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Palacio in, Tevez out for Argentina May 13, 2014 As expected, there are several Serie A players in Argentina’s World Cup squad, but no Carlos Tevez. Alejandro Sabella named his provisional list of 30 players for the tournament in Brazil, which will be cut to 23. There are eight Italy-based figures in the list, including Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain, Inter’s Ricky Alvarez, Hugo Campagnaro and Rodrigo Palacio. Of the three goalkeepers, two of them play in Serie A, as Mariano Andujar was relegated with Catania and Sergio Romero is owned by Sampdoria. Despite scoring 19 goals in his debut Serie A campaign, Juventus hitman Tevez is not included. Argentina World Cup squad Goalkeepers: Orion, Andujar, Romero Defenders: Zabaleta, Garay, Fernandez, Rojo, Campagnaro, Basanta, Otamendi, Lisandro Lopez, Mercado, Demichelis Midfielders: Gago, Mascherano, Di Maria, Banega, Biglia, Maxi, Augusto, Sosa, Enzo Perez, Ricky Alvarez, Rinaudo Forwards: Messi, Palacio, Lavezzi, Higuain, Aguero, Di Santo

Deschamps: Pogba may be in talks May 14, 2014 Didier Deschamps has urged Paul Pogba to focus on the World Cup this summer, but suggested his Juventus future may not be so clear. The 21-year-old and his agent recently commented that the Bianconeri do not intend to sell him and that contract renegotiations are on the horizon. However, after naming him in his 23-man France squad for the World Cup, his international Coach and a former Juve man himself believes that rumoured interest from the likes of Paris Saint-German and Real Madrid may not have ended. “Juventus have said that he is unsellable? Unsellable is dangerous,” Deschamps has considered to reporters this week. “Usually when you say a player is not for sale, it is to drive up the price, and then the wind can change very quickly. “Paul is young and has great quality, he could be in the middle of negotiations. “However, he and the others know that they are not going for a picnic at Club Med, we will be going to the World Cup - they must focus on what is awaiting them.”

Pogba in France World Cup squad May 13, 2014 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba is in France’s World Cup squad, but Adil Rami, Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy miss out. Coach Didier Deschamps announced his list of 23 players for the tournament, plus seven reserves. The reserves include Napoli transfer target Maxime Gonalons, along with Lacazette, Cabella, Perrin, Ruffier, Schneiderlin and Tremoulinas. France squad for World Cup Goalkeepers: Mikael Landrau (Bastia), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (Marseille) Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle), Lucas Digne (Paris Saint-Germain), Patrice Evra (Manchester United), Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal), Eliaquim Mangala (Porto), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid) Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (Paris Saint-Germain), Clement Grenier (Lyon), Blaise Matuidi (Paris Saint-Germain), Rio Mavuba (Lille), Paul Pogba (Juventus), Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle), Mathieu Valbuena (Marseille) Forwards: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Olivier Giroud (Arsenal), Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad), Loic Remy (Newcastle), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)

How can Argentina not take Tevez to Brazil? The Juventus striker has been in exceptional form all season but, incredibly, it has not been enough to persuade Alejandro Sabella to take him to the World Cup. May 13, 2014 COMMENT By Kris Voakes | International Football Correspondent He played no part in Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign, yet on Monday a small band of fans gathered in the centre of Buenos Aires to petition for Carlos Tevez’s inclusion in Alejandro Sabella’s squad for the finals tournament in Brazil. They held flags carrying the inscriptions ‘Tevez Seleccion’ and ‘Tevez al Mundial’, and all the while sung songs deifying the Juventus striker. But their pleas fell on deaf ears. When the Albiceleste head for their training base near Belo Horizonte, they will do so without the driving force behind Juve’s record-breaking Serie A season, with Sabella announcing on Tuesday that Tevez is not to be a part of his 23-man World Cup panel. Napoli’s Gonzalo Higuain and Manchester City star Sergio Aguero will don the famous blue and white stripes alongside Lionel Messi this summer, but Tevez will not. A superb return of 21 goals in all competitions, including 19 in the league as the Bianconeri marched to the verge of 100 points, have seen Tevez’s stock rise once more, yet Sabella has been unwilling to buckle under the weight of public pressure. "I think the coach of Argentina's national team must not have satellite television hooked up to watch Juventus," Tevez joked recently when asked about his hopes of returning to the national fold. He knew some time ago that the writing was on the wall. At the age of 30, it would appear that Carlitos’ World Cup career has been ended on the back of a season in which he adapted so quickly to Italian football that, less than two months into the campaign, Juve coach Antonio Conte had to fend off suggestions that the Turin outfit had become a one-man team centred on the qualities of their No.10. It is fair to say, though, that Tevez hasn’t helped himself over the years. Time and again, he has spoken publicly about international retirement and the tiresome task that is travelling back and forth for Argentina fixtures. And when he was included in the squad for the 2011 Copa America on the back of a campaign by media, fans and even members of the government, his response was to turn up 6kg overweight, completely underperform and, ultimately, miss the penalty that eliminated the Albiceleste at the quarter-final stage. Soon after, his club career seemed to be spiralling out of control, with his infamous bust-up with Roberto Mancini resulting in him sitting out of four months of football while at Manchester City. But just as he turned around his fortunes there to become a Premier League champion before moving on to Juve and adding an Italian league title, many were hoping for a similar renaissance in the national shirt. Yet the man once introduced by the public address announcer in Messi’s home state of Santa Fe as “the player of the people” is clearly not the kind of character Sabella believes can bring the best out of his other squad members. Tevez’s exile has coincided with the national side’s most convincing qualifying campaign in some years, and the coach is not willing to rock the boat now. Instead, the striker is a held up as a symbol of an Argentina that was underprepared, that underperformed, and that wasn’t ready to win a World Cup. But when the Albiceleste square up to Bosnia-Herzegovina on June 15, they will do so without arguably their best-performing player of the last 12 months. If they win the World Cup, Alejandro Sabella will forever remain a national hero. But if they don't, he will always be asked about the wisdom of overlooking Tevez.

Tevez left out of Argentina provisional World Cup squad As expected, the striker will not be joining Lionel Messi and Co. in Brazil this summer, with Jose Sosa and Franco Di Santo two of the more surprising call-ups. May 13, 2014 Carlos Tevez has been left out of Alejandro Sabella's provisional Argentina World Cup squad. The Juventus striker had widely been expected to be missing from the party to Brazil, with his impressive form in Italy this season not enough to convince Sabella to bring him back from international exile. Franco Di Santo and Rodrigo Palacio are both included alongside captain Lionel Messi in the forward positions, while Atletico Madrid loanee Jose Sosa earns a more surprising call-up. Squad in full: Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Monaco), Mariano Andujar (Catania), Agustin Orionu (Boca) Defenders: Ezequiel Garay (Benfica), Federico Fernandez (Napoli), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Marcos Rojo (Sporting), Jose Maria Basanta (Monterrey), Hugo Campagaro (Inter), Nicolas Otamendi (Atletico Mineiro), Martin Demichelis (Manchester City), Gabriel Mercado (River), Lisandro Lopez (Getafe) Midfielders: Fernando Gago (Boca), Lucas Biglia (Lazio), Javier Mascherano (Barcelona), Ever Banega (Newell's), Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid), Maximiliano Rodriguez (Newell's), Ricardo Alvarez (Inter), Augusto Fernandez (Celta), Enzo Perez (Benfica), Jose Sosa (Atletico Madrid), Fabian Rinaudo (Catania) Forwards: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli), Ezequiel Lavezzi (Paris Saint-Germain), Rodrigo Palacio (Inter), Franco Di Santo (Werder Bremen)

Bentornato Marco!

Who is Juventus Player of the Season? Goal nominates the top three stand-out performers for the Italian giants in 2013-14. May 13, 2014 Juventus have been creating history throughout the 2013-14 season, clinching a third successive Scudetto - only the fifth Italian team ever to do so - and smashing the Serie A all-time points record in the process. Despite being pushed all the way by an outstanding Roma side, Antonio Conte's men have once again reigned supreme on the peninsula. In Europe, the Bianconeri enjoyed less success. They were disappointingly dumped out of the Champions League in the group stages and were then denied a place in the Europa League final on home soil by Benfica in the semis. But throughout the squad there were a long list of stars who contributed to another very rewarding campaign. Below, in alphabetical order, are Goal's three nominees for Juventus' player of the season, based on their club performances in all competitions. ANDREA PIRLO Perhaps the most timeless footballer in circulation, Andrea Pirlo continues to delight footballing purists with his magnificence despite turning 35 this month. The metronomic midfielder has again pulled all the strings for Juventus this season, ensuring that the brilliant trio also containing Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba has dictated the majority of matches. But 2013-14 will be best remembered for the genius of Pirlo's free kicks. The ex-Milan hero has struck an incredible six times from dead balls in all competitions, which included memorable efforts against Fiorentina and Genoa. There can be little doubt that Pirlo is the best free kick taker in the world and heading into the World Cup he remains one of the most loved, feared and irreplaceable players on the planet. CARLOS TEVEZ Despite having won successive Scudetti going into this season, Juventus possessed an undoubted weakness in attack. Alessandro Matri top-scored with just 10 goals in 2011-12, while Mirko Vucinic did so with 13 in 2012-13. This all changed with the arrival of Carlos Tevez from Manchester City at a bargain price of just €9 million. Domestically, the Argentine has been absolutely unstoppable - forming a productive partership with fellow new arrival Fernando Llorente. Nineteen Serie A goals tell only half the story for a forward who has scored, assisted, run, pressed and fought for every ball from the first minute until the last. Tactically he has been the perfect player for Juve - his spectacular long range strike versus AC Milan at San Siro perhaps his highlight of highlights. The only black mark against Tevez was his failure to break his five-year European scoring drought until the semi-final Europa League loss to Benfica. But that should not disguise what a brilliant campaign the 30-year-old has had. ARTURO VIDAL Is there a better all-round central midfielder in the world right now than Arturo Vidal? For the third year in succession, the Chilean has underlined his class in all competitions. Most forwards would be proud to register the 18 goals that Vidal has scored this season, let alone a midfielder whose first priority is to win the ball and who has been 'injured' for the last six weeks. And unlike some of his team-mates, Vidal was equally brilliant in Europe - he scored five times in the Champions League group stages despite his team's early exit and added another two in the Europa League. With the Chilean recovering from surgery, every football fan should be praying that the 26-year-old is fit enough to play at the World Cup because he would be a huge loss to the competition.

Swiss include five from Serie A May 13, 2014 Ottmar Hitzfeld has named his 23-man Switzerland squad for the World Cup and included five Serie A-based players. Napoli’s trio of Valon Behrami, Blerim Dzemaili and Gokhan Inler have all made today’s squad submitted to FIFA, alongside Juventus full-back Stephan Lichtsteiner and Juve-owned Reto Ziegler, who has spent this season on loan at Sassuolo. Udinese's Silvan Widmer is one of seven players listed on stand-by, should one of the initial 23 pick up an injury. “The idea is to have two options for every position, to go to Brazil with every role covered,” Hitzfeld has explained to reporters today. “That is why I have called up Ziegler. “At the World Cup it will be important to acclimatise quickly. We will need to play with tactical intelligence, organisation. “The emotion will have an important role, especially against the South American countries.” Switzerland are drawn in Group E of this summer’s tournament and face Ecuador, France and Honduras. Switzerland World Cup squad Goalkeepers: Diego Benaglio (Wolfsburg), Roman Bürki (Grasshopper), Yann Sommer (Basel) Defenders: Johan Djourou (Hamburg), Michael Lang (Grasshopper), Stephan Lichtsteiner (Juventus), Ricardo Rodriguez (Wolfsburg), Fabian Schär (Basel), Philippe Senderos (Valencia), Steve von Bergen (Young Boys), Reto Ziegler (Sassuolo) Midfielders: Tranquillo Barnetta (Eintracht Frankfurt), Valon Behrami (Napoli), Blerim Dzemaili (Napoli), Gelson Fernandes (Freiburg), Gökhan Inler (Napoli), Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich), Valentin Stocker (Basel), Granit Xhaka (Borussia Monchengladbach). Forwards: Mario Gavranovic (Zurich), Josip Drmic (Nurnberg), Haris Seferovic (Real Sociedad), Admir Mehmedi (Freiburg) Reserves: Marwin Hitz (Augsburg), Timm Klose (VfL Wolfsburg), Silvan Widmer (Udinese), Eren Derdiyok (Bayer Leverkusen), Fabian Frei (FC Basel), Pajtim Kasami (Fulham), Pirmin Schwegler (Eintracht Frankfurt)

Kwadwo Asamoah named to Ghana's provisional World Cup squad May 13, 2014 Juventus' central midfielder-turned-wingback Kwadwo Asamoah has been named to Ghana's 26-man provisional World Cup squad. Not that it's any surprise, really. Asamoah, who has been with the Black Stars for the past eight years after his international debut in 2006, was probably one of the first names to be put on the list. Why? Because he's really good. And this summer we'll be able to watch him in a more natural central midfield role, one that I'm sure he's going to do quite well at since that's what he's been doing for almost his whole life. Okay, so maybe he hasn't that bad as a wingback. It's pretty much the opposite, actually. There's a reason why Asamoah may very well have a future as one of these fancy wingbacks Antonio Conte loves so much. Here's the full squad that will be trimmed down to the final 23: Goalkeepers: Adam Kwarasey, Fatawu Dauda, Stephen Adams. Defenders: Samuel Inkoom, Daniel Opare, Harrison Afful, Jeffrey Schlupp, John Boye, Jonathan Mensah, Jerry Akaminko, Rashid Sumaila. Midfielders: Michael Essien, Rabiu Mohammed, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu, Kwadwo Asamoah, Sulley Muntari, Albert Adomah, Wakaso Mubarak, Christian Atsu, David Accam, Andre Ayew, Afriyie Acquah. Forwards: Asamoah Gyan, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Abdul Majeed Waris, Jordan Ayew. Ghana and the United States open Group G play against one another at the Estadio das Dunas on Monday, June 16.

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Prandelli defends banned Chiellini The Italy coach's previous decisions on Daniele De Rossi and Mario Balotelli have raised questions over whether the Juventus defender will be selected in Brazil. May 12, 2014 Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has indicated Giorgio Chiellini will be in his World Cup squad, despite picking up a ban for violent conduct. Juventus defender Chiellini was slapped with a retrospective three-match ban after elbowing Miralem Pjanic in Sunday's 1-0 win over Roma. The suspension rules the defender out of Juve's remaining Serie A fixture against Cagliari on Sunday - as well as their first two of next season. The punishment raised doubts over the 29-year-old's involvement in Brazil, with Prandelli having previously dropped the likes of Daniele De Rossi and Mario Balotelli from his international squads due to disciplinary issues at club level. However, the former Fiorentina boss does not believe Chiellini's actions were undertaken with violent intentions, a stance that suggests the Juve man will be named in the 30-man provisional squad on Tuesday. Prandelli told Ansa: "I have looked again and again at what Chiellini did. For me, it is not a violent act. "Do I expect criticism for my decision? My code of ethics has been controversial for four years!" http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Chiellini gets three-match ban May 12, 2014 Serie A's sporting judge on Monday banned Juventus and Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini for three matches for elbowing AS Roma's Miralem Pjanic in the face during his side's 1-0 win at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday. The decision means Chiellini will miss the Serie A champions' last game of the season against Cagliari next weekend and their first two matches of the 2014-15 campaign, unless the club successfully appeals. A Serie A statement said the referee did not see Chiellini elbow Pjanic, even though he blew up for an illegal block on the Bosnian playmaker during a freekick. Italy coach Cesare Prandelli usually drops players temporarily while they are serving disciplinary bans in accordance with his code for the national team. But ANSA sources said the coach was set to include Chiellini, one of his best players, in his preliminary 30-man World Cup squad, as he did consider the code of conduct to apply in this case.

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Nainggolan: Juventus deserved to win Scudetto May 12, 2014 Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan has revealed that Juventus were worthy winners of the Scudetto. The Bianconeri defeated Roma 1-0 on Sunday, taking their lead over the Giallorossi to 14 points, but the Belgian stated the Turin club have deserved their triumph due to their red hot form. “Conte’s squad deserved the title,” Nainggolan told Sky Sport Italia on Sunday. “I think that the team has had a great season and made many points, we broke the club’s point record, even though Juventus were even better. “We must not get some games wrong next year to be able to compete more.” Roma have collected 85 points, three more than 2007/2008 Luciano Spalletti-led squad, which previously held the club’s record, and ten more than Fabio Capello’s side that won Scudetto in 2001. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Title holders end Roma's home unbeaten streak May 12, 2014 Already champions of Italy, nothing but continued success can satisfy the appetite of this Antonio Conte led Juventus. The first team to win away to Roma, the Old Lady has now collected 99 points in the league and could well make it 102 next week at home to Cagliari. A prestigious game between the two best teams in Italy, it was tactical, it was technical and it was passionate. But it ended 1-0. With the two best defences taking one-another on, goals were always going to be hard to come by. But Juventus were measured, precise and fluid and that's what made the difference in the capital city tonight. A team that at times forces the issue in attack, they are never quite as devastating or as delicious to watch as when they demonstrate teamwork and work with one-another to maintain precision and accuracy to penetrate tight defences. Occupying the right positions, looking for the right man, the intelligent decisions were made for the Old Lady to score and win the match. The curse of the ex-player suggests it was always going to be Pablo Osvaldo who dealt the killer blow, much like it was Simone Padoin who managed against Atalanta. With both sides capable in attack and defensively sound, many expected a cagey affair, two teams that simply fought in midfield. However, it was a match that perfectly demonstrated the philosophies of both sides. Roma with their pace in attack and excellent dribbles and Juventus with their masterful teamwork and fluid passing game. Played with great intensity to laugh in the face of cliches regarding Italian nonchalance, Gervinho’s speed exposed Juve’s weakness while simultaneously showing them what they are indeed missing. Adopting a high position on the field, the Ivorian busied the Bianconeri centre-backs and waited for his team to win back possession and allow him to launch forward at high speed. With Giorgio Chiellini grabbing a yellow card, it was difficult to commit the necessary challenges but in essence, had Gervinho possessed more intelligence and made better decisions, he would have certainly grabbed a goal for his side. Defensively, it’s important that Juventus close up space and remain concentrated. Too often when the Giallorossi play with speed, they are capable of opening up the gaps at the back. Several Juve players went to close down the man on the ball leaving runners such as Gervinho to exploit the gap in-between the players. On one occasion, Chiellini ought to have better positioned his body to maintain awareness while Kwadwo Asamoah needed to tighten. The Ghanian is impeccably useful in defence but he must learn to push up when the team needs another body on the wing during the attacking phase of the game. Too often Paul Pogba was left wanting, needing a man to help him stretch the Roman backline so he could penetrate the space but instead Asamoah was too deep, not pushing forward enough to lend a helping hand. By the time he did move into the right attacking positions, Rudi Garcia’s boys had already reassembled themselves to shut down any potential threat. Roma tried in many ways to make most they had of space to volley the ball, to hit with pace but when the Bianconeri defence dropped concentration, Marco Storari was on hand to make vital saves. In fact the match was a wonderful demonstration of great goalkeeping with the Giallorossi's Lukasz Skorupski pulling off the spectacular to keep the likes of Fernando Llorente and the rest of Juve at bay. Speaking of the Spaniard, he demonstrated all his great qualities in this important match. His wonderful turn, his ability to hold the ball and the manner in which he taunted Mehdi Benatia should have resulted in a goal. Unfortunately for him, one is quick to forget his brilliance when he surrenders possession so easily, provoking great frustration. The striker, who benefited from Carlos Tevez’s movement today will continue to grow and settle in and hopefully offer even more next season. However, there ought to be no room for criticism on Juventus today. All their players, including Osvaldo who scored the goal in dedication to the side he has grown to love, deserve to celebrate. They won the festival of great Italian football. They will continue to accept criticism for certain European performances but domestically they are superior to the rest, both physically and psychologically. They continue to push themselves forward until the final moments of each game. For that, the fans are grateful, appreciative of this dedicated squad and its imperious manager. In his postmatch comments, Conte implied he may explore other avenues and one has to understand his position. The Old Lady's supporters are never satisfied and always demanding greater achievements and it's what makes the club glorious but also what makes them a difficult team to stay with. This current squad may not possess the power to compete with the world’s best but contrary to what the manager says, it is worthy of greater accomplishments should they reinforce this summer. The midfield is outstanding, combining the skills of the three highly coveted players in the world. The backline is the one that helped Cesare Prandelli reach the Euro 2012 final and will represent Italy in Brazil while the forward line has proved exceptional for their first season in Serie A. With greater quality on the wings and more intelligence upfront, there is every reason to believe in European success in the future. Fans pray Conte will commit. If he does, success is all but guaranteed but if he doesn’t, the Bianconeri will continue along their path and will find their way back to the top. They won before him and they will after him. It is the structure, the framework, the devotion of the great Agnelli family and the pioneering work of all who work within Juve’s walls that has put the team at the forefront of calcio and for that reason, we must trust in the vision. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Roma vs. Juventus: 4 Things We Learned May 12, 2014 This game could have decided the Scudetto. Instead, it had no bearing on the standings. And yet, Juventus played with almost a full squad, and even at 0-0 for most of the match, they kept on going for the win. It was Dani Osvaldo who scored the winner right before the final whistle, picking this moment against his former team to score his first Serie A goal with the Bianconeri. The Juventus players all ran onto the pitch to celebrate. It was like they won the title all over again, though they had won another title of sorts. They now have 99 points this season: a Serie A record. Inter had amassed 97 during the 2006-07 season. Questions persist about the quality of opposition, whether Juventus really are as good as the stats suggest. But this is historic. This is a team that does not rest. This squad is managed by Antonio Conte, after all. Here are several things we learned from the match that wasn’t so meaningless. Osvaldo Makes Late Case His buyout clause remains £15.6 million, per the BBC, and Osvaldo isn’t worth that much. He has played mostly off the bench at Juventus. This goal was unexpected. He was all alone in the box, but he blasted the ball into the corner. The shot was actually on net. He has put just two shots on goal in 13 attempts, per ESPN FC, in Serie A. But this was timed well. He put his hand to his ear to hear the abuse. Roma had shooed him away last year. He had fights in training, and so off he went to Southampton. There, he had the same issues, but not so with Juventus. Osvaldo told Juventus.com: “The best thing was the hug from my team-mates. They were almost happier than I was! I respect my old teammates, and have many friends still in Rome, but now I’m at Juventus and I’d like to stay here, just as I’d like to go to the World Cup.” The Back-Ups Show Their Talent Marco Storari is simply as solid a back-up goalkeeper as you can find in Italy. We don’t hear anything negative from him. He genuinely appears happy to be playing with a championship team, as a teammate of Gianluigi Buffon. Storari is now 37, and he was last a full-time starter with Messina from 2003-2007. He could still start elsewhere, for a lesser club, if he'd like. But he is still sharp. In Rome, he was making superb saves. Across from him in net for Roma was Lukasz Skorupski, on the opposite end of age as well. The 23-year-old Polish international looked steady, and he gobbled up the ball and dove to save it. Roma Still Find Positives in Season Roma lost in the end, but coach Rudi Garcia said that the result does not “change this extraordinary season we’ve had,” as per Roma's official Twitter account. Indeed it was: a club-record haul in points (85) and a second-place finish. Roma had finished the previous three seasons sixth, seventh and sixth, respectively. They're back in the Champions League. So the players did a lap around the Olimpico one last time this season, blasted balls into the stands and applauded the supporters. The players brought out their kids, and it was all festive. There was one despicable sight. Some of the Roma ultras unfurled a banner: "Forza Daniele!" Daniele De Santis is the Roma ultra charged with the attempted murder of a Neapolitan last week. Three fans were shot in the area before the Coppa Italia final. Sunday's match was pushed up three hours to avoid any problems. Another Game, Another Record for Juventus This season is about much more than a third straight championship. Juventus have left their mark in Italy in a way that they have not in Europe. Next year, the Champions League has to come first. Progress has to be made, but the records here are huge: most-ever wins in a single season in club history (32); most points ever by any Serie A club (99); and a 30th title. With a draw against Cagliari next weekend, they will reach 100 points. No other team has done that in Serie A history. Conte is still not sure of continuing with Juventus, but he is proud. He told Sky Sport Italia (h/t Football Italia) after the match: “We certainly have a lot to celebrate, as this is an incredible campaign. We’ve beaten Roberto Mancini’s Inter record of Serie A points and it will be tough for anyone to match. … Not even if my wildest dreams did I expect this the moment I sat on the Juventus bench for the first time. We broke all the records and there’s one more game to go.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Prandelli: Chiellini actions not violent May 12, 2014 Italy Coach Cesare Prandelli does not believe Giorgio Chiellini’s elbow on Roma’s Miralem Pjanic was a violent act. The Juventus man has today been banned for three Serie A matches by the Giudice Sportivo for the incident but the national boss takes a different view of proceedings. “I have looked again and again at what Chiellini did,” Prandelli said to Ansa. “For me, it is not a violent act.” The player is therefore expected to be named in the tactician’s provisional World Cup squad this week, as he will not fall foul of the 56-year-old’s code of ethics. “Do I expect criticism for my decision? My code of ethics has been controversial for four years!” Prandelli half-joked.

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Chiellini: Roma win encapsulates Conte's Juventus The Italy international has hailed the Bianconeri's coach's fine work and is determined to reach the 100-point mark this term. May 12, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini feels Juventus' hard-fought 1-0 win over Roma on Sunday perfectly encapsulates the mentality of the Turin giants under head coach Antonio Conte. A draw would have sufficed for the Serie A champions to keep them on track to reach the 100-point mark this term, but a late Pablo Osvaldo goal eventually saw them bag the full three points at the Stadio Olimpico. "I think Sunday’s victory encapsulates our team under Conte," Chiellini told reporters. “Having the strength to go on and win it in the last minute when a draw would have been enough in terms of the dream of 100 points is thanks to the desire the boss instils in us. "We played a great game, better even than we could have expected. We were playing for pride and the chance to set a new record points tally as well as showing that we’re worthy title winners." The defender then went on to admit that Juventus never thought they could hit 100 points this season, but insisted that they are determined to make it happen now that they've come this far. "Honestly I didn’t believe we’d be able to do it when we started out this season because 100 really is a lot, and any slip-up in such a difficult fixture list could have put an end to it. “Now that we’re in this position though, with the chance to achieve the objective at home, we’ll give our all to pull it off." Juventus have collected 99 points from 37 games so far. They meet Cagliari on matchday 38. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

No code of ethics for Chiellini May 12, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini reportedly does not risk being dropped from Italy contention, as Cesare Prandelli has apparently assessed his weekend elbow. The Juventus defender was caught by television replays during yesterday evening’s 1-0 win at Roma catching Miralem Pjanic in the face with his left arm, whilst jostling in anticipation of an Andrea Pirlo free-kick. The player’s post-match interview saw him deny the incident was intentional and Il Messaggero today report that Italy Coach Prandelli is of the same opinion. Prandelli has brought in a much-discussed code of ethics as part of his four years so far in charge of the national team, to encourage players to behave on the pitch or risk being omitted from future squads. Whilst the likes of Dani Osvaldo and Daniele De Rossi have recently fallen foul of this, Il Messaggero report that, in approaching the World Cup, Chiellini will not, as Prandelli has reviewed his weekend incident and considers his action not violent, but involuntary.

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Osvaldo: I’ve grown at Juve May 12, 2014 Dani Osvaldo has commented on his gratitude towards Juventus, who have allowed him to “grow both as a professional and as a person.” The striker is coming to the end of an initial six-month loan spell with the Bianconeri, after falling out of favour at Southampton. Whilst only on the verges of first team activity with Juve, the Italy international has only positive things to say, having netted his first League goal for the club to decide their Week 37 meeting with his former side Roma. “The goal was great, particularly because it has not been an easy year for me,” Osvaldo has considered afterwards to JTV. “It was beautiful, especially for the celebration of my teammates, who have all come together to embrace me, the Coach included, and the staff. “I have so much respect for everyone, this is a fantastic group, sincerely. I am honoured to be a part of this group because it has helped me to grow both as a professional and as a person, whilst this is an experience that I will never forget in my life. “This Juve are now part of history? Yes, this is what we were aiming for [the points record], the most important thing. I believe that getting into the history at a club like Juventus is not an every day thing, perhaps it will never happen again, to anyone, or for many years. “So we have to enjoy this moment because we have done something spectacular.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Conte open to Juventus exit The Italian has strongly hinted that the current campaign could be his last with the club and revealed he will clarify his future soon. May 11, 2014 Antonio Conte has admitted he will consider "other projects" after Juventus saw off Roma 1-0 on Sunday. Pablo Daniel Osvaldo came off the bench to score a last-gasp winner against his former club as Juve moved on to 99 points with a game still to play, two better than the landmark set by Inter in 2006-07. With a third top-flight title under his belt, Conte has emerged as one of Europe's leading coaches and is likely to attract attention from some of the continent's other top clubs. He told Sky Sport Italia: "I repeat, these three years have been fantastic and I asked so much from these players, who gave me everything I wanted. "I generally don’t agree with a sabbatical, but if there was a unity of ideas to leave with great affection and respect, then I would evaluate other projects that intrigue me. "These things go in cycles and I've already told the club what I think. We will soon clarify the situation." Conte then turned his focus to celebrating another successful campaign and a victory over a Roma side he holds in the highest regard. "We certainly have a lot to celebrate, as this is an incredible campaign," he said. "We've beaten Roberto Mancini's Inter record of Serie A points and it will be tough for anyone to match. "We've beaten our direct rivals on their home turf, a splendid Roma side that kept us alive with the right fear and respect throughout the season. Only a great Juve could have maintained this tempo and we're proud to have done it." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Chiellini: 'I didn't elbow Pjanic' May 11, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini insists he did not purposefully elbow Miralem Pjanic. “I was just trying to block him.” The Juventus defender was in the wall awaiting an Andrea Pirlo free kick when caught on camera raising an elbow to Pjanic’s face in the 1-0 win over Roma. “It was a manly game with some determined challenges from both sides,” Chiellini told Mediaset Premium and Sky Sport Italia. “I apologised to Pjanic for the contact, but there are no problems between us. In games like this I’ve given a few knocks and received quite a few as well. “I wasn’t trying to elbow him, as I was just trying to block him from moving out of the wall, the same way you do in basketball. We were jostling each other, the referee saw and evaluated everything. “You can’t say that just glancing by someone is the same as punching them in the face. People are trying to build up controversy that doesn’t exist.” Nonetheless, the incident could be put forward as video evidence for the Disciplinary Commission with the risk of a three-match ban. It also threatens to break Cesare Prandelli’s Code of Ethics for the Italy squad ahead of the World Cup. However, if the referee did indeed evaluate it and write this into his report, then video evidence becomes inadmissible. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Pogba: 'Juve are the best' May 11, 2014 Paul Pogba said the 1-0 win over Roma proved Juventus “are the strongest team in Italy. Now we want 100 points.” The Bianconeri had already secured the Scudetto and looked set for a 0-0 draw at the Stadio Olimpico until Daniel Osvaldo’s 94th minute winner. “We proved that we are a great team, the strongest in Italy,” Pogba told Sky Sport Italia. “It was not an easy game against one of the best sides in Serie A, so we are happy with this great result.” Juventus are now on 99 points, a new Serie A record, and can become the first team to reach triple figures. “100 points was not our primary objective, as we wanted to win the Scudetto. Now that we are here, we can’t wait to clamber over that final wall.” Pogba was asked about his future amid interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, Real Madrid and more. “I am happy at Juve. I am just focused on finishing the season well.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ All bark, no bite: Roma lack Juventus' killer instinct The Giallorossi were arguably the better team in their 1-0 defeat to Antonio Conte's men on Sunday but once again showed they are not quite at the champions' level. May 11, 2014 Roma have had a brilliant season, casting aside their sleeping giants tag, but Sunday's last-minute defeat to Juventus was evidence that they have some way to go before being the Bianconeri's equals. A cacophony of boos greeted Pablo Osvaldo on to the pitch when Antonio Conte sent him on with the tie looking destined for a 0-0 stalemate. Perhaps motivated by the negative reception from the Stadio Olimpico faithful he ditched for Southampton last summer, he gladly accepted the role of villain by scoring the winner with practically the last kick of the game. Grinning with masochistic delight as the loanee walked on to the pitch he spent two years playing at regularly, Osvaldo did not see much of the ball but deep in stoppage-time ruined Roma's final home game of the season by striking smoothly into the top corner from inside the box. As they watched their former hero hold his hand up his ear, Roma fans must have wondered how differently their season could have ended had they kept up the stunning start to 2013-14 they unexpectedly showed. Their incredible winning streak - 10 wins in a row from the opening game - saw them sit at the top of the league for a long while, threatening to usurp Juve as kings of Italy. But draws became commonplace for the Giallorossi, while Juve were typically ruthless, winning every single one of their home games and only dropping points in five Serie A matches heading into the Stadio Olimpico clash. And, again, Roma's lack of bite was evident on Sunday. The hosts were arguably the better team on the evening, threatening stand-in Bianconeri shot-stopper Marco Storari on a number of occasions, yet they could not break the deadlock. Vasilis Torosidis put the ball in the back of the net but it was correctly disallowed as the defender had clearly scored (albeit accidentally) with his hand, Gervinho fluffed a one-on-one chance as half-time lingered and substitute Alessandro Florenzi was unfortunate to be denied a rebound goal late on. But, thanks to Osvaldo's first Serie A goal of the season, Juve provided a timely reminder that it is small margins which ultimately decide title winners. Roma simply have not shown that killer instinct which the Scudetto holders have in abundance. It is far from a bleak future for Rudi Garcia's men, however. Miralem Pjanic's new deal - announced just before kick-off - is brilliant news considering the super 12 months he has enjoyed and the midfielder was probably the best player on the pitch on Sunday. Gervinho has shed his Arsenal skin and shown why the Gunners splashed out for him in the first place by shining under his former Lille coach Garcia in a Giallorossi shirt. Marshalled in midfield by Daniele de Rossi, the capital club definitely could fight for the title until the last day next year if they bolster up their squad in the summer, patch up their weak spots and learn to finish off teams. But this Serie A season has once again belonged to Juventus as they sit one win or draw away from becoming the first Italian team to break the 100-point barrier. They might be their equals in the near future, but for now Roma will have to accept that they and everyone else in the league remain in Juve's shadow. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Conte: 'I'd evaluate projects' May 11, 2014 Antonio Conte said he will “clarify” his Juventus position and then potentially “evaluate other projects that intrigue me.” The Coach spoke to Sky Sport Italia after a 1-0 victory away to Roma, which took them to 99 points. “We certainly have a lot to celebrate, as this is an incredible campaign. We’ve beaten Roberto Mancini’s Inter record of Serie A points and it will be tough for anyone to match. “We’ve beaten our direct antagonists on their home turf, a splendid Roma side that kept us alive with the right fear and respect throughout the season. Only a great Juve could’ve maintained this tempo and we’re proud to have done it. “Juventus are coming off a three-year winning era, which is historic, and I am very proud to be the Coach of these splendid players. “Not even if my wildest dreams did I expect this the moment I sat on the Juventus bench for the first time. We broke all the records and there’s one more game to go. “The team is still alive and kicking despite a few nights out recently...” Conte has refused to commit his future to Juventus and was asked directly why he’d want to leave Turin. “I repeat, these three years have been fantastic and I asked so much from these players, who gave me everything I wanted. “These things go in cycles and I’ve already told the club what I think. We will soon clarify the situation. I give everything each year to every club I have worked for, as it’s part of my character. I am passionate about this sport, want to learn and grow day by day. “It is extremely difficult to do better than what we’ve achieved in three years, for us and for the teams who follow us. “In Europe I believe Juventus are worth at least top eight in the Champions League and top four in the Europa League. I don’t sell false hope to fans, as I am a realist and need to point out it’s very difficult to do better than that. “We have to see if it’s possible to do better than this. I have some doubts on that.” Conte has been linked with Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain, but confirmed he’s unlikely to take a year off. “There will be clarity over my position at Juventus over the next few days. I generally don’t agree with a Sabbatical, but if there was a unity of ideas to leave with great affection and respect, then I would evaluate other projects that intrigue me. “Obviously, if I don’t have any offers that interest me then I’d stay home, but after two or three months I’d start driving my family crazy!” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Garcia: 'Loss doesn't change Roma' WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS, MY FRIEND! May 11, 2014 Rudi Garcia insists the defeat to Juventus “doesn’t change the extraordinary season” Roma have had. The showdown at the Olimpico had been moving towards a goalless draw before Daniel Osvaldo netted deep into stoppages. “We had the best chance to score and didn’t take it. When it’s 0-0 anything can happen,” Coach Garcia told Sky Sport Italia. “This doesn’t change the extraordinary season we’ve had, I am truly happy with this campaign and hope we can set this appointment to face Juve again next year.” Morgan De Sanctis was injured, so Polish 23-year-old goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski had his first Serie A start. “We knew he was very good, but he needs to play so we can see how he handles the pressure. Tonight in front of 60,000 people against the Serie A leaders was a tough test and he passed it.” Mattia Destro returned after a four-match ban and struggled to make an impact, as his World Cup call is still in the balance. “It’s only normal after a four-match ban to not be in perfect shape. A few of my players were lacking match fitness, including Michel Bastos, and it showed. Miralem Pjanic has signed a contract extension and Roma will now negotiate a new deal with Garcia. “This is not the time to talk about that. I can’t wait to run round the pitch and thank the fans, because they deserve it. Right, I have to go and celebrate!” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

ROMA 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (90+4′) May 11, 2014 - 5:45 PM Olimpico Stadium — Rome Referee:‬ Carmine Russo Attendance:‬ 39000‎ Pogba: Juventus now want to reach 100 points The Serie A champions beat Roma on Sunday and the Frenchman is determined to end the season on a high next week. May 11, 2014 Paul Pogba says Juventus have set their sights on reaching the 100-point mark in Serie A this season following their 1-0 away win over Roma on Sunday. A single Pablo Osvaldo strike in the dying seconds of the match at the Stadio Olimpico saw Juve emerge victorious and move to 99 points form 37 games and they are determined to add three more points to their tally against Cagliari next week. "Collecting 100 points wasn’t our original aim, that was winning the Scudetto," Pogba told reporters. "We’re going for it now though and I think we can do it." Pogba then went on to admit that Roma made life hard for Juventus, but he feels the reigning champions showed they are a great team. "We demonstrated once again that we’re a great team, because it wasn’t an easy game. “We were up against a good side, one of the best in Italy, so we’re happy to have got the result." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111