Socrates

Bonucci: Supercoppa win just the beginning for Juventus The Italy international was very satisfied with his side's display at the weekend, and is hoping that further success awaits later in the 2012-13 campaign. Aug 13, 2012 Leonardo Bonucci is hopeful that Juventus' Supercoppa Italiana win over Napoli is the beginning of a successful season for the Serie A champions. The Old Lady beat the Coppa Italia holders 4-2 after extra time, and the centre-back was pleased with his side's performance in what was a 'challenging' game for him due to the recent controversy over the Scommessopoli scandal, which eventually saw his name cleared. "We have to make sure this [supercoppa win] is just the beginning. We have a long and demanding season ahead," Bonucci was quoted as saying on the club's official website. "Mentally the game was challenging for two reasons. Because I had all that is gone on away from the pitch behind me, and also because of the dangerous opponents on the pitch. "Napoli waited for us and we perhaps gave them too much space. We came good though. But that's Juve for you, a team that proves they are better than the rest on the pitch."

Marotta: Juve monitoring Llorente Aug 13, 2012 Juventus director general Beppe Marotta has given an update on Juventus’ search for a striker, admitting Fernando Llorente’s situation is being monitored. The Bianconeri have been linked with a number of strikers this summer, as well as suggested to be considering selling at least one of their current forwards too. Whilst Edin Dzeko and Robin Van Persie have been paired with the Turin side this summer, Athletic Bilbao’s situation with Llorente has many believing that he is now the Italians’ prime target. However, whilst Marotta confirmed that he is under consideration, any move won’t force the departure of Alessandro Matri or Fabio Quagliarella. “We give substance to those that we have. Like every club we try to improve our quality when there is an opportunity, if there are the players there who can help us leap forward then we will evaluate things. “Llorente? We are waiting and watching the evolution of the situation, but we could pursue other contacts. “Van Persie? Difficult to track. Arsenal does not want to lose him easily, despite the player being almost out of contract, they demand a high figure. “Matri? He is not on the list of outgoing players, we consider him in all effects to be a Juventus player. Quagliarella? He’s a part of our project. “Dzeko? His situation is always susceptible to change and he is certainly an important player, but he has a high price. “These situations can evolve from morning to night.” The dg also commented on Roma Coach Zdenek Zeman’s assertion that Antonio Conte’s ban for his alleged role in the match fixing scandal should also apply to training. “I think it is unfortunate for Zeman to make such a bad statement. He himself says he does not read the papers, so you cannot give his words meaning. I hope that the President of the Italian Coaches’ Association takes a position on this matter.”

Juve: 'We're in Llorente talks' Aug 12, 2012 Juventus director general Beppe Marotta confirms they are “negotiating to bring Fernando Llorente here, but it’s not easy.” The reports have been swirling around Italy and Spain over the last few days that he is their new ‘top player’ transfer target. “We are negotiating to bring Llorente here, but it’s not an easy process because Athletic don’t want to sell him,” Marotta told Tuttosport. There could soon be a breakthrough, as Athletic Bilbao have called a Press conference for Monday. Spain international hitman Llorente has only one year left to run on his contract and it’s believed he’d be available for around €20m. The 28-year-old would fit the bill with the characteristics of a tall striker that Juve and Antonio Conte are looking for. Previous targets include Robin Van Persie, Stevan Jovetic and Luis Suarez.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Bonucci: 'Nightmare is over' Aug 12, 2012 Leonardo Bonucci went from facing a three-and-a-half-year ban to winning the Italian Super Cup in the space of 24 hours. “I knew I was innocent.” The Juventus defender risked a lengthy ban in the betting trial due to his time at Bari, but was cleared of sporting fraud on Friday when the testimony of Andrea Masiello was considered to be untrustworthy. “It has been a very dramatic time for me. It all went well, both on the field and off it,” he said after Saturday’s 4-2 extra time win over Napoli in Beijing. “I went from being cleared to starting the Super Cup game and winning it. This must surely be just the start of a long and tiring season. “The most difficult thing was facing up to an obsolete sporting justice system. I never thought it would end badly, because I knew I was innocent. “My conscience was clear and I always worked hard, thinking about the Super Cup we had to win. And we did it.” Simone Pepe also risked a ban of a year, but was also cleared of failing to alert authorities to a potential fix. “I immediately went to find Simone, who shared this nightmare with me. I embraced him and all our teammates. Now we hope Antonio Conte’s situation can end well too.” Bonucci was asked why former Bari teammate Masiello had pointed the finger at so many players when his testimony was considered unsafe due to numerous contradictions and changes. “I don’t know why he did that. Maybe it was just jealousy. Now it’s a closed chapter and I am looking ahead to football that is played on the field.”

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Vucinic: 'A team victory' Aug 12, 2012 Mirko Vucinic scored in a 4-2 Juventus Super Cup win over Napoli, but insisted “it was a victory from the team.” The Montenegro international came off the bench for the second half to score and also earn a penalty. “One man does not change a game,” Vucinic told the official Juventus website. “It is the group that came out and fought back, as we have done so many times. It was a victory from the team. “We went behind twice against a strong side, but recovered the situation with character. We start the season on the right foot. “I want to dedicate the victory to the Juventus fans and my family, while of course we are also happy for Antonio Conte.” Napoli caused controversy when they boycotted the presentation ceremony in protest at the red cards for Goran Pandev, Juan Camilo Zuniga and Walter Mazzarri. “Everyone can do what they want, but after the Coppa Italia Final in Rome we stayed on the pitch and applauded Napoli as they lifted the trophy.”

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Lega: 'Shame about Napoli' Aug 12, 2012 Lega President Maurizio Beretta criticised Napoli for boycotting the Supercoppa presentation ceremony. “It’s a shame about that epilogue.” Juventus won the trophy 4-2 in Beijing after extra time, though the Partenopei were furious that they had Goran Pandev, Juan Camilo Zuniga and Coach Walter Mazzarri sent off. In protest, Napoli refused to attend the presentation of the trophy on the pitch and ordered a media blackout. “It’s a shame about that epilogue,” said Lega President Beretta. “One can understand disappointment and irritation, but the fact remains the event was lacking that last little bit. “This doesn’t take away from the validity of playing the match in Beijing. It was a very positive evening and the event was successful with great participation from the fans.”

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Buffon: 'Supercoppa dedications' Aug 12, 2012 Juventus captain Gigi Buffon dedicated the Italian Super Cup victory to Antonio Conte, Leonardo Bonucci, Simone Pepe and Alessandro Del Piero. The Bianconeri lifted the trophy in Beijing on Saturday after beating nine-man Napoli 4-2 in extra time. “The first dedication goes to our Coach, who daily sends us his sporting rage and hunger to be first that has no equal. All of that, despite his troubles...” wrote Buffon on his Facebook page. Conte was in the stands because he has received a 10-month touchline ban in the betting trial, replaced by assistant Massimo Carrera. Bonucci and Pepe were also in the trial, but were cleared on Friday. “The second dedication is for our Italian-Chinese fans, who followed us all the way here and supported the team with great passion. “The third thought goes to Simone and Leo, who emerged from a very long nightmare and in all this time never for an instant held back in their efforts for the Juventus cause. “The fourth is for Giorgione Chiellini, who would’ve deserved to be among us celebrating, but an injury caused by his usual generosity kept him out... “Marco Storari who, unlike me, was unfortunate enough to play the Coppa Italia Final rather than this one, otherwise he’d have won this trophy as a protagonist. But then he is always a protagonist, because all our teammates who aren’t lucky enough to play are still contributing with advice and support. “Finally, a dedication to our captain Ale Del Piero, who deserved to end his Bianconeri story by lifting a trophy... but life is long... and sometimes you enjoy getting one back...” The Italian Super Cup was the first official match Juventus have played since the end of the 19-year Del Piero era.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Carrera passes first test with flying colours as Juventus win Supercoppa The stand-in boss led the Bianconeri to victory in the season curtain raiser after they had looked to be on the rack at half-time, bringing on Mirko Vucinic to change the game. Aug 12, 2012 Juventus lifted the silverware, Napoli promised so much but fell short, refereeing decisions came under the spotlight, and the off the field events of the summer loomed large over the proceedings throughout. The Supercoppa Italiana proved once again that while so much changes in football, everything stays very much the same, with the Bianconeri’s possession-based game just about seeing them through to victory after a contest full of drama in Beijing. After the announcement of Antonio Conte’s Calcioscommesse ban on Friday, Massimo Carrera took charge of operations pitchside for the first time in his career, and made a very good first impression thanks largely to a game-changing half-time substitution when he introduced Mirko Vucinic for Alessandro Matri. As was the case for much of the 2011-12 campaign, Juve saw plenty of the ball but could make little of it in the first half, with Matri’s static approach up top doing little to help them make the most of their advantages in territory and possession. What's more, they were up against a Napoli side intent on punishing them, just as they did in the Coppa Italia final in May, and for long spells of their Serie A contest at the San Paolo in November. Following Lucio’s attempt to play Edinson Cavani offside in his own half, the Uruguayan failed to round Gianluigi Buffon but then kept his head to side-foot home at the second attempt. A goal behind with Andrea Pirlo shackled by a combination of Marek Hamsik, Valon Behrami and Gokhan Inler, and the remainder of the attacking unit looking short of ideas on how to break down the Partenopei’s three-man back line, Juve momentarily seemed to lose their cool. But an inspired crossfield pass from Arturo Vidal picked out debutant Kwadwo Asamoah on the left, and with Christian Maggio having wandered out of position, the Ghanaian was able to power a magnificent first-time volley beyond Massimo De Sanctis at the near post. Questions are always asked of goalkeepers conceding on the front stick, but with the force of Asamoah’s shot, plus the skid it took off the wet surface, De Sanctis was always going to be severely examined. That that was the Bianconeri’s first shot on target was a telling statistic, and before long they were left chasing the game once more thanks to Leonardo Bonucci’s latest piece of calamitous defending. The former Bari man – cleared of Calcioscommesse involvement 24 hours earlier – has so often shown in the past that a mistake is never far away no matter how composed he appears to be, and the negative side of his game reared its ugly head again in Beijing. Facing his own goal, he attempted to hook a ball away on the stretch with no cover in behind him, meaning that when he miscued straight into the harrying Goran Pandev, he had given the Macedonian a clear run in on goal. The striker showed superb composure to draw Buffon and clip an inch-perfect effort over the sprawling Juventus skipper. The Italian champions needed something inspired ahead of the second half, and the introduction of Vucinic supplied just that. With his greater movement, the former Roma man finally asked questions of an ever-fallible Napoli defence. Now more stretched and panicked, they were always likely to make a mistake, and it was no surprise when Federico Fernandez misjudged a challenge on Vucinic to concede a penalty. Vidal slotted home and it was 2-2. Then came the controversy. With five minutes left of normal time, Pandev questioned a linesman over a previous incident, apparently using a few choice words. The red card came out, and Napoli were up against it. While there was no clear evidence to the public as to what Pandev said, there could be no doubt over the second dismissal which followed in injury time. Already on a yellow card for a set-to with Stephan Lichtsteiner, Juan Zuniga went in late and a little high on Sebastian Giovinco, giving Paolo Mazzoleni every reason to show a second red card. In his protests, Walter Mazzarri was also sent from the bench and Napoli would later refuse to take part in the presentation ceremony in protest, but all the evidence suggested that there was little to argue about. What there was no argument about was the fact that Juve were now massive favourites, and they took little time in ensuring victory during the additional 30 minutes. First De Sanctis and Maggio conspired to deal horrendously with a free kick, with the defender turning into his own net. Then Vucinic was left with a tap in after Claudio Marchisio’s inspired first time pass from Asamoah’s angled ball. With that, Juventus’ superiority in Italian football was re-affirmed, and Carrera was left to dedicate the victory to Conte in his post-match TV interview. But he should take credit too. He has passed the first of what will be many examinations this season as Juve look to defend their Scudetto and also make an assault on Europe without their coach on the bench. So far, so good, and so little has changed too. Calcio is back, and is just as we remembered it.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Marchisio slams Napoli boycott Aug 11, 2012 Claudio Marchisio criticised Napoli for refusing to attend the Italian Super Cup trophy ceremony. “We stayed on the pitch when we lost.” The Partenopei boycotted the presentation after they lost 4-2 in extra time, so only Juventus went to receive their medals and lift the silverware. “Everyone is free to do what they want, but just as Italy stayed to watch Spain receive their reward after the Euro 2012 Final and Juventus watched Napoli lift the Coppa Italia, it would’ve been fair for Napoli to stay on the field too,” said Marchisio. “Their protests? If there had been a few more bookings in the first half to penalise nasty tackles, then perhaps we wouldn’t have seen the red cards after the break.” It was a replay of the Coppa Italia Final on May 20, which saw Walter Mazzarri’s men emerge 2-0 winners. “This was a good ‘revenge’ for that game. It was a tough victory that allowed us to start the season well. “Once again today we showed character by coming back twice from a goal down. We conceded while we were attacking. “It was difficult, as they marked us in midfield, defended with eight men and went on rapid counter-attacks.”

Asamoah hails 'Juve team spirit' Aug 11, 2012 Kwadwo Asamoah scored a sensational volley and praised the “team spirit” as Juventus beat Napoli in Beijing. The former Udinese midfielder netted in the 4-2 Italian Super Cup victory in extra time and was named Man of the Match. “We played a very difficult game, as Napoli are a side to be respected and not a ‘normal’ team. “We didn’t give up in the first half when trailing 2-1, fought back and then scored twice in extra time. “This showed the team spirit. The first day I arrived at this side, the Coach said everyone helps each other and we cannot give up.” Antonio Conte was in the stands due to a 10-month ban in the betting trial, replaced by Massimo Carrera on the bench.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Asamoah hails 'Juve team spirit' Aug 11, 2012 Kwadwo Asamoah scored a sensational volley and praised the “team spirit” as Juventus beat Napoli in Beijing. The former Udinese midfielder netted in the 4-2 Italian Super Cup victory in extra time and was named Man of the Match. “We played a very difficult game, as Napoli are a side to be respected and not a ‘normal’ team. “We didn’t give up in the first half when trailing 2-1, fought back and then scored twice in extra time. “This showed the team spirit. The first day I arrived at this side, the Coach said everyone helps each other and we cannot give up.” Antonio Conte was in the stands due to a 10-month ban in the betting trial, replaced by Massimo Carrera on the bench.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Barzagli: 'Dedicated to trial trio' Aug 11, 2012 Andrea Barzagli said the Juventus Super Cup win was for Antonio Conte, Simone Pepe and Leonardo Bonucci. “We dedicate it to the Coach, to Simone and to Leo. We had some tricky months, but it was great to lift the trophy today,” he said of the 4-2 victory over Napoli. Conte received a 10-month ban in the betting trial on Friday and was therefore in the stands in Beijing, while Bonucci and Pepe were cleared. Napoli were so angry at the refereeing decisions, including two red cards, that they refused to come out for the presentation ceremony. “I leave the controversy aside. It was a tough and hard-fought match, Napoli played their game and so did we,” continued Barzagli. “It was an entertaining battle and thankfully we won at the end of it.”

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Marotta: 'Win for and by Conte' Aug 11, 2012 Juventus director general Beppe Marotta said the Italian Super Cup was “a victory by and for Antonio Conte.” The Coach was in the stands in Beijing for the 4-2 win over Napoli due to a 10-month ban in the betting trial, replaced on the bench by Massimo Carrera. “This is Conte’s victory, as he prepared in recent weeks an impeccable performance, while it was also a victory for Conte, as the players wanted to give him this success,” said Marotta. Tempers ran high at the Bird’s Nest Stadium, as Goran Pandev and Juan Camilo Zuniga were sent off, prompting Napoli to boycott the presentation ceremony. “I only know President Aurelio De Laurentiis said he wouldn’t participate,” shrugged Marotta. “I think it was a valid victory. The match was refereed by six officials, so there couldn’t be more eyes on the field. My only doubt is with the penalty, but other than that the decisions seemed perfectly fair. “Don’t forget we didn’t complain in the Coppa Italia Final when there was an incident on Claudio Marchisio.” Marotta had pledged to bring a ‘top player’ to Turin for the Champions League squad. “The definition ‘top player’ is vague. For example, how would we describe Kwadwo Asamoah, who scored a great goal today? “Or Andrea Pirlo, Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco? We are looking at the market, but this squad deservedly won the Scudetto and the Super Cup.”

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Carrera: 'Dedicated to Conte' Aug 11, 2012 Stand-in Massimo Carrera dedicated the Italian Super Cup victory to banned Juventus boss Antonio Conte. “I must thank the lads, who played a great game and we are happy,” he said of the 4-2 extra time win in Beijing. Carrera is on the bench, potentially for the next 10 months, after Conte was suspended in the betting trial. “Naturally our first thought goes to the Coach. We showed that we are united, all working in the same direction and know what we want. “Did Conte communicate with me? No, it all went cleanly and as planned.” Napoli were furious, as they finished the 90 minutes with only nine men on the field. “I saw Napoli chasing us down, trying to systematically foul and obstruct play when in front,” replied Carrera. The Bianconeri are still looking for a ‘top player’ to reinforce their attack. “Juve need these characteristics, motivation, grit and concentration, then any more players are down to the club.”

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Juventus dedicate Supercoppa Italiana win to banned Conte Management and players of the Bianconeri rallied around the 42-year-old boss, after picking up their first silverware of the season. Aug 11, 2012 Juventus senior management and players were quick to dedicate their 4-2 Supercoppa Italiana victory over Napoli, to banned coach Antonio Conte. The win comes during a turbulent period for the club, with head coach Conte embroiled in a legal battle to overturn a 10-month ban, for his part in the match-fixing scandal engulfing Serie A. The 42-year-old was forced to watch the game in Beijing from the stands and in the aftermath of of the win, Juventus' director general Giuseppe Marotta reserved special mention for the banned boss. "This is a victory by Conte, for Conte," Marotta declared to the club's official website. "The only thing we were interested in today was the win, which was an impeccable victory that was prepared for throughout the week by Conte. Midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah was also quick to pay tribute to his manager, while hailing the strength of character of the side to come from behind twice, before securing the win. "It was a tough game against a strong Napoli side, but we never gave up even after going behind in the first half. "We managed to level and then came good in extra-time. That's the team spirit we have here; the coach deserves to have this win dedicated to him more than any other." Caretaker manager Massimo Carrera, who is expected to lead the team from the dugout until Conte's ban expires, remarked on the performances of his defenders, after seeing blunders from Lucio and Leonardo Bonucci lead up to Napoli's two goals. "I don't believe our defenders played badly," the 48-year-old told Goal.com exclusively. "I don't think the club will buy anymore defenders this summer, especially in light of Chiellini's eventual return from injury. "People tend to scrutinise the mistakes of defenders, but in the end, it is something that can hardly be avoided. Only those sitting on the bench are immune to such errors."

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Marchisio: Napoli deserved dismissals Juventus may have secured their first silverware of the season, but that didn't stop the Bianconeri midfielder from delivering a damning verdict on the Partenopei's indiscipline. Aug 11, 2012 Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has criticised the rough-house tactics employed by Napoli, during the Bianconeri's Italian Super Cup triumph on Saturday. Napoli duo Goran Pandev and Juan Zuniga both saw red in the second period, as they fell to a 4-2 extra-time defeat, prompting Walter Mazzari's men to boycott the trophy ceremony and decline receipt of their runners-up medals. "They were marking us man-for-man in midfield, trying to get as many of themselves behind the ball," lambasted the 26-year-old to the Bianconeri's official website. "I don't understand their protests post-match. If the referee had shown several more yellow cards for their challenges in the first half, there might not have been those sending-offs following the break at all." The Italy international nevertheless reserved praise for his team-mates, who battled back from falling a goal behind twice in the match, to exact revenge on Napoli, who defeated them in the Coppa Italia final last season. "We had to work hard for it but it was a good way to open preparations for the new campaign ahead. We had to dig deep to come from behind twice, but it was nice to finally settle the score." The Old Lady will begin their defence of the Serie A title against Parma on August 26th.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Player Ratings The Bianconeri won a fifth Supercoppa crown after the dismissals of Goran Pandev, Camilo Zuniga and Walter Mazzari left the Coppa Italia winners short-handed. Aug 11, 2012 Juventus Gianluigi Buffon 3.0 - Pulled off a great save from Cavani’s first effort but could do nothing about the follow up, and was similarly not at fault for the second. Leonardo Bonucci 2.5 - His error led to Napoli’s second goal just when Juve had got a foothold in the game, and then he handed a great chance to Cavani. Lucio 2.5 - Looked uncomfortable for long spells of the game, especially thanks to Cavani’s pace, and was at fault for the first goal when trying to play the Uruguayan offside in the opponents’ half. Andrea Barzagli 3.5 - Looked a little ill at ease playing more to the left that usual in the absence of Chiellini, but coped reasonably well compared to his defensive team-mates. Stephan Lichtsteiner 2.5 - Got down the right an awful lot before being replaced by Simone Padoin after setting yellow for getting involved in an argument. Claudio Marchisio 3.5 - Provided a superb touch for Vucinic to wrap up the victory having been a great influence from the left of the midfield three. Andrea Pirlo 3.0 - Didn’t quite dominate the midfield in the same way as he often did last season, but he was still instrumental and tested De Sanctis from a free kick. Arturo Vidal 4.0 - His magnificent crossfield ball picked out Asamoah for Juventus’ first goal of the game, then he grabbed the second from the spot, and he was once more the hardest working of Juve’s midfielders. Kwadwo Asamoah 3.5 - Was one of Juve’s star players from the opening whistle, and delivered a magnificent strike to put his new side level from outside the area. Sebastian Giovinco 3.0 - Started very well, keeping Napoli’s defence guessing for long spells with his movement. Faded a little in the second period. Alessandro Matri 1.5 - Substituted at half time having had done little to make an impact on the proceedings. • Substitutions Simone Padoin 2.5 - Replaced Lichtsteiner and helped Juve keep the ball off Napoli’s nine men for long spells. Emanuele Giaccherini N/A - Late sub for Giovinco. Mirko Vučinić 4.5 - Made all the difference after coming on as substitute, occupying the Napoli back line in a way which Matri had found impossible, and got the final goal as a reward. SSC Napoli Morgan De Sanctis 2.0 - Suspect on the first goal as Asamoah’s fierce shot skidded off the wet surface and beat him at the near post, then he came and missed a free kick as Juve went ahead through Maggio’s own goal. Hugo Armando Campagnaro 2.5 - Kept Matri quiet throughout the first half, but struggled once Vucinic entered the fray at half time. Miguel Angel Britos 2.5 - Looked to be a more than adequate replacement for Aronica at first, but struggled more as the game went on. Paolo Cannavaro 2.5 - Made one fantastic clearance after De Sanctis had been beaten all ends up, and made a couple of excellent tackles, but he was booked and then replaced by Fernandez. Christian Maggio 1.5 - Was unfortunate to score an own goal as the 10 men fell behind for the first time, but that came after he’d allowed Asamoah time and space to volley home the first goal, and he looked short of fitness for long spells. Gökhan Inler 3.0 - Patrolled the midfield well, with some neat first-time passes helping to put Napoli in good positions, feeding Pandev and Cavani almost at will while their side still had 11 men. Marek Hamsik 3.0 - Had the superiority ahead of the midfield battle at times in the first half, helping to keep Pirlo quiet, but he couldn’t keep up that side of his game, and he was later replaced. Valon Behrami 3.0 - Worked hard from start to finish, proving to be one of Napoli’s more reliable players on the day. The Azzurri may have found one of the forces they’ve missed at times previously. Juan Camilo Zúñiga 2.0 - Saw red for a second bookable offence to leave his side with nine men having made a useful contribution before then. Edison Cavani 4.0 - Kept his head to slot Napoli ahead after Buffon had stretched out to deny him a tap-in, and remained the Azzurri’s main threat throughout. Goran Pandev 3.0 - Lifted a superb effort over the advancing Buffon after robbing Bonucci to put Napoli back in front, but was later sent off for foul and abusive language. • Substitutions Andrea Dossena N/A - Late introduction. Federico Fernández 1.5 - Came on for Cannavaro, but couldn’t match the club captain’s workrate, fouling Vucinic to hand Juventus a penalty which helped change the game. Walter Gargano 2.0 - Replaced Hamsik and became something of a second attacker at times after his side was reduced to nine men, breaking from midfield to support the isolated Cavani.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Super Cup: Juve beat nine-man Napoli Aug 11, 2012 Juventus fought back twice for a 2-2 draw, but when Napoli had two men controversially sent off, the Bianconeri won the Italian Super Cup 4-2 in extra time. The SuperCoppa opens the campaign and is between the holders of the Coppa Italia and the Scudetto at the rainy Bird’s Nest stadium in Beijing. This is also a replay of the Coppa Final in May that saw the Partenopei emerge 2-0 winners, their first piece of silverware since 1990. Antonio Conte was replaced on the bench by Massimo Carrera due to a 10-month ban in the betting trial that was announced yesterday. Leonardo Bonucci and Simone Pepe were cleared. With Giorgio Chiellini, Mauricio Isla and Martin Caceres injured, Alessandro Matri and Sebastian Giovinco were the surprise starters. Napoli had Edinson Cavani back with Goran Pandev after the short-lived Olympics experience, though Miguel Angel Britos and Juan Camilo Zuniga were chosen ahead of Salvatore Aronica and Andrea Dossena. Blerim Dzemaili sat out a ban. This was also the first Italian competitive match with goal-line referees. Nobody was ready to tap in a dangerous Giovinco ball across the face of goal. From the resulting corner, Matri was furious as he demanded a penalty for a nudge from behind, but the referee rightly waved play on. Giovinco’s cross took a deflection and looped over Morgan De Sanctis, but fortunately for the Napoli goalkeeper it was off target. Kwadwo Asamoah’s great work dummied two defenders down the left and his strike was in-between the far top corner and Stephan Lichtsteiner’s header. It was Napoli who took the lead with a classic counter-attack. Cavani was sent totally clear on goal from inside his own half by Goran Pandev and Gigi Buffon performed a miracle to fingertip the ball off his feet, but the Uruguayan stayed up and regained his composure to fire into the empty net as the goalkeeper tried to scramble back. It was Lucio who was slow in the original move. Pandev’s volley was into Buffon’s arms, but a free kick came to Marek Hamsik and Buffon needed a fingertip save to turn his angled drive across the face of goal. Just as Napoli were putting on the pressure, Juventus equalised with Asamoah’s first goal in a Bianconeri jersey. It was a screamer of a left-foot volley from the edge of the box and Morgan De Sanctis got a hand to it at the near post, but couldn’t stop the powerful finish squirming in off the wet turf. Paolo Cannavaro also hit a fierce half-volley from distance that Buffon smothered on the ground. Juve had barely finished celebrating when Napoli restored their lead. Pandev pounced on an uncertain Bonucci and bravely risked a potential kick in the face to surge into the box and delicately chip Buffon. It was the Macedonian’s seventh career goal against the Old Lady. In first half stoppages Napoli ran a big risk, as a deflected cross looped up and De Sanctis flapped it on to the crossbar. Mirko Vucinic replaced Matri for the second half, but Cavani hit a half-volley that stung Buffon’s palms. The move continued and Vucinic cracked a shot against the underside of the crossbar with the aid of a De Sanctis fingertip from a tight angle. Cannavaro was booked for a very late sliding tackle to hack down Giovinco, as was Valon Behrami after he clattered into Claudio Marchisio. Andrea Pirlo’s curling free kick from distance dipped towards the far top corner, but De Sanctis flew to palm it away. Cavani had a great chance to extend the advantage on the counter-attack, but rolled across the face of goal rather than cut back to the unmarked Hamsik, skimming the upright. Moments later Vucinic hooked a long ball forward and waltzed round De Sanctis, but Cannavaro got back in time for a decisive goalline clearance! Cavani pounced when Bonucci was distracted, the half-volley hitting the side-netting in another mistake from the Italian international defender. Cavani helped out in defence, but got himself booked for a late tackle from behind on Pirlo and the midfielder curled over. The referee pointed to the spot when Vucinic fell under a Federico Fernandez challenge, though it’s not entirely clear if the Napoli man got the ball first. Vidal stepped up and powerfully converted by sending De Sanctis the wrong way for the equaliser. Walter Gargano’s shot was deflected on to the side-netting, but there was a blatant push on Behrami in the middle of the box. Vucinic burst past Fernandez and set up Giovinco, forcing De Sanctis to come screaming out of the penalty area to clear at his feet. In a dramatic twist, Pandev was shown a straight red card for something he said to the linesman. The striker was flabbergasted and didn’t seem to realise what had happened, claiming he only said ‘that wasn’t offside.’ Lorenzo Insigne was about to come on at the time, but this change had to be shelved. Vidal rolled across for Vucinic, but a crucial Britos interception stopped him tapping in. In stoppages Napoli went down to nine men, as Zuniga received a second yellow card for a mistimed clash with Giovinco. Coach Walter Mazzarri was also sent off for dissent, as the Italian Super Cup went to extra time with 11 against 9. Juventus took the lead for the first time, as Pirlo curled a free kick that Maggio accidentally nodded into his own net as De Sanctis completely mistimed his intervention. There was no way back for nine-man Napoli, as moments later Vucinic added a fourth. The credit goes to Marchisio, who with one motion volleyed a cushioned assist from a long ball for Vucinic to tap into an empty net. The Partenopei were limping and two men down, but would not give up with Cavani, Maggio and Britos trying to hit on the counter-attack. Juventus 4-2 Napoli (aet) Scorers: Cavani 28 (N), Asamoah 37 (J), Pandev 41 (N), Vidal pen 73 (J), Maggio og 97 (J), Vucinic 101 (J) Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Lucio; Lichtsteiner (Padoin 89), Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Matri (Vucinic 46), Giovinco Napoli: De Sanctis; Campagnaro, Cannavaro (Fernandez 62), Britos; Maggio, Behrami, Inler (Dossena 106), Hamsik (Gargano 68), Zuniga; Pandev, Cavani Ref: Mazzoleni Sent off: Pandev 85 (N), Zuniga 93 (N), Mazzarri 93 (Coach N)

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) 4 - 2 Edison Cavani (27′) Kwadwo Asamoah (37') Goran Pandev (41′) Arturo Vidal (penalty - 74') Christian Maggio (o.g. - 97') Mirko Vučinić (101') Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Bianconeri see off nine-man Partenopei in extra time Walter Mazzarri's men gave away the lead on two occasions and then imploded in the closing stages of normal time, enabling the Turin side to secure their fifth Supercoppa title. Aug 11, 2012 Juventus came from behind twice to defeat a nine-man Napoli 4-2 after extra-time in a truly exhilarating encounter at a drenched Bird's Nest stadium in China. Edinson Cavani handed the side from Naples the lead after 27 minutes but his strike was cancelled out by Kwadwo Asamoah 10 minutes later. Goran Pandev pounced on a defensive error to regain Napoli's advantage before half time but a penalty from Arturo Vidal tied the score at 2-2 in the 76th minute. The Azzurri self-destructed towards the end of normal time as Pandev, their coach Walter Mazzarri, and Camilo Zuniga were all sent from the field of play. Juve then took full advantage of their additional men in the extra time that followed as a Cristian Maggio own goal was followed by a winner from Mirko Vucinic. Due to Antonio Conte's 10-month suspension banning him from the touchline, his assistant Massimo Carrera took charge of the Bianconeri for the game. They assumed control inside the opening 15 minutes but for all of Stephan Lichtsteiner's continual forays down the right flank, the creation of a clear-cut opportunity remained elusive. Juve's inability to test Morgan De Sanctis ended up costing them dearly in the 27th minute when a high defensive line allowed Cavani to stream through on goal. He attempted to round Buffon and although the keeper got a hand to the ball and forced him wide, the Uruguayan remained composed and stabbed his effort home. Napoli failed to capitalise on a poor throw-in from Asamoah as Buffon held Pandev's volley from inside the area but the Ghanaian more than atoned for that lapse in the 37th minute. A long ball from left to right by Vidal was lashed into the bottom corner with a perfectly executed 18-yard volley from Asamoah. However, the scores were not tied for long as the Azzurri regained their advantage four minutes before the break. Leonardo Bonucci's clearance rebounded off of Pandev's chest and put him in on goal from the left wing. The defender's efforts to chase him down were in vain as the forward produced a delicate finish, dinking the ball over Buffon and into the net. Vucinic replaced Alessandro Matri for the Turin outfit at half time and his introduction certainly galvanised his side. After three minutes he rattled the bar and he then saw his goal-bound effort, after rounding De Sanctis, blocked by Paolo Cannavaro before the hour mark. Andrea Pirlo had a long-range free kick saved between the Montengrin's two efforts but the Bianconeri's improved attacking display eventually paid dividends with 16 minutes left on the clock. Vucinic was dragged down in the area by substitute Federico Fernandez and Vidal converted the penalty, sending the keeper the wrong way. The game became increasingly ill-tempered and Pandev and Zuniga were shown utterly stupid red cards, the former for dissent and the latter for two clumsy challenges, in the closing stages, while coach Mazzarri was also sent from the touchline. With the score level at the final whistle the game went to extra time and Napoli were thus forced to contest it with nine men. The reigning Serie A champions made their two-man advantage count with a pair of goals in the first half of the additional 30 minutes. Maggio diverted a Juve free kick from the right into his own goal after De Sanctis failed to clear and Vucinic added the finishing touch to a delightful flick from Claudio Marchisio to put the game well beyond the Partenopei. The final whistle was greeted by scenes of jubilation among the Bianconeri players who lifted the fifth Supercoppa Italiana in the club's history in what was a game that truly had everything and served as a fantastic curtain-raiser for the 2012-13 domestic Italian season which begins in two weeks.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) - Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni SuperCoppa line-ups Aug 11, 2012 Alessandro Matri and Sebastian Giovinco take on Edinson Cavani and Goran Pandev as the Juventus-Napoli Super Cup kicks off in Beijing this afternoon. The Italian Super Cup traditionally starts the campaign and in recent years has often been hosted in the Bird’s Nest Stadium in China. It is a battle between the winners of the Coppa Italia and the Scudetto, but in this case also a replay of the Coppa Italia Final that saw Napoli emerge 2-0 winners back in May. Juventus are without the injured Giorgio Chiellini, Mauricio Isla and Martin Caceres, but Leonardo Bonucci and Simone Pepe are available after they were cleared in the betting trial. Coach Antonio Conte did not fare so well and starts his 10-month ban, though it only applies to sitting on the bench or the locker room on match days. Massimo Carrera takes his place on the touchline. Many thought it would be a race between Giovinco and Matri to partner Mirko Vucinic, but instead both of those players start and the Macedonian is on the bench, most likely as he is still not 100 per cent fit. Napoli must do without the suspended Blerim Dzemaili, while Lorenzo Insigne is carrying an ankle problem. Walter Mazzarri’s new-look 3-5-1-1 formation has Marek Hamsik in a deeper role behind Cavani and Pandev. It is Cavani’s first appearance for the club since his Olympic adventure was cut short by Uruguay’s first round exit. Miguel Angel Britos and Juan Camilo Zuniga get the nod ahead of Salvatore Aronica and Andrea Dossena. This will be the first competitive Italian match to use goal-line referees. Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Lucio; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Matri, Giovinco Juventus bench: Storari, Marrone, De Ceglie, Padoin, Giaccherini, Vucinic, Quagliarella Napoli: De Sanctis; Campagnaro, Cannavaro, Britos; Maggio, Behrami, Inler, Hamsik, Zuniga; Pandev, Cavani Napoli bench: Rosati, Aronica, Fernandez, Dossena, Gargano, Insigne,Vargas

Quando i dipendenti della rai cominciano a fare polemiche, l'unica cosa é abbassare il volume o spegnere la tv del tutto.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) - Beijing National Stadium - Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni Zoff: 'Super Cup wide open' Aug 11, 2012 Juventus will “try to win for their Coach” but Napoli will be just as highly motivated in today's Super Cup, according to Dino Zoff. The showpiece event, pitting the winners of last season’s Serie A and Coppa Italia titles against one another, kicks off at 12.00 GMT this afternoon at Beijing's Birds Nest Stadium. Juve Coach Antonio Conte will be absent, from the touchline at least, having yesterday been hit with a 10-month ban - pending appeal - for failing to report the potential fixing of matches during his time in charge of Siena. Technical director for youth development Massimo Carrera will deputise for Conte in China, and for the ban’s duration. Even so, legendary 'keeper Zoff, who played for both teams and spent two years coaching Juventus, sees very little between the competitors. “The Super Cup will be wide open. I see two teams in good shape and that are already proven,” the former Italy CT told Tuttomercatoweb. “The teams know each other, are organised and have done well in pre-season. It will be a lively match, open to every result. “We need to understand the impact Conte's disqualification will have,” Zoff continued. “In particular whether he will be able to follow the game from his position. Clearly Carrera acts on Conte's indications, but mostly you have to understand the reaction of a team that will try and win for their Coach.” However Zoff doesn't believe Napoli, whose last and only Super Cup triumph came with a 5-1 win over Juve shortly after he was sacked as Bianconeri boss in 1990, will be any less fired up. “The motivation of both teams will be very high. For Napoli it is a trophy which has taken on even more importance, one they want to bring home after so many years without it.”

Buffon: Conte ban could destabilise Juventus squad The 34-year-old has dismissed talk that the coach being sanctioned could motivate the Bianconeri squad, but is happy that Simone Pepe and Leonardo Bonucci have been cleared. Aug 10, 2012 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has admitted that Antonio Conte's 10-month ban could have an adverse affect on his team-mates. It was announced on Friday morning that the 43-year-old coach would be forced to miss all of the Bianconeri's title defence after failing to report match-fixing activities to the authorities during his time at Siena. And the Italy international has dismissed the notion that the trainer's absence will serve to motivate his team ahead of Sunday's Supercoppa Italiana meeting with Napoli. "When things like this happen, they can destabilise the environment. We Italians like to say it makes you stronger," he told reporters. "Personally, I do not think that they can help an individual or a team. That said, we are totally relaxed and want to do our duty: win the Supercoppa. "We come into this from a defeat in the Coppa Italia final, and losing a final is never good. As for the coach, he has the will to fight in his DNA, and also, we are only at the first stage of his judgement." Two Juventus players, Simone Pepe and Leonardo Bonucci, were cleared of all charges after initially being suspects in the case, and Buffon went on to voice his happiness at his team-mates' being acquitted. "I am happy for Simone and Leonardo, who are friends of mine. I congratulate them because they have been through this with great courage, while Bonucci, who played sensationally at Euro 2012, has proved that he is a strong man."

Juventus vow to back Conte after Scommessopoli verdict The Turin giants have released a formal statement in support of the beleaguered head coach, and are hopeful he will be acquitted on appeal. Aug 10, 2012 Juventus have reiterated that Antonio Conte and his assistant Angelo Alessio still have the club's full support, despite the duo being sanctioned for their role in the Scommessopoli scandal. The coach was handed a 10-month suspension for his involvement in the match-fixing scandal, while his deputy was banned for eight months. "Following the verdicts given by the FIGC's disciplinary committee regarding the involvement of Juventus employees in incidents while at other clubs, Juventus are extremely satisfied with the acquittal of footballers Leonardo Bonucci and Simone Pepe," read an official statement. "Furthermore, the club underlines its full support for Antonio Conte and Angelo Alessio, in the hope that their innocence will emerge during the appeals process. "The coaches' legal team, comprising of professionals chosen by the parties themselves in complete agreement with the club, is already drawing up the grounds for appeal, in the firm belief that the coaches had no involvement in the matter. "Antonio Conte and Angelo Alessio will be assisted by lawyers Antonio De Rensis and Luigi Chiappero, and additionally by Giulia Bongiorno." The verdicts come only one day before Juventus' Supercoppa Italiana match against Napoli on Saturday.

Supercoppa Italiana - Final - 11-8-2012 (2:00 p.m.) - Beijing National Stadium — Beijing Referee: Paolo Mazzoleni‎ Juventus - Napoli Preview: Perennial rivals lock horns in Supercoppa Italiana The new season in Italy is finally upon us, and it is last term's Coppa Italia finalists who will once more take centre stage, with the Scudetto holders keen to exert revenge. Aug 10, 2012 PROBABLE LINE-UPS JUVENTUS Buffon Lucio, Barzagli, Bonucci Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, De Ceglie Vucinic, Matri NAPOLI De Sanctis Campagnaro, Cannavaro, Aronica Maggio, Hamsik, Inler, Behrami, Zuniga Pandev, Cavani Juventus are likely to name a full-strength XI for their trip to the National Stadium in Beijing, where they will contest the 2012-13 Supercoppa Italiana against Napoli. Several changes are in the pipeline from the 2-0 friendly success over Malaga, with Luca Marrone, Simone Padoin, Kwadwo Asamoah and Sebastian Giovinco ready to be dropped in favour of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Paolo De Ceglie and Mirko Vucinic. And despite being implicated in the Scommessopoli match-fixing scandal, Simone Pepe and Leonardo Bonucci are both eligible to feature in the China showpiece. The pair originally seemed destined to miss out, but their names have since been cleared. However, Antonio Conte's 10-month ban from football, along with assistant Angelo Alessio, the departure of first-team coach Cristian Stellini, means it is presently uncertain as to who will take charge of the side in Asia. Meanwhile for Napoli, numerous alterations are also to be expected. The side may have eased to a 2-0 win over Bordeaux in their last pre-season outing, but coach Walter Mazzarri will be in no mood to experiment come the weekend. Consequently, Federico Fernandez, Walter Gargano, Blerim Dzemaili, Andrea Dossena and Eduardo Vargas should all be replaced by Paolo Cannavaro, Gokhan Inler, Marek Hamsik, Juan Zuniga and Edinson Cavani, the latter of whom returns from an unsuccessful Olympics campaign. DID YOU KNOW? • Juventus went the entire 2011-12 Serie A campaign unbeaten, before eventually lifting the title. • Despite being one of the more successful sides to have won the fixture, the Old Lady last lifted the trophy in 2003. • However, their recent record over the Partenopei is poor, with only two victories in their last eight. • Napoli hold the upper hand over these two teams, having won their last meeting 2-0 in last season's Coppa Italia final. • Marek Hamsik has scored five goals against Juventus; more than against any other club. • Their only appearance in the Supercoppa was in 1990 - a resounding 5-1 success over Juventus. • Both sides have enjoyed unbeaten pre-season campaigns, with Juve winning two of their three matches and Napoli maintaining a 100 per cent record. • This will be the second time Beijing plays host to the Supercoppa, with at least two out of the next three curtain raisers to be played at the National Stadium. Head to Head Coppa Italia ‎- May 20, 2012 - Juventus 0 - SSC Napoli 2 Serie A - Apr 1, 2012 - Juventus 3 - SSC Napoli 0 Serie A ‎- Nov 29, 2011 - SSC Napoli 3 - Juventus 3 Serie A ‎- May 22, 2011 - Juventus 2 - SSC Napoli 2 Serie A ‎- Jan 9, 2011 - SSC Napoli 3 - Juventus 0 Last Five Matches Juventus Aug 4, 2012 - Juventus 2 - Malaga 0 - FR Aug 1, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Benfica 1 - FR Jul 28, 2012 - Hertha BSC 0 - Juventus 2 - FR May 20, 2012 - Juventus 0 - SSC Napoli 2 - Coppa Italia May 13, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Atalanta 1 - Serie A SSC Napoli Aug 1, 2012 - SSC Napoli 2 - Bordeaux 0 - FR Jul 29, 2012 - SSC Napoli 2 - Bayer 04 Leverkusen 1 - FR Jul 20, 2012 - SSC Napoli 3 - FC Bayern München 2 - FR May 20, 2012 - Juventus 0 - SSC Napoli 2 - Coppa Italia May 13, 2012 - SSC Napoli 2 - Siena 1 - Serie A Players to Watch ALESSANDRO MATRI The striker heads into 2012-13 with a productive pre-season under his belt, and his two goals against Champions League hopefuls Malaga should have been enough to land the Italian a starting berth against Napoli. The onus will be on Matri to fire his side to more successes, but with his future currently uncertain, his performance on Saturday could decide whether or not he stays in Turin or departs this summer. EDISON CAVANI Unlike his striking rival, the Uruguayan endured a disappointing London 2012 campaign, where he failed to score in three group matches for his country, but it is a different story with his club side. Cavani has been linked with Juventus on frequent occasions, and a commanding showing in his rightful place up top alongside Goran Pandev will only further enhance his already-impressive reputation. Prediction The fall-out of the Scommessopoli scandal will take its toll on Juventus one way or another, having been denied the services of Antonio Conte for the entire season, but champions do not simply back down in the face of adversity. And while Napoli will be hungry as ever to start the new season with a win in Beijing, the Old Lady will be desperate to prove that life goes on after the 43-year-old Lecce native. Editor's Prediction Juventus 2 - 1 Napoli