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BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Buffon is Juventus' weakest link, says Kohler The former defender feels the 37-year-old has become a liability and expects BVB to book their ticket for the last eight. Mar 17, 2015 Jurgen Kohler has singled out Gianluigi Buffon as Juventus' weak link ahead of their Champions League encounter with Borussia Dortmund. The Bundesliga outfit were beaten 2-1 in the first leg of the round-of-16 tie, but Kohler feels the Serie A champions are vulnerable at the back and expects BVB to turn things around. "I am confident BVB will qualify for the quarter-finals. Juventus might be top of the Serie A table but they have a number of weaknesses," Kohler - who played for both Juventus and Dortmund during his career - told Bild. "Buffon once was an extraordinary goalkeeper, but he is no longer the shot stopper he once was. He has been making quite a few mistakes lately. Juventus are vulnerable in defence. "The result of the first leg is a very dangerous one for Juventus. Dortmund are always capable of punishing them if they sit too deep. Players like Marco Reus and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang can score a goal from out of nowhere. "My prediction? I think Dortmund will go 3-0 up and eventually win the match 3-1." Juventus will be without Andrea Pirlo in Wednesday's return at the Signal Iduna Park after he failed to recover in time from a calf injury, while Nuri Sahin is unavailable for BVB.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Klopp: Signal Iduna Park Will Bring Goosebumps To Juventus Mar 17, 2015 As the heated Champions League second leg match between Borussia Dortmund and Juventus nears, Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp feels that Signal Iduna Park’s atmosphere will highly favour his team’s efforts. The Bianconeri are up 2-1 on aggregate against the Schwarzgelben thanks to goals from Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata in the first encounter at the Juventus Stadium, and the goal from Marco Reus has kept the German side’s hopes alive. “I do not know if it will be an exciting match to the very end,” said Klopp to the press. “But if we create tension, it will mean that we will still be in the running.” The 47-year-old continued by expressing the great moments that the club has experienced at home in recent years of European competition. “Our stadium is a special place that offers special moments,” he said. “It’s really the greatest thing in this club, and each time I go there I feel the goosebumps.” The two sides met in the 1997 final in Munich where Dortmund eventually came out 3-1 victors.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Borussia Dortmund V Juventus — Preview: The Bianconeri’s Date With Destiny Mar 17, 2015 Juventus travel to Germany at the Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday night, with the hopes of sealing their Champions League quarter-final berth against Borussia Dortmund. Juventus won the first leg 2–1, leaving the match evenly poised. Indeed, Marco Reus’ away goal is sure to keep the Bianconeri extra vigilant in Wednesday’s clash. Juventus will face an important midweek Champions League test; after ruling the roost in Serie A the Bianconeri must now prove their worth in Europe. Often pilloried for their nervousness and unconvincing performances over the last few seasons, Juventus now have a chance to silence their critics should they qualify against Dortmund. Massimiliano Allegri will have to do so without Andrea Pirlo however, who was ruled out by the injury he had sustained in the first leg. To compensate for his absence and with the return of Andrea Barzagli, the Juventus coach would be setting up with a 3-5-2 when he travels to Germany. The hero of the first leg, Alvaro Morata will feature from the start and Claudio Marchisio will deputise for the injured Pirlo. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who had his issues in front of goal on the weekend as Dortmund drew 0–0 with Koln, will lead the attack in favor of ex-Torino man Ciro Immobile. The off-form Henrikh Mkhitaryan is also expected to drop to the bench. Surprisingly it will be Kevin Kampl to take his place, even ahead of Japanese international Shinji Kagawa. All eyes will be on Dortmund’s star man Reus of course, with the German having already won the initial round of his personal battle against Gianluigi Buffon. Form Guide: Borussia Dortmund (W-W-W-W-D-D) Juventus (W-D-W-D-W-W) Expected Starting XIs Juventus (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Tevez, Morata. Borussia Dortmund (4-2-3-1): Weidenfeller; Kirch, Subotic, Hummels, Schmelzer; Sahin, Gundogan; Blaszczykowski, Kampl, Reus; Aubameyang.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Borussia Dortmund - Juventus Preview: Klopp looks for dramatic finish to last-16 tie The BVB boss feels an exciting end to the game will mean his side have a good chance of going through against the Italian champions. Mar 17, 2015 Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp says he would welcome a dramatic conclusion to his side's Champions League last-16 clash with Juventus. The Bundesliga side fell to a 2-1 defeat in Turin three weeks ago, with Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata scoring either side of an 18th-minute Marco Reus effort. The result leaves Dortmund needing to beat Juve on Wednesday, but the German side have suffered defeat in their last three home meetings with the Serie A giants. "I don't know if it needs to be exciting until the end, but if it gets dramatic, that means we are still in the race at that point – and that would be positive," Klopp told uefa.com . Until that first-leg clash with Juve, the Champions League had been a rare source of positivity for Dortmund, who spent the first half of their domestic campaign battling at the bottom end of the table, but Klopp insists he never questioned his side's playing style. "Well, it's okay to ask questions [of yourself], but not to put our system into question," he added. "It's not as dogmatic as it may seem: the players are not told to give the ball to the opposition so we have a chance to win it back – that's just nonsense. "Even in the first part of the season there were a few good games, and we gained some confidence in the Champions League by winning matches. "So we are not like a rabbit in the headlights, just standing there, shivering, unable to perform." Meetings between Dortmund and Juve have been relatively rare, but the last one before the first leg of this tie proved memorable for the former, as Karl-Heinz Riedle scored twice and Lars Ricken was on target in a 3-1 triumph against Juve in the 1996-97 Champions League final. Dortmund's name has not been engraved on the trophy since then, with their Wembley defeat to Bayern two years ago the closest they have come. Juve's wait has been longer - the Italians were the holders when Dortmund won it - and Massimiliano Allegri will be without the services of the influential Andrea Pirlo after the midfielder failed a fitness test on Monday. Martin Caceres is also sidelined having undergone ankle surgery last week, while Dortmund are unlikely to risk Kevin Grosskreutz (hamstring) and Nuri Sahin (groin). OPTA FACTS After having won their first four Champions League games this season, Borussia Dortmund are now winless in their last three (D1 L2). The last time Juventus faced Borussia Dortmund in Germany was in the 1997 Champions League final at Munich’s Olympiastadion. The Turin side lost 3-1. Dortmund have never kept a clean sheet against Juventus in their eight competitive encounters. Borussia Dortmund have won 11 of their last 14 Champions League games at home (D1 L2). Dortmund have only failed to score once in their last 19 Champions League outings at the Westfalenstadion, it was in November 2013 against Arsenal (0-1). Dortmund’s Champions League record against Italian sides is perfectly balanced: five wins and five defeats. 14 of Dortmund’s 15 Champions League goals this season have been scored from open play. Juventus have lost five of their last seven away games in the Champions League (W1 D1). LAST FIVE MATCHES Borussia Dortmund D D W W L 3/14/15 Borussia Dortmund 0 - 0 Köln 3/7/15 Hamburger 0 - 0 Borussia Dortmund 3/3/15 Dynamo Dresden 0 - 2 Borussia Dortmund 2/28/15 Borussia Dortmund 3 - 0 Schalke 2/24/15 Juventus 2 - 1 Borussia Dortmund Juventus W W L D W 3/14/15 Palermo 0 - 1 Juventus 3/9/15 Juventus 1 - 0 Sassuolo 3/5/15 Juventus 1 - 2 Fiorentina 3/2/15 Roma 1 - 1 Juventus 2/24/15 Juventus 2 - 1 Borussia Dortmund HEAD TO HEAD 2/24/15 Juventus 2 - 1 Borussia Dortmund

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Beating Borussia Dortmund fundamental for ambitious Juventus Mar 16, 2015 For the prestige of Calcio, for the financial rewards and for the development of the team, Juventus must do enough against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday evening to ensure they qualify for the quarterfinals of the Champions League. Domestic success means little to a side that continues to collect points with ease and with no true challenger piling on the pressure. For the side to grow on a commercial level and make the type of money that will guarantee better squads and a better brand, Juventus need European success. And this season, they have a chance to move forward in the competition. This is the worst Borussia Dortmund side we've seen in recent years. Void of any attacking ideas that don't include space and fast counter-attacks, Koln should have finished them off and grabbed success on Saturday. However, what they did do, is help the Bianconeri prepare for the test, giving Massimiliano Allegri ideas as to how to set up his team to ensure a clean sheet. One thing Allegri tested in the first leg, and Koln's Peter Stoger proved again over the weekend, is that BVB do not like possession and have yet to show their ability to create chances from open play when space is restricted. Too often they look bereft of ideas as to how to overcome stern defences, and become obsessed with funnelling all their chances through the middle. "We tried to close the middle and we knew BVB would try to play through it anyway," Stoger explained in his post-match comments. Dortmund's lack of width and insistence on repeating their mistakes is the reason they're suffering this season. Opponents are forcing them to evolve tactically and unless they stop resisting, their struggles will continue. A draw is all Juventus need and thus can afford to go to Westfalenstadion and play as the away side. At the end of the first leg, the two sides shared possession equally. But until the final third of the match, the Bianconeri forced Die Schwarzgelben to have the ball and create. Pushing forward in numbers in hopes of pressing Juve's centre-backs and provoking mistakes, BVB left space and gaps at the back for the Old Lady to exploit via a quick counter-attack. Much like they did this weekend against Koln. Using the skills of Carlos Tevez and the pace of Alvaro Morata, Juve had the weapons necessary to score twice. Sadly the Bianconeri will be without Andrea Pirlo. And while his removal from the match proved to be a blessing in disguise in the first leg, it would have been better if he was fit for the second leg, to at least offer an alternative game plan. Nonetheless, Claudio Marchisio has proved to be a hit in this role, while his dynamic style of play and understanding of tactics ensures defensive solidity as well as offensive beauty. The question is, upon which formation will Allegri rely on Wednesday? Early indications in training show that the coach is undecided between a 3-5-2 formation and the now-familiar 4-3-1-2 shape. With Andrea Barzagli back in the squad, it is thought his presence would offer defensive security in a 3-5-2 formation, especially through the middle, and thus allow the side to sit and defend before counter-attacking with strength. The strategy is perhaps the right plan as Juventus don't need to be proactive and Allegri's main concern is that Germans don't score. Clean sheets win you trophies and he's keen to play it safe away from home. The question is, is Barzagli really ready to be depended upon? If he commits one mistake and Juventus concede a goal, then the 3-5-2 isn't the best shape to encourage attacking fluidity. By contrast, the 4-3-1-2 has revived the Old Lady from an attacking point of view, allowing for dynamism and numerous points of creation. Deployed in this formation, BVB will have to live with the fear that their defensive line will struggle to contain Juve's attacking power, making an early goal is a very real possibility. Positioned in this more courageous shape, and an away goal is virtually scored even if on a defensive level, there may be problems. Why not combine the two? Allegri has shown how to alter the formations midway through the match, while his tactical substitutions have proven to be excellent. He can always start with the 4-3-1-2 shape, attempt to get the away goal when energy is still high, then revert to the 3-5-2 towards the end to manage the result and close out the match. Only he will know what is best. And the hope is that Juventus take advantage of their position and the weaknesses of their opponent to secure qualification. There are no more challenges to be found in the domestic league, it's time to conquer Europe or at least build experience.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) BORUSSIA DORTMUND – JUVENTUS CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PREVIEW Mar 16, 2015 Juventus The 2-1 Juventus victory in the first leg was a great step forward for this Juve squad. There was however one big fat exception to the success of that day – Borussia Dortmund’s goal. Marco Reus, one of the best players in the world, was given free reign over Juve’s half after Giorgio Chiellini slipped, and a player like Reus isn’t going to blow a chance like that. The away goal, in some ways not indicative of the general performance of Dortmund’s attack, keeps this tie very close going into the second leg. Juve have been scraping out 1-0 wins in recent games, largely due to moment of individual skill or ingenuity. Still, they have generally stepped up to the European level ever since that win versus Olympiakos in the fall. Given the stakes of this game, and the fact that Dortmund can go through with a 1-0 win, we may not see an out and out attacking Juventus in this game. Perhaps the counter-attacking Juve we saw in recent weeks – even against smaller Italian sides – was a Juventus preparing for this match. Given that possible tactical decision, and a few fitness questions, we’re not really sure what formation Max Allegri will choose tomorrow. It’s between 4-3-1-2 and 3-5-2 of course, but I think this is mostly a superficial decision and the team will play in a similar style regardless of formation. Andrea Pirlo’s absence would seem to point towards a 3-5-2 since there is one fewer midfielder, but that is a bit of a simple distinction to make. Of course, having said all of that, the disclaimer is that nobody can accurately predict what goes on in the mind of Allegri, so maybe he will go with a 4-3-1-2 and have Pereyra start. In either case, Gianluigi Buffon will start in goal while Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini start at centerback. Andrea Barzagli will start if there is a 3-5-2, he is the one who would lose his spot if Pirlo were to start. It is arguably the hardest choice of two Andreas that has ever been made, both are very good players. Out wide the starters will surely be Patrice Evra and Stephan Lichtsteiner on their respective sides. Lichtsteiner had a fine performance last time versus Dortmund, while Evra is one of the most experience Champions League player on the squad. Now comes the midfield, always a tricky area due to the glut of skilled players there. Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba are locks to start, Claudio Marchisio is probably the most likely after those two. Pogba of course was suspended versus Palermo, so he will be well rested, in addition to already being Paul Pogba. Then of course, there’s Roberto Pereyra and maybe even Kingsley Coman, both of whom could appear in the starting line up or as substitutes, depending on the choice of formation. Coman of course is not likely to start in midfield, but some reports have mentioned him as possibly seeing time there if Juve run out of manpower there. Finally, things are a bit more simple up top. Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata should be the starters. The duo were phenomenal versus Dortmund last time, and Morata scored a beautiful goal versus Palermo that proved to be the game winner. So this is one source of hope for Juventus fans in what should be a very close encounter. I think Juventus can pull out a victory over the two legs, even if they only draw in this second leg. However, it will be a tough game against a tough side, and it will be very hard fought and close. This will not be a pleasant 90 minutes for Juventini, or for Dortmund fans. But that is the Champions League for you. Probable Lineup 3-5-2: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Tevez, Morata Injured Asamoah and Romulo (Recovering from surgery), Pirlo (ankle), Caceres (ankle) Suspended None Champions League Form (L-W-W-D-W) Borussia Dortmund Probable Lineup 4-2-3-1: Weidendeller; Kirch, Subotic, Hummels, Schmelzer; Sahin, Gundogan; Mkhitaryan, Kagawa, Reus; Aubameyang. Injured players Kevin Großkreutz Suspended None Champions League Form (W-W-L-D-L) Formation

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Ottavi di finale - Ritorno Mercoledí, 18 marzo 2015 - ore 20:45 Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Arbitro:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Confronti ufficiali 8 - 4 (Champions League) - 4 (Coppa UEFA) Vittorie Juventus 5 2 (Champions League) - 3 (Coppa UEFA) Pareggi 1 1 (Coppa UEFA) Vittorie Borussia Dortmund 2 - 2 (Champions League) Goals Juventus 17 - 7 (Champions League)- 10 (Coppa UEFA) Goals Borussia Dortmund 11 - 7 (Champions League) - 4 (Coppa UEFA) Borussia Dortmund - Juventus - Champions League a Dortmund Confronti ufficiali 1 Vittorie Juventus 1 (Il 13.09.1995, 1-3) Pareggi 0 Vittorie Borussia Dortmund 0 Goals Juventus 3 Goals Borussia Dortmund 1 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Borussia Dortmund 6 presenze Peruzzi Angelo 5 Carrera Massimo 5 Del Piero Alessandro 5 Di Livio Angelo 4 Baggio Roberto 4 Deschamps Didier Claude 4 Ferrara Ciro 4 Kohler Jurgen 4 Marocchi Giancarlo 4 Porrini Sergio 4 goal Baggio Roberto 3 Baggio Dino 3 Del Piero Alessandro 1 Conte Antonio 1 Kohler Jurgen 1 Moeller Andreas 1 Morata Alvaro Borja Martín 1 Padovano Michele 1 Porrini Sergio 1 Tevez Carlos Alberto Ultimi confronti diretti 05.05.1993 - Coppa UEFA - Borussia Dortmund-Juventus 1-3 19.05.1993 - Coppa UEFA - Juventus-Borussia Dortmund 3-0 04.04.1995 - Coppa UEFA - Juventus-Borussia Dortmund 2-2 18.04.1995 - Coppa UEFA - Borussia Dortmund-Juventus 1-2 13.09.1995 - Champions League - Borussia Dortmund-Juventus 1-3 22.11.1995 - Champions League - Juventus-Borussia Dortmund 1-2 28.05.1997 - Champions League - Borussia Dortmund-Juventus 3-1 24.02.2015 - Champions League - Juventus-Borussia Dortmund 2-1 Giocate 8 - Vittorie Juventus 5 - Pareggi 1 - Vittorie Borussia 2 - Goals Juventus 17 - Goals Borussia 11 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eZpDL98dFs Stesso stadio!

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Champions League worth €9m for Juve Mar 16, 2015 Qualification for the Quarter Finals of the Champions League would earn Juventus an extra €9m, it has been calculated. The Bianconeri travel to Germany this week to face Borussia Dortmund, holding a 2-1 lead from the first leg of the tie. Should Massimiliano Allegri’s men progress on Wednesday, Tuttosport has worked out how much of an increase in revenue that would represent, arriving at a figure of €9m. All clubs which reach the last eight receive a bonus from UEFA of €3.9m, while Juventus will also earn €2.2m from television money for any Quarter Final tie. In addition, reaching that stage of the competition would virtually guarantee another sell-out at Juventus Stadium for the home leg, which brought in €2.8m for the first leg with Dortmund.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Preview: Borussia Dortmund vs. Juventus Mar 16, 2015 Borussia Dortmund welcome Juventus to the Westfalenstadion on Wednesday knowing that a 1-0 victory over Massimiliano Allegri's men would be enough to see them through to the quarter-final stages of the Champions League. Juve hold a slight advantage in the two-legged encounter following a slender 2-1 victory at home to Jurgen Klopp and his charges back in late February. The Italian side know that any form of draw would give them safe passage, with an away goal making it a little more difficult for the North Rhine-Westphalian club. Dortmund have enjoyed an important resurgence in 2015 and have managed to lift themselves from probable relegation to a safely-placed position in the middle of the German top flight. The Germans have slightly faltered on the domestic front in their last two Bundesliga games, with Dortmund drawing blanks in two scoreless draws against Hamburger SV and FC Koln respectively. Juventus are currently cruising at the summit of the Serie A standings, with a monumental 14-point gap separating the Old Lady and second-placed Roma. The Italian outfit find themselves in fairly good form, having won their last two Serie A matches by one goal against Palermo and Sassuolo, but they were also recently knocked out of the Coppa Italia by Fiorentina. Dortmund may not be too put off by the task in hand come Wednesday, given that Juve have only managed to notch wins by a one-goal margin over the course of their last six matches. What could appeal to Klopp even more is the fact that Allegri's men have conceded at least one goal in four of those last six fixtures, meaning that if Dortmund can defend well enough then progression will be no impossible task. Die Borussen have also kept four clean sheets in six matches across all competitions. Dortmund are expected to be missing both Kevin Grosskreutz and Lukasz Piszczek through injury, potentially leaving Oliver Kirch and Sokratis Papastathopoulos to battle it out for a place in the right full-back position. Nuri Sahin was also missing for the German club at the weekend and he could miss out again on Wednesday. Ciro Immobile could start up top instead of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Shinji Kagawa and Kevin Kampl providing options in midfield. As for Juventus, Paul Pogba's league suspension at the weekend means that he should be in good shape for the clash, while both Arturo Vidal and Alvaro Morata got some form of a rest against Palermo. Allegri may decide not to rush Andrea Pirlo back from his calf knock, especially given Roberto Pereyra's performance in the first leg in Turin. Borussia Dortmund Form in Champions League: W W W L D L Form in all competitions: W L W W D D Possible starting lineup Weidenfeller Kirch, Subotic, Hummels, Schmelzer Kehl, Gundogan Reus, Kagawa, Mkhitaryan Immobile Juventus Form in Champions League: L L W W D W Form in all competitions: W W D L W W Possible starting lineup Buffon Bonucci, Chiellini, Lichtsteiner, Evra Marchisio, Pereyra, Pgoba Vidal Morata, Tevez Sports Mole says: 1-2

Paul Pogba will not be leaving Juventus, says Giuseppe Marotta Mar 16, 2015 Juventus are ready to resist big offers from top European clubs for midfielder Paul Pogba this summer. The Turin outfit have no interest in selling Pogba, 22, who has impressed hugely since arriving in 2012 after leaving Manchester United as a free agent. The France international has been strongly linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season, while Chelsea, Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid are also reportedly keen to acquire his services. "There are clubs that are ready to spend 70 to 80 million euros for Pogba," Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta told Italian radio station Radio Deejay. "There are many suitors for Pogba, but we do not want to open negotiations and we want him to stay with us. If we want to increase our level, we need players of great quality and Pogba is one of them." Pogba, who is under contract until June 2019, has scored seven goals and set up two more in 22 Serie A appearances this season to help Juve remain on course for their fourth successive Scudetto. Marotta, meanwhile, did reveal that Juve are keeping tabs on Palermo striker Paulo Dybala. Dybala, 21, has caught the eye this season for the Sicilian outfit, scoring 12 goals while providing seven assists in 27 league games. "Dybala is a very interesting youngster, who not only has attracted our attention but [that] of other teams too," Marotta said. "We are looking to see what is out there in order to form a strong attacking line." Dybala moved to Palermo in 2012 from home-town club Instituto and helped them gain promotion to Italy's top flight in the 2013-14 campaign. He turned down a contract extension earlier this year and becomes a free agent in June 2016.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Confirmed: Pirlo misses Dortmund Mar 16, 2015 Juventus have confirmed that Andrea Pirlo will not be fit for Wednesday’s crucial Champions League second leg. The Bianconeri travel to Borussia Dortmund holding a 2-1 lead from the home leg, and so need only a draw to progress. However, following reports this morning, the Bianconeri have now confirmed that Pirlo will not be available to face Klopp’s side, after going off injured in the first leg. “Today Andrea Pirlo underwent some medical examinations,” the club confirmed on its official website. “The ultrasound check showed good progression in the healing of the injury, but not enough for him to be available for the trip to Dortmund. “The midfielder will therefore continue on his personalised rehabilitation programme.” Stefano Sturaro and Paolo De Ceglie will also face time on the sidelines, after picking up injuries in the win over Palermo on Saturday. De Ceglie has a sprained ankle, while Sturaro is suffering after a blow to the knee. Both will be out for around two weeks. The Old Lady also confirmed that captain Gianluigi Buffon will join Coach Massimiliano Allegri in a Press conference at Westfalenstadion tomorrow evening.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Allegri 'seriously considering' using a 3-5-2 formation against Borussia Dortmund Mar 16, 2015 I don't like to assume one way or another when it comes to certain Juventus things, but I will assume here: There will be pitchforks and torches at the ready after reading that headline. Don't shoot the messenger, people! Yet, there is 3-5-2 things to discuss here. (Apologies in advance.) According to a certain well-known pink sports newspaper in Italy, Juventus manager Max Allegri is "seriously considering" starting his team's decisive Champions League tie against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday night with a 3-5-2 formation. The desire to keep things the way they were in terms of tactics this past Saturday against Palermo, at least according to the giornalaccio rosa, is basically down to one thing and one thing only. Andrea Barzagli is back and being completely awesome already. Also of importance when it comes to this formation development: The health status of midfielder Andrea Pirlo won't be a determining factor for Allegri. It's pretty much built more on the fact that Barzagli is healthy once again more than Pirlo's health status being completely up in the air right now. Don't worry, this probably won't cause some kind of crazy war of Andreas or anything like that. How Barzagli — who has been one of the most consistent defenders in Europe ever since he returned to Italy for the transfer fee resembling a $5 footlong at Subway — would fit into Allegri's plans once he eventually returned was always something that hung out in the back of my head. I mean, if Barzagli is actually going to be consistently fit for the rest of the season, why not take advantage of having him around once more? He's too good, as he's already proven against Palermo over the weekend in his first start since late last season, to not play more often than not. Apparently that's the way Allegri is thinking as well. The good part in all of this even if it means more 3-5-2? The Juventus defense won't be so totally dependent on the still-out-of-form Giorgio Chiellini, whose poor run this season is still one of the world's greatest mysteries. And having one more defender on the field — especially one of Barzagli's class and effectiveness — is never a bad thing when you're trying to protect a 2-1 lead on aggregate. At least in theory, that is. So, with all of this being said, I'll just go out on a limb and mention this: Max Allegri will be asked about his team's tactics even more than usual at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday. That's almost a given with this latest tactical development surrounding No doubt about it. Let's see how Allegri maneuvers around the questions this time.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Agnelli: ‘Dortmund not decisive’ Mar 16, 2015 President Andrea Agnelli insists Wednesday’s clash with Borussia Dortmund will not define Juventus’ season. The Bianconeri will travel to Germany looking to hold on to a 2-1 advantage and qualify for the Quarter Finals of the competition, but the patron has played down the importance of the game. “You can’t define a season by one game,” Agnelli told reporters at a Press to launch Italy v England at Juventus Stadium. “If in Spring you’re competitive on all fronts then you’re doing well.” The President also welcomed the return of Antonio Conte, who returns in his role as Italy CT after leaving the Old Lady this summer. “It’s always nice to have Antonio Conte at the Stadium, hopefully he’ll always come back as CT, not as an opponent.”

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Pirlo likely to miss Dortmund Mar 16, 2015 Andrea Pirlo looks likely to miss Juventus’ Champions League Last 16 second leg with Borussia Dortmund. It had been hoped that the playmaker would be fit for the game in Germany, having gone off injured during the first match in Turin. However, Pirlo has not trained with the rest of his teammates at Vinovo today, according to TuttoJuve. The giornalaccio rosa dello Sport is also pessimistic about the Italian international’s propects, as it appears that the former Milan man has not recovered fully from a thigh injury. Pirlo is not the only headache facing Bianconero Coach Max Allegri, as he must decide between a 3-5-2 and a 4-3-1-2 system. It’s believed that the former Milan Coach is currently leaning toward the added defensive solidity offered by a back three, but much will depend on the fitness of Andrea Barzagli. Barzagli has only just returned from a lengthy lay-off with an achilles injury, making his first start this season in the win over Palermo on Saturday evening. The Old Lady require only a draw to progress to the Quarter Finals of the Champions League, having emerged with a 2-1 win in the first leg.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Mazic assigned to Juventus game Mar 16, 2015 Serbian referee Milorad Mazic will be the man in charge of Juventus’ crucial Champions League tie on Wednesday. The Bianconeri face Borussia Dortmund at Westfalenstadion in the second leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie, trying to hold onto a 2-1 win in Turin. UEFA has announced the officials for the tie, with Mazic heading-up an all-Serbian team of officials. The Old Lady will not have happy memories of the 41-year-old, who was in charge as they lost 1-0 to Olimpiacos in October. Mazic will be supported in Germany by assistant referees Milovan Ristic and Dalibor Djurdjevic, goal-line officials Danilo Grujic and Dejan Filipovic and fourth official Dejan Petrovic.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Juventus' Recent Performances Show Perfect Blueprint for Borussia Dortmund Tie Mar 16, 2015 Currently sitting a comfortable 14 points clear at the top of the Serie A table, it seems Juventus are all but certain to secure a fourth consecutive league title at the end of the season. There have been numerous accusations about the lack of a genuine challenger, but with five Italian teams still competing in the Europa League, it is clear that football on the peninsula is on the rise once again. That neither the great Giovanni Trapattoni nor Marcello Lippi managed to lift more than two championships in a row speaks volumes about the quality within the current side, possessing an insatiable appetite for victories. However, what those two iconic coaches did accomplish was to exert Juve’s dominance on the continent, each lifting the European Cup during their hugely successful tenures in Turin. When he replaced Antonio Conte in the summer, Massimiliano Allegri knew that he too would be required to advance as far as possible in the Champions League, such was the level of domestic success enjoyed by his predecessor. Indeed, it was a point the former Milan boss expressed at the initial press conference following his appointment, telling reporters that “Juventus must be among the top eight teams in Europe,” per the club’s official website. Calling that aim “our duty,” Allegri was fully aware that progression in the elite competition was how his impact would be measured and set about making changes to the side’s playing style to help him achieve that aim. Out went the 3-5-2 that had been the foundation of Conte’s success, the three-man defence seen as ill-suited to coping with the attacking styles of Europe’s biggest clubs. In its place came a more orthodox back four, although the coach was loathe to label it as a 4-3-1-2 formation when asked by La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport back in August. “Often I say 4-3 and then we’ll see,” Allegri said (h/t Football Italia), adding that clearer definition “depends on the characteristics of the players.” He first switched to a four-man defence in November, earning wins over Parma and Olympiacos after a minor slump, going on an excellent run of results that saw Juventus secure a place in the knockout stage in the Champions League—an achievement that had eluded Conte in 2013-14. Indeed, the former coach's only success in the competition came in the season before that, reaching the quarter-final after a kind last-16 draw paired his side with Scottish champions Celtic. There would be no such luck for Allegri this time around, however, as he was handed a nostalgic tie against Borussia Dortmund, a club who regularly clashed with the Bianconeri back in the 1990s. Jurgen Klopp’s side reached the final of the competition in 2013 but have endured a tumultuous year, finding themselves in the relegation places when the Bundesliga took its winter break. The first leg of the clash went well for the Italian giants however, emerging 2-1 winners as they won a tough encounter at Juventus Stadium. They travel to Germany for the return clash on Wednesday looking to protect that narrow advantage, and their recent form shows just how they can achieve the result they need to progress. Clashes with Roma, Sassuolo and Palermo have not been particularly pleasing on the eye, but in each the Turin-based club has achieved the result they required. A draw with the Giallorossi saw them maintain their cushion atop the Serie A standings, nullifying the threat of their nearest rivals at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico, itself no comfortable place to visit. The other two games mentioned saw Allegri rotate his side heavily yet still emerge victorious, winning each by a 1-0 scoreline. While they may not be the most illustrious of opponents, the two clubs possess a wealth of attacking talent, boasting the likes of Paulo Dybala, Franco Vasquez, Domenico Berardi and Simone Zaza. Indeed, that quartet boast 34 league goals—plus some 23 assists—between them this term, but in truth never came close to scoring against Juventus. Proving herself capable of winning ugly, a repeat of those performances at the Westfalenstadion on Wednesday would suit the Old Lady perfectly. It is the ideal blueprint, and it would also improve Massimiliano Allegri’s standing with the club’s supporters as the coach continues to emerge as a winner in his own right.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Juve’s keys for Dortmund With their entire season on the line, Luca Cetta looks at the decisive factors which will shape Juventus’ visit to Borussia Dortmund. Mar 16, 2015 “I like 1-0 wins,” Massimiliano Allegri declared, “as they keep you on your toes and tactically I thought the guys did well.” The tactician’s comments came after Juventus downed Sassuolo, grabbing maximum points thanks to Paul Pogba’s late stunner. It was the first Bianconero clean sheet since early February. Allegri was even happier after Juve repeated the feat on Saturday, beating Palermo thanks to Alvaro Morata’s fine strike. The Coach praised the maturity of his team to inflict a first Palermo home loss since September. It also ended a barren away spell, being Juve’s first win on the road since conquering Naples in January. Things bode well for their upcoming showdown, the return Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund. A tie in which the Turin club is “gambling the entire season,” according to comments made by director Beppe Marotta prior to the first leg. That encounter ended 2-1, leaving both sides quietly confident of progression. Allegri acknowledges the difficulty of the task ahead. He knows his side must be at their best to advance so that rediscovered stinginess will be pleasing. Jurgen Klopp’s side have progressed past this stage in each of the last two seasons and lost just twice at home in 14 Champions League outings. Juventus have made three trips to Dortmund and left smiling each time. That includes the first leg of the 1993 UEFA Cup final, where the two Baggio’s – Roberto and Dino – ensured a 3-1 advantage to take back to Turin. When they met in the semi finals of the same competition two seasons later, the Bianconeri had to score following a 2-2 draw in Italy. They did just that, the Divine Ponytail sealing progression to another final with a sumptuous free kick. Months later the action shifted to the Champions League. Juventus maintained their perfect record as Alessandro Del Piero took centre stage, scoring a famous goal in a 3-1 triumph. A feature of each was Juve’s concession of early goals. Dortmund scored three times over 270 minutes, all inside the opening 10. Each time the visitors dusted themselves off to finish the job. That’s the spirit they must evoke on Wednesday. “We know Borussia’s qualities, but it is also a game where we need to score at least one goal, probably two. That means a lot of balance, being in the match and having a bit of luck too,” Allegri opined. The first goal will be vital to shape how the teams approach the contest. Both have shown they can counter effectively. In the first leg Juventus were comfortable inviting pressure and restricting space for Dortmund’s attacking players. With yellow and black shirts committed but hardly threatening, Juventus exploited the open spaces. It can be a template for second leg success. But there are few sides more dangerous when breaking and attacking gaps at pace than Borussia Dortmund. Should the Germans score first it would play into their hands and is the exact scenario Juve hope to avoid. Without Martin Caceres the defence lacks pace. Allegri has one major selection decision, a potentially significant one. Andrea Pirlo hobbled off in the first leg and has not played since. His calf problem is healing and he wants to take the field on Wednesday. Mauro Camoranesi thinks his fellow 2006 World Cup winner is “essential”. First leg evidence suggested Juve enjoyed greater defensive comfort following the introduction of Roberto Pereyra, while seeing more of the ball and creating further opportunities. Nuri Sahin says Borussia had a plan for Pirlo and had it working until his departure. The Argentine provides energy and also fits Juve’s counter-attacking option. Pirlo’s style does not suit the nature of the contest and opponent. The beauty of this tie is it remains as evenly poised as when first announced. It’s a match which could swing in any direction. After recent results and the first leg, Juventus will be quietly confident of advancing. They’ve never left Signal Iduna Park empty handed and channelling the spirits of victories past could see them smile again - especially if it ends 1-0.

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Lippi: ‘Juventus need luck’ Mar 16, 2015 Marcello Lippi believes Juventus are better club than Borussia Dortmund, but warns you need luck in the Champions League. The former Bianconeri Coach guided the side to four Champions League finals, but only won once, losing the last on penalties to Milan in 2003. “I’m still convinced that, overall, Juve are stronger,” Lippi told La Stampa. “But we should also be aware that this is not the Dortmund of two or three months ago. “It takes luck to get to the end, but also a lot of other things. It’s hard to see anyone outside of Bayern, Barcelona or Real Madrid winning it this year. “Juve have completely dominated in Italy for four years, they must try to continue their international growth, with two or three great performances to make it to the Quarter Finals.” The World Cup winner again spoke of his desire to Coach a national team, but says he won’t return to the Azzurri. “I’ve already said that enough is enough with club football. If a national team with a good, ambitious project comes in I’d like that. “Not Italy, I was already wrong to go back there once.”

BORUSSIA D. - JUVENTUS Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 - 08:45 p.m. Signal-Iduna-Park Westfalenstadion, Dortmund Referee:‬ Milorad Mazic (Serbia) Juventus Mission To Break Down The Yellow Wall The Bianconeri travel to Germany, and will need to employ the right approach if they hope to seal their Champions League quarter final berth. Mar 16, 2015 The tie is finely poised as Juventus head to Germany to play the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 match against Borussia Dortmund. The champions of Italy won the first-leg of the tie 2–1 in a not-so-fantastic game. However, they imposed their dominion over the Germans. That might not be the case at the Westfalenstadion, where the ‘Yellow Wall’ will be defiantly loud in it’s support of the home team. The first-leg was evenly fought, with both teams playing rather cautiously. Dortmund were clearly the more aggressive side, outdoing their opponent in both the tackles and fouls departments. But, it is incisive finishing that ultimately counts, and it did. Massimiliano Allegri approached the game watchfully, playing a 4-3-1-2 with Arturo Vidal, Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio in midfield. These battlers were assigned to do the dirty work while Andrea Pirlo charismatically weaved his magic within the safety provided by his colleagues. Some would say that Allegri got lucky with Pirlo’s injury, because Juventus’ midfield became less vulnerable with the addition of Roberto Pereyra. Dortmund were not at their efficient best in the first-leg, but will attack with abandon in the return-leg. Jurgen Klopp will set his team to press high-up the pitch and crack down on Juventus for any sloppiness at the back, an error that was duly punished at the Juventus Arena. Juventus’ goals also arrived from two counter-attacks, an approach that would best benefit them in Germany. Leonardo Bonucci ably deputised for Pirlo in his absence with his accurate long-range passing. It was one such pass that led to Alvaro Morata’s goal in the first-leg. This approach could work well for Juventus, especially since Dortmund would be pressing from the front, leaving acres of space in the back to be exploited, which it can be through the pace offered by Carlos Tevez and Morata. Apart from having a sharp attack, Juventus are adequately capable of being defensively resolute. It is of paramount importance that Juventus score the opening goal to subsequently exercise ruthless control over the game. Borussia Dortmund have scored seven goals at home whilst conceding two during the group stages of the Champions League. That is largely indicative of their attacking prowess, but less so of their defensive susceptibilities. Dortmund are not the organised juggernaut that they once were. Had Tevez and Pereyra taken their chances in Turin, Dortmund could well and truly be out of this contest. Juventus have the tools to trouble Dortmund’s static defense, a thought that could keep Klopp tossing in his bed. He will remember Juventus’ 10 attempts at goal in the first-leg, but the second-leg will be different. Allegri’s men are likely to have fewer chances and they must not be wasteful when these arrive. Losing Andrea Pirlo to injury is arguably a blessing in disguise for Allegri. Pirlo maybe composed and silky in possession, but history is evidence that strategic pressure directed at him makes him a desperately obvious weak link in the team. For instance, Dortmund’s first attempt at goal, wherein Ciro Immobile failed to hit the target, came from a loose pass from Andrea Pirlo due to Dortmund’s relentless pressing. Nuri Sahin’s comments, regarding Pirlo, speak volumes. “I do not want to be disrespectful in any way, but I would have preferred it had Pirlo not gotten injured,” Sahin said to Kicker. “We had come up with a clear plan on how we were going to fight a team containing Pirlo. And this plan worked superbly until he was forced off.” Allegri would be wise to field a physically robust side, capable of rattling Borussia Dortmund in the middle of the park. Creativity is not a concern, as the team functions remarkably well as a unit and can generate chances based on sheer resilience. Playing beautiful football is after all a secondary requirement to qualification. Winning the tie is of primary importance.

West Ham Plots Tevez Return Mar 16, 2015 West Ham are reportedly monitoring the situation of Juventus striker Carlos Tevez, with eyes on the Argentine making a sensational return to England. Tevez played for West Ham in the 2006-07 season, helping the club to secure safety in the English Premier League. Although Tevez has often spoken of a return to Argentina with Boca Juniors, other European clubs would on the trail of the striker. Along with Paris Saint-Germain, West Ham would be the latest candidate to have voiced interest in Tevez according to the Mail on Sunday. Tevez’s contract with Juventus is due to run for another season, ending in June 2016.

PALERMO - JUVENTUS 0 - 1 Álvaro Morata (70') Saturday, March 14th, 2015 - 6:00 PM Renzo Barbera Stadium, Palermo Referee: Marco Guida Marchisio: Juventus Focused On Champions League Mar 15, 2015 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has revealed that the Old Lady have immediately switched their attention to the Champions League following their 1-0 win over Palermo on Saturday. The Bianconeri will be facing Borussia Dortmund in Germany on Wednesday in their round of 16 second leg and will be looking to advance to the next round of the competition after achieving a crucial 2-1 victory against the Bundesliga side in Turin on February 24. Marchisio spoke through his official Instagram page following Juve’s triumph over the Rosanero on Saturday and admitted that doing well in the Champions League clash with the BVB is now the Italian side’s main priority. “This is another great victory and another great performance from the team,” said the 29-year-old Italian international. “Now we will put all of our concentration on the Champions League.” Juventus have lost two out of their three away matches in the tournament this season thus far and will have to score at least one goal in Germany if they hope to have a chance at earning a spot in the quarter-finals. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Andrea Pirlo Is Still Great but Should Sit out vs. Borussia Dortmund Mar 15, 2015 There is little doubting the absolute quality of Andrea Pirlo, the Juventus midfielder having proved his ability repeatedly and consistently for over a decade. The wider English press may have only finally woken up to his genius when his chipped penalty at Euro 2012 embarrassed Joe Hart, but the rest of the world had been fully aware of the Italy international for many years. First coming to prominence during a loan spell at Brescia, it was there—alongside Roberto Baggio—where he first moved into the deep-lying playmaker role with which he is now synonymous. That continued after Internazionale inexplicably allowed him to move across town to AC Milan, and he played an instrumental role in delivering two Champions League titles to the red-and-black half of San Siro. If their city rivals made a mistake back when Pirlo was a youngster, it pales into insignificance compared to the grave error committed by the Rossoneri in the summer of 2011. He was 32 years old and had been on a poor run of form despite the club lifting the league title, but allowing him to leave on a free transfer was a borderline criminal offence by Milan. Juventus could scarcely believe their luck, with Gigi Buffon perhaps best summing up the thoughts of every one of a Bianconeri persuasion. "When Andrea told me he was coming to Juventus, my first thought was 'thank goodness,'" the goalkeeper explained to reporters (h/t Mark Doyle of Yahoo Sport). "Then when I saw him play I thought: ‘There is a God!’ His footballing skills are out of this world." Still possessing that wonderful ability to see passes other players simply cannot, his competitive career with Juve was just 17 minutes old when his vision led to him picking out Stephan Lichtsteiner. The Swiss full-back converted, netting the first goal at Juventus Stadium, and Pirlo had notched his first assist with his new club. Twelve more would follow that season alone, and he has racked up a further 18 in all competitions since, and despite continuing injury problems, Pirlo is also enjoying a fine 2014-15 campaign. According to statistics from WhoScored.com, he is averaging 76.2 passes per game, a mark bettered only by Mirko Valdifiori of Empoli, completing 89.1 per cent of those efforts. The same source shows that both figures are better than last season's, and yet there is a strong case to be made for leaving him out of the return match with Borussia Dortmund. Pirlo’s playing style is ill-suited to the constant pressing and high-energy defensive approach of the German side, and his inclusion could prove costly for the Bianconeri. It was something seen briefly in the first leg, in which the Azzurri star managed 37 minutes of the encounter, limping off injured with the calf injury that has kept him out of action since. A report from La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport (h/t Football Italia) says that the player faces a fitness test and may return on Wednesday, but that could actually hinder Juventus. The side looked much better when he was replaced by Roberto Pereyra, the Argentinian much better suited to both Jurgen Klopp’s defensive tactics and Juve’s counter-attacking pace. That is an opinion shared by Nuri Sahin, with the Turkey international telling Kicker (h/t Goal.com) that he believed Pirlo’s absence improved the Bianconeri: I do not want to be disrespectful in any way, but I would have preferred it had Pirlo not gotten injured. But we had come up with a clear plan on how we were going to fight a team containing Pirlo and this plan worked superbly until he was forced off. Maybe we somehow thought Juventus would not find an answer to our game plan any more after Pirlo was gone. They had to come up with a solution without Pirlo and that paid off for them. On the evidence that followed—the Bianconeri running out 2-1 winners—it is hard to argue. Sahin added another undeniable truth, saying that "Pirlo is a true great, though, and will forever remain a legend." He certainly will, and this is no reflection on his overall performances or an idea that his influence is waning in any way, but perhaps it might be better if the legend is given Wednesday evening off.

Barzagli delighted to make Juve return The veteran defender made his first start of the season against Palermo on Saturday, after eight months on the sidelines with an ankle injury. Mar 15, 2015 Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli says he is relieved and ‘feeling good’ after making his first start of the season. The 33-year-old Italy international came off the bench for the final three minutes of his side’s victory over Sassuolo last week for his first appearance of the season, as a series of ankle problems left him side-lined for eight months. And the veteran stopper was pleased to make a winning return after Alvaro Morata grabbed the only goal of the game against Palermo in Sicily. “It would have been difficult for any player to go through what I have,” Barzagli told the club's official website. “I’m happy with this evening’s result and also for how I fared out there - I felt good. My team-mates gave me confidence, we pick each other out even with our eyes closed.” “Alongside Leo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini in a three-man defence, we know each other’s movements off by heart.” The victory saw Juve move 14 points clear at the top of Serie A, ahead of second-placed Roma’s clash with Sampdoria on Monday. Next up for the Old Lady is a trip to Germany for the second leg of their Champions League clash with Dortmund. “It was a mature performance from us today and we showed our solidity,” Barzagli continued. “Now our focus is required in our Champions League game with Dortmund. We’ve stretched our lead over Roma but the title isn’t in the bag until the mathematics state otherwise.

PALERMO - JUVENTUS 0 - 1 Álvaro Morata (70') Saturday, March 14th, 2015 - 6:00 PM Renzo Barbera Stadium, Palermo Referee: Marco Guida Juventus beat Palermo in another functional Serie A performance Mar 15, 2015 Rarely have we seen the Stadio Renzo Barbera in Palermo so full. Fans from around Sicily came to watch the match between Palermo and Juventus with half of the stadium cheering on the men in black and white. If only the match was worthy of their passion. Juventus instead pulled off another tame but mature performance highlighted by a moment of individual brilliance to collect the points and start preparing for their Champions League test. With Andrea Barzagli back in the squad and the Old Lady missing her best midfielders, Massimiliano Allegri opted to revert to a 3-5-2 formation in hopes of restricting Palermo's front two Argentines and control proceedings. Muted and void of any intensity, the Bianconeri were once again slow, barely capable of exerting any energy and simply present in order to fulfil their duties. Deployed in his favoured wing-back position, only Stephan Lichtsteiner looked interested in breathing life into the formation that once inspired intoxicating determination but that now provides nothing but tedium. With Beppe Iachini's men disinterested in providing a challenge, focusing instead on closing down the spaces and counter-attacking only when and if they saw an opportunity, the 30,000-plus crowd must have wondered why they ever bothered to attend the snooze fest. Ultimately, this was a Juve side that was missing her best men in the middle while Fernando Llorente up top failed to make the most of his opportunity to make an impression. Cumbersome and inefficient, not even this blog that regularly defends the many tactical sacrifices this man has made in the past can truly provide an excuse for the weak performance that was delivered. At least Carlos Tevez alongside him, the man Allegri refuses to rest, attempted a shot on goal and provided some entertainment, albeit for a moment. With Paolo De Ceglie reintroduced back in the side and Stefano Sturaro deployed from start, Allegri hoped the match would provide them with minutes and perhaps some experience to carry forward. Sadly, the former failed to truly make the most of the chance handed to him, never fully capable of exploiting the space offered on left lane and in turn, gifting the opponent too much room to operate. With so much competition for the role, this was the time to demonstrate will and passion but the ex-Parma player only disappointed. Sturaro on the other hand played a proactive game, eager to make an impression as quickly as possible. It will take time before he truly understands the requirements of the role but sadly he was forced to come off too quickly. In the second half, Palermo pushed themselves further upfield and looked to press their opponents but it was the away side that were granted a free kick in a dangerous area. One hoped the game was about to come to life but for Allegri's men to truly make an impression, they needed pace and their boss finally made the substitution that mattered: introducing Alvaro Morata for Llorente. With Claudio Marchisio now having a quick runner to provide with an accurate pass, it took the Spaniard only 11 minutes before he made the right run and delivered a delicious finish to seal the points for his side. A moment of exquisite quality, Juventus needed their technical players to make the difference on a night of solid defending. Marchisio not only provided the assist but put in a terrific performance on the day, providing instructions, telling off those who committed needless fouls and bossing the midfield in organised fashion. He read the game perfectly as he quickly tracked back to close down the spaces between the lines before launching the perfect passes forward, few understand the duality of the role as well as the Juve youth product. A man of infinite tactical intelligence and the character necessary to step up and act as a leader, Marchisio is a man to always depend on. With Juve a little more fiery, Iachini was forced to effect changes to the side to ensure strength at the back and some excitement going forward but the Old Lady proved mature and composed, managing the game to perfection to secure the points and await her next challenge with quiet confidence. It remains to be seen what formation Allegri will deploy against the Germans and whether Barzagli will be chosen to start the match. His composure and elegance on the ball has been greatly missed and while he was a little off the pace in the match today, receiving a yellow card as he attempted to handle the speed of his opponents, one expects him to recover his fine form quickly. Giorgio Chiellini has suffered frequently this season and it would be helpful to rest him even if his heroics can, at times, make the difference. With Jurgen Klopp's men eager to provoke errors when the two teams meet in the Champions League this week, it will take a mature performance at the back to ensure defensive solidity, whoever plays. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

PALERMO - JUVENTUS 0 - 1 Álvaro Morata (70') Saturday, March 14th, 2015 - 6:00 PM Renzo Barbera Stadium, Palermo Referee: Marco Guida Juventus 1-0 Palermo: Álvaro Morata stunner seals Sicilian snoozefest A 70th-minute winner from Álvaro Morata was enough for Juventus, as Andrea Barzagli returned to a rock-solid defense. Mar 15, 2015 Juventus traveled to Sicily on Saturday, taking on a Palermo side that has stumbled a bit of late but remains comfortably in mid-table thanks in large part to the strike partnership of Franco Vázquez and Paulo Dybala. With the massive a Champions League tie with Borussia Dortmund only a few days away, Andrea Pirlo still nursing his calf, and Paul Pogba suspended, some squad rotation was expected from Massimiliano Allegri's side. Juventus turned up in a 3-5-2, with the returning Andrea Barzagli taking back his role alongside Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini in the center of defense. Stefano Sturaro made his Bianconeri debut, while Arturo Vidal and Patrice Evra were held out of the starting lineup in view of Wednesday's match, giving Paolo De Ceglie a chance on the left wing. For most of the match it was clear that neither team wanted to go all-out for the win. Juventus understandably had half an eye on the massive game midweek, and Palermo recognizing the value of taking a point against the dominant side in Serie A. There were brief sparks of inspiration and intent, mostly on the counter, but for long periods it was the kind of match where mundane replays get four or five views, and the play seems to go from goal kick to goal kick. The best news was certainly the return of Andrea "The Wall" Barzagli, who seemed to step right back into the rich form Juventus fans know so well. Vázquez and Dybala worked hard, but the Juventus midfield and especially the defense were rock solid, winning everything in the air and blocking everything on the ground. It was a very impressive defensive effort against a respectable attack, and encouraging knowing that a clean sheet in Germany (gulp) will see Juventus through. MATCH SUMMARY The match started quite quickly, especially compared to what was coming in the sixty minutes to follow. Barzagli didn't take long to make an impact on the match, showing confidence and strength to shake off Vázquez' pressure. Vázquez got his revenge soon after, picking the ball off Claudio Marchisio and pulling off a quick nutmeg on fellow Argentine Carlos Tévez, who then had to take the Palermo man down. Stefano Sturaro was eager to get involved, throwing his body around all over the pitch, but usually to little effect. A few counterattacking chances came when the ball quickly came into either side's strikers but both sets of defenses were fairly compact and untroubled, although a combination between Tévez and Fernando Llorente seemed like it might produce a chance. A 35-yard snapshot from Tévez seemed to swerve in the air, forcing Palermo goalkeeper Stefano Sorrentino to just parry away, but the Rosanero defense were quick to sweep up. Sturaro was on the receiving end from a nasty challenge from Andrea Rispoli, and although the recent arrival was able to carry on Arturo Vidal replaced him at halftime. In the 29th minute, Juventus had numbers forward on the counter from a Palermo throw, but Roberto Pereyra's cross was deflected into Sorrentino's hands. Juventus looked the more likely to break the deadlock, with more effective pressing from the midfield and defense, with Llorente offering a good out ball, but failed to get any of their shots on target, occasionally settling for poor chances. Palermo had a chance to get through when Luca Rigoni and Dybala combined, but Chiellini shielded the final pass through for Gianluigi Buffon. Yellows came out for Vázquez and Siniša Anđelković and a 42nd minute Marchisio free kick was nodded back by Llorente, but the Spanish striker was flagged offside. Good pressure from Sturaro won the ball for Tévez in a dangerous area, but his shot went wide, with the teams ending the first 45 with a combined one shot on target, and that shot from 35 yards. Vidal came on for Sturaro but otherwise not much changed. A Pereyra cross was cleared away, before El Tucu won a free kick in a dangerous position outside of the box. Tévez struck the ball well, getting it around the wall and on target, but not far enough from Sorrentino who made a good save. Dybala threatened to break clear, but Barzagli made the tactical foul and saw yellow. Palermo contested possession well, and were able to put a few balls across the box, but still could not trouble Buffon. Álvaro Morata was on for the last 30 minutes, and eventually Juventus returned to getting the majority of the chances, as Stephan Lichtsteiner got his head to a Tévez corner, but again it went wide of the post. Pereyra showed wonderful skill to break the press and lead the counter, but Vidal's shot was closed down. Just a minute later, the deadlock was broken. Marchisio clipped the ball into the channel for Morata, who tricked Anđelković with his control to get a yard of space, cut inside onto his left, and curled a beautiful strike into the net. It was a fantastic goal, and showed the kind of movement and technique that the young striker brings to the team. De Ceglie went out with a leg injury in the 76th, with Simone Padoin coming on, while Palermo brought on another striker in Andrea Belotti. There were more yellow cards than chances as the clock ticked down, with Lichtsteiner, Morata, Dybala, and Pereyra all seeing a card, Morata's meaning he will be suspended for the Genoa game. Dybala tried his luck another couple of times, but the game finished with Palermo failing to register a single shot on target. LE PAGELLE Buffon: 6 Another game, another clean sheet for Buffon, who pretty much just took the goal kicks. Barzagli: 6.5 Strong and confident, he slotted right back into form alongside Bonucci and Chiellini. Had a couple of hairy moments, but generally a very good return. Bonucci: 6.5 A vital component of a dominant backline, played a huge role in not allowing Palermo a shot on target. Chiellini: 6.5 Always winning his challenges, Chiellini was all over the field and even contributing to buildup play. Lichtsteiner: 6 A constant physical presence down the right flank, but didn't create much and twice shot off target when he might have chosen differently. Sturaro: 6 Showed lots of strength and aggression, perhaps too much at times, but definitely lots to like from his first game in the black and white. Marchisio: 6.5 Stationed in front of the back four, Marchisio played a big part in Juventus' dominant defensive performance, but perhaps could have had more impact on the front foot. Pereyra: 6.5 One of Juventus' best weapons in transition, the Argentine created several good chances simply by beating men in midfield and driving towards goal. De Ceglie: 5.5 Mostly anonymous down the left flank, and had to come off with an unfortunate injury. Llorente: 5.5 Was a useful target man for balls out of defense, and played well with Tévez at times, but did not offer much goal threat. Tévez: 6 Another game in which Tévez seems to do all the same things, but just not find the finishing touch that he had in the early part of the season. Substitutes: Vidal: 6 Always solid in the defensive phase and looking to break into attack, but unable to have a huge impact on the game in 45 minutes. Morata: 7 Scored the winning goal and immediately sharpened Juventus' attack with his movement. Padoin: N/A On for the injured De Ceglie, Padoin had 15 minutes to fill in and did just fine. Coach: Allegri: 6 Always tough to motivate a side for games like these, especially with such a big lead in the division, and some distraction showed. None of the distraction came in defense however, and a 1-0 is just perfect. Now for Wednesday. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111