Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Monaco squad to face Juventus http://www.football-italia.net/102002/monaco-squad-face-juventus May 2, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Monaco have named their squad to face Juventus in the Champions League semi-final, including Tiemoué Bakayoko and Djibril Sidibé. The first leg kicks off at the Stade Louis II on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT). There were concerns as to the presence of Bakayoko, who broke his nose during an accidental training ground clash with Kamil Glik on Friday. The defensive midfielder missed a 3-1 win over Toulouse at the weekend and it remains to be seen if he’ll be able to start with the aid of a protective mask. Right-back Sidibé is also back in the squad after surgery for appendicitis on April 9. As he hasn’t played in almost a month and had this delicate operation, it is again unlikely that Sidibé will be in the starting XI against Juventus. Monaco squad for Juventus: Subasic, De Sanctis; Diallo, Glik, Jemerson, Jorge, Mendy, Raggi, Sidibé, Touré; Fabinho, Bakayoko, Bernardo Silva, Moutinho, Dirar, Lemar; Mbappé, Falcao, Germain, Cardona Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Radamel Falcao: 'Anything is possible' http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/as-monaco/champions- league/news/radamel-falcao-anything-is-possible_297297.html May 2, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE AS Monaco striker Radamel Falcao has insisted that "anything is possible" ahead of his side's Champions League semi-final with Juventus on Wednesday night. Monaco welcome the Italian champions to the Stade Louis II for the first leg tomorrow night as they look to upset the odds and reach the final of the competition for the first time since 2004. Juventus have conceded just two goals in this season's competition, including keeping clean sheets in both quarter-final legs against Barcelona, but Falcao is confident that his side can cause their defence problems. "Juve are a balanced team and one which is difficult to budge," the 31-year-old told L'Equipe. "They are a great defensive unit, but anything is possible. Monaco's attack is also very good." Monaco are the top scorers in Europe's top five leagues this season, with Falcao alone contributing 28 goals across all competitions. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Monaco striker Mbappe touted as 'Henry's successor' by Trezeguet The World Cup winner considers the highly-rated teenage frontman to have the potential to emulate the achievements of an iconic countryman. http://www.goal.com/en/news/8/main/2017/05/02/35157412/- May 2, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Former Monaco and Juventus striker David Trezeguet sees Kylian Mbappe as a potential successor to legendary countryman Thierry Henry. The Arsenal icon also graced the books of Monaco and Juve during his playing days, while tasting World Cup and European Championship success alongside Trezeguet. Henry is now considered to be an all-time great and the man who sets the standard for other French forwards to follow. Mbappe has offered enough in his short career to date to suggest that he is capable of reaching a similar level, with the 18-year-old talked up once again ahead of a Champions League clash with Juve. Trezeguet told Le Parisien: “Mbappe is the player that Juventus will have to keep an eye on since he is very dynamic. “I think he can become Henry's successor, he has it all. Time will tell in his case but I like him very much so. “Falcao? He is a very good striker too, if you don't give him the respect he deserves he can punish you.” While Monaco boast plenty of firepower in attack, they will face one of the toughest defensive units in world football when they lock horns with Juve, with the Serie A champions boasting a collection of global superstars within their ranks. “Juve's main strength is their defensive solidity, they are very hard to score on,” added Trezeguet. “[Gianluigi] Buffon seems like a youngster, he is a superstar keeper. Alongside [Fabien] Barthez, they are the two best keepers I have ever played with. “[Leonardo] Bonucci is the leader of [Max] Allegri's defence and he also starts up the play well too. [Giorgio] Chiellini is also really solid, he does more of the dirty work. Dani Alves and Alex Sandro adapted perfectly to their new team, they are hard to beat.” Monaco will welcome Juve to Stade Louis II for the first leg of their semi-final showdown on Wednesday. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Zidane wants Real Madrid-Juve Final http://www.football-italia.net/102009/zidane-wants-real-madrid-juve-final May 2, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Zinedine Zidane hopes Real Madrid will face his old club Juventus in the Champions League Final in Cardiff. The Merengues have one foot in the Final after tonight’s 3-0 demolition of Atletico Madrid at the Bernabeu, sealed with a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick. “We are happy with what we’ve done so far, but we’re not in the Final yet,” Zidane told Mediaset Premium. “We scored and above all kept a clean sheet, but we still need to play the second leg next week. “The great thing about Ronaldo is that at the decisive moments, he is always there. He scored three goals and is a unique player. “The credit is all down to him, I have nothing to do with it. He’s a great professional and always wants to win. He is never sated.” Tomorrow evening Monaco and Juventus go head-to-head in the other semi-final, so who is Zidane cheering on. “You already know that,” said Zizou in Italian with a smile. The French maestro played for five years in a Juventus jersey before coming to Real Madrid. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Allegri: The numbers speak for Monaco Manager’s comments ahead of Champions League semi-final http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/5/2/15523404/allegri-comments -monaco-juventus-preview-champions-league-semi-final-2017 May 2, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Juventus take on Monaco in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal tomorrow, and manager Massimiliano Allegri spoke to the media ahead of the game. Sami Khedira is suspended and Claudio Marchisio is expected to start in his place. “The system doesn’t change. Khedira is a more physical player and Marchisio has more movement. Claudio is in good shape, has improved a lot over the last month and is an important player we have rediscovered.” On their opponents Monaco who have proven to be an offensive juggernaut. “Monaco play with great pace on vertical lines. They are very different to two seasons ago. “Looking at the statistics, it’s easy to imagine a game in a certain way, but football is unpredictable. Monaco tend to score a lot in the final stages, so we need to have great respect for this team and get it into our heads that two legs have to be played to the best of our abilities, because this is very complicated.” Two years ago Juve beat Monaco, what has changed in that time? “The statistics show Monaco have changed both in attack and defence. They tend to do much better in front of goal, whereas two years ago the characteristics of their players suggested much more solidity. “Leonardo Jardim has done an extraordinary job. They are in the Champions League semi-final, ahead of PSG in Ligue 1, who were one of the big favourites to win the Champions League, so you can’t argue with that.” How about Gonzalo Higuain, who has struggled to score in the Champions League. “Higuain was signed to improve the attacking potential of the squad. He is having a great campaign and scored many goals, but he’s not just valuable for his goals. He had a great game against Barcelona. “If he scores tomorrow, you’ll probably start calling him ‘the Champions League man’, but the fact remains he’s having a wonderful season.” Speaking of scorers, Radamel Falcao is the main point of attack for Monaco, not just wonderkid Kylian Mbappe. “Before the injury, Falcao was one of the best centre-forwards in the world. Now he is returning to an extraordinary and very dangerous striker. “The numbers speak for Monaco. The forwards work well together, Falcao has experience and is a fox in the box, Mbappe has great pace and technique, loves running into space. The whole team has improved over two years. “They also have very good midfielders and in defence. A team finds success if it is organised, but also has very good players.” On what he would advise his team as they went out for the game tomorrow. “In these games, the team knows what it should do and should not do. Tomorrow we must not play like we did in the first half against Atalanta, as that approach would cause huge problems against a side like Monaco with their characteristics.” Does Allegri feel more comfortable about the Scudetto after Roma’s loss in the Derby? “Naturally having a nine-point advantage with four games to go is good, but it changes nothing in our mentality or the way we are preparing this match. We have the same number of days to prepare for the Turin Derby, a match we absolutely want to win.” As always, Allegri was asked about his future with Juve. “Will I be the Juventus Coach next season? I will meet with the club later, but we don’t have the time right now, because we have other things to think about.” Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Mbappé Menace Europe’s hottest new talent Kylian Mbappé poses a real threat to Juventus’ treble dream, writes Nick Valerio. http://www.football-italia.net/101961/mbappé-menace May 2, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Monaco may be the least experienced of the Champions League semi-finalists, but for the Scudetto holders this will be a different type of challenge to Barcelona, and one which cannot be underestimated. Central to the Ligue 1 leaders’ hopes is wonderkid Kylian Mbappé, a history-maker at the tender age of 18. With goals in both legs of the quarter-final victory over Borussia Dortmund, the Frenchman became the youngest player ever to accomplish such a feat, and what he has achieved in his fledgling career so far is nothing short of staggering. If Max Allegri’s men didn’t know already, they have a tie on their hands and, really, Leonardo Jardim’s team have nothing to lose, making Mbappé even more dangerous. The contest has been billed as ‘attack versus defence’ but this is a disservice to the Italian Champions, who themselves boast an array of forward stars, not least one of the figureheads of the post-Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi era: Paulo Dybala. Dybala will come face to face with Mbappé, who is destined to reach similar heights, and the plaudits given to the striker are richly deserved. He is the complete package: searing pace, power and the intelligence of a veteran, which sets him apart from those in his age bracket. Don’t be fooled by his youthful demeanour, he has displayed a ruthlessness beyond anything in recent memory for someone of his stage of development. The Paris-born attacker is outscoring the best players in Europe and will relish the opportunity to stretch the Juventus rear-guard. The showdown will be approached as just another game and this is an admirable stance for a young man enjoying his football, something which will carry him in good stead going forward. For Mbappé, inexperience can certainly work in his favour. The teen sensation has a coolness in front of goal that cannot be taught, and finishes like a seasoned professional. Since the turn of the year, few have succeeded in shutting out the forward and if he can isolate Giorgio Chiellini, then Gigi Buffon can expect to have his hands full. He will show no mercy against the likes of Leonardo Bonucci and Chiellini, if given the slightest of openings. In some respect, the match-up will be a more difficult prospect than facing Luis Suarez and the La Liga giants, as they have gone to battle on numerous occasions. Against Monaco, and particularly Mbappé, Juventus will be facing a completely different test. What’s for certain is we are witnessing something special. The Bianconeri may be the favourites, but will have to stop a clinical youngster who won’t be fazed by the occasion. This, is easier said than done and there is a real danger this prodigious talent could put an end to Juventus’ very own shot at making history. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Higuain's time to shine The stage is set for Gonzalo Higuain to fire Juventus to Champions League glory this season, writes Livio Caferoglu. http://www.football-italia.net/102014/higuains-time-shine May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE It’s for precisely nights like this that Juventus smashed the Italian transfer record to sign Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli last summer. The Bianconeri’s Serie A dominance was likely to continue for at least another season even without Paul Pogba, so the onus is now on the Argentine to prove he was worth €90m – or at least close to it. The furthest Juve have gone in the Champions League in recent memory is the 2014-15 campaign, when the Old Lady reached the Final, but lost 3-1 to Barcelona. That season, Max Allegri had made only slight tweaks to Antonio Conte’s side that – while no match for their rivals in Italy – had struggled to make an impact in Europe. This term, however, the Turin giants have already scored as many goals as they did in the aforementioned campaign (17), with at least two more games to play. Higuain may have only scored three of those, but there was little doubt of Juve reaching the knock-out stages. There’s no guarantee of that changing against Monaco, but there are 90m reasons why it should. The Argentine was forced to rotate with Karim Benzema at Real Madrid and scored just eight Champions League goals in six years for Los Blancos. And when the chances fell for him to show he was befitting of their No 9 jersey, he missed an open goal against Lyon in the 2009-10 Round of 16 and fluffed a one-on-one versus Borussia Dortmund in the 2012-13 semi-finals. He was subsequently shipped off to Napoli in 2013, where he came one goal shy of doubling his European tally in two thirds of the games. Although he never scaled the heights that he could with the Bianconeri, the argument was that the Partenopei were not good enough to mix it with the cream of the continent, regardless of the forward’s contributions. His statistics are not impressive in Europe’s top competition, scoring only 17 goals in 64 appearances. Worryingly, only two of those came in knockout round fixtures. “Can Juve win the Champions League this season? I hope so. That’s why I came here,” he affirmed to UEFA.com before Juve beat Barca 3-0 in their quarter-final first leg. “Of course, the Champions League is a dream we want to make reality.” Higuain turns 30 in December and cannot afford to pass up any more opportunities in big matches. As such, the stage is seemingly set for the No 9 to not only break the hearts of former club Madrid in the Final, but more importantly fire Juve to Champions League glory this season. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Allegri: Juventus Must Be At Their Best Against Monaco https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2017/05/allegri-juventus -must-be-at-their-best-against-monaco/ May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has declared that his team cannot underestimate Champions League semi-final opponents Monaco on Wednesday. The Bianconeri travel to the Stade Louis II for the first leg of their clash against the Ligue 1 leaders, and know that a positive result would put them in the driving seat for a second Champions League final appearance in three seasons. Indeed, Juventus defeated Monaco en route to the final in 2015, after a 1-0 win in Turin was followed up by a 0-0 draw away at the quarter-final stage. However, Allegri insisted that his side are facing a different proposition this time around, particularly as Monaco have scored three goals in each of their past four Champions League matches. “Monaco now play very direct and at great speed, it’s a very different team from two years ago,” the 49-year-old told the assorted press on Tuesday. “Their attack is much better now, and there is real strength in this team. “They have won 13 of their past 15 matches, and scored a lot of goals in the final few minutes. I have great respect for this team, and to play against them over two legs will be difficult. “We will need to be at our best.” The return fixture will be held at the Juventus Stadium on Tuesday May 9. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Juventus shouldn't underestimate plucky Monaco in UCL semifinal http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/3117870/juventus- shouldn-underestimate-plucky-monaco-in-champions-league-semifinal May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Europe's most-prolific attack is set to face the continent's stingiest defence as Monaco host Juventus in the Champions League semifinal on Wednesday evening. Having attacked their way into the hearts of many neutrals, Monaco are blessed with talent, electrifying pace and youthful vitality. With two incredibly gifted squads set to face off, the real battle might just be between two tacticians who deserve to be praised for what they have achieved with their respective sides in the past few seasons. While Massimiliano Allegri has created a side so beautifully balanced, winning by virtue of its high IQ and perfect tactics, Leonardo Jardim has impressed with his ability to develop and nurture the stars of tomorrow, creating a formidable side that continues to defy the odds. Once dubbed a pragmatic coach who bored the fans with his football, few tacticians have proved to be as versatile and intelligent as Jardim. Extolling the virtues of his young side, the Portuguese coach has done exceptionally well to ensure his group of hopefuls not only challenge for trophies but remain motivated and determined for the entirety of the season. That is no small feat considering Monaco have played more games than most this season, 57 to be exact. That is perhaps why Juventus are not taking this match lightly. Reading Kylian Mbappe's and Radamel Falcao's statistics can indeed induce a little panic especially when one considers how much Juve dislike fast and young players running at them. Force them to face the technical and the Bianconeri usually have an answer, organising themselves in fantastic fashion but pit them against relentless pace and energy and mistakes will be made. One need only look at what happened against Atalanta over the weekend. However, Juventus are well aware of what is at stake on Wednesday night and they must prove to themselves and the world that this really is their season and Barcelona was just one of their many breath-taking performances this year. A side admired for their balance, versatility and intelligence, Juventus are the best they have been since the Fabio Capello years. Capable of playing with physicality, technique, with possession or without, few sides can adapt and change as seamlessly as Juventus. They dispensed with a young and talented Monaco side in 1998 and emerged victorious again in 2015 but on both those occasions, they didn't manage an away win. The Stade Louis II is a difficult stadium to play in and that is perhaps why Monaco are undefeated at home in the Champions League this season. If a win cannot be achieved then Juventus must try to get at least one away goal. While the Italians are often admired for their defensive skills, their offensive game has also proved enthralling, especially when Paulo Dybala has worked his magic between the lines. A creative maestro who passes, moves and dribbles to perfection, the Argentine hasn't proved quite as clinical away from home. In fact, Dybala has only managed two away goals this season, both of which were scored in the same week early in the season, albeit against different opposition. When you combine those stats with Gonzalo Higuain's record in the big games, a little fear might kick in. However, like their opponent, Juventus are not reliant upon one goal scorer and can hit the back of the net in a multitude of ways. Considering how high Jardim's full-backs push forward, they will leave space behind that a fast Juan Cuadrado and energetic Alex Sandro must exploit to create the necessary opportunities. The Colombian excels with his pace and when switched on, can prove majestic in both phases of the game but he must prove more decisive with his runs or he risks just wasting time. As for Higuain, he may not be scoring the goals but his sacrifice and intelligent runs have not gone unnoticed. In fact what few notice is how important he is at helping Juve transition from defending narrowly to attacking wide to cause havoc -- a tactic that threatened Barcelona and will greatly trouble Jardim's men. The Bianconeri are capable of a goal or three but with Sami Khedira suspended, there is a worry they will be less physical and thus less capable of fighting off Monaco's advances. However, what Claudio Marchisio lacks in brute force, he more than makes up for with remarkable intelligence. One of the finest off-the-ball runners in world football today, he reads space well and will be useful in occupying the right gaps to stop the opponent from piercing through, forcing them to hopefully go wide. Monaco cannot be allowed to reach the byline or even run down the channels. Juventus must force the speedy players to prove there is more to them than exquisite pace. What Il Principino can offer is more technique going forward. A better passer of the ball and more opportunistic than his German teammate, his vision and timely runs forward will do more damage going forward. Boasting experience, tactical intelligence and mental fortitude, Juventus has a rare chance of accomplishing something truly special this season. With experience, the right level of intensity and concentration, Juve might just partake in their ninth Champions League final. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Buffon: Champions League is not an obsession Club captain’s press conference highlights http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/5/3/15523634/gigi-buffon- champions-league-is-not-an-obsession-juventus-monaco-semi-final-preview May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Juventus captain and icon Gianluigi Buffon spoke to the media ahead of Juve’s first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Monaco, talking about what playing in the competition means to him. “If Juventus and Monaco reached this stage of the season, playing for a Champions League Final, they did it because they deserved to and have qualities that got them here. “Therefore aside from the expectations and early season projects, I think it’ll be a balanced game between two very important teams who deservedly reached this stage and did so with a certain confidence. “It’s qualification played over 180 minutes and that might suit us more. I also believe Monaco, being a young and vital team, will have the enthusiasm and healthy lack of cynicism that youth gives you – I too was a young player and know full well what it means to play in games where you feel unbeatable and indestructible. “That is the danger, because we are facing a side that is not in the semi-final because of some fluke. They clearly and without doubt knocked out Tottenham and Bayer Leverkusen, then Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund. “Two years ago we were probably tense because facing Barcelona in the Final, a team made up of those champions, is not relaxing. You can’t arrive to that in frivolous and joyful fashion, or it’d be an enormous advantage to the opposition. “The approach to certain games is very personal. Whereas two years ago on the one hand we could be relaxed, as reaching the Final was unexpected, this time we can be more relaxed because overcoming this hurdle would be the almost logical conclusion to a journey we started years ago, taking us to sit at these levels with comfort. “Unlike two years ago, Monaco are flying in Ligue 1 as well, so that brings more confidence and enthusiasm. Juventus never lacked for support from the local fans, even if we played in Tokyo, so there being many Italians in Monaco will I’m sure make the crowd as enthusiastic as ever.” He was then asked what contribution was expected from Gonzalo Higuain. “If by contribution you mean decisive goals, we are happy whoever finds the net and makes our passage easier. Gonzalo didn’t score over two legs against Barcelona, but he helped us ensure that we didn’t concede – which really is thanks to the whole team, starting from the strikers. “He also helped our moves work in a fluid manner by finding himself in the right position, contributing crucial assists or passes. I know everyone expects goals from him, but I hope he won’t lose that attitude he’s had with us this season, as with that attitude we can go further in the tournament.” When Juventus eliminated Monaco a couple of years ago, the French team was quite different. “Monaco are a very attack-minded and fresh-faced side who are really strong going forward. You can tell their Coach teaches them a quality style of attacking play, but you can also do that with players who have technical qualities beyond the norm. “Mbappé is the star of the team, the player who gets the headlines over the last six months, but along with him there are Radamel Falcao and other lads who are real dangers. I have total respect for Monaco, because I know that whatever happens tomorrow – unless there’s a two or three goal gap – their characteristics would leave the tie open for the second leg. “They have this attitude that makes them unpredictable and that means you never know what could happen. “I don’t think Monaco will change their approach. They came here with their characteristics and guarantees, so I imagine they’ll want to continue that philosophy. It’s a rewarding philosophy, as it has taken them at least to the Champions League semi-final. “This Monaco plays total football, is a pleasure to watch and has caught the eye of many football experts. They are wonderful and I sincerely doubt they’ll step back from that approach just because they are in the semi-final and facing Juventus. “I like what Falcao said, because at the end of the day this is a person who is grounded in reality, because for 90 per cent of players, you don’t get many chances after the age of 30 at a Champions League Final. “However, all of us hold within us this hope that we can have another chance or opportunity to celebrate an achievement that was unheard of. This is the way of viewing things for a competitive athlete, who says things that are not presumptuous, but has belief in himself that can make people doubt their birth certificate.” Buffon confessed he had pledged to retire if he kept two clean sheets against Barcelona. What would be the pledge for Monaco? “I made the pledge before the first leg, so extra complicated. It’s a way of keeping ourselves young, of motivating yourself, but it’s also true that when I was younger, I’d make these bets with myself, that if someone scored from the edge of the box, I’d go to the HQ and tear up my contract! “I had to motivate myself to shake things up and set little or big targets. The President was very good with this and he said nothing happens at Juventus without me knowing about it – many dumb things are said, let it go.” What does playing in the Champions League really mean to him? “I understand it might be hard to believe, but for me playing a Champions League semi-final at my age is really something that stokes my enthusiasm and is not an obsession. It makes me happy and keeps me young, regardless of whether I win or not. “I know that in these games, I’ll have the ability to express my essence – who I am and why I was born. This makes me very happy and gives strong sensations. It’s the taking part. My approach is very relaxed, positive and I don’t think I am owed anything. Absolutely not. “If we win the Champions League, it won’t change anything. I have a contract to 2018 and still have targets through to 2018, whether I win the trophy or not.” Who in the Madrid derby was Buffon supporting to get through? “I will certainly watch it, as this is a game that needs to be seen, regardless of potential rivals. I am not cheering anyone on, as I am a disinterested party. Whoever wins, in case of a hypothetical final, would be a tough opponent to deal with. “I like the solidity and unity of Atletico Madrid very much, but in the Champions League, Real Madrid have something special and always manage to overturn the odds or win games that were thought unthinkable. They were born under a luminous star. As I said before, that’s the kind of attitude you get from staying at a certain level for long periods.” Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Monaco vs Juventus match preview The Italians will be heavy favourites to progress to the Champions League final but must contain their opponents' lethal attack. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2914/champions-league/2017/05/03/35166372/- May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Juventus will hope to secure their second appearance in the Champions League final in three years when they take on Monaco in the last four. The Ligue 1 side host the first leg of the semi-final tie at Stade Louis II on Wednesday night having beaten both Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund 3-1 on home turf. As Barcelona found out, however, the Bianconeri will be a substantially more difficult side to break down as they seek to establish a lead to protect in the reverse fixture in Turin. SQUADS & TEAM NEWS Position Monaco players Goalkeepers Subasic, De Sanctis Defenders Diallo, Fabinho, Glik, Jemerson, Jorge, Mendy, Raggi, Sidibe, Toure Midfielders Bakayoko, Dirar, Lemar, Moutinho, Silva Forwards Cardona, Falcao, Germain, Mbappe Dijibril Sidibe is back for Monaco and could return to the lineup at right-back at the expense of youngster Almamy Toure, who has filled in admirably in his absence. Fabinho is back from suspension and can be expected to be reunited with Tiemoue Bakayoko in central midfield for the first time in this competition since the last 16. Potential starting XI: Subasic; Sidibe, Glik, Jemerson, Mendy; Silva, Fabinho, Bakayoko, Lemar; Falcao, Mbappe. Position Juventus players Goalkeepers Buffon, Neto, Audero Defenders Chiellini, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Mattiello, Barzagli, Bonucci, Dani Alves, Lichtsteiner Midfielders Pjanic, Cuadrado, Marchisio, Lemina, Asamoah, Sturaro, Rincon Forwards Higuain, Mandzukic, Dybala Juventus are without Sami Khedira, who is suspended, so Claudio Marchisio will partner Miralem Pjanic in midfield. Otherwise the Bianconeri are likely to be unchanged from the second leg of their quarter-final tie against Barcelona, with their new 4-2-3-1 formation having served them well against the Catalans. Potential starting XI: Buffon; Dani Alves, Bonucci, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Pjanic, Marchisio; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain. BETTING & GAME ODDS Juventus are 29/20 favourites despite being away home, according to Oddschecker, with Monaco available at 21/10 and the draw priced at 5/2. Gonzalo Higuain is the 4/1 favourite to score first, with Falcao and Paulo Dybala priced at 11/2 and Kylian Mbappe available at 13/2. GAME PREVIEW This season marks Juventus' 10th back in Serie A following the Calciopoli match-fixing scandal, and though their domestic dominance has become total over that time there is one trophy that they are still yet to recapture. That is, of course, the Champions League, which Juve had not won in the decade prior to their relegation, either. It has even eluded Gianluigi Buffon, who had just made his first handful of Serie A appearances for Parma when the Bianconeri were last crowned European champions in 1996. Antonio Conte was in the team for that victory over Ajax, went on to lose another two finals with Juve, became their manager and won three Serie A titles and is now in England and on course to win another league championship. Kylian Mbappe was not even born until 1998. It has been a while. While this year's semi-finals feature three of the four teams that have made the past two finals, though, it nevertheless feels as open a competition as we have had for some time and Juve's best opportunity to end that drought. When Massimiliano Allegri's team made the final in 2015, they were powerless to resist Barcelona's attacking trident of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar and never had much chance. No team in Europe could stop them. This time, however, they enter their semi-final against a talented but inexperienced Monaco team as strong favourites and, if they can progress, will have a team from Madrid waiting in the final. Real are star-studded and never say die, but are not the whirlwind Barca were two years ago. Atletico are defensively spectacular but Juve are not bad in that regard, either, and have a star in Paulo Dybala to match the Spaniards' Antoine Griezmann. This might be as good a chance as they get. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) High-flying Monaco face stiffest Champions League test yet in Juventus http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/3117855/high- flying-monaco-face-stiffest-champions-league-test-yet-in-juventus-tie May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE MONACO -- There did not seem to be anything particularly pressing to talk about when speaking with a group of British journalists at a Paris hotel in October 2014, so Monaco vice president Vadim Vasilyev shed some light on the new path his club wished to take. The short-lived boom period on the Cote d'Azur appeared to be over. Radamel Falcao and James Rodriguez, both signed the previous year for huge fees, had been moved on during the summer as Monaco sought to cut their cloth according to the demands of financial fair play. Many frills that had brought attention on the global stage would have to be dispensed with. A recalibration focused on developing younger players would follow, and it would, Vasilyev expected, take some time. "We have the same ambitions but we have to modify our strategy," Vasilyev explained. "It will take a longer time now. But the president [Dmitry Rybolovlev] remains ambitious and we want to play a top role, first of all in French football and eventually, we hope, in European football." The latter, in particular, has come around sooner than anyone could have expected, and that fact will be inescapable to anyone watching events at Stade Louis II on Wednesday night. When Monaco walk out to face Juventus, they will do so as Europe's freshest, most vibrant top-level side; Monaco are on the verge of winning Ligue 1 and now have a realistic chance, almost unthinkable two and a half years ago, of winning their first Champions League title. The team have gone, almost in an instant, from personifying the kind of excess associated with this gilded, glamorous principality to operating as a beacon of stability, planning and progress. If there is a neutrals' favourite in this year's last four, it is manager Leonardo Jardim's fearless and free-flowing Monaco. This will, unmistakably, be their biggest test yet. While the victories over Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund -- not to mention Tottenham in the group stage -- were won through scintillating football, there is something far more practised, more gnarled and knowing, about the Italian champions than any opponent Monaco have played so far. Juventus are a European winning machine par excellence; they cut a predictable dash upon arriving at the stadium on Tuesday evening, and as Juve keeper Gianluigi Buffon faced the media, his very presence was a reminder of the job Monaco face. They are up against a side whose spine is stacked with experience and who have ice coursing through their veins. Juventus have a persuasive case to be the best side in Europe; they keep you out at one end and pick you off at the other, and with 21 years having passed since their last anointment as European champions, they have their own motivations for seizing this opportunity. That last Juventus title came in 1996, and there are parallels between this Monaco side and the Ajax XI that Juve defeated on penalties in the final. A thrilling young Dutch team would lose several key players in the months after that agonising reverse in Rome; Nwankwo Kanu would sign for Arsenal, Finidi George for Real Betis and Edgar Davids for AC Milan. Patrick Kluivert would depart the following year, and Ajax, thrusting and fearless in that era, have not been the same since. The difference is that Ajax's tyros had already won the Champions League a year previously. Monaco - who, Buffon said in an unwitting nod to the Eredivisie club, play "total football" -- would love to do the same. The fear, despite Vasilyev's recent assertion that they do not need to sell any of their players, is that this year's team may be a fleeting delight. They have an average age of 24 and the vultures are circling. Kylian Mbappe, just 18 and with 15 goals in his last 16 games, attracts the most attention, but Bernardo Silva, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Thomas Lemar and the explosive full-back pairing of Djibril Sidibe and Benjamin Mendy have brought the scouts flocking too. Monaco are financially stable, but their place in the European pecking order remains at least one notch below the bigger teams in Spain and England, for example. It is impossible not to sense that this blend of players are in the throes of their only shot at glory together before being picked apart by the continent's big spenders. Buffon, himself chasing the first Champions League trophy of a storied career, suggested the rigours of a 180-minute tie might favour Juventus, but acknowledged the force that lies behind Wednesday's hosts. "I also believe Monaco, being a young and vital team, will have the enthusiasm and healthy lack of cynicism that youth gives you," he said. "I too was a young player and know full well what it means to play in games where you feel unbeatable and indestructible." Except for thrashings at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain in the two French Cup competitions, that is exactly the feeling Monaco give off -- those are the only games in their last 13 that Monaco have not won. But Juventus, with a single defeat in their last 21 games and eight clean sheets from their 10 Champions League ties this season, hardly seem any less sturdy -- and in this tie something will have to give, be it youthful precociousness or the sagacity of experience. There is one thing that suggests Monaco, whether or not they clear this hurdle, won't be going away anytime soon -- and that the plan Vasilyev laid out has the potential to deliver year on year. Two seasons ago, they met Juventus at the quarterfinal stage, the Old Lady winning a tight and drab tie by the odd goal. Only three of the side that started the second leg at Stade Louis II are likely to start on Wednesday; among the other Monaco players involved in 2015 were Anthony Martial, Layvin Kurzawa, Geoffrey Kondogbia and Yannick Ferreira Carrasco, all young players who rose to prominence at the club before moving on for significant fees. If that side was the first to sprout from their new approach, this season's team is a further development -- and the state of their recruitment and youth setup hint at more successful iterations to come. Monaco have thrived under Jardim after hiring him to replace Claudio Ranieri, primarily due to an ability to develop players. "We needed a coach that will be closer to the club's management, that will be part of our long-term strategy, that will have a focus on developing young players," Vasilyev said during that meeting in Paris. And perhaps Jardim's club will keep their place at the top table that way -- reinventing and shape-shifting every year or two but staying ahead of the competition through the quality of talent they produce. Regardless of the future, over the coming seven days the here and now will take priority. It is hard to call them favourites against a side that overwhelmed Barcelona -- but anything like the verve Monaco have shown on this stage in the last eight months would give them a chance of delivering something far above and beyond the vision Vasilyev and the rest of their board drew up in 2014. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Monaco v Juventus Champions League Preview http://www.juvefc.com/monaco-v-juventus-champions-league-preview-2/ May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE AS Monaco v Juventus Champions League – Wednesday, 3rd May – 19:45 GMT – Stade Louis II Juventus It was a heroic performance over two legs against Barcelona that brings us to this point, and the players and supporters can draw strength from that comprehensive display, especially the game at the Camp Nou, where the result never looked in doubt. Juventus have looked a different proposition in the Champions League this season. The experience of the senior players, the addition of Dani Alves, the shift in tactics and approach, all combined with a genuine belief that this is finally our year has seen them progress to the semi-final stage with an impressive record. Just 2 goals conceded, 17 scored and 10 games unbeaten is a testament to the work that Allegri has done and the efforts of the players throughout the campaign. There’s no denying that Monaco will be a tough proposition over two-legs and the Juve players have spoken of the respect they have for their young opponents. They’ve beaten Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund, showcasing their attacking talent on their way to the semi-finals. Bernardo and Thomas Lemar have been sensational on the flanks, often cutting inside and allowing the full-backs to maraud forward in support of the attack. They’re well-organised, disciplined and every player knows the role of his team mate to the point where they can cover in various positions and never lose their shape. This will not be easy. For all Monaco’s attacking strength, Juve have played all the better since the shift to 4-2-3-1, using all our attacking players at the same time to maximum effect. Given Monaco’s obvious threat down the flanks, we can be thankful to have players like Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado, always ready and prepared to track back in the wide positions to cover for the defence, as we saw against Barcelona. The draw against Atalanta was a similar sort of test, in some ways, to this match – A young side, full of confidence and intent, not pandering to the reputation of the team in front of them. We’ll need to be sharper, better organised and more disciplined than we were at the weekend. Allegri addressed Monaco’s strengths in his pre-game presser: “Monaco play with great pace on vertical lines. They are very different to two seasons ago. “The statistics show Monaco have changed both in attack and defence. They tend to do much better in front of goal, whereas two years ago the characteristics of their players suggested much more solidity. “Leonardo Jardim has done an extraordinary job. They are in the Champions League semi-final, ahead of PSG in Ligue 1, who were one of the big favourites to win the Champions League, so you can’t argue with that. “Before the injury, Falcao was one of the best centre-forwards in the world. Now he is returning to an extraordinary and very dangerous striker. “The numbers speak for Monaco. The forwards work well together, Falcao has experience and is a fox in the box, Mbappe has great pace and technique, loves running into space. The whole team has improved over two years. “They also have very good midfielders and in defence. A team finds success if it is organised, but also has very good players.” There won’t be too many surprises in the starting XI – Gigi Buffon will start in goal, with Dani Alves and Alex Sandro playing in the full-back roles and Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci playing in the centre of defence. Sami Khedira has been in superb form since the start of the year but his absence through suspension will give Claudio Marchisio a chance to play in midfield alongside Miralem Pjanic. Juan Cuadrado and Mario Mandzukic will play on the wings while Paulo Dybala will sit just behind Gonzalo Higuain. Probable lineup: 4-2-3-1: Buffon; Alves, Bonucci, Chiellini, Sandro; Marchisio, Pjanic; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain. Injuries: Pjaca (knee), Rugani (knee) Suspensions: Khedira AS Monaco For a full Monaco preview, read our Q&A here. Probable lineup: 4-4-2: Subasic; Sidibe, Jemerson, Glik, Mendy; Silva, Fabinho, Bakayoko, Lemar; Falcao, Mbappe Injuries: Boschilia, Carrillo. Suspensions: None Formation Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Throwback: Monaco-Juventus 1998 http://www.football-italia.net/102024/throwback-monaco-juventus-1998 May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE The last time Monaco and Juventus met in the Champions League semi-finals, it proved to be a classic tie. The Bianconeri were looking to reach the final for the third season in row, but faced a formidable side led by Jean Tigana. The Monegasques boasted the likes of David Trezeguet, Thierry Henry, Fabien Barthez and Willy Sagnol; three of whom would go on to win the World Cup with France that summer. In addition, both Trezeguet and Henry would later play for the Old Lady, though the latter didn’t have the same impact in Turin that he so famously did at Arsenal. The first leg brought a crushing win for Juve in Turin, inspired by a stunning display from Alessandro Del Piero. With 35 minutes on the clock, the forward opened the scoring with a stunning free-kick. Standing around 25 yards out, slightly to the left, ‘Pinturicchio’ lifted the ball over the wall and into the top corner, Barthez only able to get a faint touch on it just as it crossed the line. The Ligue 1 side drew level on 42 minutes, defensive midfielder Costinha’s deflected effort beating Angelo Peruzzi after a corner. On the stroke of half-time though, Zidane was brought down by Barthez in the area and Del Piero smashed the resulting penalty into the top corner. Del Piero added another from the spot in the second half, before a fantastic combination with Zidane for the fourth. Edgar Davids found ‘Zizou’ from a throw-in, and the Frenchman slipped the ball between two players to find the Juve number 10. Del Piero laid it back to him, and Zidane took a touch to take the ball out of his feet before curling a low strike into the net. Two weeks later in Monaco, Nicola Amoruso looked to have killed the tie when he tapped the ball in from Del Piero’s cross after 15 minutes. However, a Philippe Léonard free-kick deflected in off Antonio Conte’s backside, and Thierry Henry linked one over Peruzzi to give the hosts some cause to hope. There was no stopping Del Piero though, and he put the tie to bed with a stunning right-footed volley which took the slightest of deflections off Lilian Martin. Substitute Robert Spehar added a late winner, but it was mere consolation for Monaco as the Bianconeri advanced to the final. Del Piero’s performances over the two legs brought rapturous praise from the Italian Press. “There’s no point hiding the fact - he’s the best player in the world,” Tuttosport declared. “Better than Ronaldo. Better than all of them. Spectacular.” La Stampa meanwhile described him as Juventus’ “magic boy”, while Gazzetta dello Sport dubbed him “Alessandro the dominator”. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Juventus on course to have the best Champions League defence in history The Bianconeri have conceded just twice on their run to the semi-finals, putting them in a position to set a new defensive record for a single season. http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/683/main/2017/05/03/35171432/- May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE A shut-out success over Barcelona underlined that Juventus have the best back-line in Europe this season. However, the Bianconeri are now also in a position to prove themselves the best defensive unit in Champions League history. After becoming the first team to hold the Blaugrana scorless over the course of a two-legged tie since Bayern Munich in 2012-13, Juve maintained their proud record of only having conceded twice in this season's competition. Only two other teams have ever managed to ship so few goals after 10 Champions League games: Ajax in 1995-96; and Arsenal in 2005-06. Both sides went on to make the final but both finished as runners-up. Ajax had been bidding to become the first side to retain the trophy, after overcoming AC Milan in Vienna the year before, but they were beaten on penalties by Juve in Rome. Arsenal, meanwhile, took the lead in their Saint Denis showdown with Barca through Sol Campbell - despite having been reduced to 10 men after just 18 minutes of play following Jens Lehmann's professional foul - but the Gunners ultimately succumbed to late goals from Samuel Eto'o and Juliano Belletti. Therefore, Juve will be praying that third time proves a charm and that they will not only reach the final by nullifying Monaco in the last four, but also see off whichever Madrid club they would face in Cardiff, with Atletico and Real squaring off in the other semi. Winning the tournament will be difficult enough but were the Italian champions to do so without conceding again, they would make history, as that aforementioned Ajax team presently holds the record for fewest goals conceded (3) across an entire Champions League campaign (group & knockout stage). Of course, Juve will be solely concerned on getting their hands on the trophy for the first time in 21 years but what's clear is that their hopes of glory hinge greatly on the enduring brilliance of an experienced back-line that has yet to be breached in the knockout stage so far this term. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Pjanic: 'Juve warrior mentality' http://www.football-italia.net/102027/pjanic-juve-warrior-mentality May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Miralem Pjanic insists that Juventus win because they have players with a 'warrior mentality'. The 27-year-old signed from Roma in the summer but admits being with the Bianconeri is 'really different'. "This season I’ve made great strides," the Bosnian told L’Equipe. "That was my goal when i came here: to become stronger to be among the best. "I’m at this club to play in the most important games and to face the most difficult challenges. "Am I the same player who left Lyon in 2011? No, not at all! I’m more mature, I have more experience. This is my tenth season: I’m 27, I started at 17. I'm a completely different player. "My game is more physical, my technique has changed. I left early for Italy and experience in Rome was superb. It was a nice progression. Being at Juve is really different. "There’s an obsession for victory, and they are always focussed on the next game. There is never time for celebrate and be satisfied because ahead there is always the next challenge to be overcome. "On my arrival I saw warriors, players with this mentality and I realised why this is the club that wins." Juventus face Monaco this evening in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final, and Pjanic is cautious of dismissing their opponent. "Monaco, out of the teams we could have drawn is the one with the least international experience. This could affect them, but at the same time does not mean anything. "If Monaco reach the semi-finals it will be because they deserve it. They are on the verge of winning the title and that is not easy considering the strength of PSG. A Champions League semi-final can never be easy." Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Juventus can end Real Madrid's Champions League reign - Lirola The Spanish full-back, who is currently on loan at Sassuolo, believes that the Bianconeri are a more balanced side than los Blancos. http://www.goal.com/en/news/8/main/2017/05/03/35177902/- May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Pol Lirola would be forgiven for having mixed emotions about Juventus being in the semi-finals of the Champions League. After all, the teenage full-back could have been involved in a potentially history-making season had he not been sent out on loan to Sassuolo last summer. However, Lirola is not only hoping that Juve go all the way, he believes that they will, claiming that the Serie A league leaders are the best team left in the Champions League. Indeed, after watching the Old Lady eliminate Barcelona in the last eight, the Catalan feels that Juve will prove far too balanced a side for both Monaco, whom Massimiliano Allegri's men face on Wednesday, and defending champions Real Madrid. "Honestly, I said before the first game against Barcelona that Juventus would go through," Lirola explains in an exclusive interview with Goal. "Then, after the performance in Turin, I was sure that they would go through because you do not score three goals against this Juve. They're too strong at the back. "The thing that impressed me most, however, was how the team attacked Barcelona right from the start of the game in Turin. They were devastating going forward. "In my opinion, they can now get past Monaco and reach the final, where they will face Real Madrid, who will beat Atletico [after triumphing 3-0 in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday]. "This Juve side has everything in place to win the Champions League. "If you want to win or even draw against a team like this, you have to play the game of your life and hope that they are not on their game. "They really should end up playing Real in the final because in attack they are frightening. I think [Paulo] Dybala, [Gonzalo] Higuain, [Mario] Mandzukic and [Juan] Cuadrado can really hurt Real. "Indeed, whereas the Bianconeri defense is phenomenal, the same cannot be said of Real Madrid, who concede a lot of goals." Lirola believes that the strength of Juve's attacking arsenal is often overlooked because of the preoccupation with their evergreen backline. However, the 19-year-old is delighted that the footballing world is now fully aware of the brilliance of Dybala, after the Argentine's decisive double against Barca. Lirola was struck by the striker's sensational skills during his very first training session with Juve's first team, following his permanent transfer to Turin two summers ago. "Dybala is an absolute phenomenon," he enthuses. "Buffon is absolutely right: Dybala is among the top five players in the world. Technically, he's exceptional. "Obviously, though, for their position on the pitch, I pay greater attention to Stephan Lichtsteiner and Dani Alves. "They interpret the full-back role very differently but they are two champions. "I watch all of Juve's games and I try to study their movements to understand their secrets!" Despite an ill-timed injury in January, Lirola has enjoyed an encouraging campaign at Sassuolo, even scoring the club's first ever goal in continental competition, against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League. However, he freely admits that his goal is to return to Turin and try to force his way into the first team, which, as he himself admits, will be easier said than done. "I was out for about a month and a half and lost a little rhythm but now I want to finish the season as best I can, looking to play as much as possible and pick up more experience, which will be useful in terms of helping me start next year well," he explains. "I'm here on a two-year loan and I'm happy. It's the ideal environment for a young player that wants to develop and grow. "However, my dream is to go back to Juve one day and play, even if I know that I will have to work hard to manage that, because Juve really do have an incredible squad." One that Lirola imagines will be full of European Champions when he does eventually return to Turin. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Giuly: ‘Monaco must be crazy’ http://www.football-italia.net/102038/giuly-‘monaco-must-be-crazy’ May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Monaco ambassador Ludovic Giuly tells his old side be “crazy” against Juventus tonight. The former Roma winger spoke to L’Équipe ahead of today’s Champions League semi-final first leg, and believes today’s side is similar to the one which reached the final in 2004. “For Monaco it’s the same season we had in 2004,” Giuly noted. “We lost the Champions League then missed out on the League because we were tired, but this Monaco is more talented than us. “They have quality players and the chance to do something great. “The key is to be crazy, they can’t think about playing against Juve, but just about playing to win and having fun, the way they did against Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund. “They must keep that mentality.” Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) How will Juventus cover Khedira? http://www.football-italia.net/102043/how-will-juventus-cover-khedira May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Sami Khedira’s suspension means Claudio Marchisio will start alongside Miralem Pjanic for tonight’s Monaco-Juventus game. Khedira picked up a booking at Camp Nou in the quarter-final, meaning he misses tonight’s semi-final first leg. His replacement will be Italian international Marchisio, a key man for the Bianconeri in recent years, but a player who has been in and out of the side this term as he recovers from a cruciate ligament injury. Speaking in his pre-match Press conference, Coach Max Allegri noted “Khedira is a more physical player and Marchisio has more movement”, so how will the switch affect Juve tonight? Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Allegri tinkers with Juve in Monaco http://www.football-italia.net/102044/allegri-tinkers-juve-monaco May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE It’s reported Juventus will drop Juan Cuadrado against Monaco, moving Dani Alves into a more attacking role with Andrea Barzagli at right-back. The first leg of the Champions League semi-final kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT). Sami Khedira is suspended and Claudio Marchisio steps in, something that has been known for some time, while Marko Pjaca and Daniele Rugani are the only injury absentees. However, according to Mediaset Premium, Max Allegri is tinkering with the formation for the trip to the Stade Louis II tonight. That is partly down to Cuadrado not being 100 per cent fit, as he has been struggling with a back problem lately. With the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Radamel Falcao running at them, Juve are opting to shore up in defence, specifically down the right flank. Dani Alves was already bumped up to the Cuadrado-style attacking role during the closing stages of Juve’s 2-2 draw with Atalanta last Friday night. The former Barcelona right-back is given more freedom to attack in that position. Meanwhile, Barzagli would step in to complete the ‘BBC’ defence with Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, but in a very static right-back role. As the first leg is in France, Juventus want to shore up and put themselves in a better position to be decisive in the second leg in Turin. Juventus (probable): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Marchisio, Pjanic; Dani Alves, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Line-ups: Monaco-Juventus http://www.football-italia.net/102049/line-ups-monaco-juventus May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Juventus introduce Claudio Marchisio for Sami Khedira, drop Juan Cuadrado and move up Dani Alves against Monaco’s Kylian Mbappé and Radamel Falcao. The first leg of the Champions League semi-final kicks off at the Stade Louis II at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT). Max Allegri’s men knocked Monaco out of the tournament on their way to the 2015 Final, but that was a very different team. With Leonardo Jardim at the helm and 18-year-old sensation Mbappé in attack, they are a fast-paced, young and very dangerous side who already eliminated Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund. Mbappé, who many have compared to a young Thierry Henry, has scored five goals in the tournament so far, along with 14 in Ligue 1 on their way towards the French title. He is partnered by a revitalised Falcao, the Colombian striker who has finally found his feet again after a devastating injury. There were concerns for Monaco, as midfielder Tiemoué Bakayoko does play for the first time since Friday’s accidental training ground collision with Kamil Glik, leaving him with a fractured nose. Djibril Sidibé hasn’t played since undergoing emergency surgery for appendicitis at the start of April, but he starts and Benjamin Mendy isn’t even fit enough for a place on the bench. Injured Gabriel Boschilla and Guido Carrillo are in the stands, but old Italian war-horses Morgan De Sanctis and Andrea Raggi are on the bench. Fatigue could become an issue eventually, as Monaco started their Champions League season in the play-off rounds. Juventus conceded only two goals in the tournament so far this season and kept two clean sheets against Barcelona, despite the presence of Leo Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar. This is also an historic occasion, as it is Gigi Buffon’s 100th Champions League appearance for Juve. Buffon marshals his defence again with Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, but Max Allegri has been tinkering with his 4-2-3-1 formation. Cuadrado is dropped, apparently in a tactical choice, with Dani Alves instead bumped up to the right side of that attacking trident with Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic behind Gonzalo Higuain. Instead, Andrea Barzagli becomes the right-back, albeit a very static one that won’t be marauding forward. Monaco love to attack down the left with Thomas Lemar, though Benjamin Mendy is not 100 per cent fit. Marchisio steps in for suspended Sami Khedira, partnering Miralem Pjanic. Higuain is still waiting for his first goal in the Champions League knock-out rounds after three in the group stage. Dybala has four Champions League goals this term, but curiously only one was scored away from home (in the 4-0 at Dinamo Zagreb in September). Marko Pjaca and Daniele Rugani are the only long-term injury absentees. These sides have met only four times before, all in the Champions League knock-out stages. Juve won the first leg of the 1997-98 semi-final 4-1 at home and went through despite a 3-2 loss in Montecarlo. In 2015, a lone Arturo Vidal penalty in Turin was the only goal to decide the quarter-finals. Monaco: Subasic; Dirar, Glik, Jemerson, Sidibé; Bernardo Silva, Fabinho, Bakayoko, Lemar; Falcao, Mbappé Monaco bench: De Sanctis, Jorge, Raggi, Touré, Joao Moutinho, Cardona, Germain Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Marchisio, Pjanic; Dani Alves, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain Juventus bench: Neto, Benatia, Lichtsteiner, Asamoah, Rincon, Lemina, Cuadrado Ref: Lahoz (ESP) Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Marotta: 'Allegri pondered decisions' http://www.football-italia.net/102051/marotta-allegri-pondered-decisions May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Juventus director Beppe Marotta noted Max Allegri “decisions carefully pondered” after surprise changes against Monaco in the Champions League semi-final. The first leg of the Champions League semi-final kicks off at the Stade Louis II at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT). There were some surprises, as Juan Cuadrado is dropped with Dani Alves moved further forward and Andrea Barzagli introduced as right-back. “Juventus is made up of an entire squad and not 11 players. They are evaluated throughout the week and the decisions are carefully pondered by the coaching staff,” Marotta told Mediaset Premium. “It was a very impressive Real Madrid (that beat Atletico Madrid 3-0 last night). Right now we are focused on tonight’s game and on Monaco. “The other three semi-finalists are very different, but have their own strengths. Real Madrid are more prestigious and naturally won the tournament last season, so have a lot of quality. “Monaco have emerged with a great campaign, though they certainly aren’t a flash in the pan, because they did well for several seasons in the Champions League. They have now taken on a more international mentality.” Marotta was asked if Gonzalo Higuain will find the net for the first time in the Champions League knockout rounds this season. “The important thing is that the team scores. I insist Higuain’s contribution is more than just goals. He is an excellent striker, a modern forward who doesn’t just finalise, but also supports the rest of the team and in that sense has always given fine performances.” Juventus are nine points clear at the top of the Serie A table and will face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final, but Marotta blanched when asked if they were following in Inter’s 2010 footsteps. “Inter won the Treble, but Juventus have their own history and many trophies. While it would be very satisfying to get the Treble, we must remember that so far we haven’t won anything at all yet, so everything is very much premature. “Monaco have gained an international mentality, just as Juventus got an even stronger international mentality, but above all we have grown in terms of quality with the players who were signed to raise the level.” Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) HT 0-1: Higuain opens Monaco account http://www.football-italia.net/102052/ht-higuain-opens-monaco-account May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Gonzalo Higuain finished off a sensational team move to give Juventus the 1-0 half-time lead away to Monaco. The Bianconeri entered the Stade Louis II for the first leg of this Champions League semi-final having conceded only two goals in the tournament. They faced 18-year-old sensational Kylian Mbappe, who had already helped eliminate Tottenham, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund. Claudio Marchisio stepped in for suspended Sami Khedira, but Juan Cuadrado was surprisingly dropped, moving Dani Alves into an attacking role and Andrea Barzagli in a mutated 3-5-2. Djibril Sidibé hadn’t played since undergoing emergency surgery for appendicitis at the start of April, but started with Tiemoué Bakayoko wearing a mask for his fractured nose. Benjamin Mendy was not even on the bench due to a muscular problem. Gigi Buffon marked his 100th Champions League appearance with Juventus, 106th overall. Juve had an aggressive start but Gonzalo Higuain fell over when trying to reach a Paulo Dybala pass, then failed to get his head to a Dani Alves volleyed cross. Mbappe sprung the offside trap after a corner, but the header was straight at Buffon. The teenager had a great chance on 16 minutes, getting his volley to a Nabil Dirar cross from six yards, but Buffon made a great save at the near post. The hosts put together a period of pressure, Radamel Falcao’s header was fingertipped wide, but Higuain’s volley from a corner was neither shot nor assist. Higuain seemed to be very wasteful, but he broke the deadlock with his first goal in the knockout round this season. It was a magnificent team move started in Juve’s own half with a Dybala back-heel flick, Higuain spread it for Dani Alves, the Brazilian back-heeled it into his path and Pipita stroked home the finish from 12 yards. Monaco continued to have spells of possession and pressure, but only really caused concern after a Miralem Pjanic error. Monaco 0-1 Juventus (Half-Time) Higuain 29 (J) Monaco: Subasic; Dirar, Glik, Jemerson, Sidibé; Bernardo Silva, Fabinho, Bakayoko, Lemar; Falcao, Mbappé Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Dani Alves, Marchisio, Pjanic, Mandzukic, Alex Sandro; Dybala, Higuain Ref: Lahoz (ESP) Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS 0-2 Gonzalo Higuaín 29' Gonzalo Higuaín 59' SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Attendance: 16762 Monaco 0 Juventus 2: Higuain answers critics to put Allegri's men in control Juventus took a huge step towards the Champions League final by earning a two-goal win over Monaco, courtesy of Gonzalo Higuain. http://www.goal.com/en/match/monaco-vs-juventus/2443327/report May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Gonzalo Higuain ended his woe in the Champions League knockout stages with a crucial double as Juventus recorded a 2-0 away win over Monaco to take full control of their semi-final tie. Juve striker Higuain came into the match having only netted twice in his last 24 knockout games in the competition, but banished his reputation as a player who does not shine in big games by scoring the same amount in a single match at Stade Louis II. The Argentina international scored with a first-time finish in each half, the impressive Dani Alves creating both goals to take the sting out of Monaco, who had started strongly. After keeping out a Monaco side who had scored 12 goals in the knockout stages this season, Juve's rock-solid defence have now conceded just twice in 11 Champions League games this season. And Massimiliano Allegri's men are now strong favourites to reach what would be their second final in three years when the two teams meet for the second leg in Turin next Tuesday. Real Madrid are the likely opponents for the winners of this tie in Cardiff after defeating Atletico Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of their semi-final. Follow OptaPaolo ✔@OptaPaolo 7 - Gonzalo Higuaín has now ended a seven-game goalscoring drought in the CL knockout-out phases. Relief. #ASMJUV 9:24 PM - 3 May 2017 7777 Retweets 5959 likes Follow OptaPaolo ✔@OptaPaolo 2 - Dani Alves has provided two assists in a Champions League game for the first time in his career. Precious. #ASMJUV 10:05 PM - 3 May 2017 157157 Retweets 120120 likes Juve had more of the early possession but it was Monaco, led by star man Kylian Mbappe, who threatened first with two good opportunities. First, Mbappe could only send a free header straight at Gianluigi Buffon, before the Italy goalkeeper – making his 100th Champions League appearance for Juve – had to beat away a close-range volley from the teenager, both chances created by Nabil Dirar. Radamel Falcao and Kamil Glik went close with headed efforts for the hosts, but it was Juve who took the lead with a wonderful team goal after 29 minutes. The move started all the way back with Buffon and picked up in pace when an impressive flick from Paulo Dybala allowed Alves to find Higuain, who charged towards goal before playing it back to the former Barcelona defender down the right. Alves then sent a lovely return backheel into Higuain's path, which the striker took in his stride, firing a low finish into the far corner from 15 yards. The goal slowed Monaco's momentum and Juve's Dybala had a free-kick saved by Danijel Subasic prior to the interval. But Monaco should have equalised early in the second half, Falcao failing to beat Buffon with an effort lacking power after Bernardo Silva had impressively set him up. Juve then wasted an excellent chance of their own, Claudio Marchisio – starting in place of the suspended Sami Khedira – capitalising on a loose pass and racing in on goal only to be denied by Subasic's legs. But the visitors did double their lead just before the hour mark, with Higuain striking again. Alves was once more the creator, exchanging passes with Dybala before sending in a cross from the right, Higuain sliding in at the back post to convert left-footed from six yards. View image on Twitter Follow JuventusFC ✔@juventusfcen .@DaniAlvesD2 @G_Higuain #ASMJuve#FINOALLAFINE #ItsTIME 10:04 PM - 3 May 2017 246246 Retweets 420420 likes Leonardo Jardim brought on Joao Moutinho, Valere Germain and Almamy Toure as he looked for a way back into the tie. But Juve, who themselves withdrew Higuain, prevented Monaco from creating any chances of note until Buffon had to make a crucial save as the match entered stoppage time. Germain latched on to Moutinho's free-kick and powered a header at goal, but the veteran goalkeeper tipped it over as the visitors kept yet another clean sheet and took a huge step towards the final. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8524 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 134600 messaggi Inviato May 3, 2017 MONACO - JUVENTUS 0-2 Gonzalo Higuaín 29' Gonzalo Higuaín 59' SEMIFINALS - FIRST LEG Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.Stade Louis II, Monaco Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz (Spain) Attendance: 16762 CL: Higuain double dominates Monaco http://www.football-italia.net/102053/cl-higuain-double-dominates-monaco May 3, 2017 Tifosibianconeri English page - CLICK HERE Gonzalo Higuain bagged a brace on Dani Alves assists for an impressive 2-0 victory away to Monaco, putting Juventus close to the Champions League Final. The Bianconeri entered the Stade Louis II for the first leg of this Champions League semi-final having conceded only two goals in the tournament. They faced 18-year-old sensational Kylian Mbappé, who had already helped eliminate Tottenham, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund. Claudio Marchisio stepped in for suspended Sami Khedira, but Juan Cuadrado was surprisingly dropped, moving Dani Alves into an attacking role and Andrea Barzagli in a mutated 3-5-2. Djibril Sidibé hadn’t played since undergoing emergency surgery for appendicitis at the start of April, but started with Tiemoué Bakayoko wearing a mask for his fractured nose. Benjamin Mendy was not even on the bench due to a muscular problem. Gigi Buffon marked his 100th Champions League appearance with Juventus, 106th overall. Juve had an aggressive start but Higuain fell over when trying to reach a Paulo Dybala pass, then failed to get his head to a Dani Alves volleyed cross. Mbappé sprung the offside trap after a corner, but the header was straight at Buffon. The teenager had a great chance on 16 minutes, getting his volley to a Nabil Dirar cross from six yards, but Buffon made a great save at the near post. The hosts put together a period of pressure, Radamel Falcao’s header was fingertipped wide, but Higuain’s volley from a corner was neither shot nor assist. Higuain seemed to be very wasteful, but he broke the deadlock with his first goal in the knockout round this season. It was a magnificent team move started in Juve’s own half with a Dybala back-heel flick, Dani Alves combined with Higuain, the Brazilian back-heeled it into his path and Pipita stroked home the finish from 12 yards. Monaco continued to have spells of possession and pressure, but only really caused concern after a Miralem Pjanic error. Straight after the restart, Buffon waited till the last second to go down and block Falcao’s effort from a Bernardo Silva assist. The goalkeeper also rushed off his line to smother at Mbappe’s feet on a Thomas Lemar through ball. Marchisio won back possession to surge forward and was denied by Danijel Subasic one-on-one, then Monaco immediately countered with an Mbappé attempt charged down and nobody got on the end of a dangerous Dirar ball across the face of goal. Just as the game was opening up, Juventus doubled their lead. Dani Alves and Dybala pressed Monaco to win back possession in midfield, then the Brazilian placed a perfect cross for Higuain to slide on to. Incredibly, this was the first Champions League game in his entire career with two Dani Alves assists. Giorgio Chiellini was booked for an elbow on Falcao, then ran a huge risk with his fresh-air clearance and Joao Moutinho’s free kick flashed past everyone, including Buffon, to skim the far post. In stoppages, Buffon flew to fingertip a Valere Germain header over the crossbar from another set play, extending his clean sheet in the Champions League to 621 minutes of football. Monaco 0-2 Juventus Higuain 29, 59 (J) Monaco: Subasic; Dirar, Glik, Jemerson, Sidibé; Bernardo Silva (Traore 82), Fabinho, Bakayoko (Joao Moutinho 66), Lemar (Germain 67); Falcao, Mbappé Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Dani Alves, Marchisio (Rincon 81), Pjanic (Lemina 89), Mandzukic, Alex Sandro; Dybala, Higuain (Cuadrado 77) Ref: Lahoz (ESP) Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
