Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - SEVILLA

2 - 0

Álvaro Morata (41')
Simone Zaza (87')

Matchday 2
Wednesday, September 30th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus excellent in Europe again
thanks to Sami Khedira masterclass

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2641208/juventus-excellent-in-europe-again-thanks-to-sami-khedira?

Oct 1, 2015
 
Nothing quite revives the Old Lady and inspires the fluidity of a harmonious team unit quite like the melody of the Champions League anthem. In Europe, Juventus are a different beast, inflicting defeat upon great champions to top the Group of Death.

On Wednesday night in the Juventus stadium, Sevilla were the latest side to experience the brilliance of a determined and aggressive Bianconeri side desperate for European honours.

El Pais described the match as a fight between children and men. La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport dedicated Thursday's front page to "The Lady of Europe." In a match between two teams struggling for domestic success, Juve showed great maturity by putting their problems aside and working together towards one objective -- European victory.

Never once betrayed by nerves or slight hesitation, the club and its fans can be optimistic again. The character of the side is still very much alive and kicking and with Sami Khedira back and performing like the experienced champion he is, one can only imagine a brighter future.

This blog has consistently noted the importance of recovering Claudio Marchisio and Khedira. In a squad full of young talent and new recruits, the team requires intelligence, experience and leadership in midfield to help direct the game and inspire the others.

Throwing Khedira into the starting line-up despite his recent return from injury, Massimiliano Allegri's gamble paid off as the midfielder dazzled from start to finish, earning the loud cheers of the fans who passionately applauded his performance.

A champion whose midfield displays flutter the heart, Khedira immediately understood Allegri's tactical patterns to make a huge impact. Occupying space, making intelligent runs and taking up the right positions to facilitate his teammates' movements, the German international played as a leader does, always and only for the sake of the unit.

At long last, there is a midfielder on the pitch who can help direct the talent of the youngsters around him, helping to expose their unique and varied skill set. His presence alone considerably improved the team's performance, one only imagines how much better the team would perform once they welcome Marchisio back into the fold.

With the pressure piling and critics viciously demanding answers for Juve's collapsing identity, Allegri showed courage and won the tactical battle against a coach heavily coveted by Italy's top teams all summer, Sevilla's Unai Emery. Allegri opted to play his best men in a formation that dazzled as it not only masked the absence of a real right-back but it exploited the surprising strengths of certain players, such as Andrea Barzagli.

Finally, critics and fans were allowed to watch Paulo Dybala and Alvaro Morata together again, a treat for those who believe this is the perfect attacking partnership. Friends off the pitch, the Spaniard's confidence and ruthlessness perfectly complement the creativity and intelligence of the Argentine alongside him, one who worked tirelessly for the sake of the team.

Mesmeric on the ball, Dybala is a special talent who with a little time and continuity can grow into a champion. Many doubted his ability to make the jump to a big team, especially considering the considerable fee paid for his services yet the youngster has proved himself, showing off the mentality of a winner. Fighting for every ball before executing wonderful dribbles forward, Dybala is a player for the future, especially if he can improve his physicality and polish off his raw talent.

With Morata alongside him, one can already see the perfect partnership blossoming. The Spaniard certainly knows how to score in Europe, notching up five goals in his last five matches in the Champions League. A player of immense ability and superb technique, he is the man to entrust to lead the Bianconeri line.

While the new kids on the block impressed those who still yearn for the departed, Juventus' win was largely thanks to the veterans within the team. Leonardo Bonucci gave yet another commendable performance while Giorgio Chiellini was his usual monstrous self, closing down the little danger Emery's men created.

However, it was Barzagli who truly dazzled, interpreting Allegri's skewed 3-5-2 formation perfectly. A defender who has yet to slow down, he ran relentlessly and perfectly managed the duality of the role required of him -- penetrating the wing with ease to dispatch accurate crosses as well as securing the defence. After all, it was he who delivered the all-important assist to help Morata score Juve's first goal of the night.

Taking nothing away from the brilliant Old Lady, Sevilla hardly put up much of a challenge. The Spaniards have struggled this season and are missing several of their first choice players but many still expected a little more desire or at least a little more aggression from a side that won the Europa League only a few months ago.

Shackled by nerves and focused on playing a defensive game where their only objective was not to concede, they made life difficult for the Italians when it came to creating but Gianluigi Buffon could have taken the night off and we would have been none the wiser considering the lack of interest shown in attacking the Juve back-line.

Managing only one shot at goal, Los Nervionenses saw plenty of the ball yet struggled to keep it for long enough. As soon as a Bianconero applied enough pressure, the Andalusians would surrender possession and accept defeat.

Noticeable against Rayo Vallecano and again so on Wednesday evening, Sevilla are struggling with the physical toll of playing in so many competitions. As Emery himself admitted, the intensity of the performance required in Champions League matches are different to those needed to win Europa League games and his players are exhausted, seemingly incapable of playing energetically for the duration of the match.

It was only a matter of time before they conceded a second, especially when Simone Zaza and all his determination arrived on the pitch.

A night to celebrate, Juventus deserve to top their Champions League group. All they need now is to show they can manage similar performance levels in the league.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - SEVILLA

2 - 0

Álvaro Morata (41')
Simone Zaza (87')

Matchday 2
Wednesday, September 30th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Morata And Zaza Help Juventus Go
Top After Comfortable Win Over Sevilla

Alvaro Morata opened the scoring on the stroke of half-time and Simone Zaza hit his maiden Champions League
goal at the death as Juventus dominated a listless Sevilla 2-0 to go top of group D on Wednesday.

http://www.thehardtackle.com/2015/morata-and-zaza-help-juventus-go-top-after-comfortable-win-over-sevilla/?

Oct 1, 2015
 
Juventus, last season’s beaten finalists, welcomed Unai Emery’s Europa League champions to Turin looking to prove that the poor domestic form that has seen them slump to 15th in Serie A is simply a blip.

By the end of a completely one-sided encounter, it became apparent that Sevilla’s own domestic woes are likely to pose a much bigger threat for them this season.

After just 30 seconds Paul Pogba spurned a great chance for the hosts when he mis-hit Morata’s chip over a thankful Sergio Rico’s crossbar.

If fans thought it was a flash in the pan, they would be soon mistaken.

Juventus settled quickly and were in complete command, annulling the threat of the listless Spaniards as they went about laying the foundations for Morata’s opener four minutes from the interval.

After Pogba’s early chance, Brazilian Hernanes came close with a 30-metre drive that went just wide of Rico’s upright.

Minutes later right-back Andrea Barzagli set Juan Cuadrado free with fans screaming at the Colombian to set up Morata, who was unmarked running through midfield.

Morata ultimately lost possession, but the ease with which Juve were creating space was worrying for the visitors. Moments later, after a great exchange of passes Paulo Dybala sent a superb left-footed curling effort just wide of Rico’s right-hand post.

Midfielder Sami Khedira, making his first appearance since hobbling off 25 minutes into a pre-match friendly with Marseille, was making a great impression on the 32,908 spectators given his two-month absence from competition.

The German was given rousing applause when he deftly chested down a long ball at the left byeline to set up Dybala, but the Argentinian wasted the opportunity in front of goal.

Sevilla went on a rare counter when skipper Jose Antonio Reyes stole possession from Morata to set up Kevin Gameiro, but it came to nothing.


Morata scored his second goal of this season’s Champions League

Juventus finally broke the deadlock on 41 minutes when Morata rose above the Sevilla defence to meet Cuadrado’s delivery from the right byeline and beat Rico down low at his far post. It was Morata’s second goal in the competition this season after his late winner at Manchester City.

Juve resumed where they had left off after the interval and created two quick chances immediately after the restart.

Giorgio Chiellini’s long ball from midfield found Dybala on the run but the diminutive striker’s deflected toe poke was blocked by Rico’s legs, while Pogba found space and time to fire a bicycle kick effort well over the crossbar from the edge of the area.

Cuadrado’s movement and pace was too much for French left-back Benoit Tremoulinas, and on 64 minutes the on-loan Chelsea forward skipped by two players to set up Patrice Evra deep on the left but the Frenchman’s low delivery for Dybala yards from goal was deflected out.

Emery made two quick substitutions, Ciro Immobile replacing Gameiro and Vicente Iborra coming on for Steven N’Zonzi, although the changes made little difference.

Sevilla spent the next 10 minutes ball-watching as Juventus passed around at will, until Cuadrado broke the monotony with a vicious drive from outside the area that Rico did well to block.

Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri replaced Morata with Zaza in the dying minutes and the Italy international seized his chance in style.

Dybala did well to hold off his markers to send the Italian on a long run that ended with his angled strike beating Rico down low on 87 minutes.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - SEVILLA

2 - 0

Álvaro Morata (41')
Simone Zaza (87')

Matchday 2
Wednesday, September 30th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus 2-0 Sevilla: Bianconeri destroy
Los Rojiblancos, take control in the group of death

Álvaro Morata and Simone Zaza scored in an easy victory over the reigning Europa League champions.

http://www.thehardtackle.com/2015/morata-and-zaza-help-juventus-go-top-after-comfortable-win-over-sevilla/?

Oct 1, 2015
 
"Monologue," this is the word that described Wednesday night's match at Juventus Stadium. Juventus literally destroyed Sevilla and, with this victory, they´re the absolute leaders of Group D, this season's group of death in the Champions League.

Again, this Champions League match began at Tuesday's pre-match press conference. Max Allegri sent a riddle to Unai Emery about his starting lineup. He said that he would start with Sami Khedira, he'd play with the BBC in defense and he'd keep to himself a mystery man — Max only named ten starters at the press conference.

Right now, I'm pretty sure that Mr. Emery is still looking for answers.

Allegri used a classic 3-5-2 a hybrid 4-3-3/4-4-2 formation with Andrea Barzagli playing as a right back and the mystery man, Hernanes, in the middle of the park along with Paul Pogba and Khedira. On the other side, a depleted Sevilla, presented a 4-5-1 without former Juve striker Fernando Llorente (out injured) and with Ciro Immobile on the bench.

The match started right away with a great opportunity for the home team, when Pogba badly lofted over the bar a bouncing ball in Sevilla's penalty area. Once again, Juan Cuadrado acted as a catalyst for Juventus attack, as he was often involved and was a nightmare for Benoit Tremoulinas.

In the 17th minute, a sweet curled shot by Paulo Dybala went just wide of Sergio Rico's right post. Sevilla tried to hold the constant Bianconeri's pressure, however it looked like it was just a matter of time before Juventus scored.

Juventus took the lead minutes before halftime. A beautiful cross, executed by Barzagli — yes, Barzagli! — found Álvaro Morata, who placed a clinical header in the back of the net.

The second half also began with a chance for Juventus. An industrious Dybala moved quickly and forced a close-range save by Sergio Rico. Minutes later, Cuadrado and Dybala scorched Rico's gloves with two furious shots. The Old Lady was in control, but Frosinone's ghost was still present at Juventus Stadium.

In the final moments, Simone Zaza entered for Morata and gave his side a deserved second goal. Again, all started with Dybala, "La Joya" fought an impossible ball in the middle of the park with two defenders. As a result the ball rebounded to Zaza, who accelerated towards Rico and finished calmly.

Juventus earned another precious three points in the Champions League and a second chance to believe in themselves and their future as a team.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon 6.5 - Easy night for San Gigi, who was tested only once in the match.

Barzagli 7 - What a game by the Italian express! Assisted Álvaro Morata and was an enforcer on the right flank. He fulfilled an unselfish performance.

Bonucci 6.5 - Nice game by Leo. Along with Chiellini, bullied Gameiro and Immobile. Also distributed the ball coolly from the defense.

Chellini 6.5 - He was always in control. Tracked easily the visitors' attacks.

Evra 6.5 - Rock-solid as always. The French legend erased the speedster Yevhen Konoplyanka from the game.

Pogba 6.5 - Played an excellent defensive game, however his side still needs his contribution on attack

Hernanes 7 - Kudos to "the prophet," who bounced back from a terrible game against Napoli. He was calm in the middle and passed the ball smartly.

Khedira 7 - Welcome, Sami. The World Cup winner is not a pitbull, but he definitely knows how to play the game. He set the tempo in the midfield and was the leader that Juventus has been missing on the pitch.

Cuadrado 7.5 - Once again the Colombian showed his value. He was very active and always kept Selvilla defenders on their heels.

Morata 7 - Mr. Champions League did it again. With his first-half strike, he tied Alesandro Del Piero's record of scoring five goals in five consecutive Champions League matches.

Dybala 7.5 - Don't let his boy band looks fool you. This kid is a fighter and my man of the match. The Argentinian fought tirelessly and never backed down. The Dybala goals will come soon.


Subs

Sandro 6 - Replaced Khedira and had little impact.

Zaza 7 - This guy has the eye of the tiger. In my opinion he´s not as talented as Dybala or Morata; However he has the determination to be a great striker. If he plays like this, he will return to the national team soon.

Rugani s/v - His first official minutes as a bianconeri!


Coach

Allegri 7.5 - He's such a fox. He fooled everyone playing Barzagli on the right flank. Playing Khedira was a wise and aggressive choice. He outsmarted Emery and put Juventus in a great position to advance to the knockout round.


Things I Think I think

Juventus fulfilled my Fearless Forcast and I couldn't be happier.
In Mad Max I trust.
I can't wait to see Marchisio, Pogba and Khedira on the field together.
Sevilla was toothless and looked like a Serie B team.
Juventus Stadium was a volcano Wednesday. Juve definitely had 12 men on the pitch.
Once again: Juventus is back. Fino alla Fine!
Almost forgot: I wouldn't like to be Ciro Immobile.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - SEVILLA

2 - 0

Álvaro Morata (41')
Simone Zaza (87')

Matchday 2
Wednesday, September 30th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Dominant Euro-Juve show capability

Juventus made it two Champions League wins from two with a commanding
2-0 victory over Sevilla. Luca Cetta saw much to admire from the Old Lady.

http://www.football-italia.net/73734/dominant-euro-juve-show-capability?

Oct 1, 2015
 
Aesthetically, Alessandro Del Piero’s bunch takes the cake. There’s little doubt about that. A ‘Gol alla Del Piero’ against both Borussia Dortmund and Steaua Bucharest. Free-kicks versus Rangers and the Germans. The collection was a masterpiece.

In comparison, Alvaro Morata’s set of predatory finishes don’t stir the same emotions, but in terms of importance they are streets ahead. The Spaniard equalled the Juve icon’s 1995 club-record of netting in five consecutive Champions League outings when he nodded the Bianconeri ahead against Sevilla.

The goal came at just the right time, capping a dominant first half display. Just as each strike prior, this was decisive. Think back to the goals in both semi-final legs last term against Real Madrid. The equaliser in Berlin versus Barcelona. The winner, a fine goal at that, over Manchester City on Matchday 1.

Victory was a must for a Juve side which has stumbled punch-drunk through the opening weeks. The triumph in England was followed by their only domestic success to date at Genoa. Things looked to be picking up. But after taking one point from outings against Frosinone and Napoli the pressure increased. Juventus needed to win and did so emphatically for a first home triumph this term.

Like Morata, the Bianconeri have risen on the continent. That’s in direct contrast to a difficult start to the Serie A campaign. Two victories have shot Juve up to six points in Group D. It’s more in two games than the Turin club has accrued from six in Serie A.

That will lead to the question of why there has been a gulf between the two. Massimiliano Allegri has not been aided by a series of injuries, ensuring that in each game this season he has fielded a different starting XI. Chances were wasted against Udinese, Chievo and Frosinone. In the big away matches at Roma and Napoli they went missing. That Manchester triumph, a first on English soil since 1996, looked an anomaly. But Juve are growing on the continent. They’ve so far found the clinical edge required on the biggest stage.

Injuries were again a concern ahead of Sevilla. None more so than at right back, where Stephan Lichtsteiner’s breathing difficulties have meant a spell on the sidelines. Allegri was not aided by Martin Caceres’ car crash, an incident the club took a dim view of. His suspension, and the non-inclusion of makeshift fullback Simone Padoin in the Champions League squad, meant Allegri had to find a solution. The cross for Morata’s goal revealed its identity.

Nominally, Andrea Barzagli lined up on the right side of the back three in a 3-5-2, with Juan Cuadrado ahead on the flank. But the veteran defender at times played like a fullback, allowing the Colombian to push forward. In other instances he tucked inside. It was a hybrid resolution that saw both players command the right. For Barzagli the game was capped by that assist.

In the face of multiple absentees, Sami Khedira’s return was a welcome one. The German sustained a thigh problem in pre-season and only here made his debut. Khedira looked assured in his 75 minutes of action, keeping possession ticking over and offering balance in midfield.

And with an experienced figure alongside, Paul Pogba did not feel shackled by responsibility. He has felt the burden in the early weeks with Khedira and Claudio Marchisio – his intended midfield partners – out injured. Pogba has been guilty of trying too much without success. Here he did not over-complicate. Pogba, and the team, were better for it. With the Turin-born player possibly ready to return this Sunday against Bologna, Allegri may finally have his best midfield options available.

Sevilla rarely threatened, only firing one tame effort at Gianluigi Buffon. Juventus looked comfortable in possession and harassed with intent. It was a one-sided affair, although with memories of Frosinone fresh the second goal scored by Simone Zaza with four minutes remaining offered relief. With this win Juventus have command of the group, the only side holding a perfect record.

It was the exact display Juve were after. Zaza mentioned afterwards that the vibe had not been positive of late, so to dispel doubts is a great confidence boost. There was much to admire, this victory showing there’s plenty of fight in the Old Lady, plus her comfort as the Champions League anthem roars.

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - SEVILLA

2 - 0

Álvaro Morata (41')
Simone Zaza (87')

Matchday 2
Wednesday, September 30th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Orsi: Juventus Beat Sevilla
Thanks To Their Strong Mentality

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/orsi-juventus-beat-sevilla-thanks-to-their-strong-mentality/?

Oct 1, 2015
 
Former Lazio goalkeeper Fernando Orsi believes Juventus showed the necessary mental fortitude during their 2-0 win over Sevilla.

The Bianconeri sealed their second Champions League victory of the season on Wednesday night thanks to goals from Alvaro Morata and Simone Zaza, and find themselves now top of Group D.

“Yesterday morning I had predicted that the Old Lady would win,” said Orsi to Radio Radio.

“They won the game but they had great difficulty controlling the match.”

He continued: “The 3-5-2 formation suits the players to which coach [Massimiliano] Allegri has at his disposal. He should be given credit for his game plan.”

“Their were positive performances from [Juan] Cuadrado and [sami] Khedira, the team deserved the victory against a poor Sevilla side.

“The Bianconeri played the game with the right mentality.”

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus show signs of life under
Max Allegri after Champions League wins

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2643999/juventus-show-signs-of-life-under-max-allegri-after-ucl-wins?

 
Oct 2, 2015
 
Did he anyone hear that? The loud sound of fingers striking keyboards? That was the sound of a thousand critics retracting their negative statements written about Massimiliano Allegri. "I am convinced that in the hands of another coach, the team would obtain good results," FIFA agent Pietro Chiaradia exclusively revealed to Il Sussidiario before the Champions League win over Sevilla on Wednesday.

Allegri has indeed made mistakes. The team he chose to take on Napoli was baffling to say the least, and he rightly deserved to be criticised for choosing to start the likes of Simone Padoin. The constant rotations have also robbed the side of the consistency required to build tactical harmony. The tactician has his alibis in that he has been forced to deal with the departures of several champions, not to mention the injuries that have left him without a balanced midfield, but it was unnecessary to exacerbate the problem.

However, despite the criticisms, this blog preached patience and noted that this perhaps was nothing more than a bad phase. "Once the injured players return, a set starting lineup will be established and that could bring about a change in fortunes," I wrote.

We have already seen the considerable difference in Juve's performance once they had Sami Khedira back on the pitch, and the injured Claudio Marchisio could well be available for the match against Bologna on Sunday. With a little more time and a lot more suffering, this side has all it takes to succeed. Beppe Marotta and co did a wonderful job in the transfer market, and while question marks remain over the arrival of Hernanes, every other new arrival has the potential and the talent required to make the difference to a side accustomed to winning.

By playing his best men in a formation that highlighted the natural gifts of the talent he has at his disposal, and masked the absences of those missing, Allegri won the tactical battle against Unai Emery's Sevilla. Courage has always helped the coach dig his way out of trouble and he must continue to trust the youthful talent of Juan Cuadrado and Paulo Dybala, even if they are a little too raw at times. One understands the desire to rotate considering how Cuadrado plays the game, but the Colombian is young enough to play a few games in quick succession, at least until the team recover more of their injured stars.

In time, the coach will eventually teach his players several different formations to allow for tactical versatility that will better help the team to survive certain absences or the inevitable rotations. They have the players required to allow for effective play through the wings or for more centralised attacks. In time and if a certain few remain fit and healthy, Juventus will be a far more interesting side to watch and could develop into a real force.

Next up is Bologna, who are suffering a torrid time themselves. Newly promoted with lots of fresh arrivals in the summer, some hoped for a brighter beginning considering the men in charge, yet barring a win over Frosinone -- a team that drew against Juventus -- Bologna have lost every single game, even if their performances are improving.

Delio Rossi is an ambitious and intelligent coach, and he knows his first priority must be to jell all the new faces within the side, and that includes highly rated striker Mattia Destro. Incidentally, the attack is where the problems lies; the team simply seem incapable of creating chances, and when they do, finishing has proved to be another problem. While the Old Lady has shown herself to be inefficient, creating several chances only to squander most of them when playing domestically, not one side in the entire league has taken fewer shots on goal than the Felsinei.

Against Udinese, we can see a side shaping up yet success still seems to be nothing more than a pipe dream, so much so that whispers of Rossi's potential dismissal have been circulating. While management insist they fully support the coach, the pressure is on to collect more points. It's a tall order when one considers that their next opponent is a Bianconeri side that has just collected maximum points from their two European matches, demonstrating fluidity and skill to defeat Sevilla midweek.

Likely to depend on a 3-5-2 formation again, Allegri is expected to welcome Alex Sandro and Mario Lemina back into the starting lineup -- players who require more playing time to progress. Another win at home and perhaps the fans can start dreaming again. Nothing is yet out of reach for the Old Lady.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Paolo Rossi: ‘Juventus are motivated’

http://www.football-italia.net/73794/rossi-‘juventus-are-motivated’?

 
Oct 2, 2015
 
Legendary former striker Paolo Rossi is sure Juventus are “motivated to win their fifth consecutive title”.

When Rossi was playing, the Bianconeri finished fifth in 1985, the year they finally won the European Cup.

With the current side having won just once in six Serie A games, and winning both their Champions League ties, are there any parallels?

“No, it was different in my day,” Rossi told reporters at the Football Heroes museum in Milan.

“For us, we weren’t snubbing the League, but the European Cup was unconsciously our obsession, we just wanted that, we’d have done anything to win it.

“The current Juventus, however, seem to me to be pretty motivated to win their fifth consecutive title and do well in Europe.

“They have to find the balance which they don’t have yet, but it’ll come. We can’t put all the blame on [Coach Massimiliano] Allegri for only getting five points in Serie A so far.

“The Torinese side have considerably overhauled their squad, and people like Pirlo, Tevez and Vidal can’t just be replaced in the blink of an eye.

“You can’t compare the newcomers to that wonderful trio, they’re still lacking experience, but I’m convinced that sooner or later it’ll become automatic for them.

“It’s inevitable that Max Allegri continues to shuffle his pack, and doesn’t ever play the same guys, but over time he’ll find the right formula.

“Juve won’t give up, don’t worry.”

Rossi famously scored a hat-trick for Italy against Brazil in the 1982 World Cup, and was asked about Nikola Kalinic’s treble against Inter on Sunday.

“Do you know I see a lot of myself in this player? I mean, Kalinic is playing as a central striker, just like the Paolo Rossi at Lanerossi Vicenza, with midfielders who move well.

“The Croatian has good movement, he’s quick and he has an eye for goal. Maybe this description reminds you of someone who was playing a few years ago?

“If, on the banks of the Arno [Florence], they can get Giuseppe Rossi back, Fiorentina will have another string to their bow.

“This is already a formidable Fiorentina, but with Pepito up-front they could become really impressive.”

Finally, the World Cup-winner gave his opinion on the current Azzurri side.

“The way I see it, the national team will always qualify,” Rossi mused.

“For the European Championships in France, as well as the World Cup in Russia and Qatar. At the moment I see a so-so Italy.

“We haven’t moved on from the great champions - Totti, Del Piero - but at the same time there aren’t enough possible Azzurri players playing in the League.

“When they play, they smash everything, just like Zaza who has scored two goals when he got involved at Juve.

“You have to trust these lads.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus - Bologna Preview:
Dybala eyes Scudetto spark

The Bianconeri's struggles have not spread to their Champions League form,
but the Argentine wants to see the continental performances to carry over to the Serie A.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/match/juventus-vs-bologna/2120440/preview

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
Paulo Dybala has seen enough from Juventus' Champions League exploits to suggest a fifth consecutive Serie A title is not out of their reach, despite a woeful start to the season, with a fine chance to kickstart the Scudetto hunt arriving with Bologna in Turin on Sunday.

A solitary win from Juve's first six games has done little to suggest that Italy's dominant team of the past four seasons will be able to recapture their former glories, but Massimiliano Allegri's new-look squad has impressed on the continent.

Victories over Manchester City and Sevilla have left Juve top of a hotly contested Champions League group and a run of one defeat in 25 league fixtures against Sunday's opponents will be further cause for optimism.

Former Palermo forward Dybala has not seen much difference in the side's performances in domestic and continental action, so expects a title challenge to remain at the forefront of their ambitions.

He told Premium Sport: "I do not think that there is a difference in our performances in Serie A to those in the Champions League.

"In Europe, teams play more open and allow more space. In Serie A, all teams are closed. In the 1-1 draw against Frosinone, we gave away the ball and they scored.

"The Scudetto is still a possible target because we are Juventus and we always fight to win. We did not start well but we will fight until the end."

Dybala has only started in four of his eight Juve appearances since joining from Palermo in pre-season, but is the champions' top scorer with three goals in all competitions.

He added: "I played a good game against Sevilla, but I also played well in the Super Cup against Lazio when I came on.

"I fought together with the team until the end and settled on the pitch very well."

Summer signing Sami Khedira made his debut against Sevilla in midweek, boosting a Juve midfield that is still searching for its best form since being shorn of Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo, as well as injury victim Claudio Marchisio, although the latter is reportedly in line for a return this weekend.

Stephan Lichtsteiner is sidelined by a respiratory illness, although Chelsea loanee Juan Cuadrado has impressed in his place on the right flank. Martin Caceres has been suspended by the club after being caught drink-driving this week and Mario Mandzukic remains out with a thigh injury.

Former Juve winger Emanuele Giaccherini will not return to Juventus Stadium this weekend, as Bologna's on-loan Sunderland man has a thigh problem.

It is another headache for Delio Rossi, with Bologna having lost five of their six games this term. High-profile summer signing Mattia Destro is yet to find the net since arriving, but Rossi insisted this week that the Italy international "is not the problem".


OPTA FACTS

Juventus have won their last four Serie A games against Bologna, keeping a clean sheet in the last three.

The Bianconeri have lost only one of their last 25 league games against Bologna (W16).

Before losing 1-0 in their last trip to the Juventus Stadium, Bologna had found the net in their previous nine visits to Juve’s ground in the league.

Juventus have lost three of their first six games of the season – something that hadn’t happened to the Old Lady in Serie A since 1987/88.

Juve have just one win in seven Serie A games for the first time since March 2012, but on that occasion they had remained unbeaten (W1 D6).

Juventus are winless in their last three home games – this is the first time they’ve failed to win three home games in a row in Serie A since playing at the Juventus Stadium.

Bologna have lost the most games so far in this Serie A campaign (five).

Bologna are one of the two teams (alongside Genoa) yet to pick up their first point away from home this season.


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus W L D W W

2015/09/30 - Juventus 2 - 0 Sevilla
2015/09/26 - Napoli 2 - 1 Juventus
2015/09/23 - Juventus 1 - 1 Frosinone
2015/09/20 - Genoa 0 - 2 Juventus
2015/09/15 - Manchester City 1 - 2 Juventus


Bologna L L W L L

2015/09/27 - Bologna 1 - 2 Udinese
2015/09/23 - Fiorentina 2 - 0 Bologna
2015/09/20 - Bologna 1 - 0 Frosinone
2015/09/14 - Sampdoria 2 - 0 Bologna
2015/08/29 - Bologna 0 - 1 Sassuolo


HEAD TO HEAD

2014/04/19 - Juventus 1 - 0 Bologna
2013/12/06 - Bologna 0 - 2 Juventus
2013/03/16 - Bologna 0 - 2 Juventus
2012/10/31 - Juventus 2 - 1 Bologna
2012/03/07 - Bologna 1 - 1 Juventus

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

JUVENTUS V BOLOGNA MATCH PREVIEW

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

 
Oct 3, 2015
 

Juventus

On Wednesday, Juventus finally delivered the first complete performance of the season: dominance from the start to the final whistle, two goals scored, basically no chances allowed. It was about time. Now it’s just a matter of replicating it over and over again, as the Old Lady has done in previous seasons. The game against Bologna represents an ideal opportunity to start trending in the right direction.

Juventus have collected only two points at the Stadium so far in the season, which is utterly uncharacteristic for a team that built its championship campaign on its home form. The last-minute equalizer by Frosinone was surely hurtful, but things like that happens and overall, Juventus played well in that game, the only sin was to take the foot off the gas in the second half. The performances against Chievo Verona and especially Napoli gave more for concern.

Massimiliano Allegri may have stumbled onto something in the Sevilla tilt: a 3-5-2 that turns into 4-4-2 in the defensive phase. I would agree with something that the coach said in the last presser: 3-5-2 is no longer a security blanket for this squad because as in the “ideal” XI, if that even exists, only six starters have played under Antonio Conte. Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Claudio Marchisio, who occupies a different position now, and Paul Pogba. The ‘offense’ and the ‘flank’ game are new.

The emergency at right back continues: Stephan Lichtsteiner has been diagnosed with arrhythmia, has undergone heart surgery and will miss at least a month. A report says that he is legally forced to wait for six months before returning to action, I hope it is untrue but there is a solid chance we will not see the Swiss-Express for a very long time. To make things worse, Martin Caceres has been suspended by the team for crashing his Ferrari while driving under the influence of alcohol. We can’t catch a break so far this season. Caceres should return after the international break, but he’s not physically reliable and even if he plays with great energy, he is not a ‘pure’ right-back.

Therefore, we are left with 4-3-3 and Simone Padoin as RB, or 3-5-2. One of the two options is more palatable. Claudio Marchisio has a chance to return from his injury, but honestly I do not see any reason to rush him back, especially since Sami Khedira is now available and we have plenty of options in the midfield even without no.8. Hernanes is not totally convincing as deep-lying midfielder yet, but at least he has bounced back from the San Paolo horror show. I think Allegri could be a bit more aggressive in this one: Roberto Pereyra might start in the midfield. Stefano Sturaro has a nagging calf injury, while Mario Lemina is ready to play if the coach rotates the midfield, which is likely, or Paul Pogba is given a day off. Who starts might just be a matter of fitness as Lemina and Pereyra are also said to be carrying slight knocks.

As for the rest of the lineup, Alex Sandro should replace Patrice Evra on the left flank and Juan Cuadrado will start at RWB and continues to be the most important player this season (not starting him against Napoli was a questionable decision). Alvaro Morata and Paulo Dybala are primed to be the attacking duo: the growth of Simone Zaza allows the coach to field the best pair on paper, without the need to have a change-of-pace guy off the bench.

UPDATE: Allegri has announced that he will field the same XI from the Sevilla game and has ruled out Marchisio, Pereyra and Sturaro.


Probable lineup 3-5-2:

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Evra; Morata, Dybala.


Injuries:

Lichtsteiner (heart condition), Mandzukic (thigh), Marchisio (thigh), Pereyra (calf), Sturaro (thigh).


Suspended:

Caceres excluded from squad


 

  Bologna

Bologna did not have a good start to their 2015/2016 season. They’ve won just the one game, at home against Frosinone, and lost the others against Lazio, Sassuolo, Sampdoria, Fiorentina and Udinese and honestly have shown very little to prove that they will not be a relegation candidate all season long. The early poor performances are understandable as they have changed a lot during the summer. Only a couple of players from last season have remained in the starting lineup: Adam Masina and Marios Oikonomou. Alex Ferrari was there, but he really only won the job from Ibrahima Mbaye this season and it is not yet clear what their best CB pair is, with Sampdoria veteran Daniele Gastaldello, who was acquired last January, certainly in the mix.

Delio Rossi is on the hot seat, for reasons that go beyond the sheer results. Bologna really did not want fire Diego Lopez last season as they would have preferred to drop the axe in the summer after the promotion, and be able to choose virtually any coach they wanted; But as the results were so bad and were starting to jeopardize even a playoff spot, they pulled the trigger. Rossi is lucky to have a big supporter in the new sporting director Pantaleo Corvino, but the owner Joey Saputo, who is now the only one in charge as Joe Tacopina left town, is not known to be a patient man. With the international break around the corner, this is an ideal time for a change at the helm and there is no shortage of good candidates for the job.

Their reinforcement campaign was massive and had some highlights like Mattia Destro, Anthony Mounier, Godfred Donsah and Emanuele Giaccherini. Unfortunately, Destro has struggled and has not had the right service and the former Juventus winger and the Ghanaian midfielder have been slowed down by injuries.

Delio Rossi started with a diamond formation but understandably moved to 4-3-3 as they do not have a Serie A-quality striker to use alongside Destro, while their main purchases in the summer consisted of a bunch of wingers. They have not been able to produce much offense so far and they have scored only three goals, two of which were by Mounier. They’re not really a counterattacking team either as the French forward is the only pacey player in the lineup: folk hero Franco Brienza has never stood out for his speed and they have mostly muscular midfielders.

They are expected to field a grit-and-grind lineup with the seasons revelation Amadou Diawara likely beating out Lorenzo Crisetig to start in front of the defense, Saphir Taider on his right and Luca Rizzo on his left. Gastadello has a chance to make his first start of the season replacing Luca Rossettini. I would not be surprised to see Rizzo used in a more offensive and “tactical” position, with Erick Pulgar or Matteo Brighi starting in the midfield.

UPDATE: Taider has not been called up, so either Pulgar or Brighi will take his spot in the midfield


Probable lineup 4-3-3:

Mirante; Ferrari, Oikonomou, Rossettini, Masina; Pulgar, Diawara, Rizzo; Brienza, Destro, Mounier.


Injuries:

Donsah (thigh), Giaccherini (thigh), Taider.


Suspended:

None

 

Formation

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus vs. Bologna: Team News, Predicted Lineups

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2574766-juventus-vs-bologna-team-news-predicted-lineups-live-stream-tv-info?

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
For the second time this season, Juventus shrugged off poor domestic form to register a superb victory in the Champions League. Indeed, having been hugely disappointing against Napoli last weekend, the Bianconeri put on a dominant display against Sevilla this week, running out 2-0 winners.

However, unlike their triumph away to Manchester City, this latest result appeared to signal that a number of their problems were coming to an end. Able to field Alvaro Morata and Sami Khedira, Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri’s squad is returning to full health and looks vastly improved as a result.

“Now we simply have to perform in Italy the way we're doing in Europe,” Morata told TuttoSport this week (h/t Football Italia).

They will hope to do just that against a struggling Bologna, the newly promoted side currently sitting in 19th place with just three points from their opening six matches.

OptaPaolo ✔ @OptaPaolo
4 & 16 - Bologna have fired just 16 shots so far, only four of which from inside the box: no team have done worse in this Serie A. Struggle.

“We have to believe in each other because we are a good team,” midfielder Luca Rizzo told Sky Italia last weekend, per Forza Italian Football.

They can expect a tough task at Juventus Stadium and will not have enjoyed seeing the Bianconeri rediscover their best form on Wednesday after their own poor run.

Allegri must look to continue the positive upturn, and with the international break directly following this weekend, he may not rotate his team too much in order to do so but was pleased with what he saw in their most recent outing.

“I trust both myself and my players to get our season back on track,” Allegri said at a press conference directly after the Sevilla clash. “The important thing though is that the players learn from the poorer performances when they come around, and to keep developing both as individuals and as a team.”

 

Probable Formations

 
Juventus (4-3-1-2):

Gigi Buffon; Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Alex Sandro, Sami Khedira, Mario Lemina, Paul Pogba, Juan Cuadrado; Alvaro Morata, Paulo Dybala

Unavailable: Mario Mandzukic, Claudio Marchisio, Rubinho, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Stefano Sturaro (all injured)


Bologna (4-3-3):

Antonio Mirante, Alex Ferrari, Daniele Gastaldello, Luca Rossettini, Adam Masina; Saphir Taider, Amadou Diawara, Anthony Mounier; Franco Brienza, Mattia Destro, Luca Rizzo

Unavailable: Franco Zuculini, Emanuele Giaccherini, Godfred Donsah, Emil Krafth (all injured)
 
 

Player to Watch

While Juventus finally delivered an all-round excellent performance against Sevilla, perhaps the most important point was the fact the match was only the second clean sheet they have recorded this term.

Looking solid throughout, the Bianconeri appeared to rediscover the solidity that has long been a hallmark of this team. It will likely be tested by Mattia Destro on Sunday, with the former AS Roma and Milan striker expected to spearhead the Bologna XI at Juventus Stadium.

Yet to net for his new club, the 24-year-old has reached double figures in three of the last four seasons, and his ability to do so again will be vital for their survival hopes. The likes of Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini will need to be alert against Destro’s threat in order for Juve to register another shutout.



Key Battle

If the clash between the Bianconeri defence and Destro will be vital, at the other end the home side will hope to see Alvaro Morata continue the form he showed against Sevilla.

The Spanish striker netted in his fifth consecutive Champions League appearance, matching a club record set by Alessandro Del Piero 20 years earlier, and after the win he expressed his delight at that achievement.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@AlvaroMorata matches Alessandro Del Piero's impressive feat of finding the net in five consecutive matches.

“Obviously doing what a legend of football like Del Piero has done in the past is a reason of pride for me,” Morata told the official UEFA website. “I'm proud but I don't want to stop here. I want to keep working hard to help the team winning and to score more goals.”

The task of stopping him will likely fall to Bologna defender Luca Rossettini, who has also played well thus far in 2015/16. According to statistics, courtesy of WhoScored.com, the 30-year-old has averaged 1.7 tackles, 2.8 interceptions and 4.8 clearances per game but will face a tough task as he goes head-to-head with Morata.



Odds (via Odds Shark)

Away win: 11-1

Home win: 1-4

Draw: 17/4

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Allegri: 'Bologna biggest game'

http://www.football-italia.net/73827/allegri-bologna-biggest-game?

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
Max Allegri urged Juventus to treat Bologna “as the most important match of the season,” but injuries increase.

It kicks off on Sunday at 18.00 CET - 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).

“It is important to win tomorrow, above all as it would be our first Serie A home victory of the season,” said the Coach in a Press conference.

“Via the performance you get to the result. If you play well, you’re more likely to win. Results haven’t been on our side so far, but until the referee blows the final whistle, everything is still to play for.”

The Bianconeri have five points from six Serie A rounds, but six points from two Champions League games after disposing of Manchester City and Sevilla.

“I was very happy with how we played on Wednesday, as Sevilla had only one shot on goal. I don’t believe in turning points, but in consistency. Tomorrow we have to treat Bologna as if it were the most important match of the season.

“Then there will be the break for international duty and I asked the lads to help me relax during that break. Bologna have some good individuals and only conceded right at the end against Fiorentina.”

Allegri confirmed “the same players you saw on Wednesday will play tomorrow. As for the system, you can discuss that between yourselves.”

It was unclear whether Andrea Barzagli was playing in a three-man defence or as a right-back.

Some are raring to go and can’t due to an injury crisis that is intensifying.

“I have to make the most of the characteristics of my players without focusing on the system. I have players with certain characteristics, so tomorrow we’ll see both Simone Padoin and Kwadwo Asamoah.

“Claudio Marchisio will return after the break for international duty. Stephan Lichtsteiner you know, Martin Caceres is in good shape, but you know the club’s position on him.

“Stefano Sturaro tests showed up negative, but he still feels pain in his calf and therefore he’ll be there after the break for international duty.

“Roberto Pereyra over-worked a muscle and is not available, but it won’t take long to recover from. Mario Mandzukic is another who will return after international duty. Sami Khedira will start.”

Lichtsteiner underwent heart surgery this week to correct a cardiac arrhythmia and could be out for anywhere between one and six months.

“I haven’t seen Lichtsteiner, but he is doing well and we hope to have him with us as soon as possible.”

As for Caceres, the Uruguay international is frozen out after crashing his Ferrari into a Turin bus stop and failing a breathalyser test.

“Caceres is one of the most reliable on the field, but there are things you do off it that are simply not acceptable. Players shouldn’t be like monks, but there are things you just shouldn’t do.”

Gigi Buffon is a role model, but was surprisingly left out of the Ballon d’Or longlist.

“I didn’t expect that. The Ballon d’Or shouldn’t be awarded for career highlights, but for what you did in one year and Buffon was a protagonist in an extraordinary Juventus year. He deserved to be there.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/preview/69884

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
Champions Juventus look to get their stuttering campaign back on track Sunday evening as they host a Bologna side entrenched firmly in the bottom three.

Max Allegri’s side are in the midst of their worst ever run at Juventus Stadium having failed to win in their opening three matches and having suffered two defeats. The Bianconeri injury crisis has abated somewhat, though, and there was a massive boost in midweek with the return to midfield of Sami Khedira. Whilst it is unlikely he will be given another start quite so soon, it is certainly a boost for Allegri along with the form of new boys Hernanes and Mario Lemina.

The strength in depth the champions will enjoy with a full strength squad available was epitomised by Simone Zaza’s goal scoring contribution from the bench having replaced fellow goal scorer Alvaro Morata. Allegri will be hoping the Old Lady’s immaculate European form can be transcended in to Serie A whilst the gap to the top is still manageable.

Delio Rossi’s men’s start to the season, meanwhile, has been remarkably similar to that of their last Serie A campaign, although the three points gained that season came from three draws as opposed to the win picked up against Frosinone three weeks ago. It took nine games to gain a maximum that season and the rot had already set in.

Rossi will be hoping for a different story this time around and, after the trip to the champions, the Veltri have a favourable run of five games where only Inter among their opponents finished in last season’s top 10. The loss of energetic midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini to yet another injury, however, will be a big blow and leaves a lot of the creative pressure on Erick Pulgar to create the chances for goalless striker Mattia Destro. Big money signing Destro has now gone 497 minutes since his last goal - the winner for Milan against Roma in May - and Bologna themselves have failed to score in three of their seven games so far. You have to go back to 2011 to find the last time Bologna defeated Juventus, a brace from Marco Di Vaio helping the Rossoblu to victory over the Old Lady. If ever there was a time to upset the odds surely it’s now? Then again, maybe not.

Keep an eye on: Antonio Mirante (Bologna) - The former Juventus stopper will have to be at his best to keep the Rossoblu in the game, much like he was in Parma’s shock victory over the Old Lady at the end of last season.


Form Guide: Juventus (L D W D L) Bologna (L L W L L)

Last season: N/A

Stat fact: Mattia Destro is suffering the longest goal drought on arrival at a new club in his career, having failed to net for six games. Destro notched on his first ever Serie A appearance for Genoa, his debut for Siena, his second appearance for Milan and in his sixth game for Roma.


Juventus (probable):

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Lemina, Hernanes, Pogba, Evra; Dybala, Morata

Suspended: None


Bologna (probable):

Mirante; Ferrari, Oikonomou, Gastaldello, Masina; Rizzo, Diawara, Pulgar; Brienza, Destro, Mounier

Suspended: None

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Pereyra adds to Juve problems

http://www.football-italia.net/73829/pereyra-adds-juve-problems?

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
Juventus host Bologna with Roberto Pereyra a new addition to the absentee list.

It kicks off on Sunday at 18.00 CET - 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).

The Bianconeri were already without Claudio Marchisio, Mario Mandzukic, Stefano Sturaro, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Martin Caceres.

Pereyra picked up a muscular problem during the 2-0 Champions League victory over Sevilla and is also left out.


Juventus squad for Bologna:

Buffon, Chiellini, Khedira, Zaza, Morata, Pogba, Hernanes, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Cuadrado, Lemina, Bonucci, Padoin, Dybala, Asamoah, Rugani, Neto, Evra, Audero, Vitale

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Rossi: 'Bologna birthday with Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/73838/rossi-bologna-birthday-juve?

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
Delio Rossi is adamant Bologna can cause an upset against Juventus to celebrate the club’s birthday.

It kicks off on Sunday at 18.00 CET - 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).

“Today is Bologna’s birthday and we hope to all give the club a big present,” said Coach Rossi in his Press conference.

The Rossoblu were founded on October 3 1909, so are now 106 years old.

“The lads are all disappointed with the situation in the table, but the only way to overcome that is to step on to the field and give our all.

“So many children grew up dreaming of playing against Juventus in Turin. Many of our players are in their debut top flight season and I hope that going to the Juventus Stadium as protagonists will give them the confidence that they belong at this level.

“The squad has had a growth process over the last few weeks, even if the results didn’t arrive. We need a spark, but we have to make it ourselves. If we put in decent performances and don’t get points, it means there’s something we still need to work on.

“Juve are also going through a transitional year, but with a squad made up of champions who will be truly determined to beat us.

“Aside from individual talents, the strengths of Juventus are their concentration and determination, as their success was built on those.”

Emanuele Giaccherini is unable to recover in time to face his former club, but Saphir Taider also misses out due to a bout of tonsillitis.

Godfred Donsah, Franco Zuculini and Emil Krafth are also absent.


Bologna squad for Juventus:

Da Costa, Mirante, Stojanovic; Ferrari, Gastaldello, Maietta, Masina, Mbaye, Morleo, Oikonomou, Rossettini; Brighi, Crimi, Crisetig, Diawara, Pulgar, Rizzo; Acquafresca, Brienza, Destro, Falco, Mancosu, Mounier

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Allegri braced for 'most important game of the year'

The Old Lady manager has highlighted the importance of Sunday's match with
Delio Rossi's side after a disappointing opening to their Scudetto defence.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/10/03/15976712/allegri-braced-for-bologna-test?ICID=TP_HN_1

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
Juventus must approach Sunday's clash with Bologna as "the most important game of the year" if they are to halt their sluggish start to the Serie A season, says coach Massimilano Allegri.

The Turin giants' bid for a fifth straight Scuedtto has gotten off to a rocky start, with just one win from their opening six games.

However, Juve have carried last season's Champions League form into the current campaign, winning each of their opening two Group D fixtures, against Manchester City and Sevilla.

Wednesday's success against the Europa League holders saw Juve dominate from the off, and Allegri will keep faith with the same XI from that game - meaning Sami Khedira will make his Serie A debut in midfield.

"It is important to win tomorrow, above all as it would be our first Serie A home victory of the season," Allegri told a news conference.

"If you play well, you're more likely to win. Results haven't been on our side so far, but until the referee blows the final whistle, everything is still to play for.

"I was very happy with how we played on Wednesday, as Sevilla had only one shot on goal. I don't believe in turning points, but in consistency. Tomorrow we have to treat Bologna as if it were the most important match of the season.

"Then there will be the break for international duty and I asked the lads to help me relax during that break. Bologna have some good individuals and only conceded right at the end against Fiorentina.

"The same players you saw on Wednesday will play tomorrow. As for the system, you can discuss that between yourselves."

One player not available to Allegri is Martin Caceres. The Uruguay defender was suspended by Juve this week after being caught drink-driving.

"Caceres is one of the most reliable on the field, but there are things you do off it that are simply not acceptable" Allegri said.

"Players shouldn't be like monks, but there are things you just shouldn't do."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus vs. Bologna Preview: Round 7 —
Momentum sounds like a good idea

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/10/3/9430997/juventus-bologna-2015-serie-a-round-7-preview-team-news-schedule

 
Oct 3, 2015
 
The last time Juventus and Bologna faced one another in April of 2014, Sebastian Giovinco was still getting a paycheck from the club he grew up at. There was Mauricio Isla in the same starting lineup as Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio. And Angelo Ogbonna, who played next to Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini, was actually viewed as a potential piece in Juventus' defense going forward.

Ah, how things change.

Oh and, there's one more thing: Paul Pogba was celebrating after the game, a 1-0 Juve victory thanks to a goal by the young Frenchman, by walking around with a stuffed animal. No, seriously, if you don't remember how Pogba strolled around the Juventus Stadium turf after exchanging jerseys with a Bologna player, here is the visual evidence.

I feel safe in saying that we're in a much better mood to see Pogba walking around with his stuffed animal friend than we were before Juventus beat Sevilla in the Champions League on Wednesday. Wins can not only instill some much-needed confidence in this new Juve squad, but also inject us with some of that elusive positivity and happiness we haven't necessarily seen a lot of so far this season.

Just like the last time we talked about Juventus building off a win, one of Serie A's newbies will be coming to Turin. It's not Frosinone, it's the previously mentioned Bologna side that is back in Italy's top flight after a one-year hiatus.

Common logic tells you that it's another game that Juventus should win without question because of the obvious gulf in talent from one team to the other. But as we found out with Frosinone, it's not always like that, One of the biggest keys for Juve going forward the next couple of months is not just to get right in the big-picture aspect, but to get right against the mid-table and lower teams that they've been so effective against in recent years. Once they do that, the momentum will only continue to build and the rise up the table will actually happen instead of just hanging around the bottom third.

And I'm pretty sure none of us wants to see Juve with the same amount of points after Sunday like was the case when Saturday's games came to an end.

Just a hunch on my part, though.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "Tomorrow gives us an important opportunity to start picking up points and making up ground in the league."

I'm glad Max Allegri and myself are on the same page. Picking up points is a pretty easy target to figure out. And when you get three of them at once, well, then you're current 15th-place standing is going to get better in quick order.


GOOD NEWS

Juventus won in the Champions League again. That's cool.


BAD NEWS

Juventus' point total through two Champions League games: 6

Juventus' point total through six Serie A games: 5

Oh. I can see where this could be a problem.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Post-Champions League lineup shakeup?

It wouldn't be a BWRAO match preview if there wasn't some kind of starting lineup talking point. So let's ask Max.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@OfficialAllegri: "Want to know my line-up for #JuveBologna? It's unchanged from Wednesday night."

Okay, onto the next one, I guess. Part of me thinks he's starting to really enjoy this after being such a mystery man with his starting lineup hints last season.

2. The Dybala-Morata partnership.

Out of all the good things to happen midweek in the Champions League, seeing Dybala and Morata play well while on the field together was one of the best. We can talk about how they're the future of Juventus' attack (as long as no buy-back clause B.S. goes down), but to see it develop right in front of our eyes right now is pretty nice, too. Dybala talked about the chemistry that's starting to develop between the two of them after the Sevilla win on Wednesday, and based on how they played it would be pretty hard to disagree with him. They've got characteristics that compliment each other so well, and that's not even considering the fact that they're all of 22 and 21 years old, respectively. They're not just growing as a partnership up front, but they're still growing and developing as players. And if they continue to play like they did against Sevilla midweek, then we're in for a lot more good times. At least I hope we are, because that would be nice.

3. How Sami Khedira responds to just a few days of rest.

As is the case with any important player coming back from an injury, how they respond to a heavy workload again is always going to be something to keep track of. But it's especially true with Khedira knowing how he's been hampered with injuries for the better part of the last 16 months. Khedira's Juventus debut was good, really good, and now we wait to see what he does for an encore. We know it will be Sunday because Allegri has told us that the starting lineup is going to be unchanged, which makes our job of trying to read his mind a lot easier. And you could tell that with Khedira on the field, things just fell more into place in the midfield. Paul Pogba was better, Hernanes was better, everything just seemed much more fluid and effective. That's exactly what Juventus hoped would be the case when they brought Khedira in on a free transfer from Real Madrid this summer, and it's what they'd like to see much more of as well. Starting, say, Sunday, for one.

4. Can Juventus actually build off their Champions League result?

It sure would be nice, wouldn't it? Consistency is the name of the game, and Juve have been anything but that through the first six weeks of the season. Allegri so desperately wants his team to go into the international break with a positive result. And who can blame him? The last time an international break was here was after the Roma loss, which certainly didn't make us any more thrilled about how the team was playing. But now that we're into the thick of the early-season schedule, and starting to find a rhythm is obviously only that much more important knowing what kind of games Juve have coming out of the international break (at Inter, vs. Borussia Monchengladbach). So, it's on you, Juventus, to stop making us so grumpy after Serie A games.


My starting XI (3-5-2):

 

Gianluigi Buffon; Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini; Juan Cuadrado, Sami Khedira, Hernanes, Paul Pogba, Patrice Evra; Paulo Dybala, Álvaro Morata

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Di Vaio: Bologna Must Be Courageous Against Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/di-vaio-bologna-must-be-courageous-against-juventus/?

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Bologna club manager Marco Di Vaio has targeted a victory over former club Juventus at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Sunday evening.

The 39-year-old spent two seasons with the Bianconeri before moving to Valencia in 2004, with brief spells with AS Monaco and Genoa preceding a successful four year stint at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara between 2008 and 2012.

“I expect them[Juventus] to be good, as they also played well against Frosinone and deserved to win. After their win against Sevilla they will be even more determined,” Di Vaio told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“We must do well in defence, have a bit of luck and be more courageous in attack.”

The former Italy international striker was grateful Bologna offered him the opportunity to showcase his talent in Serie A after a turbulent spell away from Italy.

“Bologna gave me a great opportunity. I hadn’t played in Serie A for four seasons, as I was with Monaco and then Genoa, where I played poorly. They said I was finished. I felt the affection of the fans here, and they respected me as a person which was gratifying.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Line-ups: Juventus-Bologna

http://www.football-italia.net/73882/line-ups-juventus-bologna?

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Juventus need to turn their Serie A fortunes around and host bottom of the table birthday boys Bologna.

It kicks off in Turin at 18.00 CET - 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).

The Bianconeri bizarrely have more points in two Champions League games (six) than in six Serie A rounds (five) and cannot afford to lose any more ground in the title race.

Injuries are a major concern for Max Allegri, who is without Stephan Lichtsteiner, Claudio Marchisio, Mario Mandzukic, Martin Caceres, Stefano Sturaro and Roberto Pereyra.

He therefore fields the same XI that beat Sevilla 2-0 on Wednesday, including Sami Khedira and Hernanes in midfield.

There was confusion during that game whether it was a 3-5-2 or had Andrea Barzagli as a right-back and Allegri refused to clarify this in a Press conference.

Bologna are bottom of the table thanks to one win and five defeats since earning promotion from Serie B via the play-offs.

Coach Delio Rossi is without Emanuele Giaccherini, Godfred Donsah, Saphir Taider and Franco Zuculini.

Mattia Destro leads the attack with support from Franco Brienza and Anthony Mounier.

On Saturday it was the 106th anniversary of the foundation of Bologna Calcio, so the club is looking for a birthday gift.


Juventus: Buffon, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Cuadrado, Dybala, Morata

Juventus bench: Neto, Audero, Rugani, Alex Sandro, Padoin, Lemina, Asamoah, Vitale, Zaza


Bologna: Mirante; Ferrari, Oikonomou, Gastaldello, Masina; Rizzo, Diawara, Pulgar; Brienza, Destro, Mounier

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Alvaro Morata partners Paulo Dybala in Juventus attack

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/team-news/team-news-morata-partners-dybala-in-juve-attack_250664.html?#$nvpeun&&L89HaGq0EeWwZgqZKrvslQ$

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Alvaro Morata will start up front alongside Paulo Dybala for Juventus in their Serie A clash with Bologna.

Morata got on the scoresheet in a 2-0 win against Sevilla, but Simone Zaza's reward for his goal in midweek is a place on substitute's bench.

Juan Cuadrado starts on the wing for the Bianconieri, with ex-Lazio star Hernanes featuring in midfield.

Meanwhile, Bologna will have former Roma frontman Mattia Destro leading the line and ex-Montpellier attacker Anthony Mounier also plays against the champions.


Juventus:

 

Buffon, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Cuadrado, Dybala, Morata

Subs: Neto, Audero, Rugani, Alex Sandro, Padoin, Lemina, Asamoah, Vitale, Zaza


Bologna:

 

Mirante, Ikonomou, Masina, Pulgar, Gastaldello, Ferrari, Diawara, Rizzo, Mounier, Brienza, Destro

Subs: Stojanovic, Da Costa, Maietta, Rossettini, Marleo, Mbaye, Crisetig, Brighi, Crimi, Moncosu, Acquafresca, Falco

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

HT 1-1: Bologna upset Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/73888/ht-bologna-upset-juventus

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Alvaro Morata got Juventus back on level terms with bottom of the table Bologna after a Gigi Buffon error.

The Bianconeri had to turn their Serie A season around after five points from six rounds, despite a perfect record in the Champions League. Injuries piled up with Stephan Lichtsteiner, Claudio Marchisio, Mario Mandzukic, Martin Caceres, Stefano Sturaro and Roberto Pereyra sidelined. Bologna were bottom of the table with one win and five defeats, but missed Emanuele Giaccherini, Godfred Donsah, Saphir Taider and Franco Zuculini.

On Saturday it was the 106th anniversary of the foundation of Bologna, so the club was eager to give itself a birthday gift. The Rossoblu had lost their last four consecutive meetings with Juve, home and away, not winning since a 2-0 in Turin in February 2011.

Juve started aggressively, but it was Bologna who took the lead when Anthony Mounier sprung the offside trap between two defenders on an Adam Masina cross from the left and his powerful shot ricocheted under the unlucky Gigi Buffon to squirm over the line.

Incredibly, this was the fifth time in seven rounds that Juventus found themselves chasing the game, more than any other side.

Patrice Evra’s free header was so wide it went for a throw-in and Alvaro Morata fired off target under pressure from Masina.

Alvaro Morata got the Bianconeri back on track, nodding in from six yards when Sami Khedira’s cross from the right was deflected up into the air.

Bologna threatened again as Mounier almost intercepted a poor Giorgio Chiellini backpass, while Morata’s effort was deflected over the bar. Paulo Dybala and Juan Cuadrado exchanged quick passes, but the Colombian’s low cross was crucially cut out by Oikonomou.


Juventus 1-1 Bologna (Half-Time)

Scorers: Mounier 5 (B), Morata 33 (J)

Juventus: Buffon, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Cuadrado, Dybala, Morata

Bologna: Mirante; Ferrari, Oikonomou, Gastaldello, Masina; Rizzo, Diawara, Pulgar; Brienza, Destro, Mounier

Ref: Celi

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

3 - 1

Anthony Mounier (5')

Álvaro Morata (33')
Paulo Dybala (52'-penalty)
Sami Khedira (63')
 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus 3-1 Bologna: Khedira
opens Bianconeri account

The midfielder scored his side's third of the afternoon after
Alvaro Morata and Pablo Dybala had also found the back of the net.

http://www.goal.com/en-za/match/juventus-vs-bologna/2120440/report

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Sami Khedira scored his first goal for Juventus as they cruised to a 3-1 win over Bologna.
The visitors took a shock early lead through Anthony Mounier, but posed virtually no attacking threat from that point onwards. Alvaro Morata headed in an equaliser prior to half-time and won a penalty after the break, which was converted by Paulo Dybala.

The forward then set up his former Real Madrid team-mate Khedira, who headed home on his league debut.

It was a vital win for Massimiliano Allegri's men, who had won only one of their opening six Serie A games having claimed the title for four straight seasons, while Bologna have lost six of their seven matches.

The opener came in the fifth minute when Adam Masina sent in a cross from deep with his left foot and Mounier beat the offside trap to fire a powerful volley in at goal. The shot was straight at Gianluigi Buffon, but he was unable to prevent the ball from crossing the line.

Juve had lined up with an unchanged team after their Champions League win over Sevilla and they attempted to respond when a fast-paced move culminated in Dybala finding Morata, who was just off target with a left-foot snapshot.

Paul Pogba forced Antonio Mirante into a save before the equaliser arrived in the 33rd minute. Khedira made ground down the right, his cross deflected invitingly into the path of Morata and the striker converted with an easy close-range header - his first league goal of the campaign.

Morata had a golden opportunity to net a second in the opening minute of the second half, but he poorly sliced his shot wide after being set up by Juan Cuadrado.

The former Real Madrid striker was involved again moments later as he won a penalty after he was hauled down by Alex Ferrari in the box, with referee Domenico Celi pointing to the spot despite furious protests from the visitors.

It was his strike partner Dybala who stepped up and confidently sent Mirante the wrong way with his penalty.

Juve were in total control and Morata forced Mirante to tip his shot over the bar having found space in the box following Khedira's pass.

The third goal was coming and it duly arrived after 63 minutes. Morata delivered an accurate delivery from the left channel and Khedira planted a firm header back across goal and into the corner.

Pogba shot just over with a late free-kick attempt as Bologna were unable to provide anything by way of a response. Indeed, the early goal was their only shot on target.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

3 - 1

Anthony Mounier (5')

Álvaro Morata (33')
Paulo Dybala (52'-penalty)
Sami Khedira (63')
 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus 3-1 Bologna: Ruthless
Bianconeri Crush Brave Rossoblu

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/10/juventus-bologna-report/?

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Juventus came from behind to crush Bologna 3-1 at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday evening.

Bologna surged into an early lead through Anthony Mounier, only to be pegged back by Alvaro Morata. Paulo Dybala’s penalty put Juventus ahead before Sami Khedira added some gloss to the scoreline.

The Juventus Stadium was silenced after just five minutes when Mounier burst free of the Bianconeri offside trap to volley a fantastic through ball from Adam Masina through a flailing Gianluigi Buffon.

The goal did not affect the pattern of the game, with the hosts continuing to flood forward, Juan Cuadrado being particularly influential in the early stages. For all the Colombian’s efforts, he found a Rossoblu defence in stubborn mood, and with repeated crosses headed clear, the hosts were restricted to shots from outside the penalty area.

That changed just after the half hour mark, when Khedira found himself in space in the right hand side of the penalty area. The German international floated a ball onto the head of Morata, who nodded home the equaliser from close range.

Juventus dominated play for the rest of the first half, but with only a dangerous Morata effort deflected well over to show for it.

The Bianconeri continued where they had left off immediately after the break but after Cuadrado broke through and fed Morata, the Spaniard poked an easy chance wide. The pressure eventually told on Bologna. Alex Ferrari pulled Morata down in the box and Dybala slotted home the resultant penalty to give Juventus the lead.

Maximiliano Allegri’s side continued to push forward throughout the second period, and Khedira deftly nodded a third with a header from a Morata cross to complete the scoring in an eventually dominant display.

The defeat roots Bologna to the bottom of the table, while Juventus go into the international break in 12th spot.
 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

3 - 1

Anthony Mounier (5')

Álvaro Morata (33')
Paulo Dybala (52'-penalty)
Sami Khedira (63')
 
 

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juventus fight back to beat Bologna

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/result/result-juventus-fight-back-to-beat-bologna_250658.html#$nvppcq&&4GlikmrTEeWv8xKxit6XgQ$

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Juventus have moved four points clear on the Serie A drop zone after a comfortable victory over Bologna.

Juve almost took the lead in the early minutes at the Juventus Stadium when Alvaro Morata tested that gloves of keeper Antonio Mirante.

Instead, it was Bologna who edged ahead in Turin as Adam Masina's menacing cross found Anthony Mounier and the former Montpellier winger tucked his effort past Gianluigi Buffon.

The Bianconieri tried to muster an instant response as first Morata fired wide before Paul Pogba's low drive was saved by Mirante.

Patrice Evra then failed to direct his header on target from Paulo Dybala's corner as Juve continued to squander chances.

However, Juventus finally levelled on 33 minutes as Morata's close-range finish found a way past Mirante.

Juve were awarded a penalty after the interval when Morata was bundled over in the area by Masina.

It was left to Dybala to take the spot kick and the Argentine duly directed his penalty beyond the reach of Mirante.

Morata almost added a third on the hour as he was denied once more by Mirante, but Juve wrapped victory moments later thanks to Sami Khedhira's header.
 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

3 - 1

Anthony Mounier (5')

Álvaro Morata (33')
Paulo Dybala (52'-penalty)
Sami Khedira (63')

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Juve survive Bologna scare

Juventus fought back from an early scare to beat Bologna
3-1 with Sami Khedira scoring on his Serie A debut.

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/69884

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
The Bianconeri had to turn their Serie A season around after five points from six rounds, despite a perfect record in the Champions League. Injuries piled up with Stephan Lichtsteiner, Claudio Marchisio, Mario Mandzukic, Martin Caceres, Stefano Sturaro and Roberto Pereyra sidelined. Bologna were bottom of the table with one win and five defeats, but missed Emanuele Giaccherini, Godfred Donsah, Saphir Taider and Franco Zuculini.

On Saturday it was the 106th anniversary of the foundation of Bologna, so the club was eager to give itself a birthday gift. The Rossoblu had lost their last four consecutive meetings with Juve, home and away, not winning since a 2-0 in Turin in February 2011.

Juve started aggressively, but it was Bologna who took the lead when Anthony Mounier sprung the offside trap between two defenders on an Adam Masina cross from the left and his powerful shot ricocheted under the unlucky Gigi Buffon to squirm over the line.

Incredibly, this was the fifth time in seven rounds that Juventus found themselves chasing the game, more than any other side.

Patrice Evra’s free header was so wide it went for a throw-in and Alvaro Morata fired off target under pressure from Masina.

Alvaro Morata got the Bianconeri back on track, nodding in from six yards when Sami Khedira’s cross from the right was deflected up into the air.

Bologna threatened again as Mounier almost intercepted a poor Giorgio Chiellini backpass, while Morata’s effort was deflected over the bar. Paulo Dybala and Juan Cuadrado exchanged quick passes, but the Colombian’s low cross was crucially cut out by Oikonomou.

Morata should’ve turned the game around straight after the restart, but incredibly ballooned off target from a Cuadrado pull-back.

Juventus did go in front in a controversial incident, as Ferrari had one hand on Morata’s shoulder, but the Spaniard made an absolute meal of it, propelling himself backwards while screaming. The referee awarded the penalty and, after several minutes of complaints, Dybala converted by sending Mirante the wrong way.

Mirante did well to parry a deflected Morata finish, but could do nothing when Morata crossed for unmarked Sami Khedira’s header at the back post. It was the German international’s Serie A debut, only his second competitive appearance for the club.

Kwadwo Asamoah made his comeback in stoppages at the Juventus Stadium.


Juventus:

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Evra, Khedira (Asamoah 92), Hernanes (Lemina 67), Pogba, Cuadrado; Dybala, Morata (Zaza 76)


Bologna:

Mirante; Ferrari, Oikonomou, Gastaldello (Rossettini 48), Masina; Rizzo, Diawara, Pulgar (Brighi 70); Brienza (Falco 75), Destro, Mounier


Ref: Celi
 
 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

3 - 1

Anthony Mounier (5')

Álvaro Morata (33')
Paulo Dybala (52'-penalty)
Sami Khedira (63')

MATCHDAY 7
Sunday, October 4th, 2015 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Domenico Celi

Allegri: 'Khedira brings experience'

http://www.football-italia.net/73894/allegri-khedira-brings-experience?

 
Oct 4, 2015
 
Max Allegri believes Sami Khedira has helped bring much-needed experience to a young Juventus side.

The Bianconeri finally got their first home win of the Serie A season in a 3-1 over Bologna, but were trailing for the fifth time in seven rounds.

“Alvaro Morata should’ve passed it to Juan Cuadrado in the opening minute, then we’d be 1-0 up. We conceded a goal with the defence in place, which shouldn’t happen,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“Having said that, we created a great deal and the thing we need to improve is our stability. We mustn’t keep giving off the sensation we’re struggling, as it’s important to play with a sense of authority.

“At the end of the day it was a good game and we deserved the three points. We were just lazy on the Bologna goal, though.”

Khedira has only two appearances in all competition for Juve, but they were both victories over Sevilla and Bologna.

“When someone has played three or four years at Real Madrid and is first choice for World Cup winners Germany, he brings experience and calm to the younger players.

“We are currently playing with a pared down attack. Our forwards are very talented, but also very young and don’t have that much experience.

“When Morata first arrived, he always aimed for goal and never passed it. After a while he’d only pass it and never shoot! He’s young and needed to learn when it was best to pass and best to go for goal.”

Paulo Dybala converted the penalty and Allegri revealed it was his call from the touchline.

“Dybala, Morata or Pogba were in line for the penalty and today I decided to give it to Dybala.”
 
 

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