JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

1-0

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 14'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 17

Saturday, December 17th, 2016 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

Allegri not satisfied despite Juve's win

over Roma: 'We could've played better'

  

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/story/3022435/

allegri-not-satisfied-despite-juve-victory-over-roma

 

 

Dec 18, 2016

 

Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri insists his side could have played better despite their important 1-0 win over fellow title challengers Roma.

A fine solo goal from Gonzalo Higuain meant the reigning Serie A champions moved seven points clear of the Giallorossi. The visitors came close to equalising late on but a fine defensive effort saw Juve stand firm and hold on for all three points.

But despite steering clear of their nearest rivals, Allegri was not the happiest manager at full-time.

"We could have played better, especially technically," the Juventus boss told the club's official website. "Ultimately we didn't manage possession well and had a few too many hairy moments from set-pieces.

"We're in a good position and tonight's win was important as it allows us to move seven points clear of Roma after a nice, well-fought match. I must congratulate all 22 players out there. Either way, there's still a long way to go. I'm not interested in records; what matters is being top come the end of May."

Allegri also applauded the efforts of 22-year-old centre-back Daniele Rugani who stifled the threat of joint Serie A top goalscorer Edin Dzeko.

"Rugani played very well against Dzeko and [Stefano] Sturaro and was incredible, competing against top-class opposition," Allegri added.

"Matches like these are won in the 50-50 challenges too. I must say it's wonderful to see not only my team's improvement but also how much individual players have progressed because that's how you get better as a unit.

"It's something that runs through the club and it's infectious but you have to put it across to the players that join the club.

"It's crucial that everyone works hard and is willing to be flexible. You bounce back when you lose, never lose your heads and come through it -- where possible -- even stronger."

Opposing manager Luciano Spalletti admitted that the result now leaves his side in a tough position as they face Chievo before the winter break.

"This result means Juve can be more relaxed going into their coming league matches," Spalletti said. "We're going to have to be excellent if we want to make up the lost ground."

"[It leaves us] in a bad place, despite all the pressure we piled on at the end. We needed to come here and get a result. This makes everything that much trickier. They were better than us on the day. We have to accept the result because they showed they were better.

"Player for player I thought we did well today, but only after they took the lead. You have less to lose once you fall behind but we could have avoided conceding that goal. We needed to be stronger physically and show more character in those opening 10 minutes."

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

1-0

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 14'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 17

Saturday, December 17th, 2016 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

Higuain justifies Juventus' massive

outlay with key goal in Roma win

  

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/3022479/gonzalo-

higuain-justifies-juventus-massive-outlay-with-key-goal-in-roma-win

 

 

Dec 18, 2016

 

Juventus defeated Roma 1-0 to open a seven-point gap at the top of the Serie A table, proving that once again, they are the supreme leaders of Italy.

Flexing their muscles, Juventus started the match with a point to prove. Intense, combative and determined, they bullied their way forward until they scored a goal before Roma even had a chance to settle in.

The desire to win the individual battles and create numerical superiority allowed the home side to enjoy control of the game and, while they were made to feel nervous in the end, their defensive strengths secured all three points.

Positives

For several years Juve had been accused of starting matches slowly, taking their time to settle in before playing to their full potential. However, this season the team have started matches with greater intensity and desire, attempting to score early on. Gonzalo Higuain's 14th-minute goal was the seventh time Juve have scored within the first 15 minutes of the game in Serie A. Unlike previous seasons, this Bianconeri side refuses to take anything for granted and is quick to lay down the marker.

Negatives

Juventus love nothing more than an opportunity to utilise their strengths and play with intensity to secure a result. However, the squad has been heavily invested in and is brimming with technical brilliance and, as such, should be playing an elevated style of football to secure wins, as opposed to fighting with physical determination until the end. A win is still all that matters, but with so many capable players, can we not expect more elegance?

Manager rating out of 10

7 -- Max Allegri prepared his men for combat, and the side's tenacity and eagerness to win their individual duels won Juve the game. However, the coach is yet to unleash the full potential of the side, to play with greater cohesion and control.

Player ratings (1-10; 10=best; players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)

GK Gianluigi Buffon, 6 -- A composed performance at the back, Buffon was made to worry on occasion but read his angles well.

DF Stephan Lichtsteiner, 6 -- The player interpreted the tactics very well, offering a passing outlet to ensure numerical superiority. Measured at the back and eager going forward.

DF Daniele Rugani, 7 -- A tremendous performance from a player who has grown leaps and bounds. Playing with character and confidence, he muzzled Roma striker Edin Dzeko and imposed his strength to keep Juventus secure at the back. The hero.

DF Giorgio Chiellini, 6 -- An experienced performance from the player who won his battles and ensured security.

DF Alex Sandro, 6 -- Always looked a little fragile when made to defend but is slowly improving at the back. The Brazilian made life difficult for Antonio Rudiger and always looked to contribute offensively.

MF Sami Khedira, 6 -- Not as switched-on as usual, but his work rate can never be faulted.

MF Claudio Marchisio, 7 -- A complete performance from the player who ensured defensive solidity by hindering Roma's attacking play. Intelligent with his positioning and passing, he is getting better and better at dictating the flow of the game.

MF Stefano Sturaro, 7 -- A game suited for the player's physical attributes, Sturaro fought, stubbornly kept hold of the ball and played with tenacity to secure possession and control in the midfield.

MF Miralem Pjanic, 6 -- Worked well between the lines and moved intelligently but was unable to affect the game as he wanted, suffering from injury to exit the game early.

FW Gonzalo Higuain, 8 -- His goal was worth every penny Juve spent on the star who has long been accused of failing to score on the big occasions. Not anymore! Fighting, dribbling and demonstrating his predatory nature, Higuain scored the winner in stunning fashion.

FW Mario Mandzukic, 7 -- No player on the field boasts a better work ethic. Not only is he skilled at creating space and opportunities for his teammates, he is always able to lend a hand to the defence to ensure security at the back. A team player.

Gonzalo Higuain's 14th-minute goal set Juve on course for a key win over Roma.

Substitutes

MF Juan Cuadrado, 6 -- Frustrating as ever, the player struggled to make an impact. Despite being physically quick, he takes too long to make the right decision and keeps hold of the ball for much longer than need be.

DF Andrea Barzagli, 6 -- Experienced and composed, Barzagli offered defensive guarantees.

FW Paulo Dybala, N/A -- Not on for long but never stopped running in hopes of securing another goal.

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

1-0

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 14'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 17

Saturday, December 17th, 2016 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

Higuain: ‘Crazy Juve hunger’

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95837/higuain-‘crazy-juve-hunger’

 

 

Dec 18, 2016

 

Gonzalo Higuain says he has been struck by Juventus’ ‘crazy hunger’ following victory over Roma.

 

The Argentine forward scored the decisive goal in Saturday night’s top of the table clash with the Giallorossi, a result which makes the Old Lady heavy favourites to secure a sixth consecutive Serie A title.

 

Speaking post-match, the former Napoli and Real Madrid man, who only moved to Turin in the summer, revealed his admiration for the way his teammates continue to relentlessly pursue success.

 

“The hunger they still have to win [has struck me],” Higuain told Rai Sport. “They are a team who have won the League five years in a row but they still have a crazy hunger to win.

 

“It makes me want to continue winning and doing well. Juve are a very strong team from a mental point of view.

 

“I am happy with this win and to have a seven-point lead at an important moment of the season.

 

“It was a difficult game, we knew it would be decided by fine margins and that’s how it was.

 

“For 70 minutes we defended really well as a team and we brought home the victory.”

 

Despite Juventus’ healthy advantage over their rivals, Higuain does not believe the race for the Scudetto is over, though he believes his side alone would be to blame if they were not champions come May.

 

“The League is not over, we have an important advantage. There is still a long way to go and we need to continue like this.

 

“The main rival to Juve is Juve itself. If we don’t win this League it will be our fault.

 

“Napoli have recovered, Roma will keep going but we need to follow what we are doing.”

 

Finally, the 29-year-old was asked about his controversial transfer from Napoli but insisted his motives for leaving were sporting.

 

“They [Napoli] treated me in an excellent way, if people want to believe me good, if they don’t then it’s their problem.

 

“I will say until the end that they made me happy. It was a mainly sporting decision.”

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

1-0

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 14'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 17

Saturday, December 17th, 2016 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

Szczesny: ‘Juve defeat hurts’

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95843/szczesny-‘juve-defeat-hurts’

 

 

Dec 18, 2016

 

Roma goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny admits Saturday night’s defeat to Juventus has hurt his team.

 

The Giallorossi were beaten 1-0 at Juventus Stadium, meaning they fall seven points behind the League leaders.

 

“Seven points is a lot to recover,” Szczesny admitted following the match in Turin. “It’s difficult, Juventus are a great team and seven points is a big cushion.

 

“We need to go again and win against Chievo, taking it game by game. The League now is not in our hands.

 

“I have heard many people say that we played well. It wasn’t enough to take home the three points. It hurths to go home empty-handed.”

 

The Polish international added that despite the result, he does not see a big difference between Roma and Juve.

 

“Juventus? There aren’t big differences, they are a good team but so are we.

 

“They have a winning mentality and I say it with a heavy heart. They don’t play that well by they win.”

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

1-0

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 14'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 17

Saturday, December 17th, 2016 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

Juventus 1-0 Roma Match

Report and Player Ratings

  

 

hhttp://www.juvefc.com/juventus-1-0-roma-18-12-16/

 

 

Dec 18, 2016

 

With the storied Winter Champions title already sewn up with a game to spare, we welcomed an ever improving Roma side to Turin, who were placed just 4 points below us in the table. A win for our foes would assuredly re-open the scudetto race, no doubt adding wind to the sails of those further adrift, reigniting dreams which had been slowly dying on the vine.

We started the match strongly, high pressing, and were clearly the first to settle. Higuain had an early effort well saved, and when the goal came before a quarter of an hour had been played, it was deserved. Gonzalo muscling past De Rossi, pushing the ball beyond Manolas to unleash a gorgeous left foot drive from just inside the box for 1-0.

The only other clear cut chances to fall to either side were Juve’s as we delivered a determined, confident performance, extending our lead at the top of the table to 7 points and putting our most obvious rival for the title to the sword. A deserved 3 points.

Player Ratings

Buffon – Very few can pull off the tash and remain classy, but Santo Buffon wore it well. A misplaced punch aside, barely one real save of note to make, his evening was solid and quiet. 6.5

Rugani – Growing in stature game by game, the youngster has made the most of chances afforded by injuries to the old guard and looked assured and composed throughout. 7.5

Chiellini – Finally, King Giorgio has settled back into form, just when we need a cool, experienced head at the back. Offered support going forward on occasion, other than which was a rock in the rear guard. Dzeko was hardly seen, perfectly shackled. Resolute. 7.5

Sandro – Showed he can be just as effective as a fullback (as wingback). Covered the flank with guile, fine stamina and cunning technique. Glad to see him returning to his best. 7.5

Lichsteiner – We are far more solid defensively with Stephan in the ranks in place of Alves, and I hope he is brought into the champions league squad for the knock-out stages, as we need his experience and nous. Found a few promising positions high up the field and covered the defensive areas with intelligence. It has taken a while for him to regain his rhythm, yet he is clearly moving through the gears. 7

Marchisio – Smart on the ball, tactically superb, screened the defence and kept the ball moving. His game is blossoming. Slowly but surely he is returning to his world class consistency. We are blessed to have him back in the ranks, the whole side lifted and our chances of glory increasing with every step forward taken by Il Principino. 7.5

Khedira – Dovetailed well enough with Mandzukic, choosing when to make up the numbers in the box and when to pull back to defend. I still feel Allegri is yet to find his best role in this side, but this was a calm, measured showing from the German. 6.5

Pjanic – Looks far more useful in the hole between midfield and attack, able to string passes together swiftly and pick up great positions from where he can produce creativity in the final third. A shame he went off injured, but thankfully it seems an innocuous knock. 6.5

Sturaro – Outstanding. Young Stefano has taken a few games – as to be expected – to regain his stamina and sharpness, and a portion of supporters seem to have strangely forgotten his longlasting injury bothers as well as his sterling form of last season. He was ubiquitous. Offering opponents zero space in the defensive phase, racing forward to find himself on the end of several promising moves, forcing the keeper into two decent saves, never tiring, giving his all for every ball. His passing, movement, tenacity and energy were top drawer. Plenty of room for improvement, but this performance was greater than anything offered by Lemina, Hernanes or Asamoah this season. Was not at all outclassed by Strootman, De Rossi or Nainggolan. I am glad but unsurprised to see such sterling work from the 23 year old. More is to come, but with him and Marchisio in midfield, Pjanic is able to play far more freely, for the dirty work is done by others. 8.5

Mandzukic – Mario has enjoyed a fine return to the starting XI since Dybala was crocked. His work rate is immense; defending, battering out space, pulling defenders out of position, and creating for others. Alongside Sturaro, his grinta was a wondrous example of lo stile Juve. With Pjanic, Sturaro and Khedira supporting the attack, the Croatian intelligently drops back to defend and cover with brilliant zeal. 8

Higuain – He found three chances, scored the winner with world class technique and looks sharp and menacing. Allegri has finally worked out a system to play him and Mario and to keep the Argentine further forward. And it is paying dividends. 7

Cuadrado – Appalling, gave the ball away in dangerous positions too many times to count, his passing was woeful, he seemed ill prepared to play. Hellbent on offering Roma a way back into the game. Still, by now I am accustomed to his mainly cold, sometimes hot consistency. Regardless, this was a wretched outing from the Colombian. Even by his…haphazard standards. 3

Barzagli – Pleasing to see him return and end the game unscathed. His experience will prove mightily useful when we enter the more serious segment of the campaign.

This was a fairly comfortable victory against a well organised, confident Roma side. Chances came at a premium, yet all four of the only clear cut opportunities were forged by Juve. And this was the difference. Indeed, Spalletti’s charges huffed and puffed, and played some decent football, but they were unable to match not just our quality but also our belief and pressure.

We stood off them a little late in the second half and its a shame we didn’t get the second. Yet we held on, remained dangerous on the break and Buffon’s gloves were rarely warmed. The team is growing, with Allegri finally feeling the time is right, perhaps somewhat forced through injuries, to deploy Pjanic in a more natural attacking midfield role. This is not just down to the defensive absentees, but more-so because Sturaro and Marchisio offer assurances in the middle, which we have hugely missed during their respective stints in the medical ward.

Stefano celebrated his recent contract extension with a sensational game against Roma.

This industrious performance by Sturaro was no one-off, it was how he was playing regularly after joining the side in early 2015, until injuries began to niggle late last term. Asamoah has appeared awkward, Lemina hugely inconsistent and Hernanes at best a fair but insipid replacement for Marchisio as regista. We have toiled, payed quite poor football and now we have recovered two key players for the side, in an area of the field which has been troubling us all season.

Our strength in depth has really come to the fore this season. For rather than worry of missing key players, others such as Mandzukic, Rugani and Sturaro have found the chance to stake a claim for regular first team action. It is also welcome to see the Swiss Locomotive happy and involved. I hope the club reconsiders his contractual situation in January, before he is free to sign on elsewhere for the Summer. Alves was not at all obviously superior at either end of the field before his injury and the side feels more balanced with Stephan.

“I was angry at the final whistle because we did not deal with our lead very well at all towards the end,” 

“Roma are very physical and we ran a few too many risks on set plays. I was cross with myself, as we should not have given Roma those opportunities. It’s another victory, we have 42 points with two games to play before the midway stage of the season.

“It was important to win tonight, we have Roma seven points behind us, but there’s a long way to go this term.”

“I am not remotely interested in records, as they mean very little. I am interested in being top of the table at the end of the season.

“It was a good match, hard-fought and I compliment all 22 players who took the field. I kept Mario Mandzukic to the end so he could engage in the final battle.” 

“Let us enjoy this success and then see what happens. It’s important to go into the Super Cup game against Milan with the right mentality. We lost to them in Serie A this season and this is a one-off game, we’ve got no second chance.

“Miralem Pjanic got a knock to the hip, hopefully he’ll be able to recover in time. Daniele Rugani had a great performance to keep Edin Dzeko quiet. Alex Sandro didn’t put a foot wrong when defending and can become extraordinary.

“Stefano Sturaro played in a very Arturo Vidal style fighting against the Roma midfield and winning many duels, which was not easy up against Daniele De Rossi, Kevin Strootman and Radja Nainggolan.” (Allegri)

We have our best players returning to fitness and sharpness. The results remain fine and the performances are improving. Allegri has weathered the storm superbly and should be praised for his handling of yet another period where we have succumbed to constant injuries, precluding any chance of finding a settled system, gaining cohesion and form.

The 4-3-1-2 with these players is very strong. Yet what will Allegri do when Barzagli and Bonucci are both once again fit? It is not time to dispense completely with the 3-5-2. Though clearly we gain a more potent Pjanic with a 4-3-1-2. Considering we have Dybala, Pjaca, Barzagli and Bonucci to come back into the reckoning, and we may well bring in Witsel for January, our situation appears very promising indeed. I retain total confidence in Allegri to nourish our growth and lead the chase for our shared dreams.

Of late, we have convincingly dispensed with an impressive Atalanta, topped our group in Europe, won bragging rights in the derby della mole, extended our lead at the top of Serie A to 7 points and equalled our own record of 25 straight home victories in the league.

A job well done.

forza juve

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

1-0

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 14'

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 17

Saturday, December 17th, 2016 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

Juventus vs. Roma 2016: Final score 1-0,

Juve extend lead at the top of Serie A

 

A feisty encounter on a cold night in Turin sees Higuain

send Juventus 7 points clear atop Serie A

  

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/12/18/13997930/juventus

-vs-roma-2016-serie-a-round-17-final-score-result-match-recap

 

 

Dec 18, 2016

 

A cold Saturday night in Turin marked what was a top-of-the-table showdown between Juventus and Roma. Juventus entered the game with four-point lead at the top of Serie A, one that could easily have shrunk to just one based on the result of the night’s game, yet Bianconeri coach Max Allegri made it a point to downplay the significance of the match in his usual trademark style. Nevertheless, continuing the remarkable run of form the team is having at home in the Italian league — unbeaten since opening week of the league last season — Juventus battled their way to 1-0 win, three hard-fought points and extended their lead atop Serie A to a strong seven points.

The game started in a brisk fashion, as a long ball was headed by Mario Mandzukic into the path of Gonzalo Higuain, who under pressure from Kostas Manolas, managed to find a half-yard of space to shoot on goal, but it was easily saved by Roma’s Polish keeper Wojciech Szczesny. The game continued to be brisk and end to end, as both teams fought for an early advantage in the game.

The first golden chance fell to Juventus’ most expensive player, Higuain, again. A quick throw in on the right flank found Mandzukic in space down the right, and he ran into the box before cutting back to his Argentine partner. The cut back was at an awkward height however, and Pipita’s first-time shot was saved by Szczesny once again.

The third time however, on what was arguably the hardest chance, Higuain would make no mistake. He battled away with Daniele De Rossi in the middle of the Roma half, drove forward with the ball, seemingly just gliding past two defenders into space, and fired a pinpoint shot with his left foot straight into the bottom corner of the goal. 1-0 Juventus.

The game continued to be end to end for the remainder of the opening 20 minutes, but with time it looked like Juve would be happy to sit back and let Roma have the ball, before hitting them on the counter. It seemed to be a justified tactic, as the likes of Sami Khedira, Miralem Pjanic, Mandzukic and Higuain all looked very threatening when they broke forward in numbers.

Roma began to dominate possession, but struggled to have anything to show for it, as the Juventus defense led by Giorgio Chiellini and Daniele Rugani proved to be impregnable. A speculative shot by Radja Nainggolan from inside the box that went wide of Gigi Buffon’s near post, and a Kevin Strootman attempt which was blocked by Stephan Lichtsteiner following a series of ricochets in the box after a corner aside, they struggled to fancy openings on goal. Juventus for their part had a few promising moments on the counter, including a 4v3 after a quick break by Claudio Marchisio and Higuain, but Khedira’s cross into the box was dealt with well by Manolas.

The second half continued where the first half left off, with Juventus retreating deeper and deeper into their half and relying on trying to hit Roma on the counter. Roma continued to try and force the issue down the wings, with tricky players like Diego Perotti and second half sub Mohamed Salah, but were coming up against the wall that is the Juventus defense time and time again.

Allegri was force to switch things up soon after, as Pjanic ended up pulling up clutching his hip, and looked to be in too much pain to continue. On came Juan Cuadrado in his place. Juventus’ tactic of playing on the counter, and Roma’s inability to carve an opening for themselves meant that the second half was vastly devoid of attempts on either goal.

The only two chances fell to the polarizing Stefano Sturaro, who was having a great game in the middle of the park for Juventus. Following a corner kick that found its way all the way back to Gigi Buffon, his clearance found Chiellini battling away on the wing. He laid the ball off to Higuain, who crossed it somewhat beyond Mandzukic. The big Croat however brilliantly turned the ball back into the path of the onrushing Sturaro, who took a touch and under pressure fired in a strong shot that was brilliantly saved by Szczesny. It is hard to find fault with the Italian in this case, as it was a stunning save, one that kept Roma in the game. Another chance fell to the young Italian near the full time whistle, as a through ball was a little beyond his reach, and he slid in to try and turn it goalwards, but it was once again well saved by Szczesny.

A series of conceded set pieces that saw Allegri turn his Hulk mode on aside, the game ebbed to its conclusion without too much further incident. Three more points, a first clean sheet in a month, 25 straight victories at home, and a seven-point lead at the top of the table. Job well done!

Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images

Talkin’ Tactics

Juventus continued their evolution under Allegri, as he once again lined up in the 4-3-1-2 formation that he seems to be making the team’s primary formation gradually. Pjanic supported the duo of Mandzukic and Higuain in attack, backed by a midfield trio of Khedira-Marchisio-Sturaro. Roma for their part lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with a midfield duo of Strootman and De Rossi, with Perotti, Nainggolan and Gerson supporting Dzeko.

The inclusion of young trequartista Gerson, who was making only his second Serie A start, on the right wing, was a surprise to many. Spalleti in his interview stated that the idea was to use him to try and peg Alex Sandro back, considering that Salah was still not fit to start. This was reinforced by the selection of Rudiger at right back, a player who is traditionally a CB. This might have been forced by the injuries to Alessandro Florenzi and Bruno Peres, but it resulted in what was a very defensive right wing, with very little attacking overlap. It might have worked though, as the hardworking duo kept Alex Sandro quiet down the wing. In this manner, their formation somewhat resembled the zona mista formation employed by Allegri early last season, with Barzagli as an unorthodox RB. However, both Perotti and Gerson (Salah for the second half), really struggled to get into the game and get any service to Dzeko, who ended up relying on long balls and the support of Nainggolan through the center. Rugani however had a stunning match to ensure that the big Bosnian struggled to see the ball at all. Sturaro and Khedira also did their parts to ensure that Lichtsteiner and Sandro were hardly ever overrun down either flank.

The game was a physical affair from start to finish, and in my mind there is no doubt that this game could have gone very differently had Allegri started with the midfield trio he probably envisioned starting the season with, in Pjanic-Marchisio-Khedira. There just isn’t enough tenacity, physical presence and aggression in that trio. Games like this highlight the importance that Sturaro and his role plays in the squad. The physical nature of the game suited him immensely, and his snapping away at the ankles of his counter parts really got under the skin of the likes of De Rossi, Strootman and Nainggolan, and forced them to lose their cool/turn the ball over on many occasions. The physical presence and defensive cover afforded by him, also gave Pjanic the freedom to drift between the lines and seek the ball out, and as such, the Bosnian was indeed looking very menacing on the ball in the opening 20 minutes. Unfortunately, the team continued to drop deeper and deeper thereafter, meaning he saw very little of the ball for his remaining time on the pitch.

The team’s average positions show how deep the team ended up retreating, effectively crowding out the midfield with the defense stepping back towards goal

 fourfourtwo.com

Overall, the combative and physical nature of the game meant that the team’s passing was well below their usual standard, as evident from the image below. Both teams were guilty of turning the ball over way too often. The feisty midfield battle also meant that both teams struggled to get the full range of their passing in midfield going. Players like Marchisio especially struggled, as evidence by his surprisingly low number of passes completed and passing accuracy.

 

The team completed 226/319 passes, at a little under 71% accuracy, well below their seasonal average

 fourfourtwo.com

Marchisio completed only 32/42 passes, at 76% accuracy, again, well below his seasonal averages

 fourfourtwo.com

Even the likes of Chiellini and Rugani, who normally have the most touches on the ball, and the highest passing accuracies, struggled. Both touched the ball a mere 49 and 42 times respectively, in stark contrast to the numbers they post when the team manages possession better (its normally in the 90’s). Sturaro and Marchisio both touched the ball more (52 times).

This was a game clearly decided by certain moments, and its hard to say how it would have gone had Higuain not grabbed that early goal. That said, despite an evermounting pressure from the Roma attack, they truly did struggle to fashion any chances at all, as evident by their meagre 2 shots on target.

Le Pagelle

Buffon: 6.5

Remarkably, Superman’s Luigi/Tom Selleck alternate identity had next to nothing to do all game, besides his usual competent organization of the defense. Had absolutely no saves of note to make.

Lichtsteiner: 6.5

Coped very well with the threat of Perotti down the right, affording him very little space on the wing. However, if his offensive contributions were suspect in years gone by, they’ve truly jumped off the cliff this season. Struggled to provide any natural width or crosses down the right, and the introduction of Cuadrado seems to have done more harm than good, as the wing just ended up looking extremely confused thereafter.

Rugani: 8.5 (MotM)

Monster game from the young Italian, who is truly turning into a world class defender right before our very eyes. His tussle with Belotti last week was a joy to watch, and so was his brilliant managing of Dzeko. He was all over the Bosnian, cutting channels through to him through the center, and using his aerial prowess to deny him from any crosses from the wings too. His positioning is exemplary, as evident by his game-high five interceptions and 8 clearances. Were it to be on purely sporting reasons and not team hierarchy, it could be a struggle for Barzagli-Benatia-Bonucci to win this spot back.

Rugani completed an amazing 8 clearances

 fourfourtwo.com

Chiellini: 7.5

The veteran bulldozer has had a welcome return to fitness and form. His partnership with Rugani is very interesting, as the young Italian’s more passive approach to reading the game, complements his aggression perfectly, while Rugani’s ability to push forward and put pressure on the CF he is marking, leaves Chiellini in a good position to sweep up any danger from other sources. The pair work well in tandem together. Its very interesting to note that its been Rugani man marking physical forwards like Belotti and Dzeko, and not Chiellini.

Sandro: 7

A very solid game at the back from the Brazilian bomber, who kept both Gerson, and the much trickier Salah extremely quiet for the duration of the game, no mean feat. That said, he did struggle to have his usual effect going forward down the left, but I’d attribute this to the defensive Rudiger standing opposite him, who did a great job in not affording Sandro a lot of space to fire in those usual deadly crosses of his. Ran his socks off however, and its worth noting that Roma’s somewhat defensive approach to their right flank can be attributed to his looming threat.

Khedira: 7

Solid, if unspectacular game from the German. His movements are truly world class however, as time and time again he found himself in the right spot at the right time while going forward on the counter, however, like the rest of the team around him, he just lacked that killer touch in the final third. Did well to assist Lichtsteiner in keeping Perotti and Nainggolan quiet.

Marchisio: 6.5

Uncharacteristically sloppy game from our Principino. Maybe it was the nature of the game itself, coupled with the team’s approach however. With just 52 touches, he found himself asking for the ball a lot less than he normally does, as the team quickly looked to push forward with Mandzukic and Higuain, as opposed to trying to maintain possession effectively. I’d have to question Allegri’s tactics here more than anything, as we badly could have used his calm composure on the ball for much of the second half.

Sturaro: 8.5

A few days after his shiny new contract bump, he proved the role he can play in this squad, with a fiery performance full of grinta, aggression and positivity. He never allowed the central midfielders of Roma to settle, and that definitely played a role in their inability to make their possession count. Led the team with a game-high five tackles, as well as one interception and two clearances, not to mention his four completed dribbles. He had the joint most touches of the ball with Marchisio, and a passing percentage of 71 percent (on par with the squad total) shows he wasn’t letting the team down as a whole in that department. The freedom he affords Pjanic is the biggest positive one can take from his role in the squad. Unlucky not to get a goal, and he would be my man of the match had he managed to convert either of his chances.

Sturaro’s heatmap showing how much ground the combative Italian covered

 whoscored.com

Pjanic: 7

The flow of the game and the team’s approach cost him more than anyone else, as he struggled to get the ball at all after the first 20 minutes, during which he certainly looked very menacing. It was a shame to see him go off injured, as we badly missed his cool control of the ball and possession in the second half, not to mention his set pieces. Is getting better with every game in this new TQ position, and we must hope that his injury is not too serious, as it’d be a terrible time for him to put on the treatment table.

Mandzukic: 7.5

You know what you’re going to get with Mandzukic every game. Bucket loads of grinta, him running his socks off, and a few crucial tackles/blocks/headers won on the defensive side. Did very well to set up both Higuain and Sturaro for chances, and fought for the team all game. Shockingly, he still doesn’t seem to be looking tired. I can’t wait to see more of Higuain+Dybala, but I will certainly miss his battling persona.

Higuain: 7.5

He truly is lethal in the box. For the first time (unless my memory deceives me), we saw Mandzukic supporting him, as opposed to the vice versa I’ve gotten used to for the duration of Dybala’s injury absence. His presence in the box cannot be discounted, as his runs are just so intelligent. Couldn’t have done much better for his first chance, as Mandzukic’s cut back was at an awkward height, but his goal was a thing of beauty, and the kind of scary clinical attacking prowess we haven’t seen in the squad since David Trezeguet. Continued to sacrifice for the team for the rest of the game, which is very encouraging.

Cuadrado: 4.5

Appalling cameo from the Columbian, who seemingly couldn’t do anything right for this game. I suppose everyone has these kind of days, and let’s hope he can shrug it off soon. Lost possession more times than most of his counterpoints put together, and was shockingly ineffective going forward on the counter, as the Cuadrado of last year who was on a completely different wavelength to his teammates, reared his ugly head again.

Barzagli: 6.5

Had little to do after coming on, and added some composure to the defense. Its interesting to note that despite Barzagli originally being first choice to replace Bonucci in the center of the back 3, and Allegri later saying that Benatia would be the other choice, it was Rugani who continued in the middle of the three.. Shows just how far the young Italian has come, and is adapting to his game to become the brilliant amalgamation of all three legendary Italian defenders of the BBC. (Sorry, I can’t stop raving at just how damn good Rugani is).

Dybala: N/A

Hope to see him starting soon!

Allegri: 6.5/7

His lineup was spot on, and full credit for the faith he’s showing in the likes of Rugani and Sturaro, the two stand out performers from today. As usual, his handling of the youngsters is brilliant. That said, his tactic of going on the defensive and conservative mode after taking the lead is trying. Today its hard to question it too much, considering we held out for the clean sheet and victory, but based on the goals we’ve conceded this season so far, no one would complain or be surprised had Roma snuck an equaliser against the run of play, or from a set piece at the depth. Grinding to victories is one thing, but there is no excuse for refusing to stamp your authority on a vital game like this.

Three more points, plus-7 lead atop the table, a relatively favourable Champions League draw.. Let’s see how this season pans out for us! Players like Rugani, Pjanic, Higuain etc. finding form at this crucial time is important. First piece of silverware is up for grabs next week! Let’s win the Supercoppa and enjoy a well earned Christmas break.

Happy holidays to all my friends across the globe (and happy end of the dreaded 2016!). My well wishes to all of you, and as always, Forza Juve!

 

http://www.goal.com/en/tables/serie-a/13?ICID=TP_TN_110

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Higuain: 'We need perfection'

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95889/higuain-we-need-perfection

 

 

Dec 19, 2016

 

Gonzalo Higuain believes his Juventus side will need to be perfect in order to beat Milan in the Italian Super Cup on Friday.

 

The match takes place in Doha at 17:30 CET - 16:30 GMT.

 

The striker was asked if he remembered the 2014 Supercoppa, when he scored two goals and converted his penalty in the shootout for Napoli against Juventus.

 

"Of course I remember, and you?," joked Pipita to Gazzetta dello Sport. "I have a beautiful memory of that day, then I was playing with Napoli and I brought home the title.

 

"Now I wear a Juventus shirt, it will be a tough game against a great opponent and I hope it ends ends like last time."

 

Higuain has attracted criticism from some for his relative lack of goals in the current campaign, does he feel like he has something to prove?

 

"I do not know, I play only to help the team and win. Of course, I also go on the pitch to show that I can do well.

 

"The opinions are yours, I respect them, but I am always quiet. Even when I do not score. "

 

That victory for Napoli is the only trophy that Juventus have not won in the last two years, what does the striker think about this?

 

"I do not know, for me the pride remains in beating a great team that time around, but now I want to win the first title with my new teammates.

 

"Milan are a tough team. In Milan there was the incident with [Miralem] Pjanic, if that goal had been allowed it would have changed everything.

 

"It will be a tight game, beautiful even. It will take perfection to win."

 

 

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Higuain: 'SuperCoppa no CL warm-up'

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95890/higuain-supercoppa-no-cl-warm

 

 

Dec 19, 2016

 

Gonzalo Higuain dismissed claims that the forthcoming SuperCoppa Italiana match with Milan is a Champions League warm-up.

 

After the striker confessed his side would have to be perfect to win the trophy on Friday, he stressed that the fixture was no workout for his Juventus side.

 

"No, this has nothing to do with the Champions League," Pipita continued in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. "If we go into the game feeling that way, we will make a big mistake.

 

"It is not a workout, but just one game. A game to win."

 

Would Higuain like to see any additions made to the current Juve side?

 

"I would not take any other player from any other squad. I am delighted to play with these teammates and game by game, I’m more and more convinced by this.

 

"The Champions League is a desire, but so is making history by winning the sixth consecutive Scudetto.

 

"In Europe you need a bit of luck, but in the league consistency is more important. The club took me because they wanted me and trust in me.

 

"In any case, the aim is to win as many titles as possible."

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Montella: 'I don't hate Juve'

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95892/montella-i-dont-hate-juve

 

 

Dec 19, 2016

 

Milan boss Vincenzo Montella refuses to go along with those who hate rivals Juventus.

 

His side take on the Bianconeri in the SuperCoppa Italiana on Friday in Doha. The Coach sees no reason why Milan can't win, having already done so in the league this season.

 

"I think it was in 1996, with Sampdoria, that there was outrage," Montella told Tuttosport.

 

"I was in the streets where the rivalry is strongest, like it is in Rome and Florence, but I never joined in with those who hate Juve.

 

"Hate is a strong word, they win more than others do, so it is logical that everyone wants to beat them.

 

"I am sure that [Gianluigi] Buffon has been misinterpreted, the fact remains that there is an extra motivation when you come up against them.

 

"Winning would be a good story for the team, for Berlusconi, and for me, for this group. "

 

"Can we beat them? Well, we have already done...

 

"But they have been built to win the Champions League. Since the second half of the competition is much, much more competitive than our league, it is clear that they are destined to rule.

 

"It will be different from when we defeated Juventus in the league, but I will not give any advantages, I won’t tell you whether and how I will change my Milan.

 

"They are organised to deal with many kinds of absence. Allegri has a complete team that can play in so many ways."

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Montella: 'Milan used to finals'

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95893/montella-milan-used-finals

 

 

Dec 19, 2016

 

Vincenzo Montella believes his Milan side have played like they are in a final already this season.

 

The Rossoneri take on Juventus in the SuperCoppa Italiana in Doha on Friday, and the Coach stressed that Max Allegri's men are not a one-man team.

 

"Juventus are not just about [Gonzalo] Higuain," Montella continued in an interview with Tuttosport, having already stressed that he has no hatred for the Old Lady.

 

"[Paulo] Dybala, for example, is one of the best in the world.

 

"As for the €90m spent on him, it's the law of supply and demand.

 

"It has made the gap between the value of the players much wider but if we think about what buys you an average player and what buys you a player like Higuain, it is right that there is this difference.

 

"It is because the fans identify with being champions, therefore they want a champion.

 

"It is not thanks to me that we will be in Doha. I have to thank my predecessors, I would like to say a final thank you to [Sinisa] Mihajlovic, [Cristian] Brocchi and the players that were here a year ago."

 

This will be Montella's third final as a Coach, the second with Fiorentina was marred by shootings outside the stadium, which delayed the kick-off.

 

"I hope to do better this time around. With the youngsters of Roma we were only just defeated by Milan.

 

"The other is the tragic final with Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia against Napoli at the Olimpico.

 

"I remember that wait long in the dressing room, seeing the events unfold.

 

"It was a bit of a mistake by everyone not to isolate the team  from what was happening and in fact we lost the final in the first twenty minutes.

 

"The match had already started but we were still not really there on the field.

 

"This Milan aren’t used to finals? No this is not true.

 

"Only last May, they played in the Coppa Italia final. And then I think my team in the league, having played several matches as if they were a final.

 

"Even against Roma, for example, the mentality was like that. Apart from the result, I was pleased with my players."

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Pjanic in doubt for Supercoppa

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95896/pjanic-doubt-supercoppa

 

 

Dec 19, 2016

 

Reports suggest that Juventus pair Miralem Pjanic and Stephan Lichtsteiner are injury doubts for the Supercoppa Italiana on Friday.

 

The Bianconeri take on Milan in Doha, but Coach Max Allegri may have to do without the aforementioned duo.

 

Pjanic was substituted after injuring his hip in the 51st minute of the match against Roma on Saturday evening, with Juan Cuadrado coming on to replace him.

 

Lichtsteiner was swapped for Andrea Barzagli 17 minutes later, and it now appears that the Swiss defender may have encountered a problem.

 

With the players subject to medical tests, the club are expected to make an announcement over the injuries later today.

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Damato to referee Supercoppa

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95913/damato-referee-supercoppa

 

 

Dec 19, 2016

 

Antonio Damato has been announced as the referee for Friday’s Supercoppa Italiana between Juventus and Milan.

 

The Serie A winners face the Coppa Italia runners-up in Doha this week, with the Bianconeri looking to lift the trophy for the fourth time in five years.

 

Today it has been announced that Antonio Damato will be the man in the middle for the match, with Riccardo Di Fiore and Alessandro Giallatini as his assistants.

 

The 44-year-old hasn’t refereed the Old Lady so far this season, with his last Juve match being their 1-0 Coppa Italia win over Lazio earlier this year.

 

Damato was the man in the middle for the Rossoneri’s opening game of this season, a 3-2 win over Torino.

 

Both sides were awarded a penalty, but while Carlos Bacca scored for Milan, Gianluigi Donnarumma saved Andrea Belotti’s effort.

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Higuain: I have balls!

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95924/higuain-i-have-balls

 

 

Dec 19, 2016

 

Juventus striker Gonzalo Higuain believes he has shown himself to have “balls” after his last Supercoppa performance.

 

According to La Repubblica, then-Napoli boss Rafa Benitez had secretly felt Higuain lacked courage for the big occasion, prompting the striker to cup his hands near his abdominal area when celebrating his second goal against Juve in the 2014 Supercoppa.

 

“I remember what happened well, yes,” he told the newspaper ahead of Friday’s clash with Milan.

 

“And even that gesture: it’s true, I did say that I had balls, although some sick person thought I was doing something else.”

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Marotta ‘optimistic’ for Supercoppa

  

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95932/marotta-‘optimistic’-supercoppa

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Beppe Marotta says he is “very optimistic” that Juventus will beat Milan for the Supercoppa on Friday.

 

Milan have history on their side as they beat Juve on penalties in the last Supercoppa between the two teams, yet the Bianconeri travel to Doha on the back of dominant form in Serie A and a domestic double in 2015-16, which included beating the Diavolo in the Coppa Italia final.

 

“It’s the first trophy of the season up for grabs,” the general manager was quoted as saying by Tuttomercatoweb.

 

“As history tells us, Juventus always play to win. We’re also going [to Doha] to win.

 

“Of course, there’s the unpredictability of it being a one-off game so you also need to have that bit of luck.

 

“Still, I’m aware that the team are in good shape, have a will to win and strong motivations so I’m very optimistic.”

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

   Galliani: Tevez my biggest regret

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95933/galliani-tevez-my-biggest-regret

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Adriano Galliani admits Carlos Tevez “is absolutely my biggest regret” but believes Milan have shown to be “on a par” with Juventus pre-Supercoppa.

 

Milan were heavily tipped to sign Tevez in 2012 after his bust-up with Roberto Mancini at Manchester City, but the Rossoneri failed to broker a deal for the forward, who ended up winning consecutive Scudetti with Juve.

 

“Tevez? It’s absolutely my biggest regret. I think Tevez was a watershed between Milan and Juventus,” the Vice-President told Telelombardia.

 

“Unfortunately in football, there are no counterproofs. I have a great relationship with Kia [Joorabchian] and Carlitos.

 

“We’d had a good relationship with Juve for many years. Like all relationships, there are ups and downs, but now it’s back to being very good.

 

“Supercoppa? At San Siro in the spring, we lost 2-1 but absolutely played on a par with Juventus. It should’ve been a draw in terms of the run of play.

 

“In the Coppa Italia final. we lost in extra time, again playing on a par with them. In October, we beat Juve always playing on a par with them.

 

“We met them three times, lost twice and won once, but in quotation marks, they could’ve been three draws.

 

“For this, I didn’t see many differences in terms of play between Milan and Juventus.

 

“I hope that on Friday, it goes as it did in the autumn rather than spring.”

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

   Barzagli, it's cold outside - Juventus have snowball fight in training

 

 

The Serie A side prepared for their Supercoppa Italiana

clash with AC Milan with a bit of festive fun in training.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/4160/extra-time/2016/12/20/30678272/-

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

 

Juventus found the perfect way to warm up in the snow during training, with the players involved in a snowball fight to practice hitting the target.

 

Striker Mario Mandzukic was central to the battle of Vinovo, which luckily saw no snow-throwing soldiers wounded in action.

 

The Croatia international was pictured firing a lofted effort towards team-mate Patrice Evra, who is usually right in the centre of any shenanigans at Juventus training.

 

 

View image on Twitter

 

 Follow

Mario Mandžukić MM17 

 

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Snowball fight is always fun... I mean, NO GOOD! #PatriceEvraFunnyGuy #TeamMates #WinterGames#ForzaJuve

10:33 AM - 20 Dec 2016

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Juventus are currently leading Roma by seven points at the top of Serie A heading into the winter break. They face AC Milan on Friday, December 23 in Doha, Qatar in the 2016 Supercoppa Italiana.

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capello: ‘There is no Scudetto race’

 

 
http://www.football-italia.net/95942/capello-‘there-no-scudetto-race’

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Fabio Capello laments that the gap between Juventus and their challengers is “abysmal”.

 

The Bianconeri went seven points clear at the top of Serie A with a win over Roma on Saturday night, making them favourites for a record-breaking sixth Scudetto in a row.

 

“As predicted, there is no race,” Capello told Premium Sport.

 

“They [Juventus] started slowly but like every year they recovered quickly, getting players back.

 

“[Gonzalo] Higuain had to adapt, others had to adapt to a mentality, to a type of work at a club which gives everything and asks for everything.

 

“If they win, as I think they will do, for six years it means the other competitors are weak, the difference seems abysmal.

 

“We have to hope that the gap to Juventus can be closed in a short time, six consecutive years is too much.

 

“There’s a lack of top-class players, while Juve have the players, the organisation and the mentality.”

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

    Marchisio: ‘Milan won’t be easy’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95945/marchisio-‘milan-won’t-be-easy’

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Juventus’ Claudio Marchisio warns the Supercoppa Italiana against Milan “won’t be easy” and would let his son have a Torino shirt.

 

The Bianconeri face Vincenzo Montella’s side in Doha on Friday night, as they look to win the trophy for the fourth time in five seasons.

 

Marchisio missed Euro 2016 and the start of the season with a cruciate ligament injury, but has now returned to Massimiliano Allegri’s midfield.

 

“I missed a lot of things because the injury came at the end of the season, in the most beautiful moment,” the midfielder recalled, speaking to La Stampa.

 

“It wasn’t easy to recover, I was working morning and afternoon. It wasn’t easy, and I’m still not at 100 per cent.

 

“I could have shared the victories with Juve and then gone to the European Championships, but I was proud of my teammates for what they did.

 

“I’m a guy who doesn’t deal with it well when I’m out, I wanted to be strong and on the pitch.

 

“So my 2016 was bittersweet, but I look at the positives: I won two major trophies and now I can take a third, the first of the season.

 

“It won’t be an easy match against Milan, they already beat us in the League. We’ll have to be careful, because they’re a team with a lot of youngsters who will want to put on a display and confirm what they’re doing.

 

“We want to end this year as we started it though, and make it perfect.”

 

Marchisio was born and raised in Turin, growing up a Juve fan, but what if one of his sons, Davide or Leonardo, asked for a Torino shirt?

 

“No problem, my sons have a passion for football, it’s hard not to.”

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

     Juventus name Supercoppa squad

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95947/juventus-name-supercoppa-squad

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Juventus have named a 24-man squad for the Supercoppa Italiana, including youngsters Luca Coccolo and Mattias Andersson.

 

The Bianconeri face Milan in Doha on Friday, as the double winners and the Coppa Italia runners-up vie for the first trophy of the season.

 

Massimiliano Allegri has today named his squad to travel to the Middle East, with Marko Pjaca and Andrea Barzagli continuing their comebacks from injury.

 

In addition, 18-year-old left-back Luca Coccolo has been included in the travelling party after impressing with the Primavera.

 

Also included is centre-back Mattias Andersson, who joined the Old Lady from Malmo in the summer, and is also 18.

 

 

Juventus squad for Supercoppa Italiana: Buffon, Chiellini, Benatia, Pjanic, Khedira, Cuadrado, Marchisio, Higuain, Hernanes, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Mandzukic, Lemina, Pjaca, Dybala, Asamoah, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Audero, Evra, Coccolo, Andersson

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

   Milan flight cancelled

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95948/milan-flight-cancelled

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Milan will not arrive in Doha for the Supercoppa Italiana until tomorrow, as their flight has been cancelled.

 

The Rossoneri were due to fly out for their match with Juventus this afternoon, but the flight was delayed by an hour and a half.

 

Now MilanNews is reporting that the flight has been cancelled altogether, as the plane is still in London due to a technical problem.

 

The squad will therefore fly out tomorrow at 15.00 Italian time, 24 hours after their initial scheduled departure.

 

Juve are due to arrive in Doha tonight at 22.00 Italian time.

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Supercoppa at risk?

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95957/supercoppa-risk

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Adriano Galliani warns Milan “have suffered a serious sporting disadvantage” as it's reported they may not play the Supercoppa Italiana.

 

The Rossoneri were due to fly out for the Supercoppa Italiana today, but their plane was stuck in London with technical problems.

 

Opponents Juventus have flown out this afternoon, but the Diavolo won’t leave until tomorrow now after the flight was cancelled.

 

“We’ve suffered a serious sporting disadvantage,” Galliani told ANSA.

 

“Juventus are already calmly in the warm, tomorrow they’ll train in temperatures which are 20 degrees higher than at Milanello.

 

“We’ll arrive at night and we’ll only be able to work the night before.”

 

According to ANSA, if there are major delays to tomorrow’s flight, the Rossoneri won’t travel to Qatar for the match.

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Berlusconi: ‘Change refs to stop Juve…’  

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95960/berlusconi-‘change-refs-stop-juve…’

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

Milan President Silvio Berlusconi jokes “we must change all the referees in Serie A” to stop Juventus.

 

The Rossoneri face the Old Lady in the Supercoppa Italiana tomorrow, although there its reported they’ll pull out if their flight is delayed again.

 

The Diavolo patron is tonight at a Christmas even with Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and was asked by reporters how the Bianconeri can be stopped.

 

“We have to change all the referees in Serie A and all the judges…” Berlusconi joked.

 

“Milan’s budget? In the last year I’ve put €150m into Milan.”

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Marotta optimistic ahead of Supercoppa

 

Juve CEO speaks ahead of trip to Doha

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2016/12/20/14022966/marotta-

optimism-ahead-of-supercoppa-juventus-milan-witsel-bentancur-caldara

 

 

Dec 20, 2016

 

 

Beppe Marotta has said that he feels optimistic about a positive result for Juventus who take on AC Milan in the Italian Supercoppa this coming weekend in Doha, Qatar.

Milan beat Juve on penalties the last time they met for the Supercoppa, and won the last League round at the San Siro as well this season.

However, speaking to TuttoMercatoWeb, he said -

“It’s the first trophy of the season up for grabs.

“As history tells us, Juventus always play to win. We’re also going [to Doha] to win.

“Of course, there’s the unpredictability of it being a one-off game so you also need to have that bit of luck.

“Still, I’m aware that the team are in good shape, have a will to win and strong motivations so I’m very optimistic.”

In an earlier interview with Radio Anch'io Sport, he had also mentioned that the Bianconeri were close to wrapping up deals for Axel Witsel and Rodrigo Bentancur. The protracted Witsel fiasco ran on through the summer transfer window and is hoped to be resolved in January. Meanwhile, Juve have the first option to buy midfielder Bentancur following the transfer of Carlos Tevez to Boca Juniors in 2015.

"Witsel is a good opportunity for us. His contract expires in June and we are in touch with Zenit to see if we purchase him now. While we are waiting for their response, we are keeping a close eye at other options.

"We are also working on the signing of Bentancur. We have an option to sign him that expires in April. He is doing well at Boca and I think we will sign him, not in January, but for next season."

Juve have been linked with other players as well for the upcoming transfer window, with Marotta also commenting on the Atalanta duo Mattia Caldara (link) and Roberto Gagliardini.

"Caldara and Gagliardini are two very interesting youngsters.

"Several Italian and foreign clubs are after them. We are monitoring and trying to sign the best youngsters around.

"Having a core of Italian players gives fewer problems and makes it easier to learn the values of Juventus and Italian football."

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Supercoppa alternatives considered

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95965/supercoppa-alternatives-considered

 

 

Dec 21, 2016

 

In the unlikely event Milan don’t play the Supercoppa Italiana on Friday, alternatives are being drawn-up.

 

The Rossoneri were due to fly to Doha today, but their plane was stranded in London due to a mechanical fault.

 

It’s planned that they’ll travel tomorrow instead, but reports suggest they’ve told the Lega Serie A that they won’t play if there are any further delays.

 

Theoretically, Juventus - who are already in Qatar - could be given a 3-0 walkover, but it’s more likely that the game would be rescheduled.

 

According to calciomercato.it, both sides would probably want to play at their respective stadia, and it may be too short notice to hire Stadio Olimpico.

 

The stadium in Doha is already sold out, so it would create a lot of controversy, and both sides would miss out on the expected revenue.

 

In addition the match would have to be played by the end of the year, as there is no space in the calendar for 2017.

 

Therefore, the most likely date would be Boxing Day, December 26, but that would present problems of its own as players will have planned to return home for Christmas, some to Asia or South America.

 

The most likely outcome is still that Milan will fly in tomorrow and play the game on Friday, but it all depends on travel going to plan.

[Socrates 8526]

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITALIAN SUPERCUP FINAL

Friday, December 23rd, 2016 - 5:30 p.m.

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium - Doha (Qatar)

Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

Mandzukic: 'Milan loss a warning'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/95973/mandzukic-milan-loss-warning

 

 

Dec 21, 2016

 

Juventus must be wary of Milan, warns Mario Mandzukic, as defeat to them in the league was 'a warning'.

 

After discussing his disdain for being substitued and his work-rate for the team, thoughts turned to Friday's game.

 

"My relationship with Allegri? We think the same way, the striker continued in an interview with Corriere della Sera.

 

Roma Coach Luciano Spalletti described the Bianconeri as a 'team of animals', what does Mandzukic think of this?

 

"Spalletti? He shows so much energy when driving the team forward during the game.

 

"If a Coach such as him says this it is a great compliment to us.

 

"We must always play like this: it’s never enough to put on the shirt and wait for things to fall at our feet.

 

"We have to be wild beasts, so that we win. And continue to win."

 

What does the striker think about Fridays Supercoppa match with Milan in Doha?

 

"It’s a final, so it will be difficult. The defeat to Milan is a warning for us, but it is also the motivation to concentrate more and focus on winning."

 

Mandzukic won the Champions League with Bayern Munich in 2012-13, what was that feeling like?

 

"It’s hard to describe, but it is something that will last forever and for me it is a beautiful memory.

 

"Even so I would like very much to relive the same feeling with Juve.

 

"What will I do after I retire? I want to become a Coach , because football is everything to me.

 

"I want to contribute something, to teach and pass on to others all that I have learned."