Socrates

Time For Allegri To Change Juventus’ System Oct 29, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri needs to change Juventus’ system by shifting away from the 3-5-2 formation. The new Bianconeri coach has persisted with the formation that Antonio Conte used so successfully in the last three seasons, but it is no longer effective, and especially not in Champions League matches. Juventus reached the Champions League quarter-finals in 2012/13 and were eliminated by eventual winners Bayern Munich, but the Bianconeri failed to get out of the group stage last season. This season’s results in the Champions League have not been so good either. After defeating Swedish champions Malmo 2–0, the Juventus have suffered consecutive 1–0 defeats against Atletico Madrid and Olympiakos. These results prompted former Italy coach Arrigo Sacchi and former football director Luciano Moggi to say that Italy has fallen behind the rest of Europe in football terms. One of the reasons was the style of play Allegri has implemented at Juventus, and like most Italian teams, the Bianconeri play at a tempo that is too slow compared to the other European teams. Conte’s Juve played with more pace and intensity than Allegri’s so the style of play cannot be the sole problem with Juventus’ failures in Europe. Conte used the 3-5-2 formation because he did not have the players that suited his preferred 4-2-4 formation or the 4-3-3. Once the back three was introduced, the trio consisting of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini proved to be a huge success for the Bianconeri. Allegri has avoided revolutionising Juventus but he has not needed to because the Bianconeri’s recent dominance in Italy, thus making a system change unnecessary for dealing with Serie A. Juventus registered their seventh Serie A win for the season by defeating Palermo 2–0 on the weekend using the 3-5-2 formation. The Rosanero used the 3-5-1-1 formation against the Bianconeri on Sunday afternoon but their wing-backs Eros Pisano and Zouhair Feddal were ineffective. So why does the 3-5-2 work in Italy and not in Europe? The formation works in Serie A because currently there aren’t many teams in Italy that possess the wingers to stretch the opposition’s three-man defence. This is largely due to the narrow style of play that the Italians are known for. There is more reliance on the trequartista (playmaker) or support striker to create play through the middle and the full-backs are expected to provide the width. Another thing to consider is that most of the full-backs in Serie A aren’t very good defensively so it is more convenient to put them in midfield and use them as wing-backs. Even if Allegri persists with the 3-5-2 in Italy, he must use a system with a four-man defence. Shifting to a back-four would be ideal once Patrice Evra returns from injury as well. Massimiliano Allegri can use Angelo Ogbonna as left-back while the Frenchman is injured because he has played in the role previously. Kwadwo Asamoah lacks the defensive game to play at left-back and Giorgio Chiellini looks uncomfortable running up and down a flank these days. The central midfield would not need to change much but Allegri would need to decide if the likes of Roberto Pereyra should be used as a trequartista in the 4-3-1-2 system or a right-winger in the 4-3-3. The latter would be the best choice in European games because it will give Juventus more options on the flanks. Juventus has been triumphant on the Italian peninsula in the last three years, but that success has not continued on in European competitions. Juventus’ style of play may require changing, but a formation switch should be Allegri’s number one priority.

Vidal ammonito

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Juventus to rest Pirlo Oct 29, 2014 Andrea Pirlo will be rested for Juventus’ visit to the Marassi, although it will remain a strong Bianconeri to face Genoa. The Bianconeri travel to face Genoa on the back of a poor run of results which has seen Massimiliano Allegri’s side pick up just one win in the past four games. Despite this, the Old Lady is sitting pretty at the top of Serie A, and with a crucial Champions League tie with Olympiacos to be negotiated next midweek, the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, Corriere dello Sport and Tuttomercatoweb are all in agreement that Pirlo will be given an opportunity to rest tonight. Paul Pogba is set to make his return to the starting XI after being benched during the win over Palermo, so Claudio Marchisio will take up Pirlo’s role in the centre of the midfield three. Arturo Vidal will complete the trio. Roberto Pereyra looks likely to lose his place to Stephan Lichtsteiner at right-wing-back according to the giornalaccio rosa, and Corriere dello Sport believes that Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente will continue their partnership up front. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon will make his 500th appearance for the Turin giants, while injuries to Andrea Barzagli and Martin Caceres mean that the back three will once again be comprised of Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini and Angelo Ogbonna. Probable Juventus starting XI to face Genoa: Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Tevez http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Zaccheroni: Juve not playing badly Oct 29, 2014 Former Juventus Coach Alberto Zaccheroni has defended Massimiliano Allegri’s side, insisting they’re not playing badly. The 61-year-old coached the Old Lady in 2010, replacing Ciro Ferrara mid-season, but was not offered a new deal at the end of the campaign after finishing seventh in Serie A. Allegri was forced to defend the team’s recent dip in form during yesterday’s Press conference, but Zaccheroni doesn’t think the Bianconeri have been as bad as some might suggest. “Juve are playing in a different way to last year,” Zaccheroni explained in today’s edition of Tuttosport. “But it’s not true to say that they’re playing badly, far from it. I’ve enjoyed these last few games. “There isn’t some magic formula to win Championships. “A lot depends on the players a Coach has available. A Coach shouldn’t look to make a name for himself, the priority is to make your team play well and win. “To win the title you have to make very few mistakes, and that’s everyone at the club, including the fans and the atmosphere. “Everything must be done in the right way, not only on the pitch.”

Zenga: Buffon is the best Oct 29, 2014 Former Inter and Italy goalkeeper Walter Zenga has admitted that he was not on the level of Gianluigi Buffon. Buffon will make his 500th appearance for Juventus tonight when the Bianconeri take on Genoa, and Zenga believes he is the ultimate No 1. “Sometimes people called me ‘the best in the world’,” Zenga has reflected to the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “But Gianluigi is stronger than me, and I’d put him in first place. “Technically he’s a complete player, but he also has very important moral qualities as well. He has that in spades. “He always puts his neck on the line, he dropped down to Serie B [when Juventus were demoted during the Calciopoli scandal]. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Buffon was still playing at 45. Maybe not for Juventus, but maybe in the US.

‘Buffon? Maybe I’ll drop him…’ Oct 29, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri has spoken about Gianluigi Buffon’s impending 500th game for Juventus - joking that he’ll drop the Bianconeri captain! Buffon will reach the landmark for the Old Lady in all competitions when Allegri’s men travel to the Marassi to face Genoa on Wednesday night. Ahead of this, his Coach has pointed to the captain as an example for young players to follow. “His 500th game is tomorrow, let’s see if I play him…” Allegri joked in his pre-match Press conference. “No, but seriously I think it’s a great achievement for Gigi, and I still think he has a lot to give. “He has the enthusiasm of a boy, with the calmness and serenity of an old man. “The wisdom of an old man too, because at the end of the day Gigi is still young in life, but in footballing terms he’s near the end of his career. “This is a normal thing, that’s the power he has and he transmits that to the whole team. And best of all he adds a lot playing-wise too, because having a goalkeeper like Gigi is invaluable, especially to the younger lads as an example of professionalism and seriousness. “I think that having guys like Buffon, Barzagli, Chiellini, Marchisio, Pirlo and others in the dressing room shows kids that come to Juventus for the first time that they must learn how to act at a huge club like Juventus, and that they must try and improve to reach the goals of both themselves and the team.”

Buffon is an example to follow, says Allegri The Bianconeri boss has hailed the veteran as he closes in on yet another career milestone, while also offering words of praise for Paul Pogba. Oct 29, 2014 Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has voiced his admiration for Gianluigi Buffon ahead of the goalkeeper's 500th appearance for the Turin giants. The 36-year-old will reach the milestone if he features in Wednesday's Serie A game away against Genoa and Allegri believes the experienced shot stopper is an example to follow for the club's youngsters. "It’s an achievement that very few will accomplish. Gigi’s deserves it," Allegri said at a press conference. "I think he’s got a great deal more to offer because he combines the enthusiasm of a youngster with the cool head of a veteran. "His professionalism is a great example for the youngsters, who learn how to behave at an important club like Juventus." Allegri also had words of encouragement for Paul Pogba following the midfielder's inclusion on the 23-man shortlist for the Fifa Ballon d'Or. "The Ballon d’Or nomination is a good achievement for Pogba. "His contract extension is a sign of the great faith the club has in someone who has been brought up to the levels of a top player. Now it’s down to him to become one of the best three midfielders in the world."

Pogba will become one of the best ever, says Zidane The Real Madrid Castilla coach believes his compatriot, who was nominated for the 23-man Ballon d'Or list this year, is destined to achieve great things in the seasons to come. Oct 28, 2014 France legend Zinedine Zidane believes that Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has the potential to become a true great if he can keep up his current development. The 21-year-old was voted best young player at the World Cup earlier this summer after previously scooping up the prestigious Golden Boy award, and Zidane has little doubt his compatriot has a bright future ahead of him. "What Paul is doing at the age of 21 is huge," Zidane told L'Equipe. "Maybe we are talking about Pogba a bit too much, but if he can keep up his current development he can become one of the best players ever. "For me, he is a combination of Claude Makelele and Patrick Vieira. If I were his coach, I would use him in a slightly more advanced role. "He has to keep it simple every now and then in order to become more efficient. That way he can develop from a good midfielder into a top player. "Will he ever join Real Madrid? We'll see..."

Serie A - 9^ Giornata Andata - 29-10-2014 (ore 20:45) GENOA - JUVENTUS - Mercoledí, 29 Ottobre 2014 - ore 20:45 Stadio Luigi Ferraris, Genova Arbitro: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Confronti ufficiali 141 - 94 (Serie A) - 10 (Coppa Italia) - 33 (Campionato a gironi) - 2 (Campionato di guerra) - 2 (Serie B) Vittorie Juventus 76 - 56 (Serie A) - 7 (Coppa Italia) - 11 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Serie B) Pareggi 30 - 20 (Serie A) - 2 (Coppa Italia) - 7 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Serie B) Vittorie Genoa 35 - 18 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) - 15 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) Goals Juventus 278 - 196 (Serie A) - 22 (Coppa Italia) - 53 (Campionato a gironi) - 3 (Campionato di guerra) - 4 (Serie B) Goals Genoa 178 - 100 (Serie A) - 13 (Coppa Italia) - 60 (Campionato a gironi) - 3 (Campionato di guerra) - 2 (Serie B) Genoa - Juventus Serie A a Genova Confronti ufficiali 47 Vittorie Juventus 20 (L'ultima il 16.03.2014, 0-1) Pareggi 11 (L'ultimo l'11.03.2012, 0-0 ) Vittorie Genoa 16 (L'ultima l'11.04.2009, 3-2) Goals Juventus 76 Goals Genoa 60 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Genoa a Genova 10 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 10 Varglien II Giovanni 9 Varglien I Mario 8 Depetrini Teobaldo 8 Rava Pietro 7 Foni Alfredo 7 Parola Carlo 6 Borel II Felice Placido 6 Buffon Gianluigi 6 Chiellini Giorgio 6 Emoli Flavio 6 Marocchi Giancarlo 6 goals Boniperti Giampiero 4 Borel II Felice Placido 3 Bellini Savino 3 Hansen John 3 Sentimenti III Vittorio 3 Sivori Omar Enrique 2 Boninsegna Roberto 2 Cabrini Antonio 2 Charles John William 2 Colombo Umberto Ultimi confronti diretti 24.09.2009 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 2-2 14.02.2010 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 3-2 21.11.2010 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-2 10.04.2011 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 3-2 22.10.2011 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 2-2 11.03.2012 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-0 16.09.2012 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 1-3 26.01.2013 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 1-1 27.10.2013 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 2-0 16.03.2014 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-1 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 6 - Pareggi 4 - Vittorie Genoa 0 - Goals Juventus 19 - Goals Genoa 10 http://www.goal.com/it/results-standings/69/serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_101

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Matri: I Want To Score For Genoa Against Juventus Oct 29, 2014 Alessandro Matri has admitted he wants to score infront of the Genoa fans to give them a taste of victory over Juventus. The 30-year-old striker has bagged four goals this season, in seven matches, but all four have come away from the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. “I really want to score in front of our fans, to thank them for their great affection,” Matri told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “Some are not happy and this weighs heavy, because the strength of Genoa is the supporters, it is a weapon on their side. Against Juventus it will be crucial.” Matri has already been on the winning side against Juventus, namely in 2009 with his Cagliari side, then coached by Massimilano Allegri. “I was nice to play in these games,” he added. “To win was fantastic. “it was the perfect match. Cagliari won 3-2 with my goal being the winner. You have to take advantage of these occasions, because they don’t happen very often.” Allegri replaced Matri’s former Juventus coach Antonio Conte on the Bianconeri bench, and the striker believes they made a good choice. “Conte has proven himself to be the best, and then they replaced him with someone better,” he enthused. “Allegri is different from Conte and [Genoa coach Gian Piero] Gasperini. They have different characteristics. “In Gasperini’s case, he asks his attackers to mark people a lot.” Looking at his career at Juventus, and after, Matri is rather melancholic. “Looking back at the first title with Juventus, the names of Matri or [Fabio] Quagliarella were not noticed,” he added. “It was a victory for the group. I was the top scorer with 10 goals. “I sacrifice myself, I do everything for the team. I run, sometimes to the wrong place, but I’ve always been like that since I was a kid, and I will not change.” Looking ahead to Genoa’s match with Juventus on Wednesday night, the player is optimistic about getting a good result. “We [Genoa] know we can change out fortunes,” he continued. “Gaining a positive result could change our season. “Beating Juventus at the Marassi would trigger something unique with the public as well.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

FOURFOURTWO Gianluigi Buffon: I wasn't relaxed against England at Euro 2012 – I hate penalties Ahead of the legendary Italy goalkeeper's 500th appearance for Juventus against Genoa, we bring you our exclusive sit-down with the shot-stopper from the July 2014 issue... Oct 29, 2014 Goalkeepers aren’t always different. Gianluigi ‘Gigi’ Buffon, despite his superhero nickname and matinee idol, is actually more Everyman than Superman. And Italians like to see the best of themselves in him. As captain of the national team and his club side Juventus, he’s a very public figure; it’s a role he’s grown into with an easy charm and diplomatic grace. When, late last year, two Italy fans were killed in a road accident on their way to watch Italy play a friendly in Palermo, an almost statesman-like Buffon spoke with a genuine sadness and sense of loss. He is a rare point of pride for the increasingly beleaguered Italian game. The 36-year-old also still happens to be a pretty useful keeper. Quite what both club and country will do once Buffon hangs up his gloves has prompted much anxious media debate. For now, though, talk of retirement is firmly on hold. Making himself comfortable in a swanky hotel in Turin's city centre, he’s engaging company, his booming voice and easy chuckle reverberating around the hushed, clubby environs. However, rather unnervingly, he cheerily sits through the whole interview with his flies gaping open. Maybe it’s a fashion statement. Or maybe keepers really are different after all... Is it true you started out as a midfielder? How did you end up between the sticks? Ryan Stone, via email Yeah, it’s true. I guess every kid starts off playing football wanting to score goals rather than keep them out. Was I a striker as well? Yes, for a while. I was OK at it; I enjoyed it. I ended up in goal by chance, really. My dad pushed me towards it a bit, but then I also really wanted to be like Thomas N’Kono, the Cameroon goalkeeper. I was a bit reluctant at first, but the [1990] World Cup was on and I’d watch that great Cameroon side. N’Kono was such an important member of the team. Your dad came second at the European Athletics Junior Championships and your mum was a champion shot-putter. Did she teach you how to throw a football? Ben Driver, via email My dad, my mum, my sister – everybody. Shot put? No, no, it was the discus. She was an Italian record holder in the event. But yeah, my father was a really good athlete as well – it was a very sports-minded family. Did it help me growing up? I think so, yes. You take sports more seriously, perhaps. You certainly have the support of your family, which is important. Who were your heroes as a kid – and who would you say is the best goalkeeper ever? Fiona Makepeace, via email Oh, I had lots of heroes, but none were particularly conventional. There was N’Kono, but also his team-mate, Roger Milla. I really loved to watch Cameroon – they were my second team after Italy. I was a big tennis fan as well and I always liked [ivan] Lendl, [stefan] Edberg and [Pat] Rafter. I heard that your professional debut for Parma saw you face Milan – and Weah, Baggio and Savicevic. Is that right? Were you as confident and vocal then as you are now? Massimo Robinson, via email It was a beautiful day, a beautiful experience – the realisation of a dream I’d worked towards for years. And I had a good game. I didn’t let in any goals [the match finished 0-0]. I was confident, and where I wanted to be. Did I have a shout at the defenders? I think so. I hope so. It’s what goalkeepers do. Much was made of your €45 million transfer fee when you joined Juventus in 2001. How blown away were you when you heard that fee? What would you say to someone who believes no keeper is worth that much? Leon Adams, via email It was a big satisfaction for me. I really didn’t have any problems with it at all. In that sort of transfer market, I was seen as... we could say a phenomenon of sorts, but that was down to the price tag more than anything else. Juventus went to see me play, thought “f***, this Buffon really is a phenomenon” and paid a lot of money for me. If they had paid five million rather than 45 then it wouldn’t have made such a big splash. But the market determines the price. A good goalkeeper is vital for a good team, just as valuable as a good striker. And sometimes just as expensive. Would I have signed for Juve for five million? Yeah, I would. I’m not sure Parma would have been too happy, though... You suffered from depression 10 years ago and even reached the point where you were afraid to walk onto the pitch. Who knew about it, and why didn’t you take a break? Graham Dowling, via email Who knew about it? I knew about it. And I had to keep it to myself because, at the beginning at least, I didn’t really have the opportunities to be open about it; I didn’t know if I could talk about it to anyone. But then, very gradually, I would chat about it to friends, to team-mates, people really close to me, and I began to understand I had a problem and that it was something that could be dealt with and cured. I didn’t take a break because I felt this great responsibility to my team-mates and to people who relied on me; I didn’t want to let them down. And I didn’t feel like I could stop playing: I didn’t think that would be seen as an acceptable way of doing things, not with that responsibility. I had a European Championship to play in. [FFT: Has that attitude within the game changed towards depression?] I think so. I hope so. It helped to see a psychologist, but as I said, the support of friends and team-mates was a big thing for me. How devastating was it to see Juventus’s titles stripped because of the 2006 Calciopoli scandal? It seemed to inspire Italy to glory at the World Cup; do you think you still would have won the tournament if it wasn’t for that scandal? John Kerridge, Kent On a professional level, as a player, to have all that success taken away from you like that was devastating, yes. It deprived me of future successes and it deprived me of two successes from the past [laughs bitterly]. We certainly arrived at the World Cup in Germany as the centre of attention and with the conviction that – in what was a delicate moment – we had to do something big on the pitch to respond to everything that had been going on. We were in determined mood, but then I never really thought we were going to win the tournament, so I’m not sure if it [Calciopoli] had much to do with it. “ What’s the best save you’ve ever made? It has to be that one-handed save from Zidane in extra-time in the 2006 World Cup Final, right? Dominic Howe, via Twitter The best? Er… hmmm… the one against Zidane? Yeah, that was probably the most important save of my career, but I’m not sure if it was really the best… [frowns] Oh, I don’t know. But yes, it was absolutely the most important. Was it an easy choice to stay with Juventus when they were demoted to Serie B? What did you make of the likes of Patrick Vieira and Zlatan Ibrahimovic walking away from the club? And how much did you enjoy playing in the second tier? Ollie, via Twitter [Laughs] Of course it was easy, because they threw a load of money at me! No, no, I’m just kidding, of course! It was the opposite... no, playing in Serie B wasn’t a logical choice, but it was one of those made by the heart. Other players in the squad made other choices. That was up to them. The choices you make in life can be tough, they might not make your life any easier, but they make you the person that you are. Serie B was certainly an experience, but I have mixed feelings about it. To say I enjoyed it wouldn’t be the right word, but yes, that season was an experience... You don’t look like you fear anyone, but which player do or did you least like to face in one-on-ones? Evanesce Insomniac, via Twitter The absolute best player I’ve ever had to face was Ronaldo, the Brazilian, who was a champion without equal – an incredible player. An Italian? It would have to be a player who was the most grande expression of Italian football: Roberto Baggio. Is Antonio Conte more impressive as a team-mate or as manager? Was it weird to be managed by someone who you’d played with for so long? David Robinson, Bromley As a team-mate, Conte was an excellent player, a very charismatic player – someone who was always a great example out on the pitch for others to follow. And now he’s a coach, I think he’s very good. Was it a bit strange? No, no, not at all. He always had that thing about him, way before he ever became a coach. He always had a certain stature about him. Andrea Pirlo recently proclaimed his locker space at Juventus to be “the most dangerous spot in Turin”, because of its proximity to the door that Conte often storms through to deliver a half-time rant. Is Conte the most fired-up boss you’ve had? Surely Capello was worse? Liam Towney, via email He’s a coach who really likes to transmit his energy to the players. [Pauses, as if a little guarded] If he’s angry about something that has happened on the pitch then he lets you know, yes. Capello was worse? No... Conte, maybe because he’s a younger man, a younger coach, lives the whole 90 minutes – he really puts all his energy into it. A coach like Capello, with all that experience, can sometimes be a little more distant. I remember you giving Steven Gerrard a cheeky slap around the face at the coin toss just before the Euro 2012 quarter-final shootout against England. Were you that relaxed, or was it mind games to unsettle the opposition? Would you be so relaxed if required to take a spot-kick? Tim Bradley, via email No, no, I wasn’t relaxed against the English. And I’m never relaxed when the game goes to penalties. Look: you go to penalties, you’ve got a 50 per cent chance of winning, but a 50 per cent chance of losing. But the thing with me is, I’m one of those handful of goalkeepers who are always expected to save at least one or two of those penalties. And if I don’t do that, I’m going to be judged really harshly by the press. So no, I can’t relax before penalties. Is it right that Mario Balotelli blamed the Juventus players for losing the Euro 2012 final against Spain – and you angrily wrestled him to the floor in the changing room after the game? Who won the fight?! Trevor Jenkins, via email He did what? Wrestling?! No, no, that’s not true. [Laughs] Anyway, he couldn’t really say that, could he? There were quite a few Juve players in that team! [six started the game] I’ve never seen a footballer sing a national anthem with as much passion as you. What are you thinking about when you shut your eyes, and are you just as passionate at karaoke? Luca Antonoli, via email I’m thinking that I’m happy and honoured to be an Italian and someone who’s truly lucky to be able to represent my country. Karaoke? [Laughs] Well, it all depends on the song... Who’s the biggest joker of a team-mate you’ve had? I bet it’s Gattuso... Bryan Henderson, via email Yeah, it would have to be Rino [Gattuso]. We still enjoy a close friendship – he can always make me laugh. [slightly wistfully] Ah, Rino... Wearing the right gear is crucial for a keeper, so why the short sleeves? Steve Mason, Facebook I really don’t know why. It’s just something that I’ve always done, right from the time I first started playing in goal. It always felt good. And now look: lots of goalkeepers do it. I’ve started a fashion. If you hadn’t made it in football, what do you think you would you be doing now? H Silva, via Twitter Pffffft... I have no idea. I have no idea because, from when I was a kid, I’ve followed this dream of being a footballer and I never thought it wouldn’t happen. There was never a moment when I thought of doing anything else. Yes, but these things shouldn’t just be a question of money or whatever. If you play for a big club, you’re obliged to win – you have to do it. So I suppose it’s normal that the idea of playing football for enjoyment, to please the crowds, becomes less and less important. But if you go out onto the pitch and the only objective is to beat your opponent, then it’s not really about enjoying yourself. You look just like a young Al Pacino, Gigi. Ever met him? What’s your favourite Pacino movie? Neil Hendon, via email [Frowns] Who? Pacino? Really? Nooooo! [suddenly brightens up] No, really? It’s not bad, though, is it? Hmmm. OK! No, I’ve never met him. My favourite film of his? Oh, Scarface is the best. Definitely. Italian sides have struggled in the Champions League of late. Why would you say this is? And how far do you think Serie A lags behind La Liga and the Premier League right now? Jan Fairless, via email Yes, yes, it’s true... Italy is having a very tough time economically, and so Italian football suffers as well. There isn’t the sort of money in the game that there was 10 years ago, 20 years ago and yes, we’ve fallen behind, but we [Juventus] came close to success in Europe last season. Will Serie A come good again? I know it will, because these things go around in circles. They do. Goalkeepers seem to be playing to a later age these days. What would you say is the peak age for a keeper, and how long do you think you can go on for? Are you targeting 150 caps for Italy? Lenny Goodhall, via email Maybe up until you’re 28, 29, 30, it’s about your physicality, your agility, but after that things change a little and your experience as a keeper begins to kick in. You know how to approach the important games, the sort of thing you only know from experience. And to have that kind of experience, I think you need to be over 30. But there’s a pay-off to that, because you can’t do the same things you could do as a young man. So I don’t know if we can really say there is a peak age, as the two ages can be just as important, for different reasons. Good goalkeepers improve all the time, though. Yes, 150 caps would be a great achievement. Let’s see. You and Iker Casillas have been the best two keepers in world football for the last decade. Who would you say are the next two on that list? BenIsAinDom, via Twitter I like Joe Hart: he’s still young and he can become a great keeper. Among the other young keepers I really like the Belgian, [Thibaut] Courtois. What single bit of advice would you give an aspiring young goalkeeper looking to make it as a professional? Jerry JD Redwine, via Twitter One bit of advice? To swap position... no, no, I’m absolutely serious! You have to be a real masochist to do this as a job. And a bit perverse. Think about it: you’re playing a game where everyone uses their feet, but you want to use your hands... You’re already the most capped Italian player and Brazil was your fifth World Cup. Are you aiming to make it six in Russia in 2018? Hassan Assad, via email Yes, there could also be a sixth. [Laughs] But you know, I really haven’t thought about that, not just yet. We’ll see.

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Juventus vs. Genoa Preview: Round 9 Oct 28, 2014 If you were to guess how many wins Juventus has over Genoa in the last six games, what would you say? Seeing as how dominant is Serie A they've been the last three years, it hasn't to be pretty good, right? So probably like five or six wins over Genoa, nothing less because clearly that would be crazy talk! Well, here's the reality: Juventus wins vs. Genoa the last three years: 3 Juventus draws vs. Genoa the last three years: 3 No losses to any team is a good thing, obviously. But it's not like having as many draws as wins against a side like Genoa is something to brag about at the end of the day. It might have been more draws than wins if not for an Andrea Pirlo free kick wonder and a Gigi Buffon penalty save in last season's visit to the Luigi Ferraris. Here's another thing: Juventus and Genoa will meet for the first time this season on Wednesday night. Both teams are coming off wins against teams they were expected to beat — Juventus with a 2-0 win over Palermo and Genoa a 2-1 victory over Chievo. Both teams have two wins in their last three games. Both teams are going to play a three-man defense. And, as you can see, I'm grasping at straws as to where to go with this thought process, so I'll stop now. Max Allegri knows that Genoa has played some decent football this season. That's because he told us so. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen #Allegri: “Genoa have only lost one in seven. They’re a good team and have decent movement up front.” I agree, Max. And, please, what ever your guys do tomorrow, don't do anything stupid. Play it like Sunday and have a nice, solid win that isn't anything close to last week's stupidity in Greece. GOOD NEWS A quick look at the Serie A table tells us this: Juventus: 22 points Roma: 19 points That's good, isn't it? I think it is. BAD NEWS Injuries are stupid, but you already knew this one, I'm sure. Even with Luca Marrone back from his lengthy injury absence, the injury list seems to be growing by the week. Patrice Evra is the latest to be added to the group of injured players after being ruled out for a month with a thigh strain. Max Allegri said Tuesday he's hoping to get Martín Cáceres back for the return fixture against Olympiacos, while Andrea Barzagli is still a long-term absentee. WHAT TO WATCH FOR 1. Gigi Buffon and Juventus appearance No. 500. You'd think I'd pass up the opportunity to heap praise on the man who currently rocks the captain's armband at Juventus? Nahhhh. Let's talk about San Gigi, folks. When Buffon leads Juventus out of the tunnel tomorrow night at the Luigi Ferraris, it will be his 500th match in a Juventus (goalkeeper) jersey. It's somewhat fitting that it's against Genoa and Mattia Perin, who many people are pointing toward to be the next great Italian goalkeeper whenever Buffon decides to hang up his slick-looking Puma gloves. But let's not forget what San Gigi did the last time he was on this very field in Genoa, either. Just another reason why Buffon is Buffon. And another reason as to why he's the G.O.A.T. no matter what some people may say. May his 500th career game with Juventus be a successful one. 2. Who's in the mood for some squad rotation? I bring up squad rotation because we're in the middle of another hectic three-plus-week period of games with no much rest in between. It's also being brought up because Max Allegri brought it up at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen #Allegri: “There might be a bit of tiredness in the ranks and I’ll have to decide my line-up after today’s training.” I don't want to totally read into it, but I would think one area he's looking at is the center of the midfield. Paul Pogba was rested over the weekend against Palermo, which means he's as close to a lock as he can be to be back in the starting lineup Wednesday night. Does that mean Andrea Pirlo will get a rest? Or maybe Arturo Vidal? To have options in midfield — unlike in defense these days — is a nice problem for Allegri to have right now, but also means find playing time for all four of said players. I just hope Claudio Marchisio is one of the three players starting in the center of the midfield. That guy deserves to play as much as anybody else with the kind of form he's on right now. 3. Will it be Fernando Llorente or Álvaro Morata alongside Carlos Tévez? At last we can talk about Llorente scoring s goal. It's been a long seven weeks, one filled with questions of "Will 'Nando start this weekend?" or "Can things get any worse for Llorente?" But there's another question to throw out there: Which starting striker not named Carlos Tévez will we be talking about when the final whistle sounds tomorrow night? It's a very good possibility that one of the squad rotation moves is switching Morata in for Llorente despite the fact that the latter finally broke his goal-scoring drought over the weekend. Do you go with the guy who showed well in the Champions League last week? Or do you go with the guy whose confidence is likely soaring after breaking the personal duck? Decision time for Max, that's for sure. 4. Keeping an eye on Stefano Sturaro. When Juventus signed Sturaro for €5 million this summer, the majority of folks said, "Huh?" Sturaro was acquired from Genoa on a permanent basis and loaned right back to them the second the ink dried on his new contract. Even though Juve he just shelled out a decent amount of money for him, we didn't know Sturaro all the well at the time. But now that we're aware that Sturaro actually exists, we know who he is now and we know that he's actually a fairly solid player at the tender age of 21. And while his status for tomorrow night's match is still up in the air after Genoa's 2-1 win over Chievo last weekend, you know he's going to want to try and impress his parent club. Who wouldn't? Simone Zaza certainly likes playing against Juventus... 5. Revenge of the Ale Matri. In 30 Serie A games with Milan and Fiorentina last season, Matri scored five goals. In seven games (four starts) with Genoa this season, Matri has scored four goals. I'd say it's a pretty good improvement, even if the sample size is still relatively small this year. He's expected to start in the center of Genoa's three-man attack tomorrow night, which means there's the age-old question being brought up once more. Yep, "What kind effect is the Ex Effect going to have?" In two starts against Juventus last season, Matri didn't do much of anything. That could be a sign of how bad Matri was last season, or maybe that's what going to continue to happen as the months and years go by. But we also know that things get a little funny when former Juve players face old teammates. My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah; Tévez, Morata OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 8:45 P.M. IN ITALY; 3:45 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 12:45 P.M. ON THE WEST COAST http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Juventus cannot afford to slip up, warns Allegri The champions moved three points clear at the top of Serie A at the weekend but their coach says he does not expect Roma to fall away in the title race. Oct 28, 2014 Juventus must maintain their concentration if they want to hold off the challenge of Serie A rivals Roma, according to Massimiliano Allegri. The league leaders got back to winning ways on Sunday with a 2-0 win over Palermo, quickly putting a 1-1 draw with Sassuolo behind them. Allegri knows Juve, who had a perfect record in the league prior to being held with Sassuolo, cannot afford to switch off as they seek to retain top spot, despite having moved three points clear of Rudi Garcia's men. "We dropped two points against Sassuolo, and this proves that games in this league aren't easy by any stretch of the imagination," Allegri told a media conference on Tuesday. "I can't see Roma slipping up too often so we need to be at the races in order to maintain our stride." Juve travel to Genoa on Wednesday, with Allegri concerned that the pitch at the Stadio Comunale Luigi Ferraris could hamper his side following recent floods. "It will be very tough," he added. "Genoa have lost just once in the last seven games. "They play attractive football, like to attack and show decent movement up front. "I'm concerned by the state of the pitch, given the recent flooding in the region, and this makes it harder to put in a good display from a technical point of view." Gianluigi Buffon is set to make his 500th official appearance for Juve in the match, but Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Patrice Evra and Simone Pepe remain absent. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Sturaro ready for Genoa-Juve Oct 28, 2014 Stefano Sturaro is in the Genoa squad to face Juventus – his future club – on Wednesday evening. The Grifone must do without the injured Tomas Rincon and Ioannis Fetfatzidis. There had been doubts over Sturaro, who will probably need a fitness test before the game at Marassi. Italy Under-21 international Sturaro has already been bought by Juventus for next season, but left on loan at Genoa to gain more Serie A experience. The midfielder has been out since October 6 with a knee problem and was expected to be on the sidelines for another week, but made a quicker than expected recovery. Genoa squad for Juventus: Perin, Antonini, De Maio, Izzo, Burdisso, Pinilla, Perotti, Antonelli, Roncaglia, Marchese, Lestienne, Greco, Edenilson, Lamanna, Falque, Matri, Kucka, Mandragora, Sommariva, Sturaro, Rosi, Bertolacci, Mussis http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Gasperini: 'Perin could follow Buffon' Oct 28, 2014 Genoa Coach Gian Piero Gasperini refused to make comparisons between Mattia Perin and Gigi Buffon ahead of their Juventus clash. It will be a special occasion for Buffon, who marks his 500th appearance in a Bianconeri jersey, so Gasperini was asked if Perin was the ‘new Buffon.’ “I don’t want to make comparisons. Perin is a very strong player and I don’t know if he will go on to match Buffon,” Gasp said at a Press conference. “I am happy that Buffon is making his 500th appearance against Genoa. I am also happy that after initial difficulties Perin is now a real protagonist in Serie A. “It’s stimulating for anyone to play against Juve, Roma or Milan, as these are special games. They are opportunities that, if they go well, can become turning points for confidence. “There will be the atmosphere of a big game at Marassi and we can take the initiative. We can adjust the system, as we must have the capacity to play differently and shake things up. It would be great to win this.” Stefano Sturaro needs a fitness test, while Massimiliano Allegri has already confirmed Andrea Pirlo won’t start. “Juventus can get a result with or without Pirlo, as it is never one player who makes a team win or lose. There will be someone else to take his place. “Last season we attacked Juve from the start, then the performance got stronger as time went on, but we just lost. We’ll have to see what happens. We are ready in terms of mentality and doing better physically than last year. “I really didn’t expect us to be doing so well in the table. I am so satisfied that when someone says Genoa play negatively, I can’t help but smile.” Gasperini was asked about refereeing errors, having complained about controversial decisions in games against Sampdoria and Empoli. “It is a very difficult job, being a referee. There are errors that you accept and some that you accept a bit less. We kept clean sheets regularly, then conceded several irregular goals.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni MATCH PREVIEW Oct 28, 2014 Genoa need something to get their season truly going, and nothing like a good result when they host Juventus on Wednesday could do that better. The Rossoblu are comfortably in mid-table and lie only three points behind Serie A’s European qualification berths. However, Coach Gian Piero Gasperini complained of ‘too much negativity’ after his men’s draw with Empoli, even if it didn’t affect his players in coming from behind to defeat Chievo in Week 8. Facing Juventus, a team they haven’t beaten since April 2009, next should be a daunting task, but Genoa will be boosted by the form of ex-Bianconeri hitman Alessandro Matri. The 30-year-old’s four goals and two assists since moving to Stadio Luigi Ferraris is not to be scoffed at, while his record of netting four times in his last five appearances against his old employers makes him a major threat this Wednesday. Gasperini has warned his men they need to improve their defending from set plays after watching them fail to register a clean sheet in their last five matches though. Indeed, Juventus hold fond memories of their latest trip to the Marassi, when a Gianluigi Buffon penalty save and Andrea Pirlo’s free-kick secured the three points widely acknowledged to be the final stepping stone to their third consecutive Scudetto win. The Turin outfit are likely to rest Pirlo this time after the regista’s indifferent start to the season, but Massimiliano Allegri will still urge his men to bring win number 15 out of their last 16 League games back with them. With club top scorer Carlos Tevez remaining as crucial as ever, and Arturo Vidal and Fernando Llorente both getting back on the scoresheet in Sunday’s victory over Palermo, the Old Lady will be aiming to build their lead at the summit of Serie A. Keep an eye on: Arturo Vidal (Juventus) - A driving force in every one of Juve’s titles, Arturo Vidal started this season slowly. But there are signs he is getting back into stride following his performance against Palermo. Massimiliano Allegri needs the Chilean to perform to his usual heights if he is to replicate Antonio Conte’s success at the club. Form guide: Genoa (D L W D W) Juventus (W W W D W) Last season: Genoa 0-1 Juventus Stat fact: Genoa have not scored more than one goal in their last eight home games. Genoa (probable): Perin; Antonini, Burdisso, Marchese; Edenilson, Bertolacci, Greco, Antonelli; Perotti, Matri, Kucka Suspended: None Juventus (probable): Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente Suspended: None http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Juventus squad for Genoa Oct 28, 2014 Juventus named a 22-man squad for the trip to Genoa on Wednesday evening. It kicks off tomorrow at 20.45 CET. Gigi Buffon is set to make his 500th official appearance in a Juventus jersey and does so against the club he supported as a child. Andrea Barzagli, Martin Caceres, Patrice Evra and Simone Pepe are still on the treatment table. Juventus squad for Genoa: Buffon, Romulo, Chiellini, Ogbonna, Pogba, Marchisio, Morata, Tevez, Coman, Giovinco, Llorente, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Storari, Rubinho, Pereyra, Mattiello, Marrone http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa vs. Juventus: Key Issues and Decisions That Will Shape Serie A Game Oct 28, 2014 With a 2-0 win over Palermo under their belts, Juventus travel to Genoa on Wednesday evening, hoping to continue the steady improvement shown against the Rosanero. That match—reviewed here—marked the first win in three games for the Italian champions, a relief after their recent run of poor form. Thanks to Sampdoria holding Roma to a draw over the weekend however, the Bianconeri were able to extend their lead atop the Serie A standings to three points. Massimiliano Allegri and his players will hope to maintain that cushion during the midweek round, but may also look to rest a number of key men. Genoa themselves have enjoyed an excellent start to 2014-15, currently sitting in ninth place and having lost just twice in their opening eight games. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini is getting the best from his side, once again deploying his favoured 3-4-3 formation to great effect. Over the following pages is a look at the key issues and decisions that could affect the outcome at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, with the two coaches looking to secure three crucial points. Juventus Mindset Ahead of Crucial Clashes While coaches and players continually boast they approach a season one game at a time, it is clear that some fixtures take greater priority than others. With the need to plan for difficult spells in the season, the ability to rest and rotate a large squad is now an essential skill for any coach. Allegri will know a win against Genoa is vital, but will also be fully aware that next week sees Olympiacos travel to Turin for a vital Champions League clash. Needing three points against the Greek side to remain competitive in Group A, the Juve boss may well opt to make a number of changes to his starting XI. Chief among those needing a break could well be Carlos Tevez, the striker having started all but one of his side’s games this term. The Argentinean star has been central to the attacking play of the Bianconeri, already registering eight goals and three assists in 2014-15. The struggles of Juve’s other strikers was discussed at length here, and their ability to win without Tevez could prove crucial to their hopes of success and silverware. Containing the in-Form Alessandro Matri While Tevez has clearly made a major contribution to Juventus, a former Bianconeri striker is currently doing the same for Genoa. Alessandro Matri was sold by the Turin giants in the summer of 2013 having won two league titles with the club, now finding himself with the Grifone after an unsuccessful return to Milan. He has netted four goals and added two assists in seven appearances for his newest side, who have only scored a combined total of nine times in 2014-15. That highlights just how important he has been to Genoa, and his former team-mates must find a way to contain the 30-year-old. With Andrea Barzagli and Martin Caceres missing due to injury, the Juventus defence has maintained an impressive record, and will hope to add to their notable tally of clean sheets. Improving Midfield to Continue Improving Easily identifiable as a major strength for Juventus, it is impossible to overlook the fact the Bianconeri midfield has not been at its best this term. Both Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo have seemingly yet to shake off the rust caused by extended injury layoffs, each man struggling to play to their maximum potential Vidal returned to the scoresheet against Palermo, netting for the first time since his double against Cesena back in September. Pirlo meanwhile has been even more out-of-sorts, his performance in the loss to Olympiacos notably poor as discussed here. Stats site WhoScored.com shows the Italian international has completed just 82.3 per cent of his pass attempts this term, his lowest mark since joining the club. He and Juventus will hope he can return to form quickly, so essential is his incisive play at the heart of midfield. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Allegri: Genoa are dangerous Oct 28, 2014 Juventus will face a tough game when they travel to face Genoa on Wednesday, Coach Massimiliano Allegri has warned. The Bianconeri sit top of Serie A, three points clear of Roma, but Allegri admits he is wary of their midweek trip, seeing danger in the attacking play of the hosts and in the poor state of the Marassi pitch. “Genoa are a team which has lost only once in the last seven games, that was the derby [with Sampdoria],” Allegri warned in his Press conference ahead of the game. “They’re a team which plays very good football. They have good attacking movement, and they attack at home, playing a totally different style of football to the way they play away from home. “The thing that worries me most of all - given what happened to the city of Genoa, the flood that took place - is that the pitch isn’t in good condition, and this means it will be more difficult to play well from a technical point of view, but we’ll do our best. “As for the team, today is the last training session before the game, and I’ll decide after that what is the best team for tomorrow’s game.” The former Milan Coach also dismissed suggestions that after four games in the last 11 days he would seek to rotate heavily in the matches against Genoa and Empoli, given their lower positions in the table. “Teams lower in the table? Everyone is below us in the table,” Allegri noted with a smile. “Genoa are a good team, a very good team. We dropped two points at Sassuolo, so that proves that these games are by no means easy. “I don’t think Roma will drop many points over the course of the season, so we have to be good at doing the same. “Tomorrow is a tough game for us, and important for the Scudetto. “With regard to rotation, I think in the last three games Marchisio has been out of the team twice, and in the last game against Palermo, Pogba sat out. “In previous games Vidal has been out, so in terms of midfielders I’ve rotated them all slightly. “In attack, Morata played in Greece [against Olympiacos], while Giovinco has played one game and some little cameos, but everyone will get a chance. “Just look at the numbers - recently in midfield and up-front everyone has played a little bit. “I can’t do any more rotation or I’d be a man down!” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Allegri defends Juventus form Oct 28, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri has responded to criticism of his Juventus side ahead of their trip to the Marassi to take on Genoa on Wednesday night. The Old Lady have been struggling in October, losing in the Champions League to Atletico Madrid and Olympiacos, as well as drawing at Sassuolo before labouring to a 2-0 home victory over Palermo on Sunday. Former Juventus Coach Marcello Lippi believes that the team has seen a drop in intensity since the departure of Antonio Conte, and this point was raised with the current tactician today. “I think Lippi did say that,” Allegri admitted in response to assembled journalists. “But I think he also said something else - that a team reflects the will and character of its Coach. “The lads played with huge intensity for two months, also playing excellent football. There might be a period of poor performances, but League titles aren’t won by playing well, or rather not by playing well in every game. “There will be times when you don’t play as well. “For us, ‘not playing well’ is having seven or eight shots on goal in a game, so in the end it’s not really that bad. “It’s true that we have to play better than we did in the first half against Palermo, in a technical sense. “To do this everyone has to be better at using the ball, and above all we have to make less mistakes which is what happened against Palermo and what happened in Greece [the 1-0 defeat to Olympiacos]. “Strangely we actually played better in Greece, even though everyone slaughtered us, because as always and quite rightly the result affects the assessment of the performance.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Allegri considers Tevez rest Oct 28, 2014 Carlos Tevez could be rested for Juventus’ trip to the Marassi on Wednesday, Coach Massimiliano Allegri has revealed. The Argentinean has been in inspirational form for the Bianconeri this term, with eight goals in 11 games across all competitions. However, with the Old Lady competing in both Serie A and the Champions League, Tevez could be afforded the opportunity to recharge his batteries in the midweek the trip to Genoa. “Tevez had a good game on Sunday, I’ll evaluate him today,” Allegri told his pre-match Press conference. “I’ll have to see. If somebody is a bit tired, there are others who will be more than ready to play this game. “Because everyone else is fit I have lot of choice in both the forward line and midfield, although in defence I have a little less.” Juventus have a number of options to replace Tevez should he be rested, with Fernando Llorente, Alvaro Morata, Kingsley Coman and Sebastian Giovinco all fit and ready to play if needed. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Gasperini: Genoa will try to win Oct 28, 2014 Genoa Coach Gian Piero Gasperini is demanding his players go out to win when they face Juventus at the Marassi on Wednesday. Gasperini’s side ran the Bianconeri very close last season, falling to a last-minute Andrea Pirlo strike, and the Grifone Coach believes his men can cause them problems again. “Genoa have a duty to try and win,” Gasperini told La Repubblica. “Last year against the Juventus which got 102 points, we had them on the verge of defeat. “Twenty minutes from the end Buffon saved a penalty, then in the 90th minute Pirlo pops up with a free-kick. “We must defend as a team, without ever being passive, just like when we won 3-2 [against Juventus in 2009], with Thiago Motta and Palladino. “Although it was Ranieri’s Juve and not Conte’s, winning was a source of great satisfaction.” The Genoa boss also spoke of the weapons at Max Allegri’s disposal, and the differences between the former Milan Coach’s Juve side and Antonio Conte’s all-conquering team. “If Pirlo doesn’t play, Marchisio will be in midfield, and in attack Allegri is spoiled for choice. “At the back even with Evra, Caceres and Barzagli injured they’re still the same. “For now there are very few differences between Conte’s Juve and Allegri’s. “Allegri came in cautiously and is now shaping the team in his own image. “For that matter, even Conte changed his way of playing. His first Juve was frantic and aggressive, whereas last season’s was quieter and less fierce in pressing in order to save energy.” Gasperini has been rather active in the Press, also giving an interview to Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, where the Coach talked about his formative years at Juventus. “Ten years of my youth and as many as a Coach at Juventus were the most important part of my personal growth, an irreplaceable experience.” Gasperini will not, however, be misty eyed when he takes on the Bianconeri, calling on the Genoa fans to loudly back his side. “I think tomorrow will be a demonstration of everything I like about Genoa, and that includes the fans. “The fans won’t be asking us to go out there and win comfortably, they’d take a repeat of last year’s performance, as would I.” This comes after Gasperini’s words of criticism aimed at a section of the Grifone support for whistling the team following their last home match against Empoli. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Buffon set for 500th Juve game Oct 28, 2014 Gianluigi Buffon will make his 500th Juventus appearance when the Bianconeri meet Genoa tomorrow. The Juve and Italy captain has been a fixture between the posts for the Old Lady since a €51m move from Parma in 2001, still the highest transfer fee ever paid for a goalkeeper. Buffon made his debut during a 4-0 win over Venezia on August 26, 2001, two goals each for David Trezeguet and Alessandro Del Piero ensuring the Carrara-native got his Juventus career off to a winning start. The big goalkeeper made his 100th appearance in a 2-1 win away to Olympiacos in 2003’s Champions League campaign, while his 200th game was a bittersweet occasion as the Old Lady went down 2-0 to Arsenal in a Champions League quarter-final. After reaching 300 games against Chievo in 2009, Buffon made his 400th appearance against another English opponent, with the Bianconeri fighting back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on September 19, 2012. Buffon is poised to renew his contract in Turin to June 2017, and has a few other records within his grasp. While it remains unlikely that the former Parma man will overtake Alessandro Del Piero’s 705 games in the famous black and white stripes, Gaetano Scirea’s 552 games and Giuseppe Furino’s 528 appear more reasonable targets. If Juve beat Genoa tomorrow, it will represent a double celebration for Buffon - three points would signify the goalkeeper’s 300th win in Serie A. The goalkeeper, who also holds the record for the most Italy caps, will be glad he isn’t facing Francesco Totti tomorrow - the Roma captain is the player who has scored past Buffon most often, beating him 11 times.

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa v Juventus: Preview Oct 28, 2014 Juventus are eager to secure the victory at Genoa that would suitably commemorate the achievements of veteran Gianluigi Buffon on his 500th appearance for the Turin club. Buffon, now 36, supported Genoa as a boy but has since won five Serie A titles with the Bianconeri - two more were revoked due to the Calciopoli scandal - since he joined from Parma in 2001. And Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri, in his first year at the helm in Turin, is enjoying working with one of Italy's all-time great players. ``He's always decisive and that's the difference between world-class players and normal ones,'' Allegri said. ``He deals with one shot on his goal throughout an entire game, and then he is decisive. ``That's the difference between Buffon and other goalkeepers.'' Buffon kept yet another a clean sheet in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Palermo. Goals from Arturo Vidal and Fernando Llorente allowed Juve to re-establish their three-point lead at the top of the standings after second-placed Roma were held to a goalless draw by Sampdoria. ``It was an important win because we were able to extend our advantage over Roma,'' Allegri added. ``Now we must continue down this path and try to give our all in Genoa.'' The Grifone will be hoping to replicate the performance that saw them hold Juve to a 1-1 draw in Turin earlier this year. Genoa go into the encounter at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on the back of a 2-1 triumph at Chievo that saw them climb to ninth place. The outcome was their third win of the season and extended their unbeaten run to a third game. ``I hope the victory against Chievo will give us a boost in confidence and make us more efficient when we're playing at home,'' said Genoa coach Gian Piero Gasperini. ``Our fans will demand the players show courage against Juve and I hope we deliver.'' The visitors will be without the injured Patrice Evra, the French left-back who sustained a muscle problem against Palermo that is expected to keep him sidelined for a month. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 - 8:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa-Juventus Preview: Allegri ready to rotate after Palermo win The Italian champions will play their fourth game in 12 days on Wednesday and their coach admits some of the players are beginning to feel the strain. Oct 28, 2014 Massimiliano Allegri has hinted he may rotate his squad for Juventus' midweek trip to Genoa. The Serie A champions and leaders visit the Stadio Comunale Luigi Ferraris on Wednesday for what will be their fourth game in 12 days. Juve bounced back from their disappointing Champions League defeat at Olympiakos with a routine, if laboured, 2-0 home victory over Palermo on Sunday. The loss in Greece came after a surprise 1-1 draw against struggling Sassuolo, and coach Allegri feels his players are understandably showing some signs of fatigue after a blistering start to the season. Juve - unbeaten in Serie A since March - won their first six games of the campaign in all competitions without conceding a goal, but have emerged victorious from just two of their last five outings - a relative slump that has included back-to-back Champions League defeats. Speaking after the Palermo game, Allegri indicated that he sees Wednesday's match as an opportunity to rest some first-team regulars. "Keep in mind that players like [Leonardo] Bonucci, [Giorgio] Chiellini and [Angelo] Ogbonna might have already played 12 or 13 games so far [this season], the same with Carlos Tevez," commented the former AC Milan boss. "It's normal if someone is tired - therefore, wise rotation comes in handy. "At the end of the day, and during the league, the most important thing is to win games even when you don't play well. "You have to realise, we have played very well for two months, making huge efforts and running out of energy." Referring specifically to top-scorer Tevez, who was substituted with 10 minutes left against Palermo after laying on Arturo Vidal's opener, Allegri added: "As usual, [he] didn't spare any energy. He was decisive when we took the lead. "He's already played many games this season - that is why [sebastian] Giovinco replaced him and did very well. Besides I have [Alvaro] Morata and that young kid [Kingsley] Coman, who is ready and raring to play. "Thus, should I decide to make changes next Wednesday, I have excellent alternatives." Allegri - who will be without Patrice Evra after the full-back sustained a hamstring injury last week - will not be taking Genoa lightly, though, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side have lost just one of their last seven Serie A fixtures. They came from behind to win 2-1 at lowly Chievo on Sunday, with former Juve striker Alessandro Matri scoring the equaliser at the Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi. Predictably, though, recent history in this fixture is against Genoa, as they have not beaten Juve since April 2009 - a run that stretches back 10 games. OPTA FACTS *Genoa and Juventus have met 94 times in Serie A, with 56 wins for the Bianconeri and 18 for the Rossoblu. *Juventus are the side with the most wins (56) and the most goals scored (196) against Genoa in Serie A. *Genoa’s last win against Juventus dates back to April 2009: there have been six wins for the Bianconeri and four draws in their last 10 clashes. LAST FIVE MATCHES Genoa W D W L D 2014/10/26 - Chievo 1 - 2 Genoa 2014/10/20 - Genoa 1 - 1 Empoli 2014/10/05 - Parma 1 - 2 Genoa 2014/09/28 - Genoa 0 - 1 Sampdoria 2014/09/24 - Verona 2 - 2 Genoa Juventus W L D W L 2014/10/26 - Juventus 2 - 0 Palermo 2014/10/22 - Olympiakos 1 - 0 Juventus 2014/10/18 - Sassuolo 1 - 1 Juventus 2014/10/05 - Juventus 3 - 2 Roma 2014/10/01 - Atlético Madrid 1 - 0 Juventus HEAD TO HEAD 2014/03/16 - Genoa 0 - 1 Juventus 2013/10/27 - Juventus 2 - 0 Genoa 2013/01/26 - Juventus 1 - 1 Genoa 2012/09/16 - Genoa 1 - 3 Juventus 2012/03/11 - Genoa 0 - 0 Juventus http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111