Socrates

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Genoa - Juventus Preview - Champions aim to maintain unbeaten Serie A run Antonio Conte's men have started the season well, and will be looking to claim three points to stay at the summit of the league. Sep 15, 2012 PROBABLE LINE-UPS GENOA Frey Ferronetti, Canini, Granqvist, Antonelli Kucka, Seymour, Merkel Jankovic, Immobile, Borriello JUVENTUS Buffon Caceres, Barzagli, Chiellini Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Giaccherini Matri, Vucinic Juventus will look to make it three wins from three as they travel to Genoa in what could be a tricky post-international fixture. With the spectre of Chelsea looming, Antonio Conte may opt to shuffle his pack and rest Sebastian Giovinco, despite the diminutive attacker’s brace against Udinese last week. Elsewhere, Leonardo Bonucci could also be rested, allowing Martin Caceres to return following his recovery from a knee ligament injury. Mauricio Isla, meanwhile, is likely to be named on the bench. Genoa, meanwhile, have had plenty of time to digest their late capitulation against Catania. Back on home soil, Luigi De Canio may be quietly confident in his team’s ability to stop the Bianconeri juggernaut. This belief is no doubt boosted by the return of Marco Borriello after a four-year absence. Borriello is likely to be paired alongside Ciro Immobile (a player co-owned by Juventus) and they will be supplemented by a near full-strength squad with new recruit Juan Vargas the only notable absence. DID YOU KNOW? • In the last meeting between the teams, Juventus were held to a 0-0 draw. • Juventus are the highest scoring team in Serie A so far this season, with 6 goals from 2 games. • At the other end of the pitch, their defence conceded just 20 goals in the whole of last season, an astonishing 13 goals fewer than their nearest rival. • Conversely, Genoa had the ignominy of finishing last season with the worst defensive record of any team in Serie A, leaking 69 goals. • Genoa are the oldest football club in Italy, tracing their roots back to 1893. • Genoa have won 9 Serie A titles, the latest being in the 1923-24 season. Head to Head Serie A - Mar 11, 2012 - Genoa 0 - Juventus 0 Serie A ‎- Oct 22, 2011 - Juventus 2 - Genoa 2 Serie A ‎- Apr 10, 2011 - Juventus 3 - Genoa 2 Serie A ‎- Nov 21, 2010 - Genoa 0 - Juventus 2 Serie A ‎- Feb 14, 2010 - Juventus 3 - Genoa 2 Last Five Matches Genoa Sep 2, 2012 - Catania 3 - Genoa 2 - Serie A Aug 26, 2012 - Genoa 2 - Cagliari 0 - Serie A May 13, 2012 - Genoa 2 - Palermo 0 - Serie A May 6, 2012 - Udinese 2 - Genoa 0 - Serie A May 2, 2012 - Genoa 2 - Cagliari 1 - Serie A Juventus Sep 2, 2012 - Udinese 1 - Juventus 4 - Serie A Aug 25, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Parma 0 - Serie A Aug 11, 2012 - Juventus 4 - SSC Napoli 2 - Italian Supercup Aug 4, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Malaga 0 - FR Aug 1, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Benfica 1 - FR Players to Watch Marco Borriello Enigmatic but occasionally problematic, Marco Borriello is, on his day, one of the most feared strikers in Italy. Following a lean 2011-12 campaign, with just 2 league goals in 14 appearances, the 30-year-old will be keen to return to scoring ways, and surely he will regard the opportunity to get one over on his former club as the perfect way to reintroduce himself to the Genoa faithful. Andrea Pirlo The veteran playmaker last season proved that reports of his demise had been greatly exaggerated, and it looks like the 33-year-old is picking up exactly where he left off. Already this season, he has scored one goal and notched one assist in just two games and he will be the Old Lady’s main creative outlet as they look to pierce Genoa’s soft underbelly. Prediction Don’t be surprised to see Borriello open his account for the season along the way, but by the final whistle Juventus’ quality will have been enough to put Genoa to the sword. With both sides going for the win, we can expect an open, entertaining game with chances – and hopefully goals – galore. Editor's Prediction Genoa 1 - 3 Juventus http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Collovati: Juventus are the team to beat The 55-year-old former AC Milan, Inter Milan and Roma defender has placed The Old Lady as firm favourites to win the Scudetto this season, regarding Conte’s staff as the key factor. Sep 15, 2012 Commentator and television presenter, Fulvio Collovati, who enjoyed an illustrious career in Italy’s top flight that spanned three decades, has indicated that Juventus are clear favourites to win Serie A this campaign. Last season’s champions, who won the Scudetto for the first time since their return to Italy’s first division following the 2006 scandal, currently sit top of the table after two games. There is undoubtedly a long way to go but Collovati believes that they are already in the strongest position to retain their title, with Napoli and Roma their closest contenders. He also added that manager, Antonio Conte, was a considerable factor in dictating where the league trophy would end up. “Juventus are the team to beat,” Collovati said to Quotidiano.net. “Roma and Napoli are one step below. Their main advantage is the high-quality staff at Conte’s disposal because he has added quality to every department.” Discussing Juve’s rivals, the pundit explained that: “Napoli can be a tricky opponent because Mazzarri’s team has an established system, while Roma are riding the wave of enthusiasm caused by Zeman’s arrival. Milan and Inter are even further behind.” Juventus travel to face Genoa on Sunday, with a Champions League engagement against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Lucio and Bendtner in Juve squad Sep 15, 2012 Lucio has made a rapid recovery, while Nicklas Bendtner and Mauricio Isla have their first call-ups of the season for Genoa-Juventus. The Bianconeri named their squad for tomorrow afternoon’s trip to Marassi and it includes Lucio, who had originally been ruled out for two to three months by a ligament injury. The former Inter defender has recovered faster than expected and is available for selection. Isla also returns after missing the last seven months due to damaged knee ligaments while he was still at Udinese. The winger played 67 minutes for Chile in a World Cup qualifier against Colombia this week. Juventus fans will get their first opportunity to see Bendtner, who has been on a strict diet and exercise regime to get into shape since completing his loan move from Arsenal. Juventus squad: Buffon, Storari, Rubinho; Lucio, Chiellini, Caceres, De Ceglie, Barzagli, Bonucci, Lichtsteiner; Marrone, Pogba, Marchisio, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Giaccherini, Isla; Vucinic, Giovinco, Bendtner, Quagliarella, Matri. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi De Canio considers anti-Juve trident Sep 15, 2012 Gigi De Canio still has “doubts” on whether to field Marco Borriello, Ciro Immobile and Bosko Jankovic in a trident as Genoa welcome Juventus. The Coach has two ex-Bianconeri strikers to choose from in the Sunday afternoon game. Click here for a match preview. “Will I change system? Anything is possible, but the more important thing will be the mentality of the players,” said De Canio. “I have a few doubts on my starting XI, because this is the first time we’re playing in the afternoon heat and the temperature will be a factor. Some players still don’t have 90 minutes in their legs. “Borriello is a great professional and is training well. He doesn’t need to be any more fired up than anyone else just because he’s facing his former club. “Motivation comes by itself against Juventus. They have a mentally strong side with great quality. Are Juve rotating the squad? I certainly wouldn’t consider Lucio or Alessandro Matri second string players.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Revenge Mission for Borriello Well-travelled Marco Borriello has set his sights on revenge against Juventus on Sunday after his return to Genoa this summer. Sep 15, 2012 Borriello scored 19 goals for Genoa in the 2007/08 season before returning to AC Milan after a one-year loan spell. He then had a two-year spell with Roma and spent the last six months of last season with the Bianconeri, albeit making only 13 appearances in a mutually disappointing period. Now he wants to put that behind him by being part of the first Genoa team to beat Juventus in almost 18 months. "If I score, I will celebrate," he said. "I am not thinking about the derby or the national team, all I am thinking about is Juve." Returning to the Rossoblu, who he fired into the Europa League, was a most welcome move for Borriello. "I never really detached myself from Genoa," he said. "I had a great time here. I could have gone to play for a club in the Champions League or the Europa League, but at this moment of my career, Genoa can help relaunch me. "I don't know how many goals I will score, but I believe at least 15, otherwise the president will give me a good hiding." With Borriello and Italy under-21 international Ciro Immobile leading the Genoa line, Juve forward Emanuele Giaccherini has warned about the threat the home team poses at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. "We expect a tough game," he told Juventus Channel. "It is a difficult place to play." Juve's stand-in coach Carrera has to find the right balance this weekend , with a trip to Chelsea on Wednesday to consider as the Bianconeri make their return to the Champions League after a two-year absence. Under the guidance of Juve's suspended coach Antonio Conte, he will decide which 11 players to send out for each game. "If it were down to me, I would play all of these games, but football has changed and there is more intensity now," said Giaccherini. "Therefore, it is necessary for everybody to stop now and again to recharge the batteries and to be at their best." http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Carrera: Genoa difficult opponents for Juventus The 48-year-old has warned his men not to underestimate Sunday's opponents and added that nobody is a guaranteed starter at Juve. Sep 15, 2012 Juventus caretaker boss Massimo Carrera has stressed that Genoa will not be pushovers in Sunday's Serie A encounter. The reigning champions were unable to beat the Grifone last term, and Carrera feels that another difficult test awaits this weekend. "It’s a fundamental game for us. Genoa are difficult opponents. They took points off us last year as we drew twice and weren’t able to beat them," he stated at his pre-match press conference. "So we need to go there knowing that we’ll be up against a difficult side in a red-hot atmosphere at the Marassi." Carrera then stated that he has plenty of options ahead of Sunday's game and insisted that nobody is a guaranteed starter. "Thankfully all those on international duty returned to Turin unscathed. We’ve got plenty of options to choose from," he added. "We don’t have any guaranteed starters or reserves. We’ll play the best starting line-up for every game." Sunday's encounter is scheduled to kick off at 15:00CET. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Juventus begin long march to success Sep 15, 2012 Ambitious Serie A champions Juventus will be looking to maintain their 100 per cent start to the season in an away match at Genoa which is the first of an impressive run of seven in 23 days. Antonio Conte’s side is aiming for four trophies this season and while recently acquiring Denmark international Nicklas Bendtner, the “Old Lady of Turin” has eyes for a striker with arguably more to offer. Juve’s trip to Genoa will be short, but next week they travel to Chelsea and then face Chievo, Fiorentina and Roma before hosting Shakhtar in Europe and then league minnows Siena in early October. It is no wonder the club’s director general, Beppe Marotta, is intent on bolstering a squad some observers feel has a real chance in Europe this season. “If there’s one Italian side that can excel in the Champions League this season it’s Juventus,” Gianluca Vialli, who won the trophy with Juve and also played with their group rivals Chelsea, said in midweek. Spain international Fernando Llorente, of Athletic Bilbao, remains Juve’s main target, especially as Fiorentina have included an “anti-Juve” clause in the contract of their Montenegrin international Stevan Jovetic. Whether Bendtner will get a chance for Juventus soon remains to be seen, although Marotta says the former Arsenal man has impressed Conte in training. “The first judgment of Conte is very positive,” he added. Juventus are one of only four teams – along with Napoli, Lazio and Sampdoria – to have won their first two games of the season. It means other title favourites, Milan and Inter, need three points this weekend if they are to keep the pressure on the leaders. Milan will be hoping striker Giampaolo Pazzini, who scored a hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Bologna a fortnight ago, shakes off a knock he received in training. If Pazzini is given the all-clear, Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri could decide to give new signing Bojan Krcic a run-out with the Italy international three days ahead of their Champions League group opener against Anderlecht. Milan are already missing Robinho, Alexandre Pato, Riccar-do Montolivo and Ignazio Abate but the good news is that midfielder Kevin Prince Boateng is set to play with a newly-fitted arm brace following surgery on a fractured hand bone last week. Inter make the short trip to Torino looking to make up for their stunning home defeat to a Roma two weeks ago. Inter coach Andrea Stramaccioni, however, could be without Rodrigo Palacio after he picked up a knock playing for Argentina in midweek. Roma, who sit fifth, host Bologna at the Olympic Stadium looking to replicate the performance which humbled Inter two weeks ago. Bologna are one of seven teams, the others being Cagliari, Udinese, Palermo, Pescara, Atalanta and Siena, who have yet to win. Serie A Playing Today Palermo vs Cagliari 18.00 Milan vs Atalanta 20.45 Tomorrow Chievo vs Lazio 12.30 15.00 Fiorentina vs Catania Genoa vs Juventus Napoli vs Parma Pescara vs Sampdoria Roma vs Bologna Siena vs Udinese Torino vs Inter 20.45 http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Genoa v Juventus Preview: Old Lady Looks To Stretch Winning Streak Sep 15, 2012 Juventus will know that Genoa was one of the few teams to not lose to them last season in Serie A. Both matches ended in 2-2 and 0-0 draws. They will line-up for yet another match, this time with Antonio Conte in the stands, as the club will be looking to extend its 100% record in Serie A this season. A number of Juventus players were fully involved with respective national teams during the International break and fatigue will be an issue against Genoa, who had lesser number of Internationals. Team News and Tactical Brief Juventus The Bianconeri is likely to line up in the 3-5-2 formation with Gianluigi Buffon in goal. Giorgio Chiellini is back to full fitness and will be partnering Andrea Barzagli. Leonardo Bonucci on the other hand, has been in slightly dodgy form in first two matches. His form, coupled with the rapid rise of Luca Marrone may see the Italy U-21 international picked ahead of the former Bari defender. Mauricio Isla is finally back to full fitness and he played for over an hour for Chile during the break but he is unlikely to start ahead of Stephan Lichtsteiner. The Swiss right-back has so far played well as a wing-back despite pre-season concerns about his effectiveness in that position. Lichtsteiner’s almost telepathic understanding with Andrea Pirlo has been one of the strongest points in Juve’s attack since last season. Last season, the first goal in the Juventus stadium was scored when Lichtsteiner beat the offside trap to meet Pirlo’s flighted pass – an almost similar goal happened against Udinese in the last match but Lichtsteiner’s shot was off the mark. The competition between Lichtsteiner and Isla will certainly be very interesting in coming weeks. Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal are assured starters in midfield. Vidal had a particularly torrid time in midweek when he played as a central defender for Chile. Up against one of the most dangerous and in-form strikers in the world, Falcao, Vidal struggled and had to see his team slump to a 3-1 home defeat. The Chilean will certainly be looking to set the record straight against Genoa. Kwadwo Asamoah has meshed seamlessly in the Juventus set-up and has arguably been the best player till now. Despite playing in an unfamiliar position of left wing-back the Ghanaian has performed consistently and regularly created goal scoring chances. Against Genoa’s 4-3-3, exploiting the flanks will be one of the major targets for Juventus. Asamoah and Lichtsteiner’s current form will be causing most headaches in the Genoa camp. The Giovinco-Vucinic combination came good against Udinese. These two are the most technically gifted players in Juventus’ attacking department and if they can combine well then Juve’s inability to get a top striker might seem less magnified. Vucinic’s form against smaller teams in Serie A has always been suspect and it remains to be seen if that trend changes this season. Expected Starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pirlo, Vidal, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Giovinco Genoa Italy’s oldest club Genoa began their 2012/13 campaign with a comfortable victory against Cagliari but slumped to a 3-2 loss against Catania in last round. Under Gigi De Canio, the Grifoni will be looking to improve on their shambolic showing last season when they barely escaped relegation after having the worst defensive record in Serie A. Genoa have lost two of their star strikers this summer but managed to rope in 2011/12 Serie B top scorer Ciro Immobile from Juventus on a co-ownership deal. Immobile will be joining forces with a striker who spent few months of last season in Juventus, Marco Boriello. The duo will be looking to inflict some pain over the Old Lady. Immobile scored for Genoa on his debut and can cause problems to the Juventus central defence with his movement. Bosco Jankovic, the third striker in Genoa’s attacking trident has already found the net once this season. AC Milan youth product Alexander Merkel is another exciting prospect for Genoa in midfield. Merkel has already notched up a goal and an assist against his name. However, the 20-year old central midfielder might be out of his depth against one of the best midfields in Europe. Should Juventus manage to shut Merkel down they will also be able to negate Genoa’s attacking moves. Arturo Vidal’s compatriot Felipe Seymour and Slovakian Juraj Kucka will complete the midfield trio. Kucka is playing his third straight season with Genoa and was often the consistent though unspectacular performer for them last season. He will have the unenviable job of giving protection to Merkel in a midfield where they will be heavily outnumbered. Defence was Genoa’s Achilles Heel in the past season and there have been very few indicators to prove this season will be a major improvement. They opened their campaign with a clean sheet but shipped in three goals in the next game. Catania’s second goal was an abject failure of Genoa’s offside trap. Genoa will need to tighten up the back-line if they want to escape the same treatment that Juve’s last opponent got. Expected Starting XI (4-3-3): Frey; Feronetti, Canini, Granqvist, Antonelli; Kucka, Seymour, Merkel; Jankovic, Boriello, Immobile Key Players Marco Borriello (Genoa) Boriello’s greatest ever season in Serie A came in the Genoa jersey in 2007/08 season. The lumpy centre-forward scored 19 times for Genoa that season and he will be looking to get back to that form when he faces his former employers. Sebastian Giovinco (Juventus) The Atomic Ant finally joined the party against Udinese as he grabbed a brace. Giovinco’s performance for Italy during the International break was disappointing but he will line up against Genoa knowing that he scored twice against the same opponents the last time he faced them. Prediction Genoa 0-2 Juventus Genoa will look to earn a point from this match but the current Juventus team has far too much quality to drop points in this match. THT Blast From The Past http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Carrera: 'Genoa crucial like Chelsea' Sep 15, 2012 Stand-in Coach Massimo Carrera welcomes back Lucio and insists tomorrow’s game with Genoa is “every bit as crucial” as the Champions League trip to Chelsea. There are reports Antonio Conte and his touchline replacement are planning a squad rotation ahead of Wednesday night’s European debut. “This game is every bit as crucial as Chelsea,” warned Carrera in his Press conference. Click here for a match preview. “We are facing a difficult side in a fiery atmosphere like Marassi. Plus, when Juventus come to town there is always a surge in motivation and determination from our opponents. “We have to fight them on the same level with that degree of passion. Don’t forget last season Genoa took points off us both home and away.” When asked whether they would field a second-string side against the Grifone, Carrera skirted around the semantics. “Squad rotation is the wrong term, because we do not have first choice picks and reserves. Every time we will put out the side that can give us the best guarantees. “It’s important for a player to step on to the pitch, regardless of the opponent or whether it’s the Champions League or Serie A. “Fortunately we have options to choose from. Lucio has recovered, so has Nicklas Bendtner, while Mauricio Isla played 76 minutes with Chile and is available. “Will Andrea Pirlo be rested? He is a champion and knows how to deal with his energy levels.” Sebastian Giovinco is reportedly set to sign a contract extension until June 2017. “Sebastian is a great player and proved it over the last few games, so like many other players he could become a symbol of Juventus,” noted Carrera. “We have many talented stars, as it’s no coincidence we won the Scudetto last season. More have arrived and so everyone is to be considered important.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Buffon: 'This is my Juventus' Sep 15, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon gave his view on the Champions League, Scudetto race, facing his beloved Genoa, Antonio Conte’s ban and his future at Juventus. The goalkeeper sat down for a lengthy interview with Sky Sport Italia and covered a series of topics. “There are three or four teams who may have been behind us on paper, but I think they can emerge in the long run. I’m thinking of Milan, Inter, Roma and above all Napoli, who have a solid system and have been working together for a long time now.” The Bianconeri won the Scudetto in Conte’s first season, but the Coach is fighting a 10-month ban in the betting scandal. “Conte achieved a real miracle last term, because he gave us belief and determination. He turned the team inside out like a sock and the achievements gave us belief in ourselves. Obviously a Coach like Conte would be missed by any team and will be missed by us until he can get back on the bench.” Thanks to that title, Juve are back in the Champions League and will make their debut on Wednesday against holders Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. “For so many Tuesday and Wednesday nights I was forced to watch this tournament from my couch,” smiled Buffon. “I have a nice television, but being on the field is another matter... I missed it and so did my teammates, but these two years out were good for us, because now we’ll fight for every last drop of sweat in each game. “Playing so many games in quick succession won’t leave us tired, as overcoming important obstacles has a way of doubling your energy levels. “Last season Chelsea achieved a miracle by winning the Champions League, because there were stronger teams. Roberto Di Matteo gave them unity and solidity, which is what allowed them to win.” Before that night in London, Juventus take to the field on Sunday against Genoa, the side Buffon supported in childhood. “My uncle supported the Grifone and had the club symbol on his car. As a child I loved the colours and was fascinated by that mythical beast, so I started supporting them. We’ll be facing Marco Borriello, who was much loved in our locker room, and Ciro Immobile. They’ll be eager to make the most of this chance.” With Alessandro Del Piero’s move to Sydney FC, Buffon inherited the captain’s armband and the role of club symbol. “He wanted to experience this new adventure that will really enrich him. I am convinced he’ll still have a long career in which he can beat even more records. “As I already said, I am not itching to leave. I am fortunate to be in an exciting environment in which I feel a protagonist and can show that on the field. It makes me happy, so I’ll have no problem accepting the contract renewal. “I’m in no rush, as Juventus have had other things to think about and it’s only right my situation should be on the back burner. It would’ve been egotistical to want anything else. “My future? I haven’t thought about that yet. Never say never, but I think that when I stop with Juve it’ll be the end of my playing career in Italy.”

Buffon: Juventus have missed playing Champions League football The goalkeeper is eagerly anticipating the Bianconeri's return to the Champions League, and believes their two-year absence could prove to be beneficial. Sep 15, 2012 Gianluigi Buffon feels that Juventus' Champions League absence in the past two seasons has only made them more hungry to prove their worth at the top level. The Turin giants missed out on qualification for European club football's elite competition in 2010-11 and 2011-12, and the veteran goalkeeper has admitted that they have missed being active at the highest level. "My team-mates and I have missed playing in the competition, but the two-year exile has been good for us, because now we’ll fight right until the last bead of sweat in every game," Buffon stated to Sky Sport Italia. "I’ve been forced to spend many Tuesdays and Wednesdays watching it from the sofa at home. I’ve got a decent TV and the picture is good, but being there on the pitch is another thing entirely." Buffon then looked ahead to next week's opening game away against Chelsea, and feels the Premier League side pulled off a huge shock last season to win the competition. "Chelsea? They pulled off a miracle last year, because there were teams better equipped than they were. "However, Di Matteo has managed to make their play compact and solid, and these features enabled them to enjoy success." Juventus will also have to deal with Shakhtar Donetsk and Nordsjaelland as well as The Blues in Group E of the Champions League.

Buffon: Three or four teams could be dangerous this year The veteran keeper accepts Juve are favourites for this year's Scudetto, but believes a number of teams can challenge the Turin side, particularly with coach Antonio Conte banned. Sep 14, 2012 Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon believes that his side are favourites to lift this year's Serie A crown, but will not have an easy ride with teams like AC Milan, Inter, Roma and Napoli nipping at the Turin giants' heels. The Bianconeri have been widely tipped to storm to a second consecutive Scudetto this year, with their rivals enduring turbulent summers, but the veteran goalkeeper believes his side will face stern competition, thanks in part to coach Antonio Conte's 10-month ban. "There are three or four teams who might start behind us, but could be dangerous along the way," the Italy international told Sky Sport24. "I'm talking about AC Milan, but also, Inter, Roma and Napoli, who don't have the Champions League, but have an experienced group of players. "We are missing Conte and his absence is felt on the bench. He's a coach who gave us new belief and did a great job of turning the team around with his determination." He also spoke about former team-mate Alessandro Del Piero's transfer to Sydney FC, as well as commenting on his own future. "Del Piero made a choice with his life, and I am not only sure that he won't have any problems, and that he will still have a long career," he continued. "My future? Soon I will talk with the club and I doubt there'll be any problems. I want to renew my contract, but the club are currently occupied with other matters. "I think I won't play for any other Italian team, even if in football you can never say never."

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Will Borriello-Immobile work? Sep 14, 2012 Genoa could field a strike paring of Marco Borriello and Ciro Immobile against Juventus this weekend, but Gian Piero Gasperini has doubts over their partnership. Borriello returned to Marassi from Roma after spending the last six months of 2011-12 at Juve, while Immobile is a youngster who is co-owned by both sides. “Marco needs to feel loved in order to perform,” Gasperini, a former Genoa boss and an ex-Juventus youth sector tactician, told Tuttosport. “Immobile, meanwhile, will have to have a great season – which he could – in order to win a Juventus recall. “However, both players are centre-forwards and we’ll have to see whether putting them together is a good idea.” Gasperini, still out of work following his dismissal at Inter last term, was also asked for an opinion on Sebastian Giovinco. “He’s not world class, but he is certainly a player who can give the Bianconeri something extra,” he continued. “Some are asking him to replace Alex Del Piero, but it is impossible to say today whether Sebastian will reach that level. “Not all class players can be No 1. However, Giovinco knows how to make a difference.” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Conte set to rest Juventus stars Sep 14, 2012 Juventus boss Antonio Conte is prepared to rest as many as four first team regulars against Genoa ahead of their Champions League campaign. The Old Lady travel to Marassi on Sunday before then turning their attention to the trip to Chelsea on Wednesday. Conte, whose side have collected two wins from two this term, is thinking of changes in defence, midfield and attack. Giorgio Chiellini, despite being fit again, may not be risked in the back-three that could allow Martin Caceres to get a game. In midfield of the 3-5-2, Chilean international Arturo Vidal and new signing Kwadwo Asamoah could start on the bench. Meanwhile, Alessandro Matri looks like he will begin instead of Sebastian Giovinco alongside Mirko Vucinic in attack. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Marotta and Buffon to extend Sep 14, 2012 It’s renewal time at Juventus with director general Beppe Marotta and Gigi Buffon set for new contracts. According to Tuttosport, the official will be handed an extension until June 2015 as reward for his work in Turin. Marotta moved to the Old Lady in the summer of 2010 after leaving Sampdoria. Although not all of his signings have been a success, some of his buys were key to Scudetto success last season. Once the 55-year-old puts pen to paper, the club’s attention will then switch to Italian international Buffon. His present agreement expires in June, but he’s set to accept a cut to his €6m a year salary in order to remain in Turin.

Marotta and Buffon to extend Sep 14, 2012 It’s renewal time at Juventus with director general Beppe Marotta and Gigi Buffon set for new contracts. According to Tuttosport, the official will be handed an extension until June 2015 as reward for his work in Turin. Marotta moved to the Old Lady in the summer of 2010 after leaving Sampdoria. Although not all of his signings have been a success, some of his buys were key to Scudetto success last season. Once the 55-year-old puts pen to paper, the club’s attention will then switch to Italian international Buffon. His present agreement expires in June, but he’s set to accept a cut to his €6m a year salary in order to remain in Turin.

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Vargas to miss Juve match Sep 13, 2012 Juan Manuel Vargas will miss out on Genoa’s big game against Juventus after picking up an injury on international duty. The Marassi side are due to face Juve on Sunday, but Vargas returned from Peru with a left thigh strain. It is not yet clear how long the former Fiorentina winger will be sidelined for, but it could be a couple of weeks. More tests are needed on the small lesion to the left thigh muscle, which he picked up during the game with Venezuela. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Serie A Week 3 - 16-9-2012 (3:00 p.m.) - Luigi Ferraris Stadium - Genoa Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Merkel underlines Juve strength Sep 13, 2012 Genoa midfielder Alexander Merkel is well aware of the task that is facing his side when they entertain Juventus in Serie A this weekend. The Germany Under-20 international has praised the Bianconeri following their Scudetto success last season. “Last year we came close to victory against Juventus and we will try again this time around,” he said on Thursday after the two draws between the sides in 2011-12. “They are strong in every department and have great players. We can beat Juve, but we need a great game played by all.” Merkel is back at Marassi after spending half of last season with Milan, but he doesn’t know whether he will have a role to play against the Old Lady. “Will I play? I don't know, the Coach will decide,” he added. “We suffered defeat to Catania last time out and we can't repeat the mistakes we made against them.” Merkel also commented on the deadline day arrival of Marco Borriello, the former Milan and Roma forward who spent last term on loan at Juve. “I know Borriello well,” Merkel stated. “This year we will have the chance to play well together, starting with a bang on Sunday!” http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

Marotta hits out at Sensibile Sep 13, 2012 Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta has responded to claims by Sampdoria director Pasquale Sensibile that deals with the Bianconeri 'are too difficult to carry out'. The 57-year-old has claimed that he was 'amazed' by the 'inappropriate' allegations after the Samp man hit out at his colleague over the attempted signing of Andrea Poli. “I read the statements,” he told the Corriere Mercantile. “I don't want to cause controversy, but I would like to clarify that I was amazed by them. I consider them inappropriate and not very truthful. “We tried to get Poli this summer. I concocted a deal with Sensibile and he was perfectly aware of the contents of our proposal. It was all very clear and straightforward. “Two summers ago we requested Daniele Gastaldello on loan as well, with the right to buy. It is a formula that's recognized in football and happens regularly.”

Buffon fired up for Champions League return The Azzurri shot-stopper missed hearing the signature music during the Bianconeri's recent absence from European football's elite competition. Sep 13, 2012 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has described his frustration at hearing the Champions League anthem only "from the sofa" after missing out on playing in the tournament since 2009. The Italy captain has been an envious onlooker of the competition as Juve instead played in the Europa League in 2010-11 and missed out on Europe altogether the season after. "That piece of music? I'll be glad to hear it again," Buffon was quoted as saying in Corriere dello Sport. "I’ve had to listen to it from my sofa over these years and I didn’t think that was right." Juventus begin their campaign against last year's winners Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next Wednesday, and will be hoping to get their campaign off to a winning start. The new Serie A season has again been disrupted by allegations of corruption in Italy, with coach Antonio Conte implicated, but Buffon believes the Turin side can remain focused and stay competitive. "We have to get back to that certain mentality, that ferocity, of last year," added the keeper.

Lichtsteiner: I want Champions League glory with Juventus The defender is very happy with life at the Bianconeri and has set his sights on winning European club football's elite competition, in just his second season at the club. Sep 13, 2012 Switzerland international Stephan Lichtsteiner has revealed his burning ambitions for the future as he strives to win the Champions League with Juventus. The right-back joined the Turin giants from Lazio in the summer of 2011, and won the Serie A title in his first season at the Bianconeri. Nevertheless, the 28-year-old is not satisfied just yet and has set his sights on more silverware in the coming years. "Juventus are one of the biggest clubs in the world and I am feeling very well here. Moving here was the right choice for me to win something," Lichtsteiner stated to Radiosei. "Winning the Scudetto with Juve last year was something beautiful. However, that's not biggest thing I can achieve here. I want to win the Champions League now." Juventus will have to deal with Chelsea, Shakhtar Donetsk and Nordsjaelland in Group E of the Champions League.

Serie A - 3^ Giornata - Andata - 16-9-2012 (ore 15:00) - Stadio Luigi Ferraris - Genova Arbitro: Gianluca Rocchi Confronti ufficiali 137 - 90 (Serie A) - 10 (Coppa Italia) - 33 (Campionato a gironi) - 2 (Campionato di guerra) - 2 (Serie B) Vittorie Juventus 73 - 53 (Serie A) - 7 (Coppa Italia) - 11 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) - 1 (Serie B) Pareggi 29 - 19 (Serie A) - 2 (Coppa Italia) - 7 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Serie B) Vittorie Genoa 35 - 18 (Serie A) - 1 (Coppa Italia) - 15 (Campionato a gironi) - 1 (Campionato di guerra) Goals Juventus 271 - 189 (Serie A) - 22 (Coppa Italia) - 53 (Campionato a gironi) - 3 (Campionato di guerra) - 4 (Serie B) Goals Genoa 176 - 98 (Serie A) - 13 (Coppa Italia) - 60 (Campionato a gironi) - 3 (Campionato di guerra) - 2 (Serie B) Genoa - Juventus Serie A a Genova Confronti ufficiali 45 Vittorie Juventus 18 (L'ultima il 21.11.2010, 0-2) Pareggi 11 (L'ultimo l'11.03.2012, 0-0 ) Vittorie Genoa 16 (L'ultima l'11.04.2009, 3-2) Goals Juventus 72 Goals Genoa 59 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro il Genoa a Genova 10 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 10 Varglien II Giovanni 9 Varglien I Mario 8 Depetrini Teobaldo 8 Rava Pietro 7 Foni Alfredo 7 Parola Carlo 6 Borel II Felice Placido 6 Emoli Flavio 6 Marocchi Giancarlo 6 goals Boniperti Giampiero 4 Borel II Felice Placido 3 Bellini Savino 3 Hansen John 3 Sentimenti III Vittorio 3 Sivori Omar Enrique 2 Boninsegna Roberto 2 Cabrini Antonio 2 Charles John William 2 Colombo Umberto Ultimi confronti diretti 21.10.2007 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 1-0 09.03.2008 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-2 13.11.2008 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 4-1 11.04.2009 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 3-2 24.09.2009 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 2-2 14.02.2010 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 3-2 21.11.2010 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-2 10.04.2011 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 3-2 22.10.2011 Serie A Juventus-Genoa 2-2 11.03.2012 Serie A Genoa-Juventus 0-0 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 6 - Pareggi 3 - Vittorie Genoa 1 - Goals Juventus 21 - Goals Genoa 12

The Dossier: How Juventus can topple European champions Chelsea The Old Lady returns to the big-time next Wednesday with an opening Champions League Group E trip to Stamford Bridge, here are the tactical tips Juve must follow to secure victory. Sep 13, 2012 TACTICAL ANALYSIS By Carlo Garganese Scudetto holders Juventus don't need to reinvent the wheel in order to topple Chelsea. Six of their starting XI starred in the Italy team that outplayed Germany on the way to a Euro 2012 silver medal, with the majestic Andrea Pirlo many people's player of the tournament. The fact the Bianconeri are 41 Serie A games unbeaten is proof that their fast and fluid 3-5-2 formation is adaptable to any opposition. First and foremost, Juventus must play to their own strengths. The midfield is the most important department in modern football – if you control the centre third of the pitch then your chances of success are significantly increased. In Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal, Juve boast a centre midfield that in Europe is second in quality only to Barcelona. Pirlo, along with Xavi, is the world's premier midfield dictator, while Vidal is arguably the globe's best ball-winner. If the Juventus trio perform to their usual levels they will win the midfield battle against a rather immobile Chelsea duo of Frank Lampard and John Obi Mikel, who in their last outing against Atletico Madrid couldn't cope with the energy of Koke and Gabi. The Blues often revert from their starting 4-2-3-1 to a 4-4-1-1 when not in possession, with wide-men Juan Mata and Ramires dropping. This ploy was successful en route to Champions League glory last season as Chelsea defended deep in numbers, cutting off the space for Barcelona and Bayern Munich to exploit. However, such a tactic would play right into the hands of Pirlo, who relishes such a scenario and famously ran the show for Italy against England at Euro 2012 when Roy Hodgson's men retired into their own half. Juventus hold the better midfield cards regardless of whether Roberto Di Matteo sticks or twists. Chelsea were criticised for 'parking the bus' last season, but the perils of throwing too many men forward were evident in the 4-1 European Super Cup thrashing by Atletico Madrid a fortnight ago. The Blues are susceptible on the counter due to a lack of pace, and in the first-half Atletico created two one-on-ones direct from Chelsea corner kicks, breaking five on three and five on four respectively – Falcao completing his hat-trick with the latter opening. Juventus possess the pace throughout their line-up to similarly punish the English. Playing at home, Chelsea will need to show some adventure – and the summer signing of Eden Hazard makes that a guarantee. How Juventus cope with the raids of the Belgian wonderkid and lone forward Fernando Torres will also be key. Torres' movement troubled Italy's Juve-dominated backline in both Spain v Italy games at Euro 2012; he missed two sitters in the former and scored in the latter. Torres will float across the Bianconeri back three, meaning he will not have a designated marker. Thus, Leonardo Bonucci in the centre must read the game and sweep up – something he has struggled to do in the past, having failed to read a predictable through pass for Jordi Alba's goal in the Euro 2012 final. Chelsea's main weapon is their physicality and power from set-pieces. At Stamford Bridge last season the west Londoners bombarded Napoli into aerial submission during their 4-1 second round second-leg Champions League comeback, three of their goals originating from elevated crosses. Juventus, player for player, should be able to cope with this facet of the game - the back three and Stephan Lichtsteiner are outstanding in the air, while the strength and stamina of the entire line-up - barring Pirlo and the front-two - is impressive. Where Juve must be careful is in their organisation and concentration – an exam Napoli failed so spectacularly at the Bridge. The European champions contain clear weaknesses, though, as Los Rojiblancos will attest. The biggest blemishes in Monaco were right-back Branislav Ivanovic and centre-back David Luiz. The former was roasted for speed from start to finish by Filipe Luis, Adrian and Cristian Rodriguez. Pacy left wing-back Kwadwo Asamoah will be licking his lips at the prospect of attacking Ivanovic one-on-one if the Serbian is preferred to new signing Cesar Azpilicueta. Luiz, on the other hand, continues to be blighted by lapses in concentration and positioning, and he was at fault for Falcao's first two goals. John Terry will return from suspension against Juventus, and Chelsea will be better organised as a result. But, with the Blues conceding nine goals in five games, and Manchester City, Wigan and Atletico all registering 13-18 shots against Chelsea this term, Juventus will create chances. The question is whether the likely strikeforce of Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco will be clinical enough to take them. Profligacy was Juve's biggest weakness last season, with their top scorer Alessandro Matri hitting a meagre 10 goals. This led to the failed attempt to sign a world-class attacker in the summer. Juventus are handicapped by the absence of coach Antonio Conte – controversially suspended for the season following the betting scandal – who is replaced on the touchline by Massimo Carrera. Conte's motivational influence and live tactical tweaks will be missed – especially as this is a squad returning to the Champions League after two years away. While a draw at the champions on matchday 1 would be a good result, this is a Juventus who never settle for second best and if they play the right tactical game there is no reason they can't return to Turin with all three points.

Lichtsteiner eyes CL glory Sep 13, 2012 Stephan Lichtsteiner is hungry for more honours after last term’s Scudetto success with Juventus. “I want to win the European Cup!” The Old Lady will return to Europe’s top club competition and the 28-year-old is keen to lift silverware again after last term’s title triumph. “Juventus are one of the most important clubs in the world and I’m very happy there,” stated the right-back. “We have a really strong squad and joining this team was the right decision for me because I wanted to win. “We won the League last term, but that still isn’t the maximum for me – I want the Champions League.” The defender joined Juve from Lazio in 2011 for €10.5m. The Bianconeri will start their European Cup adventure with a trip to holders Chelsea on September 19. They will also face Shakhtar Donetsk and Nordsjaelland in Group E.

Marotta confident Conte ban will be overturned Sep 12, 2012 Juventus sporting director Giuseppe Marotta is confident that the Italian Olympic Committee’s national sports arbitration tribunal will overturn manager Antonio Conte’s 10-month ban. “We are super confident,” Marotta said after attending a ceremony at Juventus College.