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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."

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 Chiellini: Juventus always believed in qualification The italian defender has made it clear that the Bianconeri were always optimistic about their chances of making it to the round of 16, despite threat Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk posed. Dec 6, 2012 Giorgio Chiellini has stressed that Juventus always remained confident of making it into the knock-out stages of the Champions League. The Serie A champions struggled in their opening three Group E games, but eventually qualified for the round of 16 as group winners following their 1-0 away win over Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday evening, much to the delight of Chiellini. "We knew it would be very difficult for us after the draw in Denmark, but we always believed we could qualify but only if we play like Juventus can," the 28-year-old told Uefa.com. "On Wednesday, we played very well against a Shakhtar side that have a number of good players. We did what we had to do, we created a number of good chances to get the win and I think we deserved the victory. "If you play for the draw you are likely to lose because Shakhtar have a number of great players that can hurt you. "We tried to attack and we tried to win and we are really happy to go through to the next round of the Champions League." Juventus resume Serie A action on Sunday when they travel to Palermo.

Juventus can compete with anyone, says Marotta The Old Lady director has little doubt about his side's potential to go far in Europe following their performances in the group stages. Dec 6, 2012 Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta feels that the Bianconeri have shown during the group stages of the Champions League that they have the quality to compete with any opposition. The Serie A champions beat Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0 on Wednesday evening to secure top spot in Group E and book their ticket for the knock-out stages, and Marotta was quite pleased with his side's performances in European club football's elite competition. "We've come through a tough group, winning the last two games against European champions Chelsea and the revelation of the tournament, Shakhtar," Marotta was quoted as saying on the club's official website. "Our self-esteem has increased with each game and we've shown that we can compete with anyone. "There's no point playing the guessing game about the draw, but one thing that's important is we have the return leg at home." Juventus will find out who their opponents are in the round of 16 during the draw in Nyon on December 20.

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 ‘Three teams for Juve to avoid’ Dec 6, 2012 Alessio Tacchinardi thinks that Real Madrid are not the only side who former club Juventus need to avoid in the last 16 of the Champions League. The Spanish giants are the big danger of the second-placed teams who the Italians could face, but the ex-midfielder respects two other sides. “Juventus, having finished first, should fear nobody – no matter who they draw,” he told TMW on Thursday. “That was proved by their performances against Chelsea and then Shakhtar over these last few months. “However, it would obviously be better if they didn’t face Real Madrid, but Arsenal and Porto are also difficult opponents. “The Portuguese side play a really technical brand of football.” The draw for the last 16 takes place next Thursday and the Old Lady could face Porto, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Valencia, Celtic or Galatasaray.

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 Lichtsteiner: 'I'd like Celtic tie' Dec 5, 2012 Stephan Lichtsteiner created the Juventus goal to beat Shakhtar Donetsk and “would like to play Celtic” in the Champions League Round of 16. The Swiss winger got down the right and his cross to Sebastian Giovinco was bundled over the line by Olexandr Kucher. “I celebrated by doing the ‘Pinocchio’ gesture of a long nose, as Giovinco said he’d scored when I clearly saw Kucher’s deflection! “I have to praise the team, as we all played a great game. It isn’t easy for anyone to win here, so must be seen as a real achievement. “We found ourselves after an ugly performance against Milan and now we want to continue like this.” The Bianconeri will face Porto, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Valencia, Celtic or Galatasaray in the next round. “They are all wonderful games to go into and complicated opponents,” said Lichtsteiner. “I would like to play Celtic.”

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 Bonucci: 'Bring on Real Madrid!' Dec 5, 2012 Leonardo Bonucci is feeling thoroughly confident after Juventus won their Champions League group. “I want Real Madrid in the next round.” The Bianconeri needed a point to be sure of qualification this evening, but finished top of Group E after a 1-0 victory away to Shakhtar Donetsk. “Looking at the seeds, they are the most prestigious teams. Only Real Madrid stand out in the second pot, but when you reach this level they are all difficult,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia. Juve are seeds in the draw for the last 16, meaning they will face one of Porto, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Valencia, Celtic and Galatasaray. “I want Real Madrid in the next round, as I have never played at the Bernabeu. We have grown over the course of the competition, proving we gained in confidence, belief and that we study our opponents carefully. “We came here to play our game and we had said there would be no calculations or playing for a draw.”