JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Allegri: Coaches bound by results, what’s done before is forgotten

Manager’s pre-match comments ahead of Saturday’s game

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/24/14725610/allegri-coaches-

bound-by-results-whats-done-before-is-forgotten-pre-match-comments

Feb 24, 2017

Juventus take on Empoli tomorrow at the J Stadium, and manager Massimiliano Allegrispoke to the media earlier today about his side’s performances and what to look for as the Bianconeri continue to fight on three fronts.

"The club’s primary objectives were to to arrive in March and be in the three competitions and we have done that, because Juventus are fighting for the Champions League, we are fighting for the league and we are fighting for the Coppa Italia and on Tuesday we have the first leg against Napoli.

"Our win in Porto does not mean that we have already qualified in the Champions League, because last night Fiorentina proved this.

"The 2-0 gives us a good advantage but does not guarantee us to go through. So at the moment let's put this aside, but we already know that when we have to play the return match we will be attacked throughout the game.

"The domestic campaign is still long, we have direct clashes, we have to win matches like tomorrow and these are games where you definitely cannot take the wrong approach.

"The team is fine, it’s growing, in my opinion has great room for improvement both for individuals and in the team and to do this we must all be on the same side.”

When asked about who will play tomorrow and the formation he will continue to use -

"Tomorrow Neto will play, in anticipation of Tuesday's game.

"Marko Pjaca’s right role at this time is on the wing, but above all the most important thing is that Marko is improving, he is growing from a technical point of view, both tactically and mentally.

"He also did some good things against Porto, and he scored his first goal. He’s a player who has a lot of technique, he is growing, so he will be important in the final stages of the season."

Defending Premier League champions Leicester City, one point above the relegation zone this season, sacked their popular Italian manager Claudio Ranieri yesterday. Allegri was asked to comment on the decision.

"First of all, Ranieri is the Coach that will remain in the history of football as well as at Leicester, football, so he should be proud of what he did. It’s a bad time, but unfortunately us coaches are bound by results, so what was done before is forgotten.

"He comes out the winner because the team is not in the bottom three, and is fighting to get through the round of 16 in the Champions League. He got a good result in Seville and it was not easy, so for him it is win-win, as what he did remains."

When the topic of his feud with defender Leonardo Bonucci came up, he was quick to dismiss it.

"The issue is definitely over. We decided together with the club and the president. I spoke with [general manager Beppe] Marotta, [sporting director Fabio] Paratici and [president Andrea] Agnelli, and we all decided together on a line which I think is right, given the rules and discipline of a club like Juventus.

"These are things that happen. Leo is an important player and he apologised. The whole issue was already over before and he is now available for selection again.

"I want to close things here -- I can only repeat that over the course of a year, these things happen. It was seen by the whole world what happened on the field, but things happen also behind the scenes. You need discipline and respect, regardless of the Bonucci incident.

"With great respect for Leo, who is an extraordinary player, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini were outstanding [against Porto] and I could have left Leo out anyway. It's right we end this now and think of tomorrow as we need three points against Empoli."

Meanwhile, Football Italia are reporting that the row between Allegri and Bonucci resulted in an additional argument at the Vinovo training ground, with Allegri storming away threatening club executives Marotta and Pavel Nedved that he would quit if the defender was not punished.

A calmer Allegri later said during his pre-Porto press conference that Bonucci would sit for one game, and that the manager would donate some money to a charity for his part in the flare-up.

We might never know the whole truth of what transpired behind closed doors, but Bonucci looked distinctly unhappy during Wednesday’s game.

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

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Bonucci back for Juve

http://www.football-italia.net/98831/bonucci-back-juve

Feb 24, 2017

Leonardo Bonucci figures in Juventus’ squad for Saturday’s visit of Empoli in Serie A, but Sami Khedira does not.

Bonucci has been recalled after his touchline argument with Juve boss Max Allegri last weekend, which led to him missing Wednesday’s 2-0 win at Porto in the Champions League.

Heading out of the team is Khedira, although his omission comes as no surprise, given Allegri all-but-confirmed at his pre-match Press conference that the German would be rested.

Juve squad for Empoli: Buffon, Neto, Audero; Chiellini, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Bonucci, Dani Alves, Rugani, Lichtsteiner; Pjanic, Cuadrado, Marchisio, Lemina, Asamoah, Sturaro, Rincon; Higuain, Mandzukic, Pjaca, Dybala

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

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

‘Juventus among Europe’s best’

http://www.football-italia.net/98825/‘juventus-among-europe’s-best’

Feb 24, 2017

Empoli Coach Giovanni Martusciello warns “we’re facing one of the best teams in Europe” in Juventus.

The Tuscan side visit Turin tomorrow night, with the Bianconeri having won won their last 33 domestic matches at Juventus Stadium.

“We need to be careful not to let them near our penalty area,” Martusciello explained in his pre-match Press conference.

“They have very strong players, the further away we can keep them, the better. Of course, it’s one thing to say that, it’s another to do it.

“We’ll have to use all of our desire to compete against a team which is much stronger than we are. We have to be aggressive and willing, we’re facing one of the best teams in Europe.”

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

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Line-ups: Juventus-Empoli

http://www.football-italia.net/98872/line-ups-juventus-empoli

Feb 25, 2017

Juventus make changes as they host Empoli, bringing back Leonardo Bonucci with Miralem Pjanic, Juan Cuadrado and Gonzalo Higuain.

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

The Bianconeri are top of the Serie A table and fresh from Wednesday’s 2-0 Champions League victory away to 10-man Porto.

Max Allegri sent Bonucci to the stands in that game after a blazing touchline row, as a message had to be sent to the rest of the squad that disrespect will no longer be tolerated.

Bonucci returns to the starting XI this evening, as Andrea Barzagli, Giorgio Chiellini and Stephan Lichtsteiner are rested.

Claudio Marchisio steps in for Sami Khedira, while Paulo Dybala is rested, using Mario Mandzukic in a trident attack with Juan Cuadrado and Higuain.

Allegri already confirmed Gigi Buffon would be rested in favour of Norberto Neto.

Empoli make the trip without injured top scorer Levan Mchedlidze, but former Napoli trequartista Omar El Kaddouri pulls the strings behind Manuel Pucciarelli and Guido Marilungo.

Empoli avoided defeat only once in 11 visits to Turin between Serie A and the Coppa Italia, a goalless draw in November 1998. They scored only seven goals here and conceded 31.

Juventus: Neto; Dani Alves, Bonucci, Rugani, Alex Sandro; Marchisio, Pjanic, Sturaro; Cuadrado, Higuain, Mandzukic

Empoli: Skorupski; Laurini, Bellusci, Costa, Pasqual; Krunic, Diousse, Jose Mauri; El Kaddouri; Pucciarelli, Marilungo

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

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Sturaro: 'Juve tired, but motivated'

http://www.football-italia.net/98875/sturaro-juve-tired-motivated

Feb 25, 2017

Stefano Sturaro warned Juventus are tired going into the Empoli game tonight, but “nobody can doubt our motivation.”

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

This is arguably the easy step in a difficult fixture list, as they beat Porto 2-0 away in the Champions League on Wednesday and this Tuesday face Napoli in the Coppa Italia semi-final.

“At the end of the day, every game is the same, and this one can be the most difficult of the lot,” the midfielder told Mediaset Premium.

“After the trip to Oporto we spent a lot of time travelling and didn’t have a chance to train much, but nobody can doubt our motivation this evening.

“I am happy to be in the starting XI. I always feel the Coach, club and teammates have faith in me.”

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

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

HT 0-0: Mandzukic lets Empoli off

http://www.football-italia.net/98878/ht-mandzukic-lets-empoli

Feb 25, 2017

Mario Mandzukic wasted several golden opportunities, as Empoli are holding Juventus to a goalless draw at the break in Turin.

The Tuscans had never won away to Juventus, emerging with a goalless draw in November 1998 and 10 competitive defeats. The Bianconeri rested several stars ahead of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final with Napoli, but welcomed back Leonardo Bonucci after he was dropped for a touchline row with Max Allegri. Empoli missed Levan Mchedlidze for this trip.

Gonzalo Higuain controlled a Mario Mandzukic knock-down with his left boot and prodded the finish with the outside of his left, but there wasn’t enough power on it to beat Lukasz Skorupski from six yards.

Juan Cuadrado’s deflected shot turned into an assist for Mandzukic, sliding in to turn wide at the far post, while Omar El Kaddouri horribly wasted an Empoli counter-attack.

Giuseppe Bellusci got a decisive block when Mandzukic knocked down a cross for Stefano Sturaro in the six yard box.

Mandzukic wasted a golden opportunity when he ran on to Higuain’s inspired pass, rolled into his path, but the Croatian hesitated one-on-one with Skorupski and allowed defenders to get back, crowding him out.

Another splendid Higuain cross was turned wide by Mandzukic at full stretch sliding in at the back post, while Miralem Pjanic’s free kick was straight into the wall.

Juventus 0-0 Empoli (Half-Time)

Juventus: Neto; Dani Alves, Bonucci, Rugani, Alex Sandro; Marchisio, Pjanic; Cuadrado, Mandzukic, Sturaro; Higuain, Mandzukic

Empoli: Skorupski; Laurini, Bellusci, Costa, Pasqual; Krunic, Diousse, Jose Mauri; El Kaddouri; Pucciarelli, Marilungo

Ref: Mariani

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

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Juventus 2-0 Empoli: Serie A

leaders extend advantage

Alex Sandro's finish and a Mario Mandzuki-forced own goal

was all the hosts needed to come out with the victory.

<a href="http://oi68.tinypic.com/2qtejrl.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-vs-empoli/2306005/report

Feb 25, 2017

Juventus cruised to a 2-0 win over struggling Empoli in Serie A on Saturday to go 10 points clear at the summit and pile the pressure on Roma ahead of their trip to Inter.

The result was not as comfortable as it should have been given Juve's complete domination, but they eventually made the most of their superiority in the second half and extended their lead at the top of the table, with closest challengers Roma facing a tough journey to San Siro on Sunday.

Juve unsurprisingly controlled the game from start to finish and could not be accused of failing to create enough chances, but their finishing let them down in what was a wasteful first-half showing.

Mario Mandzukic was particularly culpable, as he spurned a host of opportunities and let Empoli off the hook.

But he was crucial to Juve when they did eventually find the breakthrough in the 52nd minute, with his header inspiring a Lukasz Skorupski own-goal.

Alex Sandro wrapped things up with a clever finish 25 minutes from time and Juve comfortably saw out their seventh successive Serie A win.

The hosts were in charge right from the start in Turin and crafted several opportunities early on, with both strikers guilty of missing the target in the first 10 minutes.

Gonzalo Higuain spurned their first chance, prodding wide from close range after Mandzukic's knock-down, before the Croatian followed suit, missing the bottom-left corner when latching on to Juan Cuadrado's teasing cross.

Mandzukic went close again in the 27th minute, meeting Dani Alves' cross from the right and heading past the post after outjumping Vincent Laurini at the back stick.

Mario Mandzukic Juventus Empoli Serie A

The Juve striker was then presented with a glorious chance to make amends for his previous mishaps after half an hour.

But Mandzukic overcomplicated things by attempting to dribble around Skorupski when picked out by an inch-perfect Higuain pass and the goalkeeper came out on top.

Miralem Pjanic then also saw a decent 20-yard effort narrowly miss the right-hand post just before the break.

Juve finally broke the deadlock just after the break and Mandzukic was vital.

The forward's header from Cuadrado's cross struck the underside of the bar, bounced up off the ground and hit the frame of the goal again, before then bouncing off Skorupski and over the line for an own-goal.

The hosts then essentially put the game beyond Empoli just after the hour mark – Alex Sandro collecting Alves' pass in the left side of the area with his back to goal, before spinning and finding the far bottom corner with a perfectly placed effort.

Juve continued their search for more goals right until the end, with Higuain forcing Skorupski into action from close range in the final 15 minutes, but Empoli never looked capable of making them rue their missed chances as the home side eased over the finish line.

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

Socrates · February 25, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Sandro guides Juve past Empoli

An own goal from Lukasz Skorupski and a strike from Alex Sandro secure the three

points for the Bianconeri, extending their lead at the top of Serie A to 10 points.

<a href="http://oi68.tinypic.com/20psvi0.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-vs-empoli/2306005/ratings

Feb 25, 2017

BEST AND WORST PLAYER

Best Player

Goal Choice

Alex Sandro

JuventusPosition: Defender

Fan Choice

Worst Player

Goal Choice

V. Laurini

EmpoliPosition: Defender

Fan Choice

TEAM RATINGS

Juventus

Empoli

Substitutes

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Juventus wear Empoli down

Mario Mandzukic – with the aid of the crossbar and Lukasz Skorupski –

and Alex Sandro eventually broke Empoli down for a 2-0 Juventus victory.

<a href="http://oi63.tinypic.com/141ih06.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/88081

Feb 25, 2017

This was their 30^th consecutive Serie A home win, an on-going all-time record, which put more pressure on Roma as they visit Inter tomorrow night.

The Tuscans have never won away to Juventus, emerging with a goalless draw in November 1998 and 11 competitive defeats. The Bianconeri rested several stars ahead of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final with Napoli, but welcomed back Leonardo Bonucci after he was dropped for a touchline row with Max Allegri. Empoli missed Levan Mchedlidze for this trip.

Gonzalo Higuain controlled a Mario Mandzukic knock-down with his left boot and prodded the finish with the outside of his left, but there wasn’t enough power on it to beat Lukasz Skorupski from six yards.

Juan Cuadrado’s deflected shot turned into an assist for Mandzukic, sliding in to turn wide at the far post, while Omar El Kaddouri horribly wasted an Empoli counter-attack.

Giuseppe Bellusci got a decisive block when Mandzukic knocked down a cross for Stefano Sturaro in the six yard box.

Mandzukic wasted a golden opportunity when he ran on to Higuain’s inspired pass, rolled into his path, but the Croatian hesitated one-on-one with Skorupski and allowed defenders to get back, crowding him out.

Another splendid Higuain cross was turned wide by Mandzukic at full stretch sliding in at the back post, while Miralem Pjanic’s free kick was straight into the wall.

It remained surprisingly even after the restart, as El Kaddouri and Jose Mauri had dangerous counters, but Mandzukic finally made good on the wasted chances of the first half.

Cuadrado whipped in a great cross for Mandzukic’s towering header and Skorupski did all he could to fingertip it on to the underside of the crossbar, but it went over the line. Therefore it was awarded as an own goal.

There were no doubts over the second, as Alex Sandro gathered with his back to goal, held off Vincent Laurini and spun round to nutmeg the defender with a snooker-shot into the far bottom corner.

Paulo Dybala came off the bench and had the ball in the back of the net immediately, but only after Higuain had been flagged offside on a Cuadrado cross.

Juventus: Neto; Dani Alves, Bonucci, Rugani, Alex Sandro; Marchisio (Rincon 78), Pjanic; Cuadrado (Pjaca 85), Mandzukic, Sturaro (Dybala 74); Higuain, Mandzukic

Empoli: Skorupski; Laurini (Veseli 70), Bellusci, Costa, Pasqual; Krunic, Diousse, Jose Mauri (Buchel 77); El Kaddouri; Pucciarelli, Marilungo (Thiam 70)

Ref: Mariani

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Juventus defeat Empoli to open

10-point lead in Serie A

<a href="http://oi63.tinypic.com/2lvn7fq.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/report?gameId=461044

Feb 25, 2017

Juventus extended their lead at the top of Serie A to 10 points with a 2-0 win over Empoli in Turin.

With Roma not in action until they head to the San Siro on Sunday evening to tackle Inter Milan, Massimiliano Allegri's men took full advantage as a second-half brace finally overcame the visitors, who are battling for points at the other end of the table.

Gonzalo Higuain and Mario Mandzukic both saw first-half chances squandered before the Bianconeri finally made the breakthrough on 52 minutes.

Juan Cuadrado clipped the ball into the Empoli penalty area from the right, where Mandzukic arrived to send a point-blank header goalwards.

Lukasz Skorupski pushed the ball up onto the bar, only for it to then deflect back in off the unfortunate keeper for an own goal as he fell to the floor.

Juventus killed the game off with a second just after the hour mark, when Brazilian Alex Sandro spun Empoli defender Vincent Laurini to fire a low shot into the far corner.

Substitute Paulo Dybala thought he had tapped in a third soon after coming on, but the close-range effort was ruled out for offside against Higuain as he cut the ball back from a rebound.

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Alex Sandro: 'Celebratory samba'

<a href="http://oi64.tinypic.com/25z1atk.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.football-italia.net/98883/alex-sandro-celebratory-samba

Feb 25, 2017

Alex Sandro credited Juventus for maintaining patience in their 2-0 win over Empoli and celebrated with a samba.

“I am happy with the goal, of course, but the most important thing was to get the victory,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We knew it was going to be difficult, as Empoli are a well-organised and pretty solid team, but we stayed patient and struck at the right moment."

The Brazilian danced to mark his second Serie A goal of the season, joined by Juan Cuadrado and Dani Alves.

“We celebrated with a samba. We do it a lot in the locker room!”

Juve now go into Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final with Napoli.

“It is always important, the people care about the Coppa Italia and we will work to get the victory.”

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Allegri: 'Destiny in Juve's hands'

<a href="http://oi67.tinypic.com/2vj96pd.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.football-italia.net/98884/allegri-destiny-juves-hands

Feb 25, 2017

Max Allegri explained the changes he made as Juventus beat Empoli 2-0, won’t rule out Roma or Napoli for the Scudetto, but “our destiny is in our hands.”

The Bianconeri had to wait until the second half to break down Empoli with Mario Mandzukic – aided by deflection off Lukasz Skorupski – and Alex Sandro.

“It wasn’t an easy game, as we’re in a packed fixture list and coming off a Champions League trip to Porto,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia and Mediaset Premium.

“The lads did very well this evening. Empoli are, among the teams lower down the table, the side who pass it around the most and that can be frustrating.

“We stepped up a gear after the break, scored two goals and could’ve had more. We really regret conceding that goal against Palermo, otherwise it would’ve been seven straight clean sheets.

“Napoli can still be in it, but the fact remains we have to focus only on ourselves and realise our destiny is in our own hands.

“It will be tough against Napoli in the Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday and we’ll have to make some more changes to ensure the fitness levels are still good enough.

“Mandzukic guarantees physicality as well as technique, above all he’s valuable on set plays. Paulo Dybala had played a lot of games, we have another on Wednesday, so I preferred to rest him and give us more strength with Stefano Sturaro.”

Leonardo Bonucci was brought back into the team after he was dropped for the Champions League against Porto due to their touchline row in the closing minutes of last Friday’s win over Palermo.

“There are some things a Coach needs to let slide, others that he has to focus on. The most important thing is to keep a cool head and make the right choices at the right time. If you let your emotions take over, it leads to mistakes.

“Bonucci came back well, put in a good performance and the case is closed. There are moments during a season when you discuss and debate things, it’s just unfortunately the whole world saw us and it might’ve been different if it had happened in the locker room.

“We have a group of great professionals and above all great men. Between us, we managed to give the side a shake-up it needed to stay focused against Porto.

“I have five strong centre-backs and can rest them when needed.”

Tomorrow night Inter and Roma go head-to-head, so will Allegri be watching?

“Of course I will. We still need to play Roma this season and it’ll do us good to see how they play. It’d be nice if Roma didn’t win, but the important thing is that we won tonight. Our destiny is in our hands.”

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Juventus 2 - Empoli 0: Initial reaction

and random observations

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

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/25/14738728/juventus-

empoli-2017-serie-a-round-26-final-score-result-initial-reaction

Feb 25, 2017

If you were hoping for a glamour-filled Juventus game against a provincial side like Empoli on Saturday night, you ended up having another thing come your way. It wasn’t Champagne Juve for most of their 2-0 win over Empoli, but it was the end result that we’ve been seeing a lot of from the five-time defending Italian champions as of late.

Both since they lost to Fiorentina last month and just in general at Juventus Stadium over the last, oh, 30 home games.

I guess there’s just something about second-half goals against Empoli this season that Juventus players find interesting. It wasn’t quite the seven-minute blitz like in Tuscany earlier this season, but a scoreless first half made way for Juventus to once again build a multi-goal lead after the break. Goals from Mario Mandzukic — it will probably officially go down as an own goal, but I don’t care — and Alex Sandro allowed Juventus to break the scoreless deadlock that went down in the

And now, because of another win (and Napoli’s loss to Atalanta), we can look at the Serie A table and see this entering another Sunday where we get to just sit back and watch some calcio:

Juventus - 66 points

Roma - 56 points

Napoli - 54 points

I don’t know about you guys, but that’s looking a lot better than it did a month or two ago. But that’s just me. I like nice things.

Back to Juventus: During this nine-game winning streak in all competitions, Juve have outscored their opponents 19-2. In all but one of those games, Juventus has scored at least two goals, with the one outlier being the 1-0 win over Inter in the Derby d’Italia three weeks ago. That’s pretty consistent — and impressive.

No, this game wasn’t all that great. Empoli, to their credit, did press their way into throwing Juventus off any kind of rhythm in the first half. But, like we’ve seen lately, Juventus is going to score goals. It’s just a matter of when. I guess that’s just how efficient they’ve been lately. I’m cool with that, too, so keep on doing what you’re doing, Juventus, and don’t let us bother you.

(But maybe putting a team sitting in 17th place like Empoli away a little easier would have been the ideal situation. I’ll stop being so demanding now.)

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

Claudio Marchisio with the captain’s armband on. Something just seems right on point whenever that happens.
Notice who Marchisio handed the captain’s armband to when he was subbed off in the second half? Yep, Leonardo Bonucci. All’s well that end’s well, and Leo being back in the starting lineup is a good thing.
Good to know that Marko Pjaca’s customary five-minute cameo off the bench is back to being a thing. If there was one player I wanted to see play against Empoli, it was Pjaca. And I’m not talking about “play for five minutes and that’s it” kind of reasoning.
If Paulo Dybala scores that bender in the closing moments of the game, what are you doing? Running down the street while your jaw is dropped in amazement better be one of the numerous options.
Neto was forced into one save. It wasn’t all that difficult.
I do like the trend that Allegri is starting to do where he plays Neto the game before a Coppa Italia game. If there is any rust after not playing for a couple of weeks, Juve’s backup keeper is able to get it out of his system against a team that’s not very good and head into a fixture like Napoli on Tuesday night feeling good and game ready.
Watching Mandzukic do Mandzukic things is a pleasure to watch. He’s not all that stylish — although that little back flick to Alex Sandro in the second half was quite pretty — and he’s going to wow you with his physical skills. We know that by now. But my god, the amount of running he does throughout a game, going from defending on end of the field to attacking on the other in what seems like seconds, is just crazy to even think about. To do that every game, jeez. I don’t know what else to say other than the switch to the 4-2-3-1 has brought out the best in Mandzukic and showed us that he’s pretty damn important to this team.
This was a frustrating Juan Cuadrado game in a nutshell. His first good cross of the game ended in Mandzukic finding the back of the net. But for the first
Stefano Sturaro is not a makeshift left winger in a 4-2-3-1. Next topic.
Mattia Caldara nearly outscored the team that currently owns his contract on Saturday. I don’t know about you guys, but I sure am looking forward to him and Daniele Rugani playing alongside one another in the future. And then scoring a goal or two apiece, too.
I’ll end things on this: How good is Alex Sandro? The low-end of that answer should be “very, very good” and only go up in rating from there. Sandro’s goal was beautiful, with that turn he made being something that I’m sure a lot of left backs can’t really do all that well. We’re watching Sandro turn into a legitimate star in the game of football right in front of our eyes, folks.

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Martusciello: 'Empoli alive and kicking'

<a href="http://oi68.tinypic.com/105rtio.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.football-italia.net/98886/martusciello-empoli-alive-and-kicking

Feb 25, 2017

Empoli Coach Giovanni Martusciello thought they held out as long as possible against runaway Serie A leaders Juventus.

The Tuscans went into the break 0-0 in Turin and Lukasz Skorupski had precious few saves to make.

However, Mario Mandzukic’s header went in off the crossbar and the goalkeeper, then Alex Sandro netted a second for the 2-0 result.

“The first half was excellent and for long periods we were able to keep their midfield under control, passing the ball around well,” Martusciello told Mediaset Premium.

“In the end, Juve are the strongest side in Serie A and the enormous gulf in quality emerged. I certainly won’t complain about our performance.

“When it comes to safety, there’s a long road ahead of us and we need to be more efficient in front of goal to finish off some of these chances.

“We’re alive and kicking, playing some good football.”

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Max Allegri: Juventus' 'destiny is in our

hands' after win opens 10-point lead

<a href="http://oi64.tinypic.com/8x20ls.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/juventus/story/3069146/max-allegri-juventus

-destiny-is-in-our-hands-after-win-opens-10-point-lead

Feb 25, 2017

Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri said "our destiny is in our hands" after his side opened a 10-point lead atop Serie A with a 2-0 win over Empoli on Saturday.

A Lukasz Skorupski own goal put Juve ahead before Alex Sandro sealed the points, leaving Juve within touching distance of their sixth straight Scudetto.

Allegri said he was pleased with the comprehensive performance after another 2-0 win over Porto in the Champions League on Wednesday.

"It wasn't an easy game, as we're in a packed fixture list and coming off a Champions League trip to Porto," Allegri told Mediaset.

"The lads did very well this evening. Empoli are, among the teams lower down the table, the side who pass it around the most and that can be frustrating.

"We stepped up a gear after the break, scored two goals and could've had more. We really regret conceding that goal against Palermo, otherwise it would've been seven straight clean sheets."

Juventus lead second-place Roma by double digits ahead of their game at Inter on Sunday night, while their title quest was further aided by Napoli's home defeat to fourth-placed Atalanta earlier on Saturday.

But Allegri warned not to count out Napoli, whom Juventus also face in the Coppa Italia semifinals next week.

"Napoli can still be in it, but the fact remains we have to focus only on ourselves and realise our destiny is in our own hands," Allegri said.

"It will be tough against Napoli in the Coppa Italia semifinal on Wednesday and we'll have to make some more changes to ensure the fitness levels are still good enough."

Leonardo Bonucci was back in Juventus' squad after Allegri dropped him against Porto following a touchline row, but the coach said their relationship was back to normal.

"There are some things a coach needs to let slide, others that he has to focus on," Allegri said. "The most important thing is to keep a cool head and make the right choices at the right time. If you let your emotions take over, it leads to mistakes.

"Bonucci came back well, put in a good performance and the case is closed. There are moments during a season when you discuss and debate things, it's just unfortunately the whole world saw us and it might've been different if it had happened in the locker room.

"We have a group of great professionals and above all great men. Between us, we managed to give the side a shake-up it needed to stay focused against Porto.

"I have five strong centre-backs and can rest them when needed.

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Allegri: Bonucci case is closed

Manager’s post-match comments after Juve’s 2-0 home win

<a href="http://oi68.tinypic.com/sxi4o5.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

h http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/26/14740030/allegri-bonucci-

case-is-closed-juventus-control-their-own-destiny-serie-a-title

Feb 26, 2017

Juventus beat Empoli 2-0 today to stretch their lead at the top of the table to ten points. Goals from Mario Mandzukic and Alex Sandro in the second half put the game beyond doubt.

Afterwards, manager Massimiliano Allegri spoke to the media about the win.

“It wasn’t an easy game, as we’re in a packed fixture list and coming off a Champions League trip to Porto. The lads did very well this evening. Empoli are, among the teams lower down the table, the side who pass it around the most and that can be frustrating.

“We stepped up a gear after the break, scored two goals and could’ve had more. We really regret conceding that goal against Palermo, otherwise it would’ve been seven straight clean sheets.”

Napoli lost today to Atalanta, and are now twelve points behind the Binaconeri.

“Napoli can still be in it, but the fact remains we have to focus only on ourselves and realise our destiny is in our own hands.

“It will be tough against Napoli in the Coppa Italia semi-final on Wednesday and we’ll have to make some more changes to ensure the fitness levels are still good enough.

“Mandzukic guarantees physicality as well as technique, above all he’s valuable on set plays. Paulo Dybala had played a lot of games, we have another on Wednesday, so I preferred to rest him and give us more strength with Stefano Sturaro.”

Leonardo Bonucci returned to the squad after his one-match suspension, and Allegri was asked again about their spat.

“There are some things a Coach needs to let slide, others that he has to focus on. The most important thing is to keep a cool head and make the right choices at the right time. If you let your emotions take over, it leads to mistakes.

“Bonucci came back well, put in a good performance and the case is closed. There are moments during a season when you discuss and debate things, it’s just unfortunately the whole world saw us and it might’ve been different if it had happened in the locker room.

“We have a group of great professionals and above all great men. Between us, we managed to give the side a shake-up it needed to stay focused against Porto. I have five strong centre-backs and can rest them when needed.”

Inter Milan and Roma play in the weekend’s headline game tomorrow, and Allegri was asked if he’d be watching.

“Of course I will. We still need to play Roma this season and it’ll do us good to see how they play. It’d be nice if Roma didn’t win, but the important thing is that we won tonight. Our destiny is in our hands.”

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

Socrates · February 26, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Juventus vs. Empoli 2017: Final score 2-0, Mandzukic

and Alex Sandro seal easy another easy win

Mario Mandzukic and Alex Sandro scored as Juventus beat

Empoli to continue their impressive winning streak at home.

<a href="http://oi63.tinypic.com/e0rj9j.jpg" target="_blank">View Raw Image</a>

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/26/14740816/

juventus-empoli-2017-serie-a-round-26-final-score-recap-result

Feb 26, 2017

Hello again, my fellow Juventini. It’s been a while since I wrote my last match recap. Just to let you know, our superstar writer, Chuks, suffered a minor discomfort during the warm-up exercises. Right now the BWRAO training staff is evaluating him, but I am sure he’s OK. Additionally, Kaushik has been called up by his national team to play a friendly match against the Faroe Islands. Therefore, I dusted off my laptop, and I’ll try to perform my best Marco Storari/Rubinho/Neto/Emil Audero impersonation. Wish me luck.

Ii was a lovely night in Turin when Juventus faced a desperate Empoli side at the J-Stadium. The Bianconeri returned home after a significant victory in Portugal in the Champions League. Max Allegri’s troops tried to avoid the Champions League hangover and continue with their domain over the Italian Championship. On the other side, Empoli arrived for this match with a negative streak, losing their last two games in Serie A and haven’t won outside the Carlo Castellani Stadium since Nov. 6, 2016, when they beat Pescara.

For this game, Allegri switched from the successful 4-2-3-1 to a simple 4-4-2 formation. Juan Guillermo Cuadrado and Stefano Sturaro started as wingers, while Mario Mandzukic joined Gonzalo Higuain in the attack.

Empoli coach Giovanni Martusciello deployed an aggressive 4-3-1-2 configuration. Former Napoli player Omar El Kaddouri commenced as trequartista. Unfortunately for the Tuscan squad, they played without their top scorer, Levan Mchedlidze, due to an injury.

Empoli tried to press Juventus high from the get-go. However, Juventus almost took advantage of the space that the Tuscans left on their defense. In the fifth minute, Mandzukic cleverly flicked the ball to Higuain inside Empoli’s box, but Lukasz Skorupski controlled El Pipita’s weak shot. Five minutes later, Cuadrado controlled the ball in his opponents’ box. After a pair of quick dribbles, he fired a low violent shot which was almost poked home by a lurking Mandzukic.

At the 31st minute, Juventus had a great opportunity to break the deadlock. Higuain assisted Mandzukic with a superb pass. The Croatian found himself one-on-one against Skorupski, but he took too much time to shoot and he was dispossessed by Empoli’s defense. Thenceforth, Juventus followed a simple recipe for attack — everybody crossing the ball from the right flank to Mandzukic. Lather, wash, repeat; lather, wash, repeat. Seriously, guys, it was annoying. The first half ended without any goals.

However, who am I to disagree with Juventus’ tactics? Seven minutes after the break, Cuadrado fulfilled a delightful cross that Mandzukic headed furiously. The ball hit the crossbar and Skorupski before getting into the net. Juventus was ahead in the match. The goal shook Empoli hardly, and the Bianconeri gained full command of the game.

At the 65th minute, Juventus closed the match out. After a series of passes, Alex Sandro took the ball onto Empoli’s box. The dynamic fullback executed a quick turn and fired a shot that passed between Vincent Laurini’s legs. The ball entered next to Skorupski’s left post. During this play, Sandro showcased the skills of some legendary Brazilian strikers. At the 74th minute, Paulo Dybala entered into the game for Sturaro. Mad Max changed to the 4-2-3-1 with this movement. Juventus displayed some magic after La Joya’s arrival. Minutes later, Dybala was a whisker away from converting a “golazo” with a wicked curling shot. The game was already in the Bianconeri’s pocket. Juventus managed the game until the final whistle.

Juventus have a 10-point lead over Roma with this victory and continue their impressive streak of winning games at the J-Stadium. On the other side, Empoli is still outside the relegation zone. They need to break this bad streak if they wish to be in Serie A next season.

LE PAGELLE

Neto 6.5 Quiet night for the Brazilian goalkeeper. He made only one save which was very relaxed.

Dani Alves 7 He produced some interesting combinations with Cuadrado. He performed a clean defensive job.

Rugani 6.75 A nice cameo of the youngster against his former team. Empoli’s strikers never disturbed him. Although, he lost a dangerous ball in his half that could have been costly for his team.

Bonucci 7 Welcome back, Leo! Bonucci led the defense expertly and had an adequate partnership with Rugani. He also delivered a couple of his trademark long balls.

Alex Sandro 8 The Brazilian powerhouse dominated the left flank effortlessly. His goal was a beauty.

Marchisio 7 It was a solid game by Il Principino. He had some troubles at the beginning of the match, but he recovered gradually and helped his team to conquer the midfield.

Pjanic 7.25 The Bosnian Maestro controlled this game. He managed Juventus rhythm with expertise.

Cuadrado 7 Another Doctor Jekyll and Mister Hyde game by Juan. He gave us incredible plays mixed with some head-scratchers. He defended belligerently.

Sturaro 6.25 It wasn’t a particularly bad game by Stefano. However, Juventus’ offensive circuits were compromised when the kid touched the ball. He must improve his technique quickly.

Mandzukic 7.5 The Croatian warrior intimidated his rivals early and often. He worked tirelessly and scored with an excellent header. He missed a clear opportunity, though.

Higuain 7.25 El Pipita helped Juventus with his playmaking skills. He had a couple of opportunities to break the deadlock.

Subs

Dybala 7 La Joya showcased his world-class skills in the final minutes of the game. He almost scored a late screamer.

Rincon s/v “El General” entered for Marchisio at the 79th minute.

Pjaca s/v Pjaca entered for Cuadrado at the 85th minute.

Coach

Allegri 6.75 Juventus dominated the match from start to finish. Nonetheless, I believe it was thanks to the quality of the players. I still don’t understand why Marko Pjaca doesn’t crack the starting lineup in this kind of game. I wasn’t a fan of this 4-4-2.

THINGS I THINK I THINK

The last team that stole a point from Juventus at the J-Stadium in Serie A was the mighty Frosinone F.C.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but before Cuadrado substitution, all of Juventus’ Latin American players were on the pitch together.
Alex Sandro is the best left fullback in the world. #analysis
#FreeMarkoPjaca
Damn, I miss Simone Padoin. I need that Human Victory Cigar.
See you soon, guys. Fino alla Fine!

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

Socrates · February 27, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Juventus 2-0 Empoli Match

Report and Player Ratings

214801151-1966f092-cad4-452c-8fa7-8ce04a

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-2-0-empoli-match-report-player-ratings/

Feb 26, 2017

Player Ratings

Neto – I believe the number two gatekeeper may have made one save, which didn’t trouble him in the slightest as was hit from range. Besides which he seemed fine. 6

Bonucci – Back from his stint in Solitary and kept things safe and simple at the back. It really is a brilliant state of affairs to be able to rest the likes of Chiellini and Barzagli and bring in Leo and Daniele yet the difference in our defensive solidity is zero. 6.5

Ruagni – Already looking like a seasoned veteran, the 22 year rarely puts a foot wrong, is comfortable in the air and on the turf, shows superb timing and confidence on the ball. Caldara to come in…the Juve central defence is set for the next decade. 7

Sandro – Much to my delight after a period of consistency at a thoroughly decent level, Alex appears to be entering another growth spurt. For he has upped his game in recent weeks after regaining his sharpness and is now a major asset in every match. Locked down the flank, put in some intelligent passes and scored a brilliant goal, turning sharply in the box to finish accurately past the keeper for our second. 8.5

Alves – Once again looked spritely after a superb cameo in Porto midweek. Set up the second, cleared the stadium with a missile of a mishit shot from the corner and put himself about enough to just shade it in convincing me he can defend. Very useful for the squad to have him back and gaining sharpness. 6.5

Marchisio – Displayed maturity, improving stamina and a wondrous range of passing. It is pleasing to see him fit into the new system so seamlessly. Also (finally) managed to avoid crunching any opponents! 6.5

Pjanic – Despite dropping off a little late on Miralem played the deep lying creator as was required. A fulcrum at the base of midfield, quality delivery from set pieces, but did look a little jaded. Not quite right physically. Still, he gave his all on Wednesday when it really mattered, so a slight reduction in output is understandable and acceptable. 6

Cuadrado – Despite my notes showing 3 Xs which represent Juan losing the ball when under zero pressure, I felt his second half performance was superb. Crossing for the opener, causing plenty of trouble with his rapid change of pace and hugely upping his passing accuracy. Why oh why cannot he not play like this more consistently? The Colombian continues what has thus far proven a much improved 2017. 7.5

Mandzukic – Clearly mismatched against the defenders of Empoli and won the vast majority of aerial balls. His goal was well taken and he really should have done better with several other decent chances. Still, the customary astounding work-rate and his relationship with other players is plain for all to see as he creates numerous openings with knock-ons. 7.5

Sturaro – Strangely deployed in what appeared a bullish LM position, but stuck to the task well as could be expected. Had a couple of half chances, sent a few people flying, kept the ball moving with simple, robust link up play. Clearly not his favoured or natural role, but he was likely happy simply to be starting. 6

Higuain – Everything in his game was perfect except the three chances missed, all of which fell to his usually more reliable left foot. 6

Just what was needed after a stunning victory in Portugal. Professional, comprehensive and dominant. With the side rarely appearing to move out of 2nd gear.

Empoli made life as hard as they could and were able to play the ball around a fair amount, but to zero gain, for I noted just the one close to clear cut chance for the visitors during the whole 94 minutes of play, which was wasted. Despite their defensive solidity, often placing 6 players in their own box, we created 12 very good chances. Taking just the two…Same old problem and yet rather than focus on our wastefulness I shall instead lean towards the positive…in that sooner or later we are going to find a performance where our conversion rate rises apocalyptically. and our opponents will be scarred for life. Perhaps forced to move cities or countries to escape the constant pain of their suffering. Also…it is astonishing to be fashioning so many chances and yet still offering the same resolute defensive prowess. Bravo Allegri.

Football-Soccer-Juventus-v-Empoli-Italia

The squad is now strong and fit enough to afford our finest stars a break in between the big games. This tie saw Buffon, Chiellini, Barzagli, Lichsteiner, Khedira and Dybala all start on the bench. That is arguably more than 50% of the ideal starting XI. Although if Andrea can regain his sharpness, we will have three world class CBs with an ever improving Rugani for the 2 spots. As for Benatia? I see no reason to play him whatsoever. As I assume we will not take up his purchase option; due to lack of fitness and lack of showing he can be considered anywhere but number 5 in CB pecking order.

A quick remark on the officials, for the referee was high quality throughout. Maybe missed a penalty claim, other than which was sturdy. And to have just watched the MOTD show, as I do every weekend and beyond, I am convinced that the officiating in Serie A is of a much higher calibre for not a week goes by without a handball missed or a player booked when crunched in the box. This happens ever so rarely in Serie A, in fact the officials are more inclined to wave away any bother, especially when Juve players are mauled!

We are moving forward splendidly. Massive game against Napoli to come next. And also AC to pay us a visit. Such games are required and welcomed, to keep us growing and learning. Suffice to say, we are finding our best form just when it counts the most.

A job well done.

Forza Juve

PS. To add to the Juve result, my beloved Gills won their first game since December and to apply icing to the cake, Caldara scored both goals in Napoli’s 0-2 home defeat to Atalanta! Caldara’s second was gorgeously crafted by another Juve player Leonardo Spinazzola and exceptionally well taken by the CB.

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

Socrates · February 27, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Juventus eventually wear down Empoli,

open up 10-point Serie A lead

220912444-16b22138-80e0-4346-ac4f-a114b5

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/12/blog/post/3069449/juventus-eventually

-wear-empoli-down-and-open-up-commanding-ten-point-lead-atop-serie-a

Feb 26, 2017

Juventus eventually wore down a good Empoli side to win 2-0 and open a 10-point gap at the top of the Serie A table. Empoli may not be the best going forward but they can be defensively impressive and managed to frustrate Juventus well, closing down effectively while maintaining possession in midfield to ensure Juve's impotency in the first half.

A slow tempo has been Juve's problem this season but the team stepped up a gear in the second half and Mario Mandzukic finally managed to score from the many crosses delivered into the box albeit with a lot of help from the opposing goalkeeper. A delightful finish from Alex Sandro soon after sealed another home win for the Bianconeri.

Positives

Despite an exhausting fixture list and the little time afforded to the team to train ahead of Saturday's match, Juventus continue to produce the performances required to seal the win and grab the points. Another clean sheet shows the beauty of the side's focus at this stage of the season.

Negatives

Considering how often the team is playing, we cannot be too critical but they cannot always squander so many opportunities for goal. Only two goals were scored from the 24 shots, 12 of which were on target -- the Bianconeri must be more cynical against such defensive opponents.

Manager rating out of 10

6 -- Despite the packed fixture list and a midweek Champions League game, Max Allegri's Juventus keep producing the performances required to get the results. However, Allegri still seems unsure as to Sturaro's best position.

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

GK Norbeto Neto, 6 -- Slow and visibly uncomfortable on the ball but was rarely called into action until the save to deny Jose Mauri.

DF Dani Alves, 6 -- A good attacking force on the left, delivering crosses, taking on players and picking out his teammates with good passes. Better in games when he's not required to do too much defending.

DF Leonardo Bonucci, 6 -- Disciplined and composed but rarely called into action.

DF Daniele Rugani, 6 -- Was placed under pressure just once but redeemed himself well. Barely forced to do much defending.

DF Alex Sandro, 7 -- One of the best on the field. Did well when taking on opponents and scored with a marvellous finish. Always in command of the left flank, driving the team forward while solid in defence.

MF Claudio Marchisio, 6 -- Gave the ball away that led to Empoli's first shot on target. Lacking his usual refinement when helping to create play but he intercepted well, recovering possession often.

MF Miralem Pjanic, 6 -- Had a great chance for goal denied by Lukasz Skorupski and proved important in winning back the ball. Yet he didn't prove inspirational going forward and was also disappointing from set pieces.

MF Juan Cuadrado, 6 -- Relentless energy but not good enough, conceding possession frequently. However, he improved in the second half, delivering a sensational assist for Mandzukic's goal. His pace was a huge advantage and he combined well with Dani Alves.

MF Mario Mandzukic, 6 -- Failed to convert a few opportunities by either taking too long to take the shot or failing in his technique. The goal eventually came with a lot of help from Skorupski but not really the clinical performance Juve need from their forward.

MF Stefano Sturaro, 6 -- He doesn't look comfortable playing in the trident behind Higuain as he offers little quality going forward, getting in the way of Mandzukic. However, he is always determined, offering physicality and energy.

FW Gonzalo Higuain, 6 -- Displayed great vision to always pick out his teammates with some great passes that weren't effectively converted but he too suffered in finishing. Less predatory than usual but always creative.

Substitutes

FW Paulo Dybala, NR -- Offered more creativity than Sturaro and produced a beautiful shot that went wide.

MF Tomas Rincon, NR -- Not given much time to make an impact.

FW Marko Pjaca, NR -- Barely offered any time to make his mark on proceedings.

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

Socrates · February 27, 2017

JUVENTUS - EMPOLI

2-0

Mario Mandzukic 52'

Alex Sandro 65'

MATCHDAY 26

Saturday, February 25th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Juventus Stadium, Turin
Referee: Pierpaolo Mariani

Landmarks of Turin Awards: Juventus vs. Empoli Edition

214011776-b294fb31-1d2a-41a0-a3d2-9b3bc5

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/26/14742472/juventus-empoli

-landmarks-of-turin-awards-2017-serie-a-round-26-match-recap

Feb 26, 2017

Nothing much fancy to say. Juventus have beaten Empoli. What do we want, a prize?

Aperitivi

A tantalizing collection of titillating tidbits.

I only counted two “Sturaro LOL” moments, so that was good.
Gonzalo Higuain has more goals as an individual than Empoli as a side.
Our favorite/most despises Colombian doesn’t figure into the awards today, so I thought I’d make brief mention here: he played pretty well, I thought. There was obviously the perfect cross that assisted the goal, and there were obviously a bunch of other super terrible attempts at what we would normally call “crosses” but because it was Juan Cuadrado doing what we normally call “crosses” the word is inadequate to describe the degree to which they did not in fact resemble “crosses.” But, all in all, I thought Juan was good. He was consistently dangerous. He assisted. He beat a number of defenders off the dribble. Yay, Juan!
I also thought Cuadrado tracked back and helped defensively quite a bit.
The sound of Max Allegri chirping out orders loud enough for a TV mic to pick up his voice is a wonderful thing.
I told myself I’d start worrying if we hadn’t scored in the 70th minute, and in the 50th minute Paulo Dybala began warming up. But Mario Mandžukić scored shortly thereafter, and La Joya rested a little while.
Then, this happened, and I feel like we need to talk about it: In the 74th minute, up 2-0, Allegri put Dybala onto the pitch for Sturaro. Are we okay with this? The game was clearly in hand. There’s a fixture against Napoli on the horizon. And the manager is taking off a fringe rotation player for our crowned jewel (get it, La Joya?). I think I’m okay with it, but I can also see how this was either strange or upsetting.
Either way, Empoli had to be not very excited about it. Sad!
Poor Marko Pjaca. Here is your reward: five minutes against Empoli!

Onto the awards:

Sidewalk of Turin Award

For a weak(ish) performance masked by other factors.

N/A — I know this is a terrible evasive answer, but it’s actually what I think. Most times even when Juventus hammer the opposition, I’m critical enough to be able to pick out a Sidewalk Award winner. It just seems mean to give it to Sturaro, and there’s no other candidate. The back line was fine. The midfield was fine to good. The award could perhaps go to Higuain, but besides his botched chances he created quite well for others.

Take a break from the Sidewalk, Bianconeri.

Piazza San Carlo Award

For a potentially overlooked yet stellar showing.

Dani Alves was extremely good, doing Dan Alves-type things which necessarily includes moments of me watching the game, looking down to take some notes, looking back up at the screen, and seeing Juve’s right back in some extremely strange position on the field — playing cards with the opposition’s goalkeeper, doing somersaults with Mandžukić, chatting on the phone at the center circle and trying not to let his feet touch the green grass but only stay on the white paint — but then every time there’s some sort of danger, he’s magically back at his post. I don’t understand.

The San Carlo tonight is more or less a second Parco Valentino. Both Alves and Sandro did what they needed to do defensively — especially, it should be noted, against an Empoli side that attacked almost exclusively from the flanks — but it was his perfectly weighted crosses that kept the pressure on the opposition.

Lingotto Award

For a notable demonstration in both grit and flair.

Miralem Pjanic passed the ball 62 times, and 59 times his pass found his intended target. That’s a 95.1 percent success rate, if you were wondering.

I still remember Allegri’s semi-recent comment about wanting the Bosnian to be a little bolder with his distribution, and we’re seeing that again and again. Against Empoli, Pjanic was all over the field, per usual — with a slight favoring to the ride side of the pitch — but his passing included a number of longer crosses, mid-length passes forward, back, and across the field, and smaller chips to teammates.

How Juventus secured Pjanic for the money they did is still amazing, because he’s clearly at the top of his class. He squandered his free kick, but that doesn’t detract from yet another brilliant performance.

Parco Valentino Award

For an urbane demeanor distributed amongst the squad.

Alex Sandro’s goal doubled Juve’s lead, and did exactly what a nice day at Parco Valentino ought to do — calm any nerves that might remain.

When the Brazilian collected the ball in the penalty area and turned, clearly preparing to shoot, I thought there was no chance in hell he’d muster the combination of power and precision required to deposit the ball into the back of the net. But that’s exactly what he did.

By the standards with which you might assess a normal left back, Sandro’s defensive game was practically flawless — moving forward when needed, snuffing out runs, distributing with expertise. (And can we pause there for a second, because Sandro had some of the most elegant cross-field crosses I’ve seen. His intuition of when to switch the field of play is uncanny.) But by Alex Sandro standards, I thought his defensive play was just fine. Two or three times he turned the ball over with an errant pass or some sloppy dribbling, but looking for mistakes in his game is increasingly difficult.

Giuseppe Garibaldi Award

For the man of the match.

Against Empoli, Mr. No Good Mandžukić recovered from a shaky performance against Porto; against the Portuguese side, he was almost invisible. Against the Italian side, he was everywhere: holding up the ball in the penalty area, servicing Higuain over and over again — perhaps there was a better way to phrase that? — tracking all the way back to help out Sandro on defense, making runs again and again from the left side, bullying Empoli’s undersized backline. And, finally, it all paid off. I believe the final decision was an own-goal rather than one for Mario, but he of course deserves it.

The most encouraging thing to me about this performance from Mandžukić was, as I said, his ability to instantly return to form. Right now, Juve have a 6-foot-3 winger who can hold possession, who always looks to involve teammates, and who threatens goal in a number of ways. And also, he’s kind of a left back. I hope the other Croatian winger is taking notes, because there’s nobody better to learn from.

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

Socrates · February 28, 2017

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

COPPA ITALIA TIM - SEMIFINAL

Tuesday, February 28th 2017 - 8:45 p.m.

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri: 'I want to score early'

http://www.football-italia.net/98956/allegri-i-want-score-early

Feb 27, 2017

Juventus boss Max Allegri admits he wants "to score early against Napoli" in order to avoid frustration.

The Bianconeri take on Maurizio Sarri's side on Tuesday in th Coppa Italia semi-final, with Allegri looking to use his 4-2-3-1 setup to score early.

But what does he make of the Roma-Inter result from last night?

"As for the game last night, is not a matter of the result, in the end we must achieve a certain number of wins," the Coach told his pre-match Press conference.

"Roma have become a serious and tough team, as evidenced by the results they are achieving. We must focus on the fact that it's not for us to hope that the others lose, but to try to do the contrary. We must make our own path, and we are doing pretty well at it.

"Tomorrow, however, we have the Coppa Italia and we must create the right conditions in order to reach the final, it would be our third final in a row, and then maybe we can try to win it.

"We will face a Napoli who will be very angry about Saturday's defeat against Atalanta. It is not the case that in three days they have lost everything they have done well in these two years, so it will be a complicated game.

"And above all it is an Italian Cup semi-final, where the most important thing is not conceding goals, especially, because we play the first match at home. We have five defenders, who I will rate today. Someone will rest through necessity, then I will decide who to play.

"I have to evaluate the whole team. Yesterday, those who have not played had good workout, there will be some changes, then today I will assess what those will be.

"I always say that during the season it is impossible to win all the games at the beginning. At the end of the season there few matches won in the first half and a few won in the second half.

"The most important thing is that the team had gone with this new formation with the intention of opening up the games at the beginning. The danger is getting to get to a game where maybe you score early, then lose little patience and become nervous because maybe you had not opened the game enough.

"This is something that did not happen and should not happen, because when the team is aware of their strengths, they manage the game well mentally.

"The boys showed this in Crotone where we were 0-0 and only opened up the game in the second half, as what happened with Empoli and as will happen again later on.

"Tomorrow we hope to open up the game right away, as although there are 95 minutes to win games, you can get frustrated and lose faith if you don’t do so right away The strength of a team, the strength of our team has to be the one.

"It's normal that the other day [Paulo] Dybala, when he came on, is a player that connects the two midfielders and attackers.

"So we have more geometry, more passing options and technical quality in the field, which is what counts in the end, the important thing is not to lose the strength and unity of the team.

"So [Stefano] Sturaro has qualities and characteristics different from [Mario] Mandzukic when playing outside, Mandzukic doesn’t have the characteristics of Dybala when playing near [Gonzalo] Higuain. It is normal that in the middle they spend a little less time together.

"The most important thing is that the team is always tidy and not doesn’t lose strength."

Socrates · February 28, 2017

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

COPPA ITALIA TIM - SEMIFINAL

Tuesday, February 28th 2017 - 8:45 p.m.

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri: 'One step at a time'

http://www.football-italia.net/98957/allegri-one-step-time

Feb 27, 2017

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri admits that 'he's not thinking about April', as he is taking 'one step at a time'.

The Bianconeri are fighting on three fronts in Serie A, the Champions League and the Coppa Italia.

They face Napoli tomorrow in the semi-final of the latter competition, but who will play in goal?

"Tomorrow Neto plays again," Allegri told his pre-match Press conference. "He played on Saturday, Neto has so far always had good games, he’s a great goalkeeper, he’s only the second at Juventus because [Gianluigi] is Buffon there, but he could easily be a first team goalkeeper.

"As for [Marko] Pjaca, today I will evaluate whether to play him from the beginning.

"Tomorrow is a game where the changes are fundamental, we played two days ago and we come from a Wednesday-Saturday-Tuesday scenario, so having fresh legs on the bench, those with certain types of features, is important."

Is Allegri thinking about doing the treble?

"No, let's talk about serious things. We are in the semi-final of the Coppa Italia, but we still have to play two games.

"Meanwhile, to fill the calendar it would be nice to get to the end in all competitions, especially to fill the calendar, so we have more games.

"At the moment we have 12 league games, two in the Coppa Italia and we are trying to secure the Champions League, then we'll see. We will try to stretch the games, increasing the number of games, to fill the calendar, otherwise spend weeks without matches gets boring!

"In March you have to get there, if you are in March, you cannot get to April, that comes later. Being in the moment, seven points ahead, having won the first game at Porto 2-0 and playing the semi-final of the Coppa Italia, these are important results.

"It's normal that the primary objective of Juventus is to arrive in March in all three competitions, now we playing the games.

"The team has changed, they have improved individually and collectively, they have increased their enthusiasm, they are conscious of their own ability. They are also more carefree, and this is crucial.

"We have to take one step at a time without thinking about what happens in March and April, so now we have Napoli and then we will think about Udinese.

"Nothing has changed, we have a formation that at the moment is working well, this does not mean that by the end of the season we will not change again. After Florence, I thought it appropriate to change. [Stephan] Lichtsteiner and [Kwadwo] Asamoah will play tomorrow."

How will Gonzalo Higuain react to facing his former side Napoli tomorrow?

"Now we have broken the ice, he has already played against Napoli. Higuain needs to play more and more, so he is a major player, he is doing well and we are very happy."

Socrates · February 28, 2017

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

COPPA ITALIA TIM - SEMIFINAL

Tuesday, February 28th 2017 - 8:45 p.m.

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Allegri expecting 'angry' Napoli in Coppa Italia semi-final showdown

The Juventus manager is bracing himself for a strong reaction from midweek

opponents, with a surprise defeat to Atalanta suffered in their last outing.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/8/main/2017/02/27/33120972/-

Feb 27, 2017

Massimiliano Allegri is expecting to come up against an "angry" Napoli side when Juventus take the field for the Coppa Italia semi-final.

First meets third in Turin on Tuesday for the opening leg of the tie, with Roma and Lazio meeting in the other last-four contest.

Napoli come into the game having lost 2-0 at home to Atalanta on Saturday, their first league defeat for 15 matches.

Allegri says Juve, who had been the previous side to beat Napoli domestically in October, are prepared for a fierce reaction.

"We will face a Napoli who will be very angry about the defeat against Atalanta," he said at his pre-match media conference.

"It is not the case that in three days they have lost everything they have done well in these two years, so it will be a complicated game.

"We have the Coppa Italia and we must create the right conditions in order to reach the final, it would be our third final in a row, and then maybe we can try to win it.

"Above all it is cup semi-final, where the most important thing is not conceding goals, especially because we play the first match at home."

Follow

JuventusFC

✔@juventusfcen

.@OfficialAllegri: "Talk of the treble? There are 15 confirmed matches left. Let's try to extend that schedule." #JuveNapoli #CoppaItalia

12:15 PM - 27 Feb 2017

26 Retweets

64 likes

Allegri will review the shape of his players after their 2-0 win over Empoli last time out before deciding on his line-up.

"We have five defenders, who I will assess - someone will rest through necessity, then I will decide who to play," he said.

"I have to evaluate the whole team. Those who did not play Empoli had a good workout on Sunday. There will be some changes and I will assess what those will be.

"The most important thing is that the team is always tidy and does not lose strength. We hope to open up the game right away. Although there are 95 minutes to win games, you can get frustrated and lose faith if you don't do so right away."

The second leg does not take place until April.

Socrates · February 28, 2017

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

COPPA ITALIA TIM - SEMIFINAL

Tuesday, February 28th 2017 - 8:45 p.m.

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Marchisio, Sturaro miss Napoli

http://www.football-italia.net/98972/marchisio-sturaro-miss-napoli

Feb 27, 2017

Juventus have named their squad for tomorrow’s Napoli game, with Claudio Marchisio, Stefano Sturaro and Medhi Benatia out.

Tomorrow sees the first leg of the Coppa Italia Semi-Final, with the Bianconeri looking to win the competition for the third year in a row.

Marchisio misses out having taken a knock to the knee against Empoli, while Sturaro has an abdominal injury.

Centre-back Benatia also misses out due to gastroenteritis, but former Napoli man Gonzalo Higuain is included and could face the side he left in the summer.

Juventus squad to face Napoli: Buffon, Chiellini, Pjanic, Khedira, Cuadrado, Higuain, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Mandzukic, Lemina, Bonucci, Pjaca, Dybala, Asamoah, Dani Alves, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Rincon, Audero, Mandragora

Socrates · February 28, 2017

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

COPPA ITALIA TIM - SEMIFINAL

Tuesday, February 28th 2017 - 8:45 p.m.

Juventus Stadium - Turin

Referee: Paolo Valeri

Juventus v Napoli Coppa Italia Match Preview

http://www.juvefc.com/juventus-v-napoli-coppa-italia-match-preview/

Feb 27, 2017

Juventus v Napoli

Coppa Italia – Tuesday, 28th February – 19:45 GMT – Juventus Stadium

Juventus

It was a routine 2-0 win against Empoli at the weekend, however Juve face a tougher task when they welcome a wounded Napoli side for the first-leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final.

Despite taking 50 mins to open the scoring, the result never looked in doubt against Empoli. The away side played as well as they could, defending doggedly and limiting Juve for a large portion of the game, however the inevitable opener came courtesy of Mario Mandzukic before Alex Sandro put the result beyond doubt. The Bianconeri rarely needed to exert themselves, controlling the game with relative ease and creating chances through the flanks. The squad was rotated to a certain extent, meaning we’ll likely see a revised Juve back line for the visit of Napoli.

Speaking ahead of the game, Allegri dropped some hints on the tactics and approach to the match, as well as the possible starters.

“We will face a Napoli who will be very angry about Saturday’s defeat against Atalanta. It is not the case that in three days they have lost everything they have done well in these two years, so it will be a complicated game.

“And above all it is an Italian Cup semi-final, where the most important thing is not conceding goals, especially, because we play the first match at home. We have five defenders, who I will rate today. Someone will rest through necessity, then I will decide who to play.

“I have to evaluate the whole team. Yesterday, those who have not played had good workout, there will be some changes, then today I will assess what those will be.

“I always say that during the season it is impossible to win all the games at the beginning. At the end of the season there few matches won in the first half and a few won in the second half.

“The most important thing is that the team had gone with this new formation with the intention of opening up the games at the beginning. The danger is getting to get to a game where maybe you score early, then lose little patience and become nervous because maybe you had not opened the game enough.

“This is something that did not happen and should not happen, because when the team is aware of their strengths, they manage the game well mentally.

“The boys showed this in Crotone where we were 0-0 and only opened up the game in the second half, as what happened with Empoli and as will happen again later on.

“Tomorrow we hope to open up the game right away, as although there are 95 minutes to win games, you can get frustrated and lose faith if you don’t do so right away The strength of a team, the strength of our team has to be the one.

“It’s normal that the other day Dybala, when he came on, is a player that connects the two midfielders and attackers.

“So we have more geometry, more passing options and technical quality in the field, which is what counts in the end, the important thing is not to lose the strength and unity of the team.

“So Sturaro has qualities and characteristics different from Mandzukic when playing outside, Mandzukic doesn’t have the characteristics of Dybala when playing near Higuain. It is normal that in the middle they spend a little less time together.

“The most important thing is that the team is always tidy and not doesn’t lose strength.”

Marchisio, Sturaro and Benatia have been ruled out through injury and illness while Gigi Buffon will be rested, meaning Neto will start a second match in succession. Dani Alves started at the weekend so we’ll probably see Lichtsteiner at right-back with Bonucci and Chiellini in the centre and Asamoah at left-back. Pjanic and Khedira seem the best pairing in the centre while Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic and Higuain will hope to pick up where they left off.

Probable lineup:

4-2-3-1: Neto; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Asamoah; Khedira, Pjanic; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain.

Injuries:

Mandragora (foot)

Suspensions:

None.

Napoli

Probable lineup:

4-3-3: Reina; Maggio, Koulibaly, Albiol, Ghoulam; Zielinski, Diawara, Hamisk; Callejon, Milik, Insigne

Accedi

JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

Recommended Posts

Socrates 8526

Manager’s pre-match comments ahead of Saturday’s game

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Best Player

Goal Choice

Alex Sandro

Fan Choice

Worst Player

Goal Choice

V. Laurini

Fan Choice

Juventus

Empoli

Substitutes

Substitutes

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio

Condividi su altri siti

Socrates 8526

Condividi questo messaggio

Link di questo messaggio