Socrates

JUVENTUS - MILAN .- Saturday, February 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Antonio Damato Damato to ref Juve-Milan Feb 5, 2015 Antonio Damato will run the rule over Saturday’s clash between Juventus and Milan as the week 22 referees are announced. The Italian referees association has announced the officials for this week’s fixtures, and Damato will take charge of Saturday’s match. The 42-year-old last took charge of a Bianconeri fixture when they defeated Lazio 3-0 at Olimpico, and showed a red card to Simone Padoin. The Diavolo also won the last time Damato took charge of their fixture, beating Napoli 2-0 at home. Week 22 referees Verona-Torino - Michael Fabbri Juventus-Milan - Antonio Damato Fiorentina-Atalanta - Dino Tommasi Cagliari-Roma - Paolo Tagliavento Empoli-Cesena - Daniele Orsato Napoli-Udinese - Paolo Mazzoleni Parma-Chievo - Gianluca Rocchi Sampdoria-Sassuolo - Massimiliano Irrati Inter-Palermo - Marco Guida Lazio-Genoa - Andrea Gervasoni http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - MILAN .- Saturday, February 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Antonio Damato Tevez: Juventus-AC Milan Still An Italian Football Classic Feb 4, 2015 Juventus striker Carlos Tevez insists that his side’s forthcoming match against AC Milan remains a classic of Italian football, despite the Rossoneri’s form in recent seasons. Juventus currently top the Serie A table, whilst Milan are currently in eighth, the same position they finished in last season. “Milan are perhaps not at their best but it is a game that remains a classic of Italian football,” the Argentine told Juventus’ official channel. “It is important for us to continue the way we are going.” Recalling memories of his spell in Turin so far, Tevez picked out a strike against Milan at the San Siro last season as the most thrilling. “The goal that excited me most in black and white? The first against Milan at the San Siro,” he said. Tevez has scored 13 goals in 20 Serie A appearances for the Bianconeri thus far. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - MILAN .- Saturday, February 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Antonio Damato Tevez: ‘Juve-Milan a Clasico’ Feb 4, 2015 Juventus’ Carlos Tevez looks forward to next Saturday's game against Milan, and considers the responsibility of his No 10 shirt. The Old Lady comes up against a debilitated Rossoneri contingent, but the Argentine has warned against lowering their guard. “It's true that this isn't going to be the best Milan side, but it's a Clasico, in Italy it's always a game,” said Tevez in an interview with JTV. “I think this game is different from the other, it's an Italian 'Clasico' and we can't let go of it. “We know they're going through a particular moment but we've got to do our job. In the first round I scored, let's hope I can repeat myself on Saturday. “This year's championship is tough. We know that every game is going to be hard. But we have fun in every game. We are very close-knit and every time you can see a real team coming on to the field.” The forward discussed taking on Alex Del Piero’s famous shirt number in Turin. “I never asked for the No 10 shirt, they gave it to me for my personality. I think the club wanted to give me this responsibility because they knew I could wear it and do well with it. “But as I always say, the responsibility comes when you wear the Juventus shirt with its emblem. The No 10 shirt is important for the tifosi, for the people and for the club. “For me, personally, when I wear the Juventus emblem I'm filled with a positive feeling, a drive to defend the emblem.” A number of topics were discussed in Tevez’s interview, including the Ballon d’Or award. “It would be hard to win the Ballon d'Or because there are great players like [Leo] Messi and Cristiano [Ronaldo], every Sunday they score two or three goals and it's hard to keep up. “In Italian football scoring isn't easy, it's a different type of football. I see the prospect of a Ballon d'Or for me as very distant. “The passion for football is always the same in South America. As for the Italians, everyone has their own way of living football, but I think in South American they have a stronger passion. We're always on our feet and jumping.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Tevez: ‘We want to make history’ Feb 4, 2015 Juventus' Carlos Tevez discusses Max Allegri's formation, playing with the national team and targeting a fourth Scudetto. The Bianconeri failed to extend their seven-point lead on Roma after the 0-0 draw against Udinese last Sunday, but their Argentinean striker was not discouraged. In an interview with JTV, he discussed his aim to win the Scudetto and make it into Juventus' hall of fame. “My objective is to be the champion of Italy with Juventus,” said Carlitos in the interview today. “Winning all three competitions would be a dream, but I think winning the fourth Scudetto, in today's football, is no easy task. “I believe we'll make history if we win this year, but Juventus will always remain in history. The players, all of them, will be part of the highest history of the club.” Tevez was asked about playing in Max Allegri’s new formation. “The new formation is different, it lets us do other things in the pitch and this shows. When we defend with the 4-3-1-2 the Coach asks us to act in a way, but when we have possession we do what we know. “[Former Coach Antonio] Conte played with a formation that he liked, with two strikers close to each other. I like the current formation best because I can do what I feel like doing in the pitch, I have greater freedom.” The former Manchester City man was also asked about what his favourite goal was for Juventus and what it felt like to play for the national team again. “The goal that gave me the greatest emotion was my first against Milan at San Siro. The most beautiful in terms of play, I think the one against Parma. But my first goal against Milan remains the most exciting. “I mentioned the emblem of Juventus, but when you wear the shirt of the national team, of your own people, there's another kind of pressure. “I was very happy and proud to return to playing for the national team. Thanks to the great work that I did with Juventus I have returned to the national team and now I am happy. “I don't know how many kilometres I run over each game. For me what counts is the way of playing, the way of interpreting football. Each ball I see, I think it could be fundamental for the game. You never know which one it is, but you've got to fight for all of them. “I have a positive outlook about the new arrivals. [Alessandro] Matri and [Paolo] De Ceglie are well known here, and the new signing [stefano Sturaro from Genoa] can do well for the team too.” In closing, Tevez was asked to compare Italian and English football, having played for both clubs from Manchester, as well as West Ham United. “I think in England playing is more fun, it's very physical. But here you run more than in England. “In Italy it's more tactical than physical, in England there aren't so many tactics, you just run, run, run. “They're more aggressive, but the referees give more space to play. Here, any aggressive contact results in a foul.”

Tevez: Ballon d'Or win impossible in Serie A now The Argentine cannot imagine himself winning the prestigious individual award, but is keen to make history in other ways with Juventus. Feb 4, 2015 Juventus striker Carlos Tevez believes it will be nearly impossible for a player in Serie A to win the Ballon d'Or right now. The Argentina international has been in sublime form this season and currently leads the Italian goal scoring charts with 13 goals in 20 appearances. Nevertheless, the 30-year-old gives himself little chance of ever winning the prestigious individual award. "Winning the Ballon d'Or is difficult, especially given that in Italy football is different," Tevez told JTV. "There aren't as many goals in Serie A as elsewhere." Juventus are on course to win their fourth consecutive Scudetto, holding a seven-point lead over second-placed Roma at the moment, and Tevez is keen to make history with the Turin giants. "Winning four consecutive championships is not an easy feat, especially in such a tactical and physical league. "If we were to secure our fourth Serie A title on the spin, we'll be making even more history." Tevez enjoyed successful spells at West Ham United, Manchester United and Manchester City before joining Juventus in 2013 and he has fond memories of his time in England. "I think the Premier League is the best league to play in. But here in Italy you run more and it all comes down to tactics."

JUVENTUS - MILAN .- Saturday, February 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Antonio Damato Inzaghi To Revert To 4-3-3 With AC Milan Feb 4, 2015 Filippo Inzaghi looks set to revert to his preferred 4-3-3 formation as AC Milan face Serie A leaders Juventus this weekend. The Rossoneri had opted away from the frequently used formation in the recent victory over Parma in order to accommodate Mattia Destro and Jeremy Menez, but look set to deploy the familiar tactic once more. According to Sky Sport Italia, Milan will line up in a 4-3-3 formation in the absence of new signing Destro. The victory over Parma marked Milan’s first win since mid-December, and will be eager to avoid defeat as they make the trip to Juventus Stadium on Saturday evening. Juventus ran out as 1-0 winners when the sides met at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza back in September courtesy of a Carlos Tevez goal, a result which, at the time ended Milan’s 100% record at the start of the season. The San Siro side have been disappointing so far this season, and are currently languishing in 8th place, a shocking 21 points behind Saturday’s opponents. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - MILAN .- Saturday, February 7th, 2015 - 8:45 PM Juventus Stadium, Turin Referee: Antonio Damato Alex: AC Milan Can Beat Juventus Feb 4, 2015 AC Milan defender Alex is adamant his side are capable of defeating Serie A leaders Juventus, when they travel to the Juventus Stadium on Saturday evening. The 32-year-old has seen his season interrupted by injury, forcing him to miss several Serie A matches through muscular injuries during November and December, but has consistently featured since. Speaking to the Milan Channel, Alex explained it was an honour to wear the captain’s armband against Parma for the injured Riccardo Montolivo and discussed the attributes of the Bianconeri. “The coach gave it to me just before the game, but the most important thing was to perform well and win the match against Parma,” Alex said. “We know the difficulties of Juventus. They are the best team in the league and boast quality players all over the park. “I think we are ready to fight and can win the game. We will have to be compact in defence and counterattack quickly to create scoring chances.” The Brazilian then went on to praise two of the Rossoneri’s recent January acquisitions in Gabriel Paletta and Luca Antonelli. “They are two good players, who arrived to help us improve our position in the [league] standings.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Juventus to face Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia semifinals Feb 3, 2014 Last year we got a couple of extra games against Fiorentina thanks to the Europa League. This season, there will once again be two more chances to play against those crazy kids in the purple jerseys. But this time it's domestically, not in that other European competition. Thanks to La Viola's Mario Gomez-inspired 2-0 win over Roma on Tuesday night, Juventus' next opponent in the Coppa Italia has officially been determined. It will be Fiorentina and Juventus in a two-legged semifinal with a spot in the final in Rome at stake. The first leg will be on Wednesday, March 4, with the return leg will take place on Wednesday, April 8. Where each fixture will be played has not been announced. (On a side note: Seriously, what the hell has happened to Roma over the last couple of weeks? The last six games in all competitions — draw, draw, win, draw, draw, loss. And it's not like some of those draws should be draws. Their last month has been a complete tumble from how they played to open the season.) All of this means Juve's quest for a silver star on their jersey is still alive, while Roma's, well, it's time to wait another year, guys. Good to see the chance for the domestic double is still going strong. That'd be a nice development with no Supercoppa victory this season. Juventus and Fiorentina have already played once before, with both teams seeing out a scoreless draw at the Franchi in Florence back in early December. If you don't remember much of it, don't worry, you're not the only one. It was the first of three consecutive draws to close the 2014 calendar year, which is included the advancement in the Champions League. Let's just hope these games against Fiorentina go a little better than that last one. And maybe a little less heart attack-worthy like the ones in Europe last season. That would be great.

Juventus’ Champions League Squad Includes Genoa Imports Matri And Sturaro Feb 3, 2015 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has named his 25-man squad list for the Bianconeri’s upcoming Champions League round of 16 ties against Borussia Dortmund. The Bianconeri host the Bundesliga strugglers in Turin on February 24 before travelling to face Jurgen Klopp’s men on March 18. Among the names included in Allegri’s squad are Alessandro Matri and Stefano Sturaro who arrived from Genoa and fellow January arrival Paolo De Ceglie who left troubled Parma to return to Juventus Stadium. Goalkeepers: Buffon, Storari, Rubinho. Defenders: Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini, Evra, De Ceglie, Ogbonna, Caceres. Midfielders: Pirlo, Pogba, Vidal, Marchisio, Pereyra, Pepe, Padoin, Marrone, Sturaro. Attackers: Tevez, Llorente, Morata, Matri, Coman.

Sturaro targets Juventus midfield berth The 21-year-old initially agreed to join the club this summer but has arrived in Turin early and is hoping to make an instant impact on the Bianconeri midfield. Feb 2, 2015 Stefano Sturaro believes he can add a new dimension to the Juventus midfield after completing his move from Genoa. A €5.5 million deal was struck for the midfielder last summer but he was not expected to arrive in Turin until the end of the current campaign after agreeing to remain with Genoa this season. However, the 21-year-old he has been recalled six months early as Massimiliano Allegri looks to add depth to his side and on Monday Sturaro joined his new team-mates for his first training session with the Old Lady. “I’m happy and very excited. I couldn’t wait to get started [in training today],” he told the club website. “I’d like to thank my team-mates for the welcome I have received. “This side is full of stars. I can only learn from them and do my bit with what I can offer. I hope they help me. We have a real hunger to achieve success. Sturaro made appearances for a Genoa side that sit ninth after 21 games this season and is eager to battle for a place in a Juve midfield already brimming with quality. “The midfield here is packed with stars but I hope to offer something with my defensive ability," he added. “It’s a fantastic stadium, a wall of noise, and it needs to be in order to help us to perform at our best in games.” Seven points clear of second-placed Roma at the summit of Serie A, Juve are on course to claim what would be their fourth consecutive scudetto. Sturaro joins fellow new arrival Alessandro Matri, who has returned to the club on loan from Milan.

Stefano Sturaro Makes Expeditious Juventus Return Feb 2, 2015 Juventus have announced the official signing of Genoa midfielder Stefano Sturaro. The 21-year-old midfielder has already joined his new teammates and been training with the rest of the Juventus squad. Sturaro will be immediately available to Bianconeri coach Massimiliano Allegri. Juventus announced the signing through social media, via the club’s Twitter account to announce Sturaro’s arrival from Genoa and inform fans that he will wear the no.27 shirt. Juventus had in fact purchased Sturaro in the summer and sent him on loan to Genoa. However, the Bianconeri have opted to cut his loan short and recall Sturaro for the remainder of their season.

OFFICIAL: Juventus recall midfielder Stefano Sturaro from Genoa Feb 2, 2015 Once Genoa midfielder Stefano Sturaro said his goodbyes to his Grifone teammates, his long-anticipated move to Juventus, the team that owns his contract, was a formality. Monday, Sturaro took part in his first training session with the club. Meaning, of course, his move has gone through and everything has been completed. The 21-year-old Sturaro, purchased this summer by Juventus for €5.5 million from Genoa, has been officially recalled by the Serie A champions to add another option in the center of the midfield for manager Max Allegri, it was announced on Monday. And with it, the newest Juventus player got himself a new jersey number which is a little different than the one he wore during his days with Genoa. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfc .@sturaro_stefano si è già allenato con i suoi nuovi compagni stamattina! Vestirà la maglia n. 27 #BenvenutoSturaro A few words regarding the new midfielder, courtesy of Juventus' official website: A summer signing for Juventus back in July, versatile up-and-coming star Stefano Sturaro returns to Turin following a fruitful loan spell with former club Genoa in order to provide cover for the Bianconeri midfield in both an attacking and defensive dimension. The key in all of this is "provide cover for the Bianconeri midfield." With the likes Paul Pogba, Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Roberto Pereyra all around, regular playing time is probably going to be tough for Sturaro to come by. But with so many fixtures over the next month or two and injuries seemingly always around the corner, maybe Sturaro can find some regular time during the dog days of the Serie A schedule. No matter what, though, Sturaro is now officially a Juventus player. Not that he wasn't a few months ago, but now he actually gets to wear a Juventus jersey rather than being out on loan at another club while Juve just hangs onto his contract.

Sturaro 'sad' to leave Genoa Jan 31, 2015 Stefano Sturaro admits he is “a little sad” to play his final Genoa game today ahead of a move to Juventus. The midfielder had been bought by Juve over the summer and left at Marassi on loan for the rest of the season. However, the Turin giants recalled him early and his last match is against Fiorentina this afternoon. “I am a little sad, as it hurts to be leaving all these people after so many years here,” Sturaro told Sky Sport Italia before kick-off. “I will remain in contact with teammates and the club, as I have made some great friends here.”

Juventus agree Sturaro deal? Jan 26, 2015 It’s reported that Juventus have agreed a deal to bring Stefano Sturaro back from Genoa early, but possibly not until deadline day. Sturaro was bought outright for €11m by the Bianconeri in the summer, but loaned back to Genoa for the season. However, Grifone President Enrico Preziosi has admitted that Sturaro could return early. According to Tuttosport, the two clubs have already agreed that the Italian international will move to Turin in this window, but the date of the move is dependent on Genoa. Gian Piero Gasperini’s men take on Napoli at San Paolo tonight, with Tomas Rincon and Andrea Bertolacci one booking away from suspension. Tuttosport believes that if the pair come through the match without incurring a yellow card, Sturaro’s move will take place tomorrow. However, should both players pick up a ban, the move would be delayed until February 1 or deadline day on February 2, so that Sturaro can play for Genoa against Fiorentina on January 31.

Genoa: 'Sturaro to Juve early' Jan 24, 2015 Genoa President Enrico Preziosi admits Stefano Sturaro “could join Juventus soon” by cutting his loan short. The midfielder was bought by Juve over the summer and allowed to remain at Genoa for another year to gain playing experience in Serie A. Over the last few days it has been reported that the Bianconeri were trying to bring the Italy international in during the January transfer window instead. “Sturaro could join Juventus soon and move within the current transfer window,” confessed Preziosi to Radio Kiss Kiss.

Juventus Ready To Tie Up Deals For Sturaro And Osvaldo Jan 23, 2015 Italian league leaders Juventus are expected to finalise the signings of two players before the January transfer window closes at the end of the month. The Serie A giants are hoping to add a midfielder and forward to their squad and wheels are in motion to ensure deals go through within the tight time scales. Sportmediaset have reported that on-loan Genoa midfielder Stefano Sturaro is ready to return to his parent club within the next two days. They also claim that Inter’s out-of-favour striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo could make a sensational reappearance in Turin. The Italian international has been fined and suspended by the Milan club, after a bust-up with team mate Mauro Icardi, and is expected to leave the Nerazzurri. The fiery forward, who is currently owned by English Premier League side Southampton, has already featured for Juve, having spent time on-loan at the club last season.

Sturaro Expected Back At Juventus Before End Of January Jan 20, 2015 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri expects to see Stefano Sturaro back in Turin before the January transfer window slams shut. The talented youngster is currently on loan with Genoa, but a change in formation from the Bianconeri tactician has left the club short of cover in midfield. Given Sturaro’s rise to prominence, Allegri is hoping he can be recalled before the month is out. Tuttosport reports that the 21-year-old was to return to the Juventus Stadium in the Summer, but now that the ‘Old Lady’ has switched to using four of their available five midfield men throughout games, Sturaro may be back at Vinovo earlier than expected. The Under-21 international was bought by Juventus last July from Genoa, but immediately loaned back to the Grifone in order to guarantee more playing time.

JUVENTUS TO BRING BACK STEFANO STURARO Jan 17, 2015 Reports in the Italian media suggest Juventus will bring Stefano Sturaro back to the club in January, six months ahead of schedule. The Italy U-21 midfielder joined the Bianconeri last summer for €5.5 million and was immediately loaned back to Genoa for the 2014/15 season. Sportsmediaset suggest that Juventus have found an agreement to bring the Azzurrini star to Turin while GianlucaDiMarzio.com report that Juventus have already agreed the return in principle, the final ‘okay’, however, will come from Genoa, once their injury situation improves. According to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, Juve coach Max Allegri would like to accelerate Sturaro’s return, given that Kwadwo Asamoah and Romulo are both recovering from surgery and not expected to return for at least another two months. Terrence Clarke @terrenceKC So, if Juve bring Sturaro back, we'd only actually pay 5.5m in total for him. Genoa would lose out on the bonuses. Great if true.

Moggi Washed His Hands After Handshake With Former Inter President Feb 3, 2015 Former Juventus sporting director Luciano Moggi has said that he washed his hands following the handshake with former Inter president Massimo Moratti. Moggi was on trial for accusations of libel against late Inter legend Giacinto Facchetti, and he took to Twitter to comment about his handshake with Moratti in court on Monday. “I immediately washed my hands after shaking hands with him [Moratti],” Moggi wrote. Moratti replied by stating that Moggi’s tweet has only worsened his views on the former Juventus sporting director. The former Juventus sporting director has openly stated his views about Moratti following the 2006 Calciopoli scandal that saw Juventus demoted to Serie B and Moggi receiving a lifetime ban from football.

http://www.tuttosport.com/foto/calcio/serie_a/juventus/2015/02/01-89329_0/FOTO+Solo+pari+a+Udine+per+la+Juve.+La+Roma+resta+a+sette+punti http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/ogsffO5MwAW/Udinese+Calcio+v+Juventus+FC+Serie http://www.goal.com/it/results-standings/69/serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_101

Juventus penalised by lack of competition - Thuram The former Bianconeri defender has claimed the club's dominance in Italy is hampering their efforts in Europe. Feb 2, 2015 Lilian Thuram believes Juventus are being punished by the lack of real competition on offer in Serie A. The Bianconeri are seven points clear at the top of the table with 17 fixtures remaining, making them odds-on favourites to clinch a fourth straight Scudetto. But the former France international believes the annual stroll to the league crown is causing Juve problems in Europe. “It is a matter of time in Serie A, but the Champions League is more difficult and there are some great teams to beat,” Thuram told Radio Anch’io Sport. “There is a big difference between the Italian championship and the Spanish and English leagues, and I hope that Juve can do well in Europe. “But without true rivals domestically, Juve are penalised in Europe.” Thuram spent five years in Turin and also made 142 appearances for France, who now have another Juve player in their ranks in Paul Pogba. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

UDINESE - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Sunday, February 1st, 2015 - 3:00 PM Friuli Stadium, Udine Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juventus Waste Chance To Extend Serie A Lead With Goal Less Draw Feb 2, 2015 Juventus missed the chance to go 9 points clear at the top of the Serie A table as they were held to a 0-0 draw at Stadio Comunale Friuli by Udinese. With Roma failing to pick up the three points against Empoli last night, Massimiliano Allegri’s side had the chance to extend their lead but failed to take any advantage and looked really average this afternoon. Both Max Allegri and Andrea Pirlo felt that the seven point lead over Roma at this stage meant nothing so the Bianconeri were expected to push on and grab the chance to move even further ahead in the table. An Udinese team depleted from injuries and African Cup of Nations was expected to cause Juventus few problems but an organized defensive display combined with dangerous counter attacks made for a totally different outcome. Juventus were slow out of the blocks, spending much of the time maintaining possession but failed to penetrate the stout defence to create anything noteworthy. The champions looked jaded following their midweek win over Parma in the Coppa Italia and could have gone behind if Bruno Fernandes and Cyril Thereau were a bit more clinical in front of goal. Allegri faced a selection dilemma with Claudio Marchisio’s suspension and an injury to Arturo Vidal robbing him of two major players in midfield. To cover the absence of these midfielders, Juventus reverted to a 3-5-2 with Andrea Stramaccioni also fielding his side in a similar tactical module ultimately cancelling each other out. Fernando Llorente may well be left to rue another missed opportunity as he squandered another chance to make a decisive impact this season. The Spaniard seemed to offer a new dimension in his first year at the club but there have been very few examples of what he can truly deliver in this campaign so far. Roberto Pereyra came very close to opening the scoring against his former side but was denied by the crossbar in the second half. Allan had a fantastic game in the midfield for Udinese nullifying Frenchman Paul Pogba and preventing him from making an impact on the game. Llorente was once again replaced midway through the second half which has become a consistent stat of Juve’s season so far. He has netted just five times in 25 games in all competitions and has played only 3 full games since March 2014. He seems to lack the cutting edge and squandered a gilt-edged chance tonight from a corner. He is no longer the focal point and opposition defences are coping with him quite easily. Juventus might have been complacent due to the fact that they had a six-point advantage and one game in hand as they lacked any urgency failing to raise the tempo of the game even as the game was dying out. Danilo forced Buffon into a smart save from Di Natale’s corner but it was Carlos Tevez who had the best chance of the game to seal all the three points at the death. The Argentine somehow failed to score on a Morata counter that was set up perfectly for him by Pogba, but blasted wide from 12 yards. Talking Points Allan won 6 fouls today against Juventus, more than any other Udinese player in a Serie A game this season Juventus have failed to score for the 3rd time in this Serie A season something they managed just once last season It took Álvaro Morata all of about two minutes to show why he should have started ahead of Fernando Llorente. This signals that it is time for Morata to get the vast majority of the minutes from here on out this season. Llorente’s form isn’t getting any better and Morata is showing that he’s the best option to partner with Tévez these days. If Udinese had won that game, they would have thoroughly deserved it. They were clearly the better side on Sunday, and could have scored a goal or two if not for a couple of blown chances Looking at the performance tonight, the Juventus defence did fairly well and restricted Udinese to half chances on the break which they might not have got had the midfield been at full strength. At the other end of the pitch Tevez looked blunt while Llorente continues to labor. Udinese dominated the midfield thanks to the Brazilian Allan who racked up tackles left and right, and he was basically involved in everything positive that Udinese did. He ended the match with seven tackles and two interceptions. Allan showed tonight that Pogba still remains a work in progress and the Old Lady will be disappointed with this showing in a game that was a great opportunity to put a massive gap in between themselves and their closest competition in Serie A. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

UDINESE - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Sunday, February 1st, 2015 - 3:00 PM Friuli Stadium, Udine Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Udinese 0-0 Juventus: Bianconeri miss the chance to extend their Serie A lead Juventus were held to a boring and dire 0-0 away at Stadio Friuli in Udine, as Max Allegri couldn't find a response to Andrea Stramaccioni's defensive tactics. Feb 2, 2015 It is frightening how little positives are there to take out of the poor performance of Juventus. You would run out of negative adjectives before finishing describing the dreadful display, so the way to do it is to give credit where it’s due, namely Andrea Stramaccioni. Despite being the most horrible result in football, the 0-0 draw is probably the only weapon a small team, which also finds itself in a certain crisis, has against the reigning champions. Had Stramaccioni been given the point before the game, he would have taken it with both hands. This, however, is no excuse for the lack of reaction from Max Allegri. With Arturo Vidal injured and Claudio Marchisio suspended, Allegri decided to switch to 3-5-2 to accommodate his best three available centre midfielders, Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Pereyra. Despite also starting — and playing awfully — in the Coppa game against Parma, Fernando Llorente replaced Alvaro Morata in the first XI. Being unable to find a response to the opponent’s defensive tactics was rather disappointing for Allegri, especially with Kingsley Coman, Morata and even Simone Pepe on the bench. Stramaccioni had a good start of the season with Udinese but lately, his team didn’t quite perform, winning just three of the last 15 Serie A games and just one on home soil. Juventus won the last six meetings between the two bianconero sides, so prior to the match, things were looking good in the quest to extending the gap at the top of the table to nine points, as Roma were earlier held to a 1-1 home draw by Empoli. But the former Inter manager had other thoughts, as he did his homework brilliantly, leading his team to an almost flawless defensive display, with some huge help from Allan, the best men on the pitch by far, who man-marked Pogba throughout the game. So there it was — another stubborn defence in front of Juventus’ attacking lines and the result was the same old and increasingly annoying one. Players were way too static in attack. With Pogba and Pirlo marked, there was no inspiration or a clear idea for a breakthrough, as Pereyra seemed unable to find his place in midfield. Two chances wasted by Carlos Tévez and Llorente, together with the crossbar hit by Pereyra, ensured Stramaccioni would get his point. And in all fairness, it would have been harsh for Udinese to lose the game, as they fought for every single ball, containing Juventus’ attacks comfortably for the majority of the time. MATCH SUMMARY Just over the 10 minute mark, Juventus were caught completely unaware at the back as Antonio Di Natale played a great ball for Bruno Fernandes who was through on goal, but made a horrendous first touch, allowing Leonardo Bonucci and Martin Caceres to double back. Fernandes had to go for the goal then but his shot was weak and off target. Juventus were lacking pace in attack, being unable to break down the opposite defence. Pogba tried a couple of long shots but gave goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis no problems, while Tévez was quick to recover a lost ball outside Udinese’s box in the 17th minute, only to blast his shot off target. First big chance of the game was missed in the 23rd minute by Cyril Thereau who found lots of space on Caceres’ side, with the Uruguayan out of position, but his shot was straight at Buffon. The goalkeeper denied the Frenchman but the ball bounced to Fernandes outside the box, whose shot went over the crossbar. Llorente missed a huge chance just before the 30 minute mark. For once, Pirlo delivered a great cross from a corner-kick, finding Llorente unmarked in front of goal but the Spaniard somehow missed the target, putting his header wide. Buffon denied Fernandes again one minute later, making a good save at Portuguese’s long shot, sending the ball behind for a corner kick. It wasn’t much of spectacle until the half time whistle, as Juventus looked very slow and predictable in the build-up. No real ideas in the last third and Udinese were defending rather comfortably, also being a threat on the counter. The second half started in pretty much the same way the first one ended and Juventus only created the first big chance in the 58th minute when Pereyra struck the crossbar right on the corner with a powerful volley from just outside the 6-yard box. In the 65th minute, Tevez and Pereyra linked-up nicely inside Udinese’s penalty area, but the former’s shot from a good position went way over the crossbar. Di Natale had a good chance to put Udinese upfront in the 84th minute after a poor headed clearance from Pereyra. The ball reached the diminutive striker inside Juventus’ box but his volley went over. Tévez missed a glorious chance to win the game for Juventus just a minute later. Morata found lots of spaces down the left flank and then played a low cross inside the box for Pogba, who laid the ball for Tévez. The Argentine uncharacteristically failed to hit the target. It was the last chance of the game and Juventus had to settle for a point, wasting the chance to move 9 points clear ahead of Roma. PLAYER RATINGS Buffon: 6.5 Made a couple of good saves in the first half, denying Thereau and Fernandes a goal which could have proved costly for Juventus Caceres: 5 Was at fault for Udinese’s big chances in the first half, as he was caught completely out of position twice Bonucci: 5.5 Tried his best in helping the team’s build-up play, delivering a few good long balls. A bit shaky in the first part, but defended well in the second Chiellini: 6 Made a few good clearances but wasn’t very involved in the game, making none of his usual attacking rushes. Lichtsteiner: 5 Was of no use in attack, delivering poor crosses. Didn’t help Caceres defensively either Pereyra: 6 Despite the fact he played in a three-man midfield before, it is clearly not his best position. Was too predictable and clumsy at times on possession Pirlo: 6 Horrendous deliveries from several free-kicks and corners, failing to make an impact in attacking moves. Pogba: 6 Had some hard time in being man-marked by Alan, as his attacking contribution was reduced to zero. Made some good interceptions and tackles, however. Evra: 5.5 Despite being a constant presence in attack, couldn’t influence the game enough. Not much defending to do. Tévez: 6 Missed a huge chance that could’ve gave Juve the victory. Far from his best again, but was continually – and maybe too much – on the move to find and create spaces. Llorente: 5 Another poor game. Was ineffective in front of goal, again struggling to find his form. Subs Morata: 6.5 Replaced Llorente in the 67th minute. Injected some pace into the attack, being more involved than his Spaniard compatriot. Padoin: 6 Replaced Evra in the 75th minute, but added nothing new Coach Allegri: 5.5 Despite the fact he couldn’t rely on Vidal and Marchisio, he was completely outplayed by his opponent counterpart and had no response to the tactics. Might have also been probably satisfied with a point, knowing Roma drew earlier and decided not to risk http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

UDINESE - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Sunday, February 1st, 2015 - 3:00 PM Friuli Stadium, Udine Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Player Ratings: Udinese 0-0 Juventus Feb 1, 2015 Udinese 31 O. Karnezis - The Greek goalkeeper did not have much many saves to make, but he looked calm and assured whenever called into action. A solid display. 75 T. Heurtaux - Swept up around Danilo and looked to pick up Juve midfield runners and he enjoyed an adept performance, making several blocks in and around his own penalty area. 5 Danilo - A strong showing from the centre-back, who came out on top in his battle with Llorente, making numerous interventions from crosses to clear the danger. 89 I. Piris - Although deployed closer to the middle than he is used to, the Paraguayan put in a fine display at the back, often dealing well with Tevez. 34 Gabriel Silva - The Brazilian did not look sharp early on after an injury-hit season, giving the ball away far too often. But, he put in a tireless shift on the left and defended well against Lichtsteiner and Pereyra. 6 Allan - The best player on the pitch. The midfielder dominated Pogba throughout, while he also proved extremely useful in starting attacks, with his positive distribution a real asset to the hosts. 8 Bruno Fernandes - A strange performance from the youngster. Found himself in good positions on countless occasions, with his movement and work rate particularly notable. But his finishing and final ball were generally poor. 19 Guilherme - Sat deep and acted as a shield for the defence, allowing Allan to follow Pogba around and he mostly did his job effectively, with Tevez and Pereyra struggling to weave their magic. 27 S. Widmer - Worked hard on the right-hand side, tracking back to good effect and helping to limit Evra's attacking input, though he had little impact in the final third. 77 C. Théréau - Occasionally threatened the Juve backline as the focal point of Udinese's attack, but he had a hard time making his presence known against three centre-backs. 10 A. Di Natale - Switched on as ever, the experienced Italian was a real nuisance for Juve, as he used the ball very well in the final third and continuously showed his fantastic awareness to create chances. Substitutes 26 G. Pasquale - Took the place of the tiring Gabriel with 24 minutes to go and he picked up where the Brazilian left off, providing capable protection against Lichtsteiner. Juventus 1 G. Buffon - Did all that was asked of him in a typically commanding and faultless display, with his second-half stop from Danilo particularly eye-catching. 4 M. Cáceres - Caught out of position a few times in the first half, with Udinese appearing to target him as a weak link on occasion. Improved after the break, though, making several well-timed tackles under pressure. 19 L. Bonucci - Generally dealt well with Thereau as he followed the Frenchman around and put his foot in on numerous occasions, while also winning a host of aerial battles. 3 G. Chiellini - Given the task of trailing Di Natale and he failed to nullify the experienced forward's influence, with the ex-Italy attacker enjoying a lively display. 26 S. Lichtsteiner - The Switzerland international failed to have much on an impact on the right, with Gabriel - and then Pasquale - countering him very well. Booked late on for a foul on the brilliant Allan. 37 R. Pereyra - Making his return to Udinese, the Argentinian almost gave Juve the lead as he struck the crossbar just before the hour mark, but he generally struggled to make an impact and he was disappointing. 21 A. Pirlo - Not one of his finest displays. His passing was typically on-point, though he did not really dictate the play and he offered little to counter Udinese's dynamism in the middle. 6 P. Pogba - The French star saw plenty of the ball in midfield, but Allan followed him like a shadow and came out on top in their duel, ensuring a frustrating day for Pogba. 33 P. Evra - Made an effort down the left, but ultimately he had a quiet day before being substituted, with Widmer allowing him little space in attack. 10 C. Tévez - Had to contend with Piris hassling him continuously and was guilty of wasting a couple of fine chances, with his finishing seemingly a little off on the day. 14 F. Llorente - The Spaniard looked completely out of place in the Juve team, with his team-mates rarely looking to play to his strengths. Eventually replaced by Morata after an anonymous display. Substitutes 20 S. Padoin - Relieved Evra in the 74th minute but did nothing of note in the final quarter-of-an-hour. 9 Álvaro Morata - Introduced for the ineffective Llorente with 23 minutes to go and had a lively cameo, as he stretched the Udinese defence on multiple occasions. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111