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'2013 has been my golden year' - Pogba The France international is keen to build on a year of great personal success by winning a second Scudetto - but remained quiet over talk of a new contract. Dec 4, 2013 Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has described 2013 as his "golden year" but says he is targeting even more success with the club in the future. http://markting10.nl/ The Frenchman broke into the Bianconeri set-up as they romped to the Scudetto and was key to his country's Under-20 World Cup success in the summer. Those efforts mean he is now a regular in the senior setup with France and with the calendar year coming to an end, the former Manchester United man looked back over the past 12 months with pride. "I won the league title in my first season here and got as far as the quarter-finals of the Champions League," Pogba, 20, said to Tuttosport. http://markting10.nl/ "I won the Under-20 World Cup title with France and was promoted by coach Didier Deschamps into the main team. This really has been my golden year and I hope that 2014 is the same. "I would like to win it all with Juve, but you have to consider your opponents, who can be more aggressive than ever. "Dreaming is not forbidden, but if I was being down to earth then I want a third Scudetto in a row for Juventus, and the second in a row for me - that is the main objective. http://markting10.nl/ "In the Champions League, realistically, we're aiming to progress and to do better than last year. We will try with all our strength." There are rumours in Italy that Pogba will soon sign a new deal with the Turin club, like Arturo Vidal did on Tuesday, but he has insisted that he is in the dark regarding contract talks. "I have no news about my future," he added. "I signed a deal with Juventus until 2015 and I can only give you all the best of myself to the team for which they are registered. http://markting10.nl/ "You have to ask the president, the coach or my agent [Mino Raiola]." With Andrea Pirlo sidelined indefinitely with knee ligament damage, Pogba is likely to feature prominently in the coming weeks, with Bologna next up for Juve on Friday.

Juventus fined €5,000 for young fans' abuse of Brkic The Serie A champions have been punished after a stand full of schoolchildren were caught shouting abuse at the Serbia international. Dec 3, 2012 The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) disciplinary committee have fined Juventus €5,000 after young supporters were found to have shouted abuse at Udinese goalkeeper Zeljko Brkic during Sunday's Serie A clash in Turin. http://markting10.nl/ Adults had been banned from attending the game at Juventus Stadium because of discriminatory chants directed towards Napoli fans last month but, instead of playing the game against the Zebrette behind closed doors, the Bianconeri invited 12,000 schoolchildren into the ground. However, the move backfired, with the FIGC forced to act after Brkic was targeted by fans during Juve's 1-0 win over Udinese. http://markting10.nl/ A statement from the Serie A read: "Juventus have been fined €5,000 for their very young supporters having repeatedly insulted a player of a rival team." Juventus, who are currently top of Serie A, clinched a dramatic victory thanks to Fernando Llorente’s stoppage-time winner.

Barzagli: Juve can cope without Pirlo The defender is confident that the midfielder's absence will not see the Bianconeri's strong run of form falter heading towards the winter break. Dec 3, 2012 Andrea Barzagli is confident Juventus will cope without Andrea Pirlo after the midfielder was ruled out indefinitely with ligament damage. http://markting10.nl/ The Italy veteran picked up the medial knee injury in the Bianconeri's win over Udinese on Sunday and is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks, though the Turin club have declined to set a return date for the midfielder. With the likes of Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal available play in central midfield for Antonio Conte's men, Barzagli has total confidence that the Serie A leaders can continue their fine domestic form. "Andrea is important to us," the 32-year-old told reporters at the club's annual Castagna d'Oro ceremony, with Vidal the winner of the best player of 2012-13 after Pirlo won the award - voted for by fans - last year. http://markting10.nl/ "He is one of the best players in the world and gives us a lot of experience. Fortunately, we have other players who are strong in midfield, though admittedly there is no one else quite like him. "But we are still a great team and we will try to impose our game on the opposition without him."

Milan wish Pirlo speedy recovery The Rossoneri hope the midfielder returns to action swiftly after picking up a muscular problem against Udinese for Juventus at the weekend. Dec 3, 2012 AC Milan have wished former midfielder Andrea Pirlo a swift recovery after the Juventus talisman suffered ligament damage on Sunday. http://markting10.nl/ The 34-year-old was substituted in the first half as the Bianconeri beat Udinese 1-0 and, on Monday, it was confirmed that the Italy international had damaged the medial ligament in his right knee. Although no official return date has been given, Pirlo is expected to be out until at least the middle of January and the Rossoneri - whom he left in 2011 on a free transfer - expressed their hope that he returns to action in Italy quickly. "Everybody at Milan, from the players to the coaching staff, would like to send their regards to Andrea Pirlo and wish him a speedy recovery with his knee injury," the San Siro side said in a statement on their website on Tuesday. http://markting10.nl/ Pirlo's fitness woes mean he will not feature in Juve's crunch Champions League tie with Galatasaray on December 10, when the team need at least a draw at the Turk Telekom Arena to qualify for the last 16 of the competition behind Real Madrid in Group B. Next up, though, is a trip to Bologna on Friday as they hope to extend their three-point lead over second-placed Roma in Serie A.

Juventus don't need to spend in January - Marotta The Bianconeri CEO says there will be numerous contract renewals coming up in Turin, while ruling out the exits of star players. Dec 3, 2012 Juventus chief Giuseppe Marotta has claimed that the club do not need to strengthen their squad in January to secure a third successive Scudetto. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri have been linked with a loan move for Manchester United winger Nani but the club CEO says they are focused on securing players for the future, such as when they signed striker Fernando Llorente on a Bosman transfer last winter ahead of a summer move. "We do not need to patch up the squad in January - at this stage, we want to build for the future," he told Tuttosport. "Think about how last year at this stage we were laying the groundwork by signing Llorente. "This is how we want to continue, moving with the times, paying attention to opportunities in the transfer market that will allow us to beat opposition." http://markting10.nl/ Arturo Vidal is expected to sign a contract extension with the Turin club imminently and Marotta says that more renewals are in the pipeline, while insisting they have no plans to sell their finest stars. "In this period it is essential that we renew deals, not just for Vidal - Andrea Barzagli, for example," he continued. "Plus all the others who are showing great quality as usual. "We have no intention of selling our best players. Certainly those who stay must be willing to give their all. We don't intend to force anybody to stay, but no one has asked for a transfer." http://markting10.nl/ The 58-year-old also praised the squad for their recent stellar form having initially trailed behind Roma at the start of 2013-14, which he believes was down to Italy's busy international football schedule during the summer. "I think initially this season some players suffered by having to participate in the Confederations Cup, which required special preparation," Marotta added. http://markting10.nl/ "But as soon as they returned to peak condition... Well, you have seen how good we've been." Having gone three points clear at the top of Serie A this weekend with a 1-0 win over Udinese, Antonio Conte's men next face Bologna on Friday.

Barzagli: Pirlo unique, but… Dec 3, 2013 Andrea Barzagli doesn’t expect boss Antonio Conte to ask Juventus to play differently now that Andrea Pirlo is sidelined. AMAZONIAN The playmaker is set to be out of action for around 40 days after picking up a knee ligament problem in the game against Udinese on Sunday. “Andrea is important for us, he’s one of the best in the world and lends us his vast experience,” the 32-year-old added. “Luckily we have excellent players who can come into the midfield, though there’s nobody like him. As a great team, we’ll look to play our own game just the same without him.” AMAZONIAN Pirlo limped out of the Udinese game in the first half and the Old Lady only ensured a win thanks to an injury-time Fernando Llorente strike. “It was a crucial win which arrived in the last minute of a difficult match,” Barzagli continued. “We did well and were fortunate to believe in ourselves. “Udinese proved themselves to be in a better physical condition than us, and they made us suffer on two occasions when Gigi Buffon made the difference.” AMAZONIAN Juventus have won their last six games and they haven’t conceded a goal during that winning streak which has taken them to the top of the table. “At the beginning we conceded quite a few goals, even though not necessarily more than in other years, perhaps more because of lapses in concentration than anything. “But after the Fiorentina game we’ve rediscovered that defensive solidarity which is fundamental to winning in Italy. AMAZONIAN “It’s to early to talk of us running away with the Scudetto though, we’re still at the beginning. Roma have done extraordinary things so far, and we’ve done well to keep up with them and then overtake. “But the road ahead is long, and we’re already concentrating on Friday’s game in Bologna.”

Capello: 'Roma Juve's only antagonists' Dec 2, 2013 Russia manager Fabio Capello believes Roma are the only real Scudetto antagonists to Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ He won Serie A titles with both those clubs and was in Florence today in order to be inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame. People have said since the start of the season that Juve were the strongest, noted Capello to the media. There were some teams who could contrast them, like Roma, but they have now drawn four in a row. Theyre still up there and without European competition to worry about they can be the only real Scudetto antagonists to Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ Capello was one of eight new entries into the Hall of Fame along with Franco Baresi, Gabriel Batistuta, Massimo Moratti, Gianni Rivera, Eraldo Monzeglio and referees Cesare Gussoni and Sergio Gonnella. The Russia manager was also asked about the experiment of filling the stands of the Juventus Stadium with over 12,000 children to replace banned ultras. However, it wasnt a total success, because many of the kids all under the age of 13 still jeered opponents Udinese and hurled insults at Zeljko Brkic every time he took a goal kick. http://markting10.nl/ Id ask myself a few questions after what happened at the Juventus Stadium. If even children start insulting the opposition team, then it means there are serious problems of ethics and sporting attitude in this country. If I had been there, I wouldve told the announcer to intervene and make them stop those chants. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

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Pirlo has knee ligament damage Dec 2, 2013 Juventus will be without Andrea Pirlo for the rest of 2013, as he has damaged knee ligaments. http://markting10.nl/ The midfielder limped off just 15 minutes into Sunday’s 1-0 win over Udinese in Turin. Tests have now confirmed a second degree lesion to the collateral medial ligament in his right knee. http://markting10.nl/ The Juve medics have not stated how long he will be out for, but an injury of this type usually requires at least a month to heal, possibly two. It is a heavy blow for the Bianconeri, who are top of the Serie A table and need a point away to Galatasaray in order to qualify for the Champions League knockouts.

Marotta on Pirlo and Vucinic Dec 2, 2013 Beppe Marotta admits Andrea Pirlo’s injury was an unexpected blow and “won’t force” Mirko Vucinic to stay at Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ The director spoke to Sky Sport Italia after tests showed Pirlo is out for at least a month with a second degree lesion to his knee ligament. “This was unexpected and we won’t say anything more today. He will start treatment tomorrow and try to get back as soon as possible,” noted Marotta. There was a message on the club website of Milan, Pirlo’s former team, wishing the midfielder good luck in his recovery. http://markting10.nl/ Marotta was also asked about the reports that Vucinic will be sold or loaned out in January – possibly to Manchester United in exchange for Nani. “Clearly the media is talking about potential new signings, but this team has scored without fail for dozens of games. There is no ‘goal problem’ and the defence has settled down now too. http://markting10.nl/ “Happy as we are with the players at our disposal, we won’t force anyone to stay. Those who do remain must do so with great hunger and fight for a place in the starting XI. Still, nobody so far has expressed the desire to leave. “I wouldn’t talk about January arrivals right now, as the squad is achieving extraordinary things and we have one of the best Coaches in the world. Antonio Conte has been able to make the most of the resources and I wish to underline the Juventus Model.”

Buffon up for FIFA/FIFPro World XI Dec 2, 2013 Juventus and Italy’s Gigi Buffon is one of five goalkeepers shortlisted for the FIFA/FIFPro World XI of 2013. http://markting10.nl/ FIFPro and FIFA today announced that Buffon will be rivalled by Real Madrid’s Iker Casillas, Petr Cech of Chelsea, Bayern Munich’s Manuel Neuer and Barcelona’s Victor Valdes for the gloves in the fantasy team. The FIFA XI will be revealed in full on January 13, 2014, in Zurich.

Pirlo suffers knee ligament damage The Juve playmaker suffered a clash of knees in the meeting with Udinese and initial reports have suggested that he could miss a month of action. Dec 2, 2013 Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo has suffered knee ligament damage, the Serie A club have revealed on Monday. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri have not indicated how long the 34-year-old could be sidelined, but initial speculation suggests it could be up to a month, ruling him out of the rest of 2013. A statement on the official club website said: "Andrea Pirlo, who picked up a knock not long after kick-off in yesterday’s fixture between Juventus and Udinese, has undergone medical tests this afternoon. "The examinations at Turin’s Fornaca Clinic have revealed second-grade damage to the medial collateral ligament of his right knee." The playmaker was involved in a clash of knees with Udinese midfielder Andrea Lazzari during Antonio Conte's men's 1-0 victory over the Zebrette on Sunday. http://markting10.nl/ Pirlo suffered the knock after only six minutes and attempted to run off the injury before signalling to the bench that he was unable to continue after 15 minutes. Juventus' win over Udinese stretched their lead in Italy's top flight to three points courtesy of Fernando Llorente's last-minute winner. The Bianconeri face Bologna on Friday before a crucial Champions League clash against Galatasaray next Tuesday.

Vidal set to sign Juventus extension, says Marotta The Bianconeri director has revealed that the midfielder will sign a contract renewal shortly, while has stressed Paul Pogba is going nowhere. Dec 2, 2012 Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta has insisted that Arturo Vidal will sign a new deal with the Serie A champions in the upcoming days. http://markting10.nl/ The Scudetto holders have been in talks with the Chile international for a while now and Marotta has revealed that it's only a matter of time before Vidal will extend his current contract, which is due to expire in the summer of 2016. "We have reached the final stages of the renewal talks with Vidal. We will make things official next week," Marotta told Sky Sport. The 26-year-old has been in superb form for Juventus so far this season, scoring 10 goals in 20 appearances in all competitions. http://markting10.nl/ Marotta also had his say on the future of Paul Pogba, who has recently been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, and stressed that there's no offers for the France international. "Pogba has been doing a fine job, but there is no concrete interest in him that needs his attention." Pogba, 20, has a contract with Juve until June 2016.

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Llorente: 'A very tough game' Dec 1, 2013 Fernando Llorente confessed “it was a very tough game” after giving Juventus the late victory over Udinese. http://markting10.nl/ “I am happy, as it was a very tough game with so many chances, but we couldn’t find a way through,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “At the end I managed it and I’m very happy. We had to win, we achieved it – albeit late and after a real struggle.” This was Juve’s sixth consecutive victory with six clean sheets and allowed them to go three points clear at the top of the Serie A table. http://markting10.nl/ Llorente netted his fourth goal of the League season in an unusual atmosphere, as 12,200 children were in the stands to fill in for the banned ultras in the Curva Sud and Nord. “It was wonderful to see so many children in the stands. It was hard for me to expect such a good start to the season. I am working to do better every day.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Conte: 'Juve gambled for victory' Dec 1, 2013 Antonio Conte revealed his tactics for an injury time Juventus victory over Udinese, but is worried about Andrea Pirlo. http://markting10.nl/ “Zeljko Brkic put in a great performance, as did Gigi Buffon. It was an exciting game with one team attacking and another that was lethal on the counter,” he told Sky Sport Italia of the 1-0 result. “It was entertaining, a good advert for football and had two sides who wanted to win. We believed to the end, even running a few risks, but we wanted this victory. Don’t forget we were coming off a tough Champions League match, but physically we held out well against an on-form Udinese side.” Fernando Llorente scored at the 91st minute, but Conte shook things up by introducing Fabio Quagliarella for Paolo De Ceglie. http://markting10.nl/ “I waited until the final 20 minutes and opted to risk it for the victory with an extra striker, making Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal more static midfielders with Claudio Marchisio wide. I had seen this option in my head if the game was still deadlocked, as I wanted all three points. “It went well this time and I’ll admit I was fortunate rather than talented, as it could’ve gone either way.” This was Juve’s sixth consecutive Serie A victory with six clean sheets, sending them three points clear at the top of the table. It is no coincidence that this run followed on from their 4-2 defeat in Florence. http://markting10.nl/ “The Fiorentina game is an open wound that has not yet healed. We were 2-0 up and conceded four goals in 20 minutes. That was a wake-up call, though I honestly would’ve preferred to do without! If it gave my players a desire to fight back and prove themselves, then at least something positive came from it. “We have been working as a team for three years now and have built an important mentality here that pushes them on towards victory. I am fortunate to have a group of players that want to be protagonists and make their mark, even after winning for two years running. We are all hungry – the Coach, players, club and fans. “Every game is important. We are three points in front, but let us not forget a few weeks ago we were five points behind Roma. http://markting10.nl/ “It is an exhilarating season in which every match represents a potential slip-up for each team.” There was some bad news for the Bianconeri, as Pirlo limped off after just 15 minutes with a knee injury. “We hope Andrea hasn’t hurt himself badly. I hope it is just a knock and not a sprain. He is an important player for us and I want to be optimistic, as Andrea is a champion and will do everything to be back as soon as possible.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Guidolin distraught at defeat Dec 1, 2013 Francesco Guidolin was distraught after Udinese’s last-gasp defeat to Juventus. “How do I feel? Bad. Very bad.” http://markting10.nl/ The Coach was visibly upset when he spoke to Sky Sport Italia after Fernando Llorente’s goal in stoppages. “How do I feel? Bad. Very bad. This is our job and our sport, so we are feeling great disappointment, especially for my players who put in a fine performance and certainly deserved more. That’s life. “They took the right approach, kept up the tempo and intensity, answering Juve blow for blow. It all went well until the 92nd minute. It’s a shame.” http://markting10.nl/ Guidolin had a long hug with Juve Coach Antonio Conte on the touchline after the final whistle in Turin, while he was also praised by Gigi Buffon. “I complimented Antonio, because he is truly a great Coach and a man with an exceptional spirit who passes that on to his team. I was a little disappointed at that moment, obviously. “I am very proud, as I consider Buffon to be a great person even above a great player. His compliments can only fill me with pride. http://markting10.nl/ “Antonio Di Natale is an atypical centre-forward and you can’t lean on him the way you do a Llorente. He needs the ball delivered to him in a certain way and he created at least two great scoring opportunities tonight. “How can we improve? We need to be more precise when in possession and building the forward moves. http://markting10.nl/ “We are rediscovering the spirit of the past seasons, as we achieved something extraordinary with that approach. Our confidence would’ve grown a great deal with a result today, but I am frankly a bit sick of receiving compliments and no points against the big clubs. “We need points, because Serie A is more balanced and complicated this year.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Conte: Juventus driven to make history The 44-year-old watched his side produce another determined display and is certain that his players' drive can help lead to success this season. Dec 1, 2013 Antonio Conte believes it is his team’s desire "to make its mark" that is behind Juventus’s surge to the top of Serie A. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri were five points behind early pacesetters Roma at the end of last month but have now opened up a three point lead of their own at the top of the table after a 1-0 victory over Udinese. The Turin side had to show plenty of grit and determination as they ground out the win courtesy of Fernando Llorente’s late header and Conte is convinced that his side’s drive to win a third successive Scudetto - something they have not done since the 1930s - was behind their last-ditch victory. "I'm lucky enough to coach a group of players that wants to make its mark. It will be tough, but we have the desire to give it a go," the 44-year-old club coach told the press after the match. http://markting10.nl/ "It was a good game and a decent advert for football, both sides went out to win. Brkic and Buffon each made top saves. "I waited until the end to go gung-ho, there's only one point's difference between a draw and defeat. http://markting10.nl/ "We're building something important in terms of the way we play and our mentality. We always go out for the win." Conte’s team now have the chance to cement their place at the top of Serie A as they face teams from the bottom half of the league in their remaining three fixtures before the winter break. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Llorente: Juventus struggled to finish off Udinese The Spaniard came up with goods late on as the Old Lady won 1-0, while Gianluigi Buffon claimed a Udinese win would have been fair. Dec 1, 2013 Fernando Llorente accepted that Juventus struggled to convert their chances in their 1-0 win over Udinese on Sunday, but was relieved with his late headed goal. http://markting10.nl/ The hosts dominated the match but struggled to find the breakthrough and had to rely on the Spaniard’s late intervention to secure all three points. The former Athletic Bilbao striker hasn’t been given the easiest of times by critics since arriving in Italy in the summer, but he feels that his performances are getting better and his goals are testament to that improvement. "We are happy, it was a very tough game against a good team like Udinese," the 28-year-old told reporters after the match. http://markting10.nl/ "We created many scoring chances but we could not convert them. "Today we just had to win and we did that, the victory came in the final seconds after a great effort. My goal? I was hoping to do well, I'm working to continue to improve." The result sees Antonio Conte’s side move three point clear at the top of the Serie A having won their last six games on the bounce and gave Gianluigi Buffon his eighth clean sheet of the season. http://markting10.nl/ "A game like tonight's could have gone either way and nobody would have had cause for complaint with the final outcome," the Bianconeri captain commented after the game. "There are wins that are worth double and this is certainly one of them." The Turin side implemented a new policy against udinese to make sure there were no empty seats in the stadium, as local school children were allowed in for free - something both players think is a fantastic initiative. http://markting10.nl/ "It was a beautiful thing to see all these kids here at the Juventus Stadium to watch the game," stated Llorente. Buffon added: "It was nice to see the stands occupied, playing with empty seats is not a good advert for football." http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Buffon: 'It's a six-pointer' Gigi Buffon said the stoppage-time win over Udinese was “a six-pointer” for Juventus. Dec 1, 2013 The 1-0 victory in Turin was their sixth on the bounce in Serie A, achieved with six clean sheets. http://markting10.nl/ “It was an important game, there’s no point denying there are draws that can feel like defeats and wins that can feel like they are worth six points. This was a six-pointer,” the goalkeeper told Sky Sport Italia. “Whatever the result, it would’ve been fair and hardly scandalous, as it was an even game.” Buffon had to make a series of stunning saves, particularly on Antonio Di Natale and Andrea Lazzari. http://markting10.nl/ “In my career I have almost always played in top clubs, so I am accustomed to making few saves per game, but important ones. I have to prove myself every game, the same as any other player. “We faced a team with a great Coach and a team that plays good football. Udinese can really hurt you on the break and have a lot of quality, so they are a tough opponent to deal with.” The ultras were banned from the Curva Nord and Curva Sud sections today, so those were filled with children. “It was nice to fill the stands, because playing with empty seats is not a good advert for football. I was very pleased to see the kids respond, as they cheered us on. I also thank them, as they allowed us to play earlier, which is good in this weather! It was freezing today.” http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Player Ratings A goal in the dying stages from Fernando Llorente was enough to propel the Bianconeri back to the top of Serie A after they had struggled to break down their disciplined opponents. Dec 1, 2013 JUVENTUS Gianluigi Buffon - Produced a miraculous save to keep out an effort from Di Natale in the 63rd minute, having also denied the same player before the break. Andrea Barzagli - Making a return from injury, the Italy international was dominant in the air as he put in a solid display at the back for the Bianconeri. Leonardo Bonucci - Failed to deal with the threat of Di Natale on quite a few occasions, particularly in the second half. Giorgio Chiellini - The imposing centre-back looked fairly comfortable throughout as his team dominated possession, though Di Natale's intelligent movement did trouble him at times after the break. Simone Padoin - Did the simple things well on the right for the home side, without ever excelling. Withdrawn in the second half by Conte. Claudio Marchisio - Produced a handful of divine touches after being picked ahead of Pogba, but faded considerably after the break. Andrea Pirlo - The Italy international's involvement was brought to an abrupt end in the 15th minute when he had to be replaced by Pogba after picking up an injury early on. Arturo Vidal - Fresh from his goalscoring exploits in the Champions League the Chilean midfielder looked dangerous as Juventus camped out on the edge of Udinese's penalty area. Paolo De Ceglie - The 27-year-old provided a great attacking outlet for the Old Lady on the left from his position at wing-back. Carlos Tévez - Forced Brkic into a fine stop with a venomous shot in the ninth minute and dragged a shot just wide later in the game. Continued to link well with Llorente in attack for the hosts. Fernando Llorente - The ball stuck to him in the opening exchanges as he brilliantly brought team-mates around him into play and he proved the difference late on when he popped up to score a close-range header. http://markting10.nl/ Substitutions Stephan Lichtsteiner - The versatile Swiss made his return following a 10-game absence through injury and did well to provide the assist for Llorente's goal, albeit slightly unintentionally. Paul Pogba - Replaced Pirlo in the 15th minute and looked a bit off the pace in a central position for the hosts. Fabio Quagliarella - Chose to protect his face with his hands moments after coming on, which resulted in a yellow card. Forced Brkic into making a fine stop with a rasping shot from 20 yards. http://markting10.nl/ UDINESE Zeljko Brkic - Made one fabulous stop to deny Tevez in the first half and commanded his penalty area well before being beaten very late on by Llorente's close-range header. Thomas Heurtaux - Helped keep the Old Lady at bay in the first half before being caught by Llorente just before the interval. The Frenchman appeared to struggle with a knock after that collision. Danilo - Continued his decent form for Guidolin's side at centre-back and played a key role in shielding the Udinese goal, before the hosts struck at the death. Maurizio Domizzi - The disciplined defender put in a truckload of blocks to keep Juventus out for much of the game. Gabriel Silva - Thwarted Llorente and Vidal with some brilliant last-ditch challenges and got forward down the left to good effect. Duan Basta - Worked tirelessly on the right-hand side of midfield for the visitors as Juventus enjoyed far more possession than their opponents. Allan - Made a vital goal-line clearance in the final stages to keep out a Llorente header and he did a good job playing just in front of the back four for Guidolin's side. Andrea Lazzari - Pushed on in the second half after chasing shadows in the first. Tested Buffon with a brilliant swerving effort that the Italian tipped over superbly. Bruno Fernandes - Linked well with the overlapping Silva before being withdrawn on the hour mark. Roberto Pereyra - Snatched at a couple of chances before the break and he did not appear in sync with some of his team-mates during his time on the pitch. Subbed off late on. Antonio Di Natale - Tested Buffon with an ambitious chip in the first half and showed some lovely touches after the break, before drawing a world-class stop from the Juventus goalkeeper in the 63rd minute. http://markting10.nl/ Substitutions Badu - Replaced Fernandes after 60 minutes and had a positive impact on the game for his side, by dribbling well and drawing a couple of fouls from Pogba and Marchisio. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Udinese were tough but it's a sixth consecutive Serie A win for Juve Dec 1, 2013 There has been only one draw in the last 17 matches contested between these two sides, and Fernando Llorente's header ensured there was another winner on Sunday night. Juventus managed a sixth consecutive win in the league with a 1-0 victory over Udinese. http://markting10.nl/ Records are meant to be broken, and whenever the Bianconeri have won with a 3-1 or 3-2 scoreline, they have gone on to lose or draw their next match under Antonio Conte. Not anymore. Yet one has to feel for Udinese, considering their valiant efforts in defence and the ambition they showed going forward in the second half. It was clear that Francesco Guidolin's men were intent on soaking up the pressure, close marking their opponents and then counter-attacking with pace when they had the chance to do so in the match. Their energy levels were to be commended whilst their concentration levels rarely dropped as they stayed attentive and quickly closed down the spaces usually afforded to Juve. Juventus started well and the match proved entertaining in a stadium that boasted a different atmosphere on account of the 12,000 plus children invited to sit and cheer on the side in the Juve stands. Played at a fast pace, the Bianconeri looked alive, that is until they lost Andrea Pirlo to injury. It is matches like these that make one realise just how important Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon are to the Bianconeri cause. http://markting10.nl/ Without the deep lying midfielder's ability to dictate the tempo, imprecision reigned supreme, his range of passing was sorely missed with the Old Lady struggling to recreate those penetrative passes that might have just pierced a tough Udinese defence. The home side may have dominated possession and they always looked to push forward but they were largely made to look impotent. Carlo Tevez moved from side to side and Claudio Marchisio delighted with his intelligent runs forward yet that final ball was missing, that clear opportunity rarely created. On the other side, Udinese had their chances but were halted by the magic of Buffon. Leonardo Bonucci's woeful error allowed Antonio Di Natale a great opportunity to open the scoring but the mighty Juve goalkeeper was there, still standing and brilliantly stopped the intended chip. http://markting10.nl/ In the second half, Guidolin's men returned showing greater ambition to go for goal and Buffon performed miracles again as he stopped Bruno Fernandes attempt and Di Natale's follow-up. Without him in goal, Juventus may well have lost this game. Alert, focused and intimidating, the goalkeeper has now kept a clean sheet in six consecutive Serie A games to laugh in the face of those who dared to criticise his performances earlier in the season. Physically and mentally fatigued after that must win match against Copenhagen midweek, it was evident Juve were suffering to keep up with the energetic performance of their opponents. The goal looked like it would never arrive and the Friuli team did well to contain the home side's pressure. However, Conte's men did well to believe until the final whistle. Llorente was the man to finally give Juventus the winner they needed to help them open a three point gap over second-placed Roma by heading in the only goal of the game moments before the final whistle. The Spaniard has now managed a goal in each of Juve's three last Serie A games to demonstrate the manner in which he has grown into the squad. However, this was far from a perfect performance for the forward, who struggled to hold on to possession. His link up play is often beautiful to watch but he was usually to blame for giving the ball away so cheaply after striving so hard to intercept the Udinese passes. http://markting10.nl/ The late Llorente goal broke the heart of every Udinese fan. It was cruel considering how hard the side fought for a point. Yet despite the energy and the quick tempo, Guidolin's men struggled to really provide their attackers with those much-needed incisive passes and the support required to mount serious attacks going forward. Oh how they miss the likes of Mauricio Isla, Gokhan Inler and Alexis Sanchez -- players capable of creating and penetrating and affording Di Natale all the passes and opportunities he requires to strike, score and guide his team to the top positions. As for Conte, he's right in saying that he was lucky and not talented when opting to take Paolo De Ceglie off for Fabio Quagliarella. However, gambling for the victory shows courage and belief in the strengths of his players and for that he must be commended. It is wonderful to see a side play for a win as opposed to settling for a draw. The strategy paid off and Juve can now celebrate yet another win and their position at the top of the table. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Initial thoughts and random observations Dec 1, 2013 The Udinese bus had been parked for much of Sunday's game at Juventus Stadium. It wasn't anything new just because the clock was winding down in the second half. Udinese were defending tough and defending in bunches, putting anybody and everybody in an orange jersey behind the ball. http://markting10.nl/ Juventus needed something. A spark of magic, a lucky break to go their way as they tried to up the urgency down the stretch. And as we entered the first minute of stoppages, Fernando Llorente was up to his tricks once again. Things looked certain to be headed towards a scoreless draw and then suddenly, out of nowhere, El Rey Leon was celebrating his game-winning goal and all seemed right in the world once again. How about that for a sudden change of thought? I've never been happier to blow up a post-game writeup and start over again. In a game where Juventus had 27 shots directed towards Udinese's goal, it was the last one that mattered the most. It was looking like one of those nights where you'd be more likely to pull your hair out rather than celebrating a Juventus goal. Juve lacked that something special to unlock the Udinese defense. http://markting10.nl/ After 90 minutes and change of waiting, Juve finally did just that, getting a prototypical goal from a prototypical prima punta. No style points, but Juve got three points. I'll take that any day of the week. JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen Llorente: It was a tough game, we created plenty of chances but it didn't seem like we'd find the breakthrough. http://markting10.nl/ Random thoughts and observations •Llorente will get the headlines for scoring the game-winning goal, and that's perfectly okay with me. But Juventus wouldn't have been in position to win the game in stoppage time if it weren't for the efforts of Gigi Buffon. Can you even remember the last time he had to make four crucial saves in a match like he did today? It's been a good amount of time. A lot of that has to do with the way Juve's defense has played, of course, but Buffon more than answered the call against Udinese. He's my pick for Man of the Match — and not just because he's my favorite. •How does Stephan Lichtsteiner mark his return to the field after a two-month absence? By getting the assist on Llorente's goal, of course. Welcome back, my friend. You've been sorely missed. http://markting10.nl/ •Please be okay, Andrea Pirlo. •A lot of things changed when Pirlo came off the field less than 15 minutes into the first half, but the biggest difference might have been the impact Claudio Marchisio made. Il Principino had one of the brightest starts to the game of any Juventus player, making his classic runs into the box almost every time his team had the ball. But once Pirlo left the game, those runs weren't happening. Well, a lot of what Marchisio was doing to begin the game wasn't happening anymore. To be fair, though, the whole midfield just lacked their usual pop because they were without their beloved bearded maestro. •Roma keep dropping points and Juve keep winning games. I like the sound of that. http://markting10.nl/ •A little stat courtesy of the folks at WhoScored: Of the 27 shots Juve attempted on Sunday, 15 of those were blocked. Udinese may have had 10 guys behind the ball a good amount of the time, but they really did defend well and probably deserved to come out of the game with a point. •Andrea Barzagli is a wall. That is all. •Six straight wins, six straight clean sheets. The formula for success isn't too difficult to figure out, you guys. Buffon deserved the shutout tonight, and he got it. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Juventus 1-0 Udinese: 6 Things We Learned Dec 1, 2013 Juventus scraped a 1-0 victory against Udinese to extend their lead at the top of the league over Roma and potentially end the title race in Serie A. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri only lead the Giallorossi by three points, but the manner of the victory against the Zebrette showed exactly why they are back-to-back champions. Not everything was working today for Antonio Conte's side, but the Old Lady never gave up and their persistence was rewarded by a 90th-minute winner by Fernando Llorente. Here are six things that we learned. http://markting10.nl/ Llorente Is Going Nowhere in January This is an obvious one now, but after rumours over the last couple of weeks linked Fernando Llorente with a move away in January (per Metro), that possibility has been effectively ended by the Spaniard's excellent performances in recent weeks. Llorente was not spectacular against Udinese, but he is now finding his form and the back of the net on a regular occasion, almost always one or the other, making him indispensable right now. It was a goal made from the former Athletic Club striker's instinct, as he flicked his head to divert the ball past a despairing Zeljko Brkic. http://markting10.nl/ Conte will be delighted by the goals that have come Llorente's way—and especially by their importance—including goals against top opposition such as Napoli and Real Madrid. With three goals in as many games, Llorente is now undroppable and will surely be looking forward to a successful career in black and white. http://markting10.nl/ Antonio Di Natale Is Becoming Too Isolated This could be the end for Antonio Di Natale, as age is inevitably going to catch up with the great striker at some point. Even if age does mean the end of the player who was able to spearhead Udinese's attack by himself, it does not mean that Di Natale cannot be a very effective striker if Francesco Guidolin tweaks the tactics somewhat. At the moment, Toto is isolated and his speed has deserted him, meaning centre-backs are happy to get close and outmuscle him whenever the ball finds its way toward him. http://markting10.nl/ Without significant support, Udinese's attack is blunt, making Di Natale obsolete. Guidolin must find a way of getting bodies in and around Di Natale if Udinese are to continue being a side capable of pushing into the European places and the upper echelons of Italian football. http://markting10.nl/ Buffon Is Still a Great Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has endured a tough season, with criticism fired at him for a number of high-profile errors. But this is just a phase, and Buffon proved his class once again against Udinese. With the game tight due to a combination of Udinese's stubbornness and Juve's inability to find clear-cut chances, Buffon was called upon to keep the game in the balance. http://markting10.nl/ With Di Natale finding space inside the penalty area and Buffon sprawled across the floor after punching clear a cross, the Udinese striker shot toward the bottom corner from point-blank range. Buffon showed tremendous athleticism to bounce back up and claw away the almost certain goal, ensuring that Juve could go on to take one chance in order to gather all three points. It is often these sort of games that are the most difficult for goalkeepers, with little to do and concentration waning, so Conte will be pleased to see that Buffon can still make a difference on the outcome of a game. http://markting10.nl/ Juve Lack a Decision-Maker Without Pirlo Andrea Pirlo departed the game prematurely against Udinese, forcing Conte to throw Paul Pogba on in his place. While the Frenchman is an adequate replacement in terms of quality, bringing additional skills that certainly enhance Juve's side, something was evidently missing when Pirlo exited. Despite the many qualities that Pogba, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal possess, none of them seem ready to replace Pirlo's decision-making quality. http://markting10.nl/ Nobody appears ready to orchestrate the play, step up to seize responsibility and dictate the pace of the game. Juve continued to dominate possession, but the moves continued to break down, with the Bianconeri often losing patience and players firing shots at goal without an anchor to recycle possession to, something that Pirlo takes care to avoid. Conte might have been caught off-guard due to the injury, but moving forward, it needs to be made clear that somebody must inherit Pirlo's decision-making on the pitch. http://markting10.nl/ Lichtsteiner's Return Gives Juve Greater Variety Stephan Lichtsteiner made his long-awaited return from injury against Udinese. The Swiss international added some much-needed drive and penetration down the right side of the pitch. This has been severely lacking in recent weeks, and his delivery is also an added bonus that should bring out another facet to the game of Fernando Llorente. http://markting10.nl/ Without a consistent deliverer from crosses, Juve have been reluctant to toss the ball into the penalty area, even though Carlos Tevez is handy enough in the air to push Conte to encourage more of this in the side's game. A returning Lichtsteiner means that the opposition will have an additional threat to consider in their tactics, with sides currently tending to leave the wide players unmarked, knowing that they will rarely be hurt by them. With Lichtsteiner ever willing to stretch the opposition, the centre of the pitch should become less congested, with the Bianconeri able to spread the play more often. http://markting10.nl/ Danilo Has Stepped Up Since Benatia's Departure Mehdi Benatia was a player that Udinese expected to sorely miss after the Moroccan departed Udine for Rome. But since then, Danilo, a player who complemented Benatia in defence last season, has stepped up to begin leading not only the back line, but also the team in general. The Brazilian commands the line superbly, often stepping up to catch the opposition offside. http://markting10.nl/ But it is the Brazilian's communication skills that immediately impress, as he pushes his team-mates into areas of the pitch to better prepare the side to cope with the intense pressure from sides like Juventus. Unfortunately for Udinese, with Danilo proving that he can lead a defence as well as complement one, there will be other suitors for his services in the future. But for the moment, Udinese are every bit as defensively sound as they were last season, and Danilo's ever-growing leadership is a major reason for this. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Late Llorente winner enough to push Juventus past Udinese Dec 1, 2013 Juventus defeated Udinese by a score of 1-0 in Serie A action at the Juventus Stadium on Sunday night. http://markting10.nl/ Fernando Llorente’s header goal in the 90th minute was enough to secure the home side of the three points and extend their lead over Roma to three points. Ten minutes into the match and Zeljko Brkic made a brilliant save from Carlos Tevez, after the Argentine was set-up by Claudio Marchisio on the edge of the box. Andrea Pirlo was withdrawn for Paul Pogba five minutes later. The Italian veteran was unable to shake off a knock he picked up as a result of a crunching challenge from Andrea Lazzari. http://markting10.nl/ Tevez threatened again for the home side but could only stab an effort wide inside the box after strong work from strike partner Llorente. Udinese’s talisman Antonio Di Natale cut a lonely figure up-front for the away side but had a glorious chance to give them the lead on the half-hour mark. The Italian latched on to a loose pass from Leonardo Bonucci but saw his ambitious chip clawed away by Gianluigi Buffon. A few moments later and Tevez again for Antonio Conte’s team went close but his shot come cross evaded both the post and Arturo Vidal who flung himself at the ball. http://markting10.nl/ Around ten minutes after the restart Buffon saved Juventus from going behind with a wonderful double save. The Old Lady captain firstly parried a cross from the right before denying Di Natale from close range when the Udinese striker really should have scored. Buffon was called into action again moments later. Di Natale pirouetted mesmerically away from Bonucci and laid off Lazzari, who saw his dipping effort saved by the fingertips of Italy’s number one. At the other end Brkic spilled a Paolo De Ceglie header and just reached the loose ball before Fernando Llorente, who was lurking inside the six-yard box. http://markting10.nl/ Juventus were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box five minutes before the end but Tevez attacked it with no real conviction and his shot curled over the crossbar. Substitute Fabio Quagliarella then tested Brkic from range. The Italian striker spun away from Thomas Heurtaux on the edge of the box but the Udinese keeper was equal to the shot and tipped it wide for a corner. The hosts continued to press in the latter stages and from a corner as Llorente saw his powerful header cleared off the line by Brazilian midfielder Allan. http://markting10.nl/ Llorente did find the net with a header a minute later however. The ball ricocheted in and around the Udinese box before a skewed Stephan Lichtsteiner shot was deflected past Brkic by the head of the Spanish striker. The victory puts Juventus three points clear at the top of Serie A, ahead of second-placed Roma who drew with Atalanta. http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

JUVENTUS 1 - 0 UDINESE Fernando Llorente 90+1′ December 1, 2013 - 6:30 PM Juventus Stadium — Turin Referee: Gianpaolo Calvarese Attendance:‬ 38000‎ Late Llorente sinks Udinese Fernando Llorente scored in stoppages for Juventus to beat Udinese 1-0 and extend their lead at the top to three points. Dec 1, 2013 The kick-off was brought forward so 12,200 children could pack the Juventus Stadium, replacing the ultras in the Curva Nord and Sud who are banned for anti-Neapolitan chants. The Bianconeri went top of the table last week and were eager to stay there, though Kwadwo Asamoah was suspended with Mauricio Isla, Sebastian Giovinco and Simone Pepe injured. Andrea Barzagli returned to the side. Udinese were fresh from beating Fiorentina 1-0, though Luis Muriel and Mathias Ranegie missed out. http://markting10.nl/ Zeljko Brkic flew for a stunning one-handed save to stop the Carlos Tevez shot on the bounce going under the bar. The goalkeeper also rushed off his line to smother at Claudio Marchisio’s feet, but Andrea Pirlo went off after a knock to the knee. Tevez had an attempt deflected wide after good work from Fernando Llorente, but there was a huge scare for Juve on 29 minutes. Antonio Di Natale dispossessed Leonardo Bonucci and lobbed Gigi Buffon, who got a fingertip to the ball in order to allow Barzagli to clear. Tevez flashed an angled drive across the face of goal, but the Bianconeri struggled to break down Udinese. http://markting10.nl/ After the restart the visitors threatened again, as Buffon beat away a powerful Bruno Fernandes cross and an extraordinary reaction save on Di Natale’s follow-up from point-blank range. Stephan Lichtsteiner made his comeback after two months, replacing Simone Padoin. Buffon was again called into a fine save to turn Andrea Lazzari’s strike out from under the bar after a wonderful touch from Di Natale. The Paolo De Ceglie cross-shot landed on the roof of the net and Brkic fumbled an easy catch, but was grateful to scramble it back under control. Tevez aimed an angled drive straight at the goalkeeper and Antonio Conte threw on Fabio Quagliarella. However, the striker was booked within 20 seconds for a handling offence in midfield. http://markting10.nl/ Lazzari and Tevez tested the goalkeepers from distance, while Apache curled a free kick over the bar. Brkic flew to palm away a Quagliarella curler and in the final minute Allan needed a goalline clearance to deny Llorente’s header from a corner. It was a siege on Brkic’s goal towards the end and Lichtsteiner drilled wide. In stoppages, the breakthrough finally arrived, as a Lichtsteiner shot was going wide until Llorente got the final flick with his head from seven yards. http://markting10.nl/ JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin (Lichtsteiner 58), Vidal, Pirlo (Pogba 15), Marchisio, De Ceglie (Quagliarella 76); Tevez, Llorente UDINESE: Brkic; Heurtaux, Danilo, Domizzi, Gabriel Silva; Lazzari, Allan; Bruno Fernandes (Badu 61), Pereyra (Maicosuel 88), Basta; Di Natale Ref: Calvarese http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111