Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

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Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Buffon: ‘Respect for Sevilla’

http://www.football-italia.net/76802/buffon-%E2%80%98respect-sevilla%E2%80%99?

Dec 7, 2015

Gigi Buffon says Juventus “have so much respect for Sevilla” but are targeting the “big objective” of winning their Champions League group.

The Bianconeri will advance to the Last 16 of the Champions League with a win in Spain tomorrow night, but the goalkeeper isn’t taking anything for granted.

“We have so much respect for Sevilla,” Buffon told reporters in the pre-match Press conference.

“They’re a team who have achieved almost unthinkable results at the European level in recent years.

“We know that they’ll play hard against us, and we know it’ll be a very difficult game, and a very hard-fought one.

“But we’re also playing for something which isn’t a small target, but a big objective because even though we’re already qualified, which was our intention, now that we have an even greater opportunity it would be a shame not to take it and have regrets after the game.”

Juventus didn’t win the group last season and went all the way to the final, surely they have nothing to fear in the draw?

“Let’s say that a certain Juve, with the right mentality and without any conceit or arrogance, is a Juve that can give anyone a game, and we showed that last year.

“This year, unlike other years in Europe, we’ve come up with the right answers in the critical moments.

“That was the most comforting thing, it reminded me that even in the most difficult moments we’re still a good team, even if we were maybe going through a negative period, a transition.

“When you win at Manchester City, when you beat a team like Sevilla without conceding that means you’re a strong team.

“After that we maybe had to find a bit of consistency, and I hope we’ve found that now.

“I’ve been here for a few years, so this is definitely the team which - at least in the last 15 years - plays European games the most like when I first joined Juve and we got to the final in Manchester with a very important journey and the scalps of the top teams.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Sevilla V Juventus – Preview: Bianconeri
Look To Seal Top Spot In Spain

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/12/sevilla-v-juventus-preview-bianconeri-look-to-seal-top-spot-in-spain/?

Dec 7, 2015

Juventus travel to Spain on Tuesday in the Champions League to face Sevilla at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium, with the Old Lady only needing a point to seal top spot in Group D and qualification to the round of 16.

The Bianconeri head to Andalusia in fine form, winning their latest domestic Serie A game 2-0 away to Lazio on Friday night, a victory which was their fifth in a row in all competitions.

Massimiliano Allegri’s men currently sit top of Champions League group D after matchday five on eleven points. A 1-0 win over Manchester City two weeks ago in Turin put the Old Lady two points clear of the Premier League outfit in second, with third place Borussia Monchengladbach further back on five points and Tuesday’s opponents Sevilla sitting last on three points. The Bianconeri are one of four teams yet to be beaten in this season’s competition and are on a six game unbeaten run away from home in the Champions league

Unai Emery’s side, meanwhile, come into the game after drawing 1-1 away to Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday in La Liga, and sit in 10th position in the La Liga table after round 14.

The Sevillistas are currently on their worst sequence of results in their history in Europe, after suffering four defeats in a row in Champions League group D. The Europa League holders began their Champions League campaign with a 3-0 win over Monchengladbach on matchday one, but have since lost to Juve, Manchester City twice and last time out 4-2 away to Die Fohlen, conceding eleven goals in the process. Los Rojiblancos need a win on Tuesday and hope Borussia fail to win against City to seal third place and Europa League entry.

The sides have only met once before in the Champions League, which was on matchday two this season with the Bianconeri running out 2-0 winners. A goal just before the break by Alvaro Morata was followed up by a late second half strike by Simone Zaza to seal the three points for the Turin giants.

Former Inter and Roma defender Marco Andreolli, Daniel Carriço, Gael Kakuta and Beto are all out injured for Sevilla, while Benoit Trémoulinas is a doubt for the Spanish side.

Juventus midfielder Hernanes will miss the game through suspension, while striker Mario Mandzukic is ruled out with illness. Roberto Pereyra, Sami Khedira and Patrice Evra are injured and didn’t travel with the squad on Monday.


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


Expected Starting XIs:

Sevilla:
Rico, Marian, Rami, Krychowiak, Escudero; Kolodziejczak, Vitolo; N’Zonzi, Banega, Konoplyanka; Llorente.

Juventus:
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata, Dybala.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Buffon: ‘Barça favourites but…’

http://www.football-italia.net/76803/buffon-%E2%80%98bar%C3%A7a-favourites-but%E2%80%A6%E2%80%99?

Dec 7, 2015

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon sees Barcelona as Champions League favourites but “a lot can change in 11 months”.

The Blaugrana beat the Bianconeri in the final last year, and have laid down a marker in this year’s competition by thrashing Roma 6-1 at Camp Nou.

“Who is favourite to win the Champions League?” Buffon considered in the Press conference ahead of the clash with Sevilla.

“It’s very hard to say, in the sense that in a year of 11 months there will be moments of great excitement, great play and great enthusiasm, and for others maybe things will become a little tarnished.

“So I think at this moment in time no team is ahead of Barcelona in terms of the trophy, but if you think back to last year, until December Barcelona were a very strong team, a squad to be feared, but they didn’t shine.

“Maybe at that point Bayern Munich or Real Madrid were seen as favourites ahead of Barcelona. That means that over 11 months a lot can change in terms of the odds and your chances of winning.

“Right now Barcelona are absolutely the strongest, both in regard to the Spanish teams and the European teams.”

Buffon declared earlier this season that people “wanted a funeral for us”, after five Serie A wins in a row, does he think the other teams are worried?

“I have no idea, because I’m not in the other dressing rooms, and as I said after the Lazio game when you look at the table we’re still fifth.

“That’s a clear signal that there is still ground to make up. To do that we have to continue down the path we started on a month or so ago.

“As for the thoughts of others, I don’t know.”

Tomorrow will see a reunion with Fernando Llorente, and the goalkeeper is looking forward to seeing the big striker again.

“Fernando is a lad who we we all have fond memories of,” Buffon admitted.

“Over these two years he was really appreciated by everyone from all points of view. He’s left us at Juve with of a decent man and a really good lad.

“But other than that there’s his sacrifice and desire to help the team, and his goals meant that we were able to achieve important results.

"“It will be great to see him again.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Allegri: ‘Important to top group’

http://www.football-italia.net/76804/allegri-%E2%80%98important-top-group%E2%80%99?

Dec 7, 2015

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri says it’s “very important” to win their Champions League group.

The Bianconeri will secure top spot in Groud D with a draw against Sevilla tomorrow, meaning that they would avoid the other group winners.

For that reason, the former Milan Coach insists he will not have one eye on the weekend clash with Fiorentina.

“I will absolutely not base my team on the Fiorentina game for a simple reason,” Allegri explained in his pre-match Press conference.

“First things first we have to secure first place, because first place is very important, above all in the draw.

“Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich will definitely finish first, and at this moment they’re the strongest teams in Europe, so it would mean we couldn’t get them.

“Then we have another important goal, which is to finish the first round unbeaten. That would allow us to finish first. So I think we’ll approach tomorrow in the best way.

“There’s absolutely no thought about Fiorentina, we’ll have four days to prepare for the Fiorentina game, and we have players who will come back.

“At the moment we have to think game-by-game, because we have to continue the the positive results the team is getting.

“Tomorrow I have four [central] defenders: Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini and Rugani.

“Three of those four will play. They’re all fine, so tomorrow I’ll decide whether or not Rugani will play.”

Mario Mandzukic was left out of the squad with illness, but Allegri is confident he’ll have a strong squad to face Fiorentina.

“I’m not worried. Mandzukic came in this morning and was feverish, so it seemed to me that there was a risk, for him but also of infecting the team.

“Evra took a knock to his knee on Friday, he didn’t train with the team for two days and this morning he had tests and wasn’t available.

“So I decided to leave him at home to work toward the Fiorentina match. Khedira had tests this morning, everything is taking a turn for the better.

“Asamoah and Padoin are not on the Champions League list, so obviously they stayed at home.

“I’ve left Caceres at home to work, because he needs to work at the moment. Lemina has the same problem with his patellar tendon which unfortunately has slowed him down in recent weeks.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Allegri: ‘Juventus even better in Europe’

http://www.football-italia.net/76805/allegri-%E2%80%98juventus-even-better-europe%E2%80%99?

Dec 7, 2015

Coach Massimiliano Allegri notes that Juventus “have done better” in this year’s Champions League group stage.

The Bianconeri reached the final of the competition last season, but only secured qualification for the Last 16 in the last group game.

“If we look at our results in Europe at the moment, the team have done better,” Allegri pointed out in his Press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Sevilla game.

“First of all we have a point more than last year, we’ve conceded two goals, we went unbeaten at home and most importantly we haven’t conceded a goal at home.

“So it would be a major achievement to finish the group unbeaten, especially because it would mean finishing first.

“I believe that Juventus are - as Gigi [buffon] said before - continuing on the path which ended with the final in Berlin last season.

“This year we were in a very difficult group. Don’t forget, we’re in a group where we have Manchester City, who are one of the strongest teams in Europe.

“We have Borussia, who had a great League campaign last year and are recreating that this year, because they’ve climbed sharply, and then Sevilla who have won the last two Europa Leagues.

“So it was a very difficult group. The lads therefore deserve congratulations for playing very well in the group, but tomorrow is the most important and most difficult game for continuing in the Champions League.

“Who will play? I still haven’t decided on [Daniele] Rugani, I think the team is growing right now because individual players are growing.

“When I say that I’m talking about Rugani too, even though he hasn’t been playing. [simone] Zaza has been growing, and we saw that at Palermo.

“[Paulo] Dybala is growing, and we also have to include [Mattia] Vitale in that group, he’s a lad who is always with us and has improved a lot in the last two months.

“I think he’s a lad who could carve out a space for himself during the course of the campaign, and that shows that there are good youngsters at Juventus, guided well by a group of older ones, who understand the responsibility they have.

“So I think that’s a nice mix to have a good season.”

Paulo Dybala has been in sensational form recently, after being in-and-out of the team in the early weeks of the season.

Was Allegri simply trying to protect the forward?

“Absolutely, I never had any doubt about the ability of the player, as I have no doubt about the ability of other players.

“He’s a 22-year-old lad - I’ll repeat that, he’s 22 - and he’s coming off a season with Palermo, his only one in Serie A, where among other things he wasn’t playing for the last three or four months because he was preparing to move to Juventus.

“So he has to be protected, just like all the lads. Right now he’s doing well, but there will come a time where he needs to stop and catch his breath.

“I hope he can play 50 games at the highest level, and above all improve. He can be one of the best players in the world, and with his quality he could get there.

“It’s just like the other players, they must be the same as [Alvaro] Morata who is a key player but has missed the last three games, and that can happen.

“But he’s a player who can become, with the qualities and the characteristics that he has, one of the best players around in the future.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

SEVILLA V JUVENTUS
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.juvefc.com/sevilla-v-juventus-champions-league-match-preview/?

Dec 7, 2015
 

Juventus

When the draw was announced for the group stage of the Champions League I will admit I was a little worried. And this was before I watched us slump into a lethargy on the field domestically as the season drew close enough to embrace. For Man City with their billions bankrolling a fine selection of superstars, when fit and firing on all cylinders, are a very serious force to be reckoned with. Add to the mix Seville, who are canny operators on the European stage and a plucky Monchengladbach side and progression appeared far from a given.

However, as we approach our final fixture of the group stage, the only fight left is not for qualification, but to head through in 1st, thus avoiding the other group winners such as Bayern, Real and Barca.

Arguably, our best form up until recently has come in Europe. Perhaps I am paying Allegri too much credit, but the results and current state of play speak for themselves. With the loss of three world class, seasoned professionals and the intake of new, talented recruits we then found ourselves suffering our worst injury crisis for many moons. With forced changes and newcomers our only option, Allegri decided to prioritise the Champions League, whilst perhaps hedging his bets in the league. Believing that once key players returned from injury, league form would settle and we would climb the table before it was too late to mount a serious defence of our title.

Some continue to criticise the coach, but presently, his bets are paying off.

Regardless of Man City’s efforts at home to the Germans, due to our head to head record against the boys in blue, a draw in Spain will be enough to retain pole position of the group. Which will be a solid achievement, especially so given our struggles.

Our form of late has been greatly improved. Five wins on the bounce. Points gained on the leading pack domestically. Key players finding their rhythm and more returning to the ranks. The defence has regained its solidity, the Dybala/Mandzukic tandem is working. Lichsteiner has returned from heart surgery every bit the locomotive of a player we all adore. Plenty of reasons to be cheerful.

As for our opponents…

Whilst placed presently bottom of the table, Seville can still qualify for the Europa league with a victory coupled with the expected Monchengladbach defeat in Manchester. Their pedigree in that competition is brilliant, having won the cup in both the last two seasons.

Widely respected coach Unai Emery has been experiencing mixed form domestically, with his side presently sitting in a disappointing 10th spot of La Liga. Their latest result was a 1-1 draw away to La Coruna.

We will have to be careful with Banega and Gameiro. For the two can combine well through the middle, yet we should be capable of dealing with the threat from wide positions, given our height in the box and power on the flanks.

A victory would not only breed confidence, assure us of first place and aid the Italian european co-efficient, it would also add another EU1.5m to the prize money already obtained. We receive 12m for merely group stage qualification, 0.5m for each draw and 1.5m for each victory, with a further 5.5m for progressing to the knock-out phase. Which seems to have our champions league income, presently running at –

12m group stage inclusion prize

1m two draws

4.5m three victories

5.5m Knock-out stage qualification

EU23m

Which doesn’t take into account the TV money. Too much work on the calculations are required to glean an approximate figure for the market pool TV funds earned thus far. Yet for comparison, last season’s path to the final brought us close to EU60m from the market pool. Its plain to see why champions league qualification is essential for the club’s ambitions.

It seems that plenty of supporters have rather short memories. For the return to the 3-5-2 has brought not only an upturn in our fortunes but also yet more wailing of ‘players demanded the change‘ and ‘Allegri has tinkered too much‘. Which seems at best odd, for Allegri began the season deploying the same 3-5-2 we now see as the answer to our hopefully fast vanishing woes.

It wasn’t until the Chievo game that we changed to a back four, and this was more forced by selection options, than through attempting a new system. In Europe however, Allegri has deployed…

Man City 1-2 Juventus 4-3-3

Juventus 2-0 Seville 3-5-2

Juventus 0-0 Monchengladbach 4-3-3

Monchengladbach 1-1 Juventus 4-3-1-2

Juventus 1-0 Man City 3-5-2

Present reports suggest we will go with a 3-5-2.

There are some doubts over Mandzukic, which could allow Morata his first start for a while. Great chance to stake his claim for a place in the starting XI. Khedira and Pererya continue their comebacks on the training field though are out of contention for this match. Asamoah was not selected for our group stage squad due to injury, neither was – much to the rageful chagrin of his die hard supporters – Padoin.

We can afford to set out to soak up pressure and hit the spaniards on the break. Which is different from playing for a draw. It is Seville who have to win to continue their european adventure in the Europa League. And as the home side, in front of their own fans, they will have far more pressure on their shoulders to perform.

For us, it is a chance to continue decent form in Europe, add pace to the momentum and see how our newfound confidence in Serie A translates to the continental stage where we have raised our game and played well in all but the matches against the Germans.

 

Probable lineup 3-5-2:

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Dybala, Morata.

 

Injuries:

Khedira (hamstring), Pereyra (hamstring), Hernanes (hamstring), Mandzukic (Flu), Evra (Knee), Lemina (Tendon)

Suspended:

Hernanes


 

  Sevilla

Probable lineup 4-2-3-1:

Rico; Escudero, Rami, Kolodziejczak, Mariano; Iborra, Krychowiak; Vitolo, Krohn-Dehli, Konoplyanka; Llorente

Injuries:

Beto, Daniel Carriço, Nico Pareja, Gaël Kakuta, Marco Andreolli, Benoît Trémoulinas

Suspended:

None

 

Formation

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Sevilla squad to face Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/76806/sevilla-squad-face-juventus?

Dec 7, 2015
 
Fernando Llorente is included in the Sevilla squad to face his former side Juventus tomorrow.

The Bianconeri will top their Champions League group with a draw at Sanchez Pizjuan tomorrow, but the hosts need a win to have a chance of getting Europa League football.

Llorente will be in contention to face his former side, while Benoit Tremoulinas and Ever Banega return to the fold having missed the weekend trip to Deportivo with injury.


Sevilla squad to face Juventus:
Sergio Rico, David Soria, Mariano, Coke, Escudero, Tremoulinas, Rami, Kolo, Krychowiak, Iborra, Nzonzi, Krohn-Delhi, Banega, Vitolo, Konoplyanka, Reyes, Immobile, Gameiro, Llorente.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Juventus boss Max Allegri:
Sevilla match of 'paramount importance'

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/story/2745479/juventus-boss-sevilla-match-of-paramount-importance?

Dec 7, 2015
 
Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has stressed the importance of his side's conclusive Group D fixture against Sevilla.

Although Juventus have already reached the last 16 of the Champions League and Sevilla cannot catch either them or Manchester City, there is still plenty to play for in Spain on Tuesday night.

The Bianconeri are not happy only to be among the list of the best 16 clubs on the continent -- they want to feature in the top eight: those who win their groups and are seeded in next Monday's draw.

Sevilla, for their part, can soften the disappointing blow of leaving the Champions League by earning a shot at a third straight Europa League title, but only a win can keep that dream alive.

"It's of paramount importance that we finish top of our group," Allegri said at a news conference in Seville. "We want to avoid Real [Madrid], Barca or Bayern [Munich] in the last 16. We also want to finish the group unbeaten."

A draw would suffice for Juve to do that, but that is not going to be gifted to them by the hosts.

"We all wanted to be in the Champions League," said Sevilla coach Unai Emery. "When I arrived, I set that as my objective. So this is either going to be a small disappointment or a big disappointment. We want to win tomorrow's game -- getting into the Europa League motivates us a lot."

Beating Juve does not give Sevilla any guarantees, however. They would still need a favour from Manchester City, who host Borussia Monchengladbach and will also be out for victory to take advantage of any Juve stumble in the group's other game.

"All that is in our control is to play a good game," Emery said. "If we win, we will look to Manchester. Borussia are also in good form. We will need to play well to have a chance to beat them."

If all fails and Sevilla do exit Europe prematurely -- in view of their Europa League success in recent years -- they would focus their efforts onto getting back there next season, via La Liga.

With six points currently separating them from fourth-placed Celta Vigo, that is still going to be a challenge, particularly with the likes of Villarreal, Athletic Bilbao and Valencia ahead of them in that particular scramble.

"Some years without beating Barcelona and Real Madrid, a consistent line got us into the Champions League positions," reflected Emery. "That balanced line, the team needs to find. I believe we are improving, but we need something more."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Juventus can make Champions League
statement in Sevilla

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2745665/juventus-can-make-european-statement-in-sevilla?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Slowly but surely, Juventus are starting to achieve their objectives. Having achieved five consecutive Serie A victories, the team must now turn its attention to the Champions League, where a tough match against Sevilla awaits.

Four-time Europa League winners and a side coached by a master tactician in the form of Unai Emery -- a man linked with the Juventus job should Massimiliano Allegri vacate the post -- Sevilla pose a huge threat to a Juve squad seeking to top their group.

Desperate to remain undefeated in Europe this season, the thought of having to travel to the hostile Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium -- a ground that recently swallowed up and spat out yet another Valencia coach -- is a disconcerting prospect.

Nuno Espirito Santo, Valencia's recently resigned coach, was the latest to have lost his job after a defeat in Seville -- following on from Quique Sanchez Flores and Ernesto Valverde before him. To make matters worse, both Barcelona and Real Madrid surrendered to the power of Emery's men away from home this season. A win or even a draw on Tuesday evening and Juventus will not only seal top place in the group, but ensure they avoid the likes of Bayern Munich and Barcelona in the next round of the competition.

For that to happen, the Bianconeri will need to play the game with great intensity. The Spaniards are aching for a win that, with a third-place finish in the group, could potentially allow them to compete in the Europa League yet again, a competition they have won each of the past two years.

Despite the injuries, the departed and the many new arrivals, Los Nervionenses have only lost three home games all season. In front of their own fans, they display a confidence and an eagerness to take the initiative. Away from home, however, the players seem to collapse. They may run just as much if not more than they managed last season, but the runs are less incisive, the strategy seems far less understood.

At home, Emery's men feel a certain level of confidence that allows them to interpret his tactics better. A team that demonstrates attacking fluidity when comfortable, the side has scored 15 goals in seven home games in the league, averaging just over two goals a game. While their defence still looks fragile, the likes of Fernando Llorente have begun to show their worth. The ex-Juventus striker is playing with greater frequency and has therefore adapted to the tactics, scoring twice and providing two assists over his past six games -- including a goal against Real Madrid.

Defensively, they must still find the right balance to ensure security, but they have improved. Over those seven home games played in the league, Los Rojiblancos did concede 10, but seven of those game within the first month or so of the season. And since the beginning of October, they have only conceded three, all of which came in the two matches against Barca and Rafa Benitez's Los Blancos.

The only way to beat them is to intimidate them, while practicing the art of fine defending. Nothing irritates Emery's men more than a disciplined back line that frustrates the forwards. And Juventus must play with confidence and intelligence to halt their Spanish opponents.

With Mario Mandzukic absent due to a fever, it's likely Alvaro Morata will be tasked with leading the line for the Old Lady, and the Spaniard tends to excel in the big games. A player of immense technique, he has been depended on less in the last month or so, but his quality is evident even if he's yet to provide the coach with the consistency required.

However, he is the player the fans most want to see play alongside Paulo Dybala. Both possess tremendous technique, youth and a varied set of skills. And if they demonstrate a growing chemistry, then the team have a forward line that can represent them for years to come.

Mandzukic has proved what a hard worker he really is while excelling in creating room for Dybala, but Morata offers so much more on a technical level and is capable of creating things on his own. If he can continue to give his all in each and every match, sacrificing for the sake of the team and yet still knowing when to provide individual brilliance, then he can be unstoppable.

With Alex Sandro -- a man capable of delivering accuracy into the box -- likely to play, fans are desperate to see how well the next generation can perform when all play together. Sadly, it seems Juan Cuadrado will be benched yet again. And that may not be such a bad thing. The Colombian may be talented and ambitious, but he's still not capable of intelligent movements in matches that require speed of thought and excellent decision-making skills.

With Paul Pogba back in the squad and ready to guide the side forward, Allegri's men will need to prove why they are a team that Europe should fear and do what Barcelona, Real Madrid and Valencia couldn't: defeat Sevilla at home. Or, at the very least, walk away with a point.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Sevilla V Juventus — Team News,
Tactics, Lineups And Predictions

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

Dec 8, 2015
 
Juventus travel to Seville on Tuesday night knowing that a draw will be enough to see them ensure top spot in Group D of the Champions League. The Bianconeri are slowly coming back to their top form after a shaky start to the season although they are unbeaten in Europe so far.

They are on a run of five straight wins in Italy and have the momentum going into this tough trip to Spain. Last season’s finalists are already assured of a place in the knockout stages and clinically dispatched Lazio on Friday to move up to fifth place.

Europa League winners Sevilla are already out of the competition. They sit bottom of the group having lost their last four games which happens to be their worst sequence of results in continental tournaments. However, domestically they have won five of their last six games including victories over Real Madrid and Barcelona at the Sanchez Pizjuan.


Team news and tactical brief

Sevilla FC

Sevilla are playing for pride more than anything else but a win here could help them grab the Europa League place, a competition they have won in the last two seasons. If Borussia Monchengladbach fail to beat City in the other game, then Unai Emery’s men could seal their spot with a win against Juventus.

This will be a special match for Fernando Llorente, who moved from Juventus to Sevilla in the last transfer window. He will be looking to make an impact against his former side after spending two successful years in Turin. The Basque man has netted three goals in La Liga so far but has not scored in the Champions League yet.

Another crucial player for the hosts could be midfielder Ever Banega, who is set to make his return to the first team following a calf injury. Sevilla will definitely miss Italian defender Marco Andreolli who is out with an ankle injury and Beto (knee), along with Daniel Carrico and Gael Kakuta (both hamstring).

Probable Starting Line-up (4-2-3-1):
Rico; Coke, Rami, Kolodziejczak, Tremoulinas; N’Zonzi, Krychowiak; Reyes, Banega , Konoplyanka; Llorente

 

 
Juventus

Juventus will be making a mistake if they are taking Sevilla lightly as they have shown their strength at home by securing wins against Real Madrid and Barcelona. Max Allegri has insisted his side are determined to get the point which will cement their position at the top.

A loss here would hand City a chance to overtake them as they host a resurgent Monchengladbach side in Manchester. They are coming off a positive period of form and Allegri knows how important it is to keep the momentum going.

Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala are the first choice at this moment but Alvaro Morata who scored in the corresponding fixture might get a start here as the Croatian is not present in the squad for this game. Juan Cuadrado who came off the bench against Lazio is a candidate on the right wing. Hernanes will miss out for the visitors as he serves the second game of a two-match suspension, with Roberto Pereyra and Sami Khedira (both thigh) also absent.

Probable Starting Lineup (3-5-2):
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Sturaro, Pogba, Marchisio, Sandro; Dybala, Morata


Key Facts

Sevilla have lost 7 of their last 8 matches in the Champions League.

Juventus are undefeated in 14 of their last 15 matches in the Champions League.

Juventus have lost just one of their last 13 matches in all competition.


Players to Watch Out For

Fernando Llorente (Sevilla)

Fernando Llorente has three goals and three assists for the Andalucian club even though he has made just four starts this season after his move from Juventus this summer. The 30-year-old did not feature in the previous meeting and will be hoping to see some action in Seville against his former club.


Paulo Dybala (Juventus)

Juventus had to rely on Dybala’s attacking prowess to get the three points against Lazio. He recently revealed how he has been working with Max Allegri to change his movements on the pitch and that has seen him develop a strong partnership with Mario Mandzukic. The sublime goal against Lazio took his season tally to eight goals and he looks very likely to open his account in Europe tonight.


Prediction

Sevilla 1–1 Juventus

Juventus are in pole position to finish the group as winners and are slowly returning to the level that got them to the Champions League final last season. Sevilla head into this match unbeaten in their last three competitive matches, but before that they had lost six of their eight matches in all competitions. The Spanish club haven’t picked up any points since the opening matchday in this group and despite the fact they’ve beaten Real Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia at home in recent times, Juventus should maintain their unbeaten run here.


Blast From the Past

When these sides met in Turin back in September, Sevilla were comfortably despatched 2-0 at Juventus Stadium.
 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

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Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Betting Preview: Sevilla v Juventus

The side from the south of Spain have been disappointing this season in Europe and
with Juve needing a win to clinch top spot, backing the in-form visitors is a wise option.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2995/betting/2015/12/08/18116862/-?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Sevilla head into their final Champions League group match knowing that they need a win against last season's finalists Juventus to keep their European campaign alive.

The Spanish side have already been eliminated from the tournament, but will want to finish third in Group D to move into the Europa League and attempt to win that competition for the third straight season.

Even a victory may not be enough for Sevilla if Borussia Monchengladbach beat Manchester City in the other group game, but Unai Emery's men will no doubt have plenty of motivation come kick-off.

Juventus for their part know a win at the Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan will secure their place as group winners, avoiding a less favorable draw in the last 16. With the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Barcelona all topping their groups, the Bianconeri too will be desperate for a victory.

Sevilla are offered at 6/4 (2.50) by NetBet for the win, but the Andalusians have been one of the most unpredictable sides in Spain this season. The same team that has beaten both Barca and Madrid has failed to beat Las Palmas and Levante, and it is difficult to have much confidence in them.

Juventus, meanwhile, are priced at a healthy 2/1 (3.00). After an extremely shaky start to the season, the Serie A champions have hit some form, winning their last five matches in all competitions. They have also kept four consecutive clean sheets and can be backed at 9/4 (3.25) to keep another.

It is worth remembering that in the first game against Sevilla in Turin back in September, Juve were infinitely superior. The 2-0 scoreline barely did justice to how much better the Italians were and with top spot at stake, it is hard to back against the visitor on Tuesday evening.

Bolder punters might take the price of 37/10 (4.70) for Juve to win and keep a clean sheet, but in truth the price for an away win looks generous. Sevilla have lost their last four Champions League matches, were utterly outplayed by Juve recently and face an in-form opponent who need a win. All those factors make opposing the hosts the logical selection.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Sevilla chance for Rugani?

http://www.football-italia.net/76833/sevilla-chance-rugani?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Daniele Rugani could make his first Juventus start tonight, away to Sevilla in the Champions League.

Bianconeri Coach Massimiliano Allegri admitted yesterday he had not decided whether or not to start the youngster, who has made just one cameo appearance since moving from Empoli.

According to SportMediaset, the Old Lady will deploy a 3-5-2 shape at Sanchez Pizjuan tonight, and Rugani could replace one of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci or Giorgio Chiellini.

Alex Sandro and Stephan Lichtsteiner will occupy the flanks, with Paul Pogba expected to return in midfield after missing the Lazio match through suspension.

The absence of Mario Mandzukic is likely to see Alvaro Morata return up-front, with in-form Paulo Dybala expected to start alongside him.

Juventus will secure first place in the group if they avoid defeat, or if Manchester City lose to Borussia Monchengladbach.


Probable Juventus team to face Sevilla:
Buffon; Barzagli, Rugani, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata, Dybala

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Alvaro Morata returns to the Juventus XI at Sevilla

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/sevilla/champions-league/team-news/team-news-alvaro-morata-returns-to-the-juventus-xi_261279.html?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Alvaro Morata has been handed a place in the Juventus starting XI after four consecutive matches on the bench.

The Spaniard will partner Paulo Dybala in the attack during tonight's Champions League group match at Sevilla, with Mario Mandzukic suffering from flu symptoms.

Paul Pogba returns for the Old Lady after serving a domestic suspension, but Sami Khedira, Martin Caceres, Patrice Evra, Hernanes, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra are all unavailable.

Sevilla have recalled Ever Banega and Benoit Tremoulinas to their lineup, but have Daniel Carriço, Gael Kakuta, Beto and Italian Marco Andreolli sidelined.


Sevilla: Sergio Rico; Coke, Rami, Kolo, Tremoulinas; Krychowiak, N'Zonzi; Vitolo, Banega, Konoplyanka; Llorente

Subs: Soria, Escudero, Mariano Ferreira, Krohn-Dehli, Iborra, Reyes, Gameiro


Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata, Dybala

Subs: Neto, Rugani, Vitale, Pellini, Cuadrado, Morselli

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Monchi: 'Complicated for Sevilla'

http://www.football-italia.net/76844/monchi-complicated-sevilla?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Sevilla director of sport Monchi admits they “knew it would be complicated” in a Champions League group with Juventus.

They host the Bianconeri this evening and must win with Borussia Monchengladbach failing to get the victory at Manchester City in order to snatch third place.

“When we saw the draw, we knew this would be a complicated group with Manchester City, Juventus and Borussia Monchengladbach,” Monchi told Mediaset Premium in Italy.

“We wanted to continue this Champions League adventure, but that is beyond hope now and so we want the Europa League. It would be a great objective and a concrete one too.

“Unai Emery is a prestigious Coach and we hope he will continue with us for many years. He has a contract for next season.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Marotta: 'Morata must prove quality'

http://www.football-italia.net/76846/marotta-morata-must-prove-quality?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Juventus director Beppe Marotta praised Max Allegri, put pressure on Alvaro Morata and is “optimistic” in Sevilla.

The Bianconeri have already booked their spot in the Champions League Round of 16 and will win the group with at least a point in Spain tonight.

“Things are going better compared to the recent past. We’re back on track on all fronts, so I am optimistic for the future too,” director of sport Marotta told Mediaset Premium.

Having been on the bench for several games in a row, Morata starts alongside Paulo Dybala tonight.

“The strike force is made up of many important players, so it’s difficult for Morata to find consistency. At Juventus we need great forwards. Tonight, also due to injuries, it’s up to him to prove his quality.

“The start to the season was damaged by certain injuries, but many returned to fitness and the younger players realised what it means to play for Juventus.

“At the end we found a formation that reflects what Juventus has to be. Our history teaches us that Juventus must be protagonists in every competition.”

Marotta was asked about reports Juve are targeting Sevilla manager Emery for next season.

“There is no Coach problem. Last season Allegri did very well and this term, in the light of so many changes to the squad, he’s doing equally as well. We are not remotely thinking of Emery.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

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Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

Half-Time 0-0: Sevilla and
Juventus remain deadlocked

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/sevilla/champions-league/half-time-report/half-time-report-sevilla-and-juventus-remain-deadlocked_261304.html?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Neither Sevilla nor Juventus have found a way through in the first half of their final Champions League group match as the sides headed into the interval tied at 0-0.

The hosts dominated the opening stages but were almost pegged back in the fifth minute when Alvaro Morata's header flashed past the post.

Another opportunity fell Morata's way moments later as he raced clear of the Sevilla defence, beating the offside trap but shooting just wide from a tight angle.

Sevilla applied some pressure of their own in the 14th minute when Yevhen Konoplyanka let fly from 25 yards, his effort sailing wide and narrowly missing the head of Fernando Llorente in front of goal on the way.

Llorente had the chance to do some damage to his former club five minutes when the ball fell kindly for him inside the penalty area, but his low strike was palmed away by Gianluigi Buffon.

Juventus' best chance of the half came in the 25th minute when Paulo Dybala laid the ball on a platter for Morata inside the box, only to watch his strike partner fire wide from point-blank range.

Sevilla, who need to win the match to stand any chance of salvaging Europa League football, struggled to create chances in the closing stages of the first half and are now relying on Manchester City to get a result against Borussia Monchengladbach in tonight's other Group D fixture.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)

HT 0-0: Morata misses Sevilla sitter

http://www.football-italia.net/76848/ht-morata-misses-sevilla-sitter?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Alvaro Morata missed an absolute sitter and both goalkeepers performed tough saves as it’s 0-0 between Sevilla and Juventus.

At half-time, Manchester City are 2-1 down at home to Borussia Monchengladbach, which is bad news for the Spaniards and good for the Italians.

The Bianconeri had already booked their spot in the Round of 16, but needed a point here to be sure of winning the group, while Sevilla would only snatch third with a victory and Borussia Monchengladbach failing to beat Manchester City.

Mario Mandzukic, Sami Khedira, Martin Caceres, Simone Zaza, Patrice Evra, Hernanes, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra were all unavailable, so there were only six Juve players on the bench. Ever Banega and Benoit Tremoulinas returned from injury, but Daniel Carriço, Gael Kakuta, Beto and Italian Marco Andreolli were sidelined. Fernando Llorente faced his former club, but Ciro Immobile was in the stands.

Alvaro Morata made an increasingly rare start and within four minutes had turned a free header over from Claudio Marchisio’s cross. The Spaniard flashed another good opportunity across the face of goal, as did Paulo Dybala, while Llorente just failed to get the necessary contact to a Yevhen Konoplyanka snapshot.

Stefano Sturaro’s header was beaten away by Sergio Rico, but Gigi Buffon needed a double save on both Llorente and the Konoplyanka follow-up at the near post.

Morata missed an astonishing opportunity on 25 minutes. Dybala knocked down a cross and the Spaniard came sliding in only to prod it wide from a yard.

Buffon again got down to palm a Llorente header off the line and Rico pushed a Dybala free kick out of the near top corner.


Sevilla 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Sevilla: Sergio Rico; Coke, Rami, Kolo, Tremoulinas; Krychowiak, N’Zonzi; Vitolo, Banega, Konoplyanka; Llorente

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata, Dybala

Ref: Marciniak (POL)

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')
 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

Sevilla 1-0 Juventus: Allegri's
men through as runners-up

Fernando Llorente scored the only goal of the game against his former club, who go
through to the last 16 in second place after Manchester City beat Borussia Monchengladbach.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/sevilla-vs-juventus/2146816/report

Dec 8, 2015
 
Fernando Llorente's second-half header condemned his former club Juventus to a 1-0 defeat in the Champions League on Tuesday to send Sevilla into the Europa League.

The hosts needed a win and a Borussia Monchengladbach defeat at Manchester City to stay in Europe, and they duly kept up their end of the bargain midway through the second half when Llorente rose highest to head home Yevhen Konoplyanka's corner at Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan.

Alvaro Morata wasted the visitors' best opportunity of the first half by poking wide from six yards out just before half-time after goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon had denied Llorente's low effort inside the area.

But it was Llorente who had the final say - although Paulo Dybala did rattle the post late on - as Sevilla sealed a place in the competition they have won for the last two seasons, with City recording a decisive win over Gladbach to top the group ahead of second-placed Juve.

The Serie A title-holders, last season's beaten finalists in this competition, made much of the early pressing in the opening five minutes, with Morata planting a firm header over the bar following Claudio Marchisio's angled cross.

Former Juve striker Llorente came close to settling Sevilla's nerves, diverting Konoplyanka's speculative 25-yard effort wide on 13 minutes, but the visitors continued to threaten.

First, Dybala fired wide after some neat work from Morata, before Stefano Sturaro's powerful header forced goalkeeper Sergio Rico into a smart save from six yards.

Opposite number Buffon had to be alert at the other end to deny Llorente's scuffed effort following a fine counter-attack, but it was Morata who wasted the best chance of the half 14 minutes before the break.

Sturaro's ball behind the defence found Dybala, whose squared header was stabbed wide of an unguarded net by the Spaniard from close range.

Buffon was on hand eight minutes later to deny Llorente's header, while Dybala saw a fine 30-yard free-kick beaten away by Rico at the other end.

Paul Pogba stung the palms of the Sevilla keeper again with a fierce drive from outside the box just after half-time.

Ever Banega forced Buffon into a scrambled save on the hour mark with a drilled 25-yard effort, but the hosts struggled to pierce a resolute Juve defence, despite the likes of Llorente continuing to look lively.

Six minutes later, the Spaniard finally made the breakthrough, rising to power a header past Buffon and into the net.

The home faithful were made to sweat eight minutes from time when Dybala clattered an effort on to the woodwork from distance, while Michael Krohn-Dehli saw an effort chalked off for offside on an otherwise satisfying day for Unai Emery's men.

Sevilla will now have a shot at winning the Europa League for a third season in succession, something no club has achieved in the history of UEFA's second-tier competition, either in its current format or as the UEFA Cup, while Juve must make do with second spot in the group and a potentially unfavourable draw in the round of 16.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')
 
 

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

CL: Llorente sends Juve second

Fernando Llorente prevented Juventus winning their Champions League
group and put Sevilla into the Europa League with a 1-0 victory.

http://www.football-italia.net/76849/cl-llorente-sends-juve-second?

Dec 8, 2015
 
The Bianconeri had already booked their spot in the Round of 16, but needed a point here to be sure of winning the group, while Sevilla would only snatch third with a victory and Borussia Monchengladbach failing to beat Manchester City. Instead, Juve lost and City emerged with a 4-2 thriller.

Mario Mandzukic, Sami Khedira, Martin Caceres, Simone Zaza, Patrice Evra, Hernanes, Mario Lemina and Roberto Pereyra were all unavailable, so there were only six Juve players on the bench. Ever Banega and Benoit Tremoulinas returned from injury, but Daniel Carriço, Gael Kakuta, Beto and Italian Marco Andreolli were sidelined. Fernando Llorente faced his former club, but Ciro Immobile was in the stands.

Alvaro Morata made an increasingly rare start and within four minutes had turned a free header over from Claudio Marchisio’s cross. The Spaniard flashed another good opportunity across the face of goal, as did Paulo Dybala, while Llorente just failed to get the necessary contact to a Yevhen Konoplyanka snapshot.

Stefano Sturaro’s header was beaten away by Sergio Rico, but Gigi Buffon needed a double save on both Llorente and the Konoplyanka follow-up at the near post.

Morata missed an astonishing opportunity on 25 minutes. Dybala knocked down a cross and the Spaniard came sliding in only to prod it wide from a yard.

Buffon again got down to palm a Llorente header off the line and Rico pushed a Dybala free kick out of the near top corner.

Straight after the restart Rico had his gloves stung by a Paul Pogba screamer and Buffon came to the rescue on an Ever Banega strike following a poor clearance.

When the goal did arrive, it was inevitably from the man who left Juventus over the summer. Llorente rose above the crowd for a flicked header from a corner, looping the ball over a helpless Buffon into the far top corner. Out of respect, he did not celebrate, though it was his first Champions League goal since November 2014.

Llorente also had appeals for a penalty due to a Giorgio Chiellini nudge and Dybala curled a stunning effort that cannoned off the crossbar.

News filtered through that Manchester City had scored twice in three minutes to go from 2-1 down to 3-2 up, sending Sevilla third and Juventus second.

Sevilla thought they had another goal, but Coke was offside following-up a Crohn-Dehli parried shot. Pogba forced a save from point-blank range at the near post after hooking a throw-in with a long limb, then Kevin Gameiro ran on to a long ball only to turn wide.

Dybala had another effort whipped just past the far post and in stoppages Juan Cuadrado chested down to set up Morata, but Rico rushed off the line to charge down the shot with his chest.


Sevilla 1-0 Juventus

Scorers: Llorente 65 (S)

Sevilla: Sergio Rico; Coke, Rami, Kolo (Mariano Ferreira 57), Tremoulinas; Krychowiak, N’Zonzi; Vitolo, Banega, Konoplyanka (Krohn-Dehli 68); Llorente (Gameiro 78)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner (Cuadrado 77), Sturaro, Marchisio, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata, Dybala

Ref: Marciniak (POL)

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

Juventus surrender top spot
with defeat at Sevilla

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/sevilla/champions-league/result/result-juve-surrender-top-spot-with-defeat_261317.html

Dec 8, 2015
 
Sevilla striker Fernando Llorente has scored the goal that denied his former club Juventus a first-place finish in Group D of the Champions League.

The Spaniard's second-half strike was enough to give the hosts a 1-0 win over the Old Lady, while Manchester City's victory over Borussia Monchengladbach saw the Sky Blues progress as group winners.

The visitors started on the front foot but were wasteful in the final third as Alvaro Morata blew two chances to put them ahead inside the first 10 minutes.

Sevilla put Juventus under pressure in the 14th minute when Yevhen Konoplyanka's 25-yard screaming whizzed past the post, narrowly missing Llorente's head in front of goal on the way.

Morata squandered another chance in the 25th minute after Paulo Dybala beat the offside trap and picked him out inside the box, the Spaniard shooting wide unchallenged.

The Italians almost took the lead in spectacular fashion early in the second half when Paul Pogba went for goal from 35 yards out, a dipping effort that Sergio Rico was forced to tip behind.

The decisive goal came in the 65th minute when Konoplyanka swung in a corner and Llorente rose highest in the box to thump a header beyond Gianlugi Buffon and break the deadlock.

Juve came within a lick of paint of the goal that would have kept them top of the group nine minutes from time when Dybala beat Rico with a vicious strike that came back off the crossbar.

Sevilla had a late goal ruled out for offside, but one proved enough to fire them into the Europa League in the end as the Spaniards pipped Monchengladbach to a third-placed finish.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

Sevilla 1-0 Juventus: Old Lady Haunted
By Former Striker Llorente

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/12/sevilla-1-0-juventus-old-lady-haunted-by-former-striker-llorente/?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Sevilla defeated Juventus 1-0 in the Champions League at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on Tuesday night, thus ending the Italian side’s unbeaten run in the group stage.

In a hectic night on the pitch both in Spain and elsewhere across the continent in terms of Group D, it was a former Bianconeri player in Fernando Llorente who would ultimately overcome his former employers with a header midway through the second half.

Alvaro Morata should have opened the scoring early on when he pounced on a Claudio Marchisio cross and headed towards goal but it went slightly too high.

Whether it was reading of the game or just blind luck, the Italians were fortunate not to go a goal behind when a double attack from Sevilla started with Llorente’s effort being saved before another attempt hit the goalkeeper’s legs.

Morata, if he didn’t score before, definitely should have broken the deadlock 25 minutes in when a Paulo Dybala header across the face of goal for the Spaniard gave him the opportunity to toe-poke it into the net from a few yards out but it rolled wide.

With 25 minutes to go, Buffon was left with a bitter taste in his mouth from a former teammate in Fernando Llorente as his deliciously delicate header from a corner flicked the ball on and into the corner of the net.

An equaliser nearly came for the Serie A side from Dybala with his brilliant shot smashing the crossbar and rebounding out.

It was an eventful last 10 minutes with the Spaniards having a goal ruled out for offside before Kevin Gameiro shot just wide from a one-on-one with Buffon and then Morata came agonisingly close to finding an equaliser.

The loss for Juventus coupled with a victory for Manchester City means they finish second in Group D ahead of the knockout stages, while Sevilla’s victory continues their European participation as they transfer to the Europa League after finishing third.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

RATINGS: Sevilla 1-0 Juventus

http://www.goal.com/en/match/sevilla-vs-juventus/2146816/ratings

Dec 8, 2015
 

Sevilla

1 Sergio Rico - Made a number of phenomenal saves between the sticks to keep Juventus out time and time again.

23 Coke - Defended well against the likes of Alex Sandro and Morata, particularly inside the penalty area.

3 A. Rami - Got his body in the way of a number of Juventus shots, protecting Rico superbly.

5 T. Kolodziejczak - Read dangerous situations well with good anticipation before being taken off in the second half.

2 B. Trémoulinas - Chucked in a number of good crosses from the left-hand side and combined well with Konoplyanka.

4 G. Krychowiak - Shielded Sevilla's backline tremendously well with superb intensity in his tackling and pressing.

15 S. N'Zonzi - Kept his passing neat and tidy in the middle of the park and helped close off space alongside Krychowiak.

20 Vitolo - Got into the box well with good driving runs past Alex Sandro and never panicked in the final third.

19 É. Banega - Dragged Sevilla forward throughout the entirety of the match which sharp bursts forward, feeding possession into good areas to attack Juventus.

22 Y. Konoplyanka - Sent in the cross which brought about Llorente's header and was replaced by the bright Krohn-Delhi soon after.

24 F. Llorente - Scored the all-important header for Sevilla at the near post to down his former paymasters.


Substitutes

25 Mariano - Added verve to Sevilla's attacking play down the right flank as a second-half substitute, sending in a couple of decent crosses.

7 M. Krohn-Dehli - Tested Buffon with one or two good shots from distance, making a terrific impact off the bench.

9 K. Gameiro - Missed a great chance to put the game to bed late on, firing wide of the near post from point-blank range.


 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - Like Juventus did to Rico, Sevilla peppered the Italian veteran with numerous efforts on goal and was equal to most of them.

15 A. Barzagli - Got beaten too in the air for Llorente's winning header but was solid for most of the game.

19 L. Bonucci - Made a couple of decent blocks inside the box but struggled when Sevilla sustained their waves of pressure.

3 G. Chiellini - Often got the better of Llorente in their countless duels and mopped up Sevilla threats well.

26 S. Lichtsteiner - Stood firm defensively for the time he was on the pitch before being taken off for Cuadrado, as Juventus chased a goal.

27 S. Sturaro - Had a good header from inside the penalty area denied fantastically by Rico early doors.

8 C. Marchisio - Circulated possession crisply as usual, failing to put a foot wrong in midfield for Allegri's side.

10 P. Pogba - Tested Rico with a number of wicked shots towards goal, often catching them sweetly but the Sevilla shot-stopper was in inspired form on the night.

12 Alex Sandro - Fed Pogba well all evening with good passing when surging forward down the left-hand side.

9 Álvaro Morata - Missed the best chance of the match for Juventus as he sliced an attempt wide when found unmarked by Dybala, with the scoreline 0-0.

21 P. Dybala - Done everything he could to score on the night, striking the woodwork in the dying minutes of normal time which summed up his luck.


Substitutes

16 J. Cuadrado - Replaced Lichtsteiner with around 15 minutes of normal time left to play but didn't make too much of an impact.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

CL: Juve face very tough draw

http://www.football-italia.net/76850/cl-juve-face-very-tough-draw?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Juventus go through second in their Champions League group, so could face Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich or Atletico Madrid.

The Bianconeri only needed a point away to Sevilla, or for Manchester City not to beat Borussia Monchengladbach, to secure the top spot in Group D.

However, they were beaten 1-0 by a header from former Juve star Fernando Llorente and Manchester City recovered from a trailing situation to win 4-2.

That means Juve will face one of the group winners in the Last 16 of the Champions League and it is a very tough selection to choose from.

Among candidates in the draw are Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Wolfsburg, Zenit and either Chelsea or Porto, depending on tomorrow’s results.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

Player Ratings: Sevilla 1-0 Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/12/player-ratings-sevilla-1-0-juventus/?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Sevilla were 1-0 winners at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan over Juventus in their Tuesday night UEFA Champions League fixture against Juventus.

A single goal from former Bianconeri striker Fernando Llorente was enough to condemn Massimiliano Allegri and his players to defeat and lose their grip on the top of the group.

 

Sevilla

Sergio Rico – 8 – Heroic - Made a great save to deny Stefano Sturaro in the air, before denying Paulo Dybala before half time from a set piece. Made an excellent stop when Paul Pogba let fly from distance. Time and time again he was called into action, took its toll on the youngster who suffered from cramp in the dying minutes. Recovered to deny Alvaro Morata from scoring in extra time.

Coke – 6 – Timid - Struggled with the speed and trickery of Paulo Dybala, was lucky to escape punishment for clipping the Argentinian’s heel in the box.

Adil Rami – 5 – Clumsy - Almost gifted Juventus a goal when he hesitated in the box, but was able to wrestle the ball away from Paulo Dybala.

Timoethee Kolodziejczak – 6 – Frail - Battle with Alvaro Morata and struggled to cope with his physicality. Replaced in the second half by Mariano.

Benoit Tremoulinas – 6 – Threatening - Got forward regularly and posed a real threat with his crossing ability, particularly with Llorente to aim for in the box.

Grzegorz Krychowiak – 6 – Powerhouse - Bombed forward getting himself involved in the attack, involved in a rough mix up with Stefano Sturaro which saw the Pole sustain an injury to his hand.

Steven N’Zonzi – 6 – Engine - The former Stoke City midfielder looked tigerish and determined, frequently going forward and tightening the grip around the Juventus defenders.

Vitolo – 6 – Nullified - Frustrated by Giorgio Chiellini, tried to work around the Italian but was largely sidelined.

Ever Banega – 6 – Isolated - Largely kept in check by the Juventus midfielders, had a strike from distance that Gianluigi Buffon was quick to deal with.

Yevhen Konoplyanka – 7 – Dangerous - Almost squeezed his effort from a Gianluigi Buffon save under the Italian, but the veteran shot-stopper recovered the loose ball. Always looked a problem and kept the Juventus defenders on their toes, came off for Krohn-Delhi late in the game.

Fernando Llorente – 8 – Vengeful - The former Juventus striker almost diverted an early shot from Konoplyanka past Gianluigi Buffon. Had a great chance to open the score but sent his shot straight at the goalkeeper on the turn. Eventually opened the score, flicking his header backward and out of the reach of Buffon. The 30 year-old was applauded off the pitch by both sets of supporters, replaced by Gameiro.


Substitutes

Mariano – 6 – Solid - Replaced Kolodziejczak in the second half, brought some further solidity to the defence having gone ahead.

Michael Krohn-Dehli – 6 – Calming - Came on for Konoplyanka after the hour, provided some experience and freshness in the midfield. Thought he’d added a second, but was offside when the ball landed at his feet.

Kevin Gameiro – N/A - Late substitute who replaced the goalscorer Llorente. Missed a late chance, slicing his shot wide.


 

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon – 7 – Saviour - Made a double save to deny both Fernando Llorente and Yevhen Konoplyanka. Stopped the former heading past him from a set piece and then parried a stinging effort from Ever Banega in the second half. Relieved to see the flag go up when Michael Krohn-Delhi thought he’d added a second.

Andrea Barzagli – 6 – Plucky - Beaten by Fernando Llorente for strength, who could only watch the striker head past him to open the score. Tried to redeem himself and made a number of key interceptions in the dying minutes.

Leonardo Bonucci – 5 – Poor - Played on the edge, relying on drawing the foul from Fernando Llorente and found himself more interested in stringing passes together.

Giorgio Chiellini – 6 – Overzealous - Had initial difficulty marking Fernando Llorente, but soon reacquainted himself with his former teammate. Could have made matters worse having conceded by throwing his weight into the Spanish striker, the referee of the view it wasn’t a penalty.

Stefan Lichsteiner – 6 – Average - The Swiss wing-back provided little in the way of creativity, forced to track back whenever he got too far forward. Made way for Cuadrado in the second half.

Stefano Sturaro – 6 – Rough - Could have opened the score but from an excellent save from Sergio Rico to deny him putting his header past him. Yellow carded for a professional foul on Grzegorz Krychowiak.

Claudio Marchisio – 7 – Unrewarded - Picked out Morata with an exceptional delivery into the box, but the Spaniard sent his header wide. Grew increasingly frustrated, seeing many of his passes squandered by the strikers.

Paul Pogba – 6 – Quiet - Stung the hands of Sergio Rico with a rasping shot from outside the box. A muted affair from the Frenchman.

Alex Sandro – 7 – Determined - Sent in an excellent cross for Sturaro, but the midfielder had his header saved. Chased the loose ball and looked eager to wrestle the ball away from the Sevilla players.

Alvaro Morata – 5 – Woeful - Squandered an early opportunity when Marchisio found him in the box, heading wide. Missed the chance of the half when Dybala made it so his strike partner only needed to tap it in, but somehow he sent it wide. Denied at the

Paulo Dybala – 6 – Unlucky - Had a promising effort from outside the area, but it drifted just wide of the Sevilla goal. Layed it on a plate for Morata to pass it into the net, but the Spaniard missed inexplicably. Hit the post late in the game, beating Sergio Rico all ends up with a shot from range.


Substitutes

Juan Cuadrado – N/A - Brought on in the place of Lichsteiner with Massimiliano Allegri in need of a goal.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

SEVILLA - JUVENTUS

1 - 0

F. Llorente (65')

Matchday 6
Tuesday, December 8th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, Sevilla
Referee:‬ Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Attendance: 35583

Chiellini: 'Juve deserved more'

http://www.football-italia.net/76851/chiellini-juve-deserved-more?

Dec 8, 2015
 
Giorgio Chiellini felt “even a draw would’ve been limiting” in the 1-0 defeat to Sevilla, now Juventus hope for a “kind draw.”

The Bianconeri needed a point in Spain to be sure of top spot in the Champions League group, but were beaten 1-0 and Manchester City saw off Borussia Monchengladbach 4-2.

“We did not deserve to lose. In fact, even a draw would’ve been limiting considering the performances,” Chiellini told Mediaset Premium.

“Now we hope the draw will be kind, so we are not left with regrets about this night.

“We had many chances to score and barely risked anything at the back, if not on a few counter-attacks.

“Mind you, this is football.”

 

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