserved result, but admitted that he did not want to risk losing in their final Champions League group stage matchup.

Juve only needed a draw against the Spanish champions to ensure their place in the knockout stage. However, with Olympiakos winning their finals game, a loss for the Old Lady would have seen the Greek side go through instead.

"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," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.

"We risked on a few occasions, [goalkeeper Gigi] 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."

As group runners-up, Juventus will face one of the Champions League group winners, and Allegri picked out a few teams he'd like to avoid.

"The level of European teams is three or four who are far above the rest: Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea," Allegri said. "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 only needed a draw to win the group, and Juve's Carlos Tevez said it became "impossible to play" after the Rojiblancos tightened their defence in the second half. Still, the striker looked forward to the knockout phase.

"The Champions League starts now for us and I have no preferences on who we face in the next round," Tevez said. "Whoever we draw, we draw. The important thing for us was to get through to the knockouts.

"The coach always tells us that to win we need to suffer under pressure all together. We win with the sacrifice of everyone. This is the Juventus mentality."

Paul Pogba welcomed the opportunity to play Europe's elite teams, but warned Juventus will have to give everything they have to win the tournament.

"We are playing to go forward and that means facing the strongest teams in Europe. It's what we want," Pogba said.

"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 percent. 100 percent 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

Juventus grind out qualification
after hard-fought draw

Dec 10, 2014
 
A tactical battle without a single substitution made, the match between Juventus and Atletico Madrid ended 0-0 and it's a result that suited both sides beautifully.

Juventus may have genuinely wanted to win the group and thus achieve the 2-0 scoreline they needed, but in essence the squad isn't yet ready to manage such results when the opponent is a wonderfully organised team and when confidence in Europe has only just been restored. Being cautious was the mature approach, even if everyone expects more of this team.

Playing a compact game with an emphasis on defending, Atletico Madrid were perfectly set up in defence with two organised and tight lines that made it impossible for Juventus to penetrate. Closing down the spaces and ensuring the channels were covered, players like Carlos Tevez, who makes all the difference for Juve, had to go deep in order to be allowed some time on the ball.

With two centre backs tasked with irritating Fernando Llorente -- Juve's tactical sacrificial lamb used only to annoy defenders -- Juventus were hoping to operate between the lines, but Atleti were far too compact to be caught out. Prior to the game, Atletico manager Diego Simeone's men had managed four consecutive clean sheets. In Tuesday's contest they were wonderful at defending the centre of the pitch, forcing the Old Lady to go out wide. Boasting strength and the ability to win aerial duels, life was made difficult for Juventus, who could do nothing with the crosses attempted or the set pieces they won.

The only joy the Bianconeri had going forward was when they won possession quickly and Los Colchoneros were not yet in position, leaving some space for them to exploit. Despite boasting the overwhelming amount of possession, it was Atleti that looked more dangerous when attacking with Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon needing to come to his team's rescue on two occasions. Their passing crisp, their accuracy impressive, they do not lose possession and made intelligent decisions going forward.

In the second half, Juventus continued trying and managed some better passages of play with Stephan Lichtsteiner doing the best he could with the space offered to him on the wings. Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal tried to do something from distance, even though the Chilean was guilty of making the wrong choice on more than one occasion, forcing the issue when it was better to maintain possession.

However, as the game wore on, Juventus began to realise it was better to hold onto the point they had than risk it all to potentially get three. Managing one goal was proving difficult, let alone two. With their ambition slowly dying and Atleti happy to sit back and defend the attempts, the game's last 10 minutes was spent passing the ball around in defence.

Had Juventus opted to bring in Alvaro Morata, then perhaps he alongside or in place of Llorente would have busied the defenders, dragging them away to leave Tevez or Pogba with more time and space to work their magic. Alternatively, had Simeone opted to introduce pace, the Spaniards may well have managed to pierce through, considering the Old Lady's problems in dealing with speed. As it stood, neither coach cared to change the dynamic of the team and no substitutions were even made.

Having only come in second place in the group, Juventus are set to face a difficult opponent in the next round, possibly facing the likes of Bayern Munich, Real Madrid or Chelsea. Obviously the Turin giants will be hoping for a kind draw -- a match against Monaco or even Porto -- but at the end of the day, this is a game for the big boys, so if they can't beat the best then they don't deserve to remain in the competition.

At least on a financial level, their progression in the Champions League will see them increase their revenues handsomely. Italian sides are paid heavily in television rights and with only Roma to split the fund with, Juventus stand to make a lot of money. Prior to the game, the Bianconeri collected around 44 million euros in revenue from the competition (according to La Repubblica), the qualification achieved against Atleti will have increased that amount even further. How much more depends on whether or not Roma achieve qualification in place of Manchester City in their final group game. Should the Bianconeri win the Champions League, Tuttosport estimates the Old Lady will make approximately 100 million euros, but if they lose in the quarterfinals, the figure will stand closer to the 65 million euro mark. Not a bad figure indeed, but again, all final figures depend on whether or not Juventus have to split the pot with the Giallorossi.

For the sake of Calcio's reputation, one hopes all Italian teams qualify in Europe, but for Juventus, their progression will hopefully have helped them tear down a psychological barrier. If they play with confidence and ambition, they will make for tough opponents. As Simeone himself said: "I can assure everyone it won't be good to pick Juventus in the draw."

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: Juventus must improve
in the knockout phase

The former AC Milan boss feels his side found it difficult to break down
Atletico Madrid on Tuesday but was happy with the point that sends them through.

Dec 10, 2014
 
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri admits his side will need to improve in this season's Champions League after their 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid.

Juve - knowing that victory by two goals or more would see them finish on top of Group A - needed a point to guarantee their place in the next round given that Olympiakos beat Malmo 4-2.

Allegri's men dominated the Turin contest, but struggled to convert their possession into clear-cut chances, with the best chance of the match falling to Atletico's Koke who was denied in the sixth minute by Gianluigi Buffon.

Juventus ultimately did enough to progress but Allegri has acknowledged the need to improve.

"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," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"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 our chances of qualifying and I thought it was thoroughly deserved.

"Of course we need to improve. Against these big clubs, there are times when you have to defend and protect yourself - something Atletico Madrid do for most of the game."

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 Atlético Madrid: Both teams advance

to knockout round after boring stalemate

Dec 10, 2014
 
To be or not to be? That was the question as Juventus welcomed Atletico Madrid into a terriffic atmosphere at Juventus Stadium in Turin. The Old Lady had everything to play for with both the first, second, and third place in the group still a possibility. The job was done, in the end, and the team qualified for the Champions League knockout stages from the second place. Credit to Allegri and the players for that, but I don't feel like jumping in the "we did better than last year" bandwagon. Not just yet...

Atletico Madrid — or better said Diego Simeone — came to Italy with one thought and one thought only: Get the draw and nicely finish top of the group. This was obvious after pretty much the opening whistle, as they put 10 men behind the ball, easily absorbing Juventus' attacks which were more slower and predictable than you would normally expect. The only player whose task wasn't just defending was Mario Mandzukic. There was a better thing for him to do — become Andrea Pirlo's shadow throughout the game. He acquitted himself of it perfectly.

At the end of the day, Juventus just faced the Spanish champions and last year's Champions League finalists. Atletico mostly managed that after some fantastic defensive displays and you can't take it away from them. What you can do — and really, I can do that because Article 10 of Human Rights Act 1998, freedom of expression, allows me to — is question the mentality of our team. Basically, accepting a biscotto while leaving the impression you are not even trying to get a goal is simply not the way Juventus will close the gap between them and the top teams in Europe.

Playing the last game of the Champions League group stages with the fear of not repeating the disastrous performance of the previous year shouldn't be the aim of a team who have something to prove on the scene of top European football. Qualification was a matter of the utmost importance, but in all honesty, Juventus couldn't have fail a second year in a row. Seeing Allegri making no substitutions to bring something positive in the game was agony. It is said that thinking in cents can only bring you cents, while thinking in dollars brings you dollars. Juventus didn't stick to the latter.

Preparing for the tricky Sampdoria game is next in the agenda but hoping for a good Champions League draw is at the back of the mind. The Gods of football will decide who the next opponent in Europe will be and relying just on luck for such a thing is not really wise. Things are not terribly bad, but what's really irking is the attitude. I wish I'm wrong and everything will work out for Juventus, but personally, I haven't seen what I expected. Juventini, feel free to disagree with me, but don't ask for the head of this writer.


MATCH SUMMARY

It was a very spirited start to the game with both teams dangerously bringing the ball in the opposite box in the first minute, only for the defences to clear it away. A few more moents into the game, Carlos Tevez was brought down 20 yards out in a central position and it looked like the perfect spot for Pirlo to give Juventus the lead early on. His free-kick, however, was struck straight at the wall.

Seven minutes on, a very poor clearance from Leonardo Bonucci allowed Koke to break free one-on-one with Gigi Buffon, but the veteran goalkeeper pulled a miraculous save to make sure the scoreline would stay the same.

Two minutes later, Paul Pogba delivered a good cross from the left side of the pitch, but Fernando Llorente couldn't really deflect the ball enough to cause problems for Miguel Moya and the goalkeeper pushed the ball behind for a corner kick.

On the 20-minute mark, Bonucci played a good ball for Llorente inside Atletico's box and the Spaniard set it up for Tevez with a nice touch, but the Apache's shot was blocked by Diego Godin. An appeal for a handball was quickly waved off by referee William Collum.

Jose Maria Gimenez also tested Buffon shortly afterwards but his header from near the penalty spot was tipped over the bar. Juventus dominant possession did little good for them as they hardly created a good chance to score. Llorente came close in the 32nd minute when Pogba delivered a beautiful cross with the outside of his boot but the Spaniard didn't find the target with his header.

The last piece of action of the first half saw Mario Suarez getting a rebounded ball outside the Juventus area and then delivering a good shot at the far post, which was parried away by Buffon after a quick reaction.

In a second half o little action, Juventus controlled the game as they did in the first half but again, couldn't create a proper goalscoring opportunity. The first bit of good attacking from the hosts came in the 54th minute when Arturo Vidal linked nicely with Llorente and Tevez to set-up Pogba whose shot from just outside the area was blocked by the defence.

The slow pace of the game carried on and beside saving a long range effort from Vidal on the hour mark, Moya didn't have too much to do. Pogba tested the Spanish goalkeeper again with a long shot but the ball eventually ended up in the keeper's hands, after an initial poor save.

Vidal's shot which was easily saved in the 75th minute was the last notable action of the game, as neither of the teams felt like pushing for a goal in the final minutes. As no substitutes were made by the two managers, referee Collum blew the final whistle after a minute of injury time.
 

 

PLAYER RATINGS

Buffon: 6.5 Pulled a great save to deny Koke early on and had decent interventions when needed. Not the busiest day at the office for him.

Lichtsteiner: 5.5 Didn't make his presence felt enough when it came to attacking and should also have been closer to Koke at that chance inside 10 minutes.

Bonucci: 6.5 Had a shaky start but then regained his usual composure and put in a solid performance.

Chiellini: 6.5 Didn't have too much to do defensively and had a good game overall. Also helped in the build-up play as much as he could.

Evra: 5.5 Another poor performance from the Frenchman. Misplaced too many passes and couldn't get in a decent cross all game.

Pereyra: 6 Was given very little space by the Atletico midfield and backline but it was a decent performance from the Argentine despite not coming up with anything dangerous.

Pirlo: 5.5 Quiet evening for the master. Had a couple of free-kicks but didn't find the target with any of them.

Pogba: 6 Made a decent display but couldn't really make his powerful presence in midfield count.

 

Vidal: 6 Not at his usual best, again, and also risked being sent off in the first half. Had a good attempt at goal in the second half, but didn't link-up well enough with the forwards.

Tevez: 6 Very active in attack but also coming deep to lose his marker and pick-up useful balls. Didn't make the impact required in such games though.

Llorente: 5.5 Had two chances in the first half after crosses from Pogba but couldn't convert either. Shaky performance overall.
 

 

Subs

Guess what...
 

 

Coach

Allegri: 6 At the end of the day, Juventus advanced in the last 16 and that was Allegri's aim, but you can't just be satisfied with the way Juventus presented themselves in the game. Not making any changes throughout the game also seemed very weird.

 

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’s mission accomplished

Juventus needed at least a draw against Atletico Madrid to advance in the
Champions League and did so with a 0-0 result. Luca Cetta sums up the action.

Dec 10, 2014
 
It was a difficult balancing act for Juventus – take greater risks in going for top spot or seal their place in the knockout phase. Gianluca Vialli argued Juve had to go for it: “The Bianconeri must think about emerging from the group as first-placed.” Alessio Tacchinardi was slightly more reserved: “Juventus have to win, coming first or second is something you check after the match is over.” His thinking was not to play for a draw, but make sure they remain solid defensively.

Juventus pushed and probed for long periods, but having only chipped away at the Atletico Madrid defensive wall, settled for a scoreless draw that saw them through as group runners-up.

Knowing only a two-goal margin of victory was good enough to top the group the Bianconeri started brightly, but having asked questions of Los Colchoneros found all routes to goal blocked. “Atletico Madrid kept tight and there were few spaces, so I tried a few times from distance,” Paul Pogba revealed. “Everyone knows they are strong defensively and we tried, but the aim was to qualify and we are very happy to have achieved it.”

Achieve their aim they did. Juve knew fate rested in their hands but still had to keep wary of happenings in Greece. As that match twisted and turned, it stayed par for the course in Turin. Malmo twice equalised against Olympiacos to give Juve breathing space, but as the match wore on it was more about securing second than finishing first.

Could they have done more to reach top spot? In enacting that balancing act Massimiliano Allegri’s men pushed forward, especially in the first half, almost to the point where the full-backs were well advanced and Diego Simone’s men had to batten down the hatches. But the visitors also showed why Juventus had to be careful and Gianluigi Buffon’s intervention from Koke was a clear signal. Despite Juve’s possession, Atleti created the better chances in the first half.

Allegri did not look to his bench, happy with how the XI were keeping control. “Our objective was to try to break the deadlock and if that didn’t happen to not risk losing a very important qualification.” Perhaps Alvaro Morata – who was in line to start ahead of Fernando Llorente – could have been introduced to trouble the Spaniards with his pace and directness, but in the same vein Carlos Tevez and Roberto Pereyra had trouble trying to barge through the brick wall. And given last season’s Istanbul disaster, the more the match progressed the less sense it made to take risks.

Allegri’s men finished Group A with 10 points, three behind Atletico and one ahead of Olympiacos. “The situation looked complicated for us after three games, but we did well to turn it around and get through,” Buffon reminded. The Coach continues his record of qualifying for the knockout phase in each of his five seasons in this competition and at the end of the day that was objective number one for the Bianconeri this term. Having recovered from poor performances and losses in Madrid and Athens, the Old Lady picked up seven points and can now prepare for February’s resumption.

Finishing second may leave them open to facing one of Europe’s heavyweights, but Pogba says Juventus are ready for any challenge. “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.”

Had they gone at it a different way perhaps this piece would be wondering why Juventus didn’t play to achieve qualification. Atletico showed they posed a threat and in such a delicately poised group, for the Bianconeri to reach their objective makes for a good night at the office.

As Tevez said, now the ‘real’ Champions League starts. Juve know they have a team to trouble Europe’s elite and now have the opportunity to do so.

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

Nedved: 'Juve belief with Allegri'

Dec 10, 2014
 
Pavel Nedved feels Max Allegri brought “self-belief” to Juventus in the Champions League. “Any target is achievable.”

The Bianconeri secured their spot in the Last 16 thanks to a 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid last night, but will go through in second place.

“It is a great objective we have reached and I compliment the Coach and players,” Nedved told Tuttomercatoweb.

“Going through to the next round was our real target, even if it wasn’t easy. You can see increased self-belief on the field, although of course we will need to improve. It’s all to play for.”

As they are second, Juventus will face one of the group winners in the Round of 16.

“There are four teams out there beyond our capabilities, but in football you are never beaten before the get-go. Any target is achievable: it depends on how we present ourselves.

“Allegri was very intelligent to study the side carefully and was able to change the system, a system that had brought us benefits.

“If we improve, then Juve can become a dark horse in the competition that nobody will want to face. Allegri has brought new elements, confidence, security, but no celebrations yet, as there’s a long way to go.”

Gigi Buffon performed a decisive save against Atletico Madrid, so will he soon be joining Nedved behind a desk in Turin?

“Gigi will play for a long time to come and I don’t think we’ll meet. He is very intelligent and can take on any role off the field.”

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 were at Atleti’s level’

Dec 10, 2014
 
Juventus director Gianluca Pessotto says that competition in Europe has increased, but the Bianconeri played at the same level as Atletico Madrid.

Juve earned a draw against the Spanish yesterday evening to ensure qualification for the Last 16 in the Champions League.

“Juve were at the level of Atletico, and played the game to try to take first place in the group,” former defender Pessotto has enthused in an interview with Sky Sport Italia.

“In the second half, against an opponent of this calibre, it was better to limit ourselves to calculated risks.

“It was important to pass the ball. The first micro-objective was met, so we're happy.”

The Juventus director won the Champions League as a player in 1996, but he prefers not to compare his old team with the current one.

“I don't like making comparisons. We are talking about different ages.

“Today's Juventus has grown a lot, she is back to winning in Italy and is looking for a stable dimension in Europe.

“Compared to my time the European teams are stronger, there is greater competition.

“The President, the Coach and the players want to stay in Europe permanently. It's part of a process of growth.

“With today's result we are aiming for one of the top eight places in Europe.”

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 now know which seven teams they're potentially

playing in the Champions League Round of 16

Dec 10, 2014
 
With Juventus locking up their place in the Champions League's Round of 16 just 24 hours prior, Wednesday served as not only a day to relax a bit, but also one to find out who their next opponent may be. We know with Juventus finishing second in their group, the seven group winners not named Atlético Madrid are all up for grabs.

Well, Wednesday's Champions League action is over and done. And so ends another wild group stage that sees Juventus be the lone Italian team to make it through to the knockout stages. So let's examine the seven teams who Juventus could potentially be matched up against at the Champions League draw on Monday, shall we?

Bayern Munich

Crap.

Real Madrid

Crap.

Barcelona

Crap.

Chelsea

Crap.

Dortmund, Monaco, Porto

Eh, that's a little better than the others.

And now we see the downside of settling for a draw Tuesday night against Atlético Madrid and subsequently finishing second in Group A behind the Spanish champions. Simple science: Group winner plays another group runner-up. Nothing really more to figure out there. There's no other Italian team in the draw to screw with situations, and since Juventus can't play Atlético again this round — which is probably a good thing at this point — there's one less team to think about.

As long as Juventus stay clear of the heavyweights, I'll be okay with it. I'm sure that's a pretty common line of thinking.

But like Gigi Buffon said after Tuesday's scoreless draw to Atléti, "Finishing first or second makes little difference. Even topping the group would see you come up against the strong teams sooner or later. If you're a good side you'll beat them regardless of where you finish, even in the last 16 stage."

Amen to that, man.

 

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 without pressure in Last 16’

Dec 11, 2014
 
Massimo Ambrosini praises Juventus for qualifying from their Champions League group and says they can face the Last 16 without pressure.

The Bianconeri secured qualification for Last 16 of this year's competition with a goalless draw against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

The result puts them at second in the group, meaning they could be drawn against one from Barcelona, Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the next round.

Twice winner of the Champions League as a player with Milan, Ambrosini agrees that second place brings that risk, but he sees a silver lining.

“It matters because in terms of probability it's a disadvantage in the draw,” the Sky Italia commentator agreed with Tuttosport.

“But it doesn't mean Juve are done for. Luck matters in the Champions League, as well as the condition of form you take into the decisive matches.

“Any given situation now may be reversed in February by injuries and the mercato.”

Ambrosini was also asked who the 'easiest' opponent to draw would be out of those available.

“Monaco and Porto, at least on paper. The Portuguese have less prestige than the others, even though playing them away isn't simple.

“Other than two or three big teams, the Bianconeri are at the level of their rivals.

“The fact they cannot face Atletico Madrid in the round of the Last 16 is hardly trivial. [Coach Diego] Simeone's team makes their adversaries play badly.

“And Juventus, for the characteristics of the team, suffers against teams that close up at the back.”

But the Rossoneri midfielder thinks there are more positives to be taken from the situation than merely the good odds.

“There is the psychological factor. Juventus have acquired international experience as a team and in terms of its individuals.

“Having qualified for the Last 16 is like removing a burden. And facing the Last 16 as second-placed can take off some pressure from the players – the same pressure that often halted them in the past.

“It will take a bit of luck at the draw, but Juventus can play for a result against anyone.”

Juventus will learn their rivals for the first stage of the knockout round at the Champions League draw on December 15.

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

 

Roma's Champions League exit
gives Juventus cash boost

Dec 11, 2014
 
Roma's elimination from the Champions League not only gave Juventus fans something to gloat about, it also made their club even richer.

With the Bianconeri now the only Italian representative left in the competition after advancing with a 0-0 draw at home to Atletico Madrid, they will monopolise the Italian market pool -- the share of television revenue reserved for each participating country and distributed among its participants in proportion to the number of games they play in the competition.

Manchester City's 2-0 win at the Stadio Olimpico has therefore ensured a windfall of almost three million euros for Juve, who can take an even greater slice of the lucrative cake by advancing further.

Already, by virtue of being defending Serie A champions, Juve received a larger proportion of television revenue -- 22 million euros compared to 18 million euros. Roma's defeat meant Juve's share rose to 22.85 million euros, Roma's dropping to 17.15 million euros.

The further Juve go, the greater their share becomes with a maximum of 27.4 million euros (and Roma's dropping to 12.6 million euros) for reaching the final.

Both clubs can nevertheless rub their hands in anticipation of record levels of income from Europe this season with Juve on course to break through the 60 million-euro barrier, further distancing them from the rest of Serie A after three years of domestic domination, which they are now hoping to transform into success in the Champions League.

"We've reached our first major objective and compliments to [Massimiliano] Allegri and all of his staff -- they've all been fantastic," said club advisor Pavel Nedved at a charity event in Turin, reports Il Corriere dello Sport. "You can see how we are growing."

That growth can now be fuelled by the assurance of even more money.

"I'm convinced we can get even better," added Nedved, part of the Juve side which lost the 2003 final to AC Milan on penalties. "We've not yet gone as far as we can go so we're not going to celebrate yet -- there will be time for that later on."

A small celebration was still probably permitted on Wednesday night with some schadenfreude mixed in with their own joy at being the only Italian club to join Europe's best 16 clubs.

[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 can beat anyone in Europe - Nedved

The midfield legend, now a director at the Serie A champions, has faith
in Massimiliano Allegri's men causing problems for anyone they are drawn against.

Dec 11, 2014
 
Juventus might not be in the top tier of teams left in the Champions League but they can beat anyone on their day, according to club director Pavel Nedved.

The Scudetto winners edged into the last 16 with a 0-0 draw at home to last season's runners-up Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, and will face either Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Monaco or Porto in the next round.

Despite only impressing in bursts in the group stage, Nedved is convinced that Juve have the quality to cause problems for anyone they are drawn against in the knockout phase on Monday.

"I'm very happy with the qualification, the lads were very good," the Czech, who played more than 500 games for both Juve and Lazio, told Tuttosport.

"I congratulate with them and all the technical staff, passing the round was our key objective. The lads have convinced me of our strength, I'm sure we can still do even better

"In February we'll have to be ready because we will meet very strong teams. Obviously there are three or four teams who are above the rest and a little more appealing on paper, but I am sure that Juventus can beat anyone."

Massimiliano Allegri's men continue to dominate on the domestic scene as they are top of Serie A after 14 games, with Roma three points adrift in second. They take on Sampdoria on Sunday.

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

Roma talk more, Juventus win more - Nedved

The Serie A champions progressed to the second round of the Champions League while
their rivals were eliminated, and the director feels it shows the Bianconeri's superiority.

Dec 11, 2014
 
Juventus talk less but work and win more than Roma do, according to Pavel Nedved.

The Bianconeri secured their place in the last 16 of the Champions League in midweek, while Roma crashed out after suffering a 2-0 home defeat to Manchester City in the final game of the group stage.

And Nedved, who won two Serie A titles with Juve and is now a club director, believes that the reigning Serie A champions have shown their superiority over their nearest rivals.

"We have already given many answers to Roma," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "We talk less than them but we work more and the results are better."

The former Czech Republic international also praised coach Massimiliano Allegri, who replaced Antonio Conte at the helm of the club in the summer and has guided them into the knockout round of the European competition as well as the top of the league.

"He's smart and has brought a lot of benefits to the team with his innovations. There is more safety and awareness in dealing with big games now," he added.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID

0 - 0

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

When is the draw for the Champions League last 16?

Barcelona, Arsenal, Juventus, Chelsea and more of Europe's best will find out
their fate on December 15, when the last 32 of the Europa League will also be decided.

Dec 11, 2014
 
Real Madrid, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Barcelona are among the teams who will discover their Champions League fate in the draw for the last 16 on Monday December 15.

Following Wednesday's completion of the group phase, the stage is set for the best clubs in Europe to battle it out in the knockout rounds, with the winner now seven games away from glory.

The top seeds for the draw - those who finished top of their groups and will play the last-16 second leg at home - are Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid, Monaco, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Chelsea and Porto.

The teams which finished second after six games in the group stage, and who will play the first leg of their last-16 ties at home, are Juventus, Basel, Bayer Leverkusen, Arsenal, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Schalke and Shakhtar Donetsk.

Teams cannot be drawn against those whom they met in their groups (Barcelona, for example, cannot face PSG) and, at this stage, clubs from the same country will not be allowed to meet (so no Chelsea vs Arsenal or Bayern vs Schalke).

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - SAMPDORIA

-

Sunday, December 14th, 2014 - 12:30 PM
Juventus stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Lichtsteiner: ‘Samp very strong’

Dec 11, 2014

Stephan Lichtsteiner warns his Juventus teammates Sampdoria are a ‘strong’ team, and praises Sinisa Mihajlovic.

The Bianconeri host Mihajlovic’s side on Sunday, with the Blucerchiati sitting fourth in Serie A, just outside the Champions League places.

“Last year they [sampdoria] did very well,” Lichtsteiner told JTV.

“They’re a team with many strong players, we can’t underestimate them, because their strikers are very strong and fast.

“Also in midfield and at the back they’re a very strong, solid team. Then there’s the Coach [Mihajlovic] who I like very much.

“I don’t see all their games, but I like his character, he’s someone who lives and breathes football.

“It will be a very difficult game, and we’ll need all the fans behind us.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - SAMPDORIA

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Sunday, December 14th, 2014 - 12:30 PM
Juventus stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Luca Rizzo: ‘Juventus an open game’

Dec 12, 2014

Sampdoria midfielder Luca Rizzo believes that if his team gives its best against Juventus, ‘the result will follow’.

The young Blucerchiato has been putting in some solid performances with what is currently the fourth-ranked power in Serie A, and at only 22, he is considered an Italian prospect.

Ahead of the game against Juventus this weekend, the midfielder explained his mindset.

“You must never give up, you must always keep believing,” Rizzo has said in an interview with TeleNord.

“When you know you've given everything, then you should be proud of yourself.”

Rizzo believes that his team should bring the same philosophy into the game against the Bianconeri.

“Juventus have a great midfield and a great team, the strongest together with Roma, and I'm not saying anything new here.

“We must do our job, play an open game and give our utmost. The result will follow.”

Sampdoria's current fourth position has surprised many, but Rizzo believes it is a result of the team's hard work.

“It mirrors what we are doing in training. Sometimes we have been unlucky, but the position in the standings is well deserved.

“Both the Coach and the President made me feel that I could be important to this team. The position on the pitch? I like to change, there is no problem, last year I played in every role.”

In spite of his strong performances, however, the 22-year old gives no mind to the idea of an Azzurri call-up.

“I'm not thinking about that for now. I see things step by step, not far into the distance, and for the moment this has worked for me.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - SAMPDORIA

-

Sunday, December 14th, 2014 - 12:30 PM
Juventus stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

Marotta: ‘Sampdoria Serie A’s revelation’

Dec 12, 2014

Beppe Marotta discusses his tenure with Juventus, praises ex-team Sampdoria as the season’s ‘revelation’ and updates on Manolo Gabbiadini.

Marotta moved over to Juventus in 2010 after eight years spent as director general at Sampdoria, with the two clubs set to clash this Sunday lunchtime in Serie A.

“Juventus must win,” the delegate said in an interview with Il Secolo XIX. “We always play to win. Today I am super-satisfied of being at Juventus.

“I have the esteem of Andrea Agnelli and I am happy here. After Juventus I see myself in something other than a football club.

“Though my home is in Genova and that's where I see myself spending old age.”

On the subject of that city, Marotta believes its two teams are this year's biggest surprise.

“Sampdoria, along with Genoa, is absolutely the revelation of this season.

“They play so carefree and such a great freedom that they can obtain results anywhere.

“They can do well, because their minds are free and there are no expectations around them.”

Marotta also expressed himself on Manolo Gabbiadini, the Sampdoria striker co-owned by Juve, who is increasingly being linked with Napoli.

“He is co-owned between ourselves and Sampdoria, and co-ownerships have to be resolved by June 30.

“There is an opportunity, and it seems like the player is happy. There are no problems for us, but we'll see how things go.”

Samp Coach Sinisa Mihajlovic was linked with a host of clubs over the summer, but were Juventus interested?

“Back then it seemed like we could go ahead with Conte. When Conte left we got in touch with Allegri, and we're still very, very satisfied with him.”

Juventus have recently qualified for the Champions League's Last 16, but Marotta knows that will be a wholly new level.

“It's a different tournament compared to the championship, in which all the real values eventually emerge.

“It's a tournament in which there is more space for chance, it's enough to mention the importance of the draw, or the weather conditions.

“Our football is in a crisis for various reasons. One of them is that people only ever talk about broadcasting rights.

“But the structural problems are a lot more serious, and they range from the lack of property stadiums to the infrastructure necessary to develop our youth.

“Only a few clubs have sports centres that are at the appropriate level.”

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