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SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri Sampdoria Boss Determined To Spoil Juventus Celebrations May 1, 2015 Sampdoria coach Sinisa Mihajlovic has called on the fans to play their part in halting Juventus’ procession towards the Scudetto. Any positive result for the Bianconeri would see them crowned champions at the Luigi Ferraris although Sampdoria are determined to put the champagne on ice for the moment. Speaking to the media before the game, the Serbian said: “In recent times, we have had some problems but against Juventus we will be able to deploy the best striker in our history: the fans of Sampdoria. “I ask you to take to the field with us. I am convinced that together with determination, character and that bit of luck, we can postpone the celebrations of Juventus. They deserve the title and can rightly celebrate it in Turin – but not in our ground. “I do not expect Juventus to be distracted because over the past four years, they have greatly improved their mentality. We definitely have to play it as our most important game of the season – for the position, the morale and the opponent we face. They need a point, but we need three.” The former Fiorentina coach also insisted that his overachievers have been the surprise package of the season so far as they find themselves in a great position to qualify for Europe in 2015/16 but would not be drawn on whether or not he will be at the helm for it if they do so. Mihajlovic added: “I would say that Samp have been the surprise of the season. We are fifth with five games to go and we will continue playing right until the end. Our recent results show that all teams have ups and downs but we just have to focus on ourselves and our goals. I always believe in us. “My future? I have never said that I am leaving because I do not know myself. I know football though and know that newspapers need to be filled. I am sure that this does not impact the performances of the team.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Llorente: ‘Unique opportunity in CL’ May 1, 2015 Fernando Llorente believes Juventus’ Champions League semi-final with Real Madrid represents a ‘unique opportunity’. The Bianconeri can wrap up a fourth consecutive Scudetto this weekend, and while Llorente sees that as a great achievement, the Spaniard admits that Europe is where the season will be judged. “We have to wrap up the title as soon as possible so that we can focus solely on Real Madrid,” Llorente told Spanish newspaper As. “In truth, it’s a dream for us to play a semi-final with the chance of going to Berlin. “People seem used to us winning Serie A now, but the fact is that it’s not easy. But what will change the way the season is viewed is the semi-final, it’s a unique opportunity for us. “We really hope we can play two great games, we know how good Real Madrid are up-front, and we can’t afford any errors.” Llorente has found playing time harder to come by in the latter half of the season, being ousted from the team by compatriot Alvaro Morata. Despite this, the Spanish international is happy for this teammate. “He and I are competing for a place. I’ve tried to help him as much as I could, and he’s adapted very quickly. “He’s alert, and he’s having a great season. It’s normal that he had difficulties at the beginning, as I did myself. It’s a different game here in Italy, but he’s giving a lot to the team. “We are different, Allegri has several options depending on the opposition.”

SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri Allegri: Juventus Want To Win Scudetto Before Turning To Real Madrid Match May 1, 2015 Massimiliano Allegri wants his Juventus side to rediscover their away form and secure a fourth consecutive Scudetto before turning their attentions to Tuesday’s clash with Real Madrid. The Bianconeri only need a point away to Sampdoria on Saturday evening to secure the league title but Allegri will rest certain personnel with Real visiting the Juventus Stadium on Tuesday for the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final. Carlos Tevez, Andrea Pirlo and Giorgio Chiellini are expected to be on the bench at the Stadio Ferraris but Allegri insists the squad is focused on Sampdoria. “Right now there is the desire to clinch the title,” Allegri told the press. “The players are well rested and will be prepared to give their best on the pitch. The game comes at a time when we have been poor away and strong at home. “We need to be more purposeful and have the right attitude if we want to have a good match. “After two negative results in Parma and against Torino, we need to improve and then we can think about the Champions League.” Allegri spoke positively about the likelihood of having Paul Pogba back after a long spell on the sidelines for Juventus’ first Champions League semi-final for 12 years. However, the former AC Milan coach was coy on the prospect of the Turin giants completing a treble this campaign. “The assessments of Pogba made by the doctors have been good and optimistic,” the 47-year-old coach said. “It is hoped he can return to the squad and play a part against Real Madrid. “We still have the Coppa Italia final to fight for as well but for now we’ll focus on winning the championship. “Winning a treble is hard but everyone has to be happy about what we have achieved up to this point.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri Sampdoria V Juventus – Preview: Time To Uncork Scudetto Champagne May 1, 2015 Juventus travel to the Stadio Ferraris, where they will meet Sampdoria on Saturday afternoon, looking to seal their fourth consecutive Scudetto. Despite their shock loss in the Derby della Mole against Torino, Juventus travel to Sampdoria only needing a point, following their impressive 3-2 win over Fiorentina in midweek. As for Sampdoria, they will hope they can further delay the celebrations for Massimiliano Allegri and his men. Indeed, after Torino and Lazio wins kept the Scudetto champagne on ice, Juventus will be eager to finally settle the Scudetto race and put the first trophy of a possible treble in the bag. Sampdoria on the other hand, will have aspirations of May auguring better things, after ending the month of April winless. Sampdoria will have a tough task overturning their fortunes however. The last time Samp defeated Juventus was in the 2012-13 season, when they completed a league double over the Bianconeri. Since then however, Juventus have won twice and drew 1-1 earlier in the season. With Juventus preparing an important first-leg Champions League semi final against Real Madrid on Tuesday, Allegri will be rotating his lineup. The suspended Patrice Evra will be replaced by Simone Padoin; Carlos Tevez, Andrea Pirlo and Giorgio Chiellini will be on the bench. Alessandro Matri gets the nod up top. Sampdoria will welcome the Bianconeri in Sinisa Mihajlovic’s new-found attacking spirit, with news that all three of Stefano Okaka, Samuel Eto’o and Luis Muriel will feature. Eder remains unavailable through injury. Despite Sampdoria’s recent attacking intents — in their chase for the elusive Europa League spot — it is individual errors that have hamstrung them the most. Alfred Duncan scored an own goal in the draw against AC Milan; Lorenzo De Silvestri had a game to forget against Napoli, gifting a goal to Lorenzo Insigne and then giving away a penalty. In that same game, goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano allowed Manolo Gabbiadini’s shot to slip under him. Finally, in midweek, Afriyle Acquah got himself sent off for a second yellow card offense in the draw against Hellas Verona. Form Guide: Sampdoria (D-L-D-D-L-W) Juventus (W-L-W-L-W-W) Expected Starting XIs Sampdoria: Viviano; De Silvestri, Munoz, Romagnoli, Regini; Palombo, Obiang; Muriel, Soriano, Eto’o; Okaka. Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Padoin; Vidal, Marchisio, Sturaro; Pereyra; Morata, Matri. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri Sampdoria v Juventus: Preview May 1, 2015 Juventus need only a single point from their trip to Sampdoria to clinch a fourth straight Serie A title - but the small matter of a Champions League semi-final meeting with Real Madrid offers no small distraction. A hard-fought 3-2 victory over Fiorentina maintained Juve's 14-point lead over Lazio and a point will be enough to secure the Scudetto on Saturday given the Bianconeri have a superior head-to-head record against the capital club. Head coach Massimiliano Allegri knows Samp are no pushovers having observed the fact Juve visited the Marassi five times without winning before they broke their duck with a 1-0 triumph last season. He would ideally pick his strongest team but admits he will have to rest certain key players with European champions Real visiting Turin only three days later. Allegri told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport: ``We need to take it one step at a time and go slowly. It will be difficult. ``We'll have to be at our best to get a point in Genoa, we've lost our last two away games in the league. ``Players will be rested - some will be saved for the Champions League so it's possible (Andrea) Pirlo won't play - but we'll still do whatever we can to beat Samp. ``First we will try to win the championship and then we'll think about the semi-final. We've already had a good season and it could become a great one.'' Forced out of contention due to injury are Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo and Martin Caceres, while French midfielder Paul Pogba, missing since March with a thigh injury, will return to training the day after the Real clash. Afriyie Acquah is suspended for Samp, who are also missing injured trio Eder, Fabrizio Cacciatore and Luka Djordjevic. The Ligurians are battling to hold onto fifth place and Europa League football but lost momentum in a 1-1 midweek draw with Hellas Verona. Boss Sinisa Mihajlovic told the Corriere dello Sport: ``It's too bad because the lads did their best, playing the game in the right way. ``We wanted to win at all costs, but unfortunately, it turned out badly. ``But if we continue to play like that, certainly over the last few games, then we have every chance of getting some good results.'' http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Allegri: ‘Tough decisions needed’ May 1, 2015 Juventus Coach Massimiliano Allegri says ‘tough decisions’ must be taken to curb violence in Italian stadiums. The Bianconeri will play their next two home games in front of an empty Curva Sud after violence in the derby with Torino, which saw 11 Granata supporters hospitalised after a paper bomb was thrown from the away section. In addition, the Old Lady’s team bus was assaulted by Toro fans, with rocks smashing a window. “I think that in Italy we have to start taking some tough decisions,” Allegri told Sky when asked about the violence. “When you take tough decisions, someone will always be unhappy, but if we want to solve these kind of problems I don’t think it’s enough to close the curva. “That means 10,000 people pay for the actions of a few idiots, in particular a few violent and dangerous idiots. “It’s also a social issue, because if you’re assaulting a bus while carrying a child in your arms, I don’t think that’s a very good example for children. “We need to change in Italy, and at the moment we’re not a country which likes to change things. Making is always very difficult and important.”

SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri 'Juventus, match ball tomorrow' May 1, 2015 Max Allegri says tomorrow's game against Sampdoria will represent the 'first match ball of the season', and expects to 'close matters over the Scudetto'. Juventus, who lead Serie A by 14 points, have the opportunity to win the championship several weeks in advance as they travel to Genoa to face the Blucerchiati. “Tomorrow is the first real match ball of the season,” Allegri admitted in conversation with Sky Sport Italia. “Last Wednesday it wasn't down to us, we needed Lazio to lose. “So tomorrow we'll have to play well and get a positive result, either a draw or a victory. Besides, we recently lost twice, both times when playing away, against Parma and Torino. “So we must close matters over the Scudetto and concentrate on the Champions League semi-final. “Right now our focus is on the championship. Our players are well rested, so tomorrow we'll be fielding our best formation to face Sampdoria. Though it's possible that [Andrea] Pirlo will sit this one out. “It's not going to be an easy game. They may have been having a rough time recently, but when they play at home their squad is fearsome. “Tomorrow we'll need a positive, aggressive attitude. We need to act like a team that wants to play a strong game in terms of intensity, but most importantly in terms of our technique, as always. We must never stop looking for ways to improve. “So this is the type of game we'll need to play tomorrow, but above all else we need to take home the points we need for the Scudetto.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri Sampdoria vs. Juventus: Team News May 1, 2015 Having narrowly defeated Fiorentina on Wednesday night, Juventus travel to Genoa to go head-to-head with Sampdoria on Saturday. The Bianconeri need just a single point in order to claim their fourth consecutive Serie A title and will surely be looking to wrap that up before Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid. Max Allegri is clearly enjoying the full faith of his players, with captain Gigi Buffon telling reporters his feelings about the coach shortly after that win over the Viola, per Juventus' official website: We’re extremely close to crossing the finish line. We’ve done well up until now and even more so this evening, because it wasn’t an easy game considering what we have coming up on Saturday and especially Tuesday. Allegri’s been a big factor behind our season. He guides us, gives us ideas and manages the group. He inherited a strong squad, but whoever replaced [Antonio] Conte would have had a tough task ahead of them. With that fixture against Real Madrid on the horizon, Allegri is likely to rotate his starting lineup, with a number of reserve players expected to be given the nod. He told Sky Italia (h/t Football Italia) that he believes those players can deliver: “Players like Simone Padoin, Stefano Sturaro, Kingsley Coman and Simone Pepe have proved decisive when coming off the bench. During the course of a campaign, these are the players who become crucial.” They might not need to be at their best against Sampdoria, who are struggling of late and have failed to win in each of their last five league outings. Predicted Lineups Sampdoria: (4-3-3) Viviano; De Silvestri, Munoz, Romagnoli, Regini; Mesbah, Obiang, Duncan; Eto’o, Okaka, Muriel. Juventus: (4-3-2-1) Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, De Ceglie; Marchisio, Padoin, Sturaro; Pereyra; Matri, Llorente. Player to Watch Since Sampdoria’s decision to sell Manolo Gabbiadini to Napoli back in January, much of the attacking burden has fallen on Eder. The Brazil-born striker has responded well, recording team highs in both goals and assists, earning a controversial call up to the Italy national team during their last round of fixtures. Now ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, Samuel Eto’o will be expected to fill the void for the Genoese side. He has scored just once since arriving from Everton, netting in the 1-1 draw with Milan at San Siro, showing his love for the big occasion remains. With the Bianconeri coasting their way to a fourth consecutive Serie A title, the former Inter and Barcelona star would relish the chance to spoil the party, and the Juventus defence will need to be aware of him at all times. Key Battle Perhaps the most likely area for this game to be won or lost is midfield, where Angelo Palombo can expect a busy afternoon. The Sampdoria captain remains the beating heart of his team, with those around him constantly looking to him for leadership, particularly in difficult matches in which they are in danger of being overrun. That could well be the case on Saturday, with Stefano Sturaro expected to start for the Bianconeri as they rest others ahead of the forthcoming match against Real Madrid. As discussed in this previous column, the 22-year-old has been handed a wonderful opportunity with the Bianconeri, and it is one of which he seems determined to take full advantage. This fixture holds added meaning for Sturaro, who moved the relatively short distance from his childhood home in Sanremo to join Sampdoria’s bitter local rivals, Genoa, back in 2008, so he will enjoy the chance to once again defeat the port city’s other team. Odds (via Odds Shark) Away win: 129/100 Home win: 227/100 Draw: 43/20 http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Juventus prepare Allegri renewal May 1, 2015 Juventus could be looking to renew Max Allegri's contract before the end of the month, according to reports, with a new deal until 2017. The new Coach had some big shoes to fill this season after the departure of Antonio Conte, but results so far appear to vindicate his backers. The Bianconeri have a virtual hold on the Scudetto and are contenders for the Champions League and the Coppa Italia, leading the club to reward the work of the Coach. According to Calciomercato.it, the Old Lady will be renewing Allegri's contract at the end of the month, with a new deal that will guarantee his place until 2017.

Juventus star Paul Pogba could be fit to face Real Madrid at Bernabeu May 1, 2015 Paul Pogba is set to return to training on Wednesday and could yet appear in the second leg of Juventus' Champions League semifinal clash with Real Madrid. Pogba has been out of action since tearing his hamstring in the first leg of Juve's Champions League quarterfinal tie with Borussia Dortmund. An absence of 50 days was forecast in mid-March, and he is on course to make his return exactly 50 days on from that MRI scan next week. A further scan on Wednesday revealed the 22-year-old is making the expected progress. JuventusFC ✔@juventusfc Risonanza magnetica per @paulogba: buona evoluzione della lesione muscolare "The MRI scan taken by Paul Pogba this afternoon revealed that the player has made further progress in his recovery from a torn thigh muscle," a statement on the Serie A club's website read. "The player will undergo a personalised recovery regime before potentially returning to full training with the group on Wednesday." His return will come as a boost to the Bianconeri as they seek to reach the Champions League final for the first time since 2003. They host Real Madrid on Tuesday with the decisive second leg at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu the following Wednesday, giving Pogba a week to prove his fitness.

SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri Sampdoria - Juventus Preview: Win or draw gives visitors fourth straight title Massimiliano Allegri's side will win their fourth successive Serie A title with either a win or draw this weekend. May 1, 2015 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon hailed coach Massimiliano Allegri ahead of Saturday's trip to Sampdoria, where they need just a draw to clinch their fourth successive Serie A title. Allegri - sacked by Milan in January of last year - was given the tough ask of trying to replace Antonio Conte in July when the latter stepped down unexpectedly. Conte had led Juventus to a hat-trick of Serie A crowns and Allegri's appointment was met with widespread scepticism, as 300 fans protested against the decision at the club's training complex. But all is forgotten with the club's supporters after another stunning season, which could see Juventus win a historic treble as they open a Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid on Tuesday and face Lazio in June's Coppa Italia showpiece. Juve lead second-placed Lazio by 14 points with five games remaining and have a better head-to-head record than their rivals. That means a draw or win would clinch the Scudetto this weekend. That is the ideal scenario for Juve, who can then focus all their energies into the clash against Madrid, and before the road trip, Buffon took time out to praise Allegri. "We're extremely close to crossing the finish line," he said. "We've done well up until now. "Allegri's been a big factor behind our season. He guides us, gives us ideas and manages the group. "He inherited a strong squad, but whoever replaced Conte would have had a tough task ahead of them." Juventus responded to a shock derby defeat to Torino by coming from behind to see off Fiorentina 3-2 on Wednesday, largely thanks to Carlos Tevez's double. The Argentina forward now has 20 Serie A goals - two more than any other player. Juve have failed to win any of their last three away matches in all competitions, with a gutsy goalless draw at Monaco - that secured their progression to the last four of the Champions League - sandwiched by Serie A defeats at Parma and Torino. Paul Pogba (hamstring) is on the comeback trail but this match will come too soon for the France midfielder. Sampdoria boss Sinisa Mihajlovic has seen his side enjoy a strong campaign but they have dropped to fifth after a winless run of five. They threw away a lead in a 4-2 loss at Napoli on Sunday and repeated the dose in a 1-1 stalemate against Hellas Verona on Wednesday. Mihajlovic could also see a record of his own fall. The Serbian scored 28 Serie A free-kicks during an excellent career at Roma, Sampdoria, Lazio and Inter. Juventus' Andrea Pirlo is hot on his heels with 27, though. Sampdoria did the double over Juventus during the 2012-13 campaign, but have not won since, with the earlier meeting this season ending in a 1-1 draw in Turin. Manolo Gabbiadini's 51st-minute effort cancelled out Patrice Evra's opener in December. OPTA FACTS This will be the 130th meeting in Serie A between Sampdoria and Juventus: the Old Lady lead by 64 wins to 27. Sampdoria have conceded 215 goals to Juventus, only Inter have scored more against the Blucerchiati so far in Italy (241). Samp have won only two of their last 12 home games against Juve, losing six times. Over the last three seasons, the second leg has always repeated the result of the first - Samp and Juve drew in Turin back in December. Samp are winless in their last five league games (D3 L2). Juve have alternated between a win and a defeat over their last five league fixtures. Juve have lost their last two away games in the league - last time they lost three in a row on the road was in April 2010. Simone Pepe's first goal for Juve was right against Sampdoria in September 2010. LAST FIVE MATCHES Sampdoria D L D D L 4/29/15 - Sampdoria 1 - 1 Hellas Verona 4/26/15 - Napoli 4 - 2 Sampdoria 4/18/15 - Sampdoria 0 - 0 Cesena 4/12/15 - Milan 1 - 1 Sampdoria 4/4/15 - Fiorentina 2 - 0 Sampdoria Juventus W L D W W 4/29/15 - Juventus 3 - 2 Fiorentina 4/26/15 - Torino 2 - 1 Juventus 4/22/15 - Monaco 0 - 0 Juventus 4/18/15 - Juventus 2 - 0 Lazio 4/14/15 - Juventus 1 - 0 Monaco HEAD TO HEAD 12/14/14 - Juventus 1 - 1 Sampdoria 1/18/14 - Juventus 4 - 2 Sampdoria 8/24/13 - Sampdoria 0 - 1 Juventus 5/18/13 - Sampdoria 3 - 2 Juventus 1/6/13 - Juventus 1 - 2 Sampdoria http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 - 6:00 p.m. Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genoa Referee: Paolo Valeri Preview: Sampdoria vs. Juventus Apr 30, 2015 Juventus will win their fourth consecutive Serie A title if they earn at least a point against Sampdoria on Saturday evening. The Bianconeri have once again shown their dominance in Italy this season, but their opponents are also looking for vital points in their bid for a European spot. Sampdoria It has been a torrid month for Sampdoria, who have seen their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League all but ended and have also lost their grip on securing a Champions League spot. They had enjoyed a fine spell in March and had won all four of their league matches, including memorable victories over heavyweights Roma and Inter Milan. Their good form was brought to an end at the start of April following a 2-0 defeat at European rivals Fiorentina, and it signalled the beginning of a five-game winless run. The most recent of those fixtures came on Wednesday evening, when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Hellas Verona. They had taken the lead thanks to a goal from Lorenzo De Silvestri just minutes after being reduced to 10 men, but a quick-fire equaliser from Luca Toni made it another night to forget for Sinisa Mihajlovic and his players. The Blucerchiati are still fifth in the league table and in command of a European place, but their city rivals Genoa are just a point behind them, with Fiorentina and the in-form duo of Inter Milan and Torino also closing in quickly. As well as their recent dip in form, they have also suffered a major blow, with highly-rated striker Eder ruled out until the end of the season due to a knee injury that he sustained in last weekend's defeat to Napoli. Recent form: W L D D L D Juventus Juventus are just a point away from retaining their title and winning a record 31st Scudetto, as their superiority of Italian football shows no signs of ending. At the start of the season, many people were tipping Rudi Garcia's Roma to be their main challengers for the Serie A trophy, but they have made light work of their rivals to open up a 14-point lead at the top with a month left to play. The title could have been secured twice already this week, but on Sunday they fell to a shock 2-1 defeat against Torino, while on Wednesday evening a 3-2 win over Fiorentina was not enough to see them crowned champions, due to second-placed Lazio's victory over Parma. Massimiliano Allegri will be desperate for his team to finally wrap up the league this weekend, with the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid taking place next Tuesday. The Juventus manager has made a number of changes to his starting lineup in recent weeks before crucial European games, but with the title on the line it is likely that he will play his strongest side. It is that rotation policy that has seen the Bianconeri lose two of their last four league matches, having suffered just one defeat previously all season. They have also let in four goals in their past two games, which is surprising considering that they had conceded just one goal in the 10 matches that came beforehand. As well as winning the Scudetto this weekend, there could be another record broken at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, as Andrea Pirlo is just one free kick away from equalling Sampdoria manager Mihajlovic's Serie A tally of 28 goals from set pieces. Recent form in Serie A: W W L W L W Recent form (all competitions): L W W D L W Team News Sampdoria will have to make do without Afriyie Acquah, who was sent off during the draw against Verona. He is expected to be replaced by Roberto Soriano, while Samuel Eto'o is also pushing for a start. Meanwhile, Juventus are able to welcome back Leonardo Bonucci following his recent suspension. Arturo Vidal should also return to the starting lineup and Fernando Llorente may keep his place after scoring in midweek. A spot up front seems almost certain for Carlos Tevez, who scored twice against Fiorentina to take his tally to 28 goals this season. Paul Pogba is ahead of schedule with his recovery from a hamstring injury, but he is not expected to feature until next week's Champions League match. Sampdoria possible starting lineup: Viviano, De Silvestri, Romagnoli, Silvestre, Mesbah, Obiang, Palombo, Soriano, Muriel, Eto'o, Okaka Juventus possible starting lineup: Buffon, Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Pereyra, Tevez, Llorente Head To Head In this season's reverse fixture, Sampdoria came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw against Juventus in Turin. Sampdoria generally have a good record against Juventus and they have won three of their last eight meetings with the Bianconeri, including two wins in the last five games. There is also plenty of excitement whenever these teams play each other and there have been 30 goals scored in the last nine games between them. We say: Sampdoria 1-2 Juventus With the title up for grabs on Saturday evening, Juventus will be fired up and eager to get the result they need. It would be a huge confidence boost for the Bianconeri ahead of their tie with Real Madrid to be crowned champions and although Sampdoria are a good team, we don't think that they will be able to stop Allegri's side from picking up all three points. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Allegri bans Scudetto party Apr 30, 2015 Max Allegri has banned Scudetto celebrations if Juventus get the necessary point at Sampdoria on Saturday. The Bianconeri need just one point to secure their fourth consecutive Serie A title and could well get it on Saturday at Marassi. However, the fans are banned from making the trip to Genoa following crowd trouble in the Turin Derby and the game is just days before Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final with Real Madrid. It’s therefore reported that Coach Allegri has ordered no Scudetto celebrations this weekend, as he doesn’t want any distractions going into the showdown with Carlo Ancelotti’s side. “It would also be better to celebrate on home turf against Cagliari next Saturday,” he was quoted as saying. That means no big dinners, no nights out clubbing and no more than a glass of champagne each over the weekend. Against Cagliari the Juventus Stadium will not be full anyway, because the Curva received a two-match ban for the incidents around the Derby della Mole.

Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus agree €80 million fee for Pogba EXCLUSIVE: The Ligue 1 champions have made the first move in the race to sign the in-demand midfielder. Apr 30, 2015 Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus have agreed an €80million fee for France international Paul Pogba . Goal understands PSG’s offer has been accepted by Juve, for whom the 22-year-old has emerged as a key player since leaving Manchester United in 2012. But even though the Ligue 1 champions appear to have jumped the queue in the race to sign Pogba there remains no guarantee he will swap Turin for his native Paris. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi met with Pogba and his representatives in Monte Carlo earlier this week but a financial package for the player was not agreed. And it is understood Pogba is willing to bide his time and evaluate other offers which he believes will come his way this summer. Al-Khelaifi confirmed on Tuesday he had spoken to the player but admitted they would face competition for his signature. He told the French media: “Why did I talk with Pogba? Because he’s a great talent, he’s French, from Paris even. That said all the big clubs want him.” Juve sporting director Giuseppe Marotta responded following Wednesday night’s game with Fiorentina by saying: “It was an occasional meeting. They spoke about football. We don't want to sell Paul.” Despite Marotta's stance, Juve accept every player has a price although the deal could hinge on the involvement of Pogba's agent Mino Raiola. The representative is known to have a strong relationship with the boards of both clubs and helped broker a new five-year deal for his client in October 2014. He is also the agent of a number of PSG players, most notably Zlatan Ibrahimovic. It is not thought Financial Fair Play will hinder a move should Pogba opt to join PSG as the club are expected to sell several squad members to balance the books, with the likes of Yohan Cabaye and Ezequiel Lavezzi under threat. Should they beat off the competition to sign Pogba, it would represent a major coup for PSG and their owners, Qatar Sports Investments. Although dominant domestically, PSG have failed to make the breakthrough in the Champions League and were knocked out at the quarter-final stage to Barcelona this season.

Llorente: Juventus can shock Real Madrid The Spanish attacker is confident the Serie A champions can cause an upset and was delighted with his goal in the 3-2 win over Fiorentina on Wednesday. Apr 30, 2015 Fernando Llorente believes Juventus have what it takes to spring a surprise against Real Madrid in the semi-finals of the Champions League. The Serie A champions last made it to the final of the competition in 2002-03, when they were beaten by AC Milan on penalties, and Llorente has set his sights on shocking Madrid. "We will need a perfect performance against Real Madrid in the Champions League," Llorente told reporters. "I am confident that we are more than capable of causing them a few problems, though." Llorente featured from the start in Juventus' 3-2 win over Fiorentina on Wednesday for the first time since the 1-0 loss against Parma on April 11. He scored once as Massimiliano Allegri's men edged one step closer to the Serie A title and was delighted with his return to the starting XI. "I hadn't played in a while and Wednesday's goal was important for me. "We were four points off the title, now it's just one. We'll look to wrap it up as soon as possible and then we'll think about the Champions League. "Could I start against Madrid? I scored last year against them, but the coach has many options. I'm ready to give my all if I get the nod."

Pogba could face Real Madrid - Allegri The midfielder has been absent for the last month but should return to training next week ahead of the meeting with the Champions League holders. Apr 30, 2015 Massimiliano Allegri has revealed Paul Pogba could return for the first leg of Juventus' Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid. The midfielder has been absent since suffering a hamstring injury in the 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of the club's quarter-final tie. He was initially expected to be out of action for up to two months but is ahead of schedule with his recovery, meaning he may play a part against the Champions League holders. Allegri said: "Pogba? He’ll have another test on Thursday but I think all will be OK, meaning he should join up with the team next week."

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA 3 - 2 Gonzalo Rodríguez (33'-Pen.) Fernando Llorente (36') Carlos Tévez (45'+) Carlos Tevez (70') Josip Iličič (90') Wednesday, April 29th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Luca Banti Juventus 3-2 Fiorentina: Carlos Tévez grabs Scudetto with one hand Juventus need one more point to officialy seal the fourth consecutive Scudetto after Tévez's brace and Llorente's long-sought goal overcame Fiorentina. Apr 30, 2015 A win for Juventus and a draw for Lazio. A win for Juventus and a draw for Lazio. A win for Juventus and a draw for Lazio. A win for Juventus and a draw for Lazio. Verdammnt! Verdammnt Lazio... hanging in there, postponing the title celebrations. It would have been the perfect timing and the ideal venue, winning the 33rd Scudetto and the fourth in a row, after the match No. 100 played at the Juventus Stadium — which surprisingly had quite a few empty seats. At least the festive day has not been marred by the nasty Gigliati, even if it is hard to believe they would have dared to get another positive result after what happened last time. A single point is needed now to officially secure the title. Not that you didn’t already know this, but with five games left to play, it is quite a handy situation for one to find himself in and it definitely requires a bit of showing off. Just ask Carlos Tévez and he will tell you. Sealing the Scudetto without making Rudi Garcia look like a fool won’t do. Max Allegri continued to reshuffle the pack with great effect, making no less than six different changes to the line-up used for the Derby della Mole. Stephan Lichtsteiner was the only player who kept his place in the defensive compartment. Central backs Angelo Ogbonna and Leonardo Bonucci, who had a little nightmare in the previous game, were replaced by Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini, while Patrice Evra regained his place at left back to the detriment of Simone Padoin. Claudio Marchisio had served his suspension and marked his 300th appearance with a place among starters, with Arturo Vidal benched. The upfront pair Alvaro Morata and Alessandro Matri also made way for the former oh so effective duo from last season Carlos Tévez – Fernando Llorente. Perhaps, surprisingly, it actually was again effective with the Spanish-speaking strikers sharing the goals between them. Plenty of moves to keep the squad fresh and fully fit ahead of the vital clash with You-Know-Who. Hopefully, the title party taking shape at the horizon will not create too much discomfort within the Bianconeri ranks. This, indeed, if Juventus get that single point in their trip to Genoa where Sampdoria, winless in five games, await. And it looks like they will. MATCH SUMMARY After a small misunderstanding between referee Luca Banti and Tévez over the first kick of the game, the action unfolded, but rather slowly, with a disciplined Fiorentina managing to close the ball down quickly, away from their own box. Juventus almost had a shot on target after quarter an hour of playing, but Marchisio’s powerful attempt was involuntarily blocked by Tévez. A few minutes later, Llorente pivoted brilliantly with Gonzalo Rodriguez closely marking him inside the opposite box but the Spaniard had no venom in his shot and it was easily saved by Neto. The stream decided then to botch things up and by the time it was fixed... well, nothing had happened. However, it wasn’t long until a few moments of pressure rewarded Fiorentina with the opener in the 33rd minute. Pirlo was easily tricked by Joaquin right at the edge of Juventus’ area and the bearded master tripped the Spaniard down, forcing referee Banti to point to the spot. Viola captain Rodriguez stepped up to take the penalty and converted it perfectly, giving Gianluigi Buffon no chance. All Hell broke loose afterwards and with great effect for Juventus who managed to equalise in the 36th minute. Neto, who was well out of his position, brought Sturaro down with a silly foul on the right side of the box. From the resulting free-kick — a shorter corner – Pirlo delivered a sublime cross for Llorente who headed the ball past an idle Neto. Three minutes later, another great corner-kick delivered by Pirlo – and I write this while still in utter astonishment — almost lead to the second goal, but Evra directed his header straight at the goalkeeper who showed good reflexes to pull the save. With three minutes before the break, Lichtsteiner managed a fantastic last-ditch tackle to block Salah, whose attempt from close range was announcing danger for Buffon. Tévez gave Juventus the lead in the first minute of injury time with a sublimely placed header — although the way he hit the ball looked a bit weird. Evra had enough time to prepare his cross from more than 25 yards out and found El Apache in the box. The Argentine broke free of his marker and sent the ball past Neto who had no chance to keep it out. Allegri showed a sign of relief as the ball hit the net and headed straight for the locker rooms, probably also missing the chance to see Tévez playing the violin — Rudi, doing alright? The second half started in the same high tempo as it finished and the Gigliati launched themselves forward, but an early corner came to nothing. In the 55th minute, Gomez was presented with a decent chance but Evra cramped him enough and the German striker put his header wide. Appeals for a penalty were fruitless, for Gomez’s exasperation. Ten minutes later, Joaquin won the second penalty of the evening after a similar situation but with Chiellini the villain. Rodriguez faced Buffon again but put his shot wide of the post, sending Buffon and Allegri in exuberant celebrations. The miss suddenly proved even more costly for Fiorentina as Tévez doubled the hosts’ advantage in the 70th minute. From just inside Juventus’ own half, Marchisio delivered a fantastic ball over Viola’s defence for Tévez who beat the offside trap and made his way inside the box, placing a perfect shot at the far post from a tight angle past a fully-stretched Neto. Allegri reacted quickly after the goal and switched to a three-man defence, replacing Pereyra with Ogbonna. The substitution pretty much closed the game, as Fiorentina’s attacks were coming to a premature halt. With four minutes to go, a dialogue between Buffon and Alessandro Diamanti was more interesting than the game, as the two friends were shouting at each other, trying to make themselves heard over the chanting coming from the crowds. The friendliness of the pair was all charming but a football game was still left to be finished and Fiorentina reduced the deficit on the board in the 90th minute. Having just replaced Salah, Josip Ilicic stepped up to take a free-kick from just under 30 yards out and the Slovenian curled a tremendous ball over the wall and into the net, despite Buffon’s desperate efforts. The four minutes of extra time passed without any more problems for Juventus who sealed the win to move one point away from the fourth consecutive Scudetto. PLAYER RATINGS Buffon: 5.5 Could do nothing to prevent either of the goals, but was not really tested beside that Lichtsteiner: 6 Steady performance from the Swiss who kept Alonso quiet throughout, although his presence in attack was scarcely felt Barzagli: 6.5 The Wall put in a great display, dealing with the opposite attacking players with ease, while also very confident with the ball at his feet Chiellini: 5.5 Conceded the second penalty after a reckless challenge but had a decent performance overall Evra: 6.5 Great delivery to assist Tévez’s goal and could have also scored in the first half. Very alert in defending Marchisio: 7 Swept pretty much everything in midfield and distributed the ball around swiftly, with a brilliant long-ball played for the third goal Pirlo: 6 Uncharacteristically, delivered two fantastic crosses from set-pieces but wasn’t one of his best games, also conceding the penalty Sturaro: 6.5 Probably the first exceptional performance from him, before being forced off with injury. Very dynamic and an important defensive contribution. Pereyra: 6 Looked a bit out of form in the first part but managed to cover a lot of ground throughout, although ineffective in attack Tévez: 8 Bailed Juventus out once again with a phenomenal brace. Simply brilliant Llorente: 7 The Spaniard finally found the net again. Also decent hold-up and passing game from him Subs Vidal: 6 Replaced Pirlo after 56 minutes and added some extra muscles and speed to the midfield. Ogbonna: 6 Introduced to accommodate the 3-5-2 and did his job all right Padoin: N/A Played the last 12 minutes after replacing Sturaro but was barely involved Coach Allegri: 7 The rotations used recently have worked quite well and they also paid off against Fiorentina, with an inspired attacking partnership dealing with matters. Replacing Pirlo before the hour mark was a great decision, as was changing the system following Tévez’s second goal. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA 3 - 2 Gonzalo Rodríguez (33'-Pen.) Fernando Llorente (36') Carlos Tévez (45'+) Carlos Tevez (70') Josip Iličič (90') Wednesday, April 29th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Luca Banti Carlos Tevez Drags Juventus Closer To Serie A Title Apr 30, 2015 The Serie A leaders Juventus beat Fiorentina 3-2 on Wednesday but their title celebrations were delayed by Lazio’s 4-0 victory over a Parma side who are now certain to be relegated But Juve, who are 14 points clear with five matches to go, will be champions with a draw at Sampdoria on Saturday. As they prepared to host Fiorentina on Wednesday evening,Juventus knew that each stage of a remarkable treble was slowly coming within touching distance. A Champions League semi-final with Real Madrid looms large on the horizon, with the Coppa Italia final against Lazio to follow later next month. Both sides were coming off surprise defeats at the weekend, as the Viola had lost three on the bounce in Serie A, while the Bianconeri fell 2-1 to rivals Torino. Claudio Marchisio returned from suspension, but Leonardo Bonucci was banned with Paul Pogba, Martin Caceres, Kwadwo Asamoah and Romulo. Khouma Babacar and Giuseppe Rossi were out for the season. Fiorentina are the only side to have conquered the Juventus Stadium since Bayern Munich in April 2013, winning 2-1 here in the Coppa Italia semi-final last month. However, their most recent League victory here was 3-2 in March 2008. Juventus are the most prolific side in the opening 45 minutes of games so far this Serie A season, but it was the visitors that started brighter pressing the ball high up the pitch as well as being comfortable in possession. Gianluigi Buffon was untested though, as Juve recorded the first shot on target in the match after 20 minutes when Llorente rolled Rodriguez and forced Neto into a comfortable save. Fiorentina did take the lead from the penalty spot after Andrea Pirlo tripped Joaquin just inside the box sticking out his left leg when the wingback stepped outside him from a short corner. The Tuscan side was the only team in the top five European leagues to have failed to convert any of the previous four penalties awarded to them this season, but Rodriguez beat Buffon with a powerful right-footed strike high into the corner. Their lead only lasted for two minutes and 28 seconds as Fiorentina goalkeeper Neto was shown a yellow card after rushing outside his box to challenge Stefano Sturaro. Pirlo curled the resultant free-kick from near the corner flag on the left side into the centre of the box for Llorente to score with a header into the bottom corner. Patrice Evra then forced Neto to claw away a bullet header from close range after a Pirlo corner before turning provider, as Juventus turned the game around with a goal in the final action of the first-half. The 33-year-old fullback picked out Tevez with an excellent pass over the Viola defence and the Argentine scored for his fourth successive Serie A match at the Juventus Stadium with a looping header. Fiorentina gave nothing more away in the first third of the second half and even sniffed for a leveller on occasions. They thought they had been given the perfect opportunity to produce one in the 66th minute when Giorgio Chiellini felled Joaquin in the area. This time, however, Rodriguez made a mess of his spot-kick, sending the ball wide and inspiring much backslapping from Juve’s players. Tevez sensed blood and quickly doubled his side’s advantage with a fine strike in the 70th minute. Put through by Claudio Marchisio, the Argentine stormed into Neto’s box before picking his spot just inside the far post. With time running out it looked like Juve had done enough to rubber-stamp the three points that put them on the brink of a fourth straight title, but Fiorentina fancied reminding them that there would be no festivities just yet. Substitute Josip Ilicic aped set-piece master Pirlo with a searing free-kick that Gianluigi Buffon could only wave a fist at. Fiorentina have now lost each of their last four league matches for the first time since February 2005, whereas Juventus are now undefeated in their last 45 home matches in Serie A. Juventus remain 14 points clear of Lazio and will clinch a fourth successive title with a point at Sampdoria on Saturday. No matter what he does on the transfer market this summer, Beppe Marotta should be lauded for nabbing Carlos Tevez for such a small fee from Manchester City. The Argentine has been simply phenomenal this term and it keeps getting better as we approach the business end of this season. Gigi Buffon made his 529th appearance last night, moving him all alone into third place all time at the club while Claudio Marchisio recorded his 300th appearance, which was capped with another beautiful assist for Juve’s third goal. Andrea Barzagli produced a confident performance against Fiorentina but Giorgio Chiellini conceded a needless penalty in the second half. With Chiellini continually error-prone, it is perhaps not too far-fetched to suggest Allegri should consider sitting the 30-year-old for a period, particularly now that Andrea Barzagli has fully recovered from his own injury problems. It would be a bold move to drop the vice-captain, but if Allegri goes with a four-man defence against Real Madrid, a Bonucci-Barzagli pairing would see his two most in-form players take the field. Stefano Sturaro had an impressive game registering a team-high four tackles plus he was relentless and active throughout the night. Fernando Llorente gained some confidence by netting the equalizer and one must not forget that he does know a thing or two about scoring goals against Real Madrid. There was also plenty of food for thought ahead of that clash with the reigning European champions, and it will be interesting to see what decisions are made along the way. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11h4GTFi87s

Serie A - 15^ Giornata Ritorno - 2-5-2015 (ore 18:00) SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS - Sabato, 2 maggio 2015 - ore 18:00 Luigi Ferraris Stadium (Marassi), Genova Arbitro: Paolo Valeri Confronti ufficiali 122 - 113 (Serie A) - 9 (Coppa Italia) Vittorie Juventus 60 - 52 (Serie A) - 8 (Coppa Italia) Pareggi 37 - 37 (Serie A) Vittorie Sampdoria 25 - 24 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) Goals Juventus 201 - 173 (Serie A) - 28 (Coppa Italia) Goals Sampdoria 125 - 112 (Serie A) - 13 (Coppa Italia) Sampdoria - Juventus Serie A a Genova Confronti ufficiali 56 Vittorie Juventus 19 (L'ultima il 24.08.2013, 0-1) Pareggi 18 (L'ultimo il 23.01.2011, 0-0) Vittorie Sampdoria 19 (L'ultima il 18.05.2013, 3-2) Goals Juventus 67 Goals Sampdoria 66 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro la Sampdoria a Genova 13 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 11 Del Piero Alessandro 10 Salvadore Sandro 9 Castano Ernesto 9 Furino Giuseppe 9 Scirea Gaetano 8 Leoncini Gianfranco 8 Tacconi Stefano 7 Anastasi Pietro 7 Cuccureddu Antonello 7 goals Boniperti Giampiero 7 Sivori Omar Enrique 4 Altafini Josè João 3 Del Piero Alessandro 3 Mora Bruno 3 Muccinelli Ermes 2 Bettega Roberto 2 Inzaghi Filippo 2 Leoncini Gianfranco 2 Platini Michel Ultimi confronti diretti 15.02.2009 - Serie A - Juventus-Sampdoria 1-1 28.10.2009 - Serie A - Juventus-Sampdoria 5-1 21.03.2010 - Serie A - Sampdoria-Juventus 1-0 12.09.2010 - Serie A - Juventus-Sampdoria 3-3 23.01.2011 - Serie A - Sampdoria-Juventus 0-0 06.01.2013 - Serie A - Juventus-Sampdoria 1-2 18.05.2013 - Serie A - Sampdoria-Juventus 3-2 24.08.2013 - Serie A - Sampdoria-Juventus 0-1 18.01.2014 - Serie A - Juventus-Sampdoria 4-2 14.12.2014 - Serie A - Juventus-Sampdoria 1-1 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 3 - Pareggi 4 - Vittorie Sampdoria 3 - Goals Juventus 18 - Goals Sampdoria 14 http://www.goal.com/it/results-standings/69/serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_101

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pn8h7-_XODQ http://www.tuttosport.com/foto/Calcio/Serie%20A/2015/04/29-95521_0/FOTO+Juventus-Fiorentina+3-2%3A+Tevez+segna+e+suona+il+violino http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/t-PF4HOlvZb/Juventus+FC+v+ACF+Fiorentina+Serie

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA 3 - 2 Gonzalo Rodríguez (33'-Pen.) Fernando Llorente (36') Carlos Tévez (45'+) Carlos Tevez (70') Josip Iličič (90') Wednesday, April 29th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Luca Banti Juventus Maintain Astonishing 14-Point Lead, Could Wrap Up League On Saturday Apr 30, 2015 Juventus triumphed over a spirited Fiorentina side yesterday night and maintained their 14-point lead at the top of the table. Lazio’s 4-0 win over Parma postponed Juve’s title celebrations, but Massimiliano Allegri’s side can wrap up the title if they pick up a win against Sampdoria on Saturday. The game started with Fiorentina pulling the strings in the first few minutes and looked comfortable in possession. Juventus finally started playing some football of their own after the 15-minute mark as Fiorentina struggled to get hold of the ball. However, in the 31st minute, Andrea Pirlo stuck out a leg to take down winger Joachin in the penalty area. Rodriguez converted the resultant penalty to give his side a lead against the run of play. Fiorentina weren’t able to hold their lead for long as Juve took only three minutes to find an equaliser. Andrea Pirlo made up for his mistake and provided a beautifully flighted ball from a free kick which was nodded home by Fernando Llorente. The reigning champions then took the lead just before half time when a Patrice Evra cross was cleverly headed home by Carlos Tevez. In the second half, the Viola were handed a golden opportunity to equalise when Joachin was once again taken down, but this time, by Chiellini. However, Rodriguez failed to convert it after trying to smash it. Juve punished Fiorentina in the 70th minute after their defence tried to play an offside trap, but failed in doing so. Tevez converted the chance after slotting the ball past the keeper. Fiorentina tried to push in order to reduce the deficit but had to wait until extra time. Ilicic scored from 20 yards out, but unfortunately, Fiorentina failed to back that wonderful set piece with an equaliser. Losing the title very unlikely from here, says Allegri Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri was delighted with the win and added that it will take an almighty loss in form for his side to lose the title from here, “At this point it would take a reverse miracle for us to lose this Scudetto,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “We have to be wary, as we’ve lost out last two away games, but the lads deserve compliments for an extraordinary campaign. “We have a 14-point lead, we need one more and hope to get it on Saturday so we can best prepare for the Champions League. “This victory allows us to face the remaining Serie A games with a more relaxed state of mind. When you’re nearly there, this anxiety comes in. “When you are 14 points in front, it is natural to have some dips in concentration. There are also many players who haven’t been available this season for long periods, so the others had to carry on throughout and not rest as much as I’d have liked,” he added. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA 3 - 2 Gonzalo Rodríguez (33'-Pen.) Fernando Llorente (36') Carlos Tévez (45'+) Carlos Tevez (70') Josip Iličič (90') Wednesday, April 29th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Luca Banti Juventus still have to wait for Serie A title despite beating Fiorentina Apr 30, 2015 Title celebrations will have to be postponed at least a while for Juventus, who managed a win against Fiorentina. Lazio pummelled Parma to delay matters, but a point against Sampdoria over the weekend and the Old Lady can celebrate yet another domestic triumph. Fiorentina are always tricky opponents for they boast great technique and genuine desire. When they're fully concentrated and alert, they defend with vigour and attack with pace and strength and the manner in which they started the match troubled the home side. Juventus are simply not at their best at this moment in time and it largely has to do with the fact that they don't need to be. Careless with their passes, their attitude nonchalant, the Bianconeri are not playing with gritty determination and the fluidity that previously defined them. The problem with Serie A is this: Juventus rarely find an opponent capable of punishing them for their mistakes. They can afford to play with the handbrake on, squander possession and give only 80 percent. They need not play to expectations but as long as they understand how to exploit the opponent's weaknesses, victories can be collected. This was the case on Wednesday evening against the Tuscans, who showed their defensive inadequacies. There is a slight fear that playing in such comfortable surroundings where the Bianconeri always know they can win despite not giving their all will set them up for disappointment in Europe. Not since the Coppa Italia second leg have Juventus actually played at an impressive level, showing ambition and beautiful play. Since then, not even the win against Lazio required optimum levels of determination, because even the team in second place lacks too much to provide real competition. It is for this reason, Massimiliano Allegri should be worried. He must ensure his men play with fluidity and accuracy, sacrificing it all to obtain a win against Real Madrid midweek. Juventus cannot afford to be careless against the Spanish giants, as they were against the Viola, with players casually committing silly fouls in the box to concede two penalties. Consistently offering Vincenzo Montella's men an opportunity to attack a set piece, the Old Lady must play a more intelligent game should they want to avoid a European defeat. Andrea Pirlo was the man to concede the first penalty and the deep lying midfielder, despite some excellent passes, can be a defensive problem. Giving up possession too easily and offering little support to the men behind him, there are times we can understand why the fans call for Claudio Marchisio to play in his position. His artistic ability is unrivalled, but the moment he loses the ball, Juventus are in trouble. Sadly for the visitors, they barely had enough time to celebrate as Fernando Llorente used his large frame to equalise minutes later. Yet while the Spaniard always does his best to contribute to the side with his back to goal, using his strength to maintain possession and bring others into play, it's Carlos Tevez who makes Juve's world go round. The Argentine wasn't a consistent presence up top in this particular game -- one suspects he's not yet at his best after illness -- yet when called upon, he possess the majestic touch and ability to affect the game. A sublime cross from Patrice Evra found Tevez who headed in the second. His mobility, his reading of the game and his attitude are the reasons behind his excellence and the 20 league goals he has scored this season. The third goal was a fine finish but even when he's not scoring, he's making the right runs forward to penetrate even the toughest of defences. One of the main differences between the win against the Viola and the loss to Torino is Evra on the left wing. He is not the quickest, he can be easily overwhelmed and he frustrated with his inability to handle the duality of his role in the early part of the season. Yet the manner in which he has progressed this season has been truly exciting to watch as he can now always be relied upon to produce balanced displays and provide important attacking contributions. It is his constant presence on the left, his relationship with the now injured Paul Pogba and his accurate crosses into the box that have given the side a new dimension. A player who can also score the goals, one shouldn't forget what a threat he can be from set-pieces and he nearly was again against Fiorentina. A beautiful Josip Ilicic gave the Viola their second goal of the night but they simply didn't have enough going forward to take advantage of their opportunities. Italy hopes they can get back to winning ways in the Europa league. As for Juve, the postponement of celebrations is a good thing to ensure tensions are high and the motivations are there to secure more victories. A wonderful performance against Sampdoria will ensure the title and leave them in the right frame of mind to face the biggest test of the season: the semifinal of the Champions League. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA 3 - 2 Gonzalo Rodríguez (33'-Pen.) Fernando Llorente (36') Carlos Tévez (45'+) Carlos Tevez (70') Josip Iličič (90') Wednesday, April 29th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Luca Banti Player Ratings: Juventus 3-2 Fiorentina Apr 29, 2015 Juventus 1 G. Buffon - Though he could have done better with the late free-kick, he was still generally a safe pair of hands. 26 S. Lichtsteiner - Made a crucial block on Fernandez at the near post and was alert defensively. 15 A. Barzagli - Marked Gomez out of the game, tracking almost all of his runs to perfection. 3 G. Chiellini - Conceded a penalty as Joaquin fooled him with a quick change of direction. 33 P. Evra - His great ball set up the go-ahead goal, and he was a danger in the final third regularly. 8 C. Marchisio - The midfielder's passing from deep areas was delightful, and one such ball set up Tevez's second. 21 A. Pirlo - Caught in possession regularly and was a defensive liability, giving up a spot kick. However, he also sent in the free kick for Llorente's leveler. 27 S. Sturaro - His runs from deep were menacing, and he never stopped fighting for the team. 37 R. Pereyra - Worked hard at the tip of the midfield, though he struggled to pick the right passes at times. 10 Carlos Tévez - Two clinical finishes gave the Bianconeri victory, and he proved to be their match winner yet again. 14 F. Llorente - Bullied the defence on occasion, and scored the leveler with a header from a free kick. Substitutes 23 A. Vidal - Not his usual self off the bench. Fiorentina 1 Neto - His play off his line was generally sound and he was unlucky to be called for a free-kick that led to a goal from Llorente. 15 S. Savić - Couldn't stop Llorente from powering in Juve's first. 2 G. Rodríguez - Buried a penalty, missed another and was caught out by the run of Tevez in an eventful game for him. 19 J. Basanta - Caught napping at the back more than once. Let his team down. 28 Marcos Alonso - Cleaned up defensively and sprayed some clever passes down the flanks as well. 5 M. Badelj - Not his night as a few turnovers nearly proved costly. 10 A. Aquilani - Misted the movements of his teammates more than once, resulting in some frustrating attacks. 14 M. Fernández - Thwarted by Lichtsteiner at the near post, but didn't look to attack down that side nearly enough. 17 Joaquín - Won two penalties with his quick feet and was always a threat in the final third. 74 Mohamed Salah - The Egyptian was always a danger with his pace, but he needed better support. 33 M. Gómez - Hard for him to sniff out a chance against the Juve back four. Substitutes 72 J. Iličić - Curled in a wonderful free kick that ended up being only a consolation. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111