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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) We don’t fear Bayern claims Quagliarella Apr 1, 2013 Juventus striker Fabio Quagliarella says that his team don’t fear Bayern Munich ahead of their Champions League clash on Tuesday. The Bianconeri arrived in Munich yesterday, getting set for their first quarter final encounter since 2006. “We have respect for Bayern, but no fear,” said Quagliarella in the pre-match press conference. “We’re going there with the same spirit as always, trying to play our game. The coach keeps his choices to himself until the last minute, so we have no idea who is going to play [on Tuesday].” Quagliarella, 30, has scored 12 goals in 24 appearances in all competitions, including four in Europe.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern Munich v Juventus Preview Apr 1, 2013 The Champions League quarter-finals are upon us and boy has it thrown up a big one! European giants Bayern Munich and Juventus lock horns and it has all the makings of a classic. Two teams dominating their respective leagues and heading into this tie in blistering form. Bayern have the experienced head of Jupp Heynckes to guide them while Juventus are under the tutelage of one of the most exciting young managers in the European scene with Antonio Conte. Indeed, it’s a match up worthy of a final and you know the preparations from both sides will respect the magnitude of the occasion. Team News and Tactical Brief Bayern Munich After that 9-2 thumping of Hamburg over the weekend it seems almost blasphemous to even think of Jupp Heynckes tinkering with his starting eleven but Juventus will be a completely different affair. As has been the case for most of the season, Bayern will be without Holger Badstuber. The German international has been out of action since December courtesy a ruptured cruciate ligament. Unfortunately for Heynckes, Badstuber isn’t the only unavailable player, with Javi Martinez’s yellow card against Arsenal earning him a one game suspension. Manuel Neuer will be the custodian in goal with a back four of Philipp Lahm, Dante and David Alaba being the obvious choices in defense. Questions have been raised about Jerome Boateng and there is speculation that Daniel van Buyten might get the nod to partner Dante in central defense. Going up against a three man backline might surprise Bayern a little in the tactical sense but this will allow Lahm and Alaba a lot more space while attacking. With Juventus’ left flank being a little suspect, Lahm could hold the key while thundering forward. Going up against Lichtsteiner will be a handful for young Alaba but the Austrian has proven his mettle more than once before and will be keen to do so again. A lot will be decided on the flanks. Martinez’s suspension means that Bastian Schweinsteiger will be partnered by Luis Gustavo in the heart of midfield. Although not on the same plane as Martinez, Gustavo’s defensive abilities will be most crucial if Bayern are to put a dent in Juventus’ midfield trio. With both Marchisio and Vidal tending to move forward often, Schweinsteiger will fancy a fair number of forward forays himself. The wings should be manned by Franck Ribery and Thomas Müller. Both these players have been in scintillating form this season and given Juventus’ 3-5-2 formation, they might well get more space to play with than most think. Toni Kroos will complete Bayern’s midfield, slotting in behind the striker. Kroos’ attacking ability will undoubtedly be on show but the key role that the German international will play is that of keeping Andrea Pirlo at bay. Having played in a deeper role before, Kroos is no stranger to the dirty work in midfield and shouldn’t be too alien to the role of shutting down Pirlo. Heynckes has his hands full in choosing his striker for this fixture, especially after Claudio Pizarro’s goal fest over the weekend. Yet, it seems unlikely that the Peruvian will get the nod, leaving Mario Mandzukic and Mario Gomez as Heynckes’ options. Gomez has had injury problems and hasn’t been able to replicate his form from last season but his experience will be a massive advantage over the more consistent Mandzukic. Proabable Starting Line-Up (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Lahm, Boateng, Dante, Alaba; Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Müller, Kroos, Ribery; Mandzukic Juventus For Juventus and Antonio Conte, the slender win away at Inter will give them a huge boost. Morale will be running high in the Juventus camp while enthusiasm is never dry when Conte is around. The Italian Champions have no suspensions troubling them and Martin Caceres is the only first team regular that doesn’t make the trip to Munich. Whispers emanating from Italy suggest Conte is contemplating tinkering his formation. The aim here is to fit in Paul Pogba into the midfield. Pogba’s has grown in stature this season and is relegated to a bench role owing to the sheer quality of players ahead of him. But as these reports suggest, Pogba will be included so as to bolster the Juventus midfield and help them gain a foothold on the proceedings. One might question this idea as Juventus do have a winning formula and such a change comes with a major risk factor, especially keeping in mind the stage of the competition and the caliber of the opponents. For now, this looks fairly unlikely. While the bulk of the possession has fallen their way in the league, Juventus have looked content with allowing their opponents the ball in Europe. This new philosophy has worked quite well for them as they dispatched off Celtic causing no real upset in Europe. They should adopt a similar philosophy against the Die Roten. It will be intriguing to watch Kroos carry out his assignment of shadowing Pirlo. The two did tussle with each other in the Euros when Germany met Italy with Pirlo coming out on top due to the generous amount of space Kroos offered him. The defense remains untouched and will aim to remain compact. The wing-backs are vital in this clash as Bayern tend to exploit the quality of Ribery and Muller. Asamoah and Lichtsteiner have a tough job on their hands but a job they are nevertheless, capable of handling. Expect the Swiss International to be the more adventurous of the duo and support the forwards with his typically energetic runs. In attack, Vucinic is expected to start after shaking off a fever. It’s these kinds of games that bring out the best in the Montenegrin and Conte will turn once again to his enigmatic striker in the hope that he pulls off a vintage ‘big game’ display. Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Giovinco, Vucinic Players To Watch Out For Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich) The Frenchman has enjoyed an absolutely wonderful season this time around. Last season’s triple debacle will be something he wants to wipe out of his memory and what better way than to win the Champions League. Putting the sword to this solid Juventus lineup is a must if Bayern are to get through to the next round and who better to do so than a determined Ribery? Lichtsteiner is surely going to have a difficult night against the wily winger. Arturo Vidal (Juventus) Vidal was on Bayern’s radar before the Chilean opted to join Juventus. Since then, Vidal has gone on to establish himself as one of the best midfielders in Europe. Vidal embodies everything about Conte’s Juventus. Strong in the tackle, aggressive while capable of creating openings for his team-mates, Vidal ticks all the boxes of a complete midfielder. Expect him to rise to the occasion as he generally does during the big games. Prediction Bayern Munich 1-1 Juventus It will be entertaining, it will be fun as you expect when you have two of the best teams Germany and Italy have to offer showcasing their talents. Juventus will look to snatch an away goal while Bayern will do their very best to hopefully, for them, take a healthy lead to carry to Turin. A gritty low-scoring sdraw is on the cards but don’t be surprised if Bayern manage to edge this game. Blast From The Past
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern Munich-Juventus Preview: Bianconeri hoping to maintain quarter-final dominance The Old Lady have won all five last-eight games against German opposition, but will be up against last year's Champions League finalists, who are in stunning form of their own. Apr 1, 2013 PROBABLE LINE-UPS BAYERN Neuer Lahm, Boateng, Dante, Alaba Gustavo, Schweinsteiger Muller, Kroos, Ribery Mandzukic JUVENTUSBuffon Barzagli, Chiellini, Bonucci Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah Matri, Quagliarella Bayern Munich could welcome back Jerome Boateng and Bastian Schweinsteiger, who both missed the 2-0 second-leg defeat to Arsenal, for their quarter-final showdown with Serie A champions Juventus. However, Javi Martinez is suspended for the clash, which means Luiz Gustavo should replace the Spaniard. Long-term absentee Holger Badstuber remains sidelined with ruptured knee ligaments. Brazilian centre-back Dante and Philipp Lahm are in danger of missing the return leg in Turin on April 10 should they pick up a booking in this encounter. Juventus, meanwhile, have concerns over the fitness of attacker Sebastian Giovinco, who was scythed down by Esteban Cambiasso in their 2-1 Derby d'Italia victory over Inter, although he has been included in the 22-man squad. Mirko Vucinic is recovering from flu, which means Fabio Quagliarella and Alessandro Matri are likely to be Conte's preferred striking partnership, although Vucinic could be fit to feature. Stephan Lichtsteiner, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio are walking a discipinary tightrope as a booking incurred here would mean they miss the next match. DID YOU KNOW? • Bayern Munich go into this match in sparkling form having destroyed Hamburg 9-2 at the weekend. Claudio Pizarro grabbed four goals and two assists. • In the previous meeting Bayern beat Juventus 4-1 in Turin to eliminate them from the group stages in 2009-10 season. Only Gianluigi Buffon and Claudio Marchisio are likely to survive from that starting XI in this game for the Bianconeri. • Die Roten coach Jupp Heynckes masterminded victory over Juventus when he was Real Madrid boss, guiding them to a Champions League final 1-0 win in 1998. • Juventus last lost an away match in Europe back in 2010 when they were beaten 4-1 by Fulham in the Europa League. • Fabio Quagliarella has netted four goals in 248 minutes of action in the Champions League. • The Old Lady have not reached the last four since overcoming Barcelona in the 2002-03 campaign. Head to Head 19.10.2004 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Munich 1-0 03.11.2004 - Champions League - Bayern Munich-Juventus 0-1 18.10.2005 - Champions League - Bayern Munich-Juventus 2-1 02.11.2005 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Munich 2-1 30.09.2009 - Champions League - Bayern Munich-Juventus 0-0 08.12.2009 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Munich 1-4 Last Five Matches FC Bayern München Mar 30, 2013 - FC Bayern München 9 - Hamburg 2 - Bundesliga Mar 16, 2013 - Bayer 04 Leverkusen 1 - FC Bayern München 2 - Bundesliga Mar 13, 2013 - FC Bayern München 0 - Arsenal 2 - UCL Mar 9, 2013 - FC Bayern München 3 - F. Düsseldorf 2 - Bundesliga Mar 3, 2013 - Hoffenheim 0 - FC Bayern München 1 - Bundesliga Juventus Mar 30, 2013 - FC Internazionale 1 - Juventus 2 - Serie A 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 Players to Watch Franck Ribéry Bayern have an array of talent across the whole of the starting XI but the key could be to stretching the Bianconeri back three and getting their wingers involved as much as possible. Ribery is the type of player that could really give Juventus problems with his pace, tenacity and sheer brilliance enough to worry one of Europe's best current backlines. Arturo Vidal Will be key to the midfield battle with his energy and determination such an important factor in Juventus' success of late; particularly in the Champions League where his standout performance against Chelsea in the group stage was the catalyst for the Bianconeri's impressive run in Europe. Jupp Heynckes will be all-too familiar with the Chilean's pedigree having coached him at Bayer Leverkusen and will be hoping he does not come good against his side on Tuesday. Prediction Both teams go into this match on the back of fine form in their domestic leagues with Juventus winning the Derby d'Italia and Bayern putting nine past Hamburg, ensuring the stage is set for a thrilling encounter on Tuesday. Juventus cruised past Celtic in the last 16, while die Roten made hard work of Arsenal, but the Germans will be fully focused on taking a lead with them to Turin - although it will not come easy. Editor's Prediction Bayern 2 - 1 Juventus
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) We're outsiders, insists Conte Apr 1, 2013 Antonio Conte has claimed that his Juventus side are 'outsiders' when they play Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday. The Bianconeri face the Bundesliga leaders at the Allianz Arena tomorrow in the quarter-finals of the competition. And the 43-year-old has admitted that his team are up against it, but has insisted that the Old Lady are not in the last eight by fluke. “We know we're outsiders and that we're up against one of the main contenders,” he told a Press conference. “But we're not here by chance. “We’ll look to identify the weak points of an incredibly strong Bayern team. It will be a great, combative game. “We're delighted to be back in the final stages of Europe after a long absence and will look to play our own game. “Tomorrow we'll be up against an extremely strong side. Bayern's 20-point lead over a top side like Borussia Dortmund is a real testament of the strength that they possess. “But we can't let that put us off our game. “There’s plenty of desire to see how we measure up against Bayern. It's a test that will show us how far we've come.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Kroos: Only Barca better than Juve Apr 1, 2013 Bayern Munich talent Toni Kroos has the utmost respect for Champions League rivals Juventus. “Only Barcelona are better.” The two teams will meet in the first leg of their last eight tie at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday evening. “Juventus are a great name in European football and of course they will be a hard and strong opponent,” the international noted to UEFA.com. “Juve, from my point of view, is the strongest team after Barcelona. They will be very strong in defence like always. “Our aim is to win the game and it would be ideal not to concede a goal. We want to travel to Italy with best chance of going through to the semi-finals.” Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes today spoke of his admiration for Juventus’ midfield three of Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio. “They have a strong midfield, but so do we,” Kroos added. “Of course we have to be extremely careful of their key players like Pirlo, but it will be important to establish our style of play. “Against Juventus all of us must work a lot, starting from the forwards. Against a team like Juve the whole team must work defensively well. “If we are able to do so, we will win this game.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Vidal: We are a team to be feared Apr 1, 2013 Arturo Vidal has insisted that Juventus are a team 'to be feared' as they prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Antonio Conte's side will play Jupp Heynckes' men in the last eight of the competition tomorrow, and the Chile international has claimed that the Bianconeri are hungry to progress further. “After the win against Chelsea [in the group stage] we started to become aware of our potential,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “We have demonstrated that we are a team to be feared. “I am happy to see this team in a quarter-final. We have the hunger to win this competition. “I think this game can be considered a final. It is a match between two very good teams. “In my opinion we are the two best teams in the world.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Buffon: Our defence is the best Apr 1, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has praised his Juventus teammates ahead of their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich. The Bianconeri travel to the Allianz Arena for a quarter-final with the Bundesliga leaders on Tuesday. And the veteran goalkeeper has commended his fellow players, calling the Old Lady back-three 'the best'. “I work with a great defence that’s often underrated,” he told a Press conference. “They’re the best defensive three I’ve ever played behind. “Conte has done well to revert to a back three and find the right roles for the defenders to flourish. “A year and a half ago the club had a great intuition and managed to bring Pirlo to Turin. “I’ve played with many strong players but Pirlo is one of the few who has that little extra above the rest.” The 35-year-old also commented on their German opponents. “The two legs against Bayern will be equally as balanced and could well be decided by individual episodes. “We’re aware of the fact that we can still improve. But it’s nice to come to Munich and try to play our own game.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) 'Juventus the strongest team after Barcelona' - Kroos The Roten player has labelled the Bianconeri the second-best team in Europe ahead of the clash beween the two sides, and says Germany's record against Italian teams is irrelevant. Apr 1, 2013 Bayern Munich midfielder Toni Kroos has admitted Juventus have left an impression on him as he feels they are currently only topped by Barcelona. Both sides currently enjoy a commanding position in their respective domestic leagues, and Kroos is well aware of the Serie A champions' strengths, especially in defence. "Juventus, from my point of view, are the strongest team after Barcelona," the 23-year-old told reporters at the pre-match press conference. "They will be very strong in defence as always. After all, they are an Italian team." He also commented on the top-class midfield of the Bianconeri and singled out Andrea Pirlo as one of the main threats going into the match. "They have a strong midfield. So do we. Of course we have to be extremely careful of their key players like Pirlo, but it will be important to establish our style of play. If we are able to do so, we will win this game." Germany were eliminated from Euro 2012 by Italy, but Kroos does not believe the failure to proceed to the finals of the tournament has any effect on his club team's composure. He added: "The past does not count. And it is not of interest. We do not care about games between Germany and Italy, we do not care about former games against Juventus or Inter."
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Juventus are outsiders against Bayern, says Conte The Bianconeri boss feels the Bavarians are favourites for the clash of the sides and his men will have to focus on the opponents' mistakes in order to gain something in Germany. Apr 1, 2013 Juventus coach Antonio Conte has called for his players to exploit Bayern Munich's weak points despite considering his side to be "outsiders" ahead of their Champions League clash at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday night. The Bianconeri and Borussia Dortmund are the only two unbeaten teams of this year's European campaign so far, and he Italian trainer does not intend on having this streak interrupted by Jupp Heynckes' men, despite the German's outstanding form and their commanding position in Bundesliga. "We know we're outsiders and that we're up against one of the main contenders. But we're not here by chance," the 43-year-old told reporters at a press conference. "We’ll look to identify the weak points of an incredibly strong Bayern team. "It will be a great, combative game. Bayern's 20-point lead over a top side like Borussia Dortmund is a real testament of the strength that they possess. "We're delighted to be back in the final stages of Europe after a long absence and will look to play our own game. We’re here because we deserve to be. "Tomorrow we'll be up against an extremely strong side but we can't let that put us off our game. There’s plenty of desire to see how we measure up against Bayern. It's a test that will show us how far we've come."
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) 'Bayern are lacking in leadership' - Effenberg backs Juventus win The former Roten midfielder has written off the club's chances of beating Juventus in the Champions League as they have no leader in their ranks should things go pear shaped. Apr 1, 2013 Former Bayern Munich captain Stefan Effenberg has tipped Juventus over his former team in the Champions League quarter-final because Jupp Heynckes' side lack a leader when things go wrong. The ex-German international spent two spells with die Roten where he won three Bundesliga titles and one Champions League. However, the former skipper believes an "improved" La Vecchia Signora have the edge over his former employers. “I don’t think they [bayern] are favourites,” the 44-year-old told Ita Sport Press. “That is because this Juventus side is different from the one that started the competition. “They’ve improved so much since then, especially in terms of their self-belief,” added the former Fiorentina, Borussia Monchengladbach and Wolfsburg midfielder. The German club will be confident of their chances having thumped Hamburg 9-2 at the weekend to maintain their 20-point lead over second-placed Borussia Dortmund, but Effenberg believes this will count for nothing against the Bianconeri. “Should Bayern have an off day there is no real leader in their side who can drag the team along," he continued. “That is a limitation because a successful side needs to have personality and a competitive nastiness.” The two teams meet in Munich on April 2 before the return leg in Turin on April 10.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern Munich-Juventus Betting Preview: Visitors can make life tough for free-scoring hosts Jupp Heynckes' men blasted nine goals past Hamburg at the weekend but Willie Duncan thinks that Antonio Conte's side are capable of keeping things tight in Munich on Tuesday. Apr 1, 2013 Bayern Munich were in scintillating form at the weekend as they romped to a 9-2 victory over Hamburg. Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes will be hoping that his men retain their scoring touch for the visit of Italian champions Juventus in what promises to be an absorbing Champions League clash at Allianz Arena on Tuesday night. Last year’s runners-up are rated as warm 3/5 (1.60) favourites with BetVictor to take a giant step towards the last four of the competition by claiming a first-leg lead over the Turin-based side on Tuesday. Meanwhile Antonio Conte’s side, who cruised past Celtic in the last 16, are chalked up at a chunky 5/1 (6.0) with BetVictor to win in Munich. The same firm go 3/1 (4.0) that the match ends in stalemate. Bayern would appear to be worthy of their favourites tag given the blistering form they have shown this term and, having scored an astonishing 78 goals in just 27 Bundesliga games, there is little doubt they have the firepower to cause problems for Juventus. However, the Italian side are sure to draw some comfort from Arsenal’s 2-0 victory in this competition at Allianz Arena last month – a result which almost saw the Premier League outfit overturn a 3-1 deficit from the first leg. It is worth noting that Juventus have conceded just three goals in their last nine matches in all competitions and will hope their defensive solidity can frustrate the hosts. With that in mind, BetVictor’s even money (2.0) quote for the first goal to arrive after the 28th minute of the match is tempting while the juicy 13/10 (2.30) for Juventus (+1) in the handicap market also looks worthy of support. Despite Bayern’s undoubted attacking prowess, Jupp Heynckes will be concerned that his side have conceded in six of their last eight matches in all competitions and, when it is considered that Juventus have scored in all but one of their last 23 matches in all competitions, the generous even money (2.0) quote from BetVictor for both teams to score represents outstanding value. The Serie A league leaders appear to be underestimated by the odds compilers ahead of this clash and the sizable 3/1 (4.0) quote from BetVictor for Antonio Conte’s men to hold Bayern Munich in Bavaria is the value play on Tuesday.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) 'I went to bed with the Old Lady' - Heynckes The Bayern boss eased the pressure on his side by approaching the pre-match presser light-heartedly, but assured fans he has been doing extensive homework ahead of the clash. Apr 1, 2013 Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has given an insight as to how he has prepared for the Champions League quarter-final match against Juventus. The Bavarians currently dominate the Bundesliga with a 20-point lead over second-placed Borussia Dortmund, while the Bianconeri are in a comfortable position as well, topping Serie A with an nine-point advantage over Napoli. And Heynckes has insisted he is aware of the threat awaiting them when they meet Antonio Conte's side on Tuesday, and expects an exciting encounter between two European giants. "I went to bed last night with the Old Lady [Juventus] and I woke up with her," the 67-year-old told reporters at the pre-match press conference. "I did a lot of research about her, I studied recent games she's played and I was impressed with what I saw. "It will be a game of high quality with two equal teams. It will be very intensive and with lots of power. "Juventus are one of Europe’s top teams. On the one hand they are very Italian, but on the other there is a lot of creativity and fantasy in their squad." He then pointed out the qualities and the rich history of the illustrious Italian club, and spoke highly of their trainer Antonio Conte's work since his arrival in 2011. "They are physically extremely strong and they are able to run a lot. Juventus are like a myth. They came back like a phoenix," he continued. "It is a team with a lot of tradition and one of the top clubs in European football. "Antonio Conte has done many things very well during the last few years. "He obviously has many good qualities as the team is playing so successfully. The team carries his handwriting."
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Juventus away goal worries Muller Apr 1, 2013 Thomas Muller has underlined how crucial keeping a clean sheet will be for Bayern Munich against Juventus. The two teams will meet in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie on Tuesday and the German international wants to stop Juve scoring an away goal. “It will be extremely important not to concede,” he stated on UEFA.com. “All the offensive players will have to do their share of defensive work. “Juventus are a very strong side,” he continued. “They are a real team. They do not have a Lionel Messi, but they are strong as a unit. “There is a lot of quality in every part of the Juve team. I am looking forward to the game and I am confident we can win it.” Bayern Munich were the last club to beat Juventus in the competition when they collected a 4-1 win in Turin during December 2009. “Our last game against Juventus was a very important one. We won it and it was a kind of turnaround for our season in 2009-10. So I have really good memories.” Bayern will go into the game having destroyed Hamburg at the weekend. “We are concentrating hard and we know it will be difficult,” he added. “Of course we are not expecting a 9-2 win again. “This will be a completely different game to last Saturday against Hamburg.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern boss fears attacking Juve Apr 1, 2013 Juventus may not have a ‘top player’ in their forward ranks, but Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes thinks they are a stellar attacking force. The Bianconeri are often criticised for lacking that difference maker up front, but the German has the greatest respect for the Italian champions ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final tie. “Juventus are a side who are only part Italian,” the tactician stated on Monday. “They don’t play catenaccio and they have a very particular offensive organisation. “I have rarely seen an Italian side who are so organised, so unpredictable, when they move forward,” he underlined. Heynckes added that he fears what the Old Lady are capable of thanks to their three central midfielders. “They have midfielders who do break into attack a lot of the time. As a result we will have to organise ourselves as best we can because Juventus attack very well. “Andrea Pirlo is a genius, while Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio are great champions. We have players of that level too though.” Juventus have been out of the Champions League since 2009, when they were last beaten in the competition by Bayern Munich. “Juventus are a special opponent, a well structured side,” the tactician continued. “All teams have their weaknesses, us included. But I don’t think I should tell you what they are. “I’ve gone to watch Juventus recently because I want to be perfectly prepared. This past week I’ve gone to sleep thinking of the Old Lady and woken up thinking about her. “Juve are one of the greats in Europe, it’ll be a well balanced game. “We are expecting a game played at great rhythm, velocity and aggressiveness – all the ingredients for a great match.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Improved Juventus impress Effenberg Apr 1, 2013 Former Bayern Munich player Stefan Effenberg is respectful of the threat that Juventus will pose in the last eight of the Champions League. The two teams meet in the first leg of their encounter on Tuesday with Bayern seemingly favourites to reach the semi-finals. “I don’t think they are favourites,” the former Fiorentina midfielder told Ita Sport Press. “That is because this Juventus side is different from the one that started the competition. “They’ve improved so much since then, especially in terms of their self-belief,” added the man who enjoyed two spells at Bayern in his career. “Also, should Bayern have an off day then there is no real leader in their side who can drag the team along. “That is a limitation because to be successful a side needs to have personality and a competitive nastiness.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Trapattoni on Bayern-Juventus Apr 1, 2013 Juventus have a chance of eliminating Bayern Munich from the Champions League, says Giovanni Trapattoni. The Republic of Ireland tactician knows both clubs well given that he has bossed them to success in the past. “I do not think that Bayern have weaknesses,” Trapattoni said to Eurosport ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final tie. “But Juventus, and Italian football in general, have already proved that it has the resources and skills needed to overcome the German and British teams. “We Italians may have some limits, but we are very attentive when it comes to details. We may not have their strength, but we can beat them by being clever. “Juve have equilibrium. The spark has been in Antonio Conte’s team for a long time, especially in the championship. “They’ll have to play with great attention, without underestimating Bayern or showing fear. Juventus can win the game.” Trap also believed that the Turin giants are benefitted by the fact that the second leg will be hosted in the Juventus Stadium. “Playing the first leg away from home can be an advantage,” he added. “It is usually in the second leg that qualification is decided. It’s always better to be playing for that in front of your home fans.”
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) A 3-5-1-1 for Juventus at Bayern? Apr 1, 2013 Juventus boss Antonio Conte is considering the use of a 3-5-1-1 system at Bayern Munich on Tuesday, claims La Stampa. Conte has repeatedly used a 3-5-2 this season, but he’s reportedly thinking about fielding just one striker in the Champions League quarter-final first leg tie. Mirko Vucinic is being tipped to start after recovering from a fever which saw him ruled out of the 2-1 win at Inter. The modification will come with Paul Pogba replacing Claudio Marchisio in midfield, allowing the latter to take up a more advanced role. Boss Antonio Conte is scheduled to meet with the media later today ahead of tomorrow’s clash at the Allianz Arena. Possible line-ups Bayern: Neuer; Lahm, Boateng, Dante, Alaba; Luiz Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Ribery, Kroos, Robben; Mandzukic. Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Peluso; Marchisio; Vucinic.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Molinaro: Bayern have the edge over Juventus The left-back backs the Bundesliga giants to progress, but expects an even quarter-final tie between two of Europe's top sides. Apr 1, 2013 Stuttgart defender Cristian Molinaro believes that Bayern Munich have the edge over Juventus heading into their Champions League quarter-final tie. Molinaro, who wore the Bianconeri jersey from 2005 until 2010, expects a tight encounter between two of Europe's best teams, but feels that Bayern's position comfortably atop of the Bundesliga table gives them the advantage. "It is going to be a very interesting tie. Bayern and Juventus are currently two of Europe's strongest teams, together with Barcelona and Real Madrid," Molinaro told Goal.com. "Bayern and Juventus both dominate their respective leagues. It's going to be a great tie and I'm really looking forward to it. "Bayern have a slight edge, because they hold a bigger lead in the Bundesliga. It is very hard to give a prediction of what will happen, though." Bayern host Juventus on Tuesday, before travelling to Turin one week later.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Vucinic returns to Juventus squad for Bayern Munich clash The former Roma forward is raring to go again after a brief lay-off, while Sebastian Giovinco has also been included in the 22-man party to face the Bavarians. Apr 1, 2013 Juventus coach Antonio Conte has received some encouraging news from the treatment table ahead of Tuesday's Champions League match against Bayern Munich, as Mirko Vucinic has been given the green light to feature in the first leg of the quarter-final tie. The Montenegro international missed Saturday's 2-1 Serie A win over arch-rivals Inter due to flu, and there were doubts whether he would recover in time for the match at the Allianz Arena. However, the attacker has been included in the travelling party for Tuesday's match in Munich and is raring to go again after a brief lay-off. Meanwhile, Sebastian Giovinco has also made the match squad for the game against the Bundesliga leaders. The attacker missed Sunday morning's training session after picking up a knock in the win over Inter following Esteban Cambiasso's horror tackle, but he's deemed fit enough for Tuesday's clash. The first leg at the Allianz Arena is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET, with the return in Turin taking place on April 10.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Chelsea row ref awarded Bayern-Juventus As Manchester United return to Stamford Bridge, the official at the centre of the Jon Obi Mikel 'abuse' storm, Mark Clattenburg, is handed a Champions League last-eight clash. Apr 1, 2013 Mark Clattenburg will referee the most prestigious club match of his career just five months after being suspended over an unfounded allegation of verbally abusing a Chelsea player. The 38-year-old was stood down from officiating in the Premier League for a month in November while the Football Association investigated the club's complaint against him. Chelsea claimed he used "inappropriate language" towards midfielder John Obi Mikel in their 3-2 home defeat by Manchester United in October but the FA found the official had no case to answer. Clattenburg described the ordeal as "truly frightening" but now, in a remarkable reversal of fortune, Uefa has selected him to oversee the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final between Bayern Munich and Juventus on Tuesday. A member of UEFA's elite group of referees, Clattenburg has officiated in the Champions League since 2008 but has never been handed the responsibility of a last-eight encounter or beyond. Many neutral observers would also view Bayern-Juventus as the tie of the round, involving two continental giants with rich histories and titanic reputations. Unsurprisingly, Clattenburg was overlooked for United's FA Cup quarter-final trip to Stamford Bridge on Monday, with Phil Dowd taking charge.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern Munich vs Juventus: More than just a football match Apr 1, 2013 When Juventus are tempted to give precedence to a certain game over the Derby d’Italia, it isn’t hard to tell there is something big in the offing. While the grudge match with Inter has by no means lost its lustre, the Champions League evenings were always going to challenge even the most highly-anticipated domestic games for the limelight. After all, following a seven-year hiatus from making up one of the final eight in Europe’s premier club competition, the upcoming quarter-finals make up the chance of a lifetime for Antonio Conte’s men. That it is Bayern Munich who now aim to put a halt to the Turin giant’s ascendancy makes the encounter greatly more mouth-watering. After suffering their last European defeat at the hands of none other than the Bavarians, Juventus will set out with a particular point to prove at Allianz Arena – not merely to avenge their pride, but also carrying the totality of the Italy – Germany rivalry on their backs. The 4-1 mauling inflicted in front of the Bianconeri‘s own fans that fateful night in 2009 was very much a sign of the times then, for the state of Italian and German football could not have begun this decade further poles apart. Calciopoli‘s main benefactor, the Bundesliga, embraced a period of flourishing growth in sporting and commercial profile, unperturbed as it was by the self-inflicted disintegration Serie A found itself mired in. Even Jose Mourinho’s European Cup triumph over Juventus’ tormentors that year could not stem the tide; fueled by self-sustained club infrastructure and a seemingly endless pool of quality talent to delve into, Germany’s representatives were oft-elevated as being the teams to beat, save for the odd Primera Liga superpower. Eventually, Italy was to pick itself up and fight back nevertheless, starting down the laborious and drawn-out road of recovery by analysing and adopting their opponents’ practices. It was Juventus who adopted the mantle of leading the charge with her exclusively-owned stadium and blossoming youth ranks, and so it now falls upon Serie A’s most modern exponent to complete that fightback, for triumph over Jupp Heynckes’ runaway domestic leaders would be of symbolic value as great as its sporting achievement. This time, they stand equipped to redress their new found know-how’s original purveyors. Andrea Pirlo and co. would understand the significance of this match very well – not least of all in helping restore Italy’s co-efficient ranking and earning back the coveted fourth Champions League qualifying spot. Piercing the veil of good-natured mutual respect between either side leading up to Tuesday’s gargantuan clash, the encounter still remains a fight to the death between two sets of eternal rivals. Thus far eschewing the hype that is typically associated with shaking up the continental status quo, the Italian champions have to face up to the growing attention they have drawn to themselves and perform in fashion worthy of the expectations of an entire nation, who will silently be cheering on their saviours with bated breath. Die Roten might have been at their foreboding best in Saturday’s 9-2 demolition of Hamburg, but Conte would have it no other way than his charges look their celebrated opponents squarely in the eye. What relative lack of strength-in-depth the 43-year-old can bring to bear in stark contrast to his glorified adversaries, he can overcome by mustering the courage found within his players’ hearts. Focusing first on nullifying the host’s potent attack in a staunch rearguard action led by defensive stalwart Andrea Barzagli, the comparative underdogs stand chance of progress yet. After both sides inched closer to sewing up domestic glory at the weekend, they are able to transfix their undivided attention to the task that awaits them. Juventus’ wits will be tested no end against an opponent as dauntingly efficient as Bayern, but fortune favours the brave, and the treasures awaiting will continue justifying their unrelenting endeavour. Working for the Italians’ is that the best teams need not necessarily always win: “There are quality sides left in the competition, but hunger and character can make more of a difference than a champion in your team,” ex-Delle Alpi icon Mark Iuliano belligerently pointed. This tie will be the biggest test to Juventus’ status as resurgent Champions League contenders to boot, but so is it the biggest stage on which to deliver a positive statement for Serie A’s renaissance upon. After showcasing their mettle on numerous occasions against prolific opposition over the length of their campaign – even when the chips are down – making it that hurdle or two further will exponentially boost awareness of the renewed prominence the peninsula’s top teams are taking up again in the continent. Through the exploits of her final flag-bearers, Serie A is finally restored to living the European dream. Shunned and dismissed by all till now, it could be Juventus, and indeed, all of Italian football, who may yet enjoy the last laugh this season.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern Munich vs. Juventus Apr 1, 2013 Projected Bayern Munich XI: Neuer; Lahm, Boateng, Dante, Alaba; Schweinsteiger, Luiz Gustavo; Muller, Kroos, Ribery; Mandzukic Projected Juventus XI: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Quagliarella, Vucinic Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez is suspended for this match, which means Luiz Gustavo will come in for the Spain international alongside Bastian Schweinsteiger in the centre of the park. On the other side of the ball, Fabio Quagliarella—who scored once and assisted another on Saturday against Inter Milan—is set to keep his place for Juventus, and striker Mirko Vucinic could be included in the starting lineup as well after recovering from a bout of flu. However, Italian outlet La Stampa on Monday suggested Juventus manager Antonio Conte could deploy a 3-5-1-1 formation at Allianz Arena, with only one of Quagliarella and Vunicic up top and Claudio Marchisio tucked just in behind. The thinking is that Paul Pogba would then slot into the central midfield with Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo. Bayern and Juventus have faced each other four times previously, with Bayern winning two matches, Juventus winning one and the other ending in a scoreless draw.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Champions League Preview: Juventus vs. Bayern — Bavarian Battle Royale No Aprils Fools' jokes. Normal service is as normal as it gets. THE CHAMPIONS!!! Apr 1, 2013 t's been a few years since Juventus have been in the quarterfinals of the Champions League. To be exact, that figure is seven years, but we're not trying to get particular right now. But obviously the road to get back to this stage of the game has been a long and eventful one — probably filled with just as many downs as there have been ups. Well, that was before Antonio Conte arrived on the scene. But after the long anticipated wait on the outskirts of the final eight, Italy's Old Lady is right back where she belongs. Juventus' quarterfinal tie against Bayern Munich has been a long time coming. And it just so happens that in Juventus' return to the elite eight of European football, it's the main event of the round. Even though most of us residents of the United States won't be able to watch it live on our televisions (thanks, Fox Soccer), this is heavyweight vs. heavyweight. If it were taking place in Vegas, it would be the top of the card with the biggest of celebrities sitting ringside to watch. See? Gigi's excited about heading back to Germany. Few players remain in Bianconero from the last time these two teams played in the Champions League. I won't get into details about the final score — because who really wants to relive that game? — but it was hard reminder of just how far Juventus has come since the last time there was a Champions League game featuring the Old Lady and Bayern Munich. Different circumstances. Different players. Different coaches. Different vibes around the two clubs in general. It's the best of the best meeting tomorrow night in Bavaria. And as I said in the initial Champions League draw post, this tie is more than two of Europe's giants going up against one another. The individual match-ups are plentiful — everywhere you look there's a great player going up against another great player. It's just another reason why this two-legged tie with the chance to advance to the Champions League semifinals is so massive and so impressive even before the two teams step on the field. LE CHIAVI There isn't much to say about how good Bayern has been in the Bundesliga this season. That's mainly because they haven't been good — they've been absolutely dominent. A few quick numbers to only support that, okay? Wins: 23 Draws: 3 Losses: 1 Goals scored: 78 Goals allowed: 13 Goal differential: Plus-65 (!!) Pretty much sums up why Bayern has a 20-point lead in the Budesliga right now, isn't it? They're good. Really, really good. GOOD NEWS For the first time in a long time, everybody who plays a significant role within this Juventus squad is basically healthy. Sure, we could go on about whether or not Giorgio Chiellini is completely, 100 percent fit or if Mirko Vucinic has gotten over the fever that kept him out of the Derby d'Italia victory over Inter on Saturday. BAD NEWS I don't really know to be honest. Maybe that both legs aren't being played at Juventus Stadium? That would be cool, but totally unrealistic, so why fret about it to begin with. WHAT TO WATCH FOR 1. Antonio Conte's tactics. 3-5-2 or 3-5-1-1 with a Paul Pogba twist? We've talked about it already, but it deserves to be mentioned again. It's kinda important, don't you think? I think so, too. We got a glimpse of what Juve's formation against Bayern might look like when Conte substituted Paul Pogba with about 15 minutes left to go against Inter on Saturday. Clearly, the circumstances were a bit different than they will be tomorrow night — Juventus were looking to lock up their lead rather than playing with a six-man midfield from the opening kickoff. Still, there's just a feeling that Conte will go with a lone striker rather than his regular 3-5-2 formation. I dunno. I just have a hunch about this. I'll just leave this here. You won't find me disagreeing with that. 2. The battle in the midfield. No matter what formation Antonio Conte rolls with, the midfield is going to be huge — and there will be game-changing players everywhere you look. Marchisio-Vidal-Pirlo vs. Muller-Kroos-Ribery. That's two of the best midfield trios that you'll find anywhere. Obviously Muller and Kroos will have to deal with Juventus' wingbacks — Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah — a good amount of the time, but there's no denying that Marchisio and Vidal have quite a bit of defensive responsibility in Juve's midfield. 3. The Vucinic Effect. That's if he plays, of course — which I'm pretty sure he will. What do ya know — another guy who was the subject of an international break post is likely to be a key player in how Juventus do tomorrow night. Vucinic will either be the lone striker on the field or paired up with one of Sebastian Giovinco, Fabio Quagliarella, or Alessandro Matri. That's about all we know. If he's fit, which he probably will be, he's starting. That's just the way it is no matter how QuagliaMatri played against Inter. 4. Containing the Bayern firepower. When you've got a player of Arjen Robben's quality coming off the bench, you know you've got one heck of an attacking force. There's no doubting that this will be the biggest test for Juventus' three-man defense to date. I won't obsess over the fact that Bayern just stormed out for nine goals against Hamburg on Saturday because nobody could have expected that much of a straight beatdown. Are Bayern a very good offensive team? Absolutely. Are Juventus a very good defensive team? Absolutely. 5. Arturo Vidal — the man with German ties. Bayern Munich wanted to sign the Chilean dynamo, he chose Juventus instead. When Bayern's management had some not-so-nice things to say about Vidal after his transfer to Juve was announced, he went on to prove why he's one of the best midfielders in the game. They mad? Yeah, they mad. This will be Vidal's first official return to Germany since he was signed from Leverkusen two summers ago. Something tells me he will have a little something extra to show Bayern what they're missing out on. My starting XI (3-5-1-1): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Marchisio; Vucinic
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) The Big Match Tactical View: Bayern Munich v Juventus With Juventus set to change formation for this match, Michael Cox considers the likely consequences. Apr 1, 2013 Bayern Munich's confidence in possession this season has been remarkable. In the Champions League, only Barcelona boast a higher pass completion rate and more possession than the German league leaders this season - and their midfield dominance means Juventus coach Antonio Conte is considering changing his formation especially for this first leg. Last summer's purchase of Javi Martinez changed the balance of Bayern's midfield, and made them even more reliable in possession. The Spaniard sits solidly in front of the Bayern back four and plays simple passes, allowing Bastian Schweinsteiger to break forward into attack, shuttling between a deep midfield role and a position alongside Toni Kroos, Bayern's clever playmaker. Juventus' usual three-man midfield - Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio - is probably a match for Bayern's trio, at least on paper. However, it seems Conte will change his system to help Juve compete in the centre of the Allianz Arena pitch. Paul Pogba is set to be drafted into the side. The young Frenchman has been extremely impressive in recent months for Juventus, and showed his ability against the world's most talented central midfielders when performing well for France against Spain last week (although he was sent off towards the end of the game). The use of Pogba in a defensive-minded role would push Claudio Marchisio higher up the pitch, in support of a lone striker - probably Mirko Vucinic - and change Juventus from a 3-5-2 to a 3-5-1-1. Some may argue this shows Juve's fear of Bayern dominating, but it's a shrewd move from Conte's point of view. This change of formation is significant enough to have a major impact on the balance of the side, but subtle enough that the defensive structure won't change - it will still be three centre-backs and three central midfielders, with wing-backs charging up and down the touchlines. Besides, Juve's one weakness is their lack of reliable centre-forwards - leaving out one of Alessandro Matri, Sebastian Giovinco or Fabio Quagliarella isn't a big problem, especially because Marchisio specialises in making well-timed forward runs to the edge of the box. The midfield is absolutely key to this contest. Kroos will be a particularly important player - in recent years he's shown a tremendous ability to perform in the big games, darting back and forth between different positions, helping to overload the opposition in various zones. He can play close to Mario Mandzukic or drop deeper to help out in midfield - if Juve pack the centre of the pitch, expect to see him in a deep role. But Bayern may also attempt to attack down Juventus' left. Bayern switched their attention to the right in the previous round against Arsenal - when Thomas Vermaelen was deployed out of position - and it's fair to say the left-wing-back role is one of the few positions Juventus don't have sorted. Either Federico Peluso or Kwadwo Asamoah will play there - Peluso is the more likely, as a more defensive option, but he lacks the strength of Juve's other defenders. Kroos, Schweinsteiger and right-back Philipp Lahm will all charge forward to create two-against-one situations with Thomas Muller - expect Giorgio Chiellini to get out quickly and help. That's where Juve might encounter difficulties - down the flanks. By packing the centre of the pitch, they'll leave themselves vulnerable in other zones - expect Lahm and left-back David Alaba to charge forward whenever possible, stretching the play. Bayern, meanwhile, must watch two players. First, Pirlo's influence on Juve is enormous - and although his precise position is undecided with Pogba likely to come in, Bayern must nullify him. In Italy's 2-0 win over Germany at Euro 2012, Kroos did a poor job trying to track Pirlo - he must get closer this time around. Second, Marchisio will be even more dangerous in an advanced role. The attacking midfielder has a habit of coming up with goals on the big occasion, and I'll back him to score at 8.0.
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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Jupp Heynckes: 'Juventus play aggressively' Apr 1, 2013 Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has warned his players against getting carried away following their 9-2 home win against Hamburg in the Bundesliga on Saturday. The 67-year-old says that the match against Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday will be "a whole different story". "Obviously it was important for us to gain further confidence," he told reporters. "We played some textbook football for parts of the game. "However, it's going to be a whole different story against Juventus on Tuesday because they will play much more aggressively. It was apparent the team had a lot of joy playing today." Bayern will host the first leg of their quarter-final tie at the Allianz Arena.
