Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Juventus draw at Gladbach
despite playing with 10 men

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/match/434218/borussia-monchengladbach-juventus/report?

Nov 3, 2015
 
Stephan Lichtsteiner earned Juventus a 1-1 draw at Borussia Monchengladbach just a month after undergoing heart surgery.

The Swiss defender, making his first appearance since having the procedure to cure breathing difficulties, smashed in a superb equaliser before half-time.

Fabian Johnson had fired the German side ahead while Juventus had to play most of the second half with 10 men after Anderson Hernanes was sent off.

The hosts almost went ahead after 13 minutes when Mahmoud Dahoud hit a swerving shot from well outside the area which crashed back off the crossbar with Gianluigi Buffon stranded.

Five minutes later Gladbach did get in front after Giorgio Chiellini failed to clear a low cross into the box.

Raffael collected the loose ball and played in Johnson to coolly slot the opening goal past Buffon.

Italy captain Buffon was in called into action shortly after when he had to tip Ibrahima Traore's shot over, and he then had to deal with Havard Nordtveit's powerful low drive.

Juventus eventually managed to get a foothold in the game, though, and home keeper Yann Sommer saved from Paulo Dybala before Chiellini headed wide.

Patrice Evra was next to try his luck, the French full-back's header forcing a superb diving save from Sommer.

But Sommer was beaten a minute before the interval when Paul Pogba lifted the ball over the Gladbach defence and Lichtsteiner smashed a stunning volley into the net.

Juventus were reduced to 10 men shortly after half-time when Hernanes saw red for bringing Alvaro Dominguez.

But they held on for a point thanks to another stunning save from Buffon to keep out a close-range header from Dahoud.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Pogba: 'Juve wanted win, but...'

http://www.football-italia.net/75271/pogba-juve-wanted-win?

Nov 3, 2015
 
Paul Pogba said Juventus “wanted to win” at Borussia Monchengladbach, but after the Hernanes red card settled for a point.

The Bianconeri had fallen behind to a Fabian Johnson strike and equalised through Stephan Lichtsteiner’s volley on a Pogba assist.

Hernanes was sent off for a two-footed tackle and the remaining 37 minutes were played in defence.

“We did well after the red card, but we wanted to win tonight,” Pogba told Mediaset Premium.

“On a personal level I want to be in good shape and give 100 per cent. Football is like that. I work hard to give my best, both for the team and myself.

“We want to win and to continue winning.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Player Ratings:
Borussia Monchengladbach 1-1 Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/11/player-ratings-borussia-monchengladbach-1-1-juventus/?

Nov 3, 2015
 
Juventus held on to draw 1-1 with Borussia Monchengladbach at the Borussia-Park on Tuesday night to put them on the verge of qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

The Bundesliga side dominated the first-half and took the lead in the 18th minute through Fabian Johnson after some poor defending from Giorgio Chiellini. However, despite struggling, Juventus got back into the match through Stephan Lichtsteiner, after Paul Pogba produced a stunning pass to set him up.

In the second-half Hernanes was sent-off, leading to the Bianconeri coming under serious pressure, however, through strong defending they were able to hold out the German side to clinch a vital point.

 

Borussia Monchengladbach

Yann Sommer -7 – Decent - The Swiss goalkeeper was relatively untested in the first-half, but he kept his concentration levels high to brilliantly deny a Patrice Evra header. He couldn’t have done anything to stop Juventus’ equaliser.

Havard Nordveit -7- Nice - The Arsenal academy product was playing out of position at right-back, but despite this he looked comfortable all night and he certainly dealt with the forward runs of Patrice Evra.

Andreas Christensen -7- Wonderful - The Chelsea loanee made a crucial block in the 23rd minute when Paulo Dybala ran through on goal. He was comfortable on the ball all night and showed experience well beyond his years.

Alvaro Dominguez -7- Tough - The Spaniard, like his centre-back partner, was composed on the ball and rugged throughout. He comfortably dealt with Alvaro Morata who was nullified all night.

Oscar Wendt -5.5 – Inconsistent - Like Evra, he was found wanting positionally for the Bianconeri’s equaliser as he failed to notice the run of Stephan Lichtsteiner. However, going forward the Swede was was very positive.

Ibrahima Traore -6.5 – Lightning - His pace and dribbling was an issue for Patrice Evra all night, moreover he tracked Evra’s forward runs all game and helped out Nordveit who was playing out of position.

Granit Xhaka -7.5- Commanding - Playing as a regista, the Borussia Monchengladbach captain was excellent all night as he dictated the play with his incisive and inventive passing.

Mahmoud Dahoud – 7.5- Stupendous - Dahoud started the game in adventurous form and hit a fierce shot which hit the bar early on. For the rest of the game Dahoud was excellent as he dominated the midfield, embarrassing the likes of Hernanes and Stefan0 Sturaro.

Fabian Johnson -7.5- Street-wise - Energetic and always worked hard, Johnson was rewarded early on with a goal and continued to cause problems all night with his pace and clever runs.

Raffael -6.5 – Clever - The Brazilian’s movement caused Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini numerous problems all night. He also assisted Johnsons goal, but in the second-half as Juventus dropped deep he had issues.

Lars Stindl -5.5- Comfortable - Stindl was committed in his pressing all night but he lacked a presence on the ball and missed a great chance in the second-half.


Subs:

Thorgan Hazard –N/A - On for just six minutes.


 

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon -6.5- Experienced - The veteran couldn’t have done anything to stop the opening goal but at times Buffon did look slightly suspect and anxious in his actions. Despite that, he made one stunning save to deny Stindl late on.

Stephan Lichtsteiner -8- Delighful - On his return to the side, Lichtsteiner produced a stunning run to get in behind the Monchengladbach defence and then score a great volley. Furthermore he was stout defensively.

Leonardo Bonucci -7- Rugged - The Italian struggled to deal with the movement of Raffael early on but improved in the second-half as The Old Lady were put under serious pressure.

Giorgio Chiellini –6.5- Improved - His poor clearance led to the opening goal for the Bundesliga side. However, his experience was crucial after Juventus went down to 10 men.

Patrice Evra –5.5- Lacklustre - The Frenchman was caught out of position in the run up to the opener, which allowed Fabian Johnson to score. He was also poor going forward.

Stefano Sturaro -5.5- Inadequate - The designated ball-winner in the Juventus side, Sturaro was rather lethargic and he struggled to get close to the likes of Xhaka and Dahoud.

Claudio Marchisio -6- Consistent - Marchisio found his influence somewhat limited as the Bundesliga side dominated possession but when he did get the ball he was efficient.

Paul Pogba -7- Flashy - Despite being rather silent in the first-half Pogba made up for his absence by producing a wonderful chipped pass to assist Lichtsteiner. In the second 45 his influence waned.

Hernanes -3- Shocking - The Brazilian was extremely sluggish in the first-half and was criminally under-involved. The second-half wasn’t much better as Hernanes was sent-off for a reckless challenge on Dominguez.

Paulo Dybala –6.5- Promising - Always eager to make stuff happen his movement and trickery, he caused problems, though he probably should have scored in the first-half. Was rather harshly substituted in the second-half.

Alvaro Morata -4- Dire - Morata was completely absent in the opening half. His hold-up play improved in the second-half but he was rightfully substituted late on.


Subs:

Juan Cuadrado -5- Studious - Worked hard but he came on when Juventus were down to 10 men so he rarely touched the ball.

Andrea Barzagli -N/A - Defended well but on for just 10 minutes.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Allegri: 'Look at the positives'

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/11/player-ratings-borussia-monchengladbach-1-1-juventus/?

Nov 3, 2015
 
Max Allegri insists Juventus had “a positive night in the circumstances” when drawing with Borussia Monchengladbach.

The Bianconeri had been taking control after Stephan Lichtsteiner cancelled out a Fabian Johnson strike, but Hernanes’ two footed tackle proved a big turning point in the 1-1 draw.

“Before criticising individuals or going on about the new players and the old guard, I think it is better to talk about the team,” said Allegri on Mediaset Premium.

“We started out well, then allowed 10 minutes where we ran risks and conceded the goal. After the break we again started well, the game seemed to be on track, but the Hernanes red card penalised us.

“We had the feeling that the game was in hand and we could win, but the dismissal changed the match and considering the circumstances it went well.

“It’s not right to always look at the negative when it comes to Juventus. Look at the positive, we have eight points and are very close to qualification with two games to spare. That’s not nothing. At the start of the group, we would’ve been happy to be in this position.

“It was a positive night, considering the circumstances.”

Borussia Monchengladbach opened the scoring thanks to a howler from Giorgio Chiellini.

“We have to grow in terms of character, but above all in terms of technique. We cannot struggle at the first pressure from our opponents. If we can’t play it forward, at least try not to take risks and keep calm.

“I don’t believe that the old guard are unmotivated, but we do need to get 10 players integrated and there have been a lot of injuries.

“There is a ball and we have to play football well. We have to read the situations and in some cases we’ve got that wrong.

“There’s work to do, but we did start well tonight. We have to grow as a collective and at the moment the lack of results create apprehension. After the goal and up until the Hernanes red card, the team played very well.

“The referee interpreted the tackles his way and I cannot say any more than that. We have to improve, because if Juventus want to be a great team in Europe, then grit is not enough. We have to play good football.”

There was a moment in the first half when Alvaro Morata had to sit on the touchline and change his socks.

“I can say that I am very angry about one thing, which is that we spent three minutes with 10 men while someone had to change his socks.

“There are rules, the strip has to be uniform. We ultimately must learn that this is not a fashion show, we’re here to play football.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Schubert: 'Buffon was decisive'

http://www.football-italia.net/75275/schubert-buffon-was-decisive?

Nov 3, 2015
 
Borussia Monchengladbach boss Andre Schubert credited Gigi Buffon for earning 10-man Juventus a 1-1 draw.

Fabian Johnson and Stephan Lichtsteiner scored in the first half, but the captain was decisive after Hernanes saw red.

“The performance was very positive and the game could’ve gone our way after the Hernanes dismissal,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

“Buffon did very well on some chances and we must recognise the merits and strength of Juventus.

“I am nonetheless happy with the way my team is improving. There was real focus when attacking and defending.”

Borussia Monchengladbach have won six of their last eight games in all competition, drawing twice with Juventus in the Champions League.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Gladbach 'proud' of Juve draws

http://www.football-italia.net/75276/gladbach-proud-juve-draws?

Nov 3, 2015
 
Borussia Monchengladbach players Ibrahima Traore and Granit Xhaka “proud” of Champions League draws with Juventus.

The Germans are still bottom of the group, but these were the first two points they earned in the Champions League this season.

They drew 0-0 in Turin and 1-1 on home turf after Hernanes saw red.

“Unfortunately we couldn’t get another goal at the end, but we can be proud of this performance,” said Traore.

Captain Xhaka had a similar view to his teammate on these results.

“In the end we have now played last season’s Champions League Finalists twice and emerged with draws. That’s something to be proud of.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Dybala Satisfied With Draw
Against Borussia Monchengladbach

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/11/dybala-satisfied-with-draw-against-borussia-monchengladbach/?

Nov 3, 2015
 
Juventus forward Paulo Dybala said the Bianconeri were worthy of their point after coming back to draw 1-1 against Borussia Monchengladbach in Tuesday’s Champions League fixture.

Playing a man down after a poor challenge in the 53rd minute resulted in a red card for Hernanes, the Old Lady managed to hold the Bundesliga side level and now sit second in their group behind Manchester City who have already qualified for the knockout rounds.

Despite receiving a yellow card for delaying the game while being substituted, Dybala spoke with Mediaset Premium about the match.

“It is an important point,” the young Argentine said.

“It was a difficult game, but we managed to play the way we needed following the expulsion [of Hernanes] which greatly changed the game.

When asked about his substitution, Dybala stated it was for the best.

“We all want to play, but Allegri made the right choice, we needed to get a calmer player in,” he concluded.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Juventus 1 - Borussia Monchengladbach 1:
Initial reaction and random observations

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/11/3/9666094/juventus-borussia-monchengladbach-2015-champions-league-final-score-result-initial-reaction

Nov 3, 2015

There could be a couple of ways to look at this 1-1 draw with Borussia Monchengladbach. So let's not sit around and dwell on the fact that Juve played out another draw and just go right to them...

Juventus didn't play very well for a second straight game against their German opposition and only got two out of a possible six points. The group stage total could have been 10 points, maybe even more, at the very minimum if Juve had actually won one of their two games against Gladbach.

Juventus had no other choice but to play for a point thanks to Hernanes' moment of absolutely craziness with that two-footed tackle early in the second half. Max Allegri brought in the necessary players to make sure Juventus held Gladbach at one goal, and they executed that plan over the course of the 35 minutes they played with 10 men on the field.
And then there's a third wild card part of all this simply because I feel like it...

Forget the one-point or three-point thing. If it wasn't for Gigi Buffon, Juventus might have been blown out of the water when they were down to 10 men in the second half. Gladbach pushed almost everybody forward because they needed more than just one point to get out of the bottom of the group, and every time they put something with major danger on frame, Superman was there to deny the Germans of a second goal. He's good. Really, really good.

It could be a mixture of all three, who knows. But one thing is for certain: When Hernanes decided to try and be a hero and instead got sent off for an absolutely idiotic tackle, Juventus had to change their approach — big time. As much as we wanted Juventus to try and get all three points, it just didn't seem anything close to likely once the Brazilian midfielder was shown a straight red and went off head in hands toward the dressing room.

Which, by the way, totally sucks considering Juventus were truly starting to find their footing coming out of halftime. The opening 30 or so minutes that produced the only Gladbach goal seemed to be put on the shelf and Juve had right the ship more than just a little bit. Juventus looked like a relatively dangerous team again, actually controlling the pace of the game rather than the other way around.

Instead, they were forced to sit back and defend if they wanted any chance of coming away from Tuesday night's game with one point at the very least. That was unfortunately the only thing that did happen. Juve rarely pushed forward when they went down a man (although it's not like Hernanes was doing much of anything when he was on the field, so insert the "Juve were already down a man!" joke here.)

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Lichtsteiner: "Given how things panned out after we went down to 10 men, a point is something we'll settle for."

Yeah, I can be okay with this. Juventus needs to get to the knockout round. While Man City jumped over Juve with their win Tuesday, first place might be gone — for now — but both teams very much have advancement in their hands.


Random thoughts and observations

Gianluigi Buffon.

No, seriously, just Gianluigi Buffon.

Also, Stephan Lichtsteiner is amazing. Truly, truly amazing. Basically a month to the day ago we were wondering how long he would be out for after undergoing heart surgery. Just over a month later, he's scoring an absolutely wonderful goal in the Champions League in his first game back in the starting lineup.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Lichtsteiner: "It's encouraging I managed to get back into the swing of things after only two training sessions. I'm happy."

Two training session. Let me repeat: TWO TRAINING SESSIONS. That's all it took before Lichtsteiner was deemed ready to go and play all 90-plus minutes in a high-intensity Champions League match.

Let us not forget, that assist from Paul Pogba's on Lichtsteiner's goal was FANTASTIC. It was the moment of magic that Pogba can produce no matter what kind of form he's in. I thought Pogba played relatively well, and that assist was the clear highlight of the night for him.

At what point do we re-visit the 'Giorgio Chiellini might not be as good as he once was' topic again? That was as bad as a mistake that led to a goal I can remember him making in a while. That's just something you don't do, and yet he did. An Andrea Barzagli-Leonardo Bonucci center of the defense is really okay with me for the time being. Maybe even Daniele Rugani getting a chance to play, too.

Hernanes' Juventus career is quickly becoming something we'd all like to forget. I was optimistic about him joining Juve because I'm usually optimistic about many things, but the bad is clearly outweighing the good when it comes to his contributions thus far. At least we won't have to worry about him playing in the Champions League for a little bit.

I pose this question: If Juventus is able to advance to the knockout stages come the end of their game against Manchester City in a couple of weeks, will these two Gladbach games be forgotten? The goal is to get to the knockout round and then let's see what happens. Wasn't that the plan last season? That seemed to work pretty well, I think.


POLL

Who is your Juventus Man of the Match against Borussia Monchengladbach?


67% Gigi Buffon (191 votes)

19% Stephan Lichtsteiner (53 votes)

7% Hernanes (21 votes)

6% Paul Pogba (18 votes)

283 votes total

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Max Allegri insists on looking for
positives after fortunate Juventus draw

Juventus hang on for a nervy point in Germany. This is what Max Allegri had to say afterward.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/11/4/9666396/max-allegri-looking-for-positives-fortunate-juventus-draw-gladbach-champions-league

Nov 4, 2015

Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri is looking at the silver lining instead of dwelling on the clouds. The Bianconeri were lucky to come away from Borussia Moenchengladbach with a point after they had been on the back foot all game long, even before Hernanes' needless challenge resulted in a red card and left the Italian team with a man short and over half an hour to play.

"Before criticising individuals or going on about the new players and the old guard, I think it is better to talk about the team.

"We started out well, then allowed 10 minutes where we ran risks and conceded the goal. After the break we again started well, the game seemed to be on track, but the Hernanes red card penalised us.

"We had the feeling that the game was in hand and we could win, but the dismissal changed the match and considering the circumstances it went well.

"It's not right to always look at the negative when it comes to Juventus. Look at the positive, we have eight points and are very close to qualification with two games to spare. That's not nothing. At the start of the group, we would've been happy to be in this position.

"It was a positive night, considering the circumstances."

In a season littered with silly mistakes, it was another one from veteran defender Giorgio Chiellini allowed Gladbach to take the lead.

"We have to grow in terms of character, but above all in terms of technique. We cannot struggle at the first pressure from our opponents. If we can't play it forward, at least try not to take risks and keep calm.

"I don't believe that the old guard are unmotivated, but we do need to get 10 players integrated and there have been a lot of injuries.

"There is a ball and we have to play football well. We have to read the situations and in some cases we've got that wrong.

"There's work to do, but we did start well tonight. We have to grow as a collective and at the moment the lack of results create apprehension. After the goal and up until the Hernanes red card, the team played very well.

"The referee interpreted the tackles his way and I cannot say any more than that. We have to improve, because if Juventus want to be a great team in Europe, then grit is not enough. We have to play good football."

Allegri even had an opinion on striker Alvaro Morata's socks faux pas -

"I can say that I am very angry about one thing, which is that we spent three minutes with 10 men while someone had to change his socks.

"There are rules, the strip has to be uniform. We ultimately must learn that this is not a fashion show, we're here to play football."

On what he feels needs the most work -

"Our character as a team must grow but we must also improve in a technical sense. We shouldn't struggle on the sign of pressure from the opposition.

"If we are not able to keep the ball, we should play it long into our strikers, at the very least. I don't think that the veterans lack motivation but we had to integrate ten new players into the team in addition to our injuries.

"I think that the team still has to grow and stop being overcome by nerves. There's only one ball and we have to play good. We have to read certain situations better."

When asked about why Juventus keep having to come from behind -

"We have to keep working but tonight we started off the game nicely.

"We have to grow collectively, as a team. When the results don't come, the tension grows.

"After the goal, the team played well until Hernanes' red card. The opposition could cause problems but we couldn't risk anything."

He ended the interview with some comments about star player Paul Pogba -

"He's growing, in the beginning we lost three or four key balls. "

Tonight, he put in an important performance but he still has to improve. He needs to read certain moments of the game better."

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Schubert proud of Gladbach effort

The German expressed his delight with his team's performance against last season's
Champions League finalists despite their failure to capitalise on Hernanes' second-half red card.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2914/champions-league/2015/11/04/16966882/-?

Nov 4, 2015

Borussia Monchengladbach coach Andre Schubert expressed his delight with his team's fine run of form following their 1-1 draw with Juventus.

Gladbach have lost just one of their last 10 matches in all competitions and opened the scoring at Borussia Park on 18 minutes through Fabian Johnson before being pegged back on the stroke of half-time by Stephan Lichtsteiner.

Hernanes was dismissed for a dangerous tackle following the interval and despite their failure to take all three points against 10 men, Schubert was proud to collect a second point in a Group D high on quality.

"At the very beginning, before I miss the chance, I want to make a giant compliment to my team," he told reporters.

"When we remember what a stretch of games they had bearing in mind the intensity and quality of those games, it is a sign of pure effort and will and a lot of quality.

"In the match today I think we showed that we wanted to win it from the first whistle. We tried to attack very early, tried to play good football beginning from the defence against a very good Juventus team. We were successful with that.

"We had 60 per cent possession in the first half [and] even more - of course because of the red card - in the second half and [we] had three or four chances to score."

Schubert felt Gladbach did their best to break down Juve's resilient defence but admitted they had found clear-cut chance difficult to come by.

"After the sending off we were very dominant and tried to find holes in the coverage but Juve defended extremely well," he said.

"How they defend around their own box, extremely competitive in the air, [it was] very tough. So it was hard to find any holes, we aren't really a team which is good in the air so crosses or kick and rush does not really work for us."

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Juventus dig deep, show heart,
away against Borussia Monchengladbach

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2697156/juventus-dig-deep-show-heart?

Nov 4, 2015

It may have only been a draw, and perhaps much is owed to goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, but Juventus showed more signs of revival against Borussia Monchengladbach in Tuesday's Champions League match than they managed in their last Serie A match vs. Torino.

Playing with elegance and charm, a defensive mistake coupled with a horrifying two-footed tackle cost them victory but despite the struggles, the Bianconeri showed themselves to be a better side and one that deserves progression.

Ultimately Massimiliano Allegri got his tactics wrong. Opting for a 4-3-1-2 shape, he allowed Monchengladbach the opportunity to demonstrate their strength in the wide areas, exploiting the space made available to them. Especially strong on the left hand side, the fact Allegri chose to play a narrow formation was bizarre to say the least as he fully allowed the opponent to exercise their strengths.

Utilising their pace and aggressive style of play to dominate the match, Monchengladbach forced the Italians into defending for a large portion of the first half. Their passing fluid, their style direct and their pressing game particularly impressive, Juventus' narrow midfield could barely cope. Claudio Marchisio especially struggled to handle the pressure. It seemed it was only a matter of time before the Italians committed a mistake at the back.

It was Giorgio Chiellini who eventually made the error allowing the home side to open the scoring. Interestingly though, soon after taking the lead, Schubert's team slowed down in an attempt to preserve their energy and it was then that Bianconeri grew into the game.

Showing off their elegance and technical superiority, the Italians were creating several chances in a row in hopes of provoking a similar mistake at the back to score the equaliser. Pushing together in droves, inspired by a sensational Paul Pogba who seemed eager to make an impact, Juventus looked dangerous.

Showing off his vision and trusting in his instincts, he delivered a delicious ball for the well placed Stephan Lichtsteiner to convert. The Swiss, who hsd only just returned from injury, was surprisingly included in the starting line-up despite undergoing heart surgery a month ago.

Still a man of great tactical intelligence, Lichtsteiner may not be the most accurate of players but he provides the leadership qualities required in matches such as these. More importantly, he reads the game well and always positions himself perfectly to receive the ball, facilitating the work of the midfield.

From the 35th minute, once the tempo had slowed, the Old Lady seemed to be getting back on track, initiating interesting patterns of play and creating enough to scare their opponent's fragile defence. Once Lichtsteiner scored, it seemed inevitable Juventus would manage a second. That demonstrated the other side to Juventus -- one that seems to appear more in Europe than it does in domestic clashes.

Starting the second half assuredly, it didn't take long before immaturity forced Hernanes into a reckless and needless two-footed challenge. With the Brazilian sent off, Juventus were forced to defend their one point for the remainder of the match, playing with much grit and heart.

It was their desperate attempt to prevent a loss and fight for the points in all areas of the pitch that gives the many fans and critics hope that there is life to this Juve after all -- hope that wasn't necessarily felt after the Derby della Mole victory over Torino.

In fact, three of the Italian sports newspapers -- giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, Corriere dello Sport and Tuttosport -- will all feature the word 'heart' in tomorrow's front page headline with regards to Juve's performance. A team that has been criticised relentlessly, most of it deserved, it is perhaps time to credit the side for managing under the circumstances and for showing signs of development.

Managing only 33 percent possession and forced to contend with an opponent who values pace and aggression, it took a united and cohesive unit, not to mention a remarkable Buffon, to snatch a point. If they can show the same kind of desire in the league, perhaps the fans can start to believe again.

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Returning Lichtsteiner’s Goal Earns Juventus
A 1-1 Draw With Borussia Moenchengladbach

http://www.thehardtackle.com/2015/returning-lichtsteiner-goal-earns-juventus-a-1-1-draw-with-borussia-moenchengladbach/?

Nov 4, 2015

Ten-man Juventus took a step towards the Champions League knockout phase with a 1-1 draw at Borussia Moenchengladbach on Tuesday as Stephan Lichtsteiner scored on his return from heart surgery.

The Swiss defender netted just before the half-time break to cancel out Fabian Johnson’s 18th-minute opener for the hosts.

It was Lichtsteiner’s first appearance since the 31-year-old wing-back had an operation to fix an irregular heartbeat after coming off during a match in September with breathing difficulties.

“For me it was important to resume playing quickly (after surgery]. I trained only twice with the team but the match was really important for us and I wanted to help the team,” said Lichtsteiner.

“We wanted a victory, but considering that we conceded early and that we were reduced to 10 men early in the second half, we can be satisfied with the draw.”

Juventus played the last 35 minutes with 10 men after their Brazilian midfielder Hernanes was sent off for a late tackle on Gladbach’s Alvaro Dominguez, just as the visitors were starting to take control of the game.

Despite the point, Juventus remain unbeaten in Europe, but dropped to second in Group D with Manchester City going top by virtue of their 3-1 away win at Sevilla, in so doing qualifying for the last 16.

Gladbach remain bottom of the group with just two points from four games and need to beat Sevilla in their next home Champions League match later this month just to stay in contention to qualify for the Europa League knockout phase as third in the group.

“We’re all very disappointed, we controlled the game and had the better chances,” Gladbach’s Guinea international Ibrahima Traore told Sky.

“Unfortunately all that was missing at the end was a goal.”

After their teenage defensive midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud hit the crossbar with a curling long-range shot, the hosts took a deserved lead at Borussia Park.

Juve’s Giorgio Chiellini failed to clear a low cross into the box, Brazilian striker Raffael collected the loose ball and played in US international Johnson, who slotted his shot past the Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.

Having been named in the starting line-up, Lichtsteiner showed he is back to his best when Paul Pogba lifted a superb pass over the Gladbach defence and the Swiss smashed the ball past his national team-mate Yann Sommer on the volley on 44 minutes.

It was 1-1 at the break but the game’s tempo changed when Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers showed Hernanes a straight red card on 55 minutes, although replays showed both he and Dominguez went fully committed into a challenge for the loose ball.

However, the few clear chances Gladbach carved out were expertly saved by the impressive Buffon.

With time almost up, Juventus’s veteran goalkeeper kept his side in the game when the 37-year-old palmed Thorgan Hazard’s shot over the bar with a reflex save.

Gladbach’s caretaker coach Andre Schubert has yet to secure a contract despite winning six straight Bundesliga games.

His record in Europe is now two draws and a defeat after his side earned a point in the away match in Turin a fortnight ago and lost at home to Manchester City.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Borussia M. vs. Juventus 2015: Final score 1-1,
Gigi Buffon's heroics win a point for the visitors

Gianluigi Buffon single-handedly covered for the schoolboy errors of Giorgio Chiellini

and Hernanes to move Juventus within a point of knockout stages.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/11/4/9667290/borussia-monchengladbach-juventus-2015-champions-league-final-score-recap-result

Nov 4, 2015

How many times has Gianluigi Buffon been Juventus’ hero this season? How many times has he shouted his lungs out at his teammates during matches? With the risk of pointing out the obvious, Buffon is pretty much the reason why the Old Lady is not finding herself in an even worse position in Serie A. Without his magnificent saves, the Champions League knockout stages wouldn’t be just one point away.

For all the heat and criticism Max Allegri is getting, he is doing a rather good job with the actual Juventus. In a difficult season of transition from a squad characterized by harmony towards an almost completely new squad for which inconsistency has been the defining word so far, finding out a scapegoat in the person of Allegri was the easiest thing to do. But overlooking the many individual mistakes – the whole lot of individual mistakes – that have marred the results so far is not entirely sensible.

Allegri has made them as well when shuffling the starting line-up and formations like a deck of cards. But seeing an experienced defender like Giorgio Chiellini swinging what is supposed to be his stronger left foot like a primitive man would swing his cudgel in search of his prey is painfully – not even as a Juventino, but as a supporter of the game of football. It becomes even more so when, in the same match, another player supposed to keep his cool and create something in the final third goes flying in with a two-footed challenge for a ball that was never going to be his.

The list could go on for a while and would include the previous games but also Alvaro Morata leaving his team with 10 men on the pitch for three minutes for having to change his socks. But despite all that, this season has not been as bad as the tifosi perceived it. With the right attitude, Christmas time could be a very enjoyable period – not just because of all the mulled wine and select dishes, but also for having Juventus just a few points off the first spot.

Even considering the huge advantage of finishing first in the group Champions League seems like an affair ready to be put to bed until February. Second place is more than enough to get you to the last 16 and beyond that, just like last year’s experience taught us all. Focus shall then be on the Serie A, where a big game away at Empoli awaits. Immediately afterwards, the much-loved international break is again welcomed.

Whether it is going to be a good timing or not, the Milan-Manchester City double will let us know.


MATCH SUMMARY

Juventus came close to open the scoring inside five minutes after a set piece taken by Paulo Dybala from the right but after the defence cleared the first ball in, Alvaro Morata couldn’t keep the rebound on target.

The host had the first real opportunity of the game in the 14th minute when Mahmoud Dahoud controlled a ball outside Juventus’ area and then sent a piled river straight against the crossbar, leaving Buffon reactionless.

It was a sign of things to come as Monchengladbach opened the scoring a few minutes later. Chiellini completely missed a clearance inside the 16-yard box and Fabian Johnson took full advantage of it after Raffael played him in one-on-one with Buffon. The American winger gave Juventus’ veteran goalkeeper no chance with a neat finish at the far post.

The Germans continued to press on after the goal and Buffon was forced into making a couple of saves to keep the scoreline within reach for Juventus as Ibrahima Traore and Havard Nordtveit both tried their luck with shots from distance.

Chiellini was close to made up for his mistake at the goal conceded in the 26th minute when his header from a corner kick taken by Dybala went inches wide of the far post.

With 10 minutes left to play in the first half, weak long-distance attempts from Dybala and Hernanes could do little to change the score in favour of the Old Lady, who struggled to link more than a few passes together and threaten Yann Sommer’s goal.

Thirty nine minutes in, Evra leaped over the hosts’ defence following a set piece delivered into the box by Dybala but his magnificent header was pushed behind for a corner kick by a full-stretched Sommer.

Lichtsteiner levelled the scoreline a minute before time with a delicious first-time volley that went in off the far post, after Paul Pogba chipped in a similar wonderful ball over the German defence line. A goal reminiscent of the times Pirlo-Lichtsteiner used to be one of the most used paths in Juventus’ game.

Juventus started the second half in the same attacking mood as they finished the first and Pogba came inches away from scoring when his curled effort went just of Sommer’s left-hand post.

The Bianconeri were controlling the game and pushing for another goal when Hernanes received a straight red for a two-footed challenge on Alvaro Dominguez in the 53rd minute.

Johnson almost put the hosts upfront once again in the 64th minute but he couldn’t keep his first-time volley from inside the area on target. Moments later, a deflected shot of Dahoud put Buffon to the test once again, but the keeper managed to keep hold of the ball.

After Andrea Barzagli replaced Morata, Juventus spent the final quarter of an hour defending the result, with Monchengladbach coming close to scoring on a couple more occasions but Buffon proved his world class quality on both situations, saving a point for the Italians.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon: 8 Could to little to stop Jonhnson’s shot, but was magnificent every time Monchengladbach tested him, single-handedly saving the game for Juve

Lichtsteiner: 7 Fabulous goal from the Swiss Express on his return to football after a month out

Bonucci: 5.5 Mispositioned himself again in a couple of situations and had a shaky game overall

Chiellini: 5 Horrendous mistake to allow Johnson to score

Evra: 6 Missed a great chance in the first half but had a decent performance defensively

Marchisio: 5 Haven’t seen him

Sturaro: 5 Haven’t seen him either

Hernanes: 3 Sent off for a totally idiotic challenge

Pogba: 6.5 Really wasteful at times and gave the feeling he was trying too much, but a delightful assist.

Dybala: 6.5 Very lively upfront, delivered a few really good crosses and created chances for his teammates

Morata: 5.5 Poor performance from the Spaniard who rarely got involved effectively in any attacking moves


Subs

Cuadrado: 5.5 Came in for Dybala after the hour mark but had little impact on the game

Barzagli: s/v Replaced Morata with 15 minutes left to play

Lemina: s/v Late replacement for Sturaro


Coach

Allegri: 6 Juventus were completely outplayed in midfield and Allegri did little about it. A really good start in the second half came to nothing after Hernanes’ dismissal. Got the maximum out of the game in the end.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Buffon and Lichtsteiner
spare Juve blushes

Costly errors meant Juventus had to battle to earn a Champions League
draw at Borussia Monchengladbach. Luca Cetta reviews the action.

http://www.football-italia.net/75283/buffon-and-lichtsteiner-spare-juve-blushes?

Nov 4, 2015

Juan Cuadrado hit the headlines following his dramatic Turin Derby winner on Saturday, but were it not for Gianluigi Buffon heroics then Juventus would have faced a very different 118th birthday celebration the following day. When the Old Lady needed her captain, he stood up and delivered, making four crucial saves.

When Buffon had to lead by example again at Borussia Park on Tuesday he did so in an outstanding manner. Twice he left the raucous home support bewildered as 10-man Juventus defended a 1-1 draw in the final half hour. In an outing which for the Bianconeri hinged on the major events of the evening, Buffon was at his best to deliver the result for the Italian champions.

It came amid intense Borussia pressure as Juventus relinquished the desire to push for maximum points. The veteran stuck out a leg to deny a point-blank Lars Stindl header, then flew to tip Thorgan Hazard’s thunderbolt on to the crossbar. Gladbach boss Andre Schubert could only praise the goalkeeper. The draw eliminated Borussia and leaves Juventus on the brink of qualification for the knockout phase.

If only some of his teammates had done the same. Because Juventus had to battle for 90 minutes to earn a point, on two occasions let down by costly errors.

Massimiliano Allegri’s team started slowly after their confidence boosting Derby della Mole success, Mahmoud Dahoud going ever so close as he thumped the crossbar. But as Juventus attempted to weather the early storm Giorgio Chiellini handed the opening goal to Borussia on a platter in the 18th minute. His sliced clearance from an innocuous cross allowed Raffael to find Fabian Johnson, the United States international steering an angled drive past Buffon. It continued a horror patch for the experienced defender following from his inexplicable Sassuolo dismissal.

Starting the second half in a positive frame of mind, Juventus sought out a crucial second goal that would have sealed qualification for the Round of 16. After their own period of domination which saw Paul Pogba go closest with a curling effort, Hernanes lunged into a dangerous two-footed challenge that earned a red card.

With that, thoughts switched to defending the draw. They only intensified in the final quarter hour as Alvaro Morata made way for Andrea Barzagli, leaving Cuadrado as the lone attacker. “We had the feeling that the game was in hand and we could win,” Allegri stated, “but the dismissal changed the match and considering the circumstances it went well.”

One positive to take from the evening was Stephan Lichtsteiner’s return. Substituted against Frosinone in late September with breathing issues, he underwent heart surgery to correct the problem. There were fears he would not play again, or if he did, then not for some time. A little over a month later he was back in action.

Lichtsteiner capped his return with a superb goal, latching on to Pogba’s clever lofted through ball in the 44th minute to volley past Yann Sommer. Like Buffon, where Juve required an individual to make the difference, Lichtsteiner provided. It was a good fight-back from the Bianconeri, who earlier had chances to equalise through Chiellini and Patrice Evra. “After the goal and up until the Hernanes red card, the team played very well,” the Coach noted.

Still unbeaten after four European matches, Juventus did fall to second spot in Group D thanks to Manchester City’s win at Sevilla. Only a point separates the pair, with the Citizens travelling to Turin later in the month.

“We have eight points and are very close to qualification with two games to spare,” Allegri reminded. “That’s not nothing. At the start of the group, we would’ve been happy to be in this position.” It leaves destiny in Bianconeri hands going into the final two matches.

There the players must follow the lead of the captain and Swiss Express, individuals who made crucial contributions when Juventus needed it the most. They cannot afford the errors which nearly made the trip to Germany disastrous.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Pogba: Juventus Were Desperate
To Beat Borussia

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/11/pogba-juventus-were-desperate-to-beat-borussia/?

Nov 4, 2015

Paul Pogba has stated Juventus wanted to win Tuesday night’s Champions League fixture with Borussia Monchengladbach however settled for a 1-1 draw following a Hernanes red card.

The French midfielder was instrumental in ensuring the Bianconeri earned a result in Germany, providing the assist for Stephan Lichtsteiner’s 44th minute equaliser.

Nevertheless, Pogba believes his team have a lot to take away from the match.

“After the expulsion, we did very well,” Pogba told Premium Sport.

“We wanted to win but we bring home a draw, [and] that’s ok.

“I work to always give 100% but that’s football, one day you’re there and another you’re not.

“But I think I did well for the team.”

The draw brings Juventus closer to the knockout stage of the Champions League where a win at home to Manchester City would send them through to the round of 16.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Giorgio Chiellini and Hernanes at Fault
as Juventus Draw with Gladbach

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2585913-giorgio-chiellini-and-hernanes-at-fault-as-juventus-draw-with-gladbach?

Nov 4, 2015

For the second time in two weeks, Borussia Monchengladbach held Juventus to a frustrating draw, the 1-1 final score merely the latest in a season of disappointing results for the Bianconeri.

That first encounter—analysed in detail here—ended scoreless, with the attacking prowess of the Italian giants called into question as statistics courtesy of WhoScored.com showed they managed just two shots on target, despite dominating almost the entire game.

That was certainly not the case this time around as Juventus gave a much improved all-round performance, only to be let down by two veteran players who should have too much experience to make the kind of mistakes seen at Borussia Park.

After some stale midfield displays in recent weeks, Massimiliano Allegri opted to start Hernanes, with the Juventus coach hoping the Brazilian would bring some much-needed creativity both in open play and at set pieces.

OptaPaolo ✔ @OptaPaolo
18 - Only Buffon (16) had fewer touches than Hernanes (18) in the first half of #BMGJuve. Lost.

The 30-year-old failed to do so, however, with WhoScored showing he completed just 16 passes and took three shots, all of which failed to hit the target.

After 53 ineffective minutes, Hernanes ensured his impact on the game was even more harmful with a senseless move.

Inexplicably launching into a two-footed challenge on Alvaro Dominguez, Hernanes gave the referee no choice but to send him off, and Allegri deemed that moment to be the turning point of the game.

“We had the feeling that the game was in hand and we could win,” the coach told Mediaset Premium (h/t Football Italia) shortly after the final whistle. “But the dismissal changed the match and considering the circumstances it went well.”

Gigi Buffon made crucial stops from Granit Xhaka, Lars Stindl and Thorgan Hazard, but otherwise Juventus were able to limit Gladbach’s chances despite their numerical disadvantage.

Indeed, had it not been for a Giorgio Chiellini error in the first half, the Bianconeri could have been protecting a lead rather than preserving a point.

The game was just 18 minutes old when the German side crossed the ball and, rather than make a simple clearance, the defender somehow passed the ball directly to Raffael instead. The Brazilian quickly found Fabian Johnson, and he made no mistake with an angled drive beyond Buffon.

GOAL | Monchengladbach 1-0 Juve What was Chiellini thinking? The Germans have been gifted the lead. Courtesy: BT pic.twitter.com/O3LNlqiKS7

— fanatix (@therealfanatix) November 3, 2015

What makes matters worse is that Chiellini, 31, was only returning to the side after sitting out Saturday’s Turin derby due to suspension, banned for one game following an equally mindless red card against Sassuolo.

Given the form of Andrea Barzagli and the presence of Daniele Rugani in the squad, Chiellini’s continued presence in the starting XI must now be highly questionable. His importance to the team over the past few years cannot be understated, but for now, a spell on the bench is perhaps best for all concerned.

There were some positive points to take from this display, and those should not be forgotten. Paul Pogba continued his recent good form, while the significance of Stephan Lichtsteiner’s return must also be noted.

Netting a wonderful equalising goal, the Switzerland international—who had been sidelined for a month after cardiac surgery—was as reliable as ever defensively, but he, too, was disappointed that he couldn’t help the Bianconeri claim all three points.

“No, I wasn’t dreaming of a comeback like this, I wanted to win. Given how it went after we went down to 10 men, we’ll take it,” he told the club’s official website, going on to discuss his return to fitness. “I’m pleased, even though I’d only trained twice, it was important to get straight back into action at full tilt.”

With Juventus now sitting in second place in Group D, those errors from Hernanes and Chiellini prevented the Old Lady from securing qualification with two games to spare. Juve will return to Champions League action after the international break, needing to take points from Manchester City and Sevilla to achieve that aim; a task now made more difficult than it needed to be.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Stephan Lichtsteiner marks Juventus return
after heart surgery with goal

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/story/2697504/stephan-lichtsteiner-marks-juventus-return-with-goal?

Nov 4, 2015

Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner has said he felt a duty to help his teammates as he marked his return from a heart operation with a crucial Champions League goal on Tuesday.

Lichtsteiner, 31, has spent the last month on the sidelines after surgery was deemed necessary when he complained of breathing difficulties.

A surprise starter at Borussia Monchengladbach, the Swiss defender justified coach Massimiliano Allegri's faith in him with the equaliser in a 1-1 draw 40 days after his last appearance.

"It was important for me to come back immediately, even after only two training sessions -- there was no way I could leave the team in the lurch in such a delicate moment," he told Mediaset.

"I want to lend a hand to the team. We wanted to win, but given the way the game went, and with the red card [for Hernanes after a challenge on Alvaro Dominguez], the result's fine."

The point means Juve, who have struggled in Serie A this season, can join Manchester City in the Champions League round of 16 if they beat them at home.

If they fail to do so, a draw at Sevilla in their final group game will suffice.

But Allegri was irritated that Alvaro Morata was reprimanded by the referee for wearing odd socks.

"You can't have a player who has to come off the field to change his socks because they are not identical," he said.

"The rules are the rules and I'm very angry about this. If you want to go somewhere in the Champions League, you need to play better and have the right attitude, and we don't have this yet."

Juve travel to Empoli on Sunday, looking to cut the nine-point gap to league leaders Inter Milan and Fiorentina prior to the international break.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Sturaro: ‘Good point at Gladbach’

http://www.football-italia.net/75308/sturaro-%E2%80%98good-point-gladbach%E2%80%99?

Nov 4, 2015

Juventus midfielder Stefano Sturaro insists a draw at Borussia Monchengladbach was “a good point.”

The Bianconeri fell behind to the German side, but got back into the game, and appeared to be in the ascendancy until Hernanes was sent-off.

“Considering how we started, in the end we brought home a good point,” Sturaro told Sky.

“Borussia are a technical team who play well, and it wasn’t easy to get the equaliser. We did well to stick together in the difficult periods.

“We have to continue to grow, in terms of playing together and knowing each other better.

“Every game offers different situations, which maybe as a group we haven’t been able to overcome. Also, as the Coach [Max Allegri] says, we have to improve technically, and everyone must give more.

“Of course, everyone is a professional, always on point and ready to be fight for the cause, that’s why we always train at the maximum.”

The former Genoa man was then asked about Sunday’s match, which will see the Old Lady take on Empoli.

“Empoli will present the same issues as Borussia in some ways. We have to be united, and not allow them to have space or hit balls forward, it’s very important that we bring home a win.

“As for what happens next, we’ll see, now we just have think about winning one game after the other.”

Finally, the Italian Under-21 international paid tribute to Stephan Lichtsteiner, who celebrated his return after heart surgery with a goal last night.

“Stephan is a great professional,” Sturaro said.

“He always trains with great character, determination and will-to-win. His game yesterday speaks for itself.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Marchisio: Juventus Earned An Important Point
Against Borussia Monchengladbach

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/11/marchisio-juventus-earned-an-important-point-against-borussia-monchengladbach/?

Nov 4, 2015

Juventus’ Claudio Marchisio has praised his team’s performance during their 1-1 draw with Borussia Monchengladbach in the Champions League, claiming they played with heart.

The Bianconeri found themselves a goal down early on in the game, though they battled back through Stephan Lichtsteiner to earn another vital point in their bid to qualify for the knockout rounds.

“We wanted to secure qualification already here in Germany, but after the way they [borussia] played we ended up earning an important point,” Marchisio wrote on his official Facebook page.

“It was a point that we won with great courage and heart.

“We also remain unbeaten in the Champions League, which is another positive.

“But we know we have to give much, much more and we have to do this even before the trip to Empoli [on Sunday].

“Now let’s think about the league.

“Thanks to all the fans who have followed us this far.”

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

Ancelotti writes off Juventus' Champions League
chances, but predicts Scudetto challenge

The former Real Madrid boss believes the departures of key players will stop Juve
replicating the exploits of last season in Europe, but a title charge is still on the cards.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2565/exclusive/2015/11/05/17006512/-?

Nov 5, 2015

Carlo Ancelotti has written off Juventus' chances of going all the way in this season's Champions League following the summer departures of Carlos Tevez, Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo.

The Bianconeri reached the final last term, losing 3-1 to Barcelona in Berlin, but have started the current season terribly after losing three of their key men.

"I think it’s going to be really hard for them to reach the final again as they have lost so many good players," Ancelotti told Goal.

"They signed a number of very good and young talented players who will surely do well, but they need time to understand the system. That’s why I think they won’t reach the final like last year."

Although they are well placed to reach the Champions League knockouts, Juventus are currently languishing in 10th position in Serie A after 11 games - already nine points behind joint league leaders Fiorentina and Inter.

However, Ancelotti insists the Bianconeri can re-enter the race for the Scudetto - even if he believes Roma are the favourites to take the crown this season.

"I do not think Juventus are out of the fight for the Scudetto," he stressed.

"It is a strange and very balanced championship this season. The average points won will be lower than usual and for this reason I think Juve still have time to recover.

“The team that has the best chance of winning the title is Roma because their offense is probably the most dangerous. I think [despite their win over Roma on Saturday] Inter will still have some issues because they changed a lot this summer and it’s not easy to get all the new players on the same page.

"Then there is Napoli, who have started very well the season. I think Napoli can only improve further. The players are learning Maurizio Sarri’s system and will do better as they get to know it. I like Sarri’s philosophy because it’s an attacking one."

Ancelotti says he would reject the chance to return to Juventus should the struggling giants approach him to replace under-pressure coach Massimiliano Allegri.

The ex-Real Madrid boss, who is currently unemployed after departing the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, coached Juventus from 1999 until 2001.

He has been linked with a potential return to Turin following the Bianconeri's worst start to a domestic season in almost 30 years.

"What if Juve approach me? It is natural there is talk about me going back to Italy, but I have already been there [at Juve]," Ancelotti said. "Also, I am attached to one team only in Italy [AC Milan].

"At Juve I had a good experience and I got on well with directors Luciano Moggi and Antonio Giraudo. There was a nice atmosphere and I got to understand how important the relationship is between a club and its coach.

"But I prefer an experience abroad as my next job. I had a very good time in England and appreciated the environment, the stadiums and the respect from fans. I would love to go back to England."

Ancelotti also compared three of the big name presidents he has worked under during his coaching career - AC Milan's Silvio Berlusconi, Chelsea's Roman Abramovich and Real Madrid's Florentino Perez.

"The thing they have in common is they all love football," he explained.

"The differences are that Perez and Berlusconi were born with a team in their heart. Abramovich became fond of Chelsea later. Perez and Berlusconi are more fanatical about the game, while Abramovich is a little more detached."

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

BORUSSIA M. - JUVENTUS 

1 - 1

Fabian Johnson (18')

Stephan Lichtsteiner (44')

 

Matchday 4
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Borussia Park Stadium, Mönchengladbach
Referee:‬ Bjorn Kuipers (Holland)
Attendance: 46217

CAN JUVENTUS CHALLENGE IN THE
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE THIS SEASON?

http://www.juvefc.com/can-juventus-challenge-in-the-champions-league-this-season/?

Nov 5, 2015

Juventus are one of Italy’s most successful clubs and have won a number of trophies throughout their illustrious history, including 31 domestic titles and two European Cup triumphs. Without a shadow of a doubt, Juventus are widely regarded as one of the world’s biggest teams and the Old Lady are still a dominant force across the continent. In fact, they are one of the world’s most successful sides and have an incredible fan base that spans across the planet.

This season, however, they have struggled to build any sort of momentum in Serie A. Juve are currently chasing a fifth successive Italian league title but sit nine points behind joint-leaders Fiorentina and Inter Milan. For more information on the Serie A title race, you can refer to Bookmakers.co.uk. They can keep you updated on the latest news, as well as odds on all of Juventus’ upcoming matches, including Champions League fixtures.

Although the title isn’t beyond their reach just yet, Juve should strongly consider putting all of their eggs in one basket and aim for Champions League glory this season. After reaching the final of the competition in the 2014-15 campaign, Massimiliano Allegri’s men have the experience, talent and organisation to advance to the latter stages of the competition – despite losing the likes of Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez this summer.

In the summer transfer window, Juve definitely lost more than they gained. In Vidal and Pirlo, they lost two crucial components of their immense midfield and, if truth be told, they are yet to recover from losing both of their star men. While they managed to keep Paul Pogba at the Juventus Stadium, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see the France international move to either Barcelona or Real Madrid next summer. Both clubs have an open chequebook and will pay whatever it takes to lure Pogba at the end of the season.

With just two group fixtures remaining, Juventus will be quietly confident of advancing to the next stage of the competition. Manchester City have been much improved this season and look as though they will finish at the top of the group, meaning that Allegri’s men may face one of Europe’s elite in the last-16 stage of the competition. If that is the case, their time in the tournament may be cut short but it would be foolish to write Juventus off as they still possess a solid, reliable and defensively astute team.

Can they challenge for Champions League glory this season? Of course they can. With a bit of luck, Juventus can emulate last season’s performance and reach the final of the competition. Pogba is their driving force, however, and an injury to their star performer could be catastrophic for their hopes of success – both domestically and in Europe. However, they stand an excellent chance of reaching the latter stages at the very least and from there, who knows. Football’s a funny old game…

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/uefa-champions-league/10

[Socrates 8524]

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 12
Sunday, November 8th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli
Referee: Davide Massa

Maccarone: ‘Rugani should play more’

http://www.football-italia.net/75396/maccarone-%E2%80%98rugani-should-play-more%E2%80%99?

 
Nov 6, 2015
 
Massimo Maccarone admits he expected his former Empoli teammate Daniele Rugani to be given more space at Juventus.

The young defender played every minute for the Tuscan side in Serie A last year, but has so far been given just one Champions League cameo appearance for the Bianconeri.

“I expected him to have more space,” Maccarone admitted in a Press conference ahead of the meeting with Juve on Sunday.

“It’s also true that he has great champions head of him, so it’s not easy to play. I’m convinced of my opinion though, someone with his characteristics will be a starter for Juve in the future.”

It has been suggested that Rugani may finally get his chance on Sunday against his former club, but Maccarone is looking forward to facing the Old Lady regardless.

“For us to face Juventus now is a good advantage. We’re going through a good period, but it’s when you’re getting results that the intensity can drop.

“Playing against Juventus now is perfect, and protects us from that, because how could you not be motivated to face the champions of Italy?

“A Juventus crisis? How can you doubt a team which has won the last four titles? We’re ready, even though it will be a very delicate match.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 12
Sunday, November 8th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli
Referee: Davide Massa

EMPOLI V JUVENTUS MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.juvefc.com/empoli-v-juventus-match-preview-and-scouting/?

 
Nov 6, 2015
 

Juventus

Juventus come off two precious results, but the team play has not really improved. The moments when the squad look really dominant are rare and there are always periods of time when it is lackadaisical, sits too deep and concedes some chances. They played a good first half in the Derby, but Torino were clearly way more motivated after the intermission, they scored the equalizer and only a miracle by Gianluigi Buffon denied them the double. Juventus then re-took control of the game and eventually won it at the buzzer, but it is concerning that a fifteen-minute pause almost cost them the game.

Borussia Moenchengladbach were more aggressive than Juventus to start the midweek game, they simply looked sharper in the first half and deservedly took the lead. Luckily enough, we still have great footballers who can make plays out the blue and we tied. Just as Juventus finally started performing really well at the beginning of the second half, Hernanes made that silly tackle that cost us a likely win. Juventus need to play with more energy for the whole ninety minutes, taking the foot off the pedal only after closing the game and have to stop shooting themselves in the foot. They should not be content with just hanging in games, they should be fiercer and go for the jugular right from the start.

Stephan Lichsteiner has returned and we are all very happy that things turn out for the best after that scary situation. His return marks the end of the fluid 3-5-2/4-3-3 that was a pretty clever way to field all the best players at the same time, but we never played too well with it and we knew it was only a stopgap. However, we are in mid November and we still do not know what the most suitable tactic is: this is less than ideal.

I know Massimiliano Allegri loves the three-man midfield, he wrote his essay to get the coaching license on this topic, but when one of our big three midfielders is missing, he should try a plain and simple 4-4-2 with Alex Sandro as left winger, maybe just as an in-game adjustment. I think it would help Alvaro Morata, who is not a fan of his work rate as winger, and Mario Mandzukic, who would receive more crosses.

Kwadwo Asamoah and Roberto Pereyra remain out with hamstring ailments: they are expected to be back after the break. Sami Khedira has trained with the group on Friday but he will not be risked if he is not 100 percent. Stefano Sturaro or Mario Lemina would take his spot if he can not play: Sturaro is probably a little higher in the pecking order. There is a chance Paul Pogba is rested, but I think it will depend on the availability of the German world champion: I do not think the coach will reiterate the mistake made at Sassuolo, where he trotted out an inexperienced midfield.

Lichsteiner should be able to start, however Martin Caceres is fit and could replace him. One between Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini should be given a day off, with Andrea Barzagli starting. The battle between Alex Sandro and Patrice Evra on the left is wide open.

Allegri will choose between 4-3-1-2 with Hernanes, his pet formation that was used from the start in the last two games, or 4-3-3 with Juan Cuadrado and Morata wide. It seems that Mario Mandzukic would have better chance of starting with the second lineup, while Morata and Paulo Dybala would pair up in the first one. The doubt is really between Cuadrado and Dybala: Allegri likes to have one game-changer come off the bench.


Probable lineup 4-3-1-2:

Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Alex Sandro; Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba; Hernanes, Mandzukic, Morata.


Injuries:

Pereyra (hamstring), Asamoah (hamstring).

Suspended:

None


 

 Empoli

Empoli have been feistier than most anticipated. They lost a ton this summer as Maurizio Sarri, Mirko Valdifiori and Daniele Rugani left, but somehow they have been able to cope, while most expected them to sink. The credit goes to the new coach Marco Giampaolo, who really fell from grace three-four years ago and was gravitating in the lower leagues, who put aside his beliefs and his tactics to choose the path of continuity.

They are not as pleasant in terms of style as they were last season, but they should be good enough to avoid the drop and this should not be taken for granted as they have a really young roster. They have collected 14 points in 11 games and they are in the middle of the pack: considering that they have lost their mastermind and two of their three best players, this is a big success. We will see if they will able to sustain it or if the other low table teams will catch up.

They still have some problems here and there. For instance, they have yet to find the ideal replacement for Valdifiori: Assane Dioussé has been a surprise, he plays with a lot of confidence and has good technical means, but he has struggled and made big mistakes in the last few games. Raffaele Maiello, who should start in this one, is a steady player with some experience, but in his previous seasons in Serie B he has never really played as deep-lying playmaker. Ronaldo, who was probably their designated player for that role when they decided to cash in on Valdifiori, has not been able to crack starting lineup.

As they often do, they have given playing time to some youngster and they are starting to flourish. Leandro Paredes was a mysterious object in Rome, but he has now found his niche as box-to-box midfielder and has a lot of quality. Rade Krunic has been a decent replacement when Riccardo Saponara was suspended and they are grooming him very nicely for the future, as their star seems destined to leave at the end of the season; they have also used him in a two-trequartista look to add creativity in the attack. Marcel Buchel brings the muscles and is very useful now that their veteran starter Daniele Croce is out with a calf injury. Buchel is a slightly favourite to start over Paredes.

Empoli will be proactive and play possession football, because they are not particularly accustomed, or good, at defending. Juventus will have to pay attention to Saponara, who has simply been en fuego with four goals and three assists in eight games, and in general to Empoli’s rapid play in the attack. Juventus can not come out flat in this game but it would be costly.


Probable lineup 4-3-1-2:

Skorupski; Laurini, Tonelli, Costa, Mario Rui; Zielinski, Maiello, Buchel; Saponara; Maccarone, Pucciarelli.


Injuries:

Croce (calf), Mchedlidze (hamstring), Cosic.

Suspended:

None

 

Formation

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 12
Sunday, November 8th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli
Referee: Davide Massa

Khedira back for Empoli-Juve

http://www.football-italia.net/75448/khedira-back-empoli-juve?

 
Nov 7, 2015
 
Sami Khedira is back in the Juventus squad for tomorrow’s game with Empoli.

It kicks off on Sunday at 15.00 CET - 14.00 GMT.

Roberto Pereyra and Kwadwo Asamoah are the only remaining absentees for Max Allegri.

Khedira has suffered from a series of muscular injuries, but is present and correct for Sunday’s game.

Giorgio Chiellini returns from suspension, while it remains to be seen whether Daniele Rugani will feature against his former club.


Juventus squad for Empoli:

Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Khedira, Zaza, Marchisio, Morata, Pogba, Hernanes, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Cuadrado, Mandzukic, Lemina, Bonucci, Padoin, Dybala, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Evra, Rubinho

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 12
Sunday, November 8th, 2015 - 3:00 PM
Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli
Referee: Davide Massa

Allegri: 'Rugani is Juve future'

http://www.football-italia.net/75451/allegri-rugani-juve-future?

 
Nov 7, 2015
 
Max Allegri warned Empoli has become “an important game” for Juventus, but Daniele Rugani won’t necessarily feature.

“Considering our position in the table, it is a very important game, as they all are because we’re so far behind. We must get back to winning on our travels and try to get a second consecutive Serie A victory,” said Allegri in his Press conference.

“In football it’s difficult to explain when things don’t go as planned, so tomorrow will be complicated. Empoli are in good shape and last season perhaps we really didn’t deserve to beat them. At home we only won at the end on the counter.

“We used up a lot of energy in Germany on Tuesday and it’s expected to be unseasonably warm tomorrow, so we need to ration out our efforts.”

Rugani played every single minute of last season for Empoli and avoided receiving a yellow card, yet since coming to Turin the Italy Under-21 international has managed only one brief cameo appearance.

As they are visiting his old hunting ground at the Stadio Castellani, will Rugani feature tomorrow?

“It’s not as if just because we’re playing in Empoli, Rugani has to play. Daniele has a bright future ahead of him, but Juventus have three or four of the best centre-backs in Europe. It’s beyond doubt he is the future of Juventus. Right now he needs patience and to continue training.”

Sami Khedira is back in the squad and Stephan Lichtsteiner made a stunning comeback a month after heart surgery on Tuesday, scoring in the 1-1 Champions League draw with Borussia Monchengladbach.

“Mario Mandzukic has to get back to playing the way he does and like everyone I expect a lot from someone of his calibre and experience.”

Juve have gone a man down twice in recent weeks, as Giorgio Chiellini and Hernanes were dismissed.

“We do have to pick up fewer cards for dissent. A tackle during a match situation can happen, even if Hernanes’ challenge was really bad.”

Allegri was furious with Alvaro Morata after the Champions League game, as the striker had to sit on the touchline and change his socks for several minutes, as they did not match the club uniform.

“I bought him socks for every colour of kit we’ve got! He won’t get it wrong tomorrow, that’s for sure.”

 

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