Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus v Lazio Preview: Allegri's
men looking for second leg of treble

After wrapping up another Serie A title and reaching the Champions
League final, the Bianconeri have their sights set on the Coppa Italia.

May 19, 2014

Juventus meet Lazio in Wednesday's Coppa Italia final, looking to complete a domestic double and secure the second part of a historic treble.

With a fourth successive Serie A title comfortably in the bag, Juve could be forgiven for focusing on next month's Champions League final against Barcelona.

But first, Massimiliano Allegri's side must turn their attentions to tasting glory in the Coppa for the first time in 20 years.

In 1995, Juve defeated Parma 3-0 over two legs to lift the trophy for the ninth time, but since that success the Turin giants have just three losing final appearances to show for their efforts.

Lazio, meanwhile, have won the Coppa five times in the intervening period, most recently in 2013 when Senad Lulic's goal saw off fierce rivals Roma 1-0.

Stefano Pioii's men are third in Serie A and look well placed to at least return to the Champions League qualifiers, with next weekend's derby with Roma looking likely to decide who takes the second automatic spot behind Juve.

Their form of late has been mixed, with just two wins from their past six league outings, although Saturday's 1-0 win at Sampdoria was a timely boost ahead of meeting Juve at their home ground, Rome's Stadio Olimpico.

"We go into the Coppa Italia final, we deserved our place there," Pioli said. "We'll be facing the best side in Italy, one of the best in Europe, but we earned the final and want to play it.

"Juve are extra motivated by targeting the treble. Clearly we need the so-called perfect game, we are in Rome in front of our fans, so we'll give it our best.

"We have the final we were dreaming of. It can be such a big event that it could affect Serie A, so we have to keep focused."

Lazio reached the showpiece with a 2-1 aggregate success over Napoli, while Juve advanced after seeing off Fiorentina 4-2 over two legs.

Alvaro Morata was sent off during the second leg of that semi-final, meaning he will miss Wednesday's game, but the Spaniard believes his team-mates can add to their haul of silverware this season.

"I'm sorry that I won't be able to be there, but it's always like that for me - I'm never happy when I don't play," said Morata, who scored in both legs of Juve's Champions League semi-final win over his former club Real Madrid.

"I'm convinced, however, that my team-mates will give it their all to win the cup. The team always wants to win, just like the boss tells us. It doesn't matter who plays."

Aside from Morata's suspension, Allegri has no new injury worries, while Lazio have concerns over Lucas Biglia, who missed the victory over Samp with a knee problem.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus W D D W W

2015/05/16 - Internazionale 1 - 2 Juventus
2015/05/13 - Real Madrid 1 - 1 Juventus
2015/05/09 - Juventus 1 - 1 Cagliari
2015/05/05 - Juventus 2 - 1 Real Madrid
2015/05/02 - Sampdoria 0 - 1 Juventus


Lazio W L D W D

2015/05/16 - Sampdoria 0 - 1 Lazio
2015/05/10 - Lazio 1 - 2 Internazionale
2015/05/03 - Atalanta 1 - 1 Lazio
2015/04/29 - Lazio 4 - 0 Parma
2015/04/26 - Lazio 1 - 1 Chievo Verona


HEAD TO HEAD

2015/04/18 - Juventus 2 - 0 Lazio
2014/11/22 - Lazio 0 - 3 Juventus
2014/01/25 - Lazio 1 - 1 Juventus
2013/08/31 - Juventus 4 - 1 Lazio
2013/04/15 - Lazio 0 - 2 Juventus

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Lazio V Juventus Coppa Italia Final: Sprightly
Aquile Look To Derail Bianconeri Success Train

May 19, 2014

Wednesday night will see two of Italy’s best sides meet in the Coppa Italia final, both with different reasons for wanting success and seeing triumph as a fine way to mark impressive seasons.

Recently re-crowned Serie A champions Juventus are looking for their 10th Coppa Italia title, a feat that would represent their third Italian double. Meanwhile, Lazio won the competition as recently as 2013 and will be looking to regain the trophy at their home stadium.

For Juventus, a team accustomed to titles and silverware, the prospect of adding another trinket to their expansive trophy cabinet would serve as notice of their domination over the current Italian football landscape. The Bianconeri have been untouchable domestically, and cornering the market in trophies would only serve to underline that fact.

Massimiliano Allegri’s side have already impressed with the way they swept to the Scudetto, but it is a rare achievement to win both Serie A and the Coppa Italia in the same season. Their last double came in 1994-95 and before that, one has to go back to 1959-60 when Giampiero Boniperti lifted both trophies.

History records few examples of Italian clubs winning such a double, demonstrating how difficult a two-pronged attack on trophies has been. As well as the Bianconeri’s pair, Inter have two and Torino, Lazio and Napoli one each.

Of course, completing the double would represent the first two legs of a possible treble — a feat to match that of the Inter side of 2010.

With their coach joining the club under a red and black cloud, to go on to win a double in 2015, especially having already reached the Champions League final, would represent a real marker for Allegri.

He has already proven himself to be an astute appointment as Bianconeri coach and another trophy would only strengthen the argument that his side have progressed since the surprise departure of Antonio Conte last summer.

The same could be said of his opposite number, of course. Stefano Pioli will go into the final looking to secure a seventh Coppa Italia for the Biancocelesti and ensure their spectacular revival season has a tangible reward at the end of it.

It is evident that Lazio’s greatest recent successes have come in the Coppa Italia. In fact, five of their previous wins have come in the seasons since their opponents’ previous triumph (1995).

Additionally, their route to the final has been arguably more difficult and certainly more circuitous than the Bianconeri’s, as Juventus were spared rounds three and four by virtue of their presence in UEFA Competition.

Lazio have dispatched Bassano Virtus, Varese, Torino and AC Milan en route back to the Stadio Olimpico, with 2013 Coppa Italia hero Senad Lulic — adding to his knockout reputation in the capital — scoring the goal that eliminated Napoli in the semi-final.

Their form in Serie A may well yet see them reach the Champions League in place of the Partenopei, but reaching the final here (and securing a place in the Supercoppa Italiana next season) ensures that Pioli has already delivered European football for next season in one form or another.

Even so, there are no physical rewards for finishing second or third, so the Coppa Italia represents an opportunity for Pioli to win a first piece of silverware as a coach, and comes against a side with which he won a Serie A himself as a player way back in 1985-86.

His arrival at Lazio (like that of Allegri at Juventus) was something of a surprise, and supporters took a while for his methods to convince. However, Pioli has come to his own in the second half of the season, and his side have surged up the table.

With a team based on the acuity of Stefan de Vrij and the inspiration of Felipe Anderson, Pioli has overseen something of a revolution in the Aquile ranks.

While Miroslav Klose remains a potent threat, Lazio’s goals have come from a wide range of sources. Indeed it is not out of the question that six Biancocelesti players end up with 10 goals to their name by the seasons end; four have already achieved that mark.

Cup finals should be a showpiece occasion, and this season’s Coppa Italia brings together the two sides who have demonstrated by far the best Serie A form in 2015, and who both possess no end of attacking potential. For a competition that can sometimes seem to slip under the radar, this final is one that can exhibit all that is good about Italian football.

Whether it is Lazio who triumph, and earn Stefano Pioli a first trophy, or Juventus who emerge victorious and use it as a stepping stone to a more prestigious date in Berlin, it promises to be one of the most enthralling of finals.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus-Lazio Betting: Allegri to remain on course
for the treble with Coppa Italia triumph

Having already collected the Scudetto and with a Champions League final still to come,
the Bianconeri are well placed to keep their treble dreams alive against Stefano Pioli's men.

May 19, 2014

Juventus will be hoping to take the second step en route to a historic treble when they go head-to-head with Lazio in Wednesday’s Coppa Italia final.

With the Serie A title already safely wrapped up and a Champions League final against Barcelona to come next month, the Bianconeri are available at with William Hill to complete stage two by coming out on top at the Stadio Olimpico.

However, Lazio have lifted this trophy five times since their opponents’ last triumph back in 1995, and are on offer at to ruin the party by doing so once again at their home ground.

The last Coppa Italia final to go into extra-time was the Biancocelesti’s clash with Sampdoria in 2009, and you can get odds of on this one finishing all square after 90 minutes.

While some eyebrows were raised when sacked AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri was appointed to take over from the hugely successful Antonio Conte in the summer, the 47-year-old has proved all doubters wrong by somehow taking the perennial champions to the next level.

As well as overseeing a fourth consecutive Scudetto, Allegri now potentially stands to become just the second coach of an Italian team to win the treble – a feat only previously accomplished by Jose Mourinho with Inter in 2010.

Although this is clearly far easier said than done, the champions’ recent record against Lazio suggests that they should feel confident of at least travelling to Berlin for next month’s European final still in with a chance of completing a clean sweep.

Having won five and lost none of the last six encounters between the sides, those odds seem generous on Juventus emerging victorious in the capital, particularly given their opponents’ recent run of just two wins in their previous six fixtures.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Orsato for Coppa final

May 19, 2014

Daniele Orsato has been announced as the referee for tomorrow’s Coppa Italia final between Juventus and Lazio.

The game has been moved from June 7 to this midweek after the Bianconeri qualified for the Champions League final, to be played on June 6.

There were 10 bookings and a red card the last time Orsata refereed Juventus, a 1-1 draw with Roma, while Lazio beat Napoli 1-0 in the semi-final of this competition the last time he officiated the Aquile.

Paolo Tagliavento will be the fourth official for the game, while Luca Banti and Paolo Mazzoleni will be the additional referees.

The game kicks off at 8.45 CE time tomorrow night, with Juventus looking to secure their 10th Coppa, and Lazio aiming to make it three wins in seven years.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus name Coppa squad

May 19, 2014

The likes of Gigi Buffon, Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo are recalled to the Juventus squad for the Coppa Italia final.

The Bianconeri faced Inter on Saturday without a number of key players, with the Scudetto long-since wrapped up.

The aforementioned trio, along with Carlos Tevez and Patrice Evra did not travel to San Siro, but have all been recalled for tomorrow’s match.

The Old Lady face Lazio at Stadio Olimpico, hoping to finally lift the 10th Coppa Italia which the club has been seeking since 1996.

Claudio Marchisio and Alvaro Morata are not included in the 23-man party, as the pair are suspended having picked up bookings in the semi-final.


Juventus squad to face Lazio:

 

Buffon, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Tevez, Coman, Llorente, Barzagli, De Ceglie, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Storari, Matri, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra, Marrone.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus vs. Lazio: Team News

May 19, 2014

Having already secured the Serie A title and a place in the final of the Champions League, the dream of a treble is very much alive for Juventus. Lazio now stand in their way, however, with the Rome-based club looking to cap their own excellent season with a Coppa Italia triumph over the Bianconeri.

This past weekend saw the respective league position of each side have a major impact on their team selection, with Stefano Pioli forced to name his strongest possible XI as his side continue to battle with neighbours AS Roma for second place. Just minutes before the Biancocelesti kicked off against Sampdoria, however, a largely second-string Juventus recorded a 2-1 victory over Inter at San Siro.

Led by goals from Claudio Marchisio and Alvaro Morata—both of whom are suspended for the cop final—Massimiliano Allegri was able to make seven changes from the team who drew with Real Madrid last week.

That should see them enter this encounter well-rested and prepared for a tough challenge, although both of this season’s clashes have seen comfortable victories for the Bianconeri. Winning 2-0 in Turin last month and 3-0 at the Stadio Olimpico back in November, Lazio will hope to deliver a much-improved performance on Wednesday evening.

“We’ll be facing the best side in Italy, one of the best in Europe,” Pioli told Sky Italia this past weekend (h/t Football Italia). “Clearly we need the so-called perfect game, we are in Rome in front of our fans, so we’ll give it our best.”


Predicted Lineups

Juventus: (4-3-2-1): Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba; Pereyra, Tevez; Llorente

Lazio: (4-3-3): Marchetti; Basta, De Vrij, Mauricio, Radu; Parolo, Ledesma, Lulic; Candreva, Klose, Anderson


Player to Watch

The man to watch for Lazio is almost certainly Antonio Candreva, the 28-year-old proving to be a superb acquisition for the club since arriving from Lazio. Having spent time at Juventus back in 2010, the Italian international will hope to guide the Rome-based club to victory over his former side.

He has contributed no fewer than 10 goals and eight assists this term, undoubtedly the man the Biancocelesti turn to when in need of an inspirational performance. The man himself puts the team’s improvement down to the enjoyable atmosphere surrounding them rather than his own play, however, as he explained to Sky Italia recently.

"We're enthusiastic, we have fun,” Candreva said (h/t Goal.com) as they reached second place in Serie A. “The results help us to be this high up [the table], we deserve it."


Key Battle

Lazio’s Felipe Anderson has been a revelation in 2014-15, playing a major role in the Rome club’s surge up the Serie A table. The Brazilian has been in sensational form since December, weighing in with a tally of 11 goals and seven assists in all competitions as he terrorises defences across the peninsula.

He is a major reason the Biancocelesti are in contention for a Champions League place, and it was his pass to Senad Lulic which ultimately secured their berth in this Coppa Italia final. The man tasked with keeping him in check on Wednesday is likely to be Juve’s first-choice right-back Stephan Lichtsteiner.
The Swiss international has been reliable and consistent since leaving Lazio for the Turin giants four years ago, and his ability to limit Anderson’s impact could be a decisive factor in his current club’s quest for a rare league and cup double.


Odds (via Odds Checker)

Away win: 11/4

Home win: 5/4

Draw: 12/5

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Wilson: Lazio Must Play The Game
Of Their Lives Against Juventus

May 19, 2014

Lazio hero ‘Pino’ Wilson has called on his old club’s current stars to put in the performance of their careers in Wednesday night’s Coppa Italia final against Juventus.

Born in Darlington in England, his family moved to Naples before his first birthday and upon moving to the peninsula, he would go on to sign for the Aquile for whom he made over 300 appearances and won a Scudetto in 1974.

Speaking to TMW about the task that faces the capital club, Wilson said: “They must play the game of their lives. It is a one off game and the gap between technical qualities is lesser on these occasions.

“It is an important match for both teams – for Lazio who really want to win a trophy and Juve who are looking for a treble. Both teams will play a very careful game. Juventus are technically better but I am sure Lazio will be well motivated with a good mental approach and that is key.

“The crowd will also be predominantly Laziale and it should be a good game between two teams who like to have the ball and move it at speed.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus V Lazio – Preview: Bianconeri Eyeing First
Coppa Italia In Two Decades Against Competition Specialists

May 19, 2014

Juventus are set to face Lazio in the final of the 2015 Coppa Italia at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Wednesday night.

The Bianconeri are still in contention for the treble this season, having already won Serie A in addition to being in the final of both the Coppa Italia and the Champions League.

On the other hand, Lazio are competing for a place in next season’s Champions League. The Biancocelesti occupy the third and final spot which qualifies for the competition, three points clear of Napoli and one point off city-rivals Roma.

Both sides are definitely no strangers to the competition. Six-time champions Lazio have won the Coppa Italia five times in the past 17 years, with the last coming in 2013. While Juve haven’t won it since 1995, they hold the record for most Coppa Italia honours won alongside Roma with nine titles.

Juventus and Lazio’s respective paths to the final were pretty similar, overturning a first leg semi-final disappointment. The Biancocelesti drew 1-1 at home to reigning champions Napoli before winning 1-0 in the second leg in Naples, whilst Juventus miraculously overturned a 2-1 first leg home defeat to Fiorentina by winning 3-0 at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Recent meetings between the duo have seen an obvious Bianconeri advantage, who have won five of the past six meetings. An even more staggering statistic is that all of them have seen Juve win by a difference of two or more goals.

Even though La Vecchia Signora have the obvious advantage when it comes to recent meetings, Lazio actually won the last Coppa Italia tie between both teams, emerging victorious in the two-legged semi-final encounter back in January 2013 – winning 3-2 on aggregate.

Massimiliano Allegri’s men will have to do without both Alvaro Morata who was sent off in the semi-final second leg against Fiorentina, and Claudio Marchisio due to the accumulation of bookings. Kwadwo Asamoah and Martin Caceres will miss the final due to respective injuries.

On the other hand, Lazio coach Stefano Pioli will not miss anyone due to suspension but injuries rule out the trio of Lorik Cana, Ederson, and Lucas Biglia.


Form guide: Juventus (W-D-D-W-W-W), Lazio (W-L-D-W-D-L)


Expected Starting XIs

Juventus: Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Pogba, Pirlo, Sturaro; Vidal; Llorente, Tevez.

Lazio: Marchetti; Basta, De Vrij, Mauricio, Radu; Parolo, Ledesma, Lulic; Candreva, Klose, Felipe Anderson.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: 'Coppa Italia same as Champions'

May 19, 2014

Juventus boss Max Allegri confirms he was in talks with Lazio and the Coppa Italia Final has “the same importance as the Champions League.”

The Bianconeri have already secured the Scudetto and take the next step in their Treble attempt tomorrow night before facing Barcelona in the Champions League Final on June 6.

“It will certainly be a different game to playing Lazio in Serie A because this is a Final. It’s a one-off match and there is a trophy at stake,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“This is going to be a more balanced tie and it will not necessarily be resolved in 90 minutes. The Coppa raises the tension levels and it would be an extraordinary result to win, especially as Juve haven’t won it for a decade and it would be their 10th trophy.

“It would also allow us to prepare for the Champions League Final with even more enthusiasm. I see the Coppa Italia Final having the same importance as the Champions League.”

Lazio have been the breakout team of the year in Italy, fighting for second place and in the Coppa Italia Final.

“Stefano Pioli has done very well and deserves a lot of credit. It’s true I met with Lazio President Claudio Lotito, but then he made other choices.”

Andrea Pirlo seemed sluggish in the 1-1 Champions League draw with Real Madrid, so will be he rested to preserve his fitness levels?

“Pirlo will play tomorrow. I think from here until June 6 we have tomorrow’s game, Napoli and the last with Verona, so it’s not as if we need to rest the whole time leading up to the Final.

“Players need to train and reach June 6 in optimal condition. Anyway, we’ll think about that after the Coppa Final.”

Allegri was asked what animal would best describe his Juventus side. “A zebra seems too obvious, so I’ll say a tiger.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: 'Juve not bored of success'

May 19, 2014

Massimiliano Allegri shrugged off Antonio Conte comparisons or suggestions Juventus are “bored” with dominating in Italy.

The Bianconeri have won a fourth consecutive Scudetto and go into the Coppa Italia Final against Lazio tomorrow night.

Juve haven’t won the Coppa for 10 years and Conte didn’t manage either during his three-year tenure.

“I’m not interested in comparisons with Conte! I know it’s normal in life and football for journalists to compare, but what really matters is results, work and respect for everyone,” Allegri said in a Press conference.

“It’s dull to always get asked the same questions, but I repeat again that Conte did a great job and when a Coach achieves such results he will remain part of the club’s history.

“Clubs remain, football moves on with players and Coaches. Juventus won four Scudetti also because the club worked well. It’s not easy to win four titles in a row and next year will be even harder, as you always have to give something more.

“We’re certainly not ‘bored’ of success in Italy. Just look at the way we played against Inter last week, having already secured our objective, with the same determination as if three points were crucial for the Scudetto.

“This is an important sign, because after defeat it becomes harder to train and you get irritated. We must try to lose as little as possible, as the more games we win, the more enthusiastic we are going into the Champions League Final.”

Few expected Juventus to reach the Champions League Final, so is their ascent a sign that Italian football is improving?

“As with every League, there are moments when they peak and others that are less impressive, but Serie A is certainly not worth dismissing.

“This year Juventus reached the Final, but Napoli and Fiorentina got to the Europa League semi-final too. I think there is an overall growth.

“Of course, everything cannot be resolved in one day and it will require patience. As with all things in life, there is a cycle of ups and downs.

“This goes for the Nazionale too, as the Italy squad has usually achieved great results in Europe and the World Cup when the clubs did well. I therefore hope Juve, Napoli and Fiorentina can bode well for the Azzurri.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Chiellini: 'Felipe Anderson extraordinary'

May 19, 2014

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini praised Lazio striker Felipe Anderson ahead of the Coppa Italia Final.

The clash kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT) on Wednesday.

“This game does have a special feeling to it, because Juve haven’t won the Coppa in too long,” said the defender in his Press conference.

“The Final we lost to Napoli still hurts, so we really want to win this. Our focus is solely on tomorrow’s game.”

The star name for defenders to watch out for tomorrow is Brazilian Felipe Anderson.

“Felipe Anderson has grown exponentially and showed incredible skills, truly extraordinary and not just as a promising young player.

“I hope tomorrow he’s feeling a bit tired, off his game… He combines pace with passing skills and a great shot. He is the emblem of Lazio’s campaign, as he really exploded on to the scene this season.”

The Bianconeri have won a fourth consecutive Scudetto and have the opportunity to secure the Treble, as they also face Barcelona in the Champions League Final on June 6.

“Our strength has always been taking it one game at a time, without letting enthusiasm get the better of us. Therefore we are focused only on tomorrow and there’s a long way to go before we can talk about a Treble.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Chiellini: 'Juve always hungry'

May 19, 2014

Giorgio Chiellini explained why it’s “impossible” for Juventus to be sated and has “no problem” with Luis Suarez.

The Bianconeri go into the Coppa Italia Final with Lazio tomorrow night, then face Barcelona in the Champions League on June 6.

“We are so proud to be in this position after everything we’ve been though,” said the defender in his Press conference.

Since Juve were last in the Champions League Final 12 years ago, they’ve been demoted to Serie B and climbed back up.

“We were talking about this with Gigi Buffon and Claudio Marchisio. We’ve been through so much that it’s wonderful and right that we should enjoy a game like this.

“I still remember playing against Rimini, Frosinone, Crotone… now we’re in two Finals and those experiences represent further motivation.”

Chiellini was asked if Juve risked getting ‘bored’ with success in Italy.

“That’s impossible, as I was here for six years without winning anything. None of it was easy, there were moments when we had to pull the best out of ourselves.

“The important thing is to never lose the hunger to win that allowed us to reach these targets. When you feel that sensation of victory, you want to experience it again at all costs.

“We did well to push each other on over the years to ensure we never rested on our laurels. I think this was more down to the people in the team than what they are like as players, and it has been our great strength.”

Chiellini will be up against Barcelona forward Luis Suarez, who famously bit him on the shoulder during a 2014 World Cup tie between Italy and Uruguay.

Marchisio was very harshly sent off in that tie, which ended the Azzurri’s tournament in Brazil.

“It has been a week since we eliminated Real Madrid and people only ask me about Suarez,” laughed the defender.

“I have no problems with him. I will mark him the way I did Karim Benzema or any other striker, so there’s nothing different about it.

“The only think that disappointed me that time was going out of the World Cup.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Pioli: 'Lazio enjoy Coppa Final'

May 19, 2014

Stefano Pioli admits the Lazio-Juventus Coppa Italia Final is “the most important game of my career and I’m enjoying it.”

The Aquile face Scudetto winners Juve at the Stadio Olimpico tomorrow evening.

“This is a one-off Final, so we mustn’t even consider the two Serie A defeats against Juventus this season,” said the Coach in a Press conference.

“We must play like Lazio, which means being focused, determined and proving we’ve learned our lessons from previous games. We know that we cannot afford certain mistakes again. We want to win the Final.

“Is this the most important match of my management career? Certainly. It’s my first Final and I am enjoying it. You might not believe me, but I’m enjoying this Press conference too!

“I experience all this with the satisfaction and pride of working with a group of special lads. We want to enjoy every instant all the way to lifting the Coppa Italia.

“I still remember where we started this journey, playing Bassano del Grappa in the first round. A new day and a new game represent a new opportunity. This is a big opportunity.”

The Biancocelesti have been the breakout side of the campaign, challenging for second place and reaching the Coppa Italia Final. Did Pioli expect this when he took over 10 months ago?

“I hoped so from the very start, since the moment I met my players. We had to wait for six or seven to come back from the World Cup, but the potential in the squad was evident.

“We worked in order to reach these objectives, to be in the Coppa Italia Final and challenge for Champions League qualification. It’s gratifying that we are here and we want to push all the way.

“It’s safe to say Lazio performed above and beyond expectations, but the season isn’t over yet. There are still three games that will decide our future.”

Pioli confirmed Etrit Berisha will remain as the Coppa Italia goalkeeper in the Final too, but the big surprise is that Lucas Biglia was in training despite fears his season was over.

“It’s good news, though I don’t know if he’ll be able to play tomorrow. In the morning we’ll have a final training session.

“I have already chosen my starting XI, but will only tell the team tomorrow. We must play to the top of our abilities to beat Juventus and we are capable of it. We are prepared.”

Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that he spoke to Lazio over the summer, but President Claudio Lotito opted for Pioli instead.

“Allegri’s work is clear for all to see. He had the strength to bring his ideas with intelligence and the right timing. I compliment him.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Biglia in Coppa Italia squad

May 19, 2014

Lucas Biglia could well feature in the Coppa Italia Final against Juventus after being called up by Lazio.

There were fears the midfielder would be out for the rest of the season after straining a knee ligament.

However, he took part in today’s training session and is included in the squad for tomorrow night’s game.

Although the Argentina international is highly unlikely to start against Juve, he could recover for the Serie A derby with Roma on Monday.


Lazio squad for Juventus:

Marchetti, Berisha, Strakosha; Basta, Braafheid, Cavanda, Ciani, Cana, Konko, Mauricio, de Vrij, Gentiletti, Novaretti, Radu, Pereirinha; Felipe Anderson, Biglia, Candreva, Cataldi, Ledesma, Lulic, Ederson, Mauri, Parolo, Onazi; Keita, Djordjevic, Klose, Perea

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Coppa Italia Final Preview: Juventus vs. Lazio —
Double the trophies, double the fun?

May 19, 2014

The last time Juventus celebrated a Coppa Italia title, I was sitting in an elementary classroom learning about the basics reading and writing. That was 20 years ago. Yep, 20 long years since a Juventus captain has taken the Coppa Italia trophy and hoisted it over his head as his teammates celebrate around him.

They've had chances since then. The 2012 Coppa Italia in which Alessandro Del Piero said goodbye to Juventus is still fresh in some peoples' minds. That game, a 2-0 loss to Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, was the last time Juve had the chance to win their 10th Coppa Italia and add a silver star to their jerseys.

In two of Juventus' last four games this season, there will be trophies on the line. In one of the other games, this Saturday against Napoli, Juventus will be presented with their Scudetto and subsequently have a party because of it. So if you're in the mood to seeing Juve hang out with a bunch of trophies, then the next couple of weeks are probably your cup of tea.

Of Juventus' final four games, only two truly matter in the grand scheme of things. This is the first of those games. And I'm pretty sure everybody here can figure out what the second one is. (Apologies to Napoli and Hellas Verona, but your games aren't really all that important all things considered.)

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@chiellini: "Our strength lies in our ability to take one step at a time. We'll now consider #JuveLazio, then the #UCLfinal."

Max Allegri setup his squad to win this game against Lazio, not the one over the weekend against Inter in the Derby d'Italia. He rested just about half of the squad that played their tails off against Real Madrid seven days ago. When was the last time we could say that a coach was preferring a Coppa Italia game — albeit this is a final — over a heated rivalry game like Juventus-Inter is? I can't remember one, at least in the last couple of years at the very least.

But winning the Coppa Italia is obviously a big objective for Allegri and his players. A lot of being able to rest so many regulars has to do with Juve having nothing left to play for in Seire A, but it's also a sign that they want their team to be in the best possible shape there is.

Lazio are a worthy opponent because they're probably the second-best team in Italy going right now. But who am I to bet against a Juventus team that is rested, playing some consistent and winning football who has also beaten Lazio twice this season already? I'm not, but that's just me.


GOOD NEWS

It might not be to the level of Real Madrid's Décima, but a win over Lazio on Wednesday night and Juventus have their own Decima to brag about. I don't know about all of you, but I'm kinda tired of Juve sitting on nine Coppa Italia titles. And that silver star would look cool on the new adidas jerseys next season.


BAD NEWS

Claudio Marchisio out due to suspension. Álvaro Morata out due to suspension. I think we can say those are two of Juventus' best players right now. That's not good. Thank goodness for squad depth.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Could Marchisio's absence mean a 3-5-2?

And here is your almost-weekly quote about Max Allegri being unsure about who is going to be in his starting lineup. Or at least that's how he's going to make it look like.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "I still have a couple of question marks over my starting XI. It's important to have 23 players in good shape"

The decision might not be an easy one for Allegri, but it's also a somewhat logical process in getting there. If he goes with a 4-3-1-2, then Roberto Pereyra would step in for Marchisio and push Arturo Vidal back into his more natural position in midfield. If it's a 3-5-2, then in comes Andrea Barzagli and that would be that. Seems simple enough, right? Marchisio's absence will be a big one because of how he has played this season. But if it's a 3-5-2, a midfield of Andrea Pirlo-Vidal-Paul Pogba is still enough to dominate a lot of teams. And getting Barzagli on the field is never a bad thing. That's pretty evident by how he's played since returning from that oh-so-lengthy injury layoff. He's so damn good.


2. The effectiveness of a rested Carlos Tévez.

While Juventus were celebrating their win over Inter at the San Siro over the weekend, I want to think that Carlitos was sitting at his place of residence in Turin with his feet up and some good food either already eaten or about to be. Tévez was part of the five-starter group that didn't even make the trip to Milan for Saturday's Derby d'Italia, which means he will be coming into the Coppa Italia final with plenty of rest to boot. Tévez is having an amazing season and he's obviously going to be the top priority of the Lazio defense. But whenever I think about Tévez facing an opposing team after having nearly a week's worth of rest, it's hard to imagine Carlitos not being spry and even more lively than usual. That usually ends up in Tévez doing some kind of celebration with his teammates. I personally request the robot if the situation calls for it.


3. The effectiveness of a rested Andrea Pirlo.

And while he's trying to convince he's uncertain about his starting lineup, at least Allegri has told us at his pre-match press conference about one person that will be starting tomorrow night at the Olimpico.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "@Pirlo_official will start tomorrow." #JuveLazio

So we know that at the very least. And we know a couple other starters as well because that's just what our heads will tell us. (We aren't stupid around here.) But like Tévez, Pirlo wasn't even in the city limits of Milan when Juventus beat Inter over the weekend. And on the day after he turned 36 years of age, Pirlo will be back on the field attempting to win another trophy at Juventus. Pirlo has logged a lot of minutes since he made his own injury comeback, so you have to think doing absolutely nothing outside of watching his teammates beat Inter and having a glass of wine or two felt pretty good. And no matter which formation Allegri goes with, we know Pirlo will be at the center of it. We know the Rested Pirlo Theory has worked quite well in the past, so if Juve want to win Coppa Italia No. 10, it will have to enact its powers once more.


4. Juventus' fullbacks against Lazio's wingers.

It's only natural to throw this out there considering Felipe Anderson is at the end of a breakout season and Antonio Candreva is one of the top assist men in Serie A this season. On the other end of it, Patrice Evra is having a very consistent season and has proven a lot of us — /looks at self/ — wrong about how much he has left, and Stephan Lichtsteiner has continued to scream at referees every chance he gets. Between them, Felipe Anderson and Candreva have combined for 19 goals and 15 assists in Serie A this season. I'll just point out that Tévez has more goals on his own, but that's just a humble kind of brag right there, I guess. And if Felipe Anderson and Candreva are basically non-factors like they were when Juventus beat Lazio 2-0 in Turin a little over a month ago, then that scoreline could very well look the same. That's just me being optimistic, though.

JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen
.@chiellini: "We're focused on Lazio's strikers, not @FCBarcelona's."


My starting XI (3-5-2): Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Evra; Tévez, Llorente

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 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Neymar's best friend Felipe Anderson
the main threat to Juventus treble

Lazio's Brazilian attacker has been the bright young star of the Serie A
season and could be the biggest threat to the Bianconeri's hopes of making history.

May 20, 2014

By Kris Voakes | International Football Correspondent
He’s the subject of a reported €50 million pursuit by Manchester United, has taken his domestic league by storm in 2014-15 and is being tipped as one of the main hurdles between Juventus and a historic treble success.

While Neymar might well come between the Bianconeri and Champions League glory on June 6, his best friend could halt their three-pronged assault in the Coppa Italia final on Wednesday. Right now, Felipe Anderson is on fire.

The Brazilian has only just turned 22 and yet he has developed a stunning reputation for himself with a scintillating series of performances which have led the Biancocelesti to the Coppa Italia final and the verge of a place in next season’s Champions League.

Lazio were made to wait a long time for Anderson’s signature. Having made initial attempts to sign him from Santos in the January window of 2013, they eventually returned to close a deal the following summer. The lengthy process had been nothing if not exhausting, according to Lazio director Igli Tare.

“His third-party owners [Doyen Sports] changed their minds continually,” he told Il Messaggero. “When we had everything decided they would start from scratch two hours later. That kept happening. It felt like being in the Twilight Zone.”

He was clearly worth the wait though, as were his performances. His debut campaign in 2013-14 yielded little in the way of stand-out displays yet this season he has been nothing short of magnificent.

With sensational technique on the move and pace to burn, Felipe Anderson has had many a Serie A defence running for cover. Lazio staff have even claimed him to be the fastest player in Italy, and a long line of game-changing performances before and after the Christmas break led the club to offer him a new five-year deal. His form also took the Biancocelesti to within reach of neighbours Roma in the league table.

Having previously found themselves tending to fall back on the ability of Antonio Candreva to moderate success, Lazio suddenly found an outlet who could scare opponents of every shape and size. “He looked like Cristiano Ronaldo tonight,” said Sampdoria boss Sinisa Mihajlovic in January after seeing his side taken apart by the Brazilian.

Such reviews have been a common theme over the past six months. The likes of Inter, Torino, Sassuolo and Roma have also been picked apart at will by the brilliant Brazilian.

His dribbling ability hasn’t been his only USP, with a great eye for a pass and superb quality shooting from range making him effective across a wide range of skill sets. Lazio have a real gem on their hands and they have Neymar to thank for that, as Felipe Anderson explains.

“At the same time that I was going to Lazio he was going to Barcelona and we talked a lot,” he told the Corriere dello Sport.

“He told me that I should join a team with some Brazilians to help me with the European mentality. He had Dani Alves, and I had a few of the lads to help me out. They have been brilliant.”

His dynamism and two-footedness have helped to ensure that bigger clubs than Lazio from all across the continent have been alerted to Felipe Anderson. Besides Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City have also been credited with an interest, while – perhaps unsurprisingly – the player himself has welcomed talk that he could link up once more with his good friend Neymar.

“There has been a lot of talk,” he told Globo. “At the moment I’m only thinking about Lazio. However, if an opportunity to play for a big club like Barcelona presented itself, I’d be happy.”

Given his self-confessed desire to join the Blaugrana and the fact his former team-mate lines up for the Catalans, it is probably safe to say he will be cheering on Barca when they take on Juventus in next month’s Champions League final.

But first up he has the job of denying the Bianconeri domestic knockout glory, and on this season’s form it would take a brave soul to back against him turning in another match-winning performance.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Prequel to Coppa destiny

Juventus and Lazio come into the Coppa Italia Final with bigger priorities on the horizon.
Luca Persico insists though, that they would be foolish to underestimate its value.

May 20, 2014

Twenty years. That’s how long it has been since Juventus lifted the Coppa Italia. When Fabrizio Ravanelli struck at Stadio Ennio Tardini in June 1995 to confirm a 3-0 aggregate victory over Parma, few would have anticipated that Juventus would still be waiting to add to that success in 2015.

Since that day, the Old Lady has reached three more finals without reward. Amongst that run, there is a defeat to this year’s opponents, Lazio. On that occasion in 2004, Stefano Fiore shone. His three goals across two legs, played almost two months apart, secured a 4-2 aggregate win.

Lazio would be back to defeat Sampdoria on penalties in 2009, before winning again in 2013, against Roma. If that latter triumph was arguably the most satisfying of their six final victories, to win this year would represent a significant achievement. Max Allegri’s all conquering Juventus are chasing the treble - a feat only matched in Italy by Jose Mourinho’s 2010 Inter side.

Their two League games against Lazio have been largely one-sided. The meeting in Rome, in particular, where Juventus won 3-0, was ominously unbalanced. Coach Stefano Pioli insists Lazio “mustn’t even consider the two Serie A defeats,” but his side will need a marked improvement.

Lazio are entering a defining part of the season. In the space of five days the landscape of the club could be significantly altered. That may seem dramatic, but the next two games, against Juventus, then Roma, are defining.

Of the two, the latter is perhaps more important. A win would put Lazio on the brink of the Champions League - a feat that was considered beyond them. Such an accomplishment would be just reward for Pioli, President Claudio Lotito and sporting director Igli Tare. Between them, they have created a wonderful team. Lotito and Tare have built a squad that has a perfect balance of youth and experience, while Pioli has pieced it together to form an impressive outfit.

“To get into the Champions League would be a remarkable achievement for all the fans and all the people working at the club,” states Miroslav Klose.

With such a significant carrot dangling in front of them, Lazio may be forgiven for prioritising the League. But with the derby pushed back until Monday, the Coppa Italia should be competed for with equal gusto.

Juventus also have a distraction on the horizon. The Champions League Final with Barcelona may be further away, but it remains at the forefront.

Allegri states: “I see the Coppa Italia Final having the same importance as the Champions League.” With Serie A secured and a treble to compete for, there is certainly no reason to under appreciate it.

With Juventus having waited 19 years to win the Champions League again - one less than the Coppa Italia - it is fitting they can end those respective runs in such a short period.

Both they and Lazio may have other priorities, but the Coppa Italia feels important to both.

For Juventus, to win a final would be the prefect warm up for Berlin. A defeat may add doubts as to whether they can step up to the bigger stage.

For Lazio, securing silverware ahead of the most significant Rome derby since their last Coppa Italia triumph would be the best kind of adrenaline shot ahead of their season defining clash on Monday.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Coppa Italia triumph will make Champions League
final easier for Juventus - Ravanelli

The former striker says the Serie A champions can consider themselves
one of Europe's absolute best as they chase an historic treble.

May 20, 2014

Winning the Coppa Italia will make overcoming Barcelona in the Champions League final easier for Juventus, according to former striker Fabrizio Ravanelli.

The Bianconeri have already sealed their fourth straight Serie A title and face Lazio in the Coppa showpiece on Wednesday as they look to complete the treble.

Ravanelli is impressed with how Massimiliano Allegri's side have been playing and says their team can consider themselves as good as any in Europe.

"Juve can do it," he told Tuttosport.

"In this form they can do anything, I see them playing well, so well. They have played with authority, they have heart.

"Winning is always good. After winning the Scudetto, taking the Coppa Italia would make it even easier to win the Champions League because the team would arrive in Berlin even more convinced of their ability.

"On paper Juve have no reason to be jealous of the biggest European clubs. They have the strongest goalkeeper in the world, an unbreakable defence, a midfield dream and an attack composed of elements that are phenomenal."

Juventus face Barca in the Champions League final in Berlin on June 6.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Baronio: The Return Of De Vrij Is Crucial
For Lazio Against Juventus

May 20, 2014

Former Lazio midfielder Roberto Baronio believes the Coppa Italia final will be a tough game for both sides.

The 37-year-old Baronio was part of the Aquile side that won the 1998/99 Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup and spent 14 years at the Stadio Olimpico, although large periods were spent out on-loan at clubs such as Chievo.

Speaking to TuttoMercatoWeb, the Italian said: “It will be a tough game for both, Juventus are favourites having had an extraordinary season but in one game Lazio can find ways of reversing these predictions.”

Baronio, who won one cap for Italy, retired in 2011 having left the Bianconeri the year before and highlighted the current Lazio line-up as containing enough to threaten the Serie A champions: “Klose, Candreva and Anderson are the major protagonists for Lazio.

“I think the recovery of Gentiletti and De Vrij will add a crucial weapon in stopping the formidable attack of Juventus.

“Lazio need a bit of luck, nothing is ever easy but they need to play a perfect match.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus, Lazio back three for Coppa?

May 20, 2014

Both sides look set to deploy a back-three in tonight's Coppa Italia final between Juventus and Lazio.

The Bianconeri alternate between a 4-3-1-2 shape and a 3-5-2, and have also played 4-3-3 at times in this season’s run to the final.

However, with Claudio Marchisio suspended for tonight’s match, it appears Allegri will opt for the 3-5-2, with Andrea Barzagli coming into the defence.

Marco Storari is expected to start in goal, as he has done throughout the run to the final, while Fernando Llorente should replace the suspended Alvaro Morata up-front.

Lazio may also deploy a three-man defence, with speculation that Stefano Pioli will opt for a 3-4-2-1 shape.

Lucas Biglia is not likely to win his fitness battle, but Stefan De Vrij should start in defence.

At the other end of the field, veteran striker Miroslav Klose will be supported by Antonio Candreva and Felipe Anderson, with Coppa ‘keeper Etrit Berisha retained in goal.


Probable line-ups for the Coppa Italia final:

Juventus: Storari; Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Evra; Llorente, Tevez

Lazio: Berisha; De Vrij, Gentiletti, Radu; Basta, Parolo, Cataldi, Lulic; Candreva, Felipe Anderson; Klose

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Coppa line-ups: Juventus-Lazio

May 20, 2014

Juventus and Lazio pull out all the stops for the Coppa Italia Final, including Carlos Tevez, Andrea Pirlo, Felipe Anderson and Miroslav Klose.

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 20.45 CET.

The trophy will be decided tonight after 90 minutes, or if needed extra time and even penalties.

For Juve, it could be the second step towards the Treble, having already secured the Scudetto and facing Barcelona in the Champions League Final on June 6.

It would also be their 10th edition of the trophy, albeit the first since 1994-95.

Lazio have more recent pedigree in this tournament, winning only two years ago thanks to a Senad Lulic goal to defeat arch rivals Roma.

Claudio Marchisio and Alvaro Morata sit out bans for Juventus, while Martin Caceres and Romulo are injured.

Carlos Tevez partners Fernando Llorente in attack, supported by Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba.

Lazio are without Lucas Biglia, who surprisingly has recovered enough from a knee ligament injury to take part in yesterday’s training session.

Stefano Pioli is using a 3-4-3 system with Stefan de Vrij and Santiago Gentiletti finally fit, Antonio Candreva, Miroslav Klose and Brazilian sensation Felipe Anderson up front.

The referee will be Daniele Orsato, but moving the Final forward means there hasn’t been time to set up goal-line technology at the Stadio Olimpico.


Juventus: Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Evra; Tevez, Llorente

Juventus bench: Buffon, Rubinho, De Ceglie, Marrone, Ogbonna, Asamoah, Sturaro, Padoin, Pepe, Coman, Matri, Pereyra


Lazio: Berisha; De Vrij, Gentiletti, Radu; Basta, Parolo, Cataldi, Lulic; Candreva, Klose, Felipe Anderson

Lazio bench: Marchetti, Strakosha, Braafheid, Cavanda, Ciani, Konko, Mauricio, Novaretti, Pereirinha, Ledesma, Onazi, Mauri, Keita, Djordjevic, Perea

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Vidal: 'This is Juve's moment'

May 20, 2014

Arturo Vidal warned Juventus “haven’t won the Coppa Italia in too long and this is the moment” against Lazio.

The Final kicks off at 20.45 CET.

“Juve haven’t won the Coppa Italia for too long and tonight this is the moment to lift that trophy up to the sky,” Vidal told Rai Sport.

“We have a strong team who are doing very well and this is the perfect day for us to win this Coppa Italia.”

The Bianconeri won both Serie A meetings with Lazio this season, but haven’t beaten them in a Coppa tie since 2000, managing only two draws and five defeats.

As for the trophy, Juventus have failed to get their name inscribed on it since 1994-95.

“In a one-off match, everything is different, but if we are concentrated from the start then we can win it,” continued Vidal.

“The Champions League Final is a long way off, so we are 100 per cent concentrated on tonight’s objective.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: 'Juve Decima in sight'

May 20, 2014

Max Allegri urged Juventus to get the ‘Decima’ Coppa Italia, ending their taboo in this competition with Lazio.

The Final kicks off at 20.45 CET.

“We reached the Final by playing two great semi-finals, especially the second leg,” he said of their triumph over Fiorentina.

“We must put our quality and characteristics on to the field. Taking this trophy home will not be easy, but we’ll try.

“Lazio proved themselves to be an excellent squad. This is not a game like any other, as a Final is a one-off that wipes out all that came before it. Anything can happen.

“We will try to bring home the ‘Decima’ Coppa Italia.”

If Juve do win their 10th edition of the trophy, they will be able to wear a silver star on their shirts.

The Bianconeri haven’t lifted the Coppa Italia since 1994-95.

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Dino Zoff: Lazio Won’t Consider Themselves
Underdogs To Juventus

May 20, 2014

Former Lazio and Juventus coach Dino Zoff spoke ahead of Wednesday’s Coppa Italia final against Lazio and Juventus, sure that the Aquile won’t consider themselves weaker to Juventus.

Lazio meet Juventus in the Coppa Italia final at the Stadio Olimpico, with the Bianconeri looking for the second piece of silverware of a possible treble and the Aquile aiming for a trophy to hang at the end of their season.

Although Juventus have been touted as overwhelming favourites, Zoff believes that Lazio will come into the game with that inferiority complex and expects an open game with both teams going for it.

“I expect a good game, with both teams playing attacking football,” Zoff said in radio broadcast I Laziali Sono Qua.

“I hear many say Juventus will be the favourites but I expect Lazio to not simply accept that status of underdog.

“I believe individual players can make the difference but if Lazio can face Juventus toe-to-toe for 90 minutes, then they can do it.

“The coach [stefano Pioli] has brought the best out of an already good squad, which was particularly highlighted in season of Felipe Anderson.”

[Socrates 8515]

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

.-

Coppa Italia TIM Final
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Daniele Orsato

HT 1-1: Fiery Coppa Italia Final

May 20, 2014

The two captains scored in the opening 11 minutes of a thrilling Coppa Italia Final, as Juventus and Lazio are 1-1 at the break.

While the Bianconeri were targeting the Treble, having already secured the Scudetto and preparing for the Champions League Final against Barcelona, the Aquile were looking to recapture the trophy they last won in 2013. Juve hadn’t lifted the trophy since 1995 and had Claudio Marchisio and Alvaro Morata suspended. Lucas Biglia was injured for Stefano Pioli’s side at the Stadio Olimpico, but both teams surprisingly opted for three at the back.

It took just four minutes to break the deadlock, as a free kick was whipped in for Stefan Radu’s header at the near top corner. Andrea Pirlo was in front of him, but didn’t jump high enough to cut out the assist.

However, the Juventus captain was also on target soon after. Pirlo’s free kick was knocked down by Paul Pogba for an acrobatic Giorgio Chiellini volley from six yards, almost an overhead kick.

Fernando Llorente and Felipe Anderson fired over the bar, while Danilo Cataldi didn’t put enough power on to his counter to beat Marco Storari.

Pogba almost gifted Lazio a second, as his poor control on the edge of the box allowed Marco Parolo to smash a fierce strike inches past the post. Etrit Berisha also hesitated and Carlos Tevez pounced, but the ricochet rescued the Aquile goalkeeper.


Juventus 1-1 Lazio (Half-Time)

Scorers: Radu 4 (L), Chiellini 11 (J)

Juventus: Storari; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Evra; Tevez, Llorente

Lazio: Berisha; De Vrij, Gentiletti, Radu; Basta, Parolo, Cataldi, Lulic; Candreva, Klose, Felipe Anderson

Ref: Orsato