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JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni All of Italy's against Juventus, says Chiellini The defender claims the rest of Serie A is desperate to see the champions lose but considers it a compliment based on their domestic dominance. Apr 7, 2014 Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini says the rest of Italy are out to end the club's spell of dominance in Serie A. The champions are five points clear at the top of the table with seven games remaining and on track to claim their third consecutive Scudetto crown. There were joyous celebrations as Napoli, third in the standings, ended Juve's 22-match unbeaten streak courtesy of a shock 2-0 victory last weekend, but Chiellini took the euphoria as a compliment to the Bianconeri's overwhelming success since their promotion from Serie B in 2007. "I don't think it was excessive, it was just the simple celebration of those who want to win and not finish second," the 29-year-old told Tuttosport. "It's been Juve versus the rest of Italy since the start of the season. "When Juventus lose, everyone celebrates because they hope the title race will be open again. The more you win, the less people like you. "Of course, I hope next year they'll like us even less..." Last weekend's loss opened the door, albeit slightly, for second-placed Roma, who have now played one game more than Antonio Conte's men. The leaders have the chance to bounce back when they host relegation-threatened Livorno on Monday and Chiellini knows victory at Juventus Stadium would dent any lingering title hopes in the capital. "We have the Scudetto in our grasp, but that doesn't mean we've already won it," said Chiellini. "Now we need to bring it home. The fixture list might appear simple on paper, but there are dangers, starting from Livorno. "On the other hand, Roma can play without pressure. They've had an amazing campaign, beyond their best expectations."

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juventus-Livorno Betting Preview: Depleted hosts to make the breakthrough after half-time Antonio Conte's men are overwhelming favourites to beat the strugglers, but there is value in backing the majority of the goals to go in after the break. Apr 7, 2014 Juventus will be looking to bounce back from last week’s 2-0 defeat at Napoli when they welcome struggling Livorno to Turin on Monda. That result ended the Bianconeri's 22-match unbeaten streak in Serie A and they are 1/6 (1.17) favourites with bet365 to get straight back to winning ways tonight. Domenico Di Carlo’s men have won just three of their last 20 league fixtures but are available at 18/1 (19.00) to pull themselves out of the bottom three with a shock victory at the home of the champions. The hosts have not dropped a single point at home all season, but you can get odds of 11/2 (6.50) on them settling for a draw this evening. Despite their setback in Naples, Antonio Conte’s men demonstrated exactly why they have dominated their league for the past few season in Thursday’s Europa League win at Olympique Lyonnais. Having failed to impose themselves on a tight game in an attacking sense, the Italians eventually came away with an invaluable away victory after centre-back Lenoardo Bonucci struck a scrappy late winner from a corner. Conte’s team have consistently found a way to win without truly sparkling this campaign and should require this never-say-die attitude more than ever tonight due to their current injury list. A hectic schedule has finally caught up with the hosts, depriving them of injured top scorer Carlos Tevez and suspended star midfielder Arturo Vidal for the clash against a Labronici side reinvigorated by last weekend’s comeback in the 2-2 draw against Inter. Patience may therefore by required of the home crowd this evening, with odds of 21/20 (2.05) looking a sensible option on a spirited Livorno performance ensuring that the majority of the goals go in after half-time. That bet would have paid out in four of Juventus’ last six games, as well as four of the visitors’ last five away from home. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juventus v Livorno – Team News, Tactics, Line-ups And Prediction Apr 7, 2014 It’s the business end of the season and the games are approaching thick and fast. Juventus are battling out for titles on two fronts. Their midweek Europa League tussle against Lyon didn’t make for the most attractive of showings yet in what has become the norm off late, they managed to grind out a slender victory. Indeed, the Bianconeri haven’t been as assertive as we’ve grown used to yet they always manage to get the job done. Fatigue is a valid alibi in a congested fixture list but it’s something a team of their caliber must get used to. Roma’s win over Cagliari means the gap at the top of the table has been cut down to 5 points. Although you could say that Juventus do have the easier run-in with the penultimate game against Roma the only real hurdle left. The potential Europa League fixtures placed in between could make things a bit difficult for the Champions but they do have the depth in the squad to bag both the titles they are currently in the running for. Team news and tactics Juventus Last weekend’s lackluster loss to Napoli was only Juve’s second loss of the campaign. Their last, triggered a record breaking winning streak. Conte will hope his side come up with the same reaction. Arturo Vidal is suspended for this one so Claudio Marchisio will enter the fray to take his place. The much praised Juventus midfield has been almost invisible in recent games. Players are off form and they’ve found it hard to establish authority and command. That was most evident when Leonardo Bonucci was forced to distribute from the back against Lyon. The defender launched countless wayward deliveries to his forwards that only intensified the frustration. To his credit though, he did put the ball in the back of the net, that turned out to be the winner. Pablo Osvaldo is expected to partner Mirko Vucinic in attack as Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente might be given a much needed and deserved breather. Osvaldo, since bursting onto the scene for Juventus in the Europa League, has since seen his form disappear. The former Roma striker has yet to score for his new club in the league and has come under much scrutiny given his less than impressive performances. Andrea Barzagli, Simone Pepe and Angelo Ogbonna should sit this one out with injuries. Expected starting line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Osvaldo, Vucinic Livorno A contrast to their illustrious opponents, Livorno are in the pits of Serie A. A draw against Inter last weekend saw them pick up a vital point that keeps alive their hopes of survival. Livorno lie in 18th place in the league charts with just two points behind Bologna. Di Carlo’s men have seven games of unadulterated struggle to look forward to but there could be a light at the end of the tunnel that could see them retain their Serie A status. It won’t be easy though and to make things worse, they have to contend with injuries to key players. Luci, Emerson, Rinaudo and Mbaye are all out of the fixture and it remains unclear whether top scorer Paulinho will start for the visitors. His absence will be a major blow for the Tuscan based outfit as his contribution of 12 goals so far has kept them alive in the league, just about. Hopes will be pinned on the shoulders of young hot-shot Francesco Bardi. The young Italian keeper has come to the fore this season with excellent performances. His outings in the summer u21 Euros allowed him a platform to showcase his precocious talent and he’s steadily improving with time. Livorno are expected to sit back and crowd out their midfield in a bid to make life difficult for Juventus. It won’t be easy for Juventus to break them down and with fatigue a possible factor, Livorno won’t think twice about counter-attacking the Bianconeri. Expected starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Bardi (GK); Ceccherini, Valentini, Castellini; Piccini, Benassi, Biagianti, Duncan, Mesbah; Siligardi, Emeghara Player to watch-out for Paul Pogba (Juventus) Speculation as you would expect, has been at a maximum around Paul Pogba’s future. Every new week brings with it a new flurry of rumors about a move beyond Italy. On the field however, the young Frenchman has blown hot and cold. Since the turn of the year, Pogba’s form has dipped and rarely has he been as outstanding as we’ve come to expect. Yet, you tend to forget that he’s still at the tender age of 21 and far from a finished product. Pogba, though, has the potential to decide the course of a game with the flick of his boot and will see Livorno as the perfect opportunity to get some form going. Prediction Juventus 2-0 Livorno The home side are heavy favorites at the impenetrable fortress that is the Juventus Stadium. Having won all their home games in Serie A this campaign, it is almost foolish to look at a result that doesn’t see the Champions pick up the three points. Juventus will aim to finish off the game as quickly as possible and leave a bit in the tank ahead of their second leg against Lyon. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juventus vs. Livorno Preview: Round 32 — The start of something new? You know, like a new unbeaten streak. Funny how that works... Apr 7, 2014 Juventus' first 90 minutes in a post-Napoli loss world looked a lot like the four weeks building up to it. It was a struggle, something that has become all too familiar to us Juventini these days. For better or worse, it's seems as though being completely frustrated is a requirement to watch Juve these days. What we discovered is that a league loss wasn't the straightaway cure like it was the first time this season. Different kinds of situations, sure, but also the same kind of losses. Bad, bad losses. The only losses we've seen Juventus suffer in Serie A this season. So much for immediate gratification, huh, folks? Now with everybody saying the Scudetto race is back on with Roma being five points behind Juventus, a team at the opposite end of the table comes to Turin for a little Monday night football. This Livorno side is far from trying to stave off another team to win the league title. Far from it. When Livorno takes the Juventus Stadium field, they know full well that they need points in the worst possible way. But in a way, you could say that Juventus is also a desperate team. Desperate in a sense that they want to try and get back to how they were playing a few months ago. Desperate to stop this run of form where they seem to only win by inches with sub-par performance after sub-par performance. Desperate to score more than one goal in a game. And, probably above all else, desperate to get back to winning in Serie A. What will it be, fellas? Three points would be cool. So would two or three goals. Oh, and a shutout. GOOD NEWS Juventus are at home, in Turin, and will be in front of what will be a sold out crowd. If there's ever a time to maybe get a little extra motivated to try and turn this run of poor form around, it's tomorrow night. The schedule is in their favor with one of Serie A's worst teams coming to Turin and they're going to be home all week. Can't draw it up better than that. BAD NEWS I'm just going to steal from the Lyon preview that went live on Wednesday because it still applies to Juventus today. Why? Because not much has changed over the last few days. If you have watched Juventus lately, you pretty much know things aren't going so hot right now. There are wins and the lead atop Serie A is still pretty comfortable, but the team's actual form has been pretty darn ugly. Winning ugly is one thing, but Napoli pretty reminded us of what we already knew — Juventus isn't playing well at all right now. The lead atop Serie A is a little smaller than it was a few days ago, but Juventus is still being Juventus right now. And this current version of Juventus we've seen the last four or six weeks, ain't the Juventus we saw the last time Juventus played Livorno. And just like against Lyon on Thursday, there will be no Arturo Vidal due to a yellow card suspension. Dammit. At least the guy will be well rested for Lyon's visit to Turin later in the week. WHAT TO WATCH FOR 1. Can Juventus snap out of this funk — at least a little bit. At this point, it seems pretty certain that things aren't going to all be fixed in 90 minutes. As much as we would like that to happen so that Juventus doesn't make us want to pull our hair out, it just doesn't seem realistic at this point. The more realistic thing that might happen is small, baby steps instead of one giant step that involves crushing the opponent. For all the 1-0 wins Juve have had recently, they haven't been pretty. The last time Juve played Livorno, it was towards the start of their unbeaten run, the part where they were blowing right past almost every opponent in Italy. This time, though, things are a little different. And maybe, just maybe, we can get back to the way things used to be. 2. Can Andrea Pirlo get back to being Andrea Pirlo? I think it's pretty safe to say that the bearded was shut down by Lyon on Thursday night. There were a few moments of Pirlo brilliance, a few perfectly-threaded passes to his teammates, but that's about it. Lyon's man-marking of Pirlo worked almost as well as anybody has accomplished this season. Something else I feel safe in saying: Livorno is not on Lyon's level, just as Lyon is probably not on Napoli's level. And with that, you hope that lesser competition turns out to be the something kick-starts Pirlo 3. If Carlos Tévez plays like he's at full strength. For one of the few times this season, Juve's No. 10 was rather ineffective before coming off due to an apparent leg injury against Lyon. Even though he did have to come off before the final whistle just a few days ago, Tévez has been included in Juve's 21-man squad by Antonio Conte for tomorrow night's game against Livorno and there's no reason to think he won't be in the starting lineup based on the "No news is good news" theory. You just hope whatever was tweak the other night in France doesn't become a lingering problem. 4. Who will be Tévez's strike partner. Some places say Fernando Llorente, other places say Dani Osvaldo. The only certainty is that Tévez is starting. The complete uncertainty, at least from the outside looking in, is that predicting who will start alongside Carlitos Neither player stands out when it comes to how they're performing as of late, so there's that. My own gut feeling is that Antonio Conte will probably stick with Llorente and Tevez because that's what Conte does — when in doubt, go with the players that have gotten you to this point. And while I'd like to see somebody else maybe get a shot at showing what they can do these days, my gut just can't stop talking to me. (And it's not because I'm hungry.) My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Tevez OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 7 P.M. IN ITALY; 1 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 10 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO .................................. Serie A - 13^ giornata - Ritorno - 7-4-2014 (ore 19:00) Juventus Stadium, Torino Arbitro: Andrea Gervasoni Confronti ufficiali 45 - 33 (Serie A) - 12 (Campionato a gironi) Vittorie Juventus 30 - 23 (Serie A) - 7 (Campionato a gironi) Pareggi 11 - 7 (Serie A) - 4 (Campionato a gironi) Vittorie Livorno 4 - 3 (Serie A) - 1 (Campionato a gironi) Goals Juventus 106 - 79 (Serie A) - 27 (Campionato a gironi) Goals Livorno 40 - 30 (Serie A) - 10 (Campionato a gironi) Juventus - Livorno in campionato a Torino Giocate: 16 Vittorie Juventus: 14 (l'ultima il 19.09.2009, 2-0) Pareggi: 1 (il 05.12.1948, 2-2) Vittorie Livorno: 1 (l'11.01.1942, 2-3) Goals Juventus: 49 Goals Livorno: 16 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Livorno a Torino in Serie A dal 1929/1930 6 presenze Depetrini Teobaldo 6 Rava Pietro 6 Varglien I Mario 5 Foni Alfredo 4 Borel II Felice Placido 4 Locatelli Ugo 4 Monti Luis 4 Parola Carlo 4 Rosetta Virginio 4 Sentimenti III Vittorio 7 goals Lustha Riza 4 Trezeguet David Sergio 3 Boniperti Giampiero 3 Iaquinta Vincenzo 2 Borel II Felice Placido 2 Camoranesi Mauro German 2 Cergoli Francesco 2 Del Piero Alessandro 2 Ferrari Giovanni 2 Ibrahimovic Zlatan Ultimi confronti diretti 18.04.1949 Serie A Livorno-Juventus 1-3 09.01.2005 Serie A Juventus-Livorno 4-2 22.05.2005 Serie A Livorno-Juventus 2-2 06.11.2005 Serie A Juventus-Livorno 3-0 18.03.2006 Serie A Livorno-Juventus 1-3 25.08.2007 Serie A Juventus-Livorno 5-1 27.01.2008 Serie A Livorno-Juventus 1-3 19.09.2009 Serie A Juventus-Livorno 2-0 06.02.2010 Serie A Livorno-Juventus 1-1 24.11.2013 Serie A Livorno-Juventus 0-2 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 8 - Pareggi 2 - Vittorie Livorno 0 - Goals Juventus 28 - Goals Livorno 9

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juventus and Livorno squads Apr 6, 2014 Juventus are still without Andrea Barzagli and have Arturo Vidal suspended for their game with injury-hit Livorno. It kicks off on Monday at 19.00 CET. Angelo Ogbonna returns to the squad, but Barzagli remains sidelined along with Simone Pepe. Vidal sits out a Serie A ban after he was also suspended for the Europa League quarter-final against Lyon on Thursday. Carlos Tevez hobbled off during that 1-0 win in France and is in the squad, but could well be rested tomorrow. Livorno have to do without Andrea Luci, Emerson and Ibrahima Mbaye, as they are all sidelined, but there are no disciplinary concerns for Coach Mimmo Di Carlo. Juventus squad: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Marchisio, Vucinic, Tevez, Giovinco, Peluso, Llorente, Osvaldo, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Lichtsteiner, Quagliarella, Storari, Isla, Rubinho Livorno squad: Bardi, Anania, Aldegani; Piccini, Gemiti, Coda, Ceccherini, Mesbah, Castellini, Valentini, Tiritiello; Biagianti, Duncan, Greco, Mosquera, Benassi, Bartolini; Siligardi, Paulinho, Borja, Emeghara, Belfodil http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hgqpFwlD4o

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Di Carlo: 'Livorno can surprise Juve' Apr 6, 2014 Domenico Di Carlo said Livorno have no fear of Serie A leaders Juventus. “We hope to pull a surprise.” “Sooner or later, a surprise can happen and we hope to pull a surprise,” Coach Di Carlo told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “Football is unpredictable. Don’t forget two years ago Juve drew here with Lecce around this time of the season and last term they lost to Sampdoria. “Of course, Juventus are having an extraordinary campaign and at times I hear criticism of them that is frankly inopportune. Antonio Conte is a perfectionist, just like me. “However, we can still hope they have an off day and we get the perfect game.” The Amaranto already caused an upset last week, fighting back from 2-0 down to hold Inter 2-2. “Against the big clubs you must know how to suffer under pressure and then hit them on the break to make the most of any distractions. “We are in the right condition to pick up points anywhere we can. Obviously I have to consider the overall situation as well.” This may well be a reference to the rumour Livorno will rest Paulinho, as he is on a yellow card and they cannot afford to miss him against Chievo next week. “Innocent Emeghara and Paulinho form a partnership that has technique, physicality and depth. I tried to bring confidence, enthusiasm, sense of belonging and the courage to dare. “The group is young, but these lads follow me and enjoy their football. When they get things wrong, they learn from their mistakes. “Set plays are fundamental and at times I shout at the players in the locker room because they ought to try out a few more training ground exercises. We are always looking for new options. “We have grown through the suffering this season because we are not afraid and want to go beyond our limitations.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Chiellini: 'Juve against Italy' Apr 6, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini admits “it’s Juventus against the rest of Italy,” but he is happy to be successful and disliked. The defender spoke to Tuttosport ahead of Monday’s game with Livorno. “We have the Scudetto in our grasp, but that doesn’t mean we’ve already won it,” said Chiellini after their lead over Roma was cut to eight points. “Now we need to bring it home. The fixture list might appear simple on paper, but there are dangers, starting from Livorno. “On the other hand, Roma can play without pressure. They’ve had an amazing campaign, beyond their rosiest expectations. I hope Napoli won’t mind me saying this, but the Giallorossi have second place guaranteed. “Therefore all the pressure is on us. We are accustomed to that and want to achieve something historic. 100 points? That is a secondary target, as we are focused on two things: the third Scudetto in a row and to go all the way in the Europa League.” There was controversy this week when Juve director Beppe Marotta complained Napoli “looked like a provincial team” when celebrating their 2-0 victory over the leaders. “I don’t think it was excessive, it was just the simple celebration of those who want to win and not finish second,” insisted Chiellini. “Is it Juve against the rest of Italy? It’s been like that since the start of the season. When Juventus lose, everyone celebrates because they hope the title race will be open again. The more you win, the less people like you. Of course, I hope next year they’ll like us even less... “Are we less entertaining now than at the start of our run? It’s only natural, as our opponents have studied us for three years now. At the time we were the only side to start attacking moves from the back. Now even teams fighting for survival involve their goalkeeper.” While Juventus continue to dominate in Italy, they went out of the Champions League in the group phase, but as luck would have it the Europa League Final is in Turin this season. “The Europa League was in our destiny, as the snow in Istanbul is an event that will never happen again. We will try in the Europa League, but our focus must remain on the Scudetto. “As for myself, I have a deal with the directors and we’ll soon meet to discuss a contract renewal. As soon as we have a little time, that is, as the fixture list is still packed.” Chiellini was also asked about the World Cup and whether he’d bring Francesco Totti or Antonio Cassano to Brazil. “I think both of them would deserve it. They are champions and the Nazionale is their home. The Coach will decide.”

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni MATCH PREVIEW Apr 6, 2014 While Juventus are closing in on a third consecutive Scudetto, opponents Livorno remain in relegation danger. The Bianconeri suffered a setback last weekend, relinquishing their 22-match unbeaten Serie A run following a 2-0 defeat at Napoli. The Partenopei scored in either half, with Juve unable to get out of the blocks. Coach Antonio Conte confessed his side was second best on the day. Not aiding Juve has been the combination of a packed fixture list and a number of injuries. Gianluigi Buffon conceded that progressing through Europe and flying towards the Scudetto has been difficult with a number of players missing over the past month. However, Juve will take winning momentum into the clash after their Europa League triumph versus Lyon. Carlos Tevez returns from suspension, but Arturo Vidal has reached the yellow card limit. Federico Peluso is available, while Andrea Barzagli and Angelo Ogbonna remain uncertainties. Simone Pepe will miss the match. Livorno showed promise in recovering from a two-goal deficit against Inter, halting a two-match losing run. Rodrigo Palacio put the Nerazzurri in command on the stroke of half-time, but Paulinho started the comeback after the interval, before a late Innocent Emeghara equaliser. It not only pushed the Tuscans further from the bottom two, but means they are just a point from safety with seven matches remaining. Labronici boss Domenico Di Carlo praised their spirit against Inter, claiming that will help them avoid the drop. “We can always improve and I was pleased with the spirit of the team. That is the way to ensure we stay up.” Emerson and Ibrahima Mbaye are set to miss up to a month through injury, while Alessandro Luci is a long-term absentee. Livorno have won just once in Turin, way back during World War II. The Bianconeri have completely dominated this fixture, winning 14 of the 16 meetings. Keep an eye on: Francesco Bardi (Livorno) – The rising star will be put to the test by Serie A’s most potent attack. A good Bardi performance between the posts can go a long way towards Livorno leaving Turin with a point. Form guide: Juventus (W W W W L) Livorno (L W L L D) Last season: Not played Stat fact: Juventus have defeated the Amaranti by three goals or more on seven occasions. JUVENTUS (probable): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Marchisio, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente LIVORNO (probable): Bardi; Ceccherini, Valentini, Castellini; Piccini, Benassi, Biaganti, Duncan, Mesbah; Emeghara, Paulinho http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Juventus want Tim Krul to replace Gianluigi Buffon? Apr 6, 2014 Serie A giants Juventus are apparently readying a £10m offer for Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul as they prepare for life after long-serving Gianluigi Buffon. Buffon is not planning to hang up his boots just yet, but the Old Lady realise that the 36-year-old can only have a season or so left in his glittering career. According to The Express, Juve have identified Magpies star Krul, who has been one of the most consistent stoppers in the Premier League since breaking into the team in 2010, to replace the 129-times capped Italian international. Krul is sweating on his World Cup place having been left out of Louis van Gaal's latest Netherlands squad and may jump at the chance to join a bigger club to improve his international chances. Juve would also be able to offer the 26-year-old Champions League football and hope this will lure him away from England this summer, although Napoli are also reportedly interested in signing him.

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juventus-Livorno Preview: Bianconeri look to bounce back against Serie A strugglers Antonio Conte's men are still clear favourites to claim a third successive Scudetto but last weekend's defeat at Napoli allowed Roma to cut their lead to eight points. Apr 6, 2014 Juventus will battle injuries and fatigue but still should be too strong for struggling Livorno on Monday. The Bianconeri are well placed to win their third successive Serie A title, sitting eight points clear of second-placed Roma with seven matches to play - though the Giallorossi have the opportunity to close the gap when they face Cagliari on Sunday. They lost just their second league match of the season last week, slipping up 2-0 at Napoli - a result that ended a 22-match unbeaten streak in Serie A. Antonio Conte's men are currently trying to negotiate their way through a tricky period, with the club's Europa League commitments often seeing them play three times a week, and their packed fixture list has led to several injury problems. Striker Carlos Tevez - the leading scorer in Serie A - is Juve's latest concern after he asked to be substituted with thigh pain in the club's 1-0 win at Lyon in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday. Tevez is likely to miss this match as a result, while star midfielder Arturo Vidal is suspended. Defensive duo Andrea Barzagli (calf) and Angelo Ogbonna (thigh) are both in doubt for the champions, who will also be without Simone Pepe due to a thigh problem. The injury problems have seen some of the club's squad players given regular game time, one of whom, Martin Caceres, has impressed greatly. The Uruguayan has replaced Barzagli with aplomb at the heart of Juve's defence and was particularly solid in the club's win at Olympique Lyonnais. Fellow defender Leonardo Bonucci - who scored late on in France - has singled out Caceres for special praise. "He's a permanent fixture for Uruguay and the only thing that's kept him out of the side is Barzagli's magnificent form," the Italy international told Juventus' official website. "He's showed he has what it takes to play for Juve. "He's a superb man-marker, very good at beating his man to the ball. He's perfectly at ease slotting into this back three." Juve will be expected to bounce back from their loss in Naples, but 18th-placed Livorno will hope their hosts are tired after their latest European exertions. Livorno - who have never played at Juventus Stadium - moved to within a point of safety after they came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw against Inter last time out. Domenico Di Carlo's side trailed by two goals at the break but produced an excellent comeback as goals from Paulinho and Innocent Emeghara saw them claim a point. The coach was delighted with the fight his side showed and will hope for a similar showing against another of the heavyweights of Italian football. History is not on their side, though - Juve have won six of the last seven meetings between the two sides. Head to Head Serie A ‎- Nov 24, 2013 - Livorno 0 - 2 Juventus Serie A ‎- Feb 6, 2010 - Livorno 1 - 1 Juventus Serie A ‎- Sep 19, 2009 - Juventus 2 - 0 Livorno Last Five Matches JUVENTUS Apr 3, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 0 - 1 Juventus - EL Mar 30, 2014 - SSC Napoli 2 - 0 Juventus - Serie A Mar 26, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 1 Parma - Serie A Mar 23, 2014 - Catania 0 - 1 Juventus - Serie A Mar 20, 2014 - Fiorentina 0 - 1 Juventus - EL LIVORNO Mar 31, 2014 - Livorno 2 - 2 FC Internazionale - Serie A Mar 26, 2014 - Atalanta 2 - 0 Livorno - Serie A Mar 22, 2014 - Torino 3 - 1 Livorno - Serie A Mar 16, 2014 - Livorno 2 - 1 Bologna - Serie A Mar 9, 2014 - Sampdoria 4 - 2 Livorno - Serie A http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Juventus News – Looking at Livorno Apr 6, 2014 How about that Bonucci! In retrospect, it feels fitting that Leonardo Bonucci would be the one to seal Juve’s 1-0 victory in Lyon, that “1” being a very precious away goal which puts the Bianconeri firmly in control of the fixture. After all, he spent most of the first half not only carrying out his usual duties as a center-back but also shouldering the burden Juve’s offense, as Lyon paid very close attention to Andrea Pirlo and deployed an almost man-to-man defense in the first half. It wasn’t pretty watching so many desperate Leo lobs to our shackled strikers, but Bonucci and Juve calmly chipped away, knowing Lyon would give out at some point in the second half. That they did, thanks in part to Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco, who provided the necessary spark and danger in front of goal. And when it was time to capitalize on some confusion in front of the Lyon net, Bonucci was there to ram home the goal which give Juve great leverage before the second leg in Turin next week. Bonucci’s performance was as good as Tuttosport’s celebratory pun was excruciating (“LYONARDO!”). Now, confidently in command of their two-legged Europa adventure (if still another goal or two shy of total security), Juve return to what has now become a slightly pressing matter: keeping Roma at least eight points behind them in Serie A. Livorno arrive in Turin on Monday evening struggling against relegation and looking to take advantage of our tired Bianconeri. Juve simply cannot afford anything less than a win, thanks to the otherwise perfunctory loss to Napoli and Roma’s 4-2 win over Parma in their rescheduled fixture. Fortunately, several players are returning to full health, everyday players are finally about to get some rest — and most importantly, Juve’s will to win never went away in the first place. Livorno Updates: Monday Match, Vidal Suspended (Again), Giovinco May Start, Juve Rule Friendly Expect Antonio Conte to delicately balance the twin imperatives of victory and squad rotation when Livorno come to town on Monday. The two most important mitigating circumstances going into the weekend will be the suspension of Arturo Vidal, who collected one too many Serie A yellow cards (and who just sat out his Europa League suspension on Thursday), and the probable absence of Carlos Tevez, who begged off around the hour mark in Lyon with a slight tweak to his aggravated muscle. In the case of Tevez, reports from Vinovo indicate that Carlitos was subbed off for precautionary measures and is relatively fine. Still, Conte will likely rest him for Livorno and save him for Lyon’s trip to Turin this coming Thursday. The good news is that Conte can choose between four strikers to pair up with Monday’s likely starter, Fernando Llorente (who was rested Thursday): Mirko Vucinic, Sebastian Giovinco, Dani Osvaldo and Fabio Quagliarella. The even better news is that perhaps for the first time all season, the entire striker corps are active and competitive with each other. On Friday afternoon, Juve thrashed a local Piedmont side, Ivrea, by a score of 10-1, but what’s even more impressive is that Vucinic, Giovinco and Quagliarella all scored (as did Simone Padoin!). Someone wants a start — bad. At the moment, Vucinic and Giovinco look like the top two choices to partner Llorente. Here’s hoping that after his great performance in Lyon, Little Seba will get another chance to impress (and continue his search for the mild scoring prowess he exhibited at Parma). It’s getting increasingly bittersweet to watch Seba create real danger and provide great energy in a match like Thursday’s, knowing that through either circumstance, injury or inconsistency he probably won’t do it again for another month. I’m not sure if Conte needs to keep playing him even if he has a rough match, or if Giovinco has to impress immediately, but either way something’s gotta give — might as well give on Monday, against a relegation-bound squad. The other interesting thing about the Ivrea practice match was that Conte fielded a 3-4-3 formation with Marco Storari in goal and Stephan Lichtsteiner and Federico Peluso manning either flank. That would seem to indicate that the latter two will reprise their roles on the wing no matter what formation Conte chooses for Monday; it’s obvious that Kwadwo Asamoah could use a rest (see below), as could Mauricio Isla, who’s been used frequently in the past month. Due to Vidal’s suspension, Paul Pogba, Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo are nearly a lock for central midfield, unless Conte wants to give Simone Padoin a chance (and one of the aforementioned three a much-needed rest). In defense, Martin Caceres might finally sit for a minute, now that Andrea Barzagli appears ready for action again. Angelo Ogbonna is set to return as well, which means Leo Bonucci or Giorgio Chiellini could also be rested. Finally, it wouldn’t be surprising if Conte swapped Storari for Gigi Buffon, given the opponents and with another match in three days. I still believe that the Napoli loss was relatively meaningless, but Juve shouldn’t make it retrospectively important by dropping points at home to Livorno. It must be tempting for Antonio Conte to spell a bunch of his beleaguered, exhausted warriors, but he still needs to field a tight-knit XI of players who are relatively familiar with each other. Despite the distraction of unfinished Europa business looming on the other side of this week, Juve need to concentrate on dispatching Livorno as quickly and as definitively as possible — no suffering. And it would be nice to start scoring in bulk again. Down with 1-0! FINO ALLA FINE, FORZA JUVE!!! Gervasoni Refs Juve-Livorno Andrea Gervasoni of Lombardy will oversee Monday’s clash with Livorno. According to the Mothership, Juventus have a very favorable record in their 10 matches under Gervasoni’s whistle: seven wins, two draws and one loss. The last time out, Andrea presided over Juve’s 4-2 victory over Sampdoria in Turin. No word yet on how well he performs on Mondays (still waiting, STTBS Bureau of Arbitrary Statistics). Gervasoni’s linemen will be Salvatore Longo and Francesco De Luca. The fourth official is Giuseppe Stallone (his family’s DNA is rumored to be encoded with the much-coveted Eye of the Tiger). Time to rise up to the challenge of our rivals, ragazzi! http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Giovinco/Vucinic can be key - Conte Juve boss feels his two forwards are capable of producing the individual brilliance required to unlock defences when sides attempt to stop his side from playing. Apr 5, 2014 Juventus boss Antonio Conte believes Sebastian Giovinco and Mirko Vucinic could prove to be two of his key men as the season enters the home straight. Both players have found themselves way down the Bianconeri pecking order this term, with Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez both preferred in attack. However, after Giovinco inspired Juve to a 1-0 win at Lyon in the first-leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday, Conte backed him and Vucinic to play crucial roles in the final games of the season. He said: "We will find ourselves in situations similar to those at Lyon, where teams are closed and defensive... it's not that I expect something different. "We are quite prepared, this is a situation that does not bother me. In such situations we have good players for one on one battles, players like Giovinco and Vucinic can, even in the tightest games, be an important weapon to disrupt the plans of opponents." Juve face Livorno in Serie A on Monday as they bid to improve on a 2-0 defeat to Napoli in their last league outing, with Conte set to be boosted by the return of two of his first team squad. "I am heartened by the recovery in the squad. Angelo Ogbonna is ready and we hope Andrea Barzagli will be ready for the run-in so we have more weapons at our disposal." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Serie A Preview: Juventus v Livorno Juventus will battle injuries and fatigue but still should be too strong for struggling Livorno on Monday. Apr 5, 2014 Juve are well placed to win their third successive Serie A title, sitting eight points clear of second-placed Roma with seven matches to play. They lost just their second league match of the season last week, slipping up 2-0 at Napoli - a result that ended a 22-match unbeaten streak in Serie A. Antonio Conte's men are currently trying to negotiate their way through a tricky period, with the club's UEFA Europa League commitments often seeing them play three times a week, and their packed fixture list has led to several injury problems. Striker Carlos Tevez - the leading scorer in Serie A - is Juve's latest concern after he asked to be substituted with thigh pain in the club's 1-0 win at Lyon in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday. Tevez is likely to miss this match as a result, while star midfielder Arturo Vidal is suspended. Defensive duo Andrea Barzagli (calf) and Angelo Ogbonna (thigh) are both in doubt for the champions, who will also be without Simone Pepe due to a thigh problem. The injury problems have seen some of the club's squad players given regular game time, one of whom, Martin Caceres, has impressed greatly. Caceres has replaced Barzagli with aplomb at the heart of Juve's defence and was particularly solid in the club's win at Lyon. Fellow defender Leonardo Bonucci - who scored late on in France - has singled out Caceres for special praise. "He's a permanent fixture for Uruguay and the only thing that's kept him out of the side is Barzagli's magnificent form," Bonucci told Juventus' official website. "He's showed he has what it takes to play for Juve. "He's a superb man-marker, very good at beating his man to the ball. He's perfectly at ease slotting into this back three." Juve will be expected to bounce back from their loss in Naples, but the 18th-placed Livorno will hope they are tired after their latest European exertions. Livorno - who have never played at Juventus Stadium - moved to within a point of safety after they came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw against Inter last time out. Domenico Di Carlo's side trailed by two goals at the break but produced an excellent comeback as goals from Paulinho and Innocent Emeghara saw them claim a point. Di Carlo was delighted with the fight his side showed and will hope for a similar showing against another of the heavyweights of Italian football. History is not on their side though - Juve have won six of the last seven meetings between the two sides. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Marotta: 'No to technology' Apr 5, 2014 Juventus chief Beppe Marotta maintains Serie A should return to 18 teams and is “strongly against” technology in football. The general manager spoke to La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, answering questions sent in by supporters. “Juve had voted in favour of abolishing co-ownership deals, but the majority is what counts. Sooner or later UEFA will call for the harmonisation throughout the Leagues and this co-ownership situation only exists in Italy,” said Marotta. “I don’t think there’s any chance of a European Super League. If anything there should be less of a gap between the Champions League and Europa League, as the latter is just not considered an appetising competition.” Instead, Marotta believes returning Serie A to its old format of 18 teams rather than 20 would make a huge difference. “Some have said the Italian League isn’t testing enough, but in terms of stress and motivation it is highly testing. Catania are bottom of the table with a 55 point gap between us, but they played the game of their lives. This is the difference between foreign Leagues and Serie A, as here the big clubs run into difficulties even against the provincial sides. “It is necessary to reduce Serie A to 18 teams. That would cut the fixture list for European competition and the Italy squad, meaning players would be less exhausted.” This season has seen more calls for video evidence and goalline technology in football to help referees, but Marotta made his position clear. “Juve are strongly against video evidence during a game. It would change the nature of football, which is based on a continuous move. Besides, video evidence doesn’t always clarify the reality of a situation. “Technology would be useful on the goalline, though.” Juventus were the first club in Serie A to build and own their stadium, though others are trying to follow suit. “A 41,000-seater is the perfect dimension. We are often sold out and have an average of over 90 per cent attendance,” continued Marotta. “Now we want to raise the bar when it comes to investments, but first we must increase our firepower by raising more revenue. It is also necessary for the team to grow in terms of experience. “Our objective is always to improve, as every year we have made a step forward and we will do so again this summer. “However, Juventus do not depend just on the so-called ‘top player’ and favours teamwork. Just look at the number of different players who find the net. “It is important to find players who are versatile and suited to the project, which plans for several different systems. “We have also invested over the years in young players who are showing what they can do around Italy this season and we’ll try to bring some of them back to base.” Marotta already has several irons in the fire to raise the Bianconeri revenue. “Our partnership with Adidas will begin in 2015 and we are working in the Lega to get the most out of pay-per-view television rights. “The secret is matching the optimum sporting requirements with business affairs. Competing at the top level means balancing the finances to guarantee the project is sustainable.”

Pirlo: 'I can play with Verratti' Apr 5, 2014 Andrea Pirlo assures he is “compatible with Marco Verratti” for Italy, will renew his Juventus contract and left Milan on good terms. The midfielder spoke to Radio Deejay and was asked whether Paris Saint-Germain starlet Verratti was an alternative or whether they could play together. “I think we can play together, as he already does it very well in Paris with Thiago Motta, so I don’t see why he couldn’t do the same with me.” Pirlo also denied suggestions some Italy veterans ruled they wouldn’t accept Antonio Cassano in the World Cup squad. “I never gave a positive or negative opinion on any player. We’ve got a tough group in the World Cup, but certainly within our grasp. "The renewal with Juventus is more or less done already, it's just an issue of getting together and finalising the details. This is the right place for me to continue. “I think that I can play a few more years at this level. As long as I keep having fun and am in good shape, I will continue to play.” Yet Milan thought he was done for when releasing him at the end of his contract, where he went on to win consecutive Scudetti at Juventus. “I already replied a thousand times about this. We made the decision together, as I wanted a longer contract and the Rossoneri offered a one-year deal. We left on good terms. “I often talk to Clarence Seedorf and the atmosphere is more relaxed now at Milan. I hope they can get back on track.” Juve are in the Europa League quarter-finals and lead Lyon 1-0 from the first leg, but there are regrets about their campaign. “We got the first games wrong in the Champions League and they cost us qualification. We would’ve had our say in the later rounds. “Paul Pogba? I think he does better in a wider role than in front of the defence, because he can unleash all of his power there. He can improve so much and will certainly become one of the best in the world.”

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Greco: Juve tired Apr 4, 2014 Livorno’s Leandro Greco believes his side can take advantage of a ‘tired’ Juventus team when the sides meet on Monday. Antonio Conte’s Old Lady played in Europa League on Thursday, four days after losing to Napoli at San Paolo. The Amaranto meanwhile have not played since fighting back to draw 2-2 against Inter and the 27-year-old says they have nothing to lose come next Monday. “It won’t be an easy match,” Greco told Radio Mana today. “But we want to give our best to try and get a result. “Even a draw wouldn’t be bad when you take on such a strong team. “But I think Juve have used up a lot of energy in these last few days, so from a physical point of view they won’t be in great condition. “Therefore I think we can hurt them. The only problem is they have a very competitive squad. “However, we have nothing to lose and against Inter we never gave up and the result came for us. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Leonardo Bonucci (84′) April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Attendance:‬ 37084‎ BonBon seals sweet victory in France Juve put one foot in the semi-finals with Bonucci's late winner against a resilient Lyon side. Apr 4, 2014 Following a rare setback in Serie A last Sunday, an away Europa League tie in France was a perfect opportunity for Juve to respond and get one step closer to that coveted final in Turin. It took until five minutes before the end to seal a victory and valuable away goal against Lyon. This Lyon side is a far cry from the team that dominated Ligue 1 and proved a very difficult opponent in European competition throughout the 2000's, but they were a solid defensive unit that did not give much away. Juve started the game well with Carlos Tévez having a good chance in the 5th minute but he placed his header wide. From the outset, it was evident that Lyon had a game plan in which stopping Juve was priority as opposed to taking the initiative and creating anything themselves. This was very much an indication of how this Lyon team has regressed in recent years and considering the players at their disposal made perfect sense. To stop Juve, you need to stop Andrea Pirlo, and the attacking midfielder Steed Malbranque was assigned this role — an unusual one for Malbranque, who is more recognized as a creative attacking threat from midfield. This game plan seemed to work in Lyon's favour as Pirlo's time on the ball was limited and it was up to Leo Bonucci to step up and become the playmaker coming out of defence. Unfortunately, Bonucci didn't have his passing boots on tonight as many of his long-range passes failed to find teammates. Malbranque did have an impact in an attacking sense in the 26th minute when his angled shot was stopped by Gigi Buffon. From the resulting corner Briand went close but his effort went over the bar. Likewise, Pirlo did get some space in the 29th minute and provided a fantastic through ball which Tevez ran on to but couldn't force past keeper Anthony Lopes. The 'Tévez not scoring in Europe' narrative looked set to continue but as always it was never through lack of effort. That half chance proved to be the last effort of significance in a very uneventful first half. Lyon's game plan was working so far. The second half had a frantic start with Lyon pressing hard and Juve failing to get any sustained period of possession and it was the French side who had the first chance of the half with an Umtiti free kick pushed wide by Buffon. Shortly afterwards some good play from Kwadwo Asamoah saw the ball come to Tevez, who advanced and took a shot from distance that didn't trouble Lopes. This was the Argentine's last involvement in the game as he signalled to the bench to be substituted. Mirko Vucinic entered the fray in the 56th minute and immediately had an impact as he held up the ball and combined with his team mates but some of them — Osvaldo in particular — did not appear to be on the same frequency as him. Osvaldo had a chance after brilliant ball from Pirlo which the Oriundo controlled well but had his effort blocked by the Lyon defence. This was Osvaldo's last participation in the game in what was probably his least effective performance in a Juve shirt as he was replaced by Giovinco. Shortly after his introduction, Sebastian Giovinco did well from a short Pirlo corner to dribble past Lyon defence and cross a dangerous ball into box which was parried by Lopes only as far as Asamoah whose long range effort was deflected for another corner. At this point it was clear Lyon were starting to tire as Juve were well in control and the Ligue 1 side's game plan of holding out for a 0-0 draw was entering the crucial final third of the game. Vucinic continued to impress on the ball, as did Giovinco who provided another good cross which Pogba attempted to meet with a bicycle kick. The ball eventually fell to Chiellini whose shot went well wide. His partner in defence would make up for it later. In the 77th minute Lichtsteiner replaced Isla as Juve's final substitute of the game but it was the previous substitutions that continued to have an impact on the game as Giovinco and Vucinic combined before the Montenegrin hit his shot over the bar. Finally the breakthrough that Juve were waiting for came in the 85th minute. It started form a short Pirlo corner to Marchisio who crossed into the area. A shot by Pogba was then blocked and fell to Bonucci who rifled it into the top of the net. This was the defenders 3rd goal in all competitions this season and although his passing may have been off tonight his shooting most definitely was not. The late away goal sets up Juve nicely for the return leg in Turin next Thursday and although the Tevez injury could be a setback Arturo Vidal will be available again. The Chilean's absence was felt tonight as Juve struggled at times to create space in midfield. Put your money on El Rey Arturo sealing a Semi Final spot next week. PAGELLE Buffon: 6.5 – Dealt well with any shots that came his way. Caceres: 6.5 – Solid performance from the Uruguayan. Was rarely threatened but snuffed out counter attacks when called up. Bonucci: 7.5 – Filled in for Pirlo as regista at times but not his best passing display. Made up for it with a clinical finish and solid defending Chiellini: 6.5 –Powerful in the air, gave away the odd silly foul but was not his busiest night as a defender Isla: 6 – Didn't really have an impact on the game going forward. Wasn't threatened defensively Pogba: 6 - Quiet night for the Frenchman in his home country. His shot did lead to the winner. Pirlo: 6.5 – Was well marked by Malbranque for a lot of the game. Played some wonderful passes when given the space. Marchisio: 6.5 – Industrious as ever. Put in a very solid defensive performance and crossed the ball which led to the goal Asamoah: 7.5 – Some very impressive dribbles and attacking play during the game and coped very well defensively when called upon. Tevez: 6 – Had a few chances to break his European duck. Worked hard but night ended in disappointment with injury. Osvaldo: 5.5 – Probably the Oriundo’s worst performance in a Juve shirt. Failed to make any real impact apart from one shot on goal Subs: Vucinic: 6.5 - Played well when he came on. Should start in the return leg Giovinco: 6.5 – Very lively performance off the bench. His movement caused Lyon defence Lichtsteiner: s/v Coach: Conte: 6.5 – Job done for Conte. It was always going to be difficult breaking down a side that were playing so defensively. Subs worked out well.

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Leonardo Bonucci (84′) April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Attendance:‬ 37084‎ Lyon players regret Juve loss Apr 3, 2014 Maxime Gonalons and Corentin Tolisso had regrets, but Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes said there’s “no shame” in losing to Juventus. The French team’s hopes of continuing in the Europa League are hanging by a thread after a 1-0 home loss to Juve in the first leg of the quarter-final. “Defensively our plan worked pretty well, but we conceded a goal on a careless mistake at the end and that’s a real shame,” said Tolisso. “We still believe in our chances and we hope the fans do too. We will need their support if we are to qualify in Turin.” Gonalons was on the verge of joining Napoli in January, but remained at Lyon and was in action today. “We wanted to keep a clean sheet, but unfortunately we gave away a goal five minutes from the end,” shrugged the midfielder. Goalkeeper Lopes had a great save on Carlos Tevez in the first half and tried to look on the bright side. “The team did its job tonight. It’s a pity we conceded that late goal, but there’s no shame in a defeat to Juventus.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Leonardo Bonucci (84′) April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Attendance:‬ 37084‎ Umtiti: 'Lyon still believe' Apr 3, 2014 Samuel Umtiti insisted Lyon “still believe” despite a home defeat to Juventus in the Europa League. The 1-0 result at the Stade de Gerland puts the quarter-final firmly in the hands of the Bianconeri ahead of next Thursday’s decider. “We followed the instructions of the Coach and worked so hard tonight, but the goal at the end really hurt us,” said the defender. “We know it will be hard, but we still believe. We are going to Turin in order to score.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Leonardo Bonucci (84′) April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Attendance:‬ 37084‎ Conte: 'Lyon tried to block Juve' Apr 3, 2014 Antonio Conte said Lyon “tried to stop Juventus playing” and reassured fans on the Carlos Tevez injury. Leonardo Bonucci scored five minutes from time to snatch a 1-0 first leg Europa League quarter-final win at the Stade de Gerland. “I was never worried by the fitness levels, as this team has always worked hard despite playing so many games this season,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia. “We do tend to do better in the second half than the first recently, against Fiorentina and also Napoli. “It was tough today, as Lyon were above all trying to stop us from playing with man-marking all over the field. In that type of situation, you have to hope there’s a one-on-one that goes well or moves practiced in training that go as planned. “Inevitably, Lyon lost in intensity in the second half, we moved better off the ball and created several chances. “I think the victory is a deserved result, but we know that we have achieved nothing yet, there is a second leg to play and a semi-final to achieve.” Tevez went off in the second half after pulling up with a thigh problem. “Carlos already felt a little pain in his thigh during the last game with Parma and we agreed the moment he felt pain in that area he should come off, as we didn’t want to take any stupid risks. “Those who came off the bench did very well and I am very happy.” Sebastian Giovinco came off the bench and was impressive, creating several dangerous opportunities. “There aren’t enough people who praise Giovinco, who in my view has incredible quality. He needs to believe in himself even more and realise he can make the difference at a big club like Juventus the same way he did at Parma. “I am happy that Tevez and Osvaldo did well, but we are also rediscovering Mirko Vucinic although he can’t even really play 70 minutes yet. “We came to Lyon not to defend ourselves, but to attack and get the win that would make the second leg a little more comfortable for us. I wanted to point out the mentality of the side here.” This evening general manager Beppe Marotta criticised Napoli for their “excessive euphoria” after beating Juventus on Sunday and said they had a “provincial” attitude. “I am looking only to us,” shrugged Conte when asked about these comments. “Napoli was in the past, the lads must understand and even be pleased that those who win against us act as if they achieved something extraordinary. Everyone plays the games of their lives against Juventus and that ought to make us proud. “Inevitably it becomes news when Juve lose, so it gets discussed everywhere. The players and of course their Coach know what it means to represent Juventus and the pressure that entails.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Leonardo Bonucci (84′) April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Attendance:‬ 37084‎ Asamoah: 'Movement was key' Apr 3, 2014 Kwadwo Asamoah said the key was Juventus’ movement off the ball in the second half against Lyon. Leonardo Bonucci scored a late goal to secure the 1-0 away result in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final. “Above all in the second half we played well. The first half was alright, but we didn’t do enough of the movements we had practiced in training,” the Ghanaian told Sky Sport Italia. “We also did better out of possession and weren’t pushed back so much.” Juve are next in action on Monday evening against Livorno and squad rotation is down to a minimum. “At this moment there are many players out injured, so the rest of us have to work twice as hard and it’s not easy. “I am ready to play every game if the Coach asks, as I am a professional and prepared to do anything for the team. It’s better for a player to be on all the time than to be out of action.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Leonardo Bonucci (84′) April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Attendance:‬ 37084‎ Bonucci: 'A very important win' Apr 3, 2014 Leonardo Bonucci admits his goal gave Juventus “a very important victory” in the Europa League at Lyon. The centre-back fired under the bar when Lyon failed to clear a corner five minutes from time in the first leg of this quarter-final. “In the first half we struggled to find the right spaces to play our football, while after the break we didn’t risk anything other than on set plays,” Bonucci told Mediaset. The Bianconeri have kept four clean sheets in five Europa League games this season. “Lyon ran so hard in the first half, but in the second we were able to bring home a very important victory. “My celebration? It was aimed at some of my friends who were in the stands tonight. I wanted to dedicate it to someone who died on Monday at the age of 45 and left a family. He was a Milan fan, but was always very kind to me and I spoke to him often."

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Leonardo Bonucci (84′) April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Attendance:‬ 37084‎ Conte: Incredible Giovinco made the difference against Lyon The Bianconeri boss was impressed by the impact his substitute made, while stressing that Carlos Tevez was only replaced as a precautionary measure. Apr 3, 2014 Juventus boss Antonio Conte has hailed Sebastian Giovinco after his side battled to a late 1-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais in the Europa League. The 27-year-old forward came off the bench after 62 minutes and produced a lively cameo as the Iitalian champions snatched a late winner through Leonardo Bonucci. “There aren’t enough people who praise Giovinco, who in my view has incredible quality,” Conte told reporters after the match. “He needs to believe in himself even more and realise he can make the difference at a big club like Juventus the same way he did at Parma. “Those who came off the bench did very well and I am very happy. “We came to Lyon not to defend ourselves, but to attack and get the win that would make the second leg a little more comfortable for us. We had a good mentality.” Bonucci’s 84th-minute winner means Juventus will now expect to move a step closer to the Europa League final, which is being played in their home stadium. Conte says he was impressed with the way his team responded after their recent Serie A defeat to Napoli on a night during which their French opponents made expressive play difficult by defending in numbers. “We have moved on well after the Napoli game,” he said. “We are Juventus and the players know what it means to wear this shirt. “It was a tough match; Lyon were above all trying to stop us from playing, with man-marking all over the field. “Inevitably, they lost some intensity in the second half, while we also moved better and created several chances. In our recent matches, we have been playing better after half-time. “This was a deserved result but we still haven’t achieved anything – there is a second leg still to play before we can even consider the semi-finals.” Carlos Tevez had to be replaced after 56 minutes, with Mirko Vucinic coming on in his place, but Conte did not seem seriously concerned about the Argentine. The Bianconeri boss said: “Carlos had already felt a little pain in his thigh during the last game he played against Parma. “We agreed the moment he felt pain in that area again he should come off. We did not want to take any stupid risks with him.”