Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Juventus 1 - AC Milan 0: Initial
reaction and random observations

Juventus got a much-needed win over Milan,
but how well did things actually go?

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/11/22/9776152/juventus-ac-milan-serie-a-round-13-2015-final-score-result-initial-reaction

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
A win is a win. Juventus didn't play particularly well today, but luckily, neither did Milan. However, there were a few moments of real quality from Juventus, and it looks as if the Bianconeri are legitimately gathering some steam, getting important results, and rescuing what looked to be a disaster of a season in the making.

Allegri set his team up in a 4-3-1-2 formation, pairing Dybala with Mandžukić with Hernanes in the hole, and ... it wasn't a resounding success. Aside from a couple early flashes, Hernanes looked off the pace and out of sync with his teammates, and was rightfully hooked at halftime for Bonucci, switching the formation to a 3-5-2.

Patrice Evra had a torrid time against Alessio Cerci's pace, and looked to have come off injured when Alex Sandro stepped on...but was he injured? Or was it simply a very brave early substitution from Max Allegri? Sandro was brilliant today, using his pace and physicality to minimize Cerci's threat, and bombing down the left to torment Ignazio Abate. If this was a calculated move by Allegri, my hat is off to the Mister.

Mario Mandžukić looks lost and isolated. As a striker who thrives on service from the flanks, the 4-3-1-2 doesn't play to his strengths in the slightest. He improved a bit with the formation change, but missed a golden chance that the Mandžukić of old would've smashed home without a second's hesitation. If Juve is going to play with two strikers, there's no question in my mind that Morata and Dybala should be the pairing.

That being said, let's talk about that little fella.

Paulo Dybala is a star. He was everywhere today. Finding pockets of space, combining with the midfield, linking the attack, and even tracking back to defend his little heart out. It's only fitting that he popped up with the winning goal to reward his tireless efforts. Paulo is key to Juventus' success right now, and when fit (knock on wood) he's got to be on the field from the start.

How much did we miss Claudio Marchisio? He truly is the heart and soul of this team. He had more touches than anyone else on the pitch, absolutely bossed the midfield and lead Juventus by example, as he does every time he steps over the white lines. Marchisio's calmness and ability on and off the ball is invaluable to this team. His presence allows Paul Pogba to do Paul Pogba things, which spells danger for anyone Juve faces.

It took a while, but Pogba is back to showing us exactly why he's the highest rated young talent in the world today. In the beginning of the year, it seemed as if he was trying to take on the entire opposing XI by himself, but now he's stepped back, taken a deep breath and put in some real quality performances. Despite his tendency to give the ball away in dangerous areas in the center of the park, Paul was magnificent. He harried Milan's midfield defensively, played some Pirlo-esque passes, and his flick to Alex Sandro to then set up Dybala's goal was absolutely world class. Welcome back Paul, we missed you.

So where do we go from here? This was an incredibly important win for Juventus, especially with Roma dropping points, and our wildly shaky form this season. Now that the team has put together a few wins on the trot, confidence looks to be slowly trickling back into this side. Milan had a couple legitimate chances, but they never really looked like troubling Juventus. That's the type of performance we need to see more of this season.

Final thoughts: I'm of the opinion that Allegri needs to pick a formation and stick to it. I've already made my case for a 4-3-3 featuring the Cuadrado-Morata-Dybala trident, but this team needs consistency of SOME sort. Without a proper trequartista, the 4-3-1-2 doesn't seem to work. As much as I love Hernanes, he simply hasn't looked the player he was at Lazio, and without some sort of drastic upturn in form, it doesn't look as if he can be counted on. January approaches, can we find some quality to really take this team to the next level? Orrrr will Marotta crush my hopes and dreams and sign Pablo Osvaldo? Only time will tell.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Juve took down toothless Milan

The Old Lady couldn't be harmed by painfully passive
Rossoneri, writes Vincent Van Genechten.

http://www.football-italia.net/76082/juve-took-down-toothless-milan?

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
Max Allegri was either smart or lucky with his substitutions, as both Alex Sandro and Leonardo Bonucci only came on after Patrice Evra and Hernanes injuries, also prompting a change of tactics to 3-5-2. The Brazilian wing-back may well have been Man of the Match.

Juventus had originally opted for a 4-3-1-2 formation, with Hernanes as trequartista. Once again, this formation hurt Juventus more than it did the opposition. The former Inter midfielder was too slow and could have been fielded for the last time as a starter. The Brazilian constantly lost possession, including with Juve outnumbering Milan on a counter-attack, prompting jeers from the home crowd.

Juventus once again lacked the necessary creativity to break Milan's structural defence, requiring magic out of nowhere from Paulo Dybala. Juventus are relying way too much on these “killer moments.” They still haven't found an offensive flow that gets them a series of goals. Consequently, they are unable to finish games off.

If Alessio Cerci had been luckier, as Frosinone were a few weeks ago, Milan could have gained a point at the end.

During the first half, only two shots were on target, from Claudio Marchisio and Hernanes, but Gianluigi Donnarumma saved them both. The Milan goalkeeper exchanged shirts with that other Gigi (Buffon) after the match, which could provide an historic moment when we look back on it in a couple of seasons.

Back to the game. It has been clear that Juventus lacks a true playmaker, a guy like Andrea Pirlo who sets up attacks with stunning passes. Coach Sinisa Mihajlovic had his team set up strong in defence and kept spaces very tight. It was therefore a close game, with Juve unable to up the tempo.

On the other hand, Milan weren't really trying to change their approach. They seemed more eager to keep a clean sheet and escape with a point, rather than trying to win. Giacomo Bonaventura did his best to create something out of nothing, but he got little help from his teammates. A hitman like Carlos Bacca was invisible for 90 minutes without service.

The fact that Milan only had two shots on target all game tells the whole story. The second happened during stoppages, when Buffon made a great save on Cerci.

Mihajlovic was supposed to change Milan's game, but they deserved to lose by playing in far too passive a manner and their Coach admitted as much afterwards. Acknowledging the problem is one thing, fixing it quite another.

The biggest conclusion of this Serie A classic might be that both Juve and Milan have loads of work to do. On this evidence, the Diavolo most urgently need to get rid of their passive mentality. You can’t win games by defending a clean sheet. Unless you’re Inter.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Allegri says Juventus not great,
but solid in win over Milan

Max Allegri had a few things to say after Juventus earned
a 1-0 win, their third victory in a row.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/11/22/9776194/allegri-post-match-quotes-juventus-ac-milan-serie-a-2015

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
Juventus leapfrogged over AC Milan with a 1-0 win on Saturday to go sixth in the Serie A table. Manager Massimiliano Allegri will be happy to get a streak going after his side has desperately been seeking consistency in the last couple of months.

After a poor first half, Allegri reverted to the 3-5-2 formation and was rewarded with a late winner from Paulo Dybala.

"It was a very complicated match because Milan defended well and caused us problems. At the same time, we should've moved the ball better between the lines and it was not a good performance, but a solid one.

"The important thing was to win and go ahead of Milan in the Serie A table. Hopefully we'll get a good result on Wednesday against Manchester City too.

"We allowed nothing except for that Alessio Cerci shot in stoppage time. We've got to improve in terms of decision-making and not rushing the final ball.

"At least we are finding some consistency in results and that is important. It's our second clean sheet at home after Atalanta. It might not have been a good game, but it was important to be solid."

On his game plan -

"Unfortunately I had to make two substitutions through injury, as Patrice Evra and Hernanes needed to come off. The intention was to play with a trequartista, though Hernanes got a little bottle-necked in the middle.

"Claudio Marchisio is getting back to the player we all knew. Stefano Sturaro and Mario Mandzukic did well. Paul Pogba did very well and helped set up the goal, but after that was playing to the crowd a bit too much."

When asked if he was ready to let Dybala take the reins of the attack -

"I was always convinced of his quality, but it's normal he needed time to settle. Dybala is growing, he has important abilities and did very well between the lines.

"He works hard too and in time he'll become a great support striker. He's changing physically too and you can see the difference in his legs.

"I have always been convinced by Dybala's quality, it's normal that I have to manage the whole squad. Dybala is growing and he has important technical qualities. He's demonstrating this on the pitch."

Are Juventus back in the race for the Scudetto -

"Today we made up some ground because we won two more points than Roma. When you're trailing in the race, it's not easy as you can't allow yourself to slip up."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

JUVENTUS 1-0 AC MILAN
SERIE A PLAYER RATINGS

Juve switched formations against Milan and a key substitution
made the diffence on the night. Read our player ratings and find out who.

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-1-0-ac-milan-serie-a-player-ratings/?

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
The Bianconeri were fielded in a 4-3-1-2 formation with Hernanes playing behind a front two of Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic. A tepid first half resulted in a change of tactics and th introduction of Alex Sandro and Leonardo Bonucci and a awitch to a 3-5-2. The change soon paid off as it was Sandro’s assist that set up Dybala to volley home and earn his team all 3 points.


Gigi Buffon 6.5 - Seldom troubled by Bacca or Niang. Made a few routine saves during the course of the 90 before making a vital save to deny Cerci at the death. Reliable.

Stephan Lichtsteiner 6.5 - Started very well, full of pace, frequently pressuring Antonelli. The change in formation gave him more freedom but his end product was lacking. Kept Niang very quiet on this night. Solid.

Andrea Barzagli 6.0 - Some good tackles, strong in the air with some slightly poor positioning at times but a good performance nonetheless. Composed.

Giorgio Chiellini 6.5 - Contained Bacca with ease, almost caught out in the first half but he put that early mistake behind him and played a good game overall, marshalling the defence well and keeping the Milan attack quiet. Resolute.

Patrice Evra 5.5 - Definitely not at his best, struggling to contain Cerci’s pace early on. Substituted early on but it’s unclear if that was tactical or due to injury.

Stefano Sturaro 6.0 - A good work rate, strong tackling and hard working but still missing that special something to make an impression on the big games.

Claudio Marchisio 7.5 - Another exceptional performance from I Principino who seems to be getting back to his best. Dictated the play all night, kept Juve moving forward, great distribution and intelligent passing. A silent leader.

Paul Pogba 6.5 - Verging on brilliance at times, the Frenchman made some inspired passes, some great tackles but his play in the final third of the pitch really lacked. Average night.

Hernanes 4.0 - A woeful performance from the midfielder. Poor distribution, wild shots from distance and he was constantly dispossessed by the Milan midfield. Horrible.

Mario Mandzukic 5.0 - A very poor night for the big Croation. Struggled to make any real chances and when he was presented a golden opportunity he wasted it. Not the striker who should be starting right now.

Paulo Dybala 8.0 - Exceptional yet again. Brilliant delivery on his set-pieces, intelligent runs, pulling the defence wide to create space. Took his goal beautifully with a sublime finish. Showing more and more why he needs to be starting every game when possible.


Substitutes

Alex Sandro 7.0 - An instant impact, as the game changed dramatically with his introduction and the switch in tactics. Afforded plenty of space on the left and made it count when he provided the assist for the goal.

Leonardo Bonucci 6.5 - A good display, coming on to form a 3-man defence and tighening things up at the back. ALmost gave away a penalty that was thankfully offside. Solid after that.

Alvaro Morata N/A - A brief cameo role with the game already won.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Juventus Win Ugly Game vs. Milan
Thanks to Beautiful Paulo Dybala Goal

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2591813-juventus-win-ugly-game-vs-milan-thanks-to-beautiful-paulo-dybala-goal?

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
As the international break came to an end, Serie A offered two recovering sides the chance to make a real statement of intent on Saturday evening. Milan went up against reigning champions Juventus in a match the Bianconeri would win 1-0 thanks to a moment of magic from Paulo Dybala.

Both had endured miserable starts to 2015/16, but the previous few weeks had seen each begin to improve. The visitors were on a four-match unbeaten run, while Juve themselves had won back-to-back league games for the first time this season in their previous outings against Torino and Empoli.

Always a prestigious fixture, the timing meant it would perhaps serve as an indicator of which club might be best-placed to make a run to the top of standings in the coming months. Milan were without Mario Balotelli, Jeremy Menez, Nigel De Jong and Andrea Bertolacci, which robbed them of an important midfield presence.

Despite Sami Khedira being absent for Juventus, the depth of their squad meant they could cover for the Germany international, and they dominated possession in the first half. Hernanes and Claudio Marchiso both tested Gianluigi Donnarumma, but the 16-year-old goalkeeper denied them with excellent stops.

However, the Brazilian was poor once again, his display merely the latest in a string of disappointing performances following his move from Inter. Indeed, according to statistics from WhoScored.com, he lost the ball no fewer than six times and completed only 14 passes in the opening 45 minutes.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri rightly removed him at half-time, sending on Leonardo Bonucci in his place and slightly changing his tactical approach. A weak header from Juraj Kucka and a penalty appeal for a foul on Giacomo Bonaventura were Milan’s best efforts, but the Bianconeri began to look more dangerous.

With Alex Sandro and Stephan Lichtsteiner on the flanks, the home side started to take the game to their opponents, Paul Pogba seeing one effort again thwarted by Donnarumma. Soon after, the French midfielder would turn provider, his wonderful pass in turn volleyed into the box by an overlapping Sandro.

His cross was taken superbly by Dybala, the Argentinian striker controlling the ball and lashing it beyond the helpless goalkeeper in one swift movement, an unstoppable effort that ultimately decided the final outcome.

It was a clear moment of quality in a game which lacked any sustained evidence of it, but Allegri would rightly call the result “another step in the right direction” at his post-match press conference.

Recording a clean sheet, Juve’s defence looked much improved and deserve praise for the way they carefully marshaled Carlos Bacca. The Colombian striker had scored or created a goal in each of his last four outings, but Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli prevented him from taking a single shot this time out.

Yet while Bacca toiled, there is little doubt that without Dybala, this game would have ended scoreless, his incision proving to be the difference between the two sides by the end of the match.

Adam Digby @Adz77
Paulo Dybala vs Milan: 3 shots, 1 goal, 23/29 passes, 7 ball recoveries, 4/5 take-ons successful (via @StatsZone)

Dybala completed 23 of his 29 pass attempts and an impressive four successful take-ons, but the man himself was quick to deflect credit to the whole team after the full-time whistle.

“It was a victory of the team today and we just did what the Coach asked us to,” Dybala told Mediaset Premium (h/t Football Italia). “Leaving the field to a standing ovation from the fans was an unforgettable moment.”

“I know that I can do much more,” he added, and given that the goal took his tally to seven in all competitions, the prospect of Paulo Dybala and Juventus improving further bodes well for the future.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Alex Sandro: Juventus not getting
carried away after AC Milan win

The Brazilian says the Italian champions still need to improve
despite making it four wins from their last five games on Saturday.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3276/serie-a/2015/11/22/17596442/-?

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
Alex Sandro has stressed Juventus are not getting carried away following Saturday's 1-0 Serie A win over AC Milan and feels they still have room for improvement.

This weekend's win was the reigning champions' fourth victory in their last five league games and saw them climb to sixth place in the table after an underwhelming start to the season.

However, Alex Sandro realises their recent form means nothing if they fail to build on it in the weeks to come.

"It was a good feeling to get the win, but there’s a long season ahead and we won't be getting carried away just yet," the Brazilian defender told reporters.

"There are areas in which we can improve both offensively and defensively to ensure we control games better.

"We're taking each game as it comes and we have the trust and belief of our fans.

"We now want to make sure we're in a good position in the league before the Christmas break."

Juventus host Manchester City on Wednesday in the Champions League and Alex Sandro is determined to bag the full three points and seal qualification for the knockout stages.

"Our next goal is to qualify for the Champions League knockouts," he added.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Juventus still a work in progress
but Saturday's win vs. Milan has promise

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2722989/juventus-add-to-winning-momentum-with-1-0-milan-win?

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
Since the opening of the Juventus stadium, Milan have been unable to inflict Serie A defeat upon their Turin rivals. Some say it's psychological while others say Juve have been unstoppable when playing in their own arena but once again, the Rossoneri went to Turin and returned home with a 1-0 defeat, unable to impose their own game or show the courage required to beat an improving Bianconeri side.

Deployed in a 4-3-1-2 formation, questions were immediately asked of Massimiliano Allegri's line-up. Was Hernanes really the right man to start such a match? Was the shape not too narrow to stifle a Milan side boasting width and the ability to counter-attack?

Producing little in attack, Juventus struggled to create any worthwhile goalscoring opportunities in the first half. With Hernanes operating in the middle, the tempo was too slow while the men on the wings failed to truly take charge. Once again, Allegri proves that when it comes to starting line-ups, Allegri struggles to get it right on certain occasions. Milan were more than capable of defensive discipline, retreating into a 4-5-1 when not in possession and making the game simply too dull to watch.

At least one can credit Allegri for knowing the right substitutions to make even if he was forced into the first one. While his choices were well neutralised by Sinisa Mihajlovic in the first half, Allegri's decision to revert to a 3-5-2 shape for the second half offered his side more opportunities to push forward, releasing both wing-backs and allowing Paul Pogba to penetrate key spaces in the final third.

Alex Sandro replaced the injured Patrice Evra and quickly demonstrated his talent, reminding us all why the ex-Porto wing-back cost the club so much money. A man capable of pushing forward with strength and releasing the ball quickly in a team full of slow thinkers, he controlled a wonderful Pogba pass before delivering the assist for Paulo Dybala to score.

A beautiful finish from the Argentine made fans forgive the coach for opting to bench the likes of Alvaro Morata and Juan Cuadrado in such an important match against such confident opposition. However, at least on a tactical level, Allegri is still capable of outsmarting his rivals by asking his versatile squad to adopt different shapes and formations that leave the opponent without answers.

The performance was far from exemplary and while the Old Lady has now picked up three wins in a row to suggest she's on her way back to the top, few pundits and newspapers agree. Massimo Ambrosini was left far from impressed by the home side while Nicola Amoruso insists he is yet to see an improvement in Juve's game. Marcello Lippi disagreed, commenting that the Bianconeri deservedly won the match. Noting the cautious attitude of Mihajlovic's side, he spoke of the positive qualities in Juve's game even if the match was decided by a moment of genius.

Confidence is key to maintaining winning momentum and while Juventus are not performing in a manner that best exhibits their talent, neither are the likes of Inter, who keep winning games by showing mental and physical strength to narrowly overcome opponents.

Over the past four years of success, there were plenty of occasions on which the Old Lady disappointed. Under Antonio Conte in 2011-12, their first title-winning season of the current run, Juve just collected consecutive draws but with each performance, they built confidence. Eventually, players trusted their instincts and their teammates, which led to better patterns of play and more exciting wins.

Last season, there were several matches in which an individual performance rescued the day for the Bianconeri or an opponent's inability to perform enabled them to hold on for a win so while the situation is not yet ideal for Juventus this season, the fact they are starting to collect points is positive. Meanwhile, player performances have also improved. Not only is Claudio Marchisio slowly recovering his expected form, managing to be everywhere all the time, but Juventus are finally benefitting from the talents of their new arrivals, from Sandro's crosses to Dybala's finishes. The ageless Gianluigi Buffon is still as capable as ever of a wonderful save or two.

Saturday's 1-0 win wasn't the best but during difficult times, a return to winning is all the club needs, especially considering there is an important European match to contest on Wednesday evening against Manchester City. A win then will guarantee Champions League progress for Juventus.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MILAN

1 - 0

Paulo Dybala (65')

MATCHDAY 13
Saturday, November 21st, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

Juventus vs. AC Milan 2015: Final score 1-0,
Paulo Dybala stunner makes it three in a row for Juve

A magnificent volley by Paulo Dybala gives Juve their third
win in a row and puts them above the Rossoneri in the table.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/11/22/9775310/juventus-ac-milan-2015-serie-a-final-score-recap-result

 
Nov 22, 2015
 
While most of the football world's attention was fixed on the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu and El Clásico on Saturday, Italian football fans worldwide were anticipating another one of the "most iconic fixtures in world football," Juventus versus Milan.

There's no doubt that this fixture has lost some of its luster in recent seasons — primarily due to the staggering drop in quality of the Rossoneri. However, this season's first meeting of the two most successful Italian clubs in history had garnered some high expectations. After major changes in the summer, and poor sporting starts to the season, both teams had seemed to turn things around and were on an upward trajectory. The home team had finally put back to back league wins together, after victories at home in the Derby della Mole and away to Empoli. The visitors, Milan, were undefeated in four - three of those being wins. They now sat in seventh and sixth respectively, now within touching distance of the leaders and Champions League places.

In addition to the feeling that both giants were finally starting to get things together there was another angle to the narrative of this meeting. Gianluigi Buffon was celebrating the 20th anniversary of his spectacular Serie A debut, when he kept a clean sheet against — you guessed it — Milan. On the other side, a newcomer who is being touted as a possible heir to Superman's throne, 16-year-old Gianluigi Donnarumma was guarding the nets for the Milanese. The youngest goalkeeper ever in Serie A, Milan's recent good results have coincided with the inclusion of the other Gigi into the starting eleven by Rossoneri coach Sinisa Mihajlovic. He was responsible for their first clean sheet of the season a few weeks ago against Chievo.

Juventus had won their last five meetings against the Rossoneri in Serie A and were aiming to keep that streak alive.


MATCH SUMMARY

The early stages of the match consisted of both teams feeling each other out, and very few chances, with Milan particularly not being very adventurous. The first real chance in earnest fell to Claudio Marchisio, who picked up a pass from Stephan Lichtsteiner, and unleashed a strong left footed drive on goal, which Donnarumma had to get low to save. A minute later, Milan did create a good opportunity up the other end, when a well-flighted cross by Giacomo Bonaventura was met by Alessio Cerci — who got in behind the Juve defence. Curiously, though, rather than go for goal, Cerci headed the ball across the goal towards no one in a red and black shirt. A glorious chance wasted for the visitors. Brazilian playmaker Hernanes had a couple decent chances late in the half; the first, a left footed shot over the bar after some nice footwork at the top of the box, and the second, a free kick that was deflected and forced Donnarumma into a flying save.

A fairly dull first half, with very few moments of real quality. Juventus coach Max Allegri decided to make a change at the half, taking off the ineffective Hernanes and bringing on Leonardo Bonucci, switching the formation to a 3-5-2.

There was an early scare in the second half, as Riccardo Montolivo chipped into the box for M'Baye Niang, who rose above Stefano Sturaro to head across the box for the onrushing Bonaventura, then apparently taken out by Bonucci. It seemed a sure fire penalty and red card for the man who had been on the field for around sixty seconds! However, the referee blew the whistle for a foul on Sturaro by Niang; on the replay it did look like the young French forward did forearm Sturaro in the back.

Juventus were much better in the second half. Paul Pogba, who had another decent game, tested Donnarumma from long range with a swerving, dipping shot. Juve had their tails up, and Pogba was instrumental in the breakthrough goal. Pogba played a scoop pass along the left channel for Alex Sandro to run onto, and the Brazilian crossed first time into the box for Paulo Dybala. The Argentine controlled on his chest before unleashing a left footed (what else) volley past Donnarumma in the Milan goal! It was a beautiful team move and nothing less than Juve had deserved.

Sixty seconds later, Dybala had another left footed shot, this time from outside the box, but this one was saved by Donnarumma. From here, the Bianconeri sought to control the rest of the match to the end, as Milan were offering very little in the way of a threat. Alex Sandro, who had arguably his best game in a Juve shirt, did some good work on the left again. He crossed into the middle for the awaiting Mario Mandzukic, but the Croatian ballooned over from six yards out! Buffon had to make his first save in second half stoppage time, when Cerci shot on goal from outside the box.

In the end, a fairly comfortable win for Juve, despite not playing particularly well.


LE PAGELLE

Buffon 7.5 Celebrated the twentieth anniversary of his Serie A debut with a clean sheet against the same team he debuted against - also with a clean sheet then. I'm sure he would have enjoyed that.

Lichtsteiner 7.5 Like much of the team he gave a solid, if unspectacular, performance. Dealt with the threat of Niang well.

Barzagli 7.5 Was rendered effectively redundant due to the ineffectiveness of Milan's attackers. Other than his charge forward and shot in the second half, he didn't do much. An easy evening for Barza. No complaints here.

Chiellini 7.5 Other than a forced foul when beaten on the turn by Carlos Bacca early in the game, like Barzagli there was little for him to do. Again, no complaints.

Evra n/a Picked up an injury early in the first half and was forced off. Hopefully nothing serious; his experience will be useful midweek against Manchester City.

Sturaro 7 Great defensive display, breaking up many plays; terrible going forward, with many misplaced passes and bad crosses.

Marchisio 8 Along with Alex Sandro, probably the standout performer in this game. He had the most touches, unsurprisingly, and controlled the midfield with ease.

Pogba 7.5 He looked more like the Pogba of old with his performance against Milan. There's still a way to go to get back to where he was, but the signs are encouraging. Played a key part in the goal as well.

Hernanes 5.5 Created one opportunity for himself in the first half, but none of note for anyone else, which considering he was the trequartista is pretty damning. Deservedly hooked at half time.

Dybala 9 Overall, looked very lively and scored a great goal! That's six for the season, he must be the undoubted starter up front now. Still waiting to see the Morata-Dybala partnership given more of a run, but for now I guess we have to put up with Allegri's rotation. Sigh.

Mandzukic 6 Disappointing, as has been his Juve career to date. His miss in the ninetieth minute said it all.


Subs

Alex Sandro 8 Possibly his best performance since joining, the Brazilian owned the left flank. Aided in part by Milan's lack of any kind of consistent attacking threat, Sandro got forward well and often, while still doing his defensive duties when called on. Brilliant assist on the Dybala goal.

Bonucci 7.5 Came on at half time for the disappointing Hernanes. Almost gave away a penalty and got sent off within seconds of coming on, but other than that scare, like the rest of the defence had pretty much nothing to do.

Morata n/a Came on late to give Dybala a rest. Didn't do too much. He did have this fun bit before the match though.


Coach

Allegri 8 Made a key change in ditching the trequartista route and switching to a 3-5-2, which turned the game in Juve's favour. Like his team, a solid but not great performance.


THINGS I THINK I THINK

Milan - Despite all the money the Rossoneri have spent this summer, there is not a lot of quality there. They are still a poor side, with an almost jaw-dropping lack of creativity. Yes, their main creative mind Jérémy Ménez is still out injured, but you would have thought given their largesse a creative midfielder would have been on their shopping list, no?

Hernanes - Early days, but it seems like the m***a may have finally gotten one over on us in the transfer market. When even the man that signed you reluctantly admits that you weren't the first choice player that they were hoping to sign, you know things are bad. Other than his set piece deliveries, which have been just okay, he has been useless for the most part. He's slow and therefore slows plays down often, his passing is inconsistent and he often makes bad decisions. And let's not forget his bone-headedness which cost us against 'Gladbach, when were on the up and could have possibly come back to win. Other than the game against Manchester City, it's hard to remember a good game for Hernanes. The trequartista position clearly isn't suiting him. Maybe moving him deeper, as a regista or part of the midfield three, may be an answer.

Mandzukic - In my opinion, even more disappointing that Hernanes has been the form of Mario Mandzukic. The big Croat came in with a big reputation and is a proven winner, having been a key member of Bayern München's treble winning team in 2013. However, he has looked nothing close to that player. I'll give him his credit, he does work very hard pressing and harrying defenders, as is his usual modus operandi. However, his overall play just needs so much work. His touches are so poor and he can't even seem to strike the ball cleanly. His two league goals are a poor return given the opportunities he's had and his overall reputation. Where is the Super Mario of Wolfsburg, Bayern and Atletico fame?

Morata - After being shunted out wide for the last few games, the Spaniard was shunted to the bench for this game. Whether this was just Allegri's rotation in play or Allegri not being happy with Alvaro, there should be no doubt now that Morata and Dybala should be allowed to play themselves into being the undisputed starting pair up front. They are the only two that have looked good and been in form at any point this season. Come on Allegri, stop messing around and do it. Do it.

Momentum - It wasn't pretty, but it was fairly comfortable, and now that's three wins from our last three games. Regardless of the sometimes disjointed performances, these wins are priceless right now. We've gone from the second half of the table to sixth place in just three weeks! Forza!

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Man City fearing Juventus clash
without Vincent Kompany, David Silva

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/manchester-city/story/2719500/manchester-city-fear-juventus-clash-sans-kompany-and-silva?

Nov 22, 2015
 
Manchester City are bracing themselves for the prospect of facing Juventus in the Champions League without either the injured Vincent Kompany or David Silva.

Captain Kompany was ruled out of Saturday's Premier League clash against Liverpool with a calf problem while midfielder Silva, who has an ankle injury, is a major doubt.

And while manager Manuel Pellegrini is optimistic both could return for next Saturday's home game against Southampton, each could miss Wednesday's meeting with the Serie A winners and Champions League finalists.

Kompany had recovered from gastroenteritis before being injured in training and Pellegrini revealed in a news conference: "It's his calf. I am hoping that next week he will be fit but the calf is such a difficult muscle you never know how much [time] he needs."

Silva has already sat out seven City games after being hurt playing for Spain and Pellegrini explained: "It's a long injury because it's not a muscle injury. It's an ankle and for different reasons he can't be 100 percent fit.

"If a player is not comfortable I think that he can't play but he's a player that we need, especially now that we don't have Samir Nasri for four or five months.

"I hope it's the same as with Vincent, that next week he can be okay."

Nasri had said he was out for three months, but Pellegrini suggested his injury is more serious than that, adding: "Samir Nasri has a tendon injury in his right leg so now he must have surgery because it's an important injury."

Pellegrini has confirmed that Sergio Aguero, who has missed City's last seven matches with a hamstring strain, would begin the game against Liverpool, as his deputy Wilfried Bony was absent, but did not expect the Argentinian to finish it.

"It was difficult because he has gone so many days without playing," he said. "I don't think he is ready to play 90 minutes or to play two or three games in a week. It is important for Sergio to evaluate during the game how many minutes he feels he can play.

"But he must start in this game because we don't have Bony and it is important for the team to have Sergio."

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Juventus duo Evra & Hernanes could
miss Manchester City clash

The pair picked up injuries during the 1-0 win over AC Milan
on Saturday and will be monitored ahead of Wednesday's game in Turin.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2015/11/22/17591572/-?

Nov 22, 2015
 
Juventus face an anxious wait over the fitness of Patrice Evra and Hernanes ahead of their clash with Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Evra was forced off in the first half of Juve's 1-0 win over AC Milan on Saturday. Playmaker Hernanes picked up a groin problem and was replaced at half-time.

"Patrice Evra suffered a light twisted ankle during last night's game with Milan and his condition will be monitored over the course of the coming days," Juventus confirmed via their official website following a training session on Sunday.

"Also on the sidelines was Hernanes, who reported discomfort in his adductor muscle and will undergo tests tomorrow.

"Meanwhile, Sami Khedira is still feeling the effects of a muscle injury sustained before the international break, meaning he will train separately next week. Martin Caceres' condition will continue to be assessed on a daily basis as he bids to shake off a thigh strain."

Juve face a key Champions League clash at home to City on Wednesday knowing a victory will take them top of the group and into the knockout stages.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Juve stars to miss Man City

http://www.football-italia.net/76112/juve-stars-miss-man-city?

Nov 22, 2015
 
Patrice Evra, Sami Khedira, Hernanes and Martin Caceres are all expected to miss Juventus v Manchester City.

The Champions League showdown in Turin is on Wednesday evening.

The Bianconeri beat Milan 1-0 last night, but paid a heavy price for that Serie A victory, picking up more injury problems.

Roberto Pereyra and Kwadwo Asamoah are already out of action and Khedira missed that match due to a muscular problem.

Juve released a statement confirming Khedira “will train separately next week,” so won’t be fit to face Manchester City.

Evra sprained his ankle against Milan and limped off after just 28 minutes. “His condition will be monitored over the course of the coming days.

“Also on the sidelines was Hernanes, who reported discomfort in his adductor muscle and will undergo tests tomorrow.

“Finally, Martin Caceres’ condition will continue to be assessed on a daily basis as he bids to shake off a thigh strain.”

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Juventus Forward Dybala Praises Compatriot Aguero

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/11/juventus-forward-dybala-praises-compatriot-aguero/?

Nov 23, 2015
 
After sealing Juventus victory over AC Milan in Serie A on Saturday, Paulo Dybala is now focusing on the forthcoming Champions League clash against Manchester City.

The 22-year-old forward will face his compatriot Sergio Aguero as the Bianconeri will entertain the Premier League side in a struggle for the lead of Group D.

“Aguero is certainly an excellent player,” Dybala told Rai Sport.

“Luckily I have the chance to play alongside him in the national team.”

The former Palermo player scored seven goals in all competitions so far and is the Bianconeri’s top scorer this season.

Manchester City currently sit at the top Group D with 9 points, with the Turin side sitting just a point behind ahead of their meeting at the Juventus Stadium.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Brych for Juventus-City

http://www.football-italia.net/76149/brych-juventus-city?

Nov 23, 2015
 
German referee Felix Brych has been appointed for Wednesday’s Champions League clash between Juventus and Manchester City.

The Bianconeri can go top of the group and secure a place in the Last 16 with a win over the English side, and are undefeated in Group D so far.

Brych took charge of the Old Lady’s trip to Atletico Madrid last season, a 1-0 defeat, and dished out two red cards in Zenit St Petersburg’s 2-0 win over Lyon earlier this season.

The 40-year-old was also in charge of Italy’s final Euro 2016 qualifier, a 2-1 win over Norway at Stadio Olimpico.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Juventus plagued by a spate of new injuries ahead
of key Champions League clash versus Manchester City

Hernanes and Patrice Evra are ruled out after knocks picked up against Milan,
joining Sami Khedira and Martin Caceres as recent injury casualties.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/11/23/9782894/juventus-hernanes-patrice-evra-sami-khedira-2015-champions-league

Nov 23, 2015
 
Just when it seemed that the Old Lady were going to receive a respite from the injury bug that has hit the team since the start of the season, they've been hit another wave of them.

Joining the already missing Roberto Pereyra and Kwadwo Asamoah — who are both, thankfully, back in training and on their way back — Sami Khedira (who missed the game over the weekend with Milan due to a muscle problem) and Martin Caceres (who picked up a thigh strain on international duty) are fullback Patrice Evra and midfielder Hernanes.

The French veteran picked up a sprained ankle against Milan, while the Brazilian came off on Saturday after feeling discomfort in his right thigh. Subsequent tests have confirmed a first-grade tear in the adductor longus muscle in the trequartista's right thigh. He is expected to miss the next three weeks.

There is unlikely to be many tears shed over Hernanes' pending absence. The player nicknamed Il Profeta (The Prophet), has been nothing short of...uh...underwhelming, and that's being polite. He's been slow and meandering when on the ball, and has not provided any kind of guile or creative spark to the Bianconeri's attacking play. Hernanes has not provided any goals or assists in his eleven Juve appearances to date.

Now with the absences of Hernanes and the aforementioned Pereyra, Max Allegri will likely be choosing between the 4-3-3 (with Juan Cuadrado most likely to replace Hernanes) and 3-5-2 (which he switched to at half time against Milan) formations.

As for the other absentees, Evra, Khedira and Caceres are being monitored closely on a day-to-day basis, as a timeline for their returns have not yet been determined. Evra and Khedira will surely be missed in the key matchup against Manchester City, both for their ability and the experience they bring to what could be a tense game. Juventus have not yet sealed their passage to the last sixteen, and while Citeh has, they will be targeting revenge for the loss that was inflicted on them by Juventus at the Etihad, and simultaneously wrapping up first place.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Preview: Juventus vs. Manchester City

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/champions-league/preview/preview-juventus-vs-manchester-city_258911.html?

Nov 23, 2015
 
Manchester City travel to Turin to face Juventus, knowing that victory will see the Blues secure top spot in Group D with a game to spare.

However, the Bianconieri, who beat City earlier in the campaign, can qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League with a win over the Premier League side.


Juventus

While Massimiliano Allegri's side are second in the group and yet to secure their place in the knockout, last season's runners-up are one of only five clubs to remain unbeaten at this stage in the competition.

Some might find that statistic hard to believe given Juve's start to the Serie A season, which saw them win just one of their first six matches.

However, the Old Lady began to regain its confidence and have only lost one of their last seven domestic matches, although they remain nine points behind leaders Inter Milan.

Juventus prepared for the visit of City to Turin with a 1-0 victory over Sinisa Mihajlovic's AC Milan, thanks to Paulo Dybala's 65th-minute winner. Allegri described the result as a "step in the right direction" for his team.

However, that triumph came at a cost, with Hernanes forced off with a thigh injury and facing three weeks on the sidelines. His absence could place a greater burden on Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio to run Juve's midfield against the Premier League giants.

Wins against City and Sevilla in their first two group games looked to have put Juventus well on their way to the knockout stages, but consecutive draws against Borussia Monchengladbach means that Allegri's men still need a result to qualify.

Recent form: WWDD

Recent form (all competitions): DWLWWW

 

Manchester City

Blues manager Manuel Pellegrini cut a dismayed figure when speaking to the media after his side's thumping home defeat at the hands of Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool.

The Chilean described the 4-1 reverse as a "fake game" and claimed that he could not understand how his team could produce a poor performance after preparing so well in the build-up to the match.

However, part of the explanation for their brittle defensive display may lie in Bacary Sagna's suggestion that neither he or France international teammate Eliaquim Mangala were not in the right frame of mind to play after the events of the previous weekend in Paris, where gunmen and suicide bombers launched co-ordinated attacks across the City.

Nevertheless, the Citizens will look to rediscover the form which took them to the top of the Premier League, including a run of nine games without defeat, including seven wins.

City did at least welcome back Sergio Aguero against Liverpool and the international forward showed little sign of losing his goalscoring touch when he pulled one back before half time on Saturday.

Their place in the last 16 has already been secured after first-half goals from Raheem Sterling, Fernandinho and Wilfried Bony helped to a 3-1 away win at Sevilla on matchday four.

Recent form: LWWW

Recent form (all competitions): WWDWDL


Team News

As mentioned, the Italian champions will be without Hernanes for at least three weeks, although the Brazilian was suspended in any case after picking up a red card against Borussia.

Sami Khedira's thigh problem means the German World Cup winner will be missing from the Bianconieri's midfield, while Argentine Roberto Pereyra is also unavailable.

Patrice Evra (ankle) and Martin Caceres (thigh) are doubtful for the game in Turin.

Meanwhile, the Citizens are facing their own injury headaches in midfield, with Samir Nasri out until February at the earliest after undergoing an operation on his hamstring.

Bony (hamstring) has been out of action since the goalless draw at Aston Villa and David Silva is still continuing his return to full fitness. The Spanish international is unlikely to feature with City already through.

Similarly, the Manchester outfit are not expected to field Vincent Kompany after he sat out the defeat to Liverpool.


Juventus possible starting lineup:
Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, Sandro; Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Cuadrado; Morata, Dybala


Manchester City possible starting lineup:
Hart; Zabaleta, Demichelis, Otamendi, Kolarov; Toure, Fernando; Navas, De Bruyne, Sterling; Aguero


Head To Head

Of the five previous encounters, City have beaten Juve only once, with a familiar face in Brian Kidd scoring the only goal during the first-leg of their UEFA Cup First Round tie at Maine Road in 1976.

The Bianconieri duly won the return fixture to progress, a year before they would go on to lift the trophy.

Both teams played out 1-1 draws in the group phase of the 2010-11 Europa League before the most recent meeting, which saw the Old Lady win 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium, courtesy of late goals from Mario Mandzukic and Alvaro Morata.


We say: Juventus 1-1 Manchester City

Despite the manner of their defeat at the weekend, City might still fancy themselves to win and with Aguero available, Pellegrini's side stand a better chance of victory. However, a draw would not hurt the Blues, who have already qualified and with Juve only needing a point, it would not be a surprise if the game finishes level.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Manchester City's Sergio Aguero won't
hold back against Juventus

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/manchester-city/story/2724846/man-city-sergio-aguero-will-not-hold-back-against-juventus?

Nov 23, 2015
 
Sergio Aguero has promised not to hold back in Manchester City's Champions League clash with Juventus on Wednesday, despite having just recovered from his latest injury setback.

Aguero spent a month on the sidelines with a hamstring before returning in City's 4-1 loss against Liverpool on Saturday. The match before the injury, however, he'd set a Premier League record by netting the league's's quickest ever five-goal haul in City's 6-1 win over Newcastle on Oct. 3.

Speaking on Monday, Aguero promised to give his all on the pitch.

"You cannot truly measure the intensity with which you play," Aguero said ahead of Wednesday's match.

"And on top of that, I always try to kick into top gear. I can't imagine playing in any other way.

"Sometimes these unfortunate things happen but the ultimate reward only comes if you give it your all."

The former Atletico Madrid striker had missed City's last seven matches after suffering his setback while playing for Argentina against Ecuador last month. He said he felt well before that game in Buenos Aires, but injuries are unpredictable.

"I did feel well," Aguero said. "I had taken a special training programme to specifically avoid overexertion and I felt in good condition.

"But you never know when an injury is going to come. I went to play as I usually do -- giving it my all. Then at one moment, when I went to kick the ball, I felt the strain.

"It was a shame because I hadn't had a muscular injury in over a year but what happened happened and I can't turn back the clock.

"The important thing now is to take the time needed for it to be a full recovery -- and that's what I'm doing."

Manchester City currently sit atop their Champions League group, one point ahead of 2014-15 finalists Juventus. Their domestic form has been equally impressive as they trail leaders Leicester by a similar point in the Premier League.

Despite their financial might, the Etihad club have so far disappointed in Europe's top club competition. According to Aguero, their struggles haven't been due to a lack of respect for the competition.

"The Champions League is the most important competition in the world, isn't it," said Aguero.

"The good thing is that the Champions League is every year, so every year you can do your best to win it, and every football player wants to do that.

"We have a great team at City. We are on the right path, and it's only the beginning -- there are five games left to try to go through, and then to move through the knockout stages, which is what we are all looking for."

City have failed to advance past the Champions League's Round of 16 during Aguero's time at the club. He believes those experiences have placed he and his teammates on the right path.

"Since I arrived here, the draw in the Champions League has been very tough on City, and we have always drawn great teams in the group stages, teams which got to the semis or the final," Aguero said.

"In the last few Champions Leagues we have, maybe, not had the experience. Maybe some players did not know what it was to play in the Champions League.

"The first times were difficult, the nerves, the expectations.

"But now most of us have enough experience. We have very good players who are going to do a lot for us, and I think we are on the right path. There is still a lot of time to achieve things."

He added that the tournament's profile has grown greatly in his native Argentina.

"We always used to watch the Champions League because it is the best competition in the world. And obviously whenever there was a match we would always check the results.

"But every year it got bigger, because at the start it wasn't watched somuch in Argentina, and in the last few years it has become much more popular."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Vincent Kompany and David Silva miss
Manchester City training ahead of Juventus trip

Manchester City duo Vincent Kompany and David Silva did not train
ahead of their Champions League Group D clash with Juventus.

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11679/10077105/vincent-kompany-and-david-silva-miss-manchester-city-training-ahead-of-juventus-trip?

Nov 24, 2015
 
Kompany missed the 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Liverpool on Saturday with a recurrence of a calf problem, while Silva has been absent in the last seven games with an ankle injury.

Sergio Aguero did train on Tuesday after returning, and scoring, against Liverpool following a seven-game absence with a hamstring problem.

City fly out to Turin on Tuesday afternoon before manager Manuel Pellegrini addresses the media in a pre-match news conference from the Italian city in the evening, which you can watch on Sky Sports News HQ from 7pm.

Juventus could also be without three key players for the game, with City top of the champions League and Juvenuts second.

Sami Khedira and Hernanes are definitely sidelined while Patrice Evra is a doubt after hobbling off during the Serie A win over AC Milan at the weekend.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Yaya Toure: Manchester City need to win group

The Ivory Coast international believes victory in Turin will help
restore confidence after Saturday's thrashing by Liverpool.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2914/champions-league/2015/11/24/17651662/-?

Nov 24, 2015
 
Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure says it is important his side beat Juventus on Wednesday and finish top of Champions League Group D.

Manuel Pellegrini's men have been unable to make an impact in Europe in recent years, but the Ivory Coast international is confident they can go all the way in the Champions League this time around.

Manchester City were beaten 4-1 by Liverpool at the weekend but Toure is determined to return to winning ways when they take on Juventus with top spot on the line in Turin.

"It’s important for the confidence of our supporters and it’s important for us to put in a strong performance," he told the club's official website.

"A couple of years ago, we were in this competition and we didn’t finish in the top two. I think the key is to finish first for the first time and if we could do it with one game to spare, so much the better.

"I don't know what will happen in Turin. For us, the target is to finish first and get a kind draw in the Round of 16 and then continue onwards because it's a target to get as far as we can in this competition."

City's defeat to Liverpool saw them knocked off the top of the Premier League table but Toure says his side are still gunning for glory on all fronts.

"The target of this club this year is try to achieve any trophy possible and we are still going strong in all of them this season," he added.

"We know it will be difficult to win everything, but we'll be trying as hard as we can because we have the squad, we have the players and I think if everything is right at the right time, we can perform and beat anybody."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Juventus vs. Manchester City: Complete
Player-by-Player Comparison

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2592513-juventus-vs-manchester-city-complete-player-by-player-comparison?

Nov 24, 2015
 
Juventus and Manchester City meet on Wednesday in the penultimate matchday of this season’s Champions League Group D.

City’s qualification is already assured, but a win would guarantee them top spot. Three points for Juventus would see them join City in the knockout phase and put themselves into pole position to finish first going into Matchday 6.

Juventus won the first game between the two sides at the Etihad. City controlled the match, but two ruthless finishes on the counter saw them severely punished.

Massimo Allegri, the Juventus manager, and Manuel Pellegrini, the City boss, have some big decisions to make in terms of team selection, but here, we suggest possible XIs and grade each player. Both teams line up in 4-3-3 formations here, but there could be changes. Juventus may opt for 3-5-2, and City have often gone for 4-2-3-1.


Goalkeepers

Gianluigi Buffon versus Joe Hart

Joe Hart’s form this season has been magnificent, and again on Saturday he made a series of excellent stops that kept the score against Liverpool somewhat respectable.

His opposite number, Gianluigi Buffon, is one of the game’s all-time greats—a goalkeeper who has consistently displayed remarkable quality over a long period of time.

He’s barely put a foot wrong this season and has saved Juve on numerous occasions, including this weekend against AC Milan, when his save from Alessio Cerci deep into stoppage time helped secure the points.

Buffon: 9.5

Hart: 8

 

Defenders

Stephan Lichtsteiner versus Pablo Zabaleta

It’s been a strange season for Stephan Lichtsteiner. Like many in the Juventus squad, his start to the season was slow, but since returning from an operation, he’s been much better. He scored a key equaliser against Borussia Dortmund on Matchday 4 and has shown improvements ever since.

Pablo Zabaleta may return for this game. Bacary Sagna has been involved in a lot of games this season, including France’s recent double-header, which saw him playing while the Paris attacks ensued.

He understandably looked distracted against Liverpool, so this may be the perfect opportunity to bring Zabaleta back in.

It’s been an injury-affected season so far for the Argentinian, but we all know his quality.

Lichtsteiner: 6.5

Zabaleta: 7.5



Leonardo Bonucci versus Nicolas Otamendi

Leonardo Bonucci was dropped for the weekend game with Milan but did manage a late cameo. He’s likely to come back in for this game, having been fairly consistent so far this term.

Juventus’ defence is under far more strain this season given the departures of some star names in midfield, most notably Arturo Vidal.

Nicolas Otamendi is almost certain to start after being rested for the weekend’s shambolic performance against Liverpool.

He was beginning to settle into his role at City, but after travelling to South America and playing two games for Argentina during the recent international break, Pellegrini decided to rest him.

It backfired. City looked all over the place defensively, and Martin Demichelis will drop out for this game, surely.

Bonucci: 7

Otamendi: 7



Giorgio Chiellini versus Eliaquim Mangala

It’s been a difficult start to the season for Giorgio Chiellini, but he was superb against Milan this weekend and remains a tough defender to get the better of.

His lack of pace is becoming more of a problem, particularly against counter-attacking sides, and City have the capability to counter-attack effectively.

The less said about Eliaquim Mangala’s game against Liverpool on Saturday the better. The Frenchman was awful.

He had been showing signs of improving this season, particularly alongside Vincent Kompany, but those familiar concentration and footwork issues reared their head again this weekend.

He needs a big performance.

Chiellini: 7

Mangala: 6.5



Alex Sandro versus Aleksandar Kolarov

With Patrice Evra set to miss the game through injury, Alex Sandro, one of the fastest-rising stars in Serie A, is likely to deputise. Evra’s injury could signal a run in the side for Sandro, with many expecting him to take his chance.

He assisted winners against Torino and Milan this season and has shown already he’s a real threat going forward.

Aleksandar Kolarov is likely to remain in the starting lineup. The Serbian has limitations, particularly defensively, but given Gael Clichy’s injury problems this season, it would seem odd to put the Frenchman back in for this one.

Sandro: 6.5

Kolarov: 6.5

 

Midfielders

Stefano Sturaro versus Fernando

With Vidal gone, there is a significant hole in the Juventus midfield, one that Stefano Sturaro has attempted to fill when injuries have taken hold.

He plays an unfussy style, winning the ball back and recycling possession quickly. He hasn't impressed on a consistent basis and will need to improve for the visit of City.

Fernando has had a far better season than he managed in 2014/15.

He was key in City’s victory away at Seville on Matchday 4, with the protection he offers the back four vital in allowing City’s attacking players express themselves more freely.

Sturaro: 6

Fernando: 7



Claudio Marchisio versus Fernandinho

With Vidal and Andrea Pirlo exiting in the summer, Juventus’ midfield has suffered, but Claudio Marchisio is hellbent on filling the gaps.

He’s been superb—Juventus’ best player this season. He dictates the pace of the game and looks to control things for The Old Lady.

The Brazilian midfielder has been City’s player of the season thus far. His energy, drive, passing and stamina make him the most important player in the team at the moment.

Quite why he was dropped on Saturday remains a mystery. He travelled to south America but hardly played in Brazil’s double-header. City missed him badly.

Marchisio: 8.5

Fernandinho: 9



Paul Pogba versus Yaya Toure

Paul Pogba is set for greatness. The France midfielder possesses everything he needs to be a top-quality player for years to come: power, pace, vision and technical quality.

His assist for Juventus’ equaliser against City in the game at the Etihad earlier this season was a great example of his brilliance, producing a remarkable ball to the back post in a split second. The ball was so good that the City defence barely moved.

In truth, though, he’s had a mixed season. There have been some stirring displays and some average ones. Still, there’s no doubting his quality and his ability to produce in big games.

It’s been a familiar story for Yaya Toure. He remains one of the most gifted players in world football, yet, at 32, there are times when it seems age is catching up with him.

Pogba: 9

Toure: 9
 

Forwards

Juan Cuadrado versus Kevin De Bruyne

Juan Cuadrado may have underwhelmed at Chelsea, but his move to Juventus has seen him show far better consistency.

He brings pace and directness to the right-hand side of the pitch and gave City all sorts of problems on Matchday 1. He is one of the few Juve players prepared to take a man on and create some space.

After a blistering start to the season, Kevin De Bruyne has slowed up in recent weeks, but he remains one of the team’s most creative players.

At 24, the way he has confidently come into the side and produced so many excellent displays has been remarkable, and he was perhaps the only starter against Liverpool to leave the field with his reputation unharmed.

Cuadrado: 7.5

De Bruyne: 8.5



Alvaro Morata versus Raheem Sterling

Alvaro Morata is gradually finding his best form again. He’s played an unfamiliar role on the left of a front three for much of the season, with his Champions League performances eclipsing his Serie A displays.

For Raheem Sterling, it’s also been a mixed campaign. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, but they’ve been interspersed with ineffective games.

His pace is always a threat, though, and he brings balance to the City attack. He will look to recreate the form he showed against Sevilla in the last Champions League game—his best performance for the club thus far.

Morata: 7

Sterling: 7.5



Paulo Dybala versus Sergio Aguero

Paulo Dybala has been Juventus’ star man so far this term. He’s scored six goals and registered two assists and has assumed the mantle of Carlos Tevez, the forward who left in the summer having made a habit of dragging Juventus to victory.

Sergio Aguero is the finest striker in Europe, though. He’s not yet fully match fit, but his goal against Liverpool was a reminder of his brilliance.

Dybala: 8

Aguero: 9.5

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Manchester City Need To Show Their
Champions League Credentials Against Juventus

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2592523-manchester-city-need-to-show-their-champions-league-credentials-against-juventus?

Nov 24, 2015
 
We’re over a third of the way through the Premier League season and two-thirds of the Champions League group stages are done going into this week’s matches. Yet it still doesn’t feel as if we know Manchester City at all.

All that we can say with certainty is that conceding four goals at home in a league match for the first time in over a decade is not the ideal warm up for visiting the Italian champions. If you were of the opinion that this week’s Champions League visit to Juventus was merely of cosmetic importance (and this column was certainly not a subscriber to that point of view), then you should be ready to admit that it means much more now.

It’s hard to know what’s more difficult to believe about the Premier League campaign to date; that Leicester City are top, or that Manchester City aren’t. Whether you’re measuring in terms of the breathtaking quality of Manuel Pellegrini’s squad on paper or on the heights that they’ve touched when they have got it right this season, City should be top of the table and cruising towards a third title in five years already.

Saturday’s defeat at home to Liverpool was as perplexing as it gets. If the result looked bad on paper, then the performance was even worse. Pellegrini, as much as his players, has to carry the can for that.

Even allowing for the principles of rotation (and why, frankly, would a Champions League tie when you’ve already qualified be more important than a significant Premier League home match?), the decision to leave out Nicolas Otamendi was a baffling one. La Liga’s best defender last season, Otamendi has been excellent in sky blue thus far, and he would have added authority to a harried back line that lacked any whatsoever. Aleksandar Kolarov and Bacary Sagna also looked all at sea against the pressing of Jurgen Klopp’s team.

The contrast with Liverpool, who played a very similar XI to the one which recently won at Chelsea (give or take the injured Mamadou Sakho), was marked. Despite being in charge for only a matter of weeks, Klopp seems already to have an idea of his best side.

Pellegrini should be advanced of that, but he didn’t seem to be on Saturday. It is easy—and to a large extent, justifiable—to point to Vincent Kompany’s continuing struggles with a calf injury as an issue. He, after all, has played a huge part in Otamendi’s smooth adaptation to Premier League life.

Yet choice does come into it. Fernandinho was greatly missed in the decisive first half against Liverpool, when City looked ponderous and devoid of character in midfield. In his stead, his compatriot Fernando singularly failed to provide the bite and poise required.

This is especially relevant to the confrontation with Juve is for two reasons. Firstly, just how good Fernandinho is was abundantly clear in the match that assured safe passage to the Champions League’s last 16, the resounding win at Sevilla.

Secondly, City’s performance in that game showed just how far Pellegrini has developed the team in a European competition context, the previous lack of which is exactly what has led to continued speculation over his long-term future at the club.

That win at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan really is one of the underrated performances of the season so far in the Champions League. In an atmosphere that often makes mice of the very best teams—it did so to Real Madrid in La Liga this season—City were scintillating.

With significantly less possession, they were as incisive as could be imagined, having twice as many shots as their hosts and getting a whopping 11 efforts on target, per WhoScored.com. That they did this without the injured Sergio Aguero or Kevin De Bruyne (the Belgian came on as a second-half substitute with the game all but sewn up) made it even more impressive.

Yaya Toure excelled in the advanced role, Jesus Navas and Raheem Sterling were outstanding on the flanks and behind them—with Fernando sweeping up well—Fernandinho looked every inch the box-to-fox force of nature that he can be, making important tackles and storming into the Sevilla penalty box to make his presence felt. Wilfried Bony played a strong part too.

Much of the season has been spent with the English wringing their hands at Premier League sides’ difficulties in the Champions League. Here was a side whose performance screamed out that they could be a genuine contender but credit was relatively thin on the ground—perhaps because of Arsenal’s and, to a lesser extent, Chelsea’s and Manchester United’s stutters.

City’s task in Turin is to show that Sevilla was no accident. Normally, this is the stage of the Champions League where they are scrambling to make up lost ground, but that isn’t the case this time around—so they can make a statement instead.

Nobody is yet saying (and nor should they be) that Pellegrini’s side are approaching the level of Bayern Munich or Barcelona, but Juventus themselves proved just last season exactly what could be done with talent and canny management.

Pellegrini’s work in the Champions League—and that’s what’s relevant to this week—has suggested he might be able to do the same. This week, City can also prove how much they learned in the opening-night defeat to Juve at the Etihad, when they dominated large portions of the game yet were picked off by smarter opponents.

This match matters—not just in terms of pride and prestige, but in terms of City’s future. If they’re not going to walk their way to their Premier League title (and if they do ultimately fail to capture it, it will be a heinous waste), then they need to make reparation for that fact elsewhere.

The only place that can be is in the Champions League. Manchester City have had the pieces for a while, and now they have the plan. It’s time to prove that they can be this season’s Juventus.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Chiellini: ‘Crucial to go through early’

http://www.football-italia.net/76191/chiellini-%E2%80%98crucial-go-through-early%E2%80%99?

Nov 24, 2015
 
Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini admits “it’s important to go through early” in the Champions League.

The Bianconeri can secure qualification and go top of the group with a win over Manchester City tomorrow, and the Italian international is keen to secure progress as soon as possible.

“We have match point at home,” Chiellini explained, speaking to Mediaset.

“We could go through on Wednesday, and it’s important to get there early to avoid the top teams in the Last 16.

“That said, last year we came second and got to the final, the time we came first, we knocked out Chelsea [in the group] and then went out [to Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals].

“So anything can happen, but it’s always best to go through early.

“Juve are not quite in the best four teams, but if you remember last year we we were almost ruled-out of the Last 16 in November against Olympiacos.

“Then we went through along with Atletico Madrid and no-one expected that team to reach the final.”

Chiellini also discussed perceived similarities between Paulo Dybala and Carlos Tevez.

“I think they’re very different players. They came one after the other, and they’re both Argentinian, but their characteristics are different.

“Dybala reminds me a bit of Vincenzo Montella, but just let him be Dybala.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

JUVENTUS V MANCHESTER CITY
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PREVIEW

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-v-manchester-city-champions-league-preview/?

Nov 24, 2015
 

Juventus

Juventus are heading into their penultimate group stage game against Man City knowing that a result will guarantee them a place in the last-16 of the Champions League.

It’s been a truly un-Juve-like start to the 2015/16 campaign but the results are finally starting to come together. A dismal start to the campaign has made way for a solid run of form with just one defeat in the last 10 games, including 6 wins and 3 draws and 3 back-to-back wins in Serie A. Despite the latest batch of injuries, Juve have looked more determined in recent weeks, grinding out hard fought victories against Torino, Empoli and a solid enough display against Milan last weekend with Paulo Dybala making the difference. The young Argentine has been one of the highlights of an otherwise slow and sluggish season to date.

Analysing things from a rudimentary level, the formation issue still seems a point of contention – There’s natural width with the inclusion of Juan Cuadrado in the lineup but Alvaro Morata still looks out of place playing so far out on the left in our 4-3-3. Results with a 4-3-1-2 still seem limited given the dismal form of Hernanes and the lack of a natural alternative to play in that trequartista role. Which leads nicely to the tried and tested 3-5-2 which seems to be the order of the day against City. giornalaccio rosa dello Sport and other Italian dailies have all suggested this is the way Juve will line-up but there may be some more pointers about tactics when Allegri gives his press conference later today (We’ll update the line-up accordingly).

Gigi Buffon is fit and ready to start in goal with the customary ‘BBC’ back line of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini. On the flanks, Stephan Lichtsteiner is almost certain to start with Alex Sandro filling in on the left for the injured Patrice Evra. Sami Khedira is out yet again through injury, leaving Stefano Sturaro the likliest candidate to take his place with Claudio Marchisio and Paul Pogba alongside him. Up front, Paulo Dybala will be partnered by Alvaro Morata.


Probable lineup 3-5-2:
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichsteiner, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Sandro; Morata, Dybala.


Injuries: Khedira (Thigh), Asamoah (Knee), Hernanes (Muscle), Caceres (Thigh), Evra (Ankle), Pereyra (Thigh)

Suspended: Hernanes



 

  Manchester City

City seem to have taken their foot off the gas in recent weeks and are coming into this game on the back of a 4-1 home defeat to Liverpool, and a poor 0-0 draw against Aston Villa the week before. Injuries haven’t helped their season but their squad boasts quality all over the pitch, especially in their midfield, who put 5 goals past Crystal Palace and Bournemouth, who are both sponsored by the Mansion Group who own casino.com.

Sergio Aguero discussed his hopes for the upcoming Champions League clash against Juve with Manchester Evening News following last weekends disappointing loss to Liverpool.

“You cannot truly measure the intensity with which you play,” said Aguero, now gearing up for Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Juventus.

“And on top of that, I always try to kick into top gear. I can’t imagine playing in any other way.

“Sometimes these unfortunate things happen but the ultimate reward only comes if you give it your all.”

Blues manager Manuel Pellegrini also confirmed his intention to qualify first from the so-called ‘group of death.’

“It was very important to qualify for the next stage and to do it with two games to spare is a good achievement after we started with a home defeat,” he said.

“But that doesn’t mean the job is done. We are trying to qualify in first position in the group which may give us help in the Round of 16.

“Maybe we deserve that help as in the last two seasons we have qualified and been beaten by Barcelona – they are not a small team!”

He added after the Liverpool game: “The important thing is to try to recover our performance, it’s important to try to win, we always try to win.

“If you can’t win then, of course, it’s always good to get a point, but we are not going to go to Juventus just to try to draw.”

Rob from Man City blog Typical City was kind enough to give us a quick run down on who he believes will start the game and how they’ve performed so far this season:


4-3-3 Formation

Hart – Superb all season. One mistake vs Norwich cancelled out by a fine save moments later. Performance against Gladbach was outstanding 8/10

Zabaleta – Given Sagna has played a lot and was involved in the game in paris vs Germany, perhaps Zabaleta will come back in for this one. Injuries have affected him badly this season, but this is a chance to get back into some form. 7.5/10

Otamendi – Was starting to form a very good partnership with Kompany but the Belgian is injured again and Otamendi was rested against Liverpool after travelling to south America in the international break. City will be glad to have him back. 7.5/10

Mangala – Needs to improve on Saturday’s performance. Has shown he is capable this season, but needs to find some consistency. 7/10

Kolarov – Better going forward than defending. Probably in need of a rest but Clichy is yet to play all season, although he is now back fit. 6.5/10

Fernando – Has had a much improved campaign. Was key to city’s win in Seville in the last game. Offers lots of protection to the back four and allows others to express themselves. 7/10

Fernandinho – City’s player of the season. Rested on Saturday and Pellegrini paid the price. Full of energy, passing quality and drive. 9/10

Toure – Calls for Delph to be included from the start are growing louder, but Toure is a big game player. Still possesses amazing quality, even at 32. 9/10

De Bruyne – Perhaps the only starter vs. Liverpool who escaped without criticism. He’s been quieter these past few weeks after a blistering start, but he’s still one of the Blues’ most creative. 8.5/10

Sterling – Blows hot and cold. Ineffective again on Sturday, but has had moments where he’s excelled. Brings pace and a willingness to run with the ball. 7.5/10

Aguero – Returned on Saturday after a seven-game absence and scored a belter. The best in the PL. 9.5/10

UPDATE – Mangala, Zabaleta, Kompany and Silva do not make the trip to Turin


Probable lineup 4-3-3:
Hart; Sagna, Otamendi, Demichelis, Kolarov ; Fernando, Fernandinho, Toure; De Bruyne, Sterling, Aguero* (Updated)


Injuries: Nasri, Silva, Kompany, Bony, Delph,

Suspended: None


 

Formation

Who will win between Juventus and Man City?

Juventus 76%

Man City 14%

Draw 10%

Votes 58

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Evra trains with Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/76196/evra-trains-juventus?

Nov 24, 2015
 
Patrice Evra trained with Juventus this afternoon, and is in contention to face Manchester City.

The French international was substituted in the win over Milan on Saturday, having twisted his ankle in the course of the match.

However, TuttoJuve reports that both Evra and Martin Caceres trained with the squad at Vinovo today, though only the former is likely to start in tomorrow’s Champions League tie.

Sami Khedira is expected to miss the match, with Coach Massimiliano Allegri trying to decide whether to go with a 3-5-2 or a 4-3-3.

Stefano Sturaro is expected to replace Khedira, with Alvaro Morata returning in attack.

If the Bianconeri line-up with a 3-5-2, Paulo Dybala is expected to partner the Spaniard, but a 4-3-3 would see Morata play wide, with Juan Cuadrado on the other flank supporting Mario Mandzukic.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Betting: Juventus v Manchester City

After City's 4-1 thrashing against Liverpool, Al Hain-Cole expects Vincent Kompany's
continued absence and the return from injury of Sergio Aguero to ensure more goals in Turin.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/2994/betting/2015/11/24/17637112/-?

Nov 24, 2015
 
Manchester City will be looking to bounce back from a 4-1 home thrashing by Liverpool when they travel to Turin to take on Juventus in Wednesday’s Champions League clash.

With qualification for the knockout stages already secure, Manuel Pellegrini’s men are available at 23/10 (3.30) with Paddy Power to seal top spot in Group D by coming out on top here.

Having recorded a 2-1 away victory in the reverse fixture, the hosts are 5/4 (2.25) favourites to do the double over their opponents with another win in front of their own fans – leapfrogging them into first place in the process.

The sides shared a 1-1 Europa League draw when they last met on Italian soil back in 2010, and you can get odds of 23/10 (3.30) on them cancelling each other out once again this time out.

As impressive as Liverpool were in Saturday’s clash at the Etihad Stadium, it is fair to say that the Citizens contributed heavily to their own undoing with a mistake-ridden defensive performance.

Many have attributed this uncertainty at the back to the continued absence of Vincent Kompany, and the captain will once again be watching on from the sidelines at the Juventus Stadium.

With the likes of Mario Mandzukic, Alvaro Morata and the in-form Paulo Dybala to contend with, it is likely to be another long night for the City backline as they look to record just a second Champions League clean sheet in 20 fixtures.

However, a goal from Sergio Aguero on his return from injury at least provided one bright spot for Pellegrini at the weekend, who will feel confident that his side can cause the Bianconeri some problems of their own.

All things considered, odds of 11/10 (2.10) look good on over 2.5 goals being scored for the 13th time in 15 City matches – including their previous meeting with Juventus.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - MANCHESTER CITY

-

 
 

Matchday 5
Wednesday, November 25th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany)

Marchisio: 'Juve at home in Europe'

http://www.football-italia.net/76200/marchisio-juve-home-europe?

Nov 24, 2015
 
Claudio Marchisio said Juventus are “at home in the Champions League” as they host Manchester City.

It kicks off on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT in Turin and the Bianconeri already beat City 2-1 in England.

Marchisio is in the running for the Champions League team of the season, so how does he judge himself?

“I am very happy, it’s recognition for the great work everyone did last year,” said the midfielder in a Press conference.

“We have been very consistent, above all in Europe, reaching the Champions League Final last term and even during a difficult time in Serie A we started out with two wins against City and Sevilla.

“Now we meet City on home turf, their team is full of champions, but in their history have never really progressed very far in the tournament.

“We know how much they want to finish top of the group and so do we. We’ll fight it out to the end for first place.

“Every year the giants of Europe improve, we know how difficult it is to win this tournament. During my months out, I saw a team capable of playing very well both home and away, confirming we are very much at home in Europe now.

“We meet a City side that is fresh from a heavy defeat in the Premier League and that can give further motivation to a side going into the Champions League, so we must be wary of their desire to fight back.

“The fact they have players missing changes nothing, as they have so much strength in depth and on top of that the players who don’t get to feature often will be particularly eager to prove themselves for their future. Besides, we are missing important champions too.”

Juventus have improved over the last few weeks and for the first time have three consecutive Serie A victories.

“I bring my experience and presence, but I think the real reason for the improvements in recent weeks were the months of work we did. We started with many injuries and new players, so it was always going to take time and now we’re doing what we have to – win consistently.

“We’ve always said that it takes consistency to reach the top and even if the performances aren’t brilliant, we must remain united and solid to bring home results. It’s a long season and we have started climbing up the table, but remain aware it’s an uphill struggle for us in Serie A this season with important clubs ahead of us.”

 

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