JUVENTUS SEASON 2017-2018

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPAL - JUVENTUS

 

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29th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 17th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Paolo Mazza Stadium, Ferrara
Referee: Davide Massa

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: SPAL-Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118657/line-ups-spal-juventus

 

 

Mar 17, 2018

 

Juventus visit relegation scrappers SPAL in a bid to go seven points clear at the top and field practically a first-choice XI.

 

It kicks off at the Stadio Mazza in Ferrara at 20.45 CET - 19.45 GMT.

 

The Bianconeri are flying high at the moment, as they’ve booked their place in the Coppa Italia Final, will face Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final and sit four points clear of Napoli at the top of the table after their midweek rescheduled victory over Atalanta.

 

As Napoli play Genoa tomorrow evening, Max Allegri’s men have the opportunity to extend that lead to seven points for at least 24 hours.

 

He doesn’t hold back, using practically his best available XI, resting only Andrea Barzagli and Mario Mandzukic, as Alex Sandro is moved into a more advanced role in the 4-2-3-1 formation.

 

It’s a very South American attack, with Douglas Costa, Paulo Dybala and Alex Sandro supporting Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Daniele Rugani steps in for suspended Medhi Benatia in the back four, while Sami Khedira has flu, Juan Cuadrado and Federico Bernardeschi are injured.

 

SPAL are in their first Serie A campaign since the 1960s and won the Serie B title last term ahead of Verona and Benevento.

 

Marco Borriello and Federico Mattiello are out injured, but the front two of Alberto Paloschi and Mirco Antenucci remains intact.

 

Ones to watch include Pasquale Schiattarella, Jasmin Kurtic and pacey winger Manuel Lazzari, while Alex Meret is a bright young hope in goal.

 

Juventus have kept nine consecutive Serie A clean sheets and one more would match their record from 2015-16.

 

The Bianconeri conceded only one goal in their last 15 league games, scoring 30, during a run of 14 victories and a draw.

 

The last time SPAL hosted Juventus was a 5-0 Coppa Italia defeat in September 1973, while the most recent Serie A meeting in Ferrara was a more slender 1-0 loss in May 1968.

 

SPAL have beaten Juve twice in 33 encounters and they were pretty impressive results, 3-1 in February 1957 and 4-1 in the Coppa Italia in May 1962.

 

SPAL: Meret; Cionek, Vicari, Felipe; Lazzari, Grassi, Schiattarella, Kurtic, Costa; Paloschi, Antenucci

SPAL bench: Gomis, Marchegiani, Simic, Vaisanen, Drame, Viviani, Everton Luiz, Vitale, Schiavon, Salamon, Bonazzoli, Floccari

 

Juventus: Buffon; De Sciglio, Rugani, Chiellini, Asamoah; Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Dybala, Alex Sandro; Higuain

Juventus bench: Szczesny, Del Favero, Barzagli, Howedes, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur, Marchisio, Mandzukic

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPAL - JUVENTUS

 

  .........

   .......... 

 

 

    

 

29th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 17th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Paolo Mazza Stadium, Ferrara
Referee: Davide Massa

 

 

 

 

HT 0-0: Impressive SPAL stall Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118664/ht-impressive-spal-stall-juventus

 

 

Mar 17, 2018

 

SPAL have more than held their own in the first half, as they keep Juventus to a 0-0 draw going into the break.

 

The Bianconeri went into the Stadio Mazza in Ferrara four points clear of Napoli at the top of the table, but Daniele Rugani stepped in for suspended Medhi Benatia with Alex Sandro moved into a more advanced role. Juan Cuadrado and Federico Bernardeschi are long-term absentees. The Spallini had picked up seven points from their last three games, but Federico Mattiello was out injured with Marco Borriello.

 

The last time Juventus played a top flight match in Ferrara was a 1-0 victory in May 1968.

 

It was all SPAL in the early stages, but when Juve did emerge from their own half it was with real danger. Douglas Costa dribbled past defenders and his slide-rule pass sent Alex Sandro through, but Filippo Costa made a decisive block.

 

Paulo Dybala also curled just past the far top corner, but Giorgio Chiellini needed a desperate interception on Costa’s cross after he went clear down the left.

 

A corner was cleared to the edge of the box, where Kwadwo Asamoah’s half-volley flew over the bar, but on the stroke of half-time, Dybala’s free kick skimmed the frame of the goal.

 

 

SPAL 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

 

SPAL: Meret; Cionek, Vicari, Felipe; Lazzari, Grassi, Schiattarella, Kurtic, Costa; Paloschi, Antenucci

 

Juventus: Buffon; De Sciglio, Rugani, Chiellini, Asamoah; Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Dybala, Alex Sandro; Higuain

 

Ref: Massa

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPAL - JUVENTUS

 

  .........

     0-0  ..

 

 

 

    

 

29th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 17th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Paolo Mazza Stadium, Ferrara
Referee: Davide Massa

 

 

 

 

SPAL 0 Juventus 0: Scudetto charge halted by Serie A strugglers

 

Napoli will have watched on with glee as Juventus

were held to a scoreless draw at struggling SPAL.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/spal-v-juventus/c09bv8vrvn16raabridree9nu

 

 

Mar 17, 2018

 

Juventus failed to win for the first time in 13 Serie A matches as lowly SPAL earned a 0-0 draw at Stadio Paolo Mazza on Saturday.

Heavily favoured to strengthen their grip on the Scudetto against the relegation-threatened Biancazzurri, Juve could instead have their lead trimmed back to two points on Sunday when Napoli host Genoa.

Alex Sandro's early blocked shot and a marginally misdirected Paulo Dybala free-kick were the best of few opportunities extracted from the plucky hosts.

SPAL had begun with the confidence of a team unbeaten in their previous three outings and richly deserved the point that moves them out of the bottom three.

Juve, conversely, looked heavy-legged in their fourth match in 11 days and struggled to produce anything that would cause concern Real Madrid, their Champions League quarter-final opponents.

Massimiliano Allegri's side did manage to equal their own Serie A record of 10 consecutive clean sheets – last achieved in 2015-16 – but it will be scant consolation as the door creaks open for Napoli.

 

OptaPaolo

 

✔@OptaPaolo

 

0- Juventus haven't found the net in a competitive match played on the road for the first time since last September, against Barcelona. Stop. #SpalJuve

10:38 PM - Mar 17, 2018

Alex Sandro returned to the starting XI in an advanced role and the move almost paid off early, with only a sliding Filippo Costa denying him a clear sight of goal.

Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala soon tried their luck without success, while Daniele Rugani was capably managing SPAL's encouraging incursions.

Juve had scored twice by the 22nd minute in the last meeting between these teams, which ended 4-1 to the Turin club, but there was to be no early breakthrough on this occasion as the hosts held their shape beyond the half hour.

Kwadwo Asamoah sliced over the crossbar before a curling Dybala free-kick brushed the top of the net as the opening period edged to a close without the expected opener from a slightly off-colour Bianconeri.

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

 Congratulations to @Asabob20 on 150 appearances in Bianconero

Douglas Costa set a more enterprising tone after the restart with a firm left-footed effort that was palmed away by Alex Meret.

Dybala – overlooked by Jorge Sampaoli for the latest Argentina squad – next fired wide and, with scores still level by the hour, Allegri ushered Mario Mandzukic off the bench to replace Asamoah.

The visitors' command of possession passed 60 per cent amid their constant probing for the all-important winner, but they were frustrated in their attempts as a Mandzukic header in the 82nd minute failed to trouble Meret.

Instead, SPAL remained compact and held on for a precious point, just their fourth they have managed against Juve at Stadio Paolo Mazza since 1957.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPAL - JUVENTUS

 

  .........

     0-0  ..

 

 

 

    

 

29th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 17th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Paolo Mazza Stadium, Ferrara
Referee: Davide Massa

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Juve are only human'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118669/allegri-juve-are-only-human

 

 

Mar 17, 2018

 

Max Allegri admits Juventus didn’t match SPAL’s determination and “it’s only human to miss a beat and lack energy once in a while.”

 

The Bianconeri saw their 12-round winning streak grind to a halt and failed to find the net on their travels for the first time since visiting Barcelona’s Camp Nou in September.

 

The Coach didn’t even see the final whistle of the 0-0 draw, as when Alex Sandro lost the ball 20 seconds from time, Allegri stormed off down the tunnel.

 

“I am not angry or disappointed,” Allegri assured Mediaset Premium.

 

“SPAL fought hard, we compliment them, and we were coming off a series of wins. The positive thing tonight is that we kept a clean sheet and at the moment still have a five-point advantage.

 

“We have to learn from this for the games coming up against Crotone and Benevento, because they are fighting for their Serie A survival and we therefore need to face them with a different attitude.

 

“We have to be ready for any eventuality, it happened this evening, and we are still top of the table. When you don’t have enough mental energy, the opposition will win every 50-50 ball. That’s what happened tonight.

 

“SPAL deserve a lot of credit, they were very aggressive and made many fouls – 29 – to break up our game. The more the ball stays in play, the more the opposition is kept on their toes and not allowed time to take a breather.

 

“People expected us to drop points a couple of weeks ago against Lazio, we dropped them tonight, these things happen. Now we need some rest, because we are playing on three fronts and we need everyone.

 

“It’s only human that when you are top of the Serie A table, in the Champions League quarter-finals and the Coppa Italia Final, you can miss a beat and lack energy once in a while.”

 

Giorgio Chiellini limped off 10 minutes from time, but the Coach doesn’t believe it is serious.

 

“Chiellini has muscular fatigue, but at the moment we don’t have any more on that.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vazquez: 'Don't underestimate Juve'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118803/vazquez-dont-underestimate-juve

 

 

Mar 20, 2018

 

Real Madrid star Lucas Vazquez is concerned “people are underestimating Juventus. Let’s not forget they were the Champions League Finalists.”

 

 

The two sides clashed in Cardiff last May and will meet again over two legs in the quarter-finals next month.

 

 

“The idea is forming that we are favourites and in my view people are underestimating Juventus,” Vazquez told Onda Cero.

 

“Let’s not forget they were the Champions League Finalists last year. This is an Italian team with a great deal of experience and it’ll be complicated to take them on.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coppa Italia final date confirmed

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118924/coppa-italia-final-date-confirmed

 

 

Mar 23, 2018

 

The Coppa Italia final between Juventus and Milan has been confirmed for May 9, with tickets priced between €35 and €130.

 

Both the 2015 and the 2017 finals had to be rescheduled when Juve reached the Champions League final, so this year’s showpiece was pencilled in for a midweek.

 

Today the Lega Calcio has officially confirmed that the final will be played at the Stadio Olimpico on May 9, with a 21.00 kick-off [20.00 UK time].

 

The ticket prices have also been announced, with free tickets for soldiers injured in war.

 

Disabled supporters and their guides or carers can get two tickets for €50.

 

The cheapest regular tickets are in the curve, costing €35, with €50 for the “distinti” sections either side and €130 for the tribune.

 

The Juventus fans will sit in the Curva Sud, the Distinti Sud and the Tribuna Monte Mario.

 

Milan will occupy the Curva Nord, Distinti Nord and Tribuna Tevere.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Juventus-Real Madrid sold out

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/118954/juventus-real-madrid-sold-out

 

 

Mar 24, 2018

 

The Champions League quarter-final between Juventus and Real Madrid on April 3 in Turin is already sold out.

 

The first leg of the showdown will be at the Allianz Juventus Stadium on Tuesday April 3.

 

Tickets have flown out the door and are already sold out with only the Juventus Member participants able to take part.

 

This means the crowd cheering Juve on will be solely made up of season ticket holders, Juventus Members and representatives of the Juventus Official Fan Club.

 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mertens: 'Juve-Napoli Cup Final'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119012/mertens-juve-napoli-cup-final

 

 

Mar 25, 2018

 

Dries Mertens warns the Scudetto showdown between Napoli and Juventus on April 22 “will be like our Cup Final.”

 

The Partenopei sit only two points behind Serie A leaders Juventus and have a much less packed fixture list, as the Bianconeri are in the Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid and Coppa Italia Final against Milan.

 

“I have improved year by year and playing in Italian football made me mature,” said Mertens in a Press conference while on international duty with Belgium.

 

“I brought all this experience to the Belgium side, where Roberto Martinez expects me to attack the space or go on the counter. There’s competition for places and that is good, as everyone wants to prove themselves.

 

“Fortunately, Juventus drew 0-0 with SPAL and I think the head-to-head with them on April 22 will be decisive. That is like our Cup Final.

 

“This is why I want to be in top shape over the next nine games, because becoming the champion of Italy and winning the Scudetto with Napoli would be fantastic.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

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30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Juve reshuffle with Milan

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119025/juve-reshuffle-milan

 

 

Mar 26, 2018

 

Alex Sandro and Giorgio Chiellini are expected to miss the match with Milan, as Juventus rest them for Real Madrid and the Champions League.

 

The first leg of the quarter-final is on Tuesday April 3 in Turin, so their Serie A encounter with the Rossoneri is next Saturday.

 

Mario Mandzukic was sent home early from international duty with several other Croatia players, so he is likely to start.

 

It could be in his now customary role on the left of a supporting trident, but we cannot rule out a centre-forward position.

 

This allows rest for Gonzalo Higuain, who was involved with Argentina’s two friendlies against Italy and Spain.

 

Chiellini and Alex Sandro both pulled out of international duty and will probably be rested at the weekend in order to be in good shape against Real Madrid.

 

Miralem Pjanic and Medhi Benatia will certainly start against Milan, because they are suspended for the Real Madrid match.

 

Federico Bernardeschi should learn over the next few days whether he requires surgery that would effectively end his season.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

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30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Kessie: Juve 0-2 Milan!

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119166/kessie-juve-0-2-milan

 

 

Mar 29, 2018

 

Franck Kessie has given his prediction for Milan’s Serie A showdown with Juventus on Saturday. “0-2 to us and I score as well!”

 

The match has huge permutations for both sides, with Juve needing the victory to stay top of Serie A and the same applying to Milan as they look to keep their Champions League hopes alive.

 

“We always strive to win, and it’ll be the same against Juventus,” the midfielder told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“We want the three points. Juve are a great team and it’ll be a very difficult game, but we’ll go to Turin to play our game and bring home the three points.

 

“We must keep growing and it would be wonderful to pick up a result in Turin. Who would I take out of the Juventus team? I’d say Buffon.

 

“He’s a great goalkeeper and every time I see him play, he makes me want to play until I’m 40 years old.

 

“Score prediction? 0-2 to us and I score as well!”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

Calcio mourns for Mondonico

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119173/calcio-mourns-mondonico

 

 

Mar 29, 2018

 

The world of Italian football has paid tribute to Emiliano Mondonico, who lost his battle with cancer today.

 

The former Torino and Atalanta Coach has passed away at the age of 71, who won the Coppa Italia with the Granata in 1993.

 

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri paid tribute to Mondonico on Twitter, stating that he was “an exponent of the Italian school, a great person who all of our football world will miss”.

 

Milan called him “a true adversary, a loyal adversary”, adding “Emiliano Mondonico and his sporting sense will be missed by everyone. Milan salutes a great lover of football”.

 

Their city rivals also paid tribute, writing on Twitter “FC Internazionale Milano expresses its condolences to the family and joins all of Italian football in mourning the passing of Emiliano Mondonico”.

 

“I am very saddened by the death of Emiliano Mondonico,” Nantes Coach Claudio Ranieri told ANSA.

 

“The football world has lost a leader and an important professional. I would like to remember him with affection and esteem, and I share in the pain of his loved ones.”

 

Napoli said “united in grief, President Aurelio De Laurentiis, the directors, the technical staff, the team and all the SSC Napoli express deep sympathy for the death of Emiliano Mondonico”.

 

Torino, meanwhile, simply wrote: “ciao Mondo, we’ll miss you”.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

            

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Barzagli: ‘Battle with Bonucci’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119176/barzagli-‘battle-bonucci’

 

 

Mar 29, 2018

 

Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli calls Milan captain Leonardo Bonucci a friend, but expects “everyone will go to battle” on Saturday night.

 

Bonucci left the Bianconeri in the summer to join the Diavolo, and he returns to Allianz Stadium for the first time this weekend.

 

“For me - and I think for all of us - it won’t change much,” Barzagli insisted, speaking to Sky.

 

“I think for Leo it will be a special game, because he’s returning to Allianz Stadium against his former team where he still has acquaintances and also friends.

 

“We really did share beautiful years together, I think it will be very emotional for him.

 

“Clearly seeing him in a different team will have a certain impression on us, but once we’ve greeted each other on the pitch everyone will go to battle.”

 

Barzagli was also asked about Paulo Dybala’s mindset, after La Joya was left out by Argentina for the recent friendlies.

 

“The first thing [Coach Jorge] Sampaoli said was quite critical, then he made it clear to Paulo that he was in his plans.

 

“Let’s say maybe he wanted to motivate him, but Paulo is calm and training well and that’s the best thing for him.

 

“I think he’ll give us so much on the pitch, and we absolutely need him for these final two months.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

            

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Allegri: Chiellini will face Milan

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119208/allegri-chiellini-will-face-milan

https://www.football-italia.net/119209/allegri-dybala-bonucci-my-future

 

 

Mar 30, 2018

 

Max Allegri has confirmed that Giorgio Chiellini will start Juventus’ Serie A showdown with Milan on Saturday.

 

Chiellini had been tipped to miss the visit of Milan, as well as the first leg of Juve’s Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid, having skipped the international break, but the defender has recovered from his muscle strain sooner than anticipated.

 

“Chiellini is fine, he’ll play tomorrow,” Coach Allegri said at a Press conference.

 

“Cuadrado? He’ll be available tomorrow. Douglas Costa? He must have more belief near his opponents’ goal because he has qualities that only a few players have in the world.

 

“Bernardeschi? He’ll be back with the squad next week, he doesn’t need surgery. Alex Sandro has a knock, which must be evaluated.

 

“Higuain isn’t happy because he lost 6-1 against Argentina, but he’s sobered up. Mandzukic is fine.

 

“Lichtsteiner will play on the right, he’s in a good run of form. He’s a player of temperament and great professionalism.

 

“Two or three in midfield? It depends on who I choose up top. From that, it depends on the characteristics of the midfielders we play.

 

“We must have the ambition and objective of getting to May 27. Tomorrow we play Milan, then there are seven game before Napoli.

 

“It’s a beautiful moment to face, with great enthusiasm. We’re working to go as far as possible in every competition.

 

“We’ve played almost every game possible for a few years now. These aren’t numbers to just throw away.

 

“We’re still angry about the two points we dropped against SPAL. Now we have Milan, which will a balanced game like it’s always been, so we have to prepare well.

 

“The Rossoneri are a very technical team and Gattuso has organised them.”

 

 

Max Allegri laughs off talk Paulo Dybala could leave, claims Leonardo Bonucci ‘will remain in the hearts of Juventus fans’ and assures ‘I want to stay here’.

 

Dybala reportedly dined with Atleti boss Diego Simeone, amidst growing speculation he could replace Antoine Griezmann, while Bonucci will appear at Juventus Stadium as a Milan player for the first time on Saturday.

 

“Real Madrid? We have two games against the best team in the world, together with Barcelona,” the Coach, who himself has been linked with Paris Saint-Germain and jobs in England, said at a Press conference.

 

“We must have the ambition to beat them and treat it like a world event, but our objective is the League. The most important match is against Milan.

 

“Dybala to Atletico? I hope Simeone has at least offered him lunch! He must be motivated for the end of the season, although I think he’ll ultimately be one of the stars in Russia.

 

“Scudetto? Napoli are out of everything, only the League remains for them. It’s an important objective for them and it must also be the case for us.

 

“We have nine games left, five of which are at home, and this is our real objective. Bonucci? It’ll be a special evening for him. He’ll always remain in the hearts of Juventus fans.

 

“He’s still very much tied to Buffon, Barzagli and Chiellini, they made history over the years.

 

“He decided to join Milan, I didn’t expect it, and he’ll be an opponent of ours. He gave a lot to Juventus and vice versa.

 

“When he left, it was said that Juventus had got weaker, but then Benatia and Rugani grew a lot.

 

“The decision to drop him for the game against Porto was for the good of him and the team.

 

“After that, he came back and did well: there’s no problem. I have an excellent relationship with him.

 

“Gattuso? He deserves praise. He arrived at Milan amidst some scepticism, but he transmitted his character and has been able to stay on with his style of play and results.

 

“I told him to retire and join my coaching team, but he didn’t accept. Then, a few months later, he retired…

 

“My future? I’ve said many times that I’m happy here, I have a contract until 2020 and I want to stay here.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

            

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Juve: Cuadrado back, Mandzukic out

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119229/juve-cuadrado-back-mandzukic-out

 

 

Mar 30, 2018

 

Juan Cuadrado is back in the Juventus squad to face Milan, but Mario Mandzukic is out with a thigh injury.

 

The Bianconeri take on Gennaro Gattuso’s side in Turin tomorrow, as they look to maintain their two-point lead at the top of Serie A.

 

Coach Massimiliano Allegri is able to welcome back Cuadrado after his groin surgery, though the Colombian is unlikely to feature as he only returned to training this week.

 

Mandzukic has been left out of the squad after suffering a bruised thigh in training today, with Juve taking no risks ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

 

Alex Sandro has also been left out after being injured on Brazil duty, but the left-back could return to face Los Merengues.

 

Juventus squad to face Milan: Buffon, De Sciglio, Chiellini, Benatia, Pjanic, Khedira, Cuadrado, Marchisio, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Matuidi, Barzagli, Pinsoglio, Howedes, Asamoah, Szczesny, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Bentancur

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

            

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

 

Gattuso: "When you study Juve, you don’t understand any of it"

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119216/gattuso-fed-contract-talk

 

 

Mar 30, 2018

 

Gennaro Gattuso insists enough is enough about his new Milan contract but admits ‘I could’ve done better’ with his handling of Andrea Conti.

 

The build-up to Milan’s clash with Juventus in Serie A on Saturday has been overshadowed by talk of Gattuso’s proposed extension and Conti possibly needing a second operation after more knee problems.

 

“We’ll be facing a great team and we can’t afford to make anymore mistakes if we want to qualify for the Champions League,” the Coach said at a Press conference.

 

“Returning players? I’ve seen them with good legs and great desire to play this game. We needed this break? Kalinic? He trained well and I don’t have a problem with him.

 

“Bonucci back in Turin? He’s calm, it’s normal if he’s a bit emotional, but he’s a great professional.

 

“Conti?" We managed him well, but maybe I could’ve done better. I was wrong to make him feel so comfortable.

 

“We’ll know if he needs more surgery in a few days, but we must be close to him because he’s important to this club.

 

“Allegri? He was my captain at Perugia and always respected me as a real player. I’ve never forgotten him.

 

“As a Coach, I have to thank him because he was right. We cleared the air, I apologised and we’ve had a great relationship for a while now.

 

“I envy him for his ability. When you study Juve, you don’t understand any of it. He’s changed a lot because he has great knowledge. He’s become a great Coach.

 

“My renewal? It’ll come, but I can’t talk about it anymore. Whether it’s in an Easter egg or not, it doesn’t matter, but please just let it […] pass, enough.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

            

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Milan staff bus windows smashed

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119270/milan-staff-bus-windows-smashed

 

 

Mar 31, 2018

 

There was an ugly episode of hooliganism in Turin ahead of the Juventus game, as the minibus for Milan staff had its windows smashed.

 

Fortunately, there were no injuries, but pictures taken by MilanNews.it show the extent of the damage.

 

It’s reported the window was destroyed by an iron bar swung at it.

 

The minibus was close to the Allianz Juventus Stadium when the incident occurred.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

            

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Juventus-Milan

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119276/line-ups-juventus-milan

 

 

Mar 31, 2018

 

Juventus and Milan go all-out, as the grudge match and Leonardo Bonucci’s first meeting with his old teammates is decisive for both clubs.

 

It kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin.

 

The Bianconeri went into the break for international duty with their lead at the top of the Serie A table sliced to just two points following a surprise stalemate with SPAL.

 

Max Allegri tries to ignore Tuesday’s upcoming Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid and uses the strongest team at his disposal.

 

Some decisions are forced upon him, as Mario Mandzukic joins Alex Sandro and Federico Bernardeschi on the treatment table, but Juan Cuadrado is back on the bench for the first time since groin surgery.

 

Giorgio Chiellini pulled out of international duty with an injury, but is still thrown in from the start for a return to the old 3-5-2 formation, pushing Kwadwo Asamoah and Stephan Lichtsteiner into more advanced roles.

 

Medhi Benatia and Miralem Pjanic were always going to start, because they are both suspended against Real Madrid.

 

Douglas Costa is rested after impressing on international duty for Brazil, so Paulo Dybala supports Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Milan have won five Serie A games on the bounce to put them right in the thick of the race for a Champions League spot.

 

Ignazio Abate and Andrea Conti are out, but Davide Calabria and Alessio Romagnoli have shaken off injuries to bolster the defence.

 

Naturally, all eyes will be on Bonucci, as the stalwart of the old BBC defence returns to Turin for the first time since leaving Juventus. He missed the meeting at San Siro earlier this term, so it’s also his first encounter with his former teammates.

 

This is also a risky tactic, because both Bonucci and Lucas Biglia are one booking away from a ban and on Wednesday there’s the rescheduled Derby della Madonnina against Inter.

 

Andre Silva gets the nod rather than Patrick Cutrone or Nikola Kalinic in the trident attack, having broken his Serie A duck with two late winners in a row against Genoa and Chievo.

 

He is flanked by Suso and Hakan Calhanoglu.

 

Milan have lost their last six visits to Turin since a 1-0 result in March 2011, which was decided by a goal from Gennaro Gattuso. The Coach at the time was a certain Massimiliano Allegri.

 

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi, Asamoah; Dybala, Higuain

Juventus bench: Pinsoglio, Szczesny, De Sciglio, Cuadrado, Marchisio, Douglas Costa, Rugani, Sturaro, Bentancur

 

Milan: G Donnarumma; Calabria, Bonucci, Romagnoli, Rodriguez; Kessie, Biglia, Bonaventura; Suso, Andre Silva, Calhanoglu

Milan bench: A Donnarumma, Storari, Antonelli, Musacchio, Zapata, Locatelli, Mauri, Montolivo, Borini, Cutrone, Kalinic

 

Ref: Mazzoleni

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

            

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

HT 1-1: Bonucci bites back at Juve

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119283/ht-bonucci-bites-back-juve

 

 

Mar 31, 2018

 

Leonardo Bonucci took ideal revenge on his old club with the equaliser at the Juventus Stadium after Paulo Dybala had surprised Milan.

 

The Bianconeri were given a surprise bonus before kick-off, as Napoli were held to a 1-1 draw at Sassuolo. Douglas Costa was rested ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid, while Mario Mandzukic, Alex Sandro and Federico Bernardeschi were injured.

 

Leonardo Bonucci made his first return to Turin since his surprise exit last summer, and was greeted by insults and jeers every time he touched the ball, but Ignazio Abate and Andrea Conti missed out. Andre Silva was chosen to lead the attack.

 

Milan have lost their last six visits to Turin since a 1-0 result in March 2011, which was decided by a goal from Gennaro Gattuso. The Coach at the time was a certain Massimiliano Allegri.

 

Gianluigi Donnarumma had his gloves stung by a Gonzalo Higuain scorcher, but couldn’t get to the second chance of the game, as Paulo Dybala turned and smashed into the bottom corner with his left foot from 20 metres out.

 

Suso tested Gigi Buffon with a cross-shot and Andre Silva nodded wide from six yards out on a Hakan Calhanoglu assist after outjumping Kwadwo Asamoah.

 

Milan continued to play well and Andre Silva failed to get on the end of a Davide Calabria low ball, but from that Calhanoglu corner, Bonucci of all people rose above the crowd to nod in the equaliser. Having been insulted for the entire match by his former fans, Leo celebrated in his traditional manner with the ‘wash your mouth out’ gesture.

 

That was the first Serie A goal Juventus have conceded in 2018 and they seemed rather startled, as Milan maintained the initiative.

 

There were penalty appeals for two Bonucci handling offences, but the first ricocheted off his foot on to his hand and could not be considered voluntary, while the second only occurred because he was being fouled by Medhi Benatia.

 

 

Juventus 1-1 Milan (Half-Time)

Dybala 8 (J), Bonucci 28 (M)

 

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Benatia, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi, Asamoah; Dybala, Higuain

 

Milan: G Donnarumma; Calabria, Bonucci, Romagnoli, Rodriguez; Kessie, Biglia, Bonaventura; Suso, Andre Silva, Calhanoglu

 

Ref: Mazzoleni

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

        3-1 

 

 

Paulo Dybala 8'

Leonardo Bonucci 28'

Juan Cuadrado 79'

Sami Khedira 87'

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Juventus 3 AC Milan 1: Clinical champions

pounce on Napoli slip-up

 

Leonardo Bonucci scored on his return to Turin but it proved

inconsequential as Juventus earned a vital win in the Scudetto race.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-v-milan/c1mwmdblz24icf9ho6jp36zxm

 

 

Mar 31, 2018

 

Juan Cuadrado and Sami Khedira struck late as Juventus surged four points clear atop Serie A in a 3-1 victory over AC Milan at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.

Leonardo Bonucci had looked set to play the role of pantomime villain when he cancelled out Paulo Dybala's opener with a 28th-minute header against his old club.

But the end of the champions' 10 successive Serie A clean sheets was eventually softened by substitute Cuadrado, the winger nodding in Khedira's cross.

Khedira himself then completed the win with a clinical effort as Juve opened up a precious gap to second-placed Napoli, who drew 1-1 at Sassuolo earlier in the day.

Milan have not beaten Juve in Turin since 2011 – now head coach Gennaro Gattuso scoring the winner on that occasion – and they appeared destined for more pain from the moment Dybala got the scoring underway in the eighth minute.

Bonucci stunned his former faithful to give the visitors hope, the defender sprinting to the away supporters in celebration of what could have been a key goal in the context of the Rossoneri's Champions League hopes.

But Cuadrado and Khedira ensured they would they remain eight points behind rivals and fourth-place Inter Milan ahead of the midweek Derby della Madonnina, as the Bianconeri's unbeaten run extended to 25 matches in all competitions ahead of the Champions League quarter-final first-leg against Real Madrid in Turin.

OptaPaolo

 

✔@OptaPaolo

 

 

7 - Sami #Khedira has scored 7 goals in the current Serie A, his joint-record in a single campaign in his career (7 also for Stoccarda 2008/09). Thrust. #JuveMilan

10:35 PM - Mar 31, 2018

 

 

The home fans' jeers for Bonucci began from the outset and added another layer to Milan's mental challenge, having lost on all six of their previous trips to Allianz Stadium.

Gianluigi Donnarumma received the first examination when he was forced to parry Gonzalo Higuain's stinging shot from outside the area.

The young goalkeeper failed to deliver in the next instance. Dybala received, swivelled and speared a shot into the bottom right corner all in one fluid motion, with Donnarumma perhaps surprised by an awkward late bounce.

Andre Silva should have supplied an immediate equaliser, but from close-range the forward wastefully headed Hakan Calhanoglu's cross around the post.

Instead, the stage was set for Bonucci. The Rossoneri skipper wedged himself between former defensive partners Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini and emphatically headed home Calhanoglu's corner.

OptaPaolo

 

✔@OptaPaolo

 

 

959 - Before #Bonucci's goal, #Juventus hadn't conceded for 959 mins in the league, the second best streak in Serie A history. Stop. #JuventusMilan

9:44 PM - Mar 31, 2018

Juve twice had half-hearted penalty appeals for handball turned down as the half wore on, leaving the match in the balance at the break.

Though Lucas Biglia picked up a yellow card that rules him out of the meeting with Inter, Milan continued to grow in belief and would have been ahead had the crossbar not got in the way of Calhanoglu's long-range rocket.

The hosts were evidently rattled as they struggled to string together meaningful passing sequences but, just as it seemed that would translate to a frustrating result, the champions found a way through.

Khedira spotted an unmarked Cuadrado in the area and the Colombia winger made no mistake with the header with 11 minutes remaining.

With the tension released, Massimiliano Allegri's men completed a difficult assignment when Germany international Khedira unerringly picked out the bottom left corner, putting Juve in a commanding position to claim a seventh consecutive Scudetto.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

        3-1 

 

 

Paulo Dybala 8'

Leonardo Bonucci 28'

Juan Cuadrado 79'

Sami Khedira 87'

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Juve sent a signal'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119287/allegri-juve-sent-signal

 

 

Mar 31, 2018

 

Max Allegri believes the 3-1 win over Milan “sends a signal” that Juventus are back on track and praised Sami Khedira’s intelligence.

 

Leonardo Bonucci had cancelled out the Paulo Dybala opener, but late on Khedira provided an assist for Juan Cuadrado’s diving header and then scored the third himself.

 

“I’m happy for Bonucci that he got a goal, but I’m even happier that Juventus won,” Allegri told Mediaset Premium.

 

“It was important to get back to winning ways against Milan, who are in good shape. We scored, then ground to a halt. The lads did well to bring the result home in a difficult fixture and to increase our lead at the top of the table. Wins like this send a signal.

 

“Khedira is a world class player and he knows how to read the crucial moments of a match. That is very important, as in some moments you need certain players and at others you can change and introduce substitutes who can turn it around.

 

“We really could’ve done with a player like Khedira against SPAL, as he is so intelligent. At times he might seem slow or error-prone, but he reads the game so well and emerges in the long run.”

 

This was Cuadrado’s first appearance since December 23 and the Colombian got the goal.

 

“Cuadrado amazed me, in a good way. In the past he would sometimes struggle coming off the bench, but he made an immediate impact.”

 

Napoli were held to a 1-1 draw by Sassuolo today, so if Juventus pick up 99 points, they can mathematically seal the Scudetto.

 

“We must continue taking it one game at a time and try to win them all.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

        3-1 

 

 

Paulo Dybala 8'

Leonardo Bonucci 28'

Juan Cuadrado 79'

Sami Khedira 87'

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Cuadrado: 'We've done nothing yet'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119286/cuadrado-weve-done-nothing-yet

 

 

Mar 31, 2018

 

Juan Cuadrado insists Juventus “have done nothing yet” in the Scudetto race after beating Milan 3-1 to go four points clear.

 

“We have to be calm, as we’ve done nothing yet and there’s a long way to go in the title race,” Cuadrado told Mediaset Premium.

 

It was the Colombian’s first appearance since December 23 and he could now play in the Champions League quarter-final.

 

“On Tuesday we’ve got Real Madrid, we picked up three important points after Napoli drew against Sassuolo, so we can break away.

 

“However, we’re not the favourites and we must continue doing our best, because it’s a balanced campaign.

 

“Real Madrid are a great side, but we are too and we’ll play it like a Final.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN

 

  .........

        3-1 

 

 

Paulo Dybala 8'

Leonardo Bonucci 28'

Juan Cuadrado 79'

Sami Khedira 87'

 

 

 

    

 

30th Matchday

 

Saturday, march 31st 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni

 

 

 

 

Buffon: 'Juve fans mustn't jeer'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119289/buffon-juve-fans-mustnt-jeer

 

 

Mar 31, 2018

 

Gigi Buffon joked with Leonardo Bonucci, but criticised Juventus fans for jeering their own players during the 3-1 win over Milan.

 

Bonucci faced his former teammates for the first time since leaving last summer and made an immediate impact with the equalising goal, but Juan Cuadrado and Sami Khedira secured a 3-1 victory late on.

 

“It’s a win that proves we are clinical and ruthless, a side that wants to get to the top and win while going out to find our own good luck,” the captain told Mediaset Premium.

 

“Milan are in great shape and they force you to work hard for every point. The team has been transformed since we faced them earlier this season and Gennaro Gattuso deserved great credit.”

 

While Khedira eventually proved decisive with a goal and assist, the German international had been jeered at times by his own fans.

 

“On Tuesday against Real Madrid we’re going to need the passion of real Juventini. At times in this stadium, there are grumbles and jeers at the first sign of difficulty, but a team like ours has to be given a good 80 minutes of tedium before it’s worth jeering.

 

“We need to be supported unconditionally, whether it’s me or Khedira, as we need the help of our fans. Sami must never be jeered, he’s a great professional and he wears our jersey. We stay together to the end, not after 20 minutes.”

 

The crowd was already in an aggressive mood and jeering every time Bonucci touched the ball.

 

“It was inevitable they’d jeer Leo, that’s part of the game and what is generally accepted as normal nowadays. He did well on the goal – I think he just wanted to time it so all four of the old BBBC would be in the frame at the same time!

 

“Leo had nothing to prove here and if anything the jeers fired him up.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

 

  .........

        

 

 

 

    

 

Champions League Quarter Final - First leg

 

Tuesday, april 3rd 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey)

 

 

 

 

Buffon: 'CR7 gives sleepless nights'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119292/buffon-cr7-gives-sleepless-nights

 

 

Apr 1, 2018

 

Juventus captain Gigi Buffon admits facing Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid again in the Champions League gives him “sleepless nights.”

 

The first leg of the quarter-final is in Turin on Tuesday at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

 

It’ll be their first meeting since the Merengues ran out 4-1 winners in last year’s Final in Cardiff.

 

“This is a clash we certainly care about, but we know there are countless difficulties, that we are playing against a team that is stronger than us – history says so – and who have extraordinary individuals,” Buffon told RMC Sport.

 

“However, we also realise that over two legs, the most talented side doesn’t always win. If we manage to do better than them over the two games, then we’ll achieve something amazing.

 

“When you play against a team like Real Madrid, taking one player away won’t make a huge amount of difference. Having said that, knowing I’ll face Cristiano Ronaldo will give me a few sleepless nights.”

 

Real Madrid rested several top players for Saturday’s 3-0 Liga victory away to Las Palmas, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo and Toni Kroos, while Dani Carvajal was suspended.

 

Gareth Bale bagged a brace around Karim Benzema’s penalty.

 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

 

  .........

        

 

 

 

    

 

Champions League Quarter Final - First leg

 

Tuesday, april 3rd 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey)

 

 

 

 

Cakir ref for Juventus-Real Madrid

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119302/cakir-ref-juventus-real-madrid

 

 

Apr 1, 2018

 

Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir has been assigned to officiate the Champions League quarter-final between Juventus and Real Madrid.

 

The first leg kicks off in Turin on Tuesday evening at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

 

Cakir has been appointed to this match, assisted by Bahattin Duran, Tarik Ongun, Huseyin Gocek, Baris Simsek and fourth official Mustafa Eyisoy.

 

The 41-year-old has a mixed record with Juventus, overseeing two wins and two defeats.

 

Most notably, he was holding the whistle in the 2015 Champions League Final, which Juve lost 3-1 to Barcelona.

 

Real Madrid have won five, drawn two and lost two of their matches with Cakir involved.

 

Superstitious Juventini could be interested in the fact the last two have been defeats, 2-1 to Atletico Madrid in the 2017 Champions League semi-final and 3-1 at Tottenham Hotspur in this season’s group phase.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - REAL MADRID

 

  .........

        

 

 

 

    

 

Champions League Quarter Final - First leg

 

Tuesday, april 3rd 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey)

 

 

 

 

Juve resume training for Madrid

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/119303/juve-resume-training-madrid

 

 

Apr 1, 2018

 

Alex Sandro and Federico Bernardeschi trained with the rest of the Juventus squad ahead of Tuesday’s clash against Real Madrid.

 

The first leg of the Champions League quarter-final is on Tuesday in Turin.

 

The Bianconeri resumed training today after last night’s 3-1 Serie A victory over Milan, which put them four points clear at the top of the table.

 

There is some good news for Max Allegri, as Alex Sandro and Bernardeschi are back training with the squad today, albeit only doing warm-up exercises.

 

Mario Mandzukic is still not working with his teammates and is now a massive doubt to even be on the bench against Real Madrid.

 

Juan Cuadrado made his comeback after three months out and immediately scored a decisive goal against Milan as a substitute.

 

Miralem Pjanic and Medhi Benatia are suspended for the Champions League tie.