JUVENTUS SEASON 2017-2018

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

 

  ........

..........            0-1        

 

 

Kalidou Koulibaly 90'

 

 

 

    

 

34th Matchday

 

Sunday, april 22th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

 

 

 

 

Koulibaly opens Scudetto race!

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/106702

 

 

Apr 22, 2018

 

Kalidou Koulibaly’s last-minute header from a corner has given Napoli the victory in this Scudetto showdown and closed the gap from Juventus to one point.

 

There were four points separating the bitter rivals going into the Allianz Juventus Stadium. The Bianconeri missed Mattia De Sciglio, Claudio Marchisio and Stefano Sturaro, but opted to drop Mario Mandzukic. The Partenopei had Faouzi Ghoulam on a long-term injury and, despite not finding the net for six consecutive rounds, stuck with Dries Mertens.

 

Gonzalo Higuain’s only goal decided the meeting at the San Paolo on December 1 and if the teams finish level on points, it is head-to-head record and not goal difference that rules the order.

 

Lorenzo Insigne shinned wide in the opening minute and during that move, Giorgio Chiellini seemed to over-stretch, so he required treatment and spray right behind the knee and eventually had to limp off. This required a reshuffle, so Stephan Lichtsteiner came on, moving Benedikt Howedes to centre-back.

 

Juventus went so close to opening the scoring on 17 minutes, as Miralem Pjanic’s free kick took a deflection off Jose Callejon to leave Pepe Reina stranded, but it bounced off the far post. On the resulting corner, Gonzalo Higuain’s volley into the ground was cleared with some difficulty.

 

Gigi Buffon fingertipped a Mario Rui wayward cross-shot out from under the bar and Marek Hamsik’s finish flashed across the face of goal.

 

Lorenzo Insigne curled off target and had the ball in the back of the net on 38 minutes, but was clearly caught offside as Lichtsteiner stepped up.

 

Allegri made another change at half-time, introducing Juan Cuadrado for disappointing Paulo Dybala and moving to a more traditional 4-3-3 with Douglas Costa switching to the left.

 

Hamsik hit the side-netting from an Insigne through ball and Kalidou Koulibaly charged down Cuadrado’s effort. Arkadiusz Milik had been a contender to start the match due to his good form and replaced Mertens on the hour mark, followed rapidly by Piotr Zielinski for Hamsik.

 

Napoli were keeping more possession and Juve seemed content to allow it, being dangerous only on the counter-attack. Insigne turned Lichtsteiner only to fire straight at Gigi Buffon, while the goalkeeper did well to beat away a Jose Callejon volley, but the offside flag was up in a very tight decision.

 

Buffon beat away a Zielinski snapshot from distance, but ultimately one got the impression Juventus were more than happy with a goalless draw.

 

It proved a bad attitude to take, because in the final minute Buffon pushed an Insigne cross-shot out for a corner, from which Callejon found Koulibaly for a towering free header to give Napoli the victory.

 

---

 

Juventus: Buffon; Howedes, Benatia, Chiellini (Lichtsteiner 10), Asamoah; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa (Mandzukic 71), Higuain, Dybala (Cuadrado 46)

 

Napoli: Reina; Hysaj, Koulibaly, Albiol, Mario Rui; Hamsik (Zielinski 66), Jorginho, Allan (Rog 80); Callejon, Mertens (Milik 60), Insigne

 

Ref: Rocchi

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

 

  ........

..........            0-1        

 

 

Kalidou Koulibaly 90'

 

 

 

    

 

34th Matchday

 

Sunday, april 22th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Napoli deserve some credit'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120331/allegri-napoli-deserve-some-credit

 

 

Apr 22, 2018

 

Max Allegri grudgingly confessed Napoli “deserve some credit” for their victory in Turin, but Juventus “are still top and have the advantage.”

 

The Bianconeri fielded the same XI that beat Napoli 1-0 at the Stadio San Paolo, except for injured Mattia De Sciglio, but lost Giorgio Chiellini to a muscular problem within just 10 minutes.

 

Nonetheless, Juve seemed entirely content to leave the initiative to the visitors and play for a draw, ultimately punished by a last-minute Kalidou Koulibaly header on Jose Callejon’s corner.

 

Juve’s lead at the top of the table has now been sliced to just one point with four rounds to go, and the Bianconeri have a tougher run-in, yet to face Inter and Roma.

 

“It was a terrible game from both teams. There were barely any shots on goal. We had some difficulties, but we should’ve taken it to the end more carefully rather than allow a goal from a set play,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

 

“It’s a head-to-head and anything can happen in those situations. Now we have a rest day, then have to prepare for what I think really will be the decisive match for our season against Inter.

 

“We are still top of the table, we still have the advantage. There are four games to go, two at home and two away, so we’ll see what happens.

 

“Napoli deserve some credit for their victory, but there were barely any chances. They had to win, we needed to either win or not lose.

 

“There is another advantage, as goal difference is in our favour and the head-to-head record is even. We have to shake off this match, get ready for the next and that will be very important.

 

“Napoli did well in their pressing tonight, we were less good in our control of the ball. I told the lads we have to shake this off in a couple of days, because I think the Inter game will be decisive for our campaign.”

 

This was the first time in Serie A since the Juventus Stadium was inaugurated that the hosts failed to get a single shot on target.

 

“I don’t know if it’s the worst Juve performance of the season. You don’t have to play well all the time… It’s not easy to win any game and I think the title race will remain open until May 20. There’s nothing you can take for granted in football.”

 

Paulo Dybala was replaced by Juan Cuadrado at half-time after another disappointing performance.

 

“I only replaced Dybala because I needed more coverage and physicality on the wings. That’s also why Mario Mandzukic came on.

 

“Napoli deserve some credit. It was a head-to-head that was decided by a single incident. Napoli kept possession, as they’re good at that, and we weren’t as sharp as usual on the counter. They deserve some credit, but we have to focus on the next match.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

 

  ........

..........            0-1        

 

 

Kalidou Koulibaly 90'

 

 

 

    

 

34th Matchday

 

Sunday, april 22th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

 

 

 

 

Sarri: 'Blasphemy to change Napoli'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120332/sarri-blasphemy-change-napoli

 

 

Apr 22, 2018

 

Maurizio Sarri beat Juventus with the usual Napoli because “it’d be blasphemous to change the football that brought us here” and explained his rude gesture to fans.

 

The Partenopei closed the gap at the top of the table to just one point with four rounds to go, as Kalidou Koulibaly soared to nod in a Jose Callejon corner in the final minute.

 

“It wasn’t perfect, no. If we had raised the tempo a bit earlier, we could’ve finished it quicker,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

 

“We wanted to come here, take the initiative and force Juventus to play only on the counter-attack. We only ever allowed them something on set plays, as they are more physical, but otherwise we controlled the match and the victory was a logical consequence of that.

 

“So far, I’m having fun. We made our extraordinary fans happy, but Juventus remain ahead and therefore almost nothing has changed. We still have a very slim chance of overtaking them.

 

“Winning here is always very difficult and marvellous, above all for the joy it gives our fans. It’s enormously satisfying, but we have to be clear-headed enough to see it as one match and realise it changes very little in the wider scheme of things.”

 

A few weeks ago, Sarri had said he wanted to “march on the palace and take back power,” so has he achieved that?

 

“In terms of results, Juventus represent the power, as they’ve won the title for six seasons in a row and currently are still top of the table.

 

“They are the team who represent Serie A, the side everyone wants to beat and therefore the most satisfying to beat.”

 

Sarri resisted numerous calls to revamp his team and system, introducing Arkadiusz Milik and Piotr Zielinski for Dries Mertens and Marek Hamsik, or even to use a 4-2-3-1 formation.

 

“Unfortunately, I don’t hear suggestions because I barely read or watch any media. I listen to the opinion of my nephew and that’s it.

 

“It seemed to me blasphemous to come here and change the football that had brought us here, to play Juventus on level terms. I did intend to shake things up in the final 20-25 minutes, but their changes to bulk up the midfield suggested it was unwise to be out-manned in that area.”

 

Sarri has always tried to quiet down Scudetto talk throughout the campaign and isn’t changing his tune now.

 

“I have always said Napoli at this moment of history cannot plan for success, as there are economically stronger clubs. We can plan the technical and tactical growth of a team, which can take us to 105 per cent of our potential, but we can’t guaranteed results.

 

“We’ve seen this team grow over the years in terms of tactics, technique and also mentality. We played totally without fear in one of the toughest stadiums in Europe and that’s a positive sign.”

 

There was an ugly incident before the match, as Sarri was spotted flipping his middle finger at a group of Juventus supporters as the team bus drove past.

 

“I replied to a group of people who were spitting at the bus and insulting us for being Neapolitan. I would never make a gesture like that towards anyone for being a Juventus fan.

 

“The vast majority of Juventus fans are wonderful people and there was one in our hotel who we had a good laugh and joke with. I have no issue with Juventus fans. It was only with those who spat at us and insulted us for being Neapolitan.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

 

  ........

..........            0-1        

 

 

Kalidou Koulibaly 90'

 

 

 

    

 

34th Matchday

 

Sunday, april 22th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

 

 

 

 

Cuadrado: Still in Juve’s hands

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120339/cuadrado-still-juves-hands

 

 

Apr 23, 2018

 

Juan Cuadrado has warned Napoli that the Scudetto is ‘still in Juventus’ hands’, despite their 1-0 defeat to the Partenopei on Sunday.

 

Napoli cut the deficit at the top to just one point with four games to go, while Juve still have Roma and Inter to play, but Cuadrado made it clear it remained the Bianconeri’s title to lose.

 

“We didn’t put in a good performance, but we must continue to believe to the end,” he said after the game.

 

“We still have the advantage and it all still depends on us. After many games played over the season, we might be a little tired, but over the next 20 days we must work hard and find our form.

 

“We must remember that we are still in front and it is in our hands.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - NAPOLI

 

  ........

..........            0-1        

 

 

Kalidou Koulibaly 90'

 

 

 

    

 

34th Matchday

 

Sunday, april 22th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

 

 

 

 

Insigne: Juve used to losing Finals!

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120344/insigne-juve-used-losing-finals

 

 

Apr 23, 2018

 

Lorenzo Insigne was asked about Juventus approaching their 1-0 defeat to Napoli as a Final. “They’re used to losing them…”

 

Insigne’s Napoli closed the gap on Juventus at the top of Serie A to a point thanks to a late Kalidou Koulibaly header on Sunday, and the forward laid further into the Bianconeri after the game.

 

“Did Juve approach the game like a Champions League Final and lose it?” a reporter asked the 26-year-old in the mixed zone.

 

Insigne replied: “They’re used to it!”

 

His remarks referred to the fact that Juve had lost their last five Champions League Finals, in 1997, 1998, 2003, 2015 and 2017.

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

Fans leave banner at Juventus training

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120403/fans-leave-banner-juventus-training

 

 

Apr 24, 2018

 

Juventus fans left a banner at Vinovo ahead of today’s training session, in an effort to encourage the squad.

 

The Bianconeri lost to Napoli on Sunday night, so are only one point ahead of the Partenopei with four Serie A matches to play.

 

Juve still have to face Inter and Roma away from home, with many suggesting the pendulum has now swung back in Napoli’s favour.

 

The Turin club’s fans are looking to encourage the team, and today left a banner outside Vinovo showing their solidarity, with a message reading: “us with the voice, you with the heart - let’s win it!”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

Kroos: You can't buy Champions League titles

 

 

http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/real-madrid-midfielder-kroos-you-can-t-buy-champions-league-titles-4229022

 

 

Apr 25, 2018

 

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has dismissed criticism of their transfer policy.

 

Kroos insists their Champions League success isn't owed to mega transfer spending.

 

"You can't buy a Champions League title, because otherwise we couldn't have won it, as we haven't spent as much," he told a press conference.

 

"A team like Madrid is special, we have players in a position to play at the highest level.

 

"If you have many players with that experience, in those difficult times you know what you have to do and you don't lose your nerves.

 

"That's what takes us so far."

 

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

Juventus fans at Vinovo

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120457/juventus-fans-vinovo

 

 

Apr 25, 2018

 

Juventus fans turned up at the training centre in Vinovo, letting off flares and singing songs, but insist they’re only trying to “encourage the team”.

 

Around 100 ultras turned up at the training centre, following Sunday night’s defeat to Napoli which blew the Scudetto race open.

 

The Bianconeri now have just a one point lead, and they travel to Milan to take on Inter on Saturday night.

 

It has been reported that the ultras demanded to see the players, with many outlets stating that they were protesting the team.

 

However, the head of the Gruppo Tradizione insisted that wasn’t the case when Mediaset arrived to cover the demonstration.

 

“We came here to encourage the team ahead of the trip to Milan not to challenge them.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   ..........            

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Record breaking Inter-Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120492/record-breaking-inter-juventus

 

 

Apr 26, 2018

 

It’s expected that this weekend’s Inter-Juventus game will break the Derby d’Italia record for gate receipts, with 10,000 away fans expected.

 

It’s a crucial match for both sides, as the hosts are battling for a Champions League place, while the Bianconeri have just a one point lead over Napoli at the top of Serie A.

 

Saturday night’s match will be a sellout, with today’s Corriere dello Sport reporting that gate receipts will be in excess of €5m, a new record for the fixture.

 

Around 10,000 Juventus fans are expected to make the trip for a match which could be crucial in the title race, while this could be Gianluigi Buffon’s last match at San Siro.

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   ..........            

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Allegri ‘Juve need three things at Inter. Chiellini’s season over’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120544/juve-need-three-things-inter

https://www.football-italia.net/120545/allegri-chiellinis-season-over

 

 

Apr 27, 2018

 

Max Allegri has outlined the three ‘C’s Juventus need against Inter on Saturday – courage, chutzpah and carefreeness.

 

Juve lost to Napoli in their last Serie A match, making Saturday’s trip to San Siro a must-win if they are to win a seventh-straight Scudetto.

 

“When I arrived, things were a bit worse compared to now,” the Coach said at a Press conference.

 

 

“The fans? They came to support us. We have a run-in, where everything’s still at stake.

 

“Dressing-room row? I’m sorry to hear these things, they’re without foundation and it puts everyone’s professionalism in question.

 

“We just have to let it go. We have five games that lead us to the end of the season.

 

“There are times of difficulty in a season, when things go less well for you. We didn’t go from being unbeatable to losers.

 

“Now we have Inter, at a wonderful stadium, against a team who have conceded only 23 goals.

 

“The title won’t be decided between tomorrow and Sunday. There’ll still be a long way to go.

 

“We must play with courage, chutzpah and carefreeness. These are beautiful moments to live through.

 

“We’ll have to be ready for every ball, in every 50-50. On Sunday, we suffered 18 fouls and committed nine. Against Inter, a tough performance is needed.

 

“What happened against Napoli? Let’s think about Inter. We’ve had some good games recently, except against Crotone and Napoli, which were two bad ones.

 

“We conceded a 90th-minute goal against Napoli, as did Real. We need to be more attentive. Talking is useless. Now we need to be quiet and work.

 

“There’s everything to play for in the title race. I hear Napoli are the favourites because they’ll win their next four games.

 

“We just have to take to the field and have good games, playing for our chances.”

 

 

Max Allegri admits Giorgio Chiellini’s season is ‘practically over’ after the Juventus defender tore his hamstring.

 

“Apart from Sturaro and De Sciglio, everyone’s available tomorrow, even Bernardeschi,” continued the Coach at a Press conference for the must-win.

 

“Right now, everyone must be trying to do something more so we can achieve our two objectives: the League and Coppa Italia.

 

“The fans? They have love for Juventus, they can express and form their own opinions. Whoever wins deserve to, and Juve have done for six years.

 

“Mandzukic? He’s fine, he’s likely to play. Chiellini? His season is practically over. The Coach is always responsible, he’s part of the game.

 

“Things didn’t go well against Napoli and Crotone, but the fans have always been very nice and respectful towards me.

 

“What matters now is the match against Inter. We’ll need to live it with enthusiasm and carefreeness. If we do that, we’ll probably win the Scudetto.

 

“On Barzagli? He could play from the outset. Barzagli wasn’t able to play 90 minutes in our last game.

 

“The future? I made my decision a year ago, when I signed on with Juventus. Back three against Inter? Absolutely not.

 

“The first match against Inter? It was one of our best performances. We’ll have to win this one for the League. Inter will have to win it for the Champions League.

 

“Let's think about our upcoming games, precisely the next one, which is against Inter.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   ..........            

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Chiellini & De Sciglio miss Inter

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120557/chiellini-de-sciglio-miss-inter

 

 

Apr 27, 2018

 

Juventus have released their squad for the Derby d’Italia with Inter, with both Giorgio Chiellini and Mattia De Sciglio out.

 

Bianconeri Coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed earlier today that Chiellini’s season is over, after he was forced off against Napoli.

 

De Sciglio is also out, having been sidelined since going off against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final second leg.

 

Juventus squad to face Inter: Buffon, Szczesny, Pinsoglio, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Howedes, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Pjanic, Khedira, Marchisio, Matuidi, Asamoah, Bentancur, Cuadrado, Higuaín, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Mandzukic, Bernardeschi

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   ..........            

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Juve go all-out attack with Inter

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120570/juve-go-all-out-attack-inter

 

 

Apr 28, 2018

 

Juan Cuadrado could be used as a right-back in an extremely forward-minded Juventus side to take on Inter this evening.

 

The Derby d’Italia kicks off at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

 

Mattia De Sciglio, Giorgio Chiellini and Stefano Sturaro are out injured, so options are somewhat limited in defence.

 

Rather than shift to three at the back, it’s reported Max Allegri has decided to go all-out attack at San Siro.

 

He’d use Cuadrado and Alex Sandro as full-backs, with Douglas Costa, Gonzalo Higuain and Mario Mandzukic forming the trident attack.

 

The Bianconeri are only one point clear of Napoli at the top of the table after amassing one point from two rounds, so need a boost.

 

Inter miss Roberto Gagliardini, but Matias Vecino should be back in the starting XI with Marcelo Brozovic.

 

Rafinha, Ivan Perisic and Mauro Icardi again lead the way, but Antonio Candreva is expected to return in place of Yann Karamoh.

 

 

Inter (probable): Handanovic; Cancelo, Skriniar, Miranda, D’Ambrosio; Vecino, Brozovic; Candreva, Rafinha, Perisic; Icardi

 

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Cuadrado, Barzagli, Rugani, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Higuain, Mandzukic

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   ..........            

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Inter-Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120608/line-ups-inter-juventus

 

 

Apr 28, 2018

 

Juventus go all-out attack with Juan Cuadrado as a right-back, but drop Paulo Dybala for the Derby d’Italia against Mauro Icardi’s Inter.

 

It kicks off at San Siro at 20.45 CET - 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

 

This is a must-win match for both sides, as the Bianconeri’s lead at the top of the table has been sliced to just one point after their 1-1 draw at Crotone and 1-0 home defeat to Napoli.

 

The Nerazzurri are still a point adrift of Roma and Lazio, so out of the Champions League places.

 

Max Allegri was criticised for being too safe and negative in recent weeks, so he has gone completely the other way with a very attack-minded 4-3-3 formation.

 

With Mattia De Sciglio, Giorgio Chiellini and Stefano Sturaro injured, he uses Colombia international Cuadrado as a right-back, with Alex Sandro on the left, while Daniele Rugani surprisingly gets the nod ahead of Medhi Benatia.

 

Douglas Costa, Gonzalo Higuain and Mario Mandzukic form the trident attack, so there is no room for Dybala.

 

Inter miss Roberto Gagliardini, but Matias Vecino is back in the starting XI with Marcelo Brozovic, moving Borja Valero to the bench.

 

Rafinha, Ivan Perisic and Mauro Icardi again lead the way, but Antonio Candreva returns in place of Yann Karamoh.

 

Juve are one of Icardi’s favourite victims, as he has put seven goals past them in 10 Serie A encounters.

 

The match is completely sold out, with 78,328 tickets sold for a new Serie A record €5,297,508 gate.

 

Juve have lost only one of their last 10 Serie A meetings with Inter, home and away, winning five and drawing four. That lone defeat was 2-1 at San Siro in September 2016.

 

Inter are unbeaten on home turf since December against Udinese, putting together four draws and as many victories, including four wins in the last five.

 

 

Inter: Handanovic; Cancelo, Skriniar, Miranda, D’Ambrosio; Vecino, Brozovic; Candreva, Rafinha, Perisic; Icardi

Inter bench: Padelli, Berni, Lisandro Lopez, Ranocchia, Karamoh, Borja Valero, Santon, Eder, Dalbert, Pinamonti

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Barzagli, Rugani, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Higuain, Mandzukic

Juventus bench: Pinsoglio, Szczesny, Benatia, Marchisio, Dybala, Howedes, Asamoah, Lichtsteiner, Bentancur, Bernardeschi

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   ..........            

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

HT 0-1: Costa-goal in Derby d'Italia

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120614/ht-controversial-derby-ditalia

 

 

Apr 28, 2018

 

Douglas Costa has put Juventus 1-0 up away to Inter with Matias Vecino sent off and a Blaise Matuidi goal disallowed amid controversy.

 

This was a must-win match for both teams, as the Bianconeri saw their lead at the top of the table sliced to one point following a defeat to Napoli, while the Nerazzurri were still lagging behind Roma and Lazio in the race for a top four spot. Giorgio Chiellini, Mattia De Sciglio and Stefano Sturaro were injured, so Max Allegri reacted to accusations of being negative and boring by using Juan Cuadrado at right-back, but dropping Paulo Dybala. Matias Vecino and Antonio Candreva returned to the starting XI with Roberto Gagliardini sidelined.

 

The spectacular choreography before kick-off in the Curva Nord had Juve as Pinocchio, declaring they’d ‘Never been in Serie B’ and had 35 Serie A titles.

 

Juan Cuadrado was a big risk at right-back and he was booked for taking down Ivan Perisic on the counter within five minutes.

 

However, Juve took the lead, as a cross-field pass from Cuadrado went over Blaise Matuidi’s head and found Douglas Costa, who lashed it across the face of goal from a tight angle. VAR checked and decided Matuidi did not make contact, so he was onside.

 

Moments later, VAR was used again, this time after the referee booked Matias Vecino for a studs-up tackle on Mario Mandzukic. The booth called Daniele Orsato, he viewed it again on the touchline and opted for a straight red. Although Vecino did seem to pull out once he realised Mandzukic’s shin was under his foot, it was too late and the studs were there in what could be construed as a stamp.

 

Antonio Candreva almost scored the goal of the season with a dipping, swerving missile from a huge distance, but Gigi Buffon fingertipped it round the far top corner.

 

The crowd was furious after Cuadrado seemed to block off Perisic at the by-line, but there was no free kick, then Mandzukic got into an altercation with Candreva, as the temperature rose at San Siro. Andrea Barzagli was booked before half-time for a sliding tackle on Mauro Icardi.

 

Juventus thought they had scored a second on the stroke of half-time with Matuidi, but VAR showed he was miles offside, as again nobody touched the assist.

 

 

Inter 0-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Douglas Costa 13 (J)

 

Inter: Handanovic; Cancelo, Skriniar, Miranda, D’Ambrosio; Vecino, Brozovic; Candreva, Rafinha, Perisic; Icardi

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Barzagli, Rugani, Alex Sandro; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Higuain, Mandzukic

 

Ref: Orsato

 

Sent off: Vecino 17 (I)

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   .......... 2-3  

 

 

       Douglas Costa 13'

Mauro Icardi 52'

Andrea Barzagli o.g. 65'

Milan Skriniar o.g. 87'

Gonzalo Higuain 89'

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Unbelievable Derby d'Italia!

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/106713

 

 

Apr 28, 2018

 

Inter looked like they were going to beat Juventus when down to 10 men for over an hour, but a late flurry saw the Bianconeri win 3-2.

 

This was a must-win match for both teams, as the Bianconeri saw their lead at the top of the table sliced to one point following a defeat to Napoli, while the Nerazzurri were still lagging behind Roma and Lazio in the race for a top four spot. Giorgio Chiellini, Mattia De Sciglio and Stefano Sturaro were injured, so Max Allegri reacted to accusations of being negative and boring by using Juan Cuadrado at right-back, but dropping Paulo Dybala. Matias Vecino and Antonio Candreva returned to the starting XI with Roberto Gagliardini sidelined.

 

The spectacular choreography before kick-off in the Curva Nord had Juve as Pinocchio, declaring they’d ‘Never been in Serie B’ and had 35 Serie A titles.

 

Juan Cuadrado was a big risk at right-back and he was booked for taking down Ivan Perisic on the counter within five minutes.

 

However, Juve took the lead, as a cross-field pass from Cuadrado went over Blaise Matuidi’s head and found Douglas Costa, who lashed it across the face of goal from a tight angle. VAR checked and decided Matuidi did not make contact, so he was onside.

 

Moments later, VAR was used again, this time after the referee booked Matias Vecino for a studs-up tackle on Mario Mandzukic. The booth called Daniele Orsato, he viewed it again on the touchline and opted for a straight red. Although Vecino did seem to pull out once he realised Mandzukic’s shin was under his foot, it was too late and the studs were there in what could be construed as a stamp.

 

Antonio Candreva almost scored the goal of the season with a dipping, swerving missile from a huge distance, but Gigi Buffon fingertipped it round the far top corner.

 

The crowd was furious after Cuadrado seemed to block off Perisic at the by-line, but there was no free kick, then Mandzukic got into an altercation with Candreva, as the temperature rose at San Siro. Andrea Barzagli was booked before half-time for a sliding tackle on Mauro Icardi.

 

Juventus thought they had scored a second on the stroke of half-time with Matuidi, but VAR showed he was miles offside, as again nobody touched the assist.

 

Inter were down to 10 men, but equalised when Joao Cancelo’s free kick found Icardi totally unmarked for a glancing header into the far bottom corner. It was Maurito’s eighth goal against Juventus in just 11 Serie A meetings.

 

There was even more controversy on 57 minutes when Pjanic clattered into Rafinha with a very clumsy challenge, but instead of receiving a second yellow card, Danilo D’Ambrosio was booked for dissent.

 

Despite that incident, Sami Khedira was replaced by Paulo Dybala. Gonzalo Higuain should’ve made it 2-1 when springing the offside trap, but fired wide with only Samir Handanovic to beat.

 

Incredibly, the 10 men of Inter turned the game around completely, as Perisic shrugged off Cuadrado at the by-line and rolled it across the six-yard box, where the ball bounced in off Barzagli for an own goal.

 

Douglas Costa’s low drive was palmed round the base of the near post, then Handanovic flew for a stunning fingertip save on substitute Dybala’s free kick at the far top corner.

 

Juve were laying siege to 10-man Inter, yet almost conceded a third on the counter when Candreva rolled across the face of goal and inches past Icardi’s foot.

 

It’s not over until the Old Lady sings and Cuadrado dribbled to the by-line, pulled a ball across the face of goal and it took a deflection off Skriniar to fly in to the side-netting of the far post.

 

Moments later, Juve turned it around completely, as Dybala’s long free kick saw Higuain peel away from Davide Santon for a header from close range.

 

It was an extraordinary end to an extraordinary Derby d’Italia.

 

---

 

Inter: Handanovic; Cancelo, Skriniar, Miranda, D’Ambrosio (Karamoh 94); Vecino, Brozovic; Candreva, Rafinha (Borja Valero 80), Perisic; Icardi (Santon 85)

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Barzagli, Rugani, Alex Sandro; Khedira (Dybala 61), Pjanic (Bentancur 80), Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Higuain, Mandzukic (Bernardeschi 66)

 

Ref: Orsato

 

Sent off: Vecino 17 (I)

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   .......... 2-3  

 

 

       Douglas Costa 13'

Mauro Icardi 52'

Andrea Barzagli o.g. 65'

Milan Skriniar o.g. 87'

Gonzalo Higuain 89'

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Higuain: 'Juve fight to the death!'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120616/higuain-juve-fight-death

 

 

Apr 28, 2018

 

Gonzalo Higuain assured the comeback for a 3-2 win over Inter was “football. Juventus will fight to the death to win.”

 

They had been leading, then trailing 2-1 to a side that was down to 10 men after Matias Vecino’s controversial red card, but very late goals turned it all around again.

 

“This is football. We lost at the last minute, but this time we turned it around with hunger, pride, thirst for victory. We will fight to the death to win,” Pipita told Mediaset Premium.

 

“Inter played a great game, and were a man down, but it was fundamental to win and there are another three to go. It’s a great confidence booster.

 

“At San Siro I had scored against Milan, now I’ve had my first against Inter.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   .......... 2-3  

 

 

       Douglas Costa 13'

Mauro Icardi 52'

Andrea Barzagli o.g. 65'

Milan Skriniar o.g. 87'

Gonzalo Higuain 89'

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Juve went all out. You're ruining the game!'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120617/allegri-juve-went-all-out

https://www.football-italia.net/120621/allegri-youre-ruining-game

 

 

Apr 28, 2018

 

Max Allegri explained his choices for the 3-2 victory away to Inter and believes it could “make a big difference” in the Scudetto race.

 

“It was a wonderful evening of football between two teams who needed to win and went all out,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.

 

Douglas Costa had put the Bianconeri ahead, then Matias Vecino was controversially sent off on just 17 minutes, but Inter still turned it around to lead 2-1.

 

A flurry of late goals from Juan Cuadrado – with Milan Skriniar deflection – and Gonzalo Higuain sealed the San Siro thriller.

 

“We were aggressive and played well throughout the first half, but we fell asleep in the locker room and ended up trailing. We kept putting crosses in when we should’ve passed it around the box to tire them out.

 

“Inter played well, but got tired in the end, crumbled physically and we took advantage. It’s another step towards the Scudetto, even if it remains very difficult.

 

“Nothing is ever certain in football. I knew it would be tough and in the final four rounds there is always more pressure than when you play in September.

 

“Even a side with great mental strength will have moments where they lose confidence. Fortunately, the lads have found it again and we turned it around.”

 

Allegri was sent off after the Higuain winner for pushing and shoving his own players practically in midfield.

 

“I saw the lads were still celebrating and there were four minutes to go, so I didn’t want a repeat of Madrid.”

 

Some of Allegri’s decisions were extremely risky, as he used Cuadrado as a right-back and dropped Paulo Dybala.

 

“I had to choose either a more defensive full-back or attacking one. We had to win, so I chose Cuadrado. He has more technique and pace, so did very well in that role.

 

“I chose Daniele Rugani because Medhi Benatia had played many games already and he was strong in the air.

 

“The team is in good physical shape and the last month is a physical as well as psychological strain, as you’re not as fresh as the start and every decision or tackle can be tricky.

 

“You need great players to come up with something remarkable. Otherwise every player would cost €1m and nobody would be worth €100m.”

 

The result means Juventus are four points clear of Napoli ahead of the Partenopei’s trip to Fiorentina.

 

“It’ll make a big difference in the Scudetto race. It is very difficult to win at San Siro and the lads put in an extraordinary performance. We know that we’ve got to win them all.”

 

Inevitably, there will be controversy on referee Daniele Orsato, as Matias Vecino saw red, yet Miralem Pjanic was very fortunate not to receive a second yellow.

 

“Orsato had a good game. I thought he was fair. Of course, some decisions will always be controversial, but Orsato is one of the best referees in Serie A.”

 

 

Juventus boss Max Allegri had a very fiery interview with Sky Sport Italia after the 3-2 win over Inter. “Football isn’t just about tactics, you’re ruining the game.” 

 

The Bianconeri were in front through Douglas Costa, then Matias Vecino saw red after 17 minutes, yet the 10 men turned it around through Mauro Icardi and an Andrea Barzagli own goal.

 

With two goals at the 87^th and 89^th minute, Juan Cuadrado and Gonzalo Higuain secured a 3-2 thriller for Juve.

 

“I think football was the winner, as we saw two teams battle it out to the end in front of a marvellous crowd,” said Allegri.

 

“Winning was important, we’ve taken another small step towards the Scudetto and need to win another three. Inter lost intensity towards the end and that was only natural in the circumstances.

 

“It was decisive today, because if we didn’t win, Napoli would’ve overtaken us with a victory in Florence. You never know what can happen in the final rounds.”

 

Allegri took some big risks with his tactics, using Juan Cuadrado as a right-back and dropping Paulo Dybala.

 

“I thought about it last Sunday. He did well and scored the goal. He got a couple of diagonal runs wrong, but we need to work on it.”

 

The Coach was sent off during the celebrations for the winning goal, as he ran on to the field to push and shake his players.

 

“They were all celebrating, there was still a while to go and we had to be concentrated. I didn’t want a repeat of Napoli and Real Madrid…”

 

The interview took a turn for the worse when he was asked if Juve should be dominating a game like this against 10 men after they drew with Crotone and lost to Napoli.

 

“We should’ve done more, undoubtedly. We can’t sit back and try to control a game, because then we fall asleep. Bringing home victories at this stage of the season is tough.

 

“At this moment, we are lacking sharpness. We should’ve found Mario Mandzukic and Douglas Costa between the lines, but when we went forward, we didn’t change gear.

 

“Last week was one of the worst games of the season, not just for us, but for Napoli too. Don’t tell me they played well, otherwise I may as well go…

 

“We played badly last week and against Crotone, but it’s not easy to win all the time. In 21 games we won 18, drew two and lost only one. Otherwise you expect us to get 170 points per season.

 

“How many campaigns have you seen? I’ve watched at least 40 and you cannot win every game. There are moments of the season and they must be understood.

 

“Football is becoming too much about theory and tactics, you’re ruining the game.”

 

When Allegri was asked why Juve were coasting along on the skills of individuals rather than having a coherent game plan, he really lost his temper.

 

“Do you watch basketball? A move lasts 24 seconds, you have the ball and have three seconds, so who do you give it to? The most talented player.

 

“You think that in football, made up of tackles, running and accurate passing, that systems win? So let’s pay for tactics and say Leo Messi is worthless! Same for Cristiano Ronaldo and Higuain.

 

“You don’t look at players or skills, but only systems, that is what’s damaging Italian football! A good defensive organisation does matter, but champions and their skills must be praised.

 

“But no, you go ahead and keep talking about tactics and don’t watch champions play. Yeah, well done.”

 

At one stage, Allegri was shouting so loudly that he was drowning out Inter Coach Luciano Spalletti, who was talking to Mediaset Premium down the corridor.

 

Spalletti, who like Allegri is from Tuscany, then shouted in Tuscan dialect that he should pipe down.

 

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   .......... 2-3  

 

 

       Douglas Costa 13'

Mauro Icardi 52'

Andrea Barzagli o.g. 65'

Milan Skriniar o.g. 87'

Gonzalo Higuain 89'

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Pjanic: 'I didn't deserve red'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120623/pjanic-i-didnt-deserve-red

 

 

Apr 28, 2018

 

Miralem Pjanic does not believe he should’ve been sent off for a second bookable offence as Juventus beat Inter in a 3-2 thriller.

 

The bizarre Derby d’Italia had five goals, two comebacks and a red card after just 17 minutes for Matias Vecino, but among the more controversial situations was Pjanic avoiding a second yellow card for clattering into Rafinha.

 

“My first booking wasn’t right, but I understood because an Inter player had just been sent off. The stadium was putting a lot of pressure on the referee and calling for the red,” the Bosnian told Sky Sport Italia.

 

“We should’ve controlled the situation better. Winning like this is the best thing, because it boosts us and hurts the others. We did our best to throw it away in the second half and Inter showed great pride by fighting back, but we want this Scudetto and we proved it.

 

“Clearly there is fatigue at this stage of the season, and I’ve played many games, but the team needs me. I’ll give my all to reach the final objective.

 

“I’m suspended against Bologna, so I’ll make the most of this week to train and get my fitness levels back up. We have to win every game and fatigue cannot be an excuse.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   .......... 2-3  

 

 

       Douglas Costa 13'

Mauro Icardi 52'

Andrea Barzagli o.g. 65'

Milan Skriniar o.g. 87'

Gonzalo Higuain 89'

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Cuadrado: ‘Juve always believed’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120630/cuadrado-‘juve-always-believed’

 

 

Apr 29, 2018

 

Juan Cuadrado insists Juventus ‘believed right until the end’ of their thrilling 3-2 win over Inter last night.

 

With less than five minutes remaining of the Derby d’Italia, the Old Lady were 2-1 down to the Nerazzurri - knowing that anything less than a win would hand the advantage to Napoli in the race for the Scudetto.

 

However, Colombian winger Cuadrado squeezed home a tight finish to equalise before Gonzalo Higuain headed home a free-kick to salvage a critical three points for Max Allegri’s team.

 

“That goal was definitely worth a lot,” Cuadrado said when asked about the importance of his strike.

 

“It gave us the push to look to win and I am very happy that we got the result in the end.

 

“After it was 1-0, Inter got the equaliser through a set-piece and they took encouragement.

 

“But we were calm, we believed and we believed right until the end. In the end, we got the result.”

 

Despite Juve’s dramatic win, Cuadrado believes his side need to improve – particularly in the way they defend set plays.

 

“In recent matches we have conceded three or four goals from set-pieces, we need to look to keep improving.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   .......... 2-3  

 

 

       Douglas Costa 13'

Mauro Icardi 52'

Andrea Barzagli o.g. 65'

Milan Skriniar o.g. 87'

Gonzalo Higuain 89'

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

Negative Juventus get out of jail

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120618/negative-juventus-get-out-jail

 

 

Apr 29, 2018

 

Barcelona have ‘More than a Club’. Manchester City boast ‘Pride in Battle’. The Juventus equivalent is ‘Fino alla fine’ or ‘until the end’. While tonight’s win over Inter was the embodiment of that motto, sloganeering shouldn’t distract from a terrible performance by the Bianconeri.

 

The Old Lady rose from the dead to secure a 3-2 win in the Derby d’Italia, with a late Milan Skriniar own goal and a Gonzalo Higuain header, but the truth is she should never have been in that position.

 

The Nerazzurri played for over 70 minutes with 10-men, and were the better side after Matias Vecino’s deserved red card. Juve failed to heed the warnings they’ve repeatedly been given this season, and it was only their famous will to win which saw them through at a sold-out San Siro.

 

Napoli re-opened the Scudetto race last weekend with a 1-0 win in Turin, while Inter started the night one point outside of the Champions League places, knowing that Roma had beaten Chievo this afternoon. This then was a match that neither could afford to drop points in.

 

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri was rightly criticised for the negative attitude his team displayed against the Partenopei, and it appeared he had reacted tonight. Juan Cuadrado started at right-back, in a clear sign of intent from the Bianconeri.

 

It was the Colombian who provided the cross from which the champions opened the scoring, and that goal had been coming. Juventus pressed hard and high, Inter looked flustered and nervous.

 

When Vecino was given his marching orders for a dangerous challenge on Mario Mandzukic, the game appeared to be a foregone conclusion. Instead Allegri’s side went into their shells.

 

If madness is defined as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result, then Juve should be committed to an institution. Last week against Napoli they sat deep and tried to defend a result. It was the same at 2-0 up against Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League. Yet once again - against 10 men - the Turin side tried to defend their lead.

 

In the second half you’d have been hard pressed to say which team was a man lighter, as the Beneamata dominated proceedings and deservedly took a 2-1 lead. Did Juventus learn nothing from their Champions League exit to Real Madrid?

 

At the Bernabeu they had no choice but to go for a result, and quickly took a 3-0 lead. Cristiano Ronaldo’s late penalty may have been contentious, but it came as the Italian side were attempting to take the game to extra time. To adopt the same attitude against 10 men in a must-win game is unforgivable.

 

It must be said that Inter were magnificent, and can consider themselves hugely unlucky not to have taken anything from the game.

 

The result may have underlined the ‘Pazza Inter’ charge, but the performance of Luciano Spalletti’s side was built on heart, belief and bottle.

 

So, the baton passes to Napoli. The Partenopei will start four points behind against Fiorentina today, the pressure suddenly back on their shoulders.

 

Juventus though, must take the lessons from this game into their final three Serie A fixtures. They’ve scored more goals than Napoli. They have a €90m striker, one of world football’s hottest talents and a wealth of exciting options on the wing. They must play to those strengths if they’re to win a seventh Scudetto in a row.

 

If they persist with today’s negative approach at Roma in Week 37, Napoli will deserve the Scudetto and Juve will have no-one but themselves to blame.

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTER - JUVENTUS

 

  ........

   .......... 2-3  

 

 

       Douglas Costa 13'

Mauro Icardi 52'

Andrea Barzagli o.g. 65'

Milan Skriniar o.g. 87'

Gonzalo Higuain 89'

 

 

    

 

35th Matchday

 

Saturday, april 28th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan
Referee: Daniele Orsato

 

 

 

 

FIGC wants Allegri-Tagliavento tape

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120682/figc-wants-allegri-tagliavento-tape

 

 

Apr 29, 2018

 

It’s reported the FIGC Prosecutor has asked to view footage of Juventus Coach Max Allegri talking to fourth official Paolo Tagliavento.

 

The meeting happened in the mixed zone of San Siro after Juve’s controversial 3-2 victory over Inter.

 

As Tagliavento walked behind him, Allegri called him by a nickname – Taglia – and talked about the performance of referee Daniele Orsato.

“It went really well… He was so good… Promote him!”

 

The term ‘promosso’ in Italian is most often used when someone has just passed an exam and can go on to the next level, otherwise he is ‘bocciato’ and remains at the current level.

 

According to news agency ANSA, Federation Prosecutor Giuseppe Pecoraro has asked to view this footage to see if there is anything untoward.

 

Another clip that has gone viral purports to see Tagliavento mouth ‘We’ll win in stoppages’ after Juan Cuadrado’s equaliser for 2-2.

Gonzalo Higuain would score the winner less than a minute later.

 

However, it’s not very clear at all and could’ve simply been the fourth official doing his job, which is organising with the referee how much injury time is given.

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Naples mayor attacks Juve?  

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120700/naples-mayor-attacks-juve

 

 

Apr 30, 2018

 

The Mayor of Naples has appeared to launch a stinging attack on Juventus, accusing them of ‘stealing from the state’ and being a ‘corrupt power’.

 

“I’ll always be a proud Neapolitan, in joy and sorrow, with our flaws and strengths,” he wrote on Facebook.

 

“Our city and the Neapolitan people are tired of injustice.  We’ll take back everything you’ve taken from us. We’ll conquer what belongs to us. It’s nothing more than what we’re entitled to.

 

“The difference between us and those who usurp our rights is that we still live to be loving and have a great and profound sense of humanity, while they feel strong and powerful by stealing from the state or football.

 

“We’ll take it all back, without any complaints or a hat in hand but with a fight and our backs straight.

 

“Our dignity is priceless, our thirst for justice is vast and profound. Unity wins, knocking down the palaces of corrupt powers, while conquering our targets.”

 

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘Napoli celebrated Juve win too much’  

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120699/napoli-celebrated-juve-win-too-much

 

 

Apr 30, 2018

 

Kalidou Koulibaly’s agent has criticised Napoli fans for celebrating their victory over Juventus ‘as if they’d won the Scudetto’.

 

As many as 20,000 Napoli supporters greeted their team at Naples-Capodichino airport after they beat Juve 2-1 last Sunday, but fast forward a week and the Bianconeri regained their four-point lead at the top after they won 3-2 at Inter and the Partenopei lost 3-0 at Fiorentina.

 

“I’m disappointed: everything changed in a few minutes in Milan and with Juve’s win, Napoli took a knock to the head,” Bruno Satin told Radio Crc.

 

“Then in Florence, after Koulibaly was shown a red card, they took another. After the victory in Turin, the city celebrated as if they’d won the Scudetto and did so a bit too much.

 

“Perhaps they lost sight of the objective, which was to win all their remaining games. The Azzurri must improve because it’s one thing to challenge and another to manage certain situations.

 

“The title race isn’t over because there are still nine points up for grabs, but I told Kalidou that Napoli must only focus on themselves without getting caught up in the euphoria.”

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No charges for Allegri tape

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120710/no-charges-allegri-tape

 

 

Apr 30, 2018

 

It’s reported the FIGC has decided Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri has no charges to answer in the Paolo Tagliavento controversy.

 

The Bianconeri won 3-2 at Inter on Saturday night, but there was controversy after Miralem Pjanic wasn’t shown a second yellow card in the second half.

 

As fourth official Tagliavento walked through the mixed zone, Allegri talked about the performance of referee Daniele Orsato: “It went really well… He was so good… Promote him!”.

 

ANSA reported that Federation Prosecutor Giuseppe Pecoraro had asked to view this footage to see if there was anything untoward, but Sky is now reporting that no investigation will be opened.

 

Percoraro viewed the footage and decided not to proceed with an investigation, as there was no suggestion of any rules being broken.

 

Another clip which went viral is claimed to show Tagliavento saying “adesso nel recupero vinciamo” or “now we’ll win in extra-time”.

 

However, it’s more likely he was saying “quanto recupero facciamo?” meaning “how much extra-time do we give?”.

[Socrates 7963]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Police protecting Orsato

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120756/report-police-protecting-orsato

 

 

May 1, 2018

 

It’s reported referee Daniele Orsato requires police surveillance of his home after the Inter-Juventus controversy.

 

The 42-year-old has been lambasted in the media, by fans on social networks and even in statements from Inter and Napoli for his decisions in the 3-2 Bianconeri victory.

 

He spoke to the Corriere del Veneto newspaper today and confessed “my children are upset and I don’t want to worry them.”

 

According to the local paper, that’s because the police are doing surveillance of Orsato’s home near Venice in case any of the keyboard warriors decides to go through with their threats.

 

Orsato’s wife is concerned that the tone of the public conversation around the referee has gone too far.

 

“Are we afraid? Can’t you see the state we are in here?”