Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Tevez: 'I always sweat for Juve'

Apr 4, 2015

Carlos Tevez described his goal against Empoli and assured he is “always prepared to sweat” for Juventus.

Apache had only just returned from international duty with Argentina, but played the entire 2-0 victory in Turin this evening.

He broke the deadlock by scoring from a touched-on indirect free-kick, a tough ask from the outside corner of the six-yard box with numerous Empoli players on the line.

“I knew I had to fire it high, as it’s difficult to score from that area of the goal,” Tevez told Sky Sport Italia.

Initially there had been reports he’d be rested for this game, especially with a Coppa Italia semi-final against Fiorentina coming up on Tuesday.

“I am always prepared to sweat for the team and now we have too many injuries, so it’s important to give our all.

“I said before this game that Roma were still alive, so we had to do our job, and keep going until we are mathematically champions.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Carlos Tevez's goal gives
Juventus victory over Empoli

Apr 4, 2015

A fourth straight Serie A title is Juventus' for the taking after they beat Empoli 2-0 on Saturday night to establish a 14-point advantage at the top of the table with nine games of the season remaining.

Carlos Tevez opened the scoring shortly before the interval and Roberto Pereyra added a second in stoppage time as the Bianconeri responded to victories from Roma and Lazio to restore a seemingly unassailable lead at the top of the standings.

They also had goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon to thank for making several fine interventions in the second half when Juve dropped their intensity, saving their batteries for a trip to Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia in midweek and the Champions League quarter-final clash with Monaco a week after.

Tevez was not given a rest by Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri, who did leave Alvaro Morata out of his side and handed Stefano Sturaro his first start in the absence of the injured midfield trio Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba and Andrea Pirlo.

The energetic Argentinian certainly did not look like he needed any sort of a rest either as he led Juve's assault on a 21st victory of the season.

Luigi Sepe did well to deny the Serie A top-scorer after he threw two Empoli defenders a dummy to make place for a shot.

Tevez was making a nuisance of himself at all times and it was his pressure which forced Daniele Rugani to clear the ball back towards his own goalkeeper, who clutched the ball.

The referee decided it was a deliberate backpass and awarded Juve a free-kick just outside the six-yard box.

With 11 players lined up on the line, there was only one way Tevez was going to get the ball past them and that was by lifting it high into the roof of the net, and he executed his shot to perfection to give the hosts the lead.

It was enough to wi.n the game, although Juve had to rely on Buffon in the second half to see them through.

Despite getting enticed from his line to seek a lofted ball, the Italy number one realised he was not going to make it and retreated enough to turn Manuel Pucciarelli's header behind.

Buffon denied the same Puciarelli with a perfectly-timed save which would have resulted in a penalty had he not got to the ball when he did, and he got back to his feet to punch Daniele Croce's effort away.

Nothing else came Buffon's way and there was time for Tevez to fill his lungs again with a run and shot which Sepe could only parry for Peryera to convert deep in stoppage time as Juve's march towards a fourth straight Serie A title continued unabated with a fourth straight league win.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Tevez: Juventus Will Be Champions
When The Math Says So

Apr 4, 2015

Juventus striker Carlos Tevez has refused to call the Scudetto race over as the Bianconeri took another important step towards a fourth consecutive title thanks to a 2-0 victory over Empoli on Saturday.

Title challengers Roma claimed a hard fought 1-0 win over Napoli earlier in the day, and the Argentine stated it was key for Juve to match the result as he believes the title race is still well and truly alive.

“Roma are still alive, we saw that before taking the field,” he told Sky Sport Italia after the match.

“We had to win on the field, only the math will say when we are champions.”

The Argentine scored a controversial goal from a free-kick from inside the penalty area after Daniele Rugani’s back pass was deemed voluntary, and Tevez admitted there was little technique involved in his effort on goal.

“I knew I had to take a hard shot because there were a lot of people in the penalty area,” he revealed.

“Luckily it went well, I don’t know if I’ve scored similar goals.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Allegri: 'Padoin can be a Coach'

Apr 4, 2015

Max Allegri said Simone Padoin “could become a Coach” after filling in for Andrea Pirlo as Juventus beat Empoli 2-0.

The Bianconeri notched up a fourth consecutive Serie A victory, although Roberto Pereyra’s late goal meant it wasn’t a fourth straight 1-0 result.

“First of all I am very happy with the performance, especially as it was Padoin’s first time playing in front of the defence, Angelo Ogbonna was back after a month and Stefano Sturaro had only his second start,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“We allowed Empoli practically nothing in the first half, but after the break we tried to control the situation and did run some risks. We should’ve been more concentrated and anticipated the moves.

“It’s not easy to win four in a row with clean sheets. Many of the players only returned from international duty on Thursday, so they really do deserve compliments.

“Empoli are a very organised side and played well, so we had to play between the lines and the only way to open them up was to keep moving their defenders from one side to the other.

“I’d say it’s a great victory against a team in good shape who were unbeaten in eight games.”

Allegri had particular praise for benchwarmer Padoin, who took over the Andrea Pirlo role in the absence of Claudio Marchisio and Paul Pogba too.

“Padoin is proving himself to be a great professional. As well as being able to play in many different roles, he also has the characteristics to become a Coach! He’s tactically intelligent and it’s tough to play in front of the defence. He brings balance to the side and anywhere you put him, he does the job.”

The gap at the top of the table is still 14 points, as Roma beat Napoli 1-0 today, but there are only nine rounds to go.

Meanwhile, Juve have to overturn a 2-1 first leg defeat to Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia semi-final on Tuesday night.

“Marchisio will be available against Fiorentina on Tuesday, while I hope to have Pirlo against Monaco, though he’s been out for six weeks so we have to introduce him back slowly.

“Arturo Vidal just had a knock to the ankle, it’s nothing serious.”

The Bianconeri can also start thinking about the Champions League quarter-final against Monaco.

“I saw a bit of Monaco’s game yesterday. They might not have as much quality as Borussia Dortmund, but they are difficult to play against and the fact they’re underdogs will give them something more,” continued Allegri.

“I told the lads you mustn’t be more talented in a Champions League quarter-final, but you have to be better on the night.

“I brought my concepts to the squad and tried to improve those things that could be improved after winning the Scudetto for three years in a row. This team should be aware it’s one of the best in Europe, but we mustn’t get sated. I think the individuals can still improve in various ways.”

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Sturaro: Referee Was Correct
In Giving Free-Kick To Juventus

Apr 4, 2015

Juventus midfielder Stefano Sturaro believes the referee made the correct decision in awarding the Bianconeri an indirect free-kick that opened the door to their 2-0 victory over Empoli.

Daniele Rugani’s backpass was deemed voluntary by referee Piero Giacomelli, allowing Carlos Tevez to fire home from inside the penalty area, while Roberto Pereyra wrapped up proceedings with a goal in injury time.

“In my opinion the referee was correct did well to call a free-kick,” he told Rai Sport after the match.

“Maybe the goalkeeper Sepe made a mistake as I think Rugani wanted to put it out for a corner kick.”

The 22-year-old also described what it’s like to play for the reigning champions after making the move over from Genoa in January.

“It is easier playing with stars of this calibre,” he admitted to Sky Sport Italia.

“Today we had a good team in front of us, one that is prepared and organized. We suffered but together we were able to win.”

The win allows Juve to maintain their 14 point advantage on Roma, who were 1-0 winners over Napoli earlier in the day.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

JUVENTUS 2-0 EMPOLI PLAYER
RATINGS SERIE A WEEK 29

Apr 4, 2015

Carlos Tevez and Roberto Pereyra provided the goals in an efficient and effective 2-0 victory against Empoli.

Juve dominated the first half as Tevez bought a series of saves from Sepe before he finally broke the deadlock from an indirect free-kick.

Empoli continued to press in the second-half and created chances of their own before Roberto Pereyra scored a late Juve goal to seal the win.


Gianluigi Buffon 7.0 - Exceptional display from the veteran keeper to deny Empoli a series of clear goal-scoring chances, including a perfectly timed clearance followed by a point-blank save.

Andrea Barzagli 6.5 - Read the game perfectly and kept Maccarrone very quiet as a result. Even managed to make a great run into the Empoli half to try and create something.

Leonardo Bonucci 6.5 - Barely troubled by the Empoli attack, largely due to his great positioning and marking. Strong performance

Angelo Ogbonna 6.5 - Stepped in for Giorgio Chiellini and made some of the best tackles of the night including a vital intervention to deny Pucciarelli

Stephan Lichtsteiner 6.5 - Pushed up the right flank again and again. Provided a real attacking threat in the Empoli half of the pitch while defending very well.

Arturo Vidal 7.0 - A typically hard-working and industrious display with a lot of tackling and some great pirlo-esque passes.

Simone Padoin 7.0 - Exceptional display. Stood in for Pirlo/Marchisio and kept everything ticking over with a great range of passes and tackles. Shielded the defence well and tried to make a creative contribution as well.

Stefano Sturaro 6.0 - A good display on only his second game as a Juve player. Good tackles, good vision and some half-chances in the Empoli area.

Patrice Evra 6.5 - One of his most attacking performances to date, judging by the amount of times he was caught offside. Offered real width when things became to narrow. Solid match.

CARLOS TEVEZ 7.5 - Tested goalkeeeper Sepe 3 times before he finally opened the scoring with a brilliantly taken indirect free kick. Exceptional display overall and deserved more goals.

Fernando Llorente 6.0 - A solid game without having too many clear chances to score. Held up the play very well as he bought his teammates into the attack.


Substitutes

Robero Pereyra 6.5 - Came on for a brief cameo and managed to score late in the game from a difficult angle. His second of the season

Simone Pepe N/A

Alvaro Morata N/A

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Player Ratings: Juventus 2-0 Empoli

The Old Lady overcame a plucky performance from the visitors
to win by two goals and restore their 14-point Serie A lead.

Apr 4, 2015
 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Rescued his side during a tough period at the beginning of the second half by pulling off some fine saves.

15 A. Barzagli - Confident game from the veteran, who read the intentions of the visitors superbly.

19 L. Bonucci - The defender was a little rattled during Empoli's best periods but he was never at the centre of a mistake.

5 A. Ogbonna - Struggled during the initial attacks, but once he figured out an understanding with Evra, he improved.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Overlapped relentlessly, and was always available to put pressure down the right.

23 A. Vidal - Set up Tevez's opener from the indirect free kick and made a collection of tackles to break up play.

20 S. Padoin - A solid two-way performance from the versatile midfielder, who protected the defence well and made some clever passes.

27 S. Sturaro - An encouraging game from the reserve midfielder, who worked hard and tried to showcase his passing chops.

33 P. Evra - The fact that he was caught offside regularly tells you all you need to know about his intentions in this game.

14 F. Llorente - An encouraging start soon evaporated as the service around him began to stagnate.

10 Carlos Tévez - Another game, another goal for the in-form Argentine. He scored from a tricky indirect free kick scenario and was unstoppable when driving at the defence.


Substitutes

37 R. Pereyra - In the right place at the right time to stroke in a rebound for the leveler.

9 Álvaro Morata - Showed some lovely footwork to aid his side's build-up play.


 

Empoli

33 L. Sepe - The keeper perhaps could have pushed the ball further away in the build-up to the second goal, but he also pulled off some fine stops to deny Tevez.

23 E. Hysaj - His passing was typically reliable, but that was about the extent of the risks that he would take.

24 D. Rugani - A solid performance for most of the game, but he was slow to close down the rebound during the build-up to the second goal.

19 F. Barba - Often got first to a series of dangerous crosses into the area.

21 Mário Rui - Allowed too much space in behind him during the first half.

88 M. Vecino - Halted a number of Juve moves dead in their tracks. Always available to harry the man on the ball.

6 M. Valdifiori - Broke up his fair share of attacks, and his short-range distribution was exemplary.

11 D. Croce - Like the rest of the midfield, his defensive work and awareness on the build-up was commendable.

5 R. Saponara - Created a number of chances tonight, dropping onto some glorious positions between the midfield and defensive lines.

7 M. Maccarone - Involved in one or tow attacks, but too often, he went for the speculative and rarely troubled the keeper.

20 M. Pucciarelli - Started a few great moves and nearly finished one or two of his own, were it not for Buffon.


Substitutes

27 P. Zielinski - The midfielder really couldn't create much in the final third.

9 L. Mchedlidze - Some decent off-the-ball movement, but by that time, his side had lost their edge.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Player Ratings: Juventus 2-0 Empoli

Apr 4, 2015

Juventus defeated Empoli 2-0 at the Juventus Stadium on Saturday night in Serie A.

Carlos Tevez put the hosts ahead before substitute Roberto Pereyra doubled their lead to give La Vecchia Signora the three points, although they faced a tough challenge from a strong Empoli side.

 

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon – 7.5 – Unbeatable - The Italian keeper once again proved to be a key figure in the Italian champions’ line up, as he pulled off a fantastic double save as well as another athletic stop to keep out a Massimo Maccarone effort and make sure his side kept a clean sheet.

Andrea Barzagli – 6 – Dependable - Similar to Ogbonna, the Juventus back line had little to do during the course of the 90 minutes, but 33-year-old Barzagli also put in a few key stops and did some good positional play to clear Empoli attacks when needed.

Leonardo Bonucci – 7 – Attacking - The 27-year-old defender spent most of his time on the other side of the pitch, with a header of his going a bit too high over the cross bar and also helping his team WIN FREE kicks in key areas to pile on the pressure.

Angelo Ogbonna – 6 – Realiable - Thanks to the keeper behind him, 26-year-old Ogbonna had little to do in the Juventus defence, but when he was called upon the Italian did his job well.

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 7 – Hopeful - The Swiss international was eager during the match as he was offside on a couple of occasions in attack, but the full-back did manage to get a few shots away which were blocked by a wall of Azzurri defenders.

Arturo Vidal – 7 – Threatening - The Chilean international showed his speed on counter attacks which helped him assist a lot of efforts on goal for Juve, and the 27-year-old set up Tevez on the free kick in which the Argentine scored.

Simone Padoin – 6.5 – Late - The 31-year-old produced a good cross and some good passing throughout the match, but unfortunately his final ball was a little too late which meant a lot of the home team’s attacks were ruled out for being offside.

Stefano Sturaro – 6 – Careless - The 22-year-old Italian set up a couple of shots and had a shot of his own blocked, but was often careless in losing the ball in midfielder to allow the opposition to attack.

Patrice Evra – 6 – Dangerous - The French international was offside a few times when trying to get past the Empoli defence, but put the pressure on the visitors before the flag was inevitably raised.

CARLOS TEVEZ – 8 – Best - Definitely the best player on the field during the game, Argentina international Tevez put the hosts ahead in the firs half as well as having plenty other shots throughout the game and making sure the Empoli defenders were never at rest.

Fernando Llorente – 6 – Disappointing - The Spaniard looked encouraging in the opening moments of the game when him and Tevez were in an attacking scramble in the box, but during the 90 minutes his threat died down and the 30-year-old was rightly substituted.


Substitutes

Alvaro Morata – 6 – Impact - The Spaniard made a good impact when he was brought on in the second half, producing a few threatening crosses and keeping the opposition’s defence on high alert.

Roberto Pereyra – 7 – Decisive - The 24-year-old Argentina international put the game to bed when he capitalised on a rebound from a Tevez shot in the final moments of the game.

Simone Pepe – N/A

 

Empoli

Luigi Sepe – 7 – Unlucky - The 23-year-old goalkeeper produced a number of good saves throughout the match, and was unlucky not to keep a clean sheet for most of the game as Tevez’s shot was from a few yards out and highly difficult to stop.

Elseid Hisaj – 6 – Silent - The 21-year-old’s only effect on the match was a cross to assist a Pucciarelli shot but otherwise the Albanian was relatively unnoticed.

Daniele Rugani – 6 – Unfortunate - The 20-year-old Italian was extremely unfortunate to give away the FREE kick that led to Tevez’s goal, as his tackle was mistook for a back pass to keeper Sepe.

Federico Barba – 6 – Quiet - The 21-year-old Italian had a relatively quiet game in defence, providing an interception on a Juventus cross but nothing more.

Mario Rui – 6 – Dangerous - The Portugese looked dangerous on the Empoli team, having a few shots going just wide of Buffon's goal and also winning a free-kick for his side, but the 23-year-old failed to stop attacks from La Vecchia Signora in defence.

Matias Vecino – 6 – Useful - The Uruguayan international’s only moment in the game came as an assist to a close shot on goal.

Mirko Valdifiori – 6 – Helpful - The Italian international helped his side win a few dangerous free kicks as well as assisting Pucciarelli on a huge chance for Empoli which he failed to take advantage of.

Daniele Croce – 6 – Quiet - The 32-year-old helped his side win a free kick in a dangerous area and also had a few shots go wide of the goal, but he failed to make a strong impact in the match.

Riccardo Saponara – 6 – Angry - The AC Milan loanee had a few blocked shots on goal but showed anger just before he was subbed off when he received a yellow card for a tackle on Padoin.

Massimo Maccarone – 6 – Zero - The Italian put pressure on the Juventus back line but all of his shots went wide of the goal and he failed to help Empoli score.

Manuel Pucciarelli – 6 – Wasteful - The Italian had a golden opportunity to score for the visitors but failed to take it, before he was ruled offside on a few occasions.


Substitutes

Levan Mchedlidze – 6 – Uneventful - The 25-year-old Georgian did what he had to do when he was called upon, but he failed to make any impact at all in the game.

Piotr Zielinski – N/A

Simone Verdi – N/A

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Carlos Tevez Leads from Front as Juventus
Edge Nearer Scudetto with Empoli Win

Apr 4, 2015

Juventus returned to duty following the international break by welcoming Empoli to Turin on Saturday evening, the fixture completing the latest round of Serie A action.

After a day in which the two teams directly below the Bianconeri—AS Roma and Lazio—both won, they knew a WINagainst the Tuscan minnows would maintain their 14-point advantage over the chasing pack with just nine games left to play.

Maurizio Sarri’s men would be no pushovers, however, with the Azzurri enjoying their return to the top flight and coming into the game sitting in 14th place. While they turned in another excellent performance, they would prove no match for the reigning champions, eventually succumbing 2-0 after 90 hard-fought minutes.

Massimiliano Allegri’s task was complicated by the absences of Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba and Andrea Pirlo—the midfield trio at varying stages in their recovery from injury. After their international exploits last week, Kingsley Coman was also omitted, with the team selection somewhat reflective of the schedule awaiting the Old Lady in the coming weeks.

Given that cushion in the standings and with the second leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final against Fiorentina on Tuesday—and just a further just seven days until AS Monaco visit Juventus Stadium for a Champions League quarter-final clash—it was perhaps no surprise to see the coach also rest a number of other players here.

Leaving out Giorgio Chiellini, Allegri handed Angelo Ogbonna the perfect chance to show he could be relied upon—a matter discussed at length in this previous column. Empoli’s high-tempo play would test Ogbonna early, and a successful tackle followed by a clearance under pressure quickly calmed the nerves of the Juventus defender.

From there he would excel, forming part of the solid back line upon which the Bianconeri would build yet another victory. Sturaro and Padoin turned in solid midfield performances in place of their more high-profile team-mates, while Fernando Llorente was excellent in leading the line throughout the match.

When the deadlock was finally broken, it was no surprise to see it was Carlos Tevez once again finding the back of the net, the striker taking his tally for the campaign to 25 goals in all competitions. The 31-year-old had already tormented the Empoli defence on numerous occasions, but after Daniele Rugani was judged to have made a back pass to Luigi Sepe, the Argentinian would seize his opportunity.

While the decision was debatable, there would be no question marks over the resulting indirect free-kick, Arturo Vidal knocking the ball sideways and Tevez smashing it into the roof of the net. It left the defenders and goalkeeper helpless to prevent the home side taking the lead, and just two minutes later, it was half-time.

The interval came and went, with Gigi Buffon called into action shortly afterwards, making superb saves from Riccardo Saponara and Manuel Pucciarelli in quick succession, and he would pull off another important double save 20 minutes later to deny any hope of an equaliser.

A wonderful challenge in the box from Rugani was all that prevented Juve doubling their advantage, the young defender underlining the quality which has seen him signed permanently by the Bianconeri, a fact the club’s director general Beppe Marotta confirmed to Sky Italia before the game (h/t Football Italia).

Indeed, the only sour note for the Turin side came with just a few minutes remaining, as Vidal struggled following an awkward landing. Allegri quickly replaced him with Pepe. The Chilean had been superb once again, and losing him—particularly given the already injury-ravaged nature of the midfield—does not bear thinking about given their upcoming matches.

That made the decision to take off the 27-year-old fully understandable, and Roberto Pereyra added a second goal in stoppage time to deliver three more points in the quest for a fourth consecutive league title.

Bigger games lie in wait, but Juventus—inspired by the in-form Tevez—once again took care of business here, and the relentless march continues.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Juventus 2-0 Empoli: No Marchisio,
No Pogba, No Pirlo, No Problem

Apr 5, 2015

Juventus welcomed Empoli to Turin in the final game of this week's Serie A action, with the Italian football calendar moving forward for the Easter holiday. Juventus won the sides' first meeting 2-0 in Empoli with wonderful goals from Andrea Pirlo and Álvaro Morata, and history repeated itself with Carlos Tévez and Roberto Pereyra grabbing the goals this time around. Empoli played their game, trying to keep possession and press high up the field, but Juventus' quality in both boxes eventually told.

After the international break it's always a relief to see the squad relatively unscathed, especially after Claudio Marchisio's injury turned out to be much less serious than was feared. Il Principino did have to skip the Empoli match, and with Pirlo and Paul Pogba nursing longer-term injuries Massimiliano Allegri's hand was forced in midfield, with Sturaro and Padoin joining Arturo Vidal. In defense, Angelo Ogbonna got the nod ahead of Giorgio Chiellini at center back in the 3-5-2.

With another three points Juventus' lead atop Serie A remains at 14, while perhaps the most impressive news is how comfortable the side looked without three starting midfielders. Padoin won't be confused for Pirlo anytime soon, but neither did he and Sturaro look overwhelmed. The defense once again kept the clean sheet, although this time Gianluigi Buffon had to make a couple of difficult saves.


MATCH SUMMARY

Empoli started with a decent spell of possession, with Padoin perhaps lucky to avoid a yellow card for an early tackle. Both sides were happy to press high and there was some sloppiness at the back, with Tévez getting a decent shot in on 5'. Fernando Llorente nearly got behind Daniele Rugani, but the ball just ran out of play. Sturaro was all over the pitch, and came off worst in a couple of challenges, while Riccardo Saponara looked the most dangerous for Empoli.

As the half wore on the quality of the Juventus began to show, however Empoli could still create dangerous triangles with their front three on the counter, but the Juventus center backs won their battles. Llorente began the game very well, holding on to long balls and even showing a bit of pace with the ball.

On 21 minutes Juve had a chance when Stephan Lichtsteiner's switch of play found Patrice Evra who cut it back for Tévez in space. The Argentine's feint stunned the Empoli defense, but Luigi Sepe came out to close the angle. Vidal began imposing himself in the game, nearly playing in Sturaro, before Lichtsteiner smacked the followup wide.

Tévez nearly broke through for a great chance but the ball ran away to Sturaro, before Lichtsteiner's cross found Vidal's header, over. Mirko Valdifiori tried to squeeze a dangerous ball through for Saponara, but Andrea Barzagli got their first. Empoli hadn't come to defend, and tried to keep possession play out from the back, but couldn't find the individual quality to create any real chances.

Sturaro's 34th minute cross found Vidal and Lichtsteiner crowding each other out, and the keeper claimed the resulting shot. Manuel Pucciarelli showed some flashes of skill, but Saponara was again closed down. Barzagli tried to burst down the side and find Tévez, but Daniele Croce came across well.

Tévez and Vidal nearly combined in the box, but Empoli again got bodies in the way. The away side finally created something, as Saponara played a nice first-time pass through for Massimo Maccarone, but his finish drifted well wide. Evra found Sturaro in the box where Rugani tipped the ball away, only for the referee to rule it an intentional backpass. Indirect free-kick from the corner of the six-yard box!

As always the set up was high tension, and this time the execution was perfect. Vidal touched it on for Tévez, who smashed it into the roof of the net past a flinching wall.

The second half began with a couple of hopeful efforts, Pucciarelli flicking a difficult header over and Evra found Llorente in the box, but again Empoli crowded him out. On the resulting counter Croce escaped from Tévez, earning the Juve man a yellow card.

Saponara was next to try his luck for Empoli, but sent his effort straight at Buffon. There was an even better chance when a brilliant first-time ball from Valdifiori found Pucciarelli's run, while Buffon almost got caught in no-man's land but backpedaled quickly and made a great sprawling save. Empoli were on top, and finally putting shots on target.

A free-kick in midfield gave Empoli a set-piece, but the whistle blew for offside. Evra made a run to break the offside line, but was again flagged off. Matías Vecino threatened to break through, beating two and playing a ball for Pucciarelli, but again Juventus defenders got in the way.

Tévez looked to have space to charge towards goal from his own half, but Valdifiori made a good covering run and challenge. A quick attack from the home side saw Tévez, Vidal, and Lichtsteiner combine but the right wingback's cross was poor.

Empoli continued to control most of the possession, but got very little end product out of it. In the 66th minute Lichtsteiner drew a yellow for Mário Rui, giving Juventus the chance to set up possession in the opponent's half, before Lichtsteiner got caught offside. At the whistle, Llorente made way for Morata.

Things got a bit more exciting soon after when a poor clearance from Barzagli gave Pucciarelli the ball at the edge of the box, where the striker nutmegged Evra and tried to round Buffon, but the veteran keeper held his nerve and tipped the ball away, springing to his feet to make a follow-up save.

Juve seemed to wake up a bit and pressure Empoli more, with the midfield conquering the ball high up the pitch. In the 75th minute Vidal played a lovely ball in for Morata's run, but Rugani slid across to cover. A crunching tackle from Vecino left Sturaro worse for wear, and the midfielder was soon taken off for Pereyra. On the Empoli side, Pucciarelli made way for Verdi.

Lichtsteiner went charging into the box after a Morata flick, and Vidal had a shot from a nice Tévez setup, but Juventus could not quite find the second goal. Valdifiori again threatened to play a ball over the Juventus defense, but Ogbonna held his ground very well.

Arturo Vidal went down holding his ankle in the 84th, sending hearts briefly into mouths, but was quickly able to get back on the field before Pepe replaced him. Morata threatened to get through in the 89th, but Rugani was again quick to get his challenge in. Barzagli gave away the ball in defense, forcing Bonucci into an important challenge. Eventually Barzagli saw yellow and Verdi limped off.

Juventus once again finished the half with a bang as Roberto Pereyra grabbed the second. The substitute played the ball in for Tévez who turned his man and sent the Empoli defense into disarray. Sepe saved the first effort, but Pereyra was on hand to tap in the rebound. Empoli had one more chance to grab a goal with a good set-piece, but nobody was able to get a touch as the last ball of the game fizzed across the box.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon: 8 Very little to do in the first half, but made two fantastic saves in the second to preserve the clean sheet.

Barzagli: 6 Controlled his space defensively, but sometimes took risks playing the ball out that could have cost a goal.

Bonucci: 6.5 Another good performance from Bonucci, who did well reading the play and stepping in defensively but struggled a bit with his long passing.

Ogbonna: 7 Called on frequently 1-on-1 in space, the Nigerian-Italian imposed himself on the Empoli frontline. Seemed to get the most attention from Empoli, and always had the answer.

 

Lichtsteiner: 6.5 Combined well with Vidal and Tévez at times, as well as getting into the box himself.

Vidal: 7.5 A tenacious defensive presence who seems to be finding a bit of form on the attacking side, Vidal and Tévez were a very large part of Juve's attacking plans.

Padoin: 6 Playing in front of the defense this time, Padoin stayed close to his defenders, played the easy passes, and backed up the midfield press reasonably well.

Sturaro: 6.5 Had a few moments where he seemed to be trying too hard to impress by throwing his body around, but overall showed great strenght, got into good positions, and played a couple of dangerous balls.

 

Evra: 6 Provided good width for the whole match, but got caught offside too often when there was no need to run behind the defense.

Llorente: 6 Faded after a very promising start, but provided the sturdy hold-up man that Juventus needed at times this match.

Tévez: 7.5 Persistently dropping back into midfield to help compensate for the losses there, Tévez still managed to be threatening around the box and score a wonderful free-kick, blasting it above the wall and under the bar from the edge of the six-yard box.


Substitutes:

Morata: 6 Given 25 minutes at the end he had a couple of chances to create off the dribble, but was unable to get his shot away.

Pereyra: 6.5 Scored the second and generally filled un well on the right of midfield.

Pepe: N/A Given a few minutes after Vidal was taken off with an ankle problem.


Allegri: 6.5 With the injury crisis in midfield and players coming back after an international break, as well as an impressive Empoli side, the points were by no means certain in this one, but Allegri's team once again kept a clean sheet and created enough at the other end.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Monaco worse than Dortmund
but Juve must watch out - Allegri

The coach has insisted his players avoid underestimating the Ligue 1 club
but gave a glowing assessment of his charges after they defeated Empoli.

Apr 5, 2015

Massimiliano Allegri thinks Juventus ' Champions League quarter-final opponents Monaco are a worse team than Borussia Dortmund, who they defeated in the previous round, but warned against complacency.

The coach has overseen a rampant season so far in Turin, with the club still fighting on three fronts with two months to go in 2014-15 and the Serie A crown looking all-but secure.

Juve have disappointed in Europe in recent campaigns but will be hoping to turn over a new leaf by conquering French underdogs Monaco in the last eight this month.

"I saw a bit of Monaco’s draw with Saint-Etienne yesterday," Allegri told reporters. "They might not have as much quality as Borussia Dortmund, but they are difficult to play against and the fact they’re underdogs will give them something extra.

"I told my players it doesn't matter if you're more talented in a Champions League quarter-final; you have to be better on the night.

"I brought my concepts to the squad and tried to improve those things that could be improved after winning the Scudetto for three years in a row. This team should be aware it’s one of the best in Europe, but we mustn’t get comfortable."

Juventus battled to a 2-0 triumph over Empoli on Saturday and Allegri was pleased to see his team record yet another cleansheet - especially having not trained with his players for the best part of a fortnight.

"We allowed Empoli practically nothing in the first half, but after the break we tried to control the situation and did allow some risks to sneak in," the coach added.

"It’s not easy to win four in a row with cleansheets. Many of the players only returned from international duty on Thursday, so they really do deserve complimenting.

"Empoli are a very organised side and played well, so we had to play between the lines and the only way to open them up was to keep moving their defenders from one side to the other.

"I’d say it’s a great victory against a team in good shape who were unbeaten in eight games."

Carlos Tevez opened the scoring at the Juventus Stadium with an indirect free kick before Roberto Pereyra doubled the lead deep into second-half stoppage-time.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2 - 0

Carlos Tévez (43')
Roberto Pereyra (93')

Saturday, April 4th, 2015 - 9:00 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Piero Giacomelli

Juventus less than perfect, but they
don't need to be to win title

Apr 5, 2015

One step closer to the league title, Juventus fought for another win on Saturday to keep up the momentum despite the absence of their star men.

giornalaccio rosa dello Sport put it best when they wrote "Welcome to the Carlos Tevez show," as without the Argentine injecting creativity, technique and relentless fighting, games such as these would not bring so much pleasure to onlookers waving the black and white flags.

Empoli's Maurizio Sarri was furious with the referee and felt his side deserved more, and one cannot help but understand his frustration. Deployed in a 4-3-1-2 formation, the ever-courageous tactician instructed his men to play a positive game with genuine belief they could grab a point.

With no fear and real strength, his players pressed the Bianconeri high up the pitch and made their presence known by using their physicality to win possession and create. With tussles taking place all over midfield and wonderful organisation at the back, they ceded little space and made life difficult for their opponents.

Sadly for them, Juventus were awarded a free-kick from six yards for what appeared to be an unintentional back-pass from Daniele Rugani.

When the ball is at Tevez's feet, few would win against him. An intelligent shot, the Argentine lifted the ball above the wall and scored to put the Bianconeri in the lead, much to the dismay of the visitors.

Rugani, the Empoli centre-back bound for Juve, had a tough time in controlling the men he will one day line up alongside, especially in the first half. With Tevez stealing the ball off him and Fernando Llorente doing the physical battle, he showed maturity by maintaining composure and organising his back-line well in the second half despite the initial blows.

It is clear the occasion and the heated atmosphere got the better of him, but if he is to become a leader of the team he cheers for, he will need to learn how to cope with the pressure that comes with playing for a big club. But it's still early days.

Juventus were without their technical midfielders and thus were forced to play a game based on strength. Played at a fast tempo, every effort was made to get back the ball and feed it to the forwards at quick speed, in hopes the opponent would not have enough time to rearrange themselves tactically. Alas, little space and time was afforded to Massimiliano Allegri's men, who found it difficult to operate between the lines with so many bodies eager to snatch possession off them, thus speed of movement was of the essence.

Yet despite the lack of creativity in midfield, Juve's strong back-line and Tevez up front kept the Old Lady going, creating several opportunities despite the wonderful organisation of their opponents. With such fierce displays of brilliance from the team's leaders, it's difficult to to not notice the less-than-pleasing performances of the others.

Llorente, back in the starting squad, had another poor night at the top. Despite doing his utmost to exploit space and position himself well to receive, holding up the ball to bring others into play, he is not suited to Allegri's evolved style of play. Initially, it was his strength that created space for his teammates to operate, dragging defenders away. However, as time wears on Juve have refined their game, thus his inability to control his own strength, committing needless fouls that result in the loss of possession are proving to be a liability.

Ultimately he's not the most composed on the ball and his eagerness to do something results in clumsiness. Unless he refines his technique and grasps better control over his body, it's doubtful he will be anything more than a mere bench player, even if he possess the potential to be more.

The second half saw Empoli start with determination as Juventus backed off and relaxed. With Sarri's men piling on the pressure, it was wonderful to see how well the defence coped, especially Andrea Barzagli, who has just returned from a long injury, and Angelo Ogbonna, who once suffered in the Bianconeri jersey. Solid performances from both -- not to mention the excellent saves of Gigi Buffon -- allowed Juventus to keep another clean sheet.

It's a shame that Buffon was forced to be decisive towards the end as Juventus lost intensity and began to tire. This is often the case with the side -- as soon as they score and notice their superiority, they lie back and welcome attacks. And while Empoli failed to penetrate, other sides such as Monaco may well punish such attitudes.

Yet one cannot always expect brilliant performances for the entirety of matches. Allegri and his men deserve to celebrate for continuing to perform in a league that no longer requires the best of them.

 

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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Fiorentina-Juve SF '50-50'

Apr 5, 2014

Fiorentina director Daniele Pradè maintains the Coppa Italia semi-final with Juventus is still “50-50.”

The Viola earned a shock 2-1 victory in Turin for the first leg, while the decider is at the Stadio Franchi on Tuesday.

“It’s a very difficult game and we start with a 50-50 chance of qualification,” Pradè told reporters.

“Juve are an extremely strong side and we must forget the first leg result to put in a great performance on the night.”

Away goals do count in the Coppa Italia, so the Tuscans would still go through even with a 1-0 home defeat.

Fiorentina moved into fourth place in Serie A thanks to their 2-0 win over Sampdoria, sealed by Alessandro Diamanti and Mohamed Salah goals.

“We knew Salah was strong, but nobody expected him to have such an immediate impact on the team.

“It was difficult to play on that waterlogged pitch, but we are happy and can relax over Easter. We have many more tough games ahead of us and must stay concentrated.

“The lads and Coach Vincenzo Montella have done so well to take it one game at a time. There has been a real shift in the mentality since our defeat to Parma.”

Pradè also commented on Alberto Aquilani, who could well remain in Florence.

“He is a player we’ve rediscovered and we’re discussing a contract renewal.”

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Preview: Fiorentina vs. Juventus

Apr 5, 2014

Juventus will attempt to salvage their treble hopes on Tuesday when they visit Fiorentina for the second leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final.

The runaway Serie A leaders trail 2-1 from March's first leg, in which they lost for the first time at home this season, but may have a certain Italian World Cup winner back to aid their chances of overturning that deficit.


Fiorentina

Fiorentina have put themselves in a strong position courtesy of their 2-1 success at the Juventus Stadium last month, in which Chelsea loanee Mohamed Salah scored both goals.

His signing would be made worthwhile simply if they can hold onto this advantage, and they may take a defensive approach as Juve need to score at least twice to progress.

Sitting back and hitting the opposition on the break worked perfectly for Vincenzo Montella's side as they did a job on Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League earlier this term.

The pacey Salah is the perfect counter-attacking weapon, and the Egyptian winger has seven goals in eight games since arriving from Stamford Bridge in the January transfer window.

The latest of those came in Saturday's 2-0 win over Sampdoria, as he quickly added to Alessandro Diamanti's 61st-minute goal to secure the Florence outfit three points which took them fourth in the Serie A table.

Third-placed Lazio occupy the final Champions League qualifying spot and are five points ahead of Fiorentina. Overhauling them and reaching the final of the Coppa Italia would represent an excellent campaign for Montella's men.

Recent form (all competitions): L D W W D W 


Juventus

The Old Lady remain in the hunt for what would be a magnificent treble this season, having reached the Coppa Italia semi-finals and Champions League quarter-finals while maintaining their dominance in Serie A.

They only led the domestic standings by three points prior to the mid-season break, but a spate of Roma draws has allowed them to go 14 points clear at the top of the table with only nine games remaining.

Juve have fully capitalised on the capital outfit's constant slip-ups, rarely letting their form dip. They have recorded five successive victories across all competitions since they were angered by their first-leg loss to Fiorentina.

The most recent of those wins came on Saturday in the form of a comfortable 2-0 success at home to Empoli. Carlos Tevez opened the scoring with his 25th of the season before Roberto Pereyra made sure of the points late on.

Victory came at a cost for Massimiliano Allegri, though, as Arturo Vidal limped off. The Juve manager will be praying that the Chilean is not badly injured as Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio are already midfield absentees.

While the Turin outfit have dominated Italian football in recent years and are well on their way to a fourth successive title, the Coppa Italia has proved illusive and it has remarkably been 20 seasons since their last triumph in the competition.

Former Derby County and Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli was one of the scorers as Juve beat Parma for the trophy in 1994-95. Allegri will endear himself to the Juventus faithful, some of whom still need convincing, by ending the drought, but they have a task on their hands.

Recent form (all competitions): L W W W W W 
 

Team News

Juventus's injury crisis in midfield could be solved by the return of Andrea Pirlo, who has not played in six weeks because of a calf strain. The 35-year-old playmaker is rated as 50-50 and Allegri may be tempted into trying on his fitness.

Paolo De Ceglie, Martin Caceres, Romulo and Kwadwo Asamoah join the trio of likely midfield absentees, and so Pereyra could be rewarded for his scoring cameo as a substitute with a start at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Alvaro Morata, also used from the bench against Empoli, may get the nod ahead of Spanish compatriot Fernando Llorente as Tevez's strike partner, while Giorgio Chiellini should be recalled at the expense of Angelo Ogbonna in defence.

The hosts have lost three first-team regulars since the first leg, with Josip Ilicic, Manuel Pasqual and Stefan Savic all picking up injuries, so Montella is unlikely to deter too far from the side which bested Sampdoria.

Diamanti's strike should see him preferred on the wing to Joaquin, but Matias Fernandez and Nenad Tomovic could be recalled in place of Alberto Aquilani and Manchester City loanee Micah Richards. Alberto Gilardino may be included among the substitutes.


Fiorentina possible starting lineup:

Neto; Rodriguez, Basanta, Tomovic, Alonso; Badelj, Fernandez, Valero; Salah, Diamanti; Gomez


Juventus possible starting lineup:

Buffon; Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Padoin, Marchisio, Pereyra, Evra; Tevez, Morata


Head To Head

Fiorentina's recent home record against the Old Lady makes this cup semi-final even more unpredictable. It really has been a mixed bag, from a 4-2 victory last season to a 5-0 drubbing in the 2011-12 campaign.

They have not lost either of their encounters this term, and a repeat of December's goalless stalemate will do just nicely for Montella's men as they hope to set up a showdown against either Napoli or Lazio.


We say: Fiorentina 1-1 Juventus

This one could go all the way to extra time and penalties, but if there is to be an aggregate victor in normal time then it might just be Fiorentina. Their threat on the counter will cause Juve problems and, if they can make it to the break without conceding, a spot in the final might just be theirs.

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Gomez Hopeful Ahead Of Coppa Italia Clash

Apr 5, 2014

Mario Gomez remains hopeful of Fiorentina’s chances against Juventus in the Coppa Italia second leg on Tuesday.

The Viola picked up an impressive 2-1 win at the Juventus Stadium to give themselves the slight advantage before welcoming the Bianconeri to the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

”I think there’s a 50 per cent chance we can go through,” Gomez told Rai Sport.

”Juventus are stronger than us but we showed in the first leg in Turin that we can defeat them.

”When we play with that sort of desire and concentration on winning we can do it again.

”It will definitely be a tough match because Juventus will also be up for the fight and ready to win.”

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Claudio Marchisio set to return
for Juventus after knee injury

Apr 6, 2014

Claudio Marchisio is set to return to action for Juventus in their Coppa Italia semifinal tie with Fiorentina on Tuesday night just over a week after being told his season was over.

Marchisio, 29, was sent back to Turin by Italy's national team doctor Enrico Castellacci with a suspected anterior cruciate ligament tear.

An absence of between six to eight months was forecast and insults, including death threats, were directed at Italy coach Antonio Conte, accusing him of working the players too hard in training.

After further tests were carried out by Juve's medical team once Marchisio arrived back in Turin, the diagnosis altered dramatically.

Rather than a six-to-eight month break, he was told he would be back within six to eight days. Instead of a tear, he had only sprained his knee, and on Tuesday night he could be back in action for the Bianconeri.

"Claudio Marchisio is back in the group and he can be called upon for the trip to Fiorentina," said a statement on the Serie A club's website.

Juve head to Florence needing to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg last month, but coach Massimiliano Allegri is optimistic about his side's chances, launching a hashtag on Twitter -- #Iocicredo -- saying that he has faith in his side mounting a recovery to remain on course for three titles this season, alongside Serie A and the Champions League.

"Now bring on the Coppa Italia because #Ibelieve," he wrote.

Massimiliano Allegri ✔ @OfficialAllegri
Un altro passo verso il nostro obiettivo,contro una squadra organizzata. Ora sotto con la Coppa Italia, perchè #iocicredo !

Juventus are currently top of the Serie A table, 14 points clear of second-placed Roma with nine matches of the season to play.

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Fiorentina vs. Juventus: Team News, Predicted Line-Ups

Apr 6, 2014

Saturday saw a full slate of Serie A games, as Italian football leaves Sunday free because of Easter, with a number of teams recording important wins. While victories for AS Roma, Lazio and Milan were essential, the most significant results of the weekend perhaps came in Turin and Florence.

Juventus rounded out the Week 29 calendar, beating Empoli 2-0 and securing three more points in their quest to retain the league title they have held since 2012. Yet even that match—reviewed in detail here—was undoubtedly overshadowed by Fiorentina’s win over Sampdoria by the same scoreline, with Vincenzo Montella’s men leapfrogging the Blucerchiati and moving into fourth place in the table.

It also brought them within six points of the top three, a huge incentive for the Viola to continue the form which has seen them lose just once in their last 19 outings. That run has seen them reach the quarter-finals of the Europa League, while they also hold a narrow 2-1 advantage over Juventus after the first leg of their Coppa Italia clash.

The Bianconeri, despite awaiting next week’s Champions League meeting with AS Monaco, are determined to advance despite that deficit however, with Massimiliano Allegri stressing the importance of the competition during a recent Q&A session with supporters.

“It’s been a long time since we won the Coppa Italia,” the 47-year-old said via the club’s official Twitter account. “We can overturn the first-leg and will give our all to secure the trophy!”

Having failed to win the cup since back in 1995, fans will hope the team can do just that, starting by eliminating Fiorentina on Tuesday evening.

 

Predicted Lineups

FIORENTINA (4-3-3): Neto; Richards, Rodriguez, Basanta, Alonso; Fernandez, Pizarro, Valero; Salah, Gomez, Diamanti

Key Battle

Following his impact upon the first leg, it will be interesting to see how Juventus cope with the threat posed by Mohamed Salah this time around. Patrice Evra is likely to be handed that task, possessing far more natural ability at left-back than the unfortunate Padoin, who allowed the Egyptian to run unhindered for that spectacular opening goal.

A savvy and experienced veteran, the Frenchman would have undoubtedly hauled down Salah early in that breakaway, even at the expense of an almost-certain yellow card. The on-loan Chelsea star has nevertheless been superb since arriving in Serie A, recording seven goals and two assists so far for the Viola.

Evra has similarly impressed since leaving the Premier League behind, shrugging off his early struggles to become Juve’s first choice at full-back. He has been a solid defender and contributed well to the attack, making him fully deserving of his recent international recall after a sustained period of good form.


Player to Watch

If Salah holds the key to Fiorentina’s hopes of success, the same must be said of Carlos Tevez, the striker at the heart of everything positive for the Bianconeri this season. The Argentinian has already netted an incredible 25 goals in all competitions thus far, also adding nine assists as he constantly lifts Juventus to victory.

Tevez is almost certain to start this encounter, testament to the Turin club’s aforementioned desire to progress in the Coppa Italia. With the 31-year-old in the side, Allegri can be confident his players will do all they can to overturn the deficit, his tireless effort constantly rubbing off on those around him and ensuring they do all they can to secure a win.

Commenting on the striker’s form after the recent win over Genoa, the coach told Sky Italia that Tevez was enjoying “a remarkable season” (h/t Football Italia) before going on to discuss the ability possessed by the former Manchester City star.

“He has great technique, I leave him free to move around a bit more and I think that’s important for him,” Allegri continued. “You can tell a champion by the way he moves and shakes off the marking, even without having to run that much.”

If Tevez can continue his current irrepressible form on Tuesday, he could well help the Bianconeri end their long-overdue wait for cup glory, which was the subject of this previous column.


Odds (via Odds Checker)

Home win: 23/10

Away win: 13/10

Draw: 5/2

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Allegri: ‘Fiorentina are favourites’

Apr 6, 2014

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri admits Fiorentina are favourites, but thinks his side can make the Coppa Italia final.

The Viola emerged from the first leg in Turin with a 2-1 win thanks to a double from Mohamed Salah, meaning that the Old Lady must win at Artemio Franchi tomorrow night.

“We have to go to Florence to try to overturn the negative result from the first leg,” Allegri told journalists in his pre-match Press conference.

“It won’t be easy. At the moment, they’re the favourites, as they have the [first leg] result in their favour.

“They’re going through a good spell, playing good football and getting excellent results, so we’ll have to play an intelligent game.

“We know that we’re facing a team with great technique, which plays well, but we also know that we don’t have to immediately win the game in the first half hour.

“It will be a long game, so we’ll have to pay a lot of attention.

“It’s not easy to win in Florence. For them, as for us, it’s an important game, because it [the final] would be an important goal to achieve.

“We know we have the ability to get two goals, but we could even get them 10 minutes from the end, so we don’t have to get worked up and anxious to immediately overturn the result, because that will absolutely not be simple.

“They’re going through an excellent period.”

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Allegri: Juventus must watch out for Salah

The Bianconeri boss has admitted the Egyptian attacker could trouble
his side, but he remains hopeful of overturning their first-leg defeat.

Apr 6, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has singled out Mohamed Salah as Fiorentina's main threat ahead of Tuesday's Coppa Italia clash at the Artemio Franchi.

The Egypt international has made a great impression in Italy since joining on loan from Chelsea in January and he played a key role in his side's 2-1 win in the first leg of their semi-final tie in Turin.

Allegri has stressed that the Serie A champions must be on top of their game to keep the 22-year-old quiet in the return tie and progress to the final.

"Salah? He's a good player. Fiorentina have made an excellent signing," Allegri said at a press conference.

"We're out to overturn the scoreline in Florence. It won't be easy and an intelligent display is required.

"To turn the tables we need to win by a two-goal margin. We need a good performance and calm heads.

"We need to be extremely patient and make the most of the chances that fall our way.

"Where did we go wrong in the first leg? The way we dealt with Salah's goal and the first eight minutes of the second half."

Allegri then went on to reveal that Andrea Pirlo is unlikely to feature against Fiorentina, but added that Claudio Marchisio has recovered from injury.

"Pirlo should be back with the group on Wednesday. We'll check on his fitness.

"Marchisio is in good shape and back with the squad. His few days off have served him well."

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Montella: ‘Juventus will attack’

Apr 6, 2014

Fiorentina Coach Vincenzo Montella says they face a ‘very difficult’ game against a Juventus who will ‘attack at full strength’.

The Viola hold a 2-1 lead from the first leg of their Coppa Italia tie, with Mohamed Salah scoring twice at Juventus Stadium.

“I think it will be an open game, and a very difficult one,” Montella predicted in his pre-match Press conference.

“We’ll face a very strong team, who are very competitive both home and away. However, we want to play. It’s the kind of game to play openly, without trying to make any calculations.

“It will be a good game to experience both for us and for our fans. We have to know our qualities very well, and use them against those of the opponent.

“We have a small advantage thanks to the first leg result, but a very small one. Playing against them [Juventus] should motivate us even further.

“The best teams know how to do it all, I expect Juve to attack at full strength.

“Tactically, it’s difficult to say what we should avoid. However, we shouldn’t sit back and be submissive, because that would be counter-productive.”

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Fiorentina V Juventus – Preview:
In-Form Duo Dreaming Of Coppa Italia Final

Apr 6, 2014

Fiorentina are set to host Juventus at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Tuesday in the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final tie.

La Viola enter the game with the advantage, having beaten the Bianconeri 2-1 in the first leg in Turin courtesy of goals from January acquisition Mohamed Salah.

Juve on the other hand have an uphill task ahead of them if they are to reach their first Coppa Italia final since 2012, as they have to win by a score larger than 2-1 to progress without heading to extra-time.

Recent meetings between both sides give an indication that Juventus will have a very tough time against Vincenzo Montella’s men. The previous 10 games between both sides has seen Juve prevail four times compared to Fiorentina’s two. However, only twice has the score been larger than 2-1, with one of them coming in the 2011/2012 season when Juve finished an undefeated Serie A season as champions, while La Viola were hovering near mid-table in 13th.

However, the last time both teams played each other in a two-legged tie was last season in the Round of 16 of the Europa League when Juve needed a win or a large score draw at the Stadio Artemio Franchi to qualify, having drawn 1-1 in Turin. It was Andrea Pirlo who scored the goal towards the end of the game and the Bianconeri went through.

Juventus also prevailed in the last Coppa Italia tie between both sides which dates back to the 2005/2006 season, winning by an aggregate score of 6-3.

Both sides also enter the game in top form, not only have they won their previous Serie A encounters against Sampdoria and Empoli, respectively – but both enter the game undefeated in their past five games in all competitions.

Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella though will be without the services of Aleandro Rosi, Stefan Savic, and skipper Manuel Pasqual due to injury.

On the other hand, Massimiliano Allegri has a plethora of injuries to deal with. Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, Martin Caceres, Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, and Kingsley Coman are all set to miss the game due to respective injuries.


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


Expected Starting XIs

Fiorentina: Neto; Richards, Basanta, Gonzalo Rodriguez, Alonso; Borja Valero, Pizarro, Mati Fernandez; Joaquin, Salah; Gomez.

Juventus: Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pereyra, Evra; Tevez, Morata.

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Fiorentina v Juventus Preview: Bianconeri hope
to have Marchisio for crucial Coppa clash

The Italy midfielder picked up a knee injury on international duty
last month but could play a part in his side's bid to overturn a 2-1 first-leg loss.

Apr 6, 2014

Juventus hope Claudio Marchisio will be fit in time to help them overturn a first-leg deficit in their Coppa Italia semi-final at Fiorentina on Tuesday.

Massimiliano Allegri's side suffered a surprise 2-1 defeat in the home tie last month, as Mohamed Salah scored either side of Fernando Llorente's strike.

Marchisio suffered a knee injury while on international duty and with Juve needing victory by two goals to progress to the final, Allegri hopes the midfielder will be able to play some part, with Andrea Pirlo (calf) and Paul Pogba (hamstring) still out.

"Marchisio is doing well," Allegri said on Monday. "He's returned to the squad, however he's been training separately.

"Considering the number of matches he's played from the beginning of the season to now, I think four or five days out of the team did him some good.

"He'll be available, so I'll have to assess today whether to play him or not.

"As for Pirlo, the day after tomorrow he should be part of the group, and then we'll slowly evaluate his physical condition.

"I'll assess him once he returns to the group, but the important thing is to have him available. I hope he'll be in good condition, because he's done well in training.

"There are still a lot of games between now and the end of the season, I think Andrea has the quality to play in big games, even when he's not in top condition."

Allegri says Fiorentina begin the second leg as favourites to progress, and has pledged to play a back four with an extra attacker, while Marco Storari will start in goal instead of Gianluigi Buffon.

Juve go into the game on the back of five straight victories across all competitions since the first-leg defeat, while Fiorentina have lost just once in their past 19 outings.

"It's a big opportunity for us," said Viola coach Vincenzo Montella. "To beat Juve after also knocking Roma out would mean we'd eliminated the top two teams in the league, and that would be a source of pride for us.

"We're very proud, but we haven't achieved anything yet. Up until now we haven't reached any of our goals.

"Tuesday's match can give us the opportunity to achieve something positive. Our state of mind is that we can achieve more and more, the city recognises our commitment and is proud of us."

Fiorentina are bidding to reach their second straight Coppa final, after losing 3-1 to Napoli in last year's tournament decider, while Juve were beaten by the same opponents in the showpiece in 2012, last lifting the trophy in 1995.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Fiorentina W D W W D

2015/04/04 Fiorentina 2 - 0 Sampdoria
2015/03/22 Udinese 2 - 2 Fiorentina
2015/03/19 Roma 0 - 3 Fiorentina
2015/03/16 Fiorentina 2 - 1 Milan
2015/03/12 Fiorentina 1 - 1 Roma


Juventus W W W W W

2015/04/04 Juventus 2 - 0 Empoli
2015/03/22 Juventus 1 - 0 Genoa
2015/03/18 Borussia Dortmund 0 - 3 Juventus
2015/03/14 Palermo 0 - 1 Juventus
2015/03/09 Juventus 1 - 0 Sassuolo


HEAD TO HEAD

2015/03/05 Juventus 1 - 2 Fiorentina
2014/12/05 Fiorentina 0 - 0 Juventus
2014/03/20 Fiorentina 0 - 1 Juventus
2014/03/13 Juventus 1 - 1 Fiorentina
2014/03/09 Juventus 1 - 0 Fiorentina

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Coppa Italia Rapid Fire Preview:
Juventus vs. Fiorentina, Leg 2

Apr 7, 2014

It wasn't all that long ago that Juventus headed to Florence in need of a conquer to advance in a competition. That was the Europa League, not the Coppa Italia like in present day. But it's a reminder that just about this time last year, Juventus stepped onto the Franchi field needing something — and they delivered.

This season's extra trip to the land of Viola and wonderful scenery has Juventus trying to overturn a 2-1 aggregate scoreline in the span of at least 90 minutes at the very minimum. Unlike when Juve were playing a two-legged tie a few weeks ago against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, a 1-0 score in favor of the good guys won't be enough to see Max Allegri's team through to the Coppa Italia final.

The objective for Tuesday night in Florence isn't a simple one, nor was it ever going to be. Juventus made their bed during the first leg early last month and now have to find a way to flip the script. It might not be a mission impossible, but it's mission-kinda-possible-but-not-totally-possible, if that makes any kind of sense.

But if there was ever a time for Juventus to channel memories of last year, they'll have to get it by at least two goals, not one. That's just what happens when you allow Fiorentina to not only grab the win, but get a couple of crucial away goals in the process.

As much as Allegri and the squad say they want to advance in the Coppa Italia and end the club's 20-year drought in the competition, there's only one way to try and have that happen now. It's possible. It won't be easy, but it's possible. Well, just as long as Juve don't play like they did in the first leg, that is.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "We're out to overturn the scoreline in Florence. It won't be easy, an intelligent display is required."


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Claudio Marchisio's impact.

Just like we all thought when the initial news of Marchisio being injured came out, Juve's No. 8 will be playing ... less than two weeks after the fact?! Yeah, it's been an interesting time ever since the ACL tear that wasn't really an ACL tear took place during the international break. What we know is that Marchisio is healthy and back training — a clear sign that his return to the lineup (even though the absence really wasn't much of one) is about to take place. And with no Andrea Pirlo, Marchisio is almost a certainty to slide into the regista spot that he's excelled at.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "@ClaMarchisio8's in good shape and back with the squad. His few days off have served him well."


2. With Marchisio potentially back in the STARTING lineup, who sits in the center of the midfield?

With Allegri saying that a four-man defense is happening Tuesday night, it's pretty easy to figure out where he's going tactically. Juventus, in all likelihood, will go with a 4-3-1-2 formation, but there will be the chance of a 4-3-3 if Juventus' first-year manager wants to include Simone Pepe in some kind of trident up front. But I'll just go ahead and put my cents on Allegri doing what he said he was going to do — "playing my best possible team tomorrow" against Fiorentina. I'll take that as Marchisio, Arturo Vidal and, based on how he played over the weekend, Stefano Sturaro with Roberto Pereyra behind the strikes. But that is just one guy's opinion. Maybe Allegri will surprise and do something super fancy. We all know that Juventus are going to need goals in the second leg against Fiorentina.


3. The continued brilliance of Carlos Tévez.

Just when you thought he might get a little bit of rest after coming back from the international break, Carlos Tévez goes and scores another goal to remind us — like we really needed it — how awesome he is. Allegri says he will field his best lineup, and that means Tévez will be playing alongside Álvaro Morata in all likelihood. That combination has been so good since it became Juve's No. 1 partnership up front for Allegri to go to. We know Juventus needs goals Tuesday night, and more than just one. Having Tévez on the field with Morata will be Juve's best chance at flipping the scoreline in their favor. And if Tévez can replicate anything close to how he's played for much of the season, Juve have a chance. Why? Because there's always a chance of seeing a Juventus goal whenever Tévez is on the field. He's just that damn good.


4. Slowing down the Mo Salah Express.

You want the biggest individual reason why Juventus is down 2-1 on aggregate, here you go. Salah has been simply superb since arriving on LOAN from Chelsea in the winter transfer window. You know, seven-goals-in-12-games kind of good since donning the Viola jersey. That's a goal-to-game ratio you figure Tévez would be racking up — which he has this season — while leading Juventus to another Scudetto. Salah's goals are a big as to why Fiorentia currently sits in fourth in the Serie A table right now. And, more importantly to the matter right in front of Juventus, Salah's played a massive part in why Fiorentina are just 90 or so minutes away from the Coppa Italia final. It doesn't really matter what formation Juve trots out there, the No. 1 priority has to be keeping track of Salah. If they don't, they'll see the 22-year-old Egyptian striker celebrating more than another goal or two against Juventus on Tuesday night.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "Salah? He's a good player. Fiorentina have made an excellent signing."


My XI (4-3-1-2): Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonuccii, Chiellini, Evra; Vidal, Marchisio, Sturaro; Pereyra; Tévez, Morata


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

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Fiorentina - Juventus Betting: Back Montella's
men to move closer to Coppa Italia glory

Vincenzo Montella's side have the initiative in the tie after winning in Turin last month
and our tipster is backing the hosts to beat the Serie A leaders in Florence on Tuesday.

Apr 7, 2014

Last season's Coppa Italia runners-up Fiorentina are aiming to reach the final of this year’s competition when they face Serie A leaders Juventus in the second leg of their semi-final tie in Florence on Tuesday night.

Vincenzo Montella’s men take a 2-1 lead into Tuesday’s tussle from the first leg and the hosts are chalked up at a chunky with William Hill to book their place in the final in style with a win over Massimiliano Allegri’s men.

Remarkably, Juventus have not tasted success in this competition since 1995 but, with the league title all but wrapped up, Allegri’s side will have their eyes on claiming a hugely impressive domestic double while still maintaining a Champions League challenge.

Juventus are available at with William Hill to win on Tuesday night while the same firm go that the Cup clash ends in stalemate. Allegri has some decisions to make over the participation of several key players including Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo who have both recently has spells on the sidelines with injury.

The visitors will certainly make the trip to Florence in confident mood, having racked up five successive league victories without even having conceded a goal since they suffered the 2-1 reverse at the hands of Montella’s men in the first leg but the hosts can be trusted to make life difficult for the Serie A leaders.

Midfielder Mohamed Salah, on loan from Chelsea, scored both goals for Fiorentina against Juventus in the first leg of this tie and, having found the net for his side again in a win for his side against Sampdoria in Serie A on Saturday, the 22-year-old Egypt international will fancy his chances of adding to his goal tally ahead of Tuesday’s tussle.

Salah, who has scored seven goals in his last 12 appearances for Montella’s side, is available at a chunky with William Hill to break the deadlock here, while the same firm go that the former Chelsea man finds the net at any time.

Fernando Llorente scored for Juventus against Fiorentina in last month’s first leg tie in Turin and should the Spain international start on Tuesday night, then there could be value in backing the 30-year-old striker to break the deadlock at with William Hill.

However, punters should note that Fiorentina have lost just one of their last 19 matches in all competitions and, with one foot in the final after their impressive win over Juventus last month, Montella’s side can make home advantage count here.

Allegri's admission that he will take a more attacking approach to the second leg by switching to a back four and utlising the extra man, usually present in a five-man backline, in attack. That ambition should make for an exciting game but with Fiorentina already holding a one goal advantage, Juve could lead themselves open to more defensive issues on the break.

Therefore, punters are advised to snap up the juicy quote offered up by William Hill for a home win ahead of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia crunch clash in Florence.

[Socrates 8516]

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

.-

Coppa Italia semi-final
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Davide Massa

Tevez doubt for Fiorentina

Apr 7, 2014

Carlos Tevez is reportedly an injury doubt for Juventus’ clash with Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia tonight.

The Bianconeri take on the Viola in the second leg of their semi-final, and Massimiliano Allegri’s side trail 2-1 from the first leg.

Their task may have gotten harder, as reports from today’s final training session ahead of the game indicate that star striker Tevez is struggling with a muscular injury.

Sky reports that the Argentinian international is not seriously injured, but is nevertheless unlikely to be risked in tonight’s match, with the Champions League Quarter Final with Monaco to come next week.