Socrates

Lo 0-0 ci sta bene a quanto pare.

I lanci alti sono tutti preda di Godin.

Ma l'entrata da dietro non doveva essere punita con il rosso una volta?

Che carisma Carlos!

Simeone ha imparato le cose peggiori dal calcio italiano.

Rigore netto per l'Atletico.

Entra Griezmann, coetaneo e connazionale di Pogba.

I verdi a terra in area, per l'arbitro tutto regolare.

Lichtsteiner a caccia del giallo.

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) HT 0-0: Juve hold their own in Madrid Oct 1, 2014 Juventus dominated possession at the Vicente Calderon, but it’s still 0-0 at half-time with Atletico Madrid. Elsewhere in this group, Malmo have taken a surprise 1-0 half-time lead over Olympiacos. The Bianconeri had won all their competitive games this season with clean sheets and visited last year’s beaten Champions League Finalists. The pressure was on Atleti to deliver after losing their opener 3-2 at Olympiacos. Gabi was injured and Antoine Griezmann dropped in favour of 19-year-old Saul, while Mario Mandzukic played with a protective mask after breaking his nose last month, although he took it off after 13 minutes. Juve missed Andrea Pirlo, Romulo and Andrea Barzagli, picking Martin Caceres rather than Angelo Ogbonna at the back. Atleti had won their last five meetings with Italian clubs, knocking Milan out last season just weeks after Max Allegri was replaced by Clarence Seedorf. Juve gave their new all-green strip its debut and Claudio Marchisio blasted wide from distance, while Leonardo Bonucci went into the book early on for jumping with his elbow raised. Arda Turan got away on the counter, but Mandzukic backheeled it on to Arturo Vidal’s prone body – including his arm – from point-blank range. Atleti’s high pressing game was causing problems and it led to Mandzukic testing Gigi Buffon from the edge of the box. Diego Godin nodded a free kick well over and Fernando Llorente just failed to make contact with a dangerous cross. Juve had 69 per cent possession in the opening half-hour and Paul Pogba spun to curl not far wide of the far post. The French midfielder also hit a fresh-air volley in the box after Carlos Tevez was crowded out. Atletico Madrid 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time) Atletico Madrid: Moya; Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, Ansaldi; Koke, Tiago, Arda Turan; Saul; Raul Garcia; Mandzukic Juventus: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Llorente, Tevez Ref: Brych (GER) http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Marotta: 'Important points in Madrid' Oct 1, 2014 Juventus director Beppe Marotta knows there are “three very important points at stake” against Atletico Madrid. The Champions League match kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) at the Vicente Calderon. “It is an important game, a valid test to understand our current form,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia. “After we changed Coach and had a great start to the season, this is a strong way to verify where we are right now, but having said that there’s a long road ahead of us too. “It is therefore too early to start talking about this as an in-or-out qualifying showdown. They are three very important points at stake, but not decisive yet. “Atletico Madrid reached their apex in recent years. They invoke fear in opponents, but only the right degree of reverence. “Juve have always had an important role in the Champions League and that will be the case again tonight in front of an impressive crowd.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Line-ups: Atletico Madrid-Juventus Oct 1, 2014 Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente start as Juventus take on Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid. The Champions League clash kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) at the Vicente Calderon. The pressure is on the Spaniards, as they surprisingly lost their opening match 3-2 away to Olympiacos, whereas Juve beat Malmo 2-0. Max Allegri confessed he had two doubts going into this game based on whether Martin Caceres or Angelo Ogbonna would start in defence, while Llorente got the nod ahead of ex-Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata. There’s no budging Tevez from the line-up, as Apache has scored six goals in five games between Serie A and the Champions League. Andrea Pirlo, Andrea Barzagli and Romulo missed out on the trip to Spain due to injury. Atleti were one minute away from winning the Champions League in May, losing the Final to Real Madrid in extra time. Gabi Fernandez failed a fitness test this morning and is left out due to a bruised ankle, while ex-Torino star Alessio Cerci is on the bench. Mario Mandzukic shook off an injury to play with 19-year-old Saul and Raul Garcia in support rather than Antoine Griezmann. Tiago Mendes will relish this opportunity to face his former club, while Coach Simeone battled Juventus for the Scudetto wearing the jerseys of Lazio and Inter. Diego Godin has pointed out with some glee that he is the last man to have put a goal past Gigi Buffon, when playing for Uruguay against Italy in the World Cup. Juve have won all six of their competitive games this season with clean sheets. Earlier today, Atletico Madrid’s youth team beat their Juventus counterparts 1-0. Atletico Madrid: Moya; Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, Ansaldi; Koke, Tiago, Arda Turan; Saul; Raul Garcia; Mandzukic Atletico Madrid bench: Oblak, Siqueira, Gimenez, Mario Suarez, Cerci, Griezmann, Raul Jimenez Juventus: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Evra; Llorente, Tevez Juventus bench: Storari, Ogbonna, Padoin, Asamoah, Pereyra, Morata, Giovinco http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Atleti lose Gabi for Juve Oct 1, 2014 Atletico Madrid have named 18 players for tonight’s match with Juventus, including Alessio Cerci but not Gabi Fernandez. Gabi’s place in the starting XI was believed under threat from a bruised ankle sustained at the weekend, but he has been left out of the squad for tonight’s Champions League group stage match altogether. Cerci, who was speculated as not ready to be included, has made the cut, but Mario Mandzukic is expected to be supported in attack by Antoine Griezmann and Raul Garcia. Atletico Madrid squad to face Juventus: Moyá, Oblak, Godín, Siqueira, Ansaldi, Juanfran, Miranda, Giménez, Mario, Tiago, Koke, Raúl García, Arda Turan, Saúl, Cerci, Griezmann, Mandžukic, Raúl Jiménez http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Atletico Madrid-Juventus Betting Preview: Why the aerial duels may be key tonight Atletico have scored many headed goals this season, while Juve boast some excellent players in the air, making the price of 4/1 for the first goal to be a header great value. Oct 1, 2014 The champions of Spain meet the champions of Italy at the Estadio Vicente Calderon this evening in what should be a fascinating encounter between Atletico Madrid and Juventus. Atleti will be greatly buoyed by their 4-0 thrashing of high flying Sevilla at the weekend and it should come as no suprise that coincided with a return to the touchline of coach Diego Simeone after a touchline ban. Juventus, meanwhile, have made an ominously impressive start to the defence of their Serie A title, winning all five of their domestic matches without conceding a goal. They kept a clean sheet in overcoming Malmo on matchday one although the 2-0 scoreline does not quite reflect how hard Juve had to work for that win. This evening the Italians are clear outsiders at 5/2 (3.50) while Atletico are offered at 13/10 (2.30) and the draw can be backed at 23/10 (3.30). With two resolutely tight defences meeting, the logical selection is to back a low-scoring affair and the price of 8/15 (1.53) accurately reflects the likelihood of this being goalfest. Instead of trying to predict the number of goals scored, perhaps a wiser strategy is to predict of how the first goal will be scored. If, as looks likely, this is a tight game, then chances from open play will be few and far between. In terms of set-pieces, Atletico have shown themselves to be easily the best team in Spain and possibly Europe at scoring from dead ball situations and to this end the price of 4/1 (5.00) for the opening goal to be a header looks an excellent option for a value bet. The statistics back this selection up with eight of Atleti's 11 goals in La Liga coming from set pieces, almost all of them headers. Juve for their part boast some excellent headers of the ball in Fernando Llorente, Alvaro Morata and Giorgio Chiellini and could also be dangerous in the air, giving this bet a great chance of paying out at a healthy price. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Zoff: Juve can take Atleti result Oct 1, 2014 Dino Zoff backs Juventus to take a result at Atletico Madrid, reflects on a potential two-horse title race and is enthused by Antonio Conte’s Italy. Tonight in the Champions League sees Max Allegri’s Bianconeri travel out to the Spanish capital to face La Liga champions Atletico Madrid in a game the Italians’ former No 1 backs them to take something from. “Of course it’ll be a tough game, Atletico are a strong and gutsy team,” Zoff began in conversation today with Calciomercato.com. “But I think that Juventus are at a level where they can compete in an even game and can also come away with a result. “The Spaniards lost their first game and will be looking to make an immediate recovery, however I’m convinced that this Juventus team, at full capacity, will have its say. “It all depends on determination, a willingness to fight - essentially its all about how they approach the battle. “This could be the key to beating Simeone’s XI. Atletico have potential, they’re doing well in La Liga, but it’ll be rather difficult to repeat last season where they got to the business end of all the main competitions.” Juve have begun the League season in strong form and, alongside Roma, have already developed a lead over others in the title race. “I expected a decisive start from Juve and Roma, but the other challengers have disappointed me. “On Sunday there will be an direct showdown between the leaders which will be important, but if the chasing pack don’t wake up, the championship is destined to be battle between only two sides.” As a player Zoff represented the likes of Napoli, Juventus and Udinese, whilst his managerial career included stints at Lazio and Fiorentina. “Lazio and Fiorentina have started with some problems but can aim higher up the table, the absence of key players has hit them both hard. “Udinese have given a good account of themselves, under a young but already experienced manager. “Napoli need to hurry up if they want to be challenging for the top spots this season.” Zoff also took Italy to Euro 2000 and is optimistic for the Azzurri’s direction under new CT Antonio Conte. “I’ve been impressed with him for a long time - he has all the qualities to do very well. “The national side has already adopted his mentality - you could already see it from their first few performances. “With Juve, Conte was exceptional and he can now use that experience to do great things with Italy.” A final note was on Alessandro Del Piero and his latest move to India. “By now Alex must be used to certain novelties, first in Australia and now in India, different experiences. “In my day, I don’t think I would have moved so far away to less well-known leagues, but that was another era. If Del Piero feels its right then its right that he tries it out.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

Debate: Are Juventus better with or without Pirlo? The Bianconeri have made a 100 per cent start to the season in the absence of their veteran playmaker, placing a question mark over his status as a first-team regular. Oct 1, 2014 By Mark Doyle & Joe Wright Andrea Pirlo has been the lynchpin of the Juventus midfield ever since he arrived on a free transfer from AC Milan in the summer of 2011. With his precision passing and dead-ball brilliance, the Italy international inspired the Bianconeri to three consecutive Scudetti - an achievement made all the more remarkable by the fact that the Old Lady was coming off the back of successive seventh-placed finishes. Therefore, Pirlo's influence on Juventus' resurgence cannot be overestimated. However, his position is now being questioned. The 35-year-old missed the start of the new season with a hip injury sustained in the Trofeo TIM and Juve have flourished in his absence, winning their first six games in all competitions - and without conceding a single goal. With Pirlo almost ready to return to action ahead of the big Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, many pundits are now wondering if he should be recalled to a midfield that is functioning perfectly without him. Below, two Goal writers go head to head on the issue ... "PIRLO IS SO SPECIAL BECAUSE HE IS SO DIFFERENT" By Mark Doyle Three years ago, Massimiliano Allegri decided that Andrea Pirlo was no longer good enough to play in front of the AC Milan defence. That gross error of judgement has haunted him ever since. Pirlo left for Juventus and transformed the Old Lady into the best team in Italy. He created 13 goals in his first season alone. In total, he has racked up 26 assists - and 12 goals - in three Scudetto-winning campaigns. He may be 35 now but he remains the most influential midfielder in Serie A and it is no surprise that new Italy boss and former Juve coach Antonio Conte wants Pirlo to continue playing international football. Indeed, it is worth remembering that the veteran playmaker treated England to a passing masterclass just over three months ago. The argument goes that Pirlo is slowing down but this is not a player that ever relied on pace. As Allegri recently stated, "Andrea is probably still as quick now as he was 10 years ago." However, he is smarter, more intelligent. He arguably understands the game like no other player in the world today. Even the great Xavi remains awestruck. "When I watch Pirlo play I have to admit that it's a wonder to behold," the Barcelona ace enthused. "I remain stupefied by him and I often watch Juventus games on TV only to admire him." Of course, time waits for no man - yet Pirlo is a master of creating it. True, he is nothing like the modern midfielder but he is so special because he is so different. Claudio Marchisio has proven an able deputy but there is no 'new Andrea Pirlo'. He is unique. As Argentine icon Jorge Valdano says, "He's the epitome of class; a man who leads the team using all the weapons that some consider antiquated yet, for me, are irreplaceable: deception, the pause, the fake, precision ... These are all the exact opposite of that word that is so fashionable today and such a disaster for the game: intensity." Football has undeniably changed but it remains a game that is played with the head - not the feet. Pirlo proves that. Consequently, Allegri would be mad to make the same mistake again - and he knows it. "I am lucky to find myself working with him again," the Juve coach acknowledged. "I can say that I've never called his qualities into question; otherwise people could justifiably say that I am a fool." "JUVE'S DEVELOPMENT NO LONGER DOWN TO PIRLO" By Joe Wright Allegri's remark that Pirlo remains as quick now as he was 10 years ago shows exactly why he is not necessary to the new Juventus coach's system. At Milan, he was happy - if a little hasty - to dispense with Pirlo in order to fill his three central midfield slots with more dynamic all-round performers. At the beginning of this season, injury has kept the 35-year-old out of his plans, yet he has hardly been missed. Antonio Conte's 3-5-2 system relied on Pirlo's deep-lying creativity to inspire the team going forward, but also accommodated the veteran's lethargic style. With three central defenders behind him, the intensity of Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba or Claudio Marchisio on either side and Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah patrolling the flanks, Pirlo had next-to-no defensive responsilibities and could survive on an average of just over one tackle per game in 2013-14. In Allegri's tweaked line-up, he would be afforded no such luxury. While he has so far resisted a switch to 4-3-3 or 4-3-1-2 - "I often say '4-3-and then up front we'll see!'" was his attitude upon joining the club - Allegri is preparing his players into an understanding of a back-four system to allow them greater tactical flexibility, which was something so sorely lacking under Conte. As effective as the 3-5-2 was in Juve's indomitable Serie A form, it was a system which fell woefully short in Europe. Teams began to adopt the Bayern Munich blueprint from 2012-13, when their high-pressing of the Juve midfield - and with it, the total nullifying of Pirlo - led them to a 4-0 aggregate success. A season later, Juve won just one group game out of six. The pattern has continued at international level. While Pirlo was gifted time on the ball against England - Italy's only positive result at the World Cup - he was harried persistently against both Costa Rica and Uruguay, and his influence disappeared, along with the Azzurri's place in the tournament. In his absence, Juve have started the season in perfect style, winning every game and, crucially, without conceding a goal. The midfield balance is undeniably stronger; Marchisio's form has been excellent, Pogba and Vidal have performed impressively when fitness problems have allowed, and the added cover of versatile summer signings Roberto Pereyra and Romulo has negated a need to rush Pirlo back from injury. Allegri is actively seeking ways around relying on Pirlo for the remainder of the season. That he has been linked with a move to LA Galaxy in the New Year is therefore hardly surprising. "I inherited a team with great organisation and proven results, but now they need to improve," Allegri said after the win over Cesena. Pirlo has proven his worth in the past, but Juve's development - particularly in the Champions League - no longer rests on his shoulders.

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Betting Special: Will Juventus remind Atletico what solid defence is all about? The Italians arrive at the Vicente Calderon without having conceded a single goal so far this campaign, but Al Hain-Cole thinks that there is money to be made in backing goals here. Oct 1, 2014 Having sailed to La Liga glory and last season’s Champions League final on the back of their water-tight defence, Atletico Madrid shocked everyone by falling to a 3-2 defeat against Olympiakos in their opening Group A encounter. Juventus to win to nil 9/2 In contrast, tonight’s opponents Juventus arrive at the Vicente Calderon with an unblemished defensive record, yet to concede a single goal in six competitive fixtures so far this campaign. Massimiliano Allegri’s side are available at 12/5 (3.40) with Paddy Power to extend this mean streak with a seventh clean sheet in a row, and 9/2 (5.50) to win to nil. However, with two consecutive clean sheets now under their belt, Los Colchoneros are more heavily fancied at 13/10 (2.30) to return to form with a fifth shutout in six Champions League home games, and 23/10 (3.30) to turn that into three points. Considering both sides’ strong defensive reputations, it is no surprise to see under 2.5 goals priced at just 8/15 (1.53), with the chances of that tally being exceeded rated at 11/8 (2.38). However, those overs odds actually hold some appeal given they would have paid out in each of the last three matches at this stadium, and five of Atletico’s last six fixtures. Furthermore, La Vecchia Signora struggled to translate last season’s similarly invincible domestic form onto the European stage, seeing their net bulge in every group game. Should that travel sickness continue this time out, then odds of 11/10 (2.10) will look particularly generous on both teams finding the net when they take on Diego Simeone’s uncharacteristically unconvincing defence. The hosts have atoned for their lack of clean sheets by scoring at least twice in five of their last six matches, and are on offer at 7/5 (2.40) to hit two or more this evening. Averaging two goals a game so far this campaign themselves, the Italians are available at 13/5 (3.60) to maintain that record here. With goals therefore looking more and more likely, it is worth backing even odds (2.00) on the deadlock being broken prior to the 33rd minute, as it has been in six of the Spaniards’ eight fixtures this season. A key reason for any increased confidence in the Juventus ranks is the form of Carlos Tevez, who offers excellent value at 12/5 (3.40) anytime goalscorer odds after finding the net six times in his last four games. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Atletico Madrid vs. Juventus Preview Oct 1, 2014 Juventus' visit to Atletico Madrid on Wednesday is undoubtedly the pick of the second round of matches in the 2014-15 Champions League. Both sides won their domestic leagues last season and there will be a wealth of talent on display as the Serie A and La Liga champions go head to head at the Vicente Calderon. Before the opening games of this year's competition, most would likely have predicted Atletico and Juve to be battling it out for top spot in Group A. However, the Spanish side's 3-2 defeat to Olympiacos means Diego Simeone and his men are now under huge pressure to take the three points on offer on Wednesday. Atletico Need Victory Last season, Atletico made it all the way to the final of the Champions League before losing in extra time to city-rivals Real Madrid. They topped their group with five wins and one draw and conceded just three times in the six encounters. Only in the final did they taste defeat, and even then, Real required the added half hour to turn Simeone's side over. Thus, their away defeat to the Greek champions two weeks ago—in which they conceded three—was something of a novel experience in recent times for the La Liga side. Simeone has admitted that it puts them on the back foot right from the off and adds pressure for the encounter with Juve, per Atletico's website (h/t ITV Football): Olympiacos start from a very strong position to qualify and it makes us more uncomfortable to play at home against Juventus, who also started from a good position. Wednesday is something of a must-win game for Atleti then, but they will be buoyed by their decent league form which most recently saw them impressively thrash Sevilla 4-0, per ESPN's Dermot Corrigan: Dermot Corrigan @dermotmcorrigan FT Atletico 4-0 Sevilla. Sevilla came here unbeaten, but Atletico just swatted them aside. Superb intense & clinical performance. That game also saw the return of key striker Mario Mandzukic from a broken nose suffered against Olympiacos. Atleti certainly have the quality to beat Juve in Madrid but they have piled pressure on themselves by losing in their opener, a factor which may be telling on Wednesday. Big Test for Juve Unlike their opponents, Juventus got their Champions League campaign off to a winning start with a 2-0 home victory over Malmo courtesy of two goals from Carlos Tevez. However, as Goal.com's Kris Voakes asserts, they were not at their best against the Swedish side and will have to up their game against Ateltico, a far better team: Kris Voakes @krisvoakes #Juventus got off to a winning start in the #UCL, but they'll need to improve massively #Malmo http://bit.ly/1uFWvxj Tevez and Juventus end their hoodoos but European problems persist The striker was back in goalscoring form in the Champions League on Tuesday, but it was a far from convincing performance which opened Juve's campaign Goal @goal_intl The Old Lady have got off to a perfect start in Serie A this season, winning all five of their opening games and not conceding a single goal. If they can keep Atletico out, then they will return to Turin with at least a point which would most certainly constitute a job well done for Massimiliano Allegri's side. Last season, Juve did not even make it out of the group, picking up just six points. They have made a solid start to the competition this term with the Malmo victory and will be clear favourites for the group win if they do not lose on Wednesday. It has been a long time since Juventus went deep into the European Cup—2003's final loss the most recent campaign of major note—a shame for such a storied club. A convincing performance against Atletico could go a long way to breeding the confidence needed for Juve to make a serious impact on this year's competition. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) UEFA Champions League Preview: Juventus vs. Atlético Madrid Y'all ready for that reunion with Tiago? We can sit down with our old friend, maybe talk about all the good times. You know, all of that good stuff about our buddy Tiago's time with Juventus. Sep 30, 2014 It's rather convenient that Juventus have made a trip to the Spanish capital the past two Octobers for the Champions League. It might be a little earlier than last year — 22 days to be exact — but 12 months after facing one Champions League finalist, Juventus has the task of facing the other. Funny how that's all worked out. This time Juventus won't be playing a team that has spent 100 times as much as they did over the summer. Instead, Juventus get that other team in Madrid. You know, that other team in Madrid that nearly did the double last season after winning La Liga and getting to the Champions League final. That other team in Madrid that is managed by one of the most intense managers in Europe who they last saw a few short weeks before he was leaving his post at Catania. Juventus vs. Atlético Madrid is the biggest test to date for Max Allegri and his version of this bianconeri side. It's almost like you're pulling out your GPS just to see where exactly this Juventus side stands a little more than a month into the season. I know I've probably used that line before, but it's applicable in this sense. We've expected Juventus to beat pretty much every opponent they've played thus far. Cesena? Yeah, no problem there. Same goes for Milan, Udinese, Atalanta and the rest. Malmö? Meh, they might have been hard to see off, but a win was pretty much the only option to open the Champions League. Atlético? Well, that might be a little different simply because they're the best team Juventus will be playing up to this point in time. Atlético are the favorites not only in the game, but also the group. And to be honest, unless further notice, that's the way it should be because of what they did a season ago, what kind of squad is in place and who manages the club. But a Juventus result could change that notion — especially with a game in Turin against the two sides still to be played in early December. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@gianluigibuffon: "Atleti are no longer a surprise package, they've won many trophies and are aware of their strength." #AtleticoJuve #UCL I'm in the mood for Juventus to make a statement. How about you? A statement game would be pretty good if you ask me. Especially one. GOOD NEWS Juventus is 6 for 6 in all competitions to begin the season. They have yet to allow a goal in all competitions. I'd say one of those things has to do with the other. Let me get back to you on that. BAD NEWS While he took part in a practice match against USD Caravaggio on Sunday, noted bearded maestro Andrea Pirlo still isn't fully fit and isn't part of the traveling party to Madrid. Same goes for another Andrea with a beard, Andrea Barzagli, as well as Luca Marone and the newly-injured Romulo. Basically the same thing we've been saying for the last couple of match previews. At least Martín Cáceres is back in the squad. Let there be a party full of high socks in the near future. WHAT TO WATCH FOR 1. Carlos Tévez in red-hot form. It's fun to watch Carlitos right now, isn't it? Like, even more than usual, right? Yes, yes it is. Tévez is almost carrying Juventus' attack on his back right now. He's scored six goals in the last four games in all competitions. He's scoring for fun, it seems like, but at the same time, racking up game-winner after game-winner. And now that Carlitos has his Champions League scoring drought out of the way, we can concentrate on what he does best — scoring goals, being an all around awesome player. The eternal optimist tells me that Tévex will just continue what he's been doing (because it's not a matter of if he will score, just a matter of when he will score). But Atléti, at least on paper, are a good defensive team because Diego Simeone has drilled a certain work ethic at the back into their minds. Let's just hope whatever happened in Greece against Olympiakos is brought back to Madrid with them. 2. Fernando Llorente on Spanish soil. The last time El Rey León was back in his homeland, he was scoring against Real Madrid in one of his first starts in a Juventus jersey. We all know how that season turned out (and what a lovely season it was for Llorente). This season, however, has yet to see our beloved Fernando yet to find the back of the net. He is still playing his part — see his contributions to some of Tévez's goals over the last few games as Exhibit A — even without officially recording an assist and/or goal. But it's clear that his role is a little different compared to last season. Allegri has used Llorente more of a target man to build the attack around rather than a prima punta in the mold of last season. That's okay, Llorente certainly has the skill to do a number of things in leading the forward line. I'm sure he would like to get that zero away from his goals scored stat, though. I'd like that, too. 3. How Atlético defend Claudio Marchisio. If my memory serves me correctly, Saturday's win over Atalanta was the first time an opposing club has purposefully man-marked the man stepping in for Andrea Pirlo. Would it surprise me to see Simeone do the same type of deal? No, not really. That's especially true considering how hard he works his team and demands so much from them over the course of a 90-minute match. The good thing going for Marchisio? Both Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal will be in the starting lineup alongside him, so there will be plenty of other things for Simeone to worry about in the midfield. And as Marchisio continues to prove to us in his new-ish regista role, he can pick out a pretty good pass even if his last name isn't Pirlo. 4. Juventus' defense against Mario Mandzukic. Many folks viewed the signing of Mandzukic as quite a bargain for Atlético this summer. Brought in from Bayern Munich to be a direct replacement for the Chelsea-bound Diego Costa, the 28-year-old Mandzukic hasn't totally hit his stride just yet, scoring just one goal in four Liga appearances as well as one against Olympiakos. But here's the thing about Mandsukic: He's given Juventus plenty of problems in the not-so-distant past. If he, say, basically posts up right next to Leonardo Bonucci and serves as Atlético's version of Fernando Llorente, then the onus will be on the back three to keep him quiet. Because, you know, that's what they're paid to do. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen #Allegri: "Tomorrow will be a good test in particular for our defenders who will be up against a physical forward in Mandzukic." #UCL 5. Can Juventus take complete control over their toughest competition in the group? Let's say Juventus does win at the Calderón tomorrow night. Juve will be a perfect 2 for 2 in the Champions League, sitting pretty on six points with the chance to go top of the group all by themselves based on the Olympiakos-Malmö game Wednesday (or when the Greek champs come to Turin in three weeks) or when Juve go to Greece in three weeks time). And in turn, if Juve win Wednesday night, Atléti will be sitting on zero points after two group stage games — something I feel safe in saying a vast majority of people never even thought would be possible. It would basically be the complete opposite of how Juve started last season's group stage. So go for it, fellas. That's my suggestion. My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Ogbonna, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Tévez OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 8:45 P.M. IN ITALY; 2:45 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 11:45 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Allegri: 'Atleti reflect Simeone' Sep 30, 2014 Max Allegri reveals Alvaro Morata could start for Juventus against an Atletico Madrid side “reflects Diego Simeone’s character.” The Bianconeri boss spoke at a Press conference ahead of tomorrow night’s Champions League clash at the Vicente Calderon. “We must put in a great performance and try to come home with a positive result. It’s going to be a difficult game, as Atletico Madrid make sporting aggression and set plays their biggest strengths. “I expect it to be a very technical match. This team reflects Simeone’s character with incredible mental strength, unity and pressing for 95 minutes. “Let’s not forget Simeone led this team to victory in La Liga, losing the Champions League Final by just one minute.” Curiously, Allegri was supposed to face Atletico Madrid in February, but Milan fired him before the games could be played and so Clarence Seedorf was on the bench. “The draw has given me the opportunity to take on Atletico Madrid after all,” smiled the Coach. Andrea Pirlo, Andrea Barzagli and Romulo are out of action, but Allegri is keeping fans guessing on who will partner Carlos Tevez. “I will decide between Llorente and Morata in attack. Morata did well coming off the bench on Saturday against Atalanta, scored his first goal and I was very happy with that. “Caceres could come back into the line-up. This will be a particularly good test for our defenders against very physical strikers like Mandzukic.” Allegri was asked what his target was in this Champions League season, but would not be drawn into making statements. “We should not set ourselves objectives, but simply do our best. The absolute minimum is to get through to the next round, then we’ll see how far we can go.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Buffon: 'Atleti not a surprise' Sep 30, 2014 Gigi Buffon said Atletico Madrid “are no longer a surprise” and the Juventus captain has no intention of relinquishing his clean sheet. The Bianconeri are at the Vicente Calderon for tomorrow night’s Champions League clash and Buffon spoke at the Press conference. “This is a fascinating game between two teams of great tradition. We want to measure ourselves up against Atletico Madrid to see what stage we’re at in our development. “Atleti might’ve been considered a surprise until four or five years ago, but not any more. They’ve won the Europa League twice, won La Liga and last season were Champions League Finalists. “This team is aware of its strengths and has international calibre. Everyone expects great performances and results, which wasn’t the case up until a few years ago. “As for Juve, we want to pick up from the Champions League where we left off in 2013, in other words the quarter-final against Bayern Munich. It would be important to have that kind of objective, even if often the luck of the draw is decisive in these tournaments.” Atletico Madrid player Diego Godin pointed out with some glee that he is the last man to have scored past Buffon, in the World Cup for Uruguay against Inter. “That fact pleases me, as it means I’ve been able to do a great deal well since that goal and ensured people appreciated my performances,” replied the goalkeeper. Buffon was asked about Juventus teammate Paul Pogba, who is on the verge of signing a new contract. “We are talking about a top level talent. If he maintains this focus and mentality, of having fun in a professional manner, then he can become one of the two or three best players in the history of French football.” There is a Spanish flavour to this Juve side, as Fernando Llorente has settled well after his move from Athletic Bilbao and Alvaro Morata scored his first Serie A goal at the weekend. “Morata has just arrived and had to get over an injury, but with a lot of humility he recovered and is working hard at the disposal of the Coach. “He is trying to learn and understand every tactical situation that Juve try to develop. I don’t need to talk about his talent, as everyone knows that. “Llorente is one of those players I’d always like to have in my team, both as a player and a person. He is always appreciated by the team for the way he behaves too. “I would’ve been happy for him to be at the World Cup, but Spain have so many quality options that it can happen to be left behind.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Juventus must show their maturity at Atletico Sep 30, 2014 Man for man, legendary Italian manager Arrigo Sacchi is right: Juventus are superior in terms of quality. Yet the question remains, are they good enough as a team to topple perhaps the most balanced unit in Spain? This season, Atletico Madrid are a riddle that cannot be solved. They toiled and struggled and managed only a draw against Celta Vigo, yet smashed high-flying Sevilla 4-0. The fans worried about the sale of their best player in Diego Costa, yet the one they really miss is in fact Filipe Luis -- not only because he secured the defence but because he offered the offence another dimension down the left flank, a consistent stream of attacking opportunities. What Simeone hinted to before he faced Unai Emery's Sevilla this past weekend is that he wanted a player with pace upfront, someone that could latch on to the swift balls to make them a side that exploited their strengths to finish off their created chances. Mario Mandzukic may know how to bring others into play and allow for timely insertions from midfield, but he's not the speedy beast Costa was nor is he like Carlos Bacca -- the striker Diego Simeone coveted and admires. However, the squad is adapting, changing their game to suit the strengths of their new arrivals. Despite the team stuttering in certain matches, it's worth noting that their coach has been serving a touchline ban. Forced to sit away and watch the action from afar, the tactical patterns may have appeared clearer but his absence on the pitch was keenly felt. He has been unable to rally his troops in the manner Antonio Conte once did with Juve. Against the Sevillistas, Simeone returned to breathe life into his players and the difference was evident as was the unwavering intensity and the overall balance of the side. With the tactician on the pitch consistently demanding focus, forcing his players to pressure high up the pitch, Los Rojiblancos have the strength to halt any side. Their main focus is to disturb the opponent's rhythm, destroy the fluidity of their attack and then launch their own game, with speed and precision. They are better at their passing now and absolutely devastating from dead ball situations. In fact out of the 11 goals they have scored in the domestic league this season, only two were from open play. Eight of them came from set pieces. Playing a mature and composed game against this team is close to impossible, simply because if tactcs are placed aside, this is a squad that use their emotions and undying passion for the game to devastating effect. They play mind games, get under the skin of their opponents and provoke anger which leads to mistakes. It's difficult not to succumb to such provocations as Atleti have learned how to perfectly blend the maddening traits of Spain's big two -- Real Madrid and Barcelona. Players grab, they roll on the floor, they taunt, they demand attention and they know which buttons to push to reduce even the biggest champions into frustrated entities. If they momentarily cede their wicked approach, the fans shout louder, making sure the atmosphere is thick with hostility to urge the away side to falter and the home side to fight harder. In order to play the game well, Juventus must resist and demonstrate their maturity. This is the time for thick skin, for experience and for absurd coolness in order to accept the drama and let it bounce off of them with ease. Now more than ever, the Bianconeri have to show their worth, their mettle. Discipline is the name of the game and possession must be retained, as opposed to being forced into rushed movements that end in disappointment. It will be difficult as the Spaniards will be nipping at their heels, undoubtedly leaving them with little time to think, but panic is a sensation only felt by amateurs. Juventus must keep their shape, believe in their superior quality and ignore the noise to express themselves. Manager Massimiliano Allegri has done well to improve the passing accuracy of his side as well as asking them to make wiser decisions in the final third. The squad, as we saw in the early stages against Malmo, succumbed to the pressure and played with imprecision, but against Los Colchoneros, Juve must settle in quickly. There will not have time to adapt. It's not enough to boast so many good players, a certain number of them must raise their level and learn how to play out the entirety of the match in a controlled manner at the highest level. Striker Carlos Tevez has already shown this season his ability to play for the side as opposed to the beat of his own drum. However, without Andrea Pirlo exerting his influence in midfield, it's up to Claudio Marchisio to learn how to better handle the tempo and his energy levels, not over exerting himself at the beginning that leads to exhausted mistakes at the end. Meanwhile, Paul Pogba will need to make the most of what is bound to be Atleti's obsession with marking Tevez in order to lead the side -- demonstrating the brilliance of his technique rather than his overwhelming desire to impress. If Allegri can get his men to play as a team, with confidence and composure, Juventus may achieve their target. Anything less than a display of unity will result in another European disappointment. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Shielding Atletico's back four is Simeone's main concern vs. Juventus Sep 30, 2014 Centre back Diego Godin described Atletico Madrid's clash with Juventus on Wednesday as "a final," stressing that the side are desperate to make up for their slipup in Greece a fortnight ago. "Having said that, we are used to playing in finals, we have one every week," added the Uruguayan with a cheeky grin. A defeat, however, would be no laughing matter. Los Rojiblancos go into the must-win contest at the Vicente Calderon safe in the knowledge that their inspirational leader, manager Diego Simeone, will be back on the sidelines (following yet another suspension), just as he was to orchestrate their 4-0 hammering of Sevilla at the weekend. Having returned victorious from Almeria for the first time before seeing off Sevilla, Simeone's men face their third big test in the space of a week with the visit of The Old Lady. Having performed something of an Austin Powers and regained their mojo over the past seven days, expectation levels among fans, media and players alike has risen. Speaking to the press before the game, the Argentine coach confirmed that goalkeeper Miguel Angel Moya, so impressive this season but given the night off in Piraeus as Los Colchoneros succumbed to their only defeat of the campaign thus far, will return to the starting lineup. This was an acknowledgement on his part that the decision to rotate on matchday one was an error, but also served to highlight both the importance of this match, and his lack of faith in Jan Oblak. Despite costing 16 million euros only a couple of months ago -- a record in Spain for a goalkeeper -- the big Slovenian has yet to show the kind of form that earned him his big-money switch to the Spanish capital from Benfica. Godin spoke of a few communications issues with the stopper, who does not speak Spanish, but was adamant he would improve. Simeone, meanwhile, was not so complimentary, lavishing praise on all four of his fullbacks, bigging up his midfield options and saying he has very good strikers. Perhaps he forgot the goalkeepers, or perhaps it was an unsubtle dig. Who knows. While the last line of defence is not an issue, the Argentine coach will need to make a tough decision in the middle of the park, given that it is highly likely that Atleti skipper Gabi will be missing from the squad altogether with the ankle problem that saw him withdrawn after 45 minutes on Saturday. This is probably Juventus' strongest area, and despite the fact they will be deprived of the majestic Andrea Pirlo to pull the strings, they possess a powerful trio in the form of Arturo Vidal, Claudio Marchisio and Paul Pogba, who will look to take control of the game. Should their lynchpin not make it, as seems likely, then Simeone will need to decide if he is to entrust the task of shielding the back four alongside Tiago Mendes to the horribly out of form Mario Suarez, or whether he will move the more forward-minded Koke further back. While Suarez may be more of a natural holder, his alarming slump in form has given the side serious problems, and the 28-year-old looks a shadow of the man who commanded a starting berth for Spain on a couple of occasions in 2013. After Suarez was hauled off against both Olympiakos and Almeria -- not to mention missing out altogether on Saturday -- the signs point to Koke having to rein in his attacking instincts and do a defensive job for the good of the team. This would then allow youngster Saul Niguez, who scored at the weekend, to retain his place in the 11 and help bolster the middle of the park when not in possession from an unconventional position on the left; much in the way Koke usually does. Up top, Mario Mandzukic's timely return will be appreciated. Juventus have won all six of their competitive matches thus far this campaign, and have yet to concede a goal, with veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, in particular, rolling back the years. The Croatia international came back against Sevilla, causing no end of problems for the Andalusian outfit. Even his much-maligned replacement, Raul Jimenez, managed to nick a goal from the bench, and fans will be hoping the Mexico forward's confidence will have recovered from the battering it received from them when he was booed and whistled in the draw with Celta Vigo. This being Atletico, fans can rest assured that even if their forwards do not fire, their back line pose a continuous threat from set pieces, with Godin's partner Joao Miranda the side's top scorer so far this season. Be it a goal from a forward, defender or an own goal, Simeone will take a win in any way, shape or form. Likely XI vs. Juventus: Moya, Juanfran, Godin, Miranda, Siqueira, Tiago, Koke, Saul, Arda, Garcia, Mandzukic http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) UEFA Champions League Group A Preview: Atletico Madrid vs. Juventus Sep 30, 2014 The best match of Wednesday's slate of Champions League games will pit Italy champions Juventus against Spanish champions Atletico Madrid. The matchup at the Estadio Vicente Calderon could be critical in deciding who wins Group A. The Bianconeri made it harder on themselves than was needed but beat Malmo 2-0 in the group opener last month. It was the first time they'd won their first game since returning to the competition two years ago. Should they beat the Rojiblancos—who lost to Olympiakos 3-2 in their opener—they'd come home heavy favorites to win the group. For Diego Simeone's men, a loss would not only spot Juve the group lead but make it a struggle to even advance out of the group. Avoiding defeat at home is going to be absolutely crucial. Will they be able to? Let's take a closer look and see what awaits in one of the best matches of Matchday 2. Atletico Madrid Overview Atletico came into their first group-stage match on the back of a 2-1 win against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu. Unfortunately, their trip to Piraeus brought them crashing back to earth with a thud. Without Diego Simeone on the sidelines and possibly emotionally spent, the Spanish champions fell behind 2-0 after a half-hour. They clawed one back, but their attempt at a comeback was dashed by Konstantinos Mitroglou with 18 minutes left. Antoine Griezmann was able to make the scoreline a bit more respectable late on, but it didn't diminish the shock value of the result. With a team like Juventus in the group, the early loss has put them in a perilous position. It may be too early to call this game a must-win, but depending on the result of the Olympiakos/Malmo fixture it might be a can't-lose. If they drop a second consecutive game, they may have to give up on winning the group. If one of the other two teams is able to pull a surprise on Juventus, Atletico may end up in serious danger of missing out entirely on the knockout rounds. It's vital for them to get into their back-to-back fixtures with Malmo—arguably the worst team in the group—with at least a point. Juventus Overview Juventus have played six matches in all competitions this year. They have yet to allow a goal. In fact, they haven't allowed a goal in a competitive match since an early opener by Simone Zaza in their late-season matchup against Sassuolo on April 28. That's right. They haven't allowed a competitive goal since April. Defense has been one of the hallmarks of this side since Antonio Conte took charge of the team in 2011. In the three years he was manager, the Bianconeri only conceded 67 goals. On the other end of the field, they are finally firing. Carlos Tevez has scored six times in his last four games and has a brace in two of the last three. Arturo Vidal got his shooting boots on last week against Cesena, and summer signing Alvaro Morata opened his account with his new club on Saturday. Juve fans should not get ahead of themselves: The best opposition they've faced so far have arguably been AC Milan, who are in the midst of a large-scale rebuild. At this stage the only ones on the peninsula that can truly compete with Juventus are Roma—and Juve play them on Sunday. This game will thus serve as a major test for the Bianconeri. Atleti represent the best opposition the team are likely to face until a potential matchup in the knockout phases. If Juve play well in Madrid, even Roma may feel chills run up their spines. Key Players: Atletico Madrid Koke The 22-year-old academy product is on the cusp of becoming one of the most sought-after players in the game. Koke has been Atletico's best player this season. According to WhoScored.com, he has one goal and six assists over six games in all competitions. He's recorded an assist in each of his last six games—a streak that goes back to Atleti's September 13 win at Real Madrid. If the last three years has told the world anything about Juventus, it's that winning the battle against their world-class midfield is essential to beating them. Koke, who is fast becoming an Arturo Vidal clone, will be an essential part of that battle for the Spanish side. He will be tasked with trying to disrupt Juve's mids and will be marked as a target in return. He could turn this match one way or the other. Diego Godin Juve players make up the core of the Italian national team. The internationals on the team won't have forgotten Godin's winning goal in the controversial group-stage finale between Italy and Uruguay. Godin isn't a volume tackler in the defensive third, but his positioning is superb and he has averaged 2.7 interceptions, per WhoScored, and is a force in the air. That aerial ability will be a key for Atletico, who are likely to face target man Fernando Llorente. The Spaniard has been seeing most of his passes on the ground this season, but the Lion King is as good as any striker in the world in the air and will be a serious threat. Godin will be tasked with making sure Llorente can't score with his head and with making himself a threat in Juve's penalty area on set pieces. Mario Mandzukic If the Croatian international is fit, he'll play against the Italians. Given the unenviable responsibility of replacing Diego Costa, Mandzukic has played well but isn't scoring in bunches. In fact, neither are any of the team's forwards. The only Atletico player who has scored more than once in the league is Miranda—a center-back. The good news for Atleti is that Mandzukic has a ton of experience against the 3-5-2 that Juve is expected to deploy. He scored against it at Euro 2012 when Cesare Prandelli employed it in the group stage, and again in 2013 when he led Bayern Munich to a 4-0 aggregate victory over Juve in the quarterfinals of the Champions League. The only player on this team to have won Europe's ultimate prize, Mandzukic will be an important element of the attack if he plays. Key Players: Juventus Carlos Tevez Carlos Tevez is a man on fire. Seriously, look at that fire. The Argentinian's brace against Malmo—his first Champions League goals in five years—seems to have lifted a massive weight on his shoulders. Now he's just scoring for fun. The go-to striker Juve has needed for many a year, Tevez has also played a significant part in buildup play. Allegri has allowed him to roam the width of the attacking third, fielding the ball where he can and pulling defenders towards him. Once they attack him, he can either shake them and shoot or pass to an open man. He has only one assist this year, but according to WhoScored he's averaged 3.5 key passes per match in the league and had four in the match against Malmo. Tevez is the one man Atletico must stop. They have to clamp down on him and dare the rest of the team to beat them. Claudio Marchisio Il Principino has been tasked with holding down the "regista" role in front of defense while Andrea Pirlo has been sidelined with an injury. He doesn't have the pinpoint passing ability and exquisite vision that has made Pirlo one of the best midfielders in the history of the game, but he does bring a pace that Pirlo doesn't have. Marchisio is also a much better defender than his legendary teammate. He'll likely have to deal with Koke and former teammate Tiago in the midfield. It wouldn't be surprising to see him booked. Marchisio brings a box-to-box mentality to a deep-lying role. His good passing, thunderous outside shot and defensive skills have been vital in holding the midfield together while Pirlo recuperates—and likely will until his return. Giorgio Chiellini Giorgio Chiellini is a mix of Claudio Gentile-style steel with excellent defensive technique. One of the top five center-backs in the game today, Chiellini will be tasked with keeping Mandzukic—who beat him for a goal at Euro 2012—and the rest of Atleti's stuttering forward line at bay. Along with Gianluigi Buffon, he is the anchor of one of Europe's best defensive units. His performance will go a long way toward keeping Juve in this road game long enough to pounce. Manager: Atletico Madrid Diego Simeone is one of coaching's hottest names. A former Serie A player, the Argentine is incredibly intense on the touchline and a master schemer on the training ground. That intensity has often drawn comparisons to former Juve and current Italian national team coach Antonio Conte. The comparison is accurate to a degree, but Conte was, except on rare occasions, able to reign that intensity in before it got him into trouble with officials. That hasn't been the case for Simeone, who has been sent from the touchline twice since May—often in unnecessary circumstances. Simeone was suspended for his team's first Champions League match after melting down in the dying phases of the final. He also received an eight-game domestic ban in August for becoming completely unhinged 25 minutes into the second leg of the Spanish Super Cup. Expect Simeone to change from the 4-4-2 that his understudies employed against Olympiakos. The knock on Juve's 3-5-2 formation is its weakness against good wing play. He can use Antoine Griezmann, one of the best young wingers in the game, to try to take advantage of that weakness and tear the protective bubble away from Gigi Buffon. If Simeone can walk the tightrope of his intensity, his team can fly. If he can't, he could end up doing some significant damage to his team. Manager: Juventus Max Allegri has had a fantastic start to the season, but his opposition has been average at best. Wednesday will be his first real test. According to UEFA's official preview of the match, Allegri only won a single game against Spanish opposition during his time in Milan in 12 tries. In fairness, eight of those matches came against Barcelona and six of those were at the height of their power under Pep Guardiola. He also had to deal with a roster that was consistently declining in quality. So far Allegri hasn't meddled with the 3-5-2 tactics that gave Juve so much success over the last three years. Many consider it a matter of time until he employs a four-man defense, but he was quoted on the web site of Italian transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio in September as saying that he "can't use it until I have the personnel to do it." Presumably, this means he's waiting until center-back Andrea Barzagli returns from off-season surgery to correct a nagging heel issue. We're going to be seeing the 3-5-2—with a few minor tweaks, such as a reduction in the frequency of long shots—until he deems the time is right. Juve fans will hope he has figured out a way to compensate for the formation's apparent weakness on the wing. Key Matchup Diego Godin vs. Fernando Llorente This will be an incredible matchup between two players who are excellent in the air. Llorente is a force when he can latch on to the end of a cross. Godin is similarly sterling in attack on set pieces and is a force in his own box. Llorente scored five times in 13 games against Atletico during his time at Athletic Bilbao. He knows the team quite well and will be looking to exploit that familiarity. Look for Godin to stay very close to the Spanish striker to deny Juve a key weapon. Conversely, look for Juve to use Carlos Tevez's ball skills to pull Godin away from Llorente and leave the latter more open to a cross. Arturo Vidal vs. Koke The subject of massive transfer speculation this summer, Arturo Vidal—King Arthur to most Juve fans—still holds court in Turin. The most complete player in the game today, Vidal's combination of excellence in passing, finishing and defending is unmatched. Koke may change that if he continues to develop. He has been imperious in Diego Simeone's midfield and so far has been one of the best mids in Europe this season. The young Spaniard may very well get the better of this matchup. Vidal is still rounding into form after knee and thigh injuries delayed his return to the field in black-and-white stripes. Whoever overcomes the other will be able to turn the midfield battle in his team's favor—and whoever wins that battle will win the war. Miguel Angel Moya or Jan Oblak vs. Gianluigi Buffon Moya has started all six of Atletico's league games but was pipped to the starting job by former Benfica goalkeeper Oblak in the Champions League opener. Oblak was signed this summer to replace departed keeper Thibaut Courtois, who was finally recalled by Chelsea. He faced Juve in the second leg of the Europa League semifinal last spring. It was an ill-tempered game marred by blatant time-wasting by Benfica (referee Mark Clattenburg did nothing about it), but Oblak made a few great saves to keep the score 0-0 and put Benfica through to the final. He started that all-Iberian affair against Sevilla, but his team ended up on the wrong end of a shootout. Oblak has the experience of going deep into a European competition and at 21 still has plenty of room to develop, but it's not entirely clear who will play this game. On the other end of the field is the imperious presence of Gianluigi Buffon. He isn't the physical specimen he was on his record-setting World Cup run in 2006, but Buffon is still one of the best goalkeepers in the game. He is still capable of phenomenal saves (like his big double save against Uruguay in the World Cup) and remains arguably the best in the world at organizing his defense. Buffon will be a key for Juve. If they are to contain Atleti away from home, their keeper and captain will have to be in top form. We may see Atletico keep more of the ball, but a team like Juve are going to manufacture some chances. Whichever keeper plays for Atletico will have to be up to the task or else risk putting his team in a bad situation. Prediction This is a really tough game to call. In a neutral venue in a one-off game, I'd be of a mind to predict penalty kicks. The last time I previewed Juventus, against AC Milan, I said that Juve's clean sheet streak would end. I was wrong. This time, I'm pretty sure that won't be the case. Unless the Bianconeri put in a herculean defensive effort, Atletico are going to score in their own stadium. The question becomes how much will they score—and whether Juve can respond in kind. Atletico's scoring has been spread around. Under normal circumstances it would be considered a good thing that the team aren't overreliant on a single scorer, but to me this says that the team still haven't found a scoring identity after the departure of Diego Costa. Against a team as good defensively as Juve, that could become an issue. In the end I think that Atletico will grab one, while Tevez will either score or create one on the other end. A win would be ideal for Atletico in their own stadium, but Juve are on a run of confidence that I think can get them points, even in the Vicente Calderon. I predict a 1-1 draw. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166

ATLETICO MADRID - JUVENTUS - Wednesday, October 1, 2014 - 08:45 P.M. Estadio Vicente Calderón - Madrid Referee:‬ Felix Brych (Germany) Simeone: Atletico cannot give Tevez time to think The Argentine coach has identified his compatriot as the principal threat to the Spanish champions' hopes of beating the in-form Bianconeri. Sep 30, 2014 Diego Simeone says Atletico Madrid cannot afford to give Carlos Tevez time to think if they are overcome Juventus in their crucial Champions League clash at the Vicente Calderon. Tevez has started the season in sensational fashion, netting six goals in six games in all competitions, including a double in the Bianconeri's 2-0 win over Malmo in their Group A opener. Consequently, Simeone has identified his fellow Argentine as the principal threat to Atletico's hopes of getting their continental campaign back on track. "Juventus have always been a very competitive team," he told reporters on Tuesday. "It's not easy to find flaws in their game. We will have to play a high-level match. "I have enormous respect for Juventus. They always show their hard work on the pitch. "They like to press and create spaces for players like Tevez, [Fernando] Llorente or [Alvaro] Morata. "Tevez is a great player, especially when he is close to the goal. I know him well. We can’t let him think." However, Simeone has been buoyed by Atletico's performance in their 4-0 La Liga demolition of the previously undefeated Sevilla at the weekend. "Against Sevilla, we had continuity in our game and that allowed us to play a complete match," the former midfield ace enthused. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/49/uefa-champions-league/group?ICID=MP_TN_166