JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Allegri: 'Bad Juventus setback'

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http://www.football-italia.net/96945/allegri-bad-juventus-setback

Jan 15, 2017

Max Allegri admits Juventus suffered “a bad setback” with their 2-1 defeat to Fiorentina, “but nobody thought we’d win the title in January.”

The Bianconeri fell to their fourth defeat of the Serie A season, only one less than throughout all of last term.

“There were a lot of free kicks and cards, not that much football played,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

“It’s a bad setback for us, but we still have the chance to be four points clear and nobody thought we’d win the title in January.

“Teams play the game of a lifetime against us, such as Fiorentina and Genoa, so we must always have our energy up and give everything, because the opposition do with us.

“It’s going to be a battle and we need to fight it out for every single point from here to May 28. It won’t be easy.”

Nikola Kalinic and Milan Badelj (possibly with a Federico Chiesa touch) sealed a deserved Fiorentina victory, while Gonzalo Higuain only got a late consolation goal.

“We did not move well in the first half. There was some improvement in the second. There were overall too many errors and we didn’t pass it out of defence well enough, which gave Fiorentina confidence to keep pushing us back.

“Roma and Napoli are behind us, so it’ll be a fight to the end, but we must learn from this defeat. It’s not enough to do less than 100 per cent, because the opposition gives more than 100 per cent against us.”

Some of Allegri's tactical decisions caused confusion, such as keeping Miralem Pjanic on the bench.

"In yesterday's training session Pjanic had a slight muscular problem and thinking about the fixtures we've got coming up, I didn't want to risk him."

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Juventus 1 - Fiorentina 2: Initial reaction

and random observations

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http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/1/15/14279600/juventus-

fiorentina2017-serie-a-round-19-final-score-result-initial-reaction

Jan 15, 2017

Max Allegri stepped up to the microphone on Saturday afternoon and talked about a handful of topic as he normally does. Some were transfer-related, others had to do with his starting lineup and a few thoughts were dedicated to the month ahead as the midway point of the 2016-17 season arrives. He spoke about the importance of the remaining January fixtures and the impact they will have on the Scudetto race. He spoke about how if Juventus could do well in said January fixtures, the Scudetto race is looking that much better from his team’s point of view.

Yeah, about that...

Juventus once again failed to show up in a big-time game away from home against Serie A opposition. Earlier in the season it was at the San Siro against the Milan twins, Sunday night it was at the Franchi, as a horrid opening 45 minutes paved the way for Allegri’s side to lose 2-1 to Fiorentina. And deservedly so. It was, basically, a Juventus performance that we’ve seen too many times already this season. Fiorentina got the two-goal lead, got the three points and deserved every single bit of it.

Sure, I understand that Gonzalo Higuain was able to cut the deficit in half and Paulo Dybala missed a glorious chance right in front of goal with the clock winding down. But Juventus’ problems, again, were much deeper than one missed scoring opportunity.

I was cool with Allegri going with a 3-5-2 to start the game. The logic was there — no natural right back, playing away from home against a side that was clearly going to attack you because this is one of their biggest rivalry games of the season at the Franchi. But the results were as poor as it could get.

Juventus looked like they’d rather be anywhere but in Florence in the first 45 minutes. Their midfield, clearly with the aim of defending more than attacking because Miralem Pjanic started on the bench, couldn’t even do much of that. Stefano Sturaro, the much-maligned midfielder who has actually been playing well as of late, pretty much defined what Juventus’ first half was all about — there but not really there, struggling in every phase of the game and showing absolutely no sign of improvement. The midfield was non-existent, the defense was just as much of a mess as it was at the end of the Atalanta game a couple of days earlier and the combination of Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain barely saw any of the ball as a result of Fiorentina’s domination of the possession numbers in the first half.

Call it some sort of bugaboo or blame it on the choice to go with the 3-5-2 all you want, but it’s not like Juventus hadn’t already had success against La Viola this season or in years prior and had entered the game having not lost to Fiorentina in all but three of the two teams’ previous 35 meetings. Fiorentina had also been on a run of poor form where they had won all of two league games since the latter days of October when they were up in the top part of the table.

You wouldn’t have known it by the way they played Sunday.

But when you look at it after nearly 98 minutes of game time, Paulo Sousa absolutely schooled Allegri. There was one team that was ready to go from the opening kickoff onward and there was one team that looked like they had no clue how to string five passes together before turning it over again. It was easy to figure out which was which — and the one in black and white wasn’t the team doing the positive aspect of it all.

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

In a second half that made absolutely no sense, there were six minutes of stoppage time. I can’t remember ever seeing a Juventus game that had six minutes of stoppage time.
Juan Cuadrado continues to be one of the most frustrating Juventus players to watch. There is talent there, but he’s so limited with his skillset it’s become so easy to figure out what he’s going to do most of the time.
Allegri said that Marko Pjaca was going to be an important player for Juventus in 2017 (and beyond), and all I’m gonna say is this: More Marko Pjaca. That’s all I’m saying on that matter.
Juventus’ defense has only recorded seven shutouts in the first 19 games of the Serie A season. I don’t know about you guys, but that feels so very un-Juventus-like. The defense used to be the backbone of this squad no matter how other areas were playing. Now? It’s starting to become quite the uncertainty, isn it?
Last season we saw Juventus get better as the season went on following their win over Torino on Halloween. Every aspect improved. The problems that hampered Allegri’s side were seemingly eliminated. This season it has been start-stop, start-stop. Juventus aren’t in a position — be it because they’re the league leaders, competing on three fronts or looking to go deep into the Champions League knockout stages — to have these type of games where they say they need to reset things and go back to the drawing board once again. We’ve been there, we’ve been through that. If Juventus plays anything close to this against Milan later this month in the Coppa Italia or against Porto in the Champions League, they’ll soon be competing on one front, not three.
Dybala, Higuain, Pjaca and Mario Mandzukic were all on the field from the 78th minute onward. It was like we were watching some redux of Italy-Germany from the 2006 World Cup and Marcello Lippi was suddenly Juventus’ manager again. I liked the end of that game a lot better, though.
Both Juventus and Real Madrid fielded starting lineups with the 3-5-2. Both of them lost 2-1. I’m not saying, but I’m just saying.
This whole team needs to get better. Players need to get better. The manager needs to get better. Everybody needs to get better. If they want consistency, it has to happen now or else this team will just continue to have a couple good weeks and then this whole cycle will start over and over and over again.

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Sousa: 'Fiorentina always like this'

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http://www.football-italia.net/96946/sousa-fiorentina-always

Jan 15, 2017

Paulo Sousa insists he did not adjust Fiorentina to neutralise Juventus. “If we play with this desire, determination and intensity, we’ll be difficult for anyone to beat.”

Nikola Kalinic and Milan Badelj got the goals in a 2-1 victory over Juve, as Gonzalo Higuain’s strike was mere consolation.

“Every game has to be like this for Fiorentina. If we play with this desire, hunger, determination and intensity, then we’ll be very difficult for anyone to beat,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

“My team does not reflect the opposition. We have a clear structure and our own ideas, so we tried to follow our own low channels to escape pressing, then as time wore on had more control of the ball.

“We had more shots on goal, more scoring opportunities, and more transitions. In any case, the team interpreted the game well both defending and attacking, so we deservedly won the match.

“Determination, belief, courage and ambition are elements I’ve been trying to instil in my team and each individual player from the start.

“Naturally when we have those elements, the quality of our football improves. It was marvellous to beat a team that has such quality and over five years has shown such superiority over the rest.

“This victory must boost our self-belief, so we know that we can achieve great things and play like this every week. My mission is to win. I love to win, including against teams that are on paper stronger than us. Each little victory helps take us closer to a bigger success.”

Sousa was asked if he would like the opportunity to be on the Juventus bench one day, considering his past there as a player.”

“I try to work every day to do my best and hope God gives me the chance to do what I love the most, which is to be in football and achieve everything I can.”

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Chiellini: 'Juve not as solid'

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http://www.football-italia.net/96948/chiellini-juve-not-solid

Jan 15, 2017

Giorgio Chiellini concedes Juventus “aren’t as solid as we were last season” and have travel sickness after defeat to Fiorentina.

The Bianconeri are one point clear at the top of the Serie A table, albeit with a game in hand to be played against Crotone.

“It wasn’t a good performance and we haven’t quite found our balance yet,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia and Mediaset Premium.

This was the first time the ‘BBC’ defence of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Chiellini had started together since October 29, but they seemed rusty.

“The truth is we know full well that we aren’t as solid as we were last season and we’ve been saying that even during the run of victories.

“If you think back, some games Gigi Buffon wouldn’t even get his gloves dirty, but now we tend to concede almost every match or at least run some risks.”

Could it be because the midfield is no longer providing the same kind of protection, above all since Paul Pogba was sold to Manchester United?

“We do miss Pogba’s intensity, because he is a big figure to suddenly lose. There’s an issue away from home because, with all due respect, it’s not in the Juventus style to come away with no points in three games played in Milan and Florence.

“We’ve had four tough away fixtures, including Genoa, and lost all of them, so that really has to say something.”

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Fiorentina's Perfect 10

The Stadio Franchi crowd was revved up even before kick-off and Juventus stalled, writes Giancarlo Rinaldi.

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http://www.football-italia.net/96949/fiorentinas-perfect-10

Jan 15, 2017

If they wanted to pay tribute to a legend, there were few more fitting ways. With their inimitable Number 10 Giancarlo Antognoni back in a director’s role at the club, the fans had already put on a special piece of choreography in his honour. Out on the pitch, what better way to celebrate than by beating your most bitter enemy? And, in the process, Fiorentina raised hopes across Italy that a sixth Scudetto in a row for Juventus might not be the formality it previously appeared.

The steamroller version of the Bianconeri never got started in Florence or, if you prefer, the Viola pinched the keys to their ignition. When they are in top form and their attitude is right, Max Allegri’s men are still the toughest team to beat in the country. However, the signs from the Artemio Franchi - just like on a few other occasions this season - were that they will let their guard down a little more often than they have in years gone by. It’s up to their opposition to strike when they get the chance.

Paulo Sousa shuffled his pack to perfection in that regard on Sunday night. Carlos Sanchez slotted into the defence and set the tone for a display where the Tuscan side regularly seized the initiative - particularly in the first half. The return of Borja Valero to join up with Matias Vecino and Milan Badelj gave quality and shape to the midfield. Young Federico Chiesa confirmed all the character and enterprise he has already shown this campaign. And Nikola Kalinic had everyone on the Curva Fiesole praying that all forms of communication between Florence and China remain unplugged until the end of January.

The way the Croatian striker took the opening goal, on a lovely assist from Federico Bernardeschi, underlined how important he is to the side. The way he worked the Juventus back line was also crucial in allowing his teammates to attack La Vecchia Signora deep in her own half.

They more than deserved their lead and, though the way they doubled it was a little fortunate, they looked on course for a surprisingly comfortable win over the league leaders.

Habitual winners, of course, do not give up the points that easily and a striker like Gonzalo Higuain is always going to re-open matters if you give him half a chance. But when Paulo Dybala skied it clear on goal late in the game, it typified Juve’s night. They were surprisingly lacklustre and too many of their key men played below par. Indeed, Josip Ilicic might have made their night more miserable when he got through one on one with Gigi Buffon in the closing minutes.

But what did we learn from the match, overall? The Bianconeri Coach was grudging in his praise for Fiorentina, seemingly unhappy with the time-wasting, and that fitted with a team which seemed to direct a lot of grumbling in the direction of the referee all night. It felt, however, a little bit like a deflection manoeuvre from some problems in his own camp.

His side has shown some surprising lapses throughout this season and, although it hasn’t always cost them the game, it is a worrying trend. At their best, they crush the spirit out of an opponent but, in Florence, they were never able to properly exert their control. They were so late starting that the Viola had already sped off down the street and out of sight.

From the home side’s standpoint, it was a beacon of hope, but only if they build on it. They have spluttered in and out of form like classic car in need of another turn of the starting handle. There have been a few false dawns already but, with a game in hand, they could yet make a tilt at the Europa League places once again. But only if they keep their cool, keep fit and keep their star striker.

Meanwhile, around Italy, there were cheers heard from Rome, Naples and Milan that Juve’s runaway progress had been slowed a little. The signs have been there all season that they are vulnerable, but they have managed to cover it up brilliantly like an old boxer who still knows how to hide when he has been hurt.

As Allegri said after Sunday’s game, every team loves to take Juve’s scalp - so they will face a few more tests on their route to the Scudetto. Of course, they may not have to be impeccable if their chasing rivals slip-up more than they do.

They might even trade a title, perhaps, for a Champions League victory. Maybe the shine has gone off winning Serie A a little, and the Turin giants would prefer a European triumph, if they were forced to choose. On recent evidence, however, they will have to function at their very best - and for the full 90 minutes - to achieve either goal.

In Florence, they will settle - for now at least - for the afterglow of beating their greatest enemy in front of a full house. It wasn’t a knockout blow by any stretch of the imagination, but it gave the Bianconeri a bloody nose. How significant it turns out to be will depend upon the follow-up blows from the rest of the division.

In the meantime, Antognoni’s return to the fold could not have started any better. For a player of such stature, it was a victory worthy of his legendary reputation.

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Allegri: No one thought we’d win the title in January

Manager’s post-match comments after Juve look flat in defeat

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http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/1/16/14280900/max-allegri-

no-one-thought-wed-win-the-title-in-january-managers-post-match-comments

Jan 16, 2017

On a day that Juventus director Beppe Marotta said that he saw no reason to let manager Massimiliano Allegri go as he is ‘a winning tactician’, the Bianconeri looked terrible in an away loss to Fiorentina. Juve were overwhelmed and shellshocked right from the beginning as the Viola and their home crowd came ready for their biggest game of the year, and played like they were going out of existence after today.

After the game, Allegri lamented the poor quality of football on display.

“There were a lot of free kicks and cards, not that much football played.

“It’s a bad setback for us, but we still have the chance to be four points clear and nobody thought we’d win the title in January.

“Teams play the game of a lifetime against us, such as Fiorentina and Genoa, so we must always have our energy up and give everything, because the opposition do with us.

“It’s going to be a battle and we need to fight it out for every single point from here to May 28. It won’t be easy.”

He commented on his side’s awful performance as well.

“We did not move well in the first half. There was some improvement in the second. There were overall too many errors and we didn’t pass it out of defence well enough, which gave Fiorentina confidence to keep pushing us back.

“Roma and Napoli are behind us, so it’ll be a fight to the end, but we must learn from this defeat. It’s not enough to do less than 100 per cent, because the opposition gives more than 100 per cent against us.”

Juve looked like they could have used a playmaker like Miralem Pjanic, but he remained on the bench.

"In yesterday's training session Pjanic had a slight muscular problem and thinking about the fixtures we've got coming up, I didn't want to risk him."

Paulo Dybala did not have a good game, and missed a golden chance to equalize late on.

"Paulo has to remain calm. He did have some good chances to score tonight which is always a good thing. The second year for a young player is always harder especially after having such a great first season, it's normal.”

The visitors struggled mightily at times to contend with the lively FIorentina team.

“They were aggressive from the get go. Chiesa put a lot of pressure on Chiellini and Alex Sandro down the left flank. We could've been better on their two goals.

"We conceded 16 goals which is a lot for Juventus. We have to keep on working but it isn't only a defensive issue, we have to better overall.”

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Massimiliano Allegri dubs Fiorentina

loss as a 'bad setback' for Juventus

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http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/3039701/massimiliano

-allegri-dubs-fiorentina-loss-as-a-bad-setback-for-juventus

Jan 16, 2017

Massimiliano Allegri knows that Juventus' 2-1 defeat to Fiorentina on Sunday was a "bad setback" for his team but refused to push the panic button just yet.

Juventus put on a poor display in Florence and went 2-0 down through goals from Nikola Kalinic and Milan Badelj before Gonzalo Higuain pulled one back on 58 minutes.

Despite pouring forward in search of an equaliser, the Turin giants failed to find the back of the net and saw their lead at the top of the standings cut to one point after Roma triumphed 1-0 at Udinese.

"It's a bad setback for us, but we still have the chance to be four points clear and nobody thought we'd win the title in January," he told Mediaset Premium.

"Teams always play the match of their lives against Juve, like Fiorentina and Genoa, so we must always have our intensity up and give everything, because the opposition do the same against us.

"It's going to be a battle and we need to fight it out for every single point from here to May 28. It won't be easy.

"Roma and Napoli are behind us, so it will be a fight to the end, but we need to learn from this defeat.

"It is not good enough to give less than 100 percent, because teams always give more than 100 percent against us."

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini caught

out by physical Fiorentina side

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http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/3039717/andrea-

barzagli-leonardo-bonucci-giorgio-chiellini-caught-out-by-physical-fiorentina-side

Jan 16, 2017

Suffering yet another away defeat, Juventus were beaten 2-1 on Sunday by a mentally, physically and tactically superior Fiorentina side.

They have been dubbed inconsistent, even mentally fragile, but at home Fiorentina are a different outfit altogether.

Well prepared and well rehearsed, they played much like Juve did in the first half of the reverse fixture. Keen to win the battles, they commanded possession, pressed high up the pitch and played at a high tempo to overwhelm the opponent who looked too static and slow.

Only in the second half, after Gonzalo Higuain clawed one goal back, did Juventus begin to play like themselves, exploiting the Viola's instinct to sit deeper and protect the result. Desperate in their attempts to find another, the Bianconeri failed to establish a rhythm or grab control of the game due to Fiorentina's cunning ways, reducing the match to a series of whistles and fouls to guarantee victory at the very end.

Positives

It's almost impossible to highlight one positive on the night. However, despite an awful team performance, Max Allegri will be comforted by the fact that Higuain can always be dangerous even when he is offered little support, scoring a goal when the team needed it the most. Always effective, always determined, Juve have come to rely on the Argentine.

Negatives

Juventus were once renowned for their solid defending but now seem to concede goals too easily, running too many risks and looking vulnerable on too many occasions. While the midfield has struggled to offer the right amount of protection, the famous BBC backline of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini looked off balance and uncoordinated, perhaps owing to the fact they have rarely featured all together this season. Losing four away fixtures suggests Juve must look to recover the overall balance that once ensured defensive solidity.

Manager rating out of 10

5 -- Allegri made some bizarre tactical choices. Favouring power over technique, possibly due to Kwadwo Asamoah's impressive performance in the reverse fixture, Allegri benched Miralem Pjanic and selected Stefano Sturaro to play in a static 3-5-2 formation. The shape no longer guarantees success or free flowing movement while certain substitutions should have been made earlier considering Fiorentina remained the better team at the start of the second half.

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

GK Gianluigi Buffon, 6 -- Those famous quick reflexes were not quite as quick on the night but managed some good saves in the first half.

WB Juan Cuadrado, 6 -- Maximiliano Olivera pegged Cuadrado back so well, the Colombian struggled to provide an attacking threat. However, his cunning play ensured a few good moments while defensively he fought and tackled well.

DF Andrea Barzagli, 5 -- Not the Barzagli we all know and love. Overwhelmed, fragile and erroneous, the defender was mediocre at best.

DF Leonardo Bonucci, 5 -- The centre-back has only just recovered from injury and is not in optimum condition and thus suffered the most at back, especially in trying to defend Nikola Kalinic. Lost his duels.

DF Giorgio Chiellini, 5 -- Couldn't manage against Kalinic and Federico Chiesa. Lost the ball frequently and struggled with his timings.

WB Alex Sandro, 6 -- The wing-back always puts in a shift on the left, pushing forward relentlessly in an effort to deliver a good cross. Always effective when taking on players, he recovered possession often but as usual, committed a defensive error that led to the second Fiorentina goal.

MF Sami Khedira, 5 -- Helped create the first goal but then disappeared thereafter, overwhelmed by the tempo of the game. Khedira needs to inject more intensity and dynamism to his game but instead allowed Juve to be overtaken in midfield in the first half.

MF Claudio Marchisio, 5 -- Rather anonymous on the night and cancelled out by the Fiorentina midfield. Allowed players to get past him and struggled to inspire but, to be fair, the team did not provide him with enough support and passing options.

MF Stefano Sturaro, 5 -- The usual grit but such little technique. Juventus need more quality in midfield, not a player who does little with the ball when in possession.

FW Paulo Dybala, 5 -- Struggled to cope with the physicality and tempo of the match. Failed to truly lead from the top. Squandered a beautiful chance in the end as Juve searched for an equaliser.

FW Gonzalo Higuain, 7 -- The best player Juve possessed on the pitch. Barely offered any help by the team, the striker still managed to score a goal and should have grabbed another were it not for a good save. Determined and efficient.

Leonardo Bonucci and the rest of the Juventus backline looked decidedly off-colour in Sunday's 2-1 loss to Fiorentina.

Substitutes

FW Marko Pjaca, 6 -- Dribbled well to create danger and overcome his opponents but couldn't deliver much more.

MF Tomas Rincon, N/A -- Offered little time to make an impact.

FW Mario Mandzukic, N/A -- Offered no time to make an impact.

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Fiorentina 2-1 Juventus Match Review

<a href="http://oi65.tinypic.com/33upi81.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.juvefc.com/fiorentina-2-1-juventus-serie/

Jan 16, 2017

Player Ratings

Buffon – Was outfoxed for the opener but should have done much better for the second. Which was basically a long pass which didn’t exactly fly in, though it was moving; it bounced in. However, he did more than most at the back to make up for the deficiencies of his team mates and stand up to face the onslaught. 6

Barzagli – One of his poorest showings in our colours. He is simply nowhere near fit. And has been rushed back into the fray far too early. Every aspect of his game was poor. Yet I love the man, so won’t dissect his foray into the abyss. 4

Bonucci – Another player who is way off the pace presently. What bothered me more was that he was laughing at one stage, when I was scowling. At least he made a few tackles. 4.5

Chiellini – Average by his own high standards and let down by the BB aspect of our famous defence. He certainly showed more than any other CB. 5.5

Sandro – He toiled and close to held his own but made zero progress going forward, and what can we expect when the medical staff are clearly bringing back players too soon. 5.5

Cuadrado – Appalling in the first half and not exactly transformed after the break, but more incisive. He is no defender, and he was clearly focused upon as a weakness by Sousa’s wily tactics. 4.5

Marchisio – Dead on his feet after just 20 minutes. And did not improve. Completely over-run in midfield from the start, and was too far gone to make any inroads when the ascendency swung in our favour. He needs a break. We are asking too much of him after such a long time out injured. 3.5

Khedira – Absent for large periods of the game, failed to capitalise on the scant few opportunities found in the second half but at least supplied the cross for the goal. 4.5

Dybala – Hustled and bustled, found space very hard to come by until late on and missed a glorious chance to level the tie near the death. Same story as the supercoppa debacle. Was fortunate to avoid a straight red for a vicious foul before the final whistle blew. 5

Higuain – Took his goal well enough and should have done better with a header. Other than which had very little support and no space. 6

Pjaca – Achieved nothing of note other than a glimpse of his potential when beating two players in the box and seeing his shot deflected away from goal. By what seemed a hand, but it was hit hard and his arms were far from flailing; it would have been a harsh decision. 5.5

Rincon – Added steel to the midfield when the game had become topsy-turvy. 6

Mandzukic – Not on the field long, but long enough to make a great chance for Dybala to spoon from 6 yards out. 6

We were over-run and dominated for much of the first half and lucky not to head into the interval more than a goal down. Fiorentina were more spritely, more fit, full of running and confidence. They matched us for formation then battered the midfield leaving our rearguard pinned back and literally hanging on for dear life. For me, it was mainly the lack of fitness of 3-4 players which produced the first half horror show.

The hosts were not going to be able to sustain the pressure for 90 minutes and once we got the goal, the tide turned completely. However, we were unable to make the possession count, and as much as we could and should have grabbed the equaliser, Illicic should also have done better late on but was thwarted by Buffon and his own feet.

Unfortunately, the only way Bonucci, Barzagli, Sandro, Asamoah, Dybala and Pjaca are going to get sharp are by playing. The story is different with Marchisio, who we need to manage better. He was out for such a very long time, it is unreasonable to expect him to return with great stamina and in this match he was useless.

Could and should Allegri have seen the poor condition of so many players prior to selection? I assume so. And yet there are other issues to address and ponder; mainly focused on his tactical decisions.

Lichsteiner’s absence meant he was forced to play either Cuadrado at RWB and adopt the 3-5-2 or place Barzagli there. Seeing how out of sorts Barzagli proved, he would have been even worse in a position which you would assume requires more running. Asamoah gave his best 45 minutes of the season at LB midweek so why bench him and bring back Sandro? Although the Ghanaian also, is miles of top condition.

He made moves to try claw back the game, knew we would have our time in control, and we were a little unlucky to come away empty handed. Do not get me wrong, for Fiorentina deserved their victory on endeavour and chances created. Still, the reality is not as horrid as some will scream and squeal.

We were beaten by a single goal – a freak fluke goal at that- by a team who played exceptionally well. Close to half our starting XI were not fit. The only definite mistake I would hang around Allegri’s neck was bringing back Barzagli AND Bonucci, when Rugani is fit and in fine form. He risked all and gained nothing but a defeat against one of our most hated rivals. The result also gives confidence to the chasing pack. He should also have removed Marchisio much earlier.

ALL of our troubles this season have come from a constantly changing, never settled midfield. Give Rincon a chance to bed in, give Marchisio a break, move back to the 4-3-1-2 which brings out the best of Pjanic, allow Pjaca to deputise for Dybala, even replace him for the next game and most importantly, bring back Rugani. It may well be the death knell of the 3-5-2 BBC but we simply do not have the solidity in midfield to slowly manage that legendary trio back to where they can still be, but are presently far from.

Assuming we beat Crotone, we can still loosely assume we have a 4 point lead.

The only positive to take is that this was not Juve at their best, nowhere near in fact. It was a weak performance, of a tired team short of sharpness and drive. The mentality issues are harder to pin on players when their stamina levels appear wretched. Yet why deploy players who are unfit for an encounter which was always going to be bruising, full blooded and intense?

As anyone who has watched Juve for the last few years or longer will understand; this 16/17 squad is one in transition. We have been very unlucky with injuries though lucky with results. I cannot recall a run of games where our form has remained consistently decent, let alone entertaining.

We always come unstuck when we are pressed and it makes sense to work on counter attacking football and dealing with a high press. Our midfield was non existent for large parts of the harrowing first 45 minutes, and why? Was it just fitness or a lack of organisation? A team should never bunch up in the middle and drop deep when pressed hard, for other teams can then play around and over us; it MUST remain strident and offer options on the flanks especially. There needs to be an outlet when we do have the ball, other than to simply give it straight back.

I do not want to see Dybala outside our 18 year box with nobody to play to higher up the field than Higuain with three defenders to face. The youngster needs to work on his discipline, positioning and finishing for he remains very raw and its games like this where his phenomenal talent needs to be deployed intelligently, not haphazardly.

I still believe in the potential of this squad and we do have 7 games to hopefully settle on a system, more importantly play our best players into sharpness and form. Then we face Porto. That run of games now take on huge importance. The next four are tricky ties, just what we need, sink or swim. If we can negotiate them carefully, successfully, we then have three far easier ties to condition and rotate the squad before the champions league returns.

Allegri has much work to do. Though I can smile, to ponder Sousa taking over in the Summer…He has improved as a manager and brings that same resolute calmness which he had on the field as a player in our colours. He got his tactics spot on and imbued his charges with belief and drive. Max now has to follow suit.

Our season is far from over, far from a failure, yet crunch time is coming…We must stand up and be counted.

forza juve.

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Fiorentina risk fine for Heysel posters

http://www.football-italia.net/96964/fiorentina-risk-fine-heysel-posters

Jan 16, 2017

Fiorentina risk sanctions after posters mocking the Heysel tragedy had to be removed from outside Stadio Artemio Franchi.

The Viola defeated the League leaders last night, with Nikola Kalinic and Milan Badelj scoring before Gonzalo Higuain got one back for the visitors.

There is a bitter rivalry between the two clubs, which is felt very deeply by supporters in Florence.

However, Corriere dello Sport reports that last night the rivalry took on an unpleasant dimension, with posters around and inside the away section reading “39 less, no respect”. Images from juvenews.eu appear to confirm the report.

The posters reference the 1985 Heysel Stadium disaster, in which 39 Bianconeri supporters were crushed as they fled advancing Liverpool fans in the European Cup final.

Having removed the offensive material, the police reported the matter to the FIGC, meaning the Viola could be hit with a fine.

There is no suggestion that Fiorentina knew about the posters, but the club could be held responsible for the behaviour of the fans in question under strict liability rules.

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

Socrates · January 16, 2017

Boniek: ‘Juventus won’t win CL’

http://www.football-italia.net/96965/boniek-‘juventus-won’t-win-cl’

Jan 16, 2017

Zbigniew Boniek admits he “can't see” Juventus winning the Champions League this season.

The Bianconeri were defeated 2-1 by Fiorentina last night, their fourth away defeat of the season so far.

“Juve have always found it difficult in Florence,” Boniek, who spent three seasons with the Old Lady, said on Radio Onda Libera.

“There was a slight fall but they’ll still have a gap of four points if they beat Crotone in their game in hand.

“The Bianconeri remain a level above in the League, but I can’t see them winning the Champions League.

“They’d need to make themselves more competitive, although of course that can always happen.”

Socrates · January 17, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Chiellini warns Juventus team-mates:

We need to work, work, work to win titles!

After suffering a fourth league defeat of the season, the defender insists

that they must up their game to rediscover their trophy-winning touch.

<a href="http://oi67.tinypic.com/332uyds.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2017/01/16/31603862/-

Jan 16, 2017

Giorgio Chiellini has urged his Juventus team-mates to "work, work, work" following Sunday's 2-1 defeat at the hands of Fiorentina.

The reigning champions remain top of Serie A, but have lost four times at the halfway stage, having suffered only five top-flight losses in the whole of last season.

Chiellini acknowledged things are not going as smoothly as before and urged his team-mates to up their efforts.

"We need to work, work, work," said the defender.

"That has always been the secret to our success. The fact is that we are still a work in progress and we need to perfect our balance and spacing.

"We have lost our four hardest away trips this season and that needs to make us reflect. Right now we win a lot, but we lose games too and that is not something we are used to at Juve. That is not the way we have won our trophies in recent seasons.

"We need to maintain our solidity throughout every game, we overcomplicated things in possession against Fiorentina. As I have said, hard work is the only solution."

The result at the Stadio Artemio Franchi left Massimiliano Allegri's side one point clear of Roma with a game in hand.

Next up is the visit of fourth-placed Lazio – themselves only five points back – on Sunday.

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

Socrates · January 17, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Fiorentina vs. Juventus 2017: Final score 2-1, Phenomenal

Fiorentina outplay uninspired and sloppy Juventus

A relentless Fiorentina outpressed and outfought Juventus at a buzzing Artemio Franchi.

<a href="http://oi65.tinypic.com/2w2h2j7.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/1/16/14280424/

fiorentina-juventus-2017-serie-a-round-19-final-score-recap-result

Jan 16, 2017

Juventus travelled to the beautiful city of Florence to play Fiorentina in the last game of the Serie A weekend. The visitors were without Stephan Lichtsteiner through suspension, Dani Alves through injury, and both Mario Lemina and Medhi Benatia due to national team obligations, but welcomed back Leonardo Bonucci and Alex Sandro to the starting lineup in their full returns from injury. Fiorentina, however, took the visitors completely by storm and recorded a well-deserved 2-1 victory as goals from Nikola Kalinic and Milan Badelj were enough to clinch the three points despite Gonzalo Higuaín’s second-half response.

The home side started with remarkable purpose and intensity on Sunday night as they dominated possession early on. They recorded their first short on target after just seven minutes through Matías Vecino, though the returning Gianluigi Buffon made the save to deny the Uruguayan an early opening goal. That was merely the beginning of an absolutely storming start to the game though because a few minutes later Fiorentina went even closer to opening the scoring: some brilliant hold-up play by Nikola Kalinic allowed Vecino to bundle his way forward to the penalty area and past Khedira only to crash a shot against the outside of the post from close range. The men in purple were playing like men possessed in the opening period, leaving the Bianconeri in a shell-shocked and largely clueless state.

Juve finally managed to calm the storm around the 25-minute mark, although this was in part thanks to the many fouls and dangerous tackles coming from both sides. Juventus still couldn’t muster any sort of offensive play or cohesive passing rhythm. Meanwhile, Kalinic continued to absolutely harass the Bianconeri backline with his remarkably intelligent hold-up play, ability to win aerial duels, and surprising strength on the ball. Just when Juventus seemed to have truly calmed things down in the game though, Fiorentina finally found the deserved breakthrough thanks to the standout player Kalinic. The Croatian started the move himself by winning yet another aerial duel and nodding it down to Federico Bernardeschi. The Italian winger calmly took the ball in his stride, waited for Kalinic to make the right run, and slipped the ball through to the striker. He made no mistake by striking a low drive first-time to the far corner and past Buffon: 1-0.

It was a deserved goal for Fiorentina as they had thoroughly outplayed and outfought Juventus up to that point, especially thanks to Kalinic’s consistently-fantastic holdup play. Juventus, quite remarkably, almost found the equalizer straight away as a deep cross from the subdued Alex Sandro created chaos in the home side’s box. The ball fell to Gonzalo Higuaín who struck the ball straight away but was blocked quite remarkably at the last moment by Maximiliano Olivera. That was the last notable piece of action of a fascinating first half which the home side thoroughly enjoyed and left the visitors with much to ask for.

Juventus had unfortunately not learned their lessons from the first half as they still allowed Fiorentina to come flying at them after the break. La Viola won the ball back after yet another spell of rabidly-intense pressing and the ball found its way to Kalinic thanks to some good work by Carlos Sánchez. The Croatian striker was suddenly 1-on-1 with Buffon, but the goalkeeper managed to prevent the second goal thanks to some good goalkeeping and defensive pressure by Bonucci to put Kalinic slightly off balance. Buffon was helpless to prevent the second goal a few minutes later though. Milan Badelj played a dangerous cross into the box towards Federico Chiesa who had drifted away from the static Sandro. The ball floated past everyone, however, and bounced past the surprised Buffon and into the back of the net: 2-0. The increased lead only lasted for five minutes though as Juventus hit back through a Gonzalo Higuaín goal after Khedira’s cross bounced awkwardly off Sturaro and fortuitously into the Argentine’s path: 2-1!

Fiorentina still bravely maintained the high press for the remainder of the game despite the fear of tiring and/or fizzling out in the closing stages of the encounter. Juventus started to throw men forward and finally seemed to be getting some sort of (much-desired) attacking momentum although it was far from what fans are used to seeing. La Viola obviously soaked up the pressure and simply lurked on the counterattack; this often caused some real moments of danger which Kalinic and Bernardeschi could have punished had the offside trap been a little friendlier to them on a few occasions. Juventus were inches away from the equalizer in the 80th minute after a Dybala free kick delivery was headed on target by Higuaín and saved by Tatarusanu. The mayhem that ensued in the box resulted in everybody hacking and slashing at the ball but eventually Chiellini could only muster a weak shot that the goalkeeper recovered in time for to hold onto.

The visitors thought that they had finally done enough to get the equalizer after substitute Mario Mandzukic latched onto a long ball and showed some fantastic skill to lay the ball off for Dybala just inside the box, but the Argentine capped off a miserable evening by ballooning his effort well off target and into the stands. The home side could have killed the game through Ilicic late in stoppage time after a through ball from Kalinic allowed the substitute to beat the offside trap, but the Slovenian ran out of space after rounding Buffon and the ball trickled out of play for a goal kick. Six minutes of stoppage time were also not enough for Juventus to salvage a point from this game and so the game ended 2-1 to the delight of a euphoric home crowd.

Le Pagelle

BUFFON 6 – A few nervous passes aside, he couldn’t do much this game. The first goal seemed to catch him off guard so he couldn’t get down quickly enough while the second goal was unfortunate.

BARZAGLI 5.5 – The best of the bunch today as he definitely wasn’t the disaster that his teammates were during this game.

BONUCCI 5 – Not a welcome return from injury. Got completely bullied into submission and outfought by Sunday’s Man of the Match, Kalinic.

CHIELLINI 4 – An even worse and absolutely atrocious performance by Chiellini. His passing was completely clueless and he was all over the place.

CUADRADO 5 – Poor first half but fared better in the second period as he won plenty of fouls against the energetic Olivera.

KHEDIRA 4.5 – An anonymous performance by the German.

Just look at the number of long balls that Kalinic won. He was completely dominant in the air against Bonucci/Chiellini

STURARO 4 – I’m sure everyone in the comments will tear Sturaro apart, so I see little reason to add any more fuel to the fire.

MARCHISIO 5 – Borja Valero’s and Bernardeschi’s fluent positioning gave Marchisio a terribly difficult time defensively and also struggled to deal with Fiorentina’s furiously intense pressing game.

SANDRO 5 – Actually did alright defensively against Chiesa until the second goal. Generally he just seemed off the boil for most of the game and was invisible in the first half.

HIGUAÍN 5.5 – Gets a bit extra for his goal but generally starved of service the entire game.

DYBALA 4.5 – One of the worst Dybala performances in Juventus colors. The miss, the wayward passes, the yellow card, almost everything that could go wrong did for the young Argentine.

Subs

PJACA 5.5 – Didn’t get too many opportunities this game, but that one delicate piece of footwork by the left touchline was a joy too watch. It was a bit confusing to figure out his position as well: part midfielder, part winger, part forward. If Allegri really is that fond of the Croatian he should probably not play him in three positions at the same time.

RINCÓN N/A – Played too little to really judge.

MANDZUKIC N/A – Ditto for Mario, except that he should have recorded a deciding assist after some brilliant play to tee up Dybala. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite end as we had expected.

Manager

ALLEGRI 5.5 – The usual pitchforks and blood-hungry jackals will be out clamouring for the death of the 3-5-2, but I also largely agree that he had little other choice than to play this formation. The exclusion of Pjanic was, admittedly, a bit dubious in my eyes as well especially because it meant that we had not one but two functional central midfielders in the side (Khedira and Sturaro). In other words, we had two players doing the duty of one in midfield: a pretty frustrating redundancy. Also, he really didn’t find a way to deal with Fiorentina’s pressing. At least his substitutions were actually quite alright.

Tactics: Now you see me, now you don’t.

Fiorentina had a swaggering game full of intense pressing and by taking a peak at their tactical setup, we can figure out why they did. Paulo Sousa set his team up in a fascinating hybrid between 3-4-3 in attack and 3-5-2 when defending. The key to the success of this fluid system was the movement and positioning of two men: Federico Bernardeschi and Borja Valero.

Here we see the two circled almost on the exact same line: Borja left of center and Bernardeschi right of center

In the above picture, Fiorentina are in possession and building an attack and we see Bernardeschi hold an inside-right position and Borja sneaking forward from a left-of-center position in midfield. The Spaniard played an especially interesting role because he played as a central midfielder in defense but shuttled forward as a trequartista when his side were on the offensive. Due to this, Badelj and Vecino had to remain very disciplined in their central midfield positioning and rarely ventured forward. Bernardeschi on the other hand, was quasi-winger and quasi-support striker. In the first picture he’s more in his winger position but in the following picture (and for the opening goal as well actually) he’s almost in a center forward position.

Borja (top) again more withdrawn in defense while Bernardeschi (central) is close to Kalinic and even closer to Marchisio, marking him very tightly

The knock-on effect of this little switcheroo? Marchisio — and the space he operated within — was completely overloaded. Blink once and Borja was next to him, blink twice and Bernardeschi was running at him from the other side, blink thrice and suddenly the both of them were buzzing around him from different angles. Technically, Khedira was supposed to be marking Borja but I don’t think the German was comfortable tracking him back so deep into his own half. To make matters even worse, Kalinic would drop a bit deeper close to Marchisio’s space just to give him another worry to think about. It was a terrifically difficult situation for Il Principino to find himself in, especially when you factor in the relentless pressing that the team had to endure from Fiorentina.

Again, Borja very withdrawn in defense and Bernardeschi stays close to Kalinic (though he drifted wide as well with ball)

In closing, I do wonder one thing. One of the perennial trade-offs in footballing tactics is that between having a fluid system and a rigid one. Fiorentina, quite rightly, played a largely fluid system which means, however, that there will inevitably be spaces in midfield (especially during transitions). In this case, the space was in behind Borja due to his very demanding responsibility to play “two” positions and occasionally vacate his (very important) central midfield position. I wonder, then, which Juventus player(s) was supposed to or played in the position to exploit this space?

Looking for ideas and playing the Blame Game.

It’s pretty obvious that this was an abject Juventus performance and, naturally, fans will look for culprits to blame. As usual, the 3-5-2 is subjected to the most spirited abuse but as I said earlier, Allegri had little other choice given injuries and suspensions. I do still wonder why Pjanic wasn’t used at all especially because of the redundancy in central midfield, but perhaps the formation indeed doesn’t play to his strengths. Nevertheless, Fiorentina’s relentless pressing, the positioning of Bernardeschi and Valero, and Kalinic’s game-winning performance completely overpowered Juventus today. What really got under my skin though, was the never-ending flurry of misplaced passes (Chiellini? Dybala? Sturaro?) and dodgy fouls (Chiellini?) that just added insult to injury. January is an incredibly difficult and important period of the season so this kind of mental absenteeism and complacency comes at no worse time.

Time to pick ourselves up, ragazzi, because the season is absolutely not going to get any easier.

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

Socrates · January 17, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Nedved: 'Fiorentina defeat not predictable'

<a href="http://oi68.tinypic.com/206he04.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.football-italia.net/97013/nedved-fiorentina-defeat-not-predictable

Jan 17, 2017

Pavel Nedved has refuted claims that the defeat to Fiorentina was 'predictable', adding that Juventus are 'fighting for the Scudetto'.

The Vice President also revealed his love for the controversial new club logo, but went on to speak about the 'battle' to win a sixth consecutive league title.

"No one did well but we must not make it into a drama," Nedved told JTV.

"We are right there, we are first and fighting for the Scudetto.

"They wrote that the defeat was predictable, but it is not so, we know that every game is a battle.

"We will go again on Sunday and hope to win against Lazio.

"It’s difficult to believe that Juventus would lose two consecutive games."

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

Socrates · January 18, 2017

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS

2-1

Nikola Kalinic 37'

Milan Badelj 54'

Gonzalo Higuaín 58'

MATCHDAY 20

Sunday, January 15th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Artemio Franchi Stadium, Florence
Referee: Luca Banti

Bergomi: ‘Something wrong with Juve’

<a href="http://oi65.tinypic.com/301dn9y.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.football-italia.net/97033/bergomi-‘something-wrong-juve’

Jan 17, 2017

Inter legend Beppe Bergomi believes “there’s something wrong” with Juventus this season, offering Scudetto hope to others.

The Bianconeri are top of Serie A, one point ahead of Roma with a game in hand, but Sunday’s defeat to Fiorentina has raised questions.

“Juventus’ path to the Scudetto is up for discussion,” Bergomi said after today’s Hall of Fame even in Florence.

“I thought that from the beginning, not to mention the recent words of [Massimiliano] Allegri and [Giorgio] Chiellini. Those who are behind must believe.

“Roma and Napoli have to believe, there’s something wrong with Juve this year and their drops in intensity are showing.”

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Juventus v Lazio Match Preview

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-v-lazio-match-preview-scouting/

Jan 21, 2017

Juventus v Lazio

Serie A Week 21 – Sunday, 22nd January – 11:30 GMT – Juventus Stadium

Juventus

Once again, Juventus came up short on the road after playing a midweek game. Granted that three of those four losses came against fiery opponents, this has become a troublesome trend. It must have something to do with mental energies or preparation because nowadays, everybody is accustomed to playing every three days. Whatever the reason was, the squad sleepwalked through the first hour of the games, conceding two avoidable goals against an enemy that looked more energetic, more focused and more motivated. The Gonzalo Higuain goal allowed us to have a chance to tie in the final portion but it was too little too late.

The painful loss sparked an intense debate among Juventini. Has 3-5-2 run its course? It is clear that we perform better with three midfielders and Miralem Pjanic as no.10 and when he is not out there, the deficit in creativity is appalling and most of the play-making falls on the shoulders of Paulo Dybala, which is pretty unfair. No wonder that he misses sitters when he has to carry the water up and down the pitch for the whole game. The midfield does not seem to have any juice: Sami Khedira has not been the same after an excellent start and Claudio Marchisio is coming off a tough injury, while the others do not really move the needle. A quality reinforcement might be necessary.

If Massimiliano Allegri does not think that the Bosnian can play in a three-man midfield, he is unlikely to utilize 3-5-2 when he has the full team at disposal. However, the roster is built and has depth only with that scheme. Pjanic, Juan Cuadrado and Marko Pjaca allow to explore other solutions, but only short-term ones: you can not fit Dybala in a 4-2-3-1 or Pjanic in a 4-4-2 or either in a 4-3-3. It is not an ideal situation for the coaching staff, but it has to find a solution to make it work. 4-3-2-1 is a good enough compromise: I think it is ideal for a squad to stick to a formation and move away from it as little as possible. This tactic forces Pjanic, Dybala, Cuadrado and Pjaca to adapt to new and slightly different positions compared to what they are used to, but I do not really see an alternative.

The BBC had a very poor game against Fiorentina and they struggled to control Nikola Kalinic and company, even though they were not outnumbered. Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci are still working their way back from lengthy injuries and unfortunately I do not think Giorgio Chiellini has had one of those vintage games where he just physically manhandles opponents this season. Maybe it is a matter of conditioning, maybe it is a matter of age, but the defence, while still being the class of the league, has conceded more goals than in the past. It will be interesting to see who is chosen on Sunday now that everybody is available and 4-3-2-1, or whatever you want to call it, is likely to be the way to go. Daniele Rugani also had a couple of really good outings while others were sidelined. Alex Sandro and Stefano Sturaro are suspended for this one, but Stephan Lichtsteiner returns. Kwadwo Asamoah and Tomas Rincon are set to start. There are some reports indicating that 3-5-2 could be the choice again, with Pjanic as box-to-box midfielder, but I am honestly very sceptical about that.

Juventus have won all the domestic games played at the Stadium so far this season and it would be nice to keep the streak going: the theoretical gap over Roma is now four points and it was unfortunate to see it reduced now that Champions League football is right around the corner. This should be a period where the team pushes on the pedal and tries to break away from the pack, but it has not really worked out that way so far. I still think Bianconeri will have no problems for Scudetto, but it would be nice to not make it difficult and to be able to focus on the later stages of the big-eared cup without the anxiety of having to give top performances on weekends as well.

UPDATE: Marchisio is dealing with muscle fatigue and will not play: Hernanes is likely to replace him, but his absence opens the door for some tactical surprises, considering the shortage of avaliable midfielders. Patrice Evra is out and definitely on his way out considering the coach’s words. Mario Lemina has returned from Gabon and will be evaluated for a back injury. Dani Alves is back in the squad list.

Probable lineup:

4-3-2-1: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Asamoah; Khedira, Hernanes, Rincon; Dybala, Pjanic; Higuain

Injuries:

Marchisio (hamstring), Lemina (back), Evra, Benatia (AFCON), Mandragora (foot), Mattiello (nose).

Suspensions:

Sandro, Sturaro.

Lazio

Lazio are enjoying a very prolific season: they are in fourth position, one point behind Napoli and four points behind Roma. They won four out of their five games, with the one loss being a stinker at San Siro against Inter, where they collapsed in the second half. Their road record is above average. They are pretty much flying under the radar.

Simone Inzaghi has juggled with a couple of lineups this season and they are very flexible as he usually privileges picking the players and tailoring a scheme around them rather than the other way around. He is dealing with a couple of problems: Senad Lulic is disqualified, while Dusan Basta has muscle fatigue and is unlikely to recover in time. Also Seydou Keita is in Gabon to play AFCON. They will be down three starters and so there will be some adjustments.

Besides Keita’s sheer talent, Lulic’s absence in particular is a big one because of his versatility: he can play LB, LWB, CM and LW without skipping a beat. They have used 3-4-2-1 in the most recent games, but they do not really have an alternative on the left flank other than adapting Patric, but that would cause an unwanted ripple effect that would force their hands, so they are likely to opt for a more natural 4-3-3. Felipe Anderson has done OK as RWB even though I do not like him there, but they are set to use him in the trident. A super defensive option would include three pure centre-backs, Patric as RWB and Stefan Radu as LWB, with Anderson and Alberto behind Ciro Immobile up front.

There are a couple of doubts regarding the starting lineup: Inzaghi has rotated Wallace, Bastos and Wesley Hoedt as Stefan De Vrij’s partner in the heart of the defence. Neither is a great option but they all had their moments: the first two are very physical. Wallace seems to have a slight edge at this points. With Keita in Africa, they have a couple options on the wings: Luis Alberto, whom they acquired this summer but has not done much all season until recently, or Cristiano Lombardi, a product of their youth system who was set to leave on loan this summer but that Inzaghi decided to keep and has had some nice games. Alberto plays mostly on the left while Lombardi on the right, but that is not an issue because Anderson is effective on both flanks.

Ciro Immobile has scored 11 goals this season and in his career he has always thrived when he has been the focal point of a team. His work on the offside line is commendable and he is a very good finisher. He has recently broken a two-month drought. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic is the other player to keep an eye on: his performances have improved dramatically when he was moved to a more advanced position and his combination of size and technique is a handful for defenders. He will have to slide back because of Lulic’s unavailability, but his cuts will have to be tightly guarded.

They are in general a physical team and they have scored a lot on set pieces. Anderson and Lucas Biglia are the two main sources of playmaking, with the rest of the team feeding off them. There is a nice harmony in their playing style, where everybody seems to know his role. Their defence is not that quick and can be exposed with fast attacks, but on the other hand the counter-attacking game is definitely an arrow in their quiver.

Probable lineup:

4-3-3: Marchetti; Patric, Wallace, De Vrij, Radu; Parolo, Biglia, Milinkovic; Anderson, Immobile, Alberto.

Out:

Keita (AFCON).

Suspensions:

Lulic.

Formation

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Immobile: 'Lazio can shock Juventus'

http://www.football-italia.net/97207/immobile-lazio-can-shock-juventus

Jan 21, 2017

Ciro Immobile warned Lazio are not afraid of Juventus and “many neutrals will be cheering us on to keep the Scudetto race alive.”

It kicks off on Sunday at 12.30 CET - 11.30 GMT.

“I predict we’ll see a vibrant game,” the striker told La Stampa newspaper.

“We are not beaten from the outset, because when you can play without fear, you always give your best. Many neutrals will be cheering us on to keep the Scudetto race alive, too. However, in the end I think the title will go to Juve.

“When you are on international duty and watch Leo Bonucci, Gigi Buffon, Andrea Barzagli or Giorgio Chiellini training, you understand what it means to have hunger for victory and be accustomed to achieving it.

“We can stop them, or at least try to stop them, by playing to our own strengths. Lazio are an impressive side, full of youth and courage.

“Simone Inzaghi knows how to speak to the team, how to change system and tactics. You can tell he only recently stopped being a player himself.”

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Chiellini: Sixth successive Serie A title

would make Juventus players legends

The Italy international would love a sixth consecutive Scudetto

with the Turin side to write their name into Italian history.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/28472/pressure-index/2017/01/21/31788292/-

Jan 21, 2017

Winning a sixth Serie A title in a row would make Juventus' players "legends of Italian sport", according to defender Giorgio Chiellini.

Juve have been the dominant force in Italy since the 2010-11 season under the leadership of Antonio Conte and more recently Massimiliano Allegri.

Last season Juve claimed a fifth successive Scudetto for the second time in their history, having previously done it from 1931 to 1935, while Torino - from 1942 to 1949, a run disrupted by World War II - and Inter - from 2006 to 2010 - have also achieved the same feat.

No club has ever secured a sixth on the spin, though, giving Juve the chance to break new ground in the Italian top flight in 2016-17.

After 19 matches they sit one point clear of Roma with a game in hand, and if they manage to hang on until May Chiellini says their names will always be remembered.

"I'd love the sixth straight Serie A title!" Chiellini told the Corriere dello Sport. "It's something nobody has ever done before and something that would make us become legends of Italian sport.

"It's an opportunity we'd never be able to repeat, and I think you'd have to wait a very long time for a side capable of winning six consecutive titles again.

"Therefore we can't let this chance slip away. We all want it and have to achieve it."

Juve host Lazio on Sunday as they look to bounce back from last weekend's 2-1 defeat at Fiorentina.

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Leonardo Bonucci issues rallying call to

team-mates as Juve chase Lazio scalp

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/preview?gameId=461094

Jan 21, 2017

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has warned his team-mates they must cut out all errors if they want to end the season with some domestic silverware.

A 2-1 defeat to Fiorentina last time out left Juve with just a single point advantage at the top of Serie A, and if results go against them this weekend they could find themselves toppled by Roma.

Top-four rivals Lazio are the visitors to the Juventus Stadium on Sunday and Bonucci knows another defeat is unthinkable for Massimiliano Allegri's men.

"We sat down as a team and acknowledged that what happened in Florence was a wake-up call," he told the club's official website.

"We don't have any more time for mistakes. Juventus should never play badly twice in a row.

"As ever, we need to learn from our defeats and come out of them stronger than we were before. Now is the time to show once again that, at a mental level, Juventus are the toughest out there in Italy and can mix it with the best in Europe.

"It's time to step up and show what we're made of, no more slip-ups between now and the end of the season."

Bonucci added: "A strong run of form is good for morale but we must not assume anything at this level. I can't repeat that enough. We've made too many mistakes recently - that has come from a dip in desire and intensity in our approach to games.

"Coming together and fighting back as a team is the only way we are going to end the season successfully. I have no doubt that from now on, you will be seeing the true Juventus.

"To win you need to have that fire in your belly to win the 50-50s, put your body on the line for your team-mates, cut out silly errors and play as a team both defensively and going forward. We've considered all of this as a group and that awareness should serve as extra motivation for us."

Lazio will be no pushovers, however. Simone Inzaghi's men lie just five points off top spot and make the trip to Turin with back-to-back league victories under their belt.

Juventus won the reverse fixture 1-0 last August but Inzaghi feels his team have grown since then.

"Juventus will be hurting (from the Fiorentina defeat), so we're going to gamble openly. We're well prepared and the players are focused," the Lazio coach told a press conference covered by Lazio's Twitter feed.

"The scepticism we had at the beginning of the season is gone now. The players are happy and we're competitive. We are no longer a surprise, we're growing.

"We are playing against a great team and will have to start well, giving little away. But I'm confident the team are confident.

"It's been 19 matches since the first game between us. We've grown up since then and Juve will find a much more convincing Lazio."

Defender Dusan Basta, midfielder Senad Lulic and striker Ricardo Kishna will all miss out for the visitors.

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Allegri: 'Juve criticism excessive'

http://www.football-italia.net/97216/allegri-juve-criticism-excessive

Jan 21, 2017

Max Allegri hit back at what he claims is excessive criticism of Juventus, welcomes back Dani Alves against Lazio and returns to four at the back.

It kicks off on Sunday at 12.30 CET - 11.30 GMT.

“Marchisio has a slight muscular problem, he’ll be available again on Wednesday,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“It’s nice to reach my 300^th Serie A match and I thank everyone who worked with me to reach this moment. I hope to reach another 300.

“We are playing with four at the back. Dani Alves is in the squad, his condition isn’t great yet, but with Alex Sandro suspended he can play half-an-hour if needed.

“Patrice Evra is relaxed. He’s on his way out and trying to find the best solution, he’s training and we’ll see what happens.

“I can confirm the defence will be Lichtsteiner-Bonucci-Chiellini-Asamoah. I have some doubts in midfield, as that has to do with Miralem Pjanic’s position. Hernanes could play in front of the defence. Mario Lemina is back from the Africa Cup of Nations because he’s injured, he’ll be evaluated and then we’ll see when he can play again.

“This season we’ve played more often with four at the back, because only four players are from the old guard and really know the 3-5-2 well. The others are all new.

“Our idea is to make a step forward so we can challenge the major European clubs and play them on even terms.”

Allegri is not concerned by the gap at the top closing to one point, albeit with a game in hand, after their defeat to Fiorentina.

“The Scudetto race isn’t over and never was. Anyone who thought it was in the opening weeks was gravely mistaken. Usually the side in second place in Serie A gets at least 80 points, so it’s impossible to win it more than two weeks in advance. We’ve got to get it out of our minds that Juventus should win every match by 3-0. No! Juventus have to win while suffering.

“We have a game in hand, then the Champions League and the Coppa Italia quarter-final with Milan. Our strength must be to deal with moments in a balanced way, whether they’re going well or badly. Right now we are on track. If someone thought we were going to have 57 points from 20 games, they needed to see a doctor.

“Roma and Napoli were built to win, so were Inter, despite people trying to hide it. Juventus have won the Scudetto of getting criticised, at least. Considering the results this team has achieved over five years, it’s extraordinary to have done that, not ordinary.

“Naturally after five years the bar will be raised even more, but we must understand that it takes everyone to come together and achieve something even more extraordinary. It’s not as if we’re eighth in the table, as we were last term after eight rounds. The lads have achieved their objectives this season.

“I am accustomed to criticism, as I got insulted when I was top of the table with Milan as well, so I got used to it. When I leave, maybe you’ll have someone more likeable up here instead.

“So let’s focus on improving the quality of our football, otherwise we won’t reach the Champions League Final in Cardiff, and to get our players back to full fitness.

“We lost four games, but they were all very different. The only one we got totally wrong was against Genoa, when we conceded three goals in 25 minutes.

“If we want to go all the way in every competition, we must know that nobody will give us anything and every match we have to prove that we’re better.

“I have to compliment Simone Inzaghi, as Lazio have a lot of quality and are well-organised, so it’ll be a tough match for us.”

Allegri created controversy last week for shouting what appeared to be insults to the fourth official, but he was spared a ban.

“In Florence I was being man-marked by the fourth official and I couldn’t shake him off, so after 90 minutes I got a little annoyed. In my many years in Serie A, I’ve never said a word against referees.”

Juventus squad for Lazio: Buffon, Chiellini, Pjanic, Khedira, Cuadrado, Higuain, Hernanes, Barzagli, Mandzukic, Bonucci, Pjaca, Dybala, Asamoah, Dani Alves, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Rincon, Audero

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Allegri: When I leave, maybe you’ll

have someone more likeable instead

Manager frustrated by the constant criticism

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/1/21/14345284/allegri-when

-i-leave-maybe-youll-have-someone-more-likeable-instead-juventus-comments

Jan 21, 2017

Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri lashed out at what he called the excessive criticism leveled at his League-leading side. In his pre-match press conference ahead of the game against Lazio, a match which marks his 300th in the Serie A, Allegri claimed that it was ridiculous to expect the Bianconeri to win the Scudetto without breaking a sweat.

“The Scudetto race isn’t over and never was. Anyone who thought it was in the opening weeks was gravely mistaken. Usually the side in second place in Serie A gets at least 80 points, so it’s impossible to win it more than two weeks in advance. We’ve got to get it out of our minds that Juventus should win every match by 3-0. No! Juventus have to win while suffering.

“We have a game in hand, then the Champions League and the Coppa Italia quarter-final with AC Milan. Our strength must be to deal with moments in a balanced way, whether they’re going well or badly. Right now we are on track. If someone thought we were going to have 57 points from 20 games, they needed to see a doctor. AS Roma and Napoli were built to win, so were Inter Milan, despite people trying to hide it.”

On the point about the constant denunciation -

“Juventus have won the Scudetto of getting criticised, at least. Considering the results this team has achieved over five years, it’s extraordinary to have done that, not ordinary.

“Naturally after five years the bar will be raised even more, but we must understand that it takes everyone to come together and achieve something even more extraordinary. It’s not as if we’re eighth in the table, as we were last term after eight rounds. The lads have achieved their objectives this season.

“I am accustomed to criticism, as I got insulted when I was top of the table with Milan as well, so I got used to it. When I leave, maybe you’ll have someone more likeable up here instead.”

He went on to talk about the goals for the remainder of the season -

“So let’s focus on improving the quality of our football, otherwise we won’t reach the Champions League Final in Cardiff, and to get our players back to full fitness.

“We lost four games, but they were all very different. The only one we got totally wrong was against Genoa, when we conceded three goals in 25 minutes.

“If we want to go all the way in every competition, we must know that nobody will give us anything and every match we have to prove that we’re better.”

On Sunday’s opponents Lazio -

“I have to compliment Simone Inzaghi, as Lazio have a lot of quality and are well-organised, so it’ll be a tough match for us.”

Allegri was lucky to survive a fine or ban from the League’s organizing body after appearing to shout insults at the fourth official last weekend -

“In Florence I was being man-marked by the fourth official and I couldn’t shake him off, so after 90 minutes I got a little annoyed. In my many years in Serie A, I’ve never said a word against referees.”

He ended with a squad update, and talking about his reason for using the much-maligned 3-5-2 formation.

“Claudio Marchisio has a slight muscular problem, he’ll be available again on Wednesday.

“Patrice Evra is relaxed. He’s on his way out and trying to find the best solution, he’s training and we’ll see what happens.

“We are playing with four at the back. Dani Alves is in the squad, his condition isn’t great yet, but with Alex Sandro suspended he can play half-an-hour if needed.

“I can confirm the defence will be Stephan Lichtsteiner - Leonardo Bonucci - Giorgio Chiellini - Kwadwo Asamoah.

“I have some doubts in midfield, as that has to do with Miralem Pjanic’s position. Hernanes could play in front of the defence. Mario Lemina is back from the Africa Cup of Nations because he’s injured, he’ll be evaluated and then we’ll see when he can play again.

“This season we’ve played more often with four at the back, because only four players are from the old guard and really know the 3-5-2 well. The others are all new.

“Our idea is to make a step forward so we can challenge the major European clubs and play them on even terms.”

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

'Juve have won the Scudetto of getting criticised' -

Allegri blasts unnecessary pessimism

The 49-year-old remains optimistic about his side's title chances regardless

of the loss at Fiorentina, insisting doubts are wildly overblown.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/683/main/2017/01/21/31795132/-

Jan 21, 2017

Massimiliano Allegri says Juventus have won the "Scudetto of getting criticised" after pessimism surrounding their form of late, insisting they have no reason to panic.

Doubts have loomed over the Bianconeri's ability to defend their title following their 2-1 defeat at the hands of Fiorentina.

The Turin giants hold a one-point lead over Roma at the top of the table with a game in hand, but have been less dominant than in previous seasons, suffering four defeats so far this term.

But Allegri insists last weekend's loss does not affect their confidence as they prepare to face Lazio and urges calm over predicting their position at the end of the season.

"A team does not lose its quality just because it loses a game. We need to keep our heads and remain focused," Allegri told a press conference.

"Juventus have won the Scudetto of getting criticised, at least. We are still one point clear at the top but we need to start digging deep for wins if we are to stay there.

"Nothing should be taken for granted in Serie A. We need to go out there and show why we are the best.

"Our results are there for all to see. Winning five titles in a row, it is normal for the bar to continue rising.

"Defending must be done as a unit. We have conceded sloppy goals recently and that needs to change."

Allegri confirmed he will rest Claudio Marchisio for Sunday's home game against Lazio, while Dani Alves makes his return to the squad after a lengthy absence due to a fractured leg.

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

Socrates · January 21, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Inzaghi: 'Juve not impossible for Lazio'

http://www.football-italia.net/97219/inzaghi-juve-not-impossible-lazio

Jan 21, 2017

Simone Inzaghi warns Juventus that “nothing is impossible and Lazio will play an open, attacking game” in Turin.

It kicks off on Sunday at 12.30 - 11.30 GMT.

“We know that a very difficult game awaits us, as Juve will be like a wounded animal after their defeat to Fiorenitina,” said the Aquile Coach in his Press conference.

“Lazio will play an open, attacking game. I saw my lads highly motivated, we can play our game. We realise Juve have won their last 28 consecutive Serie A home matches, but nothing is impossible. We are convinced we can do well here.

“We’ve had a good season and I can tell the fans are pleased with how we’re playing. The difficult part comes now, as there’s a whole second half of the campaign to go and we’re not a surprise package anymore. We’ve got to be ready.

“We are in the running for Europe and want to fight to the end. We’re all working together towards a single goal.”

Dusan Basta is injured, Senad Lulic suspended and Keita Balde Diao still at the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal.

“I’d have preferred to play with a full squad at my disposal, but these things happen in football. We’ve got to start strong and the team believes in its chances. We want a great performance and we’ll see what happens.

“We have the utmost respect for the Bianconeri and I tried to tell my players that it all depends on us. We’re facing the top team, but have already proved we can fight it out with everyone.”

Roma are in second place and pushing for the Scudetto, while Lazio are currently fourth, just four points behind their city rivals.

“It’s a very balanced situation in the Capital and the only real difference between the sides this season was the derby result,” added Inzaghi.

“There’s a minimal gap between the teams, so the most consistent in the second half of the season will emerge.”

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

Socrates · January 22, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Juventus are still startlingly good,

but need time to recover balance

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/3043728/juventus-

are-still-startlingly-good-they-just-need-time-to-recover-lost-balance

Jan 22, 2017

Juventus unveiled their new logo this week in a bid to continue their pioneering ways. Embracing the evolution of football, the Italian club rejected the symbols of Turin and Italy, focusing instead on clean lines that represent a developing brand.

Hysteria sometimes accompanies change, and many fans felt saddened by the decision to opt for a logo that fails to adequately represent the history of such a celebrated club, especially in a modern world dominated by purchased prestige. Juve fans feel pride in noting they are not new; they have always been and always will be winners, and thus hoped for a logo that would represent such pride.

Except the beauty of this club has always been deeply rooted in their ability to innovate. Even when plunged into despair and Serie B, management sought ways to a brighter future, a beautiful stadium and increased revenues. The past will always be appreciated, but as with all great establishments, you are never defined by it but rather by what you are yet to achieve.

Nostalgia belongs to the fearful -- the small teams that cannot let go of the emotions they felt for the success they once savoured.

For many, the minimal design is remembered only by its immemorability, but others, such as president Andrea Agnelli, will recount thoughts of the club when they view the letter J. Much of it is a throwback to Giovani "Gianni" Agnelli's famous quote: "I feel emotional every time I see the letter J in a newspaper headline. I immediately think of Juventus." The Turin giants now hope everyone in the world will think the same.

By forgoing the many symbols that formed part of their old logo, Juve have embraced their status as giants. They are subconsciously telling you -- the viewer, the fan, the interested -- that Juventus don't need to remind you of what they represent; a simple letter can tell you more than a thousand artistic creations or words ever could.

Yet while the club take one step toward their future off the pitch, they are still being criticised on it. With a match against Lazio coming up Sunday, Gazzetta dello Sport pointed out the defensive frailties of a side that has conceded 16 goals thus far this season, an astonishing number that was intended to predict a downfall.

Yes, Juventus do not usually concede so many goals. This time last season, after 19 games, the team had conceded only 15. That is not exactly a lot less, but they were second in the table and had suffered an awful start to the season. However, this term manager Massimiliano Allegri has had few opportunities to work with a full squad and, as of yet, has not found the right tactics to recover lost balance and fluidity. There is a reason why patience is a virtue.

There are some concerns, that's only natural. For one thing, there are several defensive errors that could be eradicated from the game. It is worrying that one in every four goals conceded has come from a corner -- an especially dangerous statistic considering how good Lazio are at set pieces. Yet many can agree with Allegri, the criticism aimed at the club is certainly aggressive and rather excessive.

When Allegri took over the side, he presided over one of Juve's best seasons. His 2014-15 team boasted the beauty of Carlos Tevez, Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba. After 19 games that season, Juventus scored 42 goals and conceded only nine. This season's Juve -- who have suffered huge absences, lost key players and welcomed many new ones -- have scored 40 and conceded 16 in the same amount of time.

While several more goals have been conceded, it's crucial we point out that much like Allegri's first season, this Juve are still in first place, with only one fewer point. Is the difference that huge? Is the club worthy of all this criticism and anger? If anything, this side has improved, as this year Juve finished top of their Champions League qualifying group, something they didn't manage back then.

The "BBC" back line has barely featured together this season, while the midfield and forward lines have suffered big changes. In truth, the Old Lady is a victim of her own success. Now a draw is considered a defeat and a loss provokes much sadness, while simple 1-0 wins are a sign of mediocrity. Juve have done their job both in Italy and Europe and should be praised for continuously evolving rather than criticised for failing to blow us all away at every opportunity.

Will they suffer against Lazio? They likely will, and there's no shame in that. Simone Inzaghi's team are a well-drilled machine. While the Biancocelesti may stutter against the big sides, suffering losses against Inter and Roma, they play as a cohesive unit, are happy to suffer and eager to sacrifice. They have a clear identity, love nothing more than to counterattack, and will exploit every opportunity, aware that a good performance could inflict another away defeat on Juventus.

The Bianconeri will work hard for the win, but even if they don't manage it, they're still a startlingly good side.

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

Socrates · January 22, 2017

JUVENTUS - LAZIO

MATCHDAY 21

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 - 12:30 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Davide Massa

Juventus unveil all-star formation?

http://www.football-italia.net/97250/juventus-unveil-all-star-formation

Jan 22, 2017

Juventus could field a new all-attack system against Lazio today with Miralem Pjanic, Juan Cuadrado, Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and Gonzalo Higuain.

It kicks off in Turin at 12.30 CET - 11.30 GMT.

Max Allegri did drop a few hints that he could use ‘the big four’ creative figures together and it may well be more than a pipe dream.

According to Mediaset Premium, Juve will unveil their audacious 4-2-3-1 system against Simone Inzaghi’s Lazio today.

Allegri already confirmed the defence, also as he is short on options with Alex Sandro and Stefano Sturaro suspended, Medhi Benatia at the Africa Cup of Nations, Claudio Marchisio and Mario Lemina injured.

Patrice Evra is dropped again, as Allegri noted in the Press conference he is “on the way out.”

The new system would move Pjanic to a deeper midfield role alongside Sami Khedira.

Cuadrado, Dybala and Mandzukic would fan out behind centre-forward Higuain.

Lazio have a full squad to choose from other than injured Dusan Basta and transfer-listed Ricardo Kishna, while Keita Balde Diao is at on international duty with Senegal.

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Asamoah; Khedira, Pjanic; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain

Lazio (probable): Marchetti; Patric, De Vrij, Wallace, Radu; Parolo, Biglia, Milinkovic-Savic; Lombardi, Immobile, Felipe Anderson

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

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RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

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Manager’s post-match comments after Juve look flat in defeat

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Positives

Negatives

Manager rating out of 10

Substitutes

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Player Ratings

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A relentless Fiorentina outpressed and outfought Juventus at a buzzing Artemio Franchi.

Le Pagelle

Tactics: Now you see me, now you don’t.

Looking for ideas and playing the Blame Game.

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Juventus v Lazio

Juventus

Injuries:

Suspensions:

Lazio