Socrates

Minuti difficilissimi.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Line-ups: Bayern-Juventus Apr 2, 2013 Fabio Quagliarella and Alessandro Matri step out for tonight’s Champions League quarter-final between Bayern Munich and Juventus. The first leg kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Antonio Conte had several concerns going into the game, as Sebastian Giovinco is nursing a bruised ankle from Esteban Cambiasso’s horror-tackle on Easter Saturday, while Mirko Vucinic missed that trip to Inter with flu symptoms. Both are on the bench, as Matri and Quagliarella reunite after their fine performance against Inter on Saturday. Federico Peluso is picked rather than Kwadwo Asamoah, as Stephan Lichtsteiner takes the other flank. Martin Caceres, Mauricio Isla, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner are all long-term absentees. Bayern are 20 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga table and a second-string side flattened Hamburg 9-2 on Saturday with Claudio Pizarro netting four. Juve have a nine-point advantage in the Serie A standings, but more importantly are unbeaten in nine European matches including four consecutive clean sheets. Arjen Robben and Mario Gomez are only fit for the bench, while Mario Mandzukic leads the 4-2-3-1 system. Javi Martinez is suspended and Holger Badstuber injured. Bayern Munich: Neuer; Lahm, van Buyten, Dante, Alaba; Luiz Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Muller, Kroos, Ribery; Mandzukic Bayern Munich bench: Starke, Boateng, Tymoshchuk, Robben, Shaqiri, Pizarro, Gomez Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Matri, Quagliarella Juventus bench: Storari, Marrone, Padoin, Pogba, Asamoah, Vucinic, Giovinco

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern-Juventus tie is 50-50, says Kohler The 1990 World Cup-winner admitted he is hoping the German side can come out on top, and expressed his admiration for the work of former team-mate Antonio Conte. Apr 2, 2013 Former Germany defender Jurgen Kohler believes the Champions League tie between Bayern Munich and Juventus is too close to call. The 47-year-old, who played for both clubs during his distinguished career, admitted that he would be supporting the Bundesliga side on Tuesday, though he feels the Italian champions' recent results will put them in a confident mood. "Although I played for four years for Juventus and only two for Bayern, I will be rooting for the German team when I watch the match on Tuesday," he told TZ. "I would rate their chances of progressing as fifty-fifty. "Clearly Juventus have to take into account the 9-2 win for Bayern against Hamburg, but the Turin side are themselves leaders in Italy and after the 2-1 win at Inter Milan travel to Munich with a very broad chest. "And with Antonio Conte, who was once a team-mate of mine at Juventus, the club has a coach who does a huge job." Kohler also spoke of his belief that Juventus can already consider this season a success after reaching the last eight of Europe's premier club competition for the first time since 2006. He added: "By the end of last year, Juventus remained 49 league matches unbeaten. That shows how much my former club is making a comeback. "Juve has had a difficult period since 2006 when they were relegated to Serie B. Reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League can therefore be seen to be a success."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern Munich are one of Europe's best, says Matri The Italy forward expressed his excitement at taking on the Bundesliga leaders and believes the Serie A champions have the tactical expertise to progress to the semi-finals. Apr 2, 2013 Juventus striker Alessandro Matri has described Bayern Munich as one of Europe's best sides ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash on Tuesday. The Serie A champions travel to the Allianz Arena in the first leg to face last season's beaten finalists, and Matri has revealed the palpable excitement within the dressing room ahead of the encounter. "Everyone wants to play in a game like this one. We are very excited to be tackling one of Europe's best teams," he told Topmercato. "Bayern are having a great season, but we will try and get a good result away from home." The 28-year-old has warned of the formidable array of attacking talent at Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes' disposal, but believes the Bianconeri have the tactical awareness to nullify such a threat. He added: "They have some amazing players like [Franck] Ribery, [Arjen] Robben and [Thomas] Muller, but if we are prepared tactically, we can have our say. "I think it will be a great game."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Appiah backs Juventus to beat Bayern The former Bianconeri midfielder believes his old side will edge a cagey encounter over two legs, and revealed what runs through a player's mind prior to such a fxiture. Apr 2, 2013 EXCLUSIVE By Juliet Bawuah Former Ghana captain Stephen Appiah has tipped his old club Juventus to qualify to the semi-final of the Uefa Champions League at the expense of Bayern Munich, although he admits it will be a cagey encounter. The Old Lady will lock horns with the Bavarian side in the first-leg of their last eight clash at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, and Appiah, who made 48 appearances for the Turin side, believes they will edge the tie over the two legs. “It’s going to be a difficult game, with two big clubs who are doing well, but I think each of them would use their home game as an advantage," Appiah told Goal.com. "I will go for Juventus to win 2-1, although Bayern are looking scary, but they are an odd team and I believe strongly that Juventus will go through over two legs.” Appiah, who made his Bianconeri debut in Europe's elite club competition, has stressed the importance of concentration for the players involved as they prepare to compete on one of football's grandest stages. “At this stage, if you are a player and you know there is a Champions League game ahead, nothing goes through your mind. All you do is lie on your bed and think about the pass that can make a difference in the game," he continued. "Players will be hoping to win at the same time, although they are scared, and it's true players will play with panic so it is the concentration that makes the difference."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bayern play amazing champagne football, says Salihamidzic The Bosnian is impressed with the Allianz Arena side's recent performances, and hopes they can go all the way in Europe after narrowly missing out last season. Apr 2, 2013 Former Bayern Munich wing-back Hasan Salihamidzic has hailed the Bundesliga giants' recent form ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash against Juventus. The Bavarians impressed at the weekend with a 9-2 league win over Hamburg, and Salihamidzic, who wore the Bayern jersey from 1998 until 2007, is hopeful they can go all the way in Europe this term. "The champagne football they are playing is amazing – they dominate matches and never give up possession. They simply stifle their opponents," Salihamidzic told Fifa.com. "Bayern have really matured and are now among the top three in Europe. They've qualified for the final of the Champions League twice in the past three years, only to lose on both occasions unfortunately. "Over the past three or four years they have become a really strong outfit. They never lose their cool and always remain focused. I really hope they do it this time."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Lahm: Bayern can unlock any defence The Germany international realises a difficult task awaits the Bundesliga leaders, but he is confident Bayern will find a way to beat the Juve back-line. Apr 2, 2013 Philipp Lahm believes Bayern Munich have what it takes to breakdown any defence as they prepare for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie against Juventus on Tuesday. The Turin giants have impressed defensively this season, conceding only 19 goals in 30 Serie A appearances so far, yet Lahm has little doubt that Bayern, who put nine past Hamburg on Saturday, will find a way through against the Old Lady. "Juventus have impressed us. They have dominated Serie A and it will not be an easy task to beat them. They're a typical Italian team, very well organised and with some incredibly talented individuals," Lahm was quoted as saying by TZ. "But we all know what we're capable of, too. We know that we can unlock any defence. We have some great players and the win over Hamburg showed what we can do. "Juventus are a good team and they are very strong at the back. They are not an easy team to face, but we want to beat them."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Buffon: Bayern clash will show whether Juventus are a top team The veteran goalkeeper is keen to measure himself against top opposition as the Bianconeri have set their sights on a semi-final spot. Apr 2, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon is desperate to find out whether Juventus can be considered one of Europe's top teams as they prepare for the first leg of their Champions League tie against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday. The Italian champions started the competition as a mere outsider after missing out on Champions League football in the past two seasons, but they have impressed on their way to the quarter-finals as they saw off teams such as Chelsea, Shakhtar Donetsk and Celtic. "When we started off on our journey that has brought us to where we are today, no-one would have expected us to make such swift progress. But that’s what’s happened and we’ve deserved it," Buffon said at a press conference. "I don’t know how far off we are from being considered a top team. But this test will tell us a great deal, we’re curious to face it. We’ve got two intense encounters ahead of us and I hope they’re balanced. "The most important thing is to have no regrets, but I don’t think that will happen. Up until now we’ve always shown maturity when dealing with crucial moments."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Vidal gets chance to prove he was right to choose Juventus over Bayern The Chilean was all set to sign for the Bavarians before he put pen to paper with the Old Lady, and on Tuesday he will finally get the opportunity to show why he switched to Italy. Apr 2, 2013 COMMENT By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer There was a time in the summer of 2011 when Bayern Munich fans were relishing the thought of Arturo Vidal’s next appearance on the Allianz Arena turf. But when he finally makes his return to Munich on Tuesday night in a Juventus shirt, he is likely to receive a hot reception from the home crowd due to the bitter war of words that shadowed the course of events which led to him ending up in Turin. For much of the first month after the 2010-11 season had ended, Vidal looked destined for Munich, whether through the softening of Bayer Leverkusen’s decision not to sell to a fellow Bundesliga club, or by the Chilean waiting a year and leaving die Werkself on a Bosman free. Leverkusen had originally claimed that Bayern’s bid had not met their valuation, but then changed stance, saying they would not consider FC Hollywood when assessing their sale options on the midfielder. "Bayern can offer what they want. They will not get him. There is a threshold only for foreign clubs," Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller told Kicker. Vidal himself was attempting to push through a deal, making it clear he would love to don the famous red shirt. "I want to go to Munich. Now," he told Bild. "I absolutely want the clubs to reach an agreement. “There is now an official offer from Munich. Before, there were only talks about it, now it is concrete. I wanted to extend last year and [Leverkusen] were not interested." He continued: "One must forgive me, I would like to take this unique opportunity. One of the best clubs in the world wants to sign me. In addition, my old coach Jupp Heynckes is there. That I have given everything for Leverkusen could not be disputed." But when Juventus came into the picture, suddenly the transfer horizon looked different, with Leverkusen having a potential buyer they were happy to sell to. Die Roten still held out hope, but they were clearly outsiders in the race. And as soon as the Old Lady offered the €10.5 million that Leverkusen considered sufficient for a sale, Vidal was suddenly heading for Turin, calling the Old Lady “an institution, the maximum for any player”. "Bayern also have great players, but Juventus are Juventus,” said Vidal. “And, I also wanted to play football in Italy as football there has a great passion, just like in Chile." "Vidal has broken his word," Bayern director Uli Hoeness told Bild in response. I want to go to Munich. Now. I absolutely want the clubs to reach an agreement - Arturo Vidal, June 15, 2011 "It would have taken great backbone to play at Bayer Leverkusen, having made the statement: ‘I am going to Bayern.’ And I would not expect the player to have such backbone. "I always thought that with that kind of transfer, the odds were below 50 per cent. I thought to myself: if it works, it's nice; if not, it's OK." Since arriving in Turin, Vidal has transformed the Bianconeri as both an attacking and a defensive proposition. Off the ball, he provides the battling axis in front of the more vulnerable right side of the Juve back three, sweeping up at the base of midfield in order to restart attacks from higher positions and give the defence as little work as possible. When in possession of the ball he has the ability to time runs perfectly into the box, works cohesively with Andrea Pirlo to his left and Stephan Lichtsteiner to his right, has a sharp eye for goal and hugely effective passing game to both long and short targets. Many observers have credited Pirlo as being the inspiration behind Juve’s return to the head of Italian football over the past 20 months, but Vidal’s part in their rise from the ashes cannot be underestimated. He has also had time to explain further his decision not to wait for Bayern, or force through a move to the Allianz Arena. “Bayern were serious and they came forward, but Juventus showed more of an interest in me,” he told the Corriere dello Sport. “Also, here I have great team-mates like Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio." And it will be those two who will line up to Vidal’s side at the Allianz in the Champions League quarter-final first leg which has such an undertone for the 25-year-old. They have quickly become one of the most feared midfield trios in football, and the Chilean will be hoping against hope that they help to make his point on Tuesday night. After turning down Champions League football with Bayern last year and seeing them miss out on the European title by a matter of minutes, his job now is to make them regret not doing more to force through his signing by sending Juventus through to the last four at their expense.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Robben: Bayern will challenge Barcelona & Madrid for Champions League glory The Dutchman is rather optimistic about his side's chances in Europe, and has insisted that he has no intention of leaving die Roten this summer. Apr 2, 2013 Arjen Robben is brimming with confidence ahead of the first leg of Bayern Munich's Champions League quarter-final tie against Juventus, and believes the Bundesliga leaders can challenge pre-tournament favourites Barcelona and Real Madrid for the title. The Bavarians made it to the final of the competition last campaign, and Robben feels they have what it takes to make it to this year's showpiece at Wembley, too, even though he realises Juventus will not be pushovers in the quarter-finals. "We showed last season that we can be up there with the best in Europe, so we want to be in the final at Wembley. We will challenge the likes of Barca and Real for the title," the Dutchman was quoted as saying by The Times of India. "If you look at last year's final against Chelsea, again we should never have lost it. But we’ve improved from last year. We are in the quarter-finals and we are top of our league, so you can’t ask for more. "The tie against Juventus is going to be a tough challenge for sure. They are a team with so many experienced players — people like Andrea Pirlo — and we know how hard they will make it for us." The Netherlands international then went on to discuss his future at Bayern, and dismissed rumours that he could be on the move this summer. "Sometimes it's ridiculous what gets written. I have another two years on my contract and I am looking forward to seeing it through," he continued. "Of course I didn’t want to be on the bench. When you’ve recovered from a few injuries like me, then you’ll understand. I love being on the pitch. When I’m out there, I just want to play football."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Pirlo is better than anything Bayern Munich have to offer - Goal.com previews the Champions League quarter finals With the last-eight clashes upon us, James Richardson and our panel of experts discuss the key talking points. Apr 2, 2013 Juventus veteran Andrea Pirlo is better than anything Bayern Munich have to offer, according to Goal.com's expert Peter Staunton ahead of the side’s Champions League quarter-final clash. Staunton, James Richardson and Carlo Garganese discovered a mutual love for Toni Kroos too ahead of the clash between the leaders of Serie A and the Bundesliga on Tuesday night. Staunton said: "Both these teams have been dominating their domestic leagues, and they all have their respective strengths, but the craft and artistry of Pirlo is far and away better than anything Bayern has to offer, aside perhaps of the goalscoring threat of Toni Kroos." Garganese expanded on Bayern’s attacking riches, adding: "The only weapons that Juventus will be truly scared about are the attacking trio of Kroos, Thomas Muller on the right - who’s having a fantastic season - and on the left Franck Ribery. "I think if Juventus can stop those three they’ll be confident they can win the tie." The clash is one of the most highly anticipated of European last eight that is packed with quality, and Garganese is predicting it will be Pirlo and Co. who come through the two legs on top. He added: "I’m going to tip Juventus. I think it will be very close, it will be decided on the small details, but I think they’ll win the midfield battle and that will be decisive." Which of the European giants will have the advantage on Tuesday night after the first leg? Will last year’s runners-up be able to surpass the might of the Bianconeri’s midfield?

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Witeczek warns Bayern of Juve's defensive strength The former Roten man feels his old club will prevail against the Bianconeri but has warned of the Italians' tactical astuteness. Apr 2, 2013 EXCLUSIVE By Tim Rohn Former Bayern Munich midfielder Marcel Witeczek is expecting the Bavarians to overcome Juventus on Tuesday, but feels the Bianconeri will pose Jupp Heynckes' side problems. The 44-year-old spent four years at the club during the mid-1990s, and while he remembers several tough games against Serie A teams, he expects his old club to prevail. "I can remember difficult games against Italian sides from my time at Bayern Munich," he told Goal.com. "They are teams who work very well tactically and defensively, but also have a lot to offer going forward. This also applies to the current Juve team. "Bayern are 60 per cent favourites for this match. They play better football. However, they should not underestimate Juventus. "A first-leg win and a two-goal advantage would be important as the second leg in Turin will be tough." Bayern are running away with the Bundesliga this season and have reached two of the last three Champions League finals, and Witeczek is impressed with the Roten's progress. "The current Bayern team have played on a very high level internationally over the last two or three years, which they've shown by reaching the final last year. "This year, the experience fighting for the Champions League title could play into their hands." And the former West Germany Under-21 international feels the winners of the competition will be from either La Liga or Bundesliga. "For me, both German and the Spanish teams are favourites for the title, namely Dortmund, Bayern, Barcelona and Real Madrid," he added. "If they play each other, their form on the day will be decisive. All four of these teams have outstanding players who are capable of deciding matches on their own. "I'm not surprised by Dortmund's strong displays in the Champions League this season. They have gained experience and matured. They stopped walking into traps as they did last term. "Their performances in the group stage have shown that they can surprise any opponent."

Marrone a wanted man Apr 2, 2013 The representative of Luca Marrone expects Juventus to be inundated with requests for his client at the end of the season. “He had a lot of offers during the last transfer session,” Beppe Bozzo told TMW on Tuesday. “We’ll see what happens in June.” Marrone is considered highly by Juventus boss Antonio Conte, a Coach who has transformed him from a midfielder to a centre-back this term. However, first team opportunities have been difficult to offer the youngster seeing as he has only played in 12 games across Serie A, the Coppa Italia and the Champions League. “He happily accepted to act as the reserve for Leonardo Bonucci in that role, despite the fact that he plays in a different position for the Italian Under-21 side,” the agent continued. “He recently turned 23, he has ambitions to grow and play. Let’s see what happens, but I think Juve will find it tough to satisfy all the clubs who will make an approach.”

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Bonucci: 'We are Juve!' Apr 2, 2013 Leonardo Bonucci is fired up for tonight’s game with Bayern Munich. “The Germans are strong, but we are Juve and we’re going there to fight!” The defender wrote a message on his website ahead of the Champions League quarter-final first leg. “The Germans? Well, what to say... They are strong, among the best, but we are JUVE and WE ARE GOING THERE TO FIGHT, TO WIN THE BATTLE!!” wrote Bonucci. “I am thinking only of this!! Then, as always, may the best team win and forza Juve. Hugs.”

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Lahm: 'Juve typically Italian' Apr 2, 2013 Bayern Munich defender Philipp Lahm has called tonight’s Champions League opponents Juventus “a typically Italian team.” The runaway leaders of the Bundesliga and Serie A go head-to-head in the quarter-final this evening at the Allianz Arena. “Juventus are dominating the Italian League, which is not an easy thing to do,” Lahm told German newspaper Tz. “They are a typically Italian team, very organised and with excellent players. However, we are aware of our strengths. “In attack we have players able to break down any defence. However, we must be concentrated on every single detail right from the start. “Juve are strong, with a defensive style of play typical of the Italians.”

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Buffon: 'Neuer can define an era' Apr 2, 2013 Gigi Buffon praised his Bayern Munich counterpart Manuel Neuer ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash. “He can define an era.” This evening the first leg of their quarter-final will be played at the Allianz Arena and Juventus goalkeeper Buffon spoke to Sky Sport Italia. “We face Bayern the same way we faced Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk. That means with the right humility, awareness of our opponents who have great talent and world class individuals. “This is why we will face them with the right degree of caution, but not forgetting to play our game too.” Neuer has been mentioned as one of the heirs to Buffon on the world stage and they seem set to exchange shirts tonight after the final whistle. “I really like Neuer, as he is physically imposing, makes his presence felt in the box, is strong on crosses and has everything it takes to define an era.”

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Matri 'excited' by Bayern clash Apr 2, 2013 Alessandro Matri has admitted that he is 'very excited' ahead of their Champions League quarter-final with Bayern Munich. The Bianconeri face the Bundeliga leaders in Germany this evening, and the 28-year-old has insisted that it will be a 'great game'. “Everyone wants to play in a game like this one,” he told Topmercato. “We are very excited to be tackling on the Europe's best teams. “Bayern are having a great season, but we will try and get a good result away from home. “They have some amazing players like Ribery, Robben and Muller, but if we are prepared tactically, we can have our say. “I think it will be a great game.”

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Rizzitelli goes for Bayern experience Apr 2, 2013 Ruggiero Rizzitelli believes that former club Bayern Munich will start their Champions League tie against Juventus as slight favourites. The Italian spent two years with the outfit after his 1996 move from Torino and he’s looking forward to the two quarter-final encounters. “If I had to give a percentage in terms of who will qualify, then I’d say Bayern had a 52 per cent chance and Juventus 48,” he told Tutto Juve. “It will be a well balanced tie, but Bayern have the advantage of having played ties of this stature over the past few years. “They are in the middle of a great cycle which has seen them take part in two Finals over the past three seasons. “But Bayern and Juventus are both great teams, probably the strongest in the tournament if you take out Barcelona and Real Madrid.” When asked how you go about beating Bayern, the former Roma man urged the Old Lady to attack with pace. “Bayern are physically strong in defence, but slow. Juventus have to take advantage of the velocity of their forwards. “Players like Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco can do harm and could prove lethal.”

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) Juve’s game of truth – Tacchinardi Apr 2, 2013 Juventus’ tie at Bayern Munich this evening will confirm whether they are ready to win the Champions League, says Alessio Tacchinardi. The Old Lady will face the German giants in the first leg of their last eight European Cup encounter at the Allianz Arena. “It will be an important test to measure Juve’s European ambitions this season,” the former Bianconero midfielder told Radio Sportiva. “The Germans are a side who are even one step above Real Madrid and we can expect a hard-fought encounter. “It will be a very intense and physical game, but Juventus have a 50 per cent chance of qualifying for the next round.” The Turin outfit started the Champions League campaign with three draws, but they’ve won every match since. “The win over Chelsea was important, it gave them greater knowledge of the competition,” Tacchinardi added.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) 'Pirlo is a class above the rest' - Buffon The 36-year-old says the midfielder is one of the best players he has had the privilege of playing alongside. Apr 1, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon says Andrea Pirlo has "that little bit extra" and believes Juventus made the shrewdest of moves in bringing him to the club in 2011. The veteran goalkeeper has faced some of the biggest names in football during his career, and speaking to reporters on the eve of Juventus' Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich, the 36-year-old says the midfielder remains a special talent. He said: "I have played with many strong players, but Pirlo is one of the few who has that little extra above the rest. The club showed great intuition a year and a half ago when they managed to bring him to Turin." The Italy goalkeeper also paid tribute to the Bianconeri defence and believes the unit do not get the recognition they deserve. "I work with a great defence that’s often underrated," he added. "They’re the best defensive three I’ve ever played behind and I think Conte has done well to revert to a back three and find the right roles for the defenders to flourish." And Buffon is approaching Tuesday's European tie in relaxed fashion and hopes Juventus play in their usual fashion on the night. "We’re aware of the fact that we can still improve, but it's nice to come to Munich and we will try play our own game."

Quarti di finale - Andata - 2-4-2013 (ore 20:45) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Monaco di Baviera Arbitro: Mark Clattenburg (Inghilterra) Confronti ufficiali 6 - 6 (Champions League) Vittorie Juventus 3 - 3 (Champions League) Pareggi 1 - 1 (Champions League) Vittorie Bayern 2 - 2 (Champions League) Goals Juventus 6 - 6 (Champions League) Goals Celtic 7 - 7 (Champions League) Bayern - Juventus a Monaco Confronti ufficiali 3 Vittorie Juventus 1 (Il 03.11.2004 - Champions League - 0-1) Pareggi 1 (Il 30.09.2009 - Champions League - 0-0) Vittorie Bayern 1 (Il 18.10.2005 - Champions League - 2-1) Goals Juventus 2 Goals Bayern 2 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Bayern 6 presenze Camoranesi Mauro German 5 Cannavaro Fabio 5 Del Piero Alessandro 4 Buffon Gianluigi 4 Emerson Ferreira Da Rosa 4 Ibrahimovic Zlatan 4 Nedved Pavel 4 Thuram Lilian Ulien Ruddy 4 Trezeguet David Sergio 4 Zambrotta Gianluca 3 goals Trezeguet David Sergio 1 Del Piero Alessandro 1 Ibrahimovic Zlatan 1 Nedved Pavel Ultimi confronti diretti 19.10.2004 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Monaco 1-0 03.11.2004 - Champions League - Bayern Monaco-Juventus 0-1 18.10.2005 - Champions League - Bayern Monaco-Juventus 2-1 02.11.2005 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Monaco 2-1 30.09.2009 - Champions League - Bayern Monaco-Juventus 0-0 08.12.2009 - Champions League - Juventus-Bayern Monaco 1-4 Giocate 6 - Vittorie Juventus 3 - Pareggi 1 - Vittorie Bayern 2 - Goals Juventus 6 - Goals Bayern 7

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - Quarter Final - 2-4-2013 (8:45 p.m.) ................ BAYERN - JUVENTUS Allianz Arena - Munich Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England) UEFA Champions League Quarterfinal First Leg Preview: Bayern Munich vs. Juventus Apr 1, 2013 3-5-2 vs. 4-5-1; the Italian champion-elect vs. the German champion-elect; the Old Lady of Turin vs. the Bavarians; the Allianz Arena is set to witness yet another historical showdown between Bayern and Juventus on Tuesday. The Arena has witnessed quite a few sad nights for Bayern. Quite a few of those sad nights came when the opposition was Italian. Juventus is coming into this one on the back of a win over the side which Bayern lost the 2010 Champions League Finale to, Inter Milan, 1-2. Bayern, meanwhile, was absolutely magnificent as they used textbook football to take apart Hamburger SV 9-2. The Allianz Arena watched in awe as Claudio Pizarro turned back the years to score four. Arjen Robben struck twice as well. This meeting against Juventus will be a test of Bayern's true mettle. Bayern, despite bulldozing just about every league opposition, has not always convinced in the Champions League. The Bavarians have already lost twice this campaign; they come up against a side which remains unbeaten in the Champions League. Despite Die Roten's poor record against Italian sides including Juve, the last meeting between these two sides will bring in plenty of fond memories. In Turin, with their backs against the wall, Bayern went down a goal. An exit looked imminent. However, a penalty from goalkeeper extraordinaire Hans-Jorg Butt brought Bayern back into the game. Strikes from Ivica Olic, Mario Gomez and finally Anatoliy Tymoshchuk saw Bayern win 1-4 in a wonderful night. The home game in Bavaria had ended 0-0. Juventus has reason to believe coming into this match. Despite winning 9-2, Bayern conceded two clumsy goals from corners against Hamburger SV. That corner was the same corner in which they conceded the second to Leverkusen in the 1-2 defeat in October. In fact, Laurent Koscielny's headed goal against Arsenal was conceded at the same end. Jupp Heynckes does not have to worry too much about his squad. He has to be smart tactically, however, against a Juventus side that is both Italian and not Italian. Firstly, they know how to cheat just as all Italian teams do. Little pushes and kicks are common. This is not a bad trait however. Italian teams know how to win; winning teams know how to push boundaries when it comes to the rules. At the same time, they play with a lot of imagination. Bayern plays with a lot of imagination as well. However, aside from a survival match against Arsenal, they have not been pushed to their limits yet. The mentality has not yet been put through a test as rough as the Chelsea test from last season's finale. Oh, Juventus thrashed Chelsea in the group stages by the way. Juventus has the capability to scare Bayern, of course. However, Bayern has to prove that this is indeed one of the best teams in the history of German football. League and cup dominance do not always translate to European dominance. La Vecchia Signora with the likes of Arturo Vidal, Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio, Mirko Vucinic and of course Gianluigi Buffon is a side which is incredibly fit and talented. During the weekend, Sebastian Giovinco was clattered by Esteban Cambiasso and could miss out. Mirko Vucinic, meanwhile, is suffering from flu. Bayern will be without the suspended Javier Martinez. Claudio Pizarro could start after his brilliant weekend performance. Holger Badstuber is still out with a long term injury.

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.

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