Socrates

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Barzagli: 'Very difficult game' Mar 16, 2014 Andrea Barzagli warns Juventus have a “very difficult game” away to Genoa this evening. AMAZONIAN “This is the first of three away games in a row and it won’t be easy, as Genoa are a dangerous side on home turf and are pushed on by a fiery atmosphere,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia. There is some squad rotation ahead of Thursday's Europa League trip to Fiorentina, having drawn the first leg 1-1. “This is going to be a very difficult game. Alberto Gilardino is a real penalty box striker and we will have to be wary of his presence, cutting out crosses before they can reach him.” AMAZONIAN Juve are 14 points clear of Roma, although the Giallorossi have a game in hand, but Barzagli isn’t celebrating the title yet. “We know that the Scudetto race is not over at all, so we must continue fighting.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Malinteso Pirlo-Llorente.

Pogba di poco fuori.

Osvaldo in fuorigioco? Noooooooooo.

Rigore per il Genoa!

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa coach looking forward to Juventus clash Mar 16, 2014 Genoa boss Gian Piero Gasperini is optimistic that his side can get a result when they face Juventus at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Sunday night. AMAZONIAN Though the Rossoblu lost the reverse fixture at Turin 2-0 earlier this season, Gasperini believes that his side will put up a better performance this time. “It is an event of great prestige,” he told the press. “We are in our home and this will be our strength.” The former Inter coach then called the Old Lady to be the Bayern Munich of Italian football and cautioned that Genoa could not commit stupid mistakes. AMAZONIAN Presently in his second spell with the Rossoblu, the 56-year-old is confident he has turned around the fortunes at the club since taking over in September. “When I arrived in Genoa it was a different situation,” he continued. ” However, now the president and I feel quiet satisfied and we are all very happy. AMAZONIAN “That’s why tonight we want to do very well.” Genoa, who lost to Chievo 2-1 last weekend, are currently sitting 11th on 35 points. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa-Juventus Betting Preview: Goals at both ends in an exciting encounter With nothing but pride to play for, Al Hain-Cole expects Il Grifone to throw caution to the wind in an exciting game against Antonio Conte's Serie A champions on Sunday. Mar 16, 2014 Juventus have the chance to extend their lead at the top of Serie A to an impressive 17 points when they travel to the Stadio Luigi Ferraris to take on Genoa. AMAZONIAN With closest rivals Roma and Napoli not in action until Monday, Antonio Conte’s men are clear 4/11 (1.36) favourites with William Hill to tighten their grip on a third consecutive Scudetto even further with a fifth straight league win in this one. Having lost just one of their last 10 matches on home turf, Il Grifone are available at to 17/2 (9.50) to consign their guests to just a second defeat of the Serie A season. Three of the last five meetings between the sides have resulted in a draw, and you can get odds of 7/2 (4.50) on them cancelling each other out once again this time out. AMAZONIAN Such is their instinctive winning habit that the champions have breezed through potentially tense recent encounters with Torino, AC Milan and Fiorentina to come out on top without even conceding a single goal. However, sitting comfortably in mid-table with no genuine chance of either European qualification nor a relegation struggle, the pressure surrounding Sunday’s opponents will be nothing like that of La Vecchia Signora’s recent conquests, lending them a freedom that should make for a refreshingly open game. AMAZONIAN Having failed to score just once in their last 10 games on home soil, Gian Piero Gasperini’s side can attack their distinguished guests with confidence, just as they threw caution to the wind in recent 3-3 draws against both Fiorentina and Udinese. Considering Juventus have conceded in four of their last five league games on the road and not drawn a blank in over a year in Serie A, odds of 5/4 (2.25) seem like excellent value on both teams finding the net in an end-to-end match on Sunday. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Serie A - 9^ Giornata - Ritorno - 16-3-2014 (ore 20:45) - Stadio Luigi Ferraris - Genova Arbitro: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Confronti ufficiali 140 - 93 (Serie A) - 10 (Coppa Italia) - 33 (Campionato a gironi) - 2 (Campionato di guerra) - 2 (Serie B) Vittorie Juventus 75 - 55 (Serie A) - 7 (Coppa Italia) - 11 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Serie B) Pareggi 30 - 20 (Serie A) - 2 (Coppa Italia) - 7 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Serie B) Vittorie Genoa 35 - 18 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) - 15 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) Goals Juventus 277 - 195 (Serie A) - 22 (Coppa Italia) - 53 (Campionato a gironi) - 3 (Campionato di guerra) - 4 (Serie B) Goals Genoa 178 - 100 (Serie A) - 13 (Coppa Italia) - 60 (Campionato a gironi) - 3 (Campionato di guerra) - 2 (Serie B) Genoa - Juventus Serie A a Genova Confronti ufficiali 46 Vittorie Juventus 19 (L'ultima il 16.09.2012, 1-3) Pareggi 11 (L'ultimo l'11.03.2012, 0-0 ) Vittorie Genoa 16 (L'ultima l'11.04.2009, 3-2) Goals Juventus 75 Goals Genoa 60 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Genoa a Genova 10 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 10 Varglien II Giovanni 9 Varglien I Mario 8 Depetrini Teobaldo 8 Rava Pietro 7 Foni Alfredo 7 Parola Carlo 6 Borel II Felice Placido 6 Emoli Flavio 6 Marocchi Giancarlo 6 goals Boniperti Giampiero 4 Borel II Felice Placido 3 Bellini Savino 3 Hansen John 3 Sentimenti III Vittorio 3 Sivori Omar Enrique 2 Boninsegna Roberto 2 Cabrini Antonio 2 Charles John William 2 Colombo Umberto Ultimi confronti diretti 11.04.2009 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 3-2 24.09.2009 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 2-2 14.02.2010 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 3-2 21.11.2010 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-2 10.04.2011 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 3-2 22.10.2011 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 2-2 11.03.2012 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-0 16.09.2012 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 1-3 26.01.2013 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 1-1 27.10.2013 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 2-0 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 5 - Pareggi 4 - Vittorie Genoa 1 - Goals Juventus 20 - Goals Genoa 13

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Juventus News – Genoa Updates Mar 15, 2014 This whole “Purple Pain” concept isn’t working — Juve seem to be doing most of the suffering. AMAZONIAN What on earth is going on here? Why are the Bianconeri wasting the chance for revenge? On Sunday, Fiorentina forced Juventus to sit back and absorb pressure for large stretches (and at home, no less). And while Juve eventually held onto their 1-0 lead, we figured they weren’t interested in suffering again when they faced the Viola in the Europa League on Thursday. When Arturo Vidal scored within the first 10 minutes, it looked like Juve were intent on racking up as many goals as possible. By the end of 90 minutes, Fiorentina had scored a precious away goal to tie the aggregate score at 1-1, after consistently pressuring Juve for large stretches in the first half and most of the second. AMAZONIAN The result was initially baffling: How could Juve suffer such attacks from Fiorentina, at home, in almost the exact same manner, twice in a row? And what happened to our Viola Vendetta? To be fair, Juve gave a good account of themselves in the first half. Vidal followed his goal by hitting the crossbar, Sebastian Giovinco worked hard to create chances, Kwadwo Asamoah looked dangerous once again, and the back line of Giorgio Chiellini, Angelo Ogbonna and Martin Caceres more or less took care of business. A second or even third goal wasn’t out of the question, despite some shaky moments. But for most of the second half, it conspicuously looked as if Juve were sitting on their 1-0 lead — not advisable in a two-leg, aggregate score format. Gigi Buffon suspected they were, Antonio Conte denied directing them to do so, and to be fair that theory dismisses how dangerous Fiorentina were. But for all intents and purposes, Juve were inviting disaster from a squad who live to see them suffer. AMAZONIAN Mario Gomez’s equalizer (let’s not even think about the Bayern Munich connection) sealed the deal: Juve have once again made things “interesting” for themselves in Europe. And yet, the good thing about “interesting” is that it’s a neutral value: Juve can make of this situation what they will. Hopefully, they can respond in the second leg by pulling off a commanding, masterful performance in Florence, demoralizing Fiorentina in front of their home crowd and moving on to further European conquests: Purple Pain, Part 3. We have a whole week to prepare for that, but in the meantime it’s back to Serie A, where Genoa await. AMAZONIAN Genoa Updates: Bonucci, Lichtsteiner and Tevez Return We expected a very strong lineup for Fiorentina on Thursday, but the Bianconeri were a few pieces short of Classic Juve 2014. Antonio Conte plans on reinstating several key players for the trip to Genoa — though hopefully he’ll use them again in Florence next Thursday. On Sunday, Gigi Buffon will be shielded by a rested Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci, both of whom will start alongside either Giorgio Chiellini or Angelo Ogbonna. Martin Caceres is technically available, but he’s been working overtime and probably deserves a rest. In retrospect, it was strange not to see Bonucci against Fiorentina on Thursday, since he had sat out Sunday, too. There’s no report of an injury, as far as I know. The question of whether Leo would have held off Gomez to preserve the 1-0 aggregate lead is academic, but surely some fresh legs would have helped. AMAZONIAN On the wings, Stephan Lichtsteiner will return on the right flank, with Federico Peluso on the left. In central midfield, Paul Pogba will certainly start, as he came off the bench on Thursday (and almost scored a beautiful go-ahead goal in the final minutes). The situation gets dicey after that, since Arturo Vidal did his usual endless running on Thursday, Andrea Pirlo looked very ragged and slow for most of the match and Claudio Marchisio was limping by the end (he may have picked up a thigh strain and is being closely monitored). As we’ve come to expect, two of the three will be starting — but honestly, one of them should be rested, even if it means starting Simone Padoin. Next week’s second leg with Fiorentina should be prioritized here. Makes you miss Giaccherini even more, no? In attack, Carlos Tevez will return to partner with Fernando Llorente. The two were slated to start on Thursday, but Tevez was rested as a precautionary measure, while Conte decided to bet on the nascent understanding between Sebastian Giovinco and Dani Osvaldo. While it didn’t quite work out, you couldn’t blame Antonio for thinking it would — they were excellent together in Turkey. Beyond them, only Fabio Quagliarella remains on the bench, since Mirko Vucinic is still another two weeks away from availability. Despite Juve’s comfortable Serie A lead, the trip to Genoa will be a tricky one for two reasons. First, Genoa are a solidly mid-table squad that can cause problems any given week. Second, Juve are no doubt distracted by the Fiorentina fixtures, which could leave them exposed to a domestic setback. AMAZONIAN Still, there is no reason for Juve not to win at Genoa, especially with this lineup. Plus, there’s really no excuse for losing points in the campionato, especially this year. But they’ll be playing with one eye on next Thursday, which will be (or at least should be) a very important test for the Antonio Conte era: the chance to qualitatively progress as a squad by winning a crucial knockout fixture in Europe. In a perfect Ju-niverse, the Bianconeri should be able to take out Genoa and save some energy for the Viola Vendetta. ANDIAMO, RAGAZZI!!! AMAZONIAN Mazzoleni Refs Juve-Genoa Nice to have a break from Italian referee drama on Thursday, no? Anyway, back to ol’ scandalmongering Serie A. Let’s keep our fingers crossed. Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni of Lombardy will officiate Juve’s clash with Genoa, which according to the Mothership will be his third Bianconeri match this season — and third away fixture as well. Mazzoleni last presided over a 1-0 win at the Stadio Olimpico over Torino and a 2-0 win at Bologna. AMAZONIAN In 15 Mazzoleni matches Juve have a record of 10 wins, four draws and one loss—very encouraging. Mazzoleni’s linesmen will be Ghiandai (there’s that Ben Kingsley impersonator again) and Manganelli. The man know only as Barbirati will be fourth official, who will also attempt to use reverse psychology to make Conte use his substitutions a bit earlier (if my five American dollars get there in time). http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni MATCH PREVIEW Mar 15, 2014 Comfortably occupying a mid-table position, Genoa will aim to stop a Juventus side sweeping all before them in Serie A. AMAZONIAN When Alberto Gilardino conjured an 88th minute equaliser last Sunday, Genoa thought they would leave Verona with a point. Instead, they returned home empty-handed. In the third minute of injury time Chievo’s Alberto Paloschi beat Mattia Perin from the penalty spot to crush Grifone hearts. It was his second successful spot-kick of the game. Gian Piero Gasperini called the loss, their first since early February, ‘unfair’. Under Gasp, the Grifoni have done well to recover from the early-season mire. Now 11th, in order to return to the winners list they must do what Luca Antonelli has called ‘making the impossible possible’. Alessandro Gamberini misses out against the League leaders and is joined on the sidelines by Antonio Donnarumma, Sime Vrsaljko, Luca Antonini and Juraj Kucka – all injured – plus the suspended Issac Cofie. AMAZONIAN Juventus continued their charge towards the Scudetto with a slender 1-0 victory over Fiorentina. A moment of Kwadwo Asamoah magic sealed the contest with their old rivals. It allowed Antonio Conte’s men to extend the gap over Roma to 14 points, with just 11 matches remaining. Conte admitted afterwards that his side are ‘50 per cent the Champions of Italy’. Yet with commitments strewn between Serie A and the Europa League, he’s hoping Thursday encounters don’t catch his side unaware physically or mentally that weekend. Conte also admitted rotation is essential. The second clash in the Juventus-Fiorentina-thon ended in a draw on Thursday. Andrea Pirlo returns from a one-match ban, leaving Mirko Vucinic and Simone Pepe as those skipping the trip to the port city. Carlos Tevez missed the Europa clash, but is expected to play here. AMAZONIAN Juve have the edge at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, winning 19 top-flight encounters, including last season’s 3-1 result. Genoa have won 16 of the 46 meetings, with a further 11 draws. Keep an eye on: Alberto Gilardino (Genoa) – The Italian international grabbed his 12th goal of the campaign at Chievo last week, albeit in a losing battle. A constant thorn for defenders, Gilardino will be critical for the Grifoni against a defence which has kept three consecutive Serie A clean sheets. AMAZONIAN Form guide: Genoa (W D D W L) Juventus (D W W W W) Last season: Genoa 1-3 Juventus Stat fact: Genoa have won just once in their six home matches against Juventus since the pair were promoted in 2007. AMAZONIAN GENOA (probable): Perin; De Maio, Burdisso, Marchese; Motta, Matuzalem, Bertolacci, Antonelli; Konate, Gilardino, Sculli JUVENTUS (probable): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Genoa-Juventus Preview: Bianconeri face tough test at the Luigi Ferraris The Grifone have lost just one of their last 10 league fixtures at home but Antonio Conte's men are likely to be buoyed by the return of Carlos Tevez. Mar 15, 2014 Genoa believe they can cause one of the upsets of the Serie A season by defeating runaway leaders Juventus on Sunday. AMAZONIAN The Grifone should enter the match fresher after the Bianconeri were held to a 1-1 draw by Fiorentina in the opening leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday. Gian Piero Gasperini's side did not have to play in midweek and will have been encouraged by the Viola's fighting display against the reigning champions. The underdogs will also take heart from their excellent home record, which has seen them lose just one of their last 10 Serie A fixtures. AMAZONIAN A 2-1 defeat at Chievo last week ended a four-match unbeaten run, but Genoa's Luca Antonelli remains hopeful, despite acknowledging the size of the task. "We will try to make the impossible possible," the defender is quoted as telling the club's website ahead of the home match. "The difference between the two sides in terms of value and our positions in the table is clear. AMAZONIAN "But there is a fantastic vibrancy around the place and that could help us stop the Bianconeri." Genoa defensive duo Sime Vrsaljko and Alessandro Gamberini will miss through injury, while Juraj Kucka, Luca Antonini and Antonio Donnaruma are also expected to be absent. Ghanaian Isaac Cofie is suspended. Alberto Gilardino is available for selection, though, and the former AC Milan forward has netted 12 goals in 26 league matches this season. AMAZONIAN Juventus, however, have only lost once in Serie A this season and lead the second-placed Roma by 14 points. Antonio Conte will ask his side for a response after their disappointing draw on Thursday and his side are in great league form. They have won their last four Serie A encounters, conceding just one goal in the process, and beat Genoa 2-0 in Turin in October. AMAZONIAN France midfielder Paul Pogba has been one of the club's key men this season and said Conte has stars to pick from in every position. "What's special about Juventus? Excellent players, like Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal," Pogba said on Friday. AMAZONIAN "I'm happy to play alongside so many world-class names. They're the best in Italy and I need to learn from them if I'm to follow in their footsteps and reach the very top." Pirlo will return from a one-match Serie A suspension for Juve, who are likely to recall Carlos Tevez, with the Argentine not featuring against Fiorentina on Thursday. AMAZONIAN Head to Head Serie A ‎-‎ Oct 27, 2013 - Juventus 2 - 0 Genoa Serie A ‎- Jan 26, 2013 - Juventus 1 - 1 Genoa Serie A ‎-‎ Sep 16, 2012 - Genoa 1 - 3 Juventus Serie A ‎-‎ Mar 11, 2012 - Genoa 0 - 0 Juventus Serie A ‎-‎ Oct 22, 2011 - Juventus 2 - 2 Genoa AMAZONIAN Last Five Matches GENOA Mar 9, 2014 - Chievo 2 - 1 Genoa - Serie A Mar 2, 2014 - Genoa 2 - 0 Catania - Serie A Feb 24, 2014 - SSC Napoli 1 - 1 Genoa - Serie A Feb 16, 2014 - Genoa 3 - 3 Udinese - Serie A Feb 9, 2014 - Livorno 0 - 1 Genoa - Serie A JUVENTUS Mar 13, 2014 - Juventus 1 - 1 Fiorentina - EL Mar 9, 2014 - Juventus 1 - 0 Fiorentina - Serie A Mar 2, 2014 - AC Milan 0 - 2 Juventus - Serie A Feb 27, 2014 - Trabzonspor AŞ 0 - 2 Juventus - EL Feb 23, 2014 - Juventus 1 - 0 Torino - Serie A http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Juventus vs. Genoa Preview: Round 28 — Sunday night football at the Ferraris Hey, a club other than Fiorentina! How nice of the schedule to work out that way! Mar 15, 2014 When Genoa came to Juventus Stadium at the end of October, things were a little different than they are now. Juve were coming off a complete disaster in Florence and then a frustrating 2-1 defeat at the hands of Real Madrid in the group stages of the Champions League. Losing two games in a row, no matter what combination of competitions, hasn't exactly been a common occurrence since Antonio Conte became manager. AMAZONIAN Thankfully, it's a wee bit different now. The times have changed in Juventus' favor. Well, for the most part, at least. There's no denying that. Instead of looking up at Roma atop the league table, Juventus is seeing its lead seemingly grow bigger and bigger every six or seven days. "Move along, kids. A runaway freight train storming through town." is what some people might say in regards to what Juve are doing to their Serie A opposition right now. Teams in Italy have tried to beat Juventus these past four months, yet nobody has actually done so. The European competition struggles, well, we'll discuss those later. AMAZONIAN But for now, it's all about the weekend. As Conte's squad roll into the Luigi Ferraris to face a rejuvenated Genoa side under former Juve primavera boss Gian Piero Gasperini, the current unbeaten run faces the club it started against. Nineteen league games have come and gone and Juventus have yet to be beaten during that stretch. It started against Genoa at the end of October in Turin and has now been carried over half the season, spanning over nearly five months and into tomorrow's clash at the Ferraris. And why not keep things going and get another win over Genoa? Glad you agree. AMAZONIAN GOOD NEWS Genoa is actually giving playing time to former Juventus legend Marco Motta. No, really. A team in the top half of the Serie A table has Marco Motta in its starting lineup. Let that sink in for a second. And then laugh. BAD NEWS Claudio Marchisio is injured, but nothing's serious, according to the man himself. Just when he was starting to play well again, too... AMAZONIAN WHAT TO WATCH FOR 1. Squad rotation, or no squad rotation? That is the question. In a way, this could say just how serious Antonio Conte is going to be taking Thursday's trip to Florence. Why? Well, let's face it: Juventus are blowing away the competition in Serie A right now. Juve's 14-point lead atop the table is a season high and it doesn't seem like it's going to get cut by any considerable amount any time soon. Does that mean with some room to play with Conte will field some of the reserves and rest some players with the second leg against Fiorentina just a few days away? You would like to think he has considered it, but we won't truly know until the lineups are released. One of the many things we are left to wonder about since Conte doesn't do pre-match press conference before league games these days, I guess. AMAZONIAN 2. How Juventus respond to Thursday's disappointment. First, words from Giorgio Chiellini. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen .@chiellini: I think it's still all to play for in the #UEL. It's disappointing we didn't get the win we thought we deserved. I'm looking at the second sentence in particular since this is the game after that game Chiellini is referencing. It's pretty easy to be disappointed about the result when you play as well as Juve did in the first half and then give up the game-tying goal with less than 15 minutes to go. But this is the thing that I'm wondering when it comes to Juventus tomorrow: Will a disappointed Juventus mean an angry Juventus against Genoa? That could very well be the difference in how the game goes. Conte's men can either come out sluggish and lag through 90 minutes or they be pissed off from the opening whistle and take a little frustration on a Genoa team that is playing some pretty decent football right now. AMAZONIAN 3. Carlos Tevez's health status. It wasn't much of a surprise that Carlos Tevez didn't start Thursday's match against Fiorentina. But it was a bit of a eyebrow-raiser to some when he wasn't even included in the squad list that Conte released on Wednesday afternoon. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen #Conte: We'll monitor the condition of @carlitos3210 ahead of the fixtures we've got on the horizon. That is what Conte had to say during his pre-match press conference before Leg 1 of Juventus-Fiorentina in the Europa League. And since then, there's been very little word as to how Tevez is doing. Maybe it's a case of 'No news is good news." I'd be pretty okay with that. But if Conte is planning on taking the second leg against Fiorentina completely serious, then maybe it would be the best thing for all parties involved to just rest Tevez another couple of days without risking any kind of him reaggravating his injury. I'm sure some the combination of Dani Osvaldo and Fernando Llorente and Sebastian Giovinco can hold things down for another game. UPDATE: No Sebastian Giovinco either for the trip to Genoa after he also has been given a few days to rest and no included included in the traveling squad by Conte. Just like Marchisio, the diagnosis is nothing serious. AMAZONIAN 4. The impact of one Paul Labile Pogba. The last few weeks haven't been very kind of Mr. Pogba, who just so happens to be celebrating his 21st birthday today. What better way to ring in a birthday than to snap out of a funk, right? Well, that's the hope for Pogba. With Marchisio all but certainly out for the trip to Genoa after being injured against Fiorentina on Thursday, there's no better alternative to play in front of Pogba right now. (You Simone Padoin fanboys, sit yourselves down right now.) And unlike the two other central midfielders who are picked to start against Genoa, Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo, Pogba has had some time to rest after coming off the bench on Thursday. Maybe that will help, maybe it won't. But on thing is definitely for sure: This current version of Pogba isn't the one we saw the first couple months of the season. And I miss that early-season Pogba. I can't lie. AMAZONIAN 5. The possibility of Genoa keeper Mattia Perin going H.A.M. As we've come to see over the last few years, Juventus have a chance to take control of games played against Serie A opponents. Because of that, the number of shots on the opponents' goal seem to weigh heavily in Juve's favor. And while not limited to just Juventus, Genoa keeper Mattia Perin and his massive amount of hair is certainly used to making a good number of saves this season. Nobody has made more saves than the Perin in the current campaign (109) other than Rafael of Hellas Verona. It's pretty simple to figure out that Perin has had a few games where he just takes things over and dominates, making save after save with many of them being high quality ones at that. In the first Juve-Genoa matchup this season, Perin stopped seven shots — easily making him Genoa's Man of the Match on WhoScored. All those saves are paying off for the 21-year-old Perin, who seems like he's on the cusp of becoming a regular in the Italian national team. My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Peluso; Llorente, Osvaldo http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

Marchisio is not seriously injured after thigh strain scare Mar 15, 2014 Juventus had already lost their 1-0 lead to Fiorentina and the minutes were ticking down to a full 90 minutes. Then, just outside of the 18-yard box, Claudio Marchisio grabbed his hamstring. That sound you heard wasn't just the grumpy Juventus fans in the stadium voicing their opinion. No, no. It was that "Oh, no..." moment as Marchisio tried to fend off the pain moments after something didn't feel right in his right leg. AMAZONIAN Well, I guess after two days of waiting to see and reading a bunch of rumors as to what is going on with Marchisio's health status, we didn't have to look very far for the official word. From the man's own Facebook page, he breaks his own medical news, I guess. Marchisio says the following: Per fortuna l'ecografia è negativa,niente lesioni. Ora qualche giorno per recuperare,poi si torna in squadra! AMAZONIAN An English translation, please? Luckily the ultrasound is negative, no injuries. Now a few days to recover, then it's back on the team! And...exhale. AMAZONIAN No, seriously. You can relax now. It's going to be okay. I'm not normally one to speculate around these parts, but "a few days to revoer" should put Marchisio in line to be available for Juventus' trip to Florence for Leg 2 of their Round of 16 tie against Fiorentina. Based on how he's been playing the past few weeks, that's probably a pretty good development. As Marchisio has gotten back into form, he's been seeing more of the field — which makes sense. And since he's developed into a sound replacement for Andrea Pirlo whenever The Beard needs a break. Either way, no matter what position in Juventus' midfield he will be playing in the weeks to come, Marchisio's just a few days away from being health again. So we've got that going for us, which is nice.

Llorente admits to being frustrated by Fiorentina draw Mar 15, 2014 Juventus forward Fernando Llorente has admitted he is frustrated by the Bianconeri’s recent draw against Fiorentina in the Europa League. AMAZONIAN The Bianconeri took an early lead through Arturo Vidal but wasted a number of opportunities to take command of the tie before substitute Mario Gomez equalised late on for the visitors to give the Viola a crucial away goal and the upper hand before the second leg. “It is a shame about the result, especially because of the effort we put into the game, but we still have everything to play for,” Llorente stated through his Twitter account. AMAZONIAN The second leg will take place at the Stadio Artemio Franchi next Thursday as both sides seek to qualify for the quarter final of the competition.

Chiellini: Juventus’ Europa League contest with Fiorentina still open Mar 14, 2014 Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini believes that the Europa League battle between the Old Lady and Fiorentina is still open and could still end in either team’s favour. AMAZONIAN The Bianconeri’s first leg Europa League round of 16 match against the Viola ended in a 1-1 draw at Juventus Stadium on Thursday and the 29-year-old feels his team deserved the win, though he admits that gaining the equaliser was an important achievement for the visiting side. Chiellini spoke to Juventus TV’s ‘Filo Diretto’ on Friday about Juve’s draw with Fiorentina, while also commenting on his team’s upcoming Serie A match with Genoa and their second leg meeting with the Gigliati in Florence on March 20. “I believe that everything is still open,” said the Italian international. AMAZONIAN “We’re certainly feeling sorry because we felt we deserved the win yesterday, but we were unlucky. “They were good to get the equalising goal and it’s certainly a major achievement for them. But I think everything is still open. AMAZONIAN “Now we have Sunday’s match against Genoa which is important for us, as we want to maintain our lead over Roma and consolidate our leadership. “Then we’ll play at a maximum of 100 per cent in Thursday’s match, which will surely be a tough game that’s special for everyone.”

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Tevez and Marchisio miss Genoa Mar 15, 2014 Juventus are without Carlos Tevez, Sebastian Giovinco and Claudio Marchisio against Genoa on Sunday. AMAZONIAN It kicks off at 20.45 CET at Marassi. The Serie A tie falls between the two legs of the Europa League Round of 16 against Fiorentina. Tevez missed Thursday’s 1-1 draw in Turin due to a muscular problem and has still not fully recovered, so will continue to rest. AMAZONIAN Marchisio and Giovinco both suffered muscular injuries in that Fiorentina match, but tests ruled out serious damage. Nonetheless, they will be rested too as Juve travel to Genoa with two youth team players Vykintas Slivka and Younes Bnou-Marzouk. AMAZONIAN Juventus squad for Genoa: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Peluso, Llorente, Barzagli, Osvaldo, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Quagliarella, Storari, Isla, Rubinho, Slivka, Marzouk http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Gasperini: 'Juve are Italy's Bayern' Mar 15, 2014 Genoa Coach Gian Piero Gasperini said Juventus are “the Bayern Munich of Italy,” so his team must give 110 per cent. AMAZONIAN The sides go head-to-head on Sunday at 20.45 CET. “Tomorrow we’ll be facing the best Juventus side and that is very motivating for us,” said Gasp in his Press conference. “It is important to give 110 per cent and put in a great performance. Juve have always given their best, but we will try to show how much we’ve improved since the last meeting. AMAZONIAN “I want to see a Genoa side that knows everything is up for grabs. We’ll do everything within our capabilities to trouble Juventus. “This is a highly prestigious test and we are on home turf, so that’ll be an advantage. Juve are capable of hurting anyone and have won practically every game this season. “Juventus are like the Bayern Munich of Italy, as there is a gap between them and the other medium-top level teams. We mustn’t give them any gifts and the thing I’d regret the most would be stupid mistakes, like the ones against Chievo.” AMAZONIAN Isaac Cofie is suspended, while Luca Antonini, Alessandro Gamberini, Sime Vrsaljko and Juraj Kucka are injured. “We have always put in good performances against Juve at Marassi, so we’ll try again tomorrow. The team trained well this week despite all the absences. AMAZONIAN “The problem is that usually against the big clubs you have to run harder than them as your only advantage, but with Juventus that doesn’t apply, because they work harder any anyone. That is what makes the game even more complicated.” Genoa squad for Juventus: Albertoni, Bizzarri, Perin; Antonelli, Burdisso, De Ceglie, De Maio, Marchese, Motta, Portanova; Bertolacci, Cabral, Matuzalem, Sturaro; Calaiò, Centurion, Fetfatzidis, Gilardino, Konate, Sculli http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Perin: 'Buffon is my idol' Mar 15, 2014 Mattia Perin comes face to face with his “idol” Gigi Buffon on Sunday as Juventus visit Genoa. AMAZONIAN The Serie A tie kicks off tomorrow night at 20.45 CET. “Buffon is my idol,” goalkeeper Perin told the official Genoa website. “He’s not just an example for me, but for all goalkeepers who will never be able to reach his level. AMAZONIAN “For a young player who needs to grow a great deal, his professionalism and his advice allow us to learn constantly.” The pair worked together last week, as Perin received his debut senior Italy call-up for the friendly against Spain. AMAZONIAN They will be opponents on Sunday and the former Pescara shot-stopper can’t wait. “It is always difficult when faced with champions. We are playing against the strongest team in Italy, but we’ll put our qualities on to the pitch and our hunger to do well.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

GENOA - JUVENTUS March 16, 2014 - 20:45 PM Luigi Ferraris Stadium — Genoa Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Chiellini:‘Juve focused on Genoa’ Mar 14, 2014 Giorgio Chiellini says that Juventus are fully focused on their match against Genoa in Serie A despite Europa League progress now being in the balance. AMAZONIAN The Old Lady drew 1-1 with rivals Fiorentina in last night’s Round of 16 first leg but the 29-year-old says they cannot look to the return leg just yet. “We now have a match against Genoa on Sunday,” Chiellini said to JTV. AMAZONIAN “For us it is a very important match as we need to maintain our advantage over Roma and consolidate our position at the top. “Then, next Thursday, we will play at 100 per cent during the match, which I am sure will be tough but special game for everyone.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 1 FIORENTINA Arturo Vidal (3′) Mario Gomez (79′) March 13, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Björn Kuipers (Netherlands) Attendance:‬ 39610‎ ‘Viola must be better next week’ Mar 14, 2014 Mario Gomez says Fiorentina must play even better in next week’s Europa League second leg if they want to progress against Juventus. AMAZONIAN The German international scored a late equaliser in last night’s 1-1 draw at Juventus Stadium, his first since his comeback from injury. “I am pleased with the goal but also to be back,” Gomez wrote on his official Facebook page. “It’s not easy coming back after five months out but my fitness is getting there little by little. AMAZONIAN “My understanding with my teammates is improving every day too. “I am pleased with the draw, most of all for the fans and the club. “But we have only got a good result in the away leg. AMAZONIAN “For the return game we need an even better performance. “Thank you very much for all your support!”

Juventus star Pogba: I want to win the Ballon d'Or The France international says he is in the perfect environment to develop into one of football's elite as he continues to learn from Buffon, Pirlo and Vidal. Mar 14, 2014 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has set his sights on becoming the world’s best player and says he wants to win the Ballon d’Or. AMAZONIAN The 20-year-old is developing into an excellent midfielder and has become a key player for the Serie A champions since joining from Manchester United in 2012. The France international wants to continue the progress he has made throughout his time in Italy and says his main target is to win the sport's most prestigious individual award. “I want to be the best and win the Ballon d’Or,” Pogba said at event for Bianconeri supporters. “To do it I will have to improve all facets of my game. AMAZONIAN “When I do something it’s because I want to be the best, I will have to make a lot of sacrifices but I hope to win the Ballon d’Or one day.” The youngster says he is at the perfect place to hone his skills and develop into one of football's elite players as he learns from the star players in the Juve dressing room. “I need to learn from great players like Gianluigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal. AMAZONIAN “Here at Juventus there is everything but you always want more. “Our stadium is the nicest I have ever played in. AMAZONIAN “What’s special about Juve? Great players like Buffon, Pirlo, Vidal and many others. “I am happy to play alongside them, they are the best in Italy and if I want to be the same I must learn from them."

JUVENTUS 1 - 1 FIORENTINA Arturo Vidal (3′) Mario Gomez (79′) March 13, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Björn Kuipers (Netherlands) Attendance:‬ 39610‎ 'Juventus can afford to alternate' - Marotta defends Conte's rotation The Bianconeri's 1-1 draw at home to Fiorentina on Thursday has put their Europa League challenge in jeopardy, but the club CEO thinks it is wise to change up the starting XI. Mar 14, 2014 Juventus chief Giuseppe Marotta leapt to the defence of Antonio Conte's rotational policy and says the club can afford to make full use of their squad. AMAZONIAN The Bianconeri boss has shown a desire to use a number of second-string players in the Europa League, following the Italian champions' surprise elimination from the Champions League earlier this season. That decision potentially backfired on Thursday, as Juve were held to a 1-1 draw in the home leg of their last-16 tie with Fiorentina, but Marotta is convinced that rotating players - particularly attackers - is the way forward. "I must say that I agree with what Conte said in one of his most recent press conferences," the Juve CEO told Tuttosport. "Which is that, being committed on two fronts - two important fronts - we have to alternate the team. AMAZONIAN "Because we want to participate as protagonists in both Serie A and the Europa League. Starting from the point of view that our squad, especially the offensive area, is very large and competitive so we can even afford to make the changes." Conte's men travel to Florence needing a win or a higher scoring draw than 1-1 to qualify for the quarter-final stage of the European competition, which will see its final held at the Bianconeri's home ground. Before that clash, they are back in Serie A action with a visit to Genoa on Sunday.

JUVENTUS 1 - 1 FIORENTINA Arturo Vidal (3′) Mario Gomez (79′) March 13, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Björn Kuipers (Netherlands) Attendance:‬ 39610‎ Conte: Juventus 'unlucky' not to beat Fiorentina The coach was frustrated by Mario Gomez's late equaliser in Turin but saw enough to convince him that the Bianconeri can triumph in the return leg at the Artemio Franchi. Mar 14, 2014 Juventus coach Antonio Conte thinks his team were better in their 1-1 draw at home to Fiorentina in Thursday's Europa League clash than they were in the 1-0 win at the weekend. AMAZONIAN The Scudetto holders got off to a great start at the Juventus Stadium on Thursday in the first leg of the sides' last-16 tie as Arturo Vidal broke the deadlock inside three minutes. Conte's men, who beat Fiorentina 1-0 on Sunday in Serie A, looked set to take a slender lead into the return game in Florence next Thursday but Mario Gomez restored parity with 11 minutes to go. Despite the late disappointment of the former Bayern Munich striker's goal, Conte remains upbeat about Juve's chances of progressing past their Serie A rivals and into the last eight. AMAZONIAN "I am always optimistic," he told reporters afterwards. "It's a football match, we play to win and we have won a lot, but it's fair to draw against Fiorentina, as they are a strong side. "I do feel we were a little unlucky, as we could've scored more. "In all honesty, I preferred this performance to Sunday. Of course, when you concede a goal it's hard to justify, but I feel the team created many chances, hitting the bar as well and probably expressed better football than we saw on Sunday. AMAZONIAN "When you concede a goal there are always situations to analyse and corrections to be found. We lost the ball in midfield and this through-ball took us by surprise, then Gomez did very well to control and beat [Gianluigi] Buffon as he came out." Juve have not been convincing against Fiorentina this season as they lost 4-2 away after going 2-0 up before almost letting a one-goal lead slip at the weekend, but Conte believes the visiting Viola earned their draw with the Bianconeri. "Maybe we shouldn't take the lead!" joked Conte. "On a psychological level, teams have a different approach, maybe subconsciously, when going in front early on. We have gone in front in every game with Fiorentina this season. AMAZONIAN "The 4-2 defeat was strange, as they scored four in 20 minutes. It's true on Sunday that Fiorentina pushed hard in the final stages, but I felt it was a deserved victory. "If we look at the chances created on Thursday, then I'd say we were a little unlucky to draw. It was a good performance from both Juventus and Fiorentina, so I don't see why we should praise one side to the detriment of another. "It was a great game and a fine advert for Italian football in Europe. I imagine those watching enjoyed the spectacle."

JUVENTUS 1 - 1 FIORENTINA Arturo Vidal (3′) Mario Gomez (79′) March 13, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Björn Kuipers (Netherlands) Attendance:‬ 39610‎ Gomez: An important goal Mar 14, 2014 Mario Gomez recognised the importance of his goal for Fiorentina, not only for their tie with Juventus, but also for his own progression. AMAZONIAN The German netted for the first time yesterday evening since returning from five months out with a knee injury, to earn his side an away goal draw in Turin in the first leg of the Europa League Last 16. “This is an important goal. I’m happy for the team and for the draw,” Gomez has told reporters post-match. “It is not easy to play here in Turin, against a strong team. It is not easy to get back in shape after five months away, but the condition is slowly coming back. AMAZONIAN “I always said that when I get back into shape, the goals would also be there, as they always have been. “Even in the last few games I have felt my strength returning. I’m happy for the goal but also to have recovered.”

JUVENTUS 1 - 1 FIORENTINA Arturo Vidal (3′) Mario Gomez (79′) March 13, 2014 - 9:05 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Björn Kuipers (Netherlands) Attendance:‬ 39610‎ Neto: 'Viola heads never dropped' Mar 13, 2014 Norberto Neto hailed Fiorentina’s attitude after they fought back for a Europa League draw away to Juventus. AMAZONIAN “The important thing is that I contributed to a good result,” the goalkeeper told Sky Sport Italia after the 1-1 result. “I am happy with the character we showed tonight and the way we played after conceding so early. We did well not to let our heads drop, as the team proved it had confidence in its own qualities.” Neto had been viciously criticised by fans and media at the start of the season, but won them over with his performances. AMAZONIAN “Personally I always had faith in my talent and knew that I could give this team a lot. My family helped me, as they were very supportive in the difficult moments.” The shot-stopper was asked whether he had a chance of making it to the World Cup with Brazil, but was unconvinced. AMAZONIAN “I think it’ll be very difficult, knowing the way things work in Brazil. They won the Confederations Cup a few months ago and it’ll be tough to see many changes in that squad. “However, I’ll keep working and am ready in case I am called.”