Socrates

I francesi non pressano. Tutti chiusi nella loro metacampo.

No, eliminato dallo staff.

Pogba contro i francesi.

Sí

Squalificato.

Marotta: 'Napoli like provincials' Apr 3, 2014 Juventus director Beppe Marotta blasted Napoli’s “excessive euphoria” and said they “acted like provincial little clubs.” The Partenopei earned a 2-0 victory in Serie A on Sunday night, ending the 22-round unbeaten run of the leaders, but remain 17 points adrift. “We were a little annoyed by the excessive euphoria of Napoli, who after all only won one League game that is worth three points,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia. “They acted like one of those little provincial clubs who go mad after beating a big team, which is reductive for a side like Napoli.” Marotta was speaking from pitch side at the Stade de Gerland ahead of tonight’s Europa League quarter-final against Lyon. “We are hoping to get some players back to full fitness after injuries, particularly in defence. This is a very important test against a well-drilled side to be feared, but we care about this trophy very much. “As last year, we are left alone to represent Italy and it remains a very important competition, especially as the Final will be played in our stadium in Turin. We are proud to be protagonists. “We are trying to achieve the extraordinary record of three consecutive Scudetti. Of course it’s difficult to go all the way in two tournaments, especially with the injuries recently. We also have Arturo Vidal suspended in midfield today, so the choices are limited.” Today Paris Saint-Germain announced they were not interested in signing Paul Pogba. “We never had any contact with them, nor do we intend to sell. It’s still time for him to grow in his natural habitat of Juventus and we have no intention of losing him.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Line-ups: Lyon-Juventus Apr 3, 2014 Carlos Tevez, Daniel Osvaldo and Paul Pogba start as Juventus visit Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final. The first leg kicks off at the Stade de Gerland at 21.05 CET. Both sides have numerous problems to contend with going into the game. Lyon are without Milan Bisevac, Gueida Fofana, Miguel Lopes, Mouhamadou Dabo, Clement Grenier and ex-Milan midfielder Yoann Gourcuff. Samuel Umtiti has passed a late fitness test to start in defence. Juventus have Angelo Ogbonna, Andrea Barzagli and Federico Peluso injured, while Tevez returns well rested after his Serie A ban ruled him out of the 2-0 defeat to Napoli. Arturo Vidal is suspended, so Pogba starts with Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo. It’s the first time these two clubs have ever played each other in a competitive fixture. LYON: Lopes; Tolisso, Koné, Umtiti, Bedimo; Ferri, Gonalons; Malbranque, Lacazette, Mvuemba; Briand Lyon bench: Vercoutre, Zeffane, Sarr, Danic, Fekir, Gomis, Njie JUVENTUS: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Osvaldo Juventus bench: Storari, Peluso, Lichtsteiner, Padoin, Vucinic, Giovinco, Llorente Ref: Collum (SCO)

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Conte: Juventus are proud to be the only Italian team in Europe Apr 3, 2014 Antonio Conte is proud of that fact that Juventus are the only Italian team still involved in European competition. After the elimination of Napoli, Fiorentina and AC Milan, Bianconeri are now the only Serie A representatives in Europe, despite dropping from Champions League to Europa League after the group stage. “We dive into this challenge, now we are in the Europa League quarter-finals and being the lone Italian team puts pressure on us but also has to make us proud,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “We must fly as high as possible the Italian flag and make a great game.” Juventus will take on Olympique Lyonnais at Stade de Gerland on Thursday night.

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Lyon v Juventus – Probable lineups Apr 3, 2014 Juventus coach Antonio Conte will probably make four changes to the team that lost to Napoli on Sunday night as the club take on Olympique Lyonnais in the Europa League quarter-final. Arturo Vidal is suspended, so Claudio Marchisio is expected to replace him, while Mirko Vucinic is likely to be favoured over Fernando Llorente to partner with the returning Carlos Tevez in attack. Mauricio Isla could also find himself in team ahead of Stephan Lichtsteiner. Lyon will be without Gueida Fofana, Milan Bisevac, Mohamadou Dabo, Miguel Lopes, Clement Grenier and Yohann Gourcuff who are all dealing with injuries. Andrea Barzagli, Federico Peluso and Angelo Ogbonna have been called up for this match but they are unlikely to make an appearance because of recent injury issues. The probable lineups: Olympique Lyonnais (4-3-1-2): Lopes; Bedimo, Kone, Sarr, Zeffane; Mvuemba, Gonalons, Ferri; Malbranque; Gomis, Lacazette. Juventus (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente.

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Grosso: 'Great Lyon-Juve' Apr 3, 2014 Fabio Grosso is expecting “a great game” tonight in the Europa League quarter-final between Juventus and Lyon. The 2006 World Cup winner played for both clubs in his career and is now working as the Primavera youth team Coach in Turin. “Juventus have many strengths, are competitive and full of talent,” Grosso told the Corriere dello Sport. “You can see their capabilities by how many points they have put together in Serie A this season and the gap with the other sides. “I know the Bianconeri want to go all the way in the Europa League. It is going to be a great game this evening.” The first leg kicks off at the Stade de Gerland at 21.05 CET). “Olympique Lyon are always part of my heart. I still have many friends in Lyon and very special memories of my two years in France.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) ‘There won’t be another Perugia, but…’ Apr 3, 2014 Alessio Tacchinardi is certain Juventus won’t experience another ‘Perugia’, but sees the Bianconeri ailing in Roma’s late charge. The Giallorossi have closed up the gap at the top of the table to eight points after winning their game in hand over Parma yesterday, whilst talk of a possible comeback in the title race has been on the cards since Juve lost 2-0 at Napoli last weekend. However, considering back to the 1999-00 campaign, when the Old Lady lost a similar lead in the title race, to lose on the final day to Lazio, after defeat at a rainsoaked Perugia. For one former midfielder who played alongside current Juve boss Antonio Conte on that day 14 years ago, however, there will not be a repeat. “It is very different. I think that this time there will not be…another Perugia,” Tacchinardi began in conversation today with the Corriere dello Sport. “This year I think that Conte’s Juve will win the title, even if Roma are having an extraordinary season. To date, there are no similarities to 14 years ago - if Juve escape from the next two games unscathed then it will be over. “It seems to me that they also have a fairly easy schedule from here to the end, but if they experience any other obstacles then the path could become uphill. “There is some hope for Roma from this point of view, partly also because Juve are not going through a fantastic period of form. But they still have many bonuses in their favour. “Among other things, today is also the commitment in the Europa League against Lyon. If Juve can manage that then it is over. But if they do not win on Monday against Livorno then they are at risk again. “Today I say they should not take any risks, but by Tuesday the scenario could have changed.” The 38-year-old former defensive midfielder continued, admitting to the psychological strain that this time of the season has. “There is still a big points difference, but the situation that is key will be against Livorno on Monday. I do not think that there are many similarities between this Juve and mine. “But sincerely, if Juventus do not win then Roma would move even closer, then the fear of not succeeding could take over and in that case things become more complicated. “We know this. If they were to go into Monday night with just [five] points between the teams, then the anxiety could take over at that point. It’s amazing to think that Roma are still so close with all those victories. It has become a delicate situation that must be managed with the mind. “There is no doubt, Juve have dominated the championship. But now a thin line stands before them, beyond which they can win or see everything collapse. “I think they will make it, but the possibility exists that they could fall and if they were to at this point, it would be tough. “In the final few days [in 2000], we were feeling anxious, partly because we had no more petrol in the legs. When you are in those conditions, the ball becomes heavy. “In that season we arrived at the end cooked - to manage an advantage you need extraordinary physical condition. That Juve were anxious, Lazio had won the head-to-head, they had the better condition. “Even today for Juve, the comeback from Roma can allow for fear to take over. It seems to me that the Bianconeri do not have a lot of fuel in the legs, they are at 50-60 per cent condition. Roma are definitely better. “But Juve are balanced, they know how to win and they know how to handle the pressure. They are still clearly favourites. Over the past two months, Conte has been able to hide the decline, however, by the results. “I think he was burnt alive by losing the League that day. But he can handle delicate situations. He has important players, has lived a similar situation as a player and will capitalise on this. “Even if they have to suffer. Juve come into the final stages on their legs and they also seem psychologically in trouble. But I think that they will bring home this Scudetto even if they have to fight to the end.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Juventus News – Europa League: Lyon vs Juve Apr 3, 2014 Our Europa League adventure continues on Thursday with The Battle of the Last Two Sides Fabio Grosso Played For! Sounds a bit underwhelming to advertise it that way, no? Well, don’t believe the non-hype: Juve’s clash with Lyon in the EL quarterfinals is the latest Most Important Match of the Season. Pass through Lyon, and the dream of playing in the Europa final in front of a home crowd is that much closer. But first, a few words about the loss to Napoli: Don’t worry about it. Sunday’s defeat may not be meaningless in the whole scheme of things, especially if it helps motivate the Bianconeri to thrash Lyon. But as far as Serie A is concerned — even with Roma closing the gap to eight points with a win over Parma in their rescheduled match — Juve still control their own destiny. And as far as Napoli’s hopes to claim any semblance of superiority over Juve are concerned — the result is as close to meaningless as it gets. Would Juve have liked to have gone into the ever-hostile San Paolo (see Lightning Round) and taken all three points as ruthlessly as possible? Sure. Was it necessary to do so? No. And it’s a good thing Juve didn’t have to win, as tired and snakebitten by injury as they are. Sometimes exhaustion beats pride; Juve are lucky pride lost out now and not when it counts. Thursday’s encounter with Lyon is an entirely different matter. Juve will have Carlos Tevez back, but more importantly, they will have the extra motivation of playing in the Europa League final at Juventus Stadium. Unlike Sunday, Juve will travel to France not looking to minimize risk and take whatever chances they get, but to press the issue and take some away goals back to Turin. To France, and the Derby di Grosso! Europa Updates: Tevez Returns, Vidal Suspended, Marchisio & Vucinic Start As we’ve come to expect over the past month, Juve are saving their best for the Europa League — although injuries and a suspension have made “best” a relative term. For Lyon, Conte will field his strongest XI possible, but one which will be missing Arturo Vidal and see Andrea Barzagli only available from the bench. Barzagli’s absence from the starting lineup was of course was expected, as he continues his recovery, and even his inclusion on the bench is something of a surprise. But that means the officially overworked trio of Martin Caceres, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini will once again protect Gigi Buffon. Angelo Ogbonna is still out, and although Federico Peluso has recovered from his injury to join the squad, there’s really not much of a depth chart to speak of for central defenders. Beyond our starting three, it’s Primavera starlets, converted midfielders or bust. Perhaps another “surprise” here is the realization that Arturo Vidal is suspended for this leg. He’s also suspended for Monday’s match with Livorno, so look for him to be unbelievably rested for the return leg next Thursday. Claudio Marchisio will take over for Arturo, joining Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba, who we’re hoping will give a decisive, devastating performance on his return to France. In the midfield, Mauricio Isla and Kwadwo Asamoah will man the flanks, though Conte will probably swap the former with Stephan Lichtsteiner at some point in the second half, especially if Juve need more offense. The good news in attack is that Carlos Tevez is back in the starting lineup, and since he sat out Napoli with a suspension he should be fit to harass Lyon for the full 90 minutes. At the moment, Conte is leaning towards Mirko Vucinic to pair up with Tevez over Fernando Llorente. If it’s between those two, I’d go with Vucinic. Fernando is pretty much exhausted, while Mirko relatively impressed in his sub appearance on Sunday (in all fairness, Juve were so starved for creativity from their forwards that Mirko looked like Tevez out there). Dani Osvaldo is tired but should be ready in case Conte opts for the recently familiar over the recovering enigma, while Sebastian Giovinco is also available from the bench. Short of Fabio Quagliarella, who was infamously left off the Europa squad list, the gang’s all here. Despite the relative meaninglessness of the Napoli loss, the defeat and its circumstances place Juve in an interesting position as Thursday approaches. On one hand, the obvious fatigue on display at the San Paolo is worrying — can we honestly expect Juve to be any less tired on Thursday? On the other hand, losing should provide the necessary motivation for Juve to simply avoid doing so again — for a long, long time. Juve have followed up each setback this season with a sustained period of success. Moreover, Juve have struggled to score more than once per game; that has to end at some point, and it would be great to end the drought in a situation where away goals can be everything. I mentioned in the intro that on Sunday, exhaustion won out over pride. That should not be the case on Thursday. That Europa League final at Juventus Stadium is a worthy reason to tap into any reserves of energy or sheer willpower the Bianconeri may have. FINO ALLA FINE, FORZA JUVE!!! Scottish Referees in Lyon Last time out, Juve received very fair treatment from an English refereeing contingent in Florence. Let’s hope their neighbors to the north follow suit on Thursday. William Collum of Scotland will preside over the Bianconeri’s date with Lyon. His last and only Juve match was a 1-0 victory at the old Olimpico over Sturm Graz in 2010. Alessandro Del Piero decided that one (as ever, he provided a bit of light in an otherwise dark period — but I digress). No Braveheart analogies from me, I’m afraid: I’ve only actually seen the first half of it (anyone know what happens?). I just hope Juve score some away goals — if it takes a Scottish warrior mentality to do it, I’m all for that. Collum’s linesmen will be Martin Cryans and William Conquer. The goal-line officials will be Robert Madden and John Beaton. The fourth official will be Gavin Harris, who’s just happy he’s not working those Fiorentina matches. One less Italian team means less headaches — hopefully.

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Lyon vs. Juventus Preview Apr 3, 2014 With four of the remaining eight teams in the Europa League entering the competition through the Champions League trap door, the quarter-final draw was bound to throw up a battle or two of heavyweights. The tie of the round sees Lyon take on the tournament favourites Juventus for the first time competitively, with a final date in Turin, at Juventus’ ground, the ultimate quest for both sides. Lyon have recorded just one loss in this season’s Europa League after battling through Group I and disposing of Viktoria Plzen in the round of 16, while Juventus eliminated fellow Serie A side Fiorentina in the same round after crashing out of the Champions League. Below we look at the key facts heading into Thursday’s first leg in France, where Antonio Conte’s side are looking to take their first steps on the road to winning a European trophy for the first time since 1996. Off-colour Juventus The tournament favourites come into this quarter-final first leg off the back of only their second league defeat of the season, away at Napoli at the weekend, as FOX Soccer reported via Twitter: FOX Soccer ✔ @FOXSoccer Napoli dealt Serie A rivals Juventus their second defeat of the season with a 2-0 victory at Stadio San Paolo. http://foxs.pt/1lfR7wn Conte’s men have been running away with Serie A this season but stuttered against Rafa Benitez’s Napoli in Naples. The 44-year-old manager blamed his players’ fatigue for the loss during an interview with giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, as FOX Sports reported: “We were off colour. We are playing so many games right now and always with the same players due to injuries. Most of my players are tired as they haven't had a chance to rest.” They won’t be getting their chance anytime soon, with their crucial visit to the out-of-sorts Lyon top of their list of priorities this week. The French side have lost three of their last four matches in all competitions but may also be feeling the effects of a long season, having played 51 matches already in the current campaign, as OptaJean revealed on Twitter: OptaJean @OptaJean Follow 51 - Lyon have played 51 competitive games this season, six more than any other Ligue 1 side (PSG 45). Marathon. Despite this, now has never been a better time for Lyon to beat Juventus, as their 22-game unbeaten league stretch coming to an end will have shattered confidence in the camp. According to ESPN FC, Juventus’ first domestic loss of the season resulted in failure in Europe in the following match, with Real Madrid beating the Old Lady after Fiorentina had taken them down domestically. How Lyon will be hoping for a repeat on Thursday evening. The Return Of Carlos Tevez While Conte blamed tiredness for Juventus’ loss in Naples, the absence of striker Carlos Tevez was detrimental to the Serie A champions’ cause. As Serie A News revealed on Twitter, Tevez is the league’s top marksman with 18 goals for the season: Serie A News @TransfersCalcio Carlos Tevez leads Serie A now with 18 goals The former Manchester United and Manchester City forward has been irresistible in front of goal this season, and when Dani Osvaldo took the reins against Napoli following Tevez's suspension, Juventus didn’t look the same threat going forward. Meanwhile, Lyon manager Remi Garde will turn to the prolific partnership of Alexandre Lacazette and Bafetimbi Gomis to fire the seven-time Ligue 1 champions to a famous victory. The pair have scored 25 goals between them so far this season according to the official Ligue 1 website, and they combined effectively in the club’s recent loss to Saint Etienne to equalise in the first half. If Gomis and Lacazette can perfectly tune in their telepathy on Thursday, then Juventus may struggle. But with the class that the Serie A leaders have all over the pitch, you’d expect a routine victory—and possibly a routine competition victory—for the Italians.

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) ‘Europa could be Juve’s first step’ Apr 3, 2014 Youri Djorkaeff has urged Juventus to take the Europa League seriously, considering it a possible ‘first step’ towards Champions League success. The Bianconeri have struggled in their two seasons back in the Champions League under Antonio Conte, but find themselves favourites to pick up the Europa League, as they prepare for tonight’s quarter-final first leg with Lyon. For Djorkaeff, reflecting on the differences in Serie A between his time as a player and today, he has urged that the Old Lady does not throw away this chance. “Back then it was great championships, great players,” began the former Inter player to Tuttosport this week. “Now…the level is a little below, perhaps that is why Juventus have struggled in the Champions League. “But, I believe that there is very little needed for them to compete with the biggest in Europe, and the first step may just be winning this Europa League.” Jose Mourinho commented last week that winning the competition for Juve would not represent ‘real success’. “Mourinho is talking like that because that is Juventus…with Inter he would have said that the Europa League is the best competition in the world! “I believe that many teams are wrong to snub the Europa League, but that this trend is being reversed - I see that the British and French are taking the competition seriously and if the French and Italians began to believe, the it would once again be as important as when it was called the UEFA Cup. “I realise that the Champions League has engulfed a lot of media attention and the best teams, given that in some leagues it is down to fourth to qualify, but I think that for a club to win a trophy, it remains the most important thing of all. “A trophy is a trophy, and a season with a European trophy remains in the history, whichever of the two it is - the Champions League or Europa League. “So for me, it is worth a lot and is good for Juventus to try to win it.” The 46-year-old cast his eye on tonight’s match for Juve. “It will be a show because I think that Lyon have to play an attacking game to scare Juventus and they will be encouraged by their stadium, where I played often and I know how heated it can get. “On the other hand, though, there is this Juventus that looks so crazy thanks to their Coach. “I remember Conte well, when he played - he was my opponent so many times and now when I see the Bianconeri play I see him on the field.”

Why is Paul Pogba playing so poorly? After an excellent first 18 months, the 21-year-old has become inconsistent as several of Europe's big-guns look to tempt him away from Turin. Apr 3, 2014 COMMENT By Peter McVitie He may boast the title of being the best player in the world under the age of 21, but Paul Pogba has suffered an alarming nosedive in form in recent months. The midfielder gradually asserted himself as a key player for the Turin giants in his first season following his move from Manchester United in 2012 and then strolled through the first half of the current campaign, scoring six goals and making four assists in all competitions. It was thanks to those impeccable displays for club and country that the gifted midfielder earned the praise of some of the biggest names in European football, as well as admiring glances from Europe's biggest clubs. “Pogba is unique. He has a very bright future,” Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said when asked for his thoughts on him. “He is a complete midfielder. “Bring him to Real? Why not. This is one of the best young midfielders alongside [Marco] Verratti and Isco.” Meanwhile, Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal has hailed him as a “unique case” and Ruud Gullit is confident he can be "the future star". The praise is certainly deserved. So bright does his future look and so impressive was his form throughout his first 18 months in Turin, that a host of reports have linking the 21-year-old to some of the continent’s biggest sides. Real Madrid, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have all been rumoured to be willing to spend big on the 6'2" midfielder since the end of last year and it seems likely that more will join the list in the coming months. As the advances of the bigger sides in Europe intensified in the January transfer window, the possibility of Pogba fleeing the Bianconeri in the near future became real and it has only increased following his insistence that his future won't be discussed until this summer. Unfortunately, though, it seems all the speculation has affected his performances. Since the turn of the year, the France international’s displays have been in stark contrast to those which have earned him international acclaim. Pogba’s influence in games has dropped immensely. His shooting has been very poor since the turn of the year, his passes aren’t delivered with the same accuracy and they haven't created as many chances for his team as fans are used to seeing. His influence and ability to control and change a game has diminished at an alarming rate. In Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Napoli he was virtually anonymous. He made only 16 passes in Stadio San Paolo, a new low in the league this season and little over half of them were successful. Furthermore, his defensive work has diminished as his tackles have become less frequent since the close of the January transfer window. At 21 he is still developing and growing as a player and so is bound to go through a period of indifference and inconsistency. But it seems that process has been sped up and intensified as the likes of PSG and Madrid keep batting their eyelids at him. It is understandable that his head would be turned, though. His reported suitors are currently battling for places in the semi-finals of Europe’s most prestigious club competition, while Pogba and Juve prepare to contest the consolation prize of the Europa League. While he hasn't said it explicitly, it is only natural then that he would begin contemplating a step up in a bid to experience the latter stages of the most illustrious prizes. However, he has to further prove his consistency and importance to Antonio Conte’s side before he can bank on a move away from Juventus Stadium. For a player who has already set his sights on winning the Ballon d’Or in the future, he cannot afford to be so easily distracted and affected by speculation and transfer rumours. It will be rife throughout his career and if he is to have one as successful as he hopes, and to fulfil his potential, he must be sure to shake it off and continue to put in the mesmerising performances he did before the closure of the January transfer window.

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Lyon-Juventus Betting Preview: Peerless Pirlo excellent value to find the net in France Antonio Conte's men are favourites to claim victory in Thursday's first-leg tie against Remi Garde's side but our tipster think there's value in the anytime goalscorer market. Apr 3, 2014 Europa League favourites Juventus continue their campaign for European glory when they travel to France to take on Olympique Lyonnais in the first-leg of their quarter-final clash on Thursday night. Antonio Conte’s men suffered their first defeat in 15 matches when they slumped to a shock 2-0 defeat against Napoli on Sunday afternoon but the Serie A side are expected to bounce back against their French opporsition on Thursday. The Italian champions are chalked up at just 8/11 (1.73) with Paddy Power to seize the initiative by claiming a vital first-leg lead here, while Lyon can be backed at a chunky 4/1 (5.0) with the same firm to win on home soil on Thursday. The draw is available at 13/5 (3.60) with Paddy Power. Lyon have struggled for form in recent weeks, having won just four of their last 10 matches in all competitions and if the Ligue 1 side are to cause an upset, they will be heavily reliant on top scorer Alexandre Lacazette. The 22-year-old front man has notched 14 league goals for Lyon this season – including in the weekend’s 2-1 defeat at the hands of Saint Etienne – and can be backed at a chunky 8/1 (9.0) with Paddy Power to break the deadlock on Thursday. Juventus, though, are likely to be fired up given that they willl have home advantage should they progress to the final and Antonio Conte's side could prove to be too strong for their French opponents at Stade de Gerland. Former Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has bagged an impressive 18 league goals for Antonio Conte’s men thus far this term and the 30-year-old forward is decent value at 9/2 (5.50) with Paddy Power to open the scoring here. Veteran Italian midfielder Andrea Pirlo scored the crucial goal as Juventus edged past Fiorentina in the last round and, given the 34-year-old midfielder’s prowess from dead-ball situations, the 16/5 (4.20) quote with Paddy Power for Pirlo to net at anytime is outstanding value here. Juventus look a solid selection at 8/11 (1.73) with Paddy Power to take a huge stride towards the last four of the competition with victory in this first-leg tie. But those seeking to squeeze further value from the tie are encouraged to take a chance on the juicy 16/5 (4.20) quote from the same firm for the irrepressible Pirlo to net at any time during Thursday’s tussle.

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) How Juventus Will Line Up Against Lyon Apr 2, 2014 Juventus enter Thursday's Europa League tie with Lyon looking to banish the memory of Sunday's nightmare at the San Paolo. The Bianconeri were poor against Napoli, who won comfortably, exposing the champions' inability to defend against wingers pushed high up the pitch. In a competition that the Italian champions are favourites for, especially due to the final being held at their own stadium in Turin, they will be expected to comfortably surpass this stage against Lyon. Here is how Antonio Conte is likely to line them up at the Stade de Gerland Thursday. Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon Potentially the best goalkeeper in Europe on recent form, the Italy No. 1 was phenomenal at Napoli on Sunday. Making plenty of spectacular saves to keep Juve in it for 30 minutes, Juve could not capitalise on the lifelines provided to them by their 'keeper. Conte will hope he is not needed quite so much on Thursday. Centre-Back: Martin Cáceres Martin Caceres is enjoying a prolonged run in the side due to the injuries to Andrea Barzagli and Angelo Ogbonna. Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini have also missed games, so the Uruguayan has been the most consistent presence in the back three. At times he has been excellent, but the Celeste international has also had moments of madness where he has been caught ball watching. Caceres will continue on Thursday regardless, though. Centre-Back: Leonardo Bonucci Bonucci has been the only defender to be in a decent spell of form. The Azzurri international has been alert, anticipating danger and making plenty of interceptions to break up the opposition's attacks. Bonucci was actually off the pitch during the opening goal on Sunday, and for a while, alongside Buffon, he was keeping the Partenopei at bay. Conte will hope Caceres and Chiellini will raise their games to a similar level moving forward. Centre-Back: Giorgio Chiellini Chiellini has struggled in recent weeks, attracting plenty of conflict with opponents, such as the clash with Amauri against Parma, when he suffered an elbow to the head in an aerial dual. On Sunday, he was involved in an altercation with Dries Mertens, even if it was debatable as to whether his stray leg, which made contact with the Belgian's head, was intentional. Chiellini needs to control his temper in the physical battles and get back to basics. Right-Midfield: Mauricio Isla Mauricio Isla is slowly building the trust of Conte and is on the verge of displacing Stephan Lichtsteiner in the starting line-up. The Chilean is currently the beneficiary of a rotation policy between himself, his Swiss team-mate and Kwadwo Asamoah, whereby the former Udinese player can fill in on the left. He is enjoying his best run of games, with his body standing up in recent times, after a torrid run of injuries. It has been a long time coming, but finally, Juventini will be glad to see Isla producing quality in a Juve shirt. Centre-Midfield: Claudio Marchisio Claudio Marchisio will get a start against Lyon due to Arturo Vidal serving a suspension for an accumulation of yellow cards. Il Principino has needed to be patient this season, and with Paul Pogba's emergence this season, Conte has needed to cruelly drop the fans' favourite. Marchisio is still producing, with the sensational long-range goal against Cagliari springing to mind, which will please Cesare Prandelli ahead of the World Cup. An extended run of games in the run-in is quite possible. With a deeper run in the Europa League, Conte will have more opportunities to play the 28-year-old, especially with Vidal and Pogba struggling for form, in addition to Andrea Pirlo needing his schedule being managed. Centre-Midfield: Andrea Pirlo Pirlo was in devastating form from set pieces against Fiorentina and Genoa, but against Napoli on Sunday he was poor. Pirlo will need to be more accurate with his delivery and shooting from set pieces in order to give Juve a greater chance of victory. Pirlo will look to set a tempo. With Tevez looking to go long, and Vucinic willing to drop a little deeper, Lyon will be unable to suffocate Pirlo in the same way that Napoli did. By mixing up his distribution from in front of the back four, Juve can establish more control than they were able to Sunday. Centre-Midfield: Paul Pogba Pogba is not enjoying a good run of form, but his athleticism and ability to drive Juve from defence into attack is crucial to this side. The Frenchman has Conte's trust, otherwise he might have been dropped already, so the French international will continue to drive the Bianconeri forward in transition. His willingness to shoot from distance, despite a lack of success in recent months, also shows the character in the player, so we can expect him to continue showing against Lyon. Left-Midfield: Kwadwo Asamoah Asamoah has been superb this season, progressing his game substantially. With more quality and consistency in the final third, the Ghanaian finally has some quality to complement his athleticism and physical dominance. Asamoah will look to inject some pace into this side, and given he is able to put in a series of sprints throughout the 90 minutes, Juve finally have an outlet they can trust to feed the ball regularly. Striker: Carlos Tevez Carlos Tevez will return after suspension in the Napoli game. The Argentine has been in sensational form with seven goals in his last nine games. Without a goal in Europe this season, El Apache will be determined to find the back of the net against Lyon. Striker: Mirko Vucinic Mirko Vucinic has been out of the side in recent weeks due to injury, and beforehand, he was looking to reintegrate himself into the squad after a move away in January failed to materialise. The Montenegrin could be an option from the start to form a better partnership with Tevez, given Dani Osvaldo and Fernando Llorente are failing to fire. Vucinic will allow Tevez to lead the line, with the 30-year-old dropping deeper to link the midfield and the attack.

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Olympique Lyonnais-Juventus Preview: Tevez to return for trip to Stade Gerland The Argentine striker missed the defeat to Napoli due to suspension but Antonio Conte can call on him for the Europa League quarter-final to bolster his "tired" side. Apr 2, 2014 Antonio Conte admits that Juventus are battling fatigue ahead of Thursday's visit to Olympique Lyonnais in the Europa League quarter-finals. The Serie A leaders suffered only their second league defeat of the campaign on Sunday as they fell to a 2-0 reverse at the hands of Napoli, ending their 14-match unbeaten run in all competitions. Coach Conte's men are still very much on course for the title, but the 44-year-old concedes that Juve's congested fixture schedule has taken its toll on his players. "We were off-colour," Conte told giornalaccio rosa dello Sport after the loss to Napoli. "We are playing so many games right now and always with the same players due to injuries. "Most of my players are tired as they haven't had a chance to rest." Juve's poor performance came just four days after a 2-1 win over Parma and Conte will again have to manage his resources as they prepare to face a Lyon side who have only lost one game in the Europa League this season. The visitors will be boosted by the return of top scorer Carlos Tevez for the first-leg clash after he missed the Napoli match due to suspension, but a number of first-team players remain on the sidelines through injury. Defender Andrea Barzagli is expected to miss out with a calf injury, while Angelo Ogbonna and Federico Peluso (both thigh) also miss out. Lyon's performance in the competition this season has been impressive, with the 2-1 last-16 second-leg loss to Viktoria Plzen marking their solitary defeat so far. And that mattered little as Remi Garde's men progressed 5-3 on aggregate thanks to an impressive 4-1 success in the first-leg at the Stade Gerland. However, Garde's side approach their first competitive meeting with Juventus on the back of a local derby loss to Saint-Etienne that severely dented their prospects of securing Champions League football for next season. Lyon are now nine points adrift of third-placed Lille - who occupy the final Champions League spot - but can at least secure a European return via the Coupe de la Ligue, where they meet Paris Saint-Germain in the final later this month. But Lyon's hopes of claiming continental silverware this year have been hampered by a number of injuries, with midfield playmaker Clement Grenier missing the last six games due to an infection in his groin. Defender Miguel Lopes is set to be absent for the rest of the season with a broken leg, while Gueida Fofana (groin), Mouhamadou Dabo and Milan Bisevac (both hamstring) are all doubtful. Head to Head Club Friendlies ‎-‎ Jul 24, 2010 - Juventus 2 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais Last Five Matches OLYMPIQUE LYONNAIS 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 Mar 16, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 2 - 3 AS Monaco - Ligue 1 Mar 13, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 4 - 1 FC Viktoria Plzeň - EL JUVENTUS 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 Mar 16, 2014 - Genoa 0 - 1 Juventus - Serie A

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS U.E.F.A. EUROPA LEAGUE (Andata - quarti di finale) 3 aprile 2014 - ore 21:05 Stade de Gerland — Lione Arbitro: William Collum (Scozia) Confronti ufficiali 0 Vittorie Juventus 0 Pareggi 0 Vittorie Ol. Lione 0 Goals Juventus 0 Goals Ol. Lione 0 Coppa UEFA/Europa League in trasferta Confronti ufficiali 77 Vittorie Juventus 36 (L'ultima il 20.03.2014, Fiorentina-Juve 0-1) Pareggi 14 (L'ultimo il 01.12.2010, Lech Poznan-Juve 1-1) Sconfitte 27 (L'ultima il 18.03.2010, Fulham-Juve 4-1) Goals fatti 109 Goals subiti 85 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro l'Ol. Lione - Coppa UEFA/Europa League 0 presenze 0 goal Ultimi confronti diretti ---

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Malbranque: Lyon-Juventus clash fitting of Champions League status Apr 2, 2014 Ahead of the visit of Juventus to the Stade de Gerland on Thursday night Lyon midfielder Steed Malbranque has insisted that their Europa League quarter-final would be equally at home in the Champions League given the reputation of the two sides. Both the Bianconeri and Ligue 1 club had began the campaign competing in Europe’s premier club competition, however, the French side failed to make the group stages after losing the qualifier to Real Sociedad. “It is not the Champions League but the game will be difficult, it will be as if it were,” Malbranque told Tuttomercatoweb. “Juventus are a great team and talented who has almost already won the title. “We did lose badly [against Saint-Etienne on Sunday] and it was deserved. “Tomorrow’s game is important for us, we have the means to compete in this game, the opponent is tough, but we can continue our journey in Europe. “These days, we give priority to the game and remain focused. A large number of French clubs would like to play against Juventus. “We’ll try to play our game, we will have to defend well and be disciplined on the field but we feel ready. “I do not follow Serie A much, so I’m not able to judge [the quality], I watch most frequently English football. “In the past I’ve played against Bologna and Inter Milan, these are bad memories, it is always difficult to play against an Italians. With Paul Pogba returning to his homeland the former international praised the midfielder for the impact he has made for France ahead of the World Cup and believed Lyon’s own youngsters will be looking to impress against Juventus. “Pogba is a young and promising not only emerged this season with Juventus, but also with the national team,” he continued. “The youngsters who play tomorrow will do their utmost to show off and play better in the next matches.”

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM Gerland Stadium — Lyon Referee: William Collum (Scotland) Defeat can be Juventus catalyst - Conte The Italian is expecting a reaction from his side in Europe following their surprise 2-0 loss in Serie A on Sunday. Apr 2, 2014 Juventus coach Antonio Conte says his side can use their defeat to Napoli as a catalyst in their quest for domestic and European success. The Bianconeri face Lyon on Thursday in the first-leg of their Europa League quarter-final on the back of a surprise 2-0 loss to Rafa Benitez's side on Sunday. Lyon boss Remi Garde suggested Juve will be a mountain to climb for his club, with Conte endorsing that view, while admitting he is expecting a reaction from his players. "Juventus are a mountain to climb? We'll look to make it insurmountable," the trainer told reporters. "I hope the defeat to Napoli gives us the strength to face the final sprint in the best way. I'm expecting a great display tomorrow. "Lyon have had success in recent times and possess fine players. We've studied them and are aware of their strong and weak areas. "We’ll face Lyon aware of the importance the first leg holds in the eventual destiny of getting through to the next round. We should be proud at being respected by teams like Lyon who, up until a few years ago, were ahead of us."

Boca president Angelici: Tevez will return The 30-year-old striker is under contract to Juventus until 2016 but has allegedly promised to finish his career at the Bombonera. Apr 2, 2014 Boca Juniors president Daniel Angelici says Carlos Tevez has given him his word that he will rejoin the club before he retires. The 30-year-old striker is currently enjoying a fine debut season in Serie A with Juventus and is under contract to the Italian champions until 2016. Consequently, while Angelici is not expecting Tevez to make an immediate return to the Bombonera, he is confident that the forward will be back before he hangs up his boots. "I speak often with Carlos and he has given me his word that sooner or later he will return here," the Boca supremo told Fox Sports. "However, he will not be our next signing, given that he has a contract with Juventus." Angelici added in an interview with Ole, though, that Tevez wants to end his playing days where they began. "He has always said it to me that he wants to finish his career with Boca," he added. "He's very connected to the club. I'm convinced that he will close out his career in our jersey." After joining Boca from All Boys, Tevez progressed through the youth team ranks and spent three seasons in the first team before leaving for Corinthians in 2004.

Elkann: 'I hope Inter lose' Apr 2, 2014 Juventus patron John Elkann stirred up controversy by declaring: “I hope Inter keep on losing.” The President of Exor is one of the heirs to the Agnelli family and was at a Q&A when asked by a child why Inter have stopped winning. “I don’t know why Inter aren’t winning any more. I hope they keep on losing, though,” was Elkann’s reply.” He was also asked whether Antonio Conte would remain on the Juventus bench next season. “I am very happy with what we’ve done over the last few years, despite the latest defeat that made us really suffer. “We hope to end this campaign on a high.”