Socrates

Grande Gigi!

Quasi 0-2 Bonucci.

FABIO QUAGLIARELLA 0-1

Non sono mai stati in serie B .... Beati loro!

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Line-ups: Inter-Juventus Mar 30, 2013 The Derby d’Italia is the huge game of the afternoon as Juventus seek revenge against Inter for the end of their 49-game unbeaten record. It kicks off at San Siro at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview. The Bianconeri had gone without defeat for 49 consecutive Serie A rounds before suffering a shock 3-1 home loss at the hands of their rivals back on November 3. Antonio Conte’s men hope to return the favour at the Stadio Meazza, where they are unbeaten since April 2010. Mirko Vucinic was a last-minute absentee due to flu symptoms, joining the injured Martin Caceres, Simone Pepe, Mauricio Isla and Nicklas Bendtner. Giorgio Chiellini pulled out of international duty last week with ankle problems, but is able to start this match. Fabio Quagliarella surprisingly starts with Alessandro Matri in attack, while Simone Padoin replaces Stephan Lichtsteiner ahead of the Champions League quarter-final with Bayern Munich. Inter have numerous problems to contend with, as Juan Jesus is suspended, while Fredy Guarin returned late from international duty after missing his flight. Dejan Stankovic, Diego Milito, Luca Castellazzi, Joel Obi and Gaby Mudingayi are all long-term absentees, but Walter Samuel is back in the starting XI after an injury lay-off for a three-man defence. Rodrigo Palacio partners Antonio Cassano with support from Ricky Alvarez and the Italian has an excellent record against Juve, scoring seven goals past them in 18 games. INTER: Handanovic; Ranocchia, Samuel, Chivu; Zanetti, Kovacic, Gargano, Pereira; Alvarez; Palacio, Cassano Inter bench: Belec, Carrizo, Silvestre, Guarin, Kuzmanovic, Rocchi, Cambiasso, Benassi, Jonathan, Pasa, Nagatomo JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Matri Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Pogba, De Ceglie, Giovinco, Peluso, Anelka, Giaccherini, Marrone http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A - 11^ giornata - Ritorno - 30-3-2013 (ore 15:00) - Stadio "Giuseppe Meazza" - Milano Arbitro: Nicola Rizzoli Derby d'Italia sotto la luce del sole, i precedenti sorridono alla Vecchia Signora Stramaccioni recupera Samuel, che partirà dalla panchina. Davanti ancora fiducia alla coppia Cassano-Palacio, fuori Guarin. Conte perde Vucinic e riabbraccia Chiellini. Mar 30, 2013 PROBABILI FORMAZIONI INTERHandanovic; Zanetti, Ranocchia, Chivu, Pereira; Gargano, Kovacic, Cambiasso; Alvarez; Palacio, Cassano JUVENTUS Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Giovinco CURIOSITA' La partita tra Inter e Juventus, torna a giocarsi sotto la luce del sole dopo ben quindici anni. L'ultima volta fu il 26 aprile del 1998 al 'Delle Alpi', allora vinse la Juventus per 1-0. L'ultima sfida diurna in quel di S.Siro risale addirittura alla stagione 95/96, match che si chiuse sul 2-1 per i bianconeri. Di Ganz l’unico goal nerazzurro, per la Juve a segno Attilio Lombardo e proprio quell'Antonio Conte, oggi mister della Vecchia Signora. 3 novembre 2012, ‘Juventus Stadium’: i bianconeri cadono sotto i colpi dell’Inter di Strama dopo essere passati in vantaggio con un goal firmato Vidal. Prima sconfitta per la truppa di Conte in campionato, che perde la sua imbattibilità interrompendo la striscia di quarantanove partite senza sconfitte. Scontato dunque che la voglia di rivalsa in quel di Vinovo sia davvero tanta. Stramaccioni spera di festeggiare al meglio il suo primo anno di Inter. Subentrato a Claudio Ranieri il 26 marzo del 2012, proprio in seguito ad un pesante ko subito dall’Inter contro la Juve di Conte, Strama incrocia nuovamente il suo destino a quello dei bianconeri. Chissà infatti che una vittoria alla vigilia di Pasqua non possa riservare al tecnico un’insperata conferma sulla panchina della Beneamata anche in vista della prossima stagione. Il ritorno della Champions che vedrà la Juventus impegnata nei quarti contro i bavaresi del Bayern il 2 aprile, e i precedenti di questo campionato fanno drizzare le antenne bianconere in vista del big match di sabato pomeriggio. In questa stagione infatti la squadra di Stramaccioni è stata l’unica ad aver battuto Buffon e soci alla vigilia di un impegno europeo. Inter-Juventus è anche una questione d'onore. In caso di sconfitta infatti i nerazzurri scivolerebbero a -21 dagli 'odiati' rivali bianconeri, distacco senza precedenti tra i due club dopo trenta giornate di campionato. Neppure nell'era post-Calciopoli la Beneamata era mai riuscita nell'impresa di accumulare un vantaggio simile sulla Vecchia Signora, ulteriore motivo in più per evitare l'incredibile smacco e dare il meglio nel big match in programma a 'San Siro'. Lo scontro tra la Vecchia Signora e l’Inter non conosce confini e in estate sembra destinato a spostarsi anche sul mercato. Comune oggetto del desiderio il cileno Alexis Sanchez, obiettivo di entrambe le squadre in vista della prossima stagione. Testa a testa Serie A ‎- 03/nov/2012 - Juventus 1 - Inter 3 Serie A ‎- 25/mar/2012 - Juventus 2 - Inter 0 Serie A ‎- 29/ott/2011 - Inter 1 - Juventus 2 Amichevoli ‎- 18/ago/2011 - Inter 7 - Juventus 6 Serie A ‎- 13/feb/2011 - Juventus 1 - Inter 0 Ultime 5 Partite Inter 14/mar/2013 - Inter 4 - Tottenham 1 - EL 10/mar/2013 - Inter 0 - Bologna 1 - Serie A 07/mar/2013 - Tottenham 3 - Inter 0 - EL 03/mar/2013 - Catania 2 - Inter 3 - Serie A 24/feb/2013 - Inter 1 - Milan 1 - Serie A Juventus 16/mar/2013 - Bologna 0 - Juventus 2 - Serie A 10/mar/2013 - Juventus 1 - Catania 0 - Serie A 06/mar/2013 - Juventus 2 - Celtic 0 - UCL 01/mar/2013 - Napoli 1 - Juventus 1 - Serie A 24/feb/2013 - Juventus 3 - Siena 0 - Serie A Previsione Inter 1 - 2 Juventus

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Inter Milan vs. Juventus Mar 30, 2013 Projected Inter Milan XI: Handanovic; Zanetti, Ranocchia, Chivu, Pereira; Gargano, Kovacic, Cambiasso; Alvarez; Palacio, Cassano Projected Juventus XI: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Giovinco The first Derby d’Italia of the season saw visiting Inter Milan deny Juventus a 50-match unbeaten run, but despite the wobble the Bianconeri remain comfortably atop the Serie A standings ahead of Saturday’s trip to Milan for the return match against Inter. Presently sixth in the standings, the Nerazzurri will be without the suspended Juan Jesus while Fredy Guarin, who arrived late following Colombia’s World Cup qualifiers, is doubtful to start. On the other side of the ball Juventus will be without defenders Martin Caceres and Giorgio Chiellini, meaning Luca Marrone will likely start in manager Antonio Conte’s three-man grouping in front of goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Eto'o flies in for Inter-Juve Mar 30, 2013 There are reports ex-Inter star Samuel Eto’o will be at San Siro today to cheer on his old teammates against Juventus. The Derby d’Italia kicks off at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview. It is rumoured Anzhi hitman Eto’o has flown to Milan for the big game, as he is out of action for two to three weeks with a knee injury. The 32-year-old Cameroon international was at Inter from 2009 to 2011, winning the Treble and scoring 33 goals in 67 games. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Trap reads Inter-Juventus Mar 30, 2013 Former Inter and Juventus Coach Giovanni Trapattoni cast his eye over today’s Derby d’Italia, advising Antonio Conte to “stay in Serie A for a few years.” The two rival clubs go head-to-head this afternoon at 15.00. “Inter-Juve and Bayern Munich-Juventus can be defined absolute classics of Serie A and the Champions League,” the Republic of Ireland manager told Eurosport. “Games like this are won thanks to details, as those are what make the difference. Why did I move from Juventus to Inter in 1986? I had already revamped that team three times and wanted to challenge myself against a new reality. “Inter gave me different motivation and I just wanted a new experience. I must confess, when I faced Juventus for the first time as an Inter Coach, I was chatting to Michel Platini and without realising I sat on the Juventus bench. Force of habit.” Trapattoni won titles with both clubs – six at Juve, one record-breaking Scudetto with Inter – and is keeping tight-lipped on today’s game. “I never liked making predictions. It will be a very open game with an uncertain result.” The Nerazzurri have been struggling recently and Trap was asked about the rumours Andrea Stramaccioni will make way for Jose Mourinho’s return. “I don’t think Andrea has lost his way. His Inter still needs reinforcements, but so far he has done well, giving the team shape. I am sure that thanks to him Inter will be able to identify the right buys for next season. “I don’t think Mourinho will return, nor does Massimo Moratti genuinely intend to bring him back. It seems inevitable that the papers talk about Mourinho whenever one of his former clubs is going through a bad patch.” Juventus are top of the Serie A table and through to the Champions League quarter-finals, but Conte expressed his irritation with the pressure in Italy and hinted at a move abroad. “He has a strong side with a great collective and a clear and effective style of football. Antonio’s work is excellent and he should continue with this team. “Many years ago I was a young Coach achieving success and I had someone whispering in my ear that I should change country, even if at that time it was unusual,” continued Trap. “When I told a friend that I was going to Bayern Munich, he said I should watch out, as the more forests you travel in, the more wolves you find. He was right. Going abroad is a great unknown and before taking that step you need to have a lot of experience in Italy. “I thought long and hard before leaving Serie A, so I suggest Conte do the same...” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Buffon: Juventus desperate for revenge against Inter The Old Lady's 49-match unbeaten run was ended by their bitter rivals in November, a fact not forgotten by the Bianconeri captain. Mar 30, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon says Juventus will do their "utmost" to make amends for their Derby d'Italia defeat to Inter earlier this season when they travel to the Giuseppe Meazza on Saturday. Having gone the entirety of the previous Serie A campaign unbeaten, the Old Lady maintained their invincible league form at the beginning of 2012-13, but the Nerazzurri halted their 49-match run with a 3-1 victory in November. But while the goalkeeper admits the loss left a sour taste in his mouth, he believes it will have provided Juve with enough motivation - other than their ambitions of sealing successive titles - to overcome Andrea Stramaccioni's side. "In the first match, Inter deserved the win, and when you lose it rightly bugs you. We have the utmost desire for revenge," Buffon told Sky Sport Italia. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Cambiasso: Consistency key difference between Inter and Juve Speaking ahead of the Derby d'Italia, the veteran midfielder has admitted that the Nerazzurri have struggled to maintain a high level of performance from game-to-game. Mar 30, 2013 Esteban Cambiasso has admitted that Inter's inability to play with any degree of consistency has completely undermined their hopes of challenging Juventus for this season's Serie A title. The Nerazzurri looked like legitimate Scudetto contenders after ending the Bianconeri's 49-game unbeaten run in the league back in October, but their hopes were dashed by a subsequent spate of injuries and a serious crisis of confidence. Consequently, Andrea Stramaccioni's side go into this weekend's Derby d'Italia fifth in the standings, some 20 points behind runaway leaders Juve. "This season we have managed to turn in some great performances, but also some very disappointing performances," Cambiasso lamented in an interview with Sky Sport Italia. "This, ultimately, is what makes the difference for a team, particularly in a competition like the league, where what matters so much in terms of reaching high levels of performance is consistency, which we have never had. "Juve, though, have." Speaking on the eve of the San Siro showdown, Cambiasso was also keen to play down the bitter nature of the rivalry that exists between the two clubs. "If we're already starting before the game to talk about enemies and not of sporting opponents, I think, at least on our part, we are getting it all wrong," he told Sky Sport Italia. "It's better to think that we are only sporting rivals because the story of Italian football demonstrates that this is what we really are." Inter's eagerly-awaited clash with Juve at the Giuseppe Meazza is scheduled to get under way at 15:00CET. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Internazionale v Juventus: Preview Mar 29, 2013 Tomorrow's Derby d'Italia is just another game, according to Juventus head coach Antonio Conte, as the showpiece encounter with Inter Milan kicks off a daunting Serie A title run-in. The reigning champions were cruising towards a 50th game without defeat in November when Andrea Stramaccioni's Nerazzurri stunned Turin with a 3-1 victory. Inter have since fallen 18 points shy of top spot, where Juve enjoy a nine-point lead over Napoli, but Conte knows Stramaccioni's men will be gunning for a first season double since 2004. He told juventus.com: ``Those who know me well are aware that the next game is always the most important. ``We've got a fixed target of reclaiming our Scudetto title and we can't afford any slip-ups. Inter have already shown that they're capable of beating anyone in a one-off encounter. ``Both sides will be playing for the three points, a draw doesn't suit either of us. It will be an open game.'' The San Siro clash precedes a two-legged Champions League quarter-final meeting with Bayern Munich and tricky league games against Pescara, Lazio and AC Milan over an intense three-week period. ``I've spoken to the lads about the importance of the moment,'' Conte added. ``We've had a look at the fixture list, which sees us tackle six stimulating games in 21 days. ``We're in the hunt for something important - winning the Scudetto and keeping our Champions League dream alive. ``We deserve to be where we are, but it's a new situation for us and we must do well to deal with it effectively. ``I know from experience that if you try to calculate results then you run the risk of getting things wrong. You have to think about one game at a time.'' Conte is keeping his team selection under wraps but certain players, including flu-stricken Montenegrin forward Mirko Vucinic, have been feeling the after-effects of international duty. Defender Martin Caceres is still sidelined following a car accident, while the season is already over for striker Nicklas Bendtner and midfielder Simone Pepe. For Inter, defender Juan Jesus is suspended, while Joel Obi, Gabi Mudingayi, Diego Milito, Luca Castellazzi, Matias Silvestre, Yuto Nagatomo, Dejan Stankovic and Ricky Alvarez miss out through injury. With the distraction of the Europa League behind him, Stramaccioni is fully focused on firing Inter back into third place, which is currently occupied by fierce rivals Milan. ``It is a very important match, I know that,'' he told inter.it. ``It's a match that no one involved with Inter could call 'just another game'. ``They have proved to be the best side on the pitch this season. We, however, have something to prove and this is the match in which to do so. ``It will be an open game in which any result can happen, just like in the reverse meeting. I can say that we will go out there to win and I am convinced will put on a great performance tomorrow.'' http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Inter squad for Juventus Mar 29, 2013 Walter Samuel and Fredy Guarin are in the Inter squad for Saturday’s Derby d’Italia against Juventus. The Argentine was an injury doubt, while the Colombian midfielder is included despite returning late from international duty. The Beneamata are without Joel Obi, Gaby Mudingayi, Diego Milito and Luca Castellazzi because of injury. Juan Jesus, meanwhile, is suspended. Goalkeepers: 1 Samir Handanovic, 27 Vid Belec, 30 Juan Pablo Carrizo. Defenders: 6 Matias Silvestre, 23 Andrea Ranocchia, 25 Walter Samuel, 26 Cristian Chivu, 28 Simone Pasa, 31 Alvaro Pereira, 42 Jonathan, 55 Yuto Nagatomo. Midfielders: 4 Javier Zanetti, 5 Dejan Stankovic, 7 Ezequiel Schelotto, 10 Mateo Kovacic, 11 Ricardo Alvarez, 14 Fredy Guarin, 17 Zdravko Kuzmanovic, 19 Esteban Cambiasso, 21 Walter Gargano, 24 Marco Benassi. Forwards: 8 Rodrigo Palacio, 18 Tommaso Rocchi, 99 Antonio Cassano. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Derby d’Italia, Conte Revenge, Pogba OK Mar 29, 2013 Welcome to another Derby d’Italia edition of STTBS! While in the past, this particular post may have been feisty, combative even, these days we Juventini are taking things a bit easier — but hopefully not dangerously so. With a nine-point lead in Serie A, a hugely important Champions League quarterfinal with Bayern Munich this Tuesday, and an all-talk, unimpressive season from Milan’s Other Half, the buildup to this Juve-Inter matchup is somewhat subdued. Of course, we know better than to ever take Inter lightly. Besides, they were the first team ever to win at Juventus Stadium last year, and they snapped our 49-match unbeaten streak, too. And we all know that if they can’t beat us, they can pay a tribunal to send us to Serie B. So focus up, amici, and worry about Bayern later. Let’s take the m***a Squad out! Inter vs Juve Latest Updates Mirko Vucinic will sit this one out, as he is suffering from a flu or fever (depending on the translation) that he picked up during the international break. Meanwhile, poor Mauricio Isla was run ragged in two matches with Chile after riding the bench for most of this year with Juve, and thus will sit out with some very real fatigue. Otherwise, the gang’s all here. At the moment, reports from Milan have Fabio Quagliarella beating out Sebastian Giovinco for a starting spot in attack next to Alessandro Matri. Good news for Giorgio Chiellini, as he will in all likelihood start in the back alongside Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci. From a turnover standpoint, things get scarier when considering the midfield. At this time, it looks like Arturo Vidal, Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo will start. Aside from Claudio, the proximity of the Bayern match makes me nervous — especially with regards to Pirlo. However, the slower, more methodical pace expected of the next two matches should suit him (as opposed to the constant sprinting of the Brazil friendly). On the wings, it looks as if Stephan Lichtsteiner will be rested for Tuesday, with Simone Padoin deputizing, while Kwadwo Asamoah should start on the left wing. ANDIAMO, RAGAZZI!!! Conte Eyes Inter Revenge Antonio Conte has had one hell of a juggling act in selecting his squads for Inter and Bayern over this next week. The international break took a few more precious miles off the legs of the most precious Bianconeri, while any decision he makes on Inter could come back to haunt him three days later in Germany. Perhaps that’s why it’s easier to take it one match at time — or at least tell the press that’s what you’re doing: Those who know me well are aware that the next game — in this case Saturday’s clash with Inter — is always the most important. We’ve got a fixed target of reclaiming our Scudetto title and we can’t afford any slip-ups in such matches. Conte also managed to pay Inter a backhanded compliment, acknowledging their threat while subtly referencing their underwhelming season: Inter have already shown that they’re capable of beating anyone in a one-off encounter. They have players with charisma and personality, such as Zanetti. He’s the one player I’d take from them, he’s the heart and soul of the team and I would have liked to have coached him. Both sides will be playing for the three points, a draw doesn’t suit either of us. It will be an open game. I love what he’s really saying in that first sentence: “Inter can beat anyone — once, and on a good day. They can’t win over consistently — don’t make us laugh — but they’re good for a win here or there. Watch out!” The phrase “one-off encounter” is quietly devastating, as it puts all of Inter’s falsely proud history in its place, while it presently places them on equal terms with every other team in Serie A, even those in the relegation zone. Masterful. Antonio’s experience playing for Juve, where he had to perennially play at a high level across two or more competitions, is now fully paying off in his managerial career. That firsthand knowledge must be priceless in weighing the importance of each single match in relation not only to the next one, but in the wider context of an entire season. Perhaps most importantly, Conte’s days as a Bianconeri midfielder must lend credence to the message he’s giving his men: I’ve spoken to the lads about the importance of the moment. We’ve had a look at the fixture list, which sees us tackle six stimulating games in 21 days. We’re in the hunt for something important: winning the championship and keeping our Champions League dream alive. We deserve to be where we are, but it’s a new situation for us and we must do well to deal with it effectively. I know from experience that if you try to calculate results then you run the risk of getting things wrong. You have to think about one game at a time. I’m referring to my playing days, when I both won and lost championships, even when there was a significant gap at the top. Between the international matches, the upcoming Bayern fixture and the half-squad training sessions over the past two weeks, it must be a bit torturous coming up with a starting XI for Inter. If it is, Conte’s not saying: I’ll choose the best team possible, taking into account the games played by the international contingent and the form of those who have remained in Vinovo. We’ve had many players travelling around the world and not all of them have returned in peak condition. Vucinic, for example, has had a touch of flu. Indeed, Vucinic was subsequently left out of the 21-man squad list for the trip to Milan; hopefully he will recover in time to play some part in Tuesday’s match (personally, I think he would be a pretty dynamic and effective force coming off the bench in Germany, as opposed to starting). But for tomorrow, I have a feeling someone’s going to step up in his place. Normally, the precariousness of the starting XI and squad selection in general would be more than a little worrying for a tifoso. But that’s the beauty of Conte’s philosophy of tactical unity and self-sacrifice. We may be frustrated at times with individual players, but the system itself, as well as the player’s dedication to it, goes a long way towards a potential victory. And hopefully on Saturday, it will go all the way to a rout of our historical nemesis. Marchisio Looks Ahead (But Not Too Far) With such an important match (both in general and symbolically) next week, and with Inter underachieving (post-Farsopoli this is otherwise known as “normal”), it would be easy to gloss over this edition of the Derby d’Italia, despite one’s best “one-match-at-a-time” intentions. However, since Inter beat Juve handily the last time around, and in Turin no less, payback is essential. This is lost on no one in the Bianconeri ranks, least of all our Capitano Futuro Claudio Marchisio: Inter come first. We’re trying to not think about the Champions League too much. We have Inter in the championship and that is a game that we really want to do well in. Our first task is to maintain the gap in the standings over Napoli and Milan. And, of course, there was also that stinging defeat against Inter. I admit that, after that 3-1 loss, there is a great desire for revenge… If he must talk about the Champions League, Marchisio hews closely to the official party line, which casts Juve as underdogs going up against a more established European giant: They are certainly superior to us in terms of experience and quality because they have great champions. However, we will go there without any fear. We’ll go there and play as we did at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea, the European champions, and as we did at Shakhtar and Celtic. We can go and play anywhere and win. We are united, the compactness of our squad is one of our strengths. And it’s this unity which makes Juve much, much more dangerous than they already are on paper. Regarding the reference to “superiority” and “great champions” I hope that’s just Claudio being kind for the press. I’m assuming no one actually believes that, right? I wouldn’t — even if I were on Bayern! I’d take our champions over theirs any day. Rizzoli Refs: Watch Out for Rib-Balls, Juve! Nicola Rizzoli will oversee his 23rd Juve match on Saturday, and it will also be the second year in a row in which he’s worked the Juve-Inter match at San Siro. Last season, the Bianconeri won 2-1, thanks to goals from Vucinic and Marchisio. The Bolognese official has been voted the best referee in Serie A for two years running. However, that’s not the most salient point regarding Rizzoli. You may remember him from our 1-0 loss to Milan late last year, in which he called a penalty for Mauricio Isla’s “handball.” The video replay showed that the ball hit Mauricio’s ribcage underneath his admittedly outstretched arm. Nevertheless, it was a very dubious call, and Rizzoli remains unrepentant, believing it was the correct call. Overall, Juve has a record of eight victories, nine draws and five defeats under Rizzoli. The last victory came earlier this season—the 4-1 drubbing of Roma at Juventus Stadium. Rizzoli’s linesmen will be Niccolai and Giordano, whose names together sound like the name of a dependable, mid-price furniture store. The man known only as Padovan will play fourth official/falconer/library policeman. Previous Inter Encounters (Sounds Dirty — Hope Everyone Showered After) Saturday will see the 190th Derby d’Italia across all competitions. Juventus have an 88-55 advantage in victories over Inter, with the 47 draws highlighting what we all know to be a fierce and passionate fixture. The most frequent score line for a Juve win at San Siro is 2-1, having occurred eight times starting in 1954. And oddly enough, according to Juve’s official site, the Bianconeri’s last five wins over Inter in Milan have ended 2-1, a streak which started in 1996 and was most recently seen last season. Here’s the breakdown, courtesy of Juventus.com: 1996 – Lippi’s side found the breakthrough via Lombardo after just four minutes. Conte then netted soon after the break to provide the two-goal cushion. Even though Ganz halved the deficit for the Nerazzurri, Juventus managed to successfully close out a 2-1 victory. 2000 – Kovacevic opened the scoring soon after the interval and then added his second with 79 minutes on the clock, rendering Seedorf’s late effort a mere consolation. The game will always be remembered for Kovacevic’s second goal, which saw the striker show extraordinary athleticism to rise higher than the outstretched glove of Peruzzi and plant home an exquisite header. 2006 – In an electric and feisty encounter at the San Siro, Ibrahimovic opened the scoring after latching on to Camoranesi’s cross to slot past Julio Cesar. Samuel did equalize with a headed effort, but Del Piero came off the bench to net the winner for Capello’s side, as he curled an inch-perfect free kick into the top corner. 2008 – After a goalless first half, Juve seized a two-goal advantage through Camoranesi and Trezeguet. Maniche got on the score sheet late in the piece, but could not prevent a Nerazzurri defeat. 2011 – The Bianconeri’s most recent visit to the San Siro also ended with a 2-1 away triumph. Vucinic thumped home from close range to grab an early lead, only for Maicon to get the hosts back on level pegging with a strong finish from an acute angle. After Marchisio found the back of the net with a precise low strike five minutes later, Juve’s stubborn defense held firm for the remaining hour to clinch an important success.” A series of 190 hotly contested dogfights continues. Same as it ever was. All this match needs is an Inter striker with one of those ridiculous braided rat-tails hanging inexplicably from the upper-right backside of his head. Oh wait… Actually, I can think of nothing better than Palacio’s hideous rat-tail to symbolize what we can call “That Old Inter Feeling” — or maybe “Lo Stile Inter.” FORZA JUVE. It’s Officially Okay, Paul Pogba! Finally — a little bit of bonhomie up in here! It took him a day or two, but Ex-Juve hero and current French national coach Didier Deschamps is finally backing up young Paul Pogba after a very harsh sending-off in France’s World Cup qualifier with Spain. DD gave the press a forensic assessment of each of Paul’s infractions, while only insinuating how relatively weak they both were: Paul showed his potential before the two yellow cards. His first booking was as a result of the fact that he jumped with a high knee, and his foot was too far forward in the second incident. Paul was winning his second cap against players like Xavi, Busquets and Xabi Alonso who have much more experience. Note the word “experience,” which in this context is code for “bad-to-intermediate flopping.” And now notice how Xavi’s name is at the top of the “experienced” list. As we hoped he would, Deschamps seems to have accepted the red card as a natural growing pain, knowing as he does that Paul is ONLY 20 YEARS OLD: I know what Pogba is capable of doing and my mind has not been changed. It is thanks to games like the one against Spain that youngsters will grow. Bravo, Didier — that’s more Juventino of you. You had us going there for a while, what with the icy touchline stare and the two-day media silence. And honestly, if that’s the worst thing Pogba does to get sent off, I don’t expect to see too many horrible YouTube compilations set to something like “Enter Sandman” (which I personally think is only scary when Mariano Rivera walks out to it — and that has nothing to do with Metallica). Stay at this level of “bad”, Paul! Lightning Round! It’s time once again to visit the intersection of opaque, misleading and completely false. — Another budget-priced “bold” statement from Inter manager Andrea “Poor Man’s Mourinho” Stramaccioni in the run-up to the Derby d’Italia. After Antonio Conte issued the standard “never say never” reply to the question of whether he’d ever coach Inter, Stramaccioni pounced, claiming “I’d never coach Juventus!” What is he, five years old? I can’t believe adults say these things in private, much less in public. Here’s the deal, Andrea: Mourinho has earned the right to say stupid things, because he’s actually accomplished something. Stupid with credibility = gamesmanship. Stupid without credibility = coaching sixth-place Inter. — A random FIFA agent named Guido Di Domenico claims that Fiorentina desirable Stevan Jovetic has already chosen Arsenal for a summer transfer and thus will not be coming to Juventus. Depending on the translation, Di Domenico claims Jovetic is either “intrigued” or “fascinated” by Arsenal’s project. What’s so exciting about coming in fourth every year and berating club management for not spending money? Doesn’t he get enough of that in Florence? — Manchester United have reportedly had a bid for Claudio Marchisio rejected by Juve. Why would he go there ever, let alone now? Do the Man U directors read player biographies? Claudio is not merely Juventino — he’s one of those players who kind of IS Juventus. Read Wikipedia, you red devils! — Nicolas Anelka has called French reports that he will leave Juve prematurely “stupid.” Said Anelka: “Stop Bendtnering… I mean, bothering me!” — Roman Abramovich has apparently offered to double Antonio Conte’s current salary to lure him to Chelsea. Again, club management: SIMPLE GOOGLE SEARCH! Remember how Antonio used to play for Juve, captain them even, and how it’s a dream job for him, and how even being imprisoned in a GLASS BOX couldn’t stop his passion and love for the Old Lady (and couldn’t stop us winning, either)? Sure, he’ll be right over. — Inter defender (and one of the few *****ista’s I wouldn’t mind playing for Juve — as long as he gets over here soon, before he’s beyond all hope) Andrea Ranocchia believes that the key to beating Juve lies in their recent Europa League performance against Tottenham, in which he claims the squad “moved as one.” I’ll ignore the vaguely cosmic/creepily sexual overtones of that statement, Andrea, and just say this: You don’t know what “move as one” means if you’re not playing for Conte’s Juventus. If you’re feeling froggy, leap! — Has anyone else noticed that Sebastian Giovinco hasn’t been the same lovable, dynamic or effective player we once knew since growing his hair out? Discuss. Buon Compleanno, Luca! Yesterday, young Luca Marrone celebrated his 23rd birthday. On Saturday, he could belatedly receive a beast of a present: a starting berth in the Derby d’Italia. Tanti auguri, Luca and if you’re out there this weekend, wrap those strikers up! That’s all for this week. Sweat out tomorrow’s derby, then get ready for a Bayern bonanza. A presto! http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli MATCH PREVIEW Mar 29, 2013 Juventus are eyeing revenge, while Inter need maximum points in the Derby d’Italia as they chase a Champions League position. Given the international break and recent postponement of their clash at Sampdoria, Inter have not featured in Serie A since their loss against Bologna. That was followed by an ultimately pointless victory over Tottenham in the Europa League, in which they were eliminated on away goals. The Marassi fixture was delayed due to wild weather. That leaves Inter seven points from the Champions League zone, but they remain confident in attaining a top three spot. Constant chatter surrounds Coach Andrea Stramaccioni and his future, especially if Inter do miss out. Inter have recovered a trio of players for this match. Matias Silvestre, Yuto Nagatomo and Ricky Alvarez have shaken off knocks to be up for selection, but Joel Obi, Gabi Mudingayi, Diego Milito and Luca Castellazzi are out for the season. Dejan Stankovic is also absent, while Juan Jesus is suspended. Fredy Guarin was late in returning from international duty and is in doubt. It was Inter who ended Juve’s undefeated streak last November. Having commenced the streak in May 2011, the Bianconeri’s last addition to the list was a Halloween win over Bologna. Days later, Antonio Conte’s men were stunned by Inter after taking the lead. Claudio Marchisio admits they are seeking payback at San Siro. The Serie A leaders travelled to Bologna a fortnight ago and left with maximum points, a crucial result against an in-form opponent. Second half strikes from Mirko Vucinic and Marchisio meant they retained their nine point advantage over Napoli. In view of their upcoming Champions League match with Bayern Munich, Conte may rest some players. Giorgio Chiellini did not feature for Italy during the past week and will not be risked, while Martin Caceres, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner will play no part. Juventus made it 20 San Siro victories last term as they enjoyed a 2-1 result. Nonetheless, the trail Inter’s mark of 35 Milano wins, in addition to 25 draws. Keep an eye on: Antonio Cassano (Inter) – He has seven Serie A goals against Juve but none since his Sampdoria days. Now the Bari native must find his scoring boots to ensure the Nerazzurri remain in the Champions League hunt. Cassano has scored just twice domestically since Christmas. Form guide: Inter (W L D W L) Juventus (L W D W W) Last season: Inter 1-2 Juventus Stat fact: The last daytime fixture between these sides occurred in 1995-96, with current Juventus boss Antonio Conte on target in a 2-1 Bianconeri victory. PROBABLE LINE-UPS INTER: Handanovic; Zanetti, Ranocchia, Chivu, Pereira; Gargano, Kovacic, Cambiasso; Alvarez; Palacio, Cassano JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Giovinco http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Inter-Juventus Preview: Nerazzurri target Bianconeri double Andrea Stramaccioni's side ended their rivals' 49-game unbeaten run in November and they will be hoping to slow down Antonio Conte's men's title charge on Saturday. Mar 29, 2013 PROBABLE LINE-UPS INTERHandanovic Zanetti, Ranocchia, Chivu, Pereira Gargano, Kovacic, Cambiasso Guarin Palacio, Cassano JUVENTUS Buffon Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pogba, Marchisio, Asamoah Giovinco, Quagliarella In this second league installment of the Derby d'Italia, Inter will be aiming to once again spoil the Bianconeri party as Andrea Stramaccioni celebrates his year in charge of the Nerazzurri. The young coach was appointed boss after Claudio Ranieri was dismissed following a 2-0 defeat to Saturday's visitors last March, and while a similar scoreline would not spell the end of Stramaccioni's tenure, it certainly would not ease the recent pressure. The hosts haven't been in a great form of late but will be buoyed by the 4-1 victory over Tottenham in the Europa League second leg clash. Inter are forced to make two changes from the side that lost 1-0 to Bologna after Juan Jesus picked up a suspension and Dejan Stankovic has continued injury problems. Influential goalkeeper Samir Handanovic should return to the starting XI, while Antonio Cassano could partner Rodrigo Palacio upfront. Fredy Guarin is still expected start despite missing his intended flight back from South America. Meanwhile, Juventus will be hoping to at least maintain their nine-point gap at the top as time runs out for the rest of the chasing pack. Prevented from going 50 games unbeaten in November, the Old Lady will be determined to ensure their fierce rivals will not be celebrating this weekend. A notable absentee for the visitors is Giorgio Chiellini, who may be rested as a precaution before Tuesday's big Champions League clash with Bayern Munich. Mirko Vucinic may also drop out of the starting XI and be replaced by top goalscorer Fabio Quagliarella, while there are no suspensions for coach Antonio Conte to contend with. DID YOU KNOW? • Inter pulled off a shock result in the previous meeting between the two teams in November, winning 3-1 despite going behind to an Arturo Vidal strike inside the first minute, ending Juve's long unbeaten run of 49 games. • Andrea Stramaccioni's record for his first year in charge of Inter reads: played 54, won 29, drawn 10 and lost 15, giving him a 54% win rate. • The previous clash between the two teams at San Siro was back in October 2011 with Juventus running out 2-1 winners. • Juventus have only won one in their last five trips to San Siro. Goals from Mirko Vucinic and Claudio Marchisio were enough to give them the three points that day. • The Bianconeri could go 12 points clear at the top if they win on Saturday and Napoli lose to Torino. • Fabio Quagliarella, who is in contention to start on Saturday, has never scored against the Nerazzurri and in 13 appearances against them has won just once. Head to Head Serie A ‎- Nov 3, 2012 - Juventus 1 - FC Internazionale 3 Serie A ‎- Mar 25, 2012 - Juventus 2 - FC Internazionale 0 Serie A ‎- Oct 29, 2011 - FC Internazionale 1 - Juventus 2 Club Friendlies ‎- Aug 18, 2011 - FC Internazionale 7 - Juventus 6 Serie A ‎- Feb 13, 2011 - Juventus 1 - FC Internazionale 0 Last Five Matches FC Internazionale Mar 14, 2013 - FC Internazionale 4 - Tottenham 1 - EL Mar 10, 2013 - FC Internazionale 0 - Bologna 1 - Serie A Mar 7, 2013 - Tottenham 3 - FC Internazionale 0 - EL Mar 3, 2013 - Catania 2 - FC Internazionale 3 - Serie A Feb 24, 2013 - FC Internazionale 1 - AC Milan 1 - Serie A Juventus Mar 16, 2013 - Bologna 0 - Juventus 2 - Serie A Mar 10, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Catania 0 - Serie A Mar 6, 2013 - Juventus 2 - Celtic 0 - UCL Mar 1, 2013 - SSC Napoli 1 - Juventus 1 - Serie A Feb 24, 2013 - Juventus 3 - Siena 0 - Serie A Players to Watch Fredy Guarín May have missed his flight back from international duty with Colombia - only a small hurdle for him to overcome - but has been an influential presence for the Nerazzurri and they will need him to be at his best against a formidable Bianconeri midfield. Andrea Pirlo Will look to drop deep and gain possession before finding the runners from midfield with his expert vision and range of passing. Could take advantage of some dodgy defending which has surfaced in recent matches for the hosts. Prediction The Nerazzurri will be desperate to do the double over fierce rivals and will given a much-needed boost following their emphatic victory over Spurs at San Siro before the international break. Juve, meanwhile, know they are only a few points away from securing a 29th Scudetto and given the hosts' recent problems might just nick this one. Editor's Prediction Inter 1 - 2 Juventus http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Salihamidzic: Bayern slight favourites against Juventus The now-retired winger, who lined up for both sides, feels that Jupp Heynckes' men have a slight edge over the Bianconeri, but expects that the tie will go right to the wire. Mar 29, 2013 Hasan Salihamidzic believes Bayern Munich are slight favourites in their upcoming Champions League quarter-final showdown with Juventus. The former Bosnia and Herzegovina international, who played for both sides during his playing days, is anticipating an epic bout between two genuine European heavyweights, but is tipping the Bundesliga leaders to come out on top. “This is a really tight game,” Salihamidzic told Hamburger Morgen Post. “For me, this pairing has really come too early. This would have been something more fitting for the final. “Juventus have grown incredibly over the last two years; trying to break them down is a very difficult task. “However, Bayern, for me, are the slight favourites. Still, they will only go through with a top performance.” Salihamidzic is hoping, though, that Jupp Heynckes’ men do not take their eye off the ball ahead of this weekend’s league outing against another of his former clubs, Hamburg. “Usually, Hamburg have no chance in this fixture,” he mused. “But it will be important that Bayern do not have Juve on their minds. “I can only hope that they take the Hamburg game very seriously. They need to have their foot on the gas. You cannot just say, ‘We will be champions anyway.’ “I think that this has been the case in the past few weeks, and it just does not work. A defeat against Hamburg would hurt their confidence.” Bayern tackle Hamburg at the Allianz Arena on Saturday before hosting Juve at the same venue on Tuesday evening.

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli I would never coach Juventus, claims Stramaccioni The 37-year-old has refuted the notion he could take over at Juventus Stadium, despite opposite number Antonio Conte hinting at interest in the Nerazzurri post. Mar 29, 2013 Inter coach Andrea Stramaccioni has claimed he could never be tempted to take the helm at Juventus. Bianconeri boss Antonio Conte admitted on Friday that he would consider taking charge at Guiseppe Meazza in the future, but Stramaccioni has played down suggestions he could one day move in the other direction. “It’s hard to see myself on the Juventus bench," the 37-year-old told a press conference. Don't worry, loser, we don't want you! "My coaching career is still young. Maybe in a few years’ time I’ll be somewhere else, but not there. “The fans shouldn’t get their hopes up. I know the truth; I’ve spoken with the president.” The Nerazzurri host Juventus this weekend in a crucial Derby D'Italia, and Stramaccioni insists his side will be motivated by the underdog tag heading into the fixture. “Some are saying that we have little chance of winning but we’ll try to use the fact that we are billed as underdogs as extra motivation," he went on. “It will be an open game and could go either way. We'll approach it like we did in the reverse fixture, perhaps with a slightly different system, but we'll give it a good go tomorrow. “We're going out to win the match and I'm sure Inter will put in a good performance.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Zanetti: I thought Inter could win Scudetto The Argentine defender was optimistic about his side's title chances earlier this term, but has stated they are now gunning for a Champions League place instead. Mar 29, 2013 Javier Zanetti has admitted he felt Inter could challenge for the Scudetto after they beat Juventus 3-1 earlier this season. The Nerazzurri were the first team to beat the Bianconeri at their new stadium in November 2012, but they have since been unable to keep up their good form and have dropped to joint fifth spot in the table, trailing the Old Lady by 18 points. "We all thought we could win the Scudetto after that win. However, we have never had a full squad at our disposal since, and the season has gone the way it has," Zanetti was quoted as saying by Tuttosport. "Our goal now is to qualify for the Champions League again." Inter lock horns with Juventus again on Saturday and Zanetti is eagerly anticipating the Derby d'Italia. "It is the big game for all of us with a lot of history. Ever since I arrived here at Inter, I understood what this game means because of everything that's happened on and off the pitch," he added. "These are the kind of games that everybody wants to play." Saturday's match at San Siro is due to kick off at 15:00CET. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Juventus must reclaim Scudetto and keep Champions League dream alive, says Conte The successful coach has warned his side they cannot afford to lose focus at this crucial stage, and has urged them to take things one step at a time. Mar 29, 2013 Antonio Conte has made it clear that the upcoming few weeks are crucial for Juventus in their hunt for the Scudetto and Champions League. The Turin giants take on arch-rivals Inter in Serie A on Saturday, before travelling to Germany for the first leg of their quarter-final tie against Bayern Munich on Tuesday. "It's an important moment of the season for us, with six games in 21 days. We'll be playing for the Scudetto and a place in the Champions League semi-finals," Conte said at a press conference. "We need to chase our goals which are to reclaim the Scudetto and keep the Champions League dream alive. "Experience tells me that getting ahead of ourselves could cause us to slip up. We need to take one game at a time. The most important encounter is the one we're facing next. "I'll choose my strongest side on Saturday, we're focused solely on Inter. It will be an open and entertaining encounter, a draw won't suit either side. Inter can beat anyone in a one-off game, we must be extremely focused and alert." Saturday's encounter at the Giuseppe Meazza is scheduled to kick off at 15:00CET. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Cambiasso: Rivalry with Juve is great Mar 29, 2013 Esteban Cambiasso has insisted that the rivalry between Inter and Juventus is 'a great one' as the two teams prepare to meet tomorrow. The Nerazzurri host the Bianconeri at San Siro on Saturday, looking for the three points that could take them up to fifth in the table. But the Argentine midfielder has claimed that his side will put their focus purely on the football. “We are just thinking about the match against Juventus,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “The rivalry between the two sides is a great one, but we have to focus on what happens on the field. “We have to demonstrate our value. This season we have had our ups and downs and in a League like the Italian one, you have to be consistent. “That is what Juventus have done – they have never let their guard down.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Buffon: Inter defeat still burns Mar 29, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has admitted that Juventus have 'not forgotten' the defeat to Inter earlier on in the season. The Nerazzurri claimed a 3-1 win in Turin back in November, and the goalkeeper has conceded that the loss will be used as motivation tomorrow when they face Andrea Stramaccioni's side again. “We have not forgotten that game,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “They were superior to us and deserved to win. “We want to make a great comeback from that because the defeat still burns.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Vucinic out of Juventus squad Mar 29, 2013 Mirko Vucinic is missing from the Juventus squad for the Inter tie on Saturday because of illness. The Montenegro international returned from the 1-1 draw against England in midweek with a fever and won’t be risked. Vucinic was being tipped to be rested anyway given that the Old Lady will face Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday. Boss Antonio Conte is also without Martin Caceres, Mauricio Isla, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe for the San Siro Derby d’Italia. Squad: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 6 Pogba, 8 Marchisio, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 13 Peluso, 15 Barzagli, 18 Anelka, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 22 Asamoah, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 34 Rubinho, 39 Marrone. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 30 - 30-3-2013 (3:00 p.m.) - "Giuseppe Meazza" Stadium - Milan Referee: Nicola Rizzoli Conte would consider Inter future Mar 29, 2013 Juventus boss Antonio Conte has today failed to rule out a possible future at Inter ahead of Saturday’s game. “We’re also not thinking about Bayern Munich yet.” Conte was asked about a potential stint on the Nerazzurri bench at some stage in his career and he didn’t close that door. “You can never say never in football,” Conte, a former Juventus captain, stated on the eve of the Derby d’Italia. “I’m a professional. “I’m always the biggest fan of the teams that I Coach. That was the case at Arezzo, Bari, Atalanta, Siena and, obviously, Juventus.” Putting the hypothetical to one side, Conte turned to the reality of facing Inter and then Bayern Munich in the space of four days. “For us the game with a capital G is the one against the Nerazzurri,” he said amidst suggestions that his side are primarily concentrating on the Bayern tie. “People who know me are aware that the next game is always the most important, therefore the Inter match. “This is a key stage of the season with six games in 21 days. We are playing for the Scudetto and the Champions League. “But we are certainly not thinking about the Bayern game, we are focused on Inter. “I know from experience that if you try to calculate results then you run the risk of getting things wrong. You have to think about one game at a time. “I’ll pick the best side possible and I expect an open game. The draw would not be a good result for either of us.” Juventus are nine points clear at the top of the table and Conte is keen to keep that gap intact over the weekend. “We want to confirm ourselves in the championship and we can’t fail in specific games, because we are playing against a great side and tradition. “Inter can beat anyone in a game. “We have to follow our objectives which are to win the Scudetto again and continue our Champions League dream.” Conte admitted that he did have some selection problems to resolve after the recent international break. “We’ve had 15 internationals fly all over the world and not all of them returned in prefect condition. Mirko Vucinic, for example, has a fever.” The tactician also defended 20-year-old Paul Pogba who was sent-off in only his second cap for France against Spain. “I saw the game and I thought his dismissal was wrong seeing as the first booking was non existent when you consider that he jumps normally for the ball. “With experience he could have avoided the second. But I have to compliment him as he’s showing the progress he has made with us by playing for his country.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/