Socrates

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) - San Paolo Stadium - Napels Referee: Daniele Orsato ‘Napoli-Juventus not decisive’ Feb 27, 2013 The destination of the Scudetto won’t be decided by Friday’s Napoli-Juventus clash, says Stephan Lichtsteiner. First take on second in Naples as the Old Lady look to consolidate their six-point advantage over the Azzurri. “It won’t be decisive as far as the destiny of the title is concerned,” the Bianconero told RAI. “There will still be 11 games remaining after it.” Napoli have drawn their last three matches in Serie A, but the Swiss international fully respects their opponents. “They are an excellent side and it’s difficult for anyone to play at the Stadio San Paolo,” he explained. “It won’t be easy. “Edinson Cavani and Marek Hamsik are excellent footballers who are doing very well, as are the many Swiss players they have in the team. “Napoli have plenty of individuals who are capable of making the difference and also possess a consolidated style of play. “We’ll need to remain alert and prepare for the game as best we can. But we’ll go there to impose our style of play and avoiding errors will be important.” Juve have had a problematic start to 2013 after winning just four of their eight League games, losing twice against Sampdoria and Roma. “It’s normal to go through a sticky patch throughout the course of a season,” he added. “Sometimes the ball doesn’t seem to want to go in, while the opposition score with their first attempt. “It happened to us, but we’ve done well to put it behind us.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) - San Paolo Stadium - Napels Referee: Daniele Orsato Juventus not thinking about six-point advantage - Peluso The January signing has urged his team-mates to remain focused winning each match as they prepare to take on Scudetto rivals Napoli on Friday. Feb 27, 2013 Juventus defender Federico Peluso has said that the team are not thinking about their six-point lead at the top of Serie A. Antonio Conte’s side look ever-more likely to retain their Scudetto title, but the former Atalanta man is remaining calm over the situation ahead of their top-of-the-table clash with Napoli on Friday. "We can’t be thinking about the six point advantage, we’re just concentrating on ourselves," Peluso told the club’s official website. "We know what our aims are and what we want to achieve game after the game. Friday’s match is obviously important and so we hope to come out on top." The 29-year-old also urged his team-mates to remain focused in their Champions League tie at home to Celtic on March 12. “The Scots were very good from dead ball situations so we have to be aware of that threat," he added. “In the first leg, Celtic showed they are a great team who can cause problems for us. Overall we need to stay very focused for the entire match.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Pirlo: Juventus not ready to win Champions League The midfielder has cooled suggestions that the Bianconeri could triumph in Europe this season, despite being on the brink of reaching the quarter-finals. Feb 27, 2013 Andrea Pirlo believes that Juventus are not yet ready to win the Champions League this term as he feels other teams have more quality than the Serie A champions. Juve impressed in the first leg of their round of 16 tie against Celtic as they cruised to a comfortable 3-0 away win, yet Pirlo has insisted that they cannot be seen as favourites to win the competition. "The Champions League? I don't think that we are ready to win it yet. Even though we're there now and will do our utmost. There are stronger teams than Juventus still in the competition," Pirlo told La Repubblica. The midfielder then went on to praise Antonio Conte, and hopes that the successful coach will stay at Juventus Stadium. "Conte is a great coach, but he will have to learn the language first if he moves abroad because communication is very important for him. "I believe that Juventus is the best place for him, but he could work anywhere." Pirlo also had his say on the Scudetto race, and insisted that the match against Napoli at the weekend will not be decisive. "It will definitely be a very important match, but it will not be decisive. We are all calm and relaxed ahead of the match."

Lichtsteiner: We have put our struggles behind us The defender has voiced his satisfaction with his side's February form and outlined the challenge posed by Napoli on Friday. Feb 27, 2012 Stephan Lichtsteiner is pleased with the way Juventus have returned to winning ways this month after struggling to find their best form earlier in 2013. The Serie A leaders won only one of their first four league games of the year, but have since returned to winning ways again, much to the delight of the Switzerland international. "It’s normal to go through a sticky patch throughout the course of a season, in which the ball doesn’t seem to want to go in, while the opposition score with their first attempt," Lichtsteiner told Rai Sport. "It happened to Juve, but we’ve done well to put it behind us." The wing-back then went on to discuss the upcoming Serie A match against Napoli, and warned that the Partenopei cannot be underestimated. "Cavani and Hamsik are excellent footballers who are doing very well, as are the many Swiss players in the team. "Napoli have plenty of individuals who are capable of making the difference and also possess a consolidated style of play. We'll need to remain alert and prepare for the game as best we can." Juve currently hold a six-point lead over second-placed Napoli.

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) - San Paolo Stadium - Napels Referee: Daniele Orsato Bonucci: 'Juve want Naples win' Feb 26, 2013 Leonardo Bonucci assures Juventus are “going to Napoli in order to win” in Friday’s Scudetto showdown at the San Paolo. The defender wrote a message to the supporters on his official website this afternoon. “Getting the victory against a good Siena side was crucial,” he said of Sunday’s 3-0 triumph. “Now we have a six-point advantage over Napoli and it must give us confidence for the trip to the San Paolo. “We are going to Napoli in order to win and play our most important game of the season. That is our objective, to be Juventus. “As always, may the best man win.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) - San Paolo Stadium - Napels Referee: Daniele Orsato Chiellini ready to start for Juve Feb 26, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini should be fit enough to start in Juventus’ Scudetto tie at Napoli on Friday night. The defender picked up an ankle injury on his return to action against Siena on Sunday, but he’s expected to be ready for the Stadio San Paolo showdown. The medical staff are set to give the Italian international the green light to begin from the first minute against the Azzurri. The 28-year-old has only made 14 League appearances so far this season after being restricted by injuries. He’s not started a game in the Italian top-flight since the 3-0 win over Atalanta back on December 16. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 27 - 1-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) - San Paolo Stadium - Napels Referee: Daniele Orsato Bonucci: Juventus are going to Napoli to win The Italy defender believes the win over Siena has given the team confidence as they look to stretch their lead at the top of the Serie A table to nine points. Feb 26, 2013 Defender Leonardo Bonucci has explained that Juventus will be doing all they can to win when they face Serie A title rivals Napoli on Friday. The Italy international believes the 3-0 win over Siena on Sunday has given Antonio Conte's side confidence ahead of the Scudetto showdown, with Vecchia Signora knowing a win would put them nine points clear of their nearest rivals at the top of the table. "Getting the victory against a good Siena side was crucial,” he wrote on his official website. "Now we have a six-point advantage over Napoli and it must give us confidence for the trip to the San Paolo. "We are going to Napoli in order to win and play our most important game of the season. That is our objective, to be Juventus." Despite being six points clear of their next opponents, Conte's team have been in indifferent form, winning just four of their eight league matches since the winter break. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A - 7^ Giornata - Ritorno - 24-2-2013 (ore 15:00) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Torino Arbitro: Domenico Celi Spettatori: 38000 Serie A - La Juventus non sbaglia: 3-0 al Siena e +7 Vincono nettamente i bianconeri allo Stadium e aumentano così il vantaggio sul Napoli secondo, impegnato lunedì sera a Udine. Vanno in rete Lichtsteiner nel primo tempo e Giovinco e Pogba nella ripresa. Generosi gli ospiti, che hanno colpito una traversa e un palo con Emeghara e Terlizzi, quando però erano già sotto di due gol. Rientro importante di Chiellini dall'infortunio. Eurosport - Domenica, 24 febbraio 2013 La Juventus non spreca la grande occasione e, ad una settimana dallo scontro diretto del San Paolo, batte per 3-0 il Siena allo Stadium, aumentando momentaneamente il vantaggio in classifica sul Napoli, impegnato nel posticipo del lunedì a Udine, a più sette punti. La capolista, bella nel primo tempo, dove trova la rete del vantaggio di Lichtsteiner, meno bella nella ripresa, dove però chiude la gara con Giovinco e Pogba, ha il merito di concedere la prima occasione da gol ai toscani ad un quarto d’ora dalla fine. La traversa di Emeghara e il palo di Terlizzi testimoniano che la formazione allenata da Iachini non ha reso vita così facile alla Juventus, brava comunque a giocare e vincere da grande squadra. Nel finale un’altra buona notizia per i bianconeri: il rientro di Giorgio Chiellini dopo oltre due mesi dall’infortunio al ginocchio. JUVE CON LA GIUSTA MENTALITÀ. Antonio Conte voleva “la partita della vita” e i suoi giocatori hanno provato ad ascoltarlo, almeno a livello mentale. I bianconeri hanno approcciato il match contro il Siena con la grinta e la concentrazione tanto desiderate dal proprio allenatore: compatti, aggressivi, con la difesa attenta a non subire le ripartenze di un Siena completamente rintanato nella propria metà campo sin dall’inizio. Così, con la regia di Pirlo e gli scambi di Vucinic e Giovinco (preferito a Matri), la capolista ha cominciato ad imporre il proprio gioco fin dai primi minuti, inanellando occasioni da gol. LICHTSTEINER CON FORTUNA. Pegolo, che fino al minuto 30 era stato il migliore dei suoi, avendo stoppato le insidiose conclusioni di Marchisio, Giovinco e Pogba, è però protagonista sfortunato della carambola che porta avanti i bianconeri alla mezzora. Vucinic, che continua ad alternare giocate da campione a pause preoccupanti, serve un pallone delizioso sul taglio di Lichtsteiner, che è fortunato nel vincere il rimpallo con l’estremo difensore del Siena e ad infilare l’1-0. Per lo svizzero, che oltre ad annullare Rubin, è sempre propositivo quando è ora di attaccare lo spazio, è il quarto centro in campionato. Il Siena, per tutti i primi 45 minuti, subisce l’iniziativa bianconera, senza mai farsi vedere dalla parte di Buffon. Rosina ed Emeghara, che avevano schiantato la Lazio, sembrano fantasmi e l’1-0 con il quale si chiude la prima frazione, può esser considerato anche riduttivo per il divario mostrato in campo tra piemontesi e toscani. RIPRESA AD ANDAMENTO LENTO. Nel secondo tempo la Juventus abbassa i ritmi e tenta di risparmiare energie in vista del confronto diretto in programma venerdì sera al San Paolo di Napoli. Il Siena prende campo, ma non riesce mai ad impensierire veramente la retroguardia bianconera. I padroni di casa, nei primi venti minuti della ripresa allentano la pressione e sbagliano tanti appoggi, rivitalizzando quindi la squadra di Iachini, che rimane in partita fino al 75’. GIOVINCO LA CHIUDE, SIENA AL PALO. E’ proprio alla mezzora della ripresa che Giovinco decide di chiudere il match. Uscito Vucinic, un po’ fischiato dai tifosi dello Stadium, il numero 12 bianconero concretizza l’unica vera occasione della sua partita: lancio su punizione in verticale di Pirlo e sinistro sotto la traversa della formica atomica, che segna così il suo 7° gol in campionato. Il Siena accusa il colpo e prova a reagire quando probabilmente è troppo tardi. Il primo tiro in porta dei toscani arriva al 76’, con Emeghara che colpisce la traversa di testa, dopo una grande deviazione di Buffon. Due minuti più tardi è Terlizzi a colpire il palo con il sinistro: la porta di Buffon rimane immacolata con un po’ di fortuna e in contropiede la Juve arrotonda ulteriormente il punteggio. RIENTRA CHIELLINI, GIOIA POGBA. Dopo aver gioito per il rientro in campo di un recuperato Giorgio Chiellini ad oltre due mesi dall’infortunio al ginocchio, il pubblico bianconero trova il modo di festeggiare anche la terza rete della giornata, con Pogba protagonista di un coast to coast devastante a due minuti dal termine. Destro perfetto e angolato dal limite del francesino, che conferma la crescita costante delle sue prestazioni con la sua quinta rete stagionale. Il 3-0 finale conferma le qualità della squadra di Conte, che ha giocato da grande squadra e può presentarsi con un vantaggio notevole al big match di venerdì sera. Enrico Turcato http://it.soccerway....regular-season/

No chance of Juve Pogba exit Feb 26, 2013 The representative of Paul Pogba has dismissed the idea that the player could be sold by Juventus at the end of the season. The 19-year-old has been a revelation for the Turin giants since his transfer from Manchester United in the summer. Although liked by a host of Europe’s top sides, Mino Raiola insists that the midfielder is already at the right club. “Pogba’s talent is crystal clear,” Mino Raiola told GR Parlamento. “It is hard to find another player like him around. “Everyone at Juventus is helping him to grow and there are no signs that he will be saying farewell at the end of the season.” Pogba has scored five goals in 18 League games for the Bianconeri this season. He’s also been used in five Champions League ties.

Pogba to stay 'for a long time' Feb 25, 2013 Paul Pogba has insisted that he wants to stay at Juventus 'for a long time' after a successful first season at the club. The young French midfielder joined last summer from Manchester United, and has already bagged five goals for the Bianconeri this term. And the 19-year-old has revealed that he would like to continue with Antonio Conte's side, even with reported interest from other European clubs. “I do not care if there are stories linking me with other teams,” he told reporters. “I feel really good here at Juventus and I want to stay for a long time. “Personally, I am very happy with my first year here, partly because I've already scored five goals.”

Celtic's Brown to miss Juventus tie with abductor injury The Hoops’ skipper is unlikely to recover in time for his team’s Champions League trip to Turin where the Scottish side will aim to come back from a 3-0 home defeat. Feb 26, 2013 Celtic midfielder Scott Brown will miss the Scottish side's crunch Champions League second leg match in Juventus next week. The Hoops will have to overturn a 3-0 deficit to reach the next round, and will need to do it without their captain as Brown is still suffering from an abductor injury that has kept him out of several games recently. Brown will also miss the first competitive games of new Scotland manager Gordon Strachan’s tenure – World Cup qualifiers against Wales and Serbia. Celtic boss Neil Lennon told reporters: "Scott is out indefinitely. "We are still waiting to hear from the specialist, whether it requires surgery or not and I am hoping that we will get a definitive answer by the end of the week." Lennon also spoke about the returns of defenders Mikael Lustig and Charlie Mulgrew from their own injury lay-offs. The Northern Irishman added: "Lustig is still out and Charlie Mulgrew, they are the only three absentees. Lustig is out for two to three weeks, it is bone bruising so it could even be longer. "So I imagine he will miss Juventus. We are hoping Charlie will be fit for Juventus and the game at the weekend. "Kris Commons is back from his virus and Lassad Nouioui has had a bit of a virus but he is in the squad."

Juventus will win the Scudetto, says Galliani The AC Milan CEO has lost all hope of securing the league title this term, but says his side should aim for a second-placed finish instead. Feb 25, 2013 AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani is certain that Juventus will go on to retain their Serie A crown. The Bianconeri currently hold a handsome lead at the top of the table, but after the Rossoneri enjoyed an upturn in form, the 68-year-old is optimistic ahead of the remainder of the campaign. "Will Juve win Serie A? Absolutely. That's what I think," the 68-year-old told Rai Sport. "But after the two matches of Napoli and our next match, we could think about the second place. Now it's too early to talk about it, however." http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Pogba: I want to stay at Juventus for a long time The former Manchester United youngster is content with life at the Old Lady and sees his future at the club. Feb 25, 2013 Paul Pogba has made it clear that he has no intention of leaving Juventus any time soon and declared his happiness with life in Italy. The French midfielder joined the Bianconeri from Manchester United on a free transfer in the summer of 2012 and has since impressed with a number of fine performances. The 19-year-old's form has caught the attention of a number of top European clubs, but Pogba is keen to stay put. "Attention from other clubs? It doesn’t interest me. I really like it here and I want to play in this shirt for a long time," Pogba was quoted as saying on the club's official website. "Personally, I’m happy because in my first year at Juventus, I’ve already scored five goals." The midfielder has netted five times in 18 league appearances.

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000 Lichtsteiner: Napoli clash will not decide Scudetto race The Switzerland international believes his side still have a long way to go, while Paul Pogba has set his sights on the full three points against the Partenopei. Feb 25, 2013 Juventus wing-back Stephan Lichtsteiner believes a win over Napoli on Friday would not guarantee the Bianconeri the Serie A title. Juve currently hold a seven-point lead over the Partenopei, who have a game in hand, and Lichtsteiner has insisted that the Scudetto race is by no means decided just yet. "If we were to win against Napoli [on Friday], it would make it really tough for them, but it still wouldn’t be decisive in terms of the race for the Scudetto," Lichtsteiner was quoted as saying on the club's official website. "There will still be 11 games left and with so many remaining, it will be far from over." Young midfielder Paul Pogba, meanwhile, has stated that the Serie A leaders will be gunning for victory against Napoli. "It’s a contest we have to go into looking to win. We need to play with ruthlessness and concentration, as we did against Siena." Juve recorded a 2-0 home win over Napoli earlier this season. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000 Juventus’ Pogba enticed to shoot Feb 25, 2013 Paul Pogba has revealed that the atmosphere at the Juventus Stadium urges him to shoot from distance. The young Frenchman netted with another long-range effort on Sunday when he capped off the 3-0 win over Siena. “The Coach and my teammates always tell me to have a go,” the midfielder noted. “And sometimes I feel that the stadium is encouraging me to shoot as well. “I had the chance to against Siena and it came off – even though the most important thing is that the team won.” Pogba has already scored five League goals this term and the teenager is dreaming of many more strikes in the Old Lady’s stripes. “The attention from other clubs doesn’t interest me,” the summer signing from Manchester United continued. “I really like it here and I want to play in this shirt for a long time. I’m happy because I’ve already scored five goals in my first year at Juventus. “I have a great will to learn and I like listening to others. That’s how I’m learning the language, also thanks to my teammates, especially Simone Pepe, who is always talking.” With the Siena victory now archived, the player is looking forward to Friday’s game against second-placed Napoli. “We have to go into that one looking to win. We need to play with ruthlessness and concentration, as we did against Siena.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000 Buffon expects ‘real’ Juve in Naples Feb 25, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has insisted that Juventus will face Napoli in Serie A on Friday with their usual game plan. The Bianconeri currently have a seven-point lead over the second-placed Azzurri who will face Udinese later today. But Buffon insists that the points difference between the two clubs will not have any effect on the way they will prepare for the tie. “We’ll go and play Napoli without making any calculations,” the custodian noted. “That’s also because when we try to do that, things don’t add up. “We need to approach the Napoli tie in the way we always face matches, without straying from our usual game.” Buffon again underlined his worth to the Old Lady on Sunday during their 3-0 victory over struggling Siena. “We played a good game against a side in good form,” he added. “We knew they would cause us difficulties and that’s how it went, but we tackled them in an intelligent manner. “I work with passion and the desire to show that I’m still an important goalkeeper, and when I say this I don’t mean being the fifth or sixth best in the world. “I’ve still got the will to amaze and this enables me to focus and face training and games in the right way. “When I realise that I’m approaching a game with little concentration then I think back to the error against Sampdoria and I re-find the right mentality.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Buffon expects ‘real’ Juve in Naples Feb 25, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has insisted that Juventus will face Napoli in Serie A on Friday with their usual game plan. The Bianconeri currently have a seven-point lead over the second-placed Azzurri who will face Udinese later today. But Buffon insists that the points difference between the two clubs will not have any effect on the way they will prepare for the tie. “We’ll go and play Napoli without making any calculations,” the custodian noted. “That’s also because when we try to do that, things don’t add up. “We need to approach the Napoli tie in the way we always face matches, without straying from our usual game.” Buffon again underlined his worth to the Old Lady on Sunday during their 3-0 victory over struggling Siena. “We played a good game against a side in good form,” he added. “We knew they would cause us difficulties and that’s how it went, but we tackled them in an intelligent manner. “I work with passion and the desire to show that I’m still an important goalkeeper, and when I say this I don’t mean being the fifth or sixth best in the world. “I’ve still got the will to amaze and this enables me to focus and face training and games in the right way. “When I realise that I’m approaching a game with little concentration then I think back to the error against Sampdoria and I re-find the right mentality.”

Juventus optimistic over Chiellini Feb 25, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini should be available for the Napoli tie after the Juventus defender picked up an ankle injury on his return to action. The stopper, absent since December, was used as a second-half substitute in the 3-0 win over Siena on Sunday. However, the central defender limped out of the game after picking up a blow to his right ankle. The Italian international has had an x-ray which has ruled out any serious damage as the club have revealed that he has just sustained heavy bruising. Juventus travel to the Stadio San Paolo on Friday night.

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000 Conte: 'Juve fans mustn't jeer' Feb 24, 2013 Antonio Conte criticised the Juventus Stadium fans for jeering Sebastian Giovinco. “At times they really irritate me.” Giovinco scored in the 3-0 victory over Siena, but the supporters in Turin were not always fully behind the side. “We should enjoy today’s victory, as we had to win and it was not easy,” Conte told Rai Sport. “Siena are in great shape and they deserve compliments for their performance. We got three points and did very well in psychological terms to control the game. “At times certain murmurs of complaint from the stands really irritate me, as I find them inopportune. People forget that 18 months ago Juve were seventh. “They ought to be enthusiastic at having players like Giovinco, so I do not agree with those who jeer.” Next Friday there is the Scudetto showdown with Napoli, as the gap at the top is currently seven points awaiting the Partenopei’s trip to Udinese tomorrow. “We will go to Naples with humility and play with a more relaxed state of mind thanks to today’s win,” added Conte. The tactician has been linked with Chelsea and dropped a hint he is considering it. "I am attracted by the idea of working overseas." http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000‎ Conte 'irritated' by boo boys The Juventus coach has admitted he was disappointed to hear some sections of the Bianconeri support booing the players during their comfortable 3-0 victory over Siena. Feb 24, 2013 Juventus coach Antonio Conte has slammed some sections of the home support for not getting behind the team during their 3-0 win over Siena. Goals from Stephan Lichtsteiner, Sebastian Giovinco and Paul Pogba ensured what turned out to be a comfortable victory for the hosts, who extend their lead at the top of Serie A to seven points. However, Conte was left disappointed, despite the victory, as the Bianconeri faithful resorted to jeering the players, particularly goalscorer Giovinco, before they eventually took control of the game. “Unfortunately booing is becoming a bad habit at this stadium, supporters can’t boo the lads’ first mistake," he told the official club website. “I’ll remind them that this team has done extraordinary things, but above all brought back a sense of belonging and pride to all Bianconeri fans.” He told Rai Sport: “At times certain murmurs of complaint from the stands really irritate me, as I find them inopportune. People forget that 18 months ago Juve were seventh. “They ought to be enthusiastic at having players like Giovinco, so I do not agree with those who jeer.” Conte was pleased, however, with the way his side handled a potentially tricky encounter as Beppe Iachini's men had gone three games unbeaten before Sunday's clash. He continued to the official club website: “We took to the field with a good approach, showing great respect for Siena who possess all the characteristics required to stay up. “They’re in good form and came into the fixture following important results. I knew it wouldn’t be easy and that’s why I kept the tension high. “Congratulations to the lads, they really did well today. I’m happy about Giovinco’s goal and for how it came about. We always look to work on every little detail, including set pieces.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000‎ Player Ratings Goal.com rates the players on show at Juventus Stadium, as the Bianconeri extended their lead at the summit of Serie A to seven points. Feb 24, 2013 JUVENTUS Gianluigi Buffon - Forced to push a Rosina cross out of play for a corner early on, but was rarely tested by the lackadaisical Siena front line until the 70th minute when he had to tip Emeghara's header onto the bar. Andrea Barzagli - Impenetrable in the heart of the Juventus backline and ensured that a clean sheet was kept having hindered the impact of Emeghera. Leonardo Bonucci - Booked in the first half following a late sliding challenge, but a faultless performance from the Italian. Federico Peluso - After allowing Rosina in early to force a Siena corner in the opening exchanges, Peluso recovered from this stuttering start to perform solidly in the back three beside Barzagli and Bonucci. Stephan Lichtsteiner - Broke forward expertly and linked up well with Vucinic to fire an effort over the bar before his goal on the half hour mark. Paul Pogba - A quiet afternoon for the Frenchman until his 89th-minute drive from distance that left Pegolo beaten. Andrea Pirlo - Typically masterful in the middle of the Juventus midfield, fired a free kick over in the first half before sending a delicate chip just inches wide of the Siena post on the hour mark. Claudio Marchisio - Regularly linked with up Vucinic expertly and forced a great save from Pegolo with a curling effort in the first half. Kwadwo Asamoah - Broke down the flanks with purpose and Belmonte struggled to contain the Ghanaian. Could've had himself an assist had Pogba made a decent connection with his first-half strike. Mirko Vučinić - At the hub of everything. Pushed forward for Juventus and provided the assist for Lichtsteiner's goal. Siena really struggled to contain him before his second-half withdrawal. Sebastian Giovinco - A dominant performance from the Italian, who secured the win for Juventus with a stunning strike midway through the second half. Substitutions Giorgio Chiellini - Continued his comeback from injury with a brief 15-minute cameo, and didn't put a fault wrong as he attains match fitness. Emanuele Giaccherini - Entered the fray late on, but could've netted after curling just wide of the Siena post in added time. Alessandro Matri - Replaced Vucinic just after the hour mark, and may not have offered a similar threat to the Montenegrin, but was a handful during his time on the pitch. SIENA Gianluca Pegolo - Could do little to prevent goals from Lichtsteiner, Giovinco and Pogba, but did well to deny Marchisio and Giovinco expertly. Didn't deserve to be on the losing side. Felipe - Had a good game, all things considered, but was never able to deal with the marauding Lichtsteiner. A lack of cover from his team-mates didn't aid his cause. Matteo Rubin - Pushed forward well, but was regularly contained in his own half to help Felipe deal with the threat of Lichtsteiner. Jorge Filipe Avelino Teixeira - Struggled with the threat of the returning Asamoah, and was never really able to help play the ball out as well as he'd hoped. Christian Terlizzi - Almost gave his side a glimmer of hope in the second half having struck the post, but was unable to prevent Siena conceding three. Nicola Belmonte - Pushed forward well and did what he could to help out Teixeira with the threat of Asamoah, but was never going to exert himself as well as he could've liked as a result. Francesco Valiani - Never able to provide the necessary support that Emeghara needed and, as a result, Siena's attack continuously broke down. Francesco Della Rocca - Booked in the first half and was never really able to make his mark as a result. Struggled with Vucinic dropping deep and Marchisio. Alessandro Rosina - Forced Buffon into action early on, but couldn't build on his blistering start. Subbed in the second half. Francesco Bolzoni - Continuously attempted to make things happen for his team. A tough task considering the opposition, but did well to stifle the threat of Pogba prior to his goal. Innocent Emeghara - A handful for the Juventus defence, forcing Buffon into action with a goal-bound header in the final 15 minutes of the game. Dealt with well by Bonucci. Substitutions Valerio Verre - Not enough time to make an impact. Salvador Agra - Gave Siena the attacking threat that Rosina failed to provide, but in the end, it was too little too late for the lowly Serie A side. Nicola Pozzi - While Valiani struggled to make his mark, Pozzi was the same which often left Emeghara isolated. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000 Juventus Win 3-0 vs. Siena: 6 Things We Learned Feb 24, 2013 Seeing Juventus vs. Siena on the schedule isn't exactly something that gets your average calcio fan excited. However, it turned out to be a bit of a show when all was said and done. Siena's Gianluca Pegolo kept it a lot closer than it could have been. Still, a 3-0 win for Juve means most of the show was the Bianconeri's class as they moved the ball so well all afternoon. Juventus showed why they're Italy's best; they were just too much for lowly Siena. Here are six things we learned after Sunday's match. 1. Juventus Control Their Own Destiny in the Scudetto Race They haven't necessarily locked it down. A lot can happen over the next three months. But with a seven-point lead after Sunday's action, Juve would really have to lose concentration to not finish with the Scudetto this season. It's not a sure thing, though. They travel to second-place Napoli on Friday. They've done all they can to put pressure on the Partenopei ahead of Friday's clash. Napoli travel to Udinese Monday staring down a seven-point deficit. 2. There's More to Juventus Than Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Pirlo Stephan Lichtsteiner and Mirko Vucinic really played well Sunday. Lichtsteiner had Juve's first goal. It was pure effort that made it happen, but that's who Lichtsteiner is. It was an important break in a scoreless tie that beat Gianluca Pegolo, who before then looked unbeatable. For Vucinic's part, he was like a conductor at the front, setting up fellow teammates with one incredible ball after another. He didn't end up with an assist, but his creativity was unbelievable throughout the match. 3. Paul Pogba Has a Bright Future Ahead of Him Paul Pogba was another huge force for Juventus Sunday. He ended up with the Bianconeri's third goal, and it was pure class. He had a few other chances before he finally converted and played the ball really well throughout the match. More impressive than anything else: Pogba's only 19 years old. For fans worried about how much longer Andrea Pirlo will play, a young promising midfielder like Pogba may make the thought of il maestro's absence a bit easier to deal with. Just a little. 4. Relegation or Not, Pegolo Shouldn't Play for Siena Next Season There are way too many clubs in the top flight that need an upgrade at keeper for Gianluca Pegolo to continue to go down with Siena's sinking ship. Yes, he surrendered three on Sunday, but throughout the season he's been a major factor in Siena's success, though limited. It's not so much that he's great, as there are a lot of other top clubs that need to upgrade at 'keeper. And Pegolo would be a tremendous upgrade for some. Just ask Napoli fans how they feel about Morgan De Sanctis... 5. The Juventus Back Line Is Very Much Improved The road has been bumpy without Giorgio Chiellini, but Juventus endured. Leonardo Bonucci, Federico Peluso, Martín Cáceres and Andrea Barzagli have been better in recent weeks. But now that Chiellini's back, that back line is going to get a lot stronger. The vice-captain has been sorely missed and will be just the boost Juve need at the back as they advance in Champions League and head toward the end of the Serie A season. 6. Andrea Pirlo Is Must-See TV Every Time He's on the Pitch If you're a calcio fan, you've known this for years. But with not too many years left, you should really carve out some time to watch this guy work every time he steps on the field. Even if Juve is playing a cellar dweller like Siena. If you're not a regular Serie A watcher or are just new to the beautiful game, you need to get to know Andrea Pirlo. Watching il maestro in action will more than explain all the outrage surrounding his absence from FIFA's World XI. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000 Confident Bianconeri lock up victory Feb 24, 2013 Juventus defeated Siena 3-0 at the Juventus Stadium in Serie A action on Sunday afternoon. Stephan Lichtsteiner struck in the first half before Sebastian Giovinco and Paul Pogba scored in the second. Juventus had the first opportunity of the game in the seventh minute off an Andrea Pirlo free kick, but his effort was a little too high. A few moments later, Giovinco, from a Pogba assist, had a go, but he was just wide of the left post. Pogba tried a couple of shots of his own not too long after, but both missed to the left. Another midfielder attempted from distance, this time it was Claudio Marchisio, who saw his effort saved by Gianluca Pegolo. It was Giovinco that then made the goalkeeper work just past the half-way point of the first half. Mirko Vucinic found the Italian international, but Pegolo stopped the follow-up. Finally at the half-hour mark, Juve got their breakthrough. Vucinic played in a lovely ball to Lichtsteiner, who made no mistake in tapping it into the net from close range to make it 1-0 for the hosts. The first chance of the second interval arrived after an hour of play through Pirlo, as he hit a long distance shot, but he missed just left of the far post. Finally, just after 70 minutes, Siena recorded a shot, but Francesco Bolzoni’s effort was high and wide to the left following the corner. Things went from bad to worse for the visitors. After winning a free kick, Pirlo took the set piece, found Giovinco, who powered it high past Pegolo for the 2-0 tally. Seconds expired when Innocent Emeghara smacked a header towards goal, but was saved by Gianluigi Buffon. Giorgio Chiellini came on as a substitute on 77 minutes, making his return after a three month absence due to a calf injury. Christian Terlizzi was close with his opportunity, but he found the left post instead of the mesh. Just as added time approached, Pogba displayed some brilliant footwork, then shot from 25 metres into the net for Juve’s third goal. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000 Juventus go seven points clear Feb 24, 2013 Juventus extended their lead at the top of Serie A to seven points thanks to a 3-0 win over Siena, although the visitors made a game of it at the Juventus Stadium. Stephan Lichtsteiner and Sebastian Giovinco gave the Bianconeri a two-goal advantage, but Siena hit the woodwork twice as they made Juve work hard for their win. Paul Pogba then ended Siena's hopes with a third goal in the dying stages. The three points take Antonio Conte's side further ahead of Napoli at the top of the table, while Siena remain just a point off the foot of the table and five adrift of safety. Conte had warned that this would be one of their toughest and most important games of the season, and his message appeared to have been understood by his team. Not for one minute did it look like they would take the Serie A strugglers lightly and a committed attacking effort led to Claudio Marchisio testing Gianluca Pegolo for the first time in the 20th minute. Ten minutes later, Lichtsteiner somewhat fortunately gave the home side the lead. He surged into the area to meet Mirko Vucinic's pass, but he would not have reached it had Pegolo not pushed the ball onto the Swiss full-back's shin with the rebound looping into the net. Andrea Pirlo went close to adding a second with a free-kick as Juve continued to keep their concentration high. Giovinco made it two with a shot from a tight angle which Pegolo pushed in off the underside of his own crossbar in the 74th minute, but the day's work was far from done. Gianluigi Buffon did well to tip Innocent Emeghara's shot onto the bar in the 76th minute before Christian Terlizzi's shot hit the post six minutes from time. Pogba then settled Juve's nerves in the 89th minute as he took aim from 20 yards out, beating Pegolo with a low shot into the bottom left-hand corner. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 26 - 24-2-2013 (3:00 p.m.) 3 - 0 Stephan Lichtsteiner (30′) Sebastian Giovinco (74′) Paul Pogba (89′) Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 38000‎ Juve sweep Siena aside Juventus swept Siena aside 3-0, Paul Pogba completing the rout, but the Tuscans did hit the woodwork twice. Feb 24, 2013 Juventus swept Siena aside 3-0, Paul Pogba completing the rout, but the Tuscans did hit the woodwork twice. The Serie A leaders suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat to Roma last week, so the gap at the top was cut to four points. Claudio Marchisio and Federico Peluso returned from their bans with Giorgio Chiellini on the bench for the first time in two months, but Paolo De Ceglie, Martin Caceres and Nicklas Bendtner were injured. Siena beat Inter and Lazio over the last few weeks, picking up 10 points from their last five games, but Simone Vergassola failed a fitness test. Antonio Conte had asked the fans to make more noise and not “sit there as if they’re watching theatre,” so the Juventus Stadium was particularly full-throated and sang the club anthem before kick-off. Leonardo Bonucci horribly wasted a great opportunity on a well-worked corner when he hit a fresh-air shot from just inside the area. Andrea Pirlo then curled a free kick off target, as did Stephan Lichtsteiner with his snapshot. Gianluca Pegolo needed a fine save to keep out Marchisio, flying to palm his curler round the post. Juve were putting on the pressure and broke through on the half-hour mark. Mirko Vucinic threaded through with a smart angled pass and Pegolo only managed to flap aimlessly at it, allowing Lichtsteiner to tap in at the back post. Paul Pogba side-footed straight at Pegolo from the edge of the box, but Siena struggled to mount a fightback. After the restart Gigi Buffon punched an Alessandro Rosina corner away and Marchisio stopped Emeghara getting the follow-up. Pegolo stood and watched a delightful Pirlo chip flash just past the far top corner, but it was Giovinco who put the result under lock and key. A free kick was rolled forward into the box and Giovinco smashed a powerful finish in at the near top corner. Pegolo got a hand to it, but the shot was so strong that it continued under the bar. Emeghara ensured the Bianconeri stayed on their toes, as he got a towering header moments later that Buffon fingertipped on to the crossbar. The assist was from Salvador Agra, another Siena January buy, who soon after forced a save out of Buffon from the edge of the box. Giorgio Chiellini made his comeback after two months out with a torn calf muscle. Christian Terlizzi was unfortunate not to get one back for Siena, as his long-range daisy-cutter thumped the base of the upright. Instead, Pogba hit one of his traditional screamers from distance that surprised Pegolo in the bottom corner. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah (Chiellini 78); Giovinco (Giaccherini 81), Vucinic (Matri 65) SIENA: Pegolo; Jorge Texeira, Terlizzi, Felipe; Belmonte, Della Rocca (Verre 92), Rubin, Bolzoni; Rosina (Agra 71), Valiani (Pozzi 65); Emeghara Ref: Celi http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/