Socrates

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) 'Juve tie has double significance' Apr 23, 2014 FIGC President Giancarlo Abete has admitted that Juventus’ Europa League semi-final against Benfica has ‘a double significance’. The Bianconeri face the Portuguese outfit in the first leg of their last four encounter on Thursday. But the Calcio leader has conceded that the Turin side have the whole of Italian football on their shoulders. “Everyone hopes that Juve can beat Benfica and make it to the final in Turin,” he told reporters. “Tomorrow’s game really does have a double significance – not only for Juventus but for the whole of Italian football. “Problems with competitiveness? That may be evident in the Champions League, but overall, our teams have done well in 2013/14. “In terms of UEFA coefficient points, we’ve haven’t had a bad season.”

PSG must spend again, says Motta The experienced midfielder would welcome the arrival of Paul Pogba as he feels the Ligue 1 champions need new signings. Apr 23, 2014 Thiago Motta has urged the Paris Saint-Germain hierarchy to further strengthen their squad this summer in order to make the next step in the club's development. The Parc des Princes side have already lured players such as Thiago Silva, Ezequiel Lavezzi, Edinson Cavani and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Ligue 1 in recent years, but Motta feels they need further reinforcements if they are to make an impact in Europe. PSG are being heavily linked with Juventus star Paul Pogba and Motta is confident that more competition for places in midfield will only benefit the French champions. "Should PSG sign new players this summer? Yes, absolutely," Motta was quoted as saying by France Football. "But we should not buy players at random. We need players who add something to the team. "We need more competition for places, starting in midfield. I am saying this at the risk of losing my own place, but you know that there's always someone ready to take your place at a big club. "We need players who can help us win in Europe. We need European glory if we are to be remembered by the people." PSG were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the Champions League by Chelsea this term, after going out at the same stage against Barcelona last term.

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Ambitious Benfica ready for Juventus Apr 23, 2014 Having shaken off the hangover from their title celebrations on Sunday, Portuguese champions Benfica host Juventus in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final on Thursday. Benfica have been driven this season by the bitter memory of 12 months ago, when they found themselves on the verge of winning a treble of the Portuguese Primeira Liga and Cup and Europa League, only to miss out on all three trophies in an agonising two weeks. Jorge Jesus’ side beat Olhanense 2-0 in front of almost 64,000 fans at the Estadio da Luz on Sunday to open up an unassailable seven-point lead with two games remaining in the Portuguese top flight and secure their 33rd league title. “This was our main objective and we are all delighted,” said Jesus on Sunday as thousands of fans gathered to celebrate and welcome the team in their open-top bus at Marques de Pombal square in the centre of Lisbon. Now, though, Benfica have a possible quadruple in their sights. Having lost just once in 35 games, they are through to the Taça de Portugal cup final, in which they will play Rio Ave next month, and they face Porto in the semi-finals of the Taça da Liga cup this weekend. European success may be the hardest to achieve for a club who have lost all seven continental final appearances since winning their second European Cup back in 1962. But it would be a fitting way to pay tribute to 1960s greats Mario Coluna and Eusebio, who died earlier this year. Standing in their way are a Juve side who are motivated by the prospect of reaching a final that will be played in their own stadium in Turin. Juve are on the brink of retaining their Serie A title - they could be crowned champions this weekend - but success in Europe is also hugely important for a club whose last continental trophy was the Champions League in 1996. “Many players in this team have never won a European competition and Juventus haven’t won a trophy in Europe for so many years,” midfielder Claudio Marchisio told Uefa’s website. “When you reach this stage of the competition motivation can make the difference. So even if we’re coming to the end of the season and our legs are beginning to feel heavy, the trophy can give you that energy to give that bit extra.” It remains to be seen whether key duo Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez will feature after both were left on the bench in the weekend win against Bologna after respective fitness problems. Benfica are without the injured Eduardo Salvio and Silvio, while Nico Gaitan is a doubt after picking up a knock in the weekend win against Olhanense and Ljubomir Fejsa is also struggling. The winner will face Spanish opposition in the final itself, with La Liga rivals Sevilla and Valencia facing off in the other last-four tie. Sevilla, who beat city neighbours Betis in the last 16 before eliminating Porto in the quarter-finals, will be at home in the first leg and their recent form should make them favourites. They have won 12 of their last 15 matches in all competitions, form that means they remain in the running to qualify for next season’s Champions League, and coach Unai Emery can look forward to coming up against his former club. Emery spent four years in charge of Valencia until 2012, leading them to three third-place finishes in La Liga and a Europa League semi-final. Since his departure in 2012, Valencia have struggled and they look unlikely to qualify for Europe next season via their domestic league, so the pressure is on current coach Juan Antonio Pizzi. “It will be a great tie. We know each other well, but you can’t say either side is the favourite,” insisted Sevilla’s Argentinian defender Federico Fazio. Both clubs enjoyed success in the Uefa Cup in the last decade, with Valencia lifting the trophy in 2004 before Sevilla won it in 2006 and 2007. Fixtures At Lisbon Benfica (POR) v Juventus (ITA) At Seville, Spain Sevilla (ESP) v Valencia (ESP) Second legs to be played next Thursday, May 1

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Benfica and Juventus meet after 21-year wait Apr 23, 2014 Benfica and Juventus, two great clubs hoping to end long waits for a European trophy, meet for the first time in more than 20 years in their Europa League semi-final first leg on Thursday. Hosts Benfica, who have just won their domestic league, have not lifted a continental trophy since winning the old European Cup in 1962. Juventus, on course for a third successive Serie A title, have not added any major European silverware to their trophy cabinet since the Champions League in 1996. Despite their long traditions in European football, the teams have met only twice before, in the 1968 European Cup semi-finals and the 1992/93 UEFA Cup quarter-finals, when the current Juventus coach Antonio Conte played in both legs of a 4-2 aggregate win for the Italians. Both teams are unbeaten in the Europa League since they parachuted into the competition after finishing third in their respective Champions League groups. Benfica, beaten in last season's final by Chelsea, have barely had time to celebrate the Portuguese league title which they won for only the fourth time in 20 years on Sunday by beating Olhanense 2-0. The Eagles will be without Argentine midfielder Eduardo Salvio, who broke his arm during the first half of the Olhanense game and is out for the rest of the season. Juventus striker Carlos Tevez may be fit after missing his side's last two games with a minor thigh injury and midfielder Arturo Vidal may also be back after a knee problem. The Juventus stadium will host the final on May 14 in Turin and, as the only reigning domestic champions still standing, they are obvious favourites to win the competition. "Many players in this team have never won a European competition and Juventus haven't won a trophy in Europe for so many years," Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio told UEFA.com. "Even if we're coming to the end of the season and our legs are beginning to feel heavy, the trophy can give you that energy to give that bit extra." "When we didn't qualify and moved into the knockout phase of the Europa League, the fact that the final would be at home clearly gave us an added boost."

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Rodrigo: Humility against Juve Apr 23, 2014 Benfica forwards Rodrigo Machado and Rodrigo Lima have reflected on the task facing the Portuguese against Juventus this week. The newly crowned Portuguese League champions face off against the Bianconeri in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final on Thursday evening. “Our main objective from the start of the season was to win the Portuguese League, which we were without since 2010,” Rodrigo is quoted as saying by Tuttosport this week. “However, the Europa League offers further prestige - it will not be easy against Juventus, but this is a challenge to overcome. “For us, the key word is humility, but with the help of the fans we can do it.” Rodrigo’s strike partner Lima is equally aware of the challenge that success in Europe represents. “I can say that this is the best moment I have experienced as a player. The title we have just won embodies the essence of Benfica, I am happy for everything, this club and its wonderful supporters. “The Europa League, as we have seen, is a very tough competition, more demanding than last year, when we reached the final. “And it is demonstrated in the names of the clubs still in the competition.”

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Benfica dedicated title to "men we lost" Apr 23, 2014 It has been a while coming, but finally Benfica have their third Liga title of the 21st century and the 33rd in the club’s history. This one, in this context, is especially poignant, as was evident at an emotional Estadio da Luz before, during and after the 2-0 win over Olhanense that sealed the trophy. “In a year that’s also been a sad one for us,” said club president Luis Filipe Vieira on Sunday night, in the midst of a gargantuan crowd assembled around Lisbon’s Marques de Pombal, “this victory is dedicated to two men that we lost, Eusebio and Mario Coluna. Wherever they are, they must surely be very happy too.” 2014 has been a whirlwind year for Benfica thus far, with their stellar form on the pitch set against considerable sorrow off it. Eusebio’s passing in January was followed by that of Coluna in February. If O Rei (‘The King’) was the man who became synonymous with Portuguese football around the world, he probably couldn’t have done it without Coluna, his fellow émigré from Mozambique who helped him settle in Portugal following his arrival in 1960. Throughout the ensuing decade, the pair played a huge role in tipping the balance of power in Portugal and in conquering Europe. The monumental pair’s shadow loomed large over Sunday’s celebrations in the minutes after the title was confirmed. Striker Oscar Cardozo, one of the members of the squad who was especially close to A Pantera Negra, presented the Liga trophy next to a photograph of Eusebio mounted by the presentation display on the pitch. “He was always there with us and gave us a lot of strength,” winger Eduardo Salvio told Benfica TV after the game. “I dedicate this title to him and to my family.” In an exultant crowd of 63,982, just short of the Luz’s capacity, more than a few ‘Eusebio Sempre’ (‘Eusebio Forever’) scarves were among those held high in the air. They had been produced for the first home game after his death, January’s win in o classico against Porto. That 2-0 victory had been, in many ways, the best tribute to Eusebio. The real mourning had been done at his funeral, some six days before. One sensed that for o classico, Benfica just wanted to concentrate on winning for Eusebio and themselves. As a fierce competitor, he would have appreciated the sentiment. Benfica’s performance against their sworn rivals on that rainy January day looks like the catalyst for their season. Benfica have stumbled in the last two campaigns -- their treble blowout of last season will live long in the memory, but they let the Liga title slip from their grasp in 2011-12, too. But this year, they soared like the eagle mascots Vitoria and Glorioso, who alternately swoop through the stadium’s contours before matches. They were back in business, and they wanted the world to see it. The Benfiquista diaspora, borne of the club’s high times in the 1960s, is something that Vieira is acutely aware of. “This is a victory for all Benfiquistas,” said Vieira, addressing an estimated 200,000 fans on Lisbon’s streets, “from Portugal, Mozambique, Angola, Sao Tome, Cape Verde…from all over the world!” Accordingly, Benfica TV opened its doors on Sunday. The in-house channel, which has broadcast all the club’s Liga home games live this season after the club's decision to hold onto their own television rights, went free-to-air outside Portugal so fans worldwide could see the coronation against Olhanense. It looked for a while like the goals might not come, as chances came and went through almost an hour of scoreless tension in Sunday’s early evening. It nagged away at the back of the minds of the hardcore, who might have reflected that the real damage was done to last year’s title bid not by Kelvin’s dramatic winner for Porto at the Dragao in that fateful penultimate league match, but by the two points dropped in a draw with Estoril at the Luz six days before. So it was an explosion of relief, as much as joy, that met Lima’s quickfire second-half brace which turned the tide. Seeing sporting director Manuel Rui Costa in the throng at Marques de Pombal later, usually a picture of elegance in tailor-made suits but clad in the title celebration T-shirt and a Benfica cap worn backwards, told you exactly how much that was the case. Last season’s choke against Porto, Chelsea and Guimaraes had left its scars, and it looked as if Benfica would struggle to shake the bad vibes off in the opening weeks of the season. They lost their Liga opener at Maritimo and were nearly defeated in their first home game against modest Gil Vicente. It took two goals in second-half stoppage time by Lazar Markovic and Lima to overturn a 1-0 deficit and get the Eagles up and running. It was, as more than one Portuguese newspaper noted, the end of the ‘added time curse’. Later this week, Benfica will continue their attempt to put another bad run to bed in Thursday’s Europa League semifinal first leg against Juventus, at the Luz. The Lisbon side have not won a European trophy since legendary coach Bela Guttmann left under a cloud shortly after retaining the European Cup in 1962. Benfica have lost seven European finals since including last year’s defeat to Chelsea in Amsterdam, hence the legendary ‘Guttmann Curse’ (he had said that Benfica would not win a European trophy for another 100 years on his departure). The appetite is there for the rest of the season, certainly. They have the Taca de Portugal final to come and a Taca da Liga semi-final against Porto on Saturday. Many of the high-profile names who were expected to move on in the wake of last season’s disappointments -- including coach Jorge Jesus, defender Ezequiel Garay and Nicolas Gaitan -- are still there, with even stronger resolve. They have ridden out the January exit of the one player who did go, the excellent Nemanja Matic, very well. “We want to win more,” Vieira told the fans on Sunday night. After a tough year, Benfica are better prepared and more steely than last time.

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Vidal a doubt for Benfica Apr 23, 2014 Arturo Vidal’s involvement for Juventus in their Europa League semi-final with Benfica is in doubt after he skipped training on Wednesday. The Chile international has been recovering of late from a bruised knee and was speculated as in line for a start or a place on the bench against Benfica tomorrow evening. Whilst this was encouraged by the player’s appearance as a substitute at the weekend, doubts have now returned after he skipped today’s morning training session with his teammates. It is better news for Carlos Tevez, however, who completed the full session with the main group and is seen as more likely to feature for the Old Lady. The Argentine has also been recovering from a minor complaint of late, a thigh muscle injury.

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Clash of the Europa League titans Apr 23, 2014 Neither have a lost a game thus far in the Europa League. Both are considered the ‘favourites’ to win the competition but there can only be one winner when Benfica taken on Juventus on Thursday night in the semifinal of the Europa League. A match many feel ought to have been the final, the Portuguese champions have just celebrated their 33rd league title whilst the Old Lady is on the verge of celebrating her 32nd. An intriguing match between two Champions League dropouts, this isn’t simply a game between two teams but a battle between two nations in the fight for coefficient points. The last time Juventus won the competition was in the 1992-93 season and they beat Benfica in the quarterfinals on their way to the trophy. Juventus manager Antonio Conte played both legs against the Portuguese side, suffering a loss away and then 3-0 victory at home to seal their progression and their eventual success. Now Conte is on the bench, attempting to prove that his fluid and entertaining Bianconeri side are capable of winning both in Europe as well as in Italy. But it won’t be easy. Boasting a solid defence that has conceded only 15 league goals this season and an attack blessed with great individual ability, Benfica are perhaps the toughest opponents Juventus could have faced in the semifinals of this competition. Having just secured the Portuguese Liga trophy, they are desperate to qualify for the final in order to make up for the many last-minute disappointments they suffered last season. In Jorge Jesus, Benfica have a methodical coach who has clearly learnt from his mistakes and understood what it takes to create a winning side. Bolstering the defence, ensuring balance and rotating the squad to avoid exhaustion, Benfica are full of confidence and well equipped to cause serious damage. In many ways, they resemble Juventus. They have a solid goalkeeper who has instilled his back-line with confidence, a squad capable of sharing the goal-scoring responsibilities and most importantly, a winning mentality that has seen them resolve difficult situations. However, a Champions League group stage win vs. PSG aside, they haven’t truly been tested against the very best this season. With Porto suffering a terrible year and Europa League opponents that have hardly provided stern challenges, one has yet to see what Jesus’ men can do against a top level side - - one that will stretch their lines and effectively defend against their quality attackers. Going forward, Benfica’s pace and quick transitions will trouble the Bianconeri, especially as their forwards are capable of dragging players out of position to create space for the midfielders behind them. However, Juventus have proved capable of defending quick passages of play, learning from their mistakes at the start of the season. Their organisation at the back and the manner in which they close down space and tighten their lines will hold them in good stead against the likes of Lima or Rodrigo. But the Italians must stay vigilant of the threat whilst the wing-backs must ensure they remain disciplined. We have already seen the Old Lady’s careless approach in certain matches and should possession be lost in midfield, Benfica will not waste the opportunity to exploit the error and show off their pace and ability to score. Sadly for the Portuguese side, they will be without Mr. Europa League, Eduardo Salvio, who is set to miss the rest of the season. The player twice won the competition with Atletico Madrid and reached the final with Benfica last season only to lose to Chelsea. Having recently recovered from an early injury, he quickly regained his Europa League form to score the only goal in his team’s first leg win over AZ Alkmaar and provide the two assists for the 2-0 victory in the return leg. Their European maestro was back but it wasn’t for long and for the superstitious among us this could be a sign. Thankfully for Italy, Juventus seem to have understood the importance of this competition, both for their own development and for the reputation of Calcio. The possibility of lifting another trophy will help to temporarily quench their thirst for European glory, even if the Champions League is what they want to be winning. Baby steps. Along with his coaching team, Conte spent his Easter Sunday studying his Portuguese opponents. Noting their strengths and the weaknesses he hopes to exploit, the coach is enjoying this exciting time in his career. This is his chance to further develop his team and enhance his own reputation and it is one he mustn’t squander. Juve simply have to reach the final.

Juventus identify heir to Gianluigi Buffon Apr 22, 2014 Juventus are said to be targeting Udinese goalkeeper Simone Scuffet as the long-term replacement for captain Gianluigi Buffon. The 17-year-old has been in great form at the Stadio Friuli since breaking into the team this season, and has been attracting the attention of many top clubs across Europe. Sportmediaset suggest that the youngster has now become the top target for champions Juventus. They also suggest that any deal would be postponed until summer 2015, allowing the player to gain more valuable first-team action in Udine. Buffon, 36, has been in between the posts for the Bianconeri since a world record move from Parma in 2001, but now it seems the Turin giants are eyeing up a successor. Italian under-19 international Scuffet, has made 13 appearances this season in Serie A, and could even be in line to go to the World Cup in the summer as back-up to Buffon.

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Cakir ref for Benfica-Juventus Apr 22, 2014 Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir will officiate the first leg of the Europa League semi-final Benfica-Juventus. The game kicks off in Portugal on Thursday evening and UEFA have announced their choices. Cakir will be accompanied by linesmen Bahattin Duran and Tarik Ongun, with Mustafa Emre Eysioy as the Fourth Official. This won’t be the first time Cakir has officiated a Juventus game, as he was also on the field in a 2-1 win away to Sturm Graz in the August 2010 Europa League. More memorably, he was the referee for Juve’s 3-0 hammering of Chelsea in the Champions League last season.

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Marchisio: Juventus driven by the dream of playing Europa League final in Turin The Italy international explains that the chance to play in Turin gave Antonio Conte's men an "added boost" but he freely admits that Benfica represent formidable semi-final foes. Apr 22, 2014 Claudio Marchisio has admitted that he and his Juventus team-mates have been driven on by the prospect of a 'home' Europa League final from the moment they were knocked out of this season's Champions League. The Bianconeri were initially distraught following their group-stage elimination from the continent's premier club cup competition after a controversial 1-0 defeat at the hands of Galatasaray in December. However, Marchisio has explained that the fact that the Europa League final was being staged in their own Juventus Stadium enabled Antonio Conte's men to put their Istanbul heartbreak quickly behind them. "We knew [the tournament decider would be in Turin] right from the start, when we began in the group stage of the Champions League," the midfielder told UEFA.com. "When we didn't qualify and moved into the knockout phase of the Europa League, the fact that the final would be at home clearly gave us an added boost." However, Marchisio freely admits that Juventus still have it all to do to reach the final, having been paired with last year's runners-up, Benfica, in the last four. The Bianconeri travel to the Estadio da Luz for Thursday's first leg and the Italy international is anticipating a tough game against a side that are brimming with confidence after being crowned champions of Portugal at the weekend. "We'll come up against a side that in recent years, not only in their own league but in competitions like the Europa League, have done really well - even if they have lost some finals," Marchisio mused. "Clearly, they have the experience and the players with the qualities and characteristics to cause us difficulty. We have to think about them and think of the game as another final. "There will be two quality teams that will try and put on a spectacle in these two matches. For our part, we hope we have the right belief to reach our objective, which is to play the final in Turin."

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Capello sure of Juve Apr 22, 2014 Fabio Capello is convinced that Juventus have what it takes to win the Europa League this season. The Russia Coach played for the Old Lady from 1970-76 and also praised the work done by compatriot Carlo Ancelotti at another of his former clubs, Real Madrid. “I live football, I watch all the matches,” Capello told Eurosport. “I start watching them in the afternoon and I finish at 11pm!” “I am a Madridista. For me they are the favourites both in La Liga and the Champions League. “They are coached by a great Coach like Ancelotti, who always manages to transfer his ideas to his teams. “Juventus can win the Europa League, I maintain that they are the strongest team in that competition.” The tactician has recently confirmed he will retire from football after the 2018 World Cup, which his current nation are set to host.

Marchisio: Great motivation Apr 22, 2014 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio believes his side have all the motivation they need to win the Europa League. The Old Lady face Benfica in the first leg of their semi-final tie tomorrow and the 28-year-old says confidence is high within the camp. “Juve haven’t lifted a European trophy in nearly 20 years,” Marchisio told Uefa.com. “Lots of the players in the squad have never won an international trophy. “We have the chance to do that now. Our motivation can make the difference, but you must never underestimate the team you are facing. “We are playing against a team who, in recent years, have always done well in their domestic League. “They certainly have players with quality and experience who can cause us some problems. “It will be two excellent teams playing against each other and it will be a great spectacle. “From our point of view, we are confident we can reach our objective – to play in the final in Turin.”

Vieira: Pogba ahead of me at same age Apr 22, 2014 Patrick Vieira believes that Juventus prodigy Paul Pogba is more advanced as a player than the former Arsenal great was at the same age. Pogba, 21, moved to Turin in 2012 after failing to break into the Manchester United first team. Since then he has made good on the potential that made him one of Europe's most sought-after talents when he was a young player at Le Havre's youth academy. Pogba has already established himself in the France national team, and his dynamic midfield displays for Les Bleus have seen parallels drawn between himself and Vieira, who was part of France's 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000-winning squads. Vieira, a three-time Premier League champion with Arsenal who left the Londoners in 2005 to join Juve, said Pogba is a more complete player than he was at the same stage of his career, which coincided with his early years in England. "He's more technical and more at ease with the ball than I was at the same age," Vieira told beIN SPORTS. "It's easier for him to go forward. I was more concerned with defensive duties. He's more attack-minded, and takes part more in the team's play."

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Vidal, Tevez ready for Benfica? Apr 22, 2014 Juventus duo Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez are seen as nearing full fitness, but reports are conflicted over their availability for Benfica. The pair have been recovering from respective minor issues of late and Antonio Conte has already commented that he will only reinsert them into the starting XI when they are back to 100 per cent. A number of outlets suggest that on from Vidal’s appearance from the bench against Bologna at the weekend and Tevez’s again sitting through as an unused substitute, the pair are nearing full availability, in time for Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first leg against Benfica. Tuttosport lead the assessment that Vidal has shaken off discomfort in his knee and Tevez has recovered from his thigh issue sufficiently to see both make the first team this midweek. However, the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport remain more reserved, writing that there is still a chance of neither South American making even the matchday squad and that if they do, it may be just to sit on the bench.

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Marchisio: Motivation is key Apr 22, 2014 Claudio Marchisio has outlined Juventus’ respect for Benfica and asserted that motivation is what can make the difference at this stage of the season. The Bianconeri are preparing to meet the Portuguese on Thursday evening in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final. Whilst recent suggestions in Italy have been of a Juve side beginning to tire in the final stretch of the season, their No 8 believes that the desire for success will be a driving force. “Many players in this team have never won a European competition and Juventus haven't won a trophy in Europe for so many years,” Marchisio has commented in an interview with UEFA’s official website. “When you reach this stage of the competition motivation can make the difference. “So even if we're coming to the end of the season and our legs are beginning to feel heavy, the trophy can give you that energy to give that bit extra.” The final this season is hosted at the club’s Juventus Stadium. “We knew this right from the start when we began in the group stage of the Champions League. “When we didn't qualify and moved into the knockout phase of the Europa League, the fact that the final would be at home clearly gave us an added boost.” Before the Old Lady can dream about the final, though, they must push aside Benfica. “We'll come up against a side that in recent years, not only in their own league but in competitions like the Europa League, have done really well, even if they have lost some finals. “Clearly they have the experience and the players with the qualities and characteristics to cause us difficulty. We have to think about them and think of the game as another final. “There will be two quality teams that will try and put on a spectacle in these two matches. For our part, we hope we have the right belief to reach our objective, which is to play the final in Turin.”

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Artur saving his best for Benfica "A 'Benfiquista' for life," SL Benfica goalkeeper Artur's Serie A experience may come in useful as his side look to follow up their Liga success with a semi-final triumph against Juventus. Apr 21, 2014 A losing UEFA Europa League finalist in 2011 and 2013, SL Benfica goalkeeper Artur can only hope his luck is turning as the newly-crowned Portuguese champions take on Juventus in this season's semi-finals. Having been the understudy to 21-year-old Jan Oblak in the Liga since an injury sustained in a 3-2 win at SC Olhanense on 12 December gave the Slovenian his chance, Artur was still delighted to join in the title celebrations after Sunday's 2-0 win against Olhanense secured his first title with Benfica. "Regardless of who played more, Oblak and I are both to be congratulated," he said. "We split the games between us. Since I came here, I have dreamed of being a champion with this club and now it has come true." Artur can only hope that that first piece of silverware augurs well; the club endured a calamitous end to 2012/13, losing their grip on the Liga title, and coming off second best in the Portuguese Cup and UEFA Europa League finals in the space of a few days. "Only we know how hard we have fought since the beginning of the season, after the tough end to last year," the Brazilian explained. While Oblak has been the first choice in the Liga, Artur remains Jorge Jesus's main man in European games. Yet to concede in four UEFA Europa League matches this term, the 33-year-old Brazilian's Serie A experience could be crucial against Juventus. Artur played in Italy from 2007 to 2010, and while his stint at AS Roma included only 12 top-flight appearances – and none against Juventus – the tall custodian has a good idea of what to expect from the Italian champions, and not least their forward Mirko Vučinić, his former Roma team-mate. Artur left Italy for Portugal in 2010 to join SC Braga, whose then coach Domingos Paciência was impressed by his "stability, coolness, the impossible saves he makes and the way he positions himself". His only season with the Arsenalistas took in the club's UEFA Champions League group stage debut and culminated in a trip to the 2010/11 UEFA Europa League final, where they lost 1-0 to Liga rivals FC Porto in Dublin. Benfica, though, liked what they saw of Artur, agreeing a four-year contract with the goalkeeper. He has now made over 100 appearances for the club in all competitions, and has a target of doubling that total. "I'm a Benfica player body and soul," the one-time EC Cruzeiro and Coritiba FBC player said. "I want to play 100 more games in this shirt that I have come to love. I was not born a 'Benfiquista' (Benfica fan), but I'm a 'Benfiquista' for life."

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Juve look to Benfica with title in bag Turin giants maintain eight-point lead with four games to go. Apr 21, 2014 Juventus say they are fully focused on Thursday's Europa League semi-final first leg against Benfica in Lisbon after closing in on their third consecutive Serie A title with Saturday's 1-0 win over Bologna. The win, secured by a second-half strike from French midfielder Paul Pogba, keeps the Turin giants eight points ahead of second-placed AS Roma with just four games to go until the end of the season. If Juve knock out Benfica, they will face Valencia or Sevilla at their home stadium - the venue for the final of Europe's secondary club competition this season. "Now it's time to concentrate on Europe. Benfica are a team who play good football, and we're already looking ahead to Thursday's game," said Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna. "We'll be facing a fiery atmosphere so we'll look to prepare for the fixture as best we can".

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Juve prepares for Benfica game Apr 21, 2014 After Bologna's win against Juventus on Saturday, the Turin team trained on Monday for the Europa League semi-finals that take place in Lisbon against Benfica on Thursday evening. Benfica took the Portuguese championship for the 33rd time. Antonio Conte's Juve trained hard and are close to their third championship win, knowing, however, that their adversary is dangerous.

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Jorge Jesus: On to Juve Apr 21, 2014 Benfica Coach Jorge Jesus has called on his side to focus on their Europa League semi-final against Juventus. The Portuguese outfit secured their domestic League title yesterday but the tactician now wants the celebrations to be put to one side. The first leg of the tie with the Old Lady takes place in Lisbon this Thursday, with the return in Turin a week later. “We have a fantastic group and never gave up,” Jesus said to Portuguese media sources. “We have secured our main objective of the season, but the season could finish with us being even happier than we are now. “So now, let’s postpone the celebrations and concentrate on the match with Juventus.”

BENFICA - JUVENTUS April 24, 2014 - 9:05 PM Estádio da Luz — Lisbon Referee: Cuneyt Cakir (Turkey) Benfica crowned champions of Portugal after win over Olhanense Lima hit a double at the Estadio da Luz on Sunday night as Jorge Jesus' side reclaimed their crown from Porto, who had won the past three Primeira Liga titles. Apr 20, 2014 Benfica have been crowned champions of Portugual for the first time in four years courtesy of a 2-0 win over Olhanense. Second-placed Sporting made the Eagles wait for the title by beating Belenenses on Saturday night, but Jorge Jesus' men recorded a 2-0 win at the Estadio da Luz less than 24 hours to move seven points clear with just two rounds remaining. It is Benfica's 33rd Primeira Liga title but only their third in the past decade, with Porto having won the last three championships in succession, after establishing themselves as the dominant force in Portugal. The Eagles could yet secure an historic quadruple this season: they reached the final of the Taca de Portugal on Wednesday with a 3-2 aggregate win over Porto, and have a Taca da Liga semi-final against Luis Castro's men, as well as a Europa League last-four battle with Italian giants Juventus still to come.

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 BOLOGNA Paul Pogba (64′) April 19, 2014 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Piero Giacomelli Attendance:‬ 38500‎ Bianconeri edge even closer to third Scudetto Another grind of a match ended with Juventus getting all three points from a single moment of Pogba brilliance. Apr 20, 2014 I swear, this has been the most bittersweet season I can remember. As a devoted fan, you watch every game, you will your team to victory, and you are ecstatic every time your team pulls it off. Yet as a Juventus fan, you expect a lot from the team, a standard that only legends before current players have set, a level of quality you grow accustomed to over time. Juventus is winning, edging ever so close to that third consecutive Scudetto, a feat whose difficulty is understood by every true fan. It's a glorious achievement, really, to stay focused and determined for three straight seasons in a league like the Serie A with teams like Roma breathing down your neck. But that same Juventus is playing far from great, struggling to create concrete chances, lacking in creativity, grinding for 90 minutes to pull off a single goal victory over teams like soon-to-likely-be relegated Bologna. And mind you, this has been the case for quite a few games this season. What can you do though? You take the good with the bad and you celebrate another very important victory as the season draws to a close. Five points from 4 matches is all we need. You can really start to taste that trophy. MATCH SUMMARY It didn't take long to find out who will be Juventus' aggressor on the night in pursuit for the win. With Tevez and Vidal on the bench, young Paul Pogba took over as the metronome of the team from the very beginning. In just 5 minutes, he tested Bologna's keeper with a close range shot shot, then followed it up later with a close header off a corner. In the meantime, the two players in charge of scoring up front, Llorente and Giovinco, were just starting to get a feel for each other. The Atomic Ant performed a very good Tevez impression with his impeccable work rate to aid to Llorente's dominance in the air and as a target man. Bologna rarely had possession for longer than a few seconds, which allowed the defense and especially the returning Barzagli to work on his match fitness before the Benfica game on Thursday. As Juventus tried to create something out of nothing against Bologna's parked bus, frustration grew at Juventus stadium as the score was still 0-0 after an hour of play. That's when the genius of Pogba settled the game, with the young Frenchman controlling a pass from Isla superbly before slotting home a great shot outside the box to beat Curci. It was Pogba again who had the best chance to really close the game out later on, but his half volley from close range was straight at the Bologna keeper. It wasn't pretty, and it surely wasn't convincing, but here we are just 4 games from the end of the season with Juventus marching confidently towards a third Scudetto. LE PAGELLE Buffon: 7 - Bored out of his mind until the 85th minute, this was nothing but an easy scrimmage for San Gigi. Barzagli: 6.5 - Newly returned from injury and looked rusty therefore. Got beat a couple times and had a couple errant passes that could've cost Juve against a better team. It was great to see him back though, we'll need his experience if we are to close out the two titles we are battling for. Ogbonna: 7.5 - Thought he was great for the full 90 minutes. Won countless headers in the back and was always a force during set pieces in Bologna's 16. A very composed performance for the young center back. Chiellini: 7 - Didn't have a whole lot of work to do defensively but did everything right when called upon. A solid performance from our King Giorgio. Isla: 7 - Really pushed high at every opportunity and provided as much width as he could in attack. His crosses left plenty to be desired but that is to be expected. Could've closed the game out but Curci came up with a fantastic save to deny him some 20 minutes from the end. Pogba: 8 - An enjoyable performance by Pogba who was clearly the difference of the game. He was determined to score and got his goal after an hour of play with a great outside shot. Showed some great skill on the ball too - something the fans always appreciate. He's young and over-emotional at times, but he certainly came through when most needed. Pirlo: 7 - Found it hard to make a big impact when faced with 10 Bologna men behind the ball. Had several free kicks from which he unfortunately failed to score. Marchisio: 7.5 - It was one of those vintage Marchisio performances really, running his heart out and battling for every single ball. He covered the whole pitch remarkably and really put in work on Saturday. Wasn't much of a threat offensively but overall I thought he sacrificed himself for the team every second he was on the pitch. Asamoah: 6.5 - Wasn't as active as Isla on the right but had a hard-nosed Garics in front of him. Had a couple decent balls in the box but they didn't really find any of our strikers. Giovinco: 7.5 - He probably lost something on the pitch during warm up as he spent the majority of the game rolling around looking for it. Nah, just kidding. While he did theatrically dive on several occasions, Gio actually had a very good game, working hard and slotting between Bologna's lines quite often. Wasn't able to score or create for someone else, but certainly did his best under the circumstances. Llorente: 7 - He is a limited striker when we have poor delivery from the wings, and Saturday really showed that. Giovinco enjoyed some great put downs from Llorente's aerial prowess and the Spaniard really worked well to carve out his space in front of Bologna's defense. Subs: Padoin: sv - Leave it for Danny to totes call it - Simone got some garbage time minutes and looked all sheepishly ecstatic as usual. Vidal: sv - Coach: Conte: 6.5 - I do believe that the majority of the issues I bitched about at the very beginning of this recap fall solely on Conte's shoulders. His inability to switch things around and become less predictable have miraculously only caught up with him in Europe, while in Italy we are scraping by towards our third consecutive title. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Pogba: No Juve talks yet Apr 21, 2014 Paul Pogba says he has yet to discuss his future at Juventus beyond the end of this season, as he comments that: “PSG are a great club.” The French international has become increasingly linked with a summer exit from the Old Lady, with PSG said to be leading Chelsea and Real Madrid in preparing bids upwards of €40m. Reiterating an earlier message from his agent Mino Raiola, though, the player has explained that no discussions either to stay with Juve or to leave have taken place yet. “So far I have not spoken to anyone about the contract renewal with the club nor the future on the market,” Pogba responded this week to Bein Sport. “I am focused on the field, I am thinking only about this season and winning a Scudetto which for the club would be historic. “And then there is also the Europa League. If we achieve the double then it would be something exceptional. I just think about making history this season. “I just have to repeat myself. Of course I am happy that many big clubs are interested, but the mind is focused on my present work, and that’s it. It is Juve today. “The fans’ chants asking me to stay? They encourage me to do my best, they are beautiful. “Paris Saint-Germain? They are a great club…” Pogba scored Juve’s only and decisive goal against Bologna in Week 34 to bring the Bianconeri ever closer to the League title. “It is certainly important, but only because it gave us the three points. Here at Juventus, the team comes before anything personal. “And now we feel closer to the Scudetto, which whilst we are not yet there, we are almost. “Antonio Conte? I have a good relationship with him, I chose to wear this shirt after speaking with him. I have learned a lot at every place I have been, from Le Havre through to Manchester United and now in Turin. “Whilst I also went through some difficult times. If I want to reach the top then I have to follow the path of people like Vieira, Buffon and Pirlo.”

Pogba: I'm glad other teams want me It had been claimed that Bianconeri have been doing their utmost to persuade the 20-year-old to commit himself beyond 2016 - but the midfielder insists otherwise. Apr 20, 2014 Paul Pogba has cast his Juventus future in doubt by admitting that he is flattered by widespread interest in his services. It has been reported that the Italian champions are desperate for the in-demand midfielder to extend his current deal in Turin, which runs until 2016, with speculation rife that Paris Saint-Germain are ready to launch a massive bid for the France international this summer. However, Pogba says he is simply enjoying his time with the Old Lady and is touched by the fans' desire to see him remain at Juventus Stadium. "It makes me happy that the fans sing, 'Don't sell Pogba'," he told Sky Sport Italia. "It gives me so much of a charge when I go onto the field. "It gives me an even greater desire to improve myself, so I'm grateful to the fans for their songs; I'm very content to make them happy. "At the moment, though, I'm concentrated solely on the present. I've not spoken with anyone, neither about my future or my contract. "Sure, it pleases me to know that that other clubs want me, but I repeat: I'm thinking only of the field of play and the Scudetto." Pogba was being interviewed after underlining his worth to Juve by netting the decisive goal in a 1-0 win over Bologna that put Antonio Conte's men within two victories of retaining their Serie A title. The 20-year-old admitted that he does not feel that he is currently being utilised in the best possible way but insists that he is willing to do whatever he is asked in order to help the Bianconeri make it three Scudetti in a row. "On the pitch, I'm not totally playing in the position I prefer, but anywhere I play, I think only of giving 100 per cent. I was missing a goal. It's difficult to be always on top form," he insisted. "Along with my team-mates, I want to win this Scudetto with all my strength. We are close now, so we must continue in this way."

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 BOLOGNA Paul Pogba (64′) April 19, 2014 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Piero Giacomelli Attendance:‬ 38500‎ Conte: 'Giovinco for World Cup!' Apr 20, 2014 Antonio Conte is focused on the Europa League semi-final with Benfica, but proposed Sebastian Giovinco for the World Cup. The Coach spoke after Juventus consolidated their eight-point lead at the top of the Serie A table with a 1-0 victory over Bologna. “I am counting on having Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal ready for Thursday,” he said of the first leg against Benfica. “They have both been carrying injuries for a while and I rested them to avoid making the situation worse.” In the meantime, Giovinco has rediscovered his form as part of an ‘odd couple’ with Fernando Llorente and Conte had a suggestion. “Giovinco is doing really well, as he is gaining confidence in his own abilities. It’s what I always told him to do. He’s so good at taking men on and can be decisive. “I hope he can continue like this to the end of the season, because he still has a chance of going to the World Cup. Someone like Giovinco would certainly be of use to Cesare Prandelli. “This win over Bologna was the kind of game we would’ve drawn last year. Over time we have matured and gained more experience to deal with these situations. “The fact we have such a strong antagonist as Roma right behind us pushes us on to give our best every time. We’ve reached 90 points also thanks to the Giallorossi, who ensure we are always motivated and don’t think the Scudetto is already ours. “Last season we won the title with three rounds to spare, after which we lost and drew. This season we’ve always had Roma with a pitchfork pointed at our backs, keeping us on alert.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111