Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

INSIDE THE OPPOSITION – FIORENTINA Q&A

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/story/2751025/borja-valero-juventus-clash-biggest-game-of-the-year?

 
Dec 11, 2015
 
Juventus have won their last five Serie A games in a row but they face the toughest test of the season so far when they host high-flying Fiorentina this weekend.

In anticipation of what has always been a standout of the Serie A calendar, we put your questions to writer, journalist and Fiorentina supporter, Giancarlo Rinaldo.
 
 
Fiorentina have been in sensational form this season – Do you think they can maintain it until the end of the season?

I don’t see any reason why Fiorentina can’t keep playing this way all season but it will be vital to avoid injuries to key players like Nikola Kalinic, Borja Valero and Gonzalo Rodriguez. Some fresh resources in January might help them to sustain their form.

Do you think Fiorentina are title contendors this season ?

I think top three is a more realistic target, unless their rivals keep taking points off one another. The defence, in particular, makes a few too many slip-ups to be Scudetto quality. It’s nice to dream, though.

Who have been the standout performers so far?

Biggest surprise had been Kalinic, greatest return to form is Borja Valero but the tandem Matias Vecino-Milan Badelj has really made the midfield tick. Federico Bernardeschi has been a revelation in recent games.

Whats the verdict on Beppe Rossi ? Do you think his Fiorentina career is over or can he become a key performer again?

It takes time to get over serious injury and he’s had more than one of those. He has struggled since he returned but I’ve seen enough flashes of class to suggest that he can still be a big player for Fiorentina and Italy. Anyone who has read his book could not doubt his determination.

Davide Astori is having a fine season so far – How do you rate him?

I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Astori. I thought he might find it harder to fit in. He can only learn from Gonzalo Rodriguez.

How should Juve approach the game against Fiorentina ? how can we handle that midfield ? Marking Valero?

The times I’ve seen Fiorentina struggle is when they’ve been pressed – effectively – high up the pitch as Empoli did. It chokes the supply lines to a quality midfield and puts pressure on Tatarusanu who is not always convincing with his feet.

The ill feeling between the two clubs is well documented – do you think it’s abated in recent years or is it just as strong as in the 90’s?

It’s lost some of its venom, but that’s a welcome thing. It’s still the game of the season for Fiorentina, though.

Thoughts on Bernandeschi and his promising career so far?

Bernardeschi is a superstar of the future if he maintains the attitude and versatility he has shown so far. He has played in a number of positions and shone in them all. His balance, touch and effort are all impeccable.

Do you know the story behind the famous purple shirts that Fiorentina wear?

The first strips were red and white. A long-standing story is that the purple ones were created by washing them with blue ones but it appears to have been actually a colour picked by founder Luigi Ridolfi.

Thoughts on Mario Suarez, Kalinic & Gilbertoso far?

Suarez has struggled to play at the tempo the Viola demand although he’s clearly a quality player. Kalinic has given the attack a workrate and cutting edge it lacked. Gilberto has shown moments of brilliance but needs time to adapt.

Are you a fan of Sousa’s 3-4-2-1 formation ? Does it work to Fiorentina’s strengths?

It’s a very fluid formation which suits the lovely passers Fiorentina have. Not sure it suits Rossi & Babacar, though, to wait in line behind Kalinic.

Which Fiorentina player stands out as the biggest threat to Juve?

It would be easy to say Kalinic as Juve have shown more cracks at the back than in recent seasons. But Josip Ilicic, if he’s in the mood, might be the man to unlock that back line after Chiellini and Kalinic battle it out.

How can Juve stop Kalinic ?

As I’ve said before, Juve need to cut off his supply lines if they possibly can. To keep him quiet, you have to work as hard as he does – which isn’t easy but the Bianconeri do have the players to do so.

Prediction for the game?

Juve have more experience of these big games but I expect Fiorentina to try to play their football. It probably won’t be enough to win – those are rare in Turin – but I’ll go for a 1-1 draw.

What would be your Juve/Fiorentina XI ?

Asking a few to play out of position – Buffon; Barzagli, Rodriguez, Alonso; Bernardeschi, Vecino, Badelj, Pogba; Dybala, Borja; Kalinic. I couldn’t bring myself to pick Cuadrado but I bet he’ll score on Sunday!

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Betting Preview: Juventus v Fiorentina

Playing a free-scoring brand of attacking football under Paulo Sousa, Al Hain-Cole
expects La Viola to cause Massimilano Allegri's side some problems in an exciting clash.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2995/betting/2015/12/11/18238282/-?

Dec 11, 2015

Resurgent Juventus will be looking to further close the gap on the Serie A top spot when they welcome Fiorentina to Turin on Sunday.

After an underwhelming start to the season, Massimiliano Allegri’s men have now won five consecutive games, and are 20/31 (1.61) favourites with NetBet to make it six in a row here.

However, La Viola head into the weekend just a single point off first-placed Inter, and are available at 5/1 (6.00) to enhance their Scudetto chances with a big victory against the champions.

The guests have drawn two of their last three matches in the league, and there are odds of 13/5 (3.60) on offer for them to play out another stalemate in this one.

While until recently the Bianconeri were enduring an extremely disappointing campaign, their opponents could not have asked for a much more encouraging start to life under new boss Paulo Sousa.

Having led the Florentines to three consecutive fourth-placed finishes and a runners-up medal in the Coppa Italia, predecessor Vincenzo Montella was not the easiest act to follow, but the former Basel manager has already won over the supporters with an exciting brand of attacking football.

Joint top-scorers in Serie A with 30 goals to their name after 15 matches, Sousa’s men are also the only team to have found the net in every league game so far.

In fact, that run actually extends all the way back to last April, meaning a goal on Sunday would equal a club record of scoring in 23 consecutive league games - last achieved by Gabriel Batistuta and Co. back in 1997-98.

Having beaten Belenenses 1-0 in Thursday’s Europa League game to make it 24 consecutive fixtures in all competitions, Fiorentina are surely capable of getting on the scoresheet at the Juventus Stadium.

Considering Juventus have failed to score just once in their previous 57 league games on home turf, odds of 21/20 (2.05) are not to be missed on both teams finding the net in this one.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus v Fiorentina Preview: Marchisio calls
for caution from resurgent champions

The defending champions entertain Serie A's second-placed side
on a weekend that could see plenty change at the top of the table.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/juventus-vs-fiorentina/2120529/preview

Dec 11, 2015

Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has urged his team-mates to be wary of second-placed Fiorentina on Sunday as the champions seek to extend their winning run in Serie A to six matches.

Following a difficult start to their Scudetto defence, Juve have picked up of late and climbed to fifth following last Friday's victory over Lazio.

Ahead of Fiorentina's trip to Turin - the visitors seeking to make it seven Serie A games unbeaten - third-placed Napoli take on Roma in fourth, meaning Juve have the potential to make further ground on the leading pack.

Juve, who saw Alvaro Morata agree a new contract on Thursday, have lost just one of their last 23 Serie A home matches against rivals Fiorentina but Marchisio feels Paulo Sousa's men have earned their lofty place this term.

"The match on Sunday is very important," explained the Italy international.

"It's an opportunity to change things up at the top of the table as there are a few big clubs playing one another and we need to be able to take advantage of the situation.

"Fiorentina are an excellent side and they deserve to be where they are at this moment in time. We'll need to be on our toes, even if we're playing at home.

"We've shown considerable consistency of late with the five league wins in a row, but we know that there remains plenty of work to be done."

While Juve surrendered top spot in their Champions League group with defeat to Sevilla, Sousa's Fiorentina made certain of Europa League progression courtesy of Thursday's 1-0 win over Belenenses.

Fiorentina maintained their impressive domestic form with a 3-0 win over Udinese last weekend and could go top depending on Inter's result at the Stadio Communale Friuli on Saturday.

Following their Europa League group stage finale, Borja Valero told Sky Sport Italia: "We have to prepare for Juventus now and we hope we can do well.

"The fans consider this the most important game of the year and therefore so do we as players.

"We want to win both for the fans and for us, so we can stay near the top of the table. We are not afraid of anyone, we'll go to Turin to play our game, even if it won't be easy against a very strong Juventus side."

Allegri still has doubts over Roberto Pereyra and Sami Khedira (both thigh) - who missed the Sevilla defeat - while Jakub Blaszczykowski (muscle) is set to miss out again>


OPTA FACTS

Fiorentina haven’t found the net in five out of the last seven league games against Juventus.

Juventus have lost only one of the last 23 Serie A home matches against Viola: 17 wins in this period and four wins in the last four meetings.

The Bianconeri have scored at least one goal in all the last 29 home league games against Fiorentina: the last match in which Viola kept a clean sheet was back in November 1981 (0-0).

Juventus have picked up 15 points in their last five Serie A games, at least three points more than any other team; and in their last three matches the Bianconeri have not conceded goal.

However, Fiorentina are unbeaten in their last six Serie A games.

After losing to Udinese in the first Serie A MD, Juventus are unbeaten in the last six home leagues games and they have won the last four in a row.

Viola have picked up 32 points in the first 15 Serie A games this term: the last time they did this was back in 2005/06.

Fiorentina have scored in 22 consecutive Serie A games (average of 2.2 goals per game).


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus  L W W W W

08/12/2015 - Sevilla 1 - 0 Juventus
04/12/2015 - Lazio 0 - 2 Juventus
29/11/2015 - Palermo 0 - 3 Juventus
25/11/2015 - Juventus 1 - 0 Manchester City
21/11/2015 - Juventus 1 - 0 AC Milan


Fiorentina  W W D D D

10/12/2015 - Fiorentina 1 - 0 Belenenses
06/12/2015 - Fiorentina 3 - 0 Udinese
30/11/2015 - Sassuolo 1 - 1 Fiorentina
26/11/2015 - Basel 2 - 2 Fiorentina
22/11/2015 - Fiorentina 2 - 2 Empoli


HEAD TO HEAD

29/04/2015 - Juventus 3 - 2 Fiorentina
07/04/2015 - Fiorentina 0 - 3 Juventus
05/03/2015 - Juventus 1 - 2 Fiorentina
05/12/2014 - Fiorentina 0 - 0 Juventus
20/03/2014 - Fiorentina 0 - 1 Juventus

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus can announce title intentions with Fiorentina win

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2751456/juventus-can-can-announce-title-intentions-vs-fiorentina?

Dec 11, 2015

Former Juventus coach and architect of the Bianconeri's 1996 Champions League triumph was recently asked about Fiorentina manager Paulo Sousa.

"Sousa?" said Lippi, "I met him by chance in the hotel after the match and we had a chat. I reminded him of a midfield for Juve from 1994 to 1996: Conte, Deschamps and Sousa, in fact. Now one coaches Fiorentina with success, one is the CT of Italy and another is the CT of France."

The Portuguese player arrived at Juventus from Sporting in July of 1994. A man who tactically understood the game perfectly, he played as if he had a magnet in his boots -- the ball controlled so well, his tenacity meant possession was often won back quickly, and attacking patterns initiated swiftly and effectively. Deployed alongside Antonio Conte and Didier Deschamps, two leaders who went on to coach the Old Lady, the Bianconeri at that time possessed the perfectly-balanced midfield, enjoying great success that culminated in the Champions League triumph of 1996.

It was in Turin that Sousa understood the desire to expend every last drop of energy, to remain concentrated at every moment of the game and to never lose faith in a positive result. What he learned has served him well in his career as a manager, bringing the best out of the men he has had at his disposal, enjoying great success as coach of Basel and Maccabi Tel Aviv before that. In each club he has come to lead, he has evolved, learning new ideas and grasping new concepts to improve as a tactician.

Perhaps that is why he felt comfortable taking on the enormous challenge of coaching Fiorentina, a club that had been revived under Vincenzo Montella but still not capable of trophies. Synonymous with sexy football and beautiful rotation, the Viola won and performed exceedingly well in Europe, but they were considered a bit light weight -- not strong enough to mount serious challenges. That has all changed under Sousa.

Always battling for 90 minutes, this is a Viola side that could potentially win the title. Maintaining the aesthetic beauty Montella was fond of, Sousa has since introduced the grittiness and nastiness required to win the tough challenges.

Not only are they statically the most accurate passers in all of Serie A, but they know how to keep possession and frustrate the opponent. Scoring more goals than any other side in the league (equal only to Roma), they have conceded more than Juve and Inter but conceded fewer shots on goal, demonstrating the inundating task opponents have in penetrating this tight Viola ship.

Should Juventus manage their sixth consecutive Serie A win, then there will be no doubt that this is a side back in the hunt for the title, with great potential to win it. While they trail the likes of Roberto Mancini's Inter, the Bianconeri possess the mentality and experience to know how to grit their teeth and push to the finish, especially now that the youngsters have understood the requirements of playing for such a big club.

Unable to beat Sevilla -- a Spanish side that turned their home into a fortress -- in the Champions League on Tuesday, the Old Lady must do the same with her own stadium and ensure that when clubs come to visit, they leave with no souvenirs.

In the upcoming Sunday evening match against Fiorentina, much will depend on the performance of the midfield. Sami Khedira looks to be available. And if does indeed play then it's important he, alongside those beside him, understand Fiorentina's creative strength but also their weaknesses.

Much like Roma managed to do in their win earlier this season, the Old Lady's midfielders must quickly close down those who create through the middle for Sousa's side, forcing them into useless rotations. As the Tuscans are incapable of stretching the game as they should, Juventus need to do what Sousa managed during his playing days -- win back possession high up the pitch and launch swift attacks that overwhelm the opponent.

With Paulo Dybala improving in his ability to drop deep and aid the midfield and Mario Mandzukic likely to lead the line again, Juventus need clinical efficiency and speed of thought to defeat their tough opponents. This is a Viola side that, as usual, knows how to use the quick feet of its men to attack a stagnant opponent. But unlike before, is much more efficient in front of goal.

Likely to deploy a 3-5-2 formation, If Massimiliano Allegri's men use the full width of the pitch and make the incisive runs that have damaged their most recent of opponents, there is every reason to believe they can continue celebrating. One small stutter or even a slow thought and Fiorentina will attack, exploiting the length of time it takes for certain Bianconero to make the right decision.

It will be Sousa against his former side and also Juan Cuadrado against his. Will it be the Colombian or the Portuguese who celebrate?

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus V Fiorentina – Preview: Bianconeri Look
To Continue Resurgence Against High-Scoring Viola

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/12/juventus-v-fiorentina-preview-bianconeri-look-to-continue-resurgence-against-high-scoring-viola/?

Dec 11, 2015

Juventus will be hoping that their good Serie A form continues when they host Fiorentina at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday evening.

The home side endured a difficult start to the season, but have refound their form in recent weeks, winning five games in a row and currently sit just six points off the top of the table.

The Viola are one of four teams that stand between the Bianconeri and the summit having enjoyed a positive start to the season under new coach Paulo Sousa.

Juventus have had a mixed week. Despite defeat at Sevilla in the Champions League the Bianconeri progressed to the last 16, and will discover their next opponents the day after this game. Fiorentina’s Europa League win on Thursday evening also took them through to the knockout stages as their season assumes a familiar look.

These two big beasts of Serie A history have met 152 times before with Juventus holding the advantage over their Florentine visitors, winning 70 of those encounters. That figure is even more pronounced in Turin, with the Viola having won just six times at the home of the Bianconeri, who have emerged victorious on 51 occasions.

Neither side carries any suspensions into Sunday evening’s clash, though Massimiliano Allegri’s midfield will be shaped by injuries to Sami Khedira, Hernanes and Roberto Pereyra, none of whom will be fit in time to play. Paulo Sousa’s only concern is over Jakub Blaszczykowski with the Pole set to miss his seventh game since joining the Viola.

Giuseppe Rossi played all 90 minutes of the Viola’s victory against Belenenses on Thursday, but is likely to drop to the bench, with nine-goal Ivan Kalinic set to keep his place in Fiorentina’s attack.


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


Expected Starting XIs:

Juventus:
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Dybala.

Fiorentina:
Tatarusanu; Roncaglia, Rodriguez, Astori; Bernardeschi, Badelj, Vecino, Alonso; Borja Valero, Ilicic; Kalinic.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Know your enemy: A Q&A session with
SB Nation's Fiorentina blog, Viola Nation

We had questions for Viola Nation, so we asked them.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/12/12/9913908/rival-question-and-answer-juventus-fiorentina-serie-a-round-16

Dec 12, 2015

The hype machine is already spinning, with Juventus and Fiorentina's showdown in Turin less than two days away from going down this weekend.

But what do we truly know about Juve's opponent on Sunday? That's where the help comes into effect.

We've exchanged questions with a man simply known as 'The Tito' around the Viola Nation corner of the internet. If you want to read what they asked me, click on this link right here and see what stupid things I had to say about Juventus. (Answers might not be as stupid as advertised.) Enjoy his answers, because we've spent hours upon hours researching things to make sure we get them right.


BWRAO: Greetings, Tito. Let's jump right into things! It was obviously a summer of change on the Fiorentina sideline. Because of that, how much of a surprise is it that they've gotten off to such a good start in Serie A this season?

VN: I can safely say that pretty much nobody saw this coming in the summer. Losing an iconic and (for Italy) long-tenured manager was bound to sting, but turning over a bunch of key players--Savic, Neto, Joaquin, Pizarro, Aquilani, Gomez, Gilardino--had everyone pretty nervous, especially since the replacements were all pretty unheralded. I think that after the Inter game, everyone realized that hey, this is a pretty darn good team, and Paulo Sousa is a really good tactician. I think he's the biggest surprise, and the biggest reason for the unexpected success. He's built on Montella's lovely, albeit sterile, possession game, adding a certain ruthlessness that was entirely lacking before.


BWRAO: If there is a weakness in this Fiorentina team that Juventus could take advantage of, what might it be? (And can you let Max Allegri know?)

VN: Hahaha no weaknesses anywhere none whatsoever everything is great and perfect. Now that we've hopefully scared Max away, I'd say the biggest weakness is in the wide areas, where attacking fullbacks can overrun the Fiorentina wingbacks in conjunction with wingers who hug the touchlines. That's the major problem with the 3-4-2-1, so it's sort of a structural issue, but quick attacks with width have continued to be a problem; see the Napoli and Roma games. Fiorentina has also been susceptible to good, disciplined pressing from the forwards and tight marking in the midfield, forcing the centerbacks to lump the ball downfield.


BWRAO: Fiorentina leads Serie A in goals scored. Juventus once again has one of the best defenses in Serie A. What do you think Fiorentina needs to do to crack Juve's improving defense?

VN: I think unpredictability is the key to Fiorentina's success. Josip Ilicic is a dribbler, a direct runner who likes to shoot from distance with his left and who occasionally produces brilliant moment. Borja Valero is a tireless and clever passer. Nikola Kalinic is the key, though. He's got enough pace to spin in behind and enough strength to hold up play. He's excellent at winning free kicks with excellent body positioning (he's actually not a complete diver, which is astonishing considering how often he's fouled), and has that striker's knack of being in the right place in the right time to score tap-ins. With Federico Bernardeschi's chaotic dribbling on the right and Marcos Alonso's dangerous crossing from the left, Fiorentina can beat a defense in a lot of different ways. They don't have any world-class attackers, but do have lots of useful pieces that work well as a diverse collective.


BWRAO: Who on the Juventus roster scares you the most?

VN: Juan Cuadrado scares me most, because Fiorentina's exes always seem to score against them. Other than that, man, take your pick. I guess Paulo Dybala is genuinely terrifying given his form, and Paul Pogba always seems like a good bet to produce a magic moment, especially pressing in the middle.


BWRAO: Juventus played in Europe on Tuesday night. Fiorentina played in Europe on Thursday night. Is there any kind of concern or worry about the incredibly quick turnaround for Fiorentina entering such a big game?

VN: Not too concerned about the turnaround, because Sousa rotated the squad pretty heavily on Thursday, so the first XI should be good to go from minute one. What happens after that is anyone's guess.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus - Fiorentina MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/preview/69973

Dec 12, 2015

Fiorentina will be hoping that their in-form strike force can make the difference in their mouthwatering Sunday evening clash against a revived Juventus.

The free-scoring Viola have already racked up 30 goals this year, with the attacking Nikola Kalinić-Josip Iličić duo to thank for just under half of the total. Juventus, meanwhile have not been quite so prolific up front. New signing Paulo Dybala is pulling his weight with seven, however fellow newcomer Mario Mandzukic has only scored three and Alvaro Morata is struggling for form with a solitary League goal to his name.

Both sides are unbeaten in the last five games, however it is the Bianconeri who have been the more dominant with five straight wins. After a disappointing start to the campaign, they have propelled themselves right back into Scudetto contention. Max Allegri has patiently guided his team to within five points of Fiorentina, which has turned the game in Turin into a genuine ‘six pointer.’

The Viola will not only be looking to keep pace at the top of Serie A, but have the chance to break their goalscoring record set during the 1997-98 season, back when Batistuta was at the forefront of a team that scored in 22 consecutive matches. If Fiorentina can score on Sunday night, they will have scored in every match since the home tie with Cagliari in April last year, a total of 23.

Paulo Sousa has a full squad to select from with the exception of the injured Jakub Błaszczykowski, and will most likely pair Borja Valero and Josip Ilicic behind Nikola Kalinic up front. The home side will miss Hernanes, Martin Caceres, Sami Khedira and Roberto Peyreyra all through injury.

Both sides progressed in Europe in midweek, though Juventus’ defeat at Sevilla saw them lost top spot in their Champion’s League group to Manchester City, whilst Fiorentina progressed in the Europa League with a 1-0 home win against Belenenses.

After their defeat to in Spain, Allegri dismissed any talk of disappointment, stating "We've got a game coming up in Serie A against Fiorentina that is more important than tonight's match." The Italian coach clearly understands that Sunday will be a key moment if Juventus are to continue their surge for the Scudetto.


Keep an eye on: Paulo Dybala (Juventus) — The young Argentine is finding form in his new team and netted a superb goal against Lazio last Friday.


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

Last season: Juventus 3-2 Fiorentina

Stat fact: Fiorentina and Juventus have faced the fewest shots in Serie A during 2015/16 with 126 and 134 respectively.


Juventus (probable):
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichsteiner, Asamoah, Marchisio, Pogba, Sandro; Dybala, Mandzukic

Suspended: None


Fiorentina (probable):
Tatarusanu; Roncaglia, Rodriguez, Astori; Alonso, Vecino, Badelj, Bernardeschi; Valero, Ilicic; Kalinic

Suspended: None

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Claudio Marchisio urges Juventus to stay
on their toes against Fiorentina

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/match/432112/juventus-fiorentina/preview?

Dec 12, 2015

Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has urged his team-mates to continue their surge up the table by beating bitter rivals Fiorentina in Sunday's crunch match in Serie A.

Fiorentina are currently second, five points ahead of Juventus in fifth, but the Old Lady have found their stride in recent weeks after a slow start to the season.

Juventus have won five games in a row in the league and could make up further ground given third-placed Napoli are up against fourth-placed Roma this weekend.

"The match on Sunday is very important," midfielder Marchisio told juventus.com.

"It's an opportunity to change things up at the top of the table, as there are a few big clubs playing one another and we need to be able to take advantage of the situation.

"Fiorentina are an excellent side and they deserve to be where they are at this moment in time. We'll need to be on our toes, even if we're playing at home.

"We've shown considerable consistency of late with the five league wins in a row, but we know that there remains plenty of work to be done."

Juve's momentum was halted somewhat by a Champions League defeat to Sevilla on Tuesday, although the Italians still qualified as runners-up from Group D.

The form of Alvaro Morata, who has scored only three goals in 19 appearances this season, and Paul Pogba has been questioned but Marchisio gave his full backing to his team-mates.

"There are times when the goals come more easily. For players like Pogba and Morata, it's normal that the expectations are high as they both have enormous talent," Marchisio said.

"They're training hard every day and are always there for the group. They'll be finding the net again sooner rather than later.

"What's important is that the team continues to grow both domestically and in Europe, where we've already achieved the objective of qualifying for the Champions League round of 16."

Fiorentina have enjoyed an excellent start to the campaign and this is the first time since 1998 that they have been ahead of Juventus at this stage of the season.

Juve, however, boast a strong record in this fixture. No team have recorded more wins (70) or score more goals (247) against Fiorentina than the Bianconeri.

"We live for these sorts of emotions, so the game with Juve will definitely be exciting," Fiorentina boss Paulo Sousa told the official club website.

Juventus winger Juan Cuadrado is set to play his first competitive match against his former club.

Cuadrado left Fiorentina for Chelsea in February but failed to make an impact with the Blues and is currently on loan in Turin.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus vs. Fiorentina: Team News, Predicted Lineups

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2597995-juventus-vs-fiorentina-team-news-predicted-lineups-live-stream-tv-info?

Dec 12, 2015

Juventus will host Fiorentina on Sunday night, looking to bounce back from a disappointing outing in Europe by continuing their fine domestic form. Indeed, after some positive recent results in both competitions, the Bianconeri return to Serie A action fresh from a poor display against Sevilla in midweek.

That Champions League defeat cost coach Massimiliano Allegri’s men the opportunity to top Group D, but the side know that victory over La Viola can certainly help close the gap to the early leaders in Italy.

Their opponents have enjoyed a fine start to 2015/16, currently sitting in second place and just a single point behind Roberto Mancini’s Inter, a team they demolished 4-1 at the San Siro back in September.

Yet the fact they have drawn two of their last three league matches—held by Empoli and Sassuolo—in addition to having played in the Europa League on Thursday, gives Juventus hope of emerging with a result.

However, speaking to reporters at a charity event earlier this week—per the club’s official website—Turin-born midfielder Claudio Marchisio was in no mood to underestimate coach Paulo Sousa’s impressive team:

The match on Sunday is very important. It’s an opportunity to change things up at the top of the table, as there are a few big clubs playing one another and we need to be able to take advantage of the situation.

Fiorentina are an excellent side and they deserve to be where they are at this moment in time. We’ll need to be on our toes, even if we’re playing at home.

OptaPaolo ✔ @OptaPaolo
126 & 134 - Fiorentina (126) and Juventus (134) have faced the fewest shots in Serie A 2015/16. Attentive.

Marchisio is certainly right to urge caution, with no side in Serie A able to better the Tuscan team’s tally of 30 goals scored, while their defence ranks as the third best in the division having conceded on just 12 occasions.

With their own attack finally beginning to perform, Juve will need to be at their very best if they are to take all three points here, but they will be fully aware of the importance of doing so.

 

Probable Formations

 

Juventus (3-5-2):

Gigi Buffon; Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini; Juan Cuadrado, Stefano Sturaro, Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba, Patrice Evra; Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala

Unavailable: Hernanes, Sami Khedira, Martin Caceres, Roberto Pereyra (all injured)


Fiorentina: (3-4-2-1):

Ciprian Tatarusanu; Facundo Roncaglia, Gonzalo Rodriguez, Davide Astori; Federico Bernardeschi, Milan Badelj, Matias Vecino, Marcos Alonso; Borja Valero, Josip Ilicic; Nikola Kalinic

Unavailable: Jakub Blaszczykowski (injured)


Player to Watch

Juventus have no shortage of attacking options, but perhaps Juan Cuadrado will be key to their hopes of victory against the Tuscan side. The Colombia international only left Fiorentina in January, spending a brief unhappy spell with Chelsea before moving to the Bianconeri in the summer.

He has dropped in and out of the side over recent weeks, but he has made some telling contributions, including a late match-winning goal against cross-town rivals Torino in late October, while building a good understanding with Claudio Marchisio and Paulo Dybala.

Expected to start on the right against his former club, his pace and direct style could cause problems for the Viola defence, while Cuadrado’s ability should see him create opportunities that other Juve players can take advantage of.


Key Battle

One of those looking to directly benefit from Cuadrado’s impact will be Mario Mandzukic, who is expected to once again lead the line for the Bianconeri. Indeed, despite the club revealing via their official website that Alvaro Morata has signed a new contract, the Croatian has emerged as the No. 1 option recently.

After Mandzukic struggled in the early part of the campaign, he has shone in recent weeks, netting winning goals against Milan and Manchester City before recording an assist in the victory over Lazio last week.

As the tweet below indicates, the 29-year-old will be honoured as Juve’s Player of the Month for November before this clash, and the task of stopping him will likely fall to Fiorentina defender Gonzalo Rodriguez.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@MarioMandzukic9 is voted the best Bianconeri player during November

His role in the centre of the three-man back line used by La Viola means they will not be in direct competition, but the Argentinian is certainly the leader of that unit. His ability to keep the Bianconeri attack at bay will be essential, and Rodriguez has proven throughout 2015/16 that he is more than capable of doing so.

According to statistics courtesy of WhoScored.com, he has averaged 1.4 tackles, 3.1 interceptions and 3.7 clearances per game this term, while also weighing in with two goals.


Odds (via Odds Shark)

Away win: 7-2

Home win: 4-5

Draw: 5-2

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: 'Juve-Fiorentina crossroads'

http://www.football-italia.net/77003/allegri-juve-fiorentina-crossroads?

Dec 12, 2015

Max Allegri won’t call Juventus-Fiorentina a Scudetto showdown, but “it is an important crossroads for the campaign.”

It kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“Tomorrow’s game represents an important crossroads for the campaign,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“Let’s say a positive result would make it quicker for us to climb up the table than we expected. Having said that, the objective is to be in the final strait for all three tournaments in May.

“With Roma it was the second game, at Napoli we widened the gap between us. It is a positive period for us, tomorrow is a head-to-head with a Fiorentina side that plays good football and is our chance to close the gap.

“Even then, as I said, there is more time afterwards to make up lost ground and the important thing is to be up there for the final six rounds so we can challenge for the Scudetto or top three.

“We know that we are behind Fiorentina and first of all the aim is to play well and put in a strong performance. At the final whistle we’ll see if we were able to get three points or one.

“Fiorentina are not up there by chance, they have been consistent at home and away. They are very attacking, very technical and have some great players, so it will be a high level of quality in this game.

“We must attack them, knowing that a victory would allow us a big leap forward in the table.”

Paulo Sousa has been a revelation on the Viola bench in his debut Serie A season, bringing a Barcelona-style passing play to the Stadio Franchi.

“He got results at Basel and Fiorentina. He is a Coach who will certainly have an important future and in his first year in Italy, even if he played in Serie A for many years, showed he has all the quality to become an excellent Coach. Playing and coaching are two very different jobs.

“There are few things to invent in football. The psychological aspect is essential, as in the end the players are the ones who step on to the field and must be put in the condition to give their best.

“Nowadays there are a million TV cameras, so you can’t disguise anything tactically,” added Allegri.

“They have Borja Valero, Josip Ilicic, a very good forward in Nikola Kalinic who has the characteristics of a real hitman. In midfield they have Milan Badelj and Matias Vecino who are improving game by game. We won’t man-mark anyone, though.

“They don’t have the pressure of needing to win the Scudetto, but are in an excellent situation. Few expected them to be up there, but they deserve their position. It’s still Juventus-Fiorentina, so that will always be an important game.

“I believe we’ll only really work out who will challenge for the Scudetto in March.”

Sami Khedira is back in training and should be called up, while Mario Mandzukic has recovered from flu.

“Khedira is fairly well, as are Mandzukic, Patrice Evra, Simone Padoin and Simone Zaza, so they should all be available.

“Before the Christmas break Daniele Rugani will have his chance to play. Whether it’s 3-5-2 or four at the back changes little for a centre-back.”

Alvaro Morata missed some sitters in the Champions League defeat to Sevilla this week, but also extended his Juventus contract to 2020.

“He has a contract with Juventus, then things will be decided in future for his future,” explained Allegri.

“There has been excessive criticism. He has always scored or created chances in the Champions League and that is not to be sniffed at.

“He had some good opportunities against Manchester City and Sevilla, they didn’t go into the net, but his performance was strong. These periods happen for strikers when they can either score with every touch or it just won’t go in.

“There were moments on Tuesday when we didn’t control the situation well and we conceded a goal. It’s different in the Champions League to Serie A. There are more spaces with two teams fighting to win, but you have to be wary of the quality and that means you cannot lower your guard.

“Unfortunately, around the goal we didn’t move the ball around well in three or four situations and were made to pay for that.”

All six Italian teams progressed from the group stage in Champions League and Europa League, closing the co-efficient gap on England.

“Last season the Italians did very well in Europe, so that shows Serie A isn’t in as bad a shape as people like to think. It would be nice to get a fourth Champions League spot, if not this year then the next. That has to be the objective and shows Italian teams are growing on a European level.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Sousa: 'Heart and mind against Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/77004/sousa-heart-and-mind-against-juve?

Dec 12, 2015

Paulo Sousa warns Fiorentina need “the mind and the heart” to push them to victory against arch rivals Juventus.

It kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 - 19.45 GMT.

“I am very happy and grateful, because life is giving me the opportunity to face teams that make me grow. I am very happy to be in Florence, I give everything I have to work with this club and these wonderful fans,” said the Coach in a Press conference.

“One of Juve’s great strengths is in their history and culture, the way they anticipate problems and have this great calm even during difficult times that allowed them to rediscover their natural level.

“As for Fiorentina, we are well aware of our capabilities and potential. The idea that we can compete with the best and not set limits is becoming stronger and stronger within the club.

“We can play as protagonists with our style of football and aim to win, whether home or away against any team.

“The heart pushes you on, but you need the mind too, because concentration to make the best positional decisions and be sharp is essential.

“Juve are chasing the pack, but with the confidence of four years of success, so that allowed them to stay calm. On the other hand, when there are clubs without a history of titles and feel the pressure of needing to win, the heart can overcome the mind.

“Unfortunately for us, Juventus are on fine form now, so we hoped to face them earlier! It will be a wonderful game for everything that awaits us in the future too.”

There is a tight title race at the top of the table with Inter, Fiorentina, Roma, Napoli and Juventus.

“Roma, in my view, are the most balanced team. Since Juve found their balance again in terms of results and fitness, they are the strongest defensively, the most mature and know how to read the various moments of the game.

“Fiorentina will be increasingly courageous and ambitious. All my decisions so far in Florence have been aimed at replacing fear and concern with courage and ambition, to play for the victory from start to finish.

“Our only objective is to be protagonists. The way to results is to be a protagonist, to get consistent results and that way approaching success. I have never disguised that the aim is for this team to have an identity, to enjoy its football and approach every game to win. Doing that week by week is keeping us close to a very important position.

“We don’t have dips in concentration so much as make bad decisions provoked by the pressure of our opponents. At this stage of the season and when two teams of similar level face off, the details make the difference.”

Is this his most difficult match on the Fiorentina bench?

“It is a very difficult game, because this Juve is in great shape and found their best system. They defend very well and everyone is involved in protecting the back three then going on a rapid counter-attack.

“They have quality individuals for passing and crosses, so we have to play at a very high level to hold out in a balanced match and at times dominate so we can win.

“Unfortunately we had two fewer days to prepare for this game and tactically that can mean a lot, but on the bright side we have an extra five points from Juventus, so that makes me happy.”

Sousa spent some of his playing career in a Juventus jersey, so how does he expect to be greeted in Turin?

“I have always been shown a lot of respect from my former clubs. I worked as a professional, respecting my clubs and fans, so I believe they respect me too. It’s wonderful to see people and places where I had good times.

“I have to thank my father, as he said the best way to respect yourself is to respect others and pretend the same in return.

“It is much better to experience this game as a player than a Coach. I always tell the lads, as long as they have the joy of playing and the fitness to continue, they should make the most of this time. As Coaches, we can only try to help the players be in the best condition.

“Fiorentina fans are very proud of us and we want to intensify that pride, with a club that cares so much about the side and we have this alchemy. I see the fans closer and closer to us because this is why we are playing.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Vecino: It Would Mean A Lot
For Fiorentina To Beat Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/12/vecino-it-would-mean-a-lot-for-fiorentina-to-beat-juventus/?

Dec 12, 2015

Uruguayan midfielder Matias Vecino hopes for a great game when his Fiorentina side take on Juventus on Sunday evening as a victory would be a big step forward for the Viola.

The 24-year-old already has fond memories of beating the Bianconeri after a 4-2 win in 2013 which he was on the bench for.

“That game [the 4-2] was very strange and I’ve never experienced emotions like that before, now we’re hoping to play a great game on Sunday,” said Vecino according to calcionews24.com.

“We’re not afraid of Juventus, we come into this game second but that doesn’t matter, we are ready to compete in an important match.

“There are a lot of teams close to one another in terms of points and it is easy to lose ground quickly if you don’t win game after game.”

The former Empoli was also asked about his future with Napoli reportedly interested in his services.

“I’m happy at Fiorentina,” added Vecino.

The midfielder has made 10 starts and recorded one assist for the Gigliati during the 2015-16 season.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

JUVENTUS V FIORENTINA MATCH PREVIEW

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

Dec 12, 2015
 

Juventus

What a bummer the Sevilla game was. That costly match proved once again that the squad can not give half-hearted efforts or they can be beaten on any given night. What happened was very similar to the beginning of the season, when in some matches the team looked complacent and not as intense as the opponents and dropped many points. Hopefully, that stumble will not single-handedly ruin our European campaign.

In this weekend, Juventus have the opportunity to make his official return into the title picture as they take on Fiorentina. Viola have been briefly been at the top of the table briefly few weeks ago and now stand in second position, one point behind Inter. Juventus have failed to beat Roma, Napoli and Inter, so it is time to see what their true colours are.

Alvaro Morata has been a topic of conversation in the past two weeks as he has dropped behind Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala in the pecking order. When he was given the chance on Tuesday, he did not deliver, missing two easy chances. However, this little slump did not spook the management, which handed him an extension, prolonging his contract through June 2020. We all know how much talented Alvaro is, so his pale performances are likely a consequence of the fact of being benched getting into his head, so there is little doubt that he will resume scoring big goals very soon.

It is pretty funny to see how the wheel turns at Juventus: at the start of the season, it looked like Juan Cuadrado was the best player on the roster and that we could not do anything without him on the field. Then there was a moment where Morata carried the biggest load, I remember the headline “Morata looking for a partner.” Finally, now it is Dybala’s time to shine, with Mandzukic as his much precious sidekick, and Cuadrado and Morata have faded into the background. I do not know if we will ever be able to find a way to exploit the skills of these four outstanding players at the same time, but it is nice to have so many weapons at disposal and, hopefully, Massimiliano Allegri will find a way to keep them happy even when they are not contributing as much as they could.

There are not many doubts about the lineup: once again, everything hinges on Sami Khedira’s health. If the German world champion is fine, and there is some optimism about his recover, he will start. Otherwise, Stefano Sturaro and Kwadwo Asamoah will battle out for the final spot on the midfield, alongside Claudio Marchisio and Paul Pogba, who returns from a one-game suspension. It is remarkable how the return of Marchisio made his partners so much better: Sturaro and to some extent even Pogba looked shaky early in the season when the Italian international went down with a couple of injury. The growth of Sturaro, who went from JAG to solid starter in less than a year, is impressive too.

Mandzukic was under the weather and missed the Sevilla game but he recovered and I reckon he is the favourite to start, but Allegri sometimes has given his players a quick chance to redeem themselves after a poor performance, so Morata definitely has a chance. Patrice Evra was out because he banged knees with an opponent but he is available, sparking the usual doubt on the flanks. Fiorentina have one of their best players, Federico Bernardeschi, playing on the right, so it will be interesting to see what approach the coach takes: a defensive one with the French veteran or a ballsy one, putting Alex Sandro, taking into consideration that the Italian starlet does not spend much time defending. Cuadrado should be the choice over Stephan Lichtsteiner on the other flank: maybe after January and the probable departure of Zaza, Juventus will not replace the former Sassuolo, using Cuadrado primarily as a striker (and maybe adding a versatile forward).

Simone Zaza had a muscular problem but it is not a serious one and he should be available. Mario Lemina has a nagging injury that he can solve only by resting, we will see if he will be on the bench, anyway he is unlikely to play anyway. Martin Caceres and Roberto Pereyra remain out with hamstring ailments.

 

Probable lineup 3-5-2:

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Dybala.


Injuries:

Pereyra (hamstring), Hernanes (hamstring).

Suspended:

None.


 

 Fiorentina

Fiorentina have been one of the main stories of this season. The hiring of Paulo Sousa after the messy ousting of Vincello Montella did not make much noise, but it proved to be a brilliant choice by the Della Valle family. The former Juventus midfielder came off a successful campaign with Basel: even though the Swiss league is inferior to Serie A, I think that winning is never a fortuity and that the coach always plays a big part. The same happened with Rudi Garcia who had triumphed in France with Lille and had a magnificent impact with Serie A.

Fiorentina were the penultimate team struck by the “first-place curse”: every side that managed be on top on their own has immediately dropped points and been leapfrogged by the other competitors. At various points of the season, Roma, Inter, Fiorentina and most recently Napoli have had their lead derailed by the ill-omened spell.

Sousa has changed the tactics, opting for a very interesting 3-4-2-1 with Borja Valero behind the striker, but has not changed much the principles adopted by the previous coach. Fiorentina is still a ball possession-oriented team that likes to be proactive and rarely sits back and is passive.

It is fair to say that the players have made the difference compared to last season. First of all, the club has made some excellent additions: Nikola Kalinic has been an incredible find and the offensive kingpin they hoped they had in Mario Gomez. Matias Vecino, who returned from a loan spell in Empoli, has been solid. Secondly, some seems revitalized: Facundo Roncaglia has returned to the form of his first year, Borja Valero is playing at peak levels and Josip Ilicic is performing like in his Palermo days. Davide Astori has not been a liability in the defence. The only let down from the summer is Mario Suarez, who has been outplayed by both Milan Badelj and Vecino, but anyway they got him in the Stefan Savic deal.

Jakub Blaszczykowski is the only absent: the Polish winger has been steady, but his injury has been a blessing in disguise because it has given Bernardeschi more playing time. Bernardeschi is a pure winger, a position that is not contemplated in this formation, but he is very versatile and can play both a trequartista and as a striker, in the rare times Sousa deploys two-man attacks. However, he seems to have found his niche as a very offensive right wingback.

They will be able to field their best lineup, the only small doubt is between Marcos Alonso and Manuel Pasqual, but Alonso is favoured by a wide margin.


Probable lineup 3-4-2-1:

Tatarusanu; Roncaglia, Rodriguez, Astori; Bernardeschi, Badelj, Vecino, Alonso; Ilicic, Valero; Kalinic.


Injuries:

Blaszczykowski (hamstring).

Suspended:

None

 

Formation

 

Poll

Who will win between Juve and Fiorentina ?

Juventus 86%
Fiorentina 0%
Draw 14%

Votes 14

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus form worries Fiorentina manager Paulo Sousa

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/news/juventus-form-worries-paulo-sous a_261736.html

Dec 12, 2015
 
Fiorentina manager Paulo Sousa has lamented the fact that his side must face a resurgent Juventus in their Serie A clash on Sunday.

The 45-year-old is worried by the current form of Massimiliano Allegri's team, who have emerged victorious in their last five league outings after winning just three of their opening 10 fixtures.

"Juventus are chasing the pack, but the confidence of four years of success allowed them to stay calm. Unfortunately for us, Juventus are on fine form now. We hoped to face them earlier," Sousa told reporters ahead of the clash.

"It will be a very difficult game, because this Juventus is in great shape and found their best system. They defend very well and everyone is involved in protecting the back three, then counter-attacking.They have quality individuals, so we have to play at a very high level to contain them and, at times, dominate so we can win.

"Unfortunately we had two fewer days to prepare for this game and tactically that can mean a lot, but on the bright side we have a five-point advantage over Juventus, so that makes me happy."

Fiorentina currently occupy second position in the league table, while the Old Lady sit in fifth.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Kalinic: 'Mandzukic friendly rival'

http://www.football-italia.net/77013/kalinic-mandzukic-friendly-rival?

Dec 12, 2015
 
Nikola Kalinic assured Fiorentina “believe in the Scudetto” and can get past friend and rival Mario Mandzukic’s Juventus.

It kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“I’ve known Mandzukic for a lifetime, from when my Hajduk Split used to take on his Dinamo Zagreb,” the Croatian told Sport Mediaset.

“We have always been in competition, including for a place in the national team. We are friends though and have been talking even more regularly since we both started playing in Italy.”

Fiorentina have had a better Serie A campaign so far, but visit a Juventus side on the way back up the table.

“We have been in the top places since the start of the season. Many expect us to collapse sooner or later, but I don’t believe the Scudetto is impossible.

“We proved that we can play at the same level as the big clubs. There are many games to go, but we’ll give everything we’ve got to win the title.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Mandzukic back for Juve-Fiorentina

http://www.football-italia.net/77020/mandzukic-back-juve-fiorentina?

Dec 12, 2015
 
Mario Mandzukic, Sami Khedira, Patrice Evra, Simone Zaza and Martin Caceres are back for Juventus against Fiorentina.

Max Allegri has almost a full squad to choose from in Turin tomorrow evening.

Roberto Pereyra and Hernanes are still unavailable.

Mandzukic has recovered from flu, which ruled him out of Tuesday’s Champions League defeat to Sevilla.

Zaza also pulled out of that game with a muscular problem, but tests showed it was nothing serious.

Khedira had a check-up this week and was given the all-clear to return.


Juventus squad for Fiorentina:

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

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus V Fiorentina – Team News,
Tactics, Lineups And Predictions

http://www.thehardtackle.com/2015/juventus-v-fiorentina-team-news-tactics-lineups-and-predictions-1/?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Juventus have won five games on the trot but face a test of character when they host high-flying Fiorentina this weekend. La Viola will be hoping their in-form strikers can make the decisive difference against the rejuvenated Old Lady. Fiorentina have already scored 30 goals this season with Nikola Kalinic and Josip Ilicic sharing the bulk of them. Juventus, meanwhile, have not been so prolific with Paulo Dybala leading from the front but Mario Mandzukic, Alvaro Morata and Simone Zaza have been struggling to get the goals. Both sides are unbeaten in the last five games but Juventus have won all their games in this period. After a stuttering start to the campaign, Allegri’s men have reacted like champions. However, they need to get a positive result in this genuine six pointer against their old rivals.

Both sides made it through to the knockout stages in Europe midweek although Juventus’ loss to Sevilla away means they will face a tougher opponent in the round of 16. Fiorentina needed a positive result against Portuguese side Belenenses and they got the three points thanks to a Khouma Babacar goal. Max Allegri refused to dwell on the loss and quickly shifted the focus on the Fiorentina game as he understands the importance of the clash as they continue their surge up the table. Fiorentina will be looking to set a goalscoring record this Sunday along with keeping pace at the top of table.


Team news and tactical brief

Juventus

Max Allegri has the majority of his squad available so predicting a formation or lineup can be a challenge here as Juventus have switched back and forth between 4-3-3 and 3-5-2, sometimes during an ongoing match. Paul Pogba will be paid close attention by either Vecino or Badlej so the Frenchman will expect to have a busy game as usual. Even if Juventus started the season poorly, no one can write them off at this stage. Neither team will define their season in this game but no one will want to lose, especially in this grudge match.

The home side will miss Hernanes, Martin Caceres, Sami Khedira and Roberto Peyreyra through injury. Fiorentina have struggled when they have been pressed high up the pitch as noticed in the game against Empoli. Allegri will no doubt ask his strikers to choke the supply lines to midfield and put pressure on Tatarusanu who has looked shaky while using his feet.


Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2)

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichsteiner, Asamoah, Marchisio, Pogba, Sandro; Dybala, Mandzukic

 

Fiorentina

Fiorentina have been in sensational form this season and there is no reason why they cant keep on playing like this till the end of the season though it will be vital to avoid injuries to key players in the team. The Scudetto is a realistic target although Sousa will be keen to cut down on the defensive mistakes.Federico Bernardeschi has earned rave reviews for his displays this season while the midfield duo of Matias Vecino-Milan Badelj has been the spine of this free flowing side. Paulo Sousa has a full squad to select from with the exception of the injured Jakub Błaszczykowski, and will most likely pair Borja Valero and Josip Ilicic behind Nikola Kalinic up front.

Davide Astori is having a fine season so far but will face a lively Dybala who has been in scintillating form. Giuseppe Rossi is unlikely to have any impact in this game as he struggles to return from his knee injury. Mario Suarez has struggled with the tempo Fiorentina play with and is likely to be on the bench. Sousa’s 3-4-2-1 formation allows Fiorentina players to play a fluid passing game and Kalinic will be ready to pounce on any mistake from the Juve defenders. Fiorentina fans will be hoping that the frustrating yet brilliant Josip Ilicic might be the man to decide this tight contest in Turin.


Probable Starting Line-up (3-4-2-1)

Tatarusanu; Roncaglia, Rodriguez, Astori; Alonso, Vecino, Badelj, Bernardeschi; Valero, Ilicic; Kalinic


Key Facts

Juventus and Fiorentina are undefeated in their last 5 matches in Serie A.

Juventus are undefeated in 29 of their last 31 matches against Fiorentina in all competitions.

If Fiorentina can score on Sunday night, they will have scored in every match since the home tie with Cagliari in April last year, a total of 23.


Players to Watch Out For

Paulo Dybala (Juventus)

The young Argentine is finding his feet in Turin justifying his big price-tag and netted a superb goal against Lazio last Friday.


Federico Bernardeschi (Fiorentina)

Bernardeschi has all the attributes to become a decisive player if he maintains the attitude and form he has shown so far. He is a versatile player and has done justice to various roles in Sousa’s system.


Prediction

Juventus 2–1 Fiorentina

The crisis is seemingly over for Juventus. The home side will be looking to up the intensity in this fixture from the first whistle. They can stretch the away side’s defence on the wings, which could prove to be fatal for Facundo Roncaglia, who is expected to come up against the Argentine striker Dybala. Juventus have more experience of these big games but expect Fiorentina to try to take control of the game.


Blast From the Past

Juventus moved to within a point of a fourth consecutive Serie A title as Carlos Tevez’s double helped them come from behind to beat Fiorentina.
 

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Fiorentina 'as strong as Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/77043/fiorentina-strong-juve?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Fiorentina President Mario Cognini insists “we are just as strong as Juventus” ahead of tonight’s clash in Turin.

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“We are very fired up, the team motivated and winning here would mean staying very, very high up the table,” Cognini told Firenzeviola.it.

“The side is very attack-minded anyway and we will not stray from that approach at the Juventus Stadium.

“Are Juve a frightening prospect? Of course, the Bianconeri are a very strong side, but we are just as strong as Juventus.”

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Low expectations have helped Fiorentina - Allegri

The Italian champions are five points behind the Viola after improving in recent weeks,
and their coach believes the lack of pressure has aided their rivals.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/12/12/18275202/low-expectations-have-aided-viola?ICID=TP_HN_HP_RI_1_2

Dec 13, 2015
 
Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri feels Fiorentina's lofty position in Serie A can, in part, be attributed to low expectations at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Scudetto holders Juve have recovered from a poor start to win their last five league games and climb to fifth, but remain five points behind the second-placed Viola.

Fiorentina have defied pre-season predictions to mount a serious title challenge - they are just a point behind leaders Inter - and Allegri believes the relatively low forecasts have aided Paulo Sousa's men.

He told a media conference: "Nobody expected the Viola to be where they are, but they're fully worthy of their current position.

"Fiorentina is an important game for us. They play good football and are doing very well at the moment.

"They have performed well at home and away this season and possess plenty of skilful players. They can also play without the pressure of title expectations. It will be a tough one."

Allegri hinted he would be surprised if Fiorentina were still challenging come May, however, adding: "We'll have a much clearer picture of the Scudetto contenders in March.

"Our aim is to be right among them and a positive result on Sunday would get us ahead of the game in terms of climbing the table."

Allegri, who confirmed Sami Khedira, Mario Mandzukic, Patrice Evra, Simone Padoin and Simone Zaza are fit and available for the clash at Juventus Stadium, also defended Alvaro Morata despite a record of three goals in 19 games in all competitions for the Bianconeri this season.

"Alvaro has come in for too much criticism," he said. "He always scores in the Champions League and performed well in [midweek] in Seville."

Juve host city rivals Torino in the Coppa Italia on Wednesday, but Allegri is adamant his focus is trained solely on Sunday's league game.

He added: "The derby? No, we're just thinking about tonight's game as it stands."

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Sousa laments timing of Juventus clash

Juve are on a roll after struggling to find their best form early on, and the Viola
coach admits that they are a different prospect from the start of the season.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/12/12/18275602/sousa-laments-timing-of-juve-match?ICID=TP_HN_HP_RI_0_2

Dec 13, 2015
 
Paulo Sousa concedes he would have preferred for Fiorentina to face Juventus during their early struggles in Serie A.

Juve began their Scudetto defence with just three wins from the opening 10 fixtures, but a run of five straight victories has propelled them up to fifth position and back into the title hunt.

And Sousa feels his side now face a sterner challenge against Massimiliano Allegri's team than they would have earlier in the campaign, while admitting Europa League participation has hampered Fiorentina's preparation.

"Juventus are chasing the pack, but the confidence of four years of success allowed them to stay calm," Sousa, whose men beat Belenenses 1-0 on Thursday, said.

"Unfortunately for us, Juventus are on fine form now. We hoped to face them earlier.

"It will be a very difficult game, because this Juve is in great shape and found their best system. They defend very well and everyone is involved in protecting the back three, then counter-attacking.

"They have quality individuals, so we have to play at a very high level to contain them and, at times, dominate so we can win.

"Unfortunately we had two fewer days to prepare for this game and tactically that can mean a lot, but on the bright side we have a five-point advantage over Juventus, so that makes me happy."

The 45-year-old considers fourth-placed Roma to be strong contenders for the title, but is attempting to instill a new competitive mentality within his team.

"Roma, in my view, are the most balanced team," Sousa added.

"Since Juve found their balance again they are the strongest defensively, the most mature and know how to read the various moments of the game.

"Fiorentina will be increasingly courageous and ambitious. All my decisions so far in Florence have been aimed at replacing fear and concern with courage and ambition, to play for the victory from start to finish."

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Line-ups: Juventus-Fiorentina

http://www.football-italia.net/77065/line-ups-juventus-fiorentina?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Juventus and Fiorentina come face to face in a bitter rivalry that has Scudetto showdown written all over it too.

The Bianconeri have won five on the trot in Serie A and are bursting back into the title race after a dismal start to the season.

The Viola are sitting pretty in second and have the longest unbeaten streak in the League, six rounds.

Mario Mandzukic and Sami Khedira return to the starting XI, but Kwadwo Asamoah, Hernanes, Roberto Pereyra and Mario Lemina miss out.

Alvaro Morata returns to the bench, as Mandzukic partners on-form Paulo Dybala.

Patrice Evra is also back, resting Alex Sandro, with Juan Guillermo Cuadrado facing his former club.

Fiorentina are without Jakub Blaszczykowski, but have Federico Bernardeschi in a dangerous wide right role.

Borja Valero and Josip Ilicic provide the service for centre-forward Nikola Kalinic.


Juventus:

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Khedira, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Dybala

Juventus bench: Neto, Rubinho, Lichtsteiner, Caceres, Rugani, Alex Sandro, Padoin, Sturaro, Vitale, Zaza, Morata


Fiorentina:

Tatarusanu; Tomovic, Gonzalo Rodriguez, Astori; Bernardeschi, Badelj, Vecino, Alonso; Borja Valero, Ilicic; Kalinic

Fiorentina bench: Sepe, Lezzerini, Babacar, Gilberto, Pasqual, Rebic, Verdú, Rossi, Roncaglia, Fernandez, Suarez

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Mario Mandzukic, Sami Khedira return for Juventus

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/team-news/team-news-mandzukic-khedira-return-for-juventus_261976.html?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Mario Mandzukic and Sami Khedira have returned to the Juventus side for the Serie A clash with Fiorentina.

Massimiliano Allegri is boosted by the availability of the pair as the hosts go in search of a sixth successive league victory.

Alvaro Morata drops to the bench as Mandzukic partners Paulo Dybala in attack, while Khedira earns a start in midfield for the champions.

Patrice Evra also comes into the side in a wing-back role as Alex Sandro is forced to settle for a place among the substitutes.

Fiorentina are still without Jakub Blaszczykowski due to a hamstring injury, but Federico Bernardeschi earns a start for the visitors out wide.

Nikola Kalinic once again leads the line for Fiorentina with support from Josip Ilicic.


Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Khedira, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Dybala

Subs: Neto, Rubinho, Lichtsteiner, Caceres, Rugani, Alex Sandro, Padoin, Sturaro, Vitale, Zaza, Morata


Fiorentina: Tatarusanu; Tomovic, Gonzalo Rodriguez, Astori; Bernardeschi, Badelj, Vecino, Alonso; Borja Valero, Ilicic; Kalinic

Subs: Sepe, Lezzerini, Babacar, Gilberto, Pasqual, Rebic, Verdú, Rossi, Roncaglia, Fernandez, Suarez

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Chiellini: 'A lot at stake for Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/77068/chiellini-lot-stake-juve?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Giorgio Chiellini admits Juventus have a lot to lose and gain in tonight’s clash with Fiorentina.

“As with every head-to-head, there are pluses and minuses. We have the chance to close up on the leading pack and is therefore a very important test.

“We can also maintain momentum and get a sixth consecutive victory,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

“On the other hand, we are facing an extremely strong team that has perhaps played the best football in Italy so far this season with an excellent Coach and talented players.”

Juve had a disastrous start to the season, yet with a win tonight would leapfrog Roma in the table. What was the turning point?

“There was a moment when we all looked at each other and decided to truly all move in the same direction.”

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Rogg: 'Bernardeschi stays with Viola'

http://www.football-italia.net/77069/rogg-bernardeschi-stays-viola?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Fiorentina director Andrea Rogg confirmed Federico Bernardeschi extended his contract and “can’t wait” to face Juventus.

“Are Juventus interested in Bernardeschi? He has extended his contract with us, we are holding on tight and he has shouted from the rooftops how much he wants to stay,” Rogg told Mediaset Premium.

“Fiorentina have ambition and the desire to do well. We are facing the champions of Italy and the vice-champions of Europe. We can’t wait to get on the field and show what we can do.

“I have been astounded by Paulo Sousa’s determination and his ability to get the message across with either reproaches or cuddles. He doses the two out perfectly.

“He knows that football is not just limited to what happens on the pitch, but also to experiences that allowed him to become a great man-manager.

“He is helping the team to grow and really helping every player mature.”

 

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Marotta: 'Dybala and Morata stay'

http://www.football-italia.net/77074/marotta-dybala-and-morata-stay?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Juventus director Beppe Marotta assured they have no intention of selling Paulo Dybala or Alvaro Morata.

There were reports this week that Barcelona had approached Juve and Dybala’s brother with the idea of a transfer next summer.

“He is a player who is improving and still hasn’t expressed his full potential, because he is so young,” Marotta told Mediaset Premium.

“Week by week he is showing what he can do, but we have no intention of selling him this year or any other year. We invested a lot of money in him and he represents the foundation to build on in future.”

Morata extended his contract with Juventus until June 2020, but Real Madrid still have a buy-back clause.

“It won’t make any difference, it’s just that if he remains with us then it’s only right to invest in a player who has plenty of quality.

“We will enter negotiations with Real Madrid as soon as possible to resolve this situation and can make it transparent.

“We hope to remove this clause. Real Madrid are well aware that he is a player who was promising and is now to all intents and purposes a star.”

 

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