Socrates

Serie A - 13^ Giornata - Andata - 26/11/2011 (ore 20:45) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Stadio Olimpico - Roma Arbitro: Gianluca Rocchi Spettatori: 29000 Serie A - Pepe consegna il primo posto alla Juventus La Juventus si conferma la squadra da battere in questo momento: 1-0 all’Olimpico (gol decisivo di Pepe al 35') contro la Lazio e primo posto solitario in classifica per i ragazzi di Conte. E martedì c'è il recupero con il Napoli. Eurosport - Sabato, 26 novembre 2011 Ritmo e aggressività: queste le qualità migliore messe in mostra dalla Juventus nel match dell’Olimpico, vinto contro la Lazio per 1-0. E’ Pepe a dare ad Antonio Conte la testa solitaria della classifica, e non è un caso. La Juventus di questa prima parte della stagione è l’”animale da battaglia” che il suo allenatore voleva: tenace, mai doma e capace di buttare il cuore oltre l’ostacolo in ogni occasione. Le stesse qualità che si leggono sul volto di Simone Pepe, quanto mai simbolo di questa squadra, che corre, lotta e segna. E ora si gode il primato in classifica dopo una partita di grande sacrificio, contro un’altra compagine ben organizzata, quella di Reja, che si arrende sulla distanza, stremata dopo una vera e propria battaglia. Ma senza demeritare, come dimostrano gli episodi del match. Juventus a quota 25 punti, a più uno sull’Udinese, a più tre sulla Lazio, a più quattro sul Milan. E martedì c’è la sfida di Napoli per poter allungare ulteriormente. PIRLO C’E’; ROCCHI PREFERITO A CISSE’ – Pirlo è in campo dal 1’, nonostante i guai fisici degli ultimi giorni. Reja sceglie capitan Rocchi quale spalla di Klose in attacco; in difesa Diakitè e Stankevicius sono preferiti a Biava, con Dias infortunato. AL 35’ LA SBLOCCA PEPE; MA CHE PALLA DI MATRI! - La Juventus cerca subito di mettere tanta pressione sui portatori di palla biancocelesti, ma la Lazio non ha assolutamente nessun tipo di timore riverenziale. Ne esce un primo tempo scoppiettante e ricco di occasioni da “circolino rosso”: il primo a provarci è Vucinic con un destro infingardo al 6’. All’11’ invece la chance migliore è per la testa di Marchisio, che da due passi non riesce a girare in porta l’assist di Lichtsteiner. Pirlo scalda le mani di Marchetti al 17’ su una punizione davvero imprevedibile. La Lazio si sveglia più tardi ma rischia di fare molto male alla Vecchia Signora: al 20’ con il destro ravvicinato di Rocchi, sporcato da Barzagli e un minuto dopo con il sinistro da fuori di Ledesma, alto di poco. Le squadre si affrontano a viso aperto, le occasioni sono molteplici da ambo le parti: ed è così che dopo la chance più nitida della Lazio (palla dentro di Hernanes e Rocchi non riesce a battere Buffon), arriva il gol della Juventus. E’ il 35’ quando Matri scappa a Konko sulla sinistra e mette dentro per Pepe, che a tu per tu con Marchetti non sbaglia. 1-0 che regge sino al fischio dell’intervallo. BUFFON E MARCHETTI PROTAGONISTI; PALO DI HERNANES - Nella ripresa, la Lazio, che ha perso Brocchi (dentro Gonalez) cerca subito di forzare i tempi: la Juventus, di conseguenza, non riesce a mantenere alta la squadra, come invece vorrebbe Conte. Marchisio al 55’ si becca un giallo che gli precluderà la sfida con il Napoli. Al 61’ la Juventus trema due volte: per il palo pieno di Hernanes che con il sinistro è sfortunatissimo in controbalzo, e per la conclusione di Klose, deviata e poi allontanata dal pugno chiuso di Buffon. Reja decide di affidarsi a Cissé, che al 65’ rileva Rocchi, Conte risponde con Giaccherini per Vucinic. La Juventus piano piano si riappropria del match, sfruttando la stanchezza della Lazio, e può rifiatare. Al 73’ Marchetti è magistrale nello sventare un tentativo ravvicinato con il sinistro di Giaccherini. All’83 invece Matri non trova la porta per un soffio: palo esterno su un bel sinistro fiondato dal limite dell’area, con Marchetti battuto. E’ l’ultimo episodio di rilievo in una gara piena di emozioni e occasioni da rete. La spunta la Juventus, ora regina solitaria del campionato italiano. Davide Bighiani - Eurosport http://www.tifosibia...0#entry11630362 Lazio - Juventus 0-1

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Conte: Lazio win a sign of maturity Nov 27, 2011 Juventus coach Antonio Conte hailed another important step in his team's development after their 1-0 win away to Lazio on Saturday. Simone Pepe's 34th-minute strike proved to be the only goal at the Stadio Olimpico, with the win sending Juve back to the top of the Serie A table. Juve remain unbeaten in the league this season and have now won four matches in succession, with Conte proud his players passed their latest test against quality opposition. "We are happy because we won against a very strong side that will fight to the end for the top spots," Conte said. "As far as we are concerned, this performance is an important sign of our maturity." "We suffered under pressure too, but that's inevitable at the Olimpico and we never stopped looking for the second goal." "I told the lads that if we came here to win 1-0, we would lose. Therefore being a little bit open to counter-attacks was to be expected." "I'm happy, as it was not an easy match and we won a top of the table clash." Lazio coach Edy Reja believes his team should have been awarded a penalty in the first half, claiming Juve defender Andrea Barzagli blocked a Tommaso Rocchi shot with his hand. "We were unlucky with the incidents, as there was a clear penalty on Rocchi's shot and Barzagli should've been sent off," he said. "Had that been spotted, it was a spot-kick and a straight red card, in my view. Unfortunately, it proved to be decisive." "Maybe the referee just didn't see it, but his decision was very disappointing." Despite the defeat, Reja was satisfied with his team's performance, which he felt demonstrated Lazio's ability to match it with the title challengers. "We are satisfied with the performance and do not come out of this with our reputation damaged, because we fought on equal terms with Juve," he said. "It's true we should have done something more, as we had the chances. It's a shame we were too tired at the end to really mount an assault for the equaliser." "Juventus played well and I think it can be their year (to win the Scudetto), also considering they have no European commitments to worry about." http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Juve clear at top after Lazio win Pepe scored the only goal of an entertaining game. Nov 27, 2011 Juventus triumphed 1-0 away to Lazio in the top-of-table clash at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico on Saturday to go clear at the Serie A summit. Simone Pepe scored the only goal of an entertaining game that sees Juve lead the table by a point from Udinese, who beat Roma 2-0 on Friday. Ominously for the rest, Juve could go four points clear if they win away to misfiring Napoli on Tuesday. But in a clash that would say much about both sides’ title chances, it was the Old Lady of Turin who showed Lazio how to nick a tight contest. “We’re happy because we’ve beaten a very good team who will fight to the end for the top places, that’s important for us,” said Juve coach Antonio Conte. “We struggled at times but that’s inevitable in games like this against good teams, but we did well to see it through. “We have the satisfaction of having played a top game. It’s inevitable in 90 minutes that you will have some problems in games like this but we created many chances and always looked for the second goal.” A lively first half could have produced a lot more than the one goal which separated the sides at the break. Stephan Lichtsteiner got down the right and crossed into the box where Claudio Marchisio nipped across the front post but headed wide. Only a stunning save by Federico Marchetti from a swerving Andrea Pirlo free-kick, when the goalkeeper initially seemed wrong-footed, kept the scores level, as well as Lichtsteiner’s miss from five yards from the rebound. Lazio first threatened when Tommaso Rocchi was played in on goal but his chipped finish hit goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and then Andrea Barzagli before slipping agonising wide of the post. Juve were dangerous, though, and a great ball from Pirlo over the top found Pepe, who cut inside his marker but fired high and wide. Hernanes played in Rocchi behind the backline but Buffon was out quickly to block his shot. Juve took the lead on 34 minutes as Matri crossed from the left and Pepe escaped his marker to finish first time. Pirlo launched another ball over the top but Marchetti made a mess of it only for the ball to hit an unaware Pepe and go wide. Lazio were on the offensive after the restart and Hernanes was a lick of paint away from equalising, his shot from 15 yards coming back off the post while Buffon saved Senad Lulic’s follow-up. Buffon then plunged to his left to keep out Miroslav Klose’s deflected effort. Marchetti saved Lazio again after Emanuele Giacchini turned on the edge of the box and shot goalwards as the chances kept coming at both ends. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Calciopoli round table talks set Nov 27, 2011 The Italian Olympic Committee has set the December 14 date for ‘round table talks’ on Calciopoli between Inter, Juventus and others. The CONI announced today that the peace talks, requested by Juve in the wake of recent evidence and controversy, would go ahead. CONI President Gianni Petrucci and FIGC President Giancarlo Abete confirmed the meetings would be held on Wednesday December 14. “It is a meeting to discuss and deepen the issues relating to football.” Along with Inter and Juventus, some of the other clubs affected include Fiorentina, Lazio and Milan.

Serie A Round 13 Results: Palermo beat Fiorentina to ruin Delio Rossi's Sicilian return It's been another weekend of prolific entertainment for Calcio purists, as Cesena record successive wins for the first time this season, while Cagliari claim a late point. Nov 27, 2011 Serie A: Round 13 Results Two late goals from Antonio Di Natale and Mauricio Isla gave Udinese a 2-0 victory against Roma, as the Zebrette move up to second place in the Serie A. Parma Parma Novara produced an industrious second-half performance on Saturday to come from behind to beat Parma 2-1 in Piedmont, achieving only their second league win of the campaign in the process. Parma have been the Jekyll and Hyde team in Serie A this season, following up a victory with a defeat in their past six fixtures, but started the most positively as Francesco Valiani, Stefano Morrone and Graziano Pelle were all denied by Alberto Fontana early on. His resistance was broken on 29 minutes, albeit by a team-mate, as Matteo Centurioni deflected Jonathan Biabiany's cross into his own net to give Franco Colomba's side the chance of back-to-back wins for the first time since early October. However, the goal acted as a much-needed impetus for Novara, and it was no surprise that the new boys grabbed an equaliser on 70 minutes, after Marco Rigoni's cross met the head of Rubino. The onslaught from Atilio Tesser's men continued, and they found the winner from Rigoni, who headed in Mazzarani's cross with just 10 minutes to play. Novara managed to hold out for the victory, despite Giuseppe Gemiti's straight red for dangerously lunging into Biabiany late in the proceedings, and Sebastian Giovinco's free-kick attempt which hit the post. Lecce Catania Lecce's wretched form at the Via del Mare continued on Saturday, after they fell to a last-gasp 1-0 defeat against Catania, as the loss now means Eusebio Di Francesco's side have picked up just the solitary point in six home fixtures this season. It was the visiting team who started most brightly, as the likes of Gonzalo Bergessio, Alejandro Gomez and Gennaro Delvecchio fired numerous snapshots at Massimiliano Benassi, who was forced to remain on his toes. The hosts had to wait 34 minutes for their first opportunity, which came in the form of Rodney Strasser's left-footed strike inside the box, but Mariano Andujar did well to gather the ball confidently. The second-half was a continuation of where the first period left off, as Lecce remained on top. Luis Muriel, Massimo Oddo and Christian Obodo all had attempts at the Argentine shot-stopper, but none were particularly testing. However, drama ensued at the death as Pablo Barrientos collected Maxi Lopez's pass and subsequently powered the winner home in the dying embers to hand Vincenzo Montella's side all three points and seventh place in Serie A. Lecce, however, are now rooted to the bottom. Lazio Juventus reclaimed top spot in Serie A after defeating Lazio 1-0 in a thrilling encounter at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday evening, thanks to Simone Pepe's 34th minute goal. Atalanta Atalanta Edinson Cavani's late equaliser allowed Napoli to cancel out former striker German Denis' strike to return to the San Paolo with a point, after both teams played out a 1-1 draw. Siena Sien In a drab affair at the Artemio Franchi, substitute Luc Castaignos netted an injury-time winner to give Inter a 1-0 victory on Sunday and return to Milan with a vital three points. Palermo Fio Fiorentina Palermo's imperious home record shows no signs of abating after they eased to a 2-0 win over Fiorentina to wreck Delio Rossi's return to the Renzo Barbera. Devis Mangia's side took the lead inside 22 minutes, as Fabrizio Miccoli finished off a lightning-quick counterattack. The former Italy striker was fed through by Josip Ilicic, before leaving Alessandro Gamberini for dead and poking the ball past Artur Boruc. The hosts then doubled their advantage on 73 minutes, as Ilicic capped an impressive display with an fine free-kick from 25 yards out, which left Boruc with no chance once more, as Palermo held out onto a deserved victory. There was more late drama as Cesare Natali was sent his marching orders with just a minute of normal time remaining, after collecting a second yellow for arguing with the referee. The result sees Palermo climb to fifth place, with six wins out of six on home soil, while Fiorentina have dropped to 16th in the Serie A standings. Genoa Genoa Cesena's revival under Daniele Arrigoni goes from strength to strength, as they move off the bottom of the Serie A table thanks to a well-deserved 2-0 win over Genoa. Despite not having the majority of possession, they outgunned their opponents and were awarded a penalty on 75 minutes as Emiliano Moretto brought down Erjon Bogdani in the box. Adrian Mutu then proceeded to convert the spot-kick past former Fiorentina colleague Sebastian Frey to give the Seahorses a vital lead. However, their advantage became under threat as substitute Nicola Ravaglia was shown a straight red for protesting over the decision to only give Moretti a yellow card for his direct involvement in the penalty incident. Fortunately for the Emilia-Romagna club, Mutu was on hand to net his brace and secure the win late on, after pinging a shot past Frey from the edge of the box, as Alberto Malesani's inconsistent Genoa drop to ninth in the table. Cagliari Bologna In a match that took all of 75 minutes to come alive, Cagliari managed to salvage a 1-1 draw against Bologna, as the spoils were shared in Sicily. Despite the hosts dominating most of the play through the midfield partnership of Daniele Conti and Rajid Nainggolan, it was the visitors who took an unlikely lead through Marco Di Vaio, who took full advantage of a defensive mistake by Albin Ekdal to slot the ball past Michel Agazzi. However, justice was to be served with just eight minutes left, as substitute Nicola Cherubin gifted Cagliari with a penalty, and captain Conti was on hand to dispatch the ball into the back of the net. The Sardinians now sit in 14th place, while Bologna are just a point above the relegation zone in 17th. AC Mila Chievo Milan were unlucky 3-2 losers to Barcelona in Europe midweek and the champions will be looking to put the defeat behind them with three points at home to Chievo on Sunday at 20.45 CET. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Buffon urges focus after win over Lazio takes Juventus clear at the top: 'We have to keep our feet on the ground' The Italy international goalkeeper has warned his side against complacency after the victory at the Stadio Olimpico allowed them to reclaim a place at the Serie A summit. Nov 27, 2011 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has urged his team-mates to keep their feet on the ground following Saturday's 1-0 victory at Lazio which saw them go top of Serie A. Simone Pepe scored the only goal of the night in the 34th minute as Juventus took a step towards their goal of winning a first undisputed Scudetto since 2002-03. The win moved the Old Lady one point clear at the top of the Serie A standings, with one game in hand, but Buffon has warned his side not to get carried away with their success. "Tonight everything went our way and it is only fair to underline how well Lazio played," Buffon told Sky Sport Italia. "We are on a good run and the victories boost our self-esteem. "We have players who are in great form, like like Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal, and they all give us a great help. "The Scudetto? We are happy with the result and our good display, but we have to keep our feet on the ground." Antonio Conte's men will be hoping to retain their place at the Serie A summit on Tuesday when they travel to Napoli, who were held to a draw by Atalanta on Saturday. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Tireless hero Simone Pepe becoming one of Juventus' key men as title challenge is boosted by Lazio win The Italy international is not everybody's cup of tea, but he continues to impress on the right for the Bianconeri and his goal at the Olimpico earned a crucial three points. Nov 27, 2011 Some neutral observers found reason to smile this summer when Juventus announced that they’d paid €7.5 million to make the signing of Simone Pepe permanent, while many Bianconeri followers greeted the news with a raised eyebrow. But the Italian’s winner against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico last night was just the latest reason to believe he will be one of the most important cogs in the club’s push for a first official Serie A title since 2003. The former Roma youth was something of a nomad during the early stages of his career, but in a three-year spell with Udinese from 2007 he finally found something of a home, and gained the recognition of Marcello Lippi in becoming a regular squad member for Italy in the lead-in to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. All this came despite at times being seen as a figure of fun, with his lack of technique occasionally leaving him open to ridicule. But it was his unbelievable work-rate which won him international honours, and after being one of the few players to depart the World Cup with his head held high, he arrived at Juventus on a €2.6m one-year loan with a chance to finally make his name at a big club. Despite often being played on the left due to the great early form of Milos Krasic – as had happened in his latter days at Udinese due to Alexis Sanchez’s emergence – Pepe showed signs of promise for the Old Lady. He was even played at full-back from time to time as coach Luigi Del Neri used the ex-Palermo and Cagliari man’s versatility to the benefit of a flagging outfit. Since his switch was made permanent this summer, things have only got better for Pepe and Juventus. With Krasic struggling, the winger has made the most of his chance to finally nail a spot on the right. While he continues to sometimes leave himself red-faced with an unwieldy miskick or reckless tackle, it’s in his tireless and intelligent running that he has made a success out of Antonio Conte’s emphasis on stretching and pressing opponents deep in their own half. Last night at the Olimpico he delivered another performance worthy of great credit, and sprinted beyond Stefan Radu to fire home from Alessandro Matri’s low cross after Mirko Vucinic had led a breakaway from one penalty area to the other. If anyone deserved to net the winner, it was Pepe. It was just reward for Juve too, as they passed with flying colours the first of four massive tests away from home in the run-in to Christmas. With Napoli, Roma and Udinese still to visit before the winter break, it was important that the Turin side stamped their authority on the standings in the capital, and they did exactly that. Though they did look occasionally suspect at the back, and Anderson Hernanes caused them a number of headaches – not least when hitting the post with a powerful strike in the second half – the three points were richly deserved. Matri’s movement up front was more than the Lazio back line could handle, while Andrea Pirlo again directed from the middle despite playing with his knee heavily strapped following a training-ground injury in the week. The very fact that Conte sent him out short of 100 per cent backs up the theory that Pirlo is currently irreplaceable to the Bianconeri, and they will hope that he will be ready for the trip to Naples on Tuesday. But regardless of Pirlo’s presence or otherwise, there is one thing Juve can be assured of, and that’s a lung-busting display from Pepe. In a modern footballing world of prissy prima donnas and bad attitudes galore, his effort for the cause should be an example to all. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Edy Reja assures drastic changes are not needed despite losing to Juventus Lazio coach believes his side were better than the Serie A leaders in the opening exchanges and says the strike partnership of Rocchi and Klose is working well. Nov 27, 2011 Lazio coach Edy Reja says his side are still on course to finish inside the Champions League places in Serie A despite losing 1-0 to Juventus in their top-of-the-table clash at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday. The Biancocelesti looked to be in control of the match through the opening half hour, but a quick counter-attack from the visitors led to the eventual winning goal in the 34th minute by Simone Pepe. After the defeat, Reja assured that there would be no knee-jerk reaction to the loss, which could see his side drop to fourth place by the end of the round 13 fixtures. "We will not make drastic changes as a result of this defeat," Reja told reports after the match. "The team played openly and to their level, but there have been moments that were not particularly lucky for us. "In the first 20 minutes we created lots of chances, and just when we were doing well, their counter-attack led to a goal. "But we did not give up after the goal and even the second half we did well, but unfortunately there has been little composure in front of goal. "There's room to improve further and work hard, but I liked the performance of the boys, even at the individual level, we have proven to be a good team," Reja added. The coach was also impressed with the developing partnership between strikers Miroslav Klose and captain Tommaso Rocchi. "Rocchi finds spaces and is the most suitable from the tactical point of view and is an excellent partner to Klose." Reja said he was happy with the team's performances in the league thus far, but called on his players to improve. "To continue to be so high in the standings, we need to improve some aspects. There is the belief that they do not deserve this defeat, but we must react immediately and start working hard on Monday for our Europe League match [against FC Vaslui]. "Our goal is to go beyond our position of last season. Our injured players will recover and third place is within our reach." Lazio are provisionally in third place in the league, three points behind Juventus. They welcome Novara to the Stadio Olimpico next week. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Pepe: 'It's a new Juve' Nov 27, 2011 Simone Pepe scored the winner at Lazio and warns “Juventus want to make up for last season.” The Bianconeri failed to qualify for Europe last term and the humiliation has given them an extra boost to improve under new Coach Antonio Conte. “I play in a great squad that at the moment is playing excellent football,” said the versatile winger. “The talent is throughout the squad, as we all have character and start moves from the back without throwing the ball away. “It’s a completely different side to last year. This is another Juve altogether. Now we have fun on the pitch and that is the most wonderful thing.” The Bianconeri are now clear at the top of the table despite having a game in hand. “Scudetto? At times we have looked beyond the next game and took a tumble. Last season was just embarrassing, so we want to make up for it. “If we win at Napoli on Tuesday, then we have another three points in the table and that is all it means.” The match at the San Paolo was originally called off earlier this month due to flooding. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Buffon: 'Feet on the ground' Nov 26, 2011 Gianluigi Buffon urges Juventus to “keep our feet on the ground” even after the top of the table triumph against Lazio. The 1-0 victory at the Stadio Olimpico puts the Bianconeri one point clear of Udinese despite having a game in hand. “Tonight everything went our way and it’s only right to underline how well Lazio played,” said the goalkeeper. “It went this way, we are in good shape and the victories do help raise our self-esteem. At this moment we’ve got individuals in great form, like Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal. “The Scudetto? Let’s keep our feet firmly on the ground. Of course we’re happy with tonight’s result and the performance, but let’s just keep quiet about anything else.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Reja rage: 'Penalty and red card' Nov 26, 2011 Edy Reja raged at the referee after Lazio’s defeat to Juventus. “There was a clear penalty and Andrea Barzagli should’ve been sent off.” The incident occurred in the first half, when Tommaso Rocchi’s chip over a beaten Gigi Buffon took a deflection off Barzagli’s hand to go off target. “We were unlucky with the incidents, as there was a clear penalty on Rocchi’s shot and Barzagli should’ve been sent off,” said the Coach of the 1-0 result. “Had that been spotted, it was a spot-kick and a straight red card, in my view. Unfortunately, it proved to be decisive. Maybe the referee just didn’t see it, but his decision was very disappointing.” Simone Pepe snatched the only goal of the game on a classic counter-attack in this top of the table clash. “We are satisfied with the performance and do not come out of this with our reputation damaged, because we fought on equal terms with Juve. “It’s true we should have done something more, as we had the chances. It’s a shame we were too tired at the end to really mount an assault for the equaliser. “Juventus played well and I think it can be their year, also considering they have no European commitments to worry about. We proved tonight that we deserve to be in the top spots and could even have won.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000 Conte: 'Beyond expectations' Nov 26, 2011 Antonio Conte concedes the victory at Lazio is “an important sign of our maturity. Juventus are going beyond all expectations.” The two sides were joint leaders going into this weekend, but Simone Pepe secured a 1-0 result and now Juve are clear at the top despite having a game in hand. “We are happy because we won against a very strong side that will fight to the end for the top spots,” assured Conte. “As far as we are concerned, this performance is an important sign of our maturity. We suffered under pressure too, but that’s inevitable at the Olimpico and we never stopped looking for the second goal. “I told the lads that if we came here to win 1-0, we would lose. Therefore being a little bit open to counter-attacks was to be expected. “I’m happy, as it was not an easy match and we won a top of the table clash.” This week Conte declared he would not mention the Scudetto, but after this result it seems inevitable they’re among the favourites. “I am still superstitious, but we are going beyond all expectations and the credit for that goes to the players. “I reserve particular praise tonight for Andrea Pirlo, as two days ago he picked up an injury, but grit his teeth to carry on like a great man. He’s important for us on the field and off it.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000‎ Antonio Conte: Narrow win over Lazio was a test of our maturity Juventus coach has applauded his side for managing to keep their resolve against their capital counterparts, before reserving special praise for chief playmaker Andrea Pirlo. Nov 26, 2011 Juventus coach Antonio Conte feels his team have passed an important test of their Serie A title credentials, following the 1-0 win over Lazio on Saturday. In a hotly-contested encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, Simone Pepe's first-half strike ensured the Old Lady continue to lead the way in the Italian top-flight, and the 42-year-old says he is pleased at seeing his side maintain their rapid progression, despite being out of their comfort zone on occasions. "We are happy because we have won against a very strong team that will fight for first place until the end," Conte told Sky Sport Italia after the game. "For our part, it was an important test of our maturity. Conte then spoke about his tactics during the match, and revealed that he instructed his team to keep on looking for an opening to extend their slender lead, rather than sit back and settle for the result. "We suffered [at times], but we were good enough to win the game," he continued. "We were always in the game and we never stopped trying to score a second goal. "I told the boys that if we took to the field to defend the 1-0 scoreline, we would have lost the game. So I would say that being exposed to the counter-attack was normal. I'm glad, because it was not easy and we won the battle." The former Bari boss finished the interview by singling out the inspirational contribution made by summer signing Andrea Pirlo, whose influence has played an important part in the Turin giants' renaissance this season. "We are going beyond any prediction right now, and our success is down to the players," said Conte. "Today, special praise must go to Andrea Pirlo, who two days ago suffered a major injury, but the great man gritted his teeth. For us he is important on and off [the field]." Juventus are now one point clear of Udinese at the Serie A summit, with a game in-hand over their northern rivals. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000‎ Pepe sends Old Lady top Nov 26, 2011 Unbeaten Juventus edged Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico tonight to go one point clear at the top of the Serie A standings. Simone Pepe scored the only goal of the game in the 34th minute as the Turin giants extended their great run of form for another week. The result allowed Antonio Conte's Juve to leapfrog Udinese into first place. Both teams went into the encounter in the Eternal City level on 22 points. Juventus had the first chance in the 10th minute. Former Lazio player Stephan Lichtsteiner crossed the ball towards the far post and Claudio Marchisio's close-range header went over the bar. Juve almost went in front soon after. Lazio goalkeeper Federico Marchetti parried away Andrea Pirlo's curled free-kick but only as far as Lichtsteiner, who fired wide from a good position. At the other end, Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon kept out Tommaso Rocchi's shot from the heart of the area. Juventus then took the lead. A fast counter-attack from the visitors saw Matri cross to an unmarked Pepe, who struck the ball from 10 yards past Marchetti. The visitors almost doubled their lead before half-time. Pepe beat the off-side trap and surged towards the area but was unable to beat Marchetti in a one-on-one. Lazio pressed forward more aggressively after the re-start and in the 50th minute, Lichtsteiner made a crucial tackle with Hernanes ready to fire from close range. The hosts were unlucky not to equalise on the hour mark when Hernanes' drive from outside the area beat Buffon but struck the woodwork. Seconds later, Buffon punched away Miroslav Klose's goal-bound effort. In the 73rd minute, Marchetti kept Lazio in the game as he kept out substitute Emanuele Giaccherini's eight-yard strike. With seven minutes remaining, Alessandro Matri almost killed the game off but his powerful strike from 25 yards was denied by the post. At the other end, substitute Djibril Cisse's weak header proved an easy catch for Buffon. Lazio looked tired in the closing stages as their run of nine games without defeat came to an end. Match Stats Lazio - Juventus 19(8) - Shots (on Goal) - 18(5) 19 - Fouls - 11 5 - Corner Kicks - 4 4 - Offsides - 3 46% - Time of Possession - 54% 2 - Yellow Cards - 1 0 - Red Cards - 0 4 - Saves - 8 http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Un telecronista tifoso della Lazio sullo streaming ha ammesso che fra la "sua"Lazio e la Juve c'é un abisso e che loro possono giocarsela solo per il secondo posto in giú.

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 1 Simone Pepe (34') Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Attendance: 29000‎ Simone Pepe fires Turin giants back to the top of Serie A The Italy International's first half strike was enough to see off hosts, as the Old Lady return to the summit of Serie A. Nov 26, 2011 Juventus defeated Lazio 1-0 in a thrilling encounter at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday evening, as Simone Pepe's 34th minute goal, ensured the visitors leapfrogged Udinese to retake top spot in Serie A. The game began as a real end to end encounter, with both sides getting forward at every oppurutnity, but it wasn’t until the eighth minute that an attempt on goal was registered, a poor pass from Arturo Vidal fell to Hernanes, but the Brazilian long distance drive flew over the bar. Minutes later and the away side went close to taking the lead, a great run and cross from Stephan Lichtsteiner as met by Claudio Marchisio, but the Italy international’s powerful header went just wide. Just before the 20 minute mark, the visitors almost went in front again, Federico Marchetti produced an outstanding save to deny Andrea Pirlo’s free-kick before Lichtsteiner missed a glorious opportunity from the rebound, dragging his effort wide. The hosts were now starting to get into the game and were unlucky to not be in front, when Thomas Rocchi, found himself in space just inside the box and managed to lift the ball over the on rushing Gianluigi Buffon but the captain’s effort was blocked by Andrea Barzagli On 34 minutes the away side took the lead through Pepe, a great counter attacking move from the visitors led to Alessandro Matri finding himself in space on the left flank, before his inch perfect cross fell to the former Udinese winger, who slotted past Marchetti into the bottom corner. The game started to slow down a little after Pepe’s opener, ensuring the visitors took a one goal lead into the break. The second half began with the visitors controlling the game and they could have doubled their lead a minute after the restart, but Matri’s shot on the turn sailed just over the Lazio goal. The hosts then started to impose themselves on the game, with Hernanes looking particulary dangerous, the Brazilian had a great chance to level the tie in the 51st minute but the former Sao Paulo playmaker’s effort was denied by an excellent block from Barzagli. The home side were unlucky to not be on level terms, and were close to equalising twice in the space of minute, first Hernanes struck the post with a powerful drive, before Buffon pulled of a great save to deny Mirolsav Klose’s curled strike from the edge of the box. With 20 minutes to go the away side almost doubled their advantage, when a great ball from Pepe found substitute Emanuele Giaccherini but the former Cesena wingers drive was parried away by Marchetti. With just over five minutes to go the visitors spurned another chance to kill the game off, a great ball from Marchisio found Matri just outside the box, who created some space for himself with a neat turn before unleashing a powerful strike which struck the outside of the post. The visitors managed to hang on to their slender lead, to pick up a vital three points despite some late pressure from the hosts to regain the top spot in Serie A, the league leaders now face another tough away fixture as they travel to Napoli next time round, while third placed Lazio will hope to return to winning ways at home to Novara in the next round of Serie A. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi HT: Pepe punishes Lazio Nov 26, 2011 Simone Pepe has given Juventus the half-time lead in Rome just moments after a desperate Gigi Buffon save denied Lazio. These teams were joint top going into this weekend, so it was a huge test of their Scudetto potential. Andrea Pirlo passed a last-minute fitness test to start despite a knock to the knee, while it was like a derby for ex-Roma star Mirko Vucinic. Lazio missed Stefano Mauri, Libor Kozak, Andre Dias and Francelino Matuzalem, while Juve youth product Tommaso Rocchi pushed Djibril Cisse on to the bench. The Bianconeri’s last defeat at the Olimpico was in 2003 and some fans thought they had scored after 10 minutes when Claudio Marchisio got in front of his market and Federico Marchetti to meet Stephan Lichtsteiner’s cross, but the header skimmed the bar to land on the roof of the net. Alessandro Matri was pulling the trigger on another Lichtsteiner assist before Mobido Diakite’s crucial sliding tackle. Pirlo took Marchetti by surprise with a free kick that swerved viciously in the air, but the goalkeeper managed to change direction to palm it off the line and Giorgio Chiellini fired the follow-up wide from close range. Lazio also threatened, as Rocchi got in front of Leonardo Bonucci and chipped the on-rushing Gigi Buffon to force a corner. Replays show the ball struck Andrea Barzagli’s hand, but it seemed to be involuntary. From that corner, Cristian Ledesma’s screamer sailed over the bar. Simone Pepe, in the pink away shirt, shook off a defender to curl over and Buffon smothered a Hernanes daisy-cutter. Hernanes threaded through to release Rocchi and Buffon desperately charged it down with his legs. In the same move, Juventus went on the counter-attack with Matri, who rolled across from the left for the unmarked Pepe’s daisy-cutter finish. Lazio 0-1 Juventus (Half-Time) Scorers: Pepe 34 (J) Lazio: Marchetti; Konko, Diakite, Stankevicius, Radu; Ledesma, Brocchi, Lulic; Hernanes; Rocchi, Klose Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pepe, Matri, Vucinic Ref: Rocchi http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Andrea Pirlo fit for unchanged Juventus' trip to Lazio The key midfielder has been named in the starting line-up as Antonio Conte goes with an identical XI which beat Palermo last week, while Miroslav Klose is back for the hosts. Nov 26, 2011 Andrea Pirlo has been passed fit and will start for Juventus in this evening's clash with third-placed Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico. Pirlo, who has been an ever-present for the Bianconeri since signing from AC Milan on a free transfer this summer, was considered a doubt after picking up a muscle strain in training on Thursday. However, the midfielder features in an unchanged starting XI from that which beat Palermo to go back to the top of Serie A last Sunday. Top scorer Miroslav Klose returns to the Lazio line-up after missing out on last week's 0-0 draw at Napoli through injury, and will take his place alongside club skipper Tommaso Rocchi up front. The fixture kicks off at 20.45CET, with the added incentive of the sole Serie A leadership for the winning side. Lazio (4-3-1-2): Marchetti; Konko, Diakite, Stankevicius, Radu; Brocchi, Ledesma, Lulic; Hernanes; Klose, Rocchi Subs: Carrizo, Stendardo, Biava, Cana, Gonzalez, Sculli, Cisse Juventus (4-1-4-1): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Pirlo; Pepe, Vidal, Marchisio, Vucinic; Matri Subs: Storari, De Ceglie, Pazienza, Marrone, Giaccherini, Quagliarella, Del Piero http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Line-ups: Lazio-Juventus Nov 26, 2011 Andrea Pirlo has recovered in time to start tonight’s top of the table showdown between Lazio and Juventus, but Tommaso Rocchi also plays. The two teams were joint leaders going into this Serie A round and it is a real test of their Scudetto credentials. The Bianconeri needed a last-minute fitness test to see whether Pirlo would recover from a knock to the knee. The veteran midfielder does start with Claudio Marchisio in midfield, while it’s a special game for ex-Roma hitman Mirko Vucinic. Lazio are without Andre Dias, Stefano Mauri, Francelino Matuzalem and Libor Kozak. Djibril Cisse has been dropped to the bench as his goal drought continues, so ex-Juventus youth product Rocchi starts alongside Miroslav Klose. Lazio: Marchetti; Konko, Diakite, Stankevicius, Radu; Ledesma, Brocchi, Lulic; Hernanes; Rocchi, Klose Lazio bench: Carrizo, Biava, Scaloni, Cana, Gonzalez, Sculli, Cisse Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pepe, Matri, Vucinic Juventus bench: Storari, De Ceglie, Pazienza, Estigarribia, Giaccherini, Quagliarella, Del Piero http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Pirlo in last-minute fitness test Nov 26, 2011 According to the latest reports, Andrea Pirlo will have a last-minute fitness test to see if he’ll start for Juventus against Lazio tonight. The veteran midfielder picked up a knee problem in training this week and was expected to make a decision this morning. However, Sky Sport Italia claim Coach Antonio Conte is trying to give himself a few more hours to decide. It looks as if Pirlo and his teammates will only find out if he is in the starting XI when the squad list is read out before the game. It kicks off at 19.45 UK time at the Stadio Olimpico. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Matri

Sculli da rosso diretto

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Vidal: 'Lazio-Juve at 110 per cent' Nov 26, 2011 Arturo Vidal tells Juventus they must play “at 110 per cent” this evening against Lazio. “If we win, then we’re in the Scudetto race.” The Bianconeri are already joint top of the table with Lazio and have a game in hand. “If we win, then we can think we’re strong and we’re in the Scudetto race,” the Chilean told La Stampa newspaper. “We are a great team, but now the difficult games are coming up and we have to play at 110 per cent. “Miroslav Klose is the one to watch for Lazio, as he is someone who knows where to position himself to score, including on the rebound.” Vidal also has a history in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen and, like Klose, is in his debut Serie A season. “In Italy it is very difficult to play against any opponent. Much harder than the Bundesliga. I had been in talks with Bayern Munich this summer, but I wanted Juve: a big club known all over the world. It wasn’t about money. I simply dreamed of playing in Italy.” Vidal has become an increasingly stable figure in the Juventus midfield. “It’s wonderful to play with Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio, because I have the option to both attack and defend. Marchisio and I take turnes in going forward. We have a good rapport.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 13 - 26-11-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Gianluca Rocchi Edy Reja: Our Serie A fixture with Juventus should be an even game The capital-city side are neck-and-neck with Antonio Conte's men on 22 points each, and can move to the top of the league standings with three points on Saturday. Nov 26, 2011 Lazio coach Edy Reja is expecting a tough game against Juventus on Saturday as he regards the visitors as one of the favourites for the Scudetto. The two teams are currently level on 22 points in Serie A, and the victor can go back to the top of the standings with a win. The home side's trainer knows that it is an important game which could be decided by small margins. "It's an important game for us and for Juve," the 66-year-old told Tuttosport. "It is a key match. We've shown high-level performances at home and we must do it now against Juventus. It will be tough." The race for the Scudetto is heating up with three points separating four teams at the top, but Reja feels that others are in a better position to top the pile. "Milan have superior quality. Then there's Juve. These two teams are better candidates," the coach candidly admitted. "We may be surprise candidates, depending on what we do in this game. A victory would give us knowledge and strength." Miroslav Klose is once again available for Lazio after an injury lay-off, and will be partnered by either Djibril Cisse or Tommaso Rocchi in attack. http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/2011-2012/regular-season/