Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Zanetti: ‘Juventus-Inter will be great’

http://www.football-italia.net/80446/zanetti-%E2%80%98juventus-inter-will-be-great%E2%80%99?

Feb 26, 2016
 
Javier Zanetti expects a “great match” when Inter meet Juventus in Turin on Sunday night.

The Nerazzurri travel to Juventus Stadium looking to maintain the possibility of finishing in a Champions League spot. Click here for a match preview.

“It’ll be a great match,” vice-President Zanetti told the Beneamata’s official website as he attended today’s FIFA elections.

“There is a wealth of tradition behind the two clubs and we have the potential to do well.”

Gianni Infantino was appointed as the new FIFA President today, and Zanetti gave his backing to the Swiss.

“This is an important moment. Infantino has great ideas and strong human values, so I know he’ll benefit world football.

“We all need to get behind him. He’ll need people to help him put his ideas into practice.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus have usurped Inter Milan
as the model for Serie A success

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/12/blog/post/2816215/juventus-have-usurped-inter-milan-as-model-serie-a-success

Feb 26, 2016
 
Whatever the circumstances of the respective clubs, whatever the differences in league positions, the Derby d'Italia is always a special match between two rivals who boast great history and similar objectives but very different philosophies.

While Juventus are fond of the Italian brand -- they rely on Italian players and Italian management and are owned by one of the most famous Italian families -- Inter is a side that welcome everyone, believe in taking an international approach to football and are owned by an Indonesian businessman. While both clubs have endured heartbreak as well as great success, it was thought they would be targeting similar objectives this season, even if Juve were participating in the Champions League when Inter had no European duties to contend with.

It all started so very well for the Nerazzurri, and by the time the two teams faced off in mid-October for the first time this season, Roberto Mancini's team were third with 16 points after seven matches, while the Bianconeri were in 12th place with a measly eight points. A 0-0 scoreline was all Inter could achieve at home against their most hated rivals, but after managing several impressive wins thereafter, the Nerazzurri occupied top spot in the league table by early December by playing a defensively sound game that revolved around physical aggression and great organization.

As for Juventus, that draw failed to inspire wins in their next matches, with mediocrity still reigning supreme, and that culminated in a loss to the Neroverdi. "They fall against Sassuolo, and it's chaos," the Corriere dello Sport headline read on Oct. 29. Two days later, the Bianconeri won the first game of a 15-match win streak by beating Torino in the Derby della Mole. They haven't lost a Serie A match since and now occupy the top spot in the league. As for Inter? They lie in fifth place, a full 10 points behind Juve, having conceded nine goals in their past five matches. How quickly things change in football.

According to the Nerazzurri's former goalkeeper Gianluca Pagliuca, Mancini's men never boasted a great defence but simply a superhero in the form of Samir Handanovic, who pulled off marvelous saves to rescue points for the side and mask the inefficiencies of a poorly balanced team. He might be right.

Inter have the third-best defensive record in the league, after Juve and Napoli, but eight Serie A sides have conceded fewer shots on goal, and that includes the likes of Sassuolo and Torino. As for Handanovic, he has managed three man-of-the-match performances for the club. No Inter player has managed more.

For all of Inter's alleged defensive strength, it must be noted that when it came to scoring goals, they suffered. Juve's BBC back-line, comprised of Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli, has guaranteed the club security and countless clean sheets, but the team also boasts a front line that though young in age and lacking in experience work beautifully together as well as with the midfield. Their playing formation offers all-around balance to ensure offensive strength as well as defensive security.

On a poorly balanced team, Inter's midfield is comprised of defensive-minded individuals ready to impose their physical strength. As such, they were never going to contribute much to an attack desperately in need of help and creativity. Rather than remedy that particular problem, Mancini was allowed to buy yet another striker in hopes that his new arrival would effectively convert the few chances the team manages to create, rather than bringing in a man who simply helped the squad create more.

It is decisions such as these that separate good clubs from the great ones. Spending money isn't necessarily the answer. While many papers are quick to point to Juve's huge revenue as the reason for their success, they must recognize the failures of clubs such as Inter to build upon their sporting success and increase their revenue streams, rather than squandering their cash on poor decisions, many of which were made in various transfer markets.

Only four years ago, the Nerazzurri were ranked in the top 10 of the Deloitte Money league. They now sit in 19th place with decreasing revenues and increasing pressure, as there is fear they will not qualify for the Champions League yet again, despite investments made on the market.

Since they won the treble, no significant efforts were made to grow the Inter brand, to seek new revenue streams or widen the horizons, something Erick Thohir is now desperate to do in order to compete.

Juve is the model because, despite their suffering on pitch humiliations at a time the Nerazzurri were collecting trophies, the effort and money invested in a long-term project paid off and resulted in record revenues and sporting brilliance. Don't be fooled by what the papers tell you: Juve are not successful because of their larger revenue streams or wonderful branding -- Milan still have a bigger name in football and earn more in commercial revenue. Juventus' success, hard work and cautious spending at the start of this project are the reasons for their impressive fiscal growth, and for that they must be applauded. They earned every penny they made.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus - Inter MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/preview/70085

Feb 27, 2016
 
Juventus are looking to get back to winning ways when they welcome an inconsistent Inter to Turin.

The Bianconeri have enjoyed a wonderful 2016 thus far, and even draws against both Bologna and a wonderful fightback versus Bayern Munich haven’t deterred them away from their clash on Sunday.

One man who will feature is Paulo Dybala, who revealed to Corriere dello Sport this week that he rejected Juventus' upcoming opponents.

"Before joining Juventus I had a talk with Mancini," Dybala said. "I thanked him for this call, but I always wanted to join Juventus because they are the stronger team."

Despite being the "stronger team," it looks as though Claudio Marchisio will be the big miss for Massimiliano Allegri, having picked up an injury midweek. Other than that they should have a relatively full squad to pick from.

Inter enter this game with their average run of form, but did defeat lowly Sampdoria 3-1 in their most recent match.

Eder his still on the hunt for his first goal, having failed to find the net five times, and has only scored against Juventus when playing for Brescia in 2011. His compatriot, Mauro Icardi, is in a much better mood having scored in their recent win and spoke of what was needed to overcome Juventus.

"We must always give our best," Icardi told Inter Channel. "Our thought is to win every game and this one is worth three points to us as opposed to the clash in the Coppa Italia."

Mancini does have a virtually full squad at his disposal, with only the Croatian Marcelo Brozovic missing out due to a suspension.

The game in Turin pits two sides together that should have been a title clash, but the Nerazzurri's displays in 2016 have made this a fight for third place instead.


Keep an eye on: Paulo Dybala (Juventus) – Who else but the Argentinian? The 22-year-old has had an incredible season and is still Allegri's price dual. He bagged his first goal in Europe that started the comeback on Wednesday versus Bayern, and is ready to score against a side he rejected in the summer.


Form Guide: Juventus (D W W W W) Inter (D D D W D)

Last season: Juventus 1-1 Inter

Stat fact: There should be goals, with the last 0-0 hosted by Juventus occurring back in 2001 in Serie A.


Juventus (probable):
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Dybala, Mandzukic

Suspended: None


Inter (probable):
Handanovic; Nagatomo, Murillo, Miranda, D'Ambrosio; Biabiany, Medel, Kondogbia, Perisic; Eder, Icardi

Suspended: Brozovic

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Eder: 'Look Juve in the eyes'

http://www.football-italia.net/80459/eder-look-juve-eyes?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Eder is “absolutely not” worried that he hasn’t scored for Inter and urges his side to face Juventus “without fear.”

The Derby d’Italia kicks off in Turin on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

The forward arrived from Sampdoria in the January transfer window, but has so far failed to find the net.

“I was already aware of the difficulties I would incur by changing club in January. It is never easy because you change environment, working methods and teammates,” he told Mediaset Premium and the Corriere dello Sport.

“I expected some difficulties, so it is all within normal parameters. Am I worried? Absolutely not. My approach is to always keep working and don’t change that even during the positive spells.

“I scored 12 goals in 24 games, so can only consider my campaign a positive one. Besides, at Samp I had 11 games without scoring, but the team was doing well and my drought was masked by results.

“So far that hasn’t happened at Inter, because the result really affects the way people judge your overall performance. It’s a bad spell, it can happen.

“The Coach changed system several times, but he didn’t do it for me. At Sampdoria I played wide in a 4-3-3 with Luis Muriel or Antonio Cassano as the centre-forward, so it’s not an issue. I am not someone who just sits there and waits the whole game for the ball to arrive.”

Juventus have won all but two of their games in 2016, whereas Inter have slipped down to fifth place in the Serie A standings.

“We will look Juve right in the eyes. No fear, we must play our game, otherwise we are beaten before we begin,” continued Eder.

“We have quality and therefore need to add sacrifice and courage. We are facing a side that is top of the table because it made the fewest mistakes.

“I doubt Juve will be affected by the Champions League game with Bayern Munich, as they are accustomed to playing for two major tournaments in one week.

“Who is the player I would gladly remove from the Juventus squad? Andrea Barzagli.”

Eder was asked about Inter’s ambitions, which seem to have changed since he arrived in January.

“The Scudetto is a difficult target for us now, we remain concentrated on what the club planned for, which is third place.”

It is widely reported the Nerazzurri will poach another star player from Sampdoria over the summer, Roberto Soriano.

“I don’t know, but Soriano is an extraordinary player. I watched him grow up at Sampdoria and he knows how to interpret the attacking and defending phases really well.

“If Inter were to sign him, he’d be a great buy.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Leonardo Bonucci seeking strong Juventus
team spirit against Inter Milan

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/match/432003/juventus-internazionale/preview

Feb 27, 2016
 
Juventus midfielder Leonardo Bonucci believes his side's extraordinary team spirit can sweep them closer to another Serie A title when they face Inter Milan in Turin on Sunday.

The league leaders head into the game on the back of an epic midweek Champions League draw with Bayern Munich, after which Bonucci's performance drew praise from Pep Guardiola.

His side have not lost since December's Champions League loss to Sevilla and Bonucci believes the performance against Bayern could have set the tone for the remainder of his side's season.

He told a press conference: "In these months, the entire mentality of the squad has changed.

"The youngsters and recent arrivals have understood the importance of pulling on the Juventus jersey, while us more experienced players have rolled up our sleeves and made it clear to the others that our displays in September and October simply weren't up to this club's standards.

"We've rediscovered the willingness to run through brick walls for one another. We're united and we also showed that on Tuesday, when, especially in the first half, the strikers chased back and, in doing so, helped out the defenders."

Juventus head into the game one point clear of second-placed Napoli, who dropped two potentially costly points in Monday's home draw against Milan, and 10 clear of fifth-placed Inter.

Roberto Mancini's side bounced back from defeat in Fiorentina with a 3-1 win over Sampdoria last week.

The win boosted Inter's hopes of clawing their way into third place and the final Champions League qualifying slot for next season, and they have been further boosted by the comments of top striker Mauro Icardi.

The 23-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from the San Siro but in an interview with the club's website this week he stressed his intention to stay with the club.

Icardi said: "I've had a few offers but I want to stay here and lift trophies with this club.

"I've been given this opportunity as captain and I'd love to become a club legend like (Javier) Zanetti. Anyone would want to enjoy the same success he had."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus vs. Inter Milan: Team News, Preview

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2619857-juventus-vs-inter-milan-team-news-preview-live-stream-tv-info?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Just days after hosting a huge Champions League clash against Bayern Munich, Juventus Stadium will be the venue for the latest instalment of the Derby d’Italia as Inter Milan visit Turin. The Bianconeri return to domestic action following that tough encounter with the Bavarian giants, perhaps taking a major confidence boost from the manner of their second-half fightback.

Indeed—as discussed in this previous post—coach Massimiliano Allegri’s men were thoroughly outplayed for the opening 45 minutes but managed to peg back their opponents with goals from Paulo Dybala and Stefano Sturaro.

Unfortunately, the match also saw Claudio Marchisio pick up an injury, and Juve’s official website reports the midfielder will miss seven days of action. That rules him out of the meeting with Inter, while the Italian champions expect to see Alex Sandro and Giorgio Chiellini return after knocks of their own.

OptaPaolo ✔ ‎@OptaPaolo
8 - Buffon has kept a clean sheet 8 times since the start of 2016, more than any other ‘keeper across the top-5 European leagues. Bunker.

A draw with Bologna last week ended Juve’s club record winning streak at 15 games, but they now take on an opponent that has picked up just four victories in 2016. After losing to the Bianconeri in the Coppa Italia last month, coach Roberto Mancini saw his side collect only seven points from their next five matches.

They did comfortably see off Sampdoria in their last outing, however, and will be further boosted by a reduction in Geoffrey Kondogbia’s suspension. Initially banned for two games for sarcastically applauding the referee in the defeat to Fiorentina, the league (h/t Football Italia) announced this week that his punishment was halved on appeal.

He will therefore be available to take on Juventus, and Inter will hope that boosts their chances against an opponent the Nerazzurri have not beaten away from home since November 2012.

 

Probable Formations

 
Juventus (3-5-2):
Gigi Buffon; Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Sami Khedira, Hernanes, Paul Pogba, Alex Sandro; Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala

Unavailable: Kwadwo Asamoah, Martin Caceres and Claudio Marchisio (all injured)


Inter: (4-4-2):
Samir Handanovic; Yuto Nagatomo, Jeison Murillo, Joao Miranda, Danilo D’ Ambrosio; Jonathan Biabiany, Gary Medel, Geoffrey Kondogbia, Ivan Perisic; Eder, Mauro Icardi

Unavailable: Marcelo Brozovic (suspended)


Key Battle

Perhaps the biggest problem for Inter this season has been scoring goals, with no fewer than six teams having netted more than their current tally of 34. While they have struggled to create opportunities, there is no doubting the fact that Mauro Icardi remains one of the division’s deadliest strikers.

Indeed, despite living on scant service, the 23-year-old has netted 11 league goals and insisted in a recent interview with InterNos that he has no desire to leave the club despite regularly being mentioned in transfer rumours.

OptaPaolo ✔ ‎@OptaPaolo
11 - Mauro Icardi has scored 11 goals from the 19 shots on target he has attempted in this Serie A. Sniper.

"I've had a few offers but I want to stay here and lift trophies with this club," Icardi said (h/t Inter.it). "I'm the captain and I want to achieve great things with Inter. I've always shouldered my responsibility ever since I joined the club and I think the fans appreciate that."

He also spoke of the need to win against the Bianconeri, a team he has scored against at an impressive rate thus far in his career. With six goals in seven appearances vs. Juventus, defender Leonardo Bonucci will need to be at his best in order to slow down the remarkable prowess of Icardi.


Player to Watch

While the Turin side will be closely monitoring Icardi, it may well be that one of his former team-mates is the man to watch during this encounter. Indeed, that aforementioned injury to Marchisio means Hernanes is likely to be handed a start against the Nerazzurri, the club he left back in August.

Moving to Juventus on transfer deadline day, the 30-year-old has struggled to have a positive impact and has made just 10 league starts under Allegri’s guidance. Failing to register a goal or an assist, his best performance for the club arguably came against Bayern Munich earlier this week.

Entering the game as a second-half substitute, Hernanes was an important factor in Juve’s second-half fightback as he added some attacking quality to the midfield, much to his own surprise.

"All along I knew the moment would come when I could show my qualities so while I wasn’t expecting it to arrive on Tuesday night, I think I responded well to the challenge," he told JTV (h/t Juventus.com).

The Bianconeri will hope he can continue in the same vein when he faces Inter, with a win vital as they hope to maintain their advantage over Napoli at the top of the Serie A standings.


Odds (via Odds Shark)

Away win: 23-4

Home win: 100-167

Draw: 13-5

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: 'Juve-Inter always special'

http://www.football-italia.net/80466/allegri-juve-inter-always-special?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Max Allegri warned Juventus the Derby d’Italia with Inter is separate from current Serie A form and the Coppa Italia semi-final.

It kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

The Bianconeri continued their unbeaten run, but were held by two consecutive stalemates to Bologna and Bayern Munich.

“Tuesday’s game was only the first leg, so nothing has been done yet. We still have a chance of qualifying against Bayern and we’ll see what happens in Munich,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“Inter are a very physical side who had a very strong start to the season, it is still the Derby d’Italia, the table is irrelevant.

“We have two very clear objectives: first to get back to victory after two consecutive draws. The second is to stay top of the Serie A table. The third is to earn our place in the Coppa Italia Final for the third year running.

“This all means we’ve got plenty of time to think about Bayern on March 12. Giorgio Chiellini is back, so we only have Claudio Marchisio out and he won’t be sidelined for long, so that is important.

“The Scudetto race is still open, it’s not just an issue between Juventus and Napoli. Roma and Fiorentina are close by, there are still 12 rounds to go and the Giallorossi have won five in a row. They’ve got the potential to get many more wins, so can still have their say.

“Tomorrow is the Derby d’Italia, it is a head-to-head, and we need the victory because we’re coming off two draws.”

Inter were top of the table on January 6, but have plummeted down to fifth place in the Serie A table.

“I didn’t expect Inter to struggle like this. They started so well with many new players, but this is why I always tell everyone to have patience and remain calm, because we started badly and turned it around. Things can change.

“Tomorrow we must try to win, because that’ll be one less victory we need to get the Scudetto.”

Juve and Inter face off twice in four days, as they meet again in the Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday, the Bianconeri winning the first leg 3-0.

“Nothing changes, we just need to keep our objectives in clear view. Tomorrow is worth three Serie A points. Wednesday is the second leg and we need to score at least one goal to be sure, because you never know, so we can reach the Final.”

Roberto Mancini tends to mirror his opponents’ tactics, so does that make it more or less difficult for Allegri to prepare his side?

“I don’t know how Mancini will play, especially as he doesn’t know how we will play… I have to see today’s training session, how Andrea Barzagli and Sami Khedira are doing, as at the moment it is best to see who needs a rest, but until then I have to evaluate everyone.

“Inter are a physical side, so we must play very well technically, passing the ball quickly and doing much better than we did for most of Tuesday.

“It was wonderful to fight back from 2-0 down against Bayern, but we have to improve certain things to compete in Europe: technique and the speed of our passing. We cannot think of playing only physical games in Europe, as facing sides like Bayern, Real Madrid and Barcelona the ball will be moved at 100 miles per hour.

“The more we control the ball, the better. The hunger to reach a result is within Juventus DNA, so that we don’t need to work on, but Tuesday was an important test to see where we are with a revamped squad and many young players. It showed us where we have to improve.

“Hernanes needed to improve his fitness levels by playing. He did well on Tuesday both technically and working in front of the defence. At the moment this role suits him very well, as he has good feet for short and long passing, so we must make the most of his characteristics.

“I am convinced that will be his role from now to the end of his career.”

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: 'I'm happy at Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/80467/allegri-im-happy-juve?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Juventus Coach Max Allegri shrugged off more questions about his future, as the Chelsea job is replaced by Italy.

The tactician had for many weeks been the hot favourite to take over at Stamford Bridge for next season, but that role now seems to be going to Antonio Conte.

“Once again, nobody knows what I have in mind. So when I heard all this talk of ‘Allegri is going to Chelsea,’ it made me smile. Allegri decides,” he said in a Press conference.

“I haven’t even thought about my future, because it is too important to end the season in the right way.

“I am happy at Juventus, we are working to win a fifth consecutive Scudetto, which would make history, to reach the Coppa Italia Final and qualify for the Champions League quarter-finals.

“I was pleased by (Juventus director Beppe) Marotta’s words, because I’ve always said I am happy at Juventus, but this is not the time to talk about contracts.”

If Marotta offers a contract renewal now, would Allegri take it?

“No, I have a training session, then lunch! I’ve always said I am happy at Juventus, we have a project to revamp the squad and help many new young players grow.”

Allegri was also asked whether he’d be interested in replacing Conte in the Italy job.

“Italy? I am at Juventus, I don’t know why you keep trying to make me leave!”

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: 'No Napoli crisis'

http://www.football-italia.net/80468/allegri-no-napoli-crisis?

Feb 27, 2016
 
There is “no crisis” for Napoli or Italian sides in Europe, assured Juventus boss Max Allegri.

The Partenopei crashed out of the Europa League to Villarreal and are without a win in four competitive matches.

Fiorentina were also eliminated by Tottenham, while Roma and Juve’s qualification is in the balance in the Champions League. Is it therefore a crisis for Serie A sides on the continent?

“In Italy we go from one extreme to the other. Let’s not talk about a Napoli crisis, as they only lost with us, drawing with Milan and Villarreal,” said Allegri in his Press conference.

“They are one point behind us, so it is hardly a crisis. When Italian teams play against opponents like Tottenham, Villarreal, Galatasaray, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, they are very even clashes and you can win or lose.

“There are only three teams who tend to go all the way to the semi-finals in Europe: Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. The fourth tends to vary year on year.”

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: Inter are a physical side

The Juventus coach has predicted a tough battle on Sunday and urged his players
to play with a greater intensity than they showed against Bayern Munich.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3276/serie-a/2016/02/27/20768832/-?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has highlighted Inter's physical qualities ahead of the clash between the two sides on Sunday.

The Bianconeri ran out 3-0 winners over Roberto Mancini's men in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final in January, with the return leg set for Wednesday.

But before that the pair will meet again in Serie A, with Juve a point clear of Napoli at the top of the division, while Inter have tumbled to fifth in the standings after a bad run of form.

However, Allegri has highlighted the qualities the Nerazzurri possess and urged his players to play with greater intensity than they showed in the 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

"Inter are a physical side and it will be a tough game," he told a pre-match news conference.

"We must play very well technically, passing the ball quickly and doing much beter than we did for most of Tuesday. Regardless of the league table, it remains the Derby d'Italia.

"We need to win tomorrow's game, as it would mean one less victory that's required to lift the Scudetto.

"Inter started well but have tailed off in recent times. Let's not rule them out though."

Nevertheless, Allegri conceded Napoli and Fiorentina are Juventus' main rivals in the title race, while suggesting Roma could come back into contention.

"There are 12 games remaining, talk of this season's Serie A being over are wide of the mark," he said.

"The likes of Roma and Fiorentina can still work their way back into the running, so we need to keep going.

"Napoli are not in crisis in my book. They lost to us, drew against Milan and Villarreal [in the Europa League] and lie a point behind us.

"We're working to win what would be the club's fifth consecutive Scudetto, an achievement that would go down in history."

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Mancini: 'Juve best in Italy'

http://www.football-italia.net/80477/mancini-juve-best-italy?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Roberto Mancini wants a “positive, more attacking” Inter with “strongest side in Italy” Juventus.

The Derby d'Italia kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“With 13 rounds to go, I don’t think this can be decisive, as there are another 40 points up for grabs. It is an important game, that is certain, but not in or out,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“Bayern Munich are a different team. Considering they were 2-0 down, it’s a good result, but 2-2 at home in the first leg is not per se a good result. Juve were galvanized after going behind and risked winning it at the end.

“Bayern Munich have too much potential, economically, to buy great players compared to Italian clubs. They can buy whoever they want and when they really get going on the field, few sides can stand up to them.

“I think Inter can have a fine performance and a positive result. We did well in the Coppa Italia, but it ended 3-0 regardless, as we lacked something in attack and were uncoordinated. I think Inter can achieve an important result in Turin.

“We have lost points where we didn’t deserve to and against teams we didn’t expect to not beat. Clearly it is difficult, but it will be tough for Juventus too.

“The attitude must be positive, more attacking and when it is time to defend we do it well, I think we can get a great result. Obviously it will be difficult.

“The biggest mistake we could make would be conceding a goal. Of course, this is easy to say and less so to do on the field.

“Will our tactics change depending on how Juve are set out? No. In any case, little changes from 4-3-3 to 4-3-1-2, etc. Can I give you some names of who will play tomorrow? Not one!”

Leonardo Bonucci said he wants to “bury” Inter with this clash, the way the Nerazzurri failed to end Juve’s title hopes earlier this season.

“They want to win and so do we, as we’re not going there to sit back and lose. Juve have quality and we knew when they were back there that they’d get into the Scudetto race again.

“Juve are the strongest side in Italy, that’s only normal and they won many titles, just as Inter did between 2006 and 2011.

“Juventus have improved in recent months, they will continue to improve. We are not that far away from Juve, despite the incredible run of results. We are working and I am sure Inter will be on the same level as Juventus very soon.

“Juve went into Serie B and then took several years to rediscover their form, going through a huge number of players that people now don’t remember. It is a process that takes time and is also achieved via trial and error.”

Which players would Mancini like to poach from Juventus?

“They have many talented young players, but I doubt they’d make the move here, even if I phone them! Paulo Dybala will become a great player over the next 10 years. You try to sign players, some negotiations work out and some don’t.”

Hernanes made the move to Turin and is likely to start against his old club tomorrow night.

“I’m pleased, as we had an excellent rapport with him and he was a great professional with us. We want to win in order to close up the gap in the table.”

Jose Mourinho said he arrived as a professional and left as an Inter fan thanks to Massimo Moratti. How can the club recreate that atmosphere with the President so far away?

“I am not alone here. I have help from everyone at the club, then I am the Coach and anyone in this profession knows he’s left alone when things don’t go well. I have never felt alone here. To build what we did a few years ago, it takes time.

“President Erick Thohir was pleased to be with the players and talk. These were normal meetings discussing our short-term and long-term objectives, so there was no need for anyone to be reassured.”

Mancini was asked whether he’d be interested in replacing Antonio Conte for Italy after Euro 2016.

“I am happy here at this moment and my thoughts are only on Inter for now and next season. In future of course it’d be wonderful to be on the Nazionale bench, but it seems a bit early.”

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Nesta: Juventus Are Favourites
For The Serie A Title

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/02/nesta-juventus-are-favourites-for-the-serie-a-title/

Feb 27, 2016
 
Former AC Milan and Lazio defender, Alessandro Nesta, has claimed that Juventus are the current favourites to win this year’s Serie A title.

Having successfully recovered from a terrible start to the domestic campaign, the current league leaders impressively recorded 15 consecutive league victories, and Nesta believes that this run is an example of their unique strength within the Italian championship.

“Juventus have done something extraordinary in terms of their recovery,” said Nesta to Sky Sport Italia. “I believe that they are the favourites.”

Juventus are currently leading the domestic league standings by just a single point, although the current head coach of Miami FC has claimed that the Turin outfit do have a stronger squad than their closest challengers, Napoli.

“Napoli are a good team but the Bianconeri have the strongest core in Italy,” he added. “There have no problems regarding their squad.”

Juventus will take on Inter in the Derby’Italia at the Juventus stadium on Sunday, as they will aim to continue their bid to obtain their fifth consecutive Scudetto.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus v Inter Preview: Hernanes wary
of opening title race up to chasing pack

The reigning champions go into the weekend one point clear at the top of the table
but their midfielder has warned they cannot afford to rest on their laurels.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-vs-internazionale/2120641/preview

Feb 27, 2016

The reigning champions go into the weekend one point clear at the top of the table but their midfielder has warned they cannot afford to rest on their laurels

Hernanes has warned Juventus to be wary of their Serie A rivals matching the champions' stellar run of form as they attempt to keep it a two-way race for the title with Napoli by winning Sunday's derby d'Italia against Inter.

Leaders Juve recovered from a slow start in the top flight to put together a 15-match winning league streak that only ended with a disappointing 0-0 draw at Bologna last weekend, Napoli's failure to beat Milan keeping them top.

Massimiliano Allegri's men, who fought back from two down to draw 2-2 with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last-16 first leg on Tuesday, next face an Inter side whose title challenge has apparently derailed in 2016.

Roberto Mancini's men were top at the mid-season break, but three losses and three draws in eight league games since the turn of the year has left them 10-points off the pace in fifth.

However, midfielder Hernanes – who swapped Inter for Juve in the close-season – warned any complacency will open the door to the chasing pack.

"We've produced an extraordinary reaction to falling off the pace early on, but we can't rest on our laurels," he told Juve's official website.

"We are competing with Napoli for the Scudetto, but who is to say that another team won't put together another run like ours and place themselves in the title picture?"

This weekend's contest at Juventus Stadium is the first of a double-header, with Juve travelling to San Siro for the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-finals on Wednesday.

Juve have a commanding 3-0 lead in that tie and Inter's last win in the derby d'Italia came back in November 2012.

But Hernanes is expecting a sterner test this time around.

"It's a massive game not only for us, but also for Inter," he added. "After our last meeting they will play more carefully and keep things tighter so we're all expecting a tough 90 minutes."

Inter's inconsistency over the past two months has seen the pressure grow on Mancini.

Rumours have also persisted that president Erick Thohir is looking to sell his majority stake in the club, something Inter and the man himself denied.

Inter, who beat struggling Sampdoria 3-1 last week, may be the unfancied side heading into the game, but Mauro Icardi insists they can cause an upset.

"We have to give it our best shot," he said. "We always set out to win and anything can happen once you get out there but you need the right mentality."

Inter can welcome back Geoffrey Kondogbia after his two-match ban for a sending off against Fiorentina this month was shortened to one, while Claudio Marchisio (thigh) is not available for Juve.


OPTA FACTS

This will be the 166th Serie A meetings between these two sides – Juventus lead by 78 wins to 45, with 42 draws.

Inter were the first side to win at the Juventus Stadium in Serie A (1-3 in November 2012) – however, the Nerazzurri have won only 11 of the 82 league meetings against Juve in Turin (D15, L56).

Juventus have found the net in each of their last nine home games against Inter in Serie A.

Juventus have kept a clean sheet in their last seven Serie A games. The last time they went eight consecutive games in a single season was in December 2013 (Juventus’ record is nine matches and dates back to 1972/73).

Inter are winless away from home in four league games (D2 L2), conceding in each match.

Juventus have conceded only six shots on target from inside the box in Serie A in the nine games played in 2016.

Inter have faced at least four shots on target in 16 games this term (only four sides have done in more). On the other hand, only four times have Juventus conceded four or more shots on target in a match this season.

Gianluigi Buffon has not conceded a goal in 656 minutes in Serie A – keeping a clean sheet against Inter would raise his run to 746 minutes, overtaking his current record (745) set in 2013. However, Buffon has conceded 36 goals against Inter in Serie A, fewer only than versus Roma (37).


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus D D W W W

2/23/16 - Juventus 2 - 2 Bayern München
2/19/16 - Bologna 0 - 0 Juventus
2/13/16 - Juventus 1 - 0 Napoli
2/7/16 - Frosinone 0 - 2 Juventus
2/3/16 - Juventus 1 - 0 Genoa


Internazionale W L D W L

2/20/16 - Internazionale 3 - 1 Sampdoria
2/14/16 - Fiorentina 2 - 1 Internazionale
2/7/16 - Hellas Verona 3 - 3 Internazionale
2/3/16 - Internazionale 1 - 0 Chievo Verona
1/31/16 - Milan 3 - 0 Internazionale


HEAD TO HEAD

1/27/16 - Juventus 3 - 0 Internazionale
10/18/15 - Internazionale 0 - 0 Juventus
5/16/15 - Internazionale 1 - 2 Juventus
1/6/15 - Juventus 1 - 1 Internazionale
2/2/14 - Juventus 3 - 1 Internazionale

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus squad for Inter

http://www.football-italia.net/80486/juventus-squad-inter?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Juventus named their squad to host Inter in the Derby d’Italia on Sunday evening.

It kicks off tomorrow at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

Claudio Marchisio and Martin Caceres are out injured, but Alex Sandro, Giorgio Chiellini and Kwadwo Asamoah return after missing the 2-2 Champions League draw with Bayern Munich.


Juventus squad for Inter

Buffon, Chiellini, Khedira, Zaza, Morata, Pogba, Hernanes, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Cuadrado, Mandzukic, Lemina, Bonucci, Padoin, Dybala, Asamoah, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

JUVENTUS VS INTER MATCH PREVIEW

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-vs-inter-match-preview-and-scouting-2/?

Feb 27, 2016
 

Juventus

The Bayern Munich clash managed to be both disappointing and exciting at the same time. It was certainly a concern to see Juventus severely outplayed by the German champions for an hour. Then the reaction by Bianconeri, who simply refused to lose at home, was fantastic. The final result is bittersweet and leaves room for big regrets.

It’s always easy to speak in hindsight, but maybe sitting back and counter was not the right strategy. Bayern were vulnerable in the back because of many absentees and Joshua Kimmich was brutal. I don’t know if in three weeks we will have the same luxury: something more should have been done to take advantage of the situation.

On the other hand, execution was a big problem: we missed so many counterattacking opportunities in the first half because of misplaced passes, poor first touches or bad decisions in the build-up of the actions. We were miuch sharper on this front, later in the game. Also, it is totally feasible that Bayern got tired because of an hour of intense pressing and possession and maybe they would have played a more complete game if Juventus were less passive. Some of these questions will be answered in the return leg when the Bianconeri will be forced to seek a goal. Bottom line, Juventus need to be better if they want to achieve what would be an incredible feat: beating Bayern at Allianz Arena, where they have always won this season.

Now it’s time to focus on Serie A as the usually much-anticipated Inter game approaches. Juventus received a big help by Milan last Monday as the Rossoneri stopped Napoli at home, preventing them from overtaking us. Napoli face Fiorentina on the road on Monday, a very interesting matchup.

As always, mixed news from the infirmary: Claudio Marchisio has a sore hamstring and will miss the two Inter matches. In fact, the two teams will square up again on Wednesday in the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final, where Juventus will defend the 3-0 lead. Luckily enough, Hernanes not only showed signs of life, but was superb against Bayern and played with great confidence. These next two games will tell if he has a place in this Juventus, especially in a scheme with no pure no.10.

It’s reported that Giorgio Chiellini, Alex Sandro and Kwadwo Asamoah have all recovered and obviously Mario Mandzukic returned to action with a roar against his former team. This means that Massimiliano Allegri will go back to 3-5-2 and will be able to field most of the “A” team, minus Marchisio.

Sandro is likely to start relieving Patrice Evra who played the last three games in a row. Consequently, Stephen Lichsteiner will be on the right flank. Sami Khedira is set to play and somehow we are still undefeated when he is on the pitch: 14 wins and 3 draws. The German midfielder has been pretty inconsistent mainly due to injuries and poor conditioning, but he adds an element of poise that other players do not possess.

The attack should be the same of the midweek game: at this point, it is clear that it is the best combination and the coaching staff likes to give returning players more minutes to help them re-gain the game form.

On Wednesday, we will definitely see some rotation: Alvaro Morata-Simone Zaza has been the usual Coppa striking pair, then we will probably see from the get-go Neto, Daniele Rugani, Stefano Sturaro, Kwadwo Asamoah and/or Roberto Pereyra depending what the tactics will be: 4-3-1-2 is a possibility in order to sit more centre-backs. Gianluigi Buffon will rest for sure, Andrea Barzagli, Sami Khedira and Paul Pogba might be on the bench as well in an easy match where Juventus simply need to avoid conceding three goals to reach the final.


Probable lineup 3-5-2:

Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichsteiner, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala.


Injuries:

Marchisio (hamstring), Caceres (Achilles).

Suspensions:

None.


 

  Inter

Not much has changed at Inter since when we smashed them in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final. They have been able to beat some sorry teams like Sampdoria and Chievo Verona, but in general their slump has continued and they are conceding way more than they used to do, especially on set pieces. They are still in fifth position: a swift freefall considering that they have been on top of the table for few months.

Roberto Mancini is still trying to figure out what the best lineup and the best XI are. He appears to have liked what he saw against Sampdoria, therefore the favourite formation is 4-4-2. One of the mistakes they made in the transfer market is that they pushed hard to get Ivan Perisic but they did not pair him up with another pure winger. Jonathan Biabiany is the only right winger they have on the roster and he is likely to start. The other option would be using Perisic on the right and Adem Ljajic on the left, but it has proven to be ineffective and dangerous for the team’s balance in the past.

Geoffrey Kondogbia has won his appeal to get his suspension reduced so he will be available for this game, while Marcelo Brozovic is disqualified. Gary Medel has been a regular, then the coach will decide his partner in the midfield between the Frenchman, who brings more technique but has been up and down, or Felipe Melo, who adds grit and muscles, but whose head is not always 100 percent in the game.

It looks like that 3-5-2 is gaining traction as Mancini might opt to play in a specular way. If that was the case, Biabiany and Perisic would be benched, Jesus would enter the starting XI and Telles would likely replace Nagatomo as he is more offensive.

Notorious Juventus killer Mauro Icardi will undoubtedly start: he has scored three goals in the last four games. Since Stevan Jovetic never clicked with the Argentinian striker and seems to have fallen out of favour, Icardi’s partner will be one between Rodrigo Palacio, who has played quite well recently, or Eder, who has yet to find the back of the net with the black and blue jersey and has not had the impact they were hoping for.

On Sunday, they will able to use the starting defence formed by Danilo D’Ambrosio, Miranda, Jeison Murillo and Yuto Nagatomo. However, that will not be the case on Wednesday, when both centre-backs will be suspended. They will have to find a partner for Juan Jesus: Medel has played as defender before, while Mancini hinted in the past that D’Ambrosio would play there if they did not find a replacement for the departed Andrea Ranocchia. In the midweek match, Alex Telles, Brozovic, Ljajic and Jovetic are expected to make an appearance.


Probable lineup 3-5-2

Handanovic; D’Ambrosio, Murillo, Miranda, Nagatomo; Biabiany, Melo, Medel, Perisic; Palacio, Icardi.


Injuries:

None.

Suspensions:

Brozovic.

 

Formation

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Kondogbia for Juve-Inter

http://www.football-italia.net/80488/kondogbia-juve-inter?

Feb 27, 2016
 
Inter announced their squad to face Juventus tomorrow, including Geoffrey Kondogbia.

It kicks off tomorrow at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

Kondogbia is available after winning the appeal to have his ban reduced.

Marcelo Brozovic is still suspended, but the rest of the team is ready.


Inter squad for Juventus

Handanovic, Carrizo, Berni; Jesus, Telles, Santon, Murillo, Miranda, D'Ambrosio, Nagatomo; Kondogbia, Medel, Gnoukouri, Melo; Palacio, Icardi, Jovetic, Biabiany, Ljajic, Eder, Perisic, Manaj

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

'Juve can face Bayern, Inter'

http://www.football-italia.net/80518/juve-can-face-bayern-inter?

Feb 28, 2016
 
Veteran Coach Giovanni Trapattoni believes Juventus are 'advantaged' in facing Bayern Munich and Inter in close succession.

The Bianconeri host the Nerazzurri tonight at 20.45 CET - 19:45 GMT, in the same week that saw them draw 2-2 against Champions League giants Bayern Munich.

“For Juventus, playing against Inter a few days after Bayern is an advantage, it will make it impossible for them to lose concentration,” he told Tuttosport.

“I see myself a little bit in Allegri, who is always so practical and optimistic. But I like Mancini a lot, too. Inter's decline in 2016 is physiological.

“February and March are the months when a Coach gets contacted by other clubs. It's always been this way and I'm convinced that Mancini and Allegri too received some offers.

“I think Roberto will stay in Milan. As for Max, I'm not his manager, but I'd tell him what a friend used to tell me in turn: 'remember that if you're happy in your wood, then be careful before going to another, because the more woods you explore the more wolves you meet'.”

Finally, Trapattoni was asked for a forecast on Bayern-Juventus and a comparison between Mauro Icardi and Paulo Dybala.

“The Germans have always been a little arrogant and Juventus have the right players to try reaching the quarter-finals.

“Dybala reminds me of Omar Sivori for his imagination and creativity. Icardi is a snake like Paolo Rossi.

“I know that Inter wanted to sign Dybala last summer. They'd have upgraded into the next level with him. Champions can turn a team around.

“Michel Platini was able to change my Juventus. These are footballers who change the whole equilibrium of a team.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus V Inter – Preview: Bianconeri Want To
Get Back To Winning Ways Against Nerazzurri

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/02/juventus-v-inter-preview-bianconeri-want-to-get-back-to-winning-ways-against-nerazzurri/?

Feb 28, 2016
 
It’s the Derby d’Italia time as Juventus host Inter at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday night in Serie A, to get quickly back to winning ways.

The Bianconeri come from two consecutive draws, and if the 2-2 with Bayern Munich in the Champions League is not a bad result, the 0-0 in Bologna last Friday was disappointing, interrupting the 15 wins in a row streak. Napoli did not make the most of it, though, and Massimiliano Allegri can still enjoy being top of the league.

Roberto Mancini, meanwhile, beat Sampdoria 3-1 to maintain the fifth spot in the table behind Roma and Fiorentina and bounce back after the last minute loss in Florence. The Nerazzurri aren’t in their best moment of form though as they collected only eight points in their last six games, winning only against the Blucerchiati and Chievo.

The last time Juve and Inter met in Turin the Italian Champions gave their opponents no chance, winning the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi final 3-0. The last Serie A Derby d’Italia ended with a goalless draw, whilst last season Juve won at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, but it ended 1-1 at the Stadium.

A result that would not be too bad for Mancini, seeing the not particularly great moment his team are in. Geoffrey Kondogbia will start, after his ban was reduced to one game on appeal, whilst the only absentee will be Marcelo Brozovic, also for a ban. Mancini should play pretty much the same eleven who beat Samp, apart from Gary Medel instead of Felipe Melo, with Jonathan Biabiany confirmed and Eder and Mauro Icardi leading the attack.

Allegri on the other hand will go back to his preferred three at the back, as Giorgio Chiellini and Alex Sandro have recovered from their injuries. Who is not available is Claudio Marchisio, alongside Kwadwo Asamoah and obviously Martin Caceres, out for the rest of the season. Hernanes should therefore start in the middle, with Sandro on the left and Mario Mandzukic being preferred over Alvaro Morata up front.


Recent form: Juventus (W-W-W-W-D-D) Inter (L-W-D-L-W)


Expected starting XI’s

Juventus (3-5-2):
Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala.


Inter (4-4-2):
Handanovic; Nagatomo, Murillo, Miranda, D’Ambrosio; Biabiany, Medel, Kondogbia, Perisic; Icardi, Eder.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Del Piero: 'Last chance for Inter'

http://www.football-italia.net/80529/del-piero-last-chance-inter?

Feb 28, 2016
 
Alessandro Del Piero warns Inter have their “last chance saloon” for a Champions League spot against Juventus tonight.

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“The Bianconeri are the favourites, both for their current position in the table and the current form of Max Allegri’s side,” Del Piero told Sky Sport Italia.

“Perhaps for Inter it really is the last chance saloon for a place in the Champions League, as things are not going very well for the Nerazzurri at the moment.

“This trip to the Juventus Stadium and a positive result here is the ideal opportunity for Roberto Mancini to relaunch their ambitions.”

Meanwhile, Del Piero was on television last night in Italy performing the tango as a guest on Dancing With The Stars.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Inter Coach Focused On Juventus And Not Azzurri

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/02/inter-coach-focused-on-juventus-and-not-azzurri/?

Feb 28, 2016
 
Inter coach Roberto Mancini has pulled himself out of the race to be the next Italy coach and is concentrated on Sunday’s Derby D’Italia against Juventus.

With current Azzurri boss Antonio Conte reportedly agreeing to a deal with Chelsea that will see him taking over the Blues’ bench after Euro 2016, there were reports that Mancini could take over but the 51-year-old was quick to quell these rumours.

“I am happy at Inter so coaching Italy is not on my mind at this time,” Mancini told Inter Channel.

“It is too early to speak of this right now but perhaps in the future it will be something that I consider.”

The former Manchester City coach then turned his focus to Sunday’s big derby.

“Tomorrow will be a tough match in a hostile environment,” Mancini said.

“We need to go on the offensive, we lacked attacking impetus the last time we met in the Coppa Italia.

“We cannot take Bayern Munich as an example of how to make Juventus suffer as they are a much different team.

“This is not a decisive match as there are still so many points up for grabs this season but it is clear that we need to recover the points which we have dropped of late.”

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Eder won't panic over goal drought
ahead of Juventus battle

Former Sampdoria striker Eder admits he is currently enduring a "bad spell" in front of goal
but claims he expected to struggle after moving clubs midway through the campaign.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2016/02/27/20782882/eder-refusing-to-panic-over-goal-drought?ICID=TP_HN_HP_RI_1_2

Feb 28, 2016
 
Inter forward Eder insists he is not worried about his goal drought since joining the club and vowed his team would "look Juventus in the eyes" when they do battle in Serie A on Sunday.

The Italy international, 29, signed for Roberto Mancini's men from Sampdoria in January but has not yet found the net in five Serie A starts.

However, Eder thinks his team can match Massimiliano Allgeri's hosts and vowed not to panic over his own struggles in front of goal.

"Am I worried? Absolutely not," he said to Corriere dello Sport. "I expected some difficulties, so it is all within normal parameters.

"My approach is to always keep working and not to change that even during the positive spells.

"I was already aware of the difficulties I would incur by changing club in January. It is never easy because you change environment, working methods and team-mates.

"I have scored 12 goals in 24 games, so can only consider my campaign a positive one. At Samp I had a run of 11 games without scoring, but the team was doing well and my drought was masked by results.

"So far that hasn't happened at Inter because the result really affects the way people judge your overall performance. It is a bad spell, it can happen.

"We will look Juve right in the eyes. No fear, we must play our game, otherwise we are beaten before we begin.

"We have quality and therefore need to add sacrifice and courage. We are facing a side that is top of the table because it made the fewest mistakes."

Inter go into the crunch clash in Turin down in fifth position, 10 points adrift of leaders Juve, who have not lost in the league since October.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus welcome back Chiellini for Inter clash

The defender has recovered from injury and joins Kwadwo Asamoah and Alex Sandro
in the champions' squad for the visit of Roberto Mancini's men in the Derby d'Italia.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2016/02/28/20790242/chiellini-back-for-inter-clash?ICID=TP_HN_HP_RI_0_2

Feb 28, 2016
 
Juventus have confirmed defender Giorgio Chiellini is fit to return for their clash with Inter in Serie A on Sunday.

Chiellini has been unavailable for Juve's last three games with a muscle problem picked up in the 2-0 win against Frosinone.

However, the31-year-old has been named in Massimiliano Allegri's 23-man squad for the visit of Inter.

Kwadwo Asamoah and Alex Sandro have also been included in the Juventus squad for the game.

A win would stretch Juventus' lead from Napoli at the top of the table to four points, with Maurizio Sarri's side visiting Fiorentina on Monday.

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Line-ups: Juventus-Inter

http://www.football-italia.net/80542/line-ups-juventus-inter

Feb 28, 2016
 
Juventus and Inter go head-to-head in the Derby d’Italia tonight, as Paulo Dybala and Hernanes face Mauro Icardi and Felipe Melo.

It kicks off in Turin at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

The Bianconeri saw their 15-round winning streak terminated by Bologna and midweek fought back from 2-0 down to hold Bayern Munich 2-2 in the Champions League.

They need a victory to ensure they stay top of the Serie A table regardless of Napoli’s trip to Fiorentina on Monday night.

Claudio Marchisio is out injured, so Hernanes steps in against his former club, having impressed against Bayern.

Giorgio Chiellini and Alex Sandro both return from spells on the sidelines, so that means the 3-5-2 system is also back.

Mario Mandzukic is picked to partner Paulo Dybala in attack with Paul Pogba and Sami Khedira completing the midfield.

Inter look to mirror Juve’s tactics, as they have done so many times this season when adapting to their opponents, and go three at the back.

Marcelo Brozovic sits out a ban, but Geoffrey Kondogbia is available after winning his appeal to have a suspension reduced for sarcastically applauding the referee.

Felipe Melo takes on his old club, while Icardi is partnered by Rodrigo Palacio, leaving Eder, Adem Ljajic and Stevan Jovetic on the bench.

Rather than Jonathan Biabiany or Ivan Perisic, they go for the more defensive wing-backs Alex Telles and Danilo D’Ambrosio.

This is a huge test for Roberto Mancini’s men, but also probably one of their last chances to stay in the running for third place.

Incredibly, Inter were top of the table on January 6, but are now in fifth place and only one point clear of Milan.


Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala

Juventus bench: Neto, Rubinho, Rugani, Evra, Padoin, Lemina, Sturaro, Asamoah, Pereyra, Cuadrado, Zaza, Morata


Inter: Handanovic; Miranda, Murillo, Juan Jesus; D'Ambrosio, Felipe Melo, Medel, Kondogbia, Telles; Icardi, Palacio

Inter bench: Carrizo, Berni, Jovetic, Biabiany, Santon, Ljajic, Eder, Gnoukouri, Perisic, Nagatomo, Manaj

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

'Proud of Guardiola liking Bonucci'

http://www.football-italia.net/80546/proud-guardiola-liking-bonucci?

Feb 28, 2016
 
Juventus chief Beppe Marotta was “proud” to hear Pep Guardiola’s praise for Leonardo Bonucci and is ready for Inter.

“Of course there is concern when facing a strong opponent who started the season very well and slowed down, but remains fearsome,” Marotta told Mediaset Premium.

“We consider this group to be the best under the Andrea Agnelli era, but we won’t settle, as we are looking around for more new players.

“There’s no lack of options, as the appeal of Juve has increased and players are more likely to come to a club with a strong brand.”

Bayern Munich Coach Guardiola said this week Bonucci was one of his favourite players. Does that worry Juventus?

“No, if anything it makes us proud. However, Juventus don’t let players go unless they want to leave. We only just renewed Bonucci’s contract over the summer, he is very fond of us and there’s no particular reason for his departure.

“Obviously the appreciation of a Coach like Guardiola is something to be proud of for us and the player.”

Once again, Marotta was asked about Max Allegri’s future.

“It happens every week now… There is no Allegri problem. He has a contract and there’s no need to think about anything else.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

JUVENTUS - INTER

-

 
 

MATCHDAY 27
Sunday, February 28th, 2016 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

HT 0-0: Juventus rattle Inter

http://www.football-italia.net/80548/ht-juventus-rattle-inter

Feb 28, 2016
 
Juventus had the best chances of the first half and hit the Inter crossbar, but Giorgio Chiellini went off injured.

The Bianconeri saw their 15-round winning streak ended last week by Bologna and a 2-2 Champions League draw with Bayern Munich, so wanted to get back on track and secure first place. Claudio Marchisio was injured, but Giorgio Chiellini and Alex Sandro returned, as did the 3-5-2 system. Roberto Mancini mirrored their tactics, but had Marcelo Brozovic suspended.

Inter had not beaten Juventus in all competition since a 3-1 result in Turin on November 3 2012. That was followed by three draws and four defeats. There was a huge choreography before kick-off mocking ‘clowns’ Inter for accepting the so-called ‘Cardboard Scudetto’ after Calciopoli in 2006.

There was a huge chance within five minutes, as Hernanes unleashed a scorching strike from a good 30 metres out and Samir Handanovic got fingertips to turn it on to the crossbar.

Moments later Mario Mandzukic ran on to a through ball and pulled back for Paulo Dybala, but his shot was charged down. Mandzukic then failed to make the most of a poor Jeison Murillo interception by blasting over from a tight angle – and that was all within the opening nine minutes.

Handanovic also comfortably smothered a Hernanes low drive and Mandzukic header, while Alex Sandro’s crucial header stopped Danilo D’Ambrosio nodding in an Alex Telles free kick at the back post and Mauro Icardi’s first touch let him down from six yards out on Rodrigo Palacio’s divine chipped pass.

Bad news for Juventus, as Chiellini went off injured after just 35 minutes, making way for Daniele Rugani. Joao Miranda crucially intercepted a Paul Pogba assist from a free kick in the six-yard box, then Handanovic timed his intervention perfectly to prod the ball off Mandzukic’s feet.


Juventus 0-0 Inter (Half-Time)

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini (Rugani 35); Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Mandzukic, Dybala

Inter: Handanovic; Miranda, Murillo, Juan Jesus; D'Ambrosio, Felipe Melo, Medel, Kondogbia, Telles; Icardi, Palacio

Ref: Rocchi

 

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