Juventus Season 2015-2016

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Betting Special: 20/1 on Juventus to triumph at Bayern

Paddy Power are offering all new customers a huge price on the Italian champions
to pull off a major upset at Allianz Arena following their 2-2 draw in the first leg.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2995/betting/2016/03/16/21364242/-?

Mar 16, 2016

Aiming to enter the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the second consecutive season, Juventus travel to Bayern Munich on Wednesday needing to beat their hosts to be guaranteed progress.

Last season's finalists are still fully in the tie after securing a 2-2 draw during February's first leg and will be aiming to continue their climb back into the reckoning for Europe's top prize with an impressive victory.

Paddy Power are taking the usual price of 7/1 (8.0) on the away win and offering Juventus at a massive for anyone opening a new account through the links provided.

Despite going down two goals in the first leg, it was Juve who undoubtedly finished that clash stronger as they roared back through goals from Paulo Dybala and Stefano Sturaro.

The former is a massive injury blow for the Bianconeri alongside Claudio Marchisio but, ever more aware of their means, the Italian champions will set out to exploit any form of Bayern complacency.

The pair of strikes conceded at the end of the tie in Turin took the number of goals conceded by Pep Guardiola's men in the final 30 minutes of Champions League games to five this term – a worrying stat that has led many to question their capabilities of protecting a lead.

Indeed, questions about the four-consecutive Bundesliga title-winning side's character have intensified given the nature in which they let their commanding advantage slip, with a lack of desire and determination amongst the reasons cited.

Juventus will be eager to test any Bayern insecurities when they visit Allianz Arena with a fresh sense of belief that they can have their say against one of Europe's elite, even without Dybala and Marchisio.

Though the key duo are out, Alex Sandro and Roberto Pereyra could make their returns in a clash which will help define where the Serie A leaders' true ambitions can lie this term.

Despite being dropped to the bench in favour of former FCB hitman Mario Mandzukic – the Croatian who was vital in inspiring the comeback against his old team-mates – Alvaro Morata has saved his best performances for the continental stage and will set out to add to his tally of five goals in eight Champions League games for his club.

If their defence holds firm and the forwards pick their moments to strike, the Italian champions definitely boast the talent to have their say in the second stage, making the offer on them to triumph in Bavaria a tantalising one.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Muller: Guardiola won't have failed
if we don't win the Champions League

The forward, who expects Juventus to be defensive in the last-16 second leg, insists
the outgoing manager's time with Bayern Munich will be considered a success whatever happens.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2914/champions-league/2016/03/16/21345692/-?

Mar 16, 2016

Thomas Muller is adamant Pep Guardiola's time with Bayern Munich will not be considered a failure if he fails to deliver the Champions League trophy this season.

The head coach will leave Bayern for Manchester City at the end of the 2015-16 campaign having announced his decision to leave Germany in February.

This season's Champions League represents Guardiola's last chance to win the competition with the Bavarian giants, but Muller insists the Catalan's time at Bayern will be considered a success regardless.

When asked, Muller told Goal: "No, not at all. If you take this approach, every coach who didn't win the Champions League with Bayern would have failed.

"You have to be careful. In more than 100 years of history with Bayern we won the treble only once - one must not take that for granted. All the other top international clubs are not consistent winners [of the Champions League]. No team has ever managed to defend the Champions League title.

"There is not pressure [to win the Champions League]. You cannot plan for the Champions League, the competitors are always overwhelming. It is a big new challenge every year. Of course the club and players have certain ambitions and clear targets but winning the title is not a must."

Juventus stand in the way of Bayern and a place in the quarter-finals and, after a 2-2 draw in the last-16 first leg in Turin, Muller is expecting a defensive approach from the Italian side.

"I don't think that they will play too offensively minded," he said. "They need only one goal and won't abandon their usual philosophy. But you never know, a football game can develop in different directions, it is hard to predict. Nevertheless, I expect them to be defensively orientated."

Muller acknowledges Bayern are one of the favourites to win the Champions League, but will not underestimate the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid.

"Basically we are always mentioned as one of the teams that could reach the final," Muller said. "But we know the quality of our possible opponents. It will be everything other than easy. It is not for nothing that no team has ever defended the Champions League title."

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Toni: ‘Juve, attack Bayern!’

http://www.football-italia.net/81390/toni-%E2%80%98juve-attack-bayern%E2%80%99?

Mar 16, 2016

Former Juventus and Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni tells Juve they ‘need the courage to attack Bayern’ and ‘have what it takes to win’.

The two giants of European football meet this evening at the Allianz Arena in the second leg of the Champions League last 16 clash.

The first leg in Turin ended 2-2, handing the German side the advantage, but Verona forward Toni believes the Old Lady can still pull off an upset and get through.

“Juventus are returning in Europe to the time of Vialli and Ravanelli, a really tough team, organised and hard,” he said to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“Beware of underestimating the Bianconeri. They have what it takes to win and get through.

“The Allianz Arena is a place that can make the difference even though the enthusiasm is different compared to in a building like Juventus Stadium.

“It’ll be hard for Juve, there’s no doubt. They need the courage to attack Bayern, using their intensity.

“They mustn’t be afraid of conceding goals or else there will be trouble. Juventus are taking a project forward that will allow them to stabilise themselves among the four or five top teams in Europe soon.

“Allegri and Guardiola are two great Coaches. Their CVs speak for themselves. It’s obvious that the Germans show our philosophy of the game.

“Every match between a German and Italian team is a great sporting battle. It’s a question of tradition. Who am I supporting? The beautiful game.”

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus opt for 4-3-3?

http://www.football-italia.net/81397/juventus-opt-4-3-3?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri is expected to opt for a 4-3-3 formation against Bayern Munich tonight.

The Bianconeri are in Germany for the second leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie, after a 2-2 draw in Turin.

That match saw Allegri deploy a 4-4-2 shape, but the Bavarians dominated for the first hour of the match, making the tactician cautious about opting for the same system.

Giorgio Chiellini’s absence has robbed the Coach of the option of reverting to 3-5-2, so TuttoJuve reports that a 4-3-3 system has been the focus of today’s training session.

That would see Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli in central defence, with the experienced Patrice Evra preferred to Alex Sandro at left-back.

Claudio Marchisio’s absence should see Hernanes take his place in midfield, with the only doubt being the forward line.

Mario Mandzukic has been struggling with a slight injury, so Allegri will evaluate his condition before deciding whether to start with the Croatian international.

The Coach declared yesterday that Alvaro Morata would have been hard to leave out regardless of Paulo Dybala’s injury, and he’s expected to flank Mandzukic along with Juan Cuadrado.


Probable Juventus team to face Bayern Munich:

Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Evra; Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba; Cuadrado, Mandzukic, Morata

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Mandzukic remains Juventus doubt

http://www.football-italia.net/81406/mandzukic-remains-juventus-doubt?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus are still sweating over Mario Mandzukic’s fitness, as he didn’t take part in the final warm-up for tonight’s clash with Bayern Munich.

The Croatian international has been struggling with a slight muscular injury ahead of the Champions League test in Bavaria, with strike partner Paulo Dybala already ruled-out.

Mandzukic participated in the muscular warm-up session with his teammates this morning, but was absent for the afternoon workout on the pitch.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri is expected to go with a 4-3-3 formation, and that would still hold if Mandzukic is unavailable to face his former club.

In that scenario, Alex Sandro would play on the left side of the attack, with Alvaro Morata moving into the middle where Mandzukic would have played.

This would allow the Bianconeri to retreat to a 4-5-1 shape when defending, with Juan Cuadrado on the right of the attack.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Del Piero: 'Juve fight to the end'

http://www.football-italia.net/81411/del-piero-juve-fight-end?

Mar 16, 2016

Alessandro Del Piero trusts Juventus “will fight to the end” against Bayern Munich tonight.

The first leg in the Champions League Round of 16 ended 2-2 in Turin and the decider kicks off tonight at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

“Certainly Bayern played surprising football in Turin and deserved to go 2-0 up, but then Juve fought back with heart and quality,” Del Piero told Tuttosport.

“The Bianconeri have the quality it takes to beat Bayern. It’ll be a strange game, I expect Bayern to control the tempo and above all on home turf can count on the support of their fans.

“However, Juve are strong enough to fight to the end. That is what the fans ask of their team and it is exactly what Juve will do.”

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Moggi: 'Juve have given up'

http://www.football-italia.net/81414/moggi-juve-have-given?

Mar 16, 2016

Luciano Moggi believes Juventus have already “given up” on Bayern Munich and are focused on the Scudetto.

The first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 ended 2-2 in Turin and the decider is in Germany this evening.

“The fact Juventus left important players at home for tonight’s big match makes one think the club is focused on the derby and Serie A, especially considering the first leg result,” Moggi told Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli.

“Juventus are struggling, they haven’t been playing well for a while and can have a slip-up. I think they’ve given up on qualification.”

Disgraced former Bianconeri director general Moggi also commented on Antonio Conte’s decision to leave the Italy bench.

“It was a mistake appointing him in the first place. The Nazionale needs more of a selector than a Coach, so Fabio Capello could be the right person.”

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Buffon: Juventus Are Less Fearful Of Bayern Munich

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/03/buffon-juventus-are-less-fearful-of-bayern-munich/?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon insists his team will enter Wednesday night’s Champions League second-leg clash against Bayern Munich with an improved attitude.

After going down 2-0 to the Bavarians in Turin, the Bianconeri fought back to earn a 2-2 draw and the goalkeeper knows they will need to be at their best to qualify for the quarter-finals.

“We must have a bigger impact on the match, being less nervous and fearful than the first leg,” he told reporters.

“They were better in Turin for an hour, then we were able to overturn an almost desperate situation. And from there, we have to start again.

“Bayern have shown they are the strongest team over the last five years. We’ll see who is better on the night.”

Star striker Paulo Dybala and key midfielder Claudio Marchisio have been ruled out of the clash and are set to join Giorgio Chiellini on the sidelines, with Mario Mandzukic also in doubt.

Despite the injury list, Buffon refused to use the absentees as an excuse and showed confidence in the team Juve would be fielding.

“People often say that the biggest teams have around 20 top players,” he continued. “It’s the harmony among the group which makes the difference and [Wednesday’s] a good day to prove it.

“Over the long-term, [injuries] can become a problem but for the odd game, you can play without them.”

Juventus would need to either win in Germany or earn a draw by scoring two goals or more.

However the 38-year-old would not judge his team’s performance on whether or not they qualify.

“I would not be angry if we do not qualify,” he added. “It depends how you go out.

“It would make me proud if we can provide a balanced contest like we played the final half-hour of the first-leg.”

[JUVENTINO1979 576]

R

Inviato dal mio iPhone utilizzando Tapatalk

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus Will Not Risk Mandzukic
From The Start Against Bayern Munich

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/03/juventus-will-not-risk-mandzukic-from-the-start-against-bayern-munich/?

Mar 16, 2016

Injury-hit Juventus will not take the risk of starting Mario Mandzukic against former club Bayern Munich and Massimiliano Allegri will instead look to utilise the Croatian from the bench.

The Bianconeri have had a number of injury problems going into the Champions League round of 16 fixture and it is thought that the cold in Bavaria could further worsen physical problems.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Allegri will play it safe and not pick Mandzukic with Alvaro Morata starting as a lone centre-forward with Juan Cuadrado and Alex Sandro expected to flank him on the wings.

Juve are also without Claudio Marchisio and Paulo Dybala who are more seriously injured with Allegri not willing to jeopardise their fitness for the rest of the season.

Bayern are not expected to start Arjen Robben who is ill.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juventus make five changes with
Dybala and Marchisio injured at Bayern

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/story/2830923/juventus-make-five-changes-with-dybala-and-marchisio-injured

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus are forced into three changes as they look to oust Bayern Munich from the Champions League at the Allianz Arena.

The Serie A champions kick off in Germany with their round-of-16 tie poised at 2-2, but are without Paulo Dybala and Claudio Marchisio after they picked up injuries while Giorgio Chiellini remains out.

Daniele Rugani, Mario Mandzukic and Kwadwo Asamoah all drop to the bench from Friday's 1-0 win at home to Sassuolo, with Stephan Lichtsteiner, Patrice Evra, Hernanes, Paul Pogba and Alvaro Morata coming into the starting XI.

Allegri told Mediaset television on Tuesday: "Juve have a big enough squad with big enough players to cope. We just need to play and be positive, and let our strength prevail.

"We've got to be up to the challenge, play a great game and, if we do well and have some luck, then we will go through."

JuventusFC ✔ ‎@juventusfcen
#Juventus starting XI: Buffon, Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Evra, Cuadrado, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro, Morata.

Allegri said it had been his decision to leave Dybala, who picked up a calf strain in training on Monday, in Turin.

The player wrote on Twitter that "the disappointment of not being in Munich to fight with the lads is strong" but that he was "working to be back ASAP."

Hot favourites Bayern make three changes to the team that beat Werder Bremen 5-0 at the weekend, with Diego Costa, Arturo Vidal, Robert Lewandowski coming in for Thiago Alcantara, Mario Gotze and Kingsley Coman.


Bayern Munich:
Neuer; Benatia, Lahm, Alaba, Kimmich; Costa, Alonso, Vidal, Muller, Ribery, Lewandowski.

Juventus:
Buffon, Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Evra, Cuadrado, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro, Morata

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Line-ups: Bayern Munich-Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/81416/line-ups-bayern-munich-juventus?

Mar 16, 2016

Mario Mandzukic is out too, so Alvaro Morata and Juan Cuadrado start as Juventus visit Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT and the first leg ended 2-2.

The Bianconeri have an injury crisis to deal with, as Paulo Dybala, Claudio Marchisio, Giorgio Chiellini and Martin Caceres are unavailable.

Mandzukic has also failed a fitness test this evening, so there’s a brand new trident attack moving Morata into the centre-forward role with support from Alex Sandro and Cuadrado.

Hernanes steps in to the creative midfield role with Paulo Pogba and Sami Khedira.

Bayern Munich have issues of their own, as Javi Martinez, Jerome Boateng and Holger Badstuber are long-term absentees, while Arjen Robben is not even on the bench after coming down with flu symptoms.

Arturo Vidal faces his former teammates and Xabi Alonso is picked ahead of Thiago Alcantara, while Juve loaner Kingsley Coman is on the bench.

Mario Götze returns to the bench, having been out with a groin injury since October 8, and made his first start at the weekend.

Pep Guardiola’s men have won their last nine Champions League games at the Allianz Arena.

Juve haven’t beaten Bayern since their 2-1 home victory in November 2005 and were eliminated by the Germans two years ago.

There is a precedent that Juventus can look to, as Bayern drew 2-2 away to Milan in the 2006-07 Champions League quarter-finals and were beaten 2-0 at home.


Bayern Munich:
Neuer; Lahm, Kimmich, Benatia, Alaba; Alonso; Douglas Costa, Muller, Vidal, Ribery; Lewandowski

Bayern Munich bench: Ulreich, Thiago Alcantara, Rafinha, Bernat, Götze, Rode, Coman


Juventus:
Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Evra; Cuadrado, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata

Juventus bench: Neto, Zaza, Mandzukic, Asamoah, Rugani, Sturaro, Pereyra

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

TEAM NEWS: Bayern without Robben for Juventus clash

Die Roten are without the flying Dutchman for the visit of the Serie A champions,
but will be confident of beating a side without their star striker

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1716/champions-league/2016/03/16/21382352/-?

Mar 16, 2016

Arjen Robben has failed to make even Bayern Munich's bench for Wednesday's clash against Juventus, with the Dutchman having struggled to shake off the flu this week.

Douglas Costa takes the winger's place out wide, with Franck Ribery setting up shop on the opposite flank. Xabi Alonso returns to European action at the expense of Juan Bernat, while David Alaba returns to left-back with Mehdi Benatia turning out at the heart of defence.

Juventus are of course without the injured Paulo Dybala up front and have opted to go with a lone striker option, with former Real Madrid man Alvaro Morata leading the line. Mario Mandzukic, a doubt for this evening's clash, makes the bench.


Bayern Munich XI: Neuer, Lahm, Kimmich, Benatia, Alaba, Alonso, Vidal, Costa, Müller, Ribery, Lewandowski.

Subs: Thiago Alcantara, Rafinha, Juan Bernat, Gotze, Rode, Ulreich, Coman.


Juventus XI: Buffon, Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Evra, Cuadrado, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro, Morata

Subs: Zaza, Mandzukic, Asamoah, Rugani, Neto, Sturaro, Pereyra.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Marotta: 'No Pogba-PSG talks'

http://www.football-italia.net/81417/marotta-no-pogba-psg-talks?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus director Beppe Marotta backed Max Allegri’s choices for Bayern Munich and denies Paul Pogba met with PSG.

The first leg of the Champions League tie ended 2-2 and the second is at 20-45 - 19.45 GMT.

“The atmosphere in the locker room is relaxed. We are concentrated, aware that this is a challenge we want to live to the full with honour and the hope of achieving something extraordinary,” Marotta told Mediaset Premium.

“We’ll need to see the spirit of Juventus, with great heart. The line-up? There is always an exchange of ideas, but in the end Allegri decides. We are convinced he has chosen a suitable formation for this evening.

“Aside from the 11 players who start, the spirit will be fundamental. We are convinced it’ll be a great game.”

Marotta was once again asked about Allegri’s future, even though he is under contract until June 2017.

“The Napoli Coach has a contract that expires this summer, yet nobody keeps asking them about his future. We’ve just begin this winning era under Allegri and we are sure that we’ll continue together for many more years.”

France Football reported today that Pogba had visited Paris to have talks with PSG directors.

“Paul was in Paris for a sponsorship event, but there was no meeting with PSG. He is tied to us by a multi-year contract and there’s no temptation from the outside.”

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Paul Pogba scores crucial
go-ahead goal against Bayern Munich

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/3/16/11248576/pogba-goal-juventus-bayern-munich-champions-league-2106-watch-video

Mar 16, 2016

This is all we heard about during the pre-game show here in the United States: Juventus were going to just sit back and defend, they said. Juventus were going to just be typical Italians away from home and absorb Bayern Munich's pressure, they said. Yada, yada, yada.

What proved to be the actual reality in the first five minutes was the complete opposite. And the result showed.

Thanks to Paul Pogba's perfectly threaded shot between two defenders, Juventus jumped on Bayern Munich at the Aliianz Arena less than five minutes into Wednesday night's crucial second leg in the Champions League Round of 16.

So, in case you were wondering, that's the goalkeeper everybody is proclaiming as the best in the world making a crucial mistake that directly led to Juventus' game-opening goal. As it turned out, the true Best in the World No. 1 was on the other end of the field absolutely losing his mind as he watched Pogba's shot find the back of the net.

Juventus are now up 3-2 on aggregate in a game that they need to win to advance to the quarterfinals for a second consecutive season. And if it holds true, then this visit to Bavaria will certainly end up being a little better than the last time Juve faced Bayern on their home field.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Álvaro Morata, Juan Cuadrado counter Bayern Munich
to death, put Juventus up two goals

Ladies and gentlemen, that's how you execute a counterattack.

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/3/16/11248712/cuadrado-goal-morata-run-champions-league-2016-watch-video

Mar 16, 2016

Suddenly, Juventus finds itself the team that is shocking just about everybody in sight. And that includes their own fans.

Twenty-five minutes after Paul Pogba stunned the Allianz Arena crowd with his fifth-minute goal, Álvaro Morata and Juan Cuadrado teamed up for one of the best counterattacks you will see this season. It not only put Juventus up 2-0 in the game, but also gave the reigning Serie A champions a 4-2 lead on aggregate in what has turned out to be a game that few people expected to go this kind of way.

If there's something wrong with that goal, you're a jerk.

Coaches and managers should walk up to their players, pull out their tablets or phones and show them how to properly execute a counter. The run by Morata was absolutely amazing. The fake by Cuadrado to lose the first defender was crazy. And just the fantastic finish was the cherry on top to extend Juve's shocking 2-0 lead even further.

Sit back and defend, right? Not quite, guys.

So, who had Juventus up 2-0 within the first 30 minutes on Bayern's home turf? Go play the lottery and hit the casino if you did because it's obviously your lucky day.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

HT 0-2: Juventus stun Bayern Munich

http://www.football-italia.net/81418/ht-juventus-stun-bayern-munich?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus have played a tactically perfect first half to lead 2-0 at Bayern Munich with Paul Pogba and Juan Cuadrado.

The Bianconeri fought back from 2-0 down for a 2-2 draw in the first leg, but it still left Bayern as favourites to qualify. Max Allegri had a huge injury crisis, losing Paulo Dybala, Claudio Marchisio, Giorgio Chiellini and Martin Caceres, while Mario Mandzukic was only fit enough for the bench. Bayern also missed Javi Martinez, Jerome Boateng and Holger Badstuber.

It was the perfect start for Juventus, because within five minutes Manuel Neuer and David Alaba failed to deal with Stephan Lichtsteiner and Paul Pogba was able to fire the loose ball into the empty net. Not only did this goal stun the Allianz Arena, it put Juve ahead 3-2 on aggregate.

Remarkably, before that goal Bayern had not conceded a first half strike in their previous seven Champions League matches. It was a fine way to mark the day after Pogba’s 23rd birthday.

Franck Ribery and Douglas Costa fired well off target, but on 22 minutes Alvaro Morata had a goal incorrectly ruled offside after Sami Khedira intercepted Neuer’s clearance. There was a Bayern defender keeping everyone level.

The second goal did arrive soon after when Bayern lost possession on the edge of the Juve box and Morata went on a fantastic counter, rolling across for Juan Cuadrado. The Colombian waited for Philipp Lahm to make the sliding tackle, creating the space he needed to drill home.

The hosts continued to keep possession, but without creating any genuine danger until the 42nd minute, when Gigi Buffon parried from close range on Robert Lewandowski.

Moments later Juve should’ve had their third on a Pogba counter, but the roll across for Cuadrado was denied by a Neuer save, then Stephan Lichtsteiner blasted the follow-up over.


Bayern 0-2 Juventus (Half-Time, 2-4 agg)

Scorers: Pogba 5 (J), Cuadrado 28 (J)

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, Kimmich, Benatia, Alaba; Alonso; Douglas Costa, Muller, Vidal, Ribery; Lewandowski

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Evra; Cuadrado, Khedira, Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata

Ref: Eriksson (SWE)

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

-

 
 

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Bayern force Juve to extra time

http://www.football-italia.net/81420/bayern-force-juve-extra-time?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus fumbled a 2-0 lead in stoppages for a 2-2 draw, so Bayern Munich force extra time in the Champions League Round of 16.

The Bianconeri fought back from 2-0 down for a 2-2 draw in the first leg, but it still left Bayern as favourites to qualify. Max Allegri had a huge injury crisis, losing Paulo Dybala, Claudio Marchisio, Giorgio Chiellini and Martin Caceres, while Mario Mandzukic was only fit enough for the bench. Bayern also missed Javi Martinez, Jerome Boateng and Holger Badstuber.

It was the perfect start for Juventus, because within five minutes Manuel Neuer and David Alaba failed to deal with Stephan Lichtsteiner and Paul Pogba was able to fire the loose ball into the empty net. Not only did this goal stun the Allianz Arena, it put Juve ahead 3-2 on aggregate.

Remarkably, before that goal Bayern had not conceded a first half strike in their previous seven Champions League matches. It was a fine way to mark the day after Pogba’s 23rd birthday.

Franck Ribery and Douglas Costa fired well off target, but on 22 minutes Alvaro Morata had a goal incorrectly ruled offside after Sami Khedira intercepted Neuer’s clearance. There was a Bayern defender keeping everyone level.

The second goal did arrive soon after when Bayern lost possession on the edge of the Juve box and Morata went on a fantastic counter, rolling across for Juan Cuadrado. The Colombian waited for Philipp Lahm to make the sliding tackle, creating the space he needed to drill home.

The hosts continued to keep possession, but without creating any genuine danger until the 42nd minute, when Gigi Buffon parried from close range on Robert Lewandowski.

Moments later Juve should’ve had their third on a Pogba counter, but the roll across for Cuadrado was denied by a Neuer save, then Stephan Lichtsteiner blasted the follow-up over.

Arturo Vidal and Lichtsteiner were both booked for a scuffle after the restart, sparking a series of yellow cards on both sides, as the game got increasingly tense.

Morata pounced on an Alaba error, but his finish was too weak and straight at Neuer, then he went on another mazy run and the deflection turned his shot over from close range.

Juve-owned Kingsley Coman came on, but albeit with the vast majority of possession and pressure, Bayern struggled to create chances.

They finally broke through when a free kick was taken short and Douglas Costa’s fantastic cross found Robert Lewandowski for a header at the back post. It was the Poland international’s 12th goal in 12 games in 2016.

The siege mentality kicked in and at the 87th Lewandowski headed another Costa cross on to the post, but the Polish striker was offside anyway. Douglas Costa also curled inches wide, but in stoppages Coman’s cross from the right found Thomas Muller for a cushioned header at the back stick.

It was 2-2 on the night, 4-4 on aggregate and Bayern had repeated the trick Juve performed in the first leg by coming back from 2-0 down and forced extra time.


Bayern 2-2 Juventus (4-4 agg)

Scorers: Pogba 5 (J), Cuadrado 28 (J), Lewandowski 73 (B), Muller 91 (B)

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, Kimmich, Benatia (Bernat 46), Alaba; Alonso (Coman 60); Douglas Costa, Muller, Vidal, Ribery; Lewandowski

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Evra; Cuadrado (Pereyra 89), Khedira (Sturaro 68), Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata (Mandzukic 72)

Ref: Eriksson (SWE)

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

4 - 2

Aggregate 6 - 4[

Paul Pogba (5')
Juan Cuadrado (28')

Robert Lewandowski (73')
Thomas Müller (90'+)
Thiago Alcântara (108')
Kingsley Coman (110')

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Bayern Munich 4-2 Juventus (AET, agg 6-4):
Brilliant comeback sends hosts through

The Bavarian giants came from 2-0 down to earn a superb comeback victory, thanks to
goals from Robert Lewandowski, Thomas Muller, Thiago Alcantara and Kingsley Coman.

http://www.goal.com/en/match/bayern-münchen-vs-juventus/2176182/report

Mar 16, 2016

Bayern Munich staged a brilliant comeback to beat Juventus 4-2 at the Allianz Arena and progress to the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Goals from Paul Pogba and Juan Cuadrado gave Massimiliano Allegri's men a shock 2-0 lead at the interval, but the Bavarians fought back through Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller's late header forced extra-time.

Thiago Alcantara then gave Bayern the lead for the first time in the 108th minute, before Kingsley Coman's vicious strike made it 6-4 on aggregate and sent the German giants into the last eight, where they could meet Manchester City; the club Pep Guardiola is set to join this summer.

Massimiliano Allegri was unable to call upon key men Paulo Dybala, Claudio Marchisio and Giorgio Chiellini, but a stunning display of counter-attacking gave them hope of pulling off a stunning win.

Bayern had blown a two-goal advantage in the first leg and were relentless in ensuring the Italians suffered a repeat of sorts, with Juve's stiff resistance wilting after Lewandowski's strike as the Bundesliga leaders kept Pep Guardiola's hopes of bowing out of Bavaria with Champions League success alive.

It had not looked so sweet when Bayern gifted Juve their sixth-minute opener, however.

Manuel Neuer inexplicably rushed off his goalline as David Alaba, under pressure from Stephan Lichtsteiner, failed to control a long ball from Sami Khedira and Pogba calmly stroked the loose ball beyond two covering defenders and into the net.

Franck Ribery wildly blasted a volley over the crossbar as Bayern pushed for an instant equaliser, while Muller failed to trouble Gianluigi Buffon with a header from a dangerous position.

Alvaro Morata lobbed Neuer after another error from the goalkeeper, but his smart effort was chalked off by the linesman, although replays suggested the Juventus striker was onside.

It mattered little as Juve doubled their lead in stunning fashion in the 28th minute. Morata danced past a number of opponents as he charged forward from inside his own half before setting up Cuadrado, who took a touch to slip past Philipp Lahm and beat Neuer with a fine shot at his near post.

Muller was denied by Buffon from close range and Juve were fortunate as an attempted clearance hit Lewandowski and bobbled just wide.

Cuadrado should have put the tie to bed in the 44th minute after a low cross from the left, only for Neuer to partially make amends for his previous mistakes with a stunning reflex save.

Morata continued to cause the Bayern defence all kinds of trouble after the interval and he came close to adding a third, but his shot took a deflection off Alaba before drifting over the crossbar.

The hosts' focused their attacks out wide but initially struggled to create chances of note, until Lewandowski headed home in the 73rd minute after Douglas Costa delivered a stunning cross from the right flank.

Bayern completed their comeback well into stoppage time, with Muller heading home from close range after a pinpoint cross from substitute Coman to send the game into extra time.

Lichtsteiner could have restored Juve's lead in the 93rd minute after being set up by Mario Mandzukic, but his effort lacked the power to surprise Neuer.

Thiago then had Bayern ahead for the first time in the game when he fired home in the 108th minute after a quick one-two with Muller.

And Coman came back to haunt his previous employers as he put the tie to bed two minutes later after darting in from the right.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

4 - 2

Aggregate 6 - 4[

Paul Pogba (5')
Juan Cuadrado (28')

Robert Lewandowski (73')
Thomas Müller (90'+)
Thiago Alcântara (108')
Kingsley Coman (110')

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Juve throw it away in Munich

Kingsley Coman eliminated parent club Juventus from the Champions League,
as Bayern Munich came back from 2-0 down to win 4-2 in extra time.

http://www.football-italia.net/81421/juve-throw-it-away-munich?

Mar 16, 2016

The Bianconeri fought back from 2-0 down for a 2-2 draw in the first leg, but it still left Bayern as favourites to qualify. Max Allegri had a huge injury crisis, losing Paulo Dybala, Claudio Marchisio, Giorgio Chiellini and Martin Caceres, while Mario Mandzukic was only fit enough for the bench. Bayern also missed Javi Martinez, Jerome Boateng and Holger Badstuber.

It was the perfect start for Juventus, because within five minutes Manuel Neuer and David Alaba failed to deal with Stephan Lichtsteiner and Paul Pogba was able to fire the loose ball into the empty net. Not only did this goal stun the Allianz Arena, it put Juve ahead 3-2 on aggregate.

Remarkably, before that goal Bayern had not conceded a first half strike in their previous seven Champions League matches. It was a fine way to mark the day after Pogba’s 23rd birthday.

Franck Ribery and Douglas Costa fired well off target, but on 22 minutes Alvaro Morata had a goal incorrectly ruled offside after Sami Khedira intercepted Neuer’s clearance. There was a Bayern defender keeping everyone level.

The second goal did arrive soon after when Bayern lost possession on the edge of the Juve box and Morata went on a fantastic counter, rolling across for Juan Cuadrado. The Colombian waited for Philipp Lahm to make the sliding tackle, creating the space he needed to drill home.

The hosts continued to keep possession, but without creating any genuine danger until the 42nd minute, when Gigi Buffon parried from close range on Robert Lewandowski.

Moments later Juve should’ve had their third on a Pogba counter, but the roll across for Cuadrado was denied by a Neuer save, then Stephan Lichtsteiner blasted the follow-up over.

Arturo Vidal and Lichtsteiner were both booked for a scuffle after the restart, sparking a series of yellow cards on both sides, as the game got increasingly tense.

Morata pounced on an Alaba error, but his finish was too weak and straight at Neuer, then he went on another mazy run and the deflection turned his shot over from close range.

Juve-owned Kingsley Coman came on, but albeit with the vast majority of possession and pressure, Bayern struggled to create chances.

They finally broke through when a free kick was taken short and Douglas Costa’s fantastic cross found Robert Lewandowski for a header at the back post. It was the Poland international’s 12th goal in 12 games in 2016.

The siege mentality kicked in and at the 87th Lewandowski headed another Costa cross on to the post, but the Polish striker was offside anyway. Douglas Costa also curled inches wide, but in stoppages Coman’s cross from the right found Thomas Muller for a cushioned header at the back stick.

It was 2-2 on the night, 4-4 on aggregate and Bayern had repeated the trick Juve performed in the first leg by coming back from 2-0 down and forced extra time.

Lichtsteiner’s shot was smothered by Neuer after a smart Mandzukic lay-off and Bayern maintained possession. The deadlock was broken – and penalties avoided – when substitute Thiago Alcantara exchanged quick passes with Muller to drill a daisy-cutter past Buffon.

Juve’s heads dropped and 120 seconds later Coman went on the counter from his own half and cut in for a wonderful left-foot curler from the edge of the box.


Bayern 4-2 Juventus (aet, 6-4 agg)

Scorers: Pogba 5 (J), Cuadrado 28 (J), Lewandowski 73 (B), Muller 91 (B), Thiago Alcantara 108 (B), Coman 110 (B)

Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, Kimmich, Benatia (Bernat 46), Alaba; Alonso (Coman 60); Douglas Costa, Muller, Vidal, Ribery (Thiago Alcantara 101); Lewandowski

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Evra; Cuadrado (Pereyra 89), Khedira (Sturaro 68), Hernanes, Pogba, Alex Sandro; Morata (Mandzukic 72)

Ref: Eriksson (SWE)

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

4 - 2

Aggregate 6 - 4[

Paul Pogba (5')
Juan Cuadrado (28')

Robert Lewandowski (73')
Thomas Müller (90'+)
Thiago Alcântara (108')
Kingsley Coman (110')

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Bayern Munich 4-2 Juventus: Early Bianconeri
Dominance Wiped Out By Bayern Persistence

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/03/bayern-munich-4-2-juventus-early-bianconeri-dominance-wiped-out-by-bayern-persistence/?

Mar 16, 2016

Bayern Munich defeated Juventus 4-2 at the Allianz Arena and 6-4 on aggregate in their Round of 16 tie in the Champions League.

The Bianconeri were 2-0 up in the first half with goals from Paul Pogba and Juan Cuadrado but Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller forced extra time and substitutes Thiago Alcantara and Kingsley Coman struck in the remaining minutes to send the Old Lady crashing out of Europe.

Massimiliano Allegri’s side attacked from the start and after a mix-up between Manuel Neuer and David Alaba in the Bayern defence, Pogba gave Juve the lead after six minutes when he calmly slotted the loose ball into the net.

This forced Bayern to attack but they were battling against a wall of Bianconeri defenders.

Alvaro Morata lobbed the ball over Neuer in the 22nd minute but the goal was controversially disallowed for offside. The Spaniard then made a solo run from his own half and squeezed a pass though to Cuadrado, who controlled the ball, beat a defender and calmly slotted the ball past Neuer after 28 minutes.

Gianluigi Buffon saved from Lewandowski from close range and then Neuer denied Cuadrado a great chance to make it 3-0 just before half-time.

The Germans did most of the attacking in the second half but Morata had two chances to kill off the tie. He made identical runs drifting from the left-wing but his first effort was easily saved by Neuer and the other one was deflected over the bar.

On 73 minutes, Die Roten received a lifeline when Douglas Costa crossed from the right-wing and Lewandowski headed past Buffon from point-blank range. The Germans were rewarded for their persistence when Coman crossed from the right and Muller headed-in at the far post.

The first 15 minutes of extra time was largely uneventful but Bayern were rewarded for their perseverance in the second period with Alcantara playing a one-two with Muller and placing the ball into the bottom right corner to make it 3-2 on 108 minutes.

Three minutes later, Coman had space on the right-wing and curled a shot past Buffon to give Die Roten a two-goal lead. Stefano Sturaro and Leonardo Bonucci could have scored consolation goals but Bayern had too much momentum.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

4 - 2

Aggregate 6 - 4[

Paul Pogba (5')
Juan Cuadrado (28')

Robert Lewandowski (73')
Thomas Müller (90'+)
Thiago Alcântara (108')
Kingsley Coman (110')

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Bayern Munich overcome 2-0 deficit to
oust Juventus, advance to quarters

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/match/439166/bayern-munich-juventus/report

Mar 16, 2016

Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich completed an impressive Champions League comeback over 120 minutes to reach the quarter-finals at the expense of Juventus.

The Serie A leaders -- and last year's beaten finalists -- thought they had done enough to eliminate Bayern in their own Allianz Arena thanks to first-half goals from Paul Pogba and Juan Cuadrado.

But Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller struck after the break to send the game into extra time, and Juve's race was run when Thiago Alcantara and Kingsley Coman earned Bayern a 4-2 win.

Guardiola will now watch Friday's draw with interest as he looks to avoid former employers Barcelona and future paymasters Manchester City, with Real Madrid and Paris St Germain also lurking.

Juve broke forward well in the early exchanges and were rewarded for their ambition as a mistake from David Alaba allowed them to score a fifth-minute opener.

The Austrian left-back was uncertain when dealing with Sami Khedira's pass forward and, after goalkeeper Manuel Neuer hesitantly crossed his box to cover, the ball fell to Pogba.

All the midfielder, who turned 23 on Tuesday, had to do was find an unguarded net from the D.

Bayern found Juve's back-line immovable as they attempted to respond, and Muller's tame header from Franck Ribery's cross was easily held by Gianluigi Buffon.

Morata was ruled offside when his chipped finish beat Neuer in the 23rd minute - the Spaniard was soon to get his revenge, though.

After skipping past a swarm of red shirts he fed Cuadrado who, after appearing to falter, impressively dummied Philipp Lahm before smashing home with his right boot.

The home fans fell silent and remained that way until the 42nd minute, when a prone Buffon somehow denied Lewandowski from close range.

Juve were first to threaten following the restart, and they did so twice inside a minute with Morata robbing Alaba for an attempt that got Neuer working, before Pogba fizzed the ball over the crossbar.

In the 73rd minute, Lewandowski - the Pole entered Wednesday's game with seven goals in his last seven European outings - dragged Bayern back into the tie.

By nipping into the six-yard box to head Douglas Costa's cross past Buffon, he beat a goalkeeper who has not conceded in over 900 Serie A minutes.

The 38-year-old was about to ship two goals inside 20 Champions League minutes, however.

The Allianz Arena clock had just ticked past 90 when Muller forced extra time by meeting on-loan Juve midfielder Coman's assist with a powerful header.

Despite the rush of adrenaline Bayern knew they had to be relatively cautious as a third Bianconeri goal would be worth two.

The first 15 minutes passed without incident - it was after the turnaround that Bayern sealed their last eight place.

Substitute Thiago used his fresh legs to burst to convert Muller's lay-off before, with 10 minutes of 120 remaining, Coman hurt his parent club with a close-range coup de grace.

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

4 - 2

Aggregate 6 - 4[

Paul Pogba (5')
Juan Cuadrado (28')

Robert Lewandowski (73')
Thomas Müller (90'+)
Thiago Alcântara (108')
Kingsley Coman (110')

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Buffon: 'Proud of this Juve'

http://www.football-italia.net/81422/buffon-proud-juve?

Mar 16, 2016

Gigi Buffon insists he is “proud of this team” and Juventus will learn from their extra time exit to Bayern Munich.

The Bianconeri fought back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 in the first leg, while Bayern did the same at the Allianz Arena.

In extra time, Thiago Alcantara and Kingsley Coman secured the 4-2 victory on the night, 6-4 on aggregate.

“Football is made up of incidents. In the second half they played a very attacking game and converted their chances.

“It’s disappointing to concede at the 90th minute, but I am proud of this team,” the captain told Mediaset Premium.

“This is a defeat that needs to make us realise we’ve climbed another step up the ladder compared to last season.

“We have gone out with our heads held high.”

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

4 - 2

Aggregate 6 - 4[

Paul Pogba (5')
Juan Cuadrado (28')

Robert Lewandowski (73')
Thomas Müller (90'+)
Thiago Alcântara (108')
Kingsley Coman (110')

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Marotta: 'Disallowed goal costly'

http://www.football-italia.net/81424/marotta-disallowed-goal-costly?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus director Beppe Marotta blamed the officials for their Champions League exit to Bayern Munich. “Errors at this level are costly.”

The Bianconeri had been 2-0 up at the Allianz Arena, but were pegged back to 2-2 in stoppages and capitulated 4-2 in extra time.

“The Alvaro Morata disallowed goal would’ve changed the face of the match. Certain errors at this level are costly, they make a big difference,” the director general told Mediaset Premium.

“I am not here to seek alibis, but I hope that in future Italian football is better protected. Certain refereeing performances are painful.

“I want to underline the great performance from the lads and the credit goes to our Coach. We must also remember the quality of Bayern.

“We almost achieved something remarkable, it’s a shame because it was a minute and a half from the end.

“Now we have to cancel out this memory, turn the page and think of Sunday’s derby against Torino. We want to do well, especially as the Serie A race is still open.”

[Socrates 8523]

 

BAYERN - JUVENTUS

4 - 2

Aggregate 6 - 4[

Paul Pogba (5')
Juan Cuadrado (28')

Robert Lewandowski (73')
Thomas Müller (90'+)
Thiago Alcântara (108')
Kingsley Coman (110')

Round of 16 - Second leg
Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 - 08:45 P.M.
Allianz Arena, Munich
Referee:‬ Jonas Eriksson (Sweden)

Player Ratings: Bayern Munich 4-2 Juventus

http://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/03/player-ratings-bayern-munich-4-2-juventus/?

Mar 16, 2016

Juventus threw away a two-goal lead and have exited the Champions League, losing the second leg of the round of sixteen 4-2 to Bayern Munich.

Paul Pogba opened the scoring five minutes into the match. After an Alvaro Morata goal was incorrectly called back for offside, Juan Cuadrado doubled the Bianconeri’s advantage in the 27th minute.

Robert Lewandowski breathed life into the home side in the 72nd minute before Thomas Muller brought the teams level at the death. It was all Bayern in extra time, Thiago Alcantara and Kingsley Coman scoring two minutes apart to send the German champions into the quarter finals.

 

Bayern Munich

Manuel Neuer – 5.5 – Insufficient - The often-regarded “best keeper in the world” was far from, failing to adequately close down Stephan Lichtsteiner on Juve’s first goal and making a dreadful clearance that should have led to Juve’s second but for the linesman’s incorrect offside call. The 29-year-old improved as the match wore on and kept Bayern alive with a strong save on Juan Cuadrado on the stroke of halftime but will have to perform better if Bayern are to win the tournament this season.

Philipp Lahm – 5.5 – Substandard - The German captain ignored his defensive responsibilities for much of the match, which hurt his side several times over the first 50 minutes. He was also undressed by Juan Cuadrado on Juve’s second goal. Juve’s change in tactics in the second half allowed him to venture into the midfield without reprisal.

Joshua Kimmich – 5 – Naive - The youngster looked out of his league in the centre of defense and was caught out of position on far too many occasions in the first half.

Medhi Benatia – 5 – Lost - The Moroccan was a step behind for the entirety of the first half and was promptly substituted at halftime.

David Alaba – 4.5 – Poor - The other culprit of Bayern’s initial concession, the bombing left-back was softly beaten goal-side by Lichtsteiner before being caught out as a centre-forward on the counter that led to Juve’s second goal. An early second-half mistake almost provided Alvaro Morata with Juve’s third.

Xavi Alonso – 5 – Overrun - Bayern were exposed without a proper central defensive midfielder, Alonso enjoying a lot of the ball in attack but with little to show for it and could offer nothing on the other side of the ball. Bayern performed better after his departure.

Douglas Costa – 7 – Impressive - Costa was perhaps Bayern’s most effective player in the first half, putting in some good work at the right-midfield and centre-midfield positions, trying to run at the Juve defense. A perfect cross for Robert Lewandowski in the 73rd minute provided Bayern with a lifeline.

Thomas Muller – 6.5 – Opportunistic - The German had a relatively quiet 90 minutes but always seems to be in the right position at the right time. His stoppage time goal ensured Bayern’s Champion League story would last at least another thirty minutes.

Arturo Vidal – 6 – Quiet - The former Juventus man made some dangerous runs early on, but could not get a foothold in the match. His play improved when he was moved deeper into the midfield.

Franck Ribery – 6 – Ineffective - A performance unlike what has come to be expected of Ribery, perhaps showcasing that age and injuries are finally catching up to the once-deadly winger. To be fair, the Frenchman did provide a couple of useful crosses and worked to take advantage of a morally depleted backline in extra time.

Robert Lewandowski – 6.5 – Spirited - Lewandowski put in an honest shift and made himself available to the midfielders but was closed down expertly by the Juve defense for five sixths of the match before being the beneficiary of a delicious Costa cross. From that point onward he spearheaded an attack that the backline could no longer contain.


Substitutes

Juan Bernat (46 mins) – 6 – Fair - The halftime substitute was the most impressive of Bayern’s backline, which is not saying very much. Juventus failed to put the Spaniard under any sort of pressure and were content to sit back and absorb pressure for the majority of the second half.

Kingsley Coman (60 mins) – 7.5 – Standout Performer - The Juventus-owned youngster provided a spark for the Bavarians after his introduction at the hour mark and Bayern’s goal was a direct result of his good work down the right. Then when all seemed lost for Bayern the 19-year-old delivered a peach of a cross to Muller to break the hearts of Juve supporters. He then put the match to bed in the 110th minute with a stellar strike after a strong 40-yard run.

Thiago Alcantara (101 mins) – 6.5 – Decisive - Thiago’s contribution to the match was short but sweet, after being introduced in Ribery’s stead. The Italian-born Spain international collected Patrice Evra’s misplaced header and played a clever one-two with Muller before rolling the ball into the net for the match winner.


 

Juventus

Gianluigi Buffon – 5.5 – Unusual - Juve’s captain was not called into a lot of action for the first hour but was peppered with action thereafter and had to pick the ball out of his net four times, somewhat of an unfamiliar experience for the goalkeeper.

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 6 – Engine - As usual, the Switzerland international was full of energy and nearly brought Juve ahead in extra time. The right-back could have done a better job marking Bayern players as both goals were scored at his post.

Leonardo Bonucci – 6 – General - Bonucci left his heart on the pitch and tried to organize the defense but after a very strong 70 minutes, could not contain Bayern’s attack.

Andrea Barzagli – 5.5 – Exhausted - Fatigue seemed to set in for the 34-year-old who could not compete with Bayern’s energy in extra time.

Patrice Evra – 5.5 – Unfocussed - A strong 90-minute effort was undone when the Frenchman lost possession in the midfield in second-half stoppages which eventually saw Bayern level the match. A poor headed clearance in the 108th minute led to Bayern’s all-important third goal.

Juan Cuadrado – 6.5 – Tale of Two Halves - The Colombian looked dangerous in the first half which was capped off by an impressive goal but trailed off in the second half and became a non-factor as the match went on.

Sami Khedira – 6.5 – Workman - The German worked hard in his 68 minutes, before falling slightly behind the pace of play. The 28-year old likely is not back to full fitness just yet. Juve missed his presence after his substitution.

Hernanes – 5.5 – Unproductive - A lot of running for the former Inter player, who failed to make himself much of a factor.

Paul Pogba – 6.5 – Sacrificial - The French starlet was in the right place at the right time to score Juve’s opener but for the most part, put himself at the service of the team and defended resolutely, although he could have done better in closing down Costa in the lead up to Bayern’s goal.

Alex Sandro – 6 – Commendable - The Brazilian was inserted into the starting lineup due to injuries but performed admirably for much of the match.

Alvaro Morata – 7.5 – Inspired - The Spaniard was starved for service for much of his 72 minutes but came good when he did have the ball on his feet, including a 40-yard run through the heart of Bayern’s defense before intelligently playing Cuadrado through for Juve’s second goal. The 23-year-old remained a dangerous option until his second half-substitution, after which Juve struggled to create genuine scoring opportunities.


Substitutions

Stefano Sturaro (68 mins) – 5 – Absent - Coach Massimiliano Allegri’s decision to introduce Sturaro backfired, as the Italian was far off the pace of the match and ballooned his late effort over the bar from eight yards.

Mario Mandzukic (72 mins) – 5 – Disinterested - The Croatian came on as a forward to defend the lead but could not offer much once plan A had failed. The 29-year-old seemed more interested in picking fights than getting his team back into the match.

Roberto Pereyra (88 mins) – 5 – Invisible - Like Sturaro, it was a substitution gone wrong as the Argentine offered virtually nothing after his introduction.