Socrates

Tevez passa corto a Lichtsteiner e l'occasione in contropiede sfuma.

Pare che la Juve e la Roma lo facciano di proposito a tenere aperto questo campionato fino alla fine.

Pogba fa volare Zaza come un fuscello!

Testata alta di Chiellini.

Show di Pogba

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Line-ups: Juventus-Sassuolo Mar 9, 2015 Juventus have the chance to go 11 points clear tonight, but have to reshuffle against unpredictable Sassuolo. It kicks off at 21.00 CET. As Roma were held 0-0 by Chievo on Sunday, a win would put Juve 11 points clear at the top of the table. However, Gigi Buffon, Martin Caceres and Andrea Pirlo are unavailable, the goalkeeper coming down with flu symptoms this afternoon. Fiorentina came away with a 2-1 Coppa Italia semi-final win here on Thursday evening, becoming the first side to conquer the Juventus Stadium since Bayern Munich in April 2013. Sassuolo are capable of causing upsets and already held Juve to a draw earlier this season, with strikers Simone Zaza and Domenico Berardi in an all-attack 4-3-3 system. Sassuolo have Alessandro Gazzola suspended, while Luca Antei, Paolo Cannavaro, Gianluca Pegolo and Emanuele Terranova are on the treatment table. Juventus: Storari, Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Pereyra, Tevez, Morata Juventus bench: Rubinho, Audero, Barzagli, Ogbonna, De Ceglie, Padoin, Sturaro, Pepe, Llorente, Matri Sassuolo: Consigli; Vrsaljko, Acerbi, Peluso, Longhi; Brighi, Magnanelli, Missiroli; Berardi, Zaza, Sansone Sassuolo bench: Pomini, Polito; Bianco, Natali, Fontanesi, Biondini, Chibsah, Taider, Donis, Floro Flores, Lazarevic, Floccari http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Buffon out of Juve-Sassuolo Mar 9, 2015 Gigi Buffon is out of tonight’s match against Sassuolo after the Juventus goalkeeper came down with flu symptoms. It kicks off at 21.00 CET in Turin. The shot-stopper has already left the training retreat ahead of the game at the Juventus Stadium. This means Marco Storari will take the gloves, having already played in the 2-1 Coppa Italia home defeat to Fiorentina last week. Martin Caceres is out for 10 weeks after undergoing surgery on a fractured ankle. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Allegri demands further Juventus improvement The 47-year-old has urged his men to step up their game versus Sassuolo and feels they did not put in a bad performance in their loss to Fiorentina. Mar 9, 2015 Massimiliano Allegri has stressed that Juventus must improve if they are to win a fourth consecutive Serie A title this term as they prepare to take on Sassuolo on Monday. The reigning Italian champions currently hold an eight-point lead over second-placed Roma having played a game less. However, Allegri is adamant that they can still develop even further as a team as they look to go 11 points clear with a win. "We must improve, stop conceding and work on our focus, because we’re at the final straight of the season," Allegri said at a press conference. "We’re in good physical shape though, and we’ll need to put in a great performance on Monday night. Sassuolo are never an easy team to face and dangerous in open space, with three front men whose talents few teams can boast. "This team has won three consecutive league titles and it seems as if people think it’s just naturally going to happen again this season. I think a bit of enthusiasm has been lost, winning four league titles isn’t straightforward and few teams throughout history have managed to do so. "Everyone should be proud of what these lads are doing. The league still isn’t over and calm is required. We must keep working, take the positive aspects on board and limit the negative ones." Allegri then went on to discuss his side's 2-1 Coppa Italia defeat at the hands of Fiorentina in midweek and feels the Turin side were not as bad as some made it out to be. "We’ve calmly sat down and analysed the Fiorentina match, because it seemed as if the game was a disaster. Instead, if you take away the seven minutes of madness at the start of the second half, when we afforded them two shots and then conceded from our own mistake, we had four or five important opportunities of our own and Fiorentina barely got out of their half. "We must avoid the situations in which we allowed them to counter, but I wouldn’t change any of the decisions I made. Fiorentina will be favourites for the return leg, but we’re capable of overturning the scoreline." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Juventus vs. Sassuolo Preview: Round 26 — Monday Night Football at Juventus Stadium Mar 8, 2015 No matter what time of the season we are in, having an eight-point lead over your closest competition is a good thing. We can find faults in Juventus' season thus far, but when you're up eight points, you're doing something right — for the most part. That's not to say Juve are in great form right now, because they aren't, but sitting at the top of the standings up by at least eight points is good to know. But you know what? It can be better. A whole lot better. Roma drew for the eighth time in its last nine games (!!!). If there was ever a chance to push the Serie A lead to double digits (again), then Monday night would be it. Roma are like the boxer that is struggling along the ropes and is one or two punches away from being knocked out. Pushing the lead to plus-11 would continue Roma's wobbling ways without question. Why are we talking Roma so much in a preview for Monday night's game against Sassuolo? Well, it's simple: Juventus wins in Turin Monday, that Serie A lead is pushed into double digits. Not for a couple of hours, not for a day before Roma plays, none of that. A Juve win over Sassuolo means Round 27 will start with Juventus up 11 points on Roma. ELEVEN. That's a pretty good place to be sitting with 12 games left in the 2014-15 season. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@OfficialAllegri: "I'd also be happy to win the Sassuolo game by a 1-0 scoreline. In life you need to be practical." Well, that's one way to look at it, Max. I guess the way Juve's defense has been playing lately, getting a shutout against a team with dangerous attackers isn't the worst thing in the world. GOOD NEWS Did I mention Roma are doing the whole drawing against weaker opponents thing again? BAD NEWS A quick look at who isn't part of the traveling squad due to injury: Andrea Pirlo Kwadwo Asamoah Martin Cáceres Luca Marrone In short, injuries are stupid. We should ban them from existence. WHAT TO WATCH FOR 1. Domenico Berardi because of course. Pavel Nedved recently said Berardi is one of Juventus' future cornerstone players. While there's always going to be some skepticism about how Juve handles young players out on loan/co-ownership, what Nedved said about Berardi has every indication of complete serious simply based on who it came from. Berardi is having another fine season in his second Serie A campaign. He's got seven goals, he's recorded six assists, he continues to dazzle even when he's not scoring goals. Can he be better? Of course he can. Is he ready for Juventus? Some say yes, some say he needs a bit more time before he truly is able to arrive at a club with so much hope attached to his back. And what better way to make another good impression than to put in a big-time performance against the club everybody expects you to be at sooner rather than later? 2. Simone Zaza because of course. Considering all of those rumors about Zaza coming to Turin in the winter transfer window didn't come to any kind of fruition, the other striker of Juventus' eye is still waring a Sassuolo jersey. Zaza has had an up-and-down season despite earning his first cap with the Italian national team late in 2014. He has scored eight goals total, but just one in his last six games. (Maybe he's just practicing for a future with Juventus since that goal came in Sassuolo's 3-1 win over Inter last month.) Some look at Zaza as the better player to come to Juventus right now simply because he's more of a developed player at 23 years old. But it's clear that Juventus have ideas about brining him in next season. Much like Berardi, what better way to show you're ready than to do things — again — against Juventus? JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen Neroverdi duo Zaza & Berardi have struck 15 league goals between them, the same total as Tevez 3. Juventus' defense because they have looked terrible lately. I don't really know where to begin simply because there's been so many things going wrong at the back lately. We all know about Juventus' inability to defend set pieces this season and how it has been exposed in even in recent weeks. But just the amount of overall mistakes and blunders has you thinking about where the defense of previous years has gone. It certainly doesn't help that Giorgio Chiellini has struggled to find any kind of consistent form (in a good way) this season. But as a collective unit, this current Juventus defense is in need of a gut check. Maybe that loss to Fiorentina midweek in the Coppa Italia will be the cure of all their current ills. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@OfficialAllegri: "We must be a lot more alert with corner kicks in our favour, denying the opposition the chance to break on the counter." 4. Roberto Pereyra because he's playing behind the strikers. No Pirlo means Arturo Vidal gets to be an actual midfielder again and Pereyra steps in to play behind Álvaro Morata and Carlos Tévez. Simple is as simple does, really. Pereyra has been a lot like Juventus lately form wise. Sometimes he's on and making a big impact, other times he's just kinda there but not playing all too well. With Pirlo out for at least a couple more weeks, Pereyra's importance is even that much more because of who he's replacing in the starting lineup. When he's right, Pereyra's energy on the field can replicate that of Vidal. But finding consistency will be key for the young Argentine — as it has been all season. My starting XI (4-3-1-2): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Ogbonna, Evra; Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba; Pereryra; Tévez, Morata OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 9 P.M. IN ITALY; 4 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 1 P.M. ON THE WEST COAST http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Di Francesco: Match Against Juventus Isn’t Just A Getaway Trip Mar 8, 2015 Ahead of Sassuolo’s match against league leaders Juventus on Monday, coach Eusebio Di Francesco has stated that his side will not be overcome by the fixture and that they will do their utmost to try obtain something from the game. Sassuolo are currently 14th in the league table and 29 points behind the Bianconeri, but the 45-year-old tactician has declared that despite this gap, he still wants his side to give the maximum of amount of effort when they play. “We will not start the match with a defeatist attitude,” said Di Francesco in his pre-match press conference. “We will play the match in the right way but we will also understand that we are playing the strongest team in the championship. “However we are certainly not going to Turin just for the trip. We will be sure to play a great match and we will not leave anything to chance. “I will demand the absolute maximum amount of effort from my players, on both a physical and a mental level. “I am sure that they will put in a good performance.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Caceres out of Juve-Sassuolo Mar 8, 2015 Martin Caceres is out of tomorrow night’s Juventus-Sassuolo after spraining his ankle in training. It kicks off on Monday at 21.00 CET. Uruguay international Caceres has been ruled out by a sprained left ankle that will require further tests. However, Stefano Sturaro and Kingsley Coman are both available after shaking off muscular problems. Andrea Pirlo remains out for another couple of weeks, joined by Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo and Luca Marrone. Juventus squad for Sassuolo: Buffon, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Morata, Tevez, Coman, Llorente, Barzagli, De Ceglie, Bonucci, Padoin, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Storari, Matri, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo JUVENTUS V SASSUOLO MATCH PREVIEW Mar 8, 2015 Juventus Juventus will hope to return to winning ways as they welcome Max Allegri’s former side Sassuolo to Turin for round 26 of the Serie A calendar. All told, it’s been a disappointing 7 days for the Bianconeri, starting with the frustrating draw against 10-man Roma last Monday and ending with Juve’s first home defeat in 2 years on Thursday night at the hands of rivals, Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia. Juventus have drawn 3 of their last 5 league matches, missing out on the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table but Allegri insisted he isn’t worried by Juve’s recent form. “The goals we conceded are mistakes that must be analysed, identified and avoided.” he told reporters in his Press conference this morning. “We analysed the game with Fiorentina. I would make all my decisions again, given the chance. We had four or five chances to score and Fiorentina barely came out of their own half until the last five minutes. The performance is not to be written off completely. We should avoid these mistakes on set plays and counter-attacks.” Allegri went on to praise his players while slamming the negativity that has built up in recent weeks. “I want to point out this squad won the Scudetto three times in a row. People are taking a fourth for granted, but so few teams have achieved that. I feel the enthusiasm has been lost around us. “It was unthinkable for us to already secure the title in February. These things take time and people should see the positives as well as the negatives. “On Monday we have a difficult game against Sassuolo. Will there be a trial by media if we don’t win? I keep my feet on the ground.” Despite experimenting with 4-3-3 against Fiorentina and reverting to 3-5-2 against Roma, its expected Allegri will return to his tried-and-tested 4-3-1-2 against Sassuolo. Gigi Buffon will start in goal while Stephan Lichtsteiner and Patrice Evra are likely to replace Martin Caceres and Simone Padoin in the full-back positions with Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci playing in the centre of defence. Claudio Marchisio looked tired and off the pace against Fiorentina but he’s the only real option Juve have to play in place of the injured Andrea Pirlo. Arturo Vidal is gradually returning to his best and seems to have benefited from playing in the 3 man midfield rather than as a makeshift trequartista. Paul Pogba will likely sit-in on the left while Roberto Pereyra looks at his best behind a front two of Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata. UPDATE : Gigi Buffon is out of the squad due to a bout of flu. Storari will start in his place in goal. Predicted Lineup 4-3-1-2: Storari; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba; Pereyra; Tevez, Morata Injured Asamoah and Romulo (Recovering from surgery), Pirlo (ankle), Cacares (ankle) Suspended None Form (D-W-D-W-D) Sassuolo Sassuolo are slumping: they have lost the last three games in a pretty discouraging fashion, even if they were facing superior competitors (Fiorentina, Napoli and Lazio) and they have won only one match in their last five (against Inter). There are essentially two reasons for this skid: defending has never been their forte and the defense works decently well only when composed by all four starters. Sime Vrsaljko and Federico Peluso have missed the last few matches and the captain Paolo Cannavaro picked up an injury two games ago. Therefore, they ended up with Francesco Acerbi cornering a patched defensive line, formed by either a washed up veteran (Paolo Bianco), fullbacks-turned-centre-backs (Alessandro Longhi) or midfielders-turned-fullbacks (Davide Biondini and Matteo Brighi). Not ideal when you have to deal with Mo Salah, Felipe Anderson and others quality attackers. Luckily for them, the two starting fullbacks seems ready to make their return on Monday. With Cannavaro still sidelined, Eusebio Di Francesco could field Peluso as centre-back with Longhi on the left or Bianco in the middle of the defense. Both aren’t good options, but it’s still an improvement. The second reason for their downturn that they are in no man’s land in the table as we approach the final stretch. They are nine points clear from the relegation zone (and there are five teams between them and Cagliari) and ten points away from the 6th seed (but there are five teams between them and Sampdoria, including Inter and Milan). It’s not easy to motivate players when you are basically fighting for nothing. There should be no changes in the rest of the lineup, the only doubt is in the midfield since Saphir Taider doesn’t look in the best possible shape after partaking to AFCON: Brighi or Biondini could take him spot. At this point, their traits are well-known: explosive counters, aggressive offside trap, quick and proactive team play and movement, several playmakers that can create a chance out of the blue, some good long-distance shooters. It’s really a provincial version of Fiorentina. The biggest threat, of course, comes from the magic trio up front: Domenico Berardi, Simone Zaza and Nicola Sansone. However, with Zaza coming to Juventus or leaving for another big club, Sansone wanting to play in European cup next season (Bundesliga is calling…), Berardi ready to make the leap and also Di Francesco slated to jump ship, I do question how really interested and committed they are in this (meaningless) final part of the season. Of course although, as we know very well, the Juventus game always brings extra motivations. I don’t mean to bash them, because, all things considered, this season proved that the gamble paid off: Di Francesco managed to bring team a squad that narrowly avoided relegation last season to a very comfortable position and did that by sticking to his beliefs, ditching catenaccio, playing exciting football and relying on his young and Italian guns. Even if a lot could change in the summer, the Sassuolo experiment has been a successful one and I hope that the “the good football way” will continue to trend: Empoli and Palermo have jumped onto the bandwagon and it should end well for them… Predicted Lineup 4-3-3: Consigli; Vrsaljko, Bianco, Acerbi, Peluso; Taider, Magnanelli, Missiroli; Berardi, Zaza, Sansone Injured Pegolo (tibia), Terranova (knee), Antei (knee), Cannavaro (thigh) Suspended Gazzola Form (W-D-L-L-L) Formation http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Decision Time: Sassuolo Duo’s Juventus Potential The Neroverdi host the Bianconeri in a clash that will see their star duo take on the mouth that used to feed them, as well as one which could impact their futures. Mar 8, 2015 Monday’s Serie A fixtures will see Juventus welcome Sassuolo to Turin, in what ought to be a relatively straightforward encounter for the league champions. However, there are two players of particular interest in the Neroverdi line-up: namely Domenico Berardi and Simone Zaza. Both attackers bear a strong affiliation with their opponent, with Berardi in fact the property of Juventus. Neither side are in desperate need of a win, allowing both players the chance to show the home fans what they’re missing. As the focal point in attack for Sassuolo, the emphasis will be on Zaza to lead from the front. A recent arrival on the international scene with the Azzurri, the 23-year-old was bought from the Bianconeri for €7.5 million and with a buy-back option set at €18 million. His 18 goals for Sassuolo have earned him great praise and admiration, leading to his first senior call-up to the Italian national team for his countries European qualifiers. However, despite all of his progress, a return to Juventus seems unlikely for Zaza. With the growing pressure on the Bianconeri to compete with greater consistency in Europe, the emphasis on the team’s strikers is immense. One way the Juventus hierarchy have attempted to address this issue is by buying top class front-men. With so much at stake for the Italian champions in Europe, only players with a wealth of attacking quality such as Carlos Tevez can survive in Turin. Sadly for Zaza, his game is largely restricted to the penalty box and doesn’t have the pace or technique to add a different dimension. It’s for these precise reasons that Berardi has every chance of joining the Juventus squad. Already a gifted player at 20 years of age, Berardi has dazzled in Serie A by scoring 23 goals since Sassuolo earned promotion to the top flight. The Bianconeri were quick to snap up the teenager, and they have been richly rewarded for their diligent work on the transfer market. Berardi has shown all the qualities to succeed in Serie A, and with Massimiliano Allegri keen on adding some healthy competition to the dressing room, the winger could find himself replacing Juventus’ departee: Sebastian Giovinco. The Italian left for Toronto FC in February, depriving the Old Lady of one of their fastest and most agile players. Berardi is exactly the kind of player to fill this position, and with any luck, surpass his predecessor in terms of achievement. Berardi is still young though, and so will have to be well aware of Juventus’ ambitions in Europe and will thus need to develop fast to earn his place. Should Juventus decide to re-sign Zaza, then they will have inherited a top finisher who they can depend on in Serie A. Comparatively the future seems to be more promising for Berardi, who, with the proper application and exposure to the European arena, can develop into a superstar for Juventus. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Cracks appear at Juventus with Allegri urging side to maintain focus Mar 8, 2015 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri continues to warn that his team's nine-point gap at the top of Serie A is not enough. If his men drop their concentration for a moment, another defeat is a real possibility and it will invite more pressure from their title challengers. Allegri needs his men to stay alert. Too many mistakes have been happening and while you can understand fatigue is a problem at this stage of the season, Juventus' defensive stats show how much their problems on the pitch are affecting results. Juve are no longer a pillar of strength at the back. Before the winter break, they conceded 13 goals in 23 games. In the New Year, they have already conceded 11 in just 13 matches. Woeful defending from set pieces and the struggle to prevent counter-attacks have worried those who see the team committing the same mistakes over and over again. The question is, why? Some suggest that exhaustion has resulted in a drop in concentration and mistakes are likely to happen. The squad may boast more depth than most in Serie A but it's still not enough to rotate with ease. At this stage of the season, Juventus want their main men to be playing all their games because their back-ups, aren't always going to guarantee the same level of brilliance, as Simone Padoin demonstrated in the 2-1 defeat against Fiorentina. Others blame Allegri for the drop in intensity that has provoked this fragility. He hasn't done enough psychologically to encourage relentless energy for the full 90 minutes in every game like Antonio Conte once preached. A coach always has his critics even if Juve have evolved under Allegri. However, you must look at the full picture. The tactics have changed to allow for a greater emphasis on scoring goals. Evolving the tactics to show more courage up top has also meant that Juve have lost aggressive power in midfield. The 4-3-1-2 formation requires optimum concentration at the back and disciplined players who understand when to push forward and when to track back. Last year, only three teams performed more tackles but this season it's 12. At least in terms of statistics, the Bianconeri have performed better in the number of shots they take and in possession. This has placed a lot of pressure on the back line and while the players handled the extra work well at the beginning of the campaign concentration levels can drop as limbs become weary in the final stages of the season. Mentally and physically, this side do not have enough time to fully recover after games. Another point is Arturo Vidal. He's no longer the warrior the fans cheer on and is not even in the top 10 best tacklers in the league this season. His fall from grace is in part due to his knee problems and also down to a change in position where he is struggling further forward. You also cannot overlook the loss of Kwadwo Asamoah, the man who holds his position well and offers wonderful defensive contributions especially when it comes to counter-attacks. His tendency to prioritise defence over attack can frustrate when the side pushes forward but his strength and tackling ability comes in handy when opponents run at pace. Fiorentina knew how to punish the Bianconeri and unless Juventus maintain concentration for the entirety of matches, their errors will be exploited. No team likes to spring a surprise more than Sassuolo -- Juve's next opponent. Boasting Domenico Berardi and Simone Zaza, Eusebio Di Francesco's men may have suffered in recent games, conceding eight goals in their last three but they are talented and can hurt even the grandest of clubs. As Allegri continues to warn his players, each game requires a fight to ensure another trophy. His advice must be heeded. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Allegri 'not worried' about Juve Mar 8, 2015 Max Allegri insists he is “not worried” by recent Juventus form ahead of tomorrow’s game with Sassuolo. It kicks off on Monday at 21.00 CET. “I am not worried,” assured the Coach in a Press conference this morning. “The goals we conceded are mistakes that must be analysed, identified and avoided. “We have to improve these things, but we’re still in mid-March and in the running for all three competitions.” On Thursday Juve suffered a shock 2-1 home defeat to Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia semi-final, their first loss in this stadium since April 2013. “We analysed the game with Fiorentina. I would make all my decisions again, given the chance. We had four or five chances to score and Fiorentina barely came out of their own half until the last five minutes. “The performance is not to be written off completely. We should avoid these mistakes on set plays and counter-attacks.” Allegri slammed the negativity around Juve’s recent performances and maintained fans ought to be “proud of this team. “I want to point out this squad won the Scudetto three times in a row. People are taking a fourth for granted, but so few teams have achieved that. I feel the enthusiasm has been lost around us. “It was unthinkable for us to already secure the title in February. These things take time and people should see the positives as well as the negatives. “On Monday we have a difficult game against Sassuolo. Will there be a trial by media if we don’t win? I keep my feet on the ground. “I know facing Sassuolo is tough, as they cost me my job at Milan last season. They have a lot of quality and those three forwards are devastating when running into space. “We have conceded too many goals recently and must improve on those situations. However, considering the situation, our performances haven’t seemed so horrible. It’s up to me to change a few positions.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Juventus v Sassuolo: Preview Mar 8, 2015 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri is stressing the need for his players to maintain their concentration as they look to close in on a fourth straight Italian title. The Turin giants go into Monday's home game against Sassuolo holding a nine-point advantage over Roma at the top of the standings. Juve held Roma to a 1-1 result at the Stadio Olimpico on Monday to take a step closer to defending the Scudetto. However, with 13 games remaining, Allegri does not want any relaxation from his players. He told the Italian press: ``We took a step forward by taking a point at Roma. ``But there are many games left to play and the Serie A season is not over, despite what many people seem to say. ``Until the numbers say so, the Scudetto race remains open.'' Juve head into the encounter having seen their 47-match unbeaten run at home come to an end on Thursday. Allegri's men lost 2-1 to Fiorentina in their first leg semi-final of the Coppa Italia. ``Fiorentina deserved the win,'' Allegri said. ``They played better than us. ``We lost this game but we can turn it around in the second leg (April 7). ``Now we must focus on returning to winning ways against Sassuolo.'' Sassuolo have lost their last three league games, including a 3-0 home defeat to Lazio last weekend. Eusebio Di Francesco's side last won on February 1 and lie 12th in the standings, nine points clear of the drop zone. Sassuolo signed veteran defender Cesare Natali as a free agent on Wednesday with the Emilia-Romagna outfit in need of strengthening their backline after losing Luca Antei to a serious knee injury last week. With defenders Emanuele Terranova and Paolo Cannavaro out injured, as well as Marcello Gazzola suspended, Natali could make his club debut against Juve ``I am ready to play,'' Natali said. ``I was surprised to get the call from Sassuolo after not getting many offers following my departure from Bologna last summer. ``I hope I can give my contribution and help the club avoid the drop.'' http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Serie A - 7^ Giornata Ritorno - 9-3-2015 (ore 21:00) JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Lunedí, 9 marzo 2015 - ore 21:00 Juventus Stadium, Torino Arbitro: Sebastiano Peruzzo Confronti ufficiali 3 - 3 (Serie A) Vittorie Juventus 2 - 2 (Serie A) Pareggi 1 - 1 (Serie A) Vittorie Sassuolo 0 Goals Juventus 8 - 8 (Serie A) Goals Sassuolo 2 - 2 (Serie A) Juventus - Sassuolo Serie A a Torino Confronti ufficiali 1 Vittorie Juventus 1 (Il 15.12.2013, 4-0) Pareggi 0 Vittorie Sassuolo 0 Goals Juventus 4 Goals Sassuolo 0 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Sassuolo a Torino 1 presenza Asamoah Kwadwo 1 Barzagli Andrea 1 Bonucci Leonardo 1 Buffon Gianluigi 1 Chiellini Giorgio 1 De Ceglie Paolo 1 Isla Mauricio Anibal 1 Llorente Fernando Javier 1 Padoin Simone 1 Peluso Federico 3 goals Tevez Carlos Alberto 1 Peluso Federico Ultimi confronti diretti 15.12.2013 Serie A Juventus-Sassuolo 4-0 28.04.2014 Serie A Sassuolo-Juventus 1-3 18.10.2014 Serie A Sassuolo-Juventus 1-1 Giocate 3 - Vittorie Juventus 2 - Pareggi 1 - Vittorie Sassuolo 0 - Goals Juventus 8 - Goals Sassuolo 2 http://www.goal.com/it/results-standings/69/serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_101

Pogba '99 per cent at Juventus' Mar 8, 2015 Agent Mino Raiola says Paul Pogba will “99 per cent” stay at Juventus, despite bids from “Real Madrid, Barcelona, PSG, Bayern, Man Utd, Man City and Chelsea.” The French midfielder’s price-tag is believed to be a minimum of €100m and rising, though so far the Bianconeri have resisted all proposals. “We made a pact with Juve: Paul doesn’t have to leave,” agent Raiola told Tuttosport. “I spoke to President Andrea Agnelli, directors Pavel Nedved, Beppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici, so they all agree. The club doesn’t need the money. “At this moment the situation at Juve is ideal for Pogba. We would only leave if a situation emerged that was favourable for all concerned. “He is wanted by seven clubs and that is certain, because they all told me so. The ones that can afford him are Real Madrid, Barcelona, PSG, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea. “If I just whistled, I’d sell Pogba tomorrow to PSG or City in a heartbeat. But Paul did not tell me to find him another club. “What are his chances of staying? As of today it’s 99 per cent. Juve agree with our approach, which is that they will only sell if Paul asks to leave and there’s a suitable offer. Of course, it could become one per cent, it depends on the market. “For a year and a half Marotta and Paratici have been working on a market strategy, whether they sell Pogba or keep him.” Raiola revealed more details about the Spanish battle breaking out between Real Madrid and Barcelona for Pogba. “Real wanted him 18 months ago, but I didn’t like the attitude Madrid had with me. Juve asked for about €50m and Real told me it was a ridiculous sum. Even Carlo Ancelotti told me that and he adores Pogba. I don’t have to sell him, though. Barcelona could be an option and we’ll see if the Catalans complain too... “I advised Paul to only leave Juve if he finds a club that desperately wants him. Right now it’s easier to remain in Turin than to leave. Juve are the side with the advantage. “In fact, if Juventus keep him, then in one or two years they could get even more. Pogba is like a Basquiat or Andy Warhol painting. He’s very pop-art. “Look at Basquiat’s paintings and you’ll see so much of Paul in there, that mane, the colours, the fire. He also has a divine calm. “Zlatan Ibrahimovic was never like that. I always got the feeling I was holding an atomic bomb in my hand. Being with Paul is a pleasure. He understands things so well, feels gratitude and respect for Juve.”

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Juventus-Sassuolo Preview: Padoin calls for Bianconeri to bounce back after Coppa defeat The Italian champions suffered a 2-1 loss to Fiorentina in Turin on Thursday and are desperate to get back to winning ways on home soil. Mar 8, 2015 Simone Padoin sees Juventus' meeting with Sassuolo on Monday as the perfect opportunity to recover from their Coppa Italia defeat to Fiorentina. On Thursday, Massimiliano Allegri's men went down 2-1 at home as two goals from Mohamed Salah gave Fiorentina the advantage in the first leg of their semi-final. It was the reigning Serie A champions' first loss at Juventus Stadium in any competition since April 2013 - a remarkable run of 47 games. As Juve turn their attentions back to the league, Padoin is in confident mood ahead of the visit of Sassuolo. "We need to bounce back from this defeat and I'm sure we'll do so at the first time of asking on Monday," he told the club's official website. "We know we'll be up against a decent team and a very young one at that. "They were the first side to bring an end to our run of six consecutive victories at the start of the season, but winning is the most important thing on Monday. "We've done well to gain a nine-point lead over Roma but with 13 games to go and 39 points up for grabs, it means nothing as things stand, anything can still happen." That lead could be cut to six points by the time Juve kick off, with Roma visiting Chievo on Sunday. "I don't think this is a difficult time for us, we just need to step up the tempo a little and finish games off earlier," Juve striker Carlos Tevez told Sky Sport Italia. "No matter what some people say, nine points isn't enough of an advantage over Roma to relax. We have to speed up and get the Scudetto under lock and key as soon as possible." Although Juve's only league defeat of this season came back in late October, Allegri's side have drawn three of their last five Serie A outings, while Sassuolo have lost each of their last three games, conceding eight goals in the process. Former Juve man Simone Zaza has eight Serie A goals in 19 appearances this season - including his effort in the 1-1 draw between the two sides in the reverse fixture back in October. The visitors, meanwhile, will have to keep a watchful eye on Tevez, who has 21 goals in all competitions this campaign, including three in his last five outings. Juve's major injury concern surrounds experienced midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who has not featured since the Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund after picking up a calf problem. OPTA FACTS The three previous meetings in Serie A between these two sides have seen two wins for Juventus and a draw. The Bianconeri have averaged 2.7 goals scored in these three games against Sassuolo. Juve have altenated a home win to an away draw over their last six league games. Juventus have scored and conceded goals in each of their last four league fixtures. Sassuolo have lost their last three games, conceding 2+ goals in all of those matches. Sassuolo have conceded goals in each of their last seven away games, however, they’ve never lost two consecutive games on the road this term. Juve have scored 10 goals in the opening 15 minutes of play – a league-high. Carlos Tevez scored Juve’s 15th goal from a dead ball situation on Monday against Roma – no side has scored more from set-piece situations during this Serie A. LAST FIVE MATCHES Juventus L D W W D 3/5/15 Juventus 1 - 2 Fiorentina 3/2/15 Roma 1 - 1 Juventus 2/24/15 Juventus 2 - 1 Borussia Dortmund 2/20/15 Juventus 2 - 1 Atalanta 2/15/15 Cesena 2 - 2 Juventus Sassuolo L L L D W 3/1/15 Sassuolo 0 - 3 Lazio 2/23/15 Napoli 2 - 0 Sassuolo 2/14/15 Sassuolo 1 - 3 Fiorentina 2/8/15 Sampdoria 1 - 1 Sassuolo 2/1/15 Sassuolo 3 - 1 Internazionale HEAD TO HEAD 10/18/14 Sassuolo 1 - 1 Juventus 4/28/14 Sassuolo 1 - 3 Juventus 12/15/13 Juventus 4 - 0 Sassuolo http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo MATCH PREVIEW Mar 7, 2015 Max Allegri faces his past as league leaders Juventus host Sassuolo on Monday night. The Juve tactician will have mixed emotions going into this fixture. Back in 2008 he won promotion with the Neroverdi guiding them to Serie B. Unfortunately for Allegri, his position as Milan Coach was brought to an abrupt end following an incredible 4-3 defeat at the hands of Sassuolo last season. It was a memorable day for Domenico Berardi, as he struck all four goals for the Emilians. A stunning free kick courtesy of Capocannoniere Carlos Tevez earned his side a valuable point in the crucial top of the table clash at Roma last Monday night. The Bianconeri preserved their nine point lead at the summit and are edging closer to a fourth consecutive Scudetto. However Allegri was far from impressed with his team’s performance in the last 20 minutes of a bruising encounter. The Coach was quick to warn his players from switching off, with some big matches looming. Those words were not taken on board, as his side was defeated midweek in the Coppa Italia semi-final first leg against Fiorentina. This was the Old Lady’s first loss in nearly two years on home soil, ending a run of 47 matches unbeaten. Sassuolo currently lie 12th, midway between a Europa League and relegation position. With 74 yellow and seven red cards, they have the worst disciplinary record in Serie A. They now travel to the Juventus Stadium on the back of three defeats, where La Vecchia Signora have won a staggering 29 matches from their last 31 Serie A encounters. Coach Eusebio Di Francesco’s squad have conceded 38 goals so far this season. Injuries and suspensions in recent weeks have forced the tactician to re-invent his entire back line. He will be relieved that defenders Sime Vrsaljko, Federico Peluso and club captain Francesco Magnanelli will be available for selection. The spotlight will certainly be on Berardi and Simone Zaza. The duo are rumoured to be joining Juventus next season and will be keen to impress. Andrea Pirlo will not be available for another few weeks due to injury. Judging by that majestic set piece from Tevez against Roma, the Argentine has learnt well from the maestro. Keep an eye on: Domenico Berardi (Sassuolo) – Though not as prolific as last term, the 20-year-old has been influential nonetheless for the Neroverdi. With seven goals and six assists, he is averaging 3.4 shots per game. Discipline is still an issue, having picked up eight yellow and one red card this campaign. This is a perfect opportunity to convince the Juventus hierarchy for a move there next season. Form Guide: Juventus (D W D W D) Sassuolo (W D L L L) Last season: Juventus 4-0 Sassuolo Stat fact: Sassuolo have never beaten Juventus in Serie A, earning one draw from three meetings where they scored twice and conceded eight. Juventus (probable): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Evra; Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba; Pereyra; Morata, Tevez Suspended: None Sassuolo (probable): Consigli; Vrsaljko, Peluso, Acerbi, Longhi; Brighi, Magnanelli, Missiroli; Berardi, Zaza, Sansone Suspended: Gazzola http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - SASSUOLO .- Monday, March 9th, 2015 - 9:00 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Sebastiano Peruzzo Zaza: 'Juve not unbeatable' Mar 7, 2015 Simone Zaza points out “Juventus are not unbeatable” for Sassuolo, revealing how the Bianconeri “got into my brain.” It kicks off on Monday at 21.00 CET. The Bianconeri were stunned midweek by a 2-1 Coppa Italia home defeat to Fiorentina, ending their unbeaten run at the Juventus Stadium after almost two years. “There is no such thing as an unbeatable team, so we are capable of beating Juventus,” Zaza told La Presse. “Obviously Juve need to make some mistakes too and for us to have a great performance, but we go to Turin eager to give it a go.” Zaza was very close to joining Juventus over the January transfer window, but opted to remain with the Neroverdi. “I really struggled during those moments. I didn’t want to know anything that was happening. I was isolated and tried to focus only on doing well for Sassuolo, but whether you want to or not, these things get into your brain. “That week we played against Cagliari and I have to admit I wasn’t concentrated. My head wasn’t in the right place. “When the situation calmed down, we took on Inter and it went well. It cannot be a coincidence. To do well, you need to be relaxed and focused.” It’s all a learning curve for Zaza, who is already an Italy international under Coach Antonio Conte. “He’s a very direct person who immediately tells you what he thinks, without beating around the bush. I don’t know Conte well, but I do think it’s a problem for him to have so little time with his players.” How does the striker get along with his Sassuolo tactician Eusebio Di Francesco? “He’s honest and at times too nice. He’s very precise, as in his system everything has to be the way he wants it. He really takes care of the unity of the squad and his rapport with the players.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - FIORENTINA 1 - 2 Mohamed Salah (11') Fernando Llorente (24') Mohamed Salah (56') Coppa Italia semi-final Thursday, March 5th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Zoff: Juventus Can Stage Coppa Italia Comeback Mar 7, 2014 Juventus legend Dino Zoff believes that the Old Lady have the ability to stage a comeback in their Coppa Italia semi-final second leg clash with Fiorentina on April 7. The Bianconeri suffered a 2-1 loss to the Viola in Turin on Thursday, which was their first home defeat in all competitions since falling to Bayern Munich in April 2013, and the former goalkeeper admits that the visitors’ top form may have seen them earn the win even if Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri had fielded his strongest team. Zoff spoke to ItaSportPress.it about the Coppa Italia battle between Juventus and Fiorentina and expressed his faith in the Turin side’s chances of advancing to the tournament final. “The coach was not wrong to start alternative players in order to keep some rested for the Champions League,” said the 73-year-old. “Juventus probably would’ve lost even with their strongest team on the field, as Fiorentina managed to play a great match. “For the final, however, I am sure that Juventus can overturn the result during the second leg at the Stadio Franchi and advance.”

Pogba to Barcelona talk just speculation - Luis Enrique The Barca coach would not be drawn on the speculation linking the Juventus star with a transfer to Camp Nou following reports of a potential bid this week. Mar 7, 2015 Luis Enrique says transfer rumours linking Barcelona with a big money bid for Juventus star Paul Pogba are nothing more than idle speculation. Real Madrid have been persistently tipped to break the world transfer record and buy the midfielder this summer, while a number of English sides and PSG are also interested. But Barcelona have recently emerged as a potential destination and sporting director Ariedo Braida scouted the Frenchman during Juventus' Champions League clash with Dortmund last week. Any move for Pogba, 21, would be complicated, however, given that Barca are banned from signing players until 2016 and Luis Enrique offered little response to the latest round of reports. "Pogba rumours? I'm not talking about speculation, I can't control that. I'm focused on football now," he said ahead of his side's clash with Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.

Tevez: 'Juve lead not enough' Mar 7, 2015 Carlos Tevez warned nine points “isn’t enough” for Juventus to break away from Roma, while he considers a gift to fans. The striker spoke to Sky Sport Italia ahead of Monday night’s match against Sassuolo. “I don’t think this is a difficult time for us, we just need to step up the tempo a little and finish games off earlier,” said the Apache. “No matter what some people say, nine points isn’t enough of an advantage over Roma to relax. We have to speed up and get the Scudetto under lock and key as soon as possible.” Tevez has made no secret of his desire to join Boca Juniors in future, maybe even as early as next season, and this week gifted the supporters a huge flag. “I would love to give one to the Juventus fans too, as the Stadium is missing a flag that big. I might have ‘Fino alla fine’ – all the way to the end – written on it too.”