JUVENTUS SEASON 2017-2018

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

Malago': 'Reserve teams within days'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120797/malago-reserve-teams-within-days

 

 

May 2, 2018

 

CONI President Giovanni Malagò confirms the introduction of reserve teams for clubs in Italy is “only days away.”

 

Clubs including Juventus, Roma and Inter have been lobbying for some time to have the rules changed so that they can create reserve teams in much the same way as in England.

 

Right now, players who don’t find room in the first team are either farmed out on loan to sides in Serie B or C, or used in the youth team league, which doesn’t give them experience at the top level.

 

“I think the breakthrough to create reserve teams is only days away,” Malagò declared today.

 

“I say that because I was at a meeting between the various components in the Federation. A move will let it loose, with definitive endorsement of the teams.

 

“I don’t know if they’ll be able to set it all in place for next season, or at most in a year, but the issue is in progress now and has to continue moving forward.

 

“I think it’s a good thing for everyone, which helps many lads who are registered with Serie A clubs to not only get paid, but also to realise if among them there are players who – preferably Italian – can do even better.

 

“It’ll give the Lega Pro (Serie C) division the opportunity to integrate some new sides.”

 

Every year, several clubs fail to register for the Lega Pro campaign due to financial problems and go bankrupt.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

                        

 

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

Allegri: Post-Inter hysteria!

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120876/allegri-post-inter-hysteria

 

 

May 4, 2018

 

Max Allegri has compared the furore that followed Juventus’ win at Inter last weekend to ‘comedy’.

 

The reaction to Daniele Orsato’s controversial performance ranged from to the referee reportedly being under police protection, having been lambasted by fans on social media, to Inter’s CEO bitterly criticising the 42-year-old.

 

“We’ve picked up a few more points than at this stage last season, plus the title race is still on because Napoli are having a great season,” the Coach said at a Press conference for Saturday’s visit of Bologna in Serie A.

 

“We’re almost at the end, and we have to win tomorrow so we can prepare for the Coppa Italia Final against Milan in the best way.

 

“Bologna? They require our attention, determination and respect and will be mindful of what happened to us at Crotone, for example.

 

“Bologna will come here to have a great game. We mustn’t be presumptuous but rather take another step towards the Scudetto.

 

“Dybala and Higuain will play, they’ll have to score the goals we need for the Scudetto.

 

“Post-Inter? There’s been a bit of comedy, but I’d say the pictures clarify everything. Let’s get back to the pitch: everything in the League is still open, and it’s a sign that it’s been a good season.

 

“My future? I’m tied to Juventus and I feel good here. There’s nothing else to say: what matters today is a seventh consecutive Scudetto and the Coppa Italia.

 

“VAR? It helps a lot if used properly. It’s working correctly in Italy after a spell of adaptation.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

                        

 

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

Mandzukic, Höwedes out for Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120897/mandzukic-howedes-out-juventus

 

 

May 4, 2018

 

Juventus have named their squad to face Bologna tomorrow night, with no Mario Mandzukic or Benedikt Howedes.

 

The Bianconeri can take a big step toward the Scudetto with a win tomorrow night, and would even win it this weekend if they take all three points and Napoli lose to Torino.

 

This evening Coach Massimiliano Allegri has named his squad for the match, and Mandzukic is out after his injury against Inter last weekend.

 

Matias Vecino’s challenge left the Croatian needing stitches, and he won’t be risked ahead of the Coppa Italia final with Milan.

 

Howedes, meanwhile, suffered an adductor injury during training today and has also been left out of the squad.

 

There’s better news for the Bianconeri in the shape of Giorgio Chiellini’s return, but he’s also likely to be saved for the cup final.

 

Juventus squad to face Bologna: Buffon, Szczesny, Pinsoglio, Chiellini, Benatia, Alex Sandro, Barzagli, Asamoah, Rugani, Lichtsteiner, Khedira, Marchisio, Matuidi, Bentancur, Higuain, Dybala, Douglas Costa, Bernardeschi, Cuadrado

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

ADL blames Sarri for Scudetto loss

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120901/adl-blames-sarri-scudetto-loss

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis openly blamed Coach Maurizio Sarri for losing the Scudetto. “If we always use the same players…”

 

The interview with Il Mattino newspaper seemed to lay the groundwork for Sarri’s exit this summer, amid reports of interest from Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

 

The Partenopei are four points behind Serie A leaders Juventus with three rounds to go and De Laurentiis refused to pin the blame on refereeing in the Bianconeri’s 3-2 victory at Inter.

 

“I don’t think that made much difference. What I do believe is that at the start of the season we had to begin training early because we were in the Champions League preliminary round and we just ran out of fuel,” the President told the Naples-based newspaper.

 

“It’s inevitable, unless of course you use all the players that you have in the squad… See, we could’ve had a breather at certain moments of the season, to better prepare the sprint finish. But if we always use the same players…

 

“Basically, if we hadn’t had injuries like the one to Faouzi Ghoulam, we’d never have discovered Mario Rui who, apart from the catastrophic errors against Roma, has been very good. But if you always use the same players…

 

“I don’t think the title race has been falsified. Many things happened on Saturday, as some of the choices made by the Inter Coach were also debatable and could well have decided the result.

 

“VAR was not used well or it wasn’t used at all, but there are also games before that which could’ve given us a bigger margin in the table. I don’t want VAR to be accused of being a bad thing, because I am and remain a supporter of it.

 

“What I do think is that we need decisions in the booth made not by other referees, but perhaps former Coaches.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

On This Day: Inter title meltdown

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120903/day-inter-title-meltdown

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

On May 5 2002, Inter, Juventus and Roma all went into the final match with the chance to win the Scudetto.

 

The Nerazzurri were in the driving seat, only needing a win away at Lazio to secure their first title since 1989.

 

Fans of the Biancocelesti, fearful that their city rivals would retain their crown, urged Angelo Peruzzi to “lean on his post”, and many were cheering for the opposition.

 

Juve lay one point behind, four wins in a row having seen them return to contention after a mid-season slump.

 

Zinedine Zidane had been sold to Real Madrid the previous summer for a world record fee, with Pavel Nedved, Lilian Thuram and Gianluigi Buffon coming in to replace the Frenchman.

 

The defending champions, Roma, sat a further point behind and knew that both of their rivals would have to slip-up to give them any chance of holding on to the Scudetto.

 

It was Juventus who put down the first marker, taking a 2-0 lead after just 11 minutes thanks to goals from David Trezeguet and Alessandro Del Piero.

 

Marcello Lippi’s men had effectively secured the necessary three points, and attention turned to Stadio Olimpico.

 

Things appeared to be going to plan for the Beneamata, Christian Vieri giving them the lead after 12 minutes.

 

Karel Poborsky levelled things up, but Luigi Di Biagio’s header put Inter back in the driving seat.

 

The Nerazzurri though, were to suffer a painful collapse.

 

With half-time looming, Vratislav Greško attempted to head the ball back to Francesco Toldo, but Poborsky ghosted in to put the Aquile back on terms.

 

In the second half, former Inter man Diego Simeone and current Lazio Coach Simone Inzaghi both scored to condemn the Beneamata to a 4-2 defeat.

 

Ronaldo, in his last game for the club, wept on the bench and Marco Materazzi somehow avoided a red card for a furious lunge at Poborsky.

 

In Turin, Antonio Cassano’s beautiful chip saw Roma beat Torino 1-0, ensuring that Inter would fall from first to third in the space of 90 minutes.

Back in Udine, delighted Juventini swarmed the pitch to celebrate a 26th Scudetto, and their first since 1998.

 

Del Piero and Trezeguet had hit 52 goals between them in all competitions, with the Frenchman sharing the Serie A Capocannoniere crown with Dario Hubner.

 

To this day, fans of the Bianconeri still celebrate 5 Maggio 2002, while Interisti almost certainly still shudder at the mention of Karel Poborsky.

 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

                        

 

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

Juventus-Bologna Match Preview

 

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/SerieA/match/preview/106721

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

Juventus are just two wins away from clinching their seventh straight Scudetto, and will be eager to get the job done at home against Bologna on Saturday.

 

The Bianconeri pulled off an epic comeback against 10-man Inter at San Siro last week, scoring two late goals within two minutes to take all three points. Although controversial, it proved to be a massive mental blow for Napoli - who had the opportunity they were waiting for snatched from them at the final moment. Coupled with the Partenopei’s loss to Fiorentina on Sunday, the defending champions were able to erase the disappointing 1-0 loss to the Southern Giants the previous week.

 

Juventus haven’t won anything yet though and will need to be focused on the task at hand, with Bologna eager to put a dent in the home side’s victory plans. Truth be told, the Bianconeri have not looked themselves in recent weeks, drawing away to Crotone and losing at home to Napoli before their victory in the Derby D’Italia.

 

They also conceded at least one goal in three consecutive league matches – something they haven’t done since October. They have a great chance to end that slump though, with Bologna having mustered only one goal in their last three matches.

 

The hosts will be without Miralem Pjanic, who misses out due to suspension, but given their incredible depth, they shouldn’t be affected too much by the loss of the Bosnian.

 

With Giorgio Chiellini and Mattia De Sciglio still sidelined, Juan Cuadrado could again be used as an unorthodox right-back.

 

With just one win in their last nine matches, the Rossoblu are lucky to find themselves still in 12^th. Fortunately, they earned enough points in the first half of the season that this terrible run of form shouldn't hurt them too much, as they have already staved off relegation.

 

While they don’t have much to play for sitting comfortably mid-table and with just three games left, they will be motivated by playing against the top team in Italy and potentially providing another twist in the Scudetto race. It will not be easy for them though, as the Allianz Stadium will provide quite the raucous atmosphere.

 

Juventus should get the job done in front of their home fans on Saturday, but as they’ve learned in recent weeks against the likes of SPAL and Crotone, nothing is a guarantee. 

 

Keep an eye on: Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus) – After breaking his goal drought in a big way on Saturday, the Argentine will be looking for more against Bologna. Higuain can be very streaky at times, but when he is firing on all cylinders can be one of the most difficult strikers in the world to stop.

 

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

 

Last season: Juventus 3-0 Bologna

 

Stat fact: Juventus have not lost to Bologna in 11 consecutive league matches – winning the last three straight games. The last Rossoblu victory came back in February 2011.

 

Top tip: Juventus to claim all three points.

 

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

Suspended: Pjanic

 

Bologna (probable): Mirante; Mbaye, De Maio, Gonzalez, Masina; Poli, Pulgar, Dzemaili; Verdi, Palacio, Orsolini

Suspended: None

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

                        

 

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

Line-ups: Juventus-Bologna

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120938/line-ups-juventus-bologna

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

Juventus bring Paulo Dybala, Gonzalo Higuain, Juan Cuadrado and Alex Sandro together against injury-ravaged Bologna.

 

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

 

The Bianconeri are four points clear at the top of the table with three rounds to go and can temporarily increase that to seven ahead of Napoli’s match with Torino tomorrow afternoon.

 

Miralem Pjanic is suspended with Benedikt Howedes, Mario Mandzukic, Mattia De Sciglio and Stefano Sturaro sidelined.

 

Max Allegri used Cuadrado as a right-back last time and continues to experiment with his tactics to use as much attacking potential as possible simultaneously.

 

It’s worth noting that Cuadrado, Kwadwo Asamoah, Federico Bernardeschi and Higuain have to be careful, as a yellow card would rule them out of next week’s trip to Roma.

 

Bologna are comfortable in mid-table safety, but were furious after their home defeat to Milan, as Coach Roberto Donadoni protested that smaller clubs were penalised by VAR.

 

He has to do without injured Blerim Dzemaili, Erick Pulgar, Filip Helander, Godfred Donsah and Giancarlo Gonzalez.

 

Rodrigo Palacio is not 100 per cent fit, so Felipe Avenatti starts with support from free kick specialist Simone Verdi.

 

Juventus have not lost to Bologna in 11 consecutive league matches – winning the last three straight games. The last Rossoblu victory came back in February 2011.

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Barzagli, Rugani, Asamoah; Khedira, Marchisio, Matuidi; Dybala, Higuain, Alex Sandro

Juventus bench: Szczesny, Pinsoglio, Chiellini, Benatia, Lichtsteiner, Bentancur, Bernardeschi, Douglas Costa

 

Bologna: Mirante; Mbaye, Romagnoli, De Maio; Krafth, Poli, Crisetig, Nagy, Keita; Verdi; Avenatti

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

                        

 

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

HT 0-1: Bologna surprise Juventus

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120945/ht-bologna-surprise-juventus

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

Simone Verdi’s penalty has given Bologna a surprise half-time lead away to Juventus, as the Scudetto race might not be over yet.

 

The Bianconeri were four points clear at the top of the table and knew they would clinch a seventh straight Scudetto if they got two wins from their last three games, which were against mid-table Bologna, Roma and already-relegated Verona. Miralem Pjanic was suspended with Benedikt Howedes, Mario Mandzukic, Mattia De Sciglio and Stefano Sturaro injured. The visitors missed Blerim Dzemaili, Erick Pulgar, Filip Helander, Godfred Donsah and Giancarlo Gonzalez, while Rodrigo Palacio was not fit to start.

 

It took only a few minutes for Antonio Mirante to be called into action, sticking out a foot to parry Gonzalo Higuain’s angled drive on a Claudio Marchisio through ball.

 

Bologna weren’t holding back and Juan Cuadrado was booked for a foul on Andrea Poli, meaning he’ll be suspended against Roma.

 

Mirante performed another smart save on Alex Sandro’s header from a Paulo Dybala free kick, then La Joya didn’t make the most of a gifted back-pass from Simone Romagnoli.

 

However, moments later, Lorenzo Crisetig did pounce on a poor Gigi Buffon pass and was pushed in the back by Daniele Rugani for a penalty. After a very long wait amid VAR technical problems, Simone Verdi – the man who nearly joined Napoli in January – showed immense confidence to roll it down the middle and put Bologna ahead.

 

Juve struggled to mount a comeback, Higuain’s twisting header too soft to surprise Mirante.

 

 

Juventus 0-1 Bologna (Half-Time)

Verdi pen 30 (B)

 

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Rugani, Asamoah; Cuadrado, Khedira, Marchisio, Matuidi, Alex Sandro; Dybala, Higuain

 

Bologna: Mirante; Mbaye, Romagnoli, De Maio; Krafth, Poli, Crisetig, Nagy, Keita; Verdi; Avenatti

 

Ref: Irrati

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

               3-1         

 

 

Simone Verdi (penalty) 30'

Sebastien De Maio (own goal) 51'

Sami Khedira 63'

Paulo Dybala 69'

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

Juventus 3 Bologna 1: Bianconeri on verge

of title as Costa inspires turnaround

 

Juventus moved a step closer to Serie A success by coming from

behind to beat Bologna 3-1, with Douglas Costa starring.

 

 

http://www.goal.com/en/match/juventus-v-bologna/cdhe5lctqe7plg1npiv2tvrl6

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

Douglas Costa produced an inspirational performance off the bench as Juventus came from behind to beat Bologna 3-1 at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday, meaning they will become Serie A champions again if Napoli lose to Torino on Sunday.

Massimiliano Allegri's men looked in trouble after falling 1-0 down to their visitors in the first half, but they rallied with a vengeance in the second period - half-time substitute Costa playing a starring role with two assists to ensure they head into the Coppa Italia final against AC Milan on Wednesday in high spirits.

Juve's start gave no indication they would need another comeback like they did to beat Inter last time out, as they caused Bologna's backline plenty of problems.

But a Gianluigi Buffon error coupled with a clumsy Daniele Rugani tackle allowed Simone Verdi to put Bologna ahead from the penalty spot in the 30th minute, the centre-back saved from a red card by VAR.

OptaPaolo

 

✔@OptaPaolo

 

 

7 - Douglas Costa has delivered seven of his 12 assists in Serie A this season as substitute. Change. #JuveBologna

10:16 PM - May 5, 2018

 

 

With Juve offering little out wide, Allegri sent Costa on from the bench at the interval and his impact was as desired, but it was a Sebastien De Maio own goal restored parity.

Costa set up two goals in six minutes just after the hour mark, finding Sami Khedira and then Paulo Dybala to seal all three points for Juve, leaving them on the brink of a seventh successive title.

There was no sign of early Bianconeri nerves as they made a strong start and nearly went ahead in the seventh minute, Gonzalo Higuain drawing a good save from Antonio Mirante after Claudio Marchisio carved the visitors defence open.

Bologna were guilty of a defensive mishap a few minutes later, as Dybala robbed De Maio just outside the area before seeing his effort deflected harmlessly over.

But Juve shot themselves in the foot after half an hour, Buffon selling Rugani short with a pass that forced the centre-back to haul the sharp Lorenzo Crisetig to the ground in the area.

Although the VAR review which concluded Rugani should not be sent off took a while, Verdi kept his cool to dispatch the spot-kick in remarkably confident fashion.

Juve failed to threaten again before the break and Allegri responded at half-time by introducing Costa on the left wing for Blaise Matuidi, with the Brazilian making a significant difference.

But the equaliser came via the opposite flank – Juan Cuadrado's curling cross calamitously flicked into the back of the net by Bologna defender De Maio.

Juve were lucky to remain on level terms just before the hour mark, however, as a cross found its way through to Emil Krafth and Buffon tipped his effort onto the post.

The hosts soon capitalised on that let-off, Costa's deep left-wing delivery finding Khedira at the back post for an easy finish.

 

JuventusFC

 

✔@juventusfcen

 

 

That's nine on the season for @SamiKhedira! #JuveBologna

10:25 PM - May 5, 2018

 

And the Brazil international was at it again in the 69th minute, tearing up the left and playing a low cross into the area for Dybala to guide home.

It was plain sailing from there for the defending champions, as they heap the pressure back on Napoli ahead of their meeting with Torino.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

               3-1         

 

 

Simone Verdi (penalty) 30'

Sebastien De Maio (own goal) 51'

Sami Khedira 63'

Paulo Dybala 69'

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Juve reacted to mix-up'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120948/allegri-juve-reacted-mix

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

Max Allegri admits Juventus “made life difficult for ourselves, but fortunately reacted” to beat Bologna 3-1 and move to win touching distance of the title.

 

“It’s not done yet for the Scudetto, we are three points away and have to earn them,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium and Sky Sport Italia through a very croaky voice.

 

“Bologna played well this evening and defended stoutly, while we made life difficult for ourselves with a mix-up for the penalty, but fortunately we reacted.”

 

The game was undeniably transformed by the introduction of Douglas Costa off the bench at half-time, as he provided two assists.

 

“He is one of those players who can make the difference and break a game open. Last night he became a father to a little girl, so he didn’t get much sleep and I left him initially on the bench.

 

“We were without Benedikt Howedes, so needed some more quality in defence from Kwadwo Asamoah to keep Alex Sandro forward.

 

“I had already said before kick-off that Douglas Costa and Federico Bernardeschi could be important options off the bench.

 

“When Bologna play like that, and they did the same in the first half against Lazio, they are difficult to break down or find spaces between the lines.

 

“There were a few chances, not massively clear-cut, but we had them. Bologna took the lead thanks to our mix-up at the back and we had to give it a strong reaction in the second half.”

 

Juventus have the Coppa Italia Final against Milan at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Wednesday.

 

“We’re facing a Milan side that is doing great things recently, but it’s a Final and obviously we play to win.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - BOLOGNA

 

  .......

               3-1         

 

 

Simone Verdi (penalty) 30'

Sebastien De Maio (own goal) 51'

Sami Khedira 63'

Paulo Dybala 69'

 

 

    

 

36th Matchday

 

Saturday, may 5th 2018 - 8:45 p.m. CET 

7.45 p.m. UK time - 6.45 p.m. GMT
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Referee: Massimiliano Irrati

 

 

 

 

Barzagli: 'Juve 80 per cent there'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120947/barzagli-juve-80-cent-there

 

 

May 5, 2018

 

Andrea Barzagli said Juventus are “70-80 per cent there” to a seventh consecutive Scudetto after beating Bologna 3-1.

 

“It’s another step forward and a game that we knew would be important. We’re not mathematically there yet, but 70-80 per cent there.

 

“Yet again, we had to suffer and fight back, but we got there in the end,” the veteran defender told Sky Sport Italia.

 

Bologna had taken the lead through a Simone Verdi penalty, but Douglas Costa came off the bench and immediately shook things up with two assists.

 

“We are accustomed to these long seasons and when we get to the end, there is always some fatigue, but we’ve never had as big a dip as this year.

 

“The only positive is that we know how to suffer. We made life more complicated for ourselves and then we managed to turn it around.”

 

On Wednesday there is another piece of silverware up for grabs, as Juventus face Milan in the Coppa Italia Final.

 

“There’s the Coppa Italia Final, it’d be our fourth in a row, and we have to be fully focused.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Juventus are virtually champions

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/120981/juventus-are-virtually-champions

 

 

May 6, 2018

 

Juventus are virtually the Champions of Italy, as it is practically impossible for Napoli to catch them at the top of the Serie A table.

 

The Bianconeri beat Bologna 3-1 last night, while today the Partenopei were held to a 2-2 draw at the Stadio San Paolo by Torino.

 

This means the gap at the top stands at six points with only two rounds left to play.

 

In Italy, two sides who are level on points are separated by head-to-head record.

 

However, Napoli and Juve both won 1-0 away from home this season, so that too is equal and it goes to goal difference.

 

Unless something extraordinary happens, that means Juventus will win the title, because they scored 84 goals and conceded 23, whereas Napoli netted 73 and conceded 28.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

...

        .............   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Juventus: Mandzukic in, Chiellini out

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121060/juventus-mandzukic-chiellini-out

 

 

May 8, 2018

 

MarioMandzukic is back in the Juventus squad for the Coppa Italia final with Milan, but Giorgio Chiellini misses out.

 

The Bianconeri are looking to make it four-in-a-row at the Stadio Olimpico tomorrow, in what would also be the first part of a fourth consecutive domestic double.

 

While they haven’t mathematically secured the Scudetto, they’re six points clear of Napoli with a goal difference advantage of 16, with only two Serie A games to play and an identical head-to-head record.

 

Mandzukic missed the win over Bologna after he required stitches to a leg wound, but he is back for tomorrow’s game.

 

Chiellini was in the squad to face the Rossoblu - though he didn’t play - but he won’t be involved in Rome.

 

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

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

...

        .............   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Pjanic: ’50-50 with Milan’

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121041/pjanic-’50-50-milan’

 

 

May 8, 2018

 

Juventus midfielder Miralem Pjanic believes “the chances are 50-50” against Milan in the Coppa Italia final.
 

The Bianconeri have practically secured a seventh Scudetto in a row, and can make it four domestic doubles on the spin if they beat Gennaro Gattuso’s side on Wednesday.

 

“Winning the cup would be very important for us and would represent another record, and Juventus want to set records,” Pjanic pointed out, speaking to Rai.

 

“Milan are difficult to face, they’ve done great things and Gattuso has found the right balance. The chances are 50-50 and it’ll be up to us to give that something extra to turn incidents in our favour.

 

“They want to start winning trophies again, and we want to bring the Coppa to Turin another time. We’re expecting a beautiful final, the Coppa Italia is another competition and we wanted to win everything.

 

“We went out of the Champions League, we’re well placed in the league and the Coppa is another competition.

 

“We’re getting great results and right now maybe the right weight isn’t being given to them, but in time we’ll remember what this team has done and we can only congratulate the club and the team.

 

“I have five teammates who are close to a seventh Scudetto in a row, and that’s the basis of Juventus.

 

“There’s also the new ones, who immediately integrated themselves and immediately realised that your objectives must be achieved here.

 

“Our secret? Daily work, and the humility we always have in questioning ourselves. Every day we give our best and there are workouts that sometimes seem like matches for the intensity with which we face them.

 

“Having to win every game brings enormous pressure, but this group manages it well.

 

“The Coach [Max Allegri] has a big squad available and everyone feels involved. Then the club makes sure that we players only have to think about the pitch.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

...

        .............   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Buffon: 'Never favourites with Milan'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121079/buffon-never-favourites-milan

https://www.football-italia.net/121078/buffon-emotionally-complicated-year

 

 

May 8, 2018

 

Gianluigi Buffon warned “Juventus are never favourites against Milan” and history teaches him to expect a tough Coppa Italia Final.

 

The Coppa Italia Final is in Rome on Wednesday at 21.00 CET - 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).

 

“I learned pretty early on that Juventus are never favourites against Milan, all the way from 2003 with a Champions League Final in Manchester,” said the captain in his Press conference.

 

“I must say that all these years later, along with my teammates and the club, we’ve had four Finals against Milan, lost two on penalties, won one in extra time and won another on spot-kicks.

 

“This means games with Milan rarely end after 90 minutes, because they are very balanced. Aside from the technical qualities in the teams, these are matches where everything evens out and I expect the same tomorrow.”

 

Buffon has barely featured in the Coppa Italia over the years, leaving it to whoever his understudy was at the time, but is expected to start tomorrow.

 

“If I’m not mistaken, the last Coppa Italia Final I played was in 1999, so more or less 20 years ago. The fact I have the opportunity to play in it as a protagonist is wonderful and very exciting for me.

 

“I think the role of second goalkeeper has changed a lot over the last six or seven years, at least at big clubs, because they still get 15-20 games per season and have to be reliable.”

 

Gianluigi Buffon admits “this has been an emotionally complicated year” for his career, Italy and Juventus. “I haven’t figured out if I’m more strong or scummy. We’ll see.”

 

“It has certainly been an emotionally complicated year, that is undeniable, because it started too early to then have to strength to deal with everything that happened rationally,” said the goalkeeper in his Press conference.

 

He turned 40 in January, Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup, Juventus went out of the Champions League and he has still not declared if he’ll retire in June.

 

“It started in November with a disappointment that would knock anyone for six (the World Cup play-off defeat to Sweden, ndr).

 

“Even recently, I would wake up every morning, look at myself in the mirror and then looking down at my feet say: either you are the strongest in the world or you are the most scummy, awful person in the world, because to stand here after everything that happened is not something everyone can handle.

 

“I still haven’t answered that question to myself. I still need to figure out if I am more strong or scummy. We’ll see.”

 

Did Buffon fear ending this season with no silverware at all?

 

“Of course, of course, because nobody gives you anything and nothing is easy, especially this year. The script seemed to be all set for some unexpected surprises, so we were always on high alert. If we think of what happened over the last two weeks in Serie A, now we are moderately confident, but I challenge anyone to feel like that at the 86^th minute at San Siro.”

 

Juve were trailing 2-1 to 10-man Inter until two late goals, with the gap at the top of the Serie A table only one point from Napoli, but now the Bianconeri need just one point to take the title.

 

“I think Juve and I have the same type of strength, which is when we give off the feeling that we’re done for, we manage to get a game, a result and a season back on its feet. We’ve got nine lives, like cats.

 

“So let’s just say that the common denominator that has represented Juve, at least over the last seven years, has not been watered down.”

 

Buffon has still not confirmed if this will be his final season.

 

“I have nothing to add. We’ll talk in a few days, after I have met with the President (Andrea Agnelli).”

 

If he does hang up his gloves, his heir for Italy is expected to be Milan shot-stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

 

“I think that certainly, deservedly, Gigio will be the reference point for Italian goalkeepers going forward, but also that there are many talents pushing their way through. I see Alex Meret, Emil Audero, the growth of Mattia Perin and the confirmation of the older Salvatore Sirigu and Emiliano Viviano, I think the school of Italian goalkeepers is still very reliable.”

 

There have been reports Buffon won’t accept a call-up to the Italy friendly against the Netherlands in Turin next month.

 

“At this moment I am focused on the Coppa Italia Final, so I’m not thinking about that. I certainly am not happy about the controversy.

 

“I have always based my life on pride and dignity, which unfortunately you either have or you don’t. This pride and dignity also probably pushed me to make many mistakes in my life, but I always took it on the chin and admitted responsibility, going forward with head held high.”

 

Finally, the captain was asked which opponent most stood out in his career.

 

“Happiness is made of good health and a bad memory. I’ve faced so many opponents that I couldn’t really create a list. You’ve got the likes of Leo Messi, Ronaldo and the other Ronaldo, plus many others I’ve taken on over the years.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

...

        .............   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Juve can make history'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121080/allegri-juve-can-make-history

https://www.football-italia.net/121081/allegri-well-sit-down-and-talk

 

 

May 8, 2018

 

Max Allegri reveals Gennaro Gattuso always “wanted to be a Coach” even when playing for his Milan and looks forward to another page in Juventus history.

 

The Coppa Italia Final is in Rome on Wednesday at 21.00 CET - 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).

 

“This game is very important for us, very important, because it would help close off a season with a Scudetto that isn’t mathematically ours yet, but nearly,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

 

“With this Cup, the lads could again get into the history books of Juventus. We have to play with enthusiasm, because we had some wobbles against Inter and Bologna. It’s always wonderful to play for a Cup and to face Milan, as these games are always very balanced.”

 

Allegri is a former Milan Coach and had current Rossoneri boss Gennaro Gattuso in his squad.

 

“Rino is passionate about football and is also really hard-headed. You could tell he wanted to be a Coach. It’s not easy to sit on the Milan bench after experiences at Sion and Pisa, taking over during a complicated situation. He did very well, because he’s getting some very good results.

 

“The most important thing about Gattuso, and I know this because he was my player, is that when you stop playing and were a champion for many years, it’s not easy to challenge yourself all over again.

 

“Rino has done that very well, as did Pippo Inzaghi. Starting again from the Lega Pro is not easy, so I have to compliment them.

 

“I think Gattuso has calmed down a bit lately and that’s a good sign too. I hope he’ll get more annoyed tomorrow, as that’ll mean things are going badly for Milan and well for us!”

 

Allegri was asked about the tactical approach after using Juan Cuadrado as a right-back lately.

 

“Either Medhi Benatia or Daniele Rugani will start, while it’s Andrea Barzagli’s birthday today and we have to give him a nice present. Of those three, two will play.

 

“Cuadrado has done well as a right-back. He made some mistakes against Inter with the timing of the runs, but he just needs more practice.

 

“Mario Mandzukic, Mattia De Sciglio and Stefano Sturaro are all available, so it’s just Giorgio Chiellini and Benedikt Howedes out. We’ll see if we defend with two, three or four, it depends on the characteristics of the players.

 

“We know Milan will cause us problems, as they are very dangerous on the counter, so we’ve got to do strong preventative marking. Milan have a lot of technically-gifted players, it’s a Final and we must show a strong mentality.”

 

Juventus have been criticised by many for their performances, especially compared to the champagne football of Napoli and Maurizio Sarri.

 

“If we win the Scudetto, regardless of how the Coppa Italia Final goes, it will have been an extraordinary season for Juventus. We should enjoy our achievements.

 

“People point out our defects and that can only help the team to improve, because if all we got was compliments, we’d never see what could be done better.

 

“A Coach is fortunate when he has a strong club behind him that puts a group of players at his disposal, but first and foremost a group of men. Fortunately, in my 10 years of Serie A football from Cagliari to today, I have always had men of great values working with me, otherwise they couldn’t be at Milan or Juventus.

 

“They’ve all given me the kind of satisfaction I can never forget, because they are part of my life, everyone teaching me something important.

 

“I have great fun being a Coach, otherwise I’d be in trouble.”

 

 

Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri would not be drawn on his future amid Premier League reports. “We’ll sit down to talk as we always do.”

 

Ahead of the Coppa Italia Final with Milan on Wednesday evening, the tactician held a Press conference in Rome and was asked if he’d be at Juve next season.

 

“I have a very good rapport with the club and we are in sync, as proved over the last four years, where the team was turned inside out during the first season and the club worked so well to bring in players of quality alongside those who had not just technique, but great human values,” said Allegri.

 

“At the end of the day, in football you need more than technique to win. You need other values that can push you on during difficult times.

 

“At the end of the season, we’ll sit down and talk as we always do and plan for the future, because we have to do that every year and this has to be done with great clarity."

 

Allegri has been linked with the jobs at Arsenal and Chelsea.

 

“I have changed a lot over the last four years, but also every year, every day… What I ask my players is to every day challenge themselves to find what we did wrong and what we can improve. Because what you’ve done right remains and nobody can take that away, but we have to go over what went wrong within ourselves.

 

“I was a different Coach when I was at Milan. At Juventus I am more than just a Coach, because I worked with two completely different clubs, but who both have the desire to win. I took the best elements from both sides.

 

“My growth process isn’t finished yet and I hope it’ll only end when I have decided to retire, which won’t be too late. I do have a few more years in me.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

...

        .............   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Probable line-ups: Juventus-Milan

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121091/probable-line-ups-juventus-milan

 

 

May 9, 2018

 

Juventus are expected to use Juan Cuadrado as a right-back in the Coppa Italia Final, with Milan relying on Patrick Cutrone and Manuel Locatelli.

 

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday at 21.00 CET - 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).

 

The Bianconeri are missing Giorgio Chiellini and Benedikt Howedes, but Mario Mandzukic, Mattia De Sciglio and Stefano Sturaro are available again after injury.

 

It’s reported Max Allegri will stick with his recent 4-3-2-1 approach, using Cuadrado as a very attacking right-back with Kwadwo Asamoah on the left providing more coverage.

 

Stephan Lichtsteiner and Alex Sandro are alternatives to those roles.

 

Miralem Pjanic returns after he missed the win over Bologna through suspension, while Douglas Costa and Paulo Dybala can support centre-forward Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Allegri could always opt for a reshuffle with Mandzukic, Cuadrado and even Federico Bernardeschi eager to start in attacking roles, but fitness levels could be decisive.

 

Milan have Lucas Biglia in the squad following a back injury, but is very unlikely to be risked in the circumstances, so Locatelli is favourite to take over in midfield rather than Riccardo Montolivo.

 

Suso and Calhanoglu are guarantees, with teenage striker Cutrone likely to get the nod rather than Nikola Kalinic or Andre Silva.

 

 

Probable line-ups

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Barzagli, Benatia, Asamoah; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Dybala; Higuain

 

Milan: G Donnarumma; Calabria, Bonucci, Romagnoli, Rodriguez; Kessie, Locatelli, Bonaventura; Suso, Cutrone, Calhanoglu

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

...

        .............   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Coppa line-ups: Juventus-Milan

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121131/coppa-line-ups-juventus-milan

 

 

May 9, 2018

 

Juventus use Juan Cuadrado as a right-back with Mario Mandzukic in a very attack-minded formation and Milan rely on Suso in the Coppa Italia Final.

 

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 21.00 CET - 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).

 

The Bianconeri have the opportunity to win their fourth Coppa Italia on the trot, and consequently a fourth consecutive Double with the Scudetto.

 

Giorgio Chiellini and Benedikt Howedes are out injured, with Mandzukic, Mattia De Sciglio and Stefano Sturaro available again following setbacks.

 

Surprisingly, Max Allegri has dropped Gonzalo Higuain to the bench, starting Mandzukic with Paulo Dybala and on-form Douglas Costa.

 

Cuadrado is therefore again used as a right-back with Kwadwo Asamoah on the left rather than Alex Sandro, as Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa support Gonzalo Higuain.

 

Milan miss Andrea Conti and Lucas Biglia, who made a miracle recovery from a fracture in his back to be in the squad, but probably won’t be risked during the game.

 

Manuel Locatelli is chosen in midfield with Patrick Cutrone given the nod in attack ahead of Nikola Kalinic and Andre Silva, flanked by Suso and Hakan Calhanoglu.

 

It’s a special game for ex-Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci, who scored the only time he faced his former teammates in Serie A earlier this year.

 

This is the fifth time these clubs have met in the Coppa Italia Final, with three Juve victories in 1942, 1990 and 2016, losing only in 1973.

 

Prepare for a long night, because in all five of their meetings during a one-off Final, it has gone to extra time including the Coppa Italia, Italian Super Cup and Champions League. Of the five, four of those went to penalties.

 

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Benatia, Barzagli, Asamoah; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Mandzukic, Dybala

 

Milan: G Donnarumma; Calabria, Bonucci, Romagnoli, Rodriguez; Kessie, Locatelli, Bonaventura; Suso, Cutrone, Calhanoglu

 

Ref: Damato

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

...

        .............   

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

HT 0-0: Juve and Milan test 'keepers

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121138/ht-juve-and-milan-test-keepers

 

 

May 9, 2018

 

It’s goalless at half-time in the Coppa Italia Final, although both Juventus and Milan forced tricky saves out of the goalkeepers.

 

The Bianconeri were hoping to win the trophy – and therefore the Double – for the fourth year running, which would be a new record. Giorgio Chiellini was injured and Gonzalo Higuain surprisingly dropped in favour of Mario Mandzukic. The Rossoneri were highly-motivated, as victory would also ensure their place in the Europa League group phase.

 

This is the fifth time these clubs have met in the Coppa Italia Final, with three Juve victories in 1942, 1990 and 2016, losing only in 1973. All five of the meetings between these sides in one-off Finals of all competition went to extra time, four of them to penalties.

 

Gigi Buffon was playing his first Coppa Italia Final in a Juve jersey and had to make a save after seven minutes on Patrick Cutrone after a splendid give-and-go with Hakan Calhanoglu.

 

Douglas Costa volleyed wide from the edge of the box, as did Paulo Dybala with an acrobatic attempt after his cross-shot tested Gianluigi Donnarumma.

 

Buffon had to readjust on a deflected Suso strike, while Juan Cuadrado fired over from a tricky angle and Mandzukic couldn’t get enough power on his header.

 

Jack Bonaventura blasted over from distance on the counter. There was tension at half-time, as Calhanoglu was brought down and the referee blew the whistle for half-time before they could take the free kick, but Gennaro Gattuso ran on to the field to drag his own players away from protesting.

 

 

Juventus 0-0 Milan (Half-Time)

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Benatia, Barzagli, Asamoah; Khedira, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Mandzukic, Dybala

 

Milan: G Donnarumma; Calabria, Bonucci, Romagnoli, Rodriguez; Kessie, Locatelli, Bonaventura; Suso, Cutrone, Calhanoglu

 

Ref: Damato

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

 

             4-0

 

Medhi Benatia 56'

Douglas Costa 61'

Medhi Benatia 64

Nikola Kalinic (own goal) 76'

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Coppa Italia: Force Four Juve flatten Milan

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121138/coppa-force-four-juve-flatten-milan

 

 

May 9, 2018

 

Juventus secured their fourth consecutive Coppa Italia – and domestic Double – as Milan fell apart in the second half for a 4-0 defeat.

 

Giorgio Chiellini was injured and Gonzalo Higuain surprisingly dropped in favour of Mario Mandzukic. The Rossoneri were highly-motivated, as victory would also ensure their place in the Europa League group phase. Instead, this means fifth, sixth and seventh will go into the Europa League, but the side in seventh will need to start the preliminary rounds in July.

 

This was the fifth time these clubs have met in the Coppa Italia Final, with three Juve victories in 1942, 1990 and 2016, losing only in 1973. All five of the meetings between these sides in one-off Finals of all competition had gone to extra time, four of them to penalties.

 

Gigi Buffon was playing his first Coppa Italia Final in a Juve jersey and had to make a save after seven minutes on Patrick Cutrone after a splendid give-and-go with Hakan Calhanoglu.

 

Douglas Costa volleyed wide from the edge of the box, as did Paulo Dybala with an acrobatic attempt after his cross-shot tested Gianluigi Donnarumma.

 

Buffon had to readjust on a deflected Suso strike, while Juan Cuadrado fired over from a tricky angle and Mandzukic couldn’t get enough power on his header.

 

Jack Bonaventura blasted over from distance on the counter, but there was some controversy when Calhanoglu was brought down on the stroke of half-time, but the referee blew for the break without letting Milan take the free kick. The Rossoneri protested, but Gennaro Gattuso ran on to drag his players away from the official.

 

Donnarumma got down quickly to parry a Dybala left-foot effort from 10 yards, then a far more difficult fingertip save to turn La Joya’s impressive low volley round the far post. On the resulting corner, Medhi Benatia was allowed a looping header from eight yards into the far top corner. It was the first goal Milan had conceded in the Coppa Italia this season.

 

Donnarumma made another excellent save as Dybala dribbled away from defenders and unleashed a dipping effort from distance, turning it one-handed round the upright.

 

However, moments later Donnarumma allowed a powerful but fairly central Douglas Costa snapshot to squirm through his gloves and into the near bottom corner.

 

The teenage goalkeeper’s confidence was hit and it showed very badly a few minutes later when he horribly fumbled a Mandzukic header from a corner, allowing Benatia to tap in the rebound from four yards.

 

Blaise Matuidi nearly scored an own goal with a very clumsy interception, but it bounced off the upright with Buffon well beaten. Instead, Nikola Kalinic did put it into his own net with an entirely avoidable glancing header on a corner to surprise Donnarumma.

 

If some were calling for Buffon to make way for Donnarumma in the Italy jersey, they saw the 40-year-old perform a great double reaction save on Locatelli’s fierce attempt and the Fabio Borini follow-up from close range. It ensured Juve end this tournament without conceding a single goal.

 

 

Juventus 4-0 Milan

Benatia 56, 64 (J), Douglas Costa 61 (J), Kalinic og 76 (J)

 

Juventus: Buffon; Cuadrado, Benatia, Barzagli, Asamoah; Khedira, Pjanic (Marchisio 86), Matuidi; Douglas Costa (Bernardeschi 73), Mandzukic, Dybala (Higuain 83)

 

Milan: G Donnarumma; Calabria, Bonucci, Romagnoli, Rodriguez; Kessie, Locatelli (Montolivo 80), Bonaventura; Suso (Borini 68), Cutrone (Kalinic 62), Calhanoglu

 

Ref: Damato

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

 

             4-0

 

Medhi Benatia 56'

Douglas Costa 61'

Medhi Benatia 64

Nikola Kalinic (own goal) 76'

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Allegri: 'Extraordinary performance'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121139/allegri-extraordinary-performance

 

 

May 9, 2018

 

Massimiliano Allegri praised Juventus for “an extraordinary game” as they beat Milan 4-0 to win the Coppa Italia for the fourth time in a row.

 

“We got the trophy, the lads had an extraordinary game and deserved this win, taking nothing away from Milan, who had a good first half,” the Coach told Rai Sport.

 

“I had told the lads they needed to give themselves this evening after so much joy to the fans and the club. It’s right for them to celebrate, as when they work hard and enjoy their football, they’re hard to beat.

 

“In games like this you need a little time to get into gear, but we found the passing lines, the spaces opened up and naturally the technique emerged.”

 

Allegri had his head covered in foam at the final whistle.

 

“Cuadrado celebrated the same way last year! Now we have to ensure the Scudetto mathematically and enjoy this extraordinary season.”

 

 

Max Allegri stormed off a television interview, as once again the Juventus Coach found himself defending his approach to football.

 

The Bianconeri secured their fourth consecutive edition of the Coppa Italia and have virtually completed four Doubles in a row too with a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Milan.

 

“We are talking about a group that has written a piece of Juventus history. I compliment these lads, as it’ll be seven Scudetto titles and all the other trophies,” the Coach told Rai Sport.

 

“In football you can also lose, because there are other teams fighting too. The issue is to create new motivation. Aside from the results, there are many elements that decide a season.

 

“It’s not that Juve have to win, but I’m now unfortunately used to the idea that people take our victories for granted. Nothing is to be taken for granted, as football is so unpredictable that reducing everything to tactics seems unfair.”

 

Allegri pulled another surprise this evening by starting Mario Mandzukic rather than Gonzalo Higuain.

 

“Naturally, Higuain didn’t take it well. I made a choice and wanted a more physical centre-forward. It’s better to have Gonzalo ready to come off the bench than Mario. He was all ready to come on, then the game went well for us and he had the last 15 minutes.”

 

Juventus got the better of Napoli in the Serie A race, despite continual criticism of their style of football in comparison to Maurizio Sarri.

 

With many players well over 30, Allegri was asked if this was the end of an era and reacted with irritation.

“You have to look at the positives. At times we get stuck in these conversations, but football is very simple, you have to deal with the various moments of the season.

 

“You always talk about tactics, but you should make it clear to young Coaches that football is also practice and not just theory. I grew up with Giovanni Galeone as my Coach. There are those who explain football and those who talk about football.

 

“A team that wins seven titles in a row has no issues. Football is like Monopoly, you don’t know what card you’re going to draw. I have a completely different view of football to you.”

 

Pundit Mario Sconcerti commented the Coach seemed “tired” and that was the final straw.

 

“Unlike you, I am clear-headed. I have plenty of patience and I’ll wait for you all at the finish line.”

 

Allegri then stormed off, muttering about the standard of questions.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

 

             4-0

 

Medhi Benatia 56'

Douglas Costa 61'

Medhi Benatia 64

Nikola Kalinic (own goal) 76'

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Benatia: 'This is Juventus'

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121141/benatia-juventus

 

 

May 9, 2018

 

Medhi Benatia admits scoring a brace against Milan in the Coppa Italia Final helped make up for his Napoli error. “This is Juventus.”

 

The Bianconeri ran riot at the Stadio Olimpico this evening in a 4-0 victory.

 

“It’s pleasing to see our fans so happy, so proud of us. It was an important objective for this year, once again we gave an incredible response,” the defender told Rai Sport.

 

“Juve always do something special, it’s not the first time. This group of lads wrote their names in the history books of Italian football. We have a winning mentality, there is a great unity and we can continue.

 

“After my error on the marking for Kalidou Koulibaly, everyone said I was useless. I haven’t become fantastic now and I wasn’t useless then.

 

“After that mistake in the defeat to Napoli, I felt bad for a few days, but fortunately the lads completed the job and I thank them for being close to me. I gave my contribution, nothing more.”

 

The Serie A title should also be celebrated at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday, as they only need a point against Roma to secure the Scudetto.

 

“The Scudetto is the main target and I’ll be glad if we do it here, because I had an extraordinary campaign at Roma and it’s a special stadium for me.”

 

“When you see the likes of Buffon, Barzagli and Lichtsteiner, you realise that at Juve you never give up. This is Juve. We might be criticised for not playing beautiful football, but we had over 90 points in Serie A and the Coppa Italia for the fourth year running.”

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

"They take the points away. Italy’s problem is also silence"

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121164/adl-‘i’ll-meet-sarri-next-week’

 

 

May 10, 2018

 

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis hopes Coach Maurizio Sarri will stay and confirms “we have an appointment for next week”.

 

Barring an unprecedented set of results in the final two games, the Partenopei will once again miss out to Juventus in the Scudetto race.

 

That has led to speculation that this represents the end of a cycle, with the Coach and some players to move on in the summer.

 

“Will Sarri be here for pre-season? I hope so,” De Laurentiis said in the Press conference to announce the squad’s training retreat in Trentino.

 

“I clearly have fewer doubts than you if you’re asking that question, but I can’t hold anyone by force.

 

“We have an appointment next week. Now we have to prepare for the away game [with Sampdoria], there’s travel and not much time.

 

“That’s why we’ve got an appointment for next week. But don’t worry, I’m calm.

 

“Is he the right Coach? I chose him myself, against most people’s advice…

 

“Relationships are always about give and take, it’s never one-sided. I don’t think we can complain about the football story of the past three years, he’s built a nice style, hailed by everyone abroad.

 

“There are many who would like to imitate him but it’s really difficult, so we’re all grateful.”

 

De Laurentiis did, however, appear to aim a barb at his Coach.

 

“We also won before with players of a lower level, a third of the salary - maybe even a quarter. We came second with Mazzarri.

 

“Maybe the points we got before were different, even with Rafa Benitez.

 

“There are people who talk about bad relations with me but I can tell you that’s false. Mazzarri was here for four years, Benitez had a contract for two years with an option for another that I never thought he’d exercise because he was struggling being away from his family.

 

“We came fifth because of a few penalties, we didn’t do badly.

 

“When I took Sarri they put posters up around Naples saying I was an idiot and I didn’t react. Then after four games Sarri started an exceptional ride.

 

“We were a bit drained when we got to March and April [this season] because we had the Champions League preliminaries. We started early, so there was always a risk of that.

 

“Does Sarri want to leave? You don’t know Sarri, he’s devoted to his work and nothing else. It’s even difficult for his family to talk to him, so I try to interfere as little as possible.

 

“Then there comes a time when we have to talk, January for example.”

 

The President was then asked if Napoli deserved the Scudetto this year.

 

“Let’s see if we win this Sunday and next Sunday. In that case, can we not say we should have had eight points more?

 

“In that case we’ll tell off the people who created this mess, so the mess won’t happen again next year.

 

“The distance is six points, so if we can maintain that until the last day then, if eight points were stolen, I can say the Scudetto was Napoli’s and they took it from us.

 

“There was the non-application of VAR, the questionable behaviour of the referees…

 

“Did they take them [the points] away or not? Or can’t we say that out of fear? Italy’s problem is also silence.”   

 

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

 

             4-0

 

Medhi Benatia 56'

Douglas Costa 61'

Medhi Benatia 64

Nikola Kalinic (own goal) 76'

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Buffon consoles Donnarumma

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121163/buffon-consoles-donnarumma

 

 

May 10, 2018

 

Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon reportedly consoled Milan’s Gigio Donnarumma after his mistakes - “you still have 20 years ahead of you”.

 

The 19-year-old made two howlers leading to goals in yesterday’s Coppa Italia final, allowing Douglas Costa’s strike to slip through his hands before dropping the ball at the feet of Medhi Benatia.

 

The youngster was visibly devastated as he walked off the pitch at the end of the match, and CalcioNews24 reports that his opposite number consoled him.

 

Buffon is said to have reminded Donnarumma “you still have 20 years ahead of you”, telling him not to dwell on his mistakes at the Olimpico.

 

The veteran is expected to retire at the end of the season, and Donnarumma has been touted as his heir in the national team.

[Socrates 7962]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    JUVENTUS - MILAN       ..........

 

 

             4-0

 

Medhi Benatia 56'

Douglas Costa 61'

Medhi Benatia 64

Nikola Kalinic (own goal) 76'

 

 

 

 

FINAL

 

Wednesday, may 9th 2018 - 9:00 p.m. CET 

8.00 p.m. UK time - 7.00 p.m. GMT
Olimpico Stadium, Rome
Referee: Antonio Damato

 

 

 

 

Bernardeschi: Juve still hungry

 

 

https://www.football-italia.net/121158/berna-juve-still-hungry

 

 

May 10, 2018

 

Federico Bernardeschi admits ‘you never forget your first’ after winning the Coppa Italia with Juventus but warns their rivals ‘we still have a lot to eat’.

 

Bernardeschi won the first major trophy his career on Wednesday as Juve thrashed Milan 4-0 to pick up their fourth consecutive Coppa.

 

“What can I say, lads? You never forget your first. Nothing could be more true!” wrote the winger on Instagram.

 

“It’s my first career silverware, and only now do I really realise what it means. I understand what it means to share such joy with a group, a team, a FAMILY like this.

 

“I consider myself lucky to have won my first trophy alongside these teammates and friends on the pitch, in front of our fantastic fans, suffering, struggling and, above all, celebrating TOGETHER!

 

“A few lines to thank everyone: I’m grateful for what you’ve all given me up to now, for what you give me every day and for what I already know you’ll give me.

 

“I also really want to thank those who are always by our side, every day, support us and help us away from the spotlight. You are also behind our victories!

 

“How great is it to win, lads? Appetite comes with eating and JUVE, hungry, still have a lot [to eat]! PROUD OF US!”