Socrates

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Palermo-Juve 'a manly battle' Dec 9, 2012 Palermo take on Juventus today, so director Pietro Lo Monaco is looking forward to “a manly battle” even if home advantage will be wiped out. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini had been announced for the Press conference, but Lo Monaco surprisingly took over instead. “It was a decision made by the club and certainly not due to any problems the Coach has,” he explained. “Andrea Pirlo is a key player for Juventus, but their real extra weapon is battling spirit and grit. Pirlo brings the quality. It is going to be a tough, manly battle, but we want to get a result against anyone and in any situation.” Home advantage might be a problem, as figures suggest 20,000 of the 30,000 tickets sold at the Stadio Barbera so far have been bought by Juventus fans. There is a huge Bianconeri support in Sicily and they are taking the opportunity to see their favourite team up close. “I hope our fans at the stadium can make enough noise to triple their impact.” Fabrizio Miccoli returns from suspension, although his future remains up in the air, as his contract expires in June. “We are in a stand-by phase, as there are some situations to evaluate. He wants time to reflect and we want to continue our rapport. “Regardless of the number of years on the renewal, we must remember this will be the last contract of Miccoli’s career, so money is not the issue. “The important thing now is to stay close to the team and help Palermo get into a better position. We want a competitive Palermo that can continue to grow.” Palermo squad for Juventus: Benussi, Brichetto, Ujkani; Cetto, Garcia, Labrin, Milanovic, Morganella, Munoz, Pisano, Von Bergen; Arevalo Rios, Barreto, Bertolo, Brienza, Donati, Giorgi, Ilicic, Kurtic, Viola, Zahavi; Budan, Dybala, Miccoli http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A - 16^ Giornata - Andata - 9-12-2012 (ore 15:00) - Stadio "Renzo Barbera" - Palermo Arbitro: Andrea De Marco Verso Palermo-Juventus: E' il Conte-Day, l'allenatore torna inpanchina e non fa turnover; in campo tutti i 'titolarissimi' tranne lo squalificato Giovinco. I rosanero si affideranno a Miccoli e Ilicic in avanti, la mediana sarà a 5. Madama dovrà fare a meno di Giovinco squalificato, per il resto giocherà la formazione tipo. 9 Dicembre, 2012 PROBABILI FORMAZIONI PALERMOUjkani Munoz, Donati, Von Bergen, Morganella, Barreto, Kurtic, Garcia Ilicic, Brienza, Miccoli JUVENTUS Buffon Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah Matri, Vucinic QUI PALERMO Dopo lo stop della scorsa settimana Gasperini avrà nuovamente a disposizione Fabrizio Miccoli: il capitano rosanero guiderà l'attacco al fianco di Ilicic. Brienza partirà inizialmente dalla panchina, Gasperini infatti si schiererà 'a specchio' della Juve, con un 3-5-2. Mediana dunque foltissima, con Pisano, Morganella (da interno), Kurtic, Barreto e Garcia. Donati confermato al centro della difesa, con lui Von Bergen e Munoz. Ujkani nuovamente tra i pali. Out Hernandez e Mantovani. QUI JUVENTUS Antonio Conte deve fare a meno di tre pedine infortunate e di una squalificata: out Lucio e Pepe, non dovrebbe essere del match neanche Bendtner. Giovinco salterà di sicuro la trasferta, vista la squalifica. Gli ulteriori acciacchi di Isla e Caceres costringeranno il tecnico bianconero a non far rifiatare (come pareva probabile) Lichtsteiner e Chiellini. Ma anche altri due candidati alla panchina come Vidal e Asamoah alla fine dovrebbero essere in campo dal primo minuto, limitando di fatto il turnover al solo attacco, dove Matri è favorito su Quagliarella per affiancare. L'ULTIMA SFIDA 07/04/2012, Palermo-Juventus 0-2: I bianconeri tornano in testa IL MOMENTO Discontinuo, troppo discontinuo il Palermo di Gasperini. In campionato i rosanero non riescono a trovare due risultati utili consecutivi da tempo immemore, nelle ultime sette gare di campionato sono arrivate due vittorie e due pareggi, bottino comunque importante. In settimana la sconfitta e l'eliminazione in Coppa Italia è stata accolta quasi come una liberazione. Settimana perfetta per la Juventus: si è qualificata agli ottavi di Champions come prima del girone, ha battuto il Torino nel derby. Una doppietta del genere significa forza pura per il futuro, convinzione nei propri mezzi e sorrisi in vista della trasferta isolana, che di fatto l'anno scorso regalò la vetta della classifica. Nelle ultime sette gare sono state quattro le vittorie, compreso il cammino europeo. PERCHÉ GUARDARLA Perchè per l'evento che tutti i tifosi aspettano dalla scorsa primavera arriverà nella gara contro il Palermo: niente più tribuna, squalifica e silenzi, Antonio Conte torna sulla panchina bianconera. Sarà lo show del tecnico di Madama, grintoso e con una rabbia da sfogare sul terreno di gioco, nelle indicazioni ai suoi. Perchè dopo le vittorie contro Torino e Shakhtar i bianconeri hanno seriamente ripreso il cammino dopo le sconfitte contro le milanesi: ora come ora non pare esserci squadra in grado di mettere Marchisio e compagni in seria difficoltà. Perchè nel Palermo torna Miccoli, che ha appena tagliato il traguardo delle 100 reti in Serie A: scalpita il capitano dei siciliani, desideroso di continuare a migliorare il suo punteggio. Ha sofferto dovendo saltare l'Inter, vuole scrivere un nuovo pezzo di storia, magari guidando i suoi alla vittoria contro il comprovinciale Conte (uno è di Nardò, l'altro di Lecce). Testa a Testa Serie A ‎- 07/apr/2012 - Palermo 0 - Juventus 2 Serie A ‎- 20/nov/2011 - Juventus 3 - Palermo 0 Serie A ‎- 02/feb/2011 - Palermo 2 - Juventus 1 Serie A ‎- 23/set/2010 - Juventus 1 - Palermo 3 Serie A ‎- 28/feb/2010 - Juventus 0 - Palermo 2 Ultime 5 Partite PALERMO 02/dic/2012 - Inter 1 - Palermo 0 - Serie A 27/nov/2012 - Palermo 1 - Hellas Verona 2 - Coppa Italia 24/nov/2012 - Palermo 3 - Catania 1 - Serie A 18/nov/2012 - Bologna 3 - Palermo 0 - Serie A 11/nov/2012 - Palermo 2 - Sampdoria 0 - Serie A JUVENTUS 05/dic/2012 - Shakhtar 0 - Juventus 1 - UCL 01/dic/2012 - Juventus 3 - Torino 0 - Serie A 25/nov/2012 - Milan 1 - Juventus 0 - Serie A 20/nov/2012 - Juventus 3 - Chelsea FC 0 - UCL 17/nov/2012 - Juventus 0 - Lazio 0 - Serie A Previsione Palermo 0 - 2 Juventus http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Buffon hits back at Juventus critics The Italian goalkeeper believes other clubs use the Bianconeri to deflect from their own failings after claims of favouritism from match officials. Dec 8, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon has hit back at suggestions that referees favour Juventus. The 34-year-old believes other clubs use the excuse as a “shield and an alibi” for their own shortcomings and launched a fierce defence of his side. “I don’t like this controversy and it brings out this total inconsistency in the treatment of errors for and against Juventus,” Buffon told RAI. “This season the only really big mistakes I saw in our favour were against Catania. “At times there is an exaggerated pandemonium around these matters. Juventus are used as a shield and an alibi by those who never win.” The Juve captain also revealed his belief that the race for the Serie A title will be a tough one and says he expects a long tussle ahead. “This is a season where we’re going to be in a battle, even if we are the favourites because we have reinforced and started well," he added. “This doesn’t mean our victory is to be expected, as that would be a terrible thought to allow. That’s just inviting surprises.”

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Palermo vs. Juventus PREVIEW – Grounding the Sicilian Eagles Dec 8, 2012 The last month has been a stressful one. Juventus have had two different assistant coaches on the bench, endured disappointing defeats to archrivals Milan and Inter, and in general, have had to deal with an incredible amount of tough fixtures in a very short period of time. It hasn’t all been smooth, but coming out on the end, Juventus have certainly passed the test. The team did lose a few games, but the club rides into mid-December finishing 1st in both the Champion’s League group as well as in the league. The Old Lady has claimed some impressive scalps, crushing both Chelsea and Torino by a 3-0 margin, as well as a solid 1-0 victory away in Ukraine. Europe has been put on notice. The next few weeks will be a bit of a breather. With the Champion’s League on a temporary hiatus, the club only has league and Coppa Italia matches to contend; the latter unquestionably involve less of the Starting XI and are more a chance for the secondary figures to claim a starting shirt. The first match after the Champion’s League break is a trip this weekend down to Sicily to take on Palermo, and most notably, it will feature the return of Antonio Conte to the Juventus bench. The Lecce-born tactician has endured a very difficult couple of months, being banned for an offense he most certainly did not commit. (Tellingly, one charge was completely removed and his assistant coach’s ban shortened even more!) Juventus fans will be eager to see the great man back on the bench this weekened. PALERMO Palermo have been chosen as the unfortunate team to face Conte on his return. The Rosanero are enduring yet another “typical” Maurizio Zamparini season. Last year, the fiery owner sacked Stefano Pioli before the season even started. This year, Giuseppe Sannino, the man who successfully followed Conte at Siena, was given about a month of league matches before Zamparini decided he’d seen enough. Sannino was fired in mid-September. The sacked Rosanero coach did well at Siena with a very mediocre squad. His team defended superbly and played tactical football as a unit. Some might say it was a tad negative at times, but there’s no question Sannino did great with what was at his disposal. In somewhat of a 180 degree turn, Zamparini replaced Sannino with Gian Piero Gasperini, the man whos’ Inter tenure infamously failed to yield a single victory. He made his name at Genoa, coaching young talent and playing attractive football, but his sides were always prone to mistakes, mental weakness, and poor defense. It makes little sense to replace a tactical coach with a man who could almost be considered Zeman-lite, but little of Zamparini’s choices ever make rational sense. Unfortunately for Palermo, they have not exactly enjoyed the typical post-sacking boost that often occurs as the result of a new coach. Gasperini has certainly made improvements since his appointment in Sicily, but the Rosanero are still floundering near the bottom of the table. It will certainly take time for the club to transition from Sannino’s ideals to Gasperini’s attack-minded play, but no one knows if Palermo has enough time, or if Zamparini will be patient enough. The Sicilians recent form is mixed at best. There are hints of positive play, but calcio is a results-based business, and the results have not been average. The team has defeated Sampdoria and island rivals Catania in the last few weeks, but were destroyed by Bologna and lost narrowly to Inter last weekend. The form is decidedly mixed. Probable Formation: Ujkani Munoz, Donati, Von Bergen Morganella, Barreto, Kurtic, Garcia Ilicic, Brienza Miccoli JUVENTUS Juventus ride into this match on quite a bit of an emotional high. In one week, the club has defeated local rivals Torino 3-0, qualified for the knockout stages with an exciting 1-0 victory in Ukraine, and of course, will welcome Antonio Conte back to the bench for Palermo. The fixture congestion in recent weeks has certainly resulted in a bit of fatigue among the squad players, either mental or physical. There have been a bit of rotation here and there, but more often than not it’s been forced by suspension, like Marchisio’s absence in Ukraine. Indeed, GIovinco will miss the Palermo match due to yellow card accumulation. In general, our reserves have proven themselves in the absence of the first team. Fabio Quagliarella started the season either 4th or 5th choice, but has moved up the pecking order thanks to his goals. (and the lack thereof from Matri and Bendtner) Paul Pogba has seen a decent amount of playing time in midfield, rotating in for any one of Pirlo, Marchisio, or Vidal. Giaccherini has slowly popped back into the lineup, though his performances have been rather workmanlike. There hasn’t been the same rotation in defense. Isla has seen a bit of playing time in a rotation with Lichtsteiner, but Caceres, De Ceglie, Marrone, and a former Interista have seen little playing time. It has been significant enough that the latter may depart in January, much to the disappointment of Juventus fans everywhere (sarcasm, of course) while Luca Marrone’s agent has been talking up a loan spell to get more playing time. There will be a bit of rotation this weekend. Chiellini battled like a gladiator against Shakthar Donetsk, but nearly subbed off in the first half complaining of a calf injury. Leonardo Bonucci also has dealt off-and-on with a knock, but is more likely to play than Keyser Giorgio. Should Chiellini fail to make it, Caceres will likely be chosen in his place. The wingbacks may see a bit of rotation as well- Conte has rotated Isla with Lichtsteiner a fair amount (though Isla is injured), and the Swiss fullback battled long and hard earlier this week. Asamoah also did quite a bit of running, and so De Ceglie may be offered another spot. Midfield may see a bit of rotation. Marchisio will return to the lineup having sat out the trip to Ukraine due to suspension. It’s possible one of Pirlo or Vidal will receive a break; both played excellent in the midweek match, but it was an energy sapping game. Vidal in particular was all over the pitch, tackling and recovering the ball and looked exhausted as the game wore on. Paul Pogba did well in Marchisio’s absence, and will probably step in for one of the other duo to give them a rest. In attack, it’s somewhat easy to predict. The team has rotated constantly between the strikers, mostly due to everyone fading in and out of form, but this week’s selection is rather forced. Giovinco has been suspended due to yellow card accumulation, and Bendtner is “injured” with an abdominal strain. Conte will have to select between Vucinic, Matri, and Quagliarella. Mirko Vucinic has spent much of the fall with niggling injuries, and it’s weighed on his form. He has not scored since a penalty kick against Genoa in mid-September, and he has looked rather poor in most games since. The Montenegrin provided assists in the Torino derby as well as a very positive display in the Champion’s League, and Conte is an admirer. Pencil him in for a starting shirt. The second could really go to either. On form, it’d likely be Quagliarella, but Conte might give a starting shot to Matri in a further attempt to rejuvenate the man who is a shadow of himself a year ago. Neither player seems to do particularly well when partnered with Vucinic and thus I’d like to see Quagliamatri get another shot, but it probably won’t happen. A Vucinic-Quagliarella seems the most likely pairing. Probable Formation: Buffon Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini Caceres, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah Vucinic, Quagliarella In the post-Calciopoli era, Palermo was a thorn in Juve’s side. The Rosanero always presented a challenge to the Bianconeri, defeating Juventus on several occasions both in Sicily and Turin. In the last two years, however, Palermo has declined, and so has the intensity of the matches against Juventus. Gone are the days of Pastore, Cassani, and Amauri, and Miccoli has looked subdued in recent Juventus-Palermo matches compared to the grudge-fueled dynamic displays of the past. In the past, due to Juve’s performances under Ranieri, Delneri, and Zaccherrara as well as the talented, energetic Palermo sides, this is a match that would give me significant apprehension. Those days appear to be gone, and while far from a finished affair, this match should finish with 3 points for Juventus. Frankly, Palermo is not a very good team. They are not well organized, and Juve’s tactical discipline and possession-based play should see the team through in Antonio Conte’s return to the bench. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Palermo v Juventus – News, Tactics, Line-up & Prediction Dec 8, 2012 What a week it has been for Juventus! After getting back to winning ways in Serie A after demolishing old rivals Torino in the Derby della Mole, they put up a strong performance against Ukrainian Champions Shakhtar Donetsk in the intimidating Donbass Arena. The victory against the Miners not only sealed their berth in the knock-out phase of Europe’s premier competition but also meant they qualified on top of their tricky group. Perhaps the best news comes in the form of the return of their charismatic coach Antonio Conte. Yes, after spending months cramped up in a room in the stands and away from the sidelines, the Juventus manager returns to the dug-out on Sunday. Conte who was allegedly involved in the Calcioscommesse scandal which took Italian football by storm last summer was initially handed a 10 month ban. The ban was reduced to 4 months after an appeal was lodged by Conte’s representatives. He now makes his long-awaited return and will be pleased to find his team exactly where he left them – at the top of the table. Palermo have been going through a torrid time in Serie A this season with lady luck not smiling upon the Sicilians. Last weekend’s draw can certainly attest to the that fact as they put in a feisty performance against Inter but were only undone by an own goal by Santiago Garcia. For the most part, Palermo looked worthy of at least a draw Gian Piero Gasperini returned to face the side he once managed not too long ago. It doesn’t get easier for Palermo as they return home only to welcome Serie A leaders Juventus. The Rosanero are hovering just above the drop-zone in 17th place with 14 points. Team News and Tactical Brief PALERMO Palermo find themselves in a spot of bother. Just one point above the safety zone will give Gasperini worries especially considering the trigger-happy nature of President Maurizio Zamparini. But they can take heart from their brave display against the Nerazzurri, with a bit of luck; they could have salvaged a well-earned draw. Gasperini is expected to make just a couple of changes from the side deployed against Inter and stick with his 3-4-2-1 formation. Fabrizio Miccoli returns to the set-up to face his old side and should displace emerging star Paulo Dybala. Miccoli, who once plied his trade for Juventus has always been a thorn in their side and earlier this week stated his side will go on to beat the champions 2-1. A bold claim indeed and he will hope to back his words with a vintage performance. Eros Pisano could make way for the experienced Massimo Donati who has been converted into a center-back this season. Expect the home side to use a game-plan similar to the one they used when they faced Inter. Palermo will sit back and defend and look to counter Juventus. With Miccoli and Ilicic, they have pace and craft in attack. Miccoli will make the diagonal runs and of course, his threat from set-pieces cannot be taken lightly. The midfield have their work cut out for them as they try to contain and track the runs from the Juventus midfielders. Gasperini might ask one of Ilicic or Brienza to do a job on Andrea Pirlo and shadow him around the pitch when Juventus have possession. Abel Hernandez and Andrea Mantovani are on the treatment table with long-term injuries and will miss this game. Probable Starting Line-up (3-4-2-1): Ujkani; Munoz, Donati, Von Bergen; Morganella, Barreto, Kurtic, Garcia; Ilicic, Brienza; Miccoli JUVENTUS Back-to-back wins against Torino and Shakhtar have lifted the spirits and morale in the Juventus dressing room. Out on the pitch, they welcome back Antonio Conte, a man who deserves a ton of credit for their success last season. He takes over from Angelo Alessio and Massimo Carrera who deserve to be lauded for the manner in which they have taken over and done an incredible job in Conte’s absence. Conte should ring around a few changes from the side that faced Shakhtar. Giovinco is suspended on account of accumulation of yellow cards. Chiellini and Vidal could be given a rest with Caceres and Marchisio taking their places according to latest reports emanating from Italy. The wing-backs should retain their place and the width they provide is vital to the way Juventus play. Lichtsteiner put in one of his most impressive performances in a Juventus jersey against Shakhtar with his marauding runs and his persistence paid off as his cross ultimately led to the Bianconeri’s winning goal. Paul Pogba’s recent games gives off the impression of maturity far beyond his young age. Calm and assured on the ball with the fierce shot in his armory, Pogba has frightening potential. He will make runs here and there, covering every blade of grass. Andrea Pirlo of course is the brains of this Juventus side. If he has a good game, Juventus have a good game. The Bianconeri should remain in control of this game and also control of the ball. The wing-backs might fancy their chances against Palermo’s shaky defence. Matri might get the nod over Quagliarella in attack and should partner Mirko Vucinic. The Montenegrin will come deep to receive possession while Matri will be the target-man up front making the runs in behind Palermo’s back-line. Simone Pepe and Lucio will sit this game out with injuries. Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Matri Players To Watch Out For Josip Ilicic (Palermo) Ilicic has been one of Serie A’s highly rated young players ever since his first season at Palermo. Inconsistency though has been his downfall. At 24, he still has a bag of tricks to worry the best defences in the world. A moment of magic from this unpredictable Slovenian International could carve open the Juventus defence. Palermo will pin their hopes on his shoulders to try to conjure up something positive in attack. Claudio Marchisio (Juventus) Marchisio bagged a brace against Torino and while he may not be scoring as much as he did last season, he still is the lungs of this Juventus side. Having missed out on Shakhtar due to a suspension, he will be fresh and raring to go with his confidence levels peaking. Marchisio remains one of the most tactical players around and silently goes about doing his job. The key to Juventus dominating the midfield battle remains in his hands. Prediction Palermo 0 – 2 Juventus The Rosanero are struggling for form in the league while Juventus are regaining it. The odds are stacked against Palermo winning this one, let alone managing a draw. The Bianconeri might be a bit fatigued but with Antonio Conte back on the touchline, they have the motivation and the push to earn all three points. Blast From The Past http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Preview: Palermo vs. Juventus Dec 8, 2012 Juventus take on Palermo at the Stadio Renzo Barbera this weekend as they try to extend their lead at the top of Serie A. The Old Lady currently reside at the number one spot in the league table by a slender 10 points but Juve will be hoping to claim maximum points against a side that have struggled in the campaign so far. The Rosanero are just two points away from the relegation zone and a defeat against the reigning champions would hamper their chances further of surviving in the top flight. The home side could line up with Paulo Dybala and Franco Brienza up front, while Juve are expected to start Claudio Marchisio following his two goals in their 3-0 win over Torino last weekend. Recent form Palermo: LWLWL Juventus: LWDLW Possible lineups PALERMO: Ujkani; Munoz, Von Bergen, Garcia, Pisano, Morganella; Barreto, Ilicic, Kurtic; Dybala, Brienza JUVENTUS: Buffon; De Ceglie, Barzagli, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner; Pogba, Marchisio, Pirlo, Giaccherini; Vucinic, Giovinco Sports Mole says: 0-2 http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Juve squad for Palermo Dec 8, 2012 Antonio Conte returns to the bench after his ban and has named the Juventus squad travelling to Palermo, missing players like Sebastian Giovinco and Mauricio Isla. The Coach can finally shout from the touchline again after four months in the stands due to a betting scandal, accusations he has always firmly denied. Giovinco is suspended for tomorrow’s match, while Martin Caceres, Lucio, Simone Pepe, Luca Marrone and Isla are all ruled out due to injury. Caceres and Marrone have right thigh problems, Isla sprained his ankle, while Lucio and Pepe are long-term absentees. Juventus squad for Palermo: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 6 Pogba, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 15 Barzagli, 17 Bendtner, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 22 Asamoah, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 27 Quagliarella, 30 Storari, 32 Matri, 34 Rubinho http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Buffon: 'Juve used as an alibi' Dec 8, 2012 Gigi Buffon believes the Scudetto will be a battle royal, but hit back at those who “use Juventus as a shield and an alibi” for their own failure. The goalkeeper spoke to RAI television programme Dribbling and snapped at those who accuse the Bianconeri of benefiting from refereeing errors. “I don’t like this controversy and it brings out this total inconsistency in the treatment of errors for and against Juventus,” said Buffon. “This season the only really big mistakes I saw in our favour were against Catania. At times there is an exaggerated pandemonium around these matters. Juventus are used as a shield and an alibi by those who never win.” Antonio Conte has missed the last four months due to the betting scandal, but his ban has expired and he is back on the bench tomorrow afternoon against Palermo. “He brings a strong impact on to a team and I’ve rarely seen that in any other Coach. He transmits his rage and sporting ferocity. “This is a season where we’re going to be in a battle, even if we are the favourites because we have reinforced and started well. This doesn’t mean our victory is to be expected, as that would be a terrible thought to allow. That’s just inviting surprises...” Buffon also commented on those who put too much pressure on footballers to be role models. “We need sporting fair play, but I do not take the responsibility of being an educator. Parents can’t just expect me to educate their children.”

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Palermo v Juventus: Preview Dec 8, 2012 The stage is set for Juventus head coach Antonio Conte to return to the touchline at Palermo tomorrow, four months after he was suspended from football. Juve's official website has been counting down the days leading up to Conte's comeback and the 43-year-old will supervise his team on a match day for the first time since he was banned from the dug-out for his alleged involvement in match-fixing. The players made Conte's transition from exile as comfortable as possible by sealing progression to the Champions League knockout stages with a 1-0 victory at Shakhtar Donetsk this week. Club director Beppe Marotta told juventus.com: "First of all we're delighted to have got through as it allows Conte to experience the Champions League. "We've been disappointed not to have had him in the dug-out and we're looking forward to having him back in his technical area over the coming fixtures. "People have given everything in his absence and that's what makes what we've achieved all the more extraordinary. "We mustn't go into the Palermo game thinking about (Wednesday's) match. We need to be wary, they've got nothing to lose and won't need much in the way of motivation.'' Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini pulled up injured at the Donbass Arena, leaving space for Lucio or Martin Caceres to come into the side. Sebastian Giovinco is suspended and Conte may experiment by fielding on-loan Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner alongside Mirko Vucinic or Fabio Quagliarella. Palermo head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is a confirmed admirer of Conte but warned his counterpart he would be given no quarter at the Renzo Barbera, with club president Maurizio Zamparini taking a more opportunistic approach. "We hope they will be very tired after their victory the other night,'' he told La Repubblica. "This challenge comes at a bad time for them. "Nothing is going well for us at the moment but Juve will certainly find a Palermo side fired up and enraged after our defeat at Inter.'' Gasperini is likely to throw ex-Juve striker Fabrizio Miccoli into the mix tomorrow, while Abel Hernandez continues to recover from a serious leg injury. Defender Andrea Mantovani is another long-term absentee. Palermo, who have a two-point cushion above the bottom three, lost this fixture 2-0 last year as Juve leapfrogged AC Milan on their way to claiming the Scudetto. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Palermo - Juventus Preview: Conte returns to the dugout The Bianconeri coach will be present on the touchline for the first time in four months after serving his suspension and will hope to mark the moment with a victory. Dec 8, 2012 PROBABLE LINE-UPS PALERMO Ujkani Munoz, Donati, Von Bergen, Morganella, Barreto, Kurtic, Garcia Ilicic, Brienza, Miccoli JUVENTUSBuffon Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah Matri, Vucinic In his four months away from the Juventus dugout, Antonio Conte's side have successfully navigated a tough Champions League group and currently top the Serie A table. Both Massimo Carrera and Angelo Alessio have handled the reins well in his absence and the 43-year-old will be keen to show that he remains the driving force behind the Old Lady. Nicklas Bendtner, Lucio and Simone Pepe are all absent for the trip to Palermo, who have suffered a miserable start to the campaign. The Rosanero are down in 17th position heading into the game after mustering a measly 14 points from their first 15 games - though all three of their victories this season have come at home. Abel Hernandez and Andrea Mantovani will both miss out through injury, with the pair not likely to feature for the forseeable future. DID YOU KNOW? • Juventus have won 11 of their 15 Serie A games without Antonio Conte in the dugout. • The Bianconeri have scored 32 times in those matches and conceded just 10 goals, leaving them with a goal difference of 22 - six better off than second-placed Napoli. • The Old Lady beat Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0 on Wednesday, a result that saw them seal top spot in Champions League Group E. • Palermo finished in 16th position in Serie A last season and have been equally disappointing this time around, sitting one place worse off in 17th. • Fabrizio Miccoli is the Rosanero's top goalscorer with five strikes to his name in Serie A, a tally that accounts for more than a third of their 14 goals this season. • Palermo will be thankful for home comforts - all three of their league victories have come at the Stadio Renzo Barbera. Head to Head Serie A ‎- Apr 7, 2012 - Palermo 0 - Juventus 2 Serie A ‎- Nov 20, 2011 - Juventus 3 - Palermo 0 Serie A ‎- Feb 2, 2011 - Palermo 2 - Juventus 1 Serie A ‎- Sep 23, 2010 - Juventus 1 - Palermo 3 Serie A ‎- Feb 28, 2010 - Juventus 0 - Palermo 2 Last Five Matches Palermo Dec 2, 2012 - FC Internazionale 1 - Palermo 0 - Serie A Nov 27, 2012 - Palermo 1 - Verona 2 - Coppa Italia Nov 24, 2012 - Palermo 3 - Catania 1 - Serie A Nov 18, 2012 - Bologna 3 - Palermo 0 - Serie A Nov 11, 2012 - Palermo 2 - Sampdoria 0 - Serie A Juventus Dec 5, 2012 - Shakhtar Donetsk 0 - Juventus 1 - UCL Dec 1, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Torino 0 - Serie A Nov 25, 2012 - AC Milan 1 - Juventus 0 - Serie A Nov 20, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Chelsea FC 0 - UCL Nov 17, 2012 - Juventus 0 - Lazio 0 - Serie A Players to Watch Fabrizio Miccoli The 33-year-old knows Serie A like the back of his hand and even as he approaches his mid-30s, the forward remains a potent threat in front of goal. He is Palermo's top goalscorer with five efforts to his name and the home side will need him to be at his best. Paul Pogba After a busy week of Champions League duty and a long trip to Ukraine, there is every chance the midfield prospect could be handed his chance to shine. The former Manchester United man impressed in his fleeting appearances to date and will want to seize the opportunity if selected. Prediction There will be points to be proved all round with Antonio Conte looking to mark his comeback with a win and the Juventus players eager to impress their boss upon his return to the dugout. That alone will be enough to see off this struggling Palermo side. Editor's Prediction Palermo 0 - 2 Juventus http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco MATCH PREVIEW Dec 8, 2012 Palermo are embattled but encouraged by recent performances, while Juventus welcome Antonio Conte back to their bench. Gian Piero Gasperini faced ex-club Inter last Sunday and very nearly left San Siro with a point. Palermo frustrated the Nerazzurri, who failed to create many clear-cut opportunities, yet went home empty handed after Santiago Garcia diverted a seemingly harmless cross into his own net. That continued the Sicilian’s inconsistent streak. From a crushing loss at Roma they have defeated Sampdoria, went red card-crazy in Bologna, then claimed victory over island rivals Catania. This was followed up by their spirited display against Inter. However, they remain just two points ahead of the bottom three. Abel Hernandez and Andrea Mantovani are long-term absentees and the only players missing from Gasperini’s squad. The tactician can rely on a settled XI, led by captain Fabrizio Miccoli. Juventus returned to winning ways by downing city rivals Torino 3-0 last weekend. Local boys and youth products Claudio Marchisio and Sebastian Giovinco were the difference, with the former netting twice. That was followed by a crucial 1-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday, which allowed them to win their Champions League group. The match at the Donbass Arena represented the last for Angelo Alessio on the touchline, who makes way for the returning Conte. The former Bianconeri captain has not sat on the bench since last season’s Coppa Italia Final due to a ban for his alleged failure to report match fixing. Comments have been made about his presence on the sidelines, so expect those on the pitch to be given extra motivation from the boss. Giovinco is suspended after reaching the yellow card limit. Simone Pepe remains sidelined, but Nicklas Bendtner and Lucio hope to be in contention to feature. Meanwhile, Martin Caceres could replace Giorgio Chiellini after the Italian international pulled up sore during Wednesday’s match. Historically the pair have been evenly matched on the island. Palermo have won six times and we’ve seen eight draws, in addition to Juve’s ten victories. This includes last season’s 2-0 result, one which propelled Juventus above Milan on their way to the Scudetto. Keep an eye on: Josip Ilicic (Palermo) – The Slovenian international has slowly come good under Gasperini’s tutelage. Lining up as one of Miccoli’s two support strikers, Ilicic netted a brace in the Sicilian Derby a fortnight ago. That increased his season tally to three goals and he will look to improve that here. Form guide: Palermo (L W L W L) Juventus (L W D L W) Last season: Palermo 0-2 Juventus Stat fact: Results have been mixed since Palermo’s promotion in 2004, with the Rosanero enjoying the upper hand in the seven ensuing meetings. They have won four to Juve’s three. PALERMO (probable): Ujkani; Munoz, Donati, Von Bergen; Morganella, Barreto, Kurtic, Garcia; Ilicic, Brienza; Miccoli JUVENTUS (probable): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah, Vucinic, Matri http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Zamparini: Pirlo is Juventus' only special player The flamboyant supremo described the playmaker as a "great player" but was less kind about the Italy international's club-mates, whom he accused of lacking in star quality. Dec 7, 2012 Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has questioned Juventus' strength in depth, claiming that while Andrea Pirlo is a phenomenal talent, the rest of the squad is made up of "regular" players. The 33-year-old joined the Turin giants on a free transfer from AC Milan last summer and played an instrumental role in the side's charge towards the Serie A title, while proving similarly influential for Italy, who finished runners-up at Euro 2012. And Zamparini believes the Bianconeri are a very ordinary side without their creative spark in the midfield. "Juventus are composed of regular players, not great phenomena," he told Radio Radio. "Pirlo is their only great player, the others are just okay." The Rosanero face Juventus on Sunday, and Zamparini expects his attackers to make life difficult for the Serie A holders, with the likes of Josip Ilicic, Fabrizio Miccoli and Paulo Dybala currently amongst the goals. He added: "We can put them under difficulty, especially with our strikers who are very good." http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Juventus set for changes Dec 7, 2012 Juventus boss Antonio Conte could make some substantial changes to the side for this weekend’s trip to Palermo. According to the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport, the tactician may decide on as many as five alterations to the team which beat Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0 on Wednesday. The Old Lady will definitely be without Sebastian Giovinco as he is suspended, but Stephan Lichtsteiner, Kwadwo Asamoah, Arturo Vidal and Mirko Vucinic may be allowed to catch their breath. They could be replaced in the side by Mauricio Isla, Paolo De Ceglie, Claudio Marchisio – who was banned in midweek – Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella. Conte will return to the sidelines on Sunday as his ban will expire tomorrow. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Zamparini tips Euro Juventus Dec 6, 2012 Palermo chief Maurizio Zamparini thinks that a Juventus side made up of ‘normal’ players could reach the Champions League Final. Speaking to Radio Radio ahead of this weekend’s Serie A game between the two sides, Zamparini hailed the Old Lady following their win at Shakhtar Donetsk. “I saw a really strong Juventus last night,” he stated. “They played a great game at a tough place against a very good team. “I’m impressed by their dynamism and rhythm. On an athletic level, they have 10 gears more than everyone else. “I think they could be protagonists until the end in Europe, they could reach the Final. “You have to praise boss Antonio Conte because this Juve, apart from Andrea Pirlo, is made up of normal players.” Turning to Sunday’s Stadio Barbera clash, Zamparini admitted that he is worried. “I hope they are a little bit tired after yesterday,” he added. “The game against Juventus comes at the worst possible time. “Nothing is going right for us as we are playing well, but not scoring. Fabrizio Miccoli thinks we’ll win 2-1 and I hope he’s right.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.) - "Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo Referee: Andrea De Marco Brienza happy with Conte return Dec 6, 2012 Palermo midfielder Franco Brienza has claimed he is happy to see Juventus boss Antonio Conte return the bench. The two sides meet on Sunday, with the Bianconeri Coach making his first appearance in the dugout since his suspension in the summer. And the 33-year-old has insisted he is pleased for the tactician, as well as admitting that it will be a tough test this weekend. “Conte? I am happy for his return to the bench,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “He is a honest and sincere person. “It will be a tricky game with a lot of dangers. “But we will have to try our best to get a positive result against the League leaders. The Bianconeri are proving to be very strong.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A - 16^ Giornata - Andata - 9-12-2012 (ore 15:00) - Stadio "Renzo Barbera" - Palermo Arbitro: Andrea De Marco Confronti ufficiali 53 - 48 (Serie A) - 5 (Coppa Italia) Vittorie Juventus 30 - 27 (Serie A) - 3 (Coppa Italia) Pareggi 12 - 11 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) Vittorie Palermo 11 - 10 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) Goals Juventus 109 - 97 (Serie A) - 12 (Coppa Italia) Goals Palermo 55 - 50 (Serie A) - 5 (Coppa Italia) Palermo - Juventus Serie A a Palermo Confronti ufficiali 24 Vittorie Juventus 10 (L'ultima il 07.04.2012, 0-2) Pareggi 8 (L'ultimo il 09.02.1969, 1-1) Vittorie Palermo 6 (L'ultima il 02.02.2011, 2-1) Goals Juventus 30 Goals Palermo 19 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Palermo in Sicilia 7 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 6 Buffon Gianluigi 6 Chiellini Giorgio 6 Manente Sergio 6 Muccinelli Ermes 5 Trezeguet David Sergio 5 Viola Giovanni 4 Bertuccelli Alberto 4 Camoranesi Mauro German 4 Del Piero Alessandro 2 goals Del Piero Alessandro 2 Monti Luis Felipe 2 Muccinelli Ermes 2 Mutu Adrian 2 Ricagni Eduardo 2 Sivori Omar Enrique 2 Stivanello Giorgio 1 Altafini Josè João 1 Anastasi Pietro 1 Boniperti Giampiero Ultimi confronti diretti 25.11.2007 Serie A Juventus-Palermo 5-0 06.04.2008 Serie A Palermo-Juventus 3-2 05.10.2008 Serie A Juventus-Palermo 1-2 21.02.2009 Serie A Palermo-Juventus 0-2 04.10.2009 Serie A Palermo-Juventus 2-0 28.02.2010 Serie A Juventus-Palermo 0-2 23.09.2010 Serie A Juventus-Palermo 1-3 02.02.2011 Serie A Palermo-Juventus 2-1 20.11.2011 Serie A Juventus-Palermo 3-0 07.04.2012 Serie A Palermo-Juventus 0-2 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 4 - Pareggi 0 - Vittorie Palermo 6 - Goals Juventus 17 - Goals Palermo 14

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (3^ giornata - Ritorno) - 5-12-2012 (ore 20:45) ................ SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.) Donbass Arena - Donetsk Arbitro: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden) Spettatori: 50104 Champions League - Juventus immensa! Sbanca Donetsk ed è prima Con un autogol di Kucher i bianconeri battono lo Shakthar e vincono il girone E da imbattuti. Partita tutta cuore della squadra di Conte che pone fine all'imbattibilità interna degli ucraini che durava da 16 incontri consecutivi e vola agli ottavi meritatamente a discapito del Chelsea campione in carica. Eurosport - Mercoledí, 5 dicembre 2012 Poteva bastare un pareggio alla Juventus per passare il turno e ritornare agli ottavi di finale.Bastava il più classico dei biscotti, quei pareggi che accontentano entrambe le squadre. La squadra di Conte però a Donetsk, in uno dei campi più difficili d’Europa dove gli arancioneri non perdevano da 16 gare consecutive, non si è accontentata ed ha vinto con merito con la solita gara tutta cuore e temperamento. I bianconeri hanno sofferto quando c’era da soffrire, hanno reagito ad un torto arbitrale nel primo tempo dimostrandosi più forti anche della sfortuna ed alla fine hanno ottenuto tre punti meritati che valgono il primato nel girone e l’imbattibilità nel girone E (3 vittorie e 3 pareggi). C’erano dei dubbi alla vigilia sulla squadra di Conte a livello europeo ma in sei giornate Madama li ha spazzati via, dimostrando che con il carattere, la grinta ed il cuore si può fare strada anche nell'Europa che conta. E tornare a vincere dopo tre anni di digiuno in trasferta proprio nella serata più importante dell'anno. TORNA CHIELLINI IN DIFESA, POGBA PER MARCHISIO - Mircea Lucescu, per questa ultima partita prima della lunga pausa invernale, propone la formazione tipo con il consolidato schema 4-2-3-1: unica faccia nuova rispetto alle ultime partite è al centro dell'attacco dove non c'è lo squalificato Luiz Adriano ma il croato-brasiliano Eduardo. Alle sue spalle agiscono come di consueto Teixeira, Mkhitaryan e Willian. Antonio Conte, che per l'ultima partita è confinato in tribuna a causa della squalifica che si esaurirà proprio sabato, per questa partita fondamentale si affida al 3-5-2. In difesa rientra Chiellini a comporre il terzetto formidabile con Bonucci e Barzagli a centrocampo al posto dello squalificato Marchisio c'è il francese Pogba mentre in attacco accanto all'inamovibile Vucinic c'è Giovinco, reduce dal gol nel derby contro il Toro. In panchina a sorpresa non ci sono De Ceglie e Isla che si accomodano in tribuna. PARTENZA COL FRENO A MANO, MA IL RIGORE DOV’E’? – Sarà per l’atmosfera fredda oppure per la consapevolezza di giocarsi davvero tantissimo ma l’inizio della Juventus alla Dombas Arena è all’insegna della timidezza. Ritmo basso, possesso palla sterile e baricentro molto basso: segnali non proprio splendidi per Alessio e per Antonio Conte anche perché lo Shakhtar (anche se non spinge come al solito e non crea grossi grattacapi) non sta a guardare, fa girare bene il pallone ed impone il controllo del ritmo. Per 19’ non succede praticamente nulla di rivelante e per vedere il primo brivido bisogna arrivare al 20’: punizione dalla sinistra di Pirlo, Chiellini la spizza di testa e la palla carambola sul braccio largo di Fernandinho che ferma il pallone con la mano. Sembra un rigore solare per tutti ma non per Eriksson che lascia correre facendo imbufalire i giocatori bianconeri. La Juve prende coraggio ed al 29’ confeziona la migliore palla gol del primo tempo: Vucinic è caparbio a lottare ed a vincere un rimpallo con Rakitskyi prima dell’ingresso dell’area di rigore, il montenegrino è lucido poi a servire in mezzo Giovinco che tutto solo davanti a Pyatov lascia partire un rasoterra che sfiora il primo palo ed esce di nulla sul fondo. Lo Shakhtar sembra in balia della Signora che pressa alla grande con il solito diabolico Vidal e dietro concede poco o nulla agli arancio-neri che chiudono il primo tempo senza tirare mai una volta dalle parti di Buffon. UN AUTOGOL DA PRIMATO – Nella ripresa Lucescu inserisce Devic al posto dell’abulico Eduardo ma è Teixeira a far tremare tutti dopo 180”: Rakitskiy dai 20 metri prova la conclusione a giro su punizione che Buffon devia non in grande stile coi pugni, Teixeira non ci pensa due volte a piombare sulla palla vagante e calcia a botta sicura col pallone che sfiora l’incrocio dei pali e finisce sul fondo. Lo scampato pericolo risveglia la Juve che al 52’ colpisce un palo clamoroso con un rasoterra dal limite di Pirlo ed al 55’ passa: Lichtsteiner scambia con Vucinic sulal destra e, in posizione di dubbio fuorigioco, crossa un pallone teso a centroarea dove Kucher nel tentativo di anticipare Giovinco a centroarea combina la frittata e con un intervento maldestro infila la palla alle spalle di Pyatov. Il gol sprona lo Shakhtar che prova la reazione ma crea una sola grossa palla gol al 65’ con il neoentrato Ilsinho, che su una carambola con Asamoah colpisce un palo incredibile che fa tremare tutti gli juventini allo stadio ed a casa. Nel finale gli arancioneri provano ad abbozzare il forcing ma la Juve chiude tutti gli spazi e sfiora addirittura lo 0-2 in contropiede. L’errore sottorete però questa volta non costa caro perché la Juve con le unghie e con i denti porta a casa una vittoria leggendaria che pone fine a un digiuno che durava da tre anni (ultimo successo nel 2009 con il Maccabi Haifa), ridimensiona lo Shakhtar e lancia un messaggio forte e chiaro alle grandi d’Europa: la Juve non muore mai né in Italia né in Europa. Stefano Dolci - Eurosport Shakhtar 0-1 Juventus

Barzagli: Juve not the best but… Dec 7, 2012 Andrea Barzagli has admitted that his Juventus side are not the strongest in the Champions League – but that may not be a hindrance. The Turin giants booked their place in the last 16 of the competition this week with a 1-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk which saw them top the group. “As Gigi Buffon says, being the strongest doesn’t always matter,” he told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. “Being the best at the right moment does… “It is right to admit that Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have a bit more than we do, so we therefore hope to avoid Jose Mourinho’s Real in the next round. “But at that stage of the competition, anything can happen. “This has been a long personal journey for me as I’ve reached this stage for the first time in my career at the age of 31.” Barzagli continues to be a key figure for Juventus after his arrival from Wolfsburg in January 2011. “Winning a place in the Juventus side after Wolfsburg gave me security,” the former Palermo man continued. “And to become a first teamer for the Italian national side again after a two-year absence was something unique. “I’m now in better shape than when I was younger.”

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (6th leg) - 5-12-2012 (8:45 p.m.) ................ SHAKHTAR 0 - 1 JUVENTUS Olexandr Kucher (56′-O.G.) Donbass Arena - Donetsk Referee: Jonas Eriksson (Sweden) Attendance: 50104 Barzagli: Juve not the best team in Champions League but anything can happen The experienced defender had admitted that the Bianconeri are not the sky-high favourites to win the competition, but is hopeful of causing an upset with some luck. Dec 7, 2012 Andrea Barzagli is of the opinion that Juventus can spring a surprise and win the Champions League, even though he realises that the Serie A champions are not the strongest team in the tournament. The Bianconeri beat Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0 on Wednesday evening as they secured top spot in their group and qualified for the knockout stages of European club football's elite competition, and the defender is full of ambition. "We must admit that Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are perhaps a bit ahead of us," Barzagli told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. "So we hope to avoid Jose Mourinho's Madrid in the round of 16. "However, as Gigi Buffon previously said, it doesn't always matter who is stronger. What matters is that you are the best at the right moment. Anything can happen."