Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

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MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

HT 1-1: Cuadrado wipes
out Ilicic penalty

http://www.football-italia.net/77074/marotta-dybala-and-morata-stay?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Juan Cuadrado wiped out an early Josip Ilicic penalty, as Juventus and Fiorentina are 1-1 after a frenetic first half.

Juan Cuadrado and Paulo Sousa faced their former clubs, but finally this bitter rivalry was also a crucial Scudetto showdown. Juve were seeking a sixth straight Serie A win and had Mario Mandzukic, Sami Khedira and Patrice Evra back, but Kwadwo Asamoah, Hernanes, Roberto Pereyra and Mario Lemina missed out. Jakub Blaszczykowski was injured for the visitors.

Within 84 seconds Federico Bernardeschi had burst into the box and fell under a Giorgio Chiellini challenge. The referee at first gave nothing, then his assistant flagged for a penalty. Josip Ilicic stepped up and converted to give Fiorentina a shock early lead.

They had barely finished celebrating when Juventus equalised, perhaps by accident, as Juan Cuadrado’s looping header flew into the far top corner when it seemed to be intended as an assist. The former Viola player did not celebrate against his old fans.

Paulo Dybala blasted straight at Ciprian Tatarusanu and had another effort charged down in the area, while Fiorentina kept more of the ball in Turin.


Juventus 1-1 Fiorentina (Half-Time)

Scorers: Ilicic pen 3 (F), Cuadrado 6 (J)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Khedira, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Mandzukic, Dybala

Fiorentina: Tatarusanu; Tomovic, Gonzalo Rodriguez, Astori; Bernardeschi, Badelj, Vecino, Alonso; Borja Valero, Ilicic; Kalinic

Ref: Orsato

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')
 
 

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus 3-1 Fiorentina: Mandzukic,
Dybala strike late to grab victory

Juve closed the gap to table-toppers Inter with a vital win at home to title-challengers
Fiorentina with two late goals from attacking duo Mandzukic and Dybala.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/juventus-vs-fiorentina/2120529/report

Dec 13, 2015
 
Resurgent Juventus climbed into Serie A's top four as Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala both struck late to secure a 3-1 win over second-placed Fiorentina.

The visitors were searching for their first league win in Turin since 2008 and made the ideal start when Josip Ilicic put them in front from the penalty spot after only three minutes.

Juventus restored parity almost immediately, however, as Juan Cuadrado came back to haunt his former side with a fine headed finish.

And, having created the better chances over the course of the 90 minutes, Massimiliano Allegri's men duly secured a deserved sixth successive league victory when Mandzukic rifled home from close range on 80 minutes and Dybala added a third in stoppage time.

Victory for Fiorentina would have seen them close the gap on leaders Inter to just a point, but instead they slumped to what was their first defeat in seven games.

The game could hardly have started more dramatically, with many home fans still filing into the stands when Fiorentina took the lead.

Just three minutes had elapsed when Giorgio Chiellini was adjudged to have tripped Federico Bernardeschi in the box.

The decision looked decidedly soft but the same could not be said of the resulting penalty, which was blasted home by Ilicic.

The visitors, however, were to enjoy their advantage for only three minutes.

Patrice Evra's deep cross from the left found Cuadrado unmarked and the on-loan Chelsea man bagged his second goal of the season with a looping header.

Juventus really should have hit the front on 14 minutes when Mandzukic played Dybala in, but the in-form Argentinian fired straight at the advancing Ciprian Tatarusanu.

The frenetic pace set in the opening exchanges barely dipped throughout the course of a pulsating first half, with both sides happy to flood men forward at every opportunity.

The hosts went close again on 25 minutes as Dybala's goalbound shot was blocked by a cluster of defenders and, shortly before the break, Paul Pogba blazed over after more fine approach work from the impressive Evra.

If the first half was breathless, the second was decidedly fractious, with both sides committing a string of niggly fouls in the early stages and Pogba and Borja Valero both picking up yellow cards.

But it was Juventus who continued to look the more likely and they carved out another opportunity just short of the hour mark, with Dybala's left-foot strike flashing inches wide of Tatarusanu's right post.

Mandzukic then failed to keep his header down after rising highest to meet a free-kick launched into the box by Dybala.

The Croatian made amends moments later, however, claiming his fouth goal in six games by gleefully firing into the roof of the net after Tatarusanu had parried Dybala's original effort into his path.

And Fiorentina's tiring defence was undone again at the death as Dybala calmly beat two men before slotting home his ninth goal of the season.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')
 
 

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Comeback kings sink Fiorentina

Mario Mandzukic, Juan Cuadrado and Paulo Dybala completed
the Juventus comeback from an early Fiorentina penalty to go fourth.

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/69973

Dec 13, 2015
 
It was a sixth consecutive Serie A victory, allowing the reigning champions to leapfrog Roma into fourth place, just six points behind leaders Inter.

Cuadrado and Paulo Sousa faced their former clubs, but finally this bitter rivalry was also a crucial Scudetto showdown. Juve had Mario Mandzukic, Sami Khedira and Patrice Evra back, but Kwadwo Asamoah, Hernanes, Roberto Pereyra and Mario Lemina missed out. Jakub Blaszczykowski was injured for the visitors.

Within 84 seconds Federico Bernardeschi had burst into the box and fell under a Giorgio Chiellini challenge. The referee at first gave nothing, then his assistant flagged for a penalty. Josip Ilicic stepped up and converted to give Fiorentina a shock early lead.

They had barely finished celebrating when Juventus equalised, perhaps by accident, as Juan Cuadrado’s looping header flew into the far top corner when it seemed to be intended as an assist. The former Viola player did not celebrate against his old fans.

Paulo Dybala blasted straight at Ciprian Tatarusanu and had another effort charged down in the area, while Fiorentina kept more of the ball in Turin.

Leonardo Bonucci performed a decisive sliding tackle to stop Ilicic’s through ball sending Nikola Kalinic clear on goal straight after the restart.

Dybala spun round to fire wide from close range, but just as Alvaro Morata was getting ready to replace Mandzukic, the Croatian scored.

Mandzukic started the move in midfield and finished it, sliding on to the loose ball to turn under the bar after Tatarusanu had denied Dybala from point-blank range.

Moments later Mandzukic had penalty appeals waved away for a coming together with Borja Valero and Tatarusanu palmed a Stefano Sturaro header round the base of the near post.

In the final minute Davide Astori’s error closing down Cuadrado set up Dybala, who dribbled calmly past a series of obstacles to deposit into an empty net and complete the victory.


Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Khedira (Sturaro 61), Marchisio, Pogba, Evra (Alex Sandro 76); Mandzukic (Morata 85), Dybala

Fiorentina: Tatarusanu; Tomovic, Gonzalo Rodriguez, Astori; Bernardeschi, Badelj, Vecino (Rossi 85), Alonso (Pasqual 85); Borja Valero, Ilicic (Mati Fernandez 85); Kalinic

Ref: Orsato

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Fiorentina fall to resurgent Juventus

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/juventus/result/result-fiorentina-fall-to-resurgent-juventus_262015.html

Dec 13, 2015
 
Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala scored late goals as Juventus beat Fiorentina 3-1 to record a sixth successive victory in Serie A.

Fiorentina led through a third-minute Josip Ilicic penalty, but former Viola winger Juan Cuadrado quickly cancelled out the opener before Mandzukic and Dybala secured the win late on as Juventus continued their resurgence to move within six points of leaders Inter Milan.

Juventus were furious when the referee pointed to the spot in just the second minute after Federico Bernardeschi had gone down under the slightest of touches from Giorgio Chiellini.

The protests were ignored by the officials and Josip Ilicic capitalised to power home his penalty, despite seeing Gianluigi Buffon get his gloves to the ball.

Fiorentina's lead lasted just three minutes as Patrice Evra used space on the wing to send a deep cross to Juan Cuadrado, who found the back of the net with a looping header against his former club.

Massimiliano Allegri watched his side settle the better after such a frantic opening, but chances were rare before the break as the visitors looked to keep the likes of Paul Pogba and Paulo Dybala as quiet as possible.

Dybala threatened to hand Juventus the lead on a fine solo run to the edge of the box, but he could only send a tame effort straight at Ciprian Tatarusanu.

It was Juventus who asked more of the questions either side of the interval as Fiorentina dropped deeper to protect what would have been a good result, and despite the home side dominating possession, Paulo Sousa's men coped with ease for long spells.

Mandzukic looked to be one of the candidates to be coming off as the hosts struggled to find a breakthrough, and the Croatian appeared to waste the best opportunity of the second half when he miscued his header wide from Dybala's free kick.

Keeping the former Atletico Madrid strike on the pitch proved to be key as he fired a rebound into the roof of the net with 10 minutes of normal time remaining after Dybala's heavy touch at the end of a counter-attack allowed Tatarusanu to initially make the save.

Tatarusanu came to the rescue moments later to keep his side in the game with a superb save from Stefano Sturaro's header.

However, Fiorentina had tired quickly and were unable to stop Juventus from securing the points in stoppage time as Dybala capitalised on a loose ball to sprint into the box before slotting past Tatarusanu to close the gap on their title rivals.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus 3-1 Fiorentina: Bianconeri
Grab Vital Win In Scudetto Race

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/12/juventus-3-1-fiorentina-bianconeri-grab-vital-win-in-scudetto-race/?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Juventus came from behind to beat Fiorentina 3-1 at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday evening in Serie A, moving the Bianconeri up to fourth.

Josip Ilicic got the game’s opening goal after just 120 seconds from the penalty spot only for Juan Cuadrado to score instantly in response to level the game. Mario Mandzukic applied the winning touch, smashing the ball into the roof of the net prior to a last minute goal from Paulo Dybala.

The match burst into life after just two minutes when Federico Bernardeschi was brought down by Patrice Evra, leaving Ilicic to make no mistake to hand Fiorentina the lead.

That lead only lasted until the fifth minute however, Cuadrado the man to grab the goal against his former club with a lobbed header that fell into the far corner over Ciprian Tatarusanu.

Despite the frantic end-to-end start to the game, the next best chance did not arrive until mid-way through the half, Dybala striking a fierce shot from close range that was well blocked following some nice wing play from Paul Pogba.

As the second-half got underway it was clear referee Daniele Orsato was not going to be lenient with any decisions, booking Pogba for what appeared to be a fair tackle in the centre-circle.

The first chance came just before the hour mark, Dybala meeting a low cross first-time yet he steered the effort just wide of the near post.

Juventus turned the match around with a massive goal from Mandzukic with just ten minutes remaining, jumping on a loose ball after Dybala’s effort was saved but the Argentinian also added himself onto the score-sheet in injury time to cap off a fine win.

The result meant Juventus go into the final week of fixtures prior to the winter break without their unbeaten record having ended.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus come from behind to
beat Fiorentina, win sixth straight

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/match/432112/juventus-fiorentina/report?

Dec 13, 2015
 
Reigning champions Juventus burst back into the Serie A title race with a come-from-behind 3-1 victory over fierce rivals Fiorentina.

The Bianconeri fell from grace by opening their fourth Scudetto defence with back-to-back defeats, but they are now only six points behind leaders Inter Milan after winning six games in a row.

Josip Ilicic's penalty was cancelled out by former Fiorentina winger Juan Cuadrado, on loan at the Juventus Stadium, with Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala completing the turnaround in the second half.

Massimiliano Allegri's Juve are now fourth ahead of next Sunday's trip to lowly Carpi, while second-placed Fiorentina, who next host Chievo, remain four points behind Inter.

Fans on both sides did not have to wait long for drama to unfold in Turin as barely two minutes had passed when Fiorentina were awarded a spot-kick.

Federico Bernardeschi skipped into the box only for Giorgio Chiellini to impede him, with referee Daniele Orsato promptly awarding a penalty.

Gianluigi Buffon guessed right but Ilicic's finish was unstoppable.

Celebrations in the away end were loud and unapologetic but died away suddenly in the sixth minute, when Juve levelled through a source familiar to Fiorentina supporters.

Cuadrado, the man who scored 20 league goals for them before leaving for Chelsea in January, nodded Patrice Evra's pinpoint cross beyond Ciprian Tatarusanu to equalise emphatically.

Dybala soon tried to cause chaos with a clever through-ball as Juve pushed for the lead, with Leonardo Bonucci trying his luck from distance just before the half-time whistle.

The same player made a mistake that almost let Fiorentina in for a second goal when play resumed, but Nikola Kalinic was anticipated by Buffon before he could capitalise.

Dybala just missed the target with a shot on the turn from another Evra cross and, in the 80th minute, Juve managed to turn the game on its head.

Paul Pogba provided the defence-splitting pass forward that Dybala stabbed at an onrushing Tatarusanu -- all Mandzukic needed to do was sweep home the loose ball.

Juve needed a third goal to rubber-stamp the result and they got it through new fan favourite Dybala, the former Palermo striker sweeping Cuadrado's pass under Tatarusanu deep into stoppage time.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

RATINGS: Juventus 3-1 Fiorentina

Goals from Juan Cuadrado, Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala were enough for the
home side, who just keep climbing after their poor start to the Serie A campaign.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-vs-fiorentina/2120529/ratings

Dec 13, 2015
 

Juventus

1 G. Buffon - The veteran goalkeeper wasn't tested too often at all, but was unable to keep out Ilicic's early penalty.

15 A. Barzagli - The ex-Palermo defender was calm under pressure and wasn't afraid to just place a clearance up the line when in trouble.

19 L. Bonucci - The Italy international was composed on the ball and slid in to make a couple of great interceptions on the edge of his box.

3 G. Chiellini - Used his pace and strength to ensure that Kalinic did not have any opportunities to get in behind whatsoever.

16 J. Cuadrado - Equalised with a looping header against his former club, before picking out a neat assist for Dybala's late strike.

6 S. Khedira - The ex-Real Madrid midfielder performed in solid fashion, but offer a great deal offensive inspiration when getting forward.

8 C. Marchisio - Sat at the base of the midfield and ensured that the ball was circulated consistently and with quality.

10 P. Pogba - The France international was neat on the ball and could beat his opponents with consummate ease. Caused a lot of problems.

33 P. Evra - The Frenchman combined well with Pogba down the left and clipped some teasing deliveries into the box.

17 Mario Mandžukić - Thumped home a late goal to ensure that Juve went on their way to a win, and was very combative aerially.

21 P. Dybala - The Argentina international buzzed around the box dangerously and stroked home a late finish to put the game beyond doubt.


Substitutes

27 S. Sturaro - Forced Tatarusanu into a couple of saves and was an aerial presence at corners.

12 Alex Sandro - Introduced on the left-hand side late on and looked to put some dangerous balls into the box.

9 Álvaro Morata - Introduced for the dying stages and asked to chase lost causes.


 

Fiorentina

12 C. Tătăruşanu - The Romanian goalkeeper made a couple of good stops, but just couldn't cling onto the ball in the build-up to Mandzukic's late goal.

4 N. Tomović - Struggled to deal with the combination of Pogba and Evra whenever Bernardeschi wasn't able to offer adequate cover.

2 G. Rodríguez - Fairly strong in the air against Mandzukic and ensured that the Croatian striker didn't have things his own way throughout the game.

13 D. Astori - The ex-Roma defender put in some good challenges when coming across to aid teammates against Mandzukic.

10 F. Bernardeschi - Won La Viola an early spot kick, despite suspicions of a dive. Didn't manage to offer a great deal in the final third and let Evra run free.

5 M. Badelj - Wasn't afraid to shoot from range, but the Serbian didn't hit the target. Kept the ball quite well, but offered little creativity.

8 M. Vecino - Picked up a booking, which limited his impact on the game slightly. Comfortable on the ball, but didn't go anywhere fast.

28 Marcos Alonso - Struggled to deal with Cuadrado and made a number of cynical fouls as a result.

20 Borja Valero - Showed quick feet at times and could have had a claim for a spot kick from Evra. Did cause some problems while driving forward.

72 J. Iličić - Thumped home the opening goal from the penalty spot, but otherwise struggled to have an impact on proceedings.

9 N. Kalinić - Worked hard and chased lost causes, but the ex-Dnipro man had no chances and was bullied by Chiellini.


Substitutes

23 M. Pasqual - Picked up a card for a cynical challenge.

14 M. Fernandez NA

22 G. Rossi NA

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Player Ratings: Juventus 3-1 Fiorentina

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2015/12/player-ratings-juventus-3-1-fiorentina/?

Dec 13, 2015

Juventus snatched a 3-1 win against Fiorentina at the Juventus Stadium in their Sunday evening Serie A fixture.

An early penalty was converted by Josip Ilicic and Juan Cuadrado leveled the score shortly after, before Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala scored in the dying minutes.

 

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon – 6 – Blameless - Tried his best to stop the penalty from Josip Ilicic, but the Slovenian put so much power on his shot.

Andrea Barzagli – 6 – Calming - The more reserved of the Bianconeri defenders, covered Bonucci when he went forward and rarely put a foot wrong.

Leonardo Bonucci – 6 – Wiley - Dealt with Nikola Kalinic roughly and made sure he saw very little of the ball. Got forward with regularity and had a few shots. Looked a frustrate the Fiorentina attackers at every turn.

Giorgio Chiellini – 6 – Redeemed - Guilty of bringing down Federico Bernardeschi in the opening minute to concede a penalty. Recovered quickly and always looked a force to be reckoned with for the hosts.

Juan Cuadrado – 7 – Punisher - No butterflies against his former side, restoring parity with a floated header beyond the reach of Ciprian Tatarusanu. Added little else to the game but provided the width whenever needed.

Sami Khedira – 6 – Average - Had a few awkward exchanges with Josip Ilicic, but marshaled the midfield admirably. Didn’t add a great deal to the attack and was withdrawn after the hour with Sturaro replacing him.

Claudio Marchisio – 6 – Measured - Moved the ball around confidently and broke up play when he was called on. Yellow carded for protesting the innocence of his teammate Pogba.

Paul Pogba – 7 – Creator - Continued his impressive form with the Bianconeri, stringing together some exceptional passes. Booked for what seemed like a fair challenge on Borja Valero. Made the killer pass that put through Dybala through and ultimately saw Mandzukic score the winner.

Patrice Evra – 6 – Enforcer - Returning from his ankle injury the Frenchman looked fresh, timing his tackles brilliantly. Picked out Dybala with a wonderful cross but the Argentinian couldn’t convert. Made way for Alex Sandro late into the second half.

Mario Mandzukic – 8 – Hero - Battled and bruised his way past the Fiorentina defenders, but couldn’t get the service he wanted. Booked for a tussle with Matias Vecino in the second half. Was quickest off the mark to pounce on the loose ball from Dybala’s shot and put the Bianconeri in front.

Paulo Dybala – 7 – Deadly - Had his first sight of goal early on, but sent it straight at Ciprian Tatarusanu. Had a chance in a more central position in the second half, but sliced his first-time shot wide. Scored a late third to complete the win, dancing past the tired Fiorentina defenders to pass it beyond Tatarusanu.


Substitutes

Stefano Sturaro – 6 – Spirited - Replaced Khedira after the hour mark. Showed greater tenacity then the German getting stuck into challenges.

Alex Sandro – 6 – Dogged - Replaced Evra late into the second half. Matched the Frenchman’s enthusiasm with some dangerous runs.

Alvaro Morata – N/A - Came on for the goal-scorer Mandzukic with five minutes remaining.


 

Fiorentina

Ciprian Tatarusanu – 5 – Indecisive - Caught off-guard when Juan Cuadrado managed to loop his header over him. Did all he could to stop Paulo Dybala scoring, but couldn’t stop Mario Mandzukic from scoring the resultant rebound. Caught out by the run of Dybala when he netted late on.

Nenad Tomovic – 5 – Clumsy - Involved in a few wrestling matches with Mario Mandzukic. Too tired to chase down Paulo Dybala when the Argentinian broke free.

Gonzalo Rodriguez – 6 – Decent - Had his fair share of tussles with Mario Mandzukic, but organised his defenders very well. Slid in desperately to stop Mandzukic scoring but wasn’t quick enough to deny the Croatian.

Davide Astori – 5 – Shaky - Strong in his defensive duties and avoided any characteristic awkward situations. Tracked the run of Paulo Dybala which ultimately led to Mario Mandzukic finding the winner. Allowed Dybala to get goal-side when he scored the third for Juventus.

Federico Bernardeschi – 6 – Troublesome - Brought down in the box by Giorgio Chiellini in the opening minute winning his side a penalty, but faded in the second half.

Milan Badelj – 6 – Tough - Made a few robust challenges and was tasked with breaking up a lot of the Juventus attacks.

Matias Vecino – 6 – Engine - Quick and incisive in possession, moved it forward with purpose and looked to make the killer pass. Booked in the second half for a scrap with Mario Mandzukic. Made way for Rossi with five minutes to go.

Marcos Alonso – 6 – Roaming - Struggled with the pace and trickery of Juan Cuadrado, escaped a nasty injury when he landed awkwardly on his ankle. Substituted in the dying minutes for Pasqual

Borja Valero – 6 – Lucky - Yellow carded for a poorly timed challenge on Claudio Marchisio, risked being sent off with the amount of fouls he gave away.

Josip Ilicic – 7 – Determined - Put under tremendous early pressure from the spot kick, but made no mistake blasting it past Gianluigi Buffon. Booked in the second half for protesting the decision of the referee. Made way for Mati Fernandez in the dying minutes.

Nikola Kalinic – 6 – Isolated - Frustrated by the way the Juventus defenders were treating him, rarely got the service he needed and grew more and more annoyed.


Substitutes

Manuel Pasqual – N/A - Late cameo for the full-back in the place of Marcos Alonso, booked for a coming together with Juan Cuadrado.

Giuseppe Rossi – N/A - Thrown on with Fiorentina needing a goal.

Mati Fernandez – N/A - Late appearance for the Chilean in the place of Ilicic.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Allegri: 'Juve neutralised Viola'

http://www.football-italia.net/77078/allegri-juve-neutralised-viola?

Dec 13, 2015

Max Allegri revealed how Juventus neutralised Fiorentina, but will “take it one step at a time” for the Scudetto.

The Bianconeri registered a sixth consecutive Serie A victory, fighting back to beat the Viola 3-1 despite an early spot-kick.

“I can only say Juventus are going through a good period of form, we have another two games before Christmas in the Coppa Italia and Serie A,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“As we were so far behind, it’d be important to close up even more before the break.”

Incredibly, Juve were 11 points behind Roma in Week 10, but six rounds later are one point in front in fourth place.

“At this moment the team is playing relatively well, though we have to improve technically and make fewer mistakes.

“It has to be said that it was not easy to close up so much considering where we were six rounds ago and six consecutive victories are not easy in Serie A.

“I considered Inter one of the favourites pre-season because they invested heavily and have an experienced Coach. They are four points clear at the top now, so remain the favourites.

“Juve have to follow our own progress and not anyone else’s. There are many points still up for grabs and we have to take it one step at a time. We initially had to catch Milan and we did, then Roma, now we’ll see if we can overtake Napoli and Fiorentina.

“It will take something extraordinary to overtake Inter, though.”

Fiorentina had been unbeaten in six games, but capitulated in Turin.

“Nikola Kalinic had about 60 sprints in the first half, but we did well to block them off and Fiorentina didn’t have a shot on goal other than the penalty.

“On the other hand, Juve had several chances other than the three goals and forced a series of saves. We prepared for the game planning to block off Fiorentina’s strengths, which are the creativity of Borja Valero and Josip Ilicic.

“As time wore on, Fiorentina got more fatigued and we improved, so we took advantage of the extra space.

“Paulo Dybala is an important player and he will become extraordinary. He has improved a great deal in tactical and psychological terms, because playing at Palermo and Juve are two very different things.

“The trouble with Paul Pogba is that when things seem too easy, he relaxes and gets it wrong. Heels? No, only a cobbler should deal with heels.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

JUVENTUS 3-1 FIORENTINA
SERIE A MATCH REPORT

Juventus came from a goal down to rout Fiorentina 3-1 and move another place up the table.

http://www.juvefc.com/7881-2/?

Dec 13, 2015

6 Positives

Mandzukic – Scoring goals, creating goals and perhaps more importantly, pressing the Fiorentina defence all night, running up and down the pitch until he was subbed off. I thought of him as a static, Trezeguet type of striker – Allegri has him running, defending and scoring goals. Another great/Vital performance.

Six wins in a row – From languishing in 18th, to a gradual, steady ascent up the table into the top 4 again and a mere 6 points from the top. A confidence inspiring win ahead of the xmas break. This Juve is starting to come together in a big way.

Dybala – What more is there to be said ? 8 goals, 3 assists and counting. The young striker has fitted in perfectly and is now leading the attack in his own way. The partnership with Mandzukic is paying dividends because of Allegri’s persistence and courage to stick with it. They’ve scored or assisted a goal in 6 of Juve’s last games.

Allegri – Got it right again. I sound like a broken record, but all the talk was of Sousa and his new look Fiorentina – A 3-4-2-1- system and La Viola’s impressive record. Allegri outschooled the young coach and earned a precious 3 points with Juve having far less possession on the night.

Bonucci – Kalinic ? What Kalinic? the one that spent the night in Leo’s back pocket? Ahhh. Another defensive masterclass from the best of Juve’s defenders. Strong. Smart. Quick. Preemptive. He had it all tonight.

Marchisio – Didn’t put a foot wrong – completed all 41 of his passes, 100% Thoroughly impressive given the opposition!


Statistics

Man of the Match: Paulo Dybala

Flop of the Match: N/A

Corners: 3

Pass Accuracy: 79%

Shots on Target: 6

Total Shots: 16

Ball Possession: 38%

Formation: 3-5-2

 
Lineups

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Cuadrado, Khedira (Sturaro 61), Marchisio, Pogba, Evra (Alex Sandro 76); Mandzukic (Morata 85), Dybala

Fiorentina: Tatarusanu; Tomovic, Gonzalo Rodriguez, Astori; Bernardeschi, Badelj, Vecino (Rossi 85), Alonso (Pasqual 85); Borja Valero, Ilicic (Mati Fernandez 85); Kalinic

Ref: Orsato



Poll

Who was your man of the match against Fiorentina ?

Dybala 55%

Mandzukic 13%
Bonucci 13%
Marchisio 7%
Cuadrado 5%
Pogba 5%
Barzagli 2%
Buffon 0%
Khedira 0%
Evra 0%
Chiellini 0%

Votes 56

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Sousa: 'Proud of Fiorentina'

http://www.juvefc.com/7881-2/?

Dec 13, 2015

Paulo Sousa is “proud and had fun watching Fiorentina play tonight” despite a 3-1 defeat to Juventus.

The Viola had been unbeaten in six games and took an early lead through Josip Ilicic’s penalty, but capitulated 3-1 in Turin.

“It’s difficult to attack with pace when all the spaces are closed down, because Juve pressed us early every time,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“The lads did well to control possession and take the initiative, but when you face a side with such defensive quality then it becomes difficult.”

Does this defeat change Fiorentina’s Scudetto dreams for this season, even though they remain joint second with Napoli?

“Our dreams must always be the same. Playing in this stadium with such a strong attitude is not easy. We’ll have to see who we are facing and how we react. We played with all the quality we had tonight, but Juve are very solid.

“I am happy and proud and I had fun watching my team play football tonight. We encountered a dynamic defensive line that played aggressively.

“The distances between the lines were so small that we had to anticipate every movement and make each pass at precisely the right time. Juve did very well defensively.

“I think of all the sides we’ve encountered this season, Juve are the most mature. They have now achieved a clear system, have strength in depth to keep the quality level up throughout.

“Collectively Juve defend very well, but also on an individual level too. In terms of collective, I feel Napoli and Roma will become very impressive.”

Sousa spent some of his playing career at Juventus, so was it emotional being back in Turin as a Coach?

“I am always experiencing strong emotions with this line of work. Being a part of football means emotional moments are at every turn.

“It is always a pleasure to revisit places and people who I shared important moments with.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Cuadrado: 'Goal was a mistake!'

http://www.football-italia.net/77081/cuadrado-goal-was-mistake?

Dec 13, 2015

Juan Cuadrado admits his Juventus goal against Fiorentina was unintentional. “Maybe the hair helped!”

The Colombian’s looping header went into the far top corner, the equaliser on the way to a 3-1 victory.

“I saw Sami Khedira at the back post and in my attempt to head it over to him this weird looping trajectory came out. Maybe the hair helped!” he laughed.

“We did well to react after conceding the goal so early. We were so eager to win and I think in the end the victory was deserved.”

This was the Bianconeri’s sixth consecutive victory and in the space of six rounds they’ve gone from 11 points behind Roma to one point above them in fourth place.

“Everything changed after the derby with Torino. After that late winner, our hunger for points got stronger and stronger.

“The idea was to close up on the top spots and get as high up the table as possible. We are doing very well and must maintain this attitude, playing every game as if it was a Final.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus 3 - Fiorentina 1: Initial
reaction and random observations

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/12/14/10039388/juventus-fiorentina-2015-serie-a-round-16-final-score-result-initial-reaction

Dec 13, 2015

I guess Fiorentina just scored its goal way too early. Suckas.

Juventus had nearly 88 minutes to regroup, re-whatever, after Giorgio Chiellini was called for a penalty that may have been a penalty in some people's eyes but not one in others. Either way, Fiorentina had rolled into Juventus Stadium and taken the lead within 150 seconds in one of the biggest games of the season to date. Not exactly how you draw up a start in a game that had quite a bit of anticipation attached to it.

So what did Juve do?

Came right back and hit 'em in the mouth.

Juan Cuadrado made the Ex Effect work in Juventus' favor for once to tie it just three minutes, then late-second-half goals from Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala allowed Juve to grab the three points and leapfrog yet another team, Roma, in the Serie A standings. It was the kind of response we've come to expect from this club simply because that's how they operate. And with plenty of time to work with, there was bound to be chances to get back into the game.

So, what does this win mean in terms of the table? Take a look at this here piece of evidence right here.

JuPorn™ @jup1897
#10 giornata

- ROMA 23
- JUVE 12

#16 giornata

- JUVE 30
- ROMA 29

Maybe Sunday's win over Fiorentina was a microcosm of the entire season. Think about it, facing adversity right off the bat and having to try to come out of it almost instantaneously. Obviously Cuadrado's goal came a little faster than, say, Juve got out of its early-season funk, but look at what's happened now that they are a vastly different team than they were. Juventus has gone from sitting in the relegation zone after a couple of games, up into the teens, to mid-table to just outside the top third of the table. Two very good wins over two difficult opponents, Lazio and Fiorentina, have now put Juventus in fourth place and on the brink of the top three.

Did we all think it could have happened this fast?

I don't know, but it's why Max Allegri — and the guy writing this post — preached some patience. They were too good and too talented to be where they were. And now, this team is starting to truly hit its stride, and the results speak for themselves now. They're scoring goals, they're defending well, the on-field chemistry that wasn't there in September and early October is there now. And as we get set to flip the calendar to 2016 in a few short weeks, we can feel pretty good about how Juventus is playing going into the new year.

It's certainly a lot better than how they were playing to start the new season.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@PauDybala_JR: "We were way off the top. Now we’ve got one league game to play before the break and we’re close to where we should be."

Amen to that, Paulo.

Six straight Serie A wins. Back into fourth place. What a time to be alive.


Random thoughts and observations

As much as I want Álvaro Morata to play, it's pretty hard to say he deserves minutes over Mandzukic right now. His game might not be the most glamorous, he might not always be a constant nuisance to the opposing defense like Dybala, but he's doing what he was signed to do — score goals and lead the line.

Speaking of Dybala, he's so good. Have I mentioned that the €40 million price tag is looking more and more worth it these days? Because I feel like I have, but I won't get tired of saying it as we see the baby-faced Argentine continue to shred opposing defenses apart.

And how about that pass from Pogba on Mandzukic's go-ahead goal? Good lord that boy's good.

I won't lie, I raised an eyebrow when I saw that Juan Cuadrado was in the starting lineup at right wingback instead of Stephan Lichtsteiner. And whether or not his game-tying goal was really meant to be a header on goal, he produced and made Max Allegri's decision look like the right one.

He may be a frustrating player a good amount of the time, but Cuadrado played a big role in Sunday's win. And this is from somebody who gets frustrated with Cuadrado a good amount of the time.

Fiorentina had nearly 62 percent of the total possession yet only had six shots. Their only shot on goal was their goal in the third minute. After that, Juventus' defense — which seems to be getting better by the game these days — absolutely locked things down.

Gigi Buffon just stealing checks again. That's what happens when you don't have to make a single save.

Claudio Marchisio made 41 passes against Fiorentina. He completed 41 passes against Fiorentina. Last time I checked, that's a perfect 100 pass accuracy percentage.

Juventus now sits two points behind both Fiorentina and Napoli for third place. What are the odds that Juve, who plays Carpi next weekend to close out the calendar year, can close the season in one of the three Champions League spots? Napoli's hit a little rough patch, Fiorentina is obviously coming off a big loss to Juventus, and our boys are playing a Carpi side that has won just twice in 16 games this season.

Champions League draw in just a few hours. Let the three hours of build-up and highlight videos be worth it when Juventus' name is finally called.


POLL

Who was your Juventus Man of the Match against Fiorentina?

46% Paulo Dybala (192 votes)

22% Mario Mandzukic (92 votes)
14% Paul Pogba (59 votes)
9% Juan Cuadrado (36 votes)
6% Leonardo Bonucci (25 votes)
2% Patrice Evra (10 votes)

414 votes total

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus are back in Serie A
race, says boss Massimiliano Allegri

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/2755330/juventus-are-back-in-serie-a-race-says-massimiliano-allegri?

Dec 14, 2015

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri believes his side are back in the Serie A title race but also acknowledged that Inter Milan will take some catching.

The reigning Italian champions reached fourth place following a 3-1 home win over Fiorentina, a sixth straight league victory that propelled them to within six points of leaders Inter.

Juan Cuadrado, Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala scored the goals that turned the match around after Josip Ilicic opened the scoring for Fiorentina with a third-minute penalty.

Head coach Allegri is now confident Juve can target a top-three finish, telling juventus.com: "We're getting towards a points total that will allow us to finish first, second or third.

"We are back once again, but the season is long and Inter are very strong. They played a very good game yesterday [saturday's 4-0 victory at Udinese], and at this time they are the favourites.

"To catch them we will have to go on a very special journey."

Juve went into the new season looking to win the Scudetto for the fifth year in a row but back-to-back defeats and further poor results left them languishing in the bottom half through the autumn.

"We have had a number of problems," Allegri added. "But now the boys are playing well again.

"We have to work hard, to keep improving, but the important thing is that we have good team spirit.

"We are in good physical condition and we are recovering a number of players from injury."


Fiorentina boss Paulo Sousa was proud of his players despite watching Juve unravel their hard work in the second half.

He told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport: "It's never easy to play against Juve.

"We were in the game and we played well, but in second half we couldn't put away any of the chances we created.

"Juve have a great defence and they were red hot on the counterattack, too."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Max Allegri says Juventus to
take it one step at a time

Juventus manager Max Allegri speaks after the 3-1 win against Fiorentina

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/12/14/10054466/max-allegri-says-juventus-to-take-it-one-step-at-a-time-fiorentina-inter

Dec 14, 2015

Juventus won 3-1 at home against Fiorentina to climb into fourth place, just six points behind leaders Inter Milan. Juan Cuadrado, Mario Mandzukic and Paulo Dybala all scored to carry Massimiliano Allegri's side to victory today.

Manager Allegri refused to get carried away by any title talk -

"I can only say Juventus are going through a good period of form. At this moment, the team is playing relatively well, though we have to improve technically and make fewer mistakes.

"I considered Inter one of the favourites pre-season because they invested heavily and have an experienced coach. They are four points clear at the top now, so remain the favourites.

"Juve have to follow our own progress and not anyone else's. There are many points still up for grabs and we have to take it one step at a time. We initially had to catch Milan and we did, then Roma. Now we'll see if we can overtake Napoli and Fiorentina. It will take something extraordinary to overtake Inter, though."

The manager spoke about striker Dybala after seeing the Argentina striker bag his ninth goal of the season in all competitions -

"Paulo Dybala is an important player and he will become extraordinary. He has improved a great deal in tactical and psychological terms, because playing at Palermo and Juve are two very different things."

On his other forwards -

"Funnily enough the decisive goal from Mario Mandzukic came with Alvaro Morata ready to come on for him,.

"This happens in football though, and Mandzukic is a player at an international level standard and today he played a good game."

He also spoke about their opponents on the day, Fiorentina, who had been unbeaten in six games, but capitulated in Turin.

"Nikola Kalinic had about 60 sprints in the first half, but we did well to block them off and Fiorentina didn't have a shot on goal other than the penalty.

"On the other hand, Juve had several chances other than the three goals and forced a series of saves. We prepared for the game planning to block off Fiorentina's strengths, which are the creativity of Borja Valero and Josip Ilicic.

"As time wore on, Fiorentina got more fatigued and we improved, so we took advantage of the extra space."

Finally, he ended with a few words on star midfielder Paul Pogba -

"The trouble with Paul Pogba is that when things seem too easy, he relaxes and gets it wrong. Heels? No, only a cobbler should deal with heels."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA

3 - 1

Josip Iličič (3'-penalty)

Juan Cuadrado (6')
Mario Mandžukić (80')
Paulo Dybala (91')

MATCHDAY 16
Sunday, December 13th, 2015 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus continue their march up the
Serie A table with Fiorentina win

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2755537/juventus-continue-their-march-up-the-serie-a-table?

Dec 14, 2015

Against a side that dominated possession but could barely create, Juventus produced a mature and experienced performance to snatch their sixth consecutive victory -- a 3-1 win over Fiorentina that takes them to fourth on the Serie A table.

Defensively solid and improving offensively, it's difficult to believe that less than two months ago, this was a team languishing in 12th place, 11 points behind Roma. Today it is the Giallorossi who find themselves behind the Old Lady.

While the Bianconeri have played admirably well in recent weeks, managing exciting wins against the likes of Milan and more, what was most impressive about this particular win against the Viola was the maturity -- that understanding of how to go up a gear and suffer for the win. Every ball fought for, hope was never lost and attempts at goal always made even if Paulo Sousa's men dominated possession.

The runs were more incisive, the desire more visible, it took Juve only three minutes to restore parity after conceding a penalty in the second minute of the game.

The curse of the ex is a very real thing in this wonderful game and while Juve suffered from Fernando Llorente's goal for Sevilla midweek in the Champions League, their own Juan Cuadrado did enough to equalise against his old side, albeit it accidentally. The Colombian later admitted he was attempting to head the goal towards Sami Khedira but it went into the back of the net instead.

Massimiliano Allegri has clearly taught his team to shut down all creativity, offering their rivals little opportunity to create or even think of how to proceed forward. This is no longer a Juve side that look defensively fragile but one that has quickly realised its collective strength.


Player ratings

Gianluigi Buffon, 6 -- Wasn't given much to do considering Fiorentina only had one shot on target. Difficult to do any better on the penalty considering the power of the shot.

Andrea Barzagli, 7 -- Always the defender who reads the game beautifully. Intelligent with great anticipation, Barzagli rarely lets his teammates down.

Leonardo Bonucci, 7 -- Made some vital challenges even if he's always capable of a mistake or two. Seemed overwhelmed initially, he eventually took control and played confidently.

Giorgio Chiellini, 6 -- The Italy international fouled Federico Bernardeschi to concede the penalty. Chiellini can always be brash and clumsy but he pushed forward well on occasion and quickly recovered his stability.

Juan Cuadrado, 7 -- One of his better games. Not yet perfectly disciplined, he was better defensively while his goal was magical even if it was accidental. This is still not his best position but who can argue with a goal and an assist.

Sami Khedira, 6 -- Far from his best, Khedira struggled to integrate himself. Desperately in need of recovering consistency, his tactical intelligence is still impressive, taking up good positions to offer his teammates solutions.

Claudio Marchisio, 6 -- Always capable of leading the midfield, Marchisio rarely lets his team down with his accurate passes forward, opening up the game well. However, he struggled to control the game as well as usual, especially in the first half.

Paul Pogba, 6 -- A mediocre performance by a player destined for stardom, he must learn the basics well before he produces the complicated. Far too emotional, when he surrenders to frustration, he irritates.

Patrice Evra, 7 -- Injuries or not, Evra is a machine that is always ready to produce. Great understanding with Paul Pogba, he illuminates the left wing.

Mario Mandzukic, 8 -- No one can ever accuse the Croatian of not leaving it all out there on the pitch, a predator, he exploits every mistake and scored the second in true Mandzukic fashion. However, what is most impressive about the forward is how much he works for the team. Acting as the team's first line of defence, he manages to make something happen even when under great pressure.

Paulo Dybala, 8 -- His technical skill beautifully compliments Mandzukic's tough work. Intelligent, he has greatly improved his understanding of the role he plays and how to play for the team. His finishing could be better but what a talent, what a goal.


Substitutes

Stefano Sturaro, 7 -- Came on and offered more energy to the midfield to compliment the others alongside him. Came close to scoring, he's quickly learnt how to make an impact and the movements of his teammates.

Alex Sandro, N/A -- A wonderful presence on the left, he easily slots in and is quick to offer pace and quality.

Alvaro Morata, N/A -- Wasn't on for very long but can be too aggressive.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

Juve draw Bayern

http://www.football-italia.net/77092/juve-draw-bayern-real-roma?

Dec 14, 2015

Juventus have been drawn with Bayern Munich and Roma face Real Madrid in the Champions League last 16.

The draw ceremony took place this morning in Nyon and both Italian sides face tricky ties.

Bayern won Group F ahead of Arsenal, Dinamo Zagreb and Olympiacos, while Real Madrid topped Group A by seeing off Paris Saint-Germain, Shakhtar Donetsk and Malmo.

The Bianconeri will face some familiar faces, with Arturo Vidal and Kingsley Coman now representing the Bavarian giants.

The Giallorossi take on a Madrid side led by former Napoli Coach Rafa Benitez, having already faced their rivals Barcelona in the group stages.

Both Italian clubs finished second in their groups, behind Manchester City and Barcelona respectively, and were therefore destined for a tough draw.

Juve will host Bayern on February 23 with the return leg in Bavaria taking place on March 16.

Roma will take on Real at the Stadio Olimpico on February 17 before travelling to the Santiago Bernabeu on March 8.


Champions League last 16 draw

Gent vs Wolfsburg

Roma vs Real Madrid

Paris Saint-Germain vs Chelsea

Arsenal vs Barcelona

Juventus vs Bayern Munich

PSV vs Atletico Madrid

Benfica vs Zenit

Dynamo Kiev vs Manchester City

[Socrates 8524]

Nedved: ‘I’ve had better days’

http://www.football-italia.net/77093/nedved-%E2%80%98i%E2%80%99ve-had-better-days%E2%80%99?

Dec 14, 2015

Juventus vice-President Pavel Nedved says he’s ‘had better days’ after drawing Bayern Munich in the Champions League last 16.

The German champions are one of the tournament favourites and have former Bianconeri players Arturo Vidal and Kingsley Coman in their ranks.

The Old Lady face a daunting task to equal their achievement of reaching the final last year, but Nedved insists that ‘no one is unbeatable.’

"I've had better days,” he told Premium Sport.

“The group was already difficult, the team did well to get through it without great difficulty.

“Maybe we were hoping for better luck today but this means that we have to suffer once again.

“I really like the team in Europe, we’re confident of playing two good matches.

“We have improved a lot to be competitive in Europe, but with Bayern it will be very difficult.

“No one is unbeatable, we must think like this.

“Dybala? Marotta and Paratici have worked perfectly. We are not weaker than last year: we lost some champions but we set up a team that can play these games in Europe.

“All we need is a bit of maturity and experience, but these are the matches where we will acquire that.

“We’ve found certainty and security with this formation, but that doesn’t mean that later we won’t make changes with players in better form or who have recovered.

“It doesn’t depend on the formation, we talk too much about this.”

[Socrates 8524]

Champions League draw results 2015: Juventus
to face Bayern Munich in the Round of 16

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2015/12/14/10098214/champions-league-draw-results-2015-juventus-to-face-bayern-munich-in-round-of-16

Dec 14, 2015

Just in case we needed some more confirmation about how important it is to finish atop your group in the Champions League, seeing Javier Zanetti's hand pull out Bayern Munich as Juventus' Round of 16 opponent is the latest.

Juventus falling into second place behind Manchester City on the final day of the group stage meant that they ran the risk of being drawn against one of the biggest of big clubs in Europe come Monday's Round of 16 draw in Switzerland. The result was exactly what many feared— Juve may have missed Barcelona, but they got Bayern Munich.

Now, I'm not saying that Juventus' Champions League run is over even before the knockout rounds get started. But this is as big of a challenge as they could have potentially gotten to try and reach the quarterfinals. Juve will be the underdogs, probably by a lot, because Bayern has been an absolute soul-crushing machine this season much like the last time the two clubs met in the quarterfinals back in 2013.

WhoScored.com ✔ @WhoScored
GRAPHIC: Bayern Munich vs Juventus #UCLdraw

(Good lord, that Bayern goal differential is just insane.)

It was one ex, Sevilla's Fernando Llorente, who played a role in Juve's group stage-closing loss. And now, Juventus will face another pair of exes, midfielder Arturo Vidal and winger Kingsley Coman. Both, of course, left during Juve's whirlwind summer of change earlier in the year — one departure being a little more talked about than the other. Let's just hope that the ex on Juventus' side, Mario Mandzukic — who just so happened to score in Turin while wearing a Bayern jersey in 2013 — fares better of the group of players facing their former club.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
Nedved: "I believe our team has improved in Europe and I am confident, even though we know @FCBayernEN represent very tough opposition."

The first leg of the matchup will be played at Juventus Stadium on Tuesday, Feb, 23, with the return being in Germany on Wednesday, March 16. Just five days after the first leg against Bayern in Turin, Juve will play current league leaders Inter at Juventus Stadium. They may not be atop the league come the end of February, but it's safe to say that six-day stretch is going to be pretty damn important no matter what.

[Socrates 8524]

Franz Beckenbauer: 'Juventus clash is mouth-watering'

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/bayern-munich/champions-league/news/beckenbauer-juve-clash-mouth-watering_262051.html

Dec 14, 2015

Bayern Munich ambassador Franz Beckenbauer has described his side's Champions League last-16 clash with Juventus as a "mouth-watering tie".

The two European giants were drawn together in the first knockout phase today, with last season's runners-up Juventus hosting the first leg in Turin.

Beckenbauer, a three-time winner of the competition during his playing days, believes that having the second leg at home gives his side an edge, but is still expecting a difficult tie.

"Juve are one of the best sides in Europe. It is a mouth-watering tie. Surely it is an advantage for Bayern to play the first leg away, to get to know Juve first," he told UEFA's official website.

Bayern, who were knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual winners Barcelona last season, most recently won the competition in 2012-13.

[Socrates 8524]

Juventus confident of beating Bayern - Nedved

The Bianconeri vice-chairman was in bullish mood after his club
drew the Bundesliga side in the Champions League round of 16.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2914/champions-league/2015/12/14/18337882/-?

Dec 14, 2015

Juventus vice-chairman Pavel Nedved insists Bayern Munich are not "unbeatable" although he conceded last season's Champions League finalists had "hoped for better luck" in Monday's round of 16 draw.

Juve, who lost out on the European crown last season to Barcelona, were paired with Pep Guardiola's runaway Bundesliga leaders at the draw ceremony in Nyon, paying the price for finishing second in Group D behind Manchester City.

But former Juve winger Nedved was in a defiant mood after being handed daunting opponents, insisting his side have what it takes to give the German side a real test.

"I've had better days," he said.

"We hoped for better luck in the draw, but we're confident we can put in two good performances.

"We were in a tough group and managed to reach the last 16 without too many difficulties."

Nedved believes the Bianconeri are a stronger team seven months on from their defeat to Barca in Berlin, despite the departure of Carlos Tevez, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal, the latter to the German champions.

"I believe our team has improved in Europe and I am confident, even though we know Bayern represent very tough opposition," he said.

"Nobody is unbeatable, you never know in football. We need to tackle these two games with humility and desire."

[Socrates 8524]

Jerome Boateng: 'Bayern Munich are favourites'

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/bayern-munich/champions-league/news/jerome-boateng-we-are-favourites_262053.html

Dec 14, 2015

Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng has claimed that his side will be favourites going into their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus.

Bayern, who finished top of their group with 15 points from a possible 18, have won 21 of their 24 outings in all competitions this season and are one of the favourites to lift the trophy in May.

However, Juventus reached the final last season and Boateng acknowledged that they would be coming up against a formidable opponent.

"Juventus are a strong opponent, they are very clever and tactically outstanding. Nevertheless, we are the favourites," he told UEFA's official website.

Bayern and Juventus have participated in 18 European Cup/Champions League finals between them, lifting the trophy on seven occasions.

[Socrates 8524]

Bayern Munich vs. Juventus UCL tie
a 'European classic' - Philip Lahm

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/story/2755968/bayern-eye-european-classic-vs-juve-in-champions-league?

Dec 14, 2015

Bayern Munich are looking forward to the re-run of their Champions League quarterfinal of three season ago when they take on Juventus in the round of 16 in this season's competition.

Serie A champions and last season's Champions League finalists Juve will also welcome Arturo Vidal and Kingsley Coman back to Turin following their moves to the Bundesliga giants last summer.

Bayern captain Philipp Lahm, who is set to meet fellow 2014 World Cup winner Sami Khedira on the pitch, called the draw a "European classic" and added to Bayern's official club website: "Juve played in the final last season. That's a great challenge indeed, but we want to reach the quarter-final. We will give it our all."

Lahm's teammate Thomas Muller reflected on the 4-0 aggregate win over the Italians in 2013, saying: "We had good experiences with Juventus in Champions League.

"I am really looking forward to [the new Juventus Stadium]. That's will be an experience."

Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said on the official club website: "That's a very difficult, but also very attractive draw. We'll need two very good games to reach the quarter-final."

The club's honorary president Franz Beckenbauer added on Sky: "They are one of the best teams we have in Europe. That's a definitely a highlight. Maybe playing the second match at home is a bit of an advantage for Bayern."

"Alongside Paris they are the most difficult opponent we could draw from pot 2," marketing CEO Andreas Jung added the the same broadcaster.

Juve vice-president Pavel Nedved said his club will face Bayern without any fear after receiving the draw they would have probably wanted to avoid more than any other.

The Turin club will host the reigning German champions in the first leg before travelling to Munich for the return, with a complicated path to a second straight final.

"We're confident of being able to play two great games because our path in Europe this season has been excellent," Nedved said on his club's official website. "We were placed in a very complicated group and we were excellent to get through it without any major difficulty. That means we will continue our fight even in the last 16. The important thing is that we are in it.

"Nothing is impossible. We will face these two games with desire and the knowledge that we are a strong side -- and we are showing it -- and that we have the means to go through. Games like these are the ones you want to gain international experience."

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
OFFICIAL: We will play @FCBayernEN in this season's #UCL last 16. #UCLdraw

Juve, who were beaten by Barcelona in June's final, defeated a German side in the shape of Borussia Dortmund in last year's round of 16. They went on to beat Monaco and Real Madrid, who will face Italy's other representatives Roma, to earn a trip to Berlin.

With the final being staged in Milan's San Siro this season, both remaining Serie A representatives will be hoping to come through difficult draws against two of the favourites to keep their hopes alive of providing an Italian finalist. Juve host Bayern on Feb. 23 before travelling to Bavaria on March 16.

[Socrates 8524]

Marotta: ‘Bayern are always Bayern’

http://www.football-italia.net/77099/marotta-%E2%80%98bayern-always-bayern%E2%80%99?

Dec 14, 2015

Juventus general manager Giuseppe Marotta shrugs “Bayern are always Bayern” after the Champions League draw.

The Bianconeri will be reunited with Kingsley Coman and Arturo Vidal, who left Turin for Munich this summer, when they meet the Bavarian giants in the Last 16 of the competition.

“Pavel Nedved is there in Nyon, I’ll leave the statements to him,” Marotta said as he accepted the Best Director award from Gruppo Subalpino Giornalisti Sportivi.

“Bayern are always Bayern. In the League quality will out, whoever comes first deserves it in the end.

“In the Champions League you need luck too, when you reach this draw you have to hope.”

The Old Lady made it six wins in a row by beating Fiorentina last night, after a difficult start, and Marotta believes that was to be expected

“The team that goes onto the pitch is a representation of the club hierarchy. We took responsibility early in the season. When you’re a director you have to be aware and not be influenced.

“We implemented a policy of renewal, we closed a winning cycle and decided to change 10 players out of 24, which is not easy.

“Player like Paulo Dybala couldn’t have known how to play at Juve. The club tackles all difficulties, helping to support those who go on to the pitch.”

[Socrates 8524]

Muller looking forward to Mandzukic & Juventus test

The Germany international says the Italian champions are
a "clever team" after they were drawn together in the Champions league.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2914/champions-league/2015/12/14/18341832/-?

Dec 14, 2015

Thomas Muller says Bayern Munich have fond memories of facing Juventus after they were drawn against the Serie A title-holders in the Champions League round of 16.

The Bundesliga heavyweights saw off Juve in the 2012-13 quarter-finals on their way to winning the European Cup, while they also faced the Turin side in the 2009-10 group stage, drawing 0-0 in Bavaria before thrashing the Italian club 4-1 away.

Now led by Pep Guardiola, Bayern must overcome last season's beaten finalists as they seek to add to their five European crowns.

"Juventus have a very clever team and Mario Mandzukic is obviously a great striker. We all know him from his time at Bayern," Muller told the club's official website.

"We have nothing but good memories of Juventus in the Champions League.

"I am really looking forward to playing at the Juventus Stadium. That will be a great experience."


Philipp Lahm, meanwhile, is eagerly anticipating the tie with Juve as well and believes Massimiliano Allegri's men will prove to be a tough opponent.

"It will be a great tie between two top teams, a European classic," Lahm stated.

"Juventus made it to the final last season and it will be a major challenge.

"But we want to make the quarter-finals and will give our all to make it."

Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge feels Juve will be a difficult opponent and has warned his team they will need to be at their best in order to reach the quarter-finals.

"It is a difficult draw, but an attractive one as well," he said. "We will meet Mandzukic again.

"We will need to great performances to see off the Italian champions."