Socrates

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Inter are title contenders, says Lichtsteiner The Switzerland international says the Giuseppe Meazza side are candidates because they do not have the distraction of European football and can focus on Serie A. Sep 13, 2013 Stephan Lichtsteiner feels Inter are in a similar situation to Juventus two years ago and believes the Nerazzurri could challenge for the Scudetto ahead of this weekend's Derby d'Italia. http://markting10.nl/ Juventus had the 'luxury' of only having to compete in Serie A when they won their first domestic title under Antonio Conte in 2011-12 and Lichtsteiner believes it could benefit Inter that they have no European obligations either this season. "We’re up against a team who will be fighting for the Scudetto as their main objective, just as we were two years ago. "We know that the Inter side we’re facing will be fired up and determined, but so are we. "It doesn’t change anything that the Derby d'Italia is played so early in the season. What matters to us is the quality of our performance, no matter who the opponent is. "We’ll need to put in a strong performance." Saturday's encounter at the Giuseppe Meazza is scheduled to kick off at 18:00CET.

Marchisio on Derby d'Italia Sep 13, 2013 Claudio Marchisio has insisted he does not have to explain why Inter against Juventus is such a big game. http://markting10.nl/ The two play each other this Saturday at San Siro, and the midfielder has claimed that it one of the biggest matches in Europe, whilst also commenting on his recovery from injury. “I cannot wait to get back on the pitch,” he told the official Serie A website. “I am recovering well and will, hopefully, next week, get back on the field for some tests. “That will determine whether I’m ready to get back with my teammates. “I believe that there is not much to explain with Inter-Juventus. “It is a game that is felt not just in Italy but throughout Europe. All the players know how to prepare for this challenge. “We will be strong regardless of who plays.”

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Mazzarri: Inter can trouble Juve Sep 13, 2013 Inter boss Walter Mazzarri believes he has the players to test Juventus in the Derby d’Italia on Saturday. http://markting10.nl/ The two teams have a 100 per cent record in Serie A so far this season, but something has got to give at San Siro. “People only look at the result in Italy, but I’ve always looked at the performances,” the tactician stated. “What counts at the end of the day is being able to play as a team. “A draw could be a good result, but don’t headline that I’ll be happy with a draw. I want a performance from my team, a great performance worthy of Inter. Then the result will be what it is. “The mentality of my side is precise – one compact and solid to defend, but who can cause damage on the attack. We have players and tactics to cause Juventus difficulties.” Juventus will go into the game as title favourites after two successive Scudetti, whereas Mazzarri is looking to rebuild Inter after their ninth-placed finish last term under Andrea Stramaccioni. “We need the self-confidence that Juventus have and that arrives through performances, results and the desire to do things well for a long time,” the former Napoli boss noted. There is great rivalry and friction between the two clubs, as there is between Mazzarri and opposite number Antonio Conte. “I don’t know what has happened between us, you’ll have to ask him. I have never said anything that would have annoyed him. “The only thing I said was that Juve used the Napoli model of playing, but that was a compliment and not criticism. I haven’t offended Conte.” On the subject of whether Juventus have won 31 or 29 Scudetti, Mazzarri refused to add fuel to the Calciopoli fire. “Certain arguments have nothing to do with Coaches. They are matters for the clubs. We need serenity and to be civil.” Turning to his squad of players, Mazzarri hailed Rodrigo Palacio and confirmed Diego Milito would be back in the party after seven months on the sidelines. “Palacio is at the level of Edinson Cavani. He is a great attacker, but no player is the same as another. They have different characteristics. “I’ll call up Milito and he’ll be on the bench. He needs to find some form, he needs to train well and grow. We’ll see if I have the need for him.”

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Conte waiting on Barzagli and Vucinic Sep 13, 2013 Juventus boss Antonio Conte has yet to decide whether Andrea Barzagli and Mirko Vucinic will start against Inter on Saturday. http://markting10.nl/ The centre-back and striker are doubts for the clash at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza this weekend after recent injury. “I asked Barzagli to make some sacrifices in the first three games and he, despite not being fully fit, made himself available,” the Coach stated this afternoon. “He’s been training with us for a few days now, but I need to speak with him to understand how he is. “It’s the same thing for Vucinic, he suffered a tremendous blow to the knee but he trained yesterday and is at our disposal.” While the Old Lady won the championship again last season, the Nerazzurri – then bossed by Andrea Stramaccioni – finished in a disappointing ninth place. But Conte, who led Juve to the title in 2012 after the club had finished seventh in successive seasons, respects the Nerazzurri’s potential. “Two years ago everyone said we made mistakes in the transfer market, that we were a sixth-placed team at best, but we won,” he added. “I hope the same thing doesn’t happen this year with Inter, who can look to enjoy an excellent season. “Inter did very badly last term, but [new boss Walter] Mazzarri has a whole week to work with his players ahead of games. They will suffer less injuries and that is a big advantage. “Inter didn’t have a bad squad last year, otherwise they wouldn’t have won at the Juventus Stadium. They have a good base. “It is a fundamental game, especially for them in terms of self-esteem,” the former midfielder continued. “It’s the same thing that occurred with us in the past again Milan, that win gave us the psychological knowledge that we could compete at high levels. We’ll have to be alert because they can fight for the top of the table.” There has been friction between Conte and Mazzarri in the past, but he was full of praise for the former Napoli boss today. “Inter have an excellent squad and a good tactician with Mazzarri, who has proved his worth. I think Inter are in the best hands with Mazzarri in charge. “We know how Inter play and we’ll have to be aware of their counter attacks, especially Fredy Guarin who can split the team into two, and their wide players, as well as Ricky Alvarez and Rodrigo Palacio. “Would I boss Inter? I’m happy here and I still have another year on my contract.” Conte was also asked about summer signing Fernando Llorente, the forward who has yet to start an official game for the club. “My attackers are all on the same level, then it will be up to me to decide who plays,” he explained.

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Guarin expects Juventus exam Sep 13, 2013 Fredy Guarin says the tie against Juventus will be a good early indication of how much his Inter side have progressed under new boss Walter Mazzarri. http://markting10.nl/ The two teams, with 100 per cent records this season, will face off at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on Saturday evening. “Every game is an exam in its own way, but it is obvious that this is already one of the most important games of the season because Juventus are a direct rival,” the Colombian told Tuttosport. “But these are the matches where we can show what we have learned from the teachings of Mazzarri. It is also a chance for us to show our fans the character this side now possesses. “We always look to put into practice what the Coach is asking us for.” The Beneamata have just Serie A and the Coppa Italia to focus on this season after ending 2012-13 in ninth place. “A club like Inter should be playing in all competitions, even in Europe. Now we have only the League and we have to show, day after day, our desire to start winning again.”

Lichtsteiner respects revived Inter Sep 13, 2013 Stephan Lichtsteiner feels Juventus will be taking on a title rival on Saturday when they play Inter at San Siro. http://markting10.nl/ Although the Nerazzurri finished ninth in Serie A last term, the Swiss international respects the threat they carry after a summer of change. “We’re up against a team who will be fighting for the Scudetto as their main objective, just as we were two years ago,” he told Mediaset. “We know that the Inter side we’re facing will be fired up and determined, but so are we. We’ll need to put in a strong performance.” The former Lazio right-back was referring to the fact that the Turin giants, after finishing seventh and failing to qualify for European competition, hit back to win the League in 2011-12. Inter, now bossed by former Napoli tactician Walter Mazzarri, have started the season with wins against Genoa and Catania. They have yet to concede in Serie A during 2013-14.

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Juan: I'm afraid of Vidal The Inter defender has admitted he has much respect for the Chilean's abilities on the pitch, but hopes his side can replicate last season's success at Juventus Stadium. Sep 12, 2013 Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal has been singled out as the main threat by Inter defender Juan Jesus ahead of Saturday's clash at San Siro. http://markting10.nl/ The Chilean star, who is on the verge of signing a contract extension with the Bianconeri, has been a crucial part of their last two title-winning seasons. And Juan is well aware of the threat Vidal poses in front of goal. "I'm very afraid of Vidal," the 22-year-old told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "He has an excellent shooting technique and is a well-rounded footballer. "But they are also very good defensively, with [Giorgio] Chiellini, [Andrea] Barzagli and [Leonardo] Bonucci at the back." The Nerazzurri won 3-1 against Antonio Conte's men at the Juventus Stadium last season, and Juan hopes this success can be emulated this weekend. "Personally, I remember last season's victory well because I played great. I would like to replicate this on Saturday at the San Siro," he added. "At home, we must always play well and earn three important points. "We have to play together, be compact and focused because it is a game that requires our concentration levels to be at 100 per cent. "And some of our players like [Rodrigo] Palacio can make a difference, I'm sure he'll play great."

Carlos Tevez is tactically the perfect player for Juventus Juventus ended their search for a world-class attacker by signing the Argentine this summer, and tactically the former Boca Juniors star is the dream player for the Italians. Sep 12, 2013 ANALYSIS By Carlo Garganese Ever since club legends Alessandro Del Piero and David Trezeguet began to age at the end of the noughties, Juventus have been crying out for a top-class centre forward. http://markting10.nl/ Despite dominating Italian football over the past two seasons under Antonio Conte – winning successive Scudetti and re-establishing themselves as a European heavyweight – the Bianconeri have possessed an undoubted Achilles heel in attack. Alessandro Matri top-scored with just 10 goals in 2011-12, while Mirko Vucinic did so with 13 last term. Juventus' attack has been carried by a mean defence and arguably the best centre midfield in Europe, something CEO Giuseppe Marotta looked to rectify this summer by signing Fernando Llorente on a Bosman and Carlos Tevez from Manchester City. Tevez was immediately branded the “top-player” who Juventus had been missing and it has taken the 29-year-old no time at all to justify this billing – scoring in each of his three official games. Llorente was intended to be Tevez's partner in attack in Conte's 3-5-2 formation – the Spaniard as the penalty box striker and the Argentine as the second striker. But Llorente struggled in pre-season, meaning that Vucinic has retained his starting role alongside Tevez. The pairing didn't seem an obvious fit, with both frontmen eager to occupy the same space in between the midfield and attack, but the results thus far have been spectacular. The link-up and understanding between the duo has bordered on the telepathic at times. In the 4-1 league win over Lazio in Turin the pair successfully executed three dummy-one-twos – where a player steps over the ball and then turns to receive a through pass from his team-mate – made famous by Gianluca Vialli and Roberto Mancini at Sampdoria, and Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole at Manchester United. One of these moves led to Tevez's goal. Whether or not a Tevez-Vucinic partnership will be sufficient to pierce the best Champions League back lines of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid remains to be seen. The lack of a disciplined penalty box striker was evident in the first half against Sampdoria, when Juventus created little – and Tevez would certainly shine even more alongside a striker such as Dortmund’s Robert Lewandowski, who can engage in Vucinic-like combinations as well as offer a regular goal-threat. But the early signs in Serie A at least have been hugely promising. Tevez alone is certainly a guarantee – regardless of team-mates or tactics. The Argentine is one of the most adaptable players in world football. He boasts all the technical and creative qualities to excel when the tempo is slow – as it is in Italy – and all the physical attributes to star in faster and more furious surroundings like the Premier League. This makes him the dream forward for any coach. When Juventus are dominating possession and territory - as they often are with Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba - Tevez has the guile and skill to unlock the door. When they are playing a waiting game, as they often will away from home in the Champions League, Tevez has the pace and dynamism to devastate the opposition on the counter attack. Having twice conquered Serie A, the next step for Juventus is the Champions League. There has been much debate in Italy over whether Conte can lead his side to European glory with a 3-5-2 system that was dismantled so emphatically in last season’s quarter final by the double-layered width of Bayern’s 4-2-3-1. A switch to a 4-3-3 when the knockout stages arrive is a consideration, and this is a formation that Tevez will have no problem acclimatising to – either on the right, left or in the centre - having encountered it with both Manchester City and Argentina. This flexibility is a big weapon for Conte. The happy-again Tevez also contains all the fighting qualities – the grinta – that is so traditionally associated with Juventus teams. He has an incredible work-rate – always on the move to find space in offensive phases, and constantly pressing and harrying defenders to win the ball back. Against Lazio in Turin, Tevez even sprinted back to his own penalty area to make a tackle. “The way he sacrifices himself for the team - he works like a mule,” remarked Giorgio Chiellini of his “world-class” colleague. Tevez and Juventus are a match made in heaven. Physically, mentally, technically and tactically – Tevez is the complete player. Reaching at least the 20 goal mark in 2013-14 is a virtual certainty, and the only question is how long he can maintain his current levels of brilliance. Turning 30 in February, the Argentine must begin to decline physically sooner rather than later. But this season at least, Juventus fans can sit back and enjoy the ride because Tevez is going to make them very happy.

Pogba: I snubbed Chelsea, Arsenal & Milan for Juventus The Serie A star says he preferred to join the Bianconeri in 2012, despite many European giants chasing for his signature at the time. Sep 12, 2013 Paul Pogba says he was unwilling to listen to offers from Chelsea, Arsenal and AC Milan ahead of his switch from Manchester United to Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ The French youngster joined the Red Devils' youth academy in 2009 from Le Havre but, was unable to force his way into the first team, making just three Premier League appearances. However, the midfielder says as soon as Juventus were enquiring about his services, former United coach Sir Alex Ferguson could no longer persuade him to stay at Old Trafford. "Sir Alex Ferguson tried to keep me at Manchester United, but he didn’t get very far," the 20-year-old told Sky Sport Italia. "Other clubs were tracking me but I only had Juve in my mind. At the time, I heard from Chelsea, Arsenal and Milan, but nobody is like Juve." The Bianconeri have seen world-class French midfield players play at the club, including Michel Platini, Didier Deschamps and Zinedine Zidane. Pogba says having the opportunity to emulate those footballing greats was a key factor behind his decision to move to Turin. "Since childhood I’ve always liked Juve and supported that team," he added. "For the French this club means a great deal, as so many French champions played in Turin, so that’s why I liked them. "I am happy to be here and I want to win many trophies with this jersey." Pogba has so far won the Supercoppa Italiana twice and Serie A once.

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Juan Jesus: It's normal that Inter are top of Serie A The 22-year-old is not surprised by the Giuseppe Meazza side's good start, yet believes Juventus are the favourites for this weekend's league clash. Sep 12, 2013 Juan Jesus has insisted that it is normal for Inter to be fighting for the top spots in Serie A following their fine start to the 2013-14 campaign. http://markting10.nl/ The Nerazzurri currently sit joint-first in the league table after wins over Genoa and Catania, but the Brazilian is not taken aback by their good performances so far. "I'm not surprised. It's quite normal for us to be in this position because Inter deserve to be up there challenging for the big prizes," the Brazilian defender told Rai Sport 1. "Walter Mazzarri is doing a brilliant job with us all and we want to keep going the way we are." The 22-year-old then went on to discuss this weekend's Derby d'Italia against Juventus and admitted that the Scudetto holders start the encounter as the favourites. "Juventus have been playing together for three years and they have plenty of belief in themselves. "They're rightfully down as favourites because they've won back-to-back titles."

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Buffon: Inter can challenge Juventus for Scudetto The Italy international has stressed that Walter Mazzarri's men are a force to be reckoned with in Serie A this term following the former Napoli boss' arrival. Sep 12, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has warned his Juventus team-mates not to underestimate Inter ahead of this weekend's Serie A encounter. http://markting10.nl/ The Nerazzurri side had to settle for ninth spot in the league table last term, but they have looked strong in the opening weeks of the 2013-14 campaign and the Italy skipper feels they could challenge his side title under new boss Walter Mazzarri. "We have tremendous respect for Inter and take them very seriously," Buffon was quoted as saying by the Corriere dello Sport. "With a great coach like Mazzarri and the advantage that they can focus on Serie A, Inter are a force to be reckoned with in Serie A. "Inter will be around all year and could make life difficult for the teams challenging for the Scudetto." Saturday's Derby d'Italia at the Giuseppe Meazza is scheduled to kick off at 18:00CET.

Pogba: 'Nobody is like Juve' Sep 12, 2013 Paul Pogba reveals he turned down offers from “Chelsea, Arsenal and Milan, because nobody is like Juventus.” http://markting10.nl/ The 20-year-old France international arrived on a free transfer when his contract with Manchester United expired and has quickly become a key figure in the Bianconeri midfield. “Since childhood I’ve always liked Juve and supported that team,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “For the French this club means a great deal, as so many French champions played in Turin, so that’s why I liked them. “Sir Alex Ferguson tried to keep me at Manchester United, but he didn’t get very far. Were other clubs tracking me? Yes, but I only had Juve in my mind. At the time I heard from Chelsea, Arsenal and Milan, but nobody is like Juve. “I am happy to be here and I want to win many trophies with this jersey.”

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Vucinic could face Inter Sep 12, 2013 Mirko Vucinic resumed training with Juventus today, so could well start on Saturday against Inter. http://markting10.nl/ The striker was stretchered off while on international duty for Montenegro last Friday with a knock to the knee. There were fears he would not be fit for the weekend, but Vucinic resumed full training today with his teammates. This suggests he is available to start the Derby d’Italia against Inter at San Siro.

Asamoah: 'Inter are strong' Sep 12, 2013 Kwadwo Asamoah is impressed by Saturday’s opponents Inter, but believes Juventus need only “think about ourselves.” AMAZONIAN The Ghanaian midfielder sat down with JTV and looked ahead to the San Siro trip on Saturday at 17.00 UK time. “Inter are a strong side, who also began well last season. I’m expecting a good game, but we mustn’t think about them, just ourselves,” said Asamoah. “I’m happy with how my Juventus experience is going. I’ve won a Scudetto title and two Super Cups in the space of a year. I’ve always got on well with everyone, this team is like a family.” The Bianconeri have started out with a 100 per cent record after two rounds, matching Inter, Fiorentina, Napoli and Roma. AMAZONIAN “The group’s been bolstered by the arrival of players who have shown great personality, both on and off the field. “We know that it will be a difficult year, and that’s why we worked even harder over the summer in order to prepare ourselves. “We’re aware of our strengths and know that if we apply our spirit and ruthless approach we can once again achieve important targets.”

Real Madrid want Llorente? Sep 12, 2013 FIFA agents added to Spanish speculation Juventus striker Fernando Llorente could join Real Madrid on loan in January. http://markting10.nl/ The forward arrived over the summer as a free agent after his contract with Athletic Bilbao expired, but the 28-year-old has barely set foot on the pitch so far. Both Italian and Spanish media have suggested Llorente could be available on loan in January to regain his fitness and form. “Fernando Llorente could get transferred to Real Madrid and play in the Champions League, as he is not getting minutes with Juve,” commented FIFA accredited agent Francois Gallardo to Punto Pelota. “Fernando is very good, he knows the Spanish League and if he arrives on loan then the club won’t be splashing out in January.”

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Buffon aware of Inter threat Sep 12, 2013 Juventus captain Gigi Buffon is showing Inter respect ahead of Saturday’s San Siro Derby d’Italia showdown. The Old Lady have started their quest for a third successive Scudetto in confident mood, but the Nerazzurri also have a 100 per cent record after two games. http://markting10.nl/ “It’s time to concentrate on the championship again and Inter because we can’t make any mistakes,” Buffon, who secured World Cup qualification with Italy in midweek, told Tuttosport. “It won’t be an easy game. Actually, right now, it is possibly the most difficult we could play. They are in good shape, charged up with enthusiasm after a good start, eager to confirm themselves.” The Milanese club made changes this summer after finishing last term in ninth. As well as new players, they replaced boss Andrea Stramaccioni with Walter Mazzarri. “They could repeat our cycle,” the goalkeeper, whose Juve side went from two seventh-place finishes to back-to-back titles, added. “There are similarities – they have rebuilt and there is a new Coach who is very good, another reason to respect them ahead of the game. “I don’t know what a defeat could signify for them at this moment in time,” he continued. “They are only at the start of a new project. “Their project is a solid one and they can implement it without worrying about playing in Europe. I don’t think one lost game can bring an end to it. “But we need a victory for us, not a victory to stop them.”

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Quagliarella set for Inter start Sep 11, 2013 Fabio Quagliarella is increasingly likely to start for Juventus against Inter on Saturday after he scored a brace in training. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri visit San Siro at 17.00 UK time on Saturday, but Mirko Vucinic is a major doubt after he was stretchered off while on international duty with Montenegro. Quagliarella is emerging as the favourite to partner Carlos Tevez, as Fernando Llorente is still not finding his form after a year of barely featuring for Athletic Bilbao. This afternoon Juve played a friendly test against Serie D team Borgomanero that ended 7-0 with Quagliarella and Tevez bagging a brace each. Llorente, Sebastian Giovinco and Ouasim Buoy completed the rout. The Turin giants have also lost Simone Pepe and Martin Caceres to injury this week.

Buffon a true champion, says Marotta The Juventus director has praised the veteran keeper's professionalism and says he would like to see him retire with the Turin giants. Sep 11, 2013 Juventus director Beppe Marotta has lauded Gianluigi Buffon as a true champion and voiced his hope that the goalkeeper will retire at the club. http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri skipper has spent the last 12 years in Turin, winning four Serie A titles with the club and becoming captain in 2012. Marotta believes the 35-year-old is an excellent professional and would like to see the former Parma man continue to represent the club for years to come. "Buffon is a true champion," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "He is a superlative professional. http://markting10.nl/ "My hope and wish is that he can defend Italy and Juve's goal for many years to come. "I believe and I hope that he will finish his career with Juve and this is the basis for him to remain at Juve for a long time."

Juventus expect Gianluigi Buffon to remain at the club Sep 11, 2013 Juventus expect Gianluigi Buffon to remain at the club for the rest of his playing days. http://markting10.nl/ The Italy goalkeeper received a standing ovation in the 2-1 triumph over the Czech Republic in Turin after he equalled the record of 136 international appearances set by former Azzurri captain Fabio Cannavaro. Buffon has proved crucial in helping Italy book a place in next year's World Cup having conceded just five goals in eight games in qualifying. "Buffon is a true champion," Juventus club administrator Giuseppe Marotta said to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "He is a superlative professional. "He deserves this recognition. "My hope and wish is that he can defend Italy and Juve's goal for many years to come. http://markting10.nl/ "I believe and I hope that he will finish his career with Juve and this is the basis for him to remain at Juve for a long time." Buffon joined Juve in 2001 from Parma and signed a two-year extension to his contract in January which will keep him at the Serie A champions until 2015. The 35-year-old, who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, recently stated he has no plans to retire from international duty and has one eye on the European Championship in 2016.

Buffon: 'Now we celebrate' Sep 11, 2013 Gigi Buffon admits he was “terrorised” of the party atmosphere in Turin, but after victory can celebrate his record 136 caps. http://markting10.nl/ The World Cup qualifier with the Czech Republic had been painted as a huge festival of football, as Buffon matched Fabio Cannavaro’s total Italy caps at the Juventus Stadium and a win would book their spot at Brazil 2014. “I am terrorised of the lead-ups to games that are proclaimed as parties,” laughed the goalkeeper on RAI Sport. The Azzurri were trailing 1-0 at the break, but fought back for a 2-1 win. “Once that first half was over, we can now say that we can celebrate everything – my little personal record, but above all the qualification for the World Cup. “I thank all the lads, as thanks to them I can celebrate 360 degrees tonight. We have created so much together over these years and I thank the fans for cheering us on today, as it felt like a new atmosphere to have so much support for the Nazionale. That wasn’t always the case. “We also dedicate this victory to those two lads who were coming to see us in Sicily and sadly never got there.” Buffon was referring to the two Sicilian fans who died in a car crash on their way to Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria in Palermo. Mario Balotelli missed several sitters in the first half, but Buffon assured there was no need to calm him down at the break. “There was nothing for us to say. The Coach focused on that and we just helped him feel within a sense of calm and confidence. He never takes penalties in training, as he knows we might face him one day and doesn't want to give us any advantages...” Buffon is now the joint all-time top Italy player with 136 caps and at the age of 35 revealed the secret to his longevity. “There were times in my life when I wanted to have fun and I did, particularly as my body allowed me to. After reaching a certain age you realise that in order to last you have to become a man and behave in a certain way.” Italy and Holland are the only European teams to have already qualified for the World Cup, but Buffon sees the Azzurri outside the favourites. “In my view we are on the third row of the grid, but ready for a quick start and potential late surge.”

Chiellini: 'We felt cursed...' Sep 11, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini feared the match with the Czech Republic was “cursed,” but sent Italy on their way to the World Cup. Mario Balotelli hit the bar and missed several sitters as the Azzurri went into the break 1-0 down, but Chiellini’s header and a Balotelli penalty sealed the 2-1 victory in Turin. http://markting10.nl/ “The Coach just told Balotelli to relax, as we knew he’d score sooner or later. He is a decisive player and we saw that again tonight,” the defender told RAI Sport. “He will probably never miss those chances again in his career! It was strange to see him miss, so we were starting to fear it was a cursed game, but we started out strong in the second half because we wanted this celebration at all costs tonight. “We know our limitations and our qualities. On the field you must help each other out to hide the defects and make the most of our many positives. “We might not have the best individuals in the world, but as a collective on the field we make everyone raise their game. “We certainly cannot give away these chances at the World Cup. I don’t believe it was a dip in tension or concentration, but rather a lack of sharpness as we pushed so hard to fight back that we were tired. I think it’s clear that without concentration this squad won’t get far!” Italy and Holland have already qualified for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. “I’d put Spain and Brazil as the favourites.”

Del Piero marks Buffon record Sep 10, 2013 Alessandro Del Piero wrote an open letter to Gigi Buffon congratulating him on his record 136th Italy cap tonight. http://markting10.nl/ The goalkeeper will mark the occasion – matching Fabio Cannavaro’s tally – at the Juventus Stadium in Turin against the Czech Republic. “Dear Gigi, just a couple of words (unusually in public…) to celebrate a great target that you'll reach tonight: 136 caps for Italy, you have tied the record of our friend - Fabio Cannavaro, the captain of ‘our’ World Cup,” wrote Del Piero on his blog. “We shared a lot of these presences, sometimes suffering, but mostly getting crazy of joy. Just think of all the unforgettable memories both in Juventus and in the National team. “I am happy that you can represent the Italian National Team with the captain's armband, achieving this prestigious goal. Good luck to you and the rest of the team for your qualification for Brazil 2014! “Alessandro”

Buffon to equal Italy cap record Sep 10, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon is set to match the appearance record of Fabio Cannavaro when Italy face the Czech Republic this evening. The Juventus man is just one cap short of the 136 which were won by his former club and international teammate. http://markting10.nl/ The goalkeeper, who has conceded 109 goals while guarding the Azzurri net, made his debut in a World Cup play-off tie against Russia in October 1997. The now 35-year-old, who will be playing in his club stadium this evening, was a key part of the 2006 World Cup winning side. Buffon was also instrumental in Friday’s 1-0 win over Bulgaria when he made a string of fine saves. “They have a monument in goal,” reflected Bulgaria boss Luboslav Penev after the Palermo tie. Brazil 2014 would be the legend’s fifth World Cup if he is named in Cesare Prandelli’s squad.

Marotta 'optimistic' Pirlo will sign Sep 10, 2013 Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta has admitted he is ‘optimistic’ that Andrea Pirlo will sign a new deal. http://markting10.nl/ The veteran midfielder’s current contract runs out next summer, but the administrator is confident that the 34-year-old will sign on the dotted line. “Pirlo? I am quite optimistic about his renewal,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.

INTER - JUVENTUS September 14, 2013 6:00 PM Giuseppe Meazza Stadium — Milan Referee: Daniele Orsato Inter out to stun Juventus, insists Zanetti The Argentine defender is looking forward to the upcoming Derby d'Italia and hopes the Nerazzurri can cause an upset. Sep 10, 2013 Inter skipper Javier Zanetti is eagerly anticipating this weekend's Serie A match against Juventus and is hopeful the Giuseppe Meazza side can record a shock win. Zanetti, who is still out of action because of an Achilles injury suffered at the end of last season, acknowledges that the Turin giants are the team to beat, but has insisted that the Nerazzurri will do their utmost to bag the full three points on Saturday. http://markting10.nl/ "Juventus are a great team that has been playing well for years. We’re going to give our all. I believe we’re a team making rapid progress. It won’t be an easy game. We’ll see what happens on the pitch," the 40-year-old told reporters. "It will be a big match, as it always is between these two great clubs. It’s a game you really get up for: it means a lot and we hope it goes well for us. "I think Juventus are a great team and I’m sure they’ll fight to the end to win the league."