Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Line-ups: Milan-Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/82571/line-ups-milan-juventus?

Apr 9, 2016
 
Milan give Mario Balotelli a rare chance to shine as they try to save their season and end the Juventus Scudetto march.

The Rossoneri have spent the last six days locked in a training retreat after their embarrassing 2-1 defeat to Atalanta.

These two sides will meet in Rome on May 21 for the Coppa Italia Final, but there’s a very real chance Sinisa Mihajlovic will no longer be on the Milan bench by then.

Andrea Bertolacci is suspended with M’Baye Niang, Jeremy Menez and Christian Abbiati unavailable.

This means Balotelli is given a chance to show what he can do alongside Colombian hitman Carlos Bacca, with support from Jack Bonaventura.

Keisuke Honda is back after missing the trip to Bergamo and he was sorely missed in that game.

Riccardo Montolivo had been expected to skip this clash, but has made a rapid recovery to start.

Juventus have won 20 of the last 21 Serie A rounds, sending them six points clear at the top of the table and on the verge of a fifth consecutive Scudetto.

Sami Khedira lost his appeal against a two-match ban, so remains suspended, joining injured Paulo Dybala, Giorgio Chiellini, Roberto Pereyra and Martin Caceres.

Alvaro Morata partners Mario Mandzukic, but Kwadwo Asamoah is a surprise pick instead of Stefano Sturaro in midfield.

Milan haven’t won this fixture since a 1-0 result in November 2012, losing two on the trot without finding the net.

These sides last shared the spoils here when it ended 1-1 in February 2012.


Milan: Donnarumma; Abate, Alex, Romagnoli, Antonelli; Honda, Montolivo, Kucka, Bonaventura; Bacca, Balotelli

Milan bench: Diego Lopez, Livieri, Calabria, De Sciglio, Ely, Mexes, Zapata, Jose Mauri, Locatelli, Poli, Boateng, Luiz Adriano


Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Rugani; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Morata

Juventus bench: Neto, Rubinho, Evra, Padoin, Sturaro, Lemina, Cuadrado, Hernanes, Zaza
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Bacca: 'Tough for Juve too'

http://www.football-italia.net/82572/bacca-tough-juve-too?

Apr 9, 2016
 
Carlos Bacca expects tonight’s San Siro clash to be “difficult for Milan and also for Juventus.”

“It is not just a difficult game for us, but also for Juventus,” Bacca told Milan Channel.

“We are Milan, we are playing on home turf and we want to put in a great performance, hoping the result goes our way.

“I have a lot of respect for Juventus and always work to give my best. The important thing is to win the match. If it’s with my goal, then even better.”
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Balotelli starts against Juventus

The Italy international forward makes just his second start
since September when the Old Lady come calling to San Siro.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3265/italian-football/2016/04/09/22194382/-?

Apr 9, 2016
 
Mario Balotelli has been given a rare start for AC Milan as the Rossoneri welcome Serie A champions Juventus to San Siro.

The 25-year-old Italy international has only one league goal to his credit so far this season and has started only one league match since suffering a groin injury in September. He returned to fitness in January but has failed to win his place back in the starting XI.

Massimiliano Allegri has made several changes to his panel. Leonardo Bonucci returns to action, while in the left wing-back role Alex Sandro is preferred to Patrice Evra in the left wing-back role. Kwadwo Asamoah steps into the central midfield trio in place of Roberto Pereyra, while in attack Alvaro Morata starts alongside Mario Mandzukic once more.

Juve are still shorn of top scorer Paulo Dybala due to injury, while Sami Khedira is banned.


Milan XI

Donnarumma; Abate, Alex, Romagnoli, Antonelli; Honda, Montolivo, Kucka, Bonaventura; Bacca, Balotelli

Subs: Diego Lopez, Livieri, Calabria, De Sciglio, Ely, Mexes, Zapata, Jose Mauri, Locatelli, Poli, Boateng, Luiz Adriano



Juventus XI

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Rugani; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Morata

Subs: Neto, Rubinho, Evra, Padoin, Sturaro, Lemina, Cuadrado, Hernanes, Zaza
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Bonucci: 'Juve still hungrier'

http://www.football-italia.net/82574/bonucci-juve-still-hungrier?

Apr 9, 2016
 
Leonardo Bonucci shrugged off controversy and assured Juventus will beat Milan in terms of determination.

“We have created an important gap from Napoli and need to expand it now,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

“Next week there will be three games in quick succession and it’s the final push to really secure the Scudetto.”

Milan have been locked up in a training retreat for the last six days, so they’re bound to be fired up.

“The only attitude that matters is our own. If we do it with the humility that has been our strength in recent years, then it doesn’t matter how determined Milan are.”

Bonucci hit the headlines this week, as Napoli claimed he should’ve been sent off for ‘headbutting’ a referee.

The official in question and videotape of the incident confirmed there was no headbutt, it was just a trick of perspective.

“It didn’t trouble me at all, if anything I had a good laugh at some of the jokes. Criticism only ever spurs me on.”
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

HT 1-1: Mandzukic claws Milan back

http://www.football-italia.net/82577/ht-mandzukic-claws-milan-back?

Apr 9, 2016
 
Mario Mandzukic wiped out an Alex opener, but Milan have forced several tough saves out of Juventus captain Gigi Buffon.

The Rossoneri were in a training retreat for six days after their embarrassing defeat to Atalanta, but missed Jeremy Menez, Christian Abbiati, M’Baye Niang and suspended Andrea Bertolacci. The Bianconeri were six points clear at the top of the table following 20 wins in 21 rounds, so confidence was sky high. Sami Khedira sat out a ban with Paulo Dybala, Giorgio Chiellini, Roberto Pereyra and Martin Caceres sidelined.

Juve had won their last two trips to San Siro, unbeaten here since November 2012. It was an early taster of the Coppa Italia Final in Rome on May 21.

There was a touching tribute to Cesare Maldini before kick-off, as all of the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza gave the club legend a standing ovation.

Gigi Buffon was almost caught out by an Ignazio Abate cross-shot that thumped the near post after just eight minutes.

The goalkeeper then had to scoop a splendid Mario Balotelli free kick off the line one-handed, then denied the follow-up from point-blank range.

Milan had been very aggressive from the get-go and took the lead when Balotelli curled a corner in for Alex’s bullet header, which was just too powerful for Buffon to keep out.

Juve created their first real chance on 22 minutes, as Gigio Donnarumma smothered Stephan Lichtsteiner’s toe-poke from close range.

Donnarumma flew to fingertip a Claudio Marchisio screamer over, then the Bianconeri equalised. Mandzukic knocked down a long Buffon ball, Alvaro Morata returned it forward and the Croatian scuffed his finish across Donnarumma from 12 yards.

Buffon beat away a sudden Keisuke Honda snapshot, while Lichtsteiner was already offside when Morata nodded in his cross.

In first half stoppages, Lichtsteiner blasted across the face of goal from a Paul Pogba assist.


Milan 1-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Alex 18 (M), Mandzukic 27 (J)

Milan: Donnarumma; Abate, Alex, Romagnoli, Antonelli; Honda, Montolivo, Kucka, Bonaventura; Bacca, Balotelli

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Rugani; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Morata

Ref: Orsato
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 
 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Milan 1-2 Juventus: Pogba strike
gives visitors victory

The France international sent a bouncing header looping over the goalkeeper just
past the hour mark, after Mario Mandzukic had cancelled out Alex's 18th-minute opener.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/milan-vs-juventus/2120693/report

Apr 9, 2016
 
Juventus moved another step closer to the Serie A title as they came from behind to defeat Milan 2-1 at San Siro on Saturday.

In a thrilling encounter, Alex gave Sinisa Mihajlovic's men a first-half lead, but Mario Mandzukic promptly equalised before Paul Pogba struck a controversial winner midway through the second half.

Juve were also indebted to a magnificent performance from captain Gianluigi Buffon, who produced stunning saves in both halves to keep out Mario Balotelli, who produced arguably his best performance since returning to Milan.

The win moves Juve nine points clear of Napoli ahead of their nearest rivals' game in hand at home to Verona on Sunday, with a fifth consecutive Scudetto moving closer.

Sixth-placed Milan have accumulated just two points from their last five league games and the success of their season depends almost entirely on the Coppa Italia final against Massimiliano Allegri's side next month.

Milan threatened first when Ignazio Abate's cross-cum-shot cannoned against the near post with Buffon taken by surprise.

The hosts then came even closer through Balotelli, who was one of four changes from under-pressure head coach Mihajlovic.

The on-loan Liverpool forward unleashed a brilliant free-kick from the edge of the box, but was somehow denied when Buffon dived to his right to make a wonderful one-handed save and then got up to keep out Luca Antonelli on the rebound.

There was no stopping Milan in the 18th minute, though. Balotelli whipped in a precise corner from the right and Alex powered a header past Buffon to grab the opening goal that their start fully warranted.

That stung Juve into action and Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had to make two impressive stops when Stephan Lichtsteiner turned Alvaro Morata's cut-back towards goal and then from Claudio Marchisio's long-range pile-driver.

Within nine minutes of the opener, Juve were level. The hosts failed to deal with Buffon's high ball, allowing Mandzukic to latch on to a first-time pass from Morata and find the bottom corner – the front two combining nicely in the continued injury absence of Paulo Dybala.

Buffon was just able to keep out a Keisuke Honda snapshot at the other end, before Lichtsteiner struck wide from a good opening for the champions as a thrilling first half ended level.

The brilliant Buffon was called into action again early in the second half. The 38-year-old got down sharply to deny Carlos Bacca and made an even better save to tip Balotelli's follow-up onto the crossbar.

The Milan striker then bundled the ball over the line with his hand, a goal which was promptly ruled out and earned him a yellow card, moments before he struck just over with a powerful drive.

Juve threatened next when Pogba directed a magnificent 25-yard free-kick off the post with Donnarumma beaten.

But Pogba was not to be denied and he put the visitors in front in the 65th minute. The France midfielder got free from Abate - who claimed a foul - and was able to chest down Marchisio's corner at the far post before sending a bouncing effort beyond Donnarumma.

Juve lost Morata and Kwadwo Asamoah through injury, but they held on for a seventh consecutive league win over Milan, who ran out of steam after Pogba's strike.
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juve comeback sinks Milan

Juventus fought back from an early Alex goal to beat 2-1 Milan
at San Siro and continue their march on the Scudetto.

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/70137

Apr 9, 2016
 
The Rossoneri were in a training retreat for six days after their embarrassing defeat to Atalanta, but missed Jeremy Menez, Christian Abbiati, M’Baye Niang and suspended Andrea Bertolacci. The Bianconeri were six points clear at the top of the table following 20 wins in 21 rounds, so confidence was sky high. Sami Khedira sat out a ban with Paulo Dybala, Giorgio Chiellini, Roberto Pereyra and Martin Caceres sidelined.

Juve had won their last two trips to San Siro, unbeaten here since November 2012. It was an early taster of the Coppa Italia Final in Rome on May 21.

There was a touching tribute to Cesare Maldini before kick-off, as all of the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza gave the club legend a standing ovation.

Gigi Buffon was almost caught out by an Ignazio Abate cross-shot that thumped the near post after just eight minutes.

The goalkeeper then had to scoop a splendid Mario Balotelli free kick off the line one-handed, then denied the follow-up from point-blank range.

Milan had been very aggressive from the get-go and took the lead when Balotelli curled a corner in for Alex’s bullet header, which was just too powerful for Buffon to keep out.

Juve created their first real chance on 22 minutes, as Gigio Donnarumma smothered Stephan Lichtsteiner’s toe-poke from close range.

Donnarumma flew to fingertip a Claudio Marchisio screamer over, then the Bianconeri equalised. Mandzukic knocked down a long Buffon ball, Alvaro Morata returned it forward and the Croatian scuffed his finish across Donnarumma from 12 yards.

Buffon beat away a sudden Keisuke Honda snapshot, while Lichtsteiner was already offside when Morata nodded in his cross.

In first half stoppages, Lichtsteiner blasted across the face of goal from a Paul Pogba assist.

Straight after the restart, Buffon again came to the rescue for Juventus. He beat away a Bacca strike, then somehow palmed the Balotelli follow-up on to the crossbar until SuperMario bundled it over the line with his arm for a booking.

Balo also blasted a screamer over the bar, but Pogba was unlucky to see his free kick smack the upright with Donnarumma beaten.

Pogba did get his goal soon after. He chested down a corner at the back post and hit the half-volley into the ground, which bounced over Donnarumma to squirm under the bar.

Morata went off with a left calf injury, but Milan seemed to run out of steam as the game wore on. Kevin-Prince Boateng’s volley flew just over the bar in stoppages.


Milan

Donnarumma; Abate, Alex, Romagnoli, Antonelli; Honda (Luiz Adriano 74), Montolivo, Kucka, Bonaventura; Bacca, Balotelli (Boateng 77)


Juventus

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Rugani; Lichtsteiner (Cuadrado 80), Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah (Evra 84), Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Morata (Zaza 67)

 

Ref: Orsato
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

AC Milan 1-2 Juventus

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/match/431955/ac-milan-juventus/report

Apr 9, 2016
 
Paul Pogba sustained Juventus' seemingly inexorable march towards a fifth straight Serie A title by completing a 2-1 comeback victory over AC Milan at San Siro.

The reigning champions suffered an early setback when Alex planted a bullet header beyond Gianluigi Buffon but Mario Mandzukic soon replied to protect Juve's unremitting unbeaten status.

Then, midway through the second half, mercurial midfielder Pogba bamboozled 17-year-old Rossoneri goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with a looping winner.

Massimiliano Allegri's men are now nine points ahead of Napoli, who host Hellas Verona on Sunday, with six games remaining. Milan remain in sixth, seven points shy of a Europa League spot.

The biggest surprise on the teamsheet was the inclusion of Mario Balotelli, the on-loan Liverpool striker who has scored only three goals since returning to Milan.

In the early exchanges he played like his career depended on his making an impact against Juve and, after Ignazio Abate scared Buffon with an early sighter, Balotelli did announce himself.

Buffon was forced into a stunning double save after Balotelli's searing free-kick almost sneaked in at the far post, with Luca Antonelli denied the close-range follow-up by Juve's wily veteran keeper.

The man who recently set a new record for most minutes without conceding in Serie A was, however, beaten in the 18th minute.

Alex recently drew first blood in a 3-0 derby victory over Inter Milan with a towering header and he repeated the trick, this time with his feet planted firmly on the ground, to boost the Rossoneri ahead.

Juve were not remotely impressed and responded fiercely, with Donnarumma desperately covering his near post when Stephan Lichtsteiner came knocking.

He touched Claudio Marchisio's dipping drive over the crossbar but could not keep Mandzukic out in the 27th minute.

After Buffon launched the ball down the pitch, Alvaro Morata shrugged off Alessio Romagnoli's challenge to supply his Croatian team-mate for a coolly-taken finish.

The giants traded further blows before the break but come the half-time whistle it was all square.

Balotelli briefly appeared to have restored Milan's lead after play resumed, but his surreptitious attempt to punch a saved effort over the line did not escape the attention of referee Daniele Orsato.

When they had stopped laughing Juve pushed forward and Pogba soon got Donnarumma working with a free-kick that the teenage stopper could only push onto a post.

In the 65th minute Pogba got the better off the Milan defence and their unfortunate young keeper.

From a throw-in, the French midfield dynamo controlled the ball on his chest before bouncing it off the turf and over Juraj Kucka's head to leave the unsighted Donnarumma with no chance.
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

AC Milan 1-2 Juventus: Bustling
Bianconeri See Off Rossoneri

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/04/ac-milan-1-2-juventus-bustling-bianconeri-see-off-rossoneri/?

Apr 9, 2016
 
AC Milan were narrowly beaten by Juventus at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in their Saturday evening Serie A clash.

Alex gave Milan the lead but Juventus hit back with goals from Mario Mandzukic and Paul Pogba to earn all three points.

The Rossoneri were the first to come close to scoring, a cross from Ignazio Abate crashing into the near post; although Gianluigi Buffon appeared to have it covered. Buffon was the hero moments later when Mario Balotelli sent a powerful free kick to the bottom corner, with the follow up attempt by Luca Antonelli also kept out.

The early pressure from Milan seemed to take its toll as Alex fired the hosts into the lead, thumping the corner from Balotelli beyond Buffon. The Bianconeri responded quickly, firstly with a near post save to deny Stephan Lichtsteiner and then tipping the driving effort from Claudio Marchisio onto the crossbar.

The lead seemed precarious for the home side, and it proved to be as Mario Mandzukic leveled the score with a clever shot into the ground. In the second half Balotelli looked to have put the hosts back in front again, but the referee spotted the Italian using his hand to force the ball over the line.

Paul Pogba had been having a relatively quiet game, but the Frenchman nearly put the visitors in front when his free kick crashed into the post.

However, the midfielder made no mistake moments later when he took a touch from a corner, smashing his shot into the ground and over the scrambling Donnarumma. Substitute midfielder Kevin Prince-Boateng sliced one final opportunity wide, and despite a late surge it was all too little too late for Sinisa Mihajlovic and his players.

The win sends Juve nine points clear at the top having player a game more than Napoli while Milan are sixth and one point above Sassuolo.
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus march on towards Serie A
title with win over AC Milan

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/result/result-juve-march-on-towards-serie-a-title_270277.html

Apr 9, 2016
 
Juventus have come from behind to beat AC Milan 2-1 at the San Siro, moving nine points clear at the top of the Serie A table as a result.

The hosts took the lead in the first half, but goals from Mario Mandzukic and Paul Pogba sealed a comeback victory for the Old Lady to extend their unbeaten streak to 22 games, with 21 wins in that time.

It was Milan who made the brighter start to the match, coming within inches of breaking the deadlock after less than 10 minutes when Ignazio Abate fired an effort against the post from the edge of the area.

Mario Balotelli threatened just five minutes later as Sinisa Mihajlovic's men went in search of a first win in five games, but the Liverpool loanee was denied by Gianluigi Buffon having taken the ball down from a set piece.

It was another set piece that provided the opening goal, though, as Balotelli turned provider to whip a corner into the middle that Alex met with a powerful header past Buffon.

That seemed to spark the champions into life, though, and they almost levelled things up just four minutes later when Stephan Lichtsteiner darted into the penalty area and fired a low strike towards goal that forced a smart stop from Gianluigi Donnarumma.

As it was, Milan's lead lasted less than 10 minutes before Alvaro Morata slid a pass through for Mandzukic, who kept his composure to slot his finish into the bottom corner.

The visitors almost completed the turnaround before half time as again Lichtsteiner caused a problem with his marauding runs forward, this time firing an effort narrowly past the upright.

Balotelli came close again for the home side eight minutes after the restart when he flashed a snapshot just over the crossbar, but it was Juventus who looked the more threatening of the two sides.

Pogba was inches away from giving his side the lead on the hour mark when he lined up a free kick, only to see his strike come back off the post, but the France international would not have to wait much longer for what proved to be the winning goal.

Claudio Marchisio's corner picked out Pogba at the back post, and he chested the ball down before seeing his deflected shot loop over the keeper and into the far corner.

There was no way back for Milan after that as Juve saw out the victory to make it 64 points from the last 66 available to them in the league, moving nine points clear of Napoli with just six games of the season remaining.

Milan, meanwhile, have taken just two points from the last 15 on offer and remain seven points adrift of fifth-placed Fiorentina.
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Pogba: 'Juventus are mature'

http://www.football-italia.net/82581/pogba-juventus-are-mature?

Apr 9, 2016
 
Paul Pogba hailed “mature” Juventus for beating Milan, but warned “the title race isn’t over yet.”

The Rossoneri had taken the lead through Alex, but Mario Mandzukic and Pogba turned it around for a 2-1 result.

“The title race isn’t over yet, we’ve got to keep on winning,” the midfielder told Mediaset Premium.

“Today we did well and proved we are a mature side. It’s a deserved victory.

“We work to defend all together. People talked so much at the start of the season, but we had time to come back.

“We realised how important this match was. I am happy for the team and for me.”

Juventus are temporarily nine points clear at the top of the table, awaiting Napoli’s match with Verona on Sunday afternoon.
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Shevchenko hails Allegri
as 'one of the greats'

The current Juventus manager has defied expectations to become one of Europe's leading
coaches in recent years, according to the former AC Milan and Ukraine marksman.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/13822/news/2016/04/09/22181702/shevchenko-allegri-already-a-great?ICID=TP_HN_3

Apr 9, 2016
 
Former AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko has hailed Massimiliano Allegri as one of Europe's great coaches, as he closes in on another Serie A title with Juventus.

Following a difficult start to the campaign, Allegri has guided Juve to 20 wins from their last 21 league matches to open up six-point lead at the top of the table with seven games left to play.

The 48-year-old lifted the domestic double and reached the Champions League final last season after replacing Antonio Conte in Turin, and Shevchenko has been left impressed with the way in which the former Milan boss has defied expectations.

"I like him and I think he surprised many with his progress," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "He has grown tremendously as a coach: he arrived at Milan when he was young, no one imagined his potential, and probably no one thought that he would become so successful coming to Juventus after Conte.

"Instead, Allegri was able to overcome the difficulties and start fresh. I saw the team in the Champions League; Bayern Munich eliminated them, but they played so well. Juventus are a great side created by Allegri and the club. He is one of the great coaches in Europe."

Juve visit Milan on Saturday in a game which could prove decisive for Sinisa Mihajlovic's future, with a top-three finish looking almost impossible.

Shevchenko, who won Serie A, the Coppa Italia and the Champions League at San Siro, is confident the future looks bright for Milan - but concedes that a return to Europe's top competition is essential.

"Every club goes through delicate moments. To get back to winning, Milan must first qualify for the Champions League," he said. "The team is still developing, it has new players such as [Carlos] Bacca, a striker who I really like. It takes time to assemble and it takes patience.

"Now Juventus are so far ahead in the standings, but I am convinced that this match will be fought and played tightly. To win certain games, you have to be compact."

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Milan 1-2 Juventus:
TEAM RATINGS

A great "Superman" Gigi Buffon and Pogba conquer San Siro.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/milan-vs-juventus/2120693/ratings?ICID=MP_MS_6

Apr 9, 2016
 

Milan

99 G. Donnarumma - Could do little about Mandzukic’s well-placed strike for Juventus’ equaliser, but the youngster pulled off an excellent diving save to deny Marchisio.

20 I. Abate - Caused plenty of problems down the right wing, where he was constantly battling with Sandro. Made life difficult for the Brazlian, whilst at the other end of the pitch he did well to stop the full-back from sending too many crosses into the box.

33 Alex - Headed his side into the lead after doing wonderfully well to meet a cross from Balotelli, but he was caught playing Mandzukic onside in the build-up to Juventus’ equaliser and really should have stepped up quicker.

13 A. Romagnoli - The centre-back had a few problems when Juventus increased the tempo in the second half, but overall he did well and put in a determined performance.

31 L. Antonelli - Was always going to have his hands full against Lichtsteiner, but he did largely well to contain the Switzerland international, despite a few nervy moments in the second half.

10 K. Honda - Started well and linked up with Abate on several occasions, but his influence on the game waned in the second half as Milan started to tire.

18 R. Montolivo - It was a solid yet unspectacular performance from the central midfielder, who did what was required and kept fighting to the very end.

27 J. Kucka - The Slovenian performed brilliantly in the middle of the pitch, where he stuck diligently to Pogba and also looked bright on the counter, even when his side started to struggle in the second half.

28 G. Bonaventura - Offered very little down the left flank, where he didn't make much of an impact and was easily dispossessed on several occasions.

70 C. Bacca - The Colombian just couldn’t get into the game, no matter how hard he tried. The Colombian just couldn’t get into the game, no matter how hard he tried. He did manage to test Buffon with one great save, but too often he was easily muscled off the ball.

45 M. Balotelli - It was a far better performance from the on-loan striker than has been the case in recent weeks, as a more determined display resulted in him causing plenty of problems for the Juventus back line. He constantly looked to get forward and used his strength to good effect, whilst an excellent curling strike was only narrowly kept out by Buffon.


Substitutes

9 Luiz Adriano - Came on for Honda but was unable to make much of an impact, despite trying hard and getting into good positions on a few occasions.

72 K. Boateng - Made a nuisance of himself on one or two occasions but was largely unable to make much difference in the latter stages of the game.


 

Juventus

1 Gianluigi Buffon - Was beaten by a bullet header from Alex but pulled off several good saves either side of that, particularly in the second half when a world-class double stop denied both Bacca and Balotelli.

15 A. Barzagli - Let very few players past him and was always on hand to drift out to the left to help out Sandro when needed.

19 L. Bonucci - Had very few problems defensively, and he put in a strong performance in the middle of an impressive back three.

24 D. Rugani - Looked calm and composed at the back, where he battled hard against Milan’s front line and did particularly well to keep Bacca largely quiet.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - The Switzerland international had very few problems at either ends of the pitch, and he looked particularly good in advanced positions, where he often was able to get into pockets of space.

10 P. Pogba - It was a difficult first half for the Frenchman, but he burst into life after the break and put in a great performance from then onwards. Hit the post with an excellent strike from a free-kick before beating both Abate and Donnarumma to fire in his side’s second goal of the game.

8 C. Marchisio - Looked calm and composed at the base of midfield, where he defended well when needed but was particularly impressive with his pinpoint passing.

22 K. Asamoah - Featured for the vast majority of the game and looked tidy on the ball, resulting in him playing an important role in several of Juventus' best attacking moves.

12 Alex Sandro - Like Lichtsteiner, the Brazilian had his good moments when pushing forward but largely failed to make much of an impact in attacking positions, where his final touches and passes were often misplaced.

17 M. Mandžukić - In a game of few chances, the Croatian did well to take advantage of his by linking up wonderfully well with Morata before slotting a great shot past Donnarumma and into the bottom left-hand corner of the net.

9 Álvaro Morata - Largely impressed up front, where he often did well to bring down and hold up the ball before bringing his teammates into play. He had few chances on goal, however, and was eventually forced off after picking up an injury.


Substitutes

7 S. Zaza - Featured for the final 25 minutes and had a mixed time. Battled on a few occasions but struggled the next and, overall, should have done better.

16 J. Cuadrado - Came on for Lichtsteiner and continued the wing-back's good work down the right flank, where he was great at both ends of the pitch.

33 P. Evra - Replaced Asamoah with five minutes left to play and put in a good defensive shift to help his side over the finish line.

 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Miha: 'Milan heads held high'

http://www.football-italia.net/82583/miha-milan-heads-held-high?

Apr 9, 2016
 
Sinisa Mihajlovic was “angry with the result, not the performance” after Milan lost to Juventus “with heads held high.”

The Rossoneri suffered a second consecutive 2-1 defeat, both times having taken the lead, but he was at least partly reassured.

“The result is what makes me angry, because we did not deserve to lose this game. I could not have asked the lads for more,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

“Milan have their defects, certainly, but we really haven’t been lucky this season.

“This evening it wasn’t just three points at stake, but also our pride and our honour. We didn’t want to lose face again. We can hold our heads high, having played on level terms with Juve.

“I saw hunger, character and intensity. Gigi Buffon needed two or three great saves and he made the difference. We must continue with this determination, as the psychological aspect has always been our real problem.”

The team was in a training retreat for six days after the loss to Atalanta and there were certainly improvements.

“The retreat can be useful once, but not all the time. I did it to send a signal. We needed time to talk, confront each other and identify the problems. After the last confrontation, we saw the results this evening.

“This performance does give us confidence going into the next games and the Coppa Italia Final. The important thing we learned is it’s a psychological issue. If we play like this against clubs behind us in the table, we’ll win.”

Mario Balotelli was given a rare start and impressed, providing the assist for Alex’s goal, hitting the crossbar and forcing some great Buffon saves.

“Mario had a rough start, but then gained confidence and did well. He lost intensity over time, as did Juraj Kucka and Riccardo Montolivo. Unfortunately I was forced into two substitutions.

“Mario and Carlos Bacca did great dirty work today, forcing Juve to only focus on long balls. I confirm, we did not deserve to lose.

“I spoke to Max Allegri after the game and he admitted it should’ve been a draw.”

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Paul Pogba winner puts Juventus
nine points clear in title race

Paul Pogba sustained Juventus' march towards a fifth straight Serie A title
by completing a 2-1 comeback victory over AC Milan at the San Siro.

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11854/10237447/serie-a-round-up-paul-pogba-winner-puts-juventus-nine-points-clear-in-title-race?

Apr 9, 2016
 
The reigning champions suffered an early setback when Alex planted a bullet header beyond Gianluigi Buffon but Mario Mandzukic soon replied.

Then, midway through the second half, France midfielder Pogba caught out 17-year-old Rossoneri goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with a looping winner as Juve remain unbeaten in the league since October.

Massimiliano Allegri's men are now nine points ahead of Gonzalo Higuain-less Napoli, who host Hellas Verona on Sunday, with six games remaining.

Milan remain in sixth, seven points shy of a Europa League spot, but it could have been worse had Sassuolo not fallen at home to Genoa earlier on Saturday.

The seventh-placed club missed a golden opportunity to leapfrog Sinisa Mihajlovic's struggling side as Blerim Dzemaili's solitary first-half goal earned Genoa their 1-0 win at the Mapei Stadium.

Mauro Icardi's second-half goal spared Inter Milan from embarrassment against 10-man Frosinone.

The Argentinian struck the only goal of a 1-0 Nerazzurri victory at the Stadio Matusa before Frosinone's Leonardo Blanchard was dismissed for picking up a second yellow card.

The win gives Inter a fighting chance of snatching the final Champions League place from in-form Roma, who are five points better off ahead of their Monday night meeting with Bologna.

Last year's Serie B runners-up Frosinone remain a point shy of safety and could be cut adrift in the drop zone if Palermo can beat Lazio in Sicily on Sunday night.

Elsewhere, Chievo substitute Sergio Pellissier struck a blow to Carpi's hopes of securing a second season in the top flight.

The striker came on to secure a 1-0 victory at the Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi, after 17th-placed Carpi had looked good value for a point.
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: Great Buffon decisive
in Juventus win over Milan

Manager's comments after 2-1 comeback win at the San Siro.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/4/10/11399484/allegri-great-buffon-decisive-in-juventus-win-over-milan

Apr 10, 2016
 
Both sides had plenty of chances, but it was Juventus who rode a great performance by captain Gianluigi Buffon to come from a goal down and win 2-1 at AC Milan.

Juve now have 21 wins in their last 22 League games, and have extended their lead at the top of the Scudetto to nine points over Napoli, who play on Sunday.

Here's what Bianconeri manager Massimiliano Allegri had to say after the game against his former employers -

"I must compliment Milan for interpreting the game in the best way and were unlucky to find a great Buffon blocking their path.

"I also compliment my own players, as we took a step forward. As time wore on we kept the ball better and didn't run any more risks. We had planned to play off the shoulders of their centre-backs, something that went considerably better after the break.

"We could've played better in some moments. It was a difficult match, because it is never easy to win at San Siro. Milan have good players and it was important we not slow down our progress.

"Any side that wins 21 out of 22 rounds is clearly doing something extraordinary."

Allegri was seen speaking to his opposite number Sinisa Mihajlovic and Milan CEO Adriano Galliani after the game -

"I complimented Galliani and said they have the possibility, as do we, of winning the Coppa Italia and qualifying for the Europa League.

"It's not easy when you have to build a new squad, but I think Milan have the opportunity to soon be fighting for the top three places again.

"I had three and a half wonderful years at Milan and retain an excellent rapport with the President and Galliani."

Paul Pogba, scorer of the winning goal, also spoke to the media after the game, praising the maturity shown by Juventus on the day -

"The title race isn't over yet, we've got to keep on winning.

"Today we did well and proved we are a mature side. It's a deserved victory.

"We work to defend all together. People talked so much at the start of the season, but we had time to come back.

"We realised how important this match was. I am happy for the team and for me."
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus Boss Praises Opponents
AC Milan After Narrow Win

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/04/juventus-boss-praises-opponents-ac-milan-after-narrow-win/?

Apr 10, 2016
 
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri paid tribute to opponents AC Milan who succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.

The Rossoneri took the lead through Alex, but Mario Mandzukic pulled it level and Paul Pogba scored the winner late on to take three points ahead of Napoli’s fixture on Sunday.

“I’d like to compliment Milan on their approach but unfortunately they met an in-form Gianluigi Buffon,” Allegri told Mediaset Premium.

“I must also praise my own players who took a step forward with this win, it was a tough game and it’s difficult playing at the San Siro.

Allegri took time to speak with Milan coach Sinisa Mihajlovic and vice-president Adriano Galliani after the full time whistle.

“I wished to compliment Galliani and insist both our sides have the chance of winning the Coppa Italia and qualifying for the Europa League.

“I maintain a good rapport with Milan and its President and I spent three-and-a half wonderful years here,” Allegri concluded.

Juventus extend their lead at the top of Serie A to 76 points, taking them nine ahead of Napoli who have yet to play.
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Mature Pogba breaks Milan

Juventus will be dancing if Paul Pogba can continue to build on
Saturday night’s excellent all-round performance, writes Chloe Beresford.

http://www.football-italia.net/82586/mature-pogba-breaks-milan?

Apr 10, 2016
 
‘They all count’, as they say, and if Paul Pogba’s goal that gave Juventus a 2-1 win against Milan at San Siro was slightly fortunate, it was a just reward for his stunning free kick that rattled the post just five minutes earlier.

The home side gave the Champions – who at times looked in danger of losing the game – their toughest test in the league for some time, with a raised performance from Mario Balotelli in particular creating several clear cut chances for the Rossoneri.

During the first half, the improvement shown by Sinisa Mihajlovic’s side made it seem as though Juventus might struggle to extend their unbeaten record, which has lasted since the Turin derby victory on October 31. Only a draw with Bologna has tarnished this incredible winning run, and after going behind to a headed goal from Milan defender Alex, the Bianconeri were on the back foot.

Without the attacking threat of the injured Paulo Dybala, Juventus were lacking a creative element up front, and so after some recent criticism it was their star midfielder that stepped up to the plate to win the game for the Old Lady.

With a passing accuracy of 85%, two key passes, three crosses and three shots – in addition to supplying the match winner – the Frenchman put in a vital shift when his team needed it the most.

“Today we did well and proved we are a mature side. It’s a deserved victory,” Pogba told Mediaset Premium. “We all work to defend together. People talked so much at the start of the season, but we had time to come back.”

It was not only a mature performance from his team, but his own display that showed discipline – in stark contrast to last week’s 1-0 win – when the Bianconeri once again sealed a victory despite a less than convincing showing against Empoli.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri has not shied away from cutting through the hype surrounding the player, and has made comments to the Press when there has been opportunity to offer constructive criticism.

“There was a moment when Alvaro Morata and Pogba were playing as individuals and at this stage any little error can be costly,” the Coach warned after a narrow victory over Empoli. “We have to play simple and improve in controlling the ball.”

Perhaps those words were well received by the 23-year-old, as he even helped the team defensively, making five tackles – more than any other player on the field – and one clearance. The Coach will no doubt be pleased that his player put in such an all-round performance after hearing the previous week’s feedback.

With Juventus now nine points ahead of Napoli – pending their result against Hellas Verona on Sunday – the Scudetto is now within touching distance. If Paul Pogba can continue to build on the maturity of tonight’s performance, his team may be crowned champions of Serie A sooner rather than later.
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

AC Milan vs. Juventus: Winners
and Losers from Serie A

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2631640-ac-milan-vs-juventus-winners-and-losers-from-serie-a?

Apr 10, 2016
 
Juventus continued their Serie A dominance on Saturday with a 2-1 win at the San Siro over AC Milan.

The Bianconeri temporarily moved nine points clear of Napoli in the title race with their 24th league win of the campaign.

Mario Mandzukic and Paul Pogba scored a goal each at the San Siro, while Gianluigi Buffon produced plenty of world-class saves in goal for the visitors.

The home side started strong through Mario Balotelli, but the Rossoneri ran out of gas as the second half progressed.

Here's a look at our winners and losers from Juve's win over Milan.


Winner: Gianluigi Buffon

Gianluigi Buffon produced a few world-class saves that allowed Juventus to leave the San Siro with their 12th road victory of the league season.

The Italian legend started his day with a terrific denial at the left post on a Mario Balotelli free-kick in the 14th minute.

In the 51st minute, Buffon came up with two spectacular saves on Carlos Bacca and Balotelli. The sequence early in the second half took all the air out of the AC Milan attack.

Thanks to the efforts of Buffon in between the pipes, Juventus temporarily moved nine points ahead of Napoli in the Serie A title race.


Loser: Carlos Bacca

Based off the AC Milan forwards' form entering Saturday, most people thought Carlos Bacca would outshine Balotelli in the final third.

However, the opposite happened as the Colombian disappeared from the contest for long stretches, while Balotelli remained a constant force moving forward.

In 90 minutes of play, the 29-year-old recorded 20 touches, per WhoScored.com and only unleashed one shot on target in a crucial match for Milan.

The loss kept Milan seven points adrift of Fiorentina in the race for the final European place.


Winner: Paul Pogba

Five minutes after he struck the left post with a free-kick, Paul Pogba delivered an individual moment of brilliance to put Juve ahead for good at the San Siro.

Pogba pulled down a Claudio Marchisio corner on the right side of the box with his chest and proceeded to bounce a shot over Gianluigi Donnarumma's head.

The strike was the third in four matches across all competitions for the 23-year-old Frenchman, who is heating up at the perfect time for club and country.


Loser: Giacomo Bonaventura

Much like Bacca, Giacomo Bonaventura failed to make a consistent impact on the Milan attack despite a successful season.

The Juventus back four shut down the 26-year-old as he made 37 touches and failed to attempt a single shot, per WhoScored.com.

The lack of production from both Bacca and Bonaventura in a key match is a bad sign for Milan as they attempt to hunt down fifth place.

Due to the rough outing at the San Siro from some of their top attackers, the Rossoneri are set to miss out on European competition at the moment.


Winner: Mario Balotelli

Mario Balotelli impressed in a rare start for AC Milan on Saturday.

Although he didn't find the back of the net himself, the troubled forward recorded an assist on the opening strike of the contest, when his corner kick found Alex's head.

A few minutes before the 18th-minute opener, Balotelli sent a perfectly struck free-kick in the goal's direction, but Buffon met the ball at the left post.

Understandably, Balotteli did not have enough gas in the tank to go 90 minutes, but he displayed plenty of positive things throughout his time on the pitch that could lead to more playing time in the near future.
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Gigi Buffon 'sensational' in Juventus
victory at Milan - Massimiliano Allegri

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/2847521/gigi-buffon-sensational-in-juventus-victory-allegri

Apr 10, 2016
 
Massimiliano Allegri thanked "sensational" Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon for denying AC Milan any share of the points at San Siro on Saturday night.

The Rossoneri took an early lead when Alex's bullet header got the better of 38-year-old Buffon, but he raised his game from that point forward and kept Milan at arm's length.

He was a spectator as Mario Mandzukic pegged the hosts back and celebrated from afar when Paul Pogba turned the game on its head to clinch a 2-1 victory for the reigning champions.

A fifth straight Serie A title appears to be Juve's to lose, given they are nine points clear of Napoli before Hellas Verona visit the San Paolo, but Allegri is urging caution ahead of a tricky run-in.

Having watched his evergreen stopper repel Mario Balotelli, Keisuke Honda and Carlos Bacca, he told a postmatch news conference: "Gianluigi Buffon's saves? Sensational.

"We didn't start brilliantly but picked up after Milan went in front. Credit to the Rossoneri for the way they played.

"We've now got time to rest up ahead of the three games in seven days that begin with Palermo.

"We've still got a long way to go until the Scudetto is won. We need to keep going.

"Tonight's victory is an important step in our hunt for a fifth consecutive title."

Milan were lucky to finish the night still in sixth as they were left prone to surprise package Sassuolo, who fortunately for Sinisa Mihajlovic slumped to a 1-0 home defeat to Genoa.

The Serbian coach, who put his faith in Balotelli by starting the misfiring striker against the leaders, also praised Buffon while insisting the performance gives him hope for the rest of the season.

"It's hard to comment on this defeat," he told Sky Sport Italia. "We did not deserve to lose.

"We have not been lucky this year, the result makes me angry but I'm proud of the fact we saved face. We went out on top and this display makes us confident about the Coppa Italia final.

"Buffon made the difference and I cannot blame my players for anything.

"Now, apart from Roma, we are only playing teams who are beneath us in the league so we will do well if we play against them like we did against Juve.

"Today the lads proved they can give the best teams a good game. It's a psychological problem."
 
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

PAUL POGBA GIVES JUVENTUS
NARROW WIN OVER AC MILAN

Paul Pogba struck a second-half winner as Juventus continued their march towards
a record-equalling fifth consecutive Serie A title with a 2-1 victory at AC Milan on Saturday.

http://www.thehardtackle.com/news/2016/04/10/paul-pogba-gives-juventus-narrow-win-over-ac-milan/?

Apr 10, 2016
 
Juventus, who last won five on the trot in 1935, are now nine points clear of second-placed Napoli, before they host basement side Verona on Sunday.

Milan’s second successive defeat has put a further dent in the struggling Serie A giants’ bid to qualify for next season’s Europa League.

Ahead of the remaining fixtures on Sunday, Sinisa Mihajlovic’s men remain sixth, but could be 10 points behind fifth-placed Fiorentina if they beat Empoli away.

“It’s difficult to talk about a game you’ve lost when at least a draw would have been a fairer result,” said Mihajlovic.

“We weren’t perfect, but I’m overall satisfied with the lads becaue they put a lot of character and fight into the game.

“I hope they will show the same in the coming weeks.”
 
Juventus have now gone 22 consecutive games unbeaten, a run that includes 21 wins and a draw.

But it was far from straightforward for Massimiliano Allegri’s side, who went behind to an Alex header from a corner on 18 minutes — only the 17th league goal they have conceded this season — and levelled on the half hour through Mario Mandzukic.

Allegri, sacked by Milan in January 2014, said: “It wasn’t a question of revenge for me.

“I’m still on good terms with Milan, but when it comes to Juve obviously we’re here to win.

“I expected Milan to be strong, they have good players and winning at the San Siro is never easy.

“They played well, we started badly and Gigi (Buffon) made a great save on (Mario) Balotelli’s free kick.

“Then we turned things around in the second half. But we haven’t won the title yet.”

When Giacomo Bonaventura won a free kick just outside the area, Balotelli stepped up to force Buffon down low to stop his piledriver.

Balotelli was making a rare start after months of trying to make the grade and when he stole possession from Alex Sandro, it led directly to Milan’s 18th minute opener.

Balotelli’s cross was deflected out for a corner and the Italian stepped up to deliver an inswinger that Alex met with a powerful header to beat Buffon in the Juve goal.

Juve spurned a chance to level when Stephan Lichsteiner’s low shot was smothered by Gianluigi Donnarumma, and the visitors came closer after Carlos Bacca gave up possession to send Juve on the counter, with Claudio Marchisio’s drive tipped over by the 17-year-old keeper.

From the corner, Donnarumma punched the ball to safety, and on the follow-up only a late Alex interception thwarted Mandzukic.

Milan were living dangerously and paid the price moments later when Alvaro Morata set up Mandzukic to beat Donnarumma low at his far post for a 27th-minute leveller.

Milan pressed to restore their advantage before the interval but Keisuke Honda’s long-range effort was harmless, and no one got on the end of the Japan forward’s header from Balotelli’s delivery.

In the closing seconds of the half, the hosts breathed a sigh of relief when Lichsteiner fired wide of Donnarumma’s far post.

Milan had the ball in the net after seven second-half minutes but Balotelli was marginally offside and, when he bundled in at the second attempt, it was thanks to his own personal ‘Hand of God’.

Balotelli nearly made amends moments later with a drive that flew over Buffon’s crossbar, but at the other end Pogba gave an inkling of what was to come.

Juventus won a free kick and the Frenchman curled around the wall to see his effort come off the post, with Donnarumma at full stretch.

Pogba was finally rewarded in the 65th minute when he controlled a corner on his chest, following up with an awkward half-volley that bounced over Donnarumma and into the net from a tight angle.

Milan came close in the dying seconds but a great volley from late substitute Kevin Prince Boateng flew a yard over.

 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus Beat Milan but Miss Attacking Threat
of Juan Cuadrado and Paulo Dybala

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2631668-juventus-beat-milan-but-miss-attacking-threat-of-juan-cuadrado-and-paulo-dybala?

Apr 10, 2016
 
Saturday evening saw Juventus travel to San Siro, the Bianconeri knowing a win over AC Milan would only serve to increase the pressure being felt by closest rivals Napoli. Already holding a six-point lead at the top of Serie A, the Turin giants could extend that gap over a side set to be hit heavily by suspensions this weekend.

Second-place Napoli will have leading scorer Gonzalo Higuain, coach Maurizio Sarri, key defender Kalidou Koulibaly and midfielder Dries Mertens all banned for Sunday’s meeting with Hellas Verona (h/t Football Italia).

Yet Juventus knew the clash against Milan would not be straightforward, with coach Massimiliano Allegri telling a pre-match press conference his former side would “want to unleash all the nervous energy they’ll have following a week’s training camp.”

That would be an accurate assessment as the Rossoneri looked completely reinvigorated, pressing and harrying their opponents in the early going. That extra effort paid off as Mario Balotelli won an 18th minute corner, subsequently finding Alex with the set-piece and the Brazilian scored with a superb header.

Slowly Juventus fought their way back to level terms. However, Gigi Buffon’s long ball from the back led to a good chance Mario Mandzukic would convert. Despite continued pressure from Milan, Paul Pogba would hand the reigning champions a second-half lead and the Bianconeri once again claimed all three points, courtesy of a 2-1 final scoreline.
 
But it was no easy feat, particularly with both Paulo Dybala and Juan Cuadrado absent. Allegri told that aforementioned press conference he was not ready to risk the former as he recovers from injury, while the latter was left on the bench in favour of others in midfield.

Yet devoid of the speed and creativity that duo provides, Juventus were perhaps unsurprisingly left lacking fluidity and creativity in attack. Dybala’s eight assists—the same number as Pogba—are a joint team high, while Cuadrado’s tally of five sees him rank third among all Juventus players, with the same trio leading in terms of chances created.

Dybala has conjured no fewer than 63 scoring opportunities this term—another team high—with Cuadrado’s total of 36 again seeing him rank third in the squad.

The South American pair are also among the best dribblers available to Allegri, with figures provided by WhoScored.com showing Cuadrado’s average of 2.5 again is narrowly ahead of Dybala’s 2.3. Without that spark of unpredictability, Juventus become a functional but somewhat predictable side that is much easier to contain.

All too often they then become over-reliant on Pogba to lift the team, and were fortunate that against Milan he was able to do just that. When speaking to Mediaset Premium after the game, his boss admitted it had been a tough night for his side as they look to win a fifth consecutive Serie A title.

“We could’ve played better in some moments,” Allegri said (h/t Football Italia). It was a difficult match, because it is never easy to win at San Siro. Milan have good players and it was important we not slow down our progress.”

“Today we did well and proved we are a mature side. It’s a deserved victory,” Pogba would say in his own interview with Mediaset Premium (h/t Football Italia) shortly after the final whistle. “We realised how important this match was. I am happy for the team and for me.”

He can and should be pleased with his individual performance, but Pogba, Allegri and others at Juventus will undoubtedly be aware they will need more unpredictability in attack if they are to advance as a team in the future.
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Buffon still the world's
best goalkeeper - Pogba

The veteran shot stopper put in a solid display for Juventus in Saturday's 2-1
win over AC Milan and his team-mate insists that he is still at the top of his game.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2016/04/10/22210022/-?

Apr 10, 2016
 
Juventus star Paul Pogba lauded Gianluigi Buffon as the world's best goalkeeper after his side's win over AC Milan.

Pogba scored a second-half winner as Juve extended their unbeaten Serie A run to 22 matches with a 2-1 victory at San Siro on Saturday.

But the Bianconeri were heavily indebted to 38-year-old Buffon, who made stunning double-saves in the each half, and Pogba was the first to sing his praises.

"Gigi is simply number one," the France international told reporters.

"He's the best in the business."

The win sees Juve go nine points clear at the top of the table, although second-placed Napoli have a game in hand - facing Hellas Verona on Sunday, and Pogba warned his team-mates there was still work to be done as they eye a fifth-consecutive league title.

"We've not achieved anything yet. We still need to win more matches in order to lift the Scudetto," he said.

"We're already focused on the next game."
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

AC Milan unlucky to face
sensational Buffon - Allegri

The Juventus coach was in awe of the veteran goalkeeper's performance as he played
a crucial role in his side coming from behind to beat AC Milan 2-1 in San Siro.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2016/04/10/22210342/-?

Apr 10, 2016
 
Massimiliano Allegri says AC Milan were unlucky to come up against an in-form Gianluigi Buffon on Saturday, as the goalkeeper's superb display helped Juventus to an important 2-1 win at San Siro.

The Serie A champions moved a step closer to a fifth straight Scudetto with the victory after Mario Mandzukic and Paul Pogba struck in response to Alex's opening goal.

Juve were heavily indebted to 38-year-old Buffon, who made stunning double-saves in the each half. In the first, he brilliantly kept out Mario Balotelli's free-kick before stopping Luca Antonelli from point-blank range on the rebound.

After the break, he denied Carlos Bacca before somehow tipping Balotelli's follow-up onto the crossbar, impressing head coach Allegri.

"Buffon's saves were sensational," Allegri told reporters after the match.

"Credit to Milan for the way they played. They were unlucky to find a great Buffon blocking their path.

"I also compliment my own players, as we took a step forward. We didn't start brilliantly but picked up after Milan went in front. As time wore on we kept the ball better and didn't run any more risks.

"We had more control after Buffon's block in the second half, but could have played better in some moments. It was a difficult match because it is never easy to win at San Siro.

"Milan have good players and it was important we not slow down our progress. Any side that wins 21 out of 22 rounds is clearly doing something extraordinary."

Juve now sit nine points ahead of closest title rivals Napoli, who play Hellas Verona on Sunday in their game in hand.

"The victory is an important step in our hunt for a fifth consecutive Scudetto," added Allegri. "We have now got time to rest up ahead of the three games in seven days that begin with Palermo.

"We've still got a long way to go until the Scudetto is won. It’s not over until it's mathematically impossible for the teams below to catch us, so we need to keep going."

Asked about Juve's two second-half injury concerns, Allegri replied: "Kwadwo Asamoah took a knock to his knee and Alvaro Morata had a stomach complaint."
 

SERIE A TABLE

[Socrates 8523]

MILAN - JUVENTUS

1 - 2

Alex (18')

Mario Mandžukić (27')
Paul Pogba (65')

 

MATCHDAY 32
Saturday, April 9th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Gianluigi Buffon stars as Juventus
see off Milan with Paul Pogba goal

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2847732/gianluigi-buffon-stars-as-juventus-see-off-milan

Apr 10, 2016
 
In an even match, only Juventus' maturity and the skills of Gianluigi Buffon ensured a 2-1 win over AC Milan to make it 21 wins in 22 games for the Bianconeri.

Sinisa Mihajlovic had noted that psychology was the reason why his Milan side had not accumulated the wins they deserve. Tremendous against the so-called big clubs, and nonchalant against those they deem inferior, against Juventus the Rossoneri gave their all. Harrying their opponents and winning back possession to launch attack after attack, Juve struggled to contain the home side on occasion and needed the experience and quality of goalkeeper Buffon to rescue them.

The difference between Milan and Juventus is the experience of winning and the desire to keep trying. Juve are often guilty of getting distracted, but they always look to come back and they always chase the win. Indeed, after Alex struck an early goal, Mario Mandzukic and Paul Pogba put Juve ahead but Milan, by contrast, almost gave up after that.

The desire to prove that they are the best and the ability to know when to go up a gear makes Juventus the best Serie A has to offer and the team most deserving of the title.


Player ratings

Gianluigi Buffon, 8 -- The goalkeeper guaranteed the win, making tremendous saves such as the one from Mario Balotelli's free kick to safeguard the result. A leader at the back, he never fails to read the trajectory of a shot in impeccable fashion.

Andrea Barzagli, 6 -- Better in the second half but less reliable than usual even if he reads the game well. He and Leonardo Bonucci have looked scared against good strikers this season and have not been as confident and assured as they need to be.

Leonardo Bonucci, 6 -- Up against better strikers he loses composure at times, and played with more anxiety than usual in his attempts to restrain Carlos Bacca.

Daniele Rugani, 6 -- A mature performance from the defender whose positioning has improved. Brilliant with aerial challenges, his height makes the difference at the back while he seems more composed under pressure, recovering plenty of balls.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, 6 -- If only he had better feet. The Swiss runs relentlessly while his tactical understanding makes the difference for Juve, but he lacks the skill to exploit the many advantageous positions he finds himself in.

Paul Pogba, 7 -- His mesmeric ability on the ball is why the world's greatest clubs track him but the Frenchman cannot offer a full 90 minutes of brilliance, dropping in and out of the game too often. Going close with a beautiful free kick, his goal was sublime though.

Claudio Marchisio, 6 -- Recovered plenty of balls and kept the game moving, but Marchisio struggles to impose himself on the game at times. He did not take a handle of things and dictate the terms even if he attended to his duties perfectly.

Kwadwo Asamoah, 6 -- In terms of skill, the Ghanaian can be monstrous but he often overthought his moves, especially when gifted time. Frequently taking too many touches when a quicker release would be better, his decision making showed that it needs improving.

Alex Sandro, 6 -- A wonderful wing-back, he charged forward with conviction and stood firm in defence, making like difficult for the likes of Keisuke Honda and Ignazio Abate.

Alvaro Morata, 6 -- The Spaniard wasn't as devoted to this task as he has been in others, resulting in a good performance but not his best. His passing was inaccurate, though he did provide the assist for the winning goal. He must learn to show his desire in every match.

Mario Mandzukic, 6 -- Targeted and heavily defended against by Alex, Mandzukic had to fight to make his presence felt. He did score the equaliser but Milan didn't allow him to show his quality.


Substitutes

Simone Zaza, 6 -- He was always looking to outmuscle his opponents but a little humility when handling the ball would reap better results.

Juan Cuadrado, N/A -- A good performance from the Colombian who performed his duties in both phases of the game well.

Patrice Evra, N/A -- A barely noticeable performance.
 
 

SERIE A TABLE