Socrates

Bayern-Juventus will be like a Champions League final, says Rummenigge The Bavarian chief is of the opinion that the two European giants are set for a tough encounter in the last eight of the competition. Mar 19, 2013 Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge believes that the club’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Juventus is the sort of match which would befit the final. The two European giants have been drawn against each other having knocked out Arsenal and Celtic respectively in the last 16. Rummenigge, a former Bayern and Inter star, expressed his opinion that it will be a difficult tie for the Bavarians but one that will be entertaining due to the quality of the two sides. "It will be a tough game for us, and for them it will be an open meeting," he told Sky Sport 24. "There were weaker teams that Juventus could have met, but also weaker teams that Bayern [could have met]. "It's a possible final. There is no expectation in Munich but I think there is also none in Turin. "Anyway it will be an interesting round between two teams of the highest level." The last time the pair clashed in the Champions League was in 2009, when FCB emerged 4-1 victors away from home in a group stage game. The other three quarter-final fixtures to look forward to in early April are Real Madrid-Galatasaray, Barcelona-Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund-Malaga.

Totti may still have Italy future, hints Buffon The Juventus goalkeeper has added his weight behind growing support for the Roma forward to be recalled to the international fold. Mar 19, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon believes Francesco Totti could still have an international future with Italy. The Roma forward, who has 58 caps to his name, retired from Azzurri duty after their World Cup triumph in 2006, but boss Cesare Prandelli admitted on Monday that the door would be open for him to return. And his former team-mate, Buffon, has issued a glowing appraisal of the 36-year-old and says he is still more than capable of playing for Italy once again. "You cannot rule anything out with a player who can win matches by himself. He continues to write history in Italian football and not only has a past. He may still have a future as he is showing," he said at a press conference. "When he made the decision to leave the Azzurri in 2006, Francesco thought long and hard. After winning the World Cup, which is the most beautiful thing in football, he preferred to devote himself to Roma and his health as he was nursing a long-term injury. "I am still a little sorry that he left us, seven years on [since his retirement from international football]. What would I say if I wanted him to return to the national team? They are intimate things, he knows what I'd say. "The dressing room, in regards to the decisions of a coach, does not have any power. They are the specific responsibilities of those who lead the team. "When I talk about a man like Francesco, I still speak of him as if he were one of us. With some of us, myself included, we were with Totti in the Italy set-up from the age of 15, so he will always be one of my fellow national-teamers." Buffon then reflected on the call-ups handed to new boys Mattia De Sciglio and Alessio Cerci for Thursday's friendly clash with Brazil, the goalscoring form of Mario Balotelli since his move to AC Milan and the large Rossoneri and Juventus presence in the squad. "It's too early to make judgments on the new faces, but there is hope for the future. That was a problem which we paid for in the past, but it seems to have been resolved now," the Juventus No.1 added. "We all hope that he reaches his full potential, but that does not mean that he has to stifle his own nature. He has always been quiet on Italy duty. The only thing that was missing from his game was consistency. "Now he is finding that and I hope that his move to Milan gives the national team the joys that we expect from him. "Milan have always relied on an Italian nucleus, and even their attempts to refresh the squad are Italian-based. "It seems logical to me that these two teams [Milan and Juventus] give the most players to the national team."

Pirlo: Brazil match will be no friendly The Azzurri midfielder believes that in football it is misleading to refer to any match with such a term, while Alessio Cerci hopes to make an impact on his first call-up. Mar 18, 2013 Andrea Pirlo has dismissed the ‘friendly’ tag being given to Italy’s match with Brazil on Thursday. The two international giants face off in Geneva in Switzerland and the Juventus midfield icon believes the Azzurri will give their all against the World Cup 2014 hosts. "We want to wear this jersey in the best way possible," the midfielder told reporters on Monday. "And it is always a pleasure to take part in games like this one coming up,” continued the former Milan man. "There are no such things as friendly matches in football, especially when Italy are involved and especially when the opponents are Brazil." Torino winger Alessio Cerci has been given his first international call-up by head coach Cesare Prandelli, and he has revealed his joy at the honour of being picked and hopes he can show the talent that has been bubbling under the surface for Italy. "It seems almost impossible to be picked, but I am very happy, and I am enjoying the moment," he said. "I've always had the label of being 'promising’ but then for various reasons I have not exploded. I have not shown my true value. "At this time I found a really important as Torino have allowed me to be here and I am looking to the future." Meanwhile Gianluigi Buffon has accepted that the Azzurri have been lacking in recent clashes with the South American side and believes the friendly will be a tough examination of the Euro 2012 finalists’ progress. "We have played against Brazil a few times in recent years and, on those occasions, we have fared badly," the veteran goalkeeper explained. "It is an important test for us because in the end it will give meaningful answers for those that will be part of our future selections and hold our beliefs." Reports from numerous sources including Repubblica are indicating that Giorgio Chiellini will miss the Selecao clash due to an ankle issue, but will be assessed over the next 48 hours.

Molinaro: Bayern Munich nothing special in defence The wing-back is not impressed with the Allianz Arena side's defensive options, and has singled out Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery as their main attacking threats. Mar 19, 2013 Stuttgart defender Cristian Molinaro believes Juventus have what it takes to trouble Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final tie as he feels the Bavarians are vulnerable in the centre of defence. The left-back, who was under contract with Juve from 2005 until 2010, has warned his former team the Bundesliga leaders always try to play their own game, but feels Bayern's lack of quality at the back opens opportunities for the Bianconeri which they could exploit. "Bayern always try and play their own game, but they are not exceptional in defence, in particular at centre-back," Molinaro told Tuttosport. "Dante is having a great season, but the problem is who will play alongside him. At the moment Jupp Heynckes opts for Daniel Van Buyten, and that's Bayern's most vulnerable spot. "He is not a fast player and he could suffer against Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco." Molinaro then went on to single out Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben as Bayern's main attacking threats. He added: "Ribery is very unpredictable. However, I would also keep a close eye on Robben. Many think that he will not play, but I believe he will." The first leg of the tie takes place at the Allianz Arena on April 2.

Only Barcelona are better than Juventus, says Salihamidzic The former Bianconeri and die Roten winger believes his former Italian side are the second- best team in the world, after the Bavarians drew them as their quarter-final opponents. Mar 18, 2013 Ex-Juventus and Bayern Munich winger Hasan Salihamidzic feels the Old Lady are currently only topped by Barcelona as the world's best side. The Serie A title holders will face Jupp Heynckes' men in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, and the Bosnian footballer has labelled Antonio Conte's men as the favourites for the clash. "Barcelona are above any other team. In second place, for me, is Juve," the 36-year-old told Bild. "Bayern will have to bring a top performance two times. I would have wished for an easier opponent for now, it hardly could have been any more difficult. "Juventus have been on a roll for the past two years, they hardly lose any matches. "Their defence with former Wolfsburg centre-back Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini are absolutely top-class. "I don't see any weaknesses at the moment. They play a perfect 3-5-2 system and also have a world-class midfield with Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal. "Ex-Bayer Leverkusen player Vidal is responsible for the rhythm. If he's in form, Juve win. He has developed even further after departing from the Bundesliga two years ago." Bayern Munich's first-leg quarter-final clash against Juventus will be kicked off on April 2, 20.45CET at the Allianz Arena.

Marchisio: Brazil an important test for Italy The Juventus midfielder is looking forward to a tough challenge against the Selecao on Thursday. Mar 18, 2013 Claudio Marchisio says Italy's friendly with Brazil is a game that "every kid wants to play in". Cesare Prandelli's men are sitting pretty at the top of World Cup 2014 qualification Group B and face the Selecao in a friendly on Thursday, ahead of their latest qualifier against Malta on March 26. "It's the game that every kid wants to play. It's the best," the 27-year-old told giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "Brazil is the home of spectacular football. It will be an important test for Italy, a check of the highest levels. "We shouldn't take the match against Malta too easy, it is crucial in the race to the World Cup, considering the difficulties we've encountered in the first leg." He then talked about the pride Juventus players have in being selected for their country, and revealed his belief that Italy are currently among the top three teams in the world. He added: "We at Juventus are proud to have many players that represent a great national team, after years of really hard work at the club. "Our national side, I think, is only behind Spain and Germany."

Pogba: I want to be Pogba, not Vieira The midfielder says he is ready to make the next step in his career after earning his first international call-up. Mar 18, 2013 Paul Pogba is determined to carve out his own reputation and has brushed off comparisons with France legend Patrick Vieira. Les Bleus are preparing for two important World Cup 2014 qualifiers against Georgia and Spain and sit in second place in Group I, level on points with la Roja. And after joining up with the national side for the first time at their Clairefontaine base, Pogba outlined his hopes for the future and determination to become his own man. "Comparisons with Patrick Vieira? Because I have long legs they say I run like him, but Vieira remains Vieira, I want to be Pogba," the 20-year-old told RMC Sport. "I hope to impose myself on the France team. In any case, I will make every effort to have a great career. I will give everything for it. "I'm here because the coach believes I’m ready. Besides, I think so. I'm ready to play and show my qualities."

Pogba delighted with France call-up Mar 18, 2013 Paul Pogba has claimed that he is 'very happy' to have been called up by the French national team. The Juventus midfielder has been named in Didier Deschamps' squad for the World Cup qualifiers with Georgia and Spain this month after some impressive performances for the Bianconeri. “I am very happy for this opportunity,” he told reporters. “I was surprised, but I know I will not be playing from the first minute. “Whatever happens it will be a great experience for me. “I am increasingly convinced about my decision to join Juventus [from Manchester United]. I am really happy to be here.”

Chiellini a doubt for Brazil Mar 18, 2013 Giorgio Chiellini is a doubt for Italy's friendly match with Brazil on Thursday after suffering an ankle injury. The Juventus defender picked up the knock yesterday, and the Azzurri's chief medical officer, Enrico Castellacci, has confirmed that there are concerns over the 28-year-old's fitness. “Chiellini reported a trauma to his left ankle,” he told reporters this afternoon. “He also has a problem with the other ankle as well. “The situation is a worry for us. He did not train today. “We will have 48 hours to evaluate and decide if he will be with us in Geneva.” Cesare Prandelli's team play the Selecao in Switzerland later this week, before travelling to Malta for a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

Pirlo: Italy-Brazil not a friendly Mar 18, 2013 Andrea Pirlo insists there is no such thing as a friendly in international football ahead of the Italy-Brazil tie. The two giants of the world game will meet in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday and the Juventus playmaker is hopeful his side will prove their worth – especially while exhibiting their new shirt. “We want to wear this jersey in the best way possible,” the midfielder stated on Monday afternoon at Coverciano. “And it is always a pleasure to take part in games like this one coming up,” continued the former Milan man. “There are no such things as friendly matches in football, especially when Italy are involved and especially when the opponents are Brazil…”

Buffon on facing Brazil test Mar 18, 2013 This week’s friendly against Brazil will provide answers to certain questions about the strength of Italy, says Gigi Buffon. The Azzurri will take on the World Cup hosts in Geneva and the Juventus idol has underlined how significant the tie will be. “We’ve faced Brazil on a few occasions in the last few years and we’ve done pretty poorly against them,” the captain stated. “Thursday’s match will be important, it will give us some important answers about the future, about our convictions. “These are the kind of games that will help you to mature, no matter whether you do well or badly in them.” The Azzurri haven’t beaten Brazil since Paolo Rossi scored a sensational hat-trick against them in the 1982 World Cup. In the five meetings since then, there have been three Brazil wins and two draws. Buffon has played in the last two meetings between the two giants, losing 2-0 and 3-0 during ties in 2009.

Bayern wanted return home advantage Mar 18, 2013 Bayern Munich chief Uli Hoeness would have preferred home advantage in the second leg of their Champions League game against Juventus. Bayern will entertain the Bianconeri on April 2 and then travel to Turin on April 10 following Friday’s last eight draw. “It will be a very difficult tie because we are playing at home first,” the former West German international told Bild. “I would have preferred to play the first game in Italy. “Both Juventus and Bayern are great sides and I’m convinced that they are not encounters which will end 1-1. “For now though we just have to think about our domestic League matches so that we get to the quarter-final games in a relaxed mood."

Marotta: Conte staying, no to Ibra Mar 18, 2013 Juventus insist that Antonio Conte will continue as Coach, but he won’t have Zlatan Ibrahimovic at his disposal next season. Conte raised doubts about his future on Sunday after being criticised for his actions at the end of the 2-0 win over Bologna. “It was a post-match comment,” director general Beppe Marotta told Radio Anch’io Lo Sport on Monday. “Conte is a great Coach and I hope he will remain at Juventus for a long time to come. “I understand that not everyone is like Alex Ferguson, but I am convinced that we will have him with us for many more years.” The tactician also spoke after the game about the hostile climate that continually awaits his side when they travel in Serie A. “The situation is deteriorating,” Marotta commented. “When we play away from home we are always escorted by armoured police. “It seems as if we have gone back in time to the Roman arenas where there were gladiators. The world of football alone can do little, it is a matter of culture.” Turning to on the field matters, Marotta was confident of Scudetto success – but admitted it may be more difficult in the Champions League with Bayern Munich next. “We are very well placed in the League, but there are still 27 points on offer. We are aware of our ability, so there is optimism. “We have created a model club and squad. There is a Coach who is hungry, as well as the players. Everybody plays with enthusiasm and knowledge of wearing an important jersey. “When it comes to the Champions League you are talking about a tournament, not a championship. Often luck plays a major role. Think about Chelsea last year. “We are happy to be back on the European stage and we hope that fortune will be with us.” Marotta also justified the January capture of Nicolas Anelka, who has hardly played, and ruled out a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Ibrahimovic. “Anelka was a free signing, we had Nicklas Bendtner injured and we wanted to strengthen the offensive department in anticipation of possible injuries. “The operation was relevant but does not burden the future. It was linked to a contingency plan. “Ibra? Pavel Nedved made ​​a technical comment about him. This assessment is one that we may agree with, but his parameters are not in line with ours. He will not be a Juventus player.”

Marchisio: No Bayern fear Mar 18, 2013 Claudio Marchisio is well aware of Bayern Munich’s strength, but he maintains his Juventus side will have no fear in the Champions League last eight. The Old Lady were paired with the German giants in Friday’s draw and Marchisio has admitted that they’ve been handed a tie against one of the favourites to lift the trophy. “They’re the strongest team in Europe alongside Barcelona and Real Madrid,” he stated. “However, we’re experiencing the Champions League campaign with great joy.” The Turin giants began their European Cup campaign with the handbrake on after collecting three consecutive draws. However, they’ve won every game since and topped a group containing Shakhtar Donetsk and holders Chelsea. “We won our group convincingly and we will give Bayern as good as we get,” the 27-year-old Italian international added. “We know about the strengths of Bayern Munich, but we’ll go to Germany without fear.”

Juve sent message, says Padoin Mar 18, 2013 Simone Padoin has underlined how important the 2-0 win at Bologna was on Saturday night for Juventus. http://markting10.nl/ The League leaders collected a key victory which has seen their nine-point lead over Napoli remain intact. “We sent a strong message to the rest of the championship,” the 29-year-old. “It was an important match for us.” http://markting10.nl/ Padoin was a surprise starter at the Dall’Ara and he was happy with the contribution that he made against the Rossoblu. “I gradually became aware that I’d be starting the game during training last week,” the former Atalanta man added. “I’m content with how it went.”

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415 We have sent out a strong message to our rivals - Buffon The Juventus captain believes that victory over Bologna has further underlined his side's credentials, not just to the rest of Serie A but also to their Champions League opponents. Mar 17, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has indicated that Juventus’ 2-0 victory over Bologna should stand as a warning to their rivals as they tighten their grip on Serie A. Goals from Mirko Vucinic and Claudio Marchisio allowed the Bianconeri to take a 2-0 win over their hosts and move 12 points clear in the league. However, speaking after the game, Buffon was keen to stress that although his team’s form is ominous, the season is far from over. "There are still a lot of important games left to play," the 35-year-old goalkeeper told Juventus.com. "But we sent out a strong message this evening. "Much like last Sunday [a 1-0 win over Catania], it was a contest which was worth more than the three points on offer." The Old Lady were able to stretch their advantage over Napoli, who play Atalanta on Sunday, and the importance of the win was not lost on goalscorer Marchisio. "It’s an important victory which allows us to go into the break with the points we were after," the 27-year-old Italian declared. "Now we’ve got the international break and then we’ll take on Inter, bolstered by a strong advantage in the table." The midfielder also reflected on the Champions League quarter-final draw, which saw the Bianconeri drawn against four-time winners Bayern Munich. "Bayern are the strongest team in Europe alongside Barcelona and Real, but we’re experiencing the Champions League campaign with great joy. "We know about their strengths, but we’ll go to Munich without fear." Juventus sit top of Serie A with 65 points from 29 games. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415 Conte: It annoys people when we win The Juventus coach believes that Bologna boss Stefano Pioli took offence to his celebrations after his side's 2-0 win at Dall'Ara purely due to their status. Mar 17, 2013 Juventus coach Antonio Conte has defended his exuberant celebrations in the wake of his team's 2-0 win against Bologna on Saturday. Rossoblu counterpart Stefano Pioli took offence to the 43-year-old's actions, labelling them disrespectful, but the former Siena boss has claimed that he is only objecting due to antipathy towards the Bianconeri. "If I can’t even celebrate with my fans after such an important victory, I don’t know what you can do any more," Conte told reporters after the match. "I know that it annoys many people when we win, but there was no lack of respect whatsoever. There are so many other horrible things elsewhere, like throwing rocks at team buses, so what's wrong if I want to celebrate with my fans? "To be happy at winning another Scudetto is considered a lack of respect? I was just celebrating alongside my fans, while the gestures were spontaneous towards my daughter." The Dall'Ara win took Juve 12 points clear at the top of the table, but Conte has warned his team not to get complacent in the title run-in. "We’ve taken a big step forward, but there are still 27 points to play for. We're achieving important things and must continue," he continued. "Today we faced a team who approached the fixture off the back of three victories, and if we had lost we would have handed a boost to the sides behind us. "Instead we deserved to win and I’m happy with how the lads played. We play good football and I'm proud of this team.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415 Conte: 'Why can't I celebrate?' Mar 16, 2013 Antonio Conte can’t quite believe how much Juventus are “flying” towards the Scudetto and explained his celebrations at the Dall’Ara. The Coach was criticised by Bologna boss Stefano Pioli for an “exaggerated” celebration before the final whistle of a 2-0 victory, as he was pumping his fist, calling the crowd and blowing kisses into the television cameras while play was still going. “If I can’t even say anything to our fans and celebrate with them, then tell me what I can do?” said Conte. “We annoy people when we win, I’m sorry, but I did not lack respect towards anyone. We see so many horrible things, people who throw rocks at team buses or swearing, so what’s the problem if I want to celebrate with my fans? “I won, I am winning another Scudetto and that is meant to be a lack of respect? The kiss towards the camera was a spontaneous gesture aimed towards my daughter.” This is effectively the first time that Conte has said Juve are practically Serie A winners for a second consecutive campaign. “Juventus are flying at the moment, but the same thing happened last season. We are achieving important things and must continue. It was a great step forward, we still need to get past the finish line and there are nine games left. “We deserve to be in this position and will continue while also thinking about the Champions League.” The 2-0 victory at the Dall’Ara was a difficult test, as Bologna were fresh from three consecutive victories over the likes of Fiorentina and Inter. “We wanted to win against a team that was in great shape. A defeat today would’ve sent a positive signal to our opponents in the race, but we earned the three points and I am happy with the performance. “Juventus have statistically the strongest defence and most prolific attack. We play good football and I am proud of this team.” Conte was also asked about rumours linking him with a future at Chelsea, PSG or even Real Madrid. “Anything can happen. Right now this is a wonderful experience with Juventus. In future I would love to measure myself in a foreign League, but talking about that now is difficult.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415 Pioli: 'Conte lacked respect' Mar 16, 2013 Stefano Pioli criticised Antonio Conte for an “exaggerated” celebration after Juventus won 2-0 in Bologna. The Bianconeri Coach was pumping his fist to get the crowd going at the Dall’Ara before the final whistle, then blew kisses into the television cameras. Pioli was angry and said to assistant manager Angelo Alessio “you need respect even in victory. Certain things shouldn’t be done.” The Bologna boss had calmed down a little when he got to the media area and spoke to journalists. “Conte’s celebration was a little exaggerated, because it was not just aimed at his own team. In any case, we already talked it over and cleared the air. “Juve played well and proved they are a great team. We tried to keep up the tempo, but had hoped to create more scoring opportunities and fell away after the break. Juve created little until the goal. “When I made this decision to play with four attacking players I was confident, but the opening goal took the wind out of our sails. I’d make the same choices again, though. “It was a very fiery and intense match. When games are so physical there can be a few extra challenges.” Pioli has been linked with the job at Napoli next season, but shrugged off questions. “I have to remain concentrated on this season, as we are not mathematically safe yet. I am ambitious, we’ll try to end this campaign in the best possible way and then see what happens. I don’t know anything about Napoli.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415‎ Player Ratings Goal.com takes a closer look at the men on display during a comfortable win for the Old Lady, decided by goals from Vucinic and Marchisio in the second half. Mar 16, 2013 Bologna Gianluca Curci - Showed himself to be a safe pair of hands in the first half and responded well to Giovinco's shot. Could do nothing to stop Juve's second-half surge. Archimede Morleo - His well-hit long pass set up Gilardino for what was one of Bologna's best chances at the very start, but from there was forced into a defensive role. Mikael Antonsson - Rarely flashy, the Swedish defender was nevertheless always alert and made one decisive intervention to deny Vucinic, but faded. Gyorgy Garics - Given a lot of grief by Peluso early in the match, the right-back recovered to put in a sturdy display, although he had few chances to break forward. Nicolò Cherubin - Overall coped well with the always-tricky Giovinco, although was grateful to Curci's save after being turned by the forward. Saphir Taider - Was given the duty alongside Perez of making sure Juve's midfield could not breathe and fulfilled that task, giving Pirlo and Marchisio precious little space to break loose. Diego Pérez - Asked to play almost on the edge of his own area, the combative Uruguayan performed the spoiling role okay as he frustrated the visitors early on, before losing his way in an anonymous second half. Panagiotis Kone - Struggled to break free of Peluso's attentive marking, made little contribution and was withdrawn on the hour for Naldo. Manolo Gabbiadini - Had little room to breathe up front as Juve defended diligently throughout, could not combine with Gilardino to bring Bologna back into the game. Alessandro Diamanti - Unlucky to see his shot deflected over with Buffon helpless, did what he could in attack and was a constant danger from set-pieces. Alberto Gilardino - Given a thankless task as Bologna's sole striker, starved of possession, although it took a great intervention from Buffon to stop him opening the scoring. Substitutions Naldo - A nightmare for the defender, who had been on the pitch barely two minutes when turned by Vucinic for the opening goal of the match. Lazaros Christodoulopoulos - Given 20 minutes at the end, but was unable to kick-start his side's faltering attack. Davide Moscardelli - Came on for Gilardino, but could do nothing to save Bologna from defeat. Juventus Gianluigi Buffon - Came out well to deny Gilardino with his feet, although was rather lucky to see the rebound deflected over. Was a rare moment of action in an otherwise quiet match. Andrea Barzagli - Never looked troubled at the back, defending efficiently and distributing well to Peluso as his side cruised to a vital three points. Leonardo Bonucci - Rather fortunate that his inattention did not lead to an opener for Gilardino, but otherwise performed impeccably at the back as Juventus ended up cruising to victory. Giorgio Chiellini - Coped well with a rather timid Bologna attack, coming to the rescue of his keeper when he saved Diamanti's effort. Simone Padoin - A slow start, but started to enjoy himself when given space on the right. A decent cross in the first half came within inches of finding Vucinic. Arturo Vidal - Always a danger for the visitors with his late bursts into the box, although his finishing left much to be desired as more than one chance was put into orbit. Andrea Pirlo - The veteran looked ill-suited to a Juventus side that was far too vertical and rapid for his tastes, given few opportunities to create with the ball at his feet. Claudio Marchisio - Like Pirlo, found himself often bypassed as Juve focused their attacks long and down the flanks. Defensively was strong in the middle, and took his goal with class. Federico Peluso - Was a worthy foil for Giovinco as he got forward on the left, combining well with the youngster. Never afraid to put the boot in, earning a yellow card for one ill-advised challenge. Mirko Vučinić - Held the ball up well and passed intelligently around the area, but was starved of decent chances as Juve's attack spluttered - until he expertly took his opportunity to give his side the lead. Sebastian Giovinco - Impressed at times but lacked consistency against a dogged defence, too many times his tricks failed to pay off. Substitutions Paul Pogba - Brought on late in the second half with the momentum firmly shifted in Juve's favour. Fabio Quagliarella - A late entry right at the death, replacing Vidal. Alessandro Matri - Given a run-out at the end in place of Vucinic. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415‎ Vucinic, Marchisio lead Juventus past Bologna Mar 16, 2013 Mirko Vucinic and Claudio Marchisio scored in the second half of play at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on Saturday to help Juventus claim a 2-0 win over Bologna. A scoreless first half gave way to a two-goal performance from Juve as Vucinic opened the scoring just after the hour mark. Marchisio made it two by adding an insurance goal in the 73rd minute, his fifth Serie A goal of the campaign. The win sees Juventus extend its lead at the top the Serie A table. The Old Lady improves to 65 points to go 12 points ahead of Napoli. Bologna's three-game winning run in Serie A play comes to an end as the club stays put on 35 points. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415‎ Juve go 12 points clear Mar 16, 2013 Juventus opened up a 12-point lead at the top of Serie A thanks to a win over Bologna at the Stadio Dall'Ara. Second-half goals from Mirko Vucinic and Claudio Marchisio earned the Bianconeri all three points to extend their advantage at the top of the table over Napoli and AC Milan, who play Atalanta and Pescara respectively tomorrow. Bologna had their moments in the first half but were unable to build on a win over Inter Milan from last weekend. Gianluigi Buffon showed great alertness and precision in the seventh minute, first to race off his line and then to prevent Alberto Gilardino from passing him with his right foot. Juve responded with Sebastian Giovinco denied by Gianluca Curci and Arturo Vidal shooting over. Gilardino thought he had opened the scoring in the 52nd minute with a bullet header which left Buffon no chance, but the linesman's flag had already been raised to cut short the home side's celebrations. Two minutes later, Curci made a fine save to deny Giovinco as Juve appeared to move up a gear. And in the 62nd minute, they took the lead when Marchisio played the ball to the feet of Vucinic on the edge of the area and he turned to shoot low past Curci. Vucinic then returned the favour in the 74th minute to set up Marchisio, who picked his spot in the bottom right-hand corner to see off Bologna's challenge and give Juve a comfortable lead at the top of the standings. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415‎ Bianconeri inch closer to 31st Scudetto Mar 16, 2013 Juventus defeated Bologna 2-0 at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara in Serie A on Saturday night. Goals from Mirko Vucinic and Claudio Marchisio secured the win for Antonio Conte’s men in an entertaining game. The first chance of the game fell to Bologna after a long ball over the top to Alberto Gilardino who found himself clean through on goal but Gianluigi Buffon made a vital challenge to stop him. The ball then fell to Alessandro Diamanti with the goal gaping but his shot was blocked. Sebastian Giovinco came close in the 17th minute after a great peace of skill but the keeper got down well and made a comfortable save. Arturo Vidal then came close just a minute later after good work from Vucinic but the Chilean blasted over. The Bianconeri almost broke the deadlock ten minutes before the break after excellent work on the right wing by Simone Padoin who then crossed for Vucinic in the six yard box but he failed to make contact with the ball. Vidal was presented with a golden chance on the stroke of half time when Juventus broke quickly and the midfielder found himself one on one with Gianluca Curci but again he failed to hit the target. Giovinco came close again just one minute into the second half after he turned his man and hit a curling shot which went inches wide. The home side thought they had took the lead on the 51st minute after a brilliant free kick into the box from Diamanti which Gilardino headed into the bottom corner but it was correctly called offside by the linesman. The champions fired back with a chance of their own just minutes later again through Giovinco. The Italian international found space in the box but fired straight at the keeper. The Bianconeri eventually broke the deadlock on the hour mark thanks to Vucinic. Naldo got far too tight and the Montenegrin rolled the defender and slotted the ball into the corner. The champions secured the three points with 20 minutes to go after a superb move and finish from Marchisio. He played a one two with Vucinic and the Italian coolly put the ball through the goalkeepers legs with the outside of his boot. The Rossoblu nearly pulled a goal back with five minutes to go. Diamanti struck the ball well from the free kick but Buffon managed to punch it away to safety. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415‎ Bianconeri conquer Bologna Mirko Vucinic and Claudio Marchisio secured a 2-0 victory for Juventus at the Stadio Dall’Ara to end Bologna’s three-game winning streak. Mar 16, 2013 Both sides were brimming with confidence going into this game, as the Bianconeri were nine points clear at the top of the table and welcomed Arturo Vidal back from suspension. Bologna had won three on the bounce, including against Fiorentina and Inter, while Panagiotis Kone’s ban had expired, but Juve were unbeaten at the Dall’Ara since 1998. The hosts so nearly took the lead after five minutes when Gigi Buffon rushed out of the penalty area to tackle Alberto Gilardino and was fortunate that the Alessandro Diamanti follow-up was deflected wide off Giorgio Chiellini for a corner. Buffon was also lucky his tackle was clean, otherwise it would’ve been a straight red. Gianluca Curci smothered at the end of a Sebastian Giovinco mazy run through a group of players in the box, then Vidal blasted over from the edge of the box. Diamanti wasted a counter-attack by blasting well wide and Andrea Pirlo also fired over from distance. Simone Padoin dribbled away from players down the right side of the box and flashed a ball across the face of goal, but Vucinic wasn’t quick enough to stick out a leg and deflect it in with the goalkeeper already beaten. Diamanti required treatment before the break after an accidental elbow in side of the head from Pirlo and was clearly dazed. In first half stoppages Juve went on the counter and Vidal again couldn’t keep his shot down. Buffon held a dangerous flicked on Mikael Antonsson header from Diamanti’s free kick, but moments later Giovinco thought he had scored when swinging a right-foot effort inches past the far post. Bologna had the ball in the back of the net on 51 minutes with Gilardino’s header on a Diamanti set piece, but the flag was raised for offside. Claudio Marchisio’s daisy-cutter was smothered, then Giovinco cut in past Nicolo Cherubin only to sting Gianluca Curci’s palms from point-blank range. Diego Perez was booked for a mistimed tackle on Chiellini and moments after play resumed he went into another scything tackle on Peluso, so was fortunate not to be sent off. He surprisingly wasn't substituted, as instead Naldo came on for Bologna to adopt a three-man defence. Juventus took the lead just past the hour mark, as Vucinic gathered from Marchisio with his back to goal, spun round Naldo and prodded it through Curci’s legs from 12 yards. Vucinic blasted past the far post from the edge of the box and Buffon watched a Gabbiadini header whistle wide. It was an increasingly tense game with six bookings after 71 minutes. Marchisio put the result under lock and key with a well-worked goal. A quick one-two with Vucinic allowed him to burst into the area and the midfielder finished with an angled drive to nutmeg Curci. Substitute Davide Moscardelli curled wide after a fine solo run and Pirlo also turned off target, but Buffon parried a Diamanti free kick with his fists, bizzarrely punching it into the ground as it dipped. Alessandro Matri was flagged offside in a very tight decision, but had missed the goal anyway. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BOLOGNA: Curci; Garics (Christodoulopoulos 69), Antonsson, Cherubin, Morleo; Perez, Taider; Kone (Naldo 57), Diamanti, Gabbiadini; Gilardino (Moscardelli 75) JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Padoin, Vidal (Quagliarella 90), Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Vucinic (Matri 82), Giovinco (Pogba 76) Ref: Bergonzi http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 29 - 16-3-2013 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Mirko Vučinić (62′) Claudio Marchisio (74′) "Renato Dall’Ara" Stadium - Bologna Referee: Mauro Bergonzi Attendance: 34415‎ Vucinic and Marchisio extend Bianconeri's Serie A lead The Bianconeri took their time in making the breakthrough, but finally found their rhythm in the second half as goals from the striker and midfielder earned maximum points. Mar 16, 2013 An excellent second-half display was the key for Juventus as they took another giant leap towards the championship, dispatching Bologna 2-0 on Saturday evening to go 12 points clear at the top of Serie A. The defending champions struggled early on break down a dogged rival, but once Mirko Vucinic gave his side the lead it was all too easy, and victory was assured when Claudio Marchisio doubled the Old Lady's advantage. Looking for a win that would further cement their status as runaway favourites for the 2012-13 Serie A title, Juve started brightly and immediately began pushing forward in search of an opener. It was Bologna, however, who played patiently and on the break, that had the game's first clear chance. Gianluigi Buffon came steaming out of goal and performed a well-timed tackle on Alberto Gilardino outside of his area, but the veteran goalkeeper had left the net unguarded. The rebound fell to Alessandro Diamanti, and it took a vital intervention from Giorgio Chiellini to deflect the midfielder's shot over the bar and prevent a goal. Sebastian Giovinco was quiet in the opening minutes, but when the forward sprung to life he almost turned the game in Juve's favour. Taking the ball from Federico Peluso, he performed an impeccable nutmeg to break free of his marker and go through against Gianluca Curci, but the shot lacked venom and was saved comfortably. Seconds later, an intelligent lay-off from Mirko Vucinic opened the net up for Arturo Vidal, but from the edge of the box the Chilean blazed well over. The Old Lady continued to probe, dominating possession, but chances were few and far between against a Bologna side who defended deep in their own half and effectively. Simone Padoin was the architect of one of the league leader's few clear opportunities, wriggling free down the right flank and firing in a low cross. Vucinic was waiting, but could connect and Mikael Antonsson came to the rescue for the hosts, intercepting and clearing well. Juve shaded the first 45 minutes, but went into the dressing rooms with the game still poised at 0-0. The visitors came out after the break resolved to take the advantage, and Giovinco went close to obliging in the first minutes after the restart. A slick build-up stretched the Rossoblu back line and left the striker with space, and his looping effort flew agonisingly close to Curci's left post as it went wide. Bologna, however, were still very much in the game; Gilardino thought he had opened the scoring after heading in an impeccable Diamanti free kick, only to see his celebrations cut short by the linesman's raised flag. The match was opening up, and Curci had to react well to stop Giovinco's left-footed effort after the forward twisted away from the attentions of Nicolo Cherubin. With just over an hour played, Juventus finally made the breakthrough they so desperately desired. Vucinic had enjoyed few chances on goal, but did brilliantly to turn Naldo with his back to goal and clean through with Curci, powered an unstoppable shot to put his side in the ascendancy. Juve were boosted by that goal, and never looked like relinquishing their hold on the game. Victory was assured 17 minutes from the end. Bologna's defence was ripped open by a brilliant sequence of passes, and Claudio Marchisio was the beneficiary as he stayed onside and stroked the ball passed Curci to put his team 2-0 up, and end the game as a contest. The win puts the Bianconeri well out in front at the summit of Serie A, as they enjoy a 12-point lead over their rivals. Second-placed Napoli can cut the deficit to nine once more with victory on Sunday over Atalanta at the San Paolo. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/