Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus - Napoli Preview: Allegri backs Tevez

to make the difference in Supercoppa showpiece

The Serie A champions are looking to finish 2014 on a high
as they take on the Coppa Italia holders in Qatar.

Dec 21, 2014

Massimiliano Allegri expects Carlos Tevez to make the difference for Juventus against Napoli in the Supercoppa Italiana.

Tevez has unsurprisingly been a key figure for Juventus in their quest for a fourth successive Serie A title and has also helped the Italian champions secure a place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The former Manchester City striker has 13 goals to his name in all competitions this term, but heads into Monday's meeting with the Coppa Italia winners in Doha with coach Allegri conceding that the Argentina international is not 100 per cent fit.

Despite his fitness issues, Allegri has backed Tevez to once again play a pivotal role as Juve seek to add another trophy to their cabinet.

"We secured our first target of the season by qualifying for the Champions League last 16," Allegri said. "Now it's time for our second target. The Super Cup is a tournament we all want to win.

"I don't think Napoli's only aim is to lift the Super Cup. I think they'll try to get back into the title race if possible, or if not battle for third place, which I think is an important target for the teams in the mix. It gives you a place in the Champions League play-offs.

"Tevez made the difference for us in the first six matches and a Champions League game at home to Malmo. He scored a lot of goals and played a key role throughout games.

"He's clearly not 100 per cent fit at the moment but he's such a big player he can still make the difference at any time. How do I manage him? We're off on holiday on Tuesday so he'll have eight days' break [after the clash with Napoli]."

While Tevez is considered fit enough to play, Juve will again be without Andrea Barzagli (Achilles), Kwadwo Asamoah (knee), Romulo (groin) and Martin Caceres (thigh) for a meeting with a Napoli side that ended a four-game Serie A winless run by beating Parma 2-0 on Thursday.

Rafael Benitez's side will be without Michu (ankle), Lorenzo Insigne (knee ligament) and long-time absentee Juan Zuniga as they attempt to end the year on a high.

Napoi have contested the Coppa Italia final and a Champions League play-off with Athletic Bilbao in 2014, yet Benitez feels Monday's encounter in the Qatari capital is the most important match of the year for his team.

"I always say the next game is the most important and in this case we are challenging for a trophy with Juventus," Benitez told Sky Sport Italia. "At least I can say it's the most important game of 2014."

 

LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus W D D D W

12/18/14 - Cagliari 1 - 3 Juventus
12/14/14 - Juventus 1 - 1 Sampdoria
12/9/14 - Juventus 0 - 0 Atlético Madrid
12/5/14 - Fiorentina 0 - 0 Juventus
11/30/14 - Juventus 2 - 1 Torino


Napoli W L W D D

12/18/14 - Napoli 2 - 0 Parma
12/14/14 - Milan 2 - 0 Napoli
12/11/14 - Napoli 3 - 0 ŠK Slovan Bratislava
12/7/14 - Napoli 2 - 2 Empoli
12/1/14 - Sampdoria 1 - 1 Napoli
 

 

HEAD TO HEAD

3/30/14 - Napoli 2 - 0 Juventus
11/10/13 - Juventus 3 - 0 Napoli
3/1/13 - Napoli 1 - 1 Juventus
10/20/12 - Juventus 2 - 0 Napoli
8/11/12 - Juventus 4 - 2 Napoli

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Marchisio: 'Juve mature now'

Dec 21, 2014

Claudio Marchisio claims Juventus are now “mature and confident,” starting from Super Cup revenge against Napoli tomorrow.

It kicks off in Doha on Monday at 18.30 CET.

“In a one-off game, anything can happen, especially against players like Higuain, Callejon and Hamsik,” said the midfielder.

“The Coppa Italia Final we lost to Napoli still burns. After we beat them in Beijing in the last Super Cup, this one is the ‘decider.’

“I still say Roma are a step above Napoli for their efforts in Europe and Serie A. Roma just went out of the Champions League, but I think they can win the Europa League. In fact, I hope they do for the sake of Italian football.”

Marchisio recognises Max Allegri has brought a different element to the Juventus squad this season.

“You win a Final with the utmost concentration and desire to achieve your objective. At Juventus we have also changed our mentality and approach to games. Now there is a different maturity and self-belief within the squad, earned also thanks to the victories of recent years.

“This was above all important in Europe, as we got through and would’ve qualified earlier had it not been for an undeserved defeat in Madrid. We went to their stadium and held the initiative for 90 minutes against Atletico. That’s the most important step forward Juve have made recently.

“The objective is to always keep on improving. We hope to quickly realise how to pull something more out of the hat, especially as we’ve got Borussia Dortmund after the Christmas break.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Doha delight for Napoli?

Napoli when they take on Juventus in this Monday’s Italian Supercup
and Dave Taylor feels they must think carefully about tactics if they are to win.

Dec 21, 2014

A mere four days after their last Serie A game of 2014, Napoli play Juventus 2,500 miles away from the peninsula in Doha, Qatar, in the 27th version of the Italian Supercup. In comparison to the Vesuviani, the Old Lady is no stranger to this highly prestigious game, the showdown between the Italian Cup winners and the Scudetto holders, after winning six of the record 10 she has played in since its inception back in 1986. Meanwhile for Napoli it will be their third attempt, all of them against Juve. There was a legendary 5-1 win in 1990 and a fiery 4-2 defeat in 2012.

Yet neither of those games will have a bearing on this one with both teams showing certain weaknesses over the last few league matches. Juve, despite being league leaders, endured a frustrating three successive draws before beating Cagliari away 3-1, while Napoli claimed their first win in five matcheswith a 2-0 against basement club Parma.

More than anything the game should prove a battle between Coaches and tactics, so Napoli will have to be at their very best to negate Juve’s most recent system, a4-4-1-1. Their Coach Massimiliano Allegri has introduced a variation of a basic 4-4-2, with Carlos Tevez dropping into an advanced midfield role at times, which seems to give the team a new look and replicates the high-intensity game practiced under Coach Antonio Conte.

On the other hand Napoli Coach Rafa Benitez will use his regular 4-3-2-1 while trying to outmaneuver his opposite number. One thing he certainly needs to outwit is Juve’s ultra-strong midfield, inspired by the unique Andrea Pirlo. This of course does not mean he must put all his eggs in one basket and only worry about the Metronome. If you put a man on Pirlo it leaves more space for his midfield colleagues Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal, who invariably dictate central midfield anyway. In the end it would probably make more sense for Benitez if he could stifle any and all the space in midfield rather than one particular player.

Yet even if they get past the midfield there are still Stephan Lichtsteiner, Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci and Patrice Evra to bypass, a defence that has only conceded seven goals this season.

It is here where Benitez really needs to earn his corn. One way round it could possibly be by using his pacey wingers,Dries Mertens and Jose Callejon to their best effect, two players who can both beat their man and score. If this is the case Napoli need to stand off Juventus, invite them in, but always be ready for a lightning quick counter-attack when either Lichtsteiner or Evra move up field to join their forwards.

Theoretically this should leave spaces behind them with just the three defenders to be out-numbered by Napoli’s four-man attack. Then if the extra man manages to find himself free in the area, he only has the ‘keeper to beat. However, with Gianluigi Buffon ‘only’ is another problem.

Although the Bianconeri number one is still Serie A’s best ‘keeper, recently he has been guilty of misplacing the ball when punching out under pressure. And with Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain a specialist inside ten yards, there just might be something in it for Napoli. However, talking about it and doing it are two different things and above all Buffon has 10 clean sheets.

In spite of that if Napoli do pressure the defence en masse without delay, it means that the Juve midfielders will be pressured to help out their defenders, which again leaves more space to exploit. And with Allegri’s system only employing two in central midfield and with Napoli having three in that area, on paper, they should be able to control the central zone.

Yet to put it simply once again, Juve do not lose many games, whichever tactics are used against them, plus they are the league’s top scorers. All in all Napoli have a tough task in front of them and Benitez will need to utilize all the tradecraft that has seen him win almost a dozen trophies, while his team need to be at their very best to lift the cup.

In the end regardless of the result both Napoli and Juve will go all out to make it a spectacle worthy of the best of Serie A. Hopefully with stars like Higuain and his fellow countryman Carlos Tevez at the sharp end, the game should end 2014 on a high.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Hamsik: 'Super Cup so important'

Dec 21, 2014

Marek Hamsik has a great record against Juventus and says Napoli are ready for tomorrow’s “indisputably important” Super Cup.

It kicks off in Doha on Monday at 18.30 CET.

“I’ve scored many times against Juve and all of them wonderful,” grinned the Slovak international.

“I above all remember the brace in Turin, where we hadn’t won for over 20 years, and the goal in the Coppa Italia Final, our first trophy together.

“This time the stage is an international one, like it was in Beijing for the Super Cup in 2012. We shouldn’t have lost that game, at least not like that. It was a hard-fought match and we could’ve won.”

It caused controversy when Napoli saw two men sent off and lost 4-2 in extra time, then snubbed the trophy ceremony.

“This Super Cup is indisputably important,” continued Hamsik. “And I love the idea of lifting a trophy.

“Juventus are to be feared, as they know how to win and are full of champions. Are we underdogs? In a one-off game anything can happen.

“If we beat Juve, it’ll be hugely satisfying for us and our fans, sending a positive image of Napoli and the city of Naples. We can do it if we replicate the performance against Roma.”

Today President Aurelio De Laurentiis visited the training ground and gave his players a stern talking-to, accusing them of “resting on their laurels” after falling out of the Scudetto race.

“When President De Laurentiis speaks, we give our response on the pitch. He has always helped and knows how to motivate us. People expected more this season and we’re aware of that. We’ve thrown away an enormous number of points.”

Captain Hamsik was even on the end of jeers and protests due to poor form, fuelling reports of a sale.

“I am a professional and know what football is like. I give it all I’ve got, then everyone is free to express their opinion. I would never jeer anyone, personally.

“The tactics are now 4-2-3-1, it has never changed, so it’s up to me to improve and adapt.”

Hamsik had been close to joining Milan a few years ago when Max Allegri was in charge, but the Coach is now at Juventus.

“I am grateful for the respect Allegri has always shown towards me. However, I made my choice and never regretted it.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus Coach Content Ahead Of Supercoppa Italiana

Dec 21, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri is relishing his side’s upcoming Supercoppa Italiana clash with Napoli in Doha.

Allegri feels his team head into the Qatar fixture having enjoyed a fine opening half to the campaign which has seen them open a three point gap at the top of Serie A, as well as making it to the knockout rounds of the Champions League.

“We qualified for the first knockout stage of the Champions League, we are leading the championship and now we play the Supercoppa, which is the secondary goal of our season,” said Allegri when speaking to Rai Sport.

“Then, we can rest a little bit and focus on the second part of the season.

“There are big games when you look ahead to the rest of the season, and you don’t want to make mistakes.”

On their Supercoppa Italiana rivals Napoli, it’s clear that Allegri is wary of their ability to surprise.

“Napoli are an opponent that is more difficult to tackle in a one-off game.

“They have many players capable of settling a game on their own.

“Maybe they don’t always have the balance and perseverance required to fight and win the championship, but in one-off game they can cause you trouble.”

Former AC Milan head coach Allegri had some kind words to say about his Napoli counterpart Rafa Benitez and Argentine international striker Gonzalo Higuain, while also finding time to praise his own forwards in the process.

“Benitez is a great coach and a good person, intelligent and is the right coach for Napoli.

“Higuain is a great player, one who can decide a game by himself.

“He has extraordinary qualities, but fortunately I have Tevez, Morata, Llorente, Giovinco and Coman, so I’m happy.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri: 'Juve can't get it wrong'

Dec 21, 2014

Max Allegri said Juventus are “highly motivated” by the Italian Super Cup against Rafa Benitez’s Napoli. “We can’t get it wrong.”

It kicks off tomorrow at 18.30 CET in Doha, Qatar.

“This is our last game of the year and our third target for the campaign after Champions League qualification and top of the Serie A table,” said the Coach in a Press conference.

“It will not be easy, as Napoli have a lot of quality and in a one-off game are extremely strong. Their three trequartisti can really hurt opponents and even without errors it’ll be tough to beat them. I haven’t beaten Napoli for a while as a Coach, so I’d like to rectify that tomorrow.

“We are highly motivated too, as this is after all a final for a trophy. We can’t get it wrong! The team is in decent shape and we’ll try to end on a high before the Christmas vacation.”

Benitez is known above all for his record in cup competitions, so that could give Napoli the edge.

“It is motivating to face him. I haven’t had as many opportunities as Rafa to play in cup finals. It’ll be a bit of a strange game for me and the squad.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Buffon: 'Napoli top 10 Euro teams'

Dec 21, 2014

Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon claims Napoli are “in the top 10 European teams” when it comes to one-off games like the Italian Super Cup.

The Scudetto holders face off against the Coppa Italia winners in Doha tomorrow at 18.30 CET.

“It’s great to see such affection and enthusiasm from fans on the other side of the world,” said Buffon at his Press conference.

“I didn’t know there was a Juventus Club Doc in Qatar and must thank them for making us feel special and loved.

“Napoli are in the top 10 European teams when it’s a one-off game, which they have already proved in the Champions League last year. They bring the best out of themselves in these situations.

“We have great respect and the right amount of concern, but want to impose our play on the game and attack from the start.

“We want to win in order to finish a great 2014, in which we already achieved our third consecutive Scudetto.

“We certainly are not lacking in terms of hunger or motivation.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Mertens: The Supercoppa Italiana Is An Important Trophy

Dec 21, 2014

Napoli winger Dries Mertens has claimed his side are ready to face Juventus in the Supercoppa Italiana on Monday in Doha, Qatar.

The match was initially scheduled for August 24, but had to be postponed because of Napoli’s participation in the UEFA Champions League play-off round.

Speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss from Doha, Mertens has admitted this match has great importance because it is a trophy the team want to triumph in especially against reigning Serie A champions Juventus.

“For us and for all the fans it is an important game,” Mertens said.

“The whole team and all the fans want to win this trophy and we know what we have to do to win against Juventus because they are a great team.

“Juventus is always a strong team but so are we.”

The 27-year-old Belgian international has accumulated 14 appearances this season scoring once in the process.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

JUVENTUS V NAPOLI: SUPERCOPPA ITALIANA PREVIEW

Dec 21, 2014

Juventus

It’s Napoli versus Juventus. Maradona versus Platini. For Juventus, it’s a game against a relatively strong Italian side and a bit of a rival. For Napoli, a win versus Juventus – especially in the SuperCoppa, a game of marginally more significance than a Serie A fixture – could serve as a high point to a season. It may even help buy Rafa Benitez some time as manager while his side struggles.

For Juventus, things look pretty good. The 3-1 victory over Cagliari helped snap a break of draws. Roma’s 0-0 draw with A.C. Milan also means that Juventus end the year with a three point lead atop Serie A. Plus, with the exception of Kwadwo Asamoah, most of the first choice players are fit and ready for this game. With no games after the SuperCoppa until the derby d’Italia on January 6th, Allegri can play his strongest side and not worry about resting players for the next game.

Coincidentally, Juventus face Napoli in Serie A after the derby d’Italia, so this game could help both sides’ figure out a plan of action for that other fixture.

Martin Caceres and Andrea Barzagli are still out, although Barzagli is supposed to be imminently returning. Gianluigi Buffon is going to start in goal, while Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini should start at centerback. Patrice Evra is the preferred started at left back, as is Stephan Lichtsteiner at right back.

Allegri also has all four of his star midfielders, with Arturo Vidal coming off of a strong performance versus Cagliari that was capped off with a sublime goal. Vidal is expected to start in the more advanced midfielder role, while he will be joined by Paul Pogba, Claudio Marchisio, and Andrea Pirlo. Roberto Pereyra will lurk in the wings as a potential substitute, probably eager to score the goal he didn’t get versus Cagliari.

Finally Carlos Tevez is assured of a start at striker. Fernando Llorente is, per usual, the obvious choice to partner him. A start for Alvaro Morata is possible, but not likely. Both Tevez and Llorente scored versus Cagliari, and Llorente has played well versus Napoli in the past. The duo are likely to be at or near top form for this big clash, so Napoli will need to do their best to contain them.
 

 

Predicted Lineup

4-3-1-2 : Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pirlo, Marchisio, Pogba, Vidal; Tevez, Llorente
 

Injuries

Andrea Barzagli (Heel), Luca Marrone (Thigh), Martin Caceres (Thigh), Kwadwo Asamoah and Romulo (Both undergone knee surgery)




Napoli 

Napoli have never looked particularly impressive this season as they are already twelve points behind Juventus, but in a match like the Super Cup, anything can happen and the firepower of Partenopei is remarkable.

It’s not a secret that Napoli’s defense is leaky: they have conceded twenty goal so far in Serie A (for instance, Chievo Verona, Atalanta and Torino have done better). Kalidou Koulibaly, their lone summer acquisition in that department, alternates one brilliant game to two or three subpar performances and Raul Albiol is passable, but he’s not good enough to be the leader of a high caliber team. In addition, Christian Maggio and Faouzi Ghoulam are offensive-minded fullbacks. When put under constant pressure or against quick counters, Napoli’s defense tends to crumble very easily. I wouldn’t be very surprised if Henrique got the call for this match, as centre-back or as fullback.

I like the David Lopez-Jorginho combo in the midfield: Lopez is a very underrated player and Jorginho provides some playmaking, but it’s probably a little too light to protect well enough their disappointing defense.

On offense, they are really really good. They have the third best attack in the League, trailing only to Juventus and Roma, even though, all in all, not all components have been sharp so far. Dries Mertens, who’s expected to step into a bigger role since Lorenzo Insigne is pretty much done for the season, has scored only once in Serie A (three times in Europa League) and Marek Hamsik’s season has had more lows than highs. Even Gonzalo Higuain started the season with an eight-game drought before erupting and scoring seven goals in five games. José Maria Callejon has been the most consistent with eight goal in sixteen matches, but he last scored on November 1st. If they clicked at the same time, Napoli would be a terrifying four-headed monster, but that’s not the case. Jonathan De Guzman has exceeded expectations as he has already scored six goals: he’s better as CAM, but he can play on the flanks too and he’s one to keep an eye on, should he enter the game.

They have bags of talent upfront and they are devastating on the counter-attacking game, with seven or eight players that can make plays in the open room, but they are also excellent when the defense is set. The cuts by the wingers are deadly, the through balls are usually accurate and Higuain and also Hamsik are very good in the box. They have many unpredictable players that can create chances out of nowhere.

However, their lack of stability is blatant. In order to compensate, they like to have ball possession: it will be interesting to see what team will have the upper hand in that regard. Rafa Benitez rotates the squad a lot and the starters arrive pretty fresh at the final match of 2014, certainly a very important one for Napoli after failing the first big seasonal objective: qualifying to Champions League through the play-off.
 

 

Predicted Lineup

4-2-3-1 : Cabral; Maggio, Koulibaly, Henrique, Ghoulam ; Jorginho, Lopez; Callejon, Hamsik, Mertens; Higuain
 

Injuries

Juan Zuniga, Lorenzo Insigne and Michu


 

Formation

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Hamsik: Napoli fear Juventus, but we can beat them

The two sides meet in the Supercoppa Italiana on Monday and the Partenopei star
believes his side have shown already this season that they have what it takes to win.

Dec 21, 2014

Napoli star Marek Hamsik has said his side know they can beat Juventus in Monday's Supercoppa Italiana, despite admitting that the Serie A champions should be feared.

The Copa Italia winners meet the league champions in Doha, Qatar, to battle it out for the Supercoppa, a repeat of the 2012 final in Beijing, in which Juve came from behind twice to win in extra-time after the Partenopei went down to nine men.

Juventus are now looking to make it three victories in a row in the competition, having beaten Lazio 4-0 last year. However, Hamsik is confident of getting the win and lifting the trophy, which would be his third with the club.

"The Super Cup is extremely important. I love the idea of lifting the trophy," he told reporters.

"Juventus are to be feared, as they know how to win and the team is full of champions, but this is a one-off game so anything can happen.

"If we beat Juve, it’ll be hugely satisfying for us and our fans, sending a positive image of Napoli and the city. We can do it if we replicate the performance against Roma."

The Slovakia international says he has many good memories of playing against the Bianconeri, but admits the clash in China two years ago is not one of them.

"I’ve scored against Juve several times and each one of them was wonderful," he told reporters.

"Above all, I remember the double in Turin. We hadn’t won there for more than 20 years. There was also the goal in the Coppa Italia Final, our first trophy together.

"This time we're playing on an international stage, like we were in Beijing for the Super Cup in 2012. We shouldn’t have lost that game, not like that. It was a hard match and we could’ve won."

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus can't put a foot wrong against Napoli - Allegri

The Serie A champions take on the Coppa Italia winners on Monday night
and the coach admitted his side face a difficult test in Doha.

Dec 21, 2014

Massimiliano Allegri has warned his Juventus team that they must be at their best in the in the Supercoppa Italiana match against Napoli on Monday.

The Serie A champions, and current league leaders, face the Coppa Italia winners in Doha and Allegri is keen to earn his first trophy since replacing Antonio Conte at the helm in the summer.

Juventus have won the last two Supercoppas, while Allegri last won the competition in 2011 with former club Milan.

Having guided his new charges to the top of the table and progressed in Europe, the head coach wants a cup win to cap off an impressive first six months at the helm.

"After remaining top of the league and getting to the Champions League last 16, the Supercoppa is our third target of the season," he said.

"It won't be easy because Napoli have important qualities. They're difficult to face in a one-off game.

"We can't put a foot wrong. The team is in good shape and got back to winning ways with a good display in the 3-1 win over Cagliari.

"Anything can happen in a final. We have plenty of respect for Napoli and we'll look to bring the trophy home."

And Allegri insists their fate does not rest on the shoulders of Carlos Tevez, despite the striker scoring 13 goals in all competitions so far this season.

He added: "We don't just rely on Carlos Tevez, we've won games without him and the goals have been shared around this season."

Juve's first two games back after the winter break are at home to Inter and away to Napoli.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

A DAY WITH JUVENTUS AHEAD OF THE SUPER CUP

Dec 21, 2014

Juventus are in Doha ahead of tomorrows Italian Super Cup match against Napoli and Amin Muwafi was lucky enough to catch up with the players.

Following and tracking all news related to Juve and being a member of the Juventus DOC Club in Qatar, we were able to access more information about the agenda of Juventus, their arrival time, training sessions and other information.

We were around 50 people cheering Juventus at the arrivals terminal at Hamad International Airport. The players didn’t approach us but were so friendly in taking photos and signing T-Shirts with them. We had the pleasure to communicate with them, take photos, and wish them luck in the match. People were very professional in dealing with the players in which each one respected the other while taking their photo. When the Capitano Buffon arrived at the terminal, he went to each person, signed a T-Shirt, took a photo, or shook hands with them; he spent a good time with each and every one.

Afternoon, and the team had the first training session at Aspire and lots of people were there to have the chance to take photos with the players. Most players were getting out of the hotel, one or two at a time and that allowed them and us to take photos with each of them. Some of the players as Vidal, Tevez, and Buffon came out late and informed they’ll take the photos after the training session is completed. I think most people there were able to take a photo with each single player. The security people were very professional and communicated with us in a professional way ensuring several actions as not touching the players and standing on a certain point; the cooperation of the people all around helped to achieve this point, and I think this is a great advantage for Doha in handling people which will give them more push to a great World Cup in 2022. @aminmuwafi

Gianluigi Buffon: “I didn’t know there was a Juventus Club Doc in Qatar and must thank them for making us feel special and loved.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Benitez: 'Napoli can win Super Cup'

Dec 21, 2014

Rafa Benitez assured Napoli “are convinced” they can beat Juventus for the Italian Super Cup tomorrow.

It kicks off on Monday in Doha at 18.30 CET and is a repeat of the contentious 2012 edition, which ended 4-2 for Juve in extra time.

“Juventus are ahead of us in the Serie A table, but tomorrow night it’s just a one-off match and we have confidence,” said Benitez in his Press conference.

“What matters will be the hunger for victory and the right mentality. We’ve always done well against the big clubs and are convinced we can do it.

“Tomorrow, in everyone’s heads and hearts, we are all expecting the victory. We know what the fans want from us. It is an important game and we are fully concentrated.

“We have the utmost respect for our opponents, but we know our own strength and want to win this.

“Who will start? Everyone deserves to play, so I will make my decision tomorrow.”

Benitez was asked about his reputation as a cup-winning Coach more than a League tactician, who excels only in short bursts.

“I don’t think that only winning finals is a limitation!” he smiled. “I don’t need to fire the players up too much, as the occasion is motivation enough.

“Every League has its characteristics. The Italian one is very tactical and that’s what makes it so difficult.”

Benitez was also asked about today’s reports in the English papers that Liverpool could loan Mario Balotelli to Napoli.

“We are concentrated only on this game,” he shrugged.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Maggio: 'Qatar ready for World Cup'

Dec 21, 2014

Christian Maggio is impressed with the staging of the Italian Super Cup Napoli v Juventus in Qatar.

“We found absolutely perfect infrastructure here in Qatar. It’s a country that is ready to host the World Cup,” said the right-back in a Press conference.

Qatar have been assigned the 2020 World Cup finals, but FIFA warned it might have to be moved to winter in order to avoid the intense summer heat.

Coppa Italia winners Napoli go head-to-head with Scudetto holders Juventus tomorrow evening.

“Who would I take away from the Juve team? It’s tough as they are all talented, but maybe Gigi Buffon,” said Maggio.

“I feel in good shape and hope to help the team bring this trophy home. We know the fans really want this Super Cup.

“I saw the squad relaxed and concentrated in training over the last few days. We need respect for Juventus, but in one-off games we have often done very well.

“I haven’t played in many finals, so it’s an indescribable emotion for me.”

Maggio did participate in the 2012 Italian Super Cup, which saw Juventus win 4-2 in extra time and Napoli boycott the awards ceremony in protest at the referee.

“We turned over a new leaf and put that behind us. Now we want to give the fans this cup that has been missing for too long.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Flaws and threats on both sides
as Juventus prepare for Napoli showdown

Dec 21, 2014

The press sniggered. Khalid Mubarak Al Kuwari, the vice president of the organising committee for the Italian Supercoppa in Doha, Qatar, described the match as a "global event." Hardly. With the spectacle overly anticipated, it's important Napoli and Juventus play a worthy game of football to justify the hype.

Maximum attention has been paid by the hosts to ensure this particular final will be played in an appealing environment, an attempt to prove to onlookers that Qatar are capable organisers and worthy recipients of the honour to host the World Cup in 2022.

Will it be an interesting game? It usually is, although the fear is that both sides are presided over by tacticians who want to prove they are more intelligent. However, as both teams are identified by their spectacular nature and ability to overwhelm, the game ought to prove entertaining with players demonstrating interesting movement, pace and shots at goal.

Napoli's strength lies in attack as they are not only capable of scoring from open play but have proved efficient on set pieces, too. Taking more shots on goal than any other side in the league, the Partenopei live to strike, using their front line as the first line of defence, pressing and harrying the opponent to win possession and go straight for goal.

Let's make one thing clear: If Napoli play to their potential, they can be on the same level as Roma and Juve even if they don't possess the same balance. They are technically gifted, boasting an array of varied talent capable of destroying their opponent. When they click -- as they did against Roma -- there is no better side going forward. Sadly for them, they lack consistency and rarely have been able to rely on their forwards all being on the same wavelength this season, and as such, they have disappointed.

Their greatest weakness has proved to be their fragile back line, though -- one that has conceded 1.25 goals a game this season, rendering them incapable of collecting the wins necessary to truly challenge the top two in the league.

A certain few opine that the club's yo-yoing form has much to do with coach Rafael Benitez, the club's flawed asset. A tactical wizard capable of concocting a potion that neutralises the strength of even the worthiest adversary, he understands football and he studies opponents. He knows how to exploit the talents of his men and what strategy to deploy to cause the maximum amount of pain.

However, his problem lies in his inability to sufficiently motivate his squad to ensure consistency, helping them to safely navigate through games whether against the best or the less capable.

Defensively, Juventus must be wary as Napoli are a side that excel when attacking. The Bianconeri's formation change will provide a relief on the one hand but also expose other weaknesses. The Partenopei are a side that enjoy attacking the wide areas, using their pace and unpredictability. When Juventus play a 3-5-2 formation, this has caused defensive problems and impeded the Bianconeri's own attacking game, halting the likes of Stephan Lichtsteiner from providing the necessary forward thrusts.

The hope is that the change in formation will allow the Old Lady to better deal with the wide threat, but Juve's more attacking style of play leaves defenders exposed to one-on-one situations.

Considering the strength and weaknesses of both sides, one would expect a high-scoring game but Napoli are particularly attentive at the back in the big matches. They revel in highly pressurised situations and will bare their teeth. When Juventus faced them in March, they struggled to dominate, looking physically incapable of matching them athletically.

If we go by recent displays, it's likely Juventus will start the game with a bang but should they slow down for a moment, Napoli will punish them. Opportunistic, they enjoy nothing more than making opponents pay for their lapses in concentration.

To remain engaged and concentrated for the entirety of the match is the only way Juve can hope to lift this trophy.

[Socrates 8516]

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

 

-

 

 

Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)

Referee: Paolo Valeri

 

 

 

Benitez: Napoli have the mental strength to beat Juve

 

The coach insists the players will not require any extra motivation heading into 

the Supercoppa Italiana clash with Juventus as their mentality and intensity is enough.

 

 

Dec 21, 2014

 

Rafael Benitez does not expect the gap in Serie A between Juventus and Napoli to play a part in Monday's Supercoppa Italiana.

 

The Serie A champions and Coppa Italia holders meet in Doha for what will be their final outing before the mid-season break.

 

While the sides have yet to meet in the Italian top flight this term, Juve sit 12 points clear of third-placed Napoli at the top and have lost just once in the league this season. 

 

Napoli have flattered to deceive of late - winning just one of their last five league matches - but Benitez feels his players will be fired up to end 2014 on a high. 

 

"Monday is an important game for us, for the club and for all the fans - we want to win it," he told a news conference on Sunday.

 

"Juve are ahead in the championship but what counts is the will to win, the mentality and the intensity.

 

"We are focused only on this match, we respect our opponents but we know our strengths and we want to win.

 

"The stadium will be full but the players know in the hearts and their heads that they want our fans who will not be here.

 

"In a final there's no need to fire players up because the game itself is the motivation."

 

Napoli won their last meeting with Juve - a 2-0 victory in Serie A at the Stadio San Paolo with Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens each on target in March. 

 

Their only Supercoppa Italiana win came in 1990.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Italian Super Cup Preview:
Juventus vs. Napoli — Trophy Dash

Dec 21, 2014

Juventus didn't wait long to make the nine-hour flight to Doha, Qatar and begin preparations for tomorrow's Supercoppa. Almost like "We got that win over Cagliari, let's roll out of town and start looking at Napoli!" Maybe not exactly what the Juventus contingent had in mind, but that's how things went down as they put together they're itinerary.

Either way, Juventus arrived in Qatar before many of their Serie A rivals even stepped on the field for the final games of 2014. This wasn't for a Christmas-related vacation. It wasn't even just some detour on the way to another foreign destination that involves a bunch of time sitting on the beach with a nice drink. Nope, Juventus has one more game before we open up some presents, drink some champagne as we ring in a new year and wait for Serie A to get back going once again.

That's where the trip to Doha comes in, and the reason why there was some Thursday night football a couple of days ago.

Juventus is playing in yet another Supercoppa Italiana, this time against Napoli after Rafa Benitez and his gang of players won the Coppa Italia over Fiorentina. So while Juventus celebrated their third consecutive Scudetto under Antonio Conte, Napoli went crazy because they captured their fifth ever Coppa Italia. Funny how those things work out.

We can stop talking about Juventus struggling to get the job done after they easily disposed of Cagliari in Zemanlandia three days ago. It was a win manager Max Allegri has routinely called back to during the build-cup to the Supercoppa. And you would have to think that after getting a win after three straight draws in all competitions, this Juventus side is feeling pretty good about themselves rather than being left completely frustrated once again.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "We stuck to our task in Cagliari and got back to winning ways. That's the most important thing."

So I think we know what Juventus want to do on Monday night against Napoli.

Then again, that's pretty much the objective no matter who the opponent is.
 

 

GOOD NEWS

A win gives Juventus another trophy.

Trophies are cool.

Seeing Gianluigi Buffon lift trophies over his head is cool.

Therefore, after this three-point plan has been laid out, I feel safe in saying Juventus should beat Napoli. Why? Because they're going to get a trophy for it. That sounds like plenty of motivation to me.
 

 

BAD NEWS

Instead of this game being played in the lead-up to the 2014-15 season, both teams have made the long trip to Qatar to play for the Suppercoppa. Not exactly how things should be done, right? Then again, this is Italy where doing things without much logic behind them is pretty much status quo.
 

 

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Can Arturo Vidal build off his fine performance vs. Cagliari?

It doesn't take much to see why last Thursday's game was one of Arturo Vidal's best of the season. It truly did resemble the Vidal of old — one that is contributing from one end of the field to the other and really looking like the box-to-box midfielder that is so coveted by clubs with wallets the size of 18-wheelers. It was such a welcome change from the kind of Vidal we'd been seeing for most of the season. The next question is easy: What's next, Arturo? One game won't suddenly change the viewpoint of what has been a disappointing campaign for one of the best midfielders in the business. If Vidal goes on and struggles for another couple of months like he has to close out 2014, we won't remember what Vidal did on that night in Sardinia. But if he builds on it, then the 3-1 win over Cagliari could be looked at as a turning point in the season for a player who means so much to this Juventus squad.

2. Who makes way for Paul Pogba in the starting lineup?

It was clear what Max Allegri's intentions were when the starting lineups for Juventus' game against Cagliari were announced. Juventus' manager wanted Pogba ready for Napoli, and well-rested at that as well. But with Pogba returning to the squad, that means somebody has to sit. Is it Claudio Marchisio, one of Juventus' best players over the last month or so? I dunno. Andrea Pirlo? Eh, I don't know. If it's Roberto Pereyra, then that likely means Vidal gets shifted higher up the field, which as a lot of us have noticed, hasn't really been a spot where he's excelled since Allegri went 4-3-1-2 on us. At times having so much depth is a wonderful thing, but this has to be a pretty tough call to make. Then again, these are the decisions Allegri gets paid a nice salary to make. So go ahead and make 'em, Max! We'll be waiting...

3. The Napoli attack vs. the Juventus defense.

For all the jabs and jokes we direct toward Napoli, they do have some very good players — especially in the attacking third of the field. And not only are they quality players, but they're ones that come with pace out on the wings and the ability to create their own scoring chances. That means the likes of Stephan Lichtsteiner and Patrice Evra will try and limit José Callejón and Dries Mertens. And Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci or whoever else starts in the middle of Juventus' four-man defense will have to keep Gonzalo Higuaín away from doing what he's done against Juve in the past.

If this Serie A season has taught us anything, it's this: Napoli may have a defense that leaks in goals as much as a mid-table team that isn't going anywhere other than staying in Serie A, they can definitely score goals. There's only one team who has scored more goals in Italy's top flight this season — and that's the team they're facing in the Supercoppa.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: “It won’t be easy because Napoli have important qualities. They’re difficult to face in a one-off game.”


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

OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 6:30 P.M. IN ITALY; 12:30 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 9:30 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri Warns Of Mistakes Ahead
Of Supercoppa Italiana Clash

Dec 22, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri believes his side cannot make mistakes against a well-respected Napoli side in the Supercoppa Italiana.

Allegri’s side are set to take on the Partenopei Doha on Monday, and the Old Lady’s coach is firm about how to win the match.

“We respect Napoli, and cannot make mistakes- which is very hard in a single game scenario such as this,” the 47-year-old told his second press conference before the game.

“They play with four offensive players, find space and know how to highlight their qualities.

While Napoli sit fourth in Serie A, Juventus are once again leading the pack ahead of the turn of the year, but Allegri remains unfazed by the lead.

“The three-point lead is nothing, there is a long way to go,” he said.

“Napoli are well organised, and if they play without mistakes then they will be hard to beat- so the game will be technical and played with a lot of intensity.

Ahead of the Supercoppa, Juve beat Cagliari 3-1 on Thursday, which the Italian coach believes will give them a boost.

“We came back to win at Cagliari, and we will try again to be at our best,” he concluded.

The Bianconeri are the holders of the previous two Supercoppa Italiana titles, having defeated Napoli and Lazio in the previous two editions.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus-Napoli Betting: Expect a typically
high-scoring Supercoppa clash in Doha

With Rafa Benitez's side proving uncharacteristically weak at the back of late,
Al Hain-Cole expects their strong attacking options to make for an entertaining encounter.

Dec 22, 2014

With the Serie A winter break now in effect, Juventus and Napoli begin their break from the league slog with a Supercoppa Italiana clash at Doha’s Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Monday.

Having marched to their third consecutive league title last season, the Bianconeri are 23/25 (1.92) favourites with 888Sport to third successive Super Cup trophy to their ever-expanding collection.

Meanwhile, Rafa Benitez’s Coppa Italia winners are on offer at 13/4 (4.25) to avenge their 2012 defeat in this competition by coming out on top this time out.

The holders have drawn three of their last four matches in all competitions, and you can get odds of 12/5 (3.40) on them taking this one into extra-time after a tied 90 minutes in the Middle East.

Massimiliano Allegri was delighted so see his side return to winning ways after three consecutive draws with a 3-1 triumph over Genoa that earned them a record points tally for a Serie A team within one calendar year.

Similarly, opposite number Benitez will have been relieved to oversee a first win in five league matches against Parma on that same evening, ending what has been an inconsistent start to the season on a positive note.

Perhaps surprisingly for a manager often attributed with a reputation as a defensive tactician, the Spaniard has been too frequently let down by a backline that has leaked 20 goals already – more than nine other teams in the division.

This weakness at the back has undone a lot of the Partenopei’s enterprising work up front, where their record of 28 goals scored has been bettered only by tonight’s opponents.

Considering Supercoppa clashes have a reputation for producing goals in recent years, odds of 49/50 (1.98) therefore look like excellent value on over 2.5 goals being scored for the seventh season in a row in this fixture.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus still looking bright ahead of Supercoppa - Marchisio

The champions take on Coppa Italia winners Napoli on Monday, and their midfielder
claims the Bianconeri are in fine fettle despite a punishing calendar.

Dec 22, 2014

Claudio Marchisio says Juventus are full of confidence as they head into Monday’s Supercoppa Italiana clash with Napoli.

The Italian champions are hot favourites to clinch a third successive domestic Super Cup in Doha, and the 28-year-old claims that their recent form gives them belief that they can overcome a side against whom they still have a bit of a score to settle.

Napoli won the 2012 Coppa Italia final to deny the Bianconeri the opportunity to boast an undefeated season in all competitions.

And while they went on to beat the Azzurri in the Supercoppa which followed in Beijing three months later, Marchisio admits the cup final loss still rankles with the Turin outfit.

“Compared to the game in Beijing two years ago, this is a different story completely: the climate is ideal and the pitch is perfect,” Marchisio told the Corrriere dello Sport.

“The victory at Cagliari on Thursday gave us energy, and while we are a little tired we are still looking bright. In a one-off game anything can happen, and [Marek] Hamsik, [Jose] Callejon and [Gonzalo] Higuain can decide a match in one moment.

“But it still burns that we lost the Coppa Italia final to Napoli. With the victory in Beijing, this is the ‘decider’.”

While Juve and Roma occupy the top two spots in Serie A just as they did at the end of last season, Napoli have shown some inconsistency thus far this term and sit in fourth place behind Lazio at the end of 2014.

And Marchisio says he sees Roma as a completely different proposition to Napoli at this point in time, but adds that Juventus’ extra quality has shone through in the Champions League – a competition in which the other two have already failed.

“I believe that Roma are a step above Napoli,” added the midfielder. “We all hope they win the Europa League. They certainly have the means to do it.

“But for us, the maturity of our team is the most important step made this year. We have increased awareness and experience, even in Europe.”

The Supercoppa Italiana takes place at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha on Monday, with kick-off at 18:30CET.

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

-

Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Vidal: 'Higuain is fantastic'

Dec 22, 2014

Arturo Vidal would rather Juventus face Napoli without Gonzalo Higuain in the Italian Super Cup today. “He’s fantastic.”

It kicks off in Doha at 17.30 GMT, the Italian version of the Charity Shield that is usually played in August.

“We mustn’t make mistakes, as the game can be lost even with the slightest distraction,” Vidal told Rai Sport.

“Who would I take away from the Napoli squad? Higuain, he’s fantastic. He really is a top player, a great striker.

“In any case, we must remain concentrated and target the victory.”

Juventus ended 2014 on top of the Serie A table with a three-point lead and through to the Champions League knockouts.

“I’d give us eight out of 10. It might be nine if we win the Super Cup.”

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Super Cup line-ups: Juve-Napoli

Dec 22, 2014

It’s the Italian Super Cup as Juventus pit Carlos Tevez and Andrea Pirlo against Napoli’s Gonzalo Higuain and Jonathan de Guzman.

It kicks off at 18.30 CET at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, Qatar. Traditionally this fixture is played pre-season, but was postponed to December due to other international commitments.

Juve can take part as Scudetto winners and hope to maintain the trophy after crushing Lazio 4-0 last season and beating Napoli 4-2 in extra time in 2012.

This is also the first chance for Massimiliano Allegri to secure silverware on the Juventus bench after replacing Antonio Conte.

That edition in Beijing saw two Partenopei sent off and Napoli boycott the awards ceremony in protest at the referee.

Rafa Benitez’s side are the Coppa Italia holders, having seen off Fiorentina 3-1 in May.

Napoli won the Super Cup only once, Diego Armando Maradona’s men famously destroying Juventus 5-1 in 1990.

The Turin giants have won six editions – the same as Milan – and have the chance to set a new record with seven.

Fernando Llorente is chosen to partner Tevez in attack, while Arturo Vidal, Paul Pogba and Pirlo pull the strings in midfield.

Andrea Barzagli, Romulo, Kwadwo Asamoah and Martin Caceres are still out injured.

Napoli are without Michu, Juan Camilo Zuniga and Lorenzo Insigne on long-term issues, but Higuain is supported by De Guzman, Jose Callejon and Marek Hamsik, dropping Dries Mertens and Jorginho.

Duvan Zapata is ready to come off the bench, having scored three goals in his last four appearances.


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

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Ogbonna, Romagna, Padoin, Mattiello, Pepe, Pereyra, Coman, Giovinco, Morata


Napoli: Rafael; Maggio, Albiol, Koulibaly, Ghoulam; Gargano, David Lopez; De Guzman, Hamsik, Callejon; Higuain

Napoli bench: Colombo, Andujar, Britos, Henrique, Jorginho, Mertens, Mesto, Radosevic, Romano, Inler, Zapata, Luperto

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

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Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

HT 1-0: Juve pounce on Napoli error

Dec 22, 2014

Carlos Tevez pounced on disastrous defending to give Juventus a half-time lead in the Italian Super Cup, but Napoli hit the woodwork.

This Italian version of the Charity Shield is usually played in August, but was postponed to December in the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha due to international committments. Max Allegri had his first chance to win silverware on the Bianconeri bench and faced Coppa Italia holder Rafa Benitez. Napoli had taken part in the Super Cup only twice before, beating Juve 5-1 in 1990 and controversially losing 4-2 in extra time in 2012.

Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, Michu, Lorenzo Insigne and Juan Camilo Zuniga missed out, but Dries Mertens and Jorginho were surprisingly dropped.

It took only five minutes to break through, as Raul Albiol and Kalidou Koulibaly collided when trying to clear a poor David Lopez back-header, allowing Tevez to go completely clear on goal and he kept his cool to beat Rafael one-on-one. It was an absolute howler from the error-prone Partenopei back four.

Marek Hamsik went very close to an equaliser when his snapshot from outside the box thumped the base of the upright. It took a deflection off Giorgio Chiellini’s calf to leave Gigi Buffon stranded.

Tevez almost netted a second, as Fernando Llorente knocked down an Andrea Pirlo cross on the edge of the area for his ferocious half-volley that stung Rafael’s gloves. Moments later the goalkeeper got down at full stretch to palm a Tevez daisy-cutter round the post.

Hamsik drilled wide and Gonzalo Higuain turned over after a fine spin between defenders, but Rafael also beat away a Stephan Lichtsteiner strike at the near stick. Jose Callejon was halted during a dangerous counter-attack for an incredibly tight offside decision.

Higuain unleashed a curler from the outside edge of the area, forcing Buffon into a flying save. Faouzi Ghoulam fired a free kick from a very promising position straight into the wall.


Juventus 1-0 Napoli (Half-Time)

Scorers: Tevez 5 (J)

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

Napoli: Rafael; Maggio, Albiol, Koulibaly, Ghoulam; Gargano, David Lopez; De Guzman, Hamsik, Callejon; Higuain

Ref: Valeri

[Socrates 8516]

 
 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

2 - 2

Napoli won 6 - 5 on penalties

Carlos Tévez (5')

Gonzalo Higuaín (68')

Carlos Tévez (106')

Gonzalo Higuaín (118')

Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus 2-2 Napoli AET (5-6 on pens):
Benitez's men seal Supercoppa after epic shootout 

Carlos Tevez and Gonzalo Higuain scored two apiece to take the clash to spot-kicks,
where Simone Padoin missed the crucial effort to hand the trophy to the Partenopei. 

Dec 22, 2014

Napoli won the Supercoppa Italiana after triumphing in the penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw with Juventus on Monday.

Rafael saved Giorgio Chiellini and Simone Padoin's efforts from 12 yards at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha to give Napoli their first win in the competition since 1990 and deny Massimiliano Allegri his maiden piece of silverware at Juve.

Two Argentina internationals had battled for the headlines before that, with Carlos Tevez netting twice for the Serie A champions and Gonzalo Higuain responding with a double for the Coppa Italia winners.

A defensive mistake gifted Tevez the opening goal of the game – his 14th of the season in all competitions – after five minutes, the striker taking full advantage with a composed finish.

Higuain levelled things up seven minutes after the hour, Tevez's compatriot heading home his first goal in seven games.

That forced extra time, where Tevez looked to have secured a seventh Supercoppa Italiana crown for Juve early in the second period, but Higuain had other ideas with a last-gasp strike to force penalties.

In the shooutout, Tevez missed Juve's first kick, but it was Padoin's failure that gave Napoli victory - Rafael diving to his right to palm the ball away despite some earlier heroics from Gianluigi Buffon.

The two sides now begin their mid-season break, but will face each other again in their second games back in January at San Paolo.

Napoli made a shocking start to the match as some calamitous defending handed Tevez the breakthrough.

Raul Albiol and Kalidou Koulibaly challenged each other for a header 20 yards from goal, the loose ball dropped to Tevez and he advanced before coolly slotting under Rafael.

Napoli refused to let such a soft goal get to them and, after Jose Callejon had blazed over, Marek Hamsik was denied by the post.

The Napoli captain brought the ball down well and unleashed a low shot that deflected off Giorgio Chiellini but, with Gianluigi Buffon beaten, struck the upright.

Callejon should have brought his side level after 54 minutes following a pinpoint pass from Hamsik, the Spaniard controlling the ball perfectly only to drag his effort agonisingly wide.

Napoli continued to enjoy the better of things and deservedly drew level after 67 minutes as Higuain guided home De Guzman's left-wing cross.

Neither side was able to find a winning goal inside the 90 minutes, but Tevez appeared to have earned the win in the 106th minute, collecting a pass from Paul Pogba and firing into the bottom corner.

However, Higuain took the match to penalties with a poacher's finish, the 27-year-old reacting fastest to poke Dries Mertens' blocked shot beyond Buffon with two minutes remaining.

Both sides missed their opening efforts but Juve fluffed their lines three times with the scores at 5-5, with Padoin's miss proving decisive after Koulibaly had netted to make it 6-5.

[Socrates 8516]

 
 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

2 - 2

Napoli won 6 - 5 on penalties

Carlos Tévez (5')

Gonzalo Higuaín (68')

Carlos Tévez (106')

Gonzalo Higuaín (118')

Monday, December 22nd, 2014 - 18:30 PM
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al-Sadd Stadium), ad-Dōha (Doha)
Referee: Paolo Valeri

Napoli win Super Cup shoot-out! 

Dec 22, 2014

Gonzalo Higuain and Carlos Tevez bagged dramatic braces for 2-2, but Napoli beat Juventus on a penalty shoot-out for the Italian Super Cup.

This Italian version of the Charity Shield is usually played in August, but was postponed to December in the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha due to international committments. Max Allegri had his first chance to win silverware on the Bianconeri bench and faced Coppa Italia holder Rafa Benitez. Napoli had taken part in the Super Cup only twice before, beating Juve 5-1 in 1990 and controversially losing 4-2 in extra time in 2012.

Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, Michu, Lorenzo Insigne and Juan Camilo Zuniga missed out, but Dries Mertens and Jorginho were surprisingly dropped.

It took only five minutes to break through, as Raul Albiol and Kalidou Koulibaly collided when trying to clear a poor David Lopez back-header, allowing Tevez to go completely clear on goal and he kept his cool to beat Rafael one-on-one. It was an absolute howler from the error-prone Partenopei back four.

Marek Hamsik went very close to an equaliser when his snapshot from outside the box thumped the base of the upright. It took a deflection off Giorgio Chiellini’s calf to leave Gigi Buffon stranded.

Tevez almost netted a second, as Fernando Llorente knocked down an Andrea Pirlo cross on the edge of the area for his ferocious half-volley that stung Rafael’s gloves. Moments later the goalkeeper got down at full stretch to palm a Tevez daisy-cutter round the post.

Hamsik drilled wide and Gonzalo Higuain turned over after a fine spin between defenders, but Rafael also beat away a Stephan Lichtsteiner strike at the near stick. Jose Callejon was halted during a dangerous counter-attack for an incredibly tight offside decision. Higuain unleashed a curler from the outside edge of the area, forcing Buffon into a flying save.

Napoli should’ve equalised on 54 minutes when Callejon ran on to a through ball, but from an almost identical position to the Tevez goal he flashed the angled drive inches wide.

The Partenopei were remarkably unlucky to hit the frame of the goal for the second time. Higuain drew out Buffon and flicked a fantastic lob over the goalkeeper, but it clipped the inside of the far post and bounced back out.

Moments later Rafael had to be alert and parried with his legs from close range when Evra’s cross ricocheted off two Napoli players.

The deserved equaliser finally arrived when De Guzman whipped a cross in from the left for Higuain’s precise header, having peeled away from his marker. Arturo Vidal had given the ball away in midfield to spark that move.

Vidal horribly wasted a counter-attack and Tevez prodded wide when slipping over to reach a Llorente assist, so just like the last time these sides met in the 2012 Super Cup, it went to extra time.

Juve started more aggressive with Rafael capturing a Roberto Pereyra curler and Paul Pogba header, while Llorente turned to fire wide.

Vidal had a fantastic opportunity to score on Evra’s cross, but Koulibaly was ready for a decisive goalline clearance.

Immediately in the second half of extra time, Juventus restored their lead. Pogba set up Tevez, who skipped round Koulibaly with some fancy footwork to place a snooker shot into the near bottom corner giving Rafael no chance.

It still wasn’t over and Buffon stood tall for a fantastic one-handed save on Higuain’s half-volley, then the goalkeeper had to rush off his line and clear at Callejon’s feet following a Leonardo Bonucci error.

Just as the trophy seemed to be going to Juventus, Napoli got it back on level terms with Higuain. A cross fell kindly for him and Pipita reacted quicker than anyone else to turn in from eight yards. That equaliser forced penalties in Doha.

Jorginho was first up and the ex-Verona man’s penalty was brilliantly palmed on to the upright by Buffon. However, Tevez sent Rafael the wrong way only to hit the post, so it remained level.

Ghoulam fired his under the bar, then Vidal, Raul Albiol, Pogba, Inler, Marchisio, Higuain and Morata converted.

It went to sudden death shoot-outs with Walter Gargano and Leonardo Bonucci on target. Mertens saw his beaten away by Buffon, but Chiellini hit a very weak penalty into Rafael’s arms, so they had to continue.

Callejon’s was parried by Buffon too, but again Juventus failed to take advantage with Pereyra ballooning over the bar.

Koulibaly’s went in off the inside of the post and Simone Padoin was last up, his spot-kick well saved by Rafael to give Napoli the Italian Super Cup.


Juventus 2-2 Napoli (aet)

Scorers: Tevez 5, 106 (J), Higuain 68, 118 (N)

Penalty shoot-out: Jorginho (saved, N), Tevez (miss, J), Ghoulam (goal, N), Vidal (goal, J), Albiol (goal, N), Pogba (goal, J), Inler (goal, N), Marchisio (goal, J), Higuain (goal, N), Morata (goal, J), Gargano (goal, N), Bonucci (goal, J), Mertens (saved, N), Chiellini (saved, J), Callejon (saved, N), Pereyra (miss, J), Koulibaly (goal, N), Padoin (saved, J)

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner (Padoin 79), Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pirlo (Pereyra 66), Marchisio, Pogba; Vidal; Tevez, Llorente (Morata 106)

Napoli: Rafael; Maggio, Albiol, Koulibaly, Ghoulam; Gargano, David Lopez (Inler 91); De Guzman (Jorginho 106), Hamsik (Mertens 79), Callejon; Higuain

Ref: Valeri