Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

RATINGS: Man City 1-2 Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon proved to be crucial for the Old Lady after making a fine double save
when City lead 1-0, while Nicolas Otamendi had a debut to forget and Samir Nasri struggled.

http://www.football-italia.net/73025/sacchi-juve-only-team-playing?

Sep 15, 2015
 

Manchester City

1 J. Hart - Made a very good save to deny Sturaro shortly after City had gone ahead but was left helpless by Mandzukic's deft touch for the equaliser and Morata's delightful curler.

3 B. Sagna - As solid as he has been all season, making one or two painful blocks in the process.

4 V. Kompany - Skipped past once by Pogba but was otherwise solid as a rock in the first half, making a number of timely clearances and tackles. Forced the opener by leaning on Chiellini and then went off - seemingly injured - for Otamendi.

20 E. Mangala - A bit sloppy with his passing and not as busy as Kompany, but was solid when called upon.

11 A. Kolarov - Tried to get things going in attack and put a couple of dangerous balls into the box. As imposing at the back as he has been all season.

42 Y. Touré - Showed plenty of power and thrust at times in this battle against Pogba, the player most likely to emulate his style.

25 Fernandinho - Set up Sterling's early chance and whistled a half-volley just past the post in the first half. Continued to break things up in the midfield and scrambled the ball away from danger when needed.

8 S. Nasri - A quiet game - did not really create a lot, which is his primary objective.

21 David Silva - Should have followed up after Buffon saved from Sterling but the veteran Italian pulled off another brilliant stop. Wasn't at his creative best.

7 R. Sterling - Should have opened the scoring early on but his low shot was saved by Buffon, and then did the exact same thing just after the opening goal. Was a threat but should have scored/

14 W. Bony - Skewed an effort badly wide and also failed to get on the end of Kolarov's low cross. A decent target man but no goal threat.


Substitutes

17 K. De Bruyne - Came on immediately later the equaliser but could not forge any opportunities.

30 N. Otamendi - Came on for Kompany and was at fault for Morata's goal as he followed the Spaniard too far across and was easily turned.

10 S. Agüero - Came on at 2-1 down for Nasri but made no impact - not fit enough for starters.


 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Got down low early on to deny Sterling impressively and then repeated the trick to keep his side in it, before springing up to deny David Silva on the rebound. It proved to be crucial.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Not really charged with getting forward, like Evra, but allowed Sterling two gilt-edged chances down the City left.

19 L. Bonucci - Solid enough without excelling. No major flaws, nothing particularly eye-catching.

3 G. Chiellini - The most impressive performer for his side before the break, mainly for his assuredness at the back, but headed into his own net for City's opener under very heavy pressure from Kompany - should probably have been a foul.

33 P. Evra - Did not get forward as much as City fans may have expected given his time at United, but ran a tight ship down his flank.

27 S. Sturaro - Almost pulled his side level but was denied by Hart. Not much of a presence in the midfield.

11 Hernanes - Offered legs in the middle but could not provide the kind of driving force which is expected. A decent showing, nothing more.

10 P. Pogba - Headed home at the far post but was flagged offside. Not at the top of his game but showed flashes of his class and composure - apart from when he sliced a volley from close in. Put the ball in for Mandzukic's equaliser.

16 J. Cuadrado - Went closest for the visitors before the break with a dangerous low shot across goal, and looked to dribble at the defence whenever possible. Faded as a threat as the game wore on.

17 M. Mandžukić - The first half passed him by but he got on the end of Pogba's cross to toe home via the post. Limped off for Dybala.

9 Álvaro Morata - Had appeared to be on the fringes until he left Otamendi for dead and curled home a beautiful goal to win it. Subbed of as Juve shored things up.


Substitutes

15 A. Barzagli - Came on for Morata to help see out the victory. Provided an extra body at the back.

21 P. Dybala - Came on but had no opportunity to get himself on the scoresheet.

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Allegri: Manchester City win
will change Juventus mentality

The coach believes his side have more belief going into the season now, and also
praised veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon for his superb performance at the Etihad.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2015/09/15/15402552/-?

Sep 15, 2015
 
Massimiliano Allegri feels the performance that Juventus provided in their 2-1 win at Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday was not unexpected.

The Old Lady have suffered in Serie A this season, failing to win any of their opening games, and fell behind to Giorgio Chiellini's own goal in their Group D clash.

But Juventus duly responded via Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata to win the tie at the Etihad, and Allegri believes the result could spark a turnaround for their season.

"We did believe even after our Serie A start but it takes patience," the coach told reporters after the match. "The lads put in a great performance and it wasn’t easy.

"The Champions League motivates everyone. A victory represents a huge boost of confidence and helps you work better.

"A defeat would’ve been seen badly, but we wanted to put in a good performance and turn the tide. It’s a psychological issue and these lads showed they were up to the task.”

The Bianconeri regularly turned to captain Gianluigi Buffon between the posts to shut their hosts out, and Allegri lauded the shot-stopper while praising his side's work ethic.

"Today when 1-0 down, we risked conceding a second, and Buffon was extraordinary," he continued.

"I had decided on Cuadrado yesterday, as he could cause problems for City between the lines. Morata and Cuadrado worked hard and sacrificed themselves for the team."

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Juventus show true colors in
Champs Lge opening win vs. Man City

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2614775/juventus-in-form-champions-league-win-vs-manchester-city?

Sep 16, 2015
 
Welcome back to the real Juventus, a side that will always understand the value of discipline, organisation and sacrificial play. It's been a difficult start to the season and many were quick to write them off in a match against the current Premier League leaders but despite the criticisms and the piling pressure, the Bianconeri executed Massimiliano Allegri's tactics perfectly to register their first European win of the season.

Many thought Allegri would revert back to the 3-5-2 formation in order to offer his back-line some added support. However, rather than play a predictable XI, Juventus lined up in a 4-3-3 formation to startle those who had already made their assumptions based on the practice sessions. An ambitious formation on paper, Allegri played a trident but ensured his side remained defensively solid by asking all his players to sacrifice for one another with the forwards tracking back and helping to maintain balance in the unit.

In fact, three of their best four tacklers of the evening were offensive players. Only Stefano Sturaro managed more tackles than Juan Cuadrado, Alvaro Morata and Mario Mandzukic, showing how hard every single player sacrificed for the cause.

With the squad closing down spaces well and Gianluigi Buffon playing the type of game that demonstrates age is nothing but a number, Manchester City were kept quiet. Manuel Pellegrini's men were forced to rotate the ball by the halfway line as they struggled to penetrate with pace and conviction. Their movements predictable and their stars stifled, they failed to make the most of the chances they did get perhaps forcing critics to believe they still suffer at a psychological level in this competition.

In essence, Juventus were never forced to exert too much energy. Their English opponents simply struggled to speed up the pace to overwhelm the Old Lady and test the resolve of a defence that had conceded four goals in three Serie A games. When they did lose possession, they simply weren't good enough at closing down the spaces, offering the Italians plenty of opportunities to show off their passing game, which only allowed Juve to grow in confidence.

This was a victory for Allegri who demonstrated courage and ambition at just the right moment. He saw that his squad were struggling on a psychological level. Rather than play the usual cautious formations that have failed to yield the right result, he attempted something new in hopes that the talent of those he picked will outshine all else. It takes a brave man to bench Paulo Dybala, who has arguably been Juve's best attacking player in Serie A, in favour of Morata and Mandzukic. He also trusted Cuadrado would do well enough between the lines to terrorise Man City as well as maintain his defensive discipline to offer overall balance.

The Colombian played an excellent game in which he not only tackled well and recovered possession but he ventured forward with attitude, working in unison with those on the right side of the field. His ability to play a cunning game that revolved around drawing out fouls in dangerous areas should remind fans of old times, when Mauro Camoranesi and Alessandro Del Piero frustrated the opponent to no end much like he managed on this occasion.

By trusting talent and ensuring his team were well drilled and well organised, Allegri has gone some way in restoring his players' confidence, forcing them to believe in themselves and not fear anyone or anything.

While it's clear certain players, such as Hernanes, struggled to impose themselves and were easily impeded by City's pressing game, youngsters such as Morata continued to remind us why investing in youth can be so fruitful. A player who can at times be selfish when he forces the issue, the Spaniard played a mature game on the night, running relentlessly, dropping back to help the team and still managing an incredible finish that will be remembered for some time. A player of the highest quality, if he continues to work as hard as he did in this game, it's only a matter of time before he's rated as world class.

It was a match in which the youngsters proved they have what it takes to take over from those who departed, while the veterans showed off their leadership skills, performing brilliantly to carry the team over the finish line. There is still a lot more work to be done, but perhaps now the team understands that when united, all can be achieved. They just have to rely on another, trusting their teammates until the very end.

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Morata: Man City win proves Juventus
remain one of Europe's best

The striker is confident the victory will be the catalyst
to kick-start their season after poor run of results in Serie A.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2015/09/16/15412922/-?

Sep 16, 2015
 
Juventus' Champions League victory over Manchester City shows the club remain one of Europe's strongest sides, according to Alvaro Morata.

The former Real Madrid striker scored a dramatic curling winner with nine minutes remaining as the Serie A champions came from behind to defeat the Premier League side 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium.

The win provides welcome relief for Massimiliano Allegri and his players after a disastrous start to the new Serie A season, which has seen them fail to pick up a win from their opening three games.

Morata, 22, insisted the slow start to the campaign was natural after there was such a high turnover of players in the close-season but is confident the club remain one of the teams to beat in the tournament.

"We just need to get used to playing together - that is perfectly normal after so many changes at the club," he said to Mediaset after the match.

"That is the reason why we have made a slow start but we can build on this result now. This is a great starting point for Juve.

"The most important thing is we won and reminded people that when we play together as we know we can, we are among the best in Europe.

"It is a very important victory for us. I worked hard to help out the defence throughout the game and was fortunate enough to score a goal too."

Juventus will look for their first win of the league season when they travel to face Genoa on Sunday.

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Juventus 2-1 Manchester City: Bianconeri
complete impressive comeback against Citizens

Second-half goals from Mario Mandzukic and Álvaro Morata gave Juventus a comeback
victory over the Premier League leaders on the first match day of the UEFA Champions League.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/9/16/9335977/manchester-city-juventus-2015-uefa-champions-league-group-stage-final-score-recap-result

Sep 16, 2015
 
Welcome back, Signora, we really miss you.

Juventus traveled to Manchester looking for their true identity, grinta and personality. After 90 minutes of an intense battle at Etihad Stadium, I believe they found all three of those things.

Max Allegri refused to give us a hint of his starting lineup at Monday's pre-match press conference and now we know why. Everybody was expecting a 3-5-2 formation with a very cautious approach; however Allegri displayed an aggressive 4-3-3 formation with the attacking trident of Álvaro Morata, Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado.

The Citizens presented their classic 4-5-1/4-2-3-1 formation, however, they were without Sergio Aguero, who was injured and began the match in the bench.

The game started red-hot, when Manchester City's summer signing Raheem Starling had a golden opportunity denied exceptionally by Gianluigi Buffon. Juventus responded quickly with a beautiful cross by Juan Cuadrado that found Paul Pogba at the second post, the Frenchman's header met the back of the net but the play didn't count because Álvaro Morata was offside. Then, Hernanes was close to score with a long-range free kick. Both teams exchanged a series of opportunities that could break the partial tie; nevertheless the first half finished 0-0.

The Citizens broke the deadlock in a polemic way early in the second half. In the 57th minute David Silva curled a corner kick to the far post; Vincent Kompany raised and committed a flagrant foul over Giorgio Chellini. The Belgian held down Chellini, who couldn´t jump and was forced to connect the ball into his own goal.

Juventus was shaken and Manchester City had taken the advantage. In a furious counterattack David Silva assisted Raheem Starling who forced a great save by Buffon; the ball ricocheted to Silva but the Juventus captain scrambled and made a second save.

In the 70th minute, 10 minutes after Buffon's miracle save, Mario Mandzukic scored the equalizer. Paul Pogba fed the Croatian with a lovely cross from the left wing, as Mandzukic then redirected the ball to Joe Hart´s left post.

Eleven minutes later, Álvaro Morata put Juventus ahead with a marvelous goal. The Spaniard took advantage of a rebound just outside The Citizens' penalty area and curled a thundering left footed shot that left Joe Hart without a chance.

Manchester City had one last chance. Yaya Touré tested Buffon with a long-range effort, but The Italian legend made another spectacular save, diving to his left to keep out a shot destined for the top corner of the goal.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon 8 Sorry guys, San Gigi can't be the man of the match because he's a demigod. His double save should be one of the UEFA's plays of the year. He kept Juventus in the game and showed once again why he's the best in the business.

Litchsteiner 6 It was a hard game for the Swiss express. He barely attacked and had problems with Starling.

Bonucci 6.5 A Solid effort by Leo. Outside one play he erased Bony and led the defense with poise.

Chellini 6.5 The own goal wasn't his fault. He was an enforcer and won a pair of great duels against Yaya Touré

Evra 6.5 He owned the left flank, however had some troubles with his final touch.

Sturaro 5.5 He had problems to understand the match. That said, in the second half he was a Pit Bull and won a lot of balls.

Hernanes 6.5 I really liked "the prophet" in this match. The middle of the park was really crowded but he played a smart game and was always well positioned.

Pogba 6.5 He assisted Mandzukic delightfully and played a solid game. Still, he needs to step up.

Cuadrado 6.5 The Colombian wanted to show his worth in this match and succeed. However, he need to be calm in some stages of the game- almost gave Max a stroke-.

Mandzukic 6.5 Made his best David Trezeguet impression. Almost invisible in the game but fought hard against Manchester City's central defenders and scored in a really beautiful play.

Morata 7 Mr. Champions League did it again. Scored a late screamer to seal the game and also helped a lot on defense.


Subs

Dybala s/v Made little impact. Celebrated Morata's goal wonderfully.

Barzagli s/v Entered in the final minutes of the match to lock down the win.


Coach

Allegri 7 Max really knows how to prepared this kind of matches. He surprised Mauricio Pellegrini with an aggressive formation and gave his men the motivation to execute it.


Things I Think I Think

Juventus broke my fearless predictions and I couldn't be happier.

Let's hope this is the turning point we're expecting. The bianconeri won against a heavyweight at Etihad stadium without Vidal, Tevez and Pirlo. Yes, Juventus can win without them.

Gianluigi Buffon: The best there is, the best there was, the best there ever will be.

Juventus is back. Fino alla fine!

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

‘Juventus showed great character’

http://www.football-italia.net/73035/%E2%80%98juventus-showed-great-character%E2%80%99

Sep 16, 2015
 
Angelo Di Livio praises Juventus’ ‘great character’ in the Champions League win over Manchester City last night.

The Bianconeri fell behind to the English side, but came back to win the match 2-1, surprising many after their poor start in Serie A.

“Against Manchester City, Juventus showed great character and desire, especially at 1-0 to the English,” former Juve midfielder Di Livio told Calciomercato.

“The great victory yesterday is a good sign, and a good starting point to start moving up the League.

“After four consecutive Scudetti, the team still seems alive and they still want to win.

“The criticism of Allegri? A Coach can make choices which may turn out to be wrong, but if you Coach Juventus or any other big club then you’re aware that you have to win.

“Can Juventus qualify? At first there was some doubt, because Sevilla aren’t bad either. But after the victory last night Juventus have taken a big step forward.”

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Del Piero: Manchester City Win Highlighted
Juventus’ Complacency Elsewhere

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/09/del-piero-manchester-city-win-highlighted-juventus-complacency-elsewhere/?

Sep 16, 2015
 
Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero believes that the Bianconeri’s 2-1 win away at Manchester City in the Champions League proves that the club’s early struggles in Serie A have been due to a lack of focus.

The 40-year-old striker acknowledged that his former side have become unwittingly complacent as they picked up just one point from their opening three fixtures.

“Juventus have won their two most important games at the start of the season when they have been most motivated,” said Del Piero to Sky Sport Italia.

“Those two main challenges were the game against City and the Supercoppa Italiana versus Lazio and Juve won both those games.

“This suggests to me that in other games they have probably subconsciously allowed their concentration levels to drop.

“This is something that can happen; Juventus also had lapses in concentration and problems with injuries last season as well.”

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Goals finally galvanise Juventus

After three dire matches and just two goals for Juventus, along came Manchester City, at arguably
the worst possible time. A 2-1 win later and the Old Lady seem to be back, writes George Rinaldi.

http://www.football-italia.net/73041/goals-finally-galvanise-juventus?

Sep 16, 2015
 
Massimiliano Allegri ended his post match Press conference after the 1-1 draw with Chievo with a simple statement, "We aren't lacking character, just a bit of goals."

Prior to the Champions League tie in Manchester, Juventus had scored just two goals. One was a penalty, and both of them came in the last ten minutes of the match. Slow starters? Failure to gel? A number of questions arose when peopled looked at exactly why Allegri's side weren’t banging in the goals.

It all seemed too familiar after the opening 45 minutes at Etihad Stadium. The defence had improved, but the attack appeared disjointed - a common occurrence in the past few weeks Juventus. They fell behind mid-way through the second-half and the groans could be heard all the way back in Turin. It was the fourth competitive game in a row where they'd failed to score in the first-half.

Enter Paul Pogba. The golden boy in the heart of the Juventus midfield, picked out a superb ball which fell just within the reach of Mario Mandzukic. The Croatian glanced it home, and all of a sudden, the Bianconeri were back.

It all felt as if everything was finally coming together, but then again, who really thought that such a state with Juventus would carry on for much longer? Mandzukic now had his first goal for his new club. You don't need a genius to tell you that the first goal is always the hardest. Now that is behind him, expect the goals to start flowing.

The attack became much more fluid from then on, with Alvaro Morata adding the final touch with an exquisite left footed finish. It may have arrived from a nothing ball and fortunate deflection, but the Juventus of last week would have smacked the post with that effort. Times were changing drastically and it all felt as if faith was restored when the ball nestled into the back of the net.

It could be the catalyst for the reawakening of one of the most tenacious attacking sides in world football. With 80 and 72 league goals across the last two seasons, with a certain Carlos Tevez at the helm, Juventus were a club to feared when they came headfirst at any trepid defence.

Hernanes and Pogba took turns to take up the attacking mantle, with the two players exchanging moments of attack and defence. The Brazilian produced an 83 per cent pass accuracy, whilst the latter managed 78 per cent, in what can best be described as the hardest place to play on the pitch.

Hernanes' unshackled role changed from sitting in front of the back four to free roaming, and he took the weight off of the Frenchman's back, allowing the 22-year-old to move well and play his game how he does best. Pogba is a player who knows he can win a game by himself, so allowing him to change styles creates chances. It meant three chances were conjured up between the two, detailing exactly half the chances made by any of the other eight outfield players. One of them fell right in front of Mandzukic, and the goal meant much more than just an equaliser to himself and Allegri.

The Coach wants Mandzukic to grow into that experienced player the Bianconeri crave. With Tevez gone, currently the longest serving forward at the club is 22-year-old Morata. As Allegri also pointed out prior to their UEFA Champions League tie with Manchester City, "We have young and talented players, but they have to grow."

And grow they did. What better way that to silence the media and nagging journalists than to score twice away from home at the only English club who are yet to concede in the Premier League?

Realistically, it was just a matter of time until Juventus got going. They had only played out 270 minutes of Serie A football, a tiny amount considering there's still 3870 minutes to go. It only takes a second to score a goal, and Allegri's men will aim be gobbling them up like hot dinners in the future. Be wary, Genoa, Juventus are back and firing.

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Yaya Toure: Juventus were
lucky to beat Manchester City

The visitors came from behind to secure victory at the Etihad Stadium
but the midfielder feels his side did not deserve to lose the game.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2015/09/15/15403012/yaya-toure-juventus-were-lucky-to-beat-manchester-city?ICID=TP_TNM_ART_4

Sep 16, 2015
 
Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure says Juventus were "lucky" after the Italian champions condemned the Premier League leaders to a 2-1 defeat in their opening Champions League game.

Manuel Pellegrini's side took the lead through Giorgio Chiellini's own goal but the visitors hit back through Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata to secure all three points at the Etihad Stadium.

The defeat is City's first of the season, after they had stormed to five consecutive Premier League wins without conceding a goal, and Toure believes his side played well.

"I think they've been lucky today, I don't think we played so bad. I think we missed a little bit of luck today," he told BT Sport . "I think we just have to be strong and try to bounce back in the next game."

The result continues City's recent poor form in European competition but Toure insists City can bring their current Premier League form into the Champions League.

"We just missed the luck today and we have a couple of changes but they've been brave and what we have to do is learn from Europe and try to do it better in the next game," he added.

Pellegrini also rued his side's luck and insists his side were the better team, although he did take time out to praise the Serie A side's goals.

"It's disappointing, I don't think we deserved to lose," he explained.

"We had better chances and played better than Juventus. It was a typical Champions League game, both teams didn't create many chances but we had more possession.

"It was not a tactical problem, Juventus just scored two beautiful goals."

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Juventus played like a team,
Manchester City didn't - Sacchi

After the Turin side's 2-1 away win, the former coach says Massimiliano
Allegri's men deserved the win because of the way they played as a unit.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2015/09/16/15420172/-?

Sep 16, 2015
 
Juventus' superior organisation was the main reason they beat Manchester City 2-1 in Tuesday's Champions League encounter, according to Arrigo Sacchi.

The Serie A champions responded to Giorgio Chiellini's own goal with strikes from Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata to seal maximum points from their opening Champions League group game of the season.

Iconic former AC Milan boss Sacchi believes Massimiliano Allegri's side fully deserved their victory for the way in which they performed as a unit.

"There was only one team on the pitch and that was Juventus," he told Mediaset Premium.

"The Bianconeri are more united and compact than City. Massimiliano Allegri didn't get a single thing wrong. He got the right line-up and tactics, which proved he believes in his players.

"Juve deservedly won, as they were the only ones playing as an organised team."

Juventus CEO Giuseppe Marotta added that last season's beaten finalists are a more unpredictable side this season thanks to their new recruits.

"Allegri has different solutions compared to last year," he said.

"This is definitely a good thing because it allows us great flexibility."

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Cuadrado: ‘Juventus must believe’

http://www.football-italia.net/73043/cuadrado-%E2%80%98juventus-must-believe%E2%80%99?

Sep 16, 2015

Juan Cuadrado says Juventus ‘should always believe in ourselves’ after beating Manchester City.

The Bianconeri are yet to win in Serie A, but emerged victorious in their first Champions League game, and the Colombian believes they should take confidence.

“We played a great match, as a team,” Cuadrado told Sky.

“I think that’s the most important thing, we went onto the pitch with the desire to get a result. When we play like that we’re a great team.

“We knew it was an important match and that gave us the extra boost to get the result. We should always believe in ourselves, we’re a strong team and we passed a big test.

“I think if we play like this we’ll be difficult to stop. Now we have to think about the next game, this has fired us up, and we know we have to strive for the Scudetto.

“We’re in the race, and we’ll play every game like a final.”

Cuadrado was praised by Coach Massimiliano Allegri after the match, but received an earful during the game for not taking the ball to the corner flag.

“The Coach told me to take it to the corner and waste a bit of time because the match was almost over.

“It was good, because you could see his desire. Next time I’ll definitely listen!”

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Massimiliano Allegri Proves His Worth
To Juventus In Champions League Victory

Juventus came from a goal down to overcome Manchester City 2-1 in the Champions League on Tuesday night,
largely down to coach Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical genius and brilliant drilling of his players.

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/09/massimiliano-allegri-proves-his-worth-to-juventus-in-champions-league-victory/?

Sep 16, 2015

The Bianconeri have suffered a poor start to the new Serie A season, claiming just one point from a possible nine, but those problems seemed to be on another planet during the game against City.

On paper, it appeared the Italians lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, but in reality this was more fluid and asymmetric. The first 45 minutes played in their favour, despite the possession statistics perhaps suggesting otherwise.

The game was being played at a slow pace, which suited Juventus’s playing style; the midfield threat of David Silva was forced to play deep in his own half while Giorgio Chiellini made sure Gianluigi Buffon was rarely threatened in the Italian goal. Even when the veteran goalkeeper was called upon, he was almost impermeable.

The preparation in the build up had paid off and the organised shape of the Juventus side made it difficult for their opponents to break through, which was evident as the Citizens only breached the Juve defence once in the first half.

Even when the Premier League side opened the scoring, Chiellini’s defending cannot be questioned, as he was blatantly fouled by Vincent Kompany. Nevertheless, the goal stood and Juventus had work to do.

The deadlock was broken at a time when the game’s pace increased and Manuel Pellegrini’s men were just beginning to turn the screw.

For the next 10 minutes, the football was being played with dangerous speed and the team in blue were beginning to settle down and find their rhythm.

Fortunately for the Old Lady – thanks to a wonderful Paul Pogba pass, which was met by Mario Mandzukic in front of goal – they snatched an equaliser.

The game’s dynamic changed and slowed down, turning once more in favour of Juve.

Alvaro Morata made sure that three points returned with him and the squad to Turin with a well-executed shot.

With ten minutes to go, Allegri decided to shut up shop, as City’s introduction of Sergio Aguero was met by the Bianconeri’s of Andrea Barzagli.

This made any remaining efforts left in Pellegrini’s locker redundant, as the Italian backline was now impenetrable.

Allegri was determined to hold on to the lead they had earned, and refused to take any chances.

Barzagli’s inclusion converted the formation to a more defensive 5-3-2, with the back-line fully covering the whole width of the pitch.

Manchester City are a huge danger going forward, their dominance in the Premier League shows this, but setting up a solid back five makes their biggest weapon powerless.

Allegri studied the English side and found out how they could be weakened, and he played his cards perfectly.

Thanks to this, Juventus came out as 2-1 winners and won the toughest task they are likely to face in their Champions League group.

Showing these positives against a side of Manchester City’s calibre gives the Bianconeri a huge boost of confidence as they return to Serie A action at the weekend.

They travel to Genoa on Sunday afternoon, where they will aim to finally kickstart their 2015-16 Serie A season after a rollercoaster first few weeks.

With this result, they are now off the mark in terms of wins this season, and you would now expect them to put together a string of positive results as they look to defend their title.

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Allegri Prioritising Champions
League Over Serie A

“My advice to Allegri is to stop thinking about last season’s successes,” were the wise words from Juventus
sporting director Marotta,as he piled the pressure on the Juventus coach after a disappointing 1-1 draw to Chievo.

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/09/juventus-club-focus-allegri-prioritising-champions-league-over-serie-a/?

Sep 16, 2015

It would appear, though, that Allegri has completely ignored that threat, and, thankfully in his eyes, it has paid dividends.

They faced Manchester City in a tricky Champions League tie on Tuesday night at the Etihad Stadium, as goals from Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata cancelled out a controversial Giorgio Chiellini opener.

This victory may have come as a shock, but it wasn’t that much of a big surprise at all.

La Vecchia Signora have been the only team challenging for the title in Serie A recently, topping the table for last two seasons with a points difference of 17 over runners-up Roma.

Yes, Juventus sit on just one point so far this term, but Allegri has already planned ahead.

They haven’t won the Champions League in 19 years and captain Gianluigi Buffon is yet to lift the trophy, so it does seem to be the main target for them this season.

Last year, Serie A affected their first few games in the tournament, as the Bianconeri lost twice in their opening three group stage matches, yet still succeeded in getting out of the group and making it all the way to the final.

So, this season, will it be the other way round?

Juventus know that they are huge favourites for the league title, despite their current league form.

AC Milan are still under construction, Inter have only just scraped a 100 per cent record and Roma have looked unconvincing overall.

Out of that 17-point lead of recent years, the Bianconeri have dropped eight points so far this term, while claiming all three in the most difficult fixture in their Champions League group.

Allegri’s moves at the Etihad prove this plan, too.

At 2-1 down, City brought on in-form striker Sergio Aguero with about 10 minutes to go and it was hoped he would get the goals they needed to turn the scoreline around.

The immediate response from the Italian coach was to replace goal scorer Alvaro Morata with defender Andrea Barzagli and play with five at the back.

Had they gone in pursuit of another goal, then the effect from the summer transfer market probably would have come into play.

Carlos Tevez had the pace to attack the opposing goal before tracking back to help in defence, but the Juventus strike force are lacking that certain energy currently.

Adding another defender into the mix, therefore, removes that risk of having too many men up front and conceding an equaliser at the other.

Juve’s determination to shut up shop was obvious when Juan Cuadrado received an earful for not running the ball into the corner late on.

Allegri’s passion towards the end of the game showed how much the victory meant to him, and he could breathe a sigh of relief as the Italians bagged all three points.

His cautious strategy is a possible sign that this season Juventus have the biggest chance yet to prove themselves gainst the big boys of European football, while still maintaining one eye on Serie A.

[Socrates 8522]

MANCHESTER CITY - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Giorgio Chiellini (57'-own goal)

Mario Mandžukić (70')
Álvaro Morata (81')

Matchday 1
Tuesday, September 15th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Etihad Stadium, Manchester
Referee:‬ Damir Skomina (Slovenia)
Attendance: 50363

Morata: ‘Juve strong in Europe’

http://www.football-italia.net/73069/morata-%E2%80%98juve-strong-europe%E2%80%99?

Sep 16, 2015

Juventus striker Alvaro Morata says the club are ‘really strong in Europe’ and warns: ‘it was a mistake to say we’re already dead.’

The Spaniard was on the scoresheet during the Bianconeri’s impressive 2-1 win over Manchester City on Tuesday.

The result has re-energised an Old Lady squad that had started the league season poorly, picking up only one point in their first three matches.

“I’ll be the first to say I played badly against Chievo, but against City we all played together, fighting with the same determination we had last year,” Morata told Tuttosport.

“The truth is that we’re really strong in Europe.

“In Serie A you concede goals and the others close you down, in the Champions League there is more space and you can play.

“It was a mistake to think that Juventus were already dead.

“So many people don’t like Juventus, it’s normal after having won four Scudetti in a row. We’re calm and if we’re compact, we’re dangerous.

“Buffon helps us, he’s one of the best in the world and it’s impressive.”

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Valeri for Genoa-Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/73080/valeri-genoa-juventus?

 
Sep 17, 2015

Paolo Valeri will take charge of Genoa-Juventus, as the Week 4 referees are announced.

The Bianconeri will have fond memories of the whistler in this stadium, as it was he who took charge of the 1-0 win over Sampdoria on May 2 which mathematically delivered the title to Turin.

This will be the 18th time Valeri has taken charge of a game featuring the Old Lady, with previous results being eight wins for the Scudetto holders, five draws and four defeats.

Antonio Damato has been entrusted with the big Sunday night fixture between Napoli and Lazio, with Paolo Tagliavento running the rule over the top-of-the table clash between Inter and Chievo.


Serie A Week 4 Referees:

Atalanta-Verona - Fabio Maresca
Bologna-Frosinone - Daniele Orsato
Carpi-Fiorentina - Marco Di Bello
Chievo-Inter - Paolo Tagliavento
Genoa-Juventus - Paolo Valeri
Milan-Palermo - Carmine Russo
Napoli-Lazio - Antonio Damato
Roma-Sassuolo - Davide Massa
Torino-Sampdoria - Piero Giacomelli
Udinese-Empoli - Michael Fabbri

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Giovinco: Juventus will bounce back from poor start

The Italian club have endured a dismal start to their Serie A campaign, failing to win any
of their opening three games, but the Toronto star believes they will halt their slump.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/09/17/15456072/-?

 
Sep 17, 2015

Sebastian Giovinco insists that Juventus will bounce back from their poor start to the season in the coming weeks.

The Italian attacking midfielder spent nine years at the Italian club, winning two Serie A titles during his time with the Old Lady.

The diminutive forward left the club to join Toronto in February, and Massimiliano Allegri’s men have struggled domestically in his absence, taking just a single point from their opening three games but Giovinco is unworried by his former club’s early-season slump.

Speaking exclusively to Goal following Toronto’s 2-0 loss to New York City, he said: “They will recover soon. We’re still only at the beginning of the season and it's still too soon to come to any conclusions.”

Juve did bring an end to their poor run of results against Manchester City in the Champions League, winning 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium, but their victory was overshadowed somewhat by Roma’s 1-1 draw with Barcelona, with Alessandro Florenzi scoring a superb 60-yard wonder goal, much to Giovinco’s delight.

"I saw the highlights of Man City v Juventus,” he added. “I saw Florenzi's goal against Barcelona. It was so beautiful!"

Giovinco – who has scored 20 goals in all competitions this season – faced off against Andrea Pirlo during the MLS clash and admitted his pleasure at meeting up with the 36-year-old after the match.

“It was great, we said hello to each other and its always nice to see him again," he added.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Caceres: ‘Genoa tougher than City’

http://www.football-italia.net/73083/caceres-%E2%80%98genoa-tougher-city%E2%80%99?

 
Sep 17, 2015

Juventus defender Martin Caceres says the trip to Genoa ‘will be more difficult’ than the Manchester City game.

The Bianconeri beat the English side 2-1 in the Champions League on Tuesday, and are looking to record their first Serie A victory of the season at Marassi on Sunday.

“We’re aware that we’re a good team, with quality players,” Caceres told JTV, the club’s official television channel.

“But we can’t forget that a team like Manchester [City] play football, they leave space, against Genoa it will be very different.

“They’ll be more compact on the pitch, and I think it’ll be more difficult than in Manchester. The English play a more open style, leave more space, but we know Genoa won’t do that.

“It’ll be a different game.

“We’ll try to do our best against Genoa, because we’ve yet to win in the Italian League. In terms of the dressing room we’ve changed too, as there are 10 new players.

“I don’t want that to be an excuse this year though, we’ll try to do our best this season and we’ll try to win something.

“I’m not going to look for an excuse, it’s been four years I’ve been here, I know the dressing room and we believe we can do better.”

The Uruguayan international did admit that the City game was important for the squad’s morale.

“It’s clear that there’s a lot of satisfaction. It was a crucial game, very important, because it was the first Champions League game.

“We’re happy, but now we know we’re facing a very difficult game, because we haven’t won in the League. Our heads are already on Genoa.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Fredy Guarin: 'Juventus are title favourites'

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/inter-milan/news/guarin-juventus-are-title-favourites_246742.html

 
Sep 17, 2015

Inter Milan midfielder Fredy Guarin has said that Juventus are still favourites for the title, despite his side's unbeaten start.

The Old Lady have managed just one point in the league after three games while the Nerazzurri have maximum points so far in Serie A.

However, speaking at a recent expo, the Colombian suggested that the reigning champions are still the team to beat in Italy this season.

The 29-year-old said: "Juventus are the champions of Italy, They are favourites for the title. We all know their ability and their ambitions.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Tacchinardi: ‘Never take Juve for dead’

http://www.football-italia.net/73121/tacchinardi-%E2%80%98never-take-juve-dead%E2%80%99?

 
Sep 18, 2015

Former Juventus player Alessio Tacchinardi warns their doubters: ‘Never take the Bianconeri for dead.’

The Old Lady have struggled so far in Serie A, recording only one point in three matches, but an impressive 2-1 Champions League win against Manchester City hinted at a revival.

"Never take the Bianconeri for dead,” Tacchinardi said to Corriere dello Sport.

“I believe that the transfer market has stimulated the team.

“Last year the motivation was the desire to prove that they could continue to win without Antonio Conte.

“This year there are players who want to get back into the game, for example Cuadrado.

“Others must raise their game, although the departure of Tevez is being felt.

“Even though Allegri presents himself publically with big declarations as a façade, maybe he doesn’t say that to his players in the changing room.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Morata: ‘Juventus a match for anyone’

http://www.football-italia.net/73130/morata-%E2%80%98juventus-match-anyone%E2%80%99?

 
Sep 18, 2015

Alvaro Morata says Juventus ‘can beat anyone’ if they play to the best of their abilities.

The Bianconeri have had a poor start to the Serie A season, but appear to have turned a corner by beating Manchester City in the Champions League, and face Genoa on Sunday.

“We know that if Juve play at our best and play as a team we can beat anyone,” Morata explained in an interview with Sky.

“It’s not going to be easy against Genoa, but we have to do everything to keep winning. We have to give everything.

“It will be nice to go back to Genoa, where we were champions of Italy. It will be nice. It will be a great game in which we have to give everything to move up the table, because we haven’t started in the best way.

“I think that’s normal though, because there have been a lot of changes in the team.”

Morata was deployed on the wing against Manchester City, and was asked to perform defensive duties for the team, but the forward insists he’s happy to work for the greater good.

“It’s important to play and to win. If I’m asked to do that, then I’ll do it and I’m sure there will be times when it goes well and others where it doesn’t go so well.

“I’m available to the team, as are all my teammates. What’s important is to have a lot of players at their maximum, to make it difficult for the Coach to pick 11 every game.”

The former Real Madrid striker was also asked about the buyback clause the Merengues retain on him, but was in no mood to talk about the future.

“I’m only thinking about winning with Juventus,” Morata replied.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Genoa V Juventus – Preview: Bianconeri Look
To Get Serie A Season Back On Track

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/09/genoa-v-juventus-preview-bianconeri-look-to-get-serie-a-season-back-on-track/?

 
Sep 18, 2015

Champions Juventus head to Genoa on Sunday afternoon in Serie A to face the Rossoblu at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, with confidence restored to their squad after the 2-1 win over Manchester City in the Champions League encounter in Manchester.

The Old Lady have struggled for form in the opening three rounds of the season, and sit 16th in the Serie A table, and only picked up their first point of the campaign last weekend against high-flying Chievo.

The Grifone are heading into the fixture in eleventh position, having suffered two defeats already in three outings, albeit both away from home, last Sunday losing 1-0 to Fiorentina, and on the opening day going down 2-0 to Palermo in Sicily. Sandwiched in-between those fixtures, Genoa did pick up their only points so far with a 2-0 over Verona, thanks to second half strikes from Leonardo Pavoletti and recent signing Serge Gakpe.

The two games between the sides last season proved tight affairs, with the Rossoblu inflicting a 1-0 defeat on the Bianconeri at the Stadio Ferraris, with a stoppage time Luca Antonini goal, but the Turin giants got their revenge with a 1-0 win of their own at the Juventus Stadium, thanks to a Carlos Tevez strike, who also missed a second half penalty for the home side.

That win for the Rossoblu last October was only their second win over Massimiliano Allegri’s men in 16 games since the sides returned to Serie A in the 2007/2008 campaign, with the Bianconeri winning ten, and the other four games ending all square.

The home side are expected to line-up in a 3-4-3 formation, with Blerim Dzemaili replacing the injured Tino Costa in midfield the only change from last weeks team that lost to Fiorentina. With first choice goalkeeper Mattia Perin not due back for a few weeks, Eugenio Lamanna will continue between the sticks.

The Old Lady are set to make four changes to the side that won in mid-week, with Alex Sandro and Andrea Barzagli set to replace Patrice Evra and Leonardo Bonucci in defence, with Roberto Pereyra taking over from Stefano Sturaro in midfield, and Paulo Dybala coming in for Tuesday’s goal scoring hero Mario Mandzukic in attack.

Claudio Marchisio is set to be sidelined for a month after lasting only 45 minutes against Chievo, suffering a adductor strain, and summer signing Sami Khedira is also not due back for a few weeks, the only major absentees for the Turin outfit.

Form Guide: Genoa (L-W-L), Juventus (L-L-D-W)


Expected Starting XI’s

Genoa:
Lamanna; De Maio, Burdisso, Izzo; Laxalt, Rincon, Dzemaili, Sissoko; Ntcham, Capel, Pandev.

Juventus:
Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Pereyra, Hernanes, Pogba; Cuadrado, Morata, Dybala.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Pogba returns to Juventus training

http://www.football-italia.net/73147/pogba-returns-juventus-training?

 
Sep 18, 2015

Paul Pogba returned to Juventus training today, after missing yesterday’s session with illness.

The French midfielder was laid-low with “light flu symptoms” on Thursday, and did not train with his teammates.

However, the Bianconeri have confirmed on their official website that Pogba took part in today’s session, as part of the preparations for Sunday’s trip to Genoa.

The Old Lady are seeking a first Serie A win of the season, having taken just one point from their opening three games.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Allegri's Juventus tactical change in UCL
could spark first Serie A win

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2619538/juventus-tactical-change-could-spark-first-serie-a-win?

 
Sep 18, 2015

Juventus' Champions League win against Manchester City was a much-needed positive result for the side. The club not only demonstrated its willingness to work but the victory provides welcome relief and a boost in confidence that should help it obtain points in Serie A.

When players understand how to sacrifice for one another then their natural quality shines. Teamwork has been the foundation of Juventus' success over the past few years and three group stage points in England should stand them in good stead going forward. However, now they have to get back to winning in the domestic league. It won't be easy especially considering the Bianconeri are expected to win most matches which could lead to a tense match day atmosphere.

It is due to those factors that defender Martin Caceres warned his Juventus teammates that Sunday's match against Genoa could well prove more difficult then the win against Manchester City. Manuel Pellegrini's side plays with a bit more ambition which leaves spaces behind to attack. In Serie A, sides like Genoa are compact and at times have the sole desire to frustrate the opponent and only take their chances when they are afforded them.

It already appears that Genoa manager Gian Piero Gasperini wants to implement a four-man backline, instead of his normal three-man defence that he uses, to hinder the potential of a Juve trident. Still, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri should be able to handle that challenge.

He pulled off a tactical masterstroke against Manchester City and fielded a new shape with more offensive power that demonstrated courage and innate understanding of the different requirements of European football. While the Blues attempt to understand how they need to play in order to replicate their domestic form in Europe, Allegri showed that despite the many changes and the new set of skills at his disposal, he knew how to balance the side to win a different type of match.

Allegri went away from Juventus' traditional method of attacking through the middle and deployed a 4-3-3 to allow the talent within the side to shine. With the squad needing a confidence boost, it allowed inspirational wing play and used the pace of the team's younger players to excel, despite missing some creative vision from the middle due to the shift.

In attack, both wide players, Alvaro Morata and Juan Cuadrado worked tirelessly to drop back and defend as well as utilising their pace going forward to aid Mario Mandzukic through the middle. The squad's ability to transition quickly proved to be the difference.

It must be said, the players being so motivated certainly helped facilitate success. Morata continued his trend of making an impact in the big matches against Man City, but there needs to be more consistency from the Spaniard. He has certainly improved over time, which has resulted in more playing time, but his performance in Tuesday's Champions League match should be expected of him at all times.

Against Genoa, the Old Lady is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation again and the same level of determination from their Champions League match will be required. Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri once said that what made Juve different from all the other sides in Serie A was their willingness to fire themselves up for each match, whether it was a big match or a small one. Now more than ever, they must demonstrate their desire to win.

It's assumed that on this occasion, left-back Alex Sandro may play instead of Patrice Evra, as his pace will prove effective while his style of play requires consistency in order to enjoy the player's real quality. As for the forward line, it's likely Mario Mandzukic will be rested with Paulo Dybala possible starting or maybe, Simone Zaza, a player seemingly set for a life on the bench with, may be looked upon for his first-ever appearance for Juventus.

Either way, it is crucial that Juventus aim for their first Serie A win of this season but it won't be easy as they lost this particular match last season. Another defeat would see Juventus drift further away from the opportunity of obtaining their fifth consecutive Scudetto. With a little more determination and greater sacrifice from the team, supporters could see Juve dominating the league once again.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Genoa vs. Juventus: Team News, Predicted Lineups

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2568175-genoa-vs-juventus-team-news-predicted-lineups-live-stream-tv-info?

 
Sep 19, 2015

There could not be a much starker contrast between the scenes at full-time of Juventus’ last two games, leaving the field to a chorus of whistles last Saturday and to rapturous applause on Tuesday evening.

The weekend’s draw with Chievo meant the reigning champions had failed to win in any of their three opening fixtures of the new campaign and saw them head to England to take on Manchester City in the Champions League low on confidence.

Yet a 2-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium appears to have restored their confidence, and there is a very different atmosphere surrounding the team as they travel to Genoa this Sunday. Their opponents have also recorded two early losses in 2015/16 and will not relish the challenge presented by the Bianconeri.

The home side notched a win over Juventus last season, but Juan Cuadrado insists their victory over the Premier League giants will see a return to form for La Madama as he told Sky Italia (h/t Football Italia):

We knew it was an important match and that gave us the extra boost to get the result. We should always believe in ourselves, we’re a strong team and we passed a big test. I think if we play like this we’ll be difficult to stop. Now we have to think about the next game, this has fired us up, and we know we have to strive for the Scudetto.

That view was shared by Gigi Buffon, the captain telling reporters that such results "are crucial for your growth, and especially for the youngsters," per the official club website. With the likes of Paulo Dybala and Stefano Sturaro performing well, it appears that is certainly the case, meaning Massimiliano Allegri will have numerous tactical options available to him.

The Juve coach will need to counter Genoa’s attacking 3-4-3 formation, and it remains to be seen if he will deploy the 4-3-3 framework that saw off City.


Predicted Formations

Genoa (3-4-3)
Eugenio Lamanna; Sebastian De Maio, Nicolas Burdisso, Armando Izzo; Issa Cissokho, Tomas Rincon, Blerim Dzemaili, Diego Laxalt; Diego Perotti, Goran Pandev, Olivier Ntcham

Unavailable: Mattia Perin, Cristian Ansaldi, Serge Gakpe, Ezequiel Munoz, Tino Costa, Leonardo Pavoletti (all injured)


Juventus (4-3-3)
Gigi Buffon; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Andrea Barzagli, Giorgio Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Roberto Pereyra, Hernanes, Paul Pogba; Juan Cuadrado, Paulo Dybala, Alvaro Morata

Unavailable: Sami Khedira (injured), Kwadwo Asamoah (injured), Claudio Marchisio (injured), Rubinho (suspended)


Player to Watch

If Tuesday night saw the real Juventus return to form, then perhaps nobody embodied that more than Alvaro Morata. The Spanish star netted the match-winning goal with a wonderful strike, his first of the new campaign, and continuing his rich scoring run in European football’s elite competition.

With Mario Mandzukic bagging the equaliser, suddenly the Bianconeri have three strikers on the scoresheet and look much more deadly in attack. Morata is likely to retain his place in Allegri’s starting XI and will look to help his side earn three vital points against Genoa.

With the Rossoblu having conceded just two goals in their opening three games of the season, Morata’s cutting edge will be vital, and he is almost certainly the man to watch at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Sunday.


Key Battle

While Juve’s domestic performances have left much to be desired, last weekend against Chievo saw Alex Sandro impress on his debut. Running the flank almost single-handedly, the Brazilian looked sharp throughout, supplying a number of dangerous crosses and looking solid defensively.

OptaPaolo ✔ @OptaPaolo
39 – Alex Sandro was the defender with the most interceptions (39) and fouls won (22) over the last Champions League. Bianconero?

However, his task was made easier by Valter Birsa’s natural instinct to drift centrally, often leaving Sandro with lots of space ahead of him when the Bianconeri won possession.

That is likely to change on Sunday, with Genoa’s Diego Perotti enjoying his time on the right flank equally well. Whoever emerges the victor of this head-to-head could have a major impact on the result, although Juve’s quality elsewhere should prove too much for Genoa.


Odds (via Odds Shark)

Away win: 100/143

Home win: 9/2

Draw: 12/5

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127

[Socrates 8522]

GENOA - JUVENTUS

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MATCHDAY 4
Sunday, September 20th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa
Referee:‬ Paolo Valeri

Genoa v Juventus: Preview

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/match/432233/genoa-juventus/preview?

 
Sep 19, 2015

Juventus defender Martin Caceres is confident his team will get their Serie A season up and running when they visit Genoa on Sunday afternoon.

The Italian champions have endured their worst-ever start to a campaign with just one point from three games.

But the club claimed a 2-1 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad stadium on Tuesday in the Champions League, with Spanish forward Alvaro Morata opening his goal account this season when scoring the winner.

``We are a good team and the game in Manchester confirmed this,'' Caceres said on his club's official website.

``Serie A is a difficult tournament and we expect a tougher game in Genoa than with respect to that of Manchester.

``We will try to give our best at the Marassi, the fact that we have many new players should not be used as an excuse.''

Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri will be without injured midfielders Claudio Marchisio, Kwadwo Asamoah and Sami Khedira while Mario Mandzukic, who scored his first goal for Juve in midweek, will lead the attack alongside Morata.

Juve have not scored more than one goal in any of their Serie A games so far and are eager to do so come Sunday.

``We need to improve and it's early days,'' Morata said. ``I want to score many goals for Juve.

``The important thing is that we return to win and climb up in the standings.''

Genoa have won just one of their opening three matches and are facing Juve following a 1-0 defeat at Fiorentina.

The Grifoni have failed to score in two of their three games and summer signing Goran Pandev admits his team needs to step up their game.

``We have played two good games and not taken any points,'' the former Macedonia forward said. ``We hope that on Sunday with the help of our fans, we can do well.

``Juventus is the strongest team in Italy and that gives us further motivation to do well.

``It's still early days and we are not 100 per cent in top condition but we are working hard to get to where we want to be as soon as possible.''

Genoa, coached by Gian Piero Gasperini, beat Juventus 1-0 at the Luigi Ferraris stadium with a last-gasp winner last season.

The hosts are without midfielder Diego Perotti and striker Leonardo Pavoletti, with both sidelined by injuries.

To complicate matters for Gasperini, midfielder Tino Costa is ruled out for a month with a groin injury.

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=SP_TN_127