Socrates

SuperCup Preview: Juventus vs Lazio What’s So Super About This Coppa Anyway? Aug 18, 2013 Hey guys! It’s been a while. Sure the summer has been choc full of activity, between another fake trophy to compete for, a pretty damn good transfer market, and an American tour in which Juventus seemed to hit virtually every GD spot in the States except for the New York metro area (and why not, it’s not like it has the highest concentration of Italian Americans or anything), but more on that later, and not that I’m bitter or anything. Anyway, finally we have a real life game to watch, the Supercoppa against one of my least favorite teams from the blue side of the capital. Yes, a trophy will be awarded at this early stage. But what’s so super about this coppa anyway? http://markting10.nl/ The Supercoppa began in 1988, and is viewed as a “curtain raiser” of sorts for the Serie A season. Pitting the Serie A winner against the Coppa Italia winner — unless, of course, the Serie A champion *is* the Coppa Italia winner, in which case bedlam breaks loose, and by bedlam I mean replacing the Coppa Italia winner with the runner up — it is at least a fun showcase of what should be two strong teams playing for a trophy a week before Serie A begins. Is it in reality a minor trophy? Pretty much. But try telling to il club piu supercoppolato al mondo! Anyway, this year will certainly see two of Serie A’s best square off for a worthy antipasto to the campionato. Both teams had strong seasons, both were Italy’s sole remaining representatives deep into their respective European tournaments and, in what can be seen as a positive step for calcio, neither team has seen any notable departures this offseason. I’m being flippant, I know it’s difficult to tell. I wish there were a “flippant” format for text, similar to “italic.” Anyway, in typical Italian fashion, the preamble to this matchup was not without drama. Between over-exaggerated headlines featuring Lazio President Claudio Lotito, to Antonio Conte switching up the training grounds, to backup ‘keeper Marco Storari allegedly blowing up the spot of the new location via Instagram, yada yada yada, it’s still the middle of August. About that Storari thing, I checked and he either deleted the picture or the story is made up. Now onto the teams. Juventus The Old Lady didn’t exactly have the smoothest of sailing upon what was, for much of the team, a second business trip to the new world in about a month. Uneventful draws-turned-penalty-losses to Everton and shitty-ass-Inter, sandwiched between an embarrassing 3-1 loss to the Beckham-less-shitty-ass-Los-Angeles-Galaxy, rightfully lead tifosi and critics alike to panic and cast aspersions, respectively. Seriously, after a season of beating the ever-living crap out of Serie A, and sending twelve players away for international tournaments during the month of June, U21 included, a friendly tournament named after a beer should make us all sit and ponder the future of our Bianconeri. Ok, I’m done. Notwithstanding the recent poor form, and being that this is the first “match” of the year, it is not unreasonable that the transfer market should take up a significant portion of analysis. Not only is our beloved Bianconero the undisputed albeit no longer undefeated rulers of Serie A for two seasons running, they’ve actually continued to improve the squad notwithstanding that success. Director of Sport Beppe Marotta has finally cast aside the demons of chasing and missing out on Signore Toppleia (thanks, Max). Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente represent new attacking options for Antonio Conte’s amusement, while Angelo Ogbonna was brought into solidify the stingiest defense in Italy, albeit to the chagrin of some of the crew (cough, Aaron, cough). With that, Conte looks set to keep up the 3-5-2 which served him so well the past two seasons, but the details have been up for interpretation by this point. Gigi Buffon as usual is set to start between the sticks, while Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci are set to make up two-thirds of the backline, with RCB still uncertain at writing. Earlier reports suggested that stalwart Andrea Barzagli was not expected to be fit for game time, with the left-footed Ogbonna set to get the nod over fan favorite and natural righty Martin Caceres — with the latter of whom is beginning to disappointingly look expendable. However, more recent reports suggest Dre may in fact be in the starting XI. The midfield/wingback tandem looks predictable, at least. Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal seem set to continue to carry Andrea Pirlo’s water, while flanked by Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah out wide. While in attack much has been made of the expected exclusion of new signing Llorente from the first whistle, the reality is that it is likely nothing more than a matter of adaptation and, much ado about nothing. Instead it’s been reported that Tevez will likely team up with former Roma player (and Lazio nemesis) Mirko Vucinic, as the tip of the spear. Probable Starting XI: Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Ogbonna; Asamoah, Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Lichtsteiner; Tevez, Vucinic Lazio It was not too long ago when Lazio was staring down the barrel of relegation, sort of like the 2011-12 version of Fiorentina. However much like the purple people eaters, some shrewd investments and cohesiveness righted the ship almost overnight, and Lazio has been a steady force in Serie A for the past two seasons. A 7th place finish was arguably a harsh verdict on them last year, yet the Biancocelesti were able to snatch the last Europa spot in poetic fashion beating city rivals Roma — who actually finished 6th in the table and all things equal should have qualified for a spot in Europe — in the Coppa Italia final. In Rome. Of course, that was not before Lazio ruined Juventus’ chances of winning a record 10th Coppa themselves, dispatching of them in Rome back in January. Like Juventus last year, Lazio has found itself mired in the seemingly ongoing Calcioscommese scandal, with captain Stefano Mauri been for six months. I haven’t followed this year’s version of the soap opera, but if the prosecution is behaving anything like last summer, then Laziale have my sympathy. If this is actually an up-and-up investigation, then screw you for giving the authorities an excuse to cast an unreasonably wide net based on nothing but hearsay by a non-credible, culpable party last year. Despite the absence of Mauri, Lazio still boasts a strong midfield. Some reports are convinced that boss Vladimir Petkovic will line up his team in a 4-5-1 in hopes to stymie a ball-controlling, attacking Juve. Brazilian Hernanes joined what seemed liked virtually all of the Juventus team in his home country for the Confederations Cup, and only seems to perform better with each game he plays. Former Juventus loanee Antonio Candreva also fits into the puzzle behind ageless German international Miroslav Klose. Meanwhile, Senad “Why Can’t You Be The Left Sided Player Juventus Is Actually Chasing” Lulic always seems to be dangerous from the flank. If we’re talking about the transfer market, since May there hasn’t been much movement on Lazio’s front. They’re brought in some midfield reinforcements, but none should displace or overshadow the other regulars. But let us not mistake this for complacency. This Lazio team is good. Hopefully, we are simply better. And we’ve improved, and further widened the gap. Period. Oh yea. I almost forgot about the referee. What could possibly go wrong?

Super Cup Tevez vs Klose Aug 18, 2013 Mirko Vucinic is expected to partner Carlos Tevez, while Miroslav Klose is supported by Hernanes in tonight’s Italian Super Cup Juventus-Lazio. The traditional season opener is between Coppa Italia holders Lazio and Scudetto winners Juventus. It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT). http://markting10.nl/ The Bianconeri have some fitness doubts over Andrea Barzagli and Fernando Llorente, as the Spaniard has looked tired and off form in pre-season friendlies. Therefore Vucinic is likely to partner new signing Tevez in attack, leading Antonio Conte’s favoured 3-5-2 system. Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio should take the midfield roles, leaving Paul Pogba on the bench as he only recently began training after winning the Under-20 World Cup with France. Lazio have largely the same squad as last season, with the only real addition of Argentina international Lucas Biglia in midfield. Vladimir Petkovic experimented with several different tactical systems during recent friendlies, so his line-up could well vary its shape and remain unpredictable. Hernanes should start despite fatigue from international duty, while Antonio Candreva and Senad Lulic also provide support for hitman Miroslav Klose. The German international has never been able to score against Juventus in seven previous meetings. Stefano Mauri is in the stands after his appeal against a six-month ban for failing to alert authorities to a potential fix was postponed pending further investigation. Felipe Anderson and Vinicius are also injured. Probable line-ups JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Vucinic Juventus bench: Storari, Ogbonna, Caceres, Peluso, Isla, Marrone, Padoin, Pogba, Giovinco, Llorente, Matri, Quagliarella LAZIO: Marchetti; Konko, Biava, Dias, Radu; Biglia, Ledesma; Candreva, Hernanes, Lulic; Klose Lazio bench: Bizzarri, Strakosha, Ciani, Cana, Novaretti, Cavanda, Gonzalez, Onazi, Ederson, Floccari, Kozak, Rozzi

Buffon intent on Supercoppa triumph The Juventus skipper says he wants to reward his side's supporters with the inaugural trophy of the season against Lazio on Sunday. Aug 18, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has told his team-mates that lifting the Supercoppa Italiana on Sunday would be the perfect way to start their season. The Bianconeri claimed the trophy last term and, having retained their Serie A title, will face Coppa Italia winners Lazio in Rome. Although the veteran keeper is aware of the threat the capital club pose, he is determined to overcome the Biancocelesti for his side's travelling support. http://markting10.nl/ "I'd like to lift the trophy in front of our people, who are always present in numbers even away from Turin," he told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "This time in Rome I want to celebrate with my fans. This is no dry run with a trophy up for grabs. Juve are not satisfied. "But Lazio are a tricky opponent this early in the season. We have great respect for Vladimir Petkovic's team." Buffon went on to say that the club have strengthened Antonio Conte's side significantly during the summer transfer window, leaving them ready to challenge for honours yet again. "The club has made significant efforts," he continued. "On paper we have a better squad than last year but everything is confirmed on the field. We're not going anywhere without sacrifice, focus and desire to continue to amaze."

Klose eager to end Juventus curse The German believes the Supercoppa clash is the perfect stage to net his first goal against the Bianconeri, while Vladimir Petkovic has called for courage in Sunday's meeting. Aug 17, 2013 Lazio striker Miroslav Klose is eager to end his curse in front of goal against Juventus when the two sides clash in the Supercoppa on Sunday. The veteran marksman has failed to net past Gianluigi Buffon since arriving in Serie A in 2011 but is relishing the chance to break his duck against the Italian champions - and seal the first trophy of the season in the process. http://markting10.nl/ "I am sure that sooner or later I will score a goal against Juve. Hopefully it will happen tomorrow," the 35-year-old told reporters. "I am not the only person who can score goals. Our midfield has players like [Antonio] Candreva and [senad] Lulic. "This is our first official game of the season and we want to prove we’re ready. I am sure we can win, especially in our home stadium, though as always we’d need a bit of luck." Head coach Vladimir Petkovic conceded his side will be up against it on Sunday, but believes a strong mental approach to the game could see the Biancoceleste triumph. "Juve are stronger then they were because they haven't sold anyone and brought in new players this summer," the 49-year-old acknowledged. "Our heads must be in top condition, as they were in the Coppa Italia [final]. Our mentality will be key against them. We'll do everything we can to win. "We can make life difficult for them. We do have something more [than last season]. I'm curious to see how we perform tomorrow. "We are a solid team and must be clinical in attack, because Juve won't allow us many chances."

Juventus-Lazio Betting Preview Expect goals at both ends in the Supercoppa Italiana The champions have brought in a couple of high profile strikers over the summer, but Al Hain-Cole believes that a drop in their defensive standards will spell goals on Sunday. Aug 17, 2013 The Italian football season gets going with a bang on Sunday, as Juventus and Lazio go head to head in the curtain raiser that is the Supercoppa. Having won Serie A at a canter last season, Antonio Conte’s men are understandably 21/20 (2.05) favourites with BetVictor to claim this trophy for the second year in succession. http://markting10.nl/ However, the Biancocelesti overcame these very opponents on the way to last season’s Coppa Italia triumph, and are available at 5/2 (3.50) to pull off another shock at their Stadio Olimpico home. The champions needed extra-time in order to overcome Napoli in last year’s corresponding fixture, and you can get odds of 23/10 (3.30) on this one also remaining tied after 90 minutes. La Vecchia Signora have been busy in the transfer market this summer, as they seek to add some more star quality to an attack that was outscored by both Napoli and Fiorentina last season. The arrivals of Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente have provided the fans with optimism that their side are ready to step up to the level of the European elite, although they should also be wary of a more attacking philosophy upsetting the team’s balance. Having only conceded 24 goals in 38 games last season, Conte’s men have failed to keep a clean sheet in any of their last four friendly matches, and the international break prior to this match will only have served to further disrupt their tactical preparations. With both sides set to rest certain players in order to allow them time to recover from the variety of international away trips across the globe, odds of 5/6 (1.83) seem decidedly generous on both sides scoring on Sunday, in a bet that would have paid out in each of the last five editions of this fixture. With Tevez absent, the pressure is on Llorente to prove his worth to an unconvinced Juventus support after an underwhelming pre-season, but it would be no surprise if another striker at the other end of the pitch stole the show. Miroslav Klose’s winning goal in Lazio’s last friendly against Crystal Palace underlined his importance to Vladimir Petkovic’s plans, and the man with a one in two goal-scoring record in Italy offers tempting value at 2/1 (3.00) to score anytime in this clash.

Juventus-Lazio Preview: Conte's men seek to retain Supercoppa The Serie A champions meet the Coppa Italia holders in the season's annual curtain-raiser, with both teams eager to get their campaigns under way with a win. Aug 17, 2013 Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente are in line to make their competitive debuts for Juventus in the Supercoppa Italiana against Lazio. Antonio Conte's side are the current holders of the curtain-raiser and won their second consecutive Serie A title by nine points last season, finishing six places ahead of Sunday's opponents. Since then, the coach has added the likes of Tevez, Llorente and Angelo Ogbonna to his squad as they seek to secure a third title in a row. While they may have finished last in the recent International Champions Cup, ending the competition without a win, Conte believes his side are ready for action at the Stadio Olimpico. http://markting10.nl/ "It has been an intense pre-season so far, but it has certainly been excellent," he said. "We've worked very hard for 10 days, with double training sessions, and we are pleased with having achieved our target." The former Juve midfielder has a fully fit 27-man squad to choose from for the clash, with Andrea Barzagli set to be involved despite missing Italy's 2-1 defeat to Argentina on Wednesday due to an Achilles problem. "We're also very happy from the point of view that we haven't suffered any injuries and we're keeping our fingers crossed that continues," Conte added. Lazio's Coppa Italia win over city rivals Roma in May ensured they will face the champions on Sunday, with Vladimir Petkovic's side having rounded off their pre-season with a 1-0 win over Premier League newcomers Crystal Palace. The former Samsunspor boss believes his team will go into the match as underdogs but is confident they can come out on top. "Finals are not made to play well in - just to win," he told Lazio Style Radio . "Juve again this year will be the absolute favourites in Serie A - they have more quality and the best players. "But, in single games, we are not afraid of anybody and we can play well against everybody. We have made progress, we have been working in this direction." Lazio, who get their league campaign started on August 25 against Udinese, have seen striker Louis Saha retire during the close-season while captain Stefano Mauri was banned for six months due to his part in a match-fixing scandal. However, they have been boosted by the addition of midfielders Lucas Biglia and Felipe Anderson from Anderlecht and Santos respectively, while they have retained in-demand duo Hernanes and Antonio Candreva, despite plenty of speculation regarding their futures. Lazio have not won the competition since 2000 when they beat Inter 4-3, although they have been runners-up twice since then. Juventus will hope for a similar result to last year's final, when they overcame Napoli 4-2.

Marchisio bemused by Supercoppa venue The Bianconeri midfielder admits it is odd they are playing the cup final at Lazio's ground and also backed Fernando Llorente to find his goalscoring touch. Aug 17, 2013 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio finds it peculiar playing the Supercoppa Italiana against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico - the home ground of their opponents. The Olimpico, considered a neutral venue in Italy, is the home of both the Biancocelesti and Roma and will host Sunday's cup final following the decision to move the match, which has been played in Beijing in recent years. And, while the Italy international finds it strange that the Olimpico has been selected as previously the Serie A champions have hosted the event, the 27-year-old is happy at the switch as he reflected on the energy-sapping conditions in last year's final which they won 4-2 after extra-time. http://markting10.nl/ "It is a bit odd playing in Lazio’s stadium when we are the Scudetto champions," Marchisio told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "Oh well, let’s just say it is better to play in Rome than Beijing a week before the Serie A season begins. In China the humidity is incredible at the moment and I remember suffering a great deal last year. "I expect great support from the Bianconeri at the Olimpico. Wherever we go, there are always many Juventus fans. "It will be very tough, also on a tactical level, because last season we only beat Lazio once in four meetings and they knocked us out of the Coppa Italia. "We were also unlucky, as in those games we almost always played better and created more chances, but in the end it’s the result that counts." Antonio Conte's men have stuttered in pre-season, finishing eighth in the International Champions Cup, however, Marchisio insists he is unconcerned by the below-par displays and backed new signings Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente to find their goalscoring touch. "We’re not alarmed by the poor pre-season friendly results. I see my team-mates motivated and we want to win this trophy again," Marchisio added. "Carlitos is great, but we above all hope this can be Juve’s game. "Is Llorente in crisis? Some criticism seems exaggerated to me. He barely played at all last year and left Spain for a very different style of football. He needs time to understand that tactics are decisive in Italy."

Buffon: 'I won't urinate on Totti's locker!' Aug 17, 2013 Gigi Buffon had a rather curious way of describing his respect for Lazio and Roma. “I wouldn’t urinate on Francesco Totti’s locker.” The goalkeeper spoke at a Press conference with Coach Antonio Conte ahead of the Italian Super Cup, which kicks off at 20.00 UK time on Sunday at the Stadio Olimpico. “In my view Lazio have over the last two years always shown themselves to be a tough opponent, hard to beat and in the Coppa Italia able to lift the trophy. We have great respect for this team. “The efforts of the club were important to build the team and on paper we certainly have a better squad than last season. We can only confirm that on the pitch and with our daily work, as we want to continue amazing people. http://markting10.nl/ “When there are one-off games for a trophy, there can be no risk of anyone being sated or unmotivated. “Our fans, especially in occasions like this, have always supported us in the best possible way. I remember the Coppa Italia Final here against Napoli and that defeat was a severe disappointment. We hope to make up for that tomorrow.” Miroslav Klose is Lazio’s primary hitman, but the German veteran has never scored against Juventus. “I read that statistic. It sent a chill down my spine! When facing a player of that lineage, it’s normal that sooner or later he’ll score against you. I just hope it won’t be tomorrow! If that should occur, I hope Juve can win the trophy anyway.” Buffon also praised his Italy teammate Federico Marchetti, who will be in goal for the Biancocelesti tomorrow. “I can only speak highly of Federico. He’s a great example for kids, as he worked hard every day through difficulties not necessarily of his own doing and is a very generous guy who is appreciated in the locker room. I can only tip my hat to him.” Some Roma fans are furious that Juventus have been loaned the Trigoria training camp to prepare for this big match, but Buffon had a rather colourful explanation of why nobody should be concerned. “I think it was a gesture of great civility from Roma and the media probably ought to show it in a better light rather than bow to those who have nothing to do with the mechanism of this sport. “It’s not as if I went to someone else’s house and urinated on my friend Totti’s locker! We showed great respect when visiting their training facilities, as we would when visiting anyone’s home. “The first time I played against Lazio at the Olimpico was at the age of 18. Ever since the fans have always shown respect and fondness for me, perhaps also because many years ago my move to Lazio had been rumoured. I will salute the supporters, of course.”

Conte: 'No Super Cup favourites' Aug 17, 2013 Antonio Conte has “blind faith” in Juventus ahead of the Super Cup against Lazio, but insisted “there are no favourites.” The Coach sat down at a Press conference for the Italian Super Cup, which kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 UK time on Sunday. “I don’t think there are any favourites. All I hope is that the team that lifts the trophy truly deserved it and was not considered ‘lucky’ to get the victory. http://markting10.nl/ “I have great respect for all of Lazio and their Coach, so it would be reductive to choose one player to remove from their team. “Is it already my Juve? This is my third year, so it would be a serious problem if it weren’t my Juve. We are coming off a month of pre-season training and I have blind trust in these lads because I’ll never forget that in my first two years as a Coach at Juventus I won the title.” The Bianconeri have struggled badly in pre-season, finishing last in the International Champions Cup in America with three defeats. “Preparing for a Super Cup match in three days isn’t going to make me leap with joy. The break for international duty wasn’t pleasing, but Vladimir Petkovic is in the same situation, so there is no alibi for either side. “We are challenging for a trophy, but I wouldn’t like a Juventus victory to be treated as normal and a Lazio triumph considered amazing. These are two strong teams and either side could win the silverware. “The thing that gives me the most confidence is knowing my players. In that respect, I am very relaxed. I’ve worked with these lads for two years, so have guarantees on their professionalism as well as the kind of men they are. “This match arrives in a difficult moment for both us and Lazio, so I think we’re on an even keel.” Last season Juve only managed to beat Lazio once in four meetings, which included the Coppa Italia semi-final. “In the Coppa Italia I thought Juventus deserved much more, but having said that Lazio must be given credit for managing to qualify,” continued Conte. Much has been made of Fernando Llorente’s problems settling in at Juve and he’ll reportedly be on the bench tomorrow, but the Coach vented his irritation at the media’s line of questioning. “Thinking of getting around certain difficulties with a single player is just wrong, as we play as a team – one that won the Scudetto. “The media is trying to create a situation around Llorente that I find laughable. He arrived three weeks ago, is working hard – which is the most important thing for me – and above all barely played for a year. It is inevitable a player will encounter difficulties in those circumstances. “We know him well, were fortunate and smart enough to sign him on a Bosman and he’s trying to get into our system. There ought to be some respect and not just hurling insults at someone or piling on the pressure to create a headline. The media creates controversy out of nothing.” There was controversy around the Super Cup for months, as it was originally set to be in Beijing, then the clubs battled over dates, venues and how to split the ticket sales. It took another twist this week when Juventus cancelled their training session at La Borghesiana and as of today borrowed Roma’s Trigoria camp. “The Lega made the decision along with the two clubs. We accepted it and prepared as best we could. We had planned a certain training regime, but unfortunately we had to change because we found some situations that were not suitable. “Someone even wrote that we changed training camps because there were ‘spies,’ which again made me laugh. We simply wanted the players to be in the best circumstances. “We trained at Trigoria – for which I thank Roma – because we were struggling. I also propose that if they want to, we can host them at Vinovo when they come to Turin, to thank them for their hospitality. I see nothing special or abnormal in this situation.”

Klose: 'I'll score past Juve eventually' Aug 17, 2013 Miroslav Klose is hoping to score his first goal past Juventus in tomorrow’s Italian Super Cup and considers his future. Lazio take on Scudetto winners Juve for the trophy at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday at 20.00 UK time. “I am sure that sooner or later I will score a goal against Juve. Hopefully it will happen tomorrow,” he smiled in the Press conference. “Besides, I am not the only person who can score goals. Our midfield is full of attacking players like Antonio Candreva and Senad Lulic. I hope to score even more this year, although I am also happy to provide assists. http://markting10.nl/ “It is fundamental to play as a unit both when attacking and defending.” Juventus have reinforced their squad this summer with Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente. “Tevez is a great player who can win a game by himself. He has great movement and a fierce shot, so he is an excellent striker. Juventus have many players who can hurt Lazio, for example Arturo Vidal with his movement behind the defence. “This is our first official game of the season and we want to prove we’re ready. I am sure we can win, especially in our home stadium, though as always we’d need a bit of luck.” Klose was asked about his future, as his contract expires in June 2014. “There is the possibility I could renew my contract after the World Cup. I could stay or I could return to Germany. We’ll see,” concluded the 35-year-old.

Petkovic: 'Lazio mentality crucial' Aug 17, 2013 Vladimir Petkovic is confident Lazio can beat Juventus for the Italian Super Cup on Sunday. “Mentality will be fundamental.” The Coppa Italia holders take on the Scudetto winners at 20.00 UK time at the Stadio Olimpico tomorrow evening. “I have been happy over the summer at not having to reply to too many questions,” joked the Coach in his Press conference. “We have improved in every sense and tomorrow the team will give its response on the field. Our heads must be in top condition, just like in the Coppa Italia Final. Mentality will be fundamental against a very strong Juve. http://markting10.nl/ “If we both play at 100 per cent, then we would have more problems than Juventus, but I am sure we can make life difficult for them. We’ll do everything possible to win.” Last season the Biancocelesti knocked Juve out of the Coppa Italia and lost only one of four encounters. “At the start we struggled to contain Juve, but then with courage we saw the team attack as a unit. This has to be the spirit we follow tomorrow, imposing our style of play on Juventus. “The Bianconeri are stronger than last term, as they haven’t sold any of their big stars and brought in some valid newcomers. It’s up to them to confirm that on the pitch, though.” Lazio have reinforced since beating Roma 1-0 to lift the Coppa Italia in May, bringing in the likes of Lucas Biglia in midfield. “We do have something more now, yes. We are not all ready, as there have been some injuries, but I’m curious to see at what level we perform tomorrow. We are solid defensively and need to be more clinical in attack, because Juve won’t allow us too many chances.” The Italian Super Cup arrives only a few days after international duty, with many players travelling halfway round the world and back. “We had 11 or 12 players away on international duty this week, which fills us with pride. Hernanes can take the team by the hand and prove his leadership,” continued Petkovic. “With this match we conclude the first era and open a new one. Victory must motivate us more and we need the support of our fans, as this is going to be an action-packed season and we’ll do all we can to honour the jersey on three fronts.”

Marchisio: 'Juve want the Super Cup' Aug 17, 2013 Claudio Marchisio feels it is “a bit odd” Juventus are playing the Italian Super Cup in Lazio’s home stadium. The venue for the trophy was originally going to be Beijing, but weeks of heated arguments resulted in the Lega Serie A assigning it to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. This is where the Coppa Italia Final is regularly played and is considered Italy’s ‘neutral’ venue, though it also acts as home to Roma and Lazio. http://markting10.nl/ “It is a bit odd playing in Lazio’s stadium when we are the Champions of Italy...” mused Marchisio in La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. It kicks off on Sunday at 20.00 UK time. Some years ago the Scudetto winners tended to host the Italian Super Cup, with the Coppa Italia holders as the visitors. “Oh well, let’s just say it is better to play in Rome than Beijing a week before the Serie A season begins. In China the humidity is incredible at the moment and I remember suffering a great deal last year. “I expect great support from the Bianconeri at the Olimpico. Wherever we go, there are always many Juventus fans. “We’re not alarmed by the poor pre-season friendly results. I see my teammates motivated and we want to win this trophy again,” continued Marchisio. “It will be very tough, also on a tactical level, because last season we only beat Lazio once in four meetings and they knocked us out of the Coppa Italia. “We were also unlucky, as in those games we almost always played better and created more chances, but in the end it’s the result that counts.” The summer signings in attack have struggled to make an impact so far, with Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente missing the target. “Carlitos is great, but we above all hope this can be Juve’s game. Is Llorente in crisis? Some criticism seems exaggerated to me. He barely played at all last year and left Spain for a very different style of football. He needs time to understand that tactics are decisive in Italy.”

Juve train at Roma ground Aug 17, 2013 Juventus are preparing for the Italian Super Cup against Lazio by training at Roma’s Trigoria ground. The trophy is decided at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Sunday, kick-off at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT). http://markting10.nl/ Juve have been in Rome for a couple of days to prepare for the match, but abandoned the Borghesiana training facilities after one day, as Antonio Conte was not happy with the venue. Today the Bianconeri started training at Roma’s Trigoria ground, as the Giallorossi are away for a friendly against Ternana this evening.

Lotito: 'No Lazio-Juve peace talks' Aug 16, 2013 Lazio President Claudio Lotito insists there’s “no need to make peace” with Juventus ahead of Sunday’s Italian Super Cup. The two clubs battled publicly for weeks over the venue and date of this match, which was originally set to be in Beijing, until it was officially moved to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. “I haven’t spoken to Andrea Agnelli recently,” Lotito told Tuttosport. http://markting10.nl/ “In reality, we are not accustomed to speaking. For two Presidents like us, these situations are water under the bridge. There’s no need to make peace or exchange any particular handshakes before the game. There is no bellicose controversy going on. “Unfortunately there was a disagreement over the issues of football, but the reciprocal respect is beyond doubt.” Nonetheless, Lotito couldn’t resist aiming a sideswipe at the Bianconeri. “My vision of football is more projected towards the future than Agnelli’s, so we see some things differently. In any case, there are no personal problems. “I repeat, there was a confrontation around the organisation of the Super Cup, then the Lega Serie A ruled the optimal venue was the Stadio Olimpico, which is the home of the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) and the Nazionale, to give the trophy greater prestige. That is all. “After winning two consecutive Scudetti, Juventus start out as favourites, but I hope Lazio can play at 100 per cent intensity. We don’t want to be sacrificial lambs.”

Rocchi ref for Lazio-Juventus Aug 16, 2013 Referee Gianluca Rocchi has been assigned to Sunday’s Italian Super Cup between Lazio and Juventus. The match kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Sunday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT). http://markting10.nl/ Rocchi will be aided by linesmen Elenito Di Liberatore and Gianluca Cariolato, fourth official Paolo Mazzoleni and goal line referees Luca Banti and Antonio Damato. The Italian Super Cup is between Coppa Italia winners Lazio and Scudetto holders Juventus.

Juventus switch Rome training base Aug 16, 2013 Juventus arrived in Rome on Thursday ahead of the Italian Super Cup Final, but boss Antonio Conte cancelled training. The Old Lady were set to take to the field at the Borghesiana facilities in the capital, but Conte scrapped the session as he was unhappy with the training fields available. http://markting10.nl/ Juve returned to their hotel and will resume training this morning at the Centro Sportivo Paolo Cavoli instead. Conte has called up his entire squad for Sunday’s game against Lazio, but there are fitness doubts over Andrea Barzagli. The defender was ruled out of international duty with an Achilles tendon problem. Angelo Ogbonna should beat Martin Caceres to a starting shirt if Barzagli doesn’t recover in time. Meanwhile, Mirko Vucinic and Carlos Tevez are being tipped to lead the Juve attack in Conte’s 3-5-2 at the Olimpico.

Chiellini respects hunger of Inter Aug 16, 2013 Juventus’ Giorgio Chiellini believes Inter will be a side to keep a close eye on during the 2013-14 campaign. Although the stopper doesn’t rank the Nerazzurri as one of the favourites for the Scudetto, he’s respectful of their potential. “I think that Napoli and Milan have a bit more than the rest of the teams, even if Fiorentina have bought well this summer,” he said when asked about Juve’s possible Scudetto rivals. http://markting10.nl/ “Inter, meanwhile, will start from last season’s ninth-placed finish and they can only improve,” continued the former Livorno left-back. “They will be a dangerous side because they will be hungry to hit back and we, a few years ago, demonstrated how much desire counts.” The Old Lady came back from two successive seventh-place finishes in the Italian top-flight to win back-to-back titles.

Petkovic: Lazio aren't afraid of Juventus Ahead of the Supercoppa Italiana on Sunday the Biancocelesti coach rejects the notion that his side are underdogs, though he accepts that the Bianconeri are Scudetto favourites. Aug 15, 2013 Lazio coach Vladimir Petkovic has rejected suggestions Juventus are favourites to win Sunday's Supercoppa Italiana. The Biancocelesti triumphed over Roma in the Coppa Italia final last season to tee up a clash with the back-to-back Serie A champions a week before the new league campaign commences. Although Petkovic is aware of the Bianconeri's quality and accepts they are expected to lift a third successive Scudetto in 2013-14, he believes his side can triumph in a one-off match to claim the first piece of silverware of the Italian season. http://markting10.nl/ "The first few games of the season are always an unknown, especially when playing for a trophy," he told Lazio Style Radio. "It comes with many doubts but also some certainties such as the fact that we will do everything to win. "Finals are not made to play well in - just to win. Juve again this year will be the absolute favourites in Serie A - they have more quality and the best players. "But, in single games, we are not afraid of anybody and we can play well against everybody. We have made progress, we have been working in this direction. "The squad has been completed and we can make a good impression." Lazio kick off their Serie A campaign at home to Udinese on August 25.

Juventus name Super Cup squad Aug 15, 2013 Andrea Barzagli and Simone Pepe are included in the Juventus squad for the Italian Super Cup Final against Lazio. The defender missed Italy’s game against Argentina last night because of an Achilles tendon problem, but he is part of the 27-man set-up for this weekend. http://markting10.nl/ Boss Antonio Conte has also named Pepe in the party. The wide attacker, 29, returns after an injury-plagued 2012-13 season in which he made just one appearance. Italian champions Juventus will play Coppa Italia holders Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday night. Squad: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 4 Caceres, 5 Ogbonna, 6 Pogba, 7 Pepe, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 10 Tevez, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 13 Peluso, 14 Llorente, 15 Barzagli, 16 Motta, 17 Marrone, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 22 Asamoah, 23 Vidal, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho.

Buffon pleased for Lazio's Marchetti Aug 15, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has praised fellow goalkeeper Federico Marchetti, but has admitted that Italy deserved to lose to Argentina. The Azzurri went down 2-1 to the South Americans in Rome on Wednesday evening, but the Juve man believes that the Lazio shot-stopper deserves his chance. “Argentina deserved the victory,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “We didn’t do enough in the first half. http://markting10.nl/ “There was a definite difference between us and them. “It was a particular game, one with a different meaning to other friendlies – it was right to do it in honour of His Holiness. “Marchetti? I thought he did well. With the National Team he has often been unlucky. “He did very well, but hopefully he will be quieter on Sunday [in the Supercopa match].”

Chiellini blames Italy fitness Aug 15, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini believes a difference in fitness levels was one of the main reasons why Italy lost 2-1 to Argentina on Wednesday. “Argentina have some really good players in attack,” the Juventus man noted. “We worked hard, but we probably paid the price for starting pre-season later than many of them. “It was clear out there – we were always second to the ball and we were not able to stay as compact as we would have wanted. http://markting10.nl/ “We wanted to beat Argentina because it is important to do so in games like this.” Chiellini, who celebrated his 29th birthday this week, was partnered in central defence by Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi. “Daniele has the quality to play in that role,” added the former Livorno and Fiorentina left-back. “He’s just missing the consistency of being used there.”

Llorente still settling at Juventus Aug 13, 2013 Fernando Llorente says it will take a little bit of time before Juventus see him at his very best. The Spanish international joined the Old Lady this summer on a free transfer after his contract at Athletic Bilbao expired. Llorente, though, has been criticised for his pre-season form in the centre of Antonio Conte’s new look attack. “Juventus was the best decision for me,” the centre-forward told El Larguero. “I need to adapt and it will take time, but I have been welcomed well. http://markting10.nl/ “The Coach uses me as an attacker in his 3-5-2, so I will need to improve my movement and understanding with my teammates. “I need to do things which I haven’t done in the past, but things will improve. “We have the Italian Super Cup against Lazio this weekend and I can’t wait until the championship begins.” Llorente, though, may not be named in the starting XI against the Biancocelesti at the Stadio Olimpico. But he’s rejected suggestions that boss Conte has not been impressed with him so far. “Those rumours are not true, they are lies,” added the 28-year-old. “Conte is happy with what I have been doing. “We’ve had a really tough pre-season where we have worked a lot. I am doing all that is possible to integrate myself into the team’s way of playing.” Llorente is currently on international duty ahead of a friendly against Ecuador.

Barzagli to miss Italy-Argentina Aug 13, 2013 Juventus and Italy defender Andrea Barzagli has been ruled out of Wednesday’s friendly against Argentina. The centre-back is struggling with an Achilles tendon issue which will not clear up in time for the Stadio Olimpico clash. http://markting10.nl/ Although the decision to send him home was taken on Monday evening, the 2006 World Cup winner will still be part of the Azzurri group which will meet the Pope later today. Once their visit to the Vatican is over, he will return to Turin and placed into the care of Juventus medics. Juventus play Lazio on Sunday in the Italian Super Cup Final.

Llorente: I need time to adapt at Juventus The Spanish attacker has stressed that it might take a while before he's at his best due to the different conditions at the Turin giants. Aug 13, 2013 Fernando Llorente has admitted that he will need time to settle in at Juventus, but remains confident that he made the right call to sign for the Serie A champions. The Spain international joined the Bianconeri from Athletic Bilbao on a Bosman transfer after deciding not to renew his contract with the Basque outfit and he has urged the fans to remain patient as he will have to adapt to his new surroundings. "I still think joining Juventus was the right decision. I need a bit of time to adapt to my new surroundings, but I have been received very well here," Llorente, 28, told El Larguero. http://markting10.nl/ "The coach has been using me as one of the two forwards in a 3-5-2 formation. I am doing things that I didn't used to do at Athletic, so I need to get used to my different role. "I will need to improve my movement and the understanding with my team-mates. "It's not true that [Antonio] Conte has told me that he's not happy with me so far. He's said that he's pleased with my work up till date." The 28-year-old could make his official Juve debut in the Supercoppa Italia clash versus Lazio on August 18.

Juventus must fight to improve, says Chiellini The defender has echoed his coach's call for the team to work hard on and off the pitch if they are to defend their Serie A crown and mount a challenge for the Champions League. Aug 12, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini has called on his Juventus team-mates to battle even harder this season if they are to challenge for silverware. The reigning Serie A champions have thus far endured a miserable pre-season, including a 3-1 defeat to LA Galaxy that prompted coach Antonio Conte to question the work ethic of his players. Chiellini has backed his boss's sentiments, urging his fellow Bianconeri stars to work hard both on and off the pitch in order to defend their domestic crown and mount a challenge in Europe. "Conte is correct - talent needs to be nurtured on a daily basis with hard work,” the 28-year-old told Tuttosport. http://markting10.nl/ “We know that you can only achieve certain targets by working. And we want to affirm our place in Italy and improve in Europe. “Last season we beat the holders in Chelsea, dominating our home game with great authority in the Champions League. Obviously, though, when you play the likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, you have to take them on at your physical best.” Juventus face Lazio in the Supercoppa on Sunday and Chiellini is convinced their stuttering pre-season form will not affect their chances against the Biancoceleste. “It's normal to have tiredness and a lack of spark at this point of the season, but we are growing and we’ll certainly be ready for an important meeting on August 18," he continued. “We want to win the Supercoppa as much as Lazio. We want to start the season on the right foot and, on Sunday, the pitch is where we will ultimately be doing the talking.”