JUVENTUS SEASON 2017-2018

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                           1-0             

 

Mehdi Benatia 18'  ..

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

FT 1-0: Juve thank Roma old boys

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/106541

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Medhi Benatia got the only goal of the game against his former club, as Juventus got past Roma, but were hanging on for dear life at the end.

 

This was a top of the table showdown between second and fourth, along with an ancient rivalry that goes back to the very beginnings of Italian football. Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes were injured, but Max Allegri dropped Paulo Dybala for the third Serie A match running, despite his goal and assist in the Coppa Italia midweek. There were starts for ex-Roma men Wojciech Szczesny, Medhi Benatia and Miralem Pjanic. Eusebio Di Francesco only missed Gregoire Defrel and Rick Karsdorp.

 

Roma have lost their last seven Serie A trips to Turin, managing one point since a 2-1 victory in January 2010.

 

Juan Cuadrado and Mario Mandzukic returned from injury, the Colombian’s first touch letting him down on a Gonzalo Higuain through ball and allowing Federico Fazio to block.

 

Mandzukic’s glancing header whistled wide from a Blaise Matuidi cross, as did Higuain’s, while Pipita chested down a long ball and Fazio timed his interception perfectly to prod it away.

 

Juve took the lead with a chaotic goal from Benatia. Giorgio Chiellini’s header from the Pjanic corner was brilliantly parried by Alisson, who also turned the Benatia rebound on to the bar, but could do nothing on the defender’s third attempt.

 

Higuain tried to pounce on a misunderstanding between Alisson and Fazio, going down under the goalkeeper’s challenge, but penalty appeals were waved away.

 

Roma were reminded on Szczesny’s reflexes when Diego Perotti rolled across for Stephan El Shaarawy to come sliding in, forcing the goalkeeper into a desperate save.

 

Radja Nainggolan blasted over on the half-volley and Mandzukic fired straight at Alisson. Higuain should’ve made it 2-0 on 54 minutes at the end of a well-worked move between Mandzukic and Sami Khedira, but ballooned over as Alisson came rushing out.

 

Dzeko was very isolated in attack, but when Florenzi did whip in a fine cross, Benatia intercepted the header.

 

Alisson showed good reactions to parry Matuidi’s attempt from close range and Higuain wasted another golden opportunity, ballooning a Mandzukic assist over from 12 yards.

 

Dzeko had a similar approach, blasting off target, and Chiellini’s sliding tackle cut the Bosnian off as Roma pressure continued to build.

 

They had a huge chance to equalise on 80 minutes, as De Rossi’s pass over the top found Florenzi to flick it over Szczesny, bouncing off the crossbar. Substitute Patrik Schick then tried to turn in the rebound, but was crowded out by defensive bodies.

 

Roma threw everything at Juve late on, as Dzeko knocked on a Florenzi cross and found Cengiz Under at the back post, but Szczesny turned the diving header wide with his foot.

 

Deep into stoppages, Pjanic went on the counter and unleashed a screamer that Alisson fingertipped on to the crossbar.

 

Benatia almost went from hero to zero, as his backpass sent Schick clear on goal, but Szczesny came tearing out to parry with his legs.

 

---

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Pjanic, Khedira, Matuidi (Marchisio 78); Cuadrado (Bernardeschi 76), Higuain, Mandzukic

 

Roma: Alisson; Florenzi, Manolas, Fazio, Kolarov; Nainggolan, De Rossi (Cengiz Under 85), Strootman (Pellegrini 70); El Shaarawy (Schick 66), Dzeko, Perotti

 

Ref: Tagliavento

 

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                           1-0             

 

Mehdi Benatia 18'  ..

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Benatia: 'Roma Scudetto rivals'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114762/benatia-roma-scudetto-rivals

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Medhi Benatia was pleased to score against his former teammates, as “Roma are one of our rivals for the Scudetto” and Juventus continue their march.

 

He got the only goal of the game, bundling over the line at the third attempt after a save on Giorgio Chiellini and ricochet off the bar.

 

“I am pleased, because Roma are doing well and are one of our rivals for the Scudetto. Scoring against my former teammates is pleasing, though of course I have friends there who I care about and my family was in the stadium tonight,” the defender told Mediaset Premium.

 

“We could’ve had a second or third goal, but we only ran a risk at the end with my error. The ball bobbled, Chiellini wanted me to hoof it clear, and he was right, but fortunately Wojciech Szczesny made a great save.”

 

As Inter and Roma lost this weekend, Juventus and Napoli break away at the top.

 

“Since the start of the season, we have been working to continue our winning streak in Italy. Unfortunately, it was a bit of a complicated start, but we are on the right track. With this attitude, we can go far.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - ROMA

 

                           1-0             

 

Mehdi Benatia 18'  ..

 

 

  .........

 

18th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 23rd 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Paolo Tagliavento

 

 

 

 

Allegri explains Juve approach

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114763/allegri-explains-juve-approach

 

 

Dec 23, 2017

 

Max Allegri explained his tactical choices as Juventus beat Roma 1-0 and reassured Paulo Dybala. “Winning 1-0 is always a nice feeling.”

 

Medhi Benatia scored the only goal of the game, but late on Alessandro Florenzi’s chip hit the bar and Wojciech Szczesny performed a desperate save on Patrik Schick.

 

“It was a good game, but we didn’t finish it off and then struggled at the end,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

 

“We could’ve had more goals, but winning 1-0 is always a nice feeling. In truth, we gifted the last chance to Roma and others too when we should’ve been comfortable.”

 

For the third Serie A game in a row, Allegri dropped Paulo Dybala and used Blaise Matuidi in a 4-3-3 formation.

 

“Matuidi and the midfielders like Miralem Pjanic are important to push forward into spaces. Paulo is absolutely not a problem for Juventus. The problem would be not having him. At this moment, that’s just how things are, but it’s a long season, there are many games and we will need his goals.

 

“There are moments when you need some players and moments when you need others. Today we needed solidity. If Dybala had come off the bench, he would’ve done well tonight.

 

“Dybala understands the moment, he respects the decisions and the whole squad wins the game. On Wednesday he put in a great performance in the Coppa Italia against Genoa and I explained when he arrived that he can’t really be a centre-forward.”

 

This weekend’s results mean Napoli and Juventus open up a consistent gap at the top of the table, as both Inter and Roma lost in third and fourth place.

 

“Roma and Napoli are candidates for the Scudetto. Inter are still up there and so are Lazio. It’s an important result tonight, because if Roma win their game in hand against Sampdoria next month, they’d have been level with us.

 

“There is no anxiety, because Juve live for games like this.”

 

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERONA - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........        

 

 

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Pjanic a doubt for Verona

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114843/pjanic-doubt-verona

 

 

Dec 28, 2017

 

Miralem Pjanic is a doubt for Juventus’ match against Verona in Serie A on Saturday after pulling out of training.

 

According to Juve’s official website, Pjanic was forced to leave training on Thursday morning with “a muscle strain in the quadriceps of his right thigh.”

 

Consequently, the Bosnian’s condition will be assessed on Friday afternoon, during the Bianconeri’s final workout for the game.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERONA - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........        

 

 

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Allegri: ‘Verona dangerous for Juventus’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114866/allegri-‘verona-dangerous-juventus’

 

 

Dec 29, 2017

 

Massimiliano Allegri warns his players against complacency tomorrow - “Juventus haven’t won at Verona since 2001…”

 

The Bianconeri are second in Serie A and haven’t conceded a goal in their last eight games, and they face the Butei tomorrow.

 

“What’s on paper doesn’t count,” Allegri warned in his pre-match Press conference.

 

“What matters is the pitch. Among other things, Juventus haven’t won at Verona [in Serie A] since 2001, and have lost so many times.

 

“I think Juventus have lost 10 times in 17 games at Verona, and only won seven times so tomorrow is a game for us where we need to take three points.

 

“There are some matches, like the big head-to-head games, where anything can happen and some where nothing but winning can happen, all you can do is take the three points.

 

“Tomorrow is one of those games, because with anything else we’d be throwing away everything we did this month, so we need to try and stay close to Napoli, because we have two important league matches before the winter break and we want to close our the first half of the season in the best way.”

 

Allegri was then asked which players he has available for tomorrow.

 

“Pjanic won’t be there, just as Buffon won’t be there, just as De Sciglio won’t be there and Cuadrado won’t be there. They definitely won’t be there.

 

“Cuadrado has another inflammation in his pubis, so he’s out. We hope to have him for Wednesday, but it’s very difficult.

 

“One of Bentancur or Marchsio will play in place of Pjanic, or we’ll move to a two-man midfield. I have to evaluate the last day of training and then we’ll decide.

 

“Bentancur is a 20-year-old kid in an important squad like Juventus’ and he’s always been called upon, and when he has been he’s done well.

 

“He’s growing, and just like everyone else he must improve, not least because he’s a young lad.”

 

Could Marko Pjaca be loaned out in January to get more playing time after his knee injury?

 

“We’ll talk to the lad and evaluate things, since he hasn’t played for nine months and he needs to be playing.

 

“So we’ll talk to him and we’ll decide what’s best for him and for Juventus, because he’s an important player.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERONA - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........        

 

 

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Allegri: “Comparisons should never have been made”

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114867/allegri-‘dybala-likely-play’

 

 

Dec 29, 2017

 

Juventus Coach Max Allegri says it’s “likely” Paulo Dybala will play against Verona, but says comparisons “should never have been made” to Lionel Messi.

 

The Argentine forward has been benched for the past three Serie A games, but he could be brought back into the fold for tomorrow’s trip to the Bentegodi.

 

“No-one needs to rest because the lads have worked well in the last week,” Allegri assured in his pre-match Press conference.

 

“In fact we’ve been working with a different intensity for the last two weeks because we’ve had a bit more time.

 

“This week it’s been the same, among other things we’ve have three days - Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - for important work.

 

“It could be that all three [strikers] play together, absolutely, because no-one needs to rest. Dybala could come back, so as a result it’s likely that all three will play together.

 

“Dybala is calm, he’s trained well in the last week and as I’ve has tomorrow he could play from the first minute again.

 

“The relationship with him absolutely hasn’t changed, also because Dybala came to Juventus three years ago and I think he’s grown a lot, Juventus put even more emphasis on his qualities and he’s given a lot to Juventus.

 

“In my opinion, he still has huge margins for improvement. The comparisons which were made at the start [of the season] were damaging for Paulo, but fortunately he’s a smart lad and he understands you can’t compare a lad of 24 to two sacred monsters of football [Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo], who have won 10 Ballons d’Or.

 

“Plus there’s Neymar who is another that is close. So Paulo has to make his own way and not be compared to any other player.

 

“He has his own qualities, he’s an extraordinary player. You just have to watch him to see he’s different from the others.

 

“But these comparisons which were made were a bit damaging, these are comparisons which can not and should not be made, you can’t compare a 24-year-old lad to two who have won 10 Ballons d’Or. But in Italy…

 

“It’s not just Dybala, Dybala is the least of that problem. There are lads who play half an hour and the next day they’re worth €40m.

 

“‘The future of Italian football is this lad’, ‘we’ve found the new Andrea Pirlo’… no. There was only one Pirlo, and it will be many years before another Pirlo is born.

 

“Lads have to be left to grow, for a player to be great he has to show it in at least 100 matches in Serie A. Not 100 appearances, 100 matches. Right now after two games we throw everything on these lads.

 

“I understand that the world has changed, but it’s too much, and it’s normal that they can get lost in it. How many of these lads have been lost in the arc of their careers?

 

“Before there was patience in Italian football, and a knowledge of how to wait because Italian football is different to the others.

 

“In Argentina you play in the first team at 17 or 18, that’s how they do it in the Netherlands, in Spain…

 

“In Italy though it’s always been that players peaked at the right age - between 25 and 26. So you have to let them grow normally, without trying to rush things.”

 

Moise Kean, who is on loan from Juve, could play tomorrow and has thanked Allegri for being hard on him and not allowing him to become big-headed.

 

“He’s doing well at Verona, he’s a lad who was born in 2000 and has important qualities. He has to improve technically, so he needs to work but he’s understood you need to make sacrifices to reach certain levels.

 

“That’s an important thing.”

 

The Coach was then asked what he’d say to Mario Mandzukic if he asked for advice about leaving, whether he should stay in Europe or go elsewhere.

 

“Mario definitely wouldn’t ask me for advice, for one simple reason,” Allegri responded.

 

“Mario is so competitive that at this point going to a league where there isn’t much competition would be difficult to accept.

 

“Mario will stay at Juventus.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERONA - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........        

 

 

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Juventus changes in Verona

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114880/juventus-changes-verona

 

 

Dec 29, 2017

 

Juventus named their squad to face Hellas Verona on Saturday night and are still missing some key players, but find a new role for Paulo Dybala.

 

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes are still on the treatment table for the final game of 2017, joined by Miralem Pjanic and Juan Cuadrado.

 

It’s reported Max Allegri tried out a 4-3-1-2 formation in training with Paulo Dybala as a trequartista behind strikers Mario Mandzukic and Gonzalo Higuain.

 

The tactician had struggled to fit Dybala into the 4-3-3 system, so adjusted it to get the best out of La Joya.

 

Medhi Benatia is expected to get the nod rather than Daniele Rugani at centre-back.

 

Juventus squad for Verona: Chiellini, Benatia, Khedira, Marchisio, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Alex Sandro, Matuidi, Barzagli, Pinsoglio, Mandzukic, Pjaca, Asamoah, Szczesny, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur, Bernardeschi, Loria

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERONA - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........        

 

 

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Verona-Juventus

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114942/line-ups-verona-juventus

 

 

Dec 30, 2017

 

Juventus visit Verona and find a new role for Paulo Dybala as trequartista behind Gonzalo Higuain and Mario Mandzukic.

 

It kicks off at the sold out Stadio Bentegodi at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

Napoli have already secured the title of Winter Champions by reaching the halfway stage of the season in top spot, but the Bianconeri can win and stay within a point of the leaders.

 

Gigi Buffon, Miralem Pjanic, Mattia De Sciglio, Juan Cuadrado and Benedikt Howedes are all injured and haven’t even made the trip.

 

After he was dropped for three Serie A rounds in a row, Dybala is back in the starting XI, but in a new trequartista role.

 

He’s moved to the hole behind Mandzukic and Higuain, shelving the 4-3-3 formation in favour of a 4-3-1-2.

 

Rodrigo Bentancur gets the nod in midfield with Sami Khedira and Blaise Matuidi.

 

Hellas Verona were promoted over the summer, finishing second in Serie B behind SPAL, and had a very tricky start to the campaign.

 

However, they seem to have found their feet lately, most notably with a 3-0 thrashing of Milan here, and it’s a very special match for striker Moise Kean.

 

The teenager is on loan from Juventus and eager to make a good impression against his parent club.

 

Coach Fabio Pecchia – another former Juve man – has a lengthy injury list to contend with, missing Mohamed Fares, Alessio Cerci, Samuel Souprayen, Matteo Bianchetti and Mattia Zaccagni.

 

Martin Caceres was also a major doubt, but the veteran former Bianconeri defender is in the starting XI.

 

Hellas are unbeaten in their last three home games against Juventus with one win and two draws. The most recent Bianconeri victory here was 1-0 in April 2007, but that was in Serie B.

 

 

Verona: Nicolas; Ferrari, Caracciolo, Heurtaux, Caceres; Romulo, Buchel, B Zuculini, Verde; Bessa; Kean

 

Verona bench: Silvestri, Coppola, Laner, Fossati, Pazzini, F Zuculini, Calvano, Valoti, Tupta, Bearzotti, Souprayen, Felicioli

 

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Lichtsteiner, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Bentancur, Matuidi; Dybala; Mandzukic, Higuain

 

Juventus bench: Pinsoglio, Loria, Rugani, Barzagli, Asamoah, Marchisio, Sturaro, Bernardeschi, Douglas Costa, Pjaca

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERONA - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........        

 

 

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

HT 0-1: Juventus lead in Verona

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114951/ht-juventus-lead-verona

 

 

Dec 30, 2017

 

Blaise Matuidi has given Juventus the half-time lead at the Bentegodi, but Hellas Verona had a few chances too.

 

Napoli had already secured the status of Winter Champions as leaders at the half-way stage of the season, but Juve had the chance to break away from the chasing pack, as Inter, Roma and Lazio all failed to win today. Gigi Buffon, Miralem Pjanic, Mattia De Sciglio, Juan Cuadrado and Benedikt Howedes missed out, but Paulo Dybala returned after three Serie A rounds on the bench in a new trequartista role. Hellas had to do without Alessio Cerci, Mohamed Fares, Samuel Souprayen, Matteo Bianchetti and Mattia Zaccagni, but started Juventus-owned teenage striker Moise Kean.

 

Hellas were unbeaten in their last three home games against Juventus with one win and two draws. The most recent Bianconeri victory here was 1-0 in April 2007, but that was in Serie B.

 

Medhi Benatia’s header was over the bar from a corner and Juve broke through within six minutes. Gonzalo Higuain’s strike cannoned off the upright and into the path of Blaise Matuidi who, despite shinning the shot, got it into the far bottom corner.

 

That goal set a new all-time Serie A record, as for the 23^rd away game in a row, Juventus found the back of the net. The previous record also belonged to Juve of 22 from 2013 to 2014.

 

Nicolas got down to beat away another Higuain solo effort, then Pipita’s free kick hit the side-netting, but half the crowd thought it had gone in.

 

Martin Caceres had a chance against his old club, but the finish was charged down by Giorgio Chiellini from 11 yards. Daniele Verde also curled a dangerous effort inches past the far top corner.

 

Nicolas performed a desperate reaction save on Higuain, who got on the end of Alex Sandro’s pull-back only to fire straight at the goalkeeper from point-blank range.

 

 

Verona 0-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Matuidi 6' (J)

 

Verona: Nicolas; Ferrari, Caracciolo, Heurtaux, Caceres; Buchel, B Zuculini; Romulo, Bessa, Verde; Kean

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Lichtsteiner, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Bentancur, Matuidi; Dybala; Mandzukic, Higuain

 

Ref: Mazzoleni

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   VERONA - JUVENTUS

       ............

  .........       

1-3 

    ..       

 

 

Blaise Matuidi 6'

Martin Caceres 59'

Paulo Dybala 72'

Paulo Dybala 77'

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Dybala right man for Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/106557

 

 

Dec 30, 2017

 

Paulo Dybala proved he is back with two late goals – scored with his weaker right foot – as Juventus struggled to beat Verona 3-1.

 

Napoli had already secured the status of Winter Champions as leaders at the half-way stage of the season, but Juve open up a six-point gap from the chasing pack, as Inter, Roma and Lazio all failed to win today. Gigi Buffon, Miralem Pjanic, Mattia De Sciglio, Juan Cuadrado and Benedikt Howedes missed out, but Paulo Dybala returned after three Serie A rounds on the bench in a new trequartista role. Hellas had to do without Alessio Cerci, Mohamed Fares, Samuel Souprayen, Matteo Bianchetti and Mattia Zaccagni, but started Juventus-owned teenage striker Moise Kean.

 

Hellas were unbeaten in their last three home games against Juventus with one win and two draws. The most recent Bianconeri victory here was 1-0 in April 2007, but that was in Serie B.

 

Medhi Benatia’s header was over the bar from a corner and Juve broke through within six minutes. Gonzalo Higuain’s strike cannoned off the upright and into the path of Blaise Matuidi who, despite shinning the shot, got it into the far bottom corner.

 

That goal set a new all-time Serie A record, as for the 23^rd away game in a row, Juventus found the back of the net. The previous record also belonged to Juve of 22 from 2013 to 2014.

 

Nicolas got down to beat away another Higuain solo effort, then Pipita’s free kick hit the side-netting, but half the crowd thought it had gone in.

 

Martin Caceres had a chance against his old club, but the finish was charged down by Giorgio Chiellini from 11 yards. Daniele Verde also curled a dangerous effort inches past the far top corner.

 

Nicolas performed a desperate reaction save on Higuain, who got on the end of Alex Sandro’s pull-back only to fire straight at the goalkeeper from point-blank range.

 

Federico Bernardeschi replaced Rodrigo Bentancur for the second half in a return to the 4-2-3-1 formation. Hellas remained aggressive and Kean nutmegged Giorgio Chiellini, but the defender scrambled back to make up for it with a crucial block.

 

Bernardeschi’s effort was smothered at the near post after a give-and-go with Higuain, but Verona got their equaliser with a former Juve player.

 

Caceres pounced on a Benatia error and hit a right-foot scorcher from 20 metres out, as the fact he slipped while taking it perhaps gave the ball an extra spin to go past Wojciech Szczesny.

 

Moments later, Caceres put an inspired through ball to release Kean, but Benatia and Chiellini scrambled back to eventually cut him off.

 

Chiellini nodded just wide from the corner, but Stephan Lichtsteiner bravely dived in to the challenge with Caceres at the by-line to pull back and Dybala slid the finish in with his weaker right foot from 10 yards. Lichtsteiner was injured in that move and came off for Andrea Barzagli.

 

La Joya was well and truly back, as he completed his brace soon after. This was more of a trademark Dybala goal, as he gathered in midfield, surged forward dribbling between four players and smashed the precise angled drive into the far bottom corner, again with his right foot to anticipate the goalkeeper from 12 yards.

 

Incredibly, Dybala had only ever scored two right-foot goals in his entire Serie A career, but got two in five minutes.

 

It was nearly a hat-trick, his free kick dipping viciously for Nicolas to acrobatically palm out from under the bar.

 

Bernardeschi’s set play curled all the way in, but Benatia and Higuain were both offside and interfering with play. The referee suffered a calf injury in the final minute and was able to complete the game after treatment.

 

---

 

Verona: Nicolas; Ferrari, Caracciolo, Heurtaux, Caceres (Pazzini 78); Buchel, B Zuculini; Romulo, Bessa (Calvano 87), Verde; Kean (F Zuculini 81)

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Lichtsteiner (Barzagli 74), Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Bentancur (Bernardeschi 46), Matuidi; Dybala; Mandzukic (Marchisio 81), Higuain

 

Ref: Mazzoleni

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   VERONA - JUVENTUS

       ............

  .........       

1-3 

    ..       

 

 

Blaise Matuidi 6'

Martin Caceres 59'

Paulo Dybala 72'

Paulo Dybala 77'

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Bernardeschi: 'Scudetto a two-horse race'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114956/bernardeschi-scudetto-two-horse-race

 

 

Dec 30, 2017

 

Federico Bernardeschi believes the 3-1 win at Verona was “a clear signal to the rest of the league,” as Juventus and Napoli break away.

 

The Bianconeri remain within a point of leaders Napoli at the halfway stage of the season, but open up a six-point gap from third-placed Inter.

 

“It’s an important victory and we end the year on a high,” the winger told Mediaset Premium.

 

“The equaliser from Martin Caceres was a slap in the face, but we got right back on track, which is what a great team always does.

 

“I’d say it’s a two-horse race for the Scudetto, as we opened up a good advantage from the chasing pack and sent a clear signal to the rest of the league.”

 

Today Inter, Roma and Lazio all shared the spoils, as only Juve and Napoli won in the top five.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   VERONA - JUVENTUS

       ............

  .........       

1-3 

    ..       

 

 

Blaise Matuidi 6'

Martin Caceres 59'

Paulo Dybala 72'

Paulo Dybala 77'

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Not a good Juve game'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114958/allegri-not-good-juve-game

 

 

Dec 30, 2017

 

Max Allegri gave Paulo Dybala advice after his brace against Verona, but “we all know it was not a good Juventus performance.”

 

Blaise Matuidi had given them the lead at the Bentegodi after just six minutes, but Martin Caceres equalised from distance and Dybala then scored twice in five minutes for the 3-1 result.

 

“It’s important that Paulo found the net again. After the goal, he started to play better, as he was in a delicate moment where things weren’t quite going his way. He’s started taking free kicks better too.

 

“Psychology is everything in football and confidence is key,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

 

“You have to be focused and determined. I think the only advice for Paulo is to think just about his football and his journey, not worrying about comparisons with players like Leo Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. There’s no need to get swept up in the anxiety of trying to over-do it.

 

“We all know it was not a good performance. We put the victory at risk after a strong start, because we slowed down, made far too many mistakes, lost the ball repeatedly, and we need to improve on that.

 

“We cannot afford to drop points in these situations, especially as today was crucial to break away from the chasing pack and complete an extraordinary first half to the season.”

 

Juve remain one point behind Winter Champions Napoli, but above all are now six points clear of Inter in third, as today the Nerazzurri, Roma and Lazio all shared the spoils.

 

“There are still 19 games to go and many points up for grabs, so we have to look at what is ahead of us and that’s Napoli. They’ve had an extraordinary 2017, play impressive football and are a strong antagonist. We’ve got 18 games to overtake them…

 

“What I hope for the second half of the season is that Juventus stay in the running on all three fronts. Winning away from home is not easy, we’ve got a fair few away fixtures coming up and so this is the key moment of the season for us. It’s the most difficult to prepare, but also the most important.”

 

Caceres had drawn level for Verona on the hour mark with a strike from distance.

 

“We conceded an avoidable goal, as we lost the ball in possession. The lads reacted well and brought home an important result, but the performance was certainly not up to our standards, especially in the period between our goal and their equaliser.

 

“With Mario Mandzukic basically acting as the fourth midfielder, we were lacking something in width. We lost the ball repeatedly and allowed Verona so many counter-attacks. They are in good shape and run hard, so it was a dangerous fixture.

 

“Plus Juventus hadn’t won in Verona in Serie A since 2001, so it was not to be taken for granted by any means. I was about to substitute Mandzukic just before the goal, as when the situation seems to be ‘easy’ he tends to go into stand-by mode and save energy.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   VERONA - JUVENTUS

       ............

  .........       

1-3 

    ..       

 

 

Blaise Matuidi 6'

Martin Caceres 59'

Paulo Dybala 72'

Paulo Dybala 77'

 

  .........

 

19th Matchday

 

Saturday, december 30th 2017 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Marcantonio Bentegodi Stadium - Verona
Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Benatia: ‘Well done Napoli, but…’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114962/benatia-‘well-done-napoli-but…’

 

 

Dec 31, 2017

 

Mehdi Benatia congratulates Napoli on finishing the year top of Serie A but warns he would rather be there in May.

 

The Partenopei secured the title of ‘winter champions’ by beating Crotone on Friday evening, with Benetia’s Juventus moving back to within a point of the leaders after a 3-1 win at Verona yesterday.

 

In what is looking increasingly like a two-horse race for the Scudetto, the 30-year-old insisted he is not interested that the Old Lady still trail Maurizio Sarri's team at the half-way point of the season.

 

“It was very important to win this match,” the defender said of his side’s win at the Bentegodi.

 

“After Matuidi’s goal we lost a little bit of rhythm, but then in the second half after Caceres’ goal we recovered.

 

“Congratulations to Napoli for having finished the first half of the season at the top, but what interests me is being top at the end.”

 

The Morocco international also commented on the reasons behind his improved individual performances compared to last season.

 

“Simply more consistency. I am in a good physical shape and I need to play.

 

“I’m feeling really good, I am lucky to have a top fitness coach and with this confidence I can do even better.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - TORINO

 

..........  

 

 

 

  .........

 

TIM Cup - Quarter Final

 

Wednesday, january 3rd 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

 

 

 

 

Allegri: ‘Can’t underestimate Torino’

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/114984/allegri-‘can’t-underestimate-torino’

http://www.football-italia.net/114985/allegri-’96-points-scudetto’

http://www.football-italia.net/114986/‘juventus-don’t-need-donnarumma’

 

 

Jan 2, 2018

 

Massimiliano Allegri warns Juventus “absolutely can not underestimate” Torino in tomorrow’s Coppa Italia quarter-final.

The Granata beat Roma at the Stadio Olimpico in the last round to set up a Derby della Mole, and the Bianconeri Coach is wary of complacency.

“No, we absolutely can not underestimate it,” Allegri said in his pre-match Press conference.

“First and foremost it’s a derby, so the derby is always a game unto itself. Regardless of the injuries we have, we have an objective and that is to win, because the Coppa Italia is a goal for us, like the Champions League and the league.

“So we need to prepare in the best way, then 72 hours later we’ll have our last game before the winter break.

“So yes, there will be changes but not too many. Between today and tomorrow’s training sessions I’ll decide.

“As for the injured players, there’s [Gigi] Buffon, [Juan] Cuadrado - who still has this inflammation of the pubis - and [Mattia] De Sciglio who worked partially with the team yesterday.

“We’ll see if he’ll be available for Cagliari, but Buffon and Cuadrado are on the way back too.

“[Paulo] Dybala will play tomorrow, but I don’t know if he’ll play up-front on his own or as part of a pair, with one of [Mario] Mandzukic or [Gonzalo] Higuain.”

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri believes it will take 96 points to win the Scudetto this season.

The Bianconeri set the Serie A record points total with 102 in the 2013-14, and the Tuscan believes they’ll have to get close to that to win a sixth title in a row.

“One thing is certain, to go through we can’t afford to repeat the performance we put in in Verona,” Allegri cautioned ahead of tomorrow’s Coppa Italia match with Torino.

“It’s true that we came off and important and difficult period with tough matches, but we have a run of games we can’t afford to make mistakes in.

“Tomorrow we have a Coppa Italia match, which offers us the chance to progress, then in the league we can’t lost any more points to Napoli.

“We have to stay in Napoli’s wake or try to surpass them with wins, because from Week 8 on - when you’re practically missing 11 games - the Scudetto is decided.

“That’s the point at which you have to attack, because if you ease off it becomes difficult to recover.

“The Scudetto quota, the projection at the moment, is 96.”

Gianluigi Buffon said today that Allegri is underrated, considering the success he’s enjoyed since arriving in Turin in the summer of 2014.

“I don’t care if I’m underestimated, I like coaching. I go onto the pitch, then when I stop and leave the pitch I have other things I can do.

“I don’t live and breathe football 24 hours a day, but I have fun and as long as I enjoy training it’s a pleasure for me.

“I thank Gigi for his nice words, but at the end of the day the results I got were thanks to the lads I had, the great players at my disposal.

“I consider myself a lucky Coach because in 10 years in Serie A - my two years at Cagliari and then the eight with Milan and Juve - I’ve been lucky enough to coach great champions and more importantly good men, and that’s what makes the difference.

“I put myself at their disposal, trying not to do damage and always looking to do less and less.

“I’m definitely not someone who says you win games with tactical schemes, because I think that’s something out of the ordinary, but you do your best when you believe in what you’re doing.

“I think football is very simple really, the important thing is to have great players and put them in the best condition to play.”

Massimiliano Allegri insists Juventus don’t need Milan’s Gianluigi Donnarumma - “Wojciech Szczesny is Gigi Buffon’s heir”.

Buffon suggested in an interview today that the 18-year-old would do well to join the Bianconeri, but the Coach dismissed the idea in his Press conference today.

“Szczesny is Buffon’s heir, I’ve already said that and I repeat it,” Allegri declared.

“Juventus did good business in getting such a good player and bringing him in a year before Gigi stops at Juventus.

“I’m very happy, there’s a good relationship between the two of them, they respect each other both as professionals and as men, so I don’t see any problem.

“Donnarumma is a young lad who has to grow, he’s at Milan and he’s forging his path. But Juventus have Buffon’s replacement.”

Allegri also gave an update on his team selection for tomorrow’s Coppa Italia quarter-final with city rivals Torino.

“[Miralem] Panic has been fluctuating a bit lately, because he plays a game then does half a training session. So he has to find consistency.

“Tomorrow we’ll have to evaluate whether [Stephan] Lichtsteiner will play - he trained yesterday, but we’ll have to see after that knock at Verona - or [Stefano] Sturaro plays full-back.

“We certainly didn’t play well against Verona. The result went well, the lads did well to get the result, but tomorrow and Saturday are games where we can’t get it wrong.

“We have to qualify tomorrow, and on Saturday we need to take three points from Cagliari, otherwise we’d be throwing away everything we’ve done.

“One of [Gonzalo] Higuain or [Mario] Mandzukic will be out tomorrow. One of them needs to rest because we have Saturday.

“Douglas Costa could be involved, or [Federico] Bernardeschi could play. We’re happy with his growth at Juve.

“And the final thing I’ll tell you is that [Daniele] Rugani could play.

“Now we have to qualify and then beat Cagliari on Saturday, so that we can go on holiday calmly.”

Could the Coppa Italia provide a distraction from the Champions League?

“No, the Coppa Italia is important because we have to reach the Coppa Italia final. The Champions League is a different competition.

“The team has won three and this year the aim is to go as far as possible. Tomorrow will be a difficult game, because Torino have a desire for revenge.

“They lost badly in the league and tomorrow will be an objective for them too because it could be a way into Europe.”

The Coach was then asked about the January transfer window.

“We’ll go on holiday then we come back on the 21st, with the window closing 10 days after that.

“As for the Juventus transfer campaign I think the director [Beppe Marotta] was very clear. Marko [Pjaca] will go out [on loan] because he needs to play.

“He’s a lad with extraordinary qualities and unfortunately an injury temporarily halted his growth.

“So he needs to find a team where he can play continuously and then return for next season in the best condition.

“I haven’t asked the club for anything, the more players I have available the more selection headaches I’ll have, so it’s better with 21 or 22.

“The important thing is not to drop our intensity, because there’s always a risk around the corner.”

 

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - TORINO

 

..........  

 

 

 

  .........

 

TIM Cup - Quarter Final

 

Wednesday, january 3rd 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

 

 

 

 

Pjanic back against Torino

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115010/pjanic-back-against-torino

 

 

Jan 2, 2018

 

Juventus named their squad for tomorrow’s Coppa Italia Quarter-Final against Torino and Miralem Pjanic returns.

 

It kicks off on Wednesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT and the winners go on to face Atalanta.

 

Midfielder Pjanic is back in action after missing the weekend’s victory over Hellas Verona.

 

However, Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio, Juan Cuadrado and Benedikt Howedes are still on the treatment table.

 

It’s reported Max Allegri will opt for a 4-3-2-1 formation with Claudio Marchisio, Paulo Dybala, Douglas Costa and Gonzalo Higuain in the starting XI.

 

Federico Bernardeschi is another option, challenging for Douglas Costa’s role.

 

Juventus squad for Torino: Chiellini, Benatia, Pjanic, Khedira, Marchisio, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Alex Sandro, Matuidi, Barzagli, Pinsoglio, Mandzukic, Pjaca, Asamoah, Szczesny, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur, Bernardeschi, Loria

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - TORINO

 

..........  

 

 

 

  .........

 

TIM Cup - Quarter Final

 

Wednesday, january 3rd 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

 

 

 

 

Coppa line-ups: Juventus-Torino

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115068/coppa-line-ups-juventus-torino

 

 

Jan 3, 2018

 

Juventus rely on Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa against M’Baye Niang’s Torino in the Derby della Mole for the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final.

 

It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT and the winners go on to face Atalanta in the two-legged Semi-Final.

 

Both sides are suffering from an injury crisis, as Max Allegri is forced to do without Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio, Juan Cuadrado and Benedikt Howedes, but Miralem Pjanic is available again.

 

Dybala has rediscovered his form with a brace against Hellas Verona at the weekend after he was dropped for three Serie A rounds in a row.

 

La Joya leads the way with Douglas Costa, moving Mario Mandzukic to a centre-forward role and resting Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Stefano Sturaro, Daniele Rugani, Kwadwo Asamoah and Claudio Marchisio also step in.

 

Torino have even worse problems, missing Andrea Belotti, Adem Ljajic, Cristian Ansaldi, Lyanco, Antonio Barreca and Simone Edera.

 

The pressure is therefore on ex-Milan striker Niang, playing in a more central role than he is accustomed to, with support from Iago Falque and Alex Berenguer.

 

It is a special match for midfielder Tomas Rincon, who was at Juventus last season.

 

Toro have not beaten Juve since a 2-1 result in April 2015, followed by one draw and five defeats in all competition.

 

They last met in the Coppa Italia in December 2015 and it ended 4-0 for the Bianconeri with Cristian Molinaro sent off on 50 minutes.

 

The most recent Torino victory in the Coppa was 2-0 in March 1988, followed by two draws and that 4-0 hammering.

 

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Sturaro, Rugani, Chiellini, Asamoah; Marchisio, Pjanic, Matuidi; Dybala, Douglas Costa; Mandzukic

Juventus bench: Pinsoglio, Loria, Alex Sandro, Benatia, Barzagli, Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Bentancur, Bernardeschi, Higuain

 

Torino: Milinkovic-Savic; De Silvestri, N’Koulou, Burdisso, Molinaro; Rincon, Acquah, Baselli; Iago Falque, Niang, Berenguer

Torino bench: Sirigu, Ichazo, Bonifazi, Valdifiori, Gustafson, De Luca, Obi, Moretti, Boye, Fiordaliso, Millico, Sadiq

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - TORINO

 

..........  

 

 

 

  .........

 

TIM Cup - Quarter Final

 

Wednesday, january 3rd 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

 

 

 

 

HT 1-0: Douglas Costa opens Derby

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115074/ht-douglas-costa-opens-derby

 

 

Jan 3, 2018

 

Douglas Costa’s half-volley has given Juventus the half-time lead over Torino in the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final, but M’Baye Niang hit the post.

 

The winners of this particular Derby della Mole go on to face Atalanta in the two-legged Semi-Finals.

 

Both sides had numerous injury problems, as Gigi Buffon, Mattia De Sciglio, Benedikt Howedes and Juan Cuadrado missed out for the hosts, who used Mario Mandzukic as a centre-forward. Toro had to do without Andrea Belotti, Adem Ljajic, Cristian Ansaldi, Lyanco, Antonio Barreca and Simone Edera.

 

They met in the Coppa Italia in December 2015, Juventus winning 4-0 after Cristian Molinaro’s red card.

 

Max Allegri’s men had a very aggressive start, Miralem Pjanic on his comeback from injury blasting straight at Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, but for all the pressure, Alex Berenguer failed to make the most of a Stefano Sturaro slip, firing off target.

 

Juventus did make their chance count, as the ball ricocheted into the path of Douglas Costa just inside the area and he unleashed a ferocious half-volley into the far top corner.

 

Moments later, Paulo Dybala fired over on the counter, but then M’Baye Niang almost equalised with his angled drive thumping the far post.

Douglas Costa did well to keep the ball in control at the by-line and knock it back for Dybala’s first time shot, denied by a desperate Milinkovic-Savic save.

Douglas Costa had the ball in the back of the net, but was clearly offside, while Dybala cut inside for a deflected curler and on the corner nobody was able to get the final touch.

 

 

Juventus 1-0 Torino (Half-Time)

Douglas Costa 15 (J)

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Sturaro, Rugani, Chiellini, Asamoah; Marchisio, Pjanic, Matuidi; Dybala, Douglas Costa; Mandzukic

 

Torino: Milinkovic-Savic; De Silvestri, N’Koulou, Burdisso, Molinaro; Rincon, Acquah, Baselli; Iago Falque, Niang, Berenguer

 

Ref: Doveri

 

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - TORINO

 

     2-0..........  

 

 

Douglas Costa 15'

Mario Mandzukic 67'

 

 

  .........

 

TIM Cup - Quarter Final

 

Wednesday, january 3rd 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS 2 TORINO 0: COSTA AND MANDZUKIC

EARN COPPA ITALIA DERBY WIN

 

Juventus set up a Coppa Italia semi-final against Atalanta by beating rivals

Torino 2-0 thanks to Douglas Costa and Mario Mandzukic goals.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-v-torino/report/9arxnqqnytlcax0fomin79kdm

 

 

Jan 3, 2018

 

 

Douglas Costa and Mario Mandzukic were on target as Juventus moved into the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia with a 2-0 derby win at home to Torino on Wednesday.

Juventus are seeking to win the tournament for the fourth year in a row but they were made to battle against their local rivals to set up a last four meeting with Atalanta, who shocked Serie A leaders Napoli a day earlier.

Costa gave Juventus a deserved early lead with a powerful volleyed finish but Torino almost equalised within two minutes, M'Baye Niang's shot after a rapid break hitting the post.

Mandzukic spurned two presentable chances to extend Juve's lead early in the second half, before the Croatia striker settled the tie after 66 minutes with a cute chipped finish, the goal awarded after a video assistant referee (VAR) referral.

Despite the hosts progressing, it was another frustrating game for Paulo Dybala, who could not extend his run of scoring in all six of his home appearances in the Coppa Italia.

Torino had scored 11 goals in this season's competition to be the tournament's most prolific side, but they could not find a way through a Juve defence that has conceded one goal in 10 games in all competitions.

Miralem Pjanic fired an early effort at Vanja Milinkovic-Savic as Juventus started well in a frenetic derby atmosphere in Turin. 

The Bianconeri took the lead in the 15th minute, Costa lashing in on the volley after an attempted defensive clearance took a big deflection off Dybala. 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

Back of the net @douglascosta. #JuveTorino #TIMCup

 

 

 

Dybala should have doubled Juve's advantage moments later, but the Argentine hit a left-footed drive well over. 

In an end-to-end encounter Niang was then inches away from equalising, bursting into the box after a strong run in the left channel and seeing his rifled effort clip the outside of the far post. 

Milinkovic-Savic denied Dybala from close range after Costa's terrific burst down the left wing set up the striker as Juve threatened to kill the tie, while the offside flag soon correctly denied the Brazilian a second.

Mandzukic - making a rare start up front with Gonzalo Higuain rested - missed two chances shortly after the restart, heading Stephan Lichtsteiner's cross over and then somehow missing Costa's low centre when unmarked six yards from goal.

Blaise Matuidi went close after 58 minutes but the France international could only stab Dybala's cross wide following excellent build-up play from Mandzukic, who then got his goal.

Another fortunate deflection fell kindly to Mandzukic and goalkeeper Milinkovic-Savic was left sprawling by a delightful lofted finish from the Croatian.

 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

GOAAAAAALLLLLL @MarioMandzukic9!!! JUVE DOUBLES THE LEAD!!!#JuveTorino #ForzaJuve

10:11 PM - Jan 3, 2018

 

 

 

Torino felt the strike should have been disallowed for a tackle by Sami Khedira in the build-up, but following a VAR referral the goal was given and the visitors' coach, Sinisa Mihajlovic, was dismissed for his angry protests.

Juve's second goal ended any hopes of a Toro fightback, with Milinkovic-Savic saving from substitute Higuain with six minutes to play to keep the scoreline respectable.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - TORINO

 

     2-0..........  

 

 

Douglas Costa 15'

Mario Mandzukic 67'

 

 

  .........

 

TIM Cup - Quarter Final

 

Wednesday, january 3rd 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium - Turin
Referee: Daniele Doveri

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Objectives are clear'

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115082/allegri-objectives-are-clear

 

 

Jan 3, 2018

 

Max Allegri ignored VAR questions after the 2-0 victory over Torino, but made it clear their “objective” is to retain the Coppa Italia.

 

“We reached the Semi-Final for the fourth year running and the lads took the right approach to this game,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

 

“We ran a few risks in the first half, while in the second we had many scoring opportunities and I am happy with what we did. Now we’ll see what happens against Cagliari in Serie A on Saturday.”

 

The Bianconeri’s victory never really seemed in doubt, as Douglas Costa hit a fierce half-volley into the top corner and Wojciech Szczesny was rarely tested, but there was controversy around the second goal.

 

Toro wanted a free kick for Sami Khedira’s challenge on Afriyie Acquah in the build-up to the Mario Mandzukic strike, but the referee awarded the goal even after viewing the incident on VAR.

 

“I didn’t see the incident and I will not comment. I never comment on VAR. I will just say we could’ve scored another couple of goals, at least.”

 

Juve will face Atalanta in the two-legged Semi-Final, while Milan take on Lazio.

 

“The big clubs went out of the tournament and we go forward. Our objectives are clear. Atalanta deservedly beat Napoli to reach the Semi-Final and it won’t be easy against them, but we’ll make sure we are ready.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

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20th Matchday

 

Saturday, january 6th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Sardegna Arena Stadium - Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese

 

 

 

 

Marchisio, Sturaro miss training

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115112/marchisio-sturaro-miss-training

 

 

Jan 4, 2018

 

Claudio Marchisio and Stefano Sturaro both sat out Juventus training this afternoon, but Mattia De Sciglio is back.

 

The Bianconeri beat Torino 2-0 in the Coppa Italia last night, and face Cagliari in the final match before the winter break.

 

Both Sturaro and Marchisio started last night, but had to be withdrawn with injury.

 

Today the Old Lady’s official website states that the latter has muscular fatigue, while Sturaro has severe bruising on his left knee and “both players will be evaluated tomorrow”.

 

Mattia De Sciglio was involved in part of the session, and could return to the bench for Saturday’s match.

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

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.........       

 

 

 

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20th Matchday

 

Saturday, january 6th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Sardegna Arena Stadium - Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese

 

 

 

 

Allegri: "Dybala can’t be the striker in a big team"

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115142/allegri-‘buffon-will-miss-cagliari’

 

 

Jan 5, 2018

 

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri confirms Gianluigi Buffon, Mattia De Scilgio and Juan Cuadrado are still out for tomorrow’s Cagliari game.

The Bianconeri have been without a number of key players in recent weeks, and the Tuscan was asked if they’d be back before the winter break.

“No for De Sciglio, Buffon and Cuadrado,” Allegri said in his pre-match Press conference. “Marchisio we’ll evaluate today. The only one who is likely to be there is Marchisio, Sturaro took a heavy knock to his knee.

“So today we’ll look at these players and see who is available for selection.

“For Gigi it’s simple, in Naples he took a knock to his calf and the calf is a bad beast, he tried to play in Greece with that calf injury and after that we let him rest, waiting for it to pass.

“He had this injury so we left him in peace. Risking him at that point wouldn’t have made sense, and he’ll be available after the break.

"Will Benedikt Howedes be back too? He's progressing well and we hope to have him as soon as possible, but right now I can't give you a date.

“Tomorrow we face a Cagliari side who are in form, because they won well in Bergamo [against Atalanta].

“They’re a team who counter-attack well, they’re really quick and well-organised defensively. Playing Cagliari is never easy because they’re a team that never gives up.

“They play well at home, with great intensity so it won’t be an easy game but it’s a match we have to win.

“When the referee whistles tomorrow night it will be 0-0, and then we must play a very attentive game with great technique and great physicality.

“We need to play a serious match tomorrow night also because before we would stop on the 23rd, now they’ve moved it to the 6th and we have to be careful.

“I remember Carpi [in 2015] and we packed up 10 minutes early and we risked our lives at Christmas.

“I remember the two matches in Doha where on the pitch we didn’t lose but then we lost on penalties.

“We can’t afford to drop any points in Cagliari tomorrow, so we need to play a serious game.”

Allegri was then asked if Mario Mandzukic will play tomorrow.

“Mandzukic is fine, as they all are in a physical sense, aside from those who have injuries and will rejoin us after the break.

“They’re all good, we’ve grown in terms of our condition and have started to play more solid games, of our level.

“Today I need to evaluate whether to play two or three in midfield, and who will play at right-back. I have De Sciglio out, so Lichtsteiner or Barzagli will play at right-back.

“I’ll look at training today and based on that I’ll decide who plays.”

Massimiliano Allegri calls Liverpool midfielder Emre Can “truly extraordinary”, but won’t discuss Juventus’ transfer campaign.

The midfielder is expected to join the Bianconeri when his contract expires in the summer, with multiple reports that a deal is already agreed.

“Everyone knows Emre Can’s quality,” Allegri noted in today’s Press conference.

“He’s a young player who has already played a lot of games both nationally and internationally, he’s part of a German midfield which is truly extraordinary.

“There’s him along with Khedira and Kroos - truly extraordinary players.

“But I won’t talk about the transfer market, because Juventus are doing well, aside from the exit of Pjaca who needed to go and play consistently [with Schalke 04] so he can return in July in the best condition to face a very important season.”

Max Allegri believes his Juventus side are on course, but reiterates that it’ll take 96 points to win the Scudetto this season.

Tomorrow sees the Bianconeri play their last match before the winter break, as they travel to Sardinia to take on Cagliari.

Juve sit one point off the top of Serie A, which could be four by kick-off tomorrow as Napoli face Verona at 15.00 CET - 14.00 UK time.

“The Scudetto projection is simple,” Allegri explained in his pre-match Press conference.

“Napoli have got 48 points, so the projection is 96 because Napoli are putting together important averages in the league.

“There’s usually a stumble in the first half of the season and we did that in Genoa [against Sampdoria].

“What we’re missing is definitely the points in Bergamo [against Atalanta] and a point at home against Lazio where there were two mistakes - which can happen - and two 95th minute penalty incidents which definitely would have changed the result.

“The team has got 47 points, which is a good number, and in fact those who are behind have become slightly detaches so the last two rounds have been important.

“There will be direct clashes to come, and we have to keep winning to stay in Napoli’s slipstream because Napoli won’t drop many points.

“After the break we have to be ready to face the second half of the season. Juventus had a good first half, we got 47 points then found that Napoli scored 48.

“We went through in the Champions League and we’re in the Coppa Italia semi-final.

“The goals Juventus set for ourselves at the start of the season mean being in contention for all three competitions in March, and we’re on course for that this year.

“Then we’ll see if we’ll be good enough to reach the final of the Coppa Italia, win the Scudetto and reach the Champions League final - that’s what we’ll see in March.

“At the moment though Juventus have done what we were supposed to do, it’s not easy to get 48 points.”

Allegri deployed Paulo Dybala as a striker in the Coppa Italia win over Torino, and it was put to the Coach that La Joya didn’t look comfortable.

“He put in a good performance like the whole team, the team played well on Wednesday night.

“Paulo, as I’ve said from the first day he arrived in Turin - and as I’ll repeat, because I’m convinced about what I say - his performances - and by that I don’t mean goals because he could end the season with 15 goals and then one year maybe get 20, but those are his numbers as well as the assists that he gets - Paulo is a player who can’t be the striker in a big team.

“He could play as a striker when he was at Palermo, because Palermo played 50 metres from the goal but Juventus play 20 metres from the goal.

“In that situation Paulo can’t be the striker, and in fact his best performances, all Paulo’s goals, came because he arrived from deep.

“Just look at the goal he scored in Verona, the second goal. He started almost as a mezzala, and in fact he could probably play as a mezzala in an attacking midfield.”

If that’s true, why did he play him as a striker against Torino?

“No, the other day he wasn’t the striker,” Allegri insisted.

“I put him there at first, but told him to then drop deeper because Mario [Mandzukic] had to play as the striker.

“Douglas Costa? He had a good game, at the end he was a bit tired because above all he’s a player who pushes and pushes, with and without the ball.

“He scored a beautiful goal, and he’s a player of extraordinary quality. He’s been an important signing for Juventus and he’s shown that over the past two months, when he’s understood Italian football a bit more.

“He’s adapted a bit, but in any case he has qualities which he wasn’t going to lose.”

Sinisa Mihajlovic was sacked yesterday after that Coppa Italia defeat, the second time he’s been sacked after losing to an Allegri side.

“I haven’t thought about it or discussed it with him. I’m very sorry, because he’s an excellent Coach who has got results wherever he’s been.

“When these situations arise it’s always unpleasant.

“But a very good Coach in Walter Mazzarri has returned to Italy, someone who has always achieved excellent results, and a Coach who gives his team a certain mentality.

“So I think we’ll see a different Torino in the second half of the season.”

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

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.........       

 

 

 

  .........

 

20th Matchday

 

Saturday, january 6th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Sardegna Arena Stadium - Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese

 

 

 

 

Marchisio out of Cagliari-Juventus

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115160/marchisio-out-cagliari-juventus

 

 

Jan 5, 2018

 

Claudio Marchisio, Gigi Buffon, Juan Cuadrado, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes are out of the Juventus squad travelling to Cagliari.

 

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

 

Midfielder Marchisio is the latest addition to the absentee list, as he suffered a left thigh injury during Wednesday’s 2-0 Coppa Italia Quarter-Final victory over Torino.

 

Medhi Benatia, Alex Sandro, Sami Khedira and Gonzalo Higuain were rested midweek, so should start tomorrow.

 

Juventus squad for Cagliari: Chiellini, Benatia, Pjanic, Khedira, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Alex Sandro, Matuidi, Barzagli, Pinsoglio, Mandzukic, Asamoah, Szczesny, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur, Bernardeschi, Loria

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........       

 

 

 

  .........

 

20th Matchday

 

Saturday, january 6th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Sardegna Arena Stadium - Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Cagliari-Juventus

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115230/line-ups-cagliari-juventus

 

 

Jan 6, 2018

 

Federico Bernardeschi, Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Higuain form a new attack as Juventus visit Cagliari, needing to keep up with Napoli.

 

It kicks off at the Sardegna Arena at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

This afternoon leaders Napoli beat Verona 2-0 and third-placed Inter were held to another stalemate by Fiorentina, so the opportunity is there to break away even more from the chasing pack.

 

It’s no easy task, though, and Cagliari have picked up lately under Diego Lopez.

 

Max Allegri is without Gigi Buffon, Juan Cuadrado, Claudio Marchisio, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes.

 

Mario Mandzukic is rested after Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Quarter-Final victory over Torino, as Bernardeschi gets a rare start with Dybala and Higuain.

 

Cagliari have both Senna Miangue and Joao Pedro suspended, the Brazilian sitting out a four-match ban.

 

Leonardo Pavoletti leads the way with support from Diego Farias and ex-Juventus fan favourite Simone Padoin.

 

They caused a huge upset to end 2017, earning a 2-1 win away to Atalanta with Padoin on target.

 

Cagliari haven’t beaten Juventus since a 2-0 home victory in November 2009, a game in which Coach Diego Lopez started. However, Juve have dominated this fixture since, winning 12 of their last 15 meetings, the last three with a 9-0 aggregate score.

 

 

Cagliari: Rafael; Romagna, Ceppitelli, Pisacane; Faragò, Ionita, Cigarini, Barella, Padoin; Farias, Pavoletti

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Bernardeschi, Higuain, Dybala

 

 

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

       ............

.........       

 

 

 

  .........

 

20th Matchday

 

Saturday, january 6th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Sardegna Arena Stadium - Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese

 

 

 

 

HT 0-0: Szczesny rescues Juventus

 

 

http://www.football-italia.net/115237/ht-szczesny-rescues-juventus

 

 

Jan 6, 2018

 

It’s inexplicably goalless at the break in Cagliari, as Juventus hit the woodwork twice and Wojciech Szczesny performed two stunning saves.

 

The Bianconeri needed a victory to keep up the pace with leaders Napoli and break away even further from the chasing pack, as Inter drew and Roma lost. Max Allegri had to do without injured Gigi Buffon, Juan Cuadrado, Mattia De Sciglio and Benedikt Howedes, but gave Federico Bernardeschi a rare start. The Sardinians ended 2017 with a shock win away to Atalanta, but had Senna Miangue and Joao Pedro suspended.

Cagliari haven’t beaten Juventus since a 2-0 home victory in November 2009, a game in which Coach Diego Lopez started. However, Juve have dominated this fixture since, winning 12 of their last 15 meetings, the last three with a 9-0 aggregate score.

 

Paulo Dybala went very close to an opener after nine minutes, as his free kick dipped over the wall and bounced off the crossbar.

 

Juve rattled the woodwork for the second time, as a Bernardeschi curler from a tight angle hit the inside of the far post and ricocheted out again.

 

Cagliari replied, Leonardo Pavoletti nodding a Paolo Faragò cross not far off target, while Medhi Benatia put the ball in the net from a long Miralem Pjanic free kick, but only after he’d been flagged offside.

 

Wojciech Szczesny performed a stunning reaction save on Pavoletti’s header from a corner, even more importantly scrambling the loose ball away with one hand to prevent a tap-in.

 

Diego Farias stole the ball off Pjanic and burst forward, closed down with real difficulty in the box, then just before half-time there was another desperate Szczesny one-handed save to turn the Farias finish on to the upright from close range.

 

 

Cagliari 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

 

Cagliari: Rafael; Romagna, Ceppitelli, Pisacane; Faragò, Ionita, Cigarini, Barella, Padoin; Farias, Pavoletti

 

Juventus: Szczesny; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Bernardeschi, Higuain, Dybala

 

Ref: Calvarese

[Socrates 7964]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI - JUVENTUS

 

 

       .......  0-1.....

 

 

Federico Bernardeschi 74'

 

 

 

20th Matchday

 

Saturday, january 6th 2018 - 08:45 p.m. CET 

07.45 p.m. UK time - 06.45 p.m. GMT
Sardegna Arena Stadium - Cagliari
Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese

 

 

 

 

CAGLIARI 0 JUVENTUS 1: BERNARDESCHI

RESCUES VISITORS AFTER DYBALA INJURY

 

Juventus grabbed a late away win over Cagliari but were left

to count the cost of injuries to Paulo Dybala and Sami Khedira.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/cagliari-v-juventus/report/bk8uo9n96qjmr1svhd2jqq8a2

 

 

Jan 6, 2018

 

Federico Bernardeschi scored the winner for Juventus as the Serie A champions escaped with a 1-0 victory from an enthralling Serie A clash with Cagliari, while Paulo Dybala left the field in tears with a hamstring injury.

Bernardeschi touched home a squared Douglas Costa pass to claim the three points with 16 minutes remaining, despite the protestations of Cagliari who felt a free-kick should have been given for a Medhi Benatia elbow on Leonardo Pavoletti.

An action-packed first half saw Dybala strike the crossbar and Bernardeschi hit the post, before Benatia was ruled offside having appeared to put the visitors in front.

Pavoletti was a thorn in Juve's side throughout and brought the best out of Wojciech Szczesny on two separate occasions.

Dybala's match was over in the 50th minute when he pulled up with a hamstring problem, while Sami Khedira was also forced off after taking an inadvertent heavy blow to the head from Szczesny in another concerning development for Massimiliano Allegri.

But Bernardeschi helped ensure there was something for Juve to celebrate when he netted decisively to ensure the visitors closed back within a point of Serie A leaders Napoli, who beat Verona 2-0 earlier on Saturday.

 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

 @fbernardeschi opens the scoring for Juve! #CagliariJuve #ForzaJuve

10:29 PM - Jan 6, 2018

 

Juventus started strongly and could have taken the lead when a curling Dybala free-kick bounced agonisingly off the top of the crossbar after nine minutes.

The visitors continued to put the woodwork through its paces as a fierce Bernardeschi strike rattled the left-hand upright eight minutes later, before Benatia looked to have fired Juve in front.

The defender turned in a Miralem Pjanic delivery but was thwarted by a marginal offside call.

Cagliari's attacking threat was limited by comparison but Allegri had Szczesny to thank for keeping the score level, the Pole getting down brilliantly to his right to pull off a spectacular save from a close-range Pavoletti header.

Blaise Matuidi appeared irked by a section of the home fans before picking up the game's first booking for a clumsy lunge on Nicolo Barella, and Szczesny was again required to keep out Pavoletti by touching his low drive onto the post shortly before the break.

 

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

First half action from the Sardegna Arena #CagliariJuve#ForzaJuve

9:36 PM - Jan 6, 2018

 

Cagliari – and more specifically Pavoletti – carried their momentum into the second half, with the striker directing a looping header just off target almost immediately after the restart.

Juve were dealt a blow when Dybala pulled up and the Argentina international was visibly upset as he walked from the field, but replacement Costa soon went close with a curling strike that dipped just too late.

Szczesny then collided with Khedira's head as he rose to meet a cross, forcing the midfielder off, and Giorgio Chiellini sustained a nasty cut to the forehead – the captain able to carry on after being bandaged up.

Cagliari's frustration at Bernardeschi's strike was clear and they were even more enraged when referee Gianpaolo Calvarese opted against the use of VAR when turning down penalty calls for handball against the matchwinner.

Juve will be grateful to have salvaged the win - Allegri's 100th with the club in Serie A - from this fixture, but they will be holding their breath over the fitness of Dybala and Khedira as they continue their quest to chase down Napoli.