JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

Socrates · May 23, 2017

‘Madrid will give soul for CL’

http://www.football-italia.net/103010/‘madrid-will-give-soul-cl’

May 23, 2017

Real Madrid President Florentino Perez says they will “give our souls until the last second” to beat Juventus.

In just under two weeks the teams face off in the Champions League final in Cardiff, with Los Blancos looking to become the first team to retain the competition in its current format.

“We have a final on June 3,” Perez told reporters after a meeting with the mayor of Madrid.

“It won’t be easy, but we’ll give our souls until the last second to win.

“Zizou [Zinedine Zidane] is one of the symbols of our history, and I thank him for giving and giving. You were the best player in the world and now you’re quite simply the best Coach in the world.

“This team has demonstrated its value once again, and our dream is to come back here and celebrate on June 4.

“I know this team will have the soul to conquer that 12th Champions League title. That’s what Real is, the players know it and so does Zidane.”

Socrates · May 24, 2017

Juventus 2016/17: Rating The Serie A Champions

https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2017/05/juventus-201617-rating-the-serie-a-champions/

May 23, 2017

With a sixth straight Scudetto and third consecutive Coppa Italia already under their belts, Juventus can complete a historic season in Cardiff’s Champions League final against Real Madrid.

As far as the domestic campaign is concerned, the Bianconeri have impressed more than has come to be expected, with many debating this current team’s position in the list of the all-time great Italian club sides.

The ratings are based on performances in Serie A and, as such, to receive a rating players must have made at least 10 Serie A appearances.

Gianluigi Buffon – 9

Over 15 years and almost 500 games into an illustrious Juventus career that has seen Buffon win everything – except the Champions League – the 39-year-old seems to only get better with age.

Vital as ever playing behind a stern defence, Gigi has once again played a decisive role in another title triumph and despite his advancing years, the Italian looks as though he still has plenty more to offer.

Mehdi Benatia – 7

The Moroccan has struggled for game time since leaving Roma in 2014 and might have expected to feature more this season having returned to Italy from Bayern Munich.

Largely used as a backup to the BBC, Benatia fulfilled his duties whenever called upon and showed Massimiliano Allegri that he is ready to feature more frequently next season.

Daniele Rugani – 7

Much like Benatia, Rugani was predominantly used in the absence of one of the usual defenders. The youngster, however, impressed when given an opportunity.

With Mattia Caldara arriving from Atalanta in 2018 to join Rugani, the future of the Bianconeri defence looks to be in safe hands.

Andrea Barzagli – 7.5

The oldest member of the most feared defence in European football, Barzagli is the one who is first to be rested and rotated by Allegri. When selected, though, the 36-year-old shows his worth.

Starting just 16 times this season, it is clear that his role is diminishing, but he is still an important member of this historic squad.

Leonardo Bonucci – 9

Despite suffering a troubled time away from football early in the season, Bonucci has been his usual brilliant self for Juventus this term.

His ability with the ball at his feet would make many creative midfielders envious and at the back he is hard as a rock, making him the perfect accomplice to Giorgio Chiellini.

Giorgio Chiellini – 8.5

No matter how hard he is hit, Chiellini does not fall and if any of the Juventus defenders represent the unit as a whole it is him.

A warrior on the field, Chiellini used his time off the pitch wisely and completed a Masters degree in Business Administration, which will see him stay involved in his post-playing days at the Juventus Stadium.

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 6.5

When Dani Alves arrived last summer, the Swiss probably would have expected to feature a lot less than in previous years. With the Brazilian picking up an injury, however, Lichtsteiner remained an important part of this success.

Despite now being 33, he patrolled the right flank as effectively as ever, offering balance to Alex Sandro on the opposite wing.

Alex Sandro – 8

This season has established the Brazilian of the world’s best left-sided players and there is nothing he cannot do.

In attack and defence, Alex Sandro has been key to the Bianconeri’s system this season and made it easy for the club to let Patrice Evra move on.

Dani Alves – 8

With every week that passes it becomes harder to understand why Barcelona were willing to let him go.

Even a serious injury could not stop Dani Alves from impressing in his debut campaign in Italy and while much of his brilliance has come in Europe, he has been increasingly important at the business end of the Serie A season.

Kwadwo Asamoah – 6.5

The forgotten man in Juventus’ midfield at times, you could be forgiven for not even realising Asamoah featured 17 times for the Old Lady this season.

Not the most important player, but a consistent and reliable member of the squad that Allegri can trust when called upon.

Juan Cuadrado – 8.5

An unsung hero for Juventus this year, the Colombian delivers the goods when even his teammates are struggling to be their usual selves.

Allegri has disciplined Cuadrado tactically and his goal against Inter is reason enough for his A-grade.

Sami Khedira – 9

The German is one of the reasons Paul Pogba’s absence hasn’t been felt in Turin and the World Cup winner has been brilliant from start to finish.

Making 30 appearances in Serie A, Khedira has been a powerful presence in the middle of the park for Juve and his reading of the game means he always arrives in the appropriate place even before the ball.

Mario Lemina – 6.5

Like Asamoah, Lemina is another who is not one of the most important players, but a reliable alternative to fall back on.

The Gabon international has the potential to improve, and in the 4-2-3-1 acts as an alternative to Cuadrado, but will want to feature more in 2017-18.

Marko Pjaca – 6

Perhaps held back by injury this season, Pjaca’s ability is clear for all to see when he gets the opportunity to play.

Of his 14 appearances, just three came from the start this season and he will likely make a bigger contribution next season.

Claudio Marchisio – 6.5

With just 14 starts in Serie A, the 31-year-old midfielder’s time with Juventus could be nearing its end.

Reliable and consistent when selected, however, this season was far from Marchisio’s best and he was not as decisive as in previous years.

Miralem Pjanic – 8.5

Having made the move from Roma to Juventus, Pjanic needed to deliver in his maiden season in Turin and he did.

Occupying the role vacated by Andrea Pirlo, the Bosnian is following in the footsteps of the maestro.

Tomas Rincon – 6.5

Another of the important back-up players that Allegri trusts to do a job when required, Rincon has proven himself worthy of playing for Juventus this season.

Always hassling opponents and pressing high, the former Genoa man has become the first choice substitute for the Bianconeri

Stefano Sturaro – 6.5

Another of the more peripheral squad members, Sturaro has always been one to appear when rotation is in full effect.

A complete workhorse for the Bianconeri, Sturaro is an important cog in the Juventus machine, though not a key player.

Paulo Dybala – 8

Not quite a No.9 nor a No.10, Dybala role is perhaps best described as a No.9.5.

The Argentine can play anywhere in an attack and his versatility makes him perfectly suited to this Juventus team. With just 10 goals to his name, he will need to find the net more often to improve on his B-grade.

Mario Mandzukic 8.5

A complete warrior for Allegri’s side, the Croatian is happy to play wherever asked and do whatever job required for the greater good.

Regularly popping up at left-back to cover for Alex Sandro while also having a hand in scoring and assisting goals himself, Mandzukic epitomises everything that is good about this Juventus team.

Gonzalo Higuain – 9.5

Questions were asked when Juventus splashed out more than €90 million to bring El Pipita from Napoli to Turin, but the Argentine delivered exactly what was expected of him to help the Old Lady win another Scudetto.

Had Higuain remained in Naples, the Partenopei could well be celebrating their first title since the days of Diego Maradona.

Socrates · May 24, 2017

Should Zinedine Zidane start Gareth Bale

against Juventus if he is fit?

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/real-madrid/86/blog/post/3132825/real-madrid

-should-zinedine-zidane-start-gareth-bale-against-juventus-if-fit

May 23, 2017

Full of joy after their 33rd La Liga title, the Real Madrid squad must now focus on the last challenge of their season: the Champions League final in Cardiff. A victory over Serie A winners Juventus in Wales would take what already is a fantastic year to phenomenal heights. The club have not won the Liga-European Cup double since 1958, and a 12th title in the latter competition would open a huge gap between Real Madrid and their followers, AC Milan, who own seven trophies.

Most supporters understandably believe that Zinedine Zidane has found the right lineup and does not need to tinker too much with it for June 3. With the addition of Isco, the side has won more presence in midfield, better participation from Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, and an extraordinary passer in the final third by the diminutive midfielder from Malaga. Isco can find the in-form Cristiano Ronaldo in space better than anyone else in the squad.

The side's conditioning is as good as one can remember, thanks to Antonio Pintus, so assuming that the injured Daniel Carvajal is back, the starting XI would therefore include Keylor Navas; Carvajal, Raphael Varane, Sergio Ramos and Marcelo; Modric, Casemiro, Kroos; Isco in a free role; Karim Benzema and Ronaldo.

However, a section of the media believes that Zidane is pondering whether to use Gareth Bale as a starter in Cardiff if the Welshman recovers from his injury. They do so with a mixture of shock and indignation. The traditional conspiracy theories -- including mysterious messages from the presidency -- have been repeated ad nauseam to explain the French coach's insistence on starting Bale, Benzema and Ronaldo. But the fact is that, when he took over, Zidane stated that he'd use all three whenever they were in shape over any other offensive combination, and he's done just that.

So far, results have mostly proven him right with one exception: Bale's comeback after four months following he injury he sustained in late November against Sporting Lisbon. The Wales international simply did not manage to regain full fitness, and his poor performances before he picked up his most recent injury -- against Barcelona in April -- made the contrast with Isco's subsequent starts much sharper.

But that was not Bale. At least not the version that kept the team going for the final push in La Liga last season, or the one that could take advantage of opposing defences paying a bit too much attention to Ronaldo or Benzema with darting runs and long-distance crackers.

The team shows more balance and better control of the match with a fourth midfielder, be it Isco on a free role, James in a similar position or even Marco Asensio as a left winger. However, there is indeed a case for Bale to start against Juventus, and the rationale for it has to do with Juve's Dani Alves.

The former Barcelona player, in theory a right full-back, has gone back to his Sevilla years since he joined Juventus. His influence on proceedings from his supposedly peripheral position is again disproportionate. In this season's Champions League, he leads Juventus in assists (four in 10 matches), is their second-best player in passes given per match, and is the best starter in passing percentage (87.9 percent). Disconnecting Alves from the rest of the team is key to making life difficult for Juventus.

Defensively, Alves is not the same player of yore, although he looks in better shape than in some of his final seasons with Barcelona. However, the best way to prevent him from moving forward and getting involved in Juventus' build-up game is to have a constant threat behind him, and that is when Bale comes into the picture.

Few players seem as threatening on the left wing as Bale when he's in shape. His speed, his crossing and his shooting can frustrate the best defenders, and of course should keep Alves quite busy. Preventing the Brazilian from participating in the match and taking advantage of one of his occasional defensive lapses would justify that Zidane used Bale from the beginning. Asensio and Isco would then become options to change things off the bench if necessary.

Of course, all this assumes that the Welsh forward, obviously psyched to play a Champions League final in his home town, recovers his form in the next 10 days. No one wants to see a replay of the Barcelona match, in which a clearly unfit Bale played poorly and left the pitch injured after 38 minutes. It's up to Zidane to decide. The stakes are the highest possible, but the Frenchman has shown extraordinary judgement so far. He just needs to keep it up for one more match.

Socrates · May 24, 2017

Mijatovic: ‘No CL favourites’

http://www.football-italia.net/103050/mijatovic-‘no-cl-favourites’

May 24, 2017

Predraj Mijatovic doesn’t see a favourite between Juventus and Real Madrid, and insists his goal in the 1998 final was onside.

The Bianconeri meet the Spanish champions in Cardiff on June 3, as the Italians look for a Treble and Los Merengues aim to become the first team to retain the Champions League.

“It’s a great final between two world-class teams,” Mijatovic told Tuttomercatoweb.

“I’m particularly happy because I experienced this clash many years ago and it’s something special, so we’ll see how it ends this time.

“It’s true that they were favourites [in 1998] because they’d just won the League while we were coming off a negative League campaign.

“This year I don’t see a favourite, both won their domestic League, both have international players and both have players who can solve the game.

“I see a slight advantage for Real Madrid, who have been in great form for the past two months, have so many champions and have a bench of a great level.

“[Zinedine] Zidane has many great players to choose from, though of course in a one-off game that might not count for anything.

“I didn’t expect him [Zidane] to do so well, but he’s proven himself to be a modern Coach who plays a lot on the psychology of his players. I think that’s what matters most in a team of great stars like Real Madrid.

“Who is most dangerous for Juventus? I’d choose two. The first is Gonzalo Higuain, who I brought to Real Madrid many years ago.

“I like seeing him at these levels and he’s proven to be deadly, able to solve a Champions League final.

“The second is Dybala. He’s a different player, special. With his play he can change a game. Him and Higuain and the ones to watch out for.

“I didn’t mention Buffon? But he’s beyond categorisation. Buffon is an institution and deserves all my respect.”

Mijatovic scored the winner in the 1998 final, though Juventini maintain to this day he was offside…

“What offside? The goal was absolutely regular. No-one from Juventus put their hand up to complain or call for offside.”

That goal made the striker a hero when he later signed for Fiorentina.

“We all know the rivalry between Fiorentina and Juventus,” Mijatovic smiled.

“It’s a normal thing, and because of that I was welcomed like a hero in Florence. My Viola experience was beautiful, I loved the warmth and heart of the fans.

“Unfortunately I didn’t play much, there were problems with the club that contaminated the experience.”

Socrates · May 24, 2017

Xavi: ‘Juventus deserve CL’

http://www.football-italia.net/103060/xavi-‘juventus-deserve-cl’

May 24, 2017

Barcelona legend Xavi is cheering on Juventus in the Champions League final - “they’ve earned it”.

The midfielder played his final game for the Blaugrana in the 2015 final, beating the Bianconeri 3-1 in Berlin.

On June 3 the Old Lady faces Real Madrid in Cardiff, and perhaps unsurprisingly Xavi is cheering for the Italian champions.

“As a fan of Barcelona, I can’t support Real Madrid,” the World Cup-winner told Bild.

“When Real do well it means Barça have done badly. So I’ll keep my fingers crossed for Juventus, quite simply they’ve earned it after their achievements in recent years.

“Toni Kroos is like an engine in the Madrid midfield. He reminds me very much of myself in the way he plays, he’s almost my successor in that position.

“Sami Khedira, meanwhile, is always at the service of Juve, his position is the entire pitch. The best thing about him is that he’s a quiet worker who doesn’t demand recognition.”

Socrates · May 24, 2017

Juve wear home kit with Madrid

http://www.football-italia.net/103074/juve-wear-home-kit-madrid

May 24, 2017

Juventus are due to wear the black and white kit in the Champions League Final, while Real Madrid opt to play in purple.

The teams face off in Cardiff on June 3 for the most prestigious trophy in European football.

A draw was made, confirming Juventus will be the ‘home’ team and therefore Real Madrid had first choice on what kit to choose.

Surprisingly, Zinedine Zidane’s club picked their purple ‘away’ kit, which so far has most often been used in La Liga games rather than Europe.

Juve will therefore wear their traditional black and white stripes.

Some Bianconeri fans will see it as reverse psychology, because Juventus last won the Champions League in 1996 against Ajax when wearing their blue away kit.

This season, the away shirt also happens to be blue.

Socrates · May 25, 2017

The Best Juventus Side Ever?

http://www.football-italia.net/103095/best-juventus-side-ever

May 25, 2017

We live in times which are long on opinion and short on memory. In the breakneck rush for absolutes, detailed analysis is thrown out the window like a spent cigarette. Everything current has to be the best - at least until tomorrow when we fire out another disposable deliberation. Balance, consideration and perspective are as hard to find as truffles hidden on a Tuscan hillside.

It's tempting to think that six-in-a-row Scudetti for this Juventus side must automatically make it the best Bianconero team there has ever been. Nobody has ever achieved the feat, making it a strong fact in their favour. But there are other elements to the jigsaw that we have to piece together before we come to a serious conclusion. The Twitter generation may not have time for that.

First of all, we need to ask who their serious rivals are for such a prestigious accolade. Even in the trophy-heavy history of this club, there are few who could stand comparison with the lofty achievements reached under Antonio Conte first and now Massimiliano Allegri. In fact, there might be only three - the five-in-a-row side of the 1930s, Giovanni Trapattoni’s team of the late 1970s and early 1980s and Marcello Lippi’s gang from the 1990s and early 2000s. An honourable mention, too, for the Omar Sivori and John Charles inspired squad of the 1950s.

The pre-war outfit represents, probably, a stretch too far and even I am not old enough to have seen them play. Those were pioneering days of Calcio when honours and players are hard to stack up against their modern counterparts. A bit like Real Madrid’s early dominance of the European Cup, the feat is still remarkable, but I would not feel comfortable or qualified to call them the best ever.

Which gives us a straight three-way fight between Trap, Lippi and the current crop. And what a tussle that is. Even simply in silverware terms, they are a trio of incredible teams. Each side - if we take the bold Marcello’s two spells - delivered about a dozen major trophies to the already fit-to-burst cabinet back in Turin. It is only fair to point out, however, that there was no Italian Super Cup back in the 1970s and that particular Juve side would surely have won a few of those.

In terms of win percentages, there is a clear edge to Conte and Allegri’s men - their ratio of victories is the highest by some margin. It is a mark in their credit box but also, surely, a comment on the quality of the opposition. Italian football, in general, has been in much ruder health in times gone by than it is at present. That is not meant as criticism of this team, they can only beat what is in front of them, but it has to be taken into account when weighing up their achievements.

Player for player, it feels like comparing three of the finest dishes ever served and is largely a matter of taste. Trap produced one of the greatest defences the global game has ever seen, starting at a time when no foreign imports were allowed in Italy before adding superstars like Zibi Boniek and Michel Platini.

Lippi’s team might have been one of the most hard-working, never-say-die outfits to have graced the turf with the sprinkle of skills provided by Alex Del Piero and Zinedine Zidane. Today’s side boasts similar grinta and robust defensive qualities allied with Paulo Dybala’s delightful dancing feet. How blessed La Vecchia Signora’s fans have been.

All this to say that you could put the three teams on the podium in any order, depending on your personal preferences. But the European dimension still leaves me thinking that, for the time being, Allegri’s men are only in bronze medal position.

Lippi’s team were Champions League Final regulars, winning one and taking a European Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup. Across his decade, Trapattoni won all three continental crowns, plus a Super Cup and Intercontinental trophy.

You might well disagree and prefer them already but, in my view, only with a win over Real Madrid next month could you convincingly argue that Juventini have never had it so good.

Socrates · May 25, 2017

Juve, Madrid on top before Champions League

final; Man United a new entry

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/3132790/juventus

-and-real-madrid-lead-shaka-hislop-power-rankings-man-united-a-new-entry

May 25, 2017

The top two each wrapped a league title last weekend, Next stop Cardiff, via Shaka Hislop's latest Power Rankings!

1. Juventus (no change)

A 3-0 win against Crotone confirmed what, in truth, most of us have expected all season: Juventus are champions of Italy for the sixth straight game. With two parts of a treble complete, only Real Madrid stand between Max Allegri's men and footballing immortality.

2. Real Madrid (no change)

With Barcelona poised to take advantage of any slip, Madrid knew they had to start well at Malaga. Cometh the hour, cometh Cristiano Ronaldo, whose second-minute goal set up what would be a comfortable victory that clinched the club's 33rd Spanish league title.

3. Chelsea (no change)

Having wrapped up the Premier League with two games to spare, Chelsea played with freedom in the last week of the season, scoring a total of nine goals in home wins vs. Watford and Sunderland. Saturday's FA Cup final vs. Arsenal offers the chance of a double.

4. Bayern Munich (+1)

Last weekend featured several goodbyes and Bayern lost two modern-day greats, as Philipp Lahm and Xabi Alonso played their final games before retirement. Both will be difficult to replace in what could be an off-season of much change for the German champions.

5. Monaco (+1)

After four straight Ligue 1 titles, Paris Saint-Germain were expected to coast to another championship, but they didn't reckon upon Monaco's remarkable rise. Leonardo Jardim's young side, who finished the season with a win at Rennes, were simply superb.

6. Barcelona (-2)

Luis Enrique's final Liga game in charge did not end with a title triumph and, as away side Eibar took a 2-0 lead, it looked as though it would end in defeat. But then Lionel Messi took over to inspire a comeback win and set up Barca for the Copa del Rey final vs. Alaves.

7. Roma (no change)

Serie A still has one round of games remaining, which means Roma can't yet relax. But a fourth straight win -- this time at home against Genoa in Francesco Totti's farewell -- will seal second place and guarantee a place in the group stage of the Champions League.

8. Atletico Madrid (no change)

Ten wins in their final 13 league games saw Atletico claim third place at the end of a season that, perhaps, saw them slightly underperform, especially when compared to recent campaigns. Koke has signed a new deal, but will Antoine Griezmann be there next season?

9. Manchester United (new)

It hasn't been pretty but Jose Mourinho achieved his main objective: Champions League qualification. Sixth in the league was disappointing but surely, at the start of the season, United fans would have taken two major trophies and a return to club football's biggest competition.

10. Feyenoord (no change)

The Dutch champions are no doubt enjoying their holidays, while still basking in the glory of their first Eredivisie title since 1999. You wonder whether their success will attract bigger clubs toward their best players and there is also a Dirk Kuyt-sized hole that they must fill.

Dropping out: Benfica.

Socrates · May 25, 2017

Why Juventus Will Beat Real Madrid

And Win The Champions League

https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2017/05/why-juventus-

will-beat-real-madrid-and-win-the-champions-league/

May 25, 2017

Juventus are in the best possible form to beat Real Madrid, win the Champions League final and complete the Treble.

The Bianconeri have piled together a series of record breaking seasons and have built up the qualities and the confidence to go all the way and lift their first Champions League trophy since 1996.

Nobody has ever won two Champions League titles in a row, and Juventus seem the best team to stop Real Madrid from doing so.

Juve are a complete team with everything it takes to lift the Champions League after winning the Serie A title and the Coppa Italia, taking the Treble to Turin and joining the exclusive club of those who managed.

It’s what is missing for Juve fans to have yet another reason to boast superiority over their rival fans, and it really feels like this year it is the Bianconeri’s turn to enter the legend.

Socrates · May 25, 2017

Paul Pogba would be "very happy"

if Juventus win Champions League

https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2017/05/why-juventus-

will-beat-real-madrid-and-win-the-champions-league/

May 25, 2017

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has backed Juventus to overcome Real Madrid in the Champions League final so that he can face off against his former club in next season's UEFA Super Cup.

The France international left Juve last summer to return to Old Trafford, bringing an end to his trophy-laden four-year spell in Turin that saw him win four Serie A titles and two Coppas Italia.

Pogba also reached the final of European football's showpiece event in 2015, starting the Old Lady's 3-1 defeat to Barcelona, but the world's most expensive player is hoping to see his former side to go one better in Cardiff next month.

"If Juventus win the Champions League, I am very happy, very happy," he told Sky Italia. "Then we would be in the Super Cup against them? True. But I can say good luck to my former teammates."

Pogba found the net in Man United's 2-0 win over Ajax in Wednesday's Europa League final, booking his side's place in August's Super Cup clash in Skopje.

Socrates · May 26, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Allegri: ‘Juventus have to win’

http://www.football-italia.net/103158/allegri-‘juventus-have-win’

May 26, 2017

Massimiliano Allegri insists Juventus “have to win” at Bologna tomorrow, despite having secured the Scudetto already.

The Bianconeri face Real Madrid in the Champions League final on June 3, but the Coach insists the final Serie A game is important for his side.

“The first rule is to try and win the game,” Allegri said in his pre-match Press conference.

“We can’t know what will happen tomorrow, never mind the day after tomorrow. We have a game to play tomorrow, the last of the League season, and we have to try and close our campaign in the best way, maybe with a beautiful win.

“Then we’ll have a rest on Sunday, and after that we’ll prepare to play the last game of the season. Today is the last League Press conference of the season.

“Right? There are no more? We’ll see each other for the next conference in Cardiff, or am I wrong?”

It was then pointed out that there is another Press conference at Vinovo on Monday.

“Ah, ok, I got a bit confused. That said, we have to win tomorrow.”

Juve play tomorrow, but Sunday will see Francesco Totti play his final game for Roma…

“First of all we have to thank him for what he’s shown up to this point, both in Italy and around the world.

“After that I don’t know what he’ll do in the future, football is beautiful, especially for those who have played at the highest levels.

“It’s a special moment, for him above all but also for the Roma fans because in the end they have been unforgettable years and Totti will remain a piece of Roma’s history.

“So I want to offer a big good luck to him for what he’ll do in the future, whatever he decides. It’s an important moment because when a player comes to the end - or the end of one piece of his work - and there’s a change, that’s an important step.

“So a big good luck to him.”

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

Socrates · May 26, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Allegri: ‘Audero plays in Bologna’

http://www.football-italia.net/103159/allegri-‘audero-plays-bologna’

May 26, 2017

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri reveals Emil Audero will play in goal against Bologna tomorrow.

The Bianconeri have already won the Scudetto, and face Real Madrid in the Champions League final a week tomorrow, but there won’t be huge rotation for tomorrow’s match.

“Tomorrow on the pitch, here’s who’ll play,” Allegri said in his pre-match Press conference.

“Up-front [Juan] Cuadrado, [Paulo] Dybala, [Mario] Mandzukic and [Gonzalo] Higuain. [Giorgio] Chiellini won’t be there.

“Between [Leonardo] Bonucci, [Andrea] Barzagli and [Medhi] Benatia, two will play. [Stephan] Lichtsteiner will play. I think [Kwadwo] Asamoah will play on the left.

“In the midfield [Sami] Khedira will return from the first minute, at least for a while because I have to see what condition he’s in.

“What’s lacking is the last piece, which will probably be [Claudio] Marchisio. Then I have three subs.

“Tomorrow Audero will play in goal.

"Is Chiellini a doubt for Cardiff? No, he's working well and there's no doubt about his availability for Cardiff.

"He's on a booking, so he'd be risking next year's Supercoppa."

Mandzukic yesterday renewed his contract with the Bianconeri, and Allegri was asked about the Croatian committing until 2020.

“I’m happy for Mario because he’s renewed, like Dybala has renewed.

“I think Juventus have made an important strategy, in the sense of keeping the great players, the champions.

“When you keep the great players, the champions, you don’t have to talk about the Coach, because you have to keep the champions.

“So I’m very happy, it shows Juventus are working for the future.”

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

Socrates · May 26, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Allegri: ‘I want to stay at Juventus’

http://www.football-italia.net/103160/allegri-‘i-want-stay-juventus’

May 26, 2017

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri is unequivocal over his future - “I want to stay”.

It has been suggested that the tactician could walk away if the Bianconeri complete the Treble, with Arsenal mooted as a possible destination.

General manager Giuseppe Marotta made it clear today that they want to continue with the Coach, and it appears the feeling is mutual.

“I’m happy with the director’s words, but at the moment we haven’t met and we haven’t talked about it,” Allegri reiterated in his pre-Bologna Press conference.

“We definitely won’t do it this week, because we’re going to Cardiff and it’s right that we’re focused on this global event, because after all the Champions League final is a world event, just like the Super Bowl.

“So we have to face it with great enthusiasm and conviction, but we’ll talk about that next week.

“As for my contract, at the right time the club will decide, they’ll call me because at the end of the day I have a contract until 2018.

“So, as I’ve repeated 1500 billion times: I have a contract until 2018, the club can call me or not call me. After that we’ll see.

“I want to stay, then we have to talk. We’ll see.

“Will the Champions League final affect my decision? Absolutely not, I’ve already taken my decision so we’ll meet when the club deems it appropriate.

“In five years I have a fairly clear idea [of where I’ll be] but I won’t say it now because it would cause a pandemonium.

“So I’ll tell you later, but I think in five years my path will be completely different to what it is now.”

A journalist then asked Allegri if that meant they’d be seeing him in Press conferences next year.

“If they don’t sack me!” Allegri laughed.

“In football you can be good today, and tomorrow you’re a little less good, do you understand?

“In the end what matters are results and taking points home, then people can chatter about all the other things.

“Football is great for that, because everything is up for debate so one person can say one thing, another person says another and there’s no proof.

“There’s a lot of ‘if’ but you won’t get anywhere with ‘if’. I think it’s night and right that it should be this way.”

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

Socrates · May 26, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Kean in Juventus squad

http://www.football-italia.net/103172/kean-juventus-squad

May 26, 2017

Moise Kean is in the Juventus squad to face Bologna tomorrow, but he won’t start the match.

The 17-year-old made his debut for the Bianconeri earlier this season, and has made a further two substitute appearances since.

The striker has been named in Max Allegri’s squad for tomorrow’s match, but the Coach confirmed in his Press conference earlier today that Gonzalo Higuain would lead the line.

However, Italy Under-20 international Emil Audero will make his debut in goal, with both Gianluigi Buffon and Neto to be rested.

Giorgio Chiellini is also being rested for the match, and as such has been left out of the squad altogether.

Juventus squad to face Bologna: Buffon, Neto, Audero, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Mattiello, Barzagli, Bonucci, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Pjanic, Khedira, Marchisio, Lemina, Asamoah, Sturaro, Rincon, Cuadrado, Higuain, Mandzukic, Dybala, Kean

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

Socrates · May 26, 2017

Champions League final to be played under closed roof in Cardiff

Afbeeldingsresultaat voor cardiff stadium champions league

http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/real-madrid/champions-league/

news/cl-final-to-be-played-under-closed-roof_299036.html

May 26, 2017

The Football Association of Wales has revealed that the 2017 Champions League final between Juventus and Real Madrid will be played under a closed roof in Cardiff on June 3.

Following talks with authorities, the decision to shut the Principality Stadium roof was made after the UK raised its terrorism threat level following the attack in Manchester earlier this week.

Twenty-two people were killed and as many as 64 were injured when a home-made device went off at the Manchester Arena following an Ariana Grande concert on Monday night.

"Following discussions between all stakeholders, the Football Association of Wales, as the organiser of the event, has made the decision to close the roof of the National Stadium of Wales for the 2017 UEFA Champions League Final – the roof will also be closed for the two official training sessions to be held at the Stadium on Friday, June 2," read a statement from the FAW.

"The decision to close the roof was taken by the FAW taking into consideration the recommendations made by the authorities over the last few weeks. The two finalists have just been made aware of the decision.

"The 2017 UEFA Champions League final will be the first final to have been played under a closed roof and will further amplify the stadium's atmosphere when Juventus FC take on Real Madrid CF on Saturday, June 3."

Spanish champions Real Madrid will look to become the first team in the modern era to successfully defend the Champions League when they take on the Italian champions Juventus in Wales.

Socrates · May 26, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Juve's success down to determination,

commitment and selflessness

http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/3134415/juventus

-success-down-to-determination-commitment-and-selflessness

May 26, 2017

It's time for the final game of the Serie A season and while Juventus have already been crowned Champions of Italy for a record sixth straight time, they're gunning for another win to ensure they maintain that winning momentum looking ahead to next week and the Champions League final.

A remarkable team that sacrifices and works for one another, the Bianconeri are clearly the best-balanced side in Europe. With talent in every area of a pitch and a team that can score in a multitude of ways, some are dubbing this as the best ever Juventus side. Yet interestingly, if you look at their league statistics, there is nothing extraordinary about them.

Juventus have not scored the most goals, do not possess the top scorer in the league or even an assist maker within the top ten in that category. They have not taken the most shots on goal, are not the most accurate passers nor do they keep possession for longer than any other Italian side. Yet they have been simply unplayable.

The only thing Juventus have done better than any other Italian squad this season is concede the fewest goals, as usual.

A side of immense quality, the Bianconeri have only disappointed when they've played with a lack of intensity or passion which can happen over the course of a long season, especially when competing in three different competitions.

Many note the change in formation as the turning point for the side. Tactical shapes can make a big difference to a team but what Massimiliano Allegri achieved by changing the formation was create the domino effect of success.

Sometimes, such small changes are forced due to injury or absences but Allegri planned this particular change. By trusting his famous five to play within an offensive formation he not only achieved total commitment from said players but he activated the heroic egos within the side who made it their mission to succeed. The change inspired the likes of Sami Khedira and Dani Alves to give their all while Mario Mandzukic, who has just renewed his contract, showed what he's never showed at any other club before, the desire to put the team ahead of himself.

Such valiant efforts from the stars within the side were produced because Allegri trusted them to produce. By trusting them to attack as a team, they repaid him by defending with might, achieving total sporting balance. The back to back wins whilst playing a fluid style of football than fortified a mentality that has long looked fragile in European competitions hence the challenge for a treble.

r212939_1296x729_16-9.jpg&w=738&site=esp — In a game with little at stake for most, young goalkeeper Emil Audero will make his anticipated first start for Juventus.

All that remains is the game against Bologna in the league, one which Allegri is adamant must be won. The only surprising news when it comes to the squad is that young Emil Audero will be played in goal. A Juventus fan since he was a child, the 20-year-old of Indonesian heritage is seen as one for the future considering he boasts the mentality of a veteran.

Forming part of the youth team since 2008, Audero possesses an impressive physical stature, has astonishingly good reflexes and distributes the ball well. He has always looked up to Gianluigi Buffon and like his hero, he's well liked, thus facilitating his ability to be a leader at the back. A commander in the dressing room who always seeks to rescue his team should it ever reach that point, Juve need an heir to the great Buffon and Allegri wants to offer the boy a chance, even if it's in the last league game of the season.

Bologna may not be the best side in Italy but they are the most aggressive, receiving 11 red cards this season, level with Milan for the most of any club in Italy. Juventus have to be wary of injury and any particular harsh tackles considering there is a match to be played against Real Madrid next Saturday. Boasting a good tactician in Roberto Donadoni, the side can be determined but they lack the talent required to beat those at the top of the table.

While Bologna always attempt to press high up the pitch to try to win possession in advantageous positions, their inability to keep the ball stops them from creating many chances which should make life easy for the debutant Audero in goal. In the reverse fixture played in January, Juventus controlled proceedings from start to finish. Another win and Allegri's side will secure 91 points, equal to the number of points they collected last season.

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

Socrates · May 26, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Bologna vs Juventus Match Preview

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

May 26, 2017

Bologna v Juventus

Serie A Week 38 – Saturday, 27th May – 17:00 GMT – Stadio Renato Dall’Ara

Juventus sealed the deal on the record-breaking sixth Scudetto in a row on Sunday. The guys were assertive and focused from the get go and it immediately became apparent that they were done messing around and that the ugly performance in Rome left a bad taste in everybody’s mouth. This streak and the Coppa Italia’s one prove just how dominant the squad has been in this decade and how well the management has worked. There has been a lot of turnover in the roster, incredible players have left or retired, but we have always stayed on top.

The last, now rendered pointless, Serie A game of the season prompts another edition of the rest vs rust debate that we usually see in other sports like American football or the NBA. The Champions League final is on Saturday, so the players will be pretty fresh anyway. On the other hand, everybody is a little sore, banged up or overworked at this time of the year and the most used players could benefit from a day off, which would also prevent silly and untimely injuries.

The thorniest case involves Sami Khedira: he has had a clean year, but recently suffered a mild hamstring ailment. He will start because they want to verify his condition, but there is certainly a little risk. It helps that Claudio Marchisio is playing as well as he is and that is pretty much the only duel regarding the Cardiff lineup. Dani Alves is suspended.

Massimiliano Allegri has basically announced the starting XI: Emil Audero will start on goal, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah on the flanks, two between Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Barzagli and Medhi Benatia in the middle. The attack will be the usual one. Claudio Marchisio, Miralem Pjanic and Tomas Rincon will battle for the final spot. Daniele Rugani is said to be recovered. It could also be a nice occasion to give some youngsters a little run, like Federico Mattiello and Moise Kean, while Rolando Mandragora is with the U-20 national team.

Mario Mandzukic has extended his contract till 2020, which guarantees that he will stay this summer. Juventus will obviously look to add a flank player in the summer to bolster the depth and will probably land a very good one, but I am not so sure the Croatian will be easily supplanted in the starting XI. He is not your prototypical speedy, slippery winger, but his work rate is commendable and his matchup with fullbacks in the box is always a competitive advantage.

4-2-3-1: Audero; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Benatia, Asamoah; Marchisio, Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala, Mandzukic; Higuian.

Injuries:

Pjaca (knee).

Suspensions:

Alves.

Bologna

Bologna have had an up and down year, but it hard to gauge whether it was disappointing one because their ambitions are not quite clear. They have one of the richest owner in Serie A, if not the wealthiest, but their budget is not particularly glorious. If they aimed at avoiding relegation, they had a great season. If they wanted something more, there is a lot of work to be done.

They have performed better at home but in many games they looked flimsy. Goals have been hard to come by and that is why Roberto Donadoni is experimenting with a more offensive 4-2-3-1 ahead of next season. They have not had a ton of bright notes apart from Simone Verdi, who put together an outstanding campaign despite breaking his ankle and showed that he could become a big-time player after struggling in his first adventures outside of Milan.

As for the other youngsters, Adam Masina’s development has stalled, Godfred Donsah and Emil Krafth have disappointed, Marios Oikonomou and Filip Helander have not been able to beat out Daniele Gastaldello and Domenico Maietta for the starting job. Federico Viviani, Erick Pulgar and Ladislav Krejci have had OK years, but the jury is still out on their ceiling. Federico Di Francesco is interesting, but has not gotten consistent playing time.

They will be without Di Francesco, Maietta and Juan Manuel Valencia due to injuries. Masina has been dealing with nagging tendinous soreness and has missed a couple of games, but he could return and play for Ibrahima Mbaye. Replacing Di Francesco will be a problem: they could deploy Luca Rizzo there, who can be used as tactical winger, or go back to 4-3-3 with one more central midfielder. Orji Okwokwo was originally subbed in when Di Francesco got hurt, but he is unlikely to start. Another solution could be to use Bruno Petkovs as attacking midfielder/second striker and Verdi on the flank, as he is used to.

4-2-3-1: Mirante; Torosidis, Gastaldello, Oikonomou, Mbaye; Pulgar, Taider; Rizzo, Verdi, Krejci; Destro.

Injuries:

Di Francesco (hamstring), Maietta (hamstring), Valencia.

Suspensions:

None.

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

Socrates · May 26, 2017

Juventus vs. Real Madrid: The Tale

BWRAO sizes up each unit of the Champions

League finalists against each other.

678004822.0.jpg

http://www.blackwhitereadallover.com/2017/5/26/15686290/juventus-real

-madrid-2017-champions-league-final-position-by-position-breakdown

May 26, 2017

The Coppa Italia and the Scudetto have been secured. It’s finally time for Juventus to start turning their eyes to Cardiff, and the UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid on Saturday, June 3.

The Bianconeri are in the Champions League final for the second time in three years. Their opponents have made UEFA’s showpiece event two straight seasons and three times in the last four years. Both Juve and Real are champions of their respective leagues, and Juventus have the chance to do something special if they win the cup with the big ears for the first time in 21 years**.

(**I refuse to use the “T” word until late in the afternoon — New York time — on June 3. I firmly believe in not tempting Fate, and to speak so would be to invite the wrath of the Whatever from high atop the Thing.)

With the final closing in upon us at last, it’s time to take a look at how these teams actually stack up against each other. In order to do that, we’re going to divide each team into units and compare each of them to their opposite numbers.

To give each group the detail it deserves, the units will be divided by position. I may mention how different players fit into different tactical systems, but this article isn’t meant to predict what tactics Massimiliano Allegri and Zinedine Zidane will choose 10 days from now. We will simply look at the players in all position groups and give an edge to the stronger unit.

Another thing to note: After giving it a lot of thought, I’ve decided to interpret Paulo Dybala’s role less as a trequartista and more as a seconda punta, so he will be included with the striker group and not the midfield group.

With all that said, let’s take a look at how these two giants of the game stack up.

Juventus v AS Monaco - UEFA Champions League Semi Final: Second Leg

GOALKEEPERS

Keylor Navas is not a bad goalkeeper. In fact, he’s very good. His performances for Costa Rica in international competition, particularly the World Cup in 2014, garnered him a lot of attention, and he was eventually signed from Levante when Los blancos triggered his buyout clause.

Navas spent his first year in Madrid as backup to the legendary Iker Casillas. Casillas left the club that summer, but Navas was not the first choice to be the successor. Real president had his heart set on Manchester United star and Spain starter David De Gea and even intended to use Navas as part of the deal, both as a makeweight and to make United more secure in the fact that they would have a high-quality replacement. The deal was agreed upon, but the proper documentation wasn’t submitted to FIFA in time, and both players stayed where they were.

Navas took over the No. 1 shirt and has played in 83 games between La Liga and the Champions League in the last two seasons. He’s garnered criticism for some mistakes he’s made this year, but he’s also bailed his team out in big ways. He was immense in the semifinal against Atletico Madrid, winning a one-on-one battle in the first leg and denying both Yannick Carrasco and Kevin Gameiro on a fantastic double save in the second.

But Keylor Navas is not Gianluigi Buffon.

Quite simply the best goalkeeper the world has ever known, Buffon is still playing at the very highest level of the position at the age of 39. Anyone who thinks different should be introduced to the save he pulled on Andres Iniesta in the first leg of the quarterfinal tie against Barcelona. The one-handed parry denied the Blaugrana a crucial away goal and allowed Juve to run away with the tie. Also submitted for your consideration: the instant-reaction block to Monaco starlet Kylian Mbappe’s tight-angled volley early in the first leg of the semifinal, a stop that kept the game goalless and opened the door for the team’s eventual 2-0 win in Monte Carlo.

While he may not be the pure shot-stopper he was 11 years ago when he helped lead Italy to its fourth World Cup, he is supreme in the other, less appreciated aspects of goalkeeping. He’s a commanding presence on crosses, and his ability to marshal a defense — perhaps the least tangible but most important skill of a keeper — is still unmatched.

Navas may be an upper echelon goalkeeper, but you can only count the goalkeepers better than Buffon at this moment on one hand, even at his age. The GOAT has the clear edge for Juve.

FULLBACKS

This is a tricky group to judge, because a lot hinges on the health of one man.

That man is Dani Carvajal, who hasn’t played since suffering a hamstring injury just before halftime of the first leg of the semifinal against Atletico Madrid.

Real’s back line is already underpowered for a team at this level, but if Carvajal can’t play it will become a genuine weakness in this contest. Zidane’s options to replace him would be either to make a straight swap with the mistake-prone Danilo — who was abused by Atleti in the second leg of the semis — or to move natural center-half Nacho to the right side. Either option would make Juve’s left-sided tandem of Mario Mandzukic and Alex Sandro lick their chops. Nacho would compensate for the physical mismatch Mandzukic tends to create but would be vulnerable to the agile Sandro, while Danilo would simply be an all-around nightmare.

So much is riding on Carvajal’s play because the rest of the fullbacks are all top class. Sandro is in the running for best man in the world at left back, a title his Real counterpart Marcelo is also in the running for.

The duel between Marcelo on Real’s left and Dani Alves on Juve’s right is going to be something special. Both have been in excellent form in the latter stages of the Champions League. Alves in particular has been on fire since the end of April, scoring three goals and notching two assists in his last six games. In the semifinals against Monaco he was imperious, assisting both goals in the first leg—one on an outrageous backheel—before sealing the tie just before the half of the second leg with an incredible volleyed goal.

Carvajal is the key to this matchup. According to Marca, he passed a fitness test on Wednesday and is back in training. That would put him on track to play. The possibility of a relapse in training or the early stages of the game is there, and if he does make the XI there’s no guarantee he’ll be as effective as usual. For our purposes, we’ll assume he will be until proven otherwise. If Carvajal plays, this is a push. If he doesn’t, or if he’s forced off the field early, it’s a clear advantage to Juve.

CENTER BACKS

Real Madrid’s defensive record in this tournament is curious, considering how talented their top central defenders are.

Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane are, on paper, a top-level pairing. But Real have only kept a clean sheet once in Champions League play this season and have let in 17 goals overall. Both can tackle — they average 1.8 and 1.5 per match, respectively, between La Liga and the Champions League — and Ramos is also adept at reading passing lanes and coming up with interceptions.

The defensive issues aren’t isolated to Europe either. The Spanish champions gave up 41 goals in league play — more than three of the next four teams behind them.

This has to come down to a lack of chemistry. Varane has been plagued by injuries this year, necessitating the rotation of Nacho and Pepe into the side. There hasn’t been as much time to develop a rhythm this year, and it’s showed when this team has bent.

There are no such concerns for the Bianconeri. Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, and Giorgio Chiellini have been playing together for six years, and at times they almost seem to communicate telepathically. With Buffon pulling the strings from the goal, they have formed the best defense in Europe over the last six years. In the quarterfinal they became only the third team in history to hold Barcelona scoreless over a two-legged tie, and they have only allowed three goals all season, at one point putting together a 689-minute scoreless streak.

Whether Allegri decides to play with three in the back or four, this group is one of the most tight-knit and stingy in history. Hopefully the three all stay healthy—the fourth man in the rotation, Medhi Benatia, has largely been a disaster this year. But regardless of what combination of the top three ends up on the field, they will give Juventus a clear edge in the back.

MIDFIELD

This is where Real finds some footing.

If the two teams play as expected, they will outnumber Juve in the midfield three men to two — and the quality of those three men is outstanding.

Athletic Club v Real Madrid CF - La Liga

Casemiro, whose career at the Bernabeu has been revitalized since Zinedine Zidane took over the team, has developed into one of the top holding midfielders in the game. He averages 5.1 tackles per match in the Champions League and another four in La Liga, and he contributes with the ball, too, completing just over 85 percent of his passes and scoring five goals over all competitions, including a screamer against Napoli in the round of 16. He will provide an edge to the midfield that Real didn’t have in the semifinals two years ago.

Another presence who missed out on the last meeting between these clubs is Luka Modric. The Croatian was injured during that tie, and his absence left their midfield — and the team, really — sightly unbalanced. Here, he could be an X factor. Good at clogging up passing lanes defensively and at creating offensively, allowing him the space to work could mean death. The same is the case with Toni Kroos, a true box-to-box player who registered a whopping 12 assists in La Liga this year, second behind Barcelona’s Luis Suarez.

Juve certainly has the quality to compete. Former Real Madrid man Sami Khedira has been the fulcrum of Allegri’s 4-2-3-1 since its inception in January, and he’s finally stayed healthy for a full year. He scored five times in Serie A, and his presence has balanced the squad. His chemistry with Miralem Pjanic, the second man in Juve’s double-pivot midfield, has been phenomenal. The Bosnian has been able to pull the strings far more effectively beside Khedira than he had earlier in the season when Allegri attempted to use him as a box-to-box player or trequartista. He led the team with eight assists, and the danger he poses on free kicks is Pirlo-esque.

What allows Real to pull ahead here is depth. Juve can call on Claudio Marchisio to back up either of their mids, but it’s clear he’s still not all the way back from the catastrophic knee injury he suffered just over a year ago. He has looked better lately, but he’s pretty much it. Behind him is Tomas Rincon, a spare part if there ever was one, and then Mario Lemina and Stefano Sturaro, both of whom are young and capable but haven’t played enough to really develop rhythms on the field.

Zidane, on the other hand, can call on the likes of Mateo Kovacic, Isco, Marco Asensio and even James Rodriguez to fill in, all of whom can change the game if they’re on point. He simply has more options, and that depth gives Real Madrid the advantage.

Club Atletico de Madrid v Real Madrid CF - UEFA Champions League Semi Final: Second Leg

WINGERS

The fact that Gareth Bale is struggling for fitness since leaving the Classico against Barca in late April would normally be a huge blow for a team. Fortunately for Real Madrid, Isco’s form since taking over for him has cushioned the blow.

Bale has never regained full fitness since injuring himself in a Champions League game against Sporting Lisbon in November. His performances after his premature return were lackluster, in stark contrast with Isco, who has registered two goals and three assists in the six games since Bale’s latest setback. An attacking midfielder by trade, the Spain international has taken a sort of hybrid role, part winger, part roaming attacking mid, and in doing so has greatly strengthened the connection between the midfield and forwards.

There will be debate as to whether Bale or Isco should play up until the lineups are announced. As for the other wing, that seems more settled. Some dude named Cristiano Ronaldo plays there.

Juve’s wing situation is far more complex. On the right, Allegri could either go with a standard winger in Juan Cuadrado or could push up Dani Alves and use Andrea Barzagli in the back, either as a shotgun right back or as part of the 3-4-2-1 that Juve used against Monaco in the semis.

You can’t go wrong with either. Cuadrado’s decision making can be frustrating — OK, sometimes it’s downright infuriating — but his speed could be a huge factor in counterattacking against Real’s weak back line. Alves is a better choice if Allegri chooses to try to break Real down from possession. Leaving Cuadrado on the bench would also give Allegri an option up front if he needed to change the game, something he hasn’t had much of since the Marko Pjaca tore his ACL and was shelved for the rest of the season.

On the left, the stone-cold lead-pipe lock is Mandzukic. The big Croatian’s wing play is atypical, exploiting the physical mismatches his size usually creates against full-backs rather than the blistering pace of someone like Cuadrado. Against the 5’8” Carvajal, he would be able to exploit that advantage with ease.

Juve’s wingers are good, if somewhat unconventional. But regardless of whether Bale or Isco play, an on-form Cristiano Ronaldo gives Real the edge on the wings regardless of anything.

Juventus v FC Porto - UEFA Champions League Round of 16: Second Leg

STRIKERS

Real play a single striker in their 4-4-3, but Karim Benzema isn’t having his best year. He’s only scored 11 times in La Liga, and while he’s augmented that record with five in the Champions League, the weakest link of the Real’s BBC has simply not fired on all cylinders this year.

His backup, on the other hand, has outscored him by four in La Liga in nearly 600 fewer minutes. You might remember his name — Alvaro Morata.

Returning to Real Madrid after his boyhood club exercised the buyback option included in his deal, Morata has scored 20 times in all competitions and a well known knack for scoring goals in huge situations — including the temporary equalizer for Juve in the final against Barcelona in 2015.

However, in two games against Italy for Spain, his former Juve teammates Barzagli, Bonucci, and Chiellini have kept him well in their pocket. Whether that’s because they know him so well from two years of training together or simply the right games on the right days is yet to be determined.

Juve’s strike force is consisted of a pair of Argentinians, Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala.

For all Higuain’s goalscoring in Italy — he’s scored 24 times in his debut season with Juve — he’s been relatively quiet in the Champions League this season. His double against Monaco in the semifinal were his first goals in Europe since November, and he’s only tallied five all year. That said, he remains one of the deadliest poachers in Europe, and he could finally approach being worthy of his astronomical fee if he helps Juve to a win here.

Behind him is Dybala. Since moving into the hole right behind his compatriot, he has had license to roam the free in the attacking third, particularly to the right, where he has dovetailed nicely with Alves. His set-piece prowess is almost the equal of Pjanic, and he can pull incredible goals nowhere.

Benzema isn’t a slouch, but he’s had an off year. Higuain and Dybala have been much better.They give Juve the edge.

Socrates · May 27, 2017

Champions League Final to Be Played Under

Closed Roof Due to Security Concerns

Afbeeldingsresultaat voor cardiff stadium champions league

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2712053-champions-league-

final-to-be-played-under-closed-roof-due-to-security-concerns

May 26, 2017

The UEFA Champions League final between Juventus and Real Madrid on June 3 will be played under a closed roof at the Millenium Stadium in Cardiff due to security fears.

According to the Daily Mirror's Ian Mitchelmore, the Football Association of Wales have taken the decision after "recommendations made by the authorities over the last few weeks."

According to AS, it will mark the first time in the competition's history the match is played under a closed roof:

Real Madrid will try to become the first team to successfully defend their Champions League title under the current format, while Juventus chase their first win in the competition since 1996 and have a chance to join the list of treble-winning sides after winning both the Serie A title and the Coppa Italia.

Socrates · May 27, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Juventus won't rest Dybala & Higuain

ahead of Champions League final

The Argentine duo will feature from the start when the Bianconeri

take on Bologna regardless of next week's clash against Real Madrid

http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2017/05/27/35872362/-

May 27, 2017

Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala will feature in Juventus' final Serie A contest of the season at Bologna, but Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini are rested with the Champions League final against Real Madrid on the horizon.

Juve completed the second part of what they hope will be a treble by beating Crotone to retain the Scudetto last week, having already won the Coppa Italia.

Massimiliano Allegri has resisted the temptation to rest his star strikers, though, with Higuain, Dybala and Mario Mandzukic all set to start versus Bologna.

However, the head coach has decided that Buffon and Chiellini will not play ahead of the Cardiff showpiece against Madrid on June 3."We will look to end the Serie A season on a high by winning against Bologna, then we will think about the Champions League final," Allegri said at a media conference.

"Higuain, Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and Juan Cuadrado will line up in attack on Saturday.

"Emil Audero will be our goalkeeper.

"Chiellini will not feature, but Sami Khedira will be back in midfield."

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

Socrates · May 27, 2017

Can Anyone Stop Juventus?

https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2017/05/can-anyone-stop-juventus/

May 27, 2017

Juventus wrapped up the Serie A title for the sixth time in a row by beating Crotone 3-0 last weekend. It was another superb performance, blending defensive solidity with attacking flair. They can now rest players for the final game of the season ahead of their Champions League final with Real Madrid on June 3. All that remains to be decided is whether Crotone or Empoli will be the final team in the drop zone, and whether Roma can hold off Napoli to finish second.

A Bookmaker sportsbook review of the odds shows Roma are heavy favourites to do it as they are just 1/9 in the “without Juventus” betting stakes. They go into their home game against Genoa with a one-point lead over Napoli, and just have to beat a team that is guaranteed to finish 16th after a poor campaign. Napoli should beat Sampdoria too, and if Juventus’ reserves lose to Bologna, Roma could finish the season one point behind and Napoli two points behind.

These two have closed the gap on Juventus a little in recent times. Last time around a poor start to the season left them in the driving seat, but Juve went on a remarkable winning run and overhauled them both near the end of the campaign. This season Juventus went out in front early on and never relinquished their lead. But it has gone right down to the wire and Juventus have not won by a huge margin, as they did a few season ago.

The big question is: can anyone stop Juventus making it seven in a row next season? Despite not winning the title by a considerable distance, there is the sense that Juventus could always find an extra gear if they needed to and never looked seriously troubled. They weakened both rivals in the summer, buying Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli and Miralem Pjanic from Roma with funds they received from Paul Pogba’s world record transfer to Man Utd. They have improved going forwards, with Pjanic pulling the strings and Higuain, Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic forming a dangerous attacking triumvirate.

But it is in defence where Juve really reign supreme. The consistency and solidity of Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonnucci and Andrea Barzagli has been a hallmark of their dominance in recent times. They will find suitors in the summer, but why would they want to leave when they are playing for the best team in their home country, winning titles and contending Champions League finals?

With their resources, it does not look like Napoli and Roma are capable of catching Juventus. They appear destined to be nearly men. A challenge might actually come from one of the Milan clubs. Both have endured miserable seasons and will be lucky to finish sixth and seventh, more than 25 points behind Juventus. But they have ambition. Inter’s new owners are seriously bankrolling the club and trying to lure Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, who began the Juventus revolution, with huge wages and a massive war chest for the transfer market. They claim to have so much money they could afford to sign Cristiano Ronaldo. AC Milan have a good young side and are being linked with top players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and they could pose a similar threat. But Juventus will have stability, while they will have the chaos of new players coming in, so right now Juve look a good bet to make it eight titles in a row next season, although it sounds like Inter could pose a huge challenge after that.

Socrates · May 27, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Line-ups: Bologna-Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/103234/line-ups-bologna-juventus

May 27, 2017

Juventus give Emil Audero his Serie A debut in goal, but it’s largely a strong line-up in the final Serie A trip to Bologna, including Sami Khedira and Gonzalo Higuain.

It kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara at 18.00 CET - 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).

The Bianconeri have already clinched their sixth consecutive Scudetto and third Coppa Italia trophy on the trot, so are one step away from completing the historic Treble.

With Real Madrid awaiting in Cardiff next Saturday, this is the final rehearsal, which is why Max Allegri is fielding a relatively strong side.

There’s no rest for Higuain, Paulo Dybala or Juan Cuadrado, while Khedira starts to test his fitness levels.

Dani Alves is suspended, with Rolando Mandragora at the Under-20 World Cup and Marko Pjaca injured.

The biggest change is in goal, where 20-year-old Audero gets his Serie A debut, sending both Gigi Buffon and Neto to the bench.

Bologna finished the campaign comfortably mid-table and want to salute the Stadio Dall’Ara fans with a good result against the undisputed champions.

Federico Di Francesco – son of Sassuolo Coach Eusebio – is on the treatment table along with Domenico Maietta.

Mattia Destro is therefore supported by Ladislav Krejci and Orji Okwonkwo.

Juve are unbeaten against Bologna in Serie A since a 2-0 Turin result in February 2011, putting together three draws and six victories.

Their last defeat at the Dall’Ara was 3-0 in November 1998 with Giuseppe Signori on target, followed by five stalemates and eight successes.

Bologna: Da Costa; Krafth, Torosidis, Gastaldello, Mbaye; Pulgar, Viviani, Taider; Okwonkwo, Destro, Krejci

Juventus: Audero; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Benatia, Asamoah; Marchisio, Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala, Sturaro; Higuain

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

Socrates · May 27, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

HT 0-0: Bologna stall Juventus

http://www.football-italia.net/103239/ht-bologna-stall-juventus

May 27, 2017

Stefano Sturaro had a goal ruled offside and almost scored another, but Juventus are 0-0 with Bologna at half-time.

The Bianconeri had already won their sixth consecutive Scudetto and third Coppa Italia in a row, but wanted to test Sami Khedira’s fitness levels ahead of next Saturday’s Champions League Final with Real Madrid. Dani Alves was suspended, Marko Pjaca injured, but 20-year-old Emil Audero given his Serie A debut in goal. Federico Di Francesco and Domenico Maietta were sidelined.

Juve are unbeaten against Bologna in Serie A since a 2-0 Turin result in February 2011, putting together three draws and six victories.

Their last defeat at the Dall’Ara was 3-0 in November 1998 with Giuseppe Signori on target, followed by five stalemates and eight successes.

Mattia Destro fired wide, then Kwadwo Asamoah crossed on a Gonzalo Higuain back-heel flick for Paulo Dybala’s shot charged down at the near post.

Stefano Sturaro had the ball in the back of the net, but was already offside when he met the Dybala assist at full stretch.

Higuain didn’t put enough power behind his effort, smothered by Angelo Da Costa, while Sturaro had another great chance on Khedira’s cross-field pass, this time blocked by a decisive Emil Krafth sliding tackle.

On the stroke of half-time, Higuain’s angled drive flashed just wide from the edge of the box.

Bologna 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Bologna: Da Costa; Krafth, Torosidis, Gastaldello, Mbaye; Pulgar, Viviani, Taider; Okwonkwo, Destro, Krejci

Juventus: Audero; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Benatia, Asamoah; Marchisio, Khedira; Cuadrado, Dybala, Sturaro; Higuain

Ref: Mariani

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

Socrates · May 27, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

1-2

Saphir Taïder 52'

Paulo Dybala 70'

Moise Kean 94'

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Bologna 1 Juventus 2: Kean's first goal secures win

Bologna threatened a scare against Juventus until

Moise Kean's first professional goal won the day.

202525197-bc7b80e4-e05c-4395-b691-31d839

http://www.goal.com/en/match/bologna-vs-juventus/2306125/report

May 27, 2017

Moise Kean's first Juventus goal in the dying seconds of the club's Serie A season ensured the champions concluded their victorious league campaign with a 2-1 win at Bologna.

The Bianconeri secured a sixth successive title with a 3-0 victory over Crotone last Sunday, having won the Coppa Italia against Lazio four days earlier, with Massimiliano Allegri's men determined to complete an historic treble against Real Madrid in next weekend's Champions League final.

But Bologna threatened to interrupt their preparation for that showpiece clash, scoring with their first shot on target through Saphir Taider and then defending bravely as Juve looked to hit back.

Paulo Dybala finally found a way past the brilliant Angelo Da Costa, though, and the visitors stole victory in the 94th minute.

Mario Mandzukic won a free-kick and seemed to injure himself in the process - leaving Allegri sweating on his fitness ahead of facing Madrid - and Kean met Miralem Pjanic's delivery with a firm header.

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Allegri made six changes to his side but opted against resting Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain, the visiting coach surely wincing as Bologna flew into a number of rugged challenges early on.

Juve soon found some fluency and, following a half-chance for Mattia Destro at the other end, Dybala failed to get the necessary purchase on a close-range finish and Stefano Sturaro strayed offside as he netted.

Higuain then tested Da Costa for the first time with a low drive on the turn, before a fine last-ditch Emil Krafth challenge denied Sturaro a clear shot at goal from Sami Khedira's incisive pass.

Another Higuain blast missed past the left-hand upright shortly before half-time and the forward lofted a cute pass through for Khedira after the restart, the Germany international prodding wide of the other post.

Stand-in Juve keeper Emil Audero had been untroubled but, after 52 minutes, he was beaten in spectacular fashion as Taider, taking possession wide on the left, cut inside to arc a glorious strike into the top-right corner.

Juve renewed their attacking intent as Dybala volleyed wide and then summoned Pjanic and Mandzukic from the bench in the hope of rescuing the points.

Da Costa twice kept out Higuain, though, charging from his line to make a fine tackle 25 yards from goal before holding the former Napoli man's tame header, and saved magnificently from Dybala's curler.

But Juve kept the pressure on and, after Da Costa instinctively blocked Higuain's shot, a rebound fell Dybala's way for a simple finish.

Although both sides went looking for a winner, it did not look likely to arrive until Mandzukic won a set-piece for Pjanic to brilliantly plant on Kean's head at the death, the teenager becoming the first player born in the 21st century to score in Serie A.

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

Socrates · May 27, 2017

BOLOGNA - JUVENTUS

1-2

Saphir Taïder 52'

Paulo Dybala 70'

Moise Kean 94'

MATCHDAY 38

Saturday, May 27th, 2017 - 6:00 p.m. CET
Dall'Ara Stadium, Bologna
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Kean gives Juve victory

202342229-766123b9-9d04-4bc6-b05e-8495ca

http://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/88197

May 27, 2017

Juventus fought back from a Saphir Taider stunner to conquer Bologna with Paulo Dybala and 17-year-old Moise Kean’s debut Serie A goal.

The Bianconeri had already won their sixth consecutive Scudetto and third Coppa Italia in a row, but wanted to test Sami Khedira’s fitness levels ahead of next Saturday’s Champions League Final with Real Madrid. Dani Alves was suspended, Marko Pjaca injured, but 20-year-old Emil Audero given his Serie A debut in goal. Federico Di Francesco and Domenico Maietta were sidelined.

Juve are unbeaten against Bologna in Serie A since a 2-0 Turin result in February 2011, putting together three draws and six victories.

Their last defeat at the Dall’Ara was 3-0 in November 1998 with Giuseppe Signori on target, followed by five stalemates and eight successes.

Mattia Destro fired wide, then Kwadwo Asamoah crossed on a Gonzalo Higuain back-heel flick for Paulo Dybala’s shot charged down at the near post.

Stefano Sturaro had the ball in the back of the net, but was already offside when he met the Dybala assist at full stretch.

Higuain didn’t put enough power behind his effort, smothered by Angelo Da Costa, while Sturaro had another great chance on Khedira’s cross-field pass, this time blocked by a decisive Emil Krafth sliding tackle.

On the stroke of half-time, Higuain’s angled drive flashed just wide from the edge of the box.

Straight after the restart, Higuain sent Khedira clear with a marvellous flick off the outside of the boot, but the German international only hit the side-netting from close range.

It was Bologna who broke the deadlock with a stunning strike from Saphir Taider. He channelled his inner Alessandro Del Piero by cutting in from the left and curling a right-foot rocket into the far top corner. Audero on his debut had no chance.

Dybala should’ve equalised, but narrowed the angle too much on his volley, while Da Costa had to time the rush off his line perfectly to stop Higuain going clear.

Da Costa prevented a Dybala stunner by clawing the right-foot finish out of the far top corner after a remarkable left-foot touch to get into position.

Moments later, Da Costa denied Higuain from 10 yards too, but Dybala was quickest on the rebound to fire under the net. It was La Joya’s first away goal since October in Empoli, ending a run of 16 home strikes in all competition.

Federico Viviani’s free kick skimmed the far post and a Miralem Pjanic volley whistled wide. Just as it seemed to be ending in a stalemate, deep into stoppages a Pjanic free kick over the top found Kean to peel away from his marker and turn a diving header into the far bottom corner. Kean was the first player in Serie A born in the year 2000 and this was his debut goal.

Bologna: Da Costa; Krafth (Petkovic 75), Torosidis, Gastaldello, Mbaye; Pulgar (Nagy 86), Viviani, Taider; Okwonkwo, Destro, Krejci (Masina 68)

Juventus: Audero; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Benatia, Asamoah; Marchisio (Pjanic 56), Khedira (Mandzukic 59); Cuadrado, Dybala (Kean 78), Sturaro; Higuain

Ref: Mariani

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

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JUVENTUS SEASON 2016-2017

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