Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (77')

MATCHDAY 21
Sunday, January 24th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Dybala not getting carried away
as Juventus' run continued

The Old Lady have won 11 league games in a row, but the in-form
Argentine striker points out that nothing has been achieved yet.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2016/01/25/19667222/-?

Jan 25, 2016
 
Paulo Dybala is not getting carried away despite his fine individual form helping lift Juventus back into the Serie A title picture.

After an underwhelming start to the campaign for both player and club, Argentina forward Dybala has scored eight goals in Juve's current run of 11-consecutive Serie A wins.

The 22-year-old scored the only goal of the game to help Juventus see off Roma on Sunday and he is determined to keep delivering the goods in the remainder of the season.

"My goal remains that of helping this team win a fifth straight Scudetto," Dybala told reporters.

"It's always satisfying to hear certain compliments, but there are still plenty of matches left to play and we've not achieved anything just yet.

"That said, I'm obviously enjoying my football a lot right now."

Dybala sits second in the Serie A goalscoring charts behind compatriot Gonzalo Higuain after fellow Argentine Mauro Icardi finished 2014-15 as joint top scorer and he believes an innate passion for playing up front may have contributed to the country's success in Serie A.

"As a child, everyone wants to become a top striker for Argentina," he added.

"The 10-year-olds are dreaming of being the next Lionel Messi."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (77')

MATCHDAY 21
Sunday, January 24th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Chiellini: ‘Juventus found identity’

http://www.football-italia.net/78897/chiellini-%E2%80%98juventus-found-identity%E2%80%99?

Jan 25, 2016
 
Giorgio Chiellini says Juventus have found “a good identity” after securing an 11th win in a row.

The Bianconeri had a poor start to the season, but continued an impressive winning-streak against Roma last night, and have climbed to second-place in Serie A.

“After 10 wins, it’s increasingly difficult to keep winning,” Chellini admitted to Sky.

“Let’s not forget that Juve-Roma was the Scudetto match in recent years, so it wasn’t a game like any other, though you get the same three points against Roma as against Udinese, our last opponent.

“The difficulty and the calibre of the opponent, even if they’re in a difficult period, gave us a hotter atmosphere in the stadium.

“We’ve found a good identity now, we also saw it in the Coppa Italia with Lazio. We can suffer, and we can play.

“The best things is, anyone who has come in and has maybe played less has always played well.

“I’m thinking of [Daniele] Rugani, Hernanes and [Kwadwo] Asamoah who have played two games with a lot of space in-between, because of various problems.

“This means that the team is there, and we’re working well.”

Chiellini then turned his attention to the title race, as the Old Lady look to secure a fifth-consecutive title.

“The other teams are very close together, so just about anything could happen. It’s clear now that Napoli are a step ahead, they’re in front of everyone who were touted as favourites.

“But to say Inter and Fiorentina are out of it seems wrong. Inter are a great team made up of great champions, and Fiorentina can beat anyone with the the enthusiasm they showed early in the season, but have lost slightly in the matches after New Year.

“If they can maintain that spirit for a long time they can cause problems for anyone.

“If Roma had got a result against us they still had the chance to get back in, but now with a 10-point gap to us and 12 to Napoli, it’d take a sporting miracle.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (77')

MATCHDAY 21
Sunday, January 24th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

Buffon: Juventus Must Be Prepared
For Winning Streak To End

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/buffon-juventus-must-be-prepared-for-winning-streak-to-end/?

Jan 26, 2016
 
Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has urged his team to prepare for when their winning streak ends, and to not let the fallout negatively affect their Serie A title challenge.

The Bianconeri have won 11 games in a row as they charged from the bottom half of the table right into contention for top spot, but Buffon is wisely realistic that all good things must come to an end at some point.

“Eleven consecutive victories don’t happen unless you’re at your best mental and physical state,” said the Italy stopper, praising his side’s heroics.

“However, as with all good things we must be careful, as sooner or later records and streaks of victories come to an end,” he continued.

“We must continue this streak as long as possible, but we must also make preparations for those more difficult times.”

Buffon also took the time to discuss one of Serie A’s top dangermen, Paulo Dybala, who has quickly become a real fan favourite at the Juventus Stadium.

“Paulo has surprised everyone because he took no time to adjust and implement himself into our team,” Buffon mused.

“We knew he would be good for us because of the extraordinary things he did last year for Palermo.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (77')

MATCHDAY 21
Sunday, January 24th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

De Rossi avoids suspension

http://www.football-italia.net/78933/de-rossi-avoids-suspension?

Jan 26, 2016
 
Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi has avoided sanctions after appearing to insult Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic.

The Giallorossi vice-captain was caught on camera appearing to call the Croatian a “damn gypsy” during Sunday night’s match, but as expected the Lega Serie A has not used video evidence to retrospectively punish him.

De Rossi is not included in the Lega Serie A’s official disciplinary findings, aside from confirmation of his seventh booking of the season.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (77')

MATCHDAY 21
Sunday, January 24th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

De Rossi: 'Sorry Mandzukic'

http://www.football-italia.net/78949/de-rossi-sorry-mandzukic?

Jan 26, 2016
 
Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi apologised for “causing offence” with his insult towards Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic.

During Sunday’s 1-0 Bianconeri victory, De Rossi was caught on camera clearly aiming an insult at Mandzukic, which included the offensive term ‘gypsy.’

Having already brokered peace between warring Inter and Napoli Coaches Roberto Mancini and Maurizio Sarri, TV show Le Iene intervened again.

“You saw what happened,” confessed De Rossi. “I was caught on camera while I was saying a phrase that I should’ve avoided saying.

“It’s not the first time these things have been said and every now and then it happens on the field… It’s not a justification to say that players call each other all sorts of things on the pitch and during the 90 minutes every tone is brought down.

“I shouldn’t have said it, or at least as the Coach said, covered up my mouth! I want to say sorry to anyone who felt offended by my phrase.”

De Rossi was asked if he needs lessons from Antonio Cassano, who always speaks with his hand over his mouth during a game.

“Cassano is a black belt master at that!”

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (77')

MATCHDAY 21
Sunday, January 24th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Luca Banti

JUVENTUS 1-0 ROMA…
TOPOLINI, NEVER LUPI.

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-1-0-roma-topolini-never-lupi/?

Jan 26, 2016
 
Facing our arch enemies from Rome, Allegri opted for arguably our strongest possible starting XI with the expected 3-5-2. Barzagli returned to the ranks after recovering from his latest muscular bother.

The game struck a fair rhythm early doors with Spalletti’s game-plan clearly set to frustrate in the middle, cut off key supply routes to the big man up top and defend in numbers, hopeful of coming across – by fortune and defensive robustness – chances on the break. For vast periods it was one way traffic as Roma ceded possession and waited to pounce, yet when they did recover the ball in any promising positions, Dzeko lacked any semblance of support with all balls played forward easily snuffed out by the hugely experienced rearguard I regard as the finest on the planet over the last few seasons.

Dybala had a useful effort from a free kick, other than which our pressure and domination of possession was not creating much of value. We were in control, with a few flurries of fancy footwork around the box leading to half chances, yet the box was to congested and lady luck wasn’t smiling upon us.

The second half saw an upturn in tempo, at least temporarily, with Lichsteiner continuing to prove our major attacking outlet on the right flank, dovetailing usefully with Khedira and Dybala constantly roaming deep to pick up the ball and seek out runners, if not drive forward with the ball stuck to his lower paws.

I should mention that part of the parking the bus routine of Roma involved a fair few hefty fouls, yet I felt the referee performed well. Nipped any bother in the bud and tried to allow the game to flow as best as could be hoped for.

With a stalemate on the cards, our siege engines failing to break through the defences, other than a wonderful chance for Evra fashioned beautifully by Pogba, Allegri threw on Cuadrado on 65 minutes. The Colombian did make a difference of sorts, mainly due to the fact that he is no wingback, so our formation changed to something far closer to 4-4-2 or even 4-3-3, yet that is a tricky thing to clearly delineate as Dybala roams not just deeply but across the field constantly.

The on loan Chelsea player’s energy and drive opened up a chance to shoot, which was comfortably saved, and also began to drag the Roma defenders slightly askew of their fortified positions on the ramparts. The value of Cuadrado in such a game is that his huge focus on offensive play opens us up a little defensively, edges open the attacking channels towards our rear third, encourages the opposition to drive forward when we lose possession, especially high up the field. In short, his attacking play leaves space in our midfield and defence. This may well have been in Allegri’s thinking. Regardless, it worked a treat.

Just when I was becoming irritated by our inability to break down a resolute phalanx of Romans, and feeling more worried of succumbing to a goal on the counter as Cuadrado danced and dallied, Khedira won the ball deep in our own half, set Pogba on his way, who strode into the box, had spotted Dybala on the overlap, played a sublime pass through to the Argentine, who in one motion, controlled the ball with one touch and despatched the ball into the net across the keeper for 1-0. It was a tremendously well made and executed goal. World class. And well deserved on the balance of play and endeavour.

Morata appeared very late on, and we did appear to sit back somewhat, which invited Roma more opportunity in our half than previously allowed, yet they had no real game plan other than to get the ball to Pjanic or Nainggolan, and hope they create mischief. There was a disallowed goal from Dzeko, who pushed and pulled at Barzagli’s shit as the burly defender jumped to head the ball away from danger. The absence of any contention from Dzeko and his comrades confirmed the referee was correct.

It finished 1-0 for our 11th Serie A victory on the trot. Leaving us 2 points off Napoli in top spot, four points clear of Fiorentina and Inter in 3rd and 4th and to much joy, 10 points clear of Roma in 5th.


Player Ratings

Buffon 6 - Had one save to make from a long range Florenzi effort – which he dealt with comfortably, other than which was untested. Sturdy.

Barzagli 7 - Calm, reliable, always in the right place at the right place. Only when fouled by Dzeko did he appear anything other than imperious. You wouldn’t have thought he had been out a week or three with injury, as he returned to the team seamlessly. When Evra plays, and especially with Cuadrado involved, he becomes a hybrid CB/RB yet performs admirably. Continues to prove one of the most resolute and under appreciated defenders in the world.

Bonucci 7 - Big Leo has turned the corner and is approaching his finest form of late. Outstanding reading of the game, interceptions aplenty, far too strong to be muscled off the ball and for the first time in many moons I saw his distribution and foraging beyond the halfway line vastly more confident and composed. One of his passes almost led to goal. Both his head and feet are once more in the right place. Wonderful to see him enjoying his football again.

Chiellini 7.5 - Definitely back to his best. Sliding tackles from his war boots are one of my favourite elements of our game and we saw several against Roma, all of which were perfectly timed and wonderfully effective. Not only was he indomitable in the air and on the ground, he has very much developed his game under Allegri in terms of spotting gaps in the midfield and striding forward with the ball at his feet. Which is essential for at least once of our centre backs to embrace when playing 3 at the back. No bloodied bandage, though nonetheless a stellar showing.

Lichsteiner 6.5 - Most of our attacking impetus flowed down his flank, and the Swiss locomotive was solid throughout, offering support in the final third whilst owning his defensive zone and always making himself available for Khedira and Barzagli and whoever else found the ball at their feet. His engine remains strong and powerful, always willing to run and very hard to beat at the back. It is the one area of the squad where I am intrigued to learn more of plans for succession of Beppe and Paratici, especially if Caceres leaves during this mercato window, which seems ever more unlikely. Talk of a swap with Milan for Di Sciglio is…interesting. Other than which, Vrsaljko of Sassuolo appears a definite target for the Summer, yet more eyes than solely ours are fixated on the Croatian’s progress.

Khedira 6.5 - Still a few steps away from full match sharpness, yet involved constantly in the defensive phase, even if that meant simply occupying a position on the field which precluded a pass being played due to his marking and covering. Also showed eagerness to get involved in the 18 yard box, with intelligent movement and passing and was unlucky his efforts failed to yield any decent chances.

It is amusing to find on whoscored.com that Sami has no listed strengths and tackling as a weakness. Lame effort shown there by the writers for his footballing intelligence is top drawer, as is his short passing. He knows where to be to help the team maintain pressure and remain sturdy defensively and lively higher up the field. Improving game by game I believe and proving, with every passing week of fitness, an outstanding free signing. Just need to keep him fit.

He has played 14 games for Juve, of which we have drawn 2 and won 12.

Lucky charm or highly experienced, classy footballer? More the latter.

Marchisio 8 - Claudio was ubiquitous. Possibly, even probably, the most important cog in the bianconeri machine. 57 passes with 94% accuracy tells a story in itself. The fulcrum of the team, his dedication to always seeking the optimum position is remarkable and potent. Often an unsung hero, he was my player of last season whilst the likes of Tevez, Pogba and Morata won the plaudits. I had considered our wretched period earlier this season massively due to his absence, and sure enough, his return has coincided with a huge upturn in performances and results. Il Principino has embraced the regista role to perfection. His passing, work rate, positioning and intelligence are world class. Whilst I have long been opposed to his much discussed captain elect qualities, he has become – even more so since Pirlo departed – the foundation upon which so much quality in the final third is built upon. An assured performance of a seasoned professional.

Pogba 7.5 - Set up one chance with a gorgeous piece of skill to bring the ball under control then back heel a pass into the danger area, created the goal with perfect timing and execution of his pass to Dybala, otherwise seemed getting back to his best especially in his defensive work. Which may well take a little away from his potency in the final third, yet is required and is improving his overall game. Always eager to receive the ball, Paul has recovered from a prickly start to the season and is flying from strength to strength. The goals will come, until which, I will continue to enjoy his power and flair and fast improving positioning.

Evra 7.5 - I am one of many who increasingly value Sandro, especially for his attacking prowess, yet this was a game which reminded me of the outstanding quality and experience of the 34 year old frenchman. Patrice was superb, from start to finish, offering support in the final third which almost led to a goal from a volley, and unbeatable defensively. I quite like Florenzi yet he was given short shrift throughout from our stalwart on the left edge of our rearguard action. It seems a given, that we will soon offer Evra an extension to his contract which expires in the Summer. He deserves a two year contract, which will prove the perfect transition period to transition the new lad, Sandro, into the role as he learns from one of the finest fullbacks of the last decade.

Mandzukic 7 - Was constantly man marked and fouled by De Rossi and others, drew a fair few free kicks in promising positions yet found no avenue – through the melee of bodies – to find a decent goal scoring opportunity. Unremarkable yet his work rate was immense. As could be seen late on when found tackling back close to our own goal to regain possession and start another attack. So strong, so physical; a wonderful asset for the club.

Paulo Dybala 9 - The Argie continues to blossom beautifully. It is easy to forget that the 22 year old has one season of Serie A action under his belt, for his performances are becoming consistently sparkling and he appears an already fine tuned galactico. One of the major moves of Allegri last term, which few have noted, is the transformation of Tevez into a roaming trequartista. Carlitos was unshackled, allowed and expected to roam deep and wide to win the ball, receive the ball, then drive forward or pick out a key pass. Whilst Paulo has a long way to go in order to fill those sacred boots, he is dangerous every time he steps onto the field. His free kicks were not great in this match, yet he has scored twice from such areas of late and he netted the winner in this tie. Brilliant run, tucked away with ruthless, incredibly swift zeal. He also had a chance which flicked off the bar, would have been wrongly disallowed for offside had it crept in under the woodwork, as the players offside were not interfering with play.

The manner in which he can bring the ball under control, especially from a lofted pass through the air, and swivel and move or pass or shoot, in one motion, is reminiscent of Bergkamp. Which is a huge compliment for a youngster in his first season at a major club.

His last 10 matches in which he has played more than a minute or three, have delivered 5 assists and 7 goals. He is fast becoming our bandiera and I am of the opinion that he will achieve in his career a world class standing, perhaps progressing to become one of the best of all time, hopefully in our colours.

Sublime….For his work rate, first touch, flair, creativity, dribbling, turn of pace and finishing.


Cuadrado 6 - Changed the outlook of the game when he appeared with close to half hour left to play. Whilst he made the game more open – for both sides – and had a shot on goal, he seemed reluctant to take a man on, his passing was average and I continue to assert that we have no need to sign him. When Pereyra finally returns, I feel we will see much less of the Colombian, before he heads back to London.

Conclusion

Its high time I stopped mentioning the haphazard form of earlier this season, for we have just won our 11th league game in succession, which is an outstanding achievement at any level of the game.

The beauty of this side is that we remain in transition. There is plenty more to come from Dybala, Sandro, Khedira and soon we will welcome Pereyra back into the squad, which will afford Allegri the chance to lessen the focus of Dybala on playing between the lines. The defence has regained its magnificent cohesion and stinginess; I believe that only our opponents in the champions league, Bayern Munich, afford foes less strikes on goal per match out of the top european leagues. Il Principino is back to his best, Pogba is approaching the same, and Khedira is going about his business with smartness and power. The flanks are superb, with evergreen Evra never anything but commendable, Sandro able to come in and liven up the offensive potency of the left wing and Lichsteiner dependable and valuable in all aspects of the RWB role we ask of him.

There is also Morata to mention. A player capable of exceptional marvels, who has been out of sorts, since splitting with his missus. So I count him alongside Pereyra, as valuable as two new signings of potentially match winning quality. Both can yet play prominent roles in our procession towards glory and honour.

We have major momentum. Are approaching every game expecting to triumph. And now we are to face the most pivotal of battles which must be waged and won if our season is to prove a success.

Firstly, in the coppa italia, against Inter, then three eminently winnable domestic league games against Chievo, Genoa and Frosinone. Which leads to the home match against Naples. Soon after which, we host the germans.

Regardless of what happens in our European adventure, I am most keen for our focus to be blinkered upon Serie A. Winning a fifth straight league title after such an atrocious start, our worst for 50 years, would be a phenomenal achievement. Let us add the coppa italia, do the double yet again, and it will be a season to cause my heart to smile and soul to soar.

Before I leave this be, and chuckle at my hellhound who rather than runs wild and scared when the fireworks paint the sky red and blue and his ears horrid, he appears in the garden and roars at the source of such nuisance and the best translation I can offer is ‘put up or shut up with your explosions and bright lights, face me here and now’…the rotten apple rarely falls too far from the tree…I will briefly mention that Grosso’s primavera outfit won their 8th match in a row over the weekend…

So many reasons to be cheerful.

Forza Juve.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Allegri: ‘Juve must be carefree’

http://www.football-italia.net/78928/allegri-‘juve-must-be-carefree’?

Jan 26, 2016

Massimiliano Allegri wants Juventus to have ‘a carefree attitude’ to avoid feeling the pressure ahead of Wednesday’s Derby d’Italia.

The Bianconeri face Inter in Turin in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final and are currently on an 11-match winning run in Serie A.

Allegri discussed team selection and the mental state of his players at today’s Press conference ahead of the clash.

“I will evaluate any changes, I’ve also got Marchisio risking suspension,” he said.

“Khedira definitely won’t play, along with Zaza. I’d prefer to rest Khedira ahead of the game on Sunday.

“Sturaro is fine, so are Asamoah and Padoin. Tomorrow the best team for the two legs will be on the pitch. Pogba was rested in Udine, I’ll see whether or not to play him.

“We mustn’t always use the same players. There are still many games left from now until the end of the season.

“We need to assess today whether or not Bonucci can play. The team worked well over the holidays and are more or less all doing well. They need to be good at maintaining this condition.

“We must be less conscious as our thought is always about the record and that can put more pressure on. For now we’ll think about the Coppa Italia, and then we’ll think about Chievo.

“Our young players bring enthusiasm. But our older players must also have this, otherwise they become even older.

“Thinking too much is bad, we need to go out on the pitch with a more carefree attitude.

“The match against Inter is very important, the finalist will come from a double Derby d’Italia.”

Allegri also left a brief comment on the club’s transfer market activity, underlining that he only wants quality reinforcements this month.

“It doesn’t make sense to sign a player who doesn’t improve the squad,” he said.

“And to improve it, we need a player on the top level in Europe.”

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Mancini: ‘Inter will make changes’

http://www.football-italia.net/78936/mancini-%E2%80%98inter-will-make-changes%E2%80%99?

Jan 26, 2016

Roberto Mancini confirms Inter will “make some changes” for the Coppa Italia semi-final with Juventus.

The Nerazzurri travel to Turin for the first leg of the tie tomorrow, and the Coach admits he’ll have to shake things up.

“We’ll certainly make some changes because we’re playing every three days at the moment,” Mancini confirmed to Inter Channel.

“Juventus have recovered so many points in recent weeks and they’re definitely in great form. We’ll need to put the hard work in and fight. As for the system, we’ll see tomorrow.

“You expect to face a strong team when you reach the semi-final stage. The match is played over 180 minutes so we need to perform well to achieve a good result in the first leg and have a chance of going through in the second.”

After leading Serie A for much of the first half of the season, the Beneamata have faltered in recent weeks, but Mancini isn’t concerned.

“Unfortunately there are times when things just don’t go your way and that’s not because the lads are playing badly.

“We’re putting in a lot more running that we did at the start of the season. Some teams struggled early on and we’re having a bit of trouble now.

“Let’s try and get through this period as quickly as possible and string a run of wins together to get us back up there. We’re capable of doing that so we need to keep calm.

“Recently we haven’t picked up as many points in the League as we did at the start, but there’s a long way to go and we can still make up for that.”

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Perisic in doubt for Coppa

http://www.football-italia.net/78942/perisic-doubt-coppa?

Jan 26, 2016

Ivan Perisic is in doubt for Inter’s Coppa Italia clash with Juventus, after pulling up with an injury in training.

The Croatian international has been a key man for the Nerazzurri this season, making 21 appearances in all competitions and scoring three goals.

However, Sky is reporting that Perisic pulled-up with an unspecified injury in training today, and will be assessed by the medical staff in the coming hours.

With the Derby della Madonnina coming up on Sunday, Perisic is now a serious doubt for tomorrow’s Coppa Italia semi-final first leg against Juventus in Turin.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Mancini: Inter Can Learn Lessons From Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/mancini-inter-can-learn-lessons-from-juventus/?

Jan 26, 2016

Ahead of taking on Juventus in the Coppa Italia first-leg semi-final, Inter coach Roberto Mancini believes his side can take heart from the Bianconeri’s season.

The Old Lady began the campaign terribly but have fought back to claim 11 straight domestic wins and now lie just two points off first-placed Napoli in Serie A, and with the Nerazzurri on their own poor run the Italian is keen to replicate Juventus’ turnaround.

“Some teams have paid for mistakes before and we are paying now, Juventus had started badly and recovered so are in great shape and we know we can overcome this tough patch to win and bring us back up,” Mancini told Inter Channel.

“There are times, unfortunately, when things do not go to plan and this is not always because the boys are playing badly.

“We can do it, we just have to be calm.”

Wednesday’s game at the Juventus Stadium is the first of three Derby d’Italia clashes in the next month and the Biscione coach doesn’t want his team to be out of the tie before the return leg in Milan.

“This game is played over 180 minutes and we’ll have to be good to get a result in the first leg and be strong in the second match,” said Mancini.

“There will have to be sweat and fight; we’ll play a strong team.”

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Juventus V Inter – Preview: Nerazzurri Face
Bianconeri After Lasagna Hangover

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/juventus-v-inter-preview-nerazzurri-face-bianconeri-after-lasagna-hangover/?

Jan 26, 2016

Juventus will host Inter at the Juventus Stadium on Wednesday night in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final.

Both teams going into this week’s game on the back of clean sheets in their quarter-final victories. The Bianconeri won 1-0 against Lazio thanks to Stephan Lichtsteiner’s solitary goals while the Nerazzurri defeated Serie A leaders Napoli 2-0 in a match best remembered for Partenopei coach Maurizio Sarri’s controversial outbursts with Biscione coach Roberto Mancini.

Overall Juventus goes into this game with better form, winning their last eight games in all competitions and they haven’t lost since Sevilla defeated them 1-0 in their last Champions League encounter.

Inter have won only two of their last six matches. While Juve were winning 1-0 against Roma on the weekend, the Nerazzurri suffered shock 1-1 draw against Carpi in the league after conceding a late equaliser from Kevin Lasagna. Aside from their Coppa Italia win against the Partenopei, the Biscione have not won since they defeated Empoli on January 6 in Serie A.

Simone Zaza has struggled for regular playing time in Massimiliano Allegri’s team but he has performed admirably for Juve when he has been selected, especially in the Coppa Italia. The former Sassuolo striker scored two goals in the 4-0 win against Torino in the Round of 16 and Lichtsteiner’s goal against Lazio came from a rebound of Zaza’s thunderous shot.

Former Fiorentina goalkeeper Neto is another player who does not feature regularly for the Bianconeri but he has not conceded a goal yet his two Coppa Italia appearances this season.

Mancini’s side has struggled for goals in Serie A, having registered nine 1-0 wins in the league, but they have scored five goals in two cup matches so far.

Allegri will be missing Mario Lemina with knee inflammation as well as Roberto Pereyra with a muscular injury. Mancini will have a full strength team to choose from though.


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


Juventus: Neto; Rugani, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata, Zaza

Inter: Handanovic; Nagatomo, Miranda, Juan Jesus, Alex Telles; Kondogbia, Medel; Biabiany, Ljajic, Perisic; Jovetic

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Khedira out of Juve-Inter

http://www.football-italia.net/78950/khedira-out-juve-inter?

Jan 26, 2016

Juventus named their squad for tomorrow’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Inter, missing Sami Khedira and Simone Zaza.

It kicks off in Turin on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT and is the first leg of the semi-final.

Zaza is suspended, while midfielder Khedira is rested along with injured Roberto Pereyra and Mario Lemina.


Juventus squad for Inter:

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Inter squad for Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/78953/inter-squad-juventus?

Jan 26, 2016

Inter named their squad for tomorrow’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Juventus.

The first leg kicks off at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

Fredy Guarin is again left out, as he is ready to sign for Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua.

Ivan Perisic was believed to be an injury doubt, though he is included in the squad.


Inter squad for Juventus:

Handanovic, Carrizo, Berni; Juan Jesus, Telles, Montoya, Santon, Ranocchia, Murillo, Miranda, D'Ambrosio, Nagatomo; Kondogbia, Medel, Gnoukouri, Brozovic, Melo; Palacio, Icardi, Jovetic, Biabiany, Ljajic, Perisic, Manaj

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Allegri: Morata Just Needs A Goal For Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/01/allegri-morata-just-needs-a-goal-for-juventus/?

Jan 26, 2016

Ahead of facing old-time rivals Inter in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final, Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri attempted to motivate Spanish striker Alvaro Morata to get back in form.

The former Real Madrid forward has only scored three goals in 27 appearances for the Old Lady this season; however, the clash against Inter could be Morata’s change to regain his form.

“Morata’s problem is not physical nor technical, it just depends on his will to sort his head out,” he stated. “He might start on Wednesday, all he needs is a goal.

“Cuadrado is also a possible starter, he has the ability to change a game with his pace.

“Khedira will be resting, he played a tough match against Roma and he will be working to regain his match fitness for the next league game [against Chievo].”

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

JUVENTUS VS INTER COPPA ITALIA PREVIEW

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-vs-inter-match-preview-and-scouting/?

Jan 26, 2016
 

Juventus

The Roma one was arguably the hardest win of the ongoing winning streak and Juventus needed a special play from Patrice Evra, Paul Pogba and Paulo Dybala to break the deadlock, but all in all Gianluigi Buffon made only a couple of saves and bianconeri controlled the rhythm of the match. The only real threat came in form of a Miralem Pjanic free kick, defused by a deflection by the wall. It is a massive win because it knocked Roma out of the title picture, at least until they solve their issues and start winning consistently, and helped Juventus maintain the pace of Napoli, while Inter slipped.

Three days later, Juventus takes the field to defend its Coppa Italia at home against Inter in the first leg of the semi-finals. As usual, this round is screwed up: not only it is the one that is played in 180 minutes, but also the first and the second matches are one month apart. It does not make much sense and it makes this bout less compelling.

Simone Zaza is disqualified so there will not be the usual Cup couple with Alvaro Morata. Sami Khedira will be spared as the coaching staff is micro-managing his minutes. 3-5-2 is the most likely formation, but the Massimiliano Allegri hinted that Leonardo Bonucci could be rested and the coach does not envision Daniele Rugani playing in that position: if Leo was out, there could either be a weird three-man defensive line with Andrea Barzagli in the middle, or standard four-man one. Patrice Evra is suspended for the next Serie A game so he is slated to play to in this one.

The coach praised Hernanes in the pre-game presser and indicated that, since Claudio Marchisio is one yellow card away from disqualification, the Brazilian could start. Since playing time has been scarce for the former Inter and the midfielder will already feature one “reserve” to replace Khedira, with Stefano Sturaro being the clear frontrunner over Kwadwo Asamoah, the Italian international is still expected to be out there on Wednesday night. Paul Pogba has been rested against Udinese so he should start. Juan Cuadrado is primed to play on the right.

Alvaro Morata is set to be a starter and this could be the right opportunity to give Paulo Dybala, who is carrying the team scoring-wise, a chance to rest a bit. Mario Mandzukic-Morata could be an interesting pair and could help the Spaniard because the Croatian forward would take on all the dirty work and he would be freer. The coach stated that he wants Morata to be more carefree.

In case a 4-3-whatever is deployed, it would likely feature a Cuadrado-Mandzukic-Morata trident.

As for the transfer market, Allegri and Giuseppe Marotta were very clear: Martin Caceres will not leave in January. Not surprisingly, some extension chatter has resurfaced. He should play in this one, replacing either Barzagli or Bonucci.


Probable lineup 3-5-2:

Neto; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Morata.


Injuries:

Lemina (knee), Pereyra (hamstring).

Suspended:

Zaza.



 

  Inter

Inter have collected only five points in five games (1W, 2D, 2L) and they are now six points behind Napoli and four behind Juventus. The slide has been sudden, but not surprising. At the beginning of the season, Inter won a bunch of low-scoring games by single digit and that has now caught up with them. It is tough to win consistently when you score only once per game, even if you have a lockdown defence and a helluva goalkeeper. Inter have tallied 26 goals in 21 matches, which is abysmal compared to Napoli’s 45 and Juventus’ 38.

Roberto Mancini has publicly called out his strikers for missing chances, a behaviour that I did not like as I think that direct criticism of the players should stay in the locker room, but the main problem is that they do not create much. They are only sixth in the League for shoots and shoots on target, so the anomaly was them being on top of the table, not this recent slump. They have simply regressed to the mean.

The most glaring issue is the lack of creativity, mainly in the midfield, but not only there. Adem Ljajic seems to be the most willing passer, and that says a lot because the Serbian talent is not really known to be an assist machine. Stevan Jovetic and Mauro Icardi have yet to learn how to play together. Ivan Perisic is a nice winger, but they do not really have another good one to pair up with him.

Another problem is that coach has been tinkering too much with the lineup and the tactics. Not only the do not have a consistent XI, but they do not even have a go-to scheme. They have tried 4-3-1-2 with Perisic in the hole first, then they alternated 4-4-2 and 4-2-3-1 depending on who was on the pitch, with some sprinkles of 4-3-3 and 3-5-2. This creates a lot of confusion among the players but more importantly it does not allow them to create any chemistry and the mechanisms take longer to develop.

It is very hard to figure out their lineup and Mancini himself said that they have yet to decide the tactic. In the post-game rant in the weekend, he hinted that he was going to field less attackers, so 4-3-3 and 3-5-2 are the favourites at this stage. Mauro Icardi should be given a day off, with Jovetic stepping in as centre-forward. The latest reports say that Perisic might have suffered an injury, so, even if he has not, he could be held out just as a precautionary measure.

With 4-3-3, there would like be a trident formed by Jonathan Biabiany, Jovetic and Ljajic. With 3-5-2, Biabiany, even though he has played RWB in the past, would be benched, with a fullback taking his spot and Juan Jesus teaming up with Miranda and Jeison Murillo in the back. They have so many fullbacks available that is hard to indicate who is more likely to start: Danilo D’Ambrosio and Yuto Nagatomo have been the most used lately, so the others, like Davide Santon and Alex Telles, could get a chance to see the pitch here. The midfield will be composed by Gary Medel and two between Marcelo Brozovic, Felipe Melo and Kondogbia.


Probable lineup 4-3-3:

Handanovic; Santon, Murillo, Miranda, Telles, Melo, Medel, Kondogbia; Biabiany, Jovetic, Ljajic.


Injuries:

None.

Suspended:

None.

 

Formation

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Juventus v Inter: Melo admits Mancini's
men have had a reality check

The Brazilian midfielder feels Inter's recent poor form has focused
their minds ahead of the crucial Coppa Italia game with Juventus.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-vs-internazionale/2180160/preview

Jan 26, 2016

Juventus host Inter in the first leg of a huge Coppa Italia semi-final tie on Wednesday, with Felipe Melo admitting Roberto Mancini's men have been brought back down to earth in recent weeks.

The two rivals have experienced vastly different fortunes in Serie A during the middle period of the season.

Having made a miserable start, Juve have stormed to 11 consecutive league victories, while Inter have only won three of their last eight.

That means Mancini's early pacesetters have slipped down to fourth in the table, while Massimiliano Allegri's champions have surged up to second place, within two points of leaders Napoli.

Inter's most recent blow was a 1-1 draw against struggling 10-man Carpi on Sunday, with a late intervention from Kevin Lasagna turning stomachs at San Siro.

Melo was extremely disappointed with the display, but felt one positive would be the focused minds ahead of the first leg against Juve in Turin.

"When they went down to 10 men there was no way we should have been conceding a goal like that – we have thrown two points away," said the midfielder.

"We must not forget this game because it will do us good in the future. If we had won the game we might have gone into the Juventus match overconfident and conceded four goals – that is much worse that being humble and working hard to produce a good performance.

"If we show humility in our work then I am sure we can play the way we need to. This is a winning club and I came here to win. We just need to work even harder.

"Now we have an opportunity to do well away from home in the Derby d’Italia so we need to put the hard yards in. These moments happen and we need to show our intelligence."

Seven-time competition winners Inter reached the last four with wins over Cagliari and Napoli, while Juve - who have won it a record 10 times including last season - got the better of Torino and Lazio.

The winners of the tie, which concludes with the second leg on March 1, will face either AC Milan or third-tier outfit Alessandria in the final.

Speaking after Sunday's 1-0 win over Roma, head coach Allegri set his sights on a strong second half of the season.

He said: "We want to end the season this way on May 8 for the league, May 21 for the Coppa Italia and May 28 in the Champions League.

"We have a packed schedule ahead but we must stay level-headed. As I have always said, keeping your cool and focus is everything in football and the boys have maintained theirs brilliantly in the last few months.

"It is a long season when you compete in as many competitions as we do and the most important thing is to ensure that we end it with one or two pieces of silverware to show for it."

Juve only have Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra out of action, while Inter are at full strength.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus W W W W W

1/24/16 - Juventus 1 - 0 Roma
1/20/16 - Lazio 0 - 1 Juventus
1/17/16 - Udinese 0 - 4 Juventus
1/10/16 - Sampdoria 1 - 2 Juventus
1/6/16 - Juventus 3 - 0 Hellas Verona


Internazionale D W D L W

1/24/16 - Internazionale 1 - 1 Carpi
1/19/16 - Napoli 0 - 2 Internazionale
1/16/16 - Atalanta 1 - 1 Internazionale
1/10/16 - Internazionale 0 - 1 Sassuolo
1/6/16 - Empoli 0 - 1 Internazionale


HEAD TO HEAD

10/18/15 - Internazionale 0 - 0 Juventus
5/16/15 - Internazionale 1 - 2 Juventus
1/6/15 - Juventus 1 - 1 Internazionale
2/2/14 - Juventus 3 - 1 Internazionale
9/14/13 - Internazionale 1 - 1 Juventus

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Coppa Italia clash vs. Juventus
critical to Inter Milan's season

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/internazionale/110/blog/post/2794722/inter-milan-coppa-italia-clash-vs-juventus-is-crucial

Jan 27, 2016

"I hope this dream will go on for as long as possible. It's a derby for me. I support Inter, as do my family, so that spurs me on even more. Above all I just hope to do well. I'd say Inter in the final."

Those are the words of Riccardo Bocalon, the Alessandria forward who scored twice for his team in the quarterfinals of the Coppa Italia against Spezia to set up a dream semifinal tie for the third division team against Milan.

While Bocalon may have salivated over the prospect of playing his boyhood team in the final, he neglected two other rather important factors: First, the fact that he and Alessandria must overcome Milan, a task now made tougher following their 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's first leg. Second, Inter have to negotiate a very tough task in their semifinal against "The Old Lady".

Inter manager Roberto Mancini may not feel the same as Bocalon. Just this past weekend Carpi's Kevin Lasagna, a player who is a self-proclaimed Inter fan, denied Inter of a victory with a goal in stoppage time to further damage Inter's Serie A title hopes. However, these fears of another boyhood Inter fan spoiling the Nerazzurri's chances of winning a different trophy may be a bit premature.

The Milanese face Juventus in a two-legged series that will certainly test the mettle of the Nerazzurri. The side from San Siro had been in excellent form pre-Christmas, but the last match of 2015 finished in a defeat to Lazio. This seemingly set the precedent for the New Year and January has seen a narrow win against Empoli followed up with a draw against Atalanta, defeat to Sassuolo and a draw with Carpi. The win against Napoli in the Coppa has been the only real highlight, as there is no doubt that Inter are off the pace.

Mancini has always loved cup competitions; he won five Coppa Italias as a player at Sampdoria as well as a Super Coppa and a UEFA Cup. Lazio also proved a happy hunting ground for Mancini the player, especially as he won two more Coppas, a Super Coppa a UEFA Cup and a Super Cup. His management career has not stunted his ability to win in knockout competitions and he has picked up another nine titles solely in cup competitions with five clubs in three countries.

This season it is looking like the Coppa may once again be the Nerazzurri's best chance of quantifying a good season. The league ambition has always been the Champions League and even with their impressive start in Serie A, Inter's fade from the top has seen them look like they are perhaps not quite ready to win the Scudetto. Mancini has acknowledged that playing three times a week has taken a toll on his team's recent performances.

To boot, should Gonzalo Higuain and Lorenzo Insigne stay fit, Napoli will certainly challenge. Meanwhile, Juventus are sporting an 11-match unbeaten streak.

While this may seem that the Milanese are perhaps whimpering away from trying to claim top honours with some heavily prepped excuses, this is not the case. The goal was the Champions League and this is still certainly possible, and if they can beat Juventus, the boost it will give the club will have a twofold effect: A winnable cup final against either Milan or Alessandria and the mental benefit of reaching a final for the remainder of the season.

The fact that Mancini has also spoken about the possibility of resting players should also not be misunderstood. If Inter get into Europe next season, the entire squad will be called upon, something Mancini has done plenty during the current campaign.

Look how many times the full-backs, central midfielders and wide men have altered throughout. Mancini is desperately looking for a strong squad over a spectacular first XI. While this has been at the detriment of the team at times, it is also arguable that they would not be where they are now if he hadn't. Ivan Perisic looks to be ruled out through injury for instance and he has been one of the constant performers. The beauty of Mancini's system is that Jonathan Biabiany (should he cover) has had enough game time to deputise.

Juventus manager Max Allegri has stated that he will also rest players this week. Nevertheless, but this Derby d'Italia will still be fiercely contested, with Mancini stressing the importance of a strong first leg so they have a chance in the second leg.

If Inter can pull off a victory against the current juggernaut that is Juventus, then the positive effect it may have on their season could be enormous. A Champions League spot and a final against either Alessandria, or even better against Milan in a Derby della Madonnina final, would be a dream for most fans that frequent the San Siro. One thing is for sure; if Inter make the final, no matter who they play, Riccardo Bocalon will be there.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Juventus vs. Internazionale: Team News, Predicted Lineups

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2610826-juventus-vs-internazionale-team-news-predicted-lineups-live-stream-tv-info?

Jan 27, 2016

Having beaten rivals AS Roma on Sunday, Juventus once again return to Coppa Italia action on Wednesday evening, taking on Inter in the first leg of a semi-final clash that both teams will be taking seriously.

Recent form has seen the visitors slump somewhat, losing to both Lazio and Sassuolo before being held to draws by Atalanta then Carpi. That run of results has seen the Nerazzurri drop from the top of the table to now sit four points behind second-place Juventus, but they have impressed in the knockout competition.

A win over Napoli saw them take a place in the last four, and a victory over the holders would undoubtedly improve their morale. Speaking after seeing his side concede a stoppage-time equaliser at home to 10-man Carpi last weekend, Inter boss Roberto Mancini highlighted issues at both ends of the field.

“I am disappointed, this is the third game we’ve thrown away by gifting these late chances,” the coach told Mediaset Premium and Sky Italia (h/t Football Italia). “We have a bigger problem, which is that we can’t score goals. Our strikers can’t just stand there and wait for the ball to come, football is made up of brains as well as brawn.”

Indeed, while they boast Serie A’s best defence—conceding just 14 times thus far and with goalkeeper Samir Handanovic keeping a league-high 12 clean sheets—Inter have netted only 26 goals themselves, a tally bettered by no fewer than 10 other teams.


OptaPaolo ✔ @OptaPaolo
27 & 6 - Juventus have scored the most goals (27) and conceded the fewest (6) over the last 11 Serie A MDs. Power.

For their part, Juventus have now recorded 11 consecutive league wins, also eliminating city rivals Torino and Lazio from the Coppa Italia during that same period. As the table in the tweet above highlights, their results have catapulted them back up the table, and they will certainly hope to add to Inter’s misery here.


Probable Formations

Juventus (3-5-2):
Neto; Martin Caceres, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Stefano Sturaro, Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba, Alex Sandro, Paulo Dybala, Alvaro Morata

Unavailable: Mario Lemina, Rubinho and Roberto Pereyra (all injured), Sami Khedira (rested), Simone Zaza (suspended)


Inter (4-3-3):
Samir Handanovic; Danilo D'Ambrosio, Joao Miranda, Juan Jesus, Davide Santon; Felipe Melo, Gary Medel, Geoffrey Kondogbia; Adem Ljajic, Stevan Jovetic, Ivan Perisic

Unavailable: None


Odds (via Odds Shark)

Away win: 100-161

Home win: 19-4

Draw: 11-4

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Juventus v Inter Betting Preview: Derby d'Italia
rivals to grind out low-scoring affair

Having watched them play out a tense 0-0 draw in October's Serie A clash, Al Hain-Cole
is backing Serie A's giants to contest another defensive encounter in the Coppa Italia.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/2994/betting/2016/01/27/19717902/-?

Jan 27, 2016

Coppa Italia holders Juventus will be hoping to put one foot in a second consecutive final when they welcome Inter to Turin for Wednesday's semi-final first leg.

Coming into the clash on the back of a 13-game winning streak in domestic competitions, Massimiliano Allegri's men are favourites with William Hill to put themselves in a strong position by coming out on top once again here.

The Nerazzurri have not beaten these opponents since November 2012 but are on offer at to pull off a shock victory in this one.

The sides shared a 0-0 draw when they last met in October's Serie A encounter and you can get odds of on them cancelling each other out once again on this occasion.

Perhaps the most intense Italian rivalry between two teams not based in the same city, Derby d'Italia clashes are always hard-fought occasions

That most recent goalless draw at the San Siro was a case in point, with Roberto Mancini’s men setting themselves up defensively in order to ensure they avoided defeat.

The former Manchester City boss is likely to adopt similar tactics in this clash as he looks to nullify a team currently enjoying an indomitable run of form, with the Bianconeri on a run of 12 consecutive victories in domestic competitions.

Having seen his side score just six goals in the last six competitive matches, Mancini will know that his side are unlikely to find too much joy in front of goal against a team that has conceded only three times in their last 11 matches on home turf.

Instead, the Milanese guests will fall back and look to defend their own backline, which has let in a mere seven goals in their previous 14 fixtures.

Considering nine of their 14 wins this campaign have been recorded by a slender 1-0 scoreline, odds of appear generous on Inter ensuring under 1.5 goals against a Juve team that has merely let in 13 goals in their last 25 outings.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Perisic out of Derby d’Italia

http://www.football-italia.net/78988/perisic-out-derby-d%E2%80%99italia?

Jan 27, 2016

Inter’s Ivan Perisic has reportedly not travelled to Turin to face Juventus tonight because of an ankle injury.

The Derby d’Italia clash at Juventus Stadium this evening is the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final and will kick off at 19:45 UK time.

Sky Italia revealed today that Nerazzurri Coach Roberto Mancini will have to do without Perisic, as he has sustained a slight sprain to his left ankle.

The Croatian has made 19 appearances and scored twice since his summer arrival from Wolfsburg.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Coppa line-ups: Juventus-Inter

http://www.football-italia.net/79011/coppa-line-ups-juventus-inter?

Jan 27, 2016

It’s Alvaro Morata and Mario Mandzukic against Stevan Jovetic and Adem Ljajic as Juventus and Inter clash in the Coppa Italia semi-final.

The first leg kicks off in Turin at 20.45 cet - 19.45 GMT.

The Bianconeri won the trophy last season and are eager to consolidate their grip on this competition, but the Nerazzurri knocked Napoli out in the quarter-finals and are not to be underestimated.

Juve have Simone Zaza suspended, while Sami Khedira, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra are unavailable.

Paulo Dybala and Gigi Buffon are rested, but Juan Guillermo Cuadrado gets a rare start.

Stefano Sturaro was expected to start, but pulled out with an ankle problem, so Kwadwo Asamoah gets the nod in midfield.

Morata tries to break his lengthy goal drought, which has lasted since October, alongside Mandzukic.

Inter have slipped down the Serie A standings recently, going from leaders before Christmas to fourth place.

Roberto Mancini was highly critical of Mauro Icardi’s performance at the weekend in a 1-1 draw with Carpi, noting “I’m 50 and I could’ve scored some of those goals.”

Icardi is dropped in favour of Jovetic, Ljajic and Jonathan Biabiany in a trident attack, while Ivan Perisic is out injured.

Mancio had been expected to mirror Juve’s 3-5-2 formation, but has instead gone for 4-3-3.

The referee this evening is Paolo Tagliavento.


Juventus: Neto; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah, Evra; Mandzukic, Morata

Juventus bench: Buffon, Rubinho, Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Rugani, Alex Sandro, Padoin, Hernanes, Dybala


Inter: Handanovic; D’Ambrosio, Miranda, Murillo, Nagatomo; Felipe Melo, Medel, Kondogbia; Biabiany, Jovetic, Ljajic

Inter bench: Carrizo, Berni, Juan Jesus, Palacio, Icardi, Telles, Montoya, Santon, Ranocchia, Gnoukouri, Brozovic, Manaj

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

HT 1-0: Morata spot-kick leads Inter

http://www.football-italia.net/79017/ht-morata-spot-kick-leads-inter

Jan 27, 2016

Alvaro Morata ended his goal drought with a penalty as Juventus lead Inter at half-time, but both sides have had complaints.

This was a special edition of the Derby d’Italia and the first leg in the Coppa Italia semi-final, whose decider will be at San Siro on March 3. Simone Zaza was suspended with Sami Khedira, Stefano Sturaro, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra unavailable, while Inter missed Ivan Perisic.

There was a big chance in the opening 90 seconds, as Alvaro Morata threaded through for Kwadwo Asamoah to blast wide under pressure. Inter recovered from the shaky start and Felipe Melo tested Norberto Neto from distance after Gary Medel fired off target.

Samir Handanovic had to come flying out to nod clear from Mario Mandzukic and Juve had very strong penalty appeals after 14 minutes for a Medel handball on Juan Cuadrado’s free kick.

Cuadrado’s angled drive flashed inches past the post and Stevan Jovetic nodded wide when he should’ve left it for Adem Ljajic’s volley.

Juve did eventually get a penalty, as Cuadrado completed a give-and-go with Morata before he was nudged in the back by Jeison Murillo. Inter protested the decision and Roberto Mancini laughed sarcastically on the touchline, but Morata confidently smashed the spot-kick into the near top corner for his first goal since October 4, ending a 20-game drought.

Joao Miranda was booked for a foul on Morata and will be suspended for the second leg, while Claudio Marchisio blasted wide.


Juventus 1-0 Inter (Half-Time)

Scorers: Morata pen 36 (J)

Juventus: Neto; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah, Evra; Mandzukic, Morata

Inter: Handanovic; D’Ambrosio, Miranda, Murillo, Nagatomo; Felipe Melo, Medel, Kondogbia; Biabiany, Jovetic, Ljajic

Ref: Tagliavento

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

3 - 0

 
Álvaro Morata (36'-penalty)
Álvaro Morata (63')
Paulo Dybala (83')

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Juventus 3-0 Inter: Morata re-finds
scoring touch in Coppa Italia rout

The Spaniard had scored just three times in 27 appearances prior to Wednesday's
cup match, but netted in each half to give Roberto Mancini's side a mountain to climb.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-vs-internazionale/2180160/report

Jan 27, 2016

Alvaro Morata ended a 20-match wait for a goal by scoring twice as Juventus built a commanding 3-0 lead in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final clash with Inter.

Morata, who had not found the back of the net for The Old Lady since scoring in the 3-1 Serie A victory over Bologna on October 4, thrashed home a first-half penalty to end his four-month goal drought after Jeison Murillo had brought down Juan Cuadrado in the box to give the hosts control of the tie.

The Spaniard then celebrated ending his barren spell by adding a second after half-time, as the holders took a major step towards retaining the trophy.

Inter hobbled to the end of the game with 10 men, following Murillo's dismissal for a second bookable offence, and the chances of a Milan derby final were dealt a huge blow when Paulo Dybala came off the bench to fire home a third with six minutes remaining.

The home side controlled proceedings for almost the entire encounter in Turin and wanted a penalty after just 13 minutes but referee Paolo Tagliavento waved away their fervent claims when Cuadrado's free-kick struck the arm of Gary Medel.

Colombian Cuadrado then drifted past two Inter defenders and fired wide midway through the opening period as the hosts piled on the pressure.

Juve looked typically resilient in defence as they went in search of a fourth straight clean sheet in all competitions, and it was unsurprising that much of the match was played out methodically in midfield, given Inter's run of 10 shut-outs in their previous 16 outings.

Inter finally found themselves inside the Juve penalty area in the 32nd minute but Stevan Jovetic glanced his header wide from Danilo D'Ambrosio's cross.

A cagey affair was in desperate need of a flashpoint to spark it into life and that moment arrived two minutes later.

Cuadrado collected a chipped throughball in the Inter box and would have had the chance to shoot at goal but for Murillo, who bundled the winger over and was lucky to escape with only a yellow card.

Morata stepped up to smash home the subsequent penalty and hand the home side a lead which they never relinquished.

After waiting so long for a goal, Morata doubled his haul just after the hour mark. Patrice Evra darted to the byline and, when Melo failed to clear, the Spaniard was on hand to smash into the top left-hand corner from six yards out.

Inter's dismal night was made even worse with 21 minutes remaining, as Murillo picked up his second caution of the evening for a trip on tormentor-in-chief Cuadrado, and the visitors were left in damage-control mode.

Morata flicked a header wide from Kwadwo Asamoah's cross, and then side-footed over from Paul Pogba's wonderful pass, as the frontman came close to completing a hat-trick, but instead it was Dybala who scored the third of the night for Juve.

The substitute beat Inter keeper Samir Handanovic between his legs from 18 yards to all but end the visitors' dreams of a first Coppa final since 2011.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

3 - 0

 
Álvaro Morata (36'-penalty)
Álvaro Morata (63')
Paulo Dybala (83')

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Coppa: Morata's Juve crush Inter

Alvaro Morata’s brace ended his drought and Paulo Dybala finished off
10-man Inter as Juventus won the Coppa Italia semi-final 3-0.

http://www.football-italia.net/79018/coppa-moratas-juve-crush-inter?

Jan 27, 2016

The second leg will be at San Siro on March 3, but the Nerazzurri will have Jeison Murillo and Joao Miranda suspended.

Simone Zaza was suspended with Sami Khedira, Stefano Sturaro, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra unavailable, while Inter missed Ivan Perisic.

There was a big chance in the opening 90 seconds, as Morata threaded through for Kwadwo Asamoah to blast wide under pressure. Samir Handanovic had to come flying out to nod clear from Mario Mandzukic and Juve had very strong penalty appeals after 14 minutes for a Medel handball on Juan Cuadrado’s free kick.

Cuadrado’s angled drive flashed inches past the post and Stevan Jovetic nodded wide when he should’ve left it for Adem Ljajic’s volley.

Juve did eventually get a penalty, as Cuadrado completed a give-and-go with Morata before he was nudged in the back by Murillo. Inter protested the decision, but Morata confidently smashed the spot-kick into the near top corner for his first goal since October 4, ending a 20-game drought.

Juve doubled their lead when Biabiany blocked a Mandzukic shot, but the move continued and Felipe Melo’s clearance was straight to Morata, who blasted across Handanovic into the far top corner from six yards.

Neto flew to pluck a Murillo header out of the air from Ljajic’s free kick, but Inter went down to 10 men as Murillo received a second yellow card for blocking Cuadrado’s run. It means both Murillo and Miranda will be suspended for the second leg.

The Nerazzurri had penalty appeals too when Jovetic’s shot was charged down from close range, but replays show it struck Martin Caceres on the stomach.

Morata should’ve completed his hat-trick, but incredibly ballooned Pogba’s cross over from eight yards with only Handanovic to beat.

Dybala finished it off instead, hitting it first time to nutmeg Handanovic from the edge of the box when Asamoah rolled across the assist. It was La Joya’s 15th goal in 30 competitive games this season.

Juve hadn’t beaten Inter in the Coppa Italia since February 1992, earning only four draws from seven meetings.


Juventus 3-0 Inter

Scorers: Morata pen 36, 63 (J), Dybala 85 (J)

Juventus: Neto; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah, Evra (Alex Sandro 83); Mandzukic (Dybala 77), Morata

Inter: Handanovic; D’Ambrosio, Miranda, Murillo, Nagatomo; Felipe Melo (Brozovic 64), Medel, Kondogbia; Biabiany (Icardi 77), Jovetic, Ljajic (Juan Jesus 80)

Ref: Tagliavento

Sent off: Murillo 69 (I)

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

3 - 0

 
Álvaro Morata (36'-penalty)
Álvaro Morata (63')
Paulo Dybala (83')

 

Coppa Italia TIM - Semi-final
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

Alvaro Morata puts Juventus in
charge against Inter Milan

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-coppa-italia/match/442171/juventus-internazionale/report

Jan 27, 2016

Alvaro Morata ended his scoring drought in style as Juventus took firm control of their Coppa Italia semifinal with Inter Milan.

Morata had failed to score in 20 games, a run stretching back to Oct. 4 when he netted in a 3-1 Serie A victory over Bologna.

But the Spain striker scored twice and substitute Pablo Dybala added another as Juventus secured a healthy 3-0 advantage to defend in the second leg in Milan.

Inter's plight worsened when Jeison Murillo was sent off 20 minutes from time for a second bookable offence and the Colombian defender will miss the San Siro return in March.

Cup holders Juventus came into the contest as strong favourites having won their last 11 Serie A matches to draw within two points of leaders Napoli, but Felipe Melo's shot caused them some early concern.

Juventus gradually got on top, however, and strong claims for a penalty when Inter midfielder Gary Medel handled were waved away.

The deadlock was broken in the 36th minute after Murillo had brought down the strong-running Juan Cuadrado.

Morata might have been forgiven for stepping up for spot-kick duty after his barren run in front of goal, but he sent Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic the wrong way with a thumping finish and his relief was tangible.

Inter had plenty of possession at the start of the second period but they created little and fell further behind after 63 minutes when Mario Mandzukic's shot was blocked following another Cuadrado burst.

Patrice Evra kept the move alive and, after his cross unwittingly struck the legs of Melo, Morata sent another flashing drive past Handanovic.

Murillo forced a save from Neto but the defender was soon trudging off the pitch after once more unceremoniously stopping Cuadrado in full flow.

Morata should have completed his hat-trick following a brilliant ball into his path from Paul Pogba but this time he could not keep his shot down.

But the tie was surely put beyond Inter seven minutes from time when Kwadwo Asamoah set up Dybala and he drove through the legs of the luckless Handanovic from 20 yards.