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JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Marchisio: ‘Game of the year’ Dec 8, 2014 Claudio Marchisio says Juventus are aware of Atletico Madrid’s strengths, in preview of what he labels as the Bianconeri’s ‘game of the year’. Juve head into Tuesday’s Champions League meeting aware that a draw will be enough to book passage to the Last 16, whilst a win by two clear goals would do so in first place. For one of the home side’s party, the visiting Spanish are a credible and familiar opponent. “Regardless of preparing ourselves yesterday, today and tomorrow, we know them,” Marchisio declared in today's Press conference. “We already met them in the reverse fixture, we know their characteristics, they are very strong on set pieces. “It's important to remember that Atletico Madrid have won four games out of five in the Champions League, and only conceded a goal in the first game that they lost against Olympiacos. “We saw how hard it was in the first game, even though we played a great match, so we know how hard it's going to be tomorrow evening regardless of the standings in the group. “I am of the idea that we've got to take to the field and as always try and win the game, as in all games in Serie A as well as in the Champions League.” The Italian international also believes that comparisons with last year, when Juventus crashed out of the group stage with a loss in the last game, are irrelevant. “It's a different situation, a different game. Now let's think about this game that is really important. “We want to progress to the next round, regardless of whether we come first or second. We want to be among the greatest of Europe so this is our target, regardless of the past. “We worked hard and we worked well in these last few months to reach this point in the season. “Now there's the most important game of the year no matter how you look at it and we can't get anything wrong. “We've got the good fortune of playing this game at home, with our fans who will be on our side and that will warm up the ambience. “So we are ready to face the game of the year.” Juventus kick off against Atletico Madrid tomorrow at 20:45 Italian time, at the Juventus Stadium. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Tevez to return against Atletico Dec 8, 2014 Juventus may return to the 4-3-1-2 for their Champions League game against Atletico Madrid, with the return of Carlos Tevez. The Bianconeri host Los Colchoneros in the last game of Group A in the Champions League on Tuesday evening needing only a draw to advance to the Last 16. A victory by two goals, however, would see the Old Lady top the group, and Coach Max Allegri is expected to change formations after the disappointing 0-0 draw against Fiorentina on Friday evening. Tuttosport run with Gianluigi Buffon defending the goal and Stephan Lichtsteiner returning to the pitch having been suspended in the League. The injuries to Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres and Romulo make the rest of the defensive line-up an obligation of Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini and Simone Padoin, ahead of Patrice Evra. Andrea Pirlo will again be playmaker, with Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio backing him in midfield. Arturo Vidal is seen as likely to be given the task of acting as a trequartista and supporting the strikers, who will be the returning Carlos Tevez and one between Fernando Llorente and Alvaro Morata. Atletico Madrid will be fielding their strongest 4-4-1-1, mostly unchanged from what they played against Elche in La Liga. The main trouble for Coach Diego Simeone remains the injury of defender Joao Miranda, who will be replaced by 19-year old José Gimenez. Antoine Griezmann or Raul Garcia will likely act as a second striker alongside Mario Mandzukic, whilst alongside will be Arda Turan and Koke. Former Torino forward Alessio Cerci seems unlikely to start. Probable line-ups Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Padoin; Marchisio, Pirlo, Pogba; Vidal; Tevez, Llorente Atletico Madrid: Moya; Juanfran, Godin, Gimenez, Siqueira; Arda Turan, Gabi, Tiago, Koke; Griezmann; Mandzukic http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Sacchi: ‘Roma, Juve can make it’ Dec 8, 2014 Arrigo Sacchi believes that Roma and Juventus both have a chance to qualify for the Champions League Last 16, whilst he backs Juve for the Scudetto. The former Milan and Italy Coach has cast his eye on the peninsula’s two outfits who have a chance of progression to the Last 16 of UEFA’s premier competition this week. “Our football must go back to being exciting, an aspect which nowadays is not given enough attention,” began Sacchi to La Stampa. “Having said that, it's not going to be easy at all but Juve and Roma can make it. “The Spaniards are confirming their solidity, and in particular that team attitude when they're not in possession that make them one of football's most fearsome realities in the world. “Juve must accomplish a small feat to reach the Last 16. Atletico [Madrid] are a difficult opponent, because they turn every dead ball into a danger and because it's an experienced group that knows how to face certain games.” As for the domestic League, the ex-Coach sees the Scudetto staying on the black and white shirt. “Juve have alternating performances, and that might be enough to win the League. In fact, I think the Scudetto will stay in Turin yet another year. “The Giallorossi are troubled by the double commitment in Serie A and in the Champions League. “There's also another factor that determines results. Those who go to Turin know from the outset that they must come first, in Rome it is different. “The city is extraordinary, the atmosphere unique, there's something different in the air. But in the end, Roma go missing in the important moments. “The Giallorossi are an unpredictable team, against Manchester City it's all going to depend on how they interpret the game. “The English team has some strong individual players, Roma will make it out of the group if they play with the collectivity in service of the common cause.” Roma play against Manchester City in the Stadio Olimpico this Wednesday, while Juventus confront Atletico Madrid tomorrow at the Juventus Stadium. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Juventus vs. Atletico Madrid: Issues and Decisions That Will Shape UCL Game Dec 8, 2014 A draw for Juventus against Atletico Madrid will be enough to see them advance to the last 16 of the Champions League, as they lead Olympiacos in third by three points. However, if they are defeated by Atletico Madrid on home turf, Juve would be eliminated if Olympiacos beat Malmo in the Karaiskakis Stadium because of their head-to-head record with the Greeks. The Bianconeri are currently unbeaten in seven matches in all competitions, but their six-match winning streak was halted by a goalless draw at Fiorentina on Friday night. Two wins in the last two group matches, during which they scored a combined five goals against Malmo and Olympiacos, means Juve's destiny is in their own hands. Atletico have won 10 out of their last 11 matches, conceding only five goals along the way. The reigning Primera Liga champions are adapting well to the different challenges they face and are in good shape to emulate last season's achievements. Here are the key issues and decisions that will determine this final Champions League group match: Formation Choices Massimiliano Allegri changed little in terms of the system when he took over at Juventus in the summer, although the team did increase their possession. In five of the last six matches, however, they have used a diamond midfield and four in defence. Against Fiorentina, they reverted back to the 3-1-4-2 structure that served them so well under Antonio Conte. It would make sense for Allegri to utilise the diamond midfield once more, especially as they won five in a row with the formation. Diego Simeone tends to alternate his Atletico team between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-4-2, but he set them up in a 4-3-3 in the Copa del Rey last week. The Argentinian will probably go with one striker away in Europe, although it could be a good opportunity to try to forge another partnership in attack. Diego Simeone's Rotation With Atletico already qualified and Juventus needing to better Los Rojiblancos' 1-0 victory in the Vicente Calderon in October to win the group, there's every chance Simeone will make numerous changes to his starting XI. Jan Oblak, Antoine Griezmann and Mario Suarez will all expect to feature, while youngsters Saul Niguez and Lucas Hernandez could be in line to gain more valuable experience. Simeone likes to field his strongest possible team, so there may not be wholesale changes. But increasing the confidence of the fringe players should be a priority after the forward three of Alessio Cerci, Cristian Rodriguez and Raul Jimenez looked disjointed against L'Hospitalet. Atleti's Wide Players Tucking in Throughout last season's league title win, Atletico's 4-4-2 often became very narrow when defending in the central area, as they looked to combat three-man midfields. They were still able to break extremely quickly, as the wingers would run into the space on the flanks with the ball and the forwards peeled off behind the opposing full-backs. If Juve do go with a diamond, then Atletico's wide players will need to position themselves so that they don't get outnumbered. Atleti are much more expansive this year and play with a considerably higher defensive line, but they may be better off resembling last season's strategy in this match. Physical Battle and Aerial Duals Both teams contain a number of physically imposing players, which was illustrated by the 49 fouls in the meeting between the sides at the Vicente Calderon in October, per FourFourTwo Stats Zone. The fact that only seven of those fouls were in their respective halves shows the two sides' pressing abilities. Fernando Llorente, Angelo Ogbonna, Gianluigi Buffon, Leonardo Bonucci, Paul Pogba and Giorgio Chiellini are all in excess of six foot. Atletico's Miguel Angel Moya, Mario Suarez, Mario Mandzukic, Diego Godin, Jose Gimenez and Raul Garcia are all similar in height. Los Rojiblancos average the most aerial duals won in this season's competition, and the Old Lady are fifth, per WhoScored.com. However, the Italians did get the better of Atleti in this regard in Madrid, via FourFourTwo Stats Zone. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Juventus-Atletico Madrid Preview: Allegri's men can still secure top spot A win by two clear goals will see the Serie A champions leapfrog Diego Simeone's side in the group standings, though just a point will guarantee their place in the next round. Dec 8, 2014 Juventus host Atletico Madrid on Tuesday aiming to join the Group A leaders in the knockout rounds of the Champions League. Spanish champions Atletico booked their spot in the last 16 on matchday five after dismantling Olympiakos 4-0 at the Vicente Calderon. Juve - who boast a three-point advantage over Olympiakos - are three points behind in second place and can seal their passage into the round of 16 with a draw at Juventus Stadium on the final matchday. Massimiliano Allegri's men are unbeaten in nine home matches in Uefa competition but they will be hoping for an improvement, having played out a less than impressive goalless draw at Fiorentina in a match that saw the Serie A champions and league leaders revert back to a 3-5-2 formation on Friday. "We certainly made a step backwards in terms of chances, as we had created so much in previous games and were a little less precise in the final ball," Juve defender Leonardo Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia. "I am happy in any system and try to put myself to the service of the team. Obviously with three I can read the situations better, but I have shown over the years I can do well with four too." While Atletico - who won the reverse fixture 1-0 in October - are already assured of a place in the knockout phase, top spot in Group A is still up for grabs in Turin. A victory by two or more goals over Atletico would see Juve qualify as group winners. "We have excellent sensations," Allegri said. "It's an important match, we must try to win with two clear goals, as our objective is to qualify and hopefully even top the group." Both teams have players treading on thin ice on matchday six. Juve duo Stephan Lichtsteiner and Paul Pogba, and Atletico trio Gabi, Diego Godin and Cristian Ansaldi are all a booking away from a suspension. Atletico travel to Italy on a four-match winning streak and on the back of three consecutive clean sheets. Diego Simeone's men are four points off top spot in Spain's top flight. "I think that the team is improving and growing, which makes us competitive in all the competitions," said Simeone, whose goal for Lazio against Inter in May 2002 helped Juve win the Serie A title. OPTA FACTS Atletico Madrid have qualified from the group stage in four out of their five Champions League seasons so far, including this campaign. They will ensure 1st place for the third time (after 1996/97 and 2013/14) if they do not lose by two or more goals. A draw in this game would be enough for Juventus to reach the last 16 or even a defeat if Olympiakos do not beat Malmo. Atletico have scored four headed goals in the Champions League group stage this season, more than any other side. Juventus have conceded a joint-high 50% of their goals from headers. Juventus are the only CL side to have scored more than one direct free-kick goal this season (2). Atletico have kept a joint-high four clean sheets in the Champions League this season (alongside Monaco). Koke has four assists in the Champions League this season; more than any other player. Juventus have won all of their three European competition games against Atletico Madrid at home, all of them in the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. LAST FIVE MATCHES Juventus D W W W W 12/5/14 - Fiorentina 0 - 0 Juventus 11/30/14 - Juventus 2 - 1 Torino 11/26/14 - Malmö 0 - 2 Juventus 11/22/14 - Lazio 0 - 3 Juventus 11/9/14 - Juventus 7 - 0 Parma Atlético Madrid W W W W W 12/6/14 - Elche 0 - 2 Atlético Madrid 12/3/14 - L'Hospitalet 0 - 3 Atlético Madrid 11/30/14 - Atlético Madrid 2 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña 11/26/14 - Atlético Madrid 4 - 0 Olympiakos 11/22/14 - Atlético Madrid 3 - 1 Málaga HEAD TO HEAD 10/1/14 - Atlético Madrid 1 - 0 Juventus http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) JUVENTUS V ATLETICO MADRID – CHAMPIONS LEAGUE MATCH PREVIEW Dec 7, 2014 Juventus Juventus did not get the result they wanted on Friday versus Fiorentina, settling instead for a 0-0 draw where neither side greatly threatened the opponent’s goal. Though Carlos Tevez didn’t start, he was brought on as a substitute, so he didn’t get a great amount of rest. Knowing the hard worker he is, that doesn’t really matter. While Max Allegri opted for the 3-5-2 on Friday, he obviously prefers the 4-3-1-2 in Europe and will likely use it even in spite of the lack of depth at left back. Right now, Simone Padoin seems to be preferred, but Patrice Evra could very well start depending on how Allegri’s thinking evolves in the next few days. In the middle, the standard duo of Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini will be starting. Bonucci had an excellent game versus Fiorentina, and Chiellini is suspended for the next Serie A match due to yellow card accumulation, so he will likely be throwing everything he has at Atletico. Of course, Stephan Lichtsteiner is to start at right back. Per usual, he will probably serve as a reference point in the attack, though Guilherme Siqueria is no pushover and could cause problems for Lichtsteiner. Juventus will need to attack from all areas in this game, and not stick to the sometimes redundant method of getting Lichtsteiner pinned near the corner flag, forcing him to send in a cross. The beauty of the 4-3-1-2 is that it allows Allegri to field four midfielders. With the embarrassment of riches in Juve’s midfield, it’s always hard for a coach to pick which one to sit. Now, Allegri really doesn’t have to. Sure, Roberto Pereyra is on the bench, but that’s called depth. Andrea Pirlo, Paul Pogba, and Claudio Marchisio should be in the center midfield trio. Meanwhile Arturo Vidal will probably start a bit more advanced, though as we have seen Vidal in that role merely becomes more involved in linking and build up play – for better or for worse – while also committing to the dirty work he is so famous for in midfield. Finally Carlos Tevez is a lock to start as a striker. Alvaro Morata is rumored to be preferred to Fernando Llorente for the start, but that rumor has floated around before several games this season, only for Llorente to then start. For now, we will say Morata, but don’t be surprised if Llorente is there too. Both strikers have their positives and minuses, with Llorente being particularly useful in Champions League and in hold up play. Still, Morata offers far more mobility and creativity, and he’s not so bad at holding up the ball either. Perhaps Max just flip flops between choices, hence the constant rumors about which of the two will start. Either way, both usually play in games, with whoever doesn’t start eventually coming for the starter. Predicted Lineup 4-3-1-2 : Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Padoin; Pirlo, Pogba, Marchisio, Vidal; Tevez, Morata Injuries Andrea Barzagli (Heel), Luca Marrone (Thigh), Martin Caceres (Thigh), Kwadwo Asamoah (Undergone knee surgery) and Romulo (Due to undergo surgery) Atletico Madrid Atletico Madrid, like Juventus, have improved since the last time these two sides met. Atletico are only in third place in La Liga, and though they are very much alive in the title race they aren’t in the driver’s seat. That said, they have won 10 of their last 11 matches, and have only lost three times all season. Even more impressive, they seem to basically just win, or very rarely, lose. This isn’t a side that draws much. Even versus Juventus, when it seemed things would settle in a draw, they peeled off a 1-0 win. Knowing that, and knowing that Diego Simeone’s teams are always very tough – as witnessed by their ability in tactical fouls, and in one on one challenges – it’s unlikely that Juventus can win 2-0. Of course, last time, Atleti faced Juve’s 3-5-2, whereas now they will face the more attacking 4-3-1-2. Plus, they are missing Cristian Ansaldi and Joao Miranda. Their midfield will be especially crucial in this match, as Juve’s new model sees more men in the middle when Juve are attacking. This often happens in the opponent’s final third though, so Juve will have to get through Tiago, Gabi, Arda Turan, and one of the best midfielders in the world, Koke. It will be quite interesting to see these four matched up against Juve’s four. Out wide, Atleti have the advantage, at least on their right side. Juanfran isn’t the greatest defender, but going up against Simone Padoin could yield plenty of chances for him to cross the ball to his attackers, something that has netted him several assists this year. Padoin is a hard worker, but not a natural left back, so Juanfran could exploit him. Mario Mandzukic is noted for his strength, and Giorgio Chiellini relishes playing against both well-known strikers, and large strikers. Think of his famous duels with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Last time out, he had a decent match against Juve’s three man backline. Now, he will have a more traditional four man backline to face, so his hold up play could be useful with one less centerback to clog up space. Atleti could very well just settle for a draw and spend the entire game frustrating Juve. They are certainly the toughest team Juve has faced so far this season, and last time out they eeked out a victory. Now, they are facing a more attacking Juventus side that’s much more in rhythm than they were in the first match. Furthermore, they are playing at Juventus Stadium. Predicted Lineup 4-4-2: Moya; Juanfran, Gimenez, Godin, Siqueira; Koke, Tiago, Gabi, Turan; Garcia, Mandzukic Injuries Cristian Ansaldi, Mario Suárez and Miranda Formations http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwaXR-WRn-w http://www.tuttosport.com/foto/calcio/serie_a/2014/12/05-85861_0/FOTO+Fiorentina-Juventus%2C+più+calci+che+calcio

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Collum ref for Juve-Atleti Dec 7, 2014 Scottish referee William Collum will be in charge for the Champions League decider Juventus-Atletico Madrid. The tie kicks off at the Juventus Stadium on Tuesday at 20.45 CET. UEFA have assigned Collum to this big game, supported by Damien MacGraith, Graham Chambers and fourth official Bobby Madden. Collum has officiated two Juventus games before, a 1-0 victory away to Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals in 2006 and a 1-0 win over Sturm Graz in August 2010. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

Gianluigi Buffon: 'Juventus are on the verge of greatness' Dec 7, 2014 Gianluigi Buffon has claimed that Juventus will be regarded as "one of the greats" if they achieve success in Europe this season. The Bianconeri have won the Serie A title for the past three years, but they have struggled in the Champions League and failed to make it out of their group last term. They will be assured of reaching the knockout stages if they claim at least a point against Atletico Madrid in midweek, and Buffon has acknowledged how important the match is for the Old Lady. "Looking towards Tuesday, what we need to put in a great performance will be a different spark, to be more courageous and daring compared to the Stadio Franchi," he told reporters. "On Tuesday a Final awaits us and we will fight to finish top, but the fundamental thing is qualification. We care a great deal about doing well with Atletico, just as we know this is an appointment long-awaited by our fans. "We consider ourselves a team on the verge of becoming one of the greats, so we must have the strength to take risks and be more daring, even in our choice of line-ups." Juventus last won the Champions League in 1996.

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Atletico Madrid squad for Juve Dec 7, 2014 Atletico Madrid are without Miranda and Cristian Ansaldi for their Champions League showdown with Juventus. It kicks off in Turin on Tuesday at 20.45 CET. A draw will be enough for the Bianconeri to qualify, whereas a win by two clear goals would put them top of the group. Diego Simeone has named his squad for the trip to Italy, missing the injured Miranda and Ansaldi. Atletico Madrid squad for Juventus: Moyá, Oblak, Juanfran, Gámez, Giménez, Godín, Lucas, Siqueira, Gabi, Tiago, Saúl, Mario Suárez, Koke, Cristian Rodríguez, Arda, Cerci, Raúl García, Griezmann, Raúl Jiménez, Mandzukic http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Juventus need courage in the Champions League - Buffon The veteran goalkeeper is determined to beat Atletico Madrid this week and prove to the continent that they deserve to be considered challengers for the trophy Dec 7, 2014 Gianluigi Buffon has called on Juventus to show courage when they take on Atletico Madrid in the Champions League this week. Juve head into the game knowing that a point would be enough to send them into the last 16, while a victory by two clear goals would see them leapfrog Diego Simeone's side into first place. The Serie A champions suffered a dismal defeat to Galatasaray on matchday six last season to send them out of the tournament and Buffon is determined to prove to the continent that they can challenge for the top prize, despite being held to a 0-0 draw by Fiorentina on Friday. "With a little more courage, we could have won in Florence. On Tuesday, we need a greater dose of courage than we had on the pitch at the Franchi," he told Tuttosport. "Tuesday is a final. We will play to finish first, but the crucial part is to qualify. We consider ourselves a team who can achieve something great, but we must have the strength and daring to risk something. "Winning the Champions League is something I've chased for 14 years." Tuesday's encounter in Turin kicks off at 20:45 CET. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Juventus, Liverpool & the teams who can qualify for the Champions League knockouts Eleven teams have already booked their places in the last 16 with one game still to play - who is in line to grab one of the five remaining spots in matchday six? Dec 7, 2014 Eleven sides have already sealed their places in the Champions League knockout round, with another 11 outfits still in with a chance of claiming the five remaining spots in matchday six. Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Chelsea, Porto and Shakhtar Donetsk are the sides who are already safe. Juventus need at least a draw against last season's runners-up Atletico if they are to be sure of progression. If they suffer defeat, they would sneak through if Olympiakos fail to beat Malmo. But the Greeks will go through if they are victorious and Massimiliano Allegri's men lose. Basel require a point at Anfield to progress in the Champions League. Liverpool need a victory in that match to secure a place behind Madrid. In Group C, Monaco just require a draw at home to Zenit to reach the knockout rounds. If Zenit beat them, though, it will be the Russians celebrating. Group E has the most complex qualification scenario with Roma, Manchester City and CSKA Moscow all still in with a chance of joining Bayern in the next round. If Roma win against City, they are definitely through. A draw could also be enough for them as long as CSKA were to draw or lose in the other game away to Bayern. If Pep Guardiola's men were to win that game, a 0-0 draw for Roma would see them through, but a score draw would put them out. CSKA Moscow will be through if they beat Bayern and Roma fail to win. Manchester City would advance if they beat Roma and the Russians draw or lose in Germany. A score draw could also be enough for City, but only if CSKA suffer defeat to Bayern. Elsewhere, Sporting go into their match away at Chelsea knowing that a draw would be enough to see them qualify. Schalke need to beat Maribor in the group's other game and hope Sporting lose in order to progress. If the Germans fail to win, Sporting would be through regardless of their result at Stamford Bridge. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

JUVENTUS - ATLETICO MADRID - Tuesday, December 9, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee:‬ William Collum (Scotland) Coman: 'Juve will attack Atleti' Dec 6, 2014 New Juventus starlet Kingsley Coman warned Atletico Madrid that they’ll “attack, win and top the Champions League group.” The Bianconeri were held to a 0-0 draw by Fiorentina last night and are now preparing for Tuesday’s showdown in Europe. A point will be enough to qualify, but a victory by two clear goals would send Juve through as group winners. “We dropped important points in the first few games, but then became more efficient,” Coman told JTV. “It will be a great game against Atletico, open to any result. We must not defend or think about a draw, as we need to attack, win and top the Champions League group.” The stalemate at the Stadio Franchi was Coman’s second Serie A start, but the former PSG prodigy is still looking for his first goal. “It was a difficult game, we returned to the 3-5-2 system and initially struggled defensively. Before stepping on to the field everyone encouraged me, including the kit staff, but above all Pogba and Evra. “This is an important point, but I think with our quality we could’ve brought home all three. We know there’s this constant duel with Roma, as both teams have to give everything in every game to stay in the race. “Italian football is much more tactical than the French game. It’s less physical and more played with the mind.” Max Allegri seems certain to go back to a four-man defence against Atletico Madrid with Stephan Lichtsteiner and Simone Padoin as full-backs. Carlos Tevez and Claudio Marchisio were rested in Florence, but it remains to be seen who will start between Alvaro Morata and Fernando Llorente. Meanwhile, Atletico secured a 2-0 Liga victory away to Elche today and Diego Simeone assured they were "not thinking about Tuesday." Juventus (probable): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Chiellini, Padoin; Marchisio, Pirlo, Pogba; Vidal; Tevez, Morata http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Buffon Content With Result Against Fiorentina Dec 6, 2014 Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon was happy to take a point from his side’s Serie A encounter with Fiorentina on Friday evening. The Bianconeri played out their first goalless draw in 76 games at the Stadio Artemio Franchi and Buffon stated he was satisfied at avoiding defeat in a tough game, especially with some key players not taking the field. “Tonight’s result was a fair point, especially on a difficult away day such as this one, as history would testify,” he told JTV. “If a team considers itself to be great, it needs to have a squad that can handle absences and give players the chance to take a breather. “We played with the type of personality that’s required for these kinds of games, forgetting last year’s defeat.” Buffon went on to talk about Juve’s crucial Champions League Group A game against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. “We mustn’t be doom-mongers when analysing our last few seasons in the Champions League,” he said. “The first year we went out at the quarter-finals against the European champions [bayern Munich], whilst last year we weren’t at par. “This season after a faltering start in which we fell to two undeserved defeats, we now have a match point at home to get through to the knockout stages.” Juventus sit at the top of the Serie A table with 35 points to their name. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Requejo: Tevez Could Make Boca Juniors Return Dec 6, 2014 Boca Juniors head coach Jose Requejo is convinced that Juventus’ star striker Carlos Tevez will make a return to his boyhood club in 2016. Tevez, 30, began his career with the Xeneizes before enjoying a hugely successful career in Europe and Requejo admits that he would love to bring the Argentina star back to his favourite side. “Tevez will not return to Boca in 2015, but I am convinced we can bring him back to Argentina in 2016,” he told Telam Deportes. The Apache, as he is commonly known, has enjoyed a trophy laden career winning league titles with Boca, Corinthians, Manchester United, Manchester City and most recently helped Juventus to win the Scudetto last season.

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Fiorentina 0-0 Juventus: Bianconeri secure a point after plain display Dec 6, 2014 Twenty — 20! — years and a day after that Alessandro Del Piero match-winning goal against Fiorentina, Juventus travelled to Florence for another encounter with the Viola team. And how they needed another fantastic moment like that one in today's game to seal the win ... it wasn't to be, though, as Bianconeri had to settle for a point after a rather bleak display. At the end of the game, however, Max Allegri didn't seem overly disappointed with the result, his features presenting a relatively sincere smile as he made his way to the dressing rooms. A point is a point and it is better than nothing. Based on how Juventus approached the game, Allegri surely thought of this before the kick-off and you can't blame him for doing so. The team will inevitably drop points again in Serie A, but as long as Allegri knows his priorities - today seemed to be Atletico Madrid — things could come in place nicely for Juventus. Giving the circumstances — Stephan Lichtsteiner suspended; Andrea Barzagli, Luca Marrone, Martin Caceres, Kwadwo Asamoah, Romulo, all out injured; and Atletico Madrid visiting Turin in four days — a point could be enough to keep the team going at the moment, considering there is still a 4-point gap ahead of Roma. Switching to 3-5-2 made it easier to defend at Stadio Artemio Franchi, but a whole lot more harder to produce anything when attacking. Slow, predictable, clueless. Kingsley Coman and, in the first half, Paul Pogba were the only players who produced some sparks, but it wasn't enough for a breakthrough. Reassuring was the fantastic display of Leonardo Bonucci who bossed the defence with confidence. Angelo Ogbonna also made his comeback and looked in good form. With Carlos Tevez only playing 30 minutes and Alvaro Morata rested for the whole game, it looks easy to say who is starting upfront against Atletico Madrid in the fast-approaching decisive game, and this is another reason to feel better. The two of them have been the best strikers in the squad this season and having both working their magic on Tuesday night might just to the job. MATCH SUMMARY Plenty of intensity in the first half made up for the lack of goals. Tackles were flying in from both sides forcing Nicola Rizzoli to blow his whistle more often than he would have liked to. Juventus pressed high early on and created the first chance after two minutes when Pogba cut inside from the left, getting past Stefan Savic, and unleashed a shot over the bar. Fifteen minutes into the game, Fiorentina had a dangerous counter attack after defending a corner-kick but Ogbonna and Chiellini managed to stop Juan Cuadrado before he could get close to Buffon's goal. The Colombian created some problems for Juventus' backline with his quick movement and technique but couldn't really threaten Buffon's goal, as his shots from distance were blocked on a couple of occasions. Joaquin gave Evra a hard time throughout the first half, as the Frenchman looked to be Achilles' heel in the Bianconeri defence, and won a free kick close to the penalty area 20 minutes in. Following Fernandez's delivery, the ball hit Chiellini's hand but there was no intention from the defender and Rizzoli waved play on despite protests from Viola players. The last 10 minutes of the half were even more physical with lots of 50-50 duels and some crunching tackles, with Cuadrado, Ogbonna and Chiellini all seeing yellow cards. Five minutes before the half time, Borja Valero wasted a chance for Fiorentina when his shot from just inside the box flied over the goal. Shortly afterwards, Pirlo delivered a ball from a corner kick for Vidal but his first time volley from 20 yards didn't find the target. Juventus started the second half stronger and had a chance through Evra on 48 mintues, but his shot from angle was punched away by Neto. A few minutes later, Pogba broke free on a counter attack but instead of picking up a teammate, he tried to dribble his way in the penalty box, only to be dispossessed by Gonzalo Rodriguez. Two minutes later, Buffon was quick off his line to clear a ball chased by Mario Gomez who managed to get away from the marking. Shortly afterwards, Bouncci made a great last-man tackle to deny Gomez a goalscoring opportunity. With a bit more than 20 minutes left to play, Pogba foolishly lost a ball in his own half and Fiorentina almost made the most of it, but Bonucci was again at his post and blocked the same German attacker with a fantastic last-gasp challenge. A minute later, Cuadrado tested Buffon with a powerful strike from distance but the veteran goalkeeper dived to his right to put the ball behind for a corner kick. It was the last notable action of a rather dull second half. Tevez replacing Coman couldn't revitalise Juventus' attacking actions and the final 10 mintues of the game were played at slow tempo. The Old Lady had a late penalty appeal when a ball played by Pogba hit David Pizarro's hand inside Fiorentina's box, but Rizzoli decided against pointing to the spot and blew the final whistle. PLAYER RATINGS Buffon 6.5 - A couple of good saves from Buffon who was also very quick off the line to deny Gomez. Typical solid display. Ogbonna 6.5 - Finally came back from injury and had a solid performance. Very good in the air, while showing no signs of lack of fitness. Bonucci 7.5 - Imperial at the back. Best player on the pitch after a world class performance, making a couple of last-man tackles, keeping Gomez silent for the entire game. Chiellini 6 - Had plenty of work to do blocking Cuadrado and Gomez. Not a bad display, but was outpaced a few times. Suspneded for the next game as he got a yellow Pereyra 5.5 - Quiet display from the right winger who looked clueless in the right wing position. Brought close to nothing in the game Vidal 6 - Combative as usual in midfield but uninspired when it came to attacking. Like other players, his mind seemed to be away from the game Pirlo 6 - Was very slow and looked tired, making several mistakes in the first half. Excepting a few good long balls, had nothing to say in the game. Pogba 6.5 - Very active in the first half but poor in the second. Could have done better in a couple of chances near the opposite box. Evra 5.5 - Another shaky defensive display as he couldn't keep up with the pace of Juaquin and Cuadrado. Had a decent chance early in the second half Coman 6.5 - Very energic in the first half, showing some good skills and pace, but unfortunately, was pretty ineffective overall. Llorente 5.5 - Had more space than usual as Fiorentina had the initiative often in the game, but despite some good link-up with his teammate, the Spaniard neither created or had any chance to score Subs Tevez 6 - Replaced Coman on the hour mark but couldn't spark the attack, barely creating anything. Marchisio 6 - Came in for Pirlo with 10 minutes to go, making no impact Padoin - N/A Replaced Pereyra late in the game Coach Allegri - 6.5 Decided to switch back to 3-5-2 because of the unavailable players at the back and it worked for him, as a point looked to be his aim for the game. But at the same time, being unable to create anything should give him something to think about if he ever needs to play this system again. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Evra return to Man Utd? Dec 6, 2014 There are reports Patrice Evra could return to Manchester United, so Juventus bring back Paolo De Ceglie from Parma. Evra was out of contract with the Old Trafford giants and joined Juve as a free agent over the summer, but has struggled for pace. According to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, Manchester United have asked the French international if he wants to return and help Louis van Gaal’s team. Evra is believed to be considering it, having spent eight seasons at the club. It’s also reported that Juve have targeted a cost-free replacement, as they could recall De Ceglie six months early from his loan at troubled Parma.

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Buffon: 'Allegri extremely intelligent' Dec 6, 2014 Gigi Buffon called Max Allegri an “extremely intelligent Coach” and trusts Juventus can reach the last eight in the Champions League. The Bianconeri were held to a 0-0 draw by Fiorentina last night, having switched back to a 3-5-2 after a month of four at the back. “In a League there are points you dropped, earned and ones that are right: this point was right, picked up in an away game that is always dangerous,” Buffon told Sky Sport Italia. “Allegri had the humility to let himself be welcomed by the group and the patience to transform it. He allowed us to gradually believe in his ideas and his football. He proved himself to be an extremely intelligent Coach, one who belongs in the top echelon of tacticians.” Juventus host Atletico Madrid on Tuesday and a draw would be enough to qualify, but a win by two clear goals and they’d go through top of the group. “We mustn’t take a catastrophic view of the last few years in the Champions League,” insisted Buffon. “The first season we went beyond the rosiest expectations, going out only to a Bayern Munich side that went on to win the trophy. “Last year we got it wrong, without doubt, whereas after a tricky start this term we have this match point. “We are worth at least a place in European football’s G8, but you need luck in the draw too.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Juventus and Fiorentina take their point in ugly goalless draw Dec 6, 2014 When Fiorentina hosts Juventus, fireworks, pizzazz and a touch of elegance on the pitch are always expected. Instead, viewers for the latest edition were subjected to a stop-start game full of venomous fouls but little entertaining play culminating in 0-0 result. With both sides seemingly happy with the point, the game proved disappointing to those who sought thrills. Injuries and suspensions forced Massimiliano Allegri to revert to a 3-5-2 formation and with it, all of Juve's previous weaknesses were once again exposed. For a side that has played such fluid attacking football for all of November in their new shape, this match was a return to a more muted performance going forward with little thrust. It all seemed rather pedestrian and awfully predictable. To be fair to Allegri, he was forced to play without his favoured wing-backs while he opted to rest the likes of Carlos Tevez and Claudio Marchisio. Kingsley Coman was given a rare start alongside Fernando Llorente. Fiorentina started the season poorly and by early November, after the defeat against Napoli, several were questioning whether Vincenzo Montella's cycle was over. Their usually beautiful style of play had made way to a more aggressive set-up that shunned possession in favor of more on direct and vertical play. Montella was seeking solutions to remedy his problems by attempting different strategies but the reality was that negative results and overly harsh criticisms had negatively impacted the team. The pressure to perform became too great. Andrea della Valle and management stood by Montella and helped him to lighten the mood in the club, allowing the players to get back to enjoying the game. Since then, Fiorentina has achieved two away wins and seems to have restored much of their confidence, but the true test came against Juventus. Set up in a 3-5-2 formation, Montella wanted his men to focus on their defensive discipline. A humble tactician who pointed out that his opponents were simply unbeatable, he proceeded to deploy a squad that remained compact, that closed down the space and only looked to create opportunities when possible. Defensively they were impeccable on the night as Juventus toiled to break down their walls and grab an inch of space to produce an inspired passage of play. With what seemed to be a flat-footed Llorente leading the line, rarely affecting the game as required, only Coman's acceleration offered a little hope. However, the Bianconeri as a whole proved disappointing. They were back to forcing the issue, delivering imprecise passes and were seemingly out of ideas as to how score that elusive goal. Ultimately, the first half was dedicated to watching the performance of the referee Nicola Rizzoli, who spent most of his time justifiably showing the players yellow cards for the various fouls committed. Football was not being played but the rivalry was being keenly felt. In the second half, the Old Lady returned with renewed vigour and upped the tempo in hopes of piercing a tough back-line. Yet in the final third, they lacked the final ball while they were guilty of making more errors than usual. Andrea Pirlo consistently lost the ball, Arturo Vidal is no longer a man with perfect timing while even Paul Pogba was guilty of making wrong decisions. Interestingly, this game perfectly demonstrated how much Juventus need their regular wing-backs, especially Stephan Lichtsteiner. Roberto Pereyra is a versatile player who can interpret various roles rather well, but he certainly cannot offer what the Swiss player can: stamina to run up and down and ensure he is always perfectly placed when Pirlo is on the ball and looking to spread play. The 3-5-2 formation simply fails if the wing-backs are not tactically capable of understanding their roles as this formation relies heavily on what they can offer in both phases of the game. Many can be trained to act as a full-back in a four man back-line, but few are capable of breathing life into the role of a wing-back as well as Lichtsteiner does. Allegri attempted to affect the game by introducing Tevez and Marchisio, but the tactical nature of the game, not to mention the spectacular defending, meant neither side could produce anything noteworthy. Gonzalo Rodriguez stole the show for the Viola while Leonardo Bonucci had a night to remember. Consistently on hand to make the vital blocks and tackles, he read the game beautifully and has truly developed into a defensive hero. In essence, one point served both sides well. Juventus didn't expend the energy necessary to win to ensure they have enough in the tank for their last match against Atletico Madrid midweek. As for Fiorentina, one point will only help to raise their self-esteem further and give them the confidence required to push on and get back to playing the brand of football that has made them one of the better sides in Serie A. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Juventus 0 - Fiorentina 0: Initial reaction and random observations Dec 6, 2014 When you have more yellow cards handed out than combined shots on goal, then you know it's either one heck of a physical game or something that is just kinda ugly. That was the case as Juventus and Fiorentina played out a 0-0 draw at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Friday night. Say that Juventus were looking ahead to Atlético Madrid if you want. I wouldn't necessarily disagree with you there. Neither would Max Allegri, as he rested two of his most in-form players, Carlos Tévez and Claudio Marchisio. Partly because of it, Juventus looked like a team that was missing two of its better players. While the Fernando Llorente and Kingsley Coman partnership had some potential, it didn't create much against a stout Fiorentina defense. And there were cards. And stupid fouls by Patrice Evra. And appeals for handballs by both teams. It wasn't a very pretty good. Or even anything close to one, really. What else can you say? It's not like a ton of stuff actually happened other than 28 combined fouls, five cards being issued and a lot of grumbling from the home crowd in Florence. It's not like teams were putting shots on goal... JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@OfficialAllegri: “We didn’t have many chances but created a couple of situations in the first half. We need to improve our final ball." Am I mad that Juventus couldn't get a win in one of the most difficult away fixtures they'll have to deal with in Serie A this season? Nah, more frustrated. But seeing as how the last trip to Firenze went and what is sitting there on Tuesday night at Juventus Stadium, I think I'm perfectly okay with a scoreless draw. Random thoughts and observations] Let's just get the 3-5-2 ranting portion of the program. I know Juventus came out with some high pressure when Fiorentina were on the ball in the first half, but that quickly dissipated. The pace was too slow, the scoring chances created were few and far between. And, against a Fiorentina said that pretty much ran the same kind of formation, the midfield was just way too packed to really do anything. Again, injuries and players available — mainly Stephan Lichtsteiner's yellow card-related suspension — was Allegri's reasoning for going back to the three-man defense. I would be shocked if Allegri went back to it on Tuesday night against Atlético. Shocked, I tell you! I am seriously surprised not one player was sent off the way the yellow cards were flying in the first half. It had all the makings of either Juventus or Fiorentina going a man down. It really did. Leonardo Bonucci was my pick for Man of the Match and it wasn't even close. He was fantastic in defense Friday night. That tackle on Mario Gomez in the second half ... wow. Pretty, pretty stuff. I know it was in a substitute role during a game that was pretty much dead in the second half, but was that the quietest we've seen Carlos Tévez this season? About 30 minutes on the field and we're able count how many accurate passes he had (eight) one two hands. Patrice Evra isn't doing much to convince his detractors that he can be a viable fill-in at left back for Juventus these next few months. I'd say Evra's game was so-so at best, and maybe that's being a little too kind. There were a handful of bad fouls from the 33-year-old Frenchman that came in dangerous areas. Thankfully Fiorentina weren't able to take advantage of any of them. #FreeAlvaroMorata Kingsley Coman is fast. Really, really fast. And while his performance probably wasn't as good as his other appearances this season, but there were glimpses of his blistering pace and creativity. I hope he gets some more chances to do some things these next couple of weeks. Allegri playing him over somebody like Sebastian Giovinco has to be a sign that the Juventus manager has plenty of confidence in the 18-year-old Coman. Simone Padoin not in the starting lineup, Juventus don't win. Are we surprised by this development? Onto Atlético Madrid. Because that is the one that really does have a greater impact on Juventus' season. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Fiorentina vs. Juventus: Bianconeri Distracted as Champions League Fate Looms Dec 5, 2014 Fiorentina hosted Juventus on Friday evening, the latest instalment in one of Serie A’s most deeply felt rivalries. The bitterness between the two sides was discussed at length here in the match preview—a tense 90 minutes at the Stadio Artemio Franchi was in the offing. The two sides shared five yellow cards and stats from WhoScored show no fewer than 28 fouls called by the referee. Neither side really created a clear-cut chance to win the game, playing out a dull encounter with very few of the notable moments which have so often punctuated their meetings through the years. Leonardo Bonucci was arguably the man of the match, the defender putting in a fine performance at the heart of the Bianconeri back line. The 27-year-old marshalled Mario Gomez superbly, denying the German striker a chance to repeat his goal from the Europa League last-16 tie from last term. Who Scored shows that the Juventus stopper made a game-high nine clearances, adding four interceptions and three blocked shots in a gritty display. His 88 touches were more than any player on either team—as were his 66 completed passes—testament to the quality Bonucci possesses on the ball. It was notable that he connected more times than Andrea Pirlo, who just last weekend turned in a master- class performance against Torino. Aside from his match-winning goal, the midfield genius was clearly the best player in the derby, a matter discussed at length here. Against Fiorentina, however, Pirlo looked distracted, and his team-mates appeared to echo that feeling. Paul Pogba played worse than he has in some time, while Arturo Vidal and Roberto Pereyra lacked the focus that has highlighted Juve’s recent matches. With Carlos Tevez and Claudio Marchisio rested—plus Stephan Lichtsteiner absent through suspension—the Bianconeri failed to shine as they have in recent weeks. “We certainly made a step backwards in terms of chances, as we had created so much in previous games” Bonucci told Sky Italia shortly after the final whistle (h/t Football Italia). It is difficult to argue with that assessment, the stalemate marking only the second league game this season in which they have not scored. Indeed, netting 12 times in their last three matches alone, Juventus had enjoyed a fine period of form before Friday’s trip to Florence. That is understandable, however, as Tuesday sees a fixture which could ultimately determine how their 2014-15 season is viewed. Atletico Madrid travel to Turin already qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League, but La Madama still requires a point from the final Group A match up. Failure to secure it would see the grand Old Lady of Italian football crash out at the first hurdle for the second consecutive season, an unthinkable conclusion to a promise-laden campaign. Massimiliano Allegri knows his future could depend on securing passage to the knockout stages, and as such it requires an excellent performance. The spotlight will be firmly upon them and that makes their uninspired display against La Viola much more acceptable. With a three-point lead over closest rivals Roma, even the most ardent Juventus supporter would allow such a dour display if it leads to a positive result in Europe next week. “We must step on to the field with only one objective,” Bonucci concluded when asked about the meeting with Atleti. “We are not a team built to contain, but to attack,” and they will need to return to the sparkling side which so dominated in recent weeks. Allegri kept Alvaro Morata in reserve against Fiorentina, and the Spanish striker’s pace and directness could be vital against Diego Simeone’s men. Juventus will need their stars at their best—the likes of Tevez, Pogba and Pirlo will be expected to deliver when it is most needed. Their fate remains in their own hands and it was clearly the only thing on their minds on Friday night. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Player Ratings Dec 5, 2014 Fiorentina 1 Neto - Did not have much to do at all. 2 G. Rodríguez - Locked down the left side of defence and was generally a wall at the back. 15 S. Savić - One moment of hesitation on a high ball aside, he did not put a foot wrong. 19 J. Basanta - Pulled off a few great tackles to stop Juve's runners from advancing into the box. 17 Joaquín - Did not have much to offer his side in the final third, but put in a good defensive shift. 14 M. Fernández - A few decent deliveries from set pieces and open play, but he found it hard to create chances. 7 D. Pizarro - Battled hard in the middle but could not create many chances. However, he broke up several attacks. 20 Borja Valero - Some hard work in the middle to close down the opposition, and his passing was decent. 28 Marcos Alonso - Occasionally provided an outlet on the overlap but his task was primarily defensive. 11 J. Cuadrado - One or two decent runs, and he tested Buffon, which has to count for something in a game such as this. 33 M. Gómez - His movement off the ball was decidedly below-par and he departed having never got into the game. Substitutes 10 A. Aquilani - Added another determined body in the middle. 30 K. Babacar - Cracked an effort just over the top in a decent cameo. Juventus 1 G. Buffon - Beat away a Cuadrado effort in one of his only meaningful moments of the game. 5 A. Ogbonna - Went about his business at the back with quiet authority. 19 Leonardo Bonucci - His passing out of the back was sound, and he did not allow Fiorentina any gaps down his side. 3 G. Chiellini - A few good challenges, but he was caught out of position once or twice. 37 R. Pereyra - Really offered his side nothing out wide. 23 A. Vidal - Ran his socks off as usual, but was unable to make a mark on the contest. 21 A. Pirlo - Mostly forced to cover defensively, never his strong suit. 6 P. Pogba - Strode forward on a few menacing runs, but he lacked the composure to finish what he started. 33 P. Evra - His lapses in concentration led to a few free kicks conceded down his side. 11 K. Coman - His endeavour in attack was in stark contrast to most of his teammates, but he too failed to make a difference. 14 Llorente - One or two knock downs aside, he had a frustrating game. Substitutes 8 C. Marchisio - At least tried to take the game to the opposition. 10 C. Tévez - Held the ball up well and gave the defenders a lot to think about. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Player Ratings: Fiorentina 0-0 Juventus Dec 5, 2014 Juventus dropped points for just the third time in Serie A this season after being held to a 0-0 draw with Fiorentina at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Friday night. Massimiliano Allegri seemingly had one eye on Tuesday’s crucial Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid as he rested Carlos Tevez. Juve are the opponent against which the Viola have suffered the most defeats and conceded the most goals against with 244 in the top-flight, but the Florentines held firm to claim a commendable draw. Fiorentina Neto – 5.5 – Commodity - Reportedly offered improved terms on a new contract to convince him to stay in Florence, but the former Atletico Paranaense goalkeeper can still improve his distribution after some wayward kicking. Stefan Savic – 6.5 – Assured - Montenegro international has been linked with a January move to Juventus, and aside from a moment of hesitation at a high ball was assured throughout. Gonzalo Rodriguez – 6.5 – Resolute - The 30-year-old central defender was solid and covered well for Savic after misjudging bouncing ball. Jose Maria Basanta – 6.5 – Composed - The Argentine international was comfortable when in possession and stopped Juventus runners from midfield inside the box on left side of back three. Joaquin – 6 – Determined - Recently praised by Montella for “proving his worth” after being frozen out at the start of the season, the right wing back worked hard defensively. Matias Fernandez – 6.5 – Lucid - The 2006 South American player of the year was integral to most Fiorentina attacks and was normally excellent with his right-footed delivery from set pieces and crosses. David Pizarro – 6 – Destroyer - 35-year-old Chilean made a decisive defensive contribution breaking up opposition attacks. Borja Valero – 6 – Industrious - Fiorentina captain was customarily tidy when in possession and worked hard when out of possession. Marcos Alonso – 6 – Positive - The 23-year-old left wing back was an attacking threat in the first half, but became increasingly important defensively after the break. Juan Cuadrado – 6 – Dynamic - Reportedly the subject of a €35 million offer from Juventus during the summer, the Colombian looked to trouble the Juventus back three with his pace in a free role behind Gomez. Mario Gomez – 5 – Frustrated - The striker “took a 200kg weight off his shoulders” scoring first Serie A goal in eight months last weekend against Cagliari, but has still return to full form on frustrating night. Substitutes Khouma Babacar (69 mins) – 6 – Enthusiastic - Pressed the Juventus back three well after replacing Gomez, but has yet to find the net in Serie A since his double in a 3-0 win against Udinese in Round 9. Alberto Aquilani (79 mins) – 5.5 – Supportive - Substitute for Joaquin as Fiorentina looked to settle for a point. Jasmin Kurtic (85 mins) – N/A Juventus Gianluigi Buffon – 6 – Alert - The Tuscan-born goalkeeper made an instinctive save pushing away a Cuadrado effort from distance, but had little to do on his return from a shoulder injury. Angelo Ogbonna – 5.5 – Tested - Struggled to deal with the pace of Cuadrado on his first start since away win at Empoli on 1 November, and was shown a yellow card for pulling down the Colombian during the first half. Leonardo Bonucci – 7 – Poised - Composed at the centre of back three showing a great sense of passing and positioning. The 27-year-old has not missed a minute of action for the Bianconeri this season. Giorgio Chiellini – 6 – Combative - The former Fiorentina defender was quick to argue with the opposition and referee Nicola Rizzoli. Will be suspended for Juve’s next Serie A match against Sampdoria after shown yellow card in first half for pulling back Valero. Roberto Pereyra – 5 – Tentative - The 23-year-old was less influential than in previous games with system switch and often looked to come in to central positions from right wing back position. Arturo Vidal – 5.5 – Vehement - The Chilean was forceful and intense closing down opposition throughout the hard fought encounter. Andrea Pirlo – 5.5 – Subdued - The 35-year-old was caught in possession on a couple of occasions and was also unable to repeat his last-minute Derby della Mole heroics after being substituted for Marchisio. Paul Pogba – 6 – Prodigy - Emphasised his FIFA FIFPro World XI nomination pirouetting his way through the midfield, but became increasingly frustrated throughout the second half. Patrice Evra – 5 – Improved - Struggled one on one against Joaquin on occasion in the first half, but improved after the interval notably testing Neto after combining well with Coman and Pogba on surge forward from left wing back. Fernando Llorente – 5 – Limited - Criticised after a number of ineffective performances so far this season, but did link well with teammates. Kingsley Coman – 6 – Ascendant - The 18-year-old showed impressive strength holding the hold up with his back to goal and linked well with Pogba on his first start since the opening game of the season against Chievo. Substitutes Carlos Tevez (61 mins) – 5 – Talismanic - Introduced for Coman with half an hour remaining, but did not have any opportunity to add to his 9 goals or 5 assists in Serie A this season. Claudio Marchisio (79 mins) – 5 – Reliable - Substitute for Pirlo as Juventus pushed for a fifth successive win. Simone Padoin (88 mins) – N/A http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Fiorentina vs. Juventus: Score, Grades and Reaction from Serie A Game Dec 5, 2014 Serie A leaders Juventus played out a dour scoreless draw at Fiorentina on Friday evening at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. The result gives the Bianconeri a provisional four-point lead atop the Italian league table. Second-placed AS Roma can pull within one point of Juve with a victory at home to Sassuolo on Saturday. Juventus, who had won their last six matches in all competitions, will now turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, when Atletico Madrid visit for a key Group A showdown. Massimiliano Allegri's side will need at least a point against last season's beaten finalists to be certain of qualification to the knockout stages. Juve, who are currently second in the group, can take top spot with a victory over Atletico by two or more goals, per UEFA.com. Up next in Serie A, Juventus will host Sampdoria next Sunday. Fiorentina, who remained 15 points behind Juventus with Friday's draw, will play at Cesena the same day. When Juventus visited Fiorentina last season, the Bianconeri took a 2-0 lead in the second half only to lose 4-2. No such fireworks were in store this time, as the two sides canceled each other out for large stretches in a scrappy affair. As tactics blogger Michael Cox hinted on Twitter, the match failed to produce much of interest: Michael Cox @Zonal_Marking The highlight of Fiorentina 0-0 Juventus has been Leo Bonucci chesting the ball fully 25 yards The match started with both teams playing at a high pace, but as the first half wore on, the teams combined for more fouls than clear chances. Juventus' Fernando Llorente headed on target from an Andrea Pirlo corner in the 14th minute, but Fiorentina's Mario Gomez cleared. In the 31st minute, Fiorentina's Matias Fernandez curled a free-kick comfortably wide of Gianluigi Buffon's near post. Eight minutes later, Borja Valero volleyed over the Juve goal after the visitors were unable to clear a free-kick. After the half-time break, Paul Pogba led a Juventus counter in the 49th minute, laying off for Patrice Evra on the left. Evra placed his shot on target in the top corner, but Neto saved to keep the score level. Leonardo Bonucci tested Neto from distance in the 63rd minute, with the Fiorentina goalkeeper doing well to hold Bonucci's powerful shot. Buffon then made a good save five minutes later, parrying Juan Cuadrado's stinging, long-range effort. Fiorentina substitute Khouma Babacar hit a deflected shot off target in the 79th minute, as both teams continued to struggle in their efforts to create clear chances. Each side made a late substitution, but neither could find a way to breach the other's net over a largely uneventful final 10 minutes. Grades Fiorentina Neto 6.9 Gonzalo Rodriguez 8.2 Jose Basanta 7.0 Stefan Savic 6.8 David Pizarro 7.1 Joaquin 7.4 Matias Fernandez 6.8 Borja Valero 6.9 Marcos Alonso 7.1 Juan Guillermo Cuadrado 6.6 Mario Gomez 6.6 Substitutes Khouma Babacar (for Gomez, 68') 6.0 Alberto Aquilani (for Joaquin, 78') 5.9 Jasmin Kurtic (for Cuadrado, 85') 6.1 Juventus Gianluigi Buffon 6.4 Giorgio Chiellini 7.3 Leonardo Bonucci 7.9 Angelo Ogbonna 6.6 Patrice Evra 6.6 Andrea Pirlo 7.0 Roberto Pereyra 6.1 Arturo Vidal 6.8 Paul Pogba 7.2 Fernando Llorente 6.1 Kingsley Coman 6.7 Substitutes Carlos Tevez (for Coman, 60') 6.0 Claudio Marchisio (for Pirlo, 78') 6.1 Simone Padoin (for Pereyra, 88) 6.0 Reaction JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@bonucci_leo19: "The draw was fair. Fiorentina put in one of their best displays of the season but we showed ourselves to be a solid side." JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@OfficialAllegri: “We didn’t have many chances but created a couple of situations in the first half. We need to improve our final ball." JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@OfficialAllegri: "You’re not going to get many chances in even games like these. When you do, you need to take them.” JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@bonucci_leo19: "#UCL? We need to go out with just one aim: victory. We’re not built to sit back & contain our opponents. We want to win.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FIORENTINA - JUVENTUS 0 - 0 Friday, December 5th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Artemio Franchi stadium, Florence Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Montella: 'We knew Juve secrets' Dec 5, 2014 Vincenzo Montella thanked reporters for giving away Juventus secrets ahead of Fiorentina’s 0-0 draw. “You can’t hide anything!” The Bianconeri have been playing with four at the back regularly for a month now, but switched back to 3-5-2 at the Stadio Franchi. “You can’t hide anything nowadays and I’ve noticed that as soon as you test something out in training, it emerges. I had half a thought it might’ve been a trick, but fortunately the reports were right!” Montella told Sky Sport Italia. “Both teams lacked that final move. I think the statistics show we were equal in everything and that’s a positive confidence booster for us, as we technically and tactically were on a par with Juventus. “Towards the end Juve began to impose their physicality on the game, but we held out well. They are certainly a stronger team, so we had to give something more to match them. In mentality we did that, but in midfield we were getting over-run as time went on, so I introduced another midfielder. “Our characteristics mean we have to press opponents high up the field, as we are not suited to sitting deep and counter-attacking.” There were few scoring opportunities and Mario Gomez again seemed far off the pace, but Montella stood up for his players. “Joaquin’s quality is extraordinary and recently he has been proving to me he has the same enthusiasm and motivation as when he was a kid. This is a player who could’ve done so much more in his career and I thought he had a great performance again tonight. “Gomez worked very hard to help out in defence too, as when playing a stronger opponent you must ask sacrifice from your forwards and that inevitably takes something away from you in attack. “I didn’t feel it right to introduce Marin at the end, as this was a very intense game and I don’t think he has settled in enough yet to understand the atmosphere around this fixture.” Juan Guillermo Cuadrado hobbled off towards the end with a bruised hip. “Cuadrado had a knock, I don’t know if it hit the buttock muscle or hip, so we’ll see tomorrow what the medics say.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111