Socrates

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Lacazette: Lyon believe Apr 9, 2014 Alexandre Lacazette says Lyon believe they are capable of turning around their Europa League tie with Juventus. The French side must win tomorrow’s quarter-final second leg at Juventus Stadium to have a chance of progressing against the Old Lady. “Juve have a lot of defensive quality,” Lacazette said at the pre-match Press conference. “We will see tomorrow whether we are able to exploit anything. “We can do it, the result from the first leg means we can still believe. In Lyon we caused them some problems. “The fact PSG are out of the Champions League and that we are the only team left in Europe gives us added motivation. “We know we can do it, this sport is based on meeting challenges. It’s great that we get to play in such a beautiful stadium.”

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Garde: Anything can happen Apr 9, 2014 Lyon Coach Remi Garde believes his side still have a fighting chance in their Europa League quarter-final with Juventus. The French outfit trail the Old Lady 1-0 from the first leg and must now overturn the deficit at Juventus Stadium tomorrow night. “Juve are a solid team,” Garde said a Press conference this afternoon. “We know how strong they are but over the 90 minutes of a match anything can happen. “Getting through to the next round will be a huge challenge but we are here to turn the situation around. “We will play with the same spirit as we showed in the first-leg. We need great concentration, determination and solidarity. “We will also need a little bit of luck, owing to the quality of the team we are facing. “I’m asking the boys to give everything and to have no regrets at the end of the match.”

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) 'We must have no regrets at the end' - Garde urges Lyon to rise to Juventus challenge The Ligue 1 side were beaten 1-0 at home by the Biaconeri in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final but their coach maintains "anything can happen" in Turin. Apr 9, 2014 Olympique Lyonnais boss Remi Garde has challenged his players to leave Turin with "no regrets" on Thursday as they look to overturn a Europa League quarter-final deficit to Juventus. Leonardo Bonucci's late goal handed the Italian champions a first-leg advantage and they are strong favourites to progress to the last four in front of their own fans. Garde admits his side are facing a mountain to climb but insists his players can turn the tie around if they maintain their concentration. "Juve are a solid team," he told a press conference. "We know how strong they are but over the 90 minutes of a match anything can happen. "Getting through to the next round will be a huge challenge but we are here to turn the situation around. "We will play with the same spirit as we showed in the first leg. We need great concentration, determination and solidarity. We will also need a little luck due to the quality of the team we are facing. "European experience doesn't always make the difference. It's concentration that does. I'm asking the lads to give everything and to have no regrets at the end of the match."

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Caceres: Juventus will not be distracted by Scudetto The defender is eager to forget about domestic duties for now as he attempts to help secure a place in the Europa League semi-finals against Olympique Lyonnais. Apr 9, 2014 Juventus defender Martin Caceres says he is ignoring the Serie A run in for the time being and is eager to progress in the Europa League. The Bianconeri stand on the brink of their third straight Scudetto and have also made sound progress in Europe, having reached the quarter-finals of the continent's second competition. The Uruguayan is concentrating firmly on sealing a berth in the last four when his side host Olympique Lyonnais on Thursday, having won the first leg 1-0 in France last week. "We're enjoying playing in the Europe League at the moment," he told a press conference. "We've got a strong Lyon side in front of us now and we'll look to make the next round with an excellent performance – that's our aim. "We're playing every three days so we're taking things game by game. Tomorrow's is the most important of the week, and we won't think about the league until that's over." As the Bianconeri fight on two fronts, Caceres has found himself firmly back in coach Antonio Conte's plans of late, and he is adamant he will give his all during a gruelling run of fixtures. "I'm feeling in good shape physically and I'm happy to be playing all these games during this period when the coach and side need me."

PSG owner: No Pogba talks Apr 9, 2014 Paris Saint-Germain owner Nasser Al Khelaifi has claimed that there have been no talks with Paul Pogba regarding a move. The French champions have been heavily linked with the Juventus midfielder, with outlets all over Europe reporting figures between €40m-€70m that the capital club are willing to pay for the youngster. However, the Parisiens chief has insisted that the club have not held talks with the former Manchester United man about a transfer. “Pogba? We have not spoken with him,” he told Sport Mediaset. “Only at the end of the season will we evaluate everything.” After Tuesday night’s elimination from the Champions League to Chelsea, Al Khelaifi has also indicated that Laurent Blanc will keep his job as Coach. “We have confidence in him. I expect him to stay on.”

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) 'EL semis would be proud moment' Apr 9, 2014 Antonio Conte has claimed his side are fully focused on reaching the Europa League semi-finals. The Bianconeri host Lyon tomorrow, going into the game holding a 1-0 aggregate lead from the first leg. And with the last four just around the corner, the Coach has urged his men to focus on what would be a prestigious occasion for the cub. “Let's not forget that it's been seven years since an Italian side reached the semis,” he told a Press conference. “That would really be something we would be proud of. “We're completely focused on this game because it would be prestigious for Juve to reach the semi-finals of such a great competition. “Our job's going to be very difficult though - all that counts is winning. “When you win, you've got it right. When things don't go well, you've got it wrong – it’s that simple. “We'll try to carry on doing the things which went well in the first leg, and try to correct what didn't go so well.” The tactician then commented on Paul Pogba’s remarkable rise from Manchester United outcast to most-wanted man in European football. “Certainly Pogba has taken giant steps forwards since he joined us. He's improved physically, technically and tactically. “I'm convinced he can grow even more though. He's got margin for improvement and he must not settle for where he is now."

'Tevez deserves World Cup place' Apr 9, 2014 Former Argentina international Ariel Ortega believes that Carlos Tevez has earned his place at the World Cup. With the Albiceleste’s wealth of attacking talent, the Juventus striker may well find himself sidelined for the tournament in Brazil. But the retired forward has insisted that the Biancocelesti man has done enough in Serie A to be called up by Coach Alejandro Sabella. “Tevez has done so much this season with Juventus,” he told Radio De La Red. “Personally, I think he deserves his place in the squad, and maybe even the team. “He’s played a great season in Italy and has adapted to Serie A really well.”

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Conte: Juve focused on Europa League Apr 9, 2014 The Europa League clash against Lyon is all that matters for Juventus at the moment, according to coach Antonio Conte, with Monday's Serie A clash against Udinese only becoming an issue on Friday morning. Conte’s side face the Ligue 1 outfit on Thursday in the second leg of their quarterfinal clash, holding a 1-0 lead thanks to Leonardo Bonucci's late goal last week in France. And during his prematch news conference on Wednesday, the Juve boss let everyone know just how important he considers the game to be. Already frustrated by a question posed to Martin Caceres about his hopes of playing at the World Cup, Conte intervened after the Juve defender was asked whether he could imagine linking up with Paris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani next season. "We're here to talk about the second leg of a quarterfinal of the Europa League," Conte told his prematch news conference in Turin. "For me, Serie A does not exist today. We're focused on this game because it would be prestigious for Juve to reach the semifinals. "Let's not forget that it's been seven years since an Italian side last reached the semifinals of this competition, so doing so would be something to be proud of." Caceres echoed his coach’s comments, insisting that the Europa League is the team’s only focus at the moment. "We can't win either the league or the Europa League right now," Caceres said. "Tomorrow's game is the most important one for this week, then we think can about the league after. “Obviously Serie A is a priority because we've won it two years in a row and it's a priority to win it again, but of course we're delighted to be in the Europa League." Carlos Tevez has not scored a goal in Europe for four years, but Conte has yet to give the striker any assurances as to whether he will be able to try and end that drought on Thursday. "It's me who decides," Conte said. "Of course I will discuss it with Carlos, but the final decision is mine. "We're trying to preserve him from a physical point of view, due to a tendon and adductor problem. Since being suspended against Napoli he's played two games, over 55-60 minutes. “Carlos is an important player for us. We'll see what I get from him in training in the morning." Angelo Ogbonna returns to Conte’s squad after injury, but Andrea Barzagli is still out, while Mirko Vucinic remains a doubt as Juve look to remain on course for the Europa League final inside their own stadium. Meanwhile, Lyon coach Remi Garde said it would be an "upset" if his side were to overturn the first-leg deficit at the Juventus Stadium "We're here to believe in it, and we believe in it a lot," he told his prematch news conference. "It certainly would be an upset if we go through, because we would have done something that many people would have doubted before the tie. “I think that if we show the same spirit to last week in the 90 minutes tomorrow, we can put ourselves in a position to create an upset."

Buffon: Busy schedule could hinder Juventus' double bid The Bianconeri captain has admitted that he fears Antonio Conte's men could succumb to fatigue as they attempt to end their season with two trophies. Apr 9, 2014 Gianluigi Buffon fears that Juventus' busy schedule could hinder their trophy hopes this season as they prepare to host Olympique Lyonnais in the Europa League just three days after edging closer to retaining their Serie A title with a win over Livorno. The Bianconeri are clear favourites to progress to the last four after winning 1-0 at the Stade de Gerland last week but their captain is taking nothing for granted, particularly as he fears fatigue could be a factor. "We won the first leg with a single-goal margin, but we have to be very focused," Buffon told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "We go into the game on the back of big games all close together and some players have been played a lot, so it will not be easy." Juventus are eight points clear of second-placed Roma in Serie A, with Antonio Conte's men expected to wrap up their third successive Scudetto in the coming weeks, but Buffon says that they can not afford to take their foot off the gas. "Unfortunately, the title is not yet won," the Italy international continued. "Behind us are a top team in Roma, who believe in a comeback, so it should drive us to be very careful. "The third title in a row would be the recognition of our work: I do not think we will get 100 points this season, but I want to win the championship." Juventus need to win their final six games to make history by finishing with treble figures.

'Scudetto race not over yet' - Marotta warns Juventus to be wary of Roma threat The Bianconeri lead Serie A by eight points but the club's director general says that Antonio Conte's men cannot afford to ease up. Apr 9, 2014 Giuseppe Marotta has warned Juventus against writing off Roma as they look to wrap up their third straight Scudetto. With just six rounds of the Serie A season remaining, the Bianconeri have an eight-point lead over the Giallorossi, who have been rocked by the news that in-form forward Mattia Destro will miss four games through suspension. However, the Bianconeri general manager has no doubt that Rudi Garcia's men will still be able to maintain their surprise title challenge. "Destro is a little champion, but Roma can do without him, as they are a great team," Marotta told reporters. "The club is highly motivated, play well together and can cover for his absence. "We have a good lead at the top, consolidated with an extraordinary campaign, but there are still 18 points to go and the Scudetto race isn’t over yet." Marotta also stressed that being the dominant team in Italy has not been easy for Juve. "For three seasons we have been the pace-setters and this puts a lot of strain on a side," he explained. "But thanks to Antonio Conte we have maintained our position at the top and will try to stay there for even longer." Juve's success this season has been founded on the sensational goalscoring form of summer signings Carlo Tevez and Fernando Llorente and Marotta finds it extraordinary that neither the Argentine nor his Spanish accomplice are likely to travel to Brazil with their respective nations. "Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente have scored 31 goals between them and I think they both deserve to go to the World Cup," he stated.

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Juventus-Olympique Lyonnais Preview: Visitors go in search of a miracle in Turin Antonio Conte's men boast a formidable home record in all competitions and will be confident of progressing to the last four after triumphing 1-0 at the Gerland last week. Apr 9, 2014 Olympique Lyonnais will need to become the first team in a year to win at Juventus if they are to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League. The Italian champions hold a 1-0 advantage from the first-leg at the Stade de Gerland, which saw the Serie A leaders net a crucial away goal in the 84th minute through Leonardo Bonucci. The defender's goal puts Antonio Conte's men in command of the tie, and the Old Lady should be clear favourites to qualify for the last four considering their magnificent home record. Indeed, the return fixture takes place a year to the day since Conte's side last suffered a home defeat, which came at the hands of Bayern Munich in the second-leg of last season's Champions League quarter-finals. The likes of Real Madrid, Napoli and Roma have all failed to win in the Juventus Stadium since that day, and Lyon coach Remi Garde, who said Lyon had a "mountain" to climb before last week's meeting, accepted his side need a "miracle" following its conclusion. "It was a great experience for the young players [playing against Juve]," he said. "It will be tough in Turin and we will need a miracle to win in the second-leg." The clash marks the start of an exciting run of fixtures for Lyon, who face Ligue 1 champions-elect Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday before taking on Laurent Blanc's men again in the Coupe de la Ligue final the following Saturday at the Stade de France. But the seven-time French champions will approach that daunting triumvirate of fixtures with a number of injury concerns. Clement Grenier is out with a groin problem, and fellow midfielder Gueida Fofana will also miss out with a similar injury. Playmaker Yoann Gourcuff remains unavailable with an ankle problem, and Jordan Ferri - scorer of a spectacular long-range strike in Sunday's 2-1 win at Valenciennes - will likely be selected to fill the void again in a depleted midfield. At the back, Mouhamadou Dabo has yet to recover from a hamstring issue and Miguel Lopes is out for the rest of the season with a broken leg. Meanwhile, the hosts will be boosted by the return of Arturo Vidal after he missed the 2-0 Serie A win over Livorno at the weekend through suspension. Defender Andrea Barzagli (calf) is still struggling for fitness, but Carlos Tevez shook off a thigh injury to play against Livorno on Monday and defender Angelo Ogbonna is available to feature for the first time in nearly a month. Head to Head UEFA Europa League -‎ Apr 3, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 0 - 1 Juventus Club Friendlies ‎-‎ Jul 24, 2010 - Juventus 2 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais Last Five Matches JUVENTUS Apr 7, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 0 Livorno - Serie A 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 OLYMPIQUE LYONNAIS Apr 6, 2014 - Valenciennes FC 1 - 2 Olympique Lyonnais - Ligue 1 Apr 3, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 0 - 1 Juventus - EL Mar 30, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 1 - 2 AS Saint-Etienne - Ligue 1 Mar 23, 2014 - EA Guingamp 0 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais - Ligue 1 Mar 20, 2014 - FC Viktoria Plzeň 2 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais - EL

Buffon: Winning the Scudetto is Juventus’ priority Apr 9, 2014 Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon hinted that Serie A is Juventus’ main focus despite their run in the Europa League. The Bianconeri can reach the semi-finals as they hold a 1-0 lead over Lyon heading into the second leg of their tie on Thursday but Buffon insists the Italians are still focusing their attention on the Scudetto race. “There are priorities,” the goalkeeper told Tuttosport after being asked whether the Europa League would be snubbed in order to win Scudetto. “The comedown from losing first place would be bigger than the joy of the Cup. “I hope that by the time the semi-finals are played the Scudetto will be basically already sewn on our chests.” Juventus hold an eight-point lead over Roma with six matches remaining in the Serie A season.

Buffon: Juventus’ eight-point advantage does not make me feel serene Apr 9, 2014 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is adamant that the Bianconeri’s eight-point lead over Roma is not a comfortable gap. The 36-year-old also discussed the upcoming Europa League return leg against Olympique Lyonnais, inviting his teammates to remain vigilant despite the 1-0 victory in the first leg. “We will have to pay attention to Olympique Lyonnais, they are a mature team with experience,” Buffon told La Stampa. “We are coming from a period where the same players have always been fielded.” He then weighed in on the Scudetto race and the battle with Roma. “The eight-point advantage does not make me feel serene.”

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Iuliano: Juventus can win the Europa League Apr 9, 2014 Former Juventus defender Mark Iuliano is confident that the Bianconeri can lift the Europa league this season. The Serie A leaders entertain French side Lyon on Thursday night at the Juventus Stadium in the second leg of the quarter final tie. The Bianconeri hold a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg thanks to a goal from Leonardo Bonucci but Iuliano is confident the Italian champions can continue their march in Europe and even win the competition. “Hopefully the Bianconeri can get to the final and win the cup,” the 40-year-old told Tuttomercatoweb.com. “It will be important to understand the game well, psychologically. “But in that aspect Conte is a guarantee as he knows how to motivate the players. “Lyon are a decent team who offer good football. So,we still have to pay maximum concentration for the full 90 minutes.”

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Juve to use strongest side against Lyon Turin giants forget title race, set sights on Europa League. Apr 9, 2014 Juventus boss Antonio Conte has said that his side have put the Serie A title race aside and are focusing exclusively on their Europa League quarter-final return against Lyon in Turin on Thursday. That means Conte will resist the temptation to rotate his squad to save the energy of key players for the battle in the domestic league. Juventus are eight points clear in Serie A with six games to go, but the strong form of second-placed AS Roma, who have won their last six games, means Conte's men cannot afford to relax. That and the fact that Juve take a 1-0 advantage into the quarter-final return after their victory in France a week ago had led to speculation Conte could rest some regulars. But the coach says he wants Juve to be at their best as they aim to reach the final of Europe's secondary club competition, which will be played at their home ground in Turin on May 14. "We're here to talk about the Europa League quarter-final return leg and as far as I'm concerned the league doesn't exist today," said Conte. "It would be prestigious for Juventus to reach the semis, it's been seven years since an Italian team got to that stage," he added, referring to Fiorentina's appearance in the last four in 2008. "I'll look to pick the best team that will enable us to get through, playing those who can give us the best guarantees from a physical and psychological point of view".

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Juventus v Lyon team news Juventus coach Antonio Conte has called on the club's fans to play a big part when they host Lyon in Thursday's Europa League clash in Turin. Apr 9, 2014 The Italian champions take a slender one-goal lead into the second leg of their quarter-final tie after Leonardo Bonucci's late strike earned them victory in France. Conte knows, though, that the tie remains very much alive, with Lyon unbeaten in the competition until last week. He said: "This tie is far from over. Lyon have great players in attack. "I hope to see a packed Juventus Stadium and that our fans make their voices heard to push the team forward. "We need the crowd to rise to the big occasion. We want to be in the semi-final. "It would be great to reach the last four, for Italian football as well as for Juve." Lyon can expect a stern test at the Juventus Stadium, the venue for this year's final. Juve, who lead the Serie A standings with an eight-point advantage over Roma, have been dominant at home this campaign. They have won all 16 of their league matches in Turin, including Monday's 2-0 triumph over Livorno. Moreover, Conte's side is unbeaten at home in Europe since falling 2-0 to Bayern Munich in April 2013. Lyon travel to Italy on the back of Sunday's 2-1 triumph at Valenciennes which lifted Remi Garde's side to fifth in Ligue 1. Les Gones are still missing half of their regular starting XI through injury but are confident they can overturn the tie. "We have to believe we can do it," Lyon midfielder Maxime Gonalons said. "But it will be very tough. "We need to score and then see what happens afterwards. "Anything is possible in football and Lyon have already turned around worse situations in the past." Carlos Tevez will lead Juve's attack with the Argentinian striker eager to score his first European goal since April 2009. The hosts also welcome back midfielder Arturo Vidal from suspension.

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain) Bonucci expecting ‘battle’ Apr 8, 2014 Juventus’ Leonardo Bonucci is expecting a battle when his side face Lyon in Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg. The Old Lady hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg in France but the Azzurri international says the team must continue to show a winning mentality. “Our win against Livorno shows that when we go out onto the pitch we always want to win,” Bonucci wrote on his official website. “My aim, and I hope it’s my teammates’ aim too, is to increase our advantage over Roma. “A winning team needs to keep looking forward and after a victory they repeat the job. “In Udine we have another final, a win we need to win and a match with a thousand motivations. “Now we need to think about Thursday against Lyon, we are expecting another battle. “The match against Lyon is the first of four cup finals. At Juventus Stadium I only know one result. Winning!”

Llorente: Juventus must ignore Roma's results The Spaniard says that the Bianconeri should only concern themselves with their own form and admitted that Antonio Conte was right to drop him for last week's trip to Lyon. Apr 8, 2014 Juventus striker Fernando Llorente has urged his team-mates to focus on their own performances rather than look at second-placed Roma's results as they aim to wrap up their third successive Serie A title as soon as possible. The reigning champions beat Livorno 2-0 on Monday evening courtesy of a Llorente double to restore their eight-point lead over the Giallorossi and the Spanish forward is confident that Antonio Conte's men will hold onto top spot as long as they ignore what their Scudetto rivals are doing. "We mustn’t look at Roma; instead we should concentrate on ourselves," Llorente told the official Juventus website. "We won’t have any problems if we play as we know how." Llorente returned to the starting XI after being benched for the Europa League match against Olympique Lyonnais last week and he claimed that his two-goal haul proved that coach Antonio Conte made the right call. "The rest has done me good; I feel strong again," he enthused. "I was a bit tired in recent games and not as good as usual. "But that’s normal. It happens when you have so many fixtures to play." The 29-year-old has now netted 13 goals in 29 Serie A appearances so far this term.

Buffon on Scuffet and Destro Apr 8, 2014 Gigi Buffon believes Udinese goalkeeper Simone Scuffet “deserves a place at the World Cup” and is sorry for Mattia Destro. The Juventus and Italy shot-stopper spoke to Sport Mediaset and discussed the upcoming tournament in Brazil. Scuffet is only 17 and made his Serie A debut in February, but has quickly become a star name. “Should Scuffet go to Brazil? Considering what he is doing I’d say he deserves it, but watch out for Mattia Perin and Francesco Bardi too,” said the veteran. Destro will be suspended for the next four games, three of them handed out using video evidence to identify his lashing out of an arm on Cagliari’s Davide Astori. Not only is it a heavy blow for Roma, but could also rule him out of the World Cup for breaking Cesare Prandelli’s Code of Ethics. “If Roma were to lose such an important player it would be disappointing for us too, as a side like the Giallorossi make the League more fascinating,” noted Buffon. “Does he risk missing the World Cup? That is not a problem that I can resolve, as there are people who know how to face the situation.”

Marotta: 'Roma fine without Destro' Apr 8, 2014 Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta insisted “the Scudetto race isn’t over yet” despite their lead and Mattia Destro’s ban. The Bianconeri maintained the gap at the top of the table at eight points and Roma’s top scorer Destro will be suspended for the next four games. “Destro is a little champion, but Roma can do without him, as they are a great team,” said Marotta at a talk at the Insubria University in Varese. “The club is highly motivated, play well together and can cover for his absence. We have a good lead at the top, consolidated with an extraordinary campaign, but there are still 18 points to go and the Scudetto race isn’t over yet. “For three seasons we have been the pace-setters and this puts a lot of strain on a side, but thanks to Antonio Conte we have maintained our position at the top and will try to stay there for even longer. “Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente have scored 31 goals between them and I think they both deserve to go to the World Cup.” Naturally, Marotta was asked about the Juventus Stadium, which is setting the benchmark for other Serie A clubs. “It is the example to be followed. Most Italian stadiums are cathedrals in the desert, used only during the games. Our stadium has a daily life of its own and on match day welcomes spectators not just for the game, but to spend many enjoyable hours together. “Directors also have a social responsibility towards the lads in the youth academy. They hope to become professionals, but Italian football will only allow three out of a hundred to achieve that aim. “Therefore we wanted to become the first Italian football club to create our own college to ensure the players can combine sporting activity with learning and accompany them towards their diplomas.” Marotta was asked who his favourite figures from the history of football were. “In my view Pele and Diego Maradona were the greatest players, while as a Coach I’d say Sir Alex Ferguson not just for what he won, but because he covered an entire era at the top.”

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO Fernando Llorente (32′) Fernando Llorente (35′) April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Attendance:‬ 38000‎ ‘Juve’s strikers the difference’ Apr 7, 2014 Paolo Castellini reflected that Juventus’ strikers proved the difference against a Livorno side already looking to Chievo. The Amaranto were dispatched 2-0 on Monday evening thanks to two goals from Fernando Llorente, but one of their defensive number was not disheartened, particularly with a key relegation clash to come in Week 33. “The truth is that we came up against a great team and we tried to play our game, taking advantage of the speed of Emeghara. “The game was not bad, but the strikes from their forwards have determined the game in a certain way. “Against Chievo we will play for a lot. But we do not want to create tension in the environment, we are happy for the compactness shown against Juve. “Here we have shown great consistency, I must say that we were fairly good. From this point we must push on. “The Scudetto? Juve are impregnable. As a former Roma man I would like the Giallorossi to win it, but with Juve like this, it is impossible.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO Fernando Llorente (32′) Fernando Llorente (35′) April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Juventus a step closer to finish line, says Chiellini The defender is amazed at how consistent the Bianconeri have been this term while coach Antonio Conte insists nothing is over yet. Apr 7, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini says Juventus are inching closer to securing their third consecutive Serie A title. Antonio Conte's men beat Livorno 2-0 on Monday night thanks to a first-half brace from Fernando Llorente that restored their lead over Roma at the top of the table to eight points with just six games remaining. Chiellini is proud of the way the Bianconeri bounced back from last week's 2-0 defeat to Napoli and he feels his side are getting ever closer to clinching the title again. "We have been sending messages to the rest of the league for a long time, as we are extraordinarily consistent," he told Sky Sport Italia. "A single slip-up was physiologically likely, but we reacted well to that. We put in a good performance, there’s still a way to go yet, but the finish line is getting closer and closer. "We are ready to go all the way both in Serie A and Europe. We’re getting closer to the finish line and that fires us up." The Old Lady will carry on a 1-0 lead into the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final when they host Lyon on Thursday. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO Fernando Llorente (32′) Fernando Llorente (35′) April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Di Carlo: 'Stars make the difference' Apr 7, 2014 Livorno Coach Domenico Di Carlo admits Juventus star power “made the difference” and turned his focus to Chievo. The Amaranto were beaten 2-0 in Turin by a Fernando Llorente brace and remain in the bottom three. “We faced the game with the right spirit, immediately having three shots on goal. I liked the team and its tactical balance, but then you have to remember we were facing Juve,” Di Carlo told Sky Sport Italia. “Llorente had a great turn for the opening goal, while we have more regrets for the second, which in the end made the difference. “We remained in the game and didn’t lose our balance, otherwise we would’ve been on the end of a real hammering. “Buffon performed two great saves and they scored two goals, so in the end that’s what made the difference.” Livorno have Emerson, Ibrahima Mbaye and Andrea Luci injured, while Paulinho was rested to ensure he’ll be at his best for the relegation dogfight with Chievo. “I think Livorno have a squad up to the task. We want to survive with team spirit and moments that can change a game,” continued Di Carlo. “It’s a head-to-head with Chievo that we must win, though we know they will focus on the counter-attack and try to stop us playing. We need great intensity on Sunday and call our fans to fill the stadium. “We’ve got to reach this occasion in the right way and don’t want to give up. It’s a young team, we are learning to be more consistent over 90 minutes, but we do pay for certain mistakes.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO Fernando Llorente (32′) Fernando Llorente (35′) April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Juventus not champions yet, says Antonio Conte The Bianconeri now sit eight points clear of Roma with just six games remaining but the boss insists the title race is far from over. Apr 7, 2014 Juventus coach Antonio Conte is adamant that his side still have a lot of work to do before they can relax, insisting the league isn't over just yet. The Old Lady sit eight points clear of second-placed Roma with just six games remaining following their 2-0 victory over Livorno on Monday. But Conte insists the title race is far from over. "It is absolutely not over," he told Sky Sport Italia. "This has been a fascinating season with two teams breaking records and doing extraordinary things. People should give credit to Juventus and Roma, but there are six games to go and you all know what I think about it. "Nothing has been concluded and we must keep going like this." The 44-year-old turned his attention to the second-leg of his side's Europa League quarter-final clash against Lyon, which they head into with a 1-0 lead from the first meeting in France. "We cannot take our foot off the gas, as in three days we play again and we want to get into the semi-finals. "It would be great to reach the final four, for Italian football as well as for Juve. Lyon have some good players on the counter, so the tie is far from over. "I hope the stadium will be packed and that the fans make their voices heard to push these lads forward. We need the crowd worthy of a big occasion for this final strait. In recent years we won also thanks to them and I hope it’ll continue that way." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO Fernando Llorente (32′) Fernando Llorente (35′) April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Andrea Gervasoni Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Player Ratings Fernando Llorente's first half brace extended the Bianconeri's lead atop the Serie A table to eight points with six games remaining. Apr 7, 2014 JUVENTUS Gianluigi Buffon - Not tested very often, but up to the task when called upon. Made a brilliant save to deny Duncan later in the second half. Martín Cáceres - Struggled at times to deal with the strength and pace of Emeghara, but made a few nice recovery tackles on this his 27th birthday. Leonardo Bonucci - Suffered an injury early in the second half, but soldiered up and helped see out the victory with another no nonsense performance at the back. Giorgio Chiellini - Didn't put a foot wrong at the back. Typically committed performance from the veteran defender. Stephan Lichtsteiner - Excellent pace and vision saw him set up a number of chances. Glided past Mesbah, giving the Algerian fits with his strong running on the ball. Paul Pogba - One of the best performers on the pitch for Juventus. He set up a number of chances with some sharp passing and came close to scoring with a few shots from distance. Andrea Pirlo - Commanding figure in midfield. Distributed the ball exceptionally well, kick-starting nearly every Juventus attack. Claudio Marchisio - Saw plenty of the ball, but didn't create too much in terms of chances. Seemed to improve as the time passed. Kwadwo Asamoah - The Ghanaian made a number of nice runs along the left, beating defenders at will. Sometimes lacked a better final ball. Carlos Tévez - Set up the opening goal with his determination and dribbling skills. Still a relatively quiet performance from the Argentine. FERNANDO LLORENTE - Man of the match type stuff from the Spaniard who showed his strength on the ball. Made easy work of Valentini on both his goals. Substitutions Simone Padoin - Late substitution to wind down the clock. Mirko Vučinić - Came on with the game out of reach and Juventus looking to wind down the clock. Sebastian Giovinco - Came close to scoring and setting up a third goal for the hosts. LIVORNO Francesco Bardi - Despite endless pressure from Juventus, he wasn't forced into making too many difficult stops. Very poor on the second Llorente goal. Federico Ceccherini - Did a good job of tracking back on a number of occasions from his right midfield position. Hardly saw the ball in attack. Subbed off in the 59th minute. Nahuel Valentini - Completely outmatched by Fernando Llorente. Beaten by the Spaniard on both goals. Andrea Coda - Caught out of position on more than a few occasions. A bit sloppy with his clearances allowing Juventus to keep up the pressure. Paolo Castellini - A bright spot for Livorno in defence. Fearless in his challenges, and kept Tevez in check for the greater part of the match. Marco Benassi - Overwhelmed in midfield. Put up against the likes of Pirlo and Pogba, and wasn't able to trouble the Juventus playmakers. Marco Biagianti - Failed to stamp his authority on the match. Didn't help the back three in dealing with the immense Juventus pressure. Subbed off in the 74th minute. Joseph Duncan - Produced the best chance of the match for the visitors, but had his blistering shot turned away by Buffon. Djamel Mesbah - Exposed by the speed and pace of Lichtsteiner. Struggled to cope with the quick passing of Juventus and squandered possession far too often. Innocent Emeghara - Strong and confident the few times he saw the ball in attack. Subbed off in the 64th minute. Luca Siligardi - Never managed to threaten the Juventus defence. Very wasteful on the ball. Substitutions Cristiano Piccini - Never saw much of the ball after coming on in the second half. Jonny Mosquera - Came on with 15 minutes to play, with Juventus milking the clock. Ishak Belfodil - Showed flashes of skill when on the ball, but hardly saw enough of it to make much of an impact. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111