Socrates

Coppa Italia - Last of 8 - 9-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Torino Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Conte: AC Milan should be respected The 43-year-old is eagerly anticipating the upcoming encounter against the Rossoneri, and has admitted he could rest some of his key players. Jan 8, 2013 Juventus coach Antonio Conte has warned his men not to underestimate AC Milan in Wednesday's Coppa Italia quarter-final in Turin. The 43-year-old has admitted that he is likely to make some changes to his team, but has insisted that the Rossoneri are a team to be reckoned with. "Milan deserve to be respected. We will meet a great team. We have reached the quarter-finals of the competition and they will want to go as far as possible," Conte told reporters. "Obviously, we have the desire to put in a great performance. I might decide to make a few changes to the team and field some players who have not been regulars. "I expect a response from those players who will get a chance. I want to see progress from all my players. "Marrone could feature in Pirlo's position. Vucinic is having some physical problems and we'll have to deal with that. We cannot afford to miss him for a long time." Wednesday's encounter is scheduled to kick off at 20:45CET.

Coppa Italia - Last of 8 - 9-1-2013 (8:45 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Torino Referee: Paolo Silvio Mazzoleni Juventus - AC Milan Preview: Rossoneri looking for revenge in Coppa Italia Milan were beaten by the Bianconeri in the semi-final last term and may see this as an opportunity to continue their positive start to 2013. Jan 8, 2013 PROBABLE LINE-UPS JUVENTUSStorari Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Peluso Vucinic, Giovinco MILAN Amelia De Sciglio, Mexes, Acerbi, Constant Montolivo, Ambrosini, Emanuelson Boateng Bojan, El Shaarawy Expect few changes for this quarter-final Coppa Italia clash between Juventus and AC Milan. The Bianconeri will want to bounce back from their shock defeat to Sampdoria on Sunday, while the Rossoneri know the cup could provide a back door entry to the Europa League. For the visitors, they will have Philippe Mexes available, which means makeshift centre-back Mattio De Sciglio will return to full-back. Francesco Acerbi will continue his role in central defence while Kevin Constant may get the nod ahead of Ignazio Abate. In midfield, Massimo Ambrosini or Antonio Nocerino may be rested for Urby Emanuelson, while Bojan, who scored against Siena, may be preferred to Giampaolo Pazzini. For the hosts, Marco Storari is likely to get the nod in goal as he is usually the preferred goalkeeping choice in cup games. Giorgio Chiellini is still absent for Antonio Conte's men which may mean either Federico Peluso continuing to fill the role in the back three, or alternatively, Martin Caceres could come into the side with Peluso more advanced at wing-back. Claudio Marchisio's injury is not as bad as first feared but it seems that Paul Pogba may get the opportunity to showcase his talent. Arturo Vidal, who missed Sunday's clash, is expected to return on Wednesday. DID YOU KNOW? • Juventus' Martin Caceres helped the Bianconeri on their way past Milan in last year's Coppa Italia semi-final, as his double gave Conte's men a 2-1 lead to take back to Turin, where they salvaged a 2-2 draw to win 4-3 on aggregate. • The Bianconeri are tied with Roma for the most Coppa Italia trophies (nine), but have not won the competition since 1995 and lost last year's final to Napoli. • Juventus' biggest ever win against AC Milan was back in 1926-27 when they thumped the Rossoneri 8-2. • AC Milan were the last side in this fixture to score three goals in a single match, when they won 3-0 back in May 2010. • The Rossoneri have already beaten their opponents this season when they won 1-0 back in November. This was the start of a four-game winning streak in Serie A for Massimiliano Allegri's side. • Milan scraped past past Serie B strugglers Reggina in the last round, but goals from Mario Yepes, M'baye Niang and Giampaolo Pazzini secured the victory. Head to Head Serie A ‎- Nov 25, 2012 - AC Milan 1 - Juventus 0 Coppa Italia ‎- Mar 20, 2012 - Juventus 2 - AC Milan 2 Serie A ‎- Feb 25, 2012 - AC Milan 1 - Juventus 1 Coppa Italia ‎- Feb 8, 2012 - AC Milan 1 - Juventus 2 Serie A ‎- Oct 2, 2011 - Juventus 2 - AC Milan 0 Last Five Matches Juventus Jan 6, 2013 - Juventus 1 - Sampdoria 2 - Serie A Dec 21, 2012 - Cagliari 1 - Juventus 3 - Serie A Dec 16, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Atalanta 0 - Serie A Dec 12, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Cagliari 0 - Coppa Italia Dec 9, 2012 - Palermo 0 - Juventus 1 - Serie A AC Milan Jan 6, 2013 - AC Milan 2 - Siena 1 - Serie A Dec 22, 2012 - Roma 4 - AC Milan 2 - Serie A Dec 16, 2012 - AC Milan 4 - Pescara 1 - Serie A Dec 13, 2012 - AC Milan 3 - Reggina 0 - Coppa Italia Dec 9, 2012 - Torino 2 - AC Milan 4 - Serie A Players to Watch Sebastian Giovinco The 'Atomic Ant' seems to be in good form at the minute and his pace and trickery can cause problems. Physically, he may not be the strongest, but his creativity and flair could give the AC Milan defence something to think about. Bojan Krkic He has found it difficult to cement his place in the first team this term, but came on to great effect against Siena on Sunday, scoring an excellent header. The Spaniard has something to prove and there is no better time to do it than against Juventus. He often drifts in and out of games but if he keep his concentration levels high, he could give Allegri something to think about in future matches. Prediction These games are usually tight affairs and the Rossoneri will fancy their chances having already beaten the Bianconeri on their own turf. That said, Antonio Conte's men will be disappointed with Sunday's result against Sampdoria and will be determined to ensure there is not a repeat performance on Wednesday. However, it could be a case of both teams cancelling each other out. Editor's Prediction Juventus 1 - 1 Milan

Where is Pirlo? Barcelona and Real Madrid bias proves that FIFPro World XI has no credibility How can the Fifa-backed award possibly be taken seriously after the shocking exclusion of the Juventus and Italy star, and the admittance of underachievers such as Dani Alves? Jan 8, 2013 COMMENT By Carlo Garganese Footballers are often ridiculed for having more money than sense, and it is little wonder when they are responsible for monstrosities like the 2012 FIFPro World XI. The best team of the last calendar year, as voted for by approximately 45,000 professional footballers around the globe, produced an all-La Liga line-up consisting of just one player – Atletico Madrid's Radamel Falcao – who is not contracted to either Barcelona or Real Madrid. If the Fifa Ballon d'Or is traditionally regarded as the most prestigious individual prize in football, then the FIFPro XI considers itself the most distinguished team construct. However, any credibility that the Fifa-backed award has acquired since its creation in 2005 has now all but disappeared. The most bizarre inclusion was that of Dani Alves at right-back. At the start of last season, the Brazilian was arguably the best full-back in world football. But 2012 was his worst year since arriving in Spain, as he endured problems with Pep Guardiola and then spent time on the bench under Tito Vilanova. There were numerous superior right-backs in Europe, including Borussia Dortmund's Lukasz Piszczek, Juventus' Stephan Lichtsteiner and Shakhtar Donetsk's Darijo Srna, to name just a few, all of whom – unlike Dani Alves – won a league title in 2012. The footballers who picked Alves clearly chose him on reputation, and watched little to no German, Italian or Ukrainian football. Most will have barely heard of Piszczek, let alone be capable of spelling his name on a ballot paper. His Barcelona team-mate Gerard Pique also fell out with Guardiola, but his greatest personal achievements of 2012 came off the pitch with Shakira. He certainly had plenty of time to spend with his beautiful Colombian girlfriend as he missed almost half of the 2011-12 Liga season and struggled for form when his footballing partner Carles Puyol was sidelined with injury. In Pique's favour is the fact that, in addition to winning Euro 2012, this is possibly the worst era for defenders in almost 50 years. But, the likes of Thiago Silva and Mats Hummels were surely more worthy candidates to be considered alongside Sergio Ramos. Marcelo's addition at left-back is no disgrace, once again due to the dearth of top quality full-backs in the game, but a player who was twice dropped for crucial Real Madrid clashes at the end of last term (the Liga decider in April at Barcelona, and the Champions League semi-final first-leg versus Bayern Munich) should not be preferred to Ashley Cole, who was heroic throughout Chelsea's road to glory. That the Champions League winners, however fortunate they were to lift the trophy, have no representation in the FIFPro XI is somewhat absurd. The ultimate insult, though, was the exclusion of Andrea Pirlo. The Italian magician will go down in history as one of the best centre midfielders of all time, and 2012 was his annus mirablis as he led Juventus to Scudetto glory without losing a game, before winning three man-of-the-match awards on his way to taking Italy to Euro 2012 silver. In the current campaign he has been just as dominant. The fact that 45,000 ballots couldn't tally up enough votes for Pirlo makes you lose faith in democracy, particularly as the former AC Milan star has been hailed in the world media on an almost daily basis since his Euro 2012 quarter-final masterclass against England. Football today may have become monopolised by a small group of rich, elite clubs, but Barcelona and Real Madrid – neither of whom made the Champions League final in 2012 - are not the only two teams in world football. Andres Iniesta's insertion in the midfield three is a no-brainer, but the additions of Xavi and Xabi Alonso ahead of Pirlo demonstrates an embarrassing bias towards the Clasico couple. Even the selection of Atletico Madrid superstar Falcao, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi, is debatable given the presence of equally brilliant candidates such as Robin van Persie, Didier Drogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but it is Pirlo's absence that has rightfully created all the headlines. The Fifa Ballon d'Or itself has suffered its fair share of criticism in recent times, from the snubbing of Wesley Sneijder in 2010, to the bizarre inclusion this time around of Pep Guardiola in the top three of the coaching category. But its credibility is still just about intact. This is sadly not the case any longer with the FIFPro XI.

Cannavaro: Juventus the strongest team in Serie A The former Italy international believes the Scudetto holders remain the team to beat and has little doubt they will return to winning ways right away. Jan 8, 2013 Fabio Cannavaro has voiced his opinion that Juventus are the strongest team in Serie A and is confident that they will bounce back from their surprise 2-1 loss at home to Sampdoria. The Turin giants cruised to the domestic title without losing a single game last term, and once more sit atop of the table this season as they hold a five-point lead over second-placed Lazio after 19 games. "Juventus are the strongest team in the league. They will bounce back from the loss [against Sampdoria]. They are mentally very strong," Cannavaro told reporters. "Juve have already shown this season that they have more continuity than the other teams and they have more hunger for success. "They will obviously have a few difficult moments, because they are without a player like Chiellini. I'm sure they will return to winning ways right away, though." Juventus take on AC Milan in the Coppa Italia on Wednesday.

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) 1 - 2 Sebastian Giovinco (24′-P) M. Icardi (54′) M. Icardi (69') Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Attendance: 38000 Buffon shoulders blame for Juventus defeat, while Marchisio suffers 'heavy bruising' The Italy international believes that he should have saved one of Sampdoria's strikes, while the club revealed that Claudio Marchisio's injury is not as bad as first feared. Jan 6, 2013 Gianluigi Buffon has chosen to shoulder some of the blame for Juventus’ 2-1 defeat to Sampdoria on Sunday afternoon. The Bianconeri started 2013 in a fashion which will not be considered ideal, but remain top of Serie A on 44 points, five ahead of second-placed Lazio. Mauro Icardi got both second-half goals for the winning visitors after Sebastian Giovinco had put the hosts into the lead in the first 45 minutes, but the Italy goalkeeper believes that he should have saved one of the strikes at least. “I’m sorry because my error compromised three points which seemed almost certain,” Buffon told the club’s official website. “I was still moving my feet back when Icardi got his shot away, leaving me off balance. I don’t usually commit such errors, but this time I was too far forward. “The second goal was different because I would have had to pull off a truly special save to keep it out. Having said that, I wouldn’t have been surprised if I’d had managed to do so.” The shot-stopper added: “In the dressing room we vowed to put the game to bed by taking to the field with the right attitude, because we couldn’t let the match go by and run the risk of not winning. “Instead we lost our focus, committed some mistakes and allowed them to counter-attack us. Immediately after the first goal I looked at the clock and saw there was plenty of time remaining, so I thought we’d perhaps be able to win it regardless.” Disappointed Juve fans will be relieved to hear that Claudio Marchisio has not suffered the season-ending injury which many feared he might have done in the clash with Sampdoria. The Azzurri midfielder underwent an MRI scan after the match on Sunday evening which revealed heavy bruising but no broken bones or torn ligaments. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Buffon accepts Juventus blame Jan 7, 2013 Gigi Buffon has admitted that he was at fault for Sampdoria’s equaliser in Juventus’ shock 2-1 home loss on Sunday. Although 1-0 up against a side who had been reduced to 10 men, the Italian champions eventually suffered defeat after Mauro Icardi’s second-half double. “I was still moving my feet back when Icardi got his shot away, leaving me off balance,” the 34-year-old commented. “I don’t usually commit such errors, but this time I was too far forward. I’m sorry because my error compromised three points which seemed almost certain. “The second goal was different because I would have had to pull off a truly special save to keep it out. Having said that, I wouldn’t have been surprised if I’d had managed to do so.” Juventus’ unexpected reverse now means that they are only five points ahead of second-placed outfit Lazio. “Immediately after the first goal I looked up at the clock and saw there was plenty of time remaining, so I thought we’d perhaps be able to win it regardless,” the Italian international added. “In the dressing room at the break we vowed to put the game to bed by taking to the field with the right attitude, because we couldn’t let the match go by and run the risk of not winning. “Instead we lost our focus, committed some mistakes and allowed them to counter attack us.”

Marchisio tests show 'no lesions' Jan 6, 2013 Claudio Marchisio and Juventus breathe a sigh of relief, as tests show “no lesions” to knee ligaments. The midfielder bravely continued for at least 10 minutes after suffering a knock to the right knee, as there were no more substitutions in today’s 2-1 defeat to Sampdoria. He eventually had to be stretchered off, but Juventus announced this evening that tests “showed no lesions. “There is only a heavy bruise to the knee.” It is great news for Marchisio, as ligament damage or even a sprain could have kept him out for weeks or months.

Fears over Marchisio injury Jan 6, 2013 There are fears Claudio Marchisio could be out of action for weeks or even months after he was stretchered off with a sprained knee. The midfielder picked up a knock to his right knee during the 2-1 defeat to Sampdoria today, but carried on playing because all the substitutions had been completed. He eventually collapsed and appeared to be weeping in agony, clutching his knee, so had to be stretchered off. Initial reports suggest Marchisio has badly sprained his right knee and tests will be needed to ascertain potential ligament damage. It would be a bitter blow for the Bianconeri, who have already lost Giorgio Chiellini and Nicklas Bendtner for three months.

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) 1 - 2 Sebastian Giovinco (24′-P) M. Icardi (54′) M. Icardi (69') Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Attendance: 38000 Conte: 'Juve are only human' Jan 6, 2013 Antonio Conte was stunned by the home defeat to 10-man Sampdoria, but admits Juventus “are only human.” The Bianconeri had taken the lead and seen Gaetano Berardi sent off after just 32 minutes, but a Mauro Icardi brace sealed the shock 2-1 result in Turin. “I am not bursting with joy when I lose,” he confessed. “I struggle to absorb defeat and we will not look back fondly over this match. We had the advantage and deserved to be in front. “This is a game that we must reflect on and will help us to grow up. It’s part of the maturation process for a young side, let’s put it like that. “It is certainly irritating to lose on counter-attacks and we will analyse what we did wrong today. Juventus are only human, we are not martians. “There are two tough months ahead of us and we’ve got to grit our teeth to give our all. We created a great deal in the second half, but were not particularly precise in our finishing. “Sampdoria did well to close up, but were also a little lucky. We tip our hats to them, as it wasn’t easy for them to win here with 10 men and a goal down.” Samp almost went down to nine when Angelo Palombo appeared to shove Alessandro Matri, but the referee waved play on. “I think it was a clear penalty on Matri,” said Conte. “I chose not to include Arturo Vidal so he could rest for the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final against Milan.” There are also concerns for Claudio Marchisio, who was stretchered off in agony clutching his knee. He had a knock and continued for at least 10 minutes through the pain because the substitutions had been completed, but eventually had to give in. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Grazie!

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) 1 - 2 Sebastian Giovinco (24′-P) M. Icardi (54′) M. Icardi (69') Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Attendance: 38000 Rossi: 'An incredible achievement' Jan 6, 2013 Delio Rossi gave the credit to his Sampdoria players for beating Juventus after playing with 10 men for an hour in Turin. They seemed doomed when Gaetano Berardi was sent off, but Mauro Icardi’s brace turned it around for a shock 2-1 victory. “I am very happy, above all for the guys, as this was an incredible achievement,” said Rossi less than a month after taking over from Ciro Ferrara. “We won against the champions of Italy while playing with 10 men. I made a tactical adjustment during the half-time break, but the lads were amazing in completing this comeback. “Perhaps Juve weren’t as unstoppable as in previous occasions and it certainly wasn’t their best performance. “I had to put faith in the players and I think they have the quality needed to survive in Serie A. We have to find at least three teams to put behind us in the table and so far it is happening.” Rossi revolutionised Sampdoria with a 3-5-2 system and midfielder Angelo Palombo at centre-back. “Palombo is an experienced player in a very young squad. I don’t know why he was left out for the rest of the season, but he has the right character to play in defence. “As for Icardi, I find it ridiculous that we were expected to send him to an Under-20 tournament when he’d have a much better chance of making his mark against Juventus.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) 1 - 2 Sebastian Giovinco (24′-P) M. Icardi (54′) M. Icardi (69') Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Attendance: 38000 Conte: Juventus deserved another penalty The Bianconeri coach was upset with the referee's refusal to award the Old Lady a second spot kick in the defeat, after Sebastian Giovinco had given his side the lead from 12 yards. Jan 6, 2013 Antonio Conte insisted his side should have been awarded two penalties following Juventus' 2-1 Serie A defeat to Sampdoria on Sunday. The Turin giants took the lead midway through the first half when Sebastian Giovinco converted a spot kick, but they were seemingly denied a second penalty later on after a duel between Alessandro Matri and Angelo Palombo. That allowed Mauro Icardi to strike twice and inflict a shock defeat on the reigning champions at Juventus Stadium, with Conte less than impressed after the full-time whistle. "I think that it was a clear penalty. I am a coach and my opinion can be a bit coloured, but this was a spot kick. I don't know how neither the referee, nor the fourth official managed to spot it," the 43-year-old told reporters. "Of course I am not satisfied with the result. I am never pleased when I lose. People who know me know that I hate to lose. We were ahead and deserved to win it. "We have to reflect on this game and learn from our mistakes. Sampdoria did well to get back in the game, but we have ourselves to blame for the loss." The Bianconeri remain first in Serie A with 44 points from 19 games. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) 1 - 2 Sebastian Giovinco (24′-P) M. Icardi (54′) M. Icardi (69') Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Attendance: 38000 Player Ratings The Genoa outfit defied the odds to record a comeback victory against the league leaders, a double from Icardi deciding proceedings in the visitors' favour. Jan 6, 2013 Juventus Gianluigi Buffon - Will be disappointed not to have held Icardi's opener, which wriggled under his body. Followed that faux pas by being beaten at the near post for the second. Paolo De Ceglie - Put in countless crosses of varying quality over the course of the match, but could not make the difference and was sacrificed as Juve chased victory. Federico Peluso - Was combative and busy in defence at first and did not look overwhelmed by the famous shirt, until he was twice caught out on the left side to devastating effect. Not the debut he would have been dreaming of. Andrea Barzagli - The pick of the Turin side's defence, played almost as a holding midfielder and was always there to get the attack moving again. Leonardo Bonucci - Was decent enough for the vast majority of the encounter, but had no answer to Sampdoria's counters that turned the game around after the break. Paul Pogba - The urgency and drive he usually gives the Juve midfield was oddly absent, as the Frenchman ended up simply going through the motions. Simone Padoin - Consistently reached the bye-line and troubled the Samp defence with his crossing. However, there was ultimately no end product and the game passed him by for long periods. Andrea Pirlo - Was punished severely for losing possession in the build-up to the equaliser. A muted display, typified by countless corners that failed to reach their target. Claudio Marchisio - A storming run earned Juve their penalty and only strike of the game. Left the field in agony after landing heavily and would be a big absence for the Serie A holders. Sebastian Giovinco - Took his penalty with class, and was a constant headache for a Sampdoria defence that struggled to contain the mobile young forward. Alessandro Matri - Was rather unlucky not to win a second penalty after slipping past Sampdoria's last man. Again though, an uneven performance from the attacker, who is running out of chances to salvage his Juve career. Substitutions Emanuele Giaccherini - Failed to make an impact after coming on for Pogba. Fabio Quagliarella - Thrown on in place of Matri but fared no better than the man he had replaced. Mirko Vučinić - Came off the bench to try and regain the lead, but squandered two glorious chances that proved crucial for Juventus. Sampdoria Sergio Romero - A heroic performance from the Argentina No. 1, produced save after save to frustrate the hosts and could only be beaten from the penalty spot. Andrea Costa - Along with Palombo, refused to give in despite being constantly under the hammer as Juve streamed forward. Made some crucial interventions. Gaetano Berardi - The villain of Sampdoria's underwhelming first 45 minutes. Gave away a needless penalty, and followed that up with a nasty challenge on Barzagli that earned a second yellow. Daniele Gastaldello - A real captain's performance from the right back, marshalled his defence perfectly at set-pieces and ensured that Romero would be covered. Pedro Obiang - Made one telling contribution with a neat pass to Iscardi on the right hand side, which led to the striker's second goal and his team's winner. Andrea Poli - Had few chances to shine, but was a constant presence in midfield and caused Juventus problems on the few occasions he ventured forward. Angelo Palombo - Massive display from the centre-back, who never folded under immense pressure and who was a titan in the air. Nenad Krsticic - Dispossessed Pirlo in midfield and released a stunning cross-field pass to play in Icardi for the equaliser. Never stopped working. Marcelo Estigarribia - Was one of Sampdoria's brightest players in a disappointing first-half, before an early knock forced him off at half time. Eder - Was happy to drop deep and look for the ball against an attack-minded Juve, and was the mastermind of more than one of the away team's excellent counter attacks. Mauro Icardi - An unforgettable day for the striker. Took his chances fantastically with two top-class finishes, to upset Juventus and turn the game round. Substitutions Lorenzo De Silvestri - Did not have the electric impact of Estigarribia after replacing the Paraguayan, but gave balance to the Samp midfield and helped out effectively in defence. Gianni Munari - Provided an extra body in midfield after Sampdoria had taken the lead. Fernando Tissone - Played the last 10 minutes as the away team looked to see out the game. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) 1 - 2 Sebastian Giovinco (24′-P) M. Icardi (54′) M. Icardi (69') Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Attendance: 38000 Juve stunned by 10-man Samp! It could well be the shock of the season, as leaders Juventus were beaten 2-1 in Turin by 10-man Sampdoria! Jan 6, 2013 The Bianconeri were already Winter Champions with an eight-point lead at the top of the table, so confidence was high going into 2013. Stephan Lichtsteiner sat out a ban with the injured Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner long-term absentees, so Federico Peluso was given his debut in defence just days after joining from Atalanta. Samp sacked Ciro Ferrara last month to bring in Delio Rossi and hoped to turn their dismal season around. Roberto Soriano was suspended, while Maxi Lopez, Enzo Maresca and Nicola Pozzi were injured, but Angelo Palombo was thrown into a centre-back role in the new 3-5-2 system. Sebastian Giovinco fired over from a promising position set up by Simone Padoin, but Sampdoria threatened a shock opener on 18 minutes when a ricochet off Peluso set up Andrea Poli from the edge of the box and his weak finish failed to trouble Gigi Buffon. Giovinco again went close, but Sergio Romero stood his ground to palm out the shot for a corner from close range. Claudio Marchisio burst into the box and was trying to find space for a shot when Gaetano Berardi clipped his heels for a penalty. Giovinco won the debate on who would take the spot-kick and buried it calmly in the near bottom corner. Eder had the ball in the net, but only after knocking over Buffon. Berardi risked an own goal by turning a Giovinco cross over before Leonardo Bonucci could get there. There were some complaints on 29 minutes from a corner when Romero blocked the ball halfway across the line, but replays suggest Alessandro Matri’s attempt did not cross over completely. To make matters worse, Sampdoria went down to 10 men as Berardi received a second yellow card for a late sliding tackle on Andrea Barzagli. Juve wanted another penalty when Matri fell under pressure from Palombo, but the referee awarded a free kick against the Bianconeri, claiming he had handled when falling on the ball. Former Juve winger Marcelo Estigarribia’s free kick whistled just wide. Leonardo Bonucci also had penalty appeals for a push from Daniele Gastaldello. Incredibly, it was 10-man Sampdoria who equalised after the restart. A long Nenad Krsticic pass found Mauro Icardi, whose shot bounced right in front of Gigi Buffon, so he only flapped at it as the ball looped over his body into the empty net. Andrea Poli nearly turned the game around with a volley over from a very promising position. The turnaround really did happen, as Icardi again beat Buffon with a remarkable shot. The young Argentine got to the by-line and feinted a pull back, but instead fired it into the near top corner from the tightest of angles to put 10-man Sampdoria ahead! Mirko Vucinic thought he might’ve scored an equaliser when Fabio Quagliarella knocked it down for his half-volley, but it thumped the underside of the bar, bounced off the line and back out. Replays show the ball definitely did not cross the line. Quagliarella knocked down a Peluso cross for Vucinic, but he came sliding in at the back stick and bundled it wide from a yard. Marchisio had to play on despite a knock and was clearly limping, then collapsed clutching his knee and was almost weeping with pain. Romero blocked a Padoin effort, but 10-man Samp held out under siege for a shock victory! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Peluso; Padoin, Pogba (Giaccherini 71), Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie (Vucinic 62); Matri (Quagliarella 62), Giovinco SAMPDORIA:Romero; Gastaldello, Palombo, Costa; Berardi, Krsticic (Tissone 80), Obiang, Poli, Estigarribia (De Silvestri 46); Eder (Munari 76), Icardi Ref: Valeri Sent off: Berardi 32 (S) http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) 1 - 2 Sebastian Giovinco (24′-P) M. Icardi (54′) M. Icardi (69') Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Attendance: 38000‎ Icardi at the double as 10-man Blucerchiati triumph in Turin The Argentine netted a second-half brace to secure a memorable win for the visitors, who had fallen a goal and a man down during a torrid opening 45 minutes. Jan 6, 2013 Juventus' title defence suffered a blow as they succumbed to a surprise 2-1 defeat at the hands of lowly Sampdoria in Turin on Sunday. Sebastian Giovinco opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half, after Claudio Marchisio had been brought down by Gaetano Berardi, who later saw red for a second bookable offence. However, Mauro Icardi netted a second-half brace to secure a memorable win for Riccardo Garrone's side that saw the Turn outfit lose their first game of 2013. The hosts began the brighter of the two sides and it took Sergio Romero to deny Juventus an early goal, the Sampdoria goalkeeper smothering at the feet of Giovinco after initially hesitating to come and claim a low cross. The pint-sized Bianconeri star came close to netting the opener minutes later after Simone Padoin pulled back for the striker, who fired just over from the edge of the 18-yard box. At the other end, Andrea Poli looked to test Gianluigi Buffon after the Juventus backline failed to clear their ranks. His effort, however, was weak and comfortably dealt with by the veteran shotstopper. The Italian's shot appeared to shake the hosts into action and they came close to opening the scoring 20 minutes in, Romero expertly denying Giovinco with a strong right hand despite diving the wrong way. However, the Blucerchiati shot-stopper was unable to prevent the Juventus attacker from netting minutes later, Giovinco tucking into the bottom left corner from the penalty spot after Marchisio had been felled by Berardi. The Turin outfit thought they'd doubled their advantage on the half-hour mark when Andrea Pirlo's corner appeared to have been scrambled over the line by Alessandro Matri, but Romero did well to prevent a goal. The afternoon went from bad to worse for Riccardo Garrone's side in the last 15 minutes of the half, though, after Berardi saw yellow for the second time following a lunge on Andrea Barzagli. Juventus felt they had a shout for a second penalty after Matri was hauled down in the box by Angelo Palombo, only for the referee to blow for a Sampdoria free kick. The visitors came excruciatingly close to finding a equaliser on the brink of half-time after Marcelo Estigarribia brushed Buffon's post with a curling free kick, leaving the Italian rooted to the spot. Antonio Conte's side looked to double their advantage after the interval, but it was Sampdoria who netted early into the second half. Icardi fired a half-volley goalbound and Buffon proved unable to prevent the ball from squeezing past him and into the back of the net. Poli went close on the hour mark to firing the visitors in front, but struck his volley into the ground and out for a goal kick, before Eder fired straight at Buffon after some good work on the edge of the 18-yard box. Juventus were toothless in the attack and were made to pay with 20 minutes remaining. Icardi was played in by Pedro Obiang and the Sampdoria front-man smashed past Buffon from an acute angle. The hosts looked for an instant reply and came close to dragging themselves back into the encounter after substitute Mirko Vucinic blasted against the cross bar and onto the goal-line before the Blucerchiati managed to clear the danger. The Montenegro international poked just inches wide from two yards moments later as Juventus pushed for the equaliser. Padoin fired a stinging effort at Romero, fumbling his effort but the Sampdoria goalkeeper managed to pounce on the ball before Vucinic could tap home as the visitors secured a surprise win at the Juventus Stadium, meaning the home side remain just five points clear of Lazio, who defeated Cagliari the night before. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Juventus - Sampdoria Preview: Old Lady hope for positive return after Christmas break The Serie A holders went into the holiday season eight point clear in Serie A, and will be looking to keep up winning ways as they host the newly-promoted Sampdoria. Jan 5, 2013 PROBABLE LINE-UPS JUVENTUSBuffon Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres Pirlo, Marchisio Isla, Vidal, De Ceglie Matri, Giovinco SAMPDORIA Berni De Silvestri, Gastaldello, Palombo, Costa Krsticic, Obiang, Poli, Estigarribia Eder, Icardi Mirko Vucinic looks likely to be a big absence for Juventus as they continue their quest to claim a second consecutive Serie A title in the first encounter of 2013. The Montenegro international is struggling with an ankle injury, meaning that Antonio Conte is likely to put his faith in the attacking duo of Alessandro Matri and Sebastian Giovinco. Stephan Lichtsteiner is another enforced absentee for the Bianconeri, as he serves a suspension. Mauricio Isla will be entrusted with his position on the flank, with Juve otherwise able to put out a full-strength side in front of their own fans. Relegation battlers Sampdoria, meanwhile, will have to do without captain and midfield anchor Enzo Maresca, who is unavailable through injury. Goalkeeper Sergio Romero is also fighting to prove fitness ahead of Sunday's kick-off, but Tommaso Berni is standing by to take the Argentina No. 1's place between the posts. DID YOU KNOW? • Juventus currently lie top of Italy's top flight, having racked up an impressive 14 wins in their first 18 fixtures. That run leaves them eight points ahead of nearest challengers Lazio. • The last time the Old Lady tasted defeat was a 1-0 reverse away to AC Milan in November, followed by four straight wins before the league rested for the holiday season. • That match, as well as two 0-0 draws against Fiorentina and Lazio, represent the only times Antonio Conte's men have failed to hit the net in a Serie A clash. • Sampdoria won their place in the top flight in 2011-12 thanks to a play-off victory, but since promotion have won just five times and currently sit 15th in the standings. • Enzo Maresca and Maxi Lopez share the club's top scorer title with just three goals each after 18 matches. • The last time these two sides met was in January 2011. Honours were shared in a 0-0 draw, with the other meeting of that season (3-3) also ending in a tie. Head to Head Serie A ‎- Jan 23, 2011 - Sampdoria 0 - Juventus 0 Serie A ‎- Sep 12, 2010 - Juventus 3 - Sampdoria 3 Serie A ‎- Mar 21, 2010 - Sampdoria 1 - Juventus 0 Serie A ‎- Oct 28, 2009 - Juventus 5 - Sampdoria 1 Last Five Matches Juventus Dec 21, 2012 - Cagliari 1 - Juventus 3 - Serie A Dec 16, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Atalanta 0 - Serie A Dec 12, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Cagliari 0 - Coppa Italia Dec 9, 2012 - Palermo 0 - Juventus 1 - Serie A Dec 5, 2012 - Shakhtar Donetsk 0 - Juventus 1 - UCL Sampdoria Dec 22, 2012 - Sampdoria 0 - Lazio 1 - Serie A Dec 16, 2012 - Catania 3 - Sampdoria 1 - Serie A Dec 10, 2012 - Sampdoria 0 - Udinese 2 - Serie A Dec 2, 2012 - Fiorentina 2 - Sampdoria 2 - Serie A Players to Watch Alessandro Matri The striker suffered through the first half of the season, partly through a lack of continuity in the starting line-up and partly from his own failings in front of goal. He will be desperate to add more to his tally of three strikes as Juve chase another title in the new year. Tommaso Berni The journeyman keeper looks set to be thrust into action thanks to the absence of Sergio Romero, and he will have to be at his best to keep Juventus' free-scoring stars at bay if Sampdoria hope to take something from Turin. Prediction After a positive start, Sampdoria have been in freefall during 2012-13, losing an incredible 10 of their last 13 matches. It's hard to see their fortunes changing against an in-form Juve, who should record a comfortable home victory to keep their lead at the summit. Editor's Prediction Juventus 3 - 0 Sampdoria http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

@@

Caratteristica delle grandissime squadre.

@@

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Peluso debut Juve call Jan 5, 2013 Federico Peluso could make his Juventus debut against Sampdoria on Sunday, but Kwadwo Asamoah has left for African Cup of Nations duty. The Bianconeri named their squad for tomorrow’s Serie A game, which includes defender Peluso just days after completing his transfer from Atalanta. Asamoah is not included, as he is working with Ghana to prepare for the African Cup of Nations. Giorgio Chiellini, Nicklas Bendtner and Simone Pepe are long-term injury absentees. Juventus squad for Sampdoria: Buffon, Storari, Branescu; Caceres, De Ceglie, Peluso, Bonucci, Barzagli, Marrone; Pogba, Marchisio, Padoin, Pirlo, Vidal, Giaccherini, Isla; Vucinic, Giovinco, Quagliarella, Matri http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Conte: 'If Juve do the Double...' Jan 5, 2013 Juventus are back in action tomorrow against Sampdoria and Antonio Conte is targeting history. “Doing the Double means we are building something truly important.” The Christmas break is over and the Bianconeri could train safe in the knowledge they are already Winter Champions thanks to an eight-point lead. They welcome Delio Rossi’s Sampdoria to Turin on Sunday afternoon. Click here for a match preview. “There are always risks after coming back from a break, but we have worked very well over the last few days. “Winning the Scudetto can be a one-off, but doing the Double means that we are building something truly important here. “The Champions League is also a wonderful dream that we should keep chasing. However, we must also know how to be patient and focus on our project of growth. “Sampdoria are a well-drilled side in a difficult position that they are unaccustomed to. We need to be alert, but are fully prepared for this encounter.” Stephan Lichtsteiner is suspended, while Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Pepe and Nicklas Bendtner are long-term absentees. “Mirko Vucinic is feeling much better, his training is being monitored and he will be available for tomorrow,” noted the Coach. The squad has been augmented by the arrival of Federico Peluso from Atalanta, signed on loan at €1m with option to buy for another €4m. “Peluso can cover several roles and represents an intelligent signing. I’m convinced he will make a big contribution to Juventus. “More signings? If the opportunity arises to bring players in, then I’m confident we’ll make the right moves. I really believe in this group and nobody will be leaving in January.” Conte was asked about the rumours of an offer for Didier Drogba and Athletic Bilbao confirming Juve’s interest in Fernando Llorente. “I keep reading about Drogba, but the club never proposed him to me or vice-versa. There are economic parameters to be taken into account. Transfers must be intelligent and low-cost. “Llorente is a Spanish international and has done very well at Bilbao, so he is an appetising prospect. If we have the chance to sign a big player on a free transfer and he chooses us, then good. “I can certainly say that a year ago Llorente wouldn’t have taken us into consideration, but we are back to a high level and are now very appealing to big players. Would I be surprised to have him at my disposal in January? Yes, because he is an Athletic Bilbao player.” During his Press conference, Conte was also asked about Kevin-Prince Boateng and Milan’s decision to walk off the pitch during a friendly with Pro Patria due to racist chanting. “Racism in football is a very serious problem that must be faced by ensuring the rules are respected.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Conte: Winning the double would prove we are creating something The Juventus boss wants his team to show that their Serie A triumph last term was no coincidence and confirm that they are creating a lasting legacy. Jan 5, 2013 Antonio Conte believes that winning the double this season would prove that Juventus' Serie A triumph last season was no coincidence. The Bianconeri were crowned Italian champions without losing a match in 2011-12, but the 43-year-old is determined to show that his side are creating a lasting legacy. "Winning the Scudetto can be a one-off, but doing the double means that we are building something truly important here," he told reporters at a press conference. "The Champions League is also a wonderful dream that we should keep chasing. However, we must also know how to be patient and focus on our project of growth." Juve host Sampdoria on Sunday as they return to domestic action, and the former Siena boss urged his side to remain alert and prepare for the game properly. "There are always risks after coming back from a break, but we have worked very well over the last few days. Sampdoria are a well-drilled side in a difficult position that they are unaccustomed to. "We need to be alert, but we are fully prepared for this encounter." Juventus have been boosted by the arrival of Federico Peluso on loan from Atalanta, and Conte is confident that he will prove to be a shrewd acquisition. "Peluso can cover several roles and represents an intelligent signing. I'm convinced he will make a big contribution to Juventus." http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Pirlo just part of problem Juventus pose, says Sampdoria coach Rossi The Bluerchati will travel to the Turin-based club on Sunday hoping to put a dent in the impressive form that the reigning Serie A champions have forged this season. Jan 4, 2013 Focusing on restricting Andrea Pirlo’s play will not be part of Sampdoria’s plan on Sunday, head coach Delio Rossi has revealed. Many sides opt to man-mark the veteran Italy international such is his talent on the ball, to varying degrees of success. However, the midfielder is just one of a host of concerns for the Bluerchati boss, who believes his side have a chance of beating the Bianconeri but says it will not be remotely easy. “I'm not a technician who likes to match up with the opponent’s formation,” he told a press conference. “They are a very strong side, but we believe we can win. “We will not focus purely on Andrea Pirlo - he is a special player, but there are others who can cause us problems.” Sampdoria sit 15th in Serie A after 18 games in the 2012-13 campaign, just two points above the relegation zone. Antonio Conte’s men, on the other hand, are seven points clear at the top of the table on 44 points and are in a solid position to retain the Scudetto. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 6-1-13 (3:00 p.m.) - Juventus Stadium - Turin Referee: Paolo Valeri Rossi: Samp will play their own game Jan 4, 2013 Sampdoria Coach Delio Rossi has refused to give Andrea Pirlo special treatment when his side face Juventus this weekend. The Bianconeri host the Bluerchiati on Sunday, and the 52-year-old has admitted that he needs to pay special attention to all of the home team's players. “I'm not a technician who likes to match up with the opponent’s formation,” he told a Press conference. “They are a very strong side, but we believe we can win. “We will not focus purely on Andrea Pirlo – he is a special player, but there are others who can cause us problems.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/