Socrates

I'm close to my best - Pirlo Questions had been raised over the form of the veteran midfielder, but he feels he is now answering his critics. Nov 2, 2014 Andrea Pirlo has declared himself close to his peak form after a period in which his displays came under fire. The 35-year-old helped Juventus bounce back from a surprise midweek defeat in Genoa with a 2-0 win over Empoli on Saturday night. Pirlo opened the scoring with a trademark free kick and, after initially struggling to shake off the effects of the injury that saw him miss the start of the season, he feels that he is now approaching his best form. "Personally, I'm growing," the Italy international stated. "I'm working hard and well during the week. I'm now close to my best condition." The victory saw Massimiliano Allegri's men move three points clear of Roma - who were beaten at Napoli - at the top of Serie A. "It was important to win," Pirlo said. "We needed to immediately put the loss at Genoa behind us and take advantage of Roma's defeat. "It's an important sign for us, a clear message to all of the Scudetto challengers. "But my mind is already on Tuesday evening. The Olympiakos game is effectively a final." After opening their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 victory at home to Malmo, the Old Lady subsequently slumped to back-to-back losses away to Atletico Madrid and the Greek champions. They now trail both sides by three points going into matchday four. Pirlo now concedes that Juve simply have to defeat Olympiakos in Turin if they are to avoid bowing out at the group stage for the second successive season. "We must play at our best, with zero mistakes. We only have one result available to us: victory."

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Empoli 0-2 Juventus: The Old Lady wins on her birthday Andrea Pirlo scored a beautiful free-kick goal before Alvaro Morata sealed the win for Juventus at Stadio Carlo Castellani. Nov 1, 2014 Juventus received some great news before coming into Saturday night's match: Roma lost 2-0 away at Napoli. Playing against a bottom four club seemed like the perfect chance to make that result matter and the Old Lady managed to secure the three points by virtue of Pirlo and Morata’s magic moments. Having previously registered two consecutive set-backs, losing away at Olympiakos and at Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa, Max Allegri’s men had to make sure they would keep the bandwagon on track. Allegri decided to make four changes to the starting XI which lost to Genoa. Roberto Pereyra started on the right wing, giving Stephan Lichtsteiner a rest, while Andrea Pirlo regained his regista role, forcing Claudio Marchisio to move in centre-left of midfield in Paul Pogba’s place. As both Carlos Tévez and Fernando Llorente were on the bench, Sebastian Giovinco and Alvaro Morata was the partnership chosen to start upfront, in the hope of giving Juventus an extra bit of creativity which the team seriously lacked in recent matches. After a horrendous first half in which Juventus couldn’t create a decent chance, playing some lacklustre football, a wake-up call must have been given in the locker room as the players came in after the break with more determination. It was Old Lady’s 117th birthday in the end – she needed to have a nice anniversary present. Eventually, Pirlo and Morata took care of it. Having mentioned Morata, it looks pretty clear that he and Tévez form the best attacking duo at the moment. Giovinco tried a lot today, but with limited results, while Fernando Llorente is still struggling with form. Allegri also has some other problems at the moment, though. Both Angelo Ogbonna and Kwadwo Asamoah picked-up injuries today. Hopefully, it is nothing serious and they won’t join Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Luca Marrone, Patrice Evra and Simone Pepe on the injury list. Way too many defenders there already! MATCH SUMMARY It was a very quiet start of the game with Empoli allowing Juventus to control possession but the lack of pace in their attacking actions made it easier for the home side to defend. Giovinco first tried his luck after 5 minutes but his shot was easily held by goalkeeper Bassi and just moments, the diminutive striker received a good pass from Arturo Vidal but his effort was blocked inside the area. Empoli had a lonely chance in the first half, after 20 minutes, when Piotr Zielinski’s shot from just outside the area forced Gianluigi Buffon into making a diving save. With just over 30 minutes played, Morata used his pace to skip past two defenders and opened Vidal on the left but the Chilean’s shot went wide. As the break was getting closer, Juventus forced an opening but couldn’t create anything dangerous and the teams went to the locker rooms with nothing to separate them. Right from the start of the second half, Allegri was forced to replace Angelo Ogbonna with Lichtsteiner, as the centre-back couldn’t shake off an injury picked-up in the first half after a collision with Giorgio Chiellini. Vidal received a yellow card after 53 minutes for a miss-timed tackle just outside Juventus’ area, meaning the Chilean will be suspended for the next game against Parma. The first big chance of the game for Juventus came 10 minutes into the second half. Kwadwo Asamoah forced his way through on the left side before testing Bassi from a tight angle. The goalkeeper parried the ball away straight to Marchisio’s feet, whose shot from inside the area went just wide. Shortly afterwards, the Old Lady missed another good chance as Chiellini’s header, following a Pirlo corner-kick, shaved the outside of the post. Juventus finally broke the deadlock on the hour mark: Giovinco won a free-kick just outside the penalty area and Andrea Pirlo stepped-up to take it. The bearded master didn’t waste the chance to close in on Sinisa Mihajlovic’s record of 28 free-kick goals in Seire A, curling his shot over the wall and past Bassi, giving the visitors the lead, with his 26th free-kick goal. Empoli almost equalised five minutes later, but Buffon had a fantastic reaction to save Manuel Pucciarelli’s deflected shot from 10 yards out. Tévez replaced Giovinco after 68 minutes and made an instant impact as he combined with Morata on a counter attack, then struck his shot at the far post, forcing a save from Bassi. Marchisio followed the rebound but only managed to hit the post from close range with a diving shot. Just moments later, Morata scored the second of the game with a superb shot from inside the area. The Spaniard received a pass from Tévez, took a short touch to prepare his strike and blasted it past Bassi, with the ball taking a slight deflection from a defender on its way in. Juventus kept control of the game after scoring the second and were close to a third with ten minutes from time when Tévez pulled another save from Bassi with a powerful effort from 20 yards out. Buffon was quick off his line to make another good save and deny Francesco Tavano, moments before Lorenzo Tonelli was sent off in the last minute of injury time for a last-man foul on Tévez. Pirlo took the free-kick again but he sent the ball over the bar and referee Paolo Valeri blew the whistle for full time. LE PAGELLE Buffon: 7 Managed a superb save to deny Pucciarelli and keep the lead intact, paving the way for Juventus’ second Ogbonna: 6 Had basically nothing to do in the first half as Empoli created close to nothing, but was replaced at half time because of an injury Bonucci: 6 Decent display, despite allowing both Pucciarelli and Tavano to have a go at Buffon Chiellini: 6.5 Made a great last-man tackle in the first half and restricted his runs forward today Pereyra: 6.5 The Argentine ran at the opposite defenders nicely on a few occasions, but couldn’t find a good delivery for the attackers Vidal: 6.5 Despite a poor first half, managed seven successful tackles throughout the game but also got booked. Pirlo: 7 Looked very shaky too often, playing well below his usual game while the scoreline was 0-0. Saved his and Juventus’ day with a great free-kick. Marchisio: 6.5 Missed a good chance at the start of the second half but was unlucky for him to hit the post from close range Asamoah: 6 Quiet game from the Ghanaian who also suffered a late injury, needed to be replaced with Padoin Giovinco: 6.5 Won the free-kick from which Pirlo scored and attempted a few shots but couldn’t quite pose a threat for Bassi. Replaced by Tevez with 20 minutes to go Morata: 7.5 Was very lively throughout, showing great technique and pace. Scored with a beautiful strike to seal the win Subs Lichtsteiner: 6.5 Was forced to play at centre-back but had some decent 45 minutes Tévez: 7 Great impact from the Argentine. Sparked Juventus’ attack and Assisted Morata’s goal Padoin: N/A Came in late for the injured Asamoah and managed to draw a yellow card for Empoli’s Hisaj Coach Allegri: 6 Made a few needed changes to the line-up which lost to Genoa, starting Morata who rewarded him with a goal, but the team still couldn’t produce anything in the first half. Inspired to give Tévez a decent amount of playing time, but has to thank Pirlo for the early rescue. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Pirlo: Juventus Sent A Signal After Empoli Win Nov 1, 2014 Juventus star midfielder Andrea Pirlo lauded his club’s 2-0 win over Empoli and the signal it sent. Pirlo’s free kick goal helped secure the Old Lady three points to go clear at the top in the Serie A table. Prior to the Empoli fixture, Juventus shared first place with Roma, but the Giallorossi lost to Napoli earlier on Saturday. “Today Roma lost and we had to give an important signal,” Pirlo told Sky Sport Italia. “We were able to win and now we are getting ready for Tuesday. I’m growing physically, every match I feel better and I hope to get there as early as possible in the best condition.” The Bianconeri face Olympiacos in their second fixture at Juventus Stadium on Tuesday, and were defeated 1-0 by the Greek side in their previous Champions League fixture. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Allegri delighted as Juventus capitalise on Roma slip up The Bianconeri coach stressed that it was vital for his side to bag the full three points against Empoli as they restored their advantage at the top of Serie A. Nov 1, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri has taken the time to praise Alvaro Morata in the wake of Juventus ' 2-0 Serie A win over Empoli on Saturday evening and added that it was important for his side to capitalise on Roma's earlier defeat. The former Real Madrid youngster featured from the start as Carlos Tevez was rested and he proved his coach right with a fine finish to effectively put the match to bed after Andrea Pirlo had opened the scoring. Allegri was pleased with Morata's contribution and underlined the importance of Juve's win after Scudetto rivals Roma were beaten 2-0 by Napoli earlier on Saturday. "Morata put in a good shift tonight up front - and so did [sebastian] Giovinco," Allegri stated in his post-match press conference. "It was an important game to win, also in light of Roma's defeat against Napoli and I'm happy for the lads. "We knew we could have been in for a few difficulties in the first half. Empoli are a lively team who play decent football." He added: "I am satisfied with the second half, but we were too hasty in the first and made many mistakes. I compliment my team, as they stuck with it and didn’t run risks until our growth coincided with Empoli falling off the boil," he added. "Pirlo broke his duck [for the season] and I think also had a psychological breakthrough with that goal after performances that were not up to his usual standards. He can make the difference on set plays and is improving, as is [Arturo] Vidal." The win comes just days after Juve's unbeaten start to the league campaign was ended as they lost 1-0 to Genoa on Wednesday, but Allegri feels the reaction to the result was over the top. "I have to take a balanced view and it was unfair to say after two games that Juve had lost all their worth," Allegri told SportMediaset. "I said this season would be balanced. Many of you had already thrown Napoli out to sea, yet they have quality players and if not for two [Gonzalo] Higuain penalty misses would've been right up there with us." The Turin side now face a crucial Champions League return fixture with Olympiacos, and the coach knows how important it is. "It is a do-or-die game, because it would be really difficult to get back into it if we failed to win, but we still have to face it with a relaxed state of mind," he continued. Saturday's results saw Juventus move three points clear of Roma atop of the Serie A table. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Sarri: 'Empoli learn from Juve' Nov 1, 2014 Maurizio Sarri feels Empoli should build on their performance against Juventus. “We won’t always be facing Gigi Buffon.” The Tuscans were beaten 2-0 on home turf by an Andrea Pirlo free kick and Alvaro Morata curler. “We did well in the first half and even better at the start of the second, but we conceded during our best period of play,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia. “Unlike other recent games, we did react well to the goal and went close to equalising, but the second knocked the wind out of our sails. “Unfortunately this is a bleak period and we are conceding during our best spells of play. With this intensity, I am convinced we will get back to picking up points soon. After all, we won’t always be facing Buffon and a motivated Juventus side. “We’ve been working together for three years, so we have our own identity. I preferred to face Juventus openly rather than sit back and wait only to end up losing anyway. “Even if we end up bottom of the table, we must always play our style of football.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Juventus 2 - Empoli 0: Initial reaction and random observations There's a chance we will talk about Álvaro Morata. Stay tuned to find out. Nov 1, 2014 You know how on a voice recorder you have three different settings on the speed of how your audio will sound? On one end, you have the option to play things in half speed. Then there's normal speed. And then there's the sped up audio, which makes you sound like you've just inhaled a balloon full of helium in about three seconds. In the first half of Juventus' game against Empoli, it's pretty safe to say things were going in half speed, with absolutely no imagination or creativity being displayed. Or maybe we can use a gif to describe Juventus' first-half performance. Yeah, that seems about right, doesn't it? They just looked lost. They generated only eight shots against an Empoli side that had one of the worst goal differentials in all of Serie A through nine rounds this season. But for all the offensive ineptitude and frustration in the first half, Juventus actually looked somewhat competent after the halftime break. It started with another free kick masterpiece from Andrea Pirlo, it continued with Álvaro Morata's absolute thunderbolt, and it resulted in a 2-0 win for Juventus to ease at least some of the anger from the Genoa loss midweek. We know it wasn't perfect. We know it wasn't even close to a good showing against a squad Juventus should have beaten with plenty of room to spare on paper. It's not like we can completely throw out that waste of a first half and just consider this a good performance. But, in the end, Juventus needed a win and they got the win. And with it, Juve are once again three points clear of Roma atop the Serie A table. It wasn't pretty, but hey, sometimes that's what you gotta do against provincial sides. Better than seeing another stupid loss, right? Random thoughts and observations There will be a longer post in the near future about him, but here's the general idea of what I'll be writing about Álvaro Morata: Start him. Start him no matter who is available for selection, Mr. Allegri. He's just playing too well right now not to start every game. Juve's attack just has a completely different element to it when he's in there. If Morata continues to play well and gets the opportunities to do so, how intriguing is the partnership with Carlos Tévez going to be down the road? Morata brings so much more pace and direct play to Juventus' forward line. I was totally okay with Allegri going with Sebastian Giovinco as Morata's compliment in the Juve attack simply because Mr. Atomic Ant has a history of doing quite well against the provincial clubs. Outside of drawing the foul that led to Pirlo's free kick goal, it was pretty much a night to forget for Giovinco. Still waiting for Arturo Vidal to be Arturo Vidal again. With his yellow card against Empoli, he will miss Parma's visit to Juventus Stadium next weekend. The way he's playing, maybe that isn't such a bad thing. Juventus left the field Saturday night with two healthy central defenders and two injured left wingbacks with Kwadwo Asamoah having to be subbed off in the second half. That's not exactly what you want to have going on with a Champions League contest on the horizon. Simone Padoin, you guys. Not a bad showing in emergency left wingback duty, eh? Gigi Buffon had two saves to make. Both of them were simply fantastic. He's just the best. Juventus had to win on its birthday. I mean, they had to. There was no other option. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Morata: I Needed Time To Adapt To Juventus Nov 1, 2014 Alvaro Morata was happy with Juventus’ win over Empoli on Saturday night, despite the Bianconeri not hitting top form. The 22-year-old striker hit the second goal in Juventus’ 2-0 win in only his second start for the club. Andrea Pirlo opened the scoring from a free kick. “I needed time to understand my new team’s tactics,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “Now I am part of Juventus. “We played better in the second half, which means we go into the game against Olimpiacos in good physical condition. “I want to dedicate my goal to my cousin who passed away last week.” Looking ahead to Tuesday’s match at the Juventus Stadium, the Spaniard had just one thought. “The important thing is for Juventus to win,” Morata said. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Allegri: 'Critics too hasty' Nov 1, 2014 Max Allegri said the Juventus victory at Empoli and Roma’s defeat to Napoli proves critics were too quick to judge. The Bianconeri were caught at the top of the table midweek, but are back to a three-point lead thanks to their 2-0 win in Tuscany and Roma’s loss by the same scoreline. “I respect your work, but I have to take a balanced view and it was unfair to say after two games that Juve had lost all their worth,” Allegri told Sport Mediaset. “I said this season would be balanced. Many of you had already thrown Napoli out to sea, yet they have quality players and if not for two Higuain penalty misses would’ve been right up there with us.” The deadlock at the Stadio Castellani was broken by an Andrea Pirlo free kick and Alvaro Morata curler. “I am satisfied with the second half, but we were too hasty in the first and made many mistakes. I compliment my team, as they stuck with it and didn’t run risks until our growth coincided with Empoli falling off the boil. “Pirlo broke his duck and I think also had a psychological breakthrough with that goal after performances that were not up to his usual standards. He can make the difference on set plays and is improving, as is Vidal.” Now Allegri must prepare for a crucial Champions League clash with Olympiacos in Turin. “It is a do-or-die game, because it would be really difficult to get back into it if we failed to win, but we still have to face it with a relaxed state of mind. “We have real potential and we proved that in Athens, creating many chances and allowing them very little.” Juve lost both their away matches in the Champions League, 1-0 at both Atletico Madrid and Olympiacos. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Empoli vs. Juventus: Winners and Losers from Serie A Game Nov 1, 2014 Juventus followed up their shock midweek loss to Genoa with a hard-earned 2-0 win over Empoli at the Stadio Carlo Castellani. Bianconeri coach Massimiliano Allegri took a gamble by resting Carlos Tevez, Fernando Llorente, Paul Pogba and Stephan Lichtsteiner (though Tevez and Lichtsteiner both got minutes in the second half), but the side was still good enough to get past a limited Empoli outfit. The Italian champions never looked entirely convincing, but managed to take the lead thanks to a fine Andrea Pirlo free-kick in the second half, before the lively Alvaro Morata scored a second to secure the points. With Roma's defeat to Napoli in the earlier game, Juve move three points clear at the top of Serie A once more. Here are the individual winners and losers from the game. Winner: Andrea Pirlo In a game with a limited number of clear chances in the opening hour, Juventus looked to their legendary midfielder to break the deadlock. No matter how poorly the Bianconeri are playing, they can always rely on Pirlo's brilliance from dead-ball situations to give them a strong chance of scoring, and once again the 35-year-old came through with the goods. He guided his free-kick through the tiniest of gaps in the Empoli wall and into the back of the net, to give his team the all-important first goal. Loser: Arturo Vidal With so many of Juve's match-winners missing, Arturo Vidal needed to take command of the game for the visitors. Instead, he looked strangely uninterested. The Chilean can be such a driving force in midfield, but in this game he barely contributed in attack and was also wasteful in possession on too many occasions. He also picked up a pointless yellow card in the 53rd minute to earn a suspension for next week. Luckily for Vidal, Pirlo was there to help the team wrap up all three points. Winner: Mario Rui Empoli left-back Mario Rui was in the thick of the action all evening. He edged an enthralling running battle with Juventus' energetic right-sided midfielder, Roberto Pereyra, keeping the Argentinian reasonably quiet throughout the match. The Portuguese player also saw plenty of ball when Empoli were in possession, distributing well and getting forward frequently to add an extra dimension to his side's attack. Loser: Sebastian Giovinco Tiny Italian forward Sebastian Giovinco, given a chance in the starting XI, began the game brightly but was unable to really make his mark. It has been a criticism of Giovinco throughout his career that he lacks end product, and he was once again unable to threaten goal despite looking impressive as he regularly glided past defenders outside the area. Tevez's spot in the starting side is not likely to be under threat any time soon. Winner: Massimiliano Allegri With a hugely important Champions League clash with Olympiakos looming in midweek, Allegri decided he would rest some of Juve's best players and still escape from Empoli with three points. In the end, he was right. It wasn't the most fluid of performances from Juventus, but when you have such legendary players as Gianluigi Buffon and Pirlo in the side, you're always going to be the favourites against a team from the lower regions of the ladder. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri TEAM RATINGS Nov 1, 2014 Empoli 28 D. Bassi - Were it not for him, the scoreline may well have been larger. 2 V. Laurini - Generally did well against Morata and Giovinco whenever they attacked down his side. 26 L. Tonelli - Gave away a careless free kick and was sent off late on for a professional foul. 24 D. Rugani - Won almost everything in the air, and was assured on the ground as well. 21 Mário Rui - Did not get forward much, but stopped the crosses from coming in. 88 M. Vecino - Did not have a notable contribution to this game. 6 M. Valdifiori - Simply bypassed in midfield on multiple occasions. 11 D. Croce - Gave up possession multiple times in an unconvincing display. 27 P. Zielinski - Sent a good free-kick chance over the bar and flattered to deceive. 7 M. Maccarone - One or two shots went off target as he snatched on the few chances that came his way. 20 M. Pucciarelli - He helped fashion a few gaps in the opposition ranks during Empoli's best spell in the second half. Substitutes 23 E. Hysaj - Booked for a late challenge on Vidal. 10 F. Tavano - His movement off the ball fashioned a late chance, but he was saved. Juventus 1 G. Buffon - Made a smart save on Tavano late on to earn his clean sheet. 5 A. Ogbonna - An injury sustained early in the first half stunted his display, and he was substituted at the break. 19 L. Bonucci - Dealt with everything thrown his way. Assured display. 3 G. Chiellini - Shut down many attacks down his side before they gained momentum. 37 R. Pereyra - Acquitted himself well out wide, showing great dribbling ability and not neglecting his defensive duties. 23 A. Vidal - Ran his socks off to break up attacks before they even began. 21 A. Pirlo - Scored the all important opener from a trademark free kick. Almost automatic from that range. 8 C. Marchisio - Once or twice, he missed from long range, but it was his work rate which stood out the most. 22 K. Asamoah - His energy on the flanks was key in keeping pressure concentrated in the opposition half by cutting out a potential counterattacking route. 12 S. Giovinco - Though he worked hard to find space, he was often frustrated in his attempts to find a way through on goal. 9 Álvaro Morata - Linked play well, before smashing in a stunning finish into the top corner to seal the points. Substitutes 26 S. Lichtsteiner - Added more thrust from wide areas. 10 C. Tévez - Set up Morata and his energy off the bench was palpable. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Player Ratings: Empoli 0-2 Juventus Nov 1, 2014 Empoli were defeated by Juventus 2-0 at Stadio Carlo Castellani on Saturday evening in Serie A. Andrea Pirlo broke the deadlock in a dull game with a top class free-kick, before Alavaro Morata curled home to secure all three points for the Bianconeri. Empoli Davide Bassi – 5.5- Tried - Made some decent saves which would be expected of him and could do nothing to stop either Pirlo’s or Morata’s strikes at goal. Vincent Laurini – 4 – Poor - Didn’t have a great game up against Asamoah and even then the Juventus man didn’t have his best game. One for the Empoli right back to look over and build upon. Lorenzo Tonelli – 4 – Idiot - Side was dead and buried but decided to ‘take one for the team’ and hauled Tevez down when a clear goal scoring opportunity was present. Banned for their next game now. Daniele Rugani – 4.5 – Better - Was probably the best of a bad bunch at the back for Empoli. Did well to put off Juventus in the first half when chances were spurred but couldn’t do much to deny his opponents their goals. Mario Rui 4.5 – Ragged - Did a lot of running and chasing of the ball, much like an excitable dog, but did very little when it came to trying to start attacks off from the back. Matias Vecino – 5.5 – Problematic - Did make some smart passes in the first half but any influence he had on the game shortly died out with the rest of his team when they fell a goal behind. Mirko Valdifiori – 5 – Uninspiring - Another who has had better days but didn’t do well marshalling the back line behind him or springing passes forward to Zielinski. Needs to be on his best game next week. Daniele Croce – 5 – Indecisive - Didn’t look great when trying to go forward and failed to get his side on the front foot. Was overrun by the opposition midfield. Piotr Zielinski – 5 – Deprived - Could never fully get his team going and link up with the forwards ahead of him as the build up from the back wasn’t great. Massimo Maccarone – 5 – Struggled - As soon as he stuck a truly awful shot within the first two minutes miles wide of Buffon’s goal you knew it wasn’t going to be his day. With his experience he should have led the line better. Manuel Pucciarelli – 6 – Vital - Was virtually one of the only positives to come out of the game for Empoli. Was very unfortunate not to level the game but was up against one of the best goalkeepers in the land. Can be proud of his effort. Substitutes Elseid Hysaj – 5.5 – Unlucky - Was brought on for Laurini who hadn’t had the best game and was made to stop the on rushing Asamoah that he struggled with. Was never up to the pace of the game. Francesco Tavano – 5 – Entered the match with fifteen to go to try and get the team ticking in the final third. Didn’t. Levan Mchedildze – 5 – Off the bench for Maccarone with ten minutes to go and did virtually nothing except have a rather complex surname to spell. Juventus Gianluigi Buffon – 6.5 – Cat - Was relatively untroubled but produced a stunning save to deny Puccairelli the equaliser in a tight affair. Angelo Ogbonna – 5 – Played - Not much to report on for the big man at the back as had little to do in the first half and also saw a shot smothered by Bassi. Taken off at halftime for Lichtsteiner. Leonardo Bonucci – 6 – Simple - Quietly went about his business at the back in a good clean sheet away from home. Maybe needs to stop his long balls over the top though. Giorgio Chiellini – 6 – Solid - Had the best chance of the game with a header flashing past the post before the maestro in midfield opened the scoring. Dealt with any trouble at the back with fairly decent ease. Roberto Pereyra – 6 – Impressive - Had a very smart game as a right defensive midfielder yet got forward when needed to. Looked a lot more comfortable with Lichtsteiner behind him as well. Arturo Vidal – 6 – Dissimilar - Not the Chilean’s best game for the Bianconeri as he saw a good few passes misplaced whilst also scuffing a half decent chance in a dire first half of football. Andrea Pirlo – 7 – Typical - Did exactly what he does best from a dead ball situation as he stroked home the free-kick into the bottom corner of the net to bring a rather tepid game to life. Claudio Marchisio 5.5 – Slacking - Another who wasn’t really at the races today despite being on the winning team. Missed a couple of half chances and also a bit wayward with his passing. Will have to improve vs Parma with Vidal ruled out. Kwadwo Asamoah 6 – Worker - Always gives a lot for his team and you can see why Allegri opts to start him. Not the most technically gifted player but forced a couple of saves out of Bassi before being subbed off for Padoin. Sebastian Giovinco – 6 – Runner - Got himself about the pitch as usual but didn’t do anything truly spectacular to get Allegri excited. Subbed for the main man Tevez in the second half. Alvaro Morata – 7 – Input - Scored a quite lovely goal to double his side’s lead in the second half with a curler into the top corner leaving Bassi with no chance. Substitutes Stephan Lichtsteiner – 5.5 – Assertive - Came on at the break for Ogbonna and seemed to sure up the backline and get his side ticking when going forward with the deadlock finally being broken by Pirlo later on. Carlos Tevez – 6.5 – Tenacious - Ever since he entered the fray for Giovinco you could tell he wanted a goal and forced Bassi in some smart saves. Should be ready and raring to go for Parma. Simone Padoin 5 – Appearance - On in the final ten and helped his team see the game out with no real influence except adding another appearance to his name. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Empoli 0-2 Juventus: Poor Bianconeri Take All Three Points Nov 1, 2014 Juventus defeated Empoli 2-0 at the Stadio Carlo Castellani on Saturday night in Serie A. A sublime free-kick from Andrea Pirlo was followed by Alvaro Morata’s wonderful left footed strike in the second half, to see off a resolute Empoli side and restore a three point advantage for the Bianconeri over second placed Roma at the top of Serie A. The first opportunity of the match went in the way of Empoli in the second minute as Massimo Maccarone’s right footed shot missed the target from outside the box. Then it was the away side’s turn to aim for goal as Sebastian Giovinco had his tame effort comfortably saved by goalkeeper Davide Bassi. A few moments later, Angelo Ogbonna shot low and wide of the goal without troubling Bassi. However, Empoli quickly produced a response through Piotr Zielinski, who had his well taken shot to the bottom left corner saved by Gianluigi Buffon. Next, it was Giorgio Chiellini who missed a chance from a header, while Giovinco had yet another attempt saved by the home side’s goalkeeper. That said, Arturo Vidal had the best chance of the first half on the half hour when Morata played a perfect through ball only for the Chilean to drag his shot wide from inside the box. Minutes later, Vidal hit a low driven shot straight into the hands of the 29-year-old Bassi. Following the break, the frustration continued for Juventus as Spaniard Morata sent a loose effort wide of the goal from outside the penalty box. Then, the Azzurri’s Manuel Pucciarelli missed the target from a free header and then shot straight at Buffon a minute later. With the hour mark approaching, centre back Chiellini sent a header just wide of the far post following a corner from Pirlo. Finally all the Bianconeri pressure paid off as the 35-year-old midfielder curled a brilliant free-kick into the bottom left corner on 61 minutes. However, Empoli could have drawn level just moments later if it was not for Buffon’s brilliant one-handed reflex save to deny Pucciarelli. Then on 72 minutes, the Old Lady doubled their lead and broke down the home side’s resilience as new signing Morata wonderful thumped a left-footed strike into the top corner, leaving Bassi no chance to save it. Ten minutes later, substitute Carlos Tevez could have made it 3-0 to the away side if not for Bassi producing yet another good save. Moreover, the referee heaped further misery on the home side as Lorenzo Tonelli was sent off in the second half stoppage time for bringing down Tevez, while being the last defender. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Empoli 0-2 Juventus Nov 1, 2014 Juventus capitalised on Roma's afternoon defeat to re-establish a three-point lead in Serie A by beating 10-man Empoli 2-0 at Stadio Carlo Castellani. The Italian champions' outright dominance of the league table disappeared last weekend thanks to their shock loss at Genoa, a result which allowed Roma to join them in a share of first place. The capital club went down 2-0 at Napoli on Saturday, however, meaning goals from Andrea Pirlo and Alvaro Morata in Tuscany handed the initiative back to the Bianconeri in this year's title race. Empoli, who lost defender Lorenzo Tonelli to a needless red card at the death, remain in 17th place and could be sucked into the relegation zone on Sunday. The first half was cagier than many spectators might have expected with only Giorgio Chiellini's header causing any real concern to the scoreline. Juve did raid forward often, and Sebastian Giovinco could have done more with Arturo Vidal's ball inside while defender Angelo Ogbonna fizzed a shot just wide on a rare mission into the final third. Chiellini rose above everyone to nod the ball straight at Davide Bassi shortly before the half-hour mark and Empoli watched Vidal's left-footed attempt miss the mark as half-time drew closer. The Tuscans were very much the brighter side when play resumed and Manuel Pucciarelli would have caused Gianluigi Buffon real problems had he made better contact with Mirko Valdifiori's cross. Pucciarelli did give Juventus' veteran goalkeeper something to think about with a well-struck volley from distance but the Bianconeri soon wrested back control of the game. Claudio Marchisio and Chiellini both missed close-range chances inside a frantic three-minute period and just when Empoli thought it was safe, Pirlo fired home the opener. Tonelli's foul on Giovinco proved fatal to Empoli as it offered Pirlo the chance to take aim from a free-kick and the ball predictably rose over the wall before dipping and beating Bassi. Empoli might have levelled quickly through Pucciarelli, who drew a miraculous save from Buffon from yards out, but it was not long before Juve doubled their lead. Marchisio had fired the warning shot by clattering the post thanks to Tevez's deft pass and, in the 72nd minute, Morata collected the ball from the Argentinian and bested Bassi with his left boot. Tevez almost made it three as Empoli wilted, his powerful right-footed effort calling Bassi into a desperate punched save. Empoli enjoyed one more sight of goal before full-time as Francesco Tavano got close to Buffon, but the hosts' night ended with more disappointment as Tonelli drew a red card. Five minutes into stoppage time the centre-back brought Tevez down as the last man and had to walk. Pirlo would spare Empoli any further embarrassment by directing his free-kick over the bar. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Juventus narrowly overcome spirited Empoli Nov 1, 2014 Juventus were forced to work hard for a 2-0 victory over a spirited Empoli side in Serie A this afternoon. The visitors dominated the first half, but were give an early scare when Massimo Maccarone's strike from the edge of the box whizzed past the post. Juventus struggled to turn their possession into anything of substance in the final third, yet came close in the 15th minute as Angelo Ogbonna rifled a shot narrowly wide. Empoli frustrated the champions and almost hit them on the break in the 18th minute, with Piotr Zielinski's effort from inside the box forcing Gianluigi Buffon into a save. Juve's best chance of the first period fell to Arturo Vidal four minutes before the break, with the Chilean testing Davide Bassi from outside the area with a vicious strike that was saved well. It was Empoli who went for the jugular in the early stages of the second period and twice came close through Manuel Pucciarelli, while Zielinski remained a constant threat. The home side gave a good account of themselves, but were behind just after the hour as Andrea Pirlo belted a free kick into the bottom corner to break the deadlock. Although Empoli continued to cause Juventus problems, the Old Lady put them further behind in the 72nd minute when Alvaro Morata latched onto Carlos Tevez's pass and found the net from a tight angle. Tevez had a chance to add another at the death, but 3-0 would have flattered Juventus against unfortunate opposition. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Pirlo and Juve reborn in Empoli Andrea Pirlo and Alvaro Morata gave Juventus victory in Empoli and a three-point lead at the top of the table, but also two new injuries. Nov 1, 2014 Today was the 117th anniversary of the Old Lady’s foundation and they had the chance to go three points clear at the top, having been caught by Roma midweek thanks to a shock 1-0 defeat at Genoa. Earlier this afternoon the Giallorossi lost 2-0 at Napoli, so this was an opportunity that could not be snubbed. Max Allegri rested Carlos Tevez and Stephan Lichtsteiner among others, while Andrea Barzagli, Patrice Evra and Martin Caceres were injured. Empoli missed Simone Verdi, Luigi Sepe and Tiberio Guarente. The last edition of this fixture was in 2008, but Claudio Marchisio and Sebastian Giovinco were on the field with the Empoli jersey. Giovinco was given a rare Juve start and in the opening eight minutes had two efforts blocked, while Gigi Buffon plucked a Piotr Zielinski shot out of the air. Daniele Rugani was crucial to intercept Alvaro Morata’s assist with Giovinco ready to tap in. Giorgio Chiellini’s header failed to trouble Davide Bassi, then Arturo Vidal pulled wide from another smart Morata ball and the Chilean aimed straight at the goalkeeper. Angelo Ogbonna picked up a knock to the knee early on from teammate Chiellini and was limping for the rest of the first half, replaced by Stephan Lichtsteiner in an unusual centre-back role. Vidal was booked and will be suspended for the next match with Parma. There was finally a chance on 55 minutes when Kwadwo Asamoah forced a tough save out of Bassi and Marchisio’s follow-up was inches wide. Chiellini’s header from a corner also skimmed the far post, but they finally broke the deadlock thanks to Andrea Pirlo’s first goal of the season. It was a trademark free kick that dipped mercilessly over the wall and Bassi was unsighted until it was too late. Empoli fought back and Manuel Pucciarelli’s deflected shot was rising above Gigi Buffon, but he lifted up his trailing hand to beat it away. Juve could’ve been 2-0 up, but Bassi parried a Carlos Tevez strike and Marchisio turned the follow-up on to the upright from point-blank range. That was the 10th time the Bianconeri have rattled the woodwork in nine games. Moments later Morata did get a second, as the ex-Real Madrid starlet cut in to his left foot and curled a magnificent finish into the far top corner. It was the Spaniard’s second Serie A goal of the season. Yet there was more bad news for Allegri, as Asamoah also hobbled off the field after an injury. Bassi flew to prevent Tevez smashing in another and Buffon rushed off his line to charge down a Francesco Tavano lob. Lorenzo Tonelli saw red in stoppages for his body-check on Tevez, ending a clear scoring opportunity. Empoli: Bassi; Laurini (Hysaj 57), Tonelli, Rugani, Mario Rui; Vecino, Valdifiori, Croce; Zielinski (Tavano 73), Maccarone (Mchedlidze 79), Pucciarelli Juventus: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna (Lichtsteiner 46), Chiellini; Pereyra, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah (Padoin 80); Giovinco (Tevez 68), Morata Ref: Valeri Sent off: Tonelli 94 (E) http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS 0 - 2 Andrea Pirlo (61') Álvaro Morata (72') Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Empoli 0-2 Juventus: Pirlo and Morata take advantage of Roma defeat Two goals in 11 second-half minutes gave the champions maximum points after the Giallorossi had earlier been beaten by Napoli. Nov 1, 2014 Juventus capitalised on Roma's defeat to Napoli to move three points clear at the top of Serie A with a 2-0 win over Empoli on Saturday. Massimiliano Allegri's side bounced back from Wednesday's shock 1-0 loss at Genoa as Andrea Pirlo's stunning free-kick and Alvaro Morata's vicious strike sealed the victory in the second half. With Roma having lost 2-0 at Napoli earlier in the day, the champions again have some breathing space over Rudi Garcia's men. In stark contrast, Empoli - who saw Lorenzo Tonelli dismissed in stoppage time - have only recorded one win in their 10 top-flight matches to leave them hovering just above the relegation zone. Chances were few and far between for much of the first half, although Piotr Zielinski did manage to force a smart save out of Gianluigi Buffon from 12 yards after 20 minutes. Despite having only kept one clean sheet in their last eight games in Serie A, Empoli's defence remained resolute for much of the first period, with Juve's best chance coming just after the half hour. A powerful surging run from Morata allowed Arturo Vidal to latch onto the ball behind the home defence, but the Chilean could only pull his shot wide. Vidal was the centre of proceedings again 10 minutes later, drawing a comfortable save from Davide Bassi with a low drive just outside the box, but the hosts continued to hold firm. Juventus stepped up their urgency after the break, with Claudio Marchisio firing wide after Kwadwo Asamoah's cross had been spilled. And the visitors were celebrating just after the hour mark, when talismanic midfielder Pirlo stepped up to steer a stunning free-kick over the wall and into the net from 22 yards. Massimo Maccarone forced a good save from Buffon three minutes later, but Juve continued their momentum and added a second 11 minutes later. A superb counter-attacking move saw substitute Carlos Tevez play in Morata, who curled home a powerful strike to seal the win and wrap up a hard-fought three points. Tevez nearly got on the scoresheet himself six minutes from time, forcing a terrific save from Bassi with a powerful shot from the edge of the box. Tonelli was given his marching orders in the dying moments of the game, the defender hauling down Tevez, with Pirlo whistling the resulting free-kick just over the bar. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri HT 0-0: Empoli frustrating Juventus at the break Nov 1, 2014 Serie A leaders Juventus are finding it difficult to break down a tenacious Empoli side at Stadio Carlo Castellani. The visitors dominated the first half, but were give an early scare when Massimo Maccarone's strike from the edge of the box whizzed past the post. Juventus struggled to turn their possession into anything of substance in the final third, yet came close in the 15th minute as Angelo Ogbonna rifled a shot narrowly wide. Empoli frustrated the champions and almost hit them on the break in the 18th minute, Piotr Zielinski's effort from inside the box forcing Gianluigi Buffon into a save. Juventus' best chance of the first period fell to Arturo Vidal four minutes before the break, the Chilean testing Davide Bassi from outside the area with a vicious strike that was saved well. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Line-ups: Empoli-Juventus Nov 1, 2014 Juventus can go three points clear of Roma against struggling Empoli, so start Alvaro Morata and Sebastian Giovinco. This is a very special day for Juve, as it represents the 117th anniversary of the club’s foundation. The Bianconeri are under pressure after a shock 1-0 defeat to Genoa on Wednesday evening, which ended their unbeaten record and allowed Roma to catch them at the top of the table. However, this afternoon the Giallorossi lost 2-0 at Napoli, so a win in Tuscany would restore a three-point gap. Max Allegri must also take into account the upcoming Champions League showdown with Olympiacos in Turin. Therefore Morata and Giovinco are given rare starts and Andrea Pirlo plays again in a bid to help him find match fitness, resting Carlos Tevez, Paul Pogba, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Fernando Llorente. Andrea Barzagli, Patrice Evra and Martin Caceres are all unavailable. Juve have scraped one point and one goal from their last four away games in all competition, a run Allegri confessed was “disastrous.” Empoli hope to keep that losing streak going and end their own negative spell, having put together a draw and two consecutive defeats. Simone Verdi is still out injured along with Luigi Sepe and Tiberio Guarente. Therefore Udinese-owned Piotr Zielinski starts behind strikers Manuel Pucciarelli and Massimo Maccarone with Mirko Valdifiori pulling the midfield strings. Empoli: Bassi; Laurini, Tonelli, Rugani, Mario Rui; Vecino, Valdifiori, Croce; Zielinski, Maccarone, Pucciarelli Juventus: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Pereyra, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Morata http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Bonucci: I’m Hungry To Play Against Empoli Nov 1, 2014 Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has stated that he is hungry to face Empoli after the Bianconeri’s first defeat of the season at Genoa. Luca Antonini’s 90th minute goal caused a setback in the Old Lady’s camp, but the 27-year-old is determined to make amends on Saturday evening. “The defeat against Genoa made it clear that football can be ruthless and cynical,” he told the Bianconeri’s official website. “What we Juventus are today, these are the facts, and we need to keep this value of ours. “Let this defeat be a lesson to us and we know that the match against Empoli will be a battle but I cannot wait for this game to kick-off. “I’m hungry. Very hungry, but we need to be stronger. Until the end, Forza Juventus!” Despite their midweek loss, Juventus sit on top of Serie A, albeit level on points with Rudi Garcia’s Roma. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

How Allegri Can Restore Juventus’ Form In Four Steps Nov 1, 2014 Two losses and a draw in the last three games in all competitions is a genuine crisis for a team as big as Juvenuts. The side has been nothing short of invincible in the past three seasons, however they now face a situation which they did not face previously. It is now up to Massimiliano Allegri to take control of things. But what should he do? 1. Keep players motivated Antonio Conte might not be the best tactician, but he surely knows how motivate the players. The current Italian national team coach kept his players motivated to win three consecutive Serie A titles. This should be Allegri’s first priority; he has to bear in mind that most of the players under his possession have dominated Serie A for the past three seasons, and his goal should be to restore the hunger in the side. 2. Psychological Preparation Legendary Inter coach Helenio Herrera used to hang a sign in the players’ dressing room which read ‘Class + Preparation + Athleticism + Intelligence= Scudetto’. Psychology preparation is an imperative, especially after experiencing a defeat or an important win. What we’ve seen from Allegri’s men thus far is a ‘slippery slope’ procedure. The loss to Olympiakos was followed by a draw to Sassuolo, and finally a defeat to Genoa on Wednesday. One of Conte’s main strengths was being able to overcome a defeat. For example, following the surprising defeat at the hands of Galatasary which subsequently knocked the Bianconeri out of the UEFA Champions League, Juve managed to comprehensively defeat Sassuolo 4-0 only four days later. 3. Choose his setup One of the main things which can make a difference to a coach is to choose his line-up, his setup. Once the coach loses control of his team selection, then effectively the side will not be able to fulfill his wishes. This dilemma faces Allegri, especially with star midfielder Andrea Pirlo. It comes as to no secret that both had a difficult relationship at Milan, and if Allegri is playing Pirlo just avoid any scathing attacks, then he can effectively lose control of the dressing room. In short, Allegri should play who he wants to play, and not succumb to any pressure from fans or the media. 4. Believe in himself When Allegri was appointed as Juve coach following Antonio Conte’s sudden departure in the summer, much skepticism followed. After all, former Cagliari coach did experience a disastrous 2013/2014 with the Rossoneri before being relieved of his duties in January. Prior to the motivation and preparation of the players, Max Allegri must believe in himself first and foremost. The Juventus boss must show his mettle on such an occasion. Carlo Ancelotti is undoubtedly one of the most successful coaches in the past decade, but was sacked by the Bianconeri at half-time of the final game of the 2000/01 season. If Allegri doesn’t put the past behind him and believe in himself, then no one will.

Serie A - 10^ Giornata Andata - 1-11-2014 (ore 18:00) EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Sabato, 1 Novembre 2014 - ore 18:00 Stadio Carlo Castellani, Empoli Arbitro: Paolo Valeri Confronti ufficiali 18 - 16 (Serie A) - 2 (Coppa Italia) Vittorie Juventus 12 - 11 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) Pareggi 3 - 3 (Serie A) Vittorie Empoli 3 - 2 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) Goals Juventus 40 - 34 (Serie A) - 6 (Coppa Italia) Goals Empoli 14 - 9 (Serie A) - 5 (Coppa Italia) Empoli - Juventus Serie A a Empoli Confronti ufficiali 8 Vittorie Juventus 4 (L'ultima l'11.09.2005, 0-4) Pareggi 2 (L'ultimo il 19.03.2008, 0-0) Vittorie Empoli 2 (L'ultima il 03.04.1999, 1-0) Goals Juventus 11 Goals Empoli 5 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro l'Empoli a Empoli 4 presenze Camoranesi Mauro German 4 Del Piero Alessandro 4 Nedved Pavel 4 Tacchinardi Alessio 3 Buffon Gianluigi 3 Conte Antonio 3 Iuliano Mark 3 Pessotto Gianluca 3 Trezeguet David 2 Amoruso Nicola 5 goals Trezeguet David 2 Del Piero Alessandro 1 Brio Sergio 1 Camoranesi Mauro German 1 Pecchia Fabio 1 Vieira Patrick Ultimi confronti diretti 21.09.2002 - Serie A - Empoli-Juventus 0-2 08.02.2003 - Serie A - Juventus-Empoli 1-0 31.08.2003 - Serie A - Juventus-Empoli 5-1 25.01.2004 - Serie A - Empoli-Juventus 3-3 11.09.2005 - Serie A - Empoli-Juventus 0-4 22.01.2006 - Serie A - Juventus-Empoli 2-1 31.10.2007 - Serie A - Juventus-Empoli 3-0 06.12.2007 - Coppa Italia - Empoli-Juventus 2-1 15.01.2008 - Coppa Italia - Juventus-Empoli 5-3 19.03.2008 - Serie A - Empoli-Juventus 0-0 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 7 - Pareggi 2 - Vittorie Empoli 1 - Goals Juventus 26 - Goals Empoli 10 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFqxJY6BLFA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjms6WOhDWI http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x4rzca_empoli-vs-juventus-0-0-sintesi_sport http://www.goal.com/it/results-standings/69/serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_101

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri MATCH PREVIEW Oct 31, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri is feeling the heat for the first time as Juventus Coach, as the Scudetto holders prepare to take to the field against Empoli on Saturday. The 3-2 victory over Roma in Week 6 was supposed to be a signal of intent from the Bianconeri, but they have failed to build on the result, with a shock draw at Sassuolo being followed by a defeat to Olympiacos in the Champions League. A hard-fought win against Palermo proved to be only minor respite, as Juve lost 1-0 to Genoa on Wednesday – their first League defeat in over seven months – stirring suggestions that Allegri is slowly losing the Turin giants’ dressing room. Patrice Evra and Andrea Barzagli face another month on the sidelines, while Simone Pepe’s return remains shrouded in doubt, but there is better news for Martin Caceres, who is line to complete his recovery from a thigh injury next week. Empoli, meanwhile, are suffering from similar misfortunes, albeit in context of a relegation battle, as the Tuscan outfit’s football may be easy on the eye, yet their results have been anything but. Much like their forthcoming opponents, Empoli’s 1-1 draw with Genoa a fortnight ago should have been the catalyst to their rise up the table. However, heavy defeats to fellow strugglers Cagliari and Sassuolo have prevented this from happening. The new boys continue to hover precariously above the relegation zone, but they can take some solace from having the best goal difference ratio out of the bottom five clubs, while they hold a point advantage over Cesena. Luigi Sepe is still not ready to displace Davide Bassi between the sticks, but Vincent Laurini and Simone Verdi - key cogs from last season’s push for promotion - have been deemed fit enough to start against the champions. Keep an eye on: Alvaro Morata (Juventus) – The 22-year-old seems to be improving with each fleeting cameo for the Bianconeri, but he is set to make his first Serie A start this weekend, against the League’s second-leakiest defence. The profligate form of Fernando Llorente has paved Morata’s path into the fold, despite Carlos Tevez also going three matches without a goal, and he must grab this rare opportunity or find himself on the fringes once more. Form guide: Empoli (D W D L L) Juventus (W W D W L) Last season: Not played Stat fact: Empoli are unbeaten in their last two home meetings with Juventus. Empoli (probable): Bassi; Mario Rui, Rugani, Tonelli, Laurini; Croce, Valdifiori, Vecino; Verdi; Maccarone, Tavano Suspended: None Juventus (probable): Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Asamoah, Pogba, Marchisio, Vidal, Lichtsteiner; Morata, Tevez Suspended: None http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Sarri: Empoli will have courage Oct 31, 2014 Maurizio Sarri has asserted that Empoli will face Juventus with ‘great courage’ on Saturday evening and play on the ‘slight chance of a result’. The Tuscan outfit have been praised for their attacking approach since returning to Serie A, but a run of two consecutive defeats has left them hovering dangerously above the relegation places. In spite of this, their Coach is refusing to change his philosophy and has urged his players to ‘take risks’ against the champions. “We expect a tough game, but at the same time, we’re obliged to earn points,” Sarri told his pre-match Press conference. “We must go on to the pitch with great courage, even if it means taking risks, trying to trouble them. “We face a team who also come from a defeat and will want to react. Also, having looked at the statistics, Juventus haven’t lost two consecutive games for a long time [not in Serie A since March 2011]. “In their last match, Juventus created a lot and risked almost nothing at the other end, only losing to one chance at the end. “Allegri? He has great ability to manage a group and has shown that this year after tiptoeing into a new environment and making small but constant improvements over time. “How to beat them? If there was a magic formula, everyone would use it. We will play against a strong team, and for our part we will try not to collapse. “If it happens, it means that your opponents are so good that they force you to change [your approach].” Sarri then explained how the Empoli players would not need any motivation for the visit of the Bianconeri and denied claims that his side were lacking the mental and physical toughness needed to compete in the top flight. “Tomorrow, I don’t think there’ll be any need to fire the boys up - playing in a packed stadium and against great players,” he added. “Therefore, I do not think that [Juventus] can be faced with any particular motivations, but rather we don’t want to be beaten. There is a small possibility of a result and we have to play on that. “This team has three years’ worth of history, so I don’t think there’s a mental problem - the defeat against Cagliari was followed by another, and it’s a wound that must be healed, perhaps even with a little bit of luck. “Speaking of us, I say that the team are doing well, but during the match, we may be paying for our [lack of] fitness. “In the last match, unlike the one before, I didn’t see a passive team or one that collapsed. Rather, we reacted to the difficulties [of falling behind], though perhaps in a confusing way. “I consider the first 55 minutes of Sassuolo as us playing at a high level, and it gives us great hope for the future - I can’t help but think that if we hurt them for a few minutes, it would’ve changed everything.” On the topic of individuals, Sarri noted: “Laurini is still not in great condition and isn’t feeling too great. We will see tomorrow if he can play, knowing that he doesn’t have 90 minutes in his legs. “Zielinski has great quality, but he still needs to learn to integrate better into our team.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Empoli V Juventus – Preview: Struggling Azzurri Present Bianconeri Opportunity Oct 31, 2014 Italian champions Juventus travel to Empoli on Saturday evening, hoping to put the midweek Serie A defeat to Genoa in the back of their minds. The two teams have faced each other 14 times, with the Bianconeri winning nine and three of the last fixtures, while the Azzurri have won two and there have been three draws between the two sides. The last time these teams played it ended in a goalless draw was back in 2008, but in there previous meeting there was a goalfest as the Old Lady emerged 5-3 victors in a Coppa Italia tie. Of the 14 fixtures in total, there has been 45 goals as Juventus have netted 32 and conceded just 13. The home side go into the game sitting in 17th place with only one win to their name, when they beat fellow promoted side Palermo 3-0 at the Stadio Castellani, and have since gone three games without a win, losing to Sassuolo and Cagliari, which followed a 1-1 draw with Genoa. Reigning champions Juventus are top of the Serie A table but lost their first game of the season on Wednesday night away to Genoa as Luca Antonini netted in the last minute of the match. For the weekend’s match the newly promoted side will be without Luigi Sepe and Tiberio Guarente whilst Vincent Laurini is doubtful for the fixture. The Azzurri will be expected to play a 4-4-2 formation with top goalscorer Manuel Pucciarelli leading the line with veteran striker Massimo Maccarone. The away side are thought to be playing their consistent 3-1-4-2 formation with Andrea Pirlo coming into the side to play the deep-lying midfielder after not featuring in the 1-0 defeat to Genoa. The Bianconeri are without Patrice Evra, Martin Caceres and Andrea Barzagli who are injured. Simone Pepe and Luca Marrone are doubtful for the champions. Top goalscorer Carlos Tevez will be up front with either Alvaro Morata or Fernando Llorente, but it is more likely to be the latter after the Spaniard scored in the weekend win over Palermo. Expected Starting XIs Empoli: Bassi; Tonelli, Hisaj, Rugani, Rui; Valdifiori, Vecino, Croce, Zielinski; Maccarone, Pucciarelli. Juventus: Buffon; Bonucci, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Lichsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

EMPOLI - JUVENTUS - Saturday, November 1st, 2014 - 6:00 PM Carlo Castellani Stadium, Empoli Referee: Paolo Valeri Garcia: Everyone will drop points Oct 31, 2014 Rudi Garcia has warned that everyone will drop points between now and the end of the season, as his Roma eye a first Scudetto since 2001. Much has been made of Juventus’ recent struggles on the road, with the Bianconeri drawing with Sassuolo and losing to Genoa, results which allowed the Giallorossi to draw back level on points at the top of the table. Their former Lille Coach, however, refuses to read to much into the Old Lady’s struggles, and would not be drawn to comment on Juventus counterpart Massimiliano Allegri. “You have the phone numbers of your colleagues in Turin, call up and ask them,” Garcia told journalists today when asked about Juve ahead of his side’s visit to Napoli. “I don’t think about that, I work with my team. “I just do my best to work in the best way possible. I have a professional relationship [with Allegri] and nothing else. All the other stuff isn’t my problem. “We’re a quarter of the way through the campaign, and we’ve seen the strength of the competition but there are still a lot of games to go. “The table tells you what the situation is now, but it doesn’t say that anyone has already won. “It will be a different competition than last year, we just have to try to ensure that the top two aren’t different. “The other teams are strong, and I think everyone will drop points.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111