JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CROTONE - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

 

Mario Mandzukic 60'

Gonzalo Higuaín 74' 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 18

 

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m.
Ezio Scida Stadium, Crotone
Referee: Paolo Valeri

 

 

 

Juventus 2 - Crotone 0: Initial reaction

and random observations

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/8/14549242/crotone-

juventus-2017-serie-a-round-23-final-score-result-initial-reaction

 

 

Feb 8, 2017

 

It didn’t take long to figure out that if Juventus wanted to be successful against Crotone in Calabria on Wednesday night, then the Bianconeri would have to break down a bus that was firmly parked in the home team’s half of the field. It would take patience to try and break down a Crotone side that was in an all-defense mode from the opening whistle as it look to come away with some kind of point against the five-time defending Serie A champions.

Juventus’ patience was rewarded handsomely.

Second-half goals from Mr. No Good Mario Mandzukic and Gonzalo Higuain broke the scoreless deadlock and enabled Juventus to take full advantage of their game in hand and claim a 2-0 win over Crotone to push their lead over Roma in the Serie A standings to seven points.

Not a bad way to spend a Wednesday, if you ask me.

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Yes, the Serie A table is rather pretty after Wednesday’s result against Crotone and the resulting plus-7 advantage of Roma. But the way they went about getting such lead was vastly different than the in previous games. Juventus had no other choice than to stay true to the course against Crotone. There were no glutton of early-game chances because of Crotone sitting so deep. Juventus had tons of possession, but not much to show for it — even when it came to mere scoring chances.

But once Juventus got the lead, there were no ill feelings of them coughing it up. Nothing close to it. Crotone rarely troubled the Juventus defense, and after Higuain’s finish on what was a sweet little combination play at the top of the 18-yard box, it was pretty much a wrap. Good game, three points. Simple as that. Sorta.

All in all, another win is another win and there’s nothing to be mad at in what could very well have been a tricky fixture to deal with. A different kind of win. Not one that is full of highlight-reel chances or anything like that. Juventus’ first-ever game against Crotone in Serie A might not have had the same kind of steam behind it to open the game. But a look up at the final score, a look at the three points picked up, and it’s pretty reminiscent of how the last few weeks have gone.

 

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

 

• HOLY CRAP MARKO PJACA ACTUALLY STARTED A GAME.
• Somewhat interesting yet pretty cool and unrelated sidenote: If you’re ever in Crotone, it seems as though you’d be able to catch a match, but also get any potential medical treatment right across the street if need be. Football stadium flanked by a hospital .... Ah, Italy.
• Side note to the side note as heard on during the telecast: The hospital across the street banned “visitors” so that nobody would come into the building for the sole purpose of watching Juventus. The things people do to watch the best team in Italy...
• Gigi Buffon hasn’t allowed a goal since turning 39 years old. I would like to think that’s a streak San Gigi would like to continue.
• Tomas Rincon wasn’t a flashy kind of signing by any means. He wasn’t going to be the star-studded addition to the Juventus midfield that a lot of us want to see take place. But what he showed on Wednesday is what you pretty much figured Juve were getting when they signed him — an absolute bulldog in the center of the park who isn’t going to do much wrong. Oh, and his assist to Higuain on Juve’s second goal was pretty nice, too, so there’s Rincon showing us all he can pass the ball a little bit.
• Observation from the 90th minute: Mandzukic, just in front of the defense, fighting off a would-be tackler to clear the ball up the field. This is your reminder that Mandzukic is technically a striker, but could very well be considered one of Juve’s best defenders this season.
• I love Mario Mandzukic, but you could probably figure that out by now.
• Pjaca’s first game was kind of like his handful of appearances this season — there were moments where you could see what he’s all about, but also the obvious notion that he needs more game time. I hope the stretch of teams Juve play before they face Porto means at least one more start for the 21-year-old Croatian.
• You know who’s good? Gonzalo Higuain is good.
• You know who’s good? Andrea Barzagli is good.
• You know what is good? Juventus having a seven-point lead in the Serie A standings in early February. I like that a lot.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CROTONE - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

 

Mario Mandzukic 60'

Gonzalo Higuaín 74' 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 18

 

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m.
Ezio Scida Stadium, Crotone
Referee: Paolo Valeri

 

 

 

Nicola: 'Crotone did all we could'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98107/nicola-crotone-did-all-we-could

 

 

Feb 8, 2017

 

Crotone Coach Davide Nicola felt they “resisted for as long as we could” in their 2-0 home defeat to Juventus.

 

The Calabrians focused solely on defence at the Stadio Scida in the rescheduled Serie A Week 18 fixture, but were eventually beaten by Mario Mandzukic and Gonzalo Higuain.

 

“We’re certainly not just discovering that the Bianconeri are a great team today,” Nicola told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“We lacked something on the counter, but we played the game we needed to in the circumstances. We resisted for as long as we could and have to accept the result. We knew that we were facing Juventus.

 

“We’ll try to get points against Roma, but it’ll be tough, as the Giallorossi are almost as good as Juve. It’s not healthy to look at the fixture list right now.

 

“Safety is a dream and every team sees it that way.”

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CROTONE - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

 

Mario Mandzukic 60'

Gonzalo Higuaín 74' 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 18

 

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m.
Ezio Scida Stadium, Crotone
Referee: Paolo Valeri

 

 

 

Higuain, Pjanic spark Juventus

past well-organised Crotone

 

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/3056576/gonzalo-

higuain-and-miralem-pjanic-spark-juventus-past-well-organised-crotone

 

 

Feb 8, 2017

 

It was a far from an enterprising performance from Juventus yet they still managed to walk away with a 2-0 victory over Crotone to open up a seven-point lead at the top of the table.

Crotone did an exceptional job at shutting down their opponents, flooding the defence and blocking off any space to avoid conceding but their hard work only lasted an hour. As soon as Juventus amped up the pressure and pushed forward with greater intensity, they eventually pierced through the defence and grabbed a quick second to seal all three points.

Positives

While neither player dazzled, Tomas Rincon and Marko Pjaca both produced admirable debut performances as starters. The Croatian grew into the game, especially creating problems for the opponent when he was moved to the left, while Rincon worked immensely hard to win back possession and even delivered the assist for Gonzalo Higuain's goal.  

Negatives

Miralem Pjanic never looked to be a difference maker but his absence from the opening 70 minutes of the match was keenly felt as Juventus looked void of ideas, forcing Paulo Dybala to drop back in search of the ball and Leonardo Bonucci to act as a playmaker. Juventus have come to rely too heavily on certain players, ones whose absence will heavily affect the execution of their tactical ideals.

Manager rating out of 10

7 -- Massimiliano Allegri did what he does best, adjust his tactics to seal the win. After moving Dybala to the right and Pjaca to the left, Juventus produced a better performance in the second half while the introduction of Pjanic facilitated the side's movements going forward. 

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

GK Gianluigi Buffon, 6 -- Alert to stop Diego Falcinelli and then Leonardo Capezzi but little to speak of otherwise.

DF Dani Alves, 6 -- Having just returned from injury he looks off the pace and a little rusty but he worked well with his companions on the right even if he could have been more accurate on the ball.

DF Leonardo Bonucci, 6 -- A little rough at the back resulting in a yellow but forced to act as a playmaker in Pjanic's absence and wasn't always accurate.

DF Daniele Rugani, 7 -- A composed performance from the player who pushed forward well and handled his duties expertly at the back. Progressing nicely.

DF Kwadwo Asamoah, 6 -- His best quality lies in his ability to keep hold of the ball. Pushed forward while remaining defensively cautious. He can always be relied upon to halt the opponent but cannot quite provide the attacking impact Alex Sandro can. 

MF Sami Khedira, 5 -- Tackled well but considering he had support on a defensive level, more was expected from an attacking sense. A little more muted than usual.

MF Tomas Rincon, 6 -- Aggressive and determined, he recovered possession consistently and even delivered the assist that led to the second goal. Not a player of great technique but proved effective on the night.

Crotone proved a tough defence to crack but Juve eventually found a goal thanks to vintage hard work from Mario Mandzukic.

MF Marko Pjaca, 6 -- Much to admire about his desire. Not the best in the first half but soon caused problems in the second. It's clear he's not integrated into the rhythm perfectly yet resulting in some poor decisions but his potential was evident. 

MF Paulo Dybala, 6 -- Obstructed by the opponents' physicality but made an impression. Always creating chances and looking for ways to initiate attacks but needs a player like Pjanic behind to allow him to be more effective further forward.

MF Mario Mandzukic, 6 -- Never the most refined player on the pitch but his hard work in midfield coupled with his important opening goal allowed the team to relax.  

FW Gonzalo Higuain, 7 -- Scored the second goal but his overall work rate and ability to sacrifice for the unit deserves praise, exploiting space and delivering accuracy. Always on the hunt for goal and the win.

Substitutes

MF Miralem Pjanic, 7 -- His arrival on the pitch soon resulted in a second Juventus goal. Excellent at controlling the game and offering direction. Nearly scored a sensational goal but he hit the crossbar.

DF Andrea Barzagli, N/A -- Only on for a few minutes. 

MF Stefano Sturaro, N/A -- Virtually no time to make an impact.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CROTONE - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

 

Mario Mandzukic 60'

Gonzalo Higuaín 74' 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 18

 

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m.
Ezio Scida Stadium, Crotone
Referee: Paolo Valeri

 

 

 

Nesta: 'Juve beatable by...'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98119/nesta-juve-beatable

 

 

Feb 9, 2017

 

Alessandro Nesta believes Inter, Roma and Napoli are capable of closing the gap on Juventus in future.

 

The Bianconeri are on course to secure a sixth successive Scudetto, moving seven points clear at the top of Serie A with last night's 2-0 victory at Crotone.

 

Questioned on the Old Lady's domination of Italian football, the former Milan and Lazio defender expressed his view that to overthrow the Turin side, clubs would have to implement long-term planning.

 

"You can only beat the Bianconieri by planning for the future," Nesta told Sky Sport 24.

 

"The teams who have the potential to reduce the gap are Inter, Roma and Napoli. Those three need to raise the bar every year and make bigger financial efforts to get there, but it is hard."

 

Nesta, who is now Coach of American outfit Miami FC, also said would be happy for Francesco Totti to join him in Florida, though he admits it is unlikely to happen.

 

"I congratulate him because he is doing something exceptional. I hope he can keep playing, if he wants to come here I'll be waiting even though it is right that he finishes at Roma."

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CROTONE - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

 

Mario Mandzukic 60'

Gonzalo Higuaín 74' 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 18

 

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m.
Ezio Scida Stadium, Crotone
Referee: Paolo Valeri

 

 

 

Landmarks of Turin Awards:

Juventus vs. Crotone Edition

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/9/14556742/juventus-

crotone-landmarks-of-turin-awards-2017-serie-a-round-23-match-recap

 

 

Feb 9, 2017

 

Everything that the Derby d’Italia was, this game was not. This game was not end-to-end. This game was not exciting. There were some exciting little bonuses thrown in there — Marko Pjaca! Yay! — but the sum total of this was a viewing experience that made me want to take a spork from somewhere where they still have sporks and then carve out my eyeballs.

Juventus won, though. So that’s good!

I watched this game after work — here in the central time zone in the USA — and, unfortunately, I had seen the score. So, not only did I know that Juve won the game 2-0, but I also knew the goals came in the second half. But I still watched the first half! I want a prize. I also would like to personally ostracize Crotone for their tactic. There was literally a time — 41st minute — when all eleven of Crotone’s players were camped in their own penalty box. I’m sure this happened more than that one time, but holy hockey sticks what a dreadful approach. Granted, it was basically their only option, and it worked for a half. But I don’t have to like it.

Aperitivi

A tantalizing collection of titillating tidbits.

• I watched this game in Spanish, because my damn fuboTV recording would not play. I understand only a tiny bit of Spanish, but I listened anyway so I could hear names if I looked away from the screen, scribbling a note. But it was beautiful when Mario Mandzukic scored and the announcer wailed, “GOLAGOLAGOLAGOLA!!!”
• Our 4-2-3-1 was a 2-4-3-1 for much of the first half, with Dani Alves and Kwadwo Asamoah pushing so far up the pitch. Crotone wouldn’t send their forwards two-thirds up the field, damn it.
• Pjaca is big, and hungry, and he’ll be good.
• I’m 85 percent sure that the font on the back of the Crotone jerseys is Comic Sans, and it makes me want to take a plane to Calabria and give someone a very stern talking to.
• Thirty-first-minute camera flashes to some good-looking women. Classic bored camera guy.
• In the 67th minute, the beIN score graphic flashed a passing statistic: “Wrong Passes.” (Juve had more than Crotone, but that’s probably because they passed a billion times more.) But the point here is I love the idea of passes being “wrong.” Like, not “errant” or “incomplete” or something, but “wrong.” Antithetical to the more fiber of the universe.

Onto the awards:

Sidewalk of Turin Award

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

There really shouldn’t be an award for this, because it was a game against Crotone and even if all the Bianconeri played the worst games of their career it might’ve looked similar, but I’m going to hand this out to someone anyway and you might get mad.

Daniele Rugani — I’m in agreement with some people I’ve seen here and elsewhere — is world class. He’s confident with and without the ball. He marks with the best of them. He anticipates, does everything. But at the end of the game, he fouled a Crotone player pretty hard in the box. It went uncalled, but I thought it should’ve been a penalty.

Juve were already up 2-0. But hey, has to go to someone. Sorry, pal.

Piazza San Carlo Award

For a potentially overlooked yet stellar showing.

If you go to the 58th minute, you’ll see Paulo Dybala take the ball a little ways past midfield, take a few touches, and spin a defender onto his rump. It was the football equivalent to an Allen Iverson crossover. It was one of several absolutely humiliating moments for Crotone.

Dybala was really good Wednesday night. He didn’t get a goal — although he nearly did with that cute flick at the end of the first half — but he came close to a pair of assists. In the 31st minute, after a botched back-and-forth with another Juve player wherein the ball fell to a defender, Dybala said in his beautiful brain, “No, I will rectify my mistake” — probably in Spanish — at which point he did, in fact, rob the defender, gather the ball, and slice a perfect cross to a streaking Gonzalo Higuaín who...shanked it.

It’s amazing and stupidly lucky that we have three differently talented strikers in Mario, Paulo, and Gonzalo, and although La Joya was the only one who missed out on the scoring sheet I thought he played quite well.

Lingotto Award

For a notable demonstration in both grit and flair.

Tomás Rincón! Yes! I have a huge, shameless crush on Rincón. He is, of course, not our best player. There’s nothing that he does particularly amazingly, other than try really, really hard, and not make boneheaded mistakes. I think there’s real value in that. I know there’s been some grumbling as to why we picked this dude up from Genoa, but after seeing him play all 90 on Wednesday, I’m all for it. He’s not going to play in the marquee matchups, but he fits in very fluidly.

Also, his assist to Higuaín was precision defined. Well done, little motor man.

Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images

Parco Valentino Award

For an urbane demeanor distributed amongst the squad.

I’m splitting this award between the two goal scorers. I know it’s not typically a goal-scoring kind of award — more of a Gigi Buffon or Giorgio Chiellini type thing — but I thought Mandžukić and Higuaín held the team together with their focus, and Mr. No Good got the goal that’s been a long time coming.

The danger in a game like Crotone, even though it’s a danger with a very, very small chance of manifesting, is that the later you score the more frustrated you become, and if you become very frustrated you might make a mistake, or a string of mistakes, that allow a counter-attacking goal to someone even as poor as Crotone. But these two guys didn’t let that happen. They patiently prodded again and again. Then they produced.

(Side not for Higuaín: holy herring the number he pulled on Crotone keeper Alex Cordaz was malicious. He just made him look so stupid. It was nice to see that kind of flair and tact with the ball, something I more typically associate with Dybala, whose embarrassing of an opponent I described above. Man, though. I feel so bad for that goalie.)

Giuseppe Garibaldi Award

For the man of the match.

Leonardo Bonucci!

Maybe there will be some grumbles. That’s okay. Not that he was under pressure much, but I don’t think I saw Bonucci make a single mistake defensively. That’s reason No. 1. (Rugani was great, saved for the missed foul in the box, in my estimation.) Reason No. 2 is that the first goal found its origin in Bonucci’s movement forward. Even in a game like this, both Rugani and Bonucci showed splendid restraint in not pushing forward too greedily. In one of the two or three times that Bonucci chose to take a few touches downfield through opponents, the ball ended up moving through several Juventus players into the back of the net.

Forza, ragazzi.

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Cagliari vs Juventus Match Preview

 

http://www.juvefc.com/cagliari-vs-juventus-match-preview-scouting/

 

 

Feb 10, 2017

 

Cagliari v Juventus

Serie A Week 25 –  Sunday, 12th February – 19:45 GMT – Stadio Sant’Elia

---

Juventus

Juventus have a seven-point lead in Serie A and everything is right again in the world. Well, in the football world at least. It was not an easy task to work around Crotone’s bus since they played with a very conservative lineup that included three fullbacks and only one and a half strikers and defended with nine players. It was not a great performance by Juventus, but they were patient, they attacked with poise without getting too antsy or rushing things and the first goal arrived just before it was starting to get too late for anyone’s liking. This time, it was Mario Mandzukic the one who broke the tie with a very opportunistic score, then Gonzalo Higuain sealed the deal as usual. If you look at the football predictions, Juventus are clear favourites to retain their title now.

The gap gives Massimiliano Allegri some leeway to rest some players ahead of the Porto two-game clash and he has started Wednesday giving the day off to Miralem Pjanic and Juan Cuadrado. Tomas Rincon did not have a flashy game, and so many of his performances will be like this, but he was stout. Unfortunately, I do not think this squad is equipped to make do with the absence of the Bosnian, but, barring an injury, he will not stay out many times. Marko Pjaca finally started a game, but he did not have many chances to shine as Crotone put the clamps on him and on most of the other offensive players.

An interesting part of the game was the coaching staff veering to a 4-2-4 with Pjaca and Paulo Dybala wide and Mandzukic in his natural position to shake thing up when the squad was struggling to create chances. Pjaca was more comfortable there and Dybala performs at a high level pretty much everywhere you put him, nonetheless it was a tactical subtlety that paid off in the first goal because Mandzukic would not have been in that position if he was playing wide.

On Sunday night, Juventus will travel to Sardinia to take on Cagliari and to try to continue grabbing wins on the road, probably the only statistics where Bianconeri have not excelled so far this year. We know the four losses have come after midweek matches, but the last time out, the team beat Sassuolo convincingly.

After playing fairly well twice in three games, Sami Khedira is likely to be rested. Claudio Marchisio is back with the rest of the squad at practice, so the back pain has subsided and he could start ahead of Rincon, even though some reports indicate that Stefano Sturaro could get the nod. Cuadrado, Pjanic and Giorgio Chiellini will return to the XI. Mandzukic could be the one watching from the sidelines, with Pjaca or Kwadwo Asamoah as left winger, but that is not certain at this stage. The battle at right back is undecided, but Stephan Lichtsteiner has a small edge. Leonardo Bonucci could be the subject of some rotation in favour of Medhi Benatia. Andrea Barzagli picked up a minor hamstring injury that will cost him a couple of games.

Probable lineup: 

4-2-3-1: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Sandro; Marchisio, Pjanic; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain. 

Injuries:

Barzagli (hamstring), Lemina (back), Mandragora (foot).

Suspensions:

None.

 

Cagliari

Cagliari have had a decent season so far, but you would think they were terrible by the way they were at times booed at Sant’Elia or for the number of fans calling for the firing of Massimo Rastelli. They have certainly struggled almightily so far on the road, where they have collected only four points in twelve matches, but seeing how the other two newly promoted clubs have played, the supporters should be more than happy.

At least they have an identity: they are a high scoring team that can win in shootouts. If you’re looking at football predictions, they should remain up this season. The downside is that they have a very porous defence and it showed in some matches against some top teams: they have conceded five goals both to Fiorentina and Napoli. After that the coach has tried to tweak his lineup to make it a little more solid, but without consistent results. They have tried every single combination in the defensive line but none of them worked particularly well.

They are dealing with several injury concerns, but they have a chance to have something close to a full squad on Sunday night. The only sure absentees are Federico Melchiorri, who has a torn ACL, the newcomer Paolo Faragò who has a strained calf, Joao Pedro and Luca Ceppitelli who are suspended. Simone Padoin, Diego Farias and Marco Sau have been dealing with muscular issues over the last two weeks, but they could recover in time. Marco Borriello has a bruised knee and has practiced on his own all week long: I would not bet against his availability, but at this stage he is not slated to start.

With so many doubts, the XI could go in few different directions, also tactically-wise. Their ordinary system is a 4-3-1-2, but Rastelli has opted for a 4-4-1-1/4-5-1 recently. Considering the various ailments, they would be very thin with the first one, so the second is more likely. The defence will be formed by Fabio Pisacane, Bruno Alves and two between Marco Capuano, Bartosz Salamon and Nicola Murru as Capuano can play both as CB and as LB. Murru has stayed on the bench in the last two games and Inter loanee Senna Miangue has been the first fullback to come on.

The midfield will be likely composed by Mauricio Isla, Davide Di Gennaro, Daniele Dessena, Niccolò Barella and one between Panagiotis Tachtsidis and Simeone Padoin, depending on whether the former Juventus talisman has recovered. Sau is the frontrunner upfront but of course Borriello would easily take his spot if he is ready because he makes more sense in a one-man attack. Farias would play as left winger if he could start, likely in a 5-man midfield: he would give them the tactical flexibility to switch to the diamond formation without any sub. Di Gennaro and Barella have experience as attackind midfielders.

They have had some memorable comebacks, so Juventus will have to be very careful if they get a lead. They have the worst defence in the league and that is something to take advantage of. That is partially caused by the fact that they are not content with sitting back and countering: they try to be proactive, but they do not have the soldiers to be balanced when they do it. Borriello influences a lot their playing style: if he is out there they would attack more down the flanks and cross, because he provides a great physical presence in the box. With Sau, that would be taken away, but they would be way quicker.

Probable lineup: 

4-4-1-1: Rafael; Pisacane, Alves, Salamon, Capuano; Isla, Dessena, Padoin, Barella; Di Gennaro; Sau.

Injuries:

Melchiorri (knee), Faragò (calf).

Suspensions:

Pedro, Ceppitelli.

 

Formation

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Another 400 at Juve'

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98211/allegri-another-400-juve

 

 

Feb 11, 2017

 

Max Allegri hopes to have “another 300 or 400 games” on the Juventus bench, reshuffles the pack in Cagliari and silences Inter controversy.

 

The trip to Sardinia kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

First up, Allegri was asked about the on-going speculation over his future, specifically with interest from Arsenal.

 

“Italian football remains one of the best in the world and recently many young talents have emerged too,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

 

“As for my future, how can I confirm something that doesn’t exist or deny something I never said? I have a contract with Juventus, I am happy, as I’ve always said we have a season to complete and at the right time we’ll sit down with the club to discuss our plans.”

Tomorrow will be Allegri’s 100^th game for Juventus and he has the best win ratio of all.

 

“I never thought about it because I am not interested in records, but in winning the Scudetto and going all the way in the Champions League.

 

“I hope there are another 300 or 400 games, as I am happy at Juventus. I always said that if I were to leave, Juve would be the first to know.”

 

Juventus beat Inter 1-0 with a Juan Cuadrado scorcher last Sunday, but the week’s headlines have been dominated by accusations of refereeing bias and an exchange of barbed comments.

 

“After a week it is right to stop talking about this controversy. I’ll just say that Juventus deservedly won the match, I continue to maintain Inter are a good side who fortunately for us had a bad start to the season, otherwise they’d be challenging for the Scudetto.”

 

Juventus patron John Elkann stirred up the situation further by declaring Inter ought to be used to losing by now. Was that over the line?

 

“I do not comment on what other people say. I will just note that a week after the game, it’d be silly and pointless to continue stirring up controversy. On Sunday Juve won deservedly, but Inter remain a very strong team. In football you win, lose or draw, but it was a great evening of sport and I think Inter ought to look to the future with positivity.”

 

Claudio Marchisio could potentially return to the starting XI after a back problem.

 

“He trained with the team yesterday and did well. I will evaluate him, Sami Khedira, Miralem Pjanic got a knock, Tomas Rincon did well and Stefano Sturaro is in good shape.

 

“There will be some changes, certainly. Cagliari are a fast-paced side who got excellent results at home, so it is an important match for us.

 

“I have decisions to make in midfield and in the attack, but Alex Sandro, Giorgio Chiellini, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala and Cuadrado will start. Andrea Barzagli is out for a few days, but hope to have him back against Palermo next Friday.

 

“On the left it’s a choice between Mario Mandzukic, Marko Pjaca and Stefano Sturaro. Gigi Buffon plays tomorrow, then we’ll see next week what I decide. Neto is in good shape and a great goalkeeper, so if I were to rest Buffon, he’d be reliable.

 

“This season we’re yet to enjoy five consecutive victories, so that is the target for tomorrow. It’s our second consecutive away fixture and those are never easy. We want to reach the final push this season with a full squad at our disposal.”

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spalletti: 'Nainggolan said daft things'

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98215/spalletti-nainggolan-said-daft-things

 

 

Feb 11, 2017

 

Luciano Spalletti reassured Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan after declaring he hated Juventus. “He said a couple of daft things.”

 

The Coach held a Press conference ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Crotone, but the questions were naturally based around Nainggolan being caught on camera telling fans he “hates” the Bianconeri.

 

“His temperament is clear for all to see,” noted the Coach. “He is a great guy, very fair and that is what Nainggolan is in my view, not the couple of daft things he said outside a bar with people who lead you into finishing their sentences.

 

“He was kind enough to stop and chat with them, but they proved to be two jackals, manipulating the video, because you don’t see the start of it.

 

“He wanted to seem like a tough guy, which he’s not. In the locker room everyone was having a laugh about it, but at the end of the day we realised how it was going to go.

 

“The people who create these controversies want us to lose. We are a team with a united front: we are focused on tomorrow’s game and that is all.”

 

There were reports the Disciplinary Commission could take action after the comments suggesting Juventus “always win with a penalty or a free kick,” but that doesn’t seem to be the case.

 

The Belgium international was also smoking during the video, so how does he manage to be such a strong athlete with that lifestyle?

 

“It’s not a problem,” insisted Spalletti. “He lives a normal life. It was his night off, he can have what he wants. Radja finds a balance and does everything to the max.

 

“I know that there’s controversy every week and so we get used to it. I know what our objectives are and the rest is of no interest. We must give relevance to important issues.

 

“Radja will learn to be more careful, as there are some enemies who want to slap you on the front page.”

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Cagliari - Juventus Match Preview

 

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/preview/88056

 

 

Feb 11, 2017

 

League leaders Juventus travel to Sardinia Sunday evening hoping to avoid a potential banana skin in Cagliari.

 

The hosts have a healthy 13-point gap to the bottom three, an unusually comfortable position for the Islanders to be occupying at this stage of the season. The key to their success thus far has been their home record, with 23 of their 27 points earned at the Sant’Elia, the highest proportional discrepancy of any club in Serie A.

 

With the Old Lady relying on the attack-minded Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado to cover their full-backs, a key component of Massimo Rastelli’s gameplan could be their wide defenders. Despite this only being his first full season in Serie A, right-back Fabio Piscane has impressed with his energy and over-lapping runs as much as his personal struggle with Guillain-Barre syndrome. Whilst on the other flank, youth product Nicola Murru has forged a good understanding with Nicolo Barella in front of him. Former Juve man Marco Borriello is likely to start up front and will be looking to amend the fact that he scored as many goals for the champions during his one season there (two) as he has against them in his nomadic 15-year career.

 

Their nearest title rivals are racking up the high-scoring, free-flowing wins, but the Old Lady continue to just do the bare minimum to maintain their advantage at the top. After the euphoria of victory in the Derby d’Italia, Massimiliano Allegri will be keen to avoid the sort of complacency which has seen four away defeats already this term for the champions.

 

Whilst the focus has understandably centred on the attacking quartet deployed since the surprise defeat to Fiorentina last month, it’s at the back where things have really tightened up. Allegri’s side have kept four consecutive clean sheets since that shock reversal with Leonardo Bonucci in particular returning to the dominating, play-making conductor.

 

The pair in front of the back four, Miralem Pjanic and Sami Khedira, complement each other nicely, Khedira screening and allowing Pjanic to link and join the attack. That attacking quartet, meanwhile, have really made their mark – five of the six goals scored in the four games Cuadrado, Mandzukic, Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala have been deployed in together have come from their boots.

 

Cagliari hold a better home record than Fiorentina and Milan, two of the sides to have sprung a surprise when the champions have visited. The Old Lady will need to be at her sharpest to maintain the seven-point gap.

Keep an eye on: Juan Cuadrado (Juventus) - After a mixed 18 months, the Colombian finally seems to be showing the form of old, capped by last week’s magical goal against Inter.

 

Form Guide: Cagliari (L D L W L) Juventus (W W W W L)

 

Last season: Not played

 

Stat fact: Cagliari have not beaten Juventus since a 2-0 result here in November 2009, followed by three 1-1 draws and 10 defeats, home and away in all competition.

 

Top tip: Juve to win by a handicap of -1

 

 

Cagliari (probable): Rafael; Piscante, Alves, Capuano, Murru; Tachtsidis; Isla, Di Genaro, Dessena, Barella; Boriello

Suspended: Joao Pedro, Ceppitelli

 

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

Suspended: None.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Marchisio and Lemina back for Juve

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98225/marchisio-and-lemina-back-juve

 

 

Feb 11, 2017

 

Claudio Marchisio and Mario Lemina return as Juventus travel to Cagliari, but Andrea Barzagli misses out.

 

It kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

The Bianconeri welcome back midfielders Marchisio and Lemina from injury to bolster the squad.

 

Barzagli is sidelined with a muscular problem for a couple of weeks.

 

Juventus squad for Cagliari: Buffon, Chiellini, Benatia, Pjanic, Khedira, Cuadrado, Marchisio, Higuain, Alex Sandro, Mandzukic, Lemina, Bonucci, Pjaca, Dybala, Asamoah, Dani Alves, Rugani, Neto, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Rincon, Audero

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rizzoli: 'No Juventus-Inter error'

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98226/rizzoli-no-juventus-inter-error

 

 

Feb 11, 2017

 

Referee Nicola Rizzoli explained precisely what happened in the contested Juventus victory over Inter, including that Mauro Icardi chance.

 

The Nerazzurri were furious after their 1-0 defeat in Turin last Sunday, releasing video clips showing a curious incident where Giorgio Chiellini seemed to take a free kick back towards Gigi Buffon, it was intercepted by Icardi and Rizzoli halted play.

 

Rizzoli spoke to TV programme Le Iene and a clip of the interview was released ahead of Monday evening’s broadcast.

 

They showed him the footage and asked him to be the objective video analyst on his own performance.

 

“Chiellini gets the ball,” said Rizzoli. “He adjusts it with his foot and passes it to the goalkeeper to get him to take it. But, apart from the fact the ball hadn’t stopped so play was never resumed correctly, I think in this case the referee Rizzoli judged it to be taken incorrectly.

 

“He therefore blew the whistle and pointed for the free kick to be taken from the correct position. The ball has to be still when taking a free kick, so in that case Rizzoli noticed the ball was not still.

 

“He blew the whistle twice. Going forward with the footage, the kick was taken again and once again it was not still. Rizzoli therefore whistled again and put the ball back into the right position.

 

“Finally the ball is still and Chiellini takes the kick. What is the controversy here? I would not criticise the official for that.”

 

But wasn’t Icardi going clear on goal, ask Le Iene?

 

“In order to be clear on goal, the ball has to be in play. We’re talking about nothing, but then that is a normal part of Italian football.

 

“I can guarantee you it has never happened that a referee awards a foul when a player demands it. A referee would never do such a thing.”

 

Juventus chief John Elkann said this week that Inter must learn how to lose with dignity, so is that the situation here?

 

“I don’t think it’s about knowing how to win or how to lose. I believe Inter are doing everything to reduce the bans for their players and that is an understandable attitude, even if the method is to be criticised.”

 

Mauro Icardi received a two-game ban for dissent and kicking the ball just past Rizzoli’s head at the final whistle, while Ivan Perisic’s two-match suspension was reduced to one on appeal.

 

Is there fear of making life difficult for Juventus?

 

“No. Absolutely not. I think I’ve proved that already. At the start of the season there was all this talk about an error I made against Juventus when they were playing against Milan.

 

“In Italy everyone is a Coach, everyone is a player, everyone is a referee. The problem is when any decision is made in Italy, the decision will be criticised.”

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Allegri hoping for another 300 or 400 games at Juventus

 

Manager’s pre-match comments ahead of Cagliari game

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/11/14586484/allegri-

hoping-for-another-300-or-400-games-at-juventus-arsenal-rumours-cagliari

 

 

Feb 11, 2017

 

Juventus take on Cagliari tomorrow and manager Massimiliano Allegri started off the press conference having to once again dispel rumours of a summer move to Arsenal.

“Italian football remains one of the best in the world and recently many young talents have emerged too.

“As for my future, how can I confirm something that doesn’t exist or deny something I never said? I have a contract with Juventus, I am happy, as I’ve always said we have a season to complete and at the right time we’ll sit down with the club to discuss our plans.”

Allegri will be marking his 100^th game for Juve tomorrow, and he currently holds the record for the best win ratio of all managers to have been in charge of the Bianconeri.

“I never thought about it because I am not interested in records, but in winning the Scudetto and going all the way in the Champions League.

“I hope there are another 300 or 400 games, as I am happy at Juventus. I always said that if I were to leave, Juve would be the first to know.”

It’s been a controversial week in Italian football with Inter Milan’s accusations of referee bias.

“After a week it is right to stop talking about this controversy. I’ll just say that Juventus deservedly won the match, I continue to maintain Inter are a good side who fortunately for us had a bad start to the season, otherwise they’d be challenging for the Scudetto.”

Juventus did not take the accusations quietly either, with club patron John Elkann going on to say that Inter should be used to losing by now.

“I do not comment on what other people say. I will just note that a week after the game, it’d be silly and pointless to continue stirring up controversy. On Sunday Juve won deservedly, but Inter remain a very strong team. In football you win, lose or draw, but it was a great evening of sport and I think Inter ought to look to the future with positivity.”

Claudio Marchisio is expected to play despite a back issue.

“He trained with the team yesterday and did well. I will evaluate him, Sami Khedira, Miralem Pjanic got a knock, Tomas Rincon did well and Stefano Sturaro is in good shape.

“There will be some changes, certainly. Cagliari are a fast-paced side who got excellent results at home, so it is an important match for us.

“I have decisions to make in midfield and in the attack, but Alex Sandro, Giorgio Chiellini, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala and Cuadrado will start. Andrea Barzagli is out for a few days, but hope to have him back against Palermo next Friday.

“On the left it’s a choice between Mario Mandzukic, Marko Pjaca and Stefano Sturaro. Gigi Buffon plays tomorrow, then we’ll see next week what I decide. Neto is in good shape and a great goalkeeper, so if I were to rest Buffon, he’d be reliable.”

Allegri also noted that he wanted to maintain some consistency in performances.

“This season we’re yet to enjoy five consecutive victories, so that is the target for tomorrow. It’s our second consecutive away fixture and those are never easy. We want to reach the final push this season with a full squad at our disposal.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Rastelli: 'Cagliari-Juve battle'

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98237/rastelli-cagliari-juve-battle

 

 

Feb 11, 2017

 

Cagliari Coach Massimo Rastelli expects “a physical battle” when Juventus come to Sardinia on Sunday evening. “Nobody is unbeatable.”

 

It kicks off on Sunday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

“We have Victor Ibarbo and Simone Padoin available again, but Diego Farias is not,” noted the Coach in his Press conference.

 

“Marco Borriello is very important for us, he’s our hitman and last week put in a remarkable performance. I thank him, as he wasn’t 100 per cent fit.

 

“Juventus are an opponent who allow nothing, but I want to get a result for the fans. We’re strong at home and can field the best possible Cagliari, playing as a unit from the first minute to the last.

 

“We must above all avoid pauses in intensity that could damage the game beyond repair. Every team has a weak point and nobody is unbeatable.”

 

Cagliari star Marco Sau has never managed to score a goal against Juventus.

 

“There’s a first time for everything and hopefully it’ll be tomorrow,” smiled Rastelli.

 

“Marco does so much dirty work for the team and is always there to help the other players. This leaves him a little fatigued once he gets in front of goal.”

 

Joao Pedro and Luca Ceppitelli are suspended with Paolo Farago and Federico Melchiorri injured.

 

“Juventus are also strong physically and don’t hold back in one-on-one battles. Neither do we. Max Allegri wants to win and so do we.”

 

 

Cagliari squad for Juventus: Colombo, Crosta, Gabriel, Rafael; Bruno Alves, Capuano, Isla, Miangue, Murru, Pisacane, Salamon; Barella, Dessena, Deiola, Di Gennaro, Ionita, Padoin, Tachtsidis; Borriello, Ibarbo, Sau

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Cagliari-Juventus

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98282/line-ups-cagliari-juventus

 

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Juventus make changes to their all-star line-up for the trip to free-scoring Cagliari, starting Claudio Marchisio instead of Miralem Pjanic.

 

It kicks off at the Stadio Sant’Elia at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

The Bianconeri went into this weekend seven points clear at the top of the Serie A table and eager to make it five wins on the bounce.

 

Max Allegri’s men had been nigh-on unstoppable since switching to a 4-2-3-1 system that used all their star names simultaneously.

 

It’s a big occasion for Allegri, his 100^th Serie A game on the Juventus bench.

 

There have to be some adjustments this evening, as Andrea Barzagli is injured, but Stephan Lichtsteiner and Alex Sandro take the full-back roles.

 

Marchisio joins Sami Khedira in midfield, resting Pjanic, while Juan Cuadrado, Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic support Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Cagliari have the worst defensive record in the division, having leaked 48 goals in just 23 games.

 

However, the Sardinians are also prolific on home turf with 25 scored in 11 matches, including a 2-2 draw with Roma.

 

Joao Pedro and Luca Ceppitelli sit out bans with Federico Melchiorri and Paolo Farago injured.

 

There are several ex-Juve players in Massimo Rastelli’s squad, including Marco Borriello, Mauricio Isla and Simone Padoin.

 

This is also a homecoming for Allegri, who got his first big break as the Coach of Cagliari.

 

Cagliari haven’t beaten Juventus since a 2-0 result here in November 2009, followed by three 1-1 draws and 10 defeats, home and away in all competition.

 

 

Cagliari: Rafael; Pisacane, Capuano, Bruno Alves, Murru; Isla, Dessena, Di Gennaro, Barella; Borriello, Sau

Cagliari bench: Colombo, Crosta, Gabriel, Miangue, Salamon, Deiola, Ionita, Padoin, Tachtsidis, Ibarbo

 

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Marchisio, Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain

Juventus bench: Neto, Audero, Dani Alves, Benatia, Rugani, Asamoah, Pjanic, Lemina, Sturaro, Rincon, Pjaca

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Sau: 'Cagliari can shock Juventus'

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98284/sau-cagliari-can-shock-juventus

 

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Marco Sau warned Cagliari “have always done well at the Sant’Elia” and want to beat Juventus this evening.

 

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

“We are playing on home turf and we want to win,” the striker told Mediaset Premium.

 

“It’s not an easy game, obviously, but we’ve always done well at the Sant’Elia  cettherefore will try to keep up that record.”

 

The Sardinians have scored 25 goals on home turf compared to just seven on their travels.

 

However, they also conceded 21 here and have a record of seven wins, two draws and two defeats.

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Giulini: 'Cagliari have nothing to lose'

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98286/giulini-cagliari-have-nothing-lose

 

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Cagliari President Tommaso Giulini points out they “have nothing to lose” against Serie A leaders Juventus this evening.

 

“We have nothing to lose and must play to the max,” the patron told Mediaset Premium.

 

“Marco Sau is back, Marco Borriello isn’t 100 per cent but starts anyway. We will work hard to push for Europe in future, hoping a club like Cagliari can compete on an economic level, in terms of revenue and TV rights too.

 

“The current way the income is split does not allow clubs like ours to compete and I hope the rules change.

 

“We need to reach an agreement with the big clubs, as the current deal was worked out by them. How can sides like Pescara survive and compete with this revenue? The current campaign is emblematic of the problem.

 

“Cagliari have always done well on home turf and I hope to see a game that’s open to the end. We must be concentrated, because Juve punish you at the slightest error.”

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

HT 0-1: Higuain breaks down Cagliari

 

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98288/ht-higuain-breaks-down-cagliari

 

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Gonzalo Higuain has given Juventus the half-time lead at Cagliari with a delicate finish, but Giorgio Chiellini went off injured.

 

The Bianconeri went into this weekend seven points clear at the top of the table after four consecutive victories and stuck with the 4-2-3-1 system, bringing in Claudio Marchisio to rest Miralem Pjanic. Andrea Barzagli was injured, while the hosts had Joao Pedro and Luca Ceppitelli suspended.

 

Cagliari last beat Juventus with a 2-0 result here in November 2009, followed by three 1-1 draws and 10 defeats, home and away in all competition.

 

Fabio Pisacane did just enough to put off Mario Mandzukic’s diving header from close range and Daniele Dessena had penalty appeals for an Alex Sandro nudge in the back.

 

Giorgio Chiellini hacked down Nicolo Barella on the edge of the box and Bruno Alves curled the resulting free kick just wide of the near stick. The Juventus defender was injured during that move and made way for Daniele Rugani.

 

Stephan Lichtsteiner charged down a Marco Borriello angled drive inside the area, but Juventus took the lead with their first genuine chance.

 

Marchisio’s ball over the top found Higuain onside, as Pisacane was keeping him level, and Pipita dinked it over the on-rushing goalkeeper from a tight angle. It was his sixth consecutive Serie A match on target.

 

 

Cagliari 0-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Higuain 37 (J)

 

Cagliari: Rafael; Pisacane, Capuano, Bruno Alves, Murru; Isla, Dessena, Di Gennaro, Barella; Borriello, Sau

 

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini (Rugani 18), Alex Sandro; Marchisio, Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuain

 

Ref: Calvarese

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Cagliari 0-2 Juventus: Higuain

double punishes 10-man hosts

 

The 29-year-old struck either side of half-time as the Old Lady

triumph on Massimiliano Allegri's 100th Serie A game in charge.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/cagliari-vs-juventus/2305987/report

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Juventus maintained their seven-point lead at the top of Serie A as Gonzalo Higuain struck a brace in a 2-0 win at Cagliari on Sunday.

 

In Massimiliano Allegri's 100th league game in charge of the club - at the home of the coach's former side - Higuain's ruthless finishing proved the difference for Juve.

 

This was a second away victory of the week for the reigning champions, having scored twice in the second half to beat Crotone on Wednesday, and they again recovered from a slow start in this match.

Cagliari matched the Bianconeri's effort throughout, but allowed Higuain two clear opportunities and the Argentina international took them both.

 

If the opener, late in the first half, had dampened Sardinian spirits, a second strike just after the interval seemingly put the result beyond doubt.

Nicolo Barella was then dismissed for the home side for two bookable offences, and Allegri's men ended the game hunting a third goal, with the crossbar the only thing preventing Mario Mandzukic from providing it.

 

 

Giorgio Chiellini was withdrawn with a knock in a scrappy opening period, but Juventus took their first chance when it finally arrived after 37 minutes.

 

Claudio Marchisio threaded a pass through the Cagliari defence and Higuain, previously marshalled so well, was away to lift a delicate finish over the advancing Rafael.

 

Then, with just two minutes of the second half played, Higuain doubled his tally.

 

Juan Cuadrado led a counter on the right flank, pushing the ball inside for Paulo Dybala, who in turn picked out Higuain to calmly prod into the bottom-left corner.

 

A half-chance for the hosts saw Marco Borriello lash high and wide from the left side of the area, while Mauricio Isla's drive from distance also missed the target.

 

Any dwindling hopes of a comeback were then put to bed, though, as Barella, already booked for a challenge on Cuadrado, clattered into Miralem Pjanic and received his marching orders.

 

 

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Gianluigi Buffon was still required to make a fine save at full stretch from Fabio Pisacane, before Mandzukic nodded wide on the break at the other end.

 

Higuain volleyed over on the turn, while Bruno Alves whipped a free-kick past Buffon's left-hand post, before Juventus came agonisngly close to a third goal.

 

Mandzukic's looping header bounced back out off the bar, with Rafael brilliantly parrying Dybala's rebound, but it mattered little as the Bianconeri secured a third consecutive away win for the first time in the league this season.

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Cagliari 0-2 Juventus: Higuain

double does Cagliari in

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/cagliari-vs-juventus/2305987/ratings

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

TEAM RATINGS

Cagliari

• 1Rafael

  Good awareness in his area, coming out to claim a number of crosses in from the wide areas. Had little chance to keep out Higuain's opener, but would have maybe liked to get a hand to the second.

• 29N. Murru

  Sound positional play and did well to close down on the ball in defence.

• 19F. Pisacane

  Very strong play on the flank, keeping the likes of Mandzukic and Alex Sandro quiet, while offering a decent outlet on the overlap. Denied a sure goal late by a spectacular save from Buffon.

• 2Bruno Alves

  A diligent display in defence as his experience proved vital in restricting Juventus' plethora of attacking threats.

• 24M. Capuano

  Had his hands full with Cuadrado, which largely limited his attacking influence.

• 8D. Di Gennaro

  Excellent with his passing but he struggled to produce a decisive final ball to really test the Juventus defence.

• 3M. Isla

  A spirited display against his former side, offering smart and consistent protection for the backline, limiting Juventus' creative types.

• 18N. Barella

  Read the game well in midfield. Proved a good physical presence as he did well to combat Juventus' patient build-up play, but that wound up being his undoing in the end as a pair of yellow cards saw him dismissed just shy of 70 minutes.

• 4D. Dessena

  Pieced together some strong runs in possession, getting after the Juventus defence, but lacked any real end product.

• 25M. Sau

  Hardly had more than a few scattered touches on the ball as his influence on the match was disappointingly insignificant.

• 22M. Borriello

  Dropped a bit deeper to get on the ball, but saw precious little of it when higher up the pitch, as service was in short supply.

Juventus

• 1G. Buffon

  Produced a save out of the top drawer to deny Piscane late on. Hardly had to get involved otherwise, as he was protected brilliantly by a stingy Juventus defence.

• 19L. Bonucci

  Typically strong in possession and was an imposing figure in defence, helping to frustrate the Cagliari forwards.

• 3G. Chiellini

  Tweaked a muscle after committing an early foul and was subbed off inside 20 minutes.

• 26S. Lichtsteiner

  Good link-up play with Cuadrado and was always on hand when needed at the back.

• 12Alex Sandro

  Didn't have many good looks to put in a cross, but hardly put a pass astray as he was flawless in possession.

• 8C. Marchisio

  A much more assured display than he's produced in recent weeks. Sharp in possession, pulling the strings in midfield and assisting Higuain's opener with a clever throughball.

• 6S. Khedira

  Laid deep in midfield, playing simple, square passes. Didn't involve himself much in attack, but was excellent in suffocating Cagliari's attempts to break.

• 9G. Higuaín

  Clinical when he needed to be, opening the scoring with a ruthless finish in the midst of an unspectacular first half, and an equally composed strike to double his tally just after the restart.

• 21P. Dybala

  A perfectly weighted throughball to play Higuain for his second was the only real showing of quality in what was an otherwise lethargic display in attack.

• 17M. Mandžukić

  Never provides cause to question his work rate. A typically determined showing up top, though he didn't work out many looks at goal.

• 7J. Cuadrado

  Looked to be one of the few Juventus players in the mood as the match took a lot of time to spring to life. Good, direct play out wide, though creativity was somewhat lacking.

Substitutes

• 21A. Ioniţă

  Unable to alter the course of the match after replacing Dessena.

• 20S. Padoin

  Late sub.

• 32V. Ibarbo

  Came on with the result settled, unable to get involved much.

Substitutes

• 24D. Rugani

  Filled in admirably after replacing Chiellini early on - a confident and accomplished showing in defence.

• 5M. Pjanić

  Replaced Marchisio and got Barella sent off seconds after entering the fray.

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Higuain brace conquers Cagliari

 

Gonzalo Higuain bagged a brace either side of half-time as Juventus

conquered 10-man Cagliari 2-0 at the Stadio Sant’Elia.

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/88056

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Max Allegri reached a milestone, securing his 100^th victory for Juve in all competition and the 100^th Serie A game on their bench.

 

The Bianconeri went into this weekend seven points clear at the top of the table after four consecutive victories and stuck with the 4-2-3-1 system, bringing in Claudio Marchisio to rest Miralem Pjanic. Andrea Barzagli was injured, while the hosts had Joao Pedro and Luca Ceppitelli suspended.

 

Cagliari last beat Juventus with a 2-0 result here in November 2009, followed by three 1-1 draws and 11 defeats, home and away in all competition.

 

Fabio Pisacane did just enough to put off Mario Mandzukic’s diving header from close range and Daniele Dessena had penalty appeals for an Alex Sandro nudge in the back.

 

Giorgio Chiellini hacked down Nicolo Barella on the edge of the box and Bruno Alves curled the resulting free kick just wide of the near stick. The Juventus defender was injured during that move and made way for Daniele Rugani.

 

Stephan Lichtsteiner charged down a Marco Borriello angled drive inside the area, but Juventus took the lead with their first genuine chance.

 

Marchisio’s ball over the top found Higuain onside, as Pisacane was keeping him level, and Pipita dinked it over the on-rushing goalkeeper from a tight angle. It was his sixth consecutive Serie A match on target.

 

Higuain doubled their lead with a textbook counter-attack from a Cagliari corner at the dawn of the second half. Pipita sparked the move and finished it after Marchisio, Cuadrado from his own half and a Dybala through ball found the Argentine for a precise angled drive off the end of his boot.

 

Cagliari had a period of pressure, with Barella and Sau efforts charged down inside the area as well as a decisive Leonardo Bonucci tackle on former teammate Mauricio Isla.

 

Miralem Pjanic came on and practically his first touch saw him clattered by Barella for a second bookable offence, reducing Cagliari to 10 men.

 

Gigi Buffon had relatively little to do at the Sant’Elia, but when called into action, he pulled out an amazing fingertip save on Pisacane’s swerving half-volley from outside the penalty area. It required remarkable strength to turn it round the post.

 

At the other end, Mandzukic’s diving header from an Alex Sandro cross whistled wide, but Buffon was rooted to the spot when another Bruno Alves free kick shaved a coat of paint off the upright.

 

Juventus somehow didn’t score in stoppages with an incredible double opportunity. Mandzukic’s looping header bounced off the bar into the path of Dybala, who nodded it from six yards on the rebound and Rafael miraculously slapped it off the line.

 

---

 

Cagliari: Rafael; Pisacane (Padoin 81), Capuano, Bruno Alves, Murru; Isla, Dessena (Ionita 62), Di Gennaro, Barella; Borriello (Ibarbo 75), Sau

Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini (Rugani 18), Alex Sandro; Marchisio (Pjanic 66), Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala (Lemina 92), Mandzukic; Higuain

Ref: Calvarese

Sent off: Barella 67 (C)

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Higuain: 'Juve started badly'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98292/higuain-juve-started-badly

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Gonzalo Higuain admits Juventus “didn’t start the way we wanted to against Cagliari,” but ultimately deserved victory with his brace.

 

Pipita found the net either side of half-time for a 2-0 result at the Stadio Sant’Elia.

 

“The important thing was to win. We didn’t start the first half the way we wanted to, and it was really difficult, but we emerged in the long run,” Higuain told Mediaset Premium and Sky Sport Italia.

 

“We have to stay calm, as we just did our duty and must continue like this.

 

“I am in good shape, so is the rest of the team. We knew Cagliari had a strong home record and we’d have to work hard to win.

 

“Now we must rest and get ready for Friday against Palermo. We’re not thinking about Porto or the Champions League until Saturday.”

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'I want spectacular Juve'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98293/allegri-i-want-spectacular-juve

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Max Allegri wants “a spectacular Juventus, but an efficient one too, because if you don’t win then there’s no point.”

 

The Coach marked his 100^th Serie A appearance on the Bianconeri bench and his 100^th overall victory for the Turin giants when conquering Cagliari 2-0 this evening with a Gonzalo Higuain brace.

 

“Higuain is an extraordinary finisher, but we always knew that. The really impressive thing is how hard he works for the team,” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.

 

It has been a non-stop success story since moving to the 4-2-3-1 system that allows for all their star names.

 

“A moment of the season arrived when I thought it was right to change. Our position in the table wasn’t the issue, it was more to do with the performances.

 

“The lads felt more responsibility and above all made us less conservative in our approach.”

 

Miralem Pjanic was rested today, but Sami Khedira has become an essential part of this system.

 

“Khedira always played in a two-man defence, with us he returned to being a youngster in three, but he had Paul Pogba with him and that meant different movements and work-rates.

 

“Khedira is good at dictating the tempo, as if it needs to be 30km/h he goes at 31, if it has to be 50km/h he goes at 51.

 

“We must improve in the speed at which we move the ball and also learn to take up different positions in different games, otherwise we become predictable.

 

“Cuadrado’s weakness is in choosing the right pass, but on the counter-attack for the second goal he made a great choice.

 

“I want a spectacular Juventus. When you play football, you need to be spectacular. Tonight Cagliari went down to 10 men and we should’ve run riot, but instead we were hasty and didn’t make the right choices. We need to improve.

 

“At a certain stage we took our foot off the gas and allowed Cagliari several chances, which should not happen. It has to be spectacular yes, but effective, otherwise there’s no point if you don’t win.

 

“The best players in the world play it simple. The trouble is, it’s more complicated than it looks to play it simple…

 

“With this system we are a little more aerated, we’ve got more room to breathe and the pitch feels larger for us. We have to do better in defence and attack in the Champions League, as we cannot afford mistakes.”

 

Allegri was once again asked about his contract, which expires in June 2018, and links to the Premier League.

 

“I have a year and a half left on my contract, this same conversation was going on last year. I know you all like talking about this, as it fills the time and makes headlines.”

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Juventus 2 - Cagliari 0: Initial reaction

and random observations

 

Juventus striker Gonzalo Higuain is good,

but you probably knew that already.

 

 

 

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/2/12/14592180/juventus-cagliari

-2017-serie-a-round-24-final-score-result-initial-reaction-recap

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

There were days in August when people questioned the transfer fee that Juventus had just paid for Gonzalo Higuain. Admittedly, his slightly rotund shape after a post-Copa America conditioning program didn’t really help things out at all. But when it came down to it, there was a lot of attention put on Higuain based on what he had just done the season before with Napoli and because of Juve paying a club-record fee to sign him.

As we sit here on the second Sunday of February, those questions have been answered. And I’m not just talking about the ones that involved jokes about being a little chubby.

Higuain was up to his old tricks once again Sunday night, as his goals in the 37th and 57th minutes were there to lead Juventus to a 2-0 win over Cagliari in an otherwise so-so team performance at the Sant’Ella in Sardinia. They were Higuain’s 17th and 18th goals of the Serie A season, putting him directly even in the Capocannoniere race with Roma’s Edin Dzeko with 14 rounds of football left to be played.

And also this: Twelve of Higuain’s goals have secured Juve 24 of its 60 points so far in the Scudetto race this season.

Money well spent, eh?

Yep, I think that’s pretty much a consensus at this point.

Throw in a super save from Gianluigi Buffon in the final 15 minutes and you have two of the biggest pieces in a team full of standout players bookending a solid yet unspectacular win against a team that has been pretty damn good at home this season. No, Cagliari aren’t like their other newly-promoted brethren and sitting in the relegation zone, meaning they weren’t going to be a cakewalk from the onset.

But to see Higuain do his thing — again — and have him take advantage of the scoring chances he had like only a striker of his quality can, it’s just phenomenal to watch. He’s clinical and just scoring so many different goals in so many different ways.

He’s got that look to him again. And no, that’s not a fat joke. Higuain is making his midseason charge and hitting his best form of the season at just the right time. He’s scoring goals in bunches in Serie A, and if he starts doing the same thing on the European stage in just a couple of weeks, Juventus are going to be competing on all three fronts for quite a few more months.

That’s why he was signed in the first place, right? (Yes.)

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND OBSERVATIONS

• It took Stephan Lichtsteiner about 10 minutes to pick up a yellow card and start screaming at a referee. I don’t know about you guys, but that’s seems like a typical Lichtsteiner kind of day to me.
• Follow the chain with me here, folks...
• Death.
• Taxes.
• Stephan Lichtsteiner getting yellow cards and yelling at refs.
• Giorgio Chiellini muscle injuries.
• Gonzalo Higuain scoring goals.
• Gigi Buffon making insane saves after doing nothing for the whole game.
• One last thing on the Buffon save: After not having to do much of anything, to pull that off just shows why he’s the greatest ever. To have that amount of concentration and awareness after not really being involved in any kind of play other than backpasses is crazy. He’s amazing. He really is.
• One last thing on Higuain’s first goal: How about that pass from Claudio Marchisio? Welcome back to the starting lineup, my friend.
• Just in case you didn’t know, Marchisio was pretty damn good against Cagliari. One of those sneaky-good kinds of games that he seems to have on a regular basis.
• Why yes, I am very interested in seeing what a double-pivot tandem of Marchisio and Miralem Pjanic looks like before Juventus play Porto in a week and a half. Hopefully Max Allegri cooperates and lets us get a glimpse of that pairing against Palermo on Friday. Just throwing it out there, Max.
• Amazing that Cagliari didn’t instantly score two goals immediately after Simone Padoin was subbed on. I guess his match-winning magic on applies to when he’s wearing a Juventus jersey.
• Andrea Barzagli is injured and maybe back for the Palermo game. Who knows how long Chiellini will be out for after having to be subbed off in the first half. Thank goodness Daniele Rugani is around and seemingly getting better as the weeks go by this season. He could very well be called into action against Porto, and I’d be totally okay with him playing in such a massively important game.
• This was Juan Cuadrado’s first meh game since ________.
• It will be interesting to see how many players Allegri rests against Palermo since the game is being played on a Friday and not a Saturday or Sunday. Does Higuain get a break even though he’s on great form? Does Mario Mandzukic allow Allegri to give him a day off? Will Juve have enough healthy center backs for Leonardo Bonucci to get a breather? All legitimate questions.

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Rastelli: 'Cagliari perfect until the goal'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/98295/rastelli-cagliari-perfect-until-goal

 

Feb 12, 2017

 

Cagliari Coach Massimo Rastelli felt they were having a “perfect” game up until Juventus broke the deadlock in a 2-0 home defeat.

 

Gonzalo Higuain found the net just before half-time, then added another goal straight after the restart at the Stadio Sant’Elia.

 

“Up until the first Juventus goal we were having a perfect game,” the tactician told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“We closed up all the spaces and paradoxically we had the better chances to score. We created more than a few problems for the Bianconeri and unfortunately conceded when we misread the offside trap.

 

“When you go behind against teams like this, there’s always the fear you can leave yourself open and concede more.

 

“Even in the second half, Gigi Buffon needed a fantastic save on Fabio Pisacane. With a little more concentration, we could’ve avoided the goals.”

 

There were emotional scenes at the Sant’Elia before kick-off when Cagliari and Italy legend Gigi Riva was presented with the Collare d’Oro, the highest possible honour in Italian sport.

 

“He rarely comes to the games now, but when he does it warms our hearts,” added Rastelli.

 

“Having him there and the crowd singing his name gave us a real adrenaline rush for the start of the match.”

 

 

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

[Socrates 8524]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

0-2

 

 

Gonzalo Higuaín 37'

Gonzalo Higuaín 47'

 

 

 

 

 

MATCHDAY 24

 

Sunday, February 12th, 2017 - 8:45 p.m.
Sant'Elía Stadium, Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese 

 

 

 

Gonzalo Higuain scores brace as Juventus

cruise to seven-point Serie A lead

 

 

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/report?gameId=461066

 

Feb 13, 2017

 

It seemed appropriate that Gonzalo Higuain and Gianluigi Buffon stood out on a night for legends.

After Italy's all-time leading scorer Luigi Riva was honored before kick off with the country's highest sports honor, Higuain scored twice and Buffon preserved a clean sheet with a spectacular save as Serie A leader Juventus won 2-0 at 10-man Cagliari on Sunday.

Buffon shared a long embrace with the 72-year-old Riva in the prematch ceremony for the golden collar award. The pair developed a lasting friendship during Riva's long tenure working as an adviser to Italy's national team, which was interrupted in 2013 when Riva began to have health problems.

"You're an emblematic athlete who made an entire population and all of Italy proud," Italian Olympic Committee president Giovanni told the crowd in Sardinia, where Riva led Cagliari to their only title in 1970.

Gonzalo Higuain scored a pair of goals in Juventus' comfortable defeat of Cagliari. Getty Images

Once the match started, Higuain took the spotlight with goals either side of half-time.

The Argentina international beat the offside trap and used one touch to chip in an angled effort over the goalkeeper. He then concluded a counter-attack that he had started in Juve's own end from nearly the same position as his first goal -- this time using two touches.

With 18 goals, Higuain joined Edin Dzeko atop the league's scoring chart. With 14 matches still to play, Higuain is halfway to the 36 he scored with Napoli last season to break a 66-year-old Serie A record.

Dzeko scored in Roma's 2-0 win at relegation-threatened Crotone earlier after missing a first-half penalty.

Juventus remained seven points ahead of second-placed Roma as they seek a record sixth straight title.

Cagliari's Nicolo Barella picked up his second yellow card midway through the second half and then Buffon stretched out to tip wide a powerful, curving shot from Fabio Pisacane.

 

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