Socrates

Serie A - 19^ Giornata - Andata - 21-1-2012 (ore 20:45) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55') Emanuele Giaccherini (81') Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia - Bergamo Arbitro: Domenico Celi Spettatori: 21000 Serie A - Atalanta al tappeto, Juve regina d'inverno I bianconeri passano 2-0 a Bergamo con i gol di Lichsteiner e Giaccherini nella ripresa. Palo di Barzagli, traversa di Vidal e infortuni per Marchisio e Pepe. Eurosport - Sabato, 21 gennaio 2012 La Juventus torna a vincere e lo fa lì dove era passato soltanto il Milan, all'Atleti Azzurri d'Italia. L'Atalanta cede il passo dopo una partita di pura lotta e perde 2-0 nell'anticipo serale della 19esima giornata di Serie A. Quella che chiude il girone d'andata. E quella che, grazie ai gol nella ripresa di Lichtsteiner e Giaccherini, regala il titolo di campione d'inverno agli uomini di Antonio Conte, che salgono a quota 41 e non potranno essere agguantati dal Milan impegnato a Novara. TORNA MAXI MORALEZ, BONUCCI OUT - Stefano Colantuono riporta Maxi Moralez a supporto dell'unica punta Denis nel tradizionale 4-4-2 nerazzurro, con una difesa che propone Ferri e Manfredini centrali e Raimondi terzino destro al posto di Andrea Masiello, risparmiato per le note vicende legate al calcioscommesse. Soltanto panchina per Marilungo e Gabbiadini, mentre Carmona e out per squalifica. Antonio Conte risponde con il classico 4-3-3 che propone il trio Pepe-Matri-Vucinic in prima linea. Novità in difesa, dove Chiellini torna dopo la squalifica e toglie il posto a Bonucci. Il terzino sinistro resta così De Ceglie. Gli unici due indisponibili sono Quagliarella e Manninger. PALO DI BARZAGLI, TRAVERSA DI VIDAL - La Juventus fa la partita da subito. Pressing alto, molto movimento sugli esterni e continue sovrapposizioni dei terzini (De Ceglie in particolare). Dopo tre minuti Matri spedisce alta la prima palla gol servita da Pepe, mentre all'8' è la stessa ala destra ad angolare troppo una conclusione in diagonale dopo un recupero di Marchisio su Padoin. Al 10', però, si capisce che l'Atalanta ha un suo piano di gioco ed è rispettabilissimo. Contropiede veloce avviato da Schelotto, palla per Peluso che mette al centro su Denis, sponda e tiro di controbalzo di Bonaventura. Buffon ci arriva senza problemi, ma la trama è chiara. L'Atalanta aspetta e riparte a mille, spaventando gli ospiti più volte nella fase centrale della prima frazione. Le occasionissime, però, sono tutte bianconere. All'11' Barzagli centra il palo con un sinistro sugli sviluppi di un calcio piazzato, mentre al 42' Vidal prende una traversa con una botta dai trenta metri. Il tutto mentre De Ceglie va vicino alla rete in due occasioni, sempre su invito a nozze di Pirlo. Il primo tempo si chiude sullo 0-0, ma a Bergamo è mancato soltanto il gol. Lo spettacolo c'è stato eccome. PROTESTE DI DENIS, GIACCHERINI CHIUDE - Conte perde subito Marchisio, che non rientra per il secondo tempo a causa di problemi muscolari e viene rimpiazzato da Giaccherini. L'ex Cesena va però in mediana e il modulo della Juventus non cambia, così come l'approccio dei bianconeri che nella ripresa partono a mille, esattamente come avevano chiuso i primi 45'. Matri spreca subito un buon pallone di De Ceglie, mentre altrettanto non fa Lichtsteiner al 55', quando lo svizzero sblocca la partita con un'incornata in solitaria su assist di Pirlo e dormita di Bonaventura. Vucinic subito dopo sfiora il raddoppio con un destro geniale da posizione molto defilata, mentre Matri si divora il 2-0 al 62', mancando il pallonetto su Consigli dopo un regalo di Ferri. Colantuono però si gioca le ultime carte e mette prima Marilungo per Bonaventura (63') e poi Ferreira PInto per uno stanco Schelotto (77'). Il tutto mentre Conte perde per infortunio anche Pepe, rimpiazzato da Marrone al 69'. L'Atalanta trova le forze per un ultimo assalto, non premiato dall'arbitro Celi che al 75' nega un possibile rigore per trattenuta in area di Chiellini su Denis. E, così, all'82' la Juventus chiude i conti con una grande azione rifinita da Marrone e conclusa splendidamente da Giaccherini. É il 2-0, quello che permette ai bianconeri di espugnare l'Atleti Azzurri d'Italia e portare a casa il titolo di campioni d'inverno. JUVE CAMPIONE D'INVERNO, MINI-CRISI ATALANTA - Dopo tre pareggi in quattro trasferte, la Juventus fa bottino pieno su un campo difficilissimo e sale a quota 41. Quello che basta per laurearsi campione d'inverno per la 26esima volta nella propria storia. I bianconeri continuano la marcia a singhiozzo che li vede alternare una vittoria a un pareggio (è così da 9 match), ma rispetto all'1-1 con il Cagliari mettono in mostra un'ottima prova da parte di Pirlo e Vidal (i più deludenti una settimana fa). Senza dimenticarsi dell'apporto di De Ceglie a sinistra, Chiellini al centro della difesa e del duo di subentranti composto da Giaccherini e Marrone. Terza sconfitta di fila per l'Atalanta che chiude comunque il girone d'andata a quota 20 nonostante i sei punti di penalizzazione. La prestazione, al contrario del ko dell'Olimpico con la Lazio, c'è stata. Ma il secondo tempo lascia intendere che la "gamba" di inizio stagione sia ormai persa per gli uomini di Colantuono, che incassano la seconda sconfitta in casa. Mattia Fontana - Eurosport http://www.tifosibianconeri.com/forum/topic/403428-juventus-season-2011-2012/page__pid__11845966__st__960#entry11845966 Atalanta - Juventus 0-2

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55') Emanuele Giaccherini (81') Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Why winter champions Juventus have history on their side in their bid for the Serie A title Unbeaten and unbowed, the Bianconeri lead the way after 19 rounds, but despite a poor recent post-Christmas record, there is one stat which suggests they are champs in the making. Jan 22, 2012 It may only be a symbolic award, but Juventus clinched the winter championship on Saturday with their 2-0 victory over Atalanta, completing an unbeaten andata to sit top of Serie A at the halfway stage for the first time in six years. But while they may receive no silverware for leading the way after 19 rounds, recent history is on their side, with the last seven league titles being won by the winter champions. The Bianconeri have undoubtedly been the most consistent side so far, with every other club having lost at least three fixtures, but coach Antonio Conte will not be taking anything for granted just yet with AC Milan only one point behind. The regular smattering of draws has been the only drawback for the Old Lady so far, with dropped points at home to Bologna, Genoa and last week against Cagliari undermining their otherwise sensational start to the campaign. But their record against some of those chasing has been what has set them apart. Victories over Milan, Inter and Lazio, plus draws away to Udinese, Roma and a sensational 3-3 with Napoli have proven that Juve can take on their big rivals. They also had a very good record against the top six last season, but this term Conte has been able to get his side up for many of those matches people would normally expect them to take in their stride. Much of that is down to the addition of Andrea Pirlo, whose ability to add an extra dimension and pick apart the opposition has proven a much-needed feather in Juventus’ cap. Above all else though, Conte’s insistence on a relentless work rate from front to back has been the greatest catalyst. With a still-suspect defence, many would not have expected the Bianconeri to have kept 10 clean sheets by this point, but their high pressing game has resulted in a huge percentage of possession over the course of the season, and the ball has more often than not been in the opposition half. The best form of defence is attack, they say. And Juve’s forward line has been exemplary in their hassling and harrying of the opposition. While they could easily have bagged a great deal more goals from the amount of possession and chances they have enjoyed so far, the fact that so many opportunities have come their way has been thanks in large part to their pressing style. The midfield has adapted well to Conte’s 4-1-4-1 come 4-3-3 system, with Pirlo’s role at the axis laying the platform for the all-rounder Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio, whose six goals so far have been vital to the cause. And the wide men have been led by the desire of Simone Pepe. However, with 19 more fixtures come 19 more tests. Some fans began to wonder as early as September whether this Juventus could go the whole season unbeaten, and while it is still premature to suggest that is a real possibility, their consistency suggests few will be given the chance to beat them on a plate. With 41 points gained so far, a greater conversion rate into victories would be welcomed. While 82 points has been enough to win the last two Serie A titles, those tallies have been below the norm since the 38-game season came into force in 2004. Champions Milan are sure to have a say in the title race, but if Juve can maintain their consistency and add a clinical edge up front, they will be difficult to overhaul. Their great concern right now must be that they have a dreadful record over the past two ritorno campaigns. A miserable early-2010 under Alberto Zaccheroni was followed up by an almost equally poor spell 12 months ago for Luigi Del Neri's men. This Juve looks different, but with still many of last season's side in the current ranks, it should not be discounted that the scars may remain. All seven winter champions in the 38-game era have eventually got their hands on the silverware that counts. The gauntlet is thrown down to Juve to make it eight. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Andrea Pirlo: We're pleased to top the table, but nothing is won yet The former AC Milan playmaker has voiced his satisfaction with the Old Lady's results so far, but stressed that trophies are to be won at the end of the season. Jan 23, 2012 Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo has expressed his happiness with the Bianconeri's performances in the first half of the season, but added that they have not achieved anything yet, and need to be on top of their game for the remainder of the campaign. The Turin giants are still unbeaten after 19 games and sit top of the table with a one-point lead over AC Milan, much to the delight of Pirlo. "The assessment up until now is more than positive. We started with a new team and a new manager and have had a great run, taking each game as it comes, whilst improving our play," Pirlo was quoted as saying at the Juventus website. "We’re happy to be top at the halfway point of the season, but we’re aware that the championship is finely balanced and we know that we still haven’t achieved anything. "The judgements will be made at the end of the season, but for now it’s important to be ahead."

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55') Emanuele Giaccherini (81') Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Massimiliano Allegri: AC Milan & Juventus are the favourites for the Serie A title The Rossoneri coach has voiced his opinion that his side and the Bianconeri are the two teams with the best chance of walking away with the Scudetto come the end of the season. Jan 22, 2012 AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri feels that his side and Juventus are the two favourites to win the Scudetto, following their results in the first half of the 2011-12 campaign. Juve extended their unbeaten run this term to 19 games by beating Atalanta 2-0 on Saturday, and have so far collected 41 points. Milan, on the other hand, recorded a 3-0 win over Novara on Sunday courtesy of a Zlatan Ibrahimovic brace as well as a Robinho goal, consequently closing the gap with the Old Lady to one point. "Juventus are keeping up an impressive pace. They are still unbeaten halfway through the season. They are the favourites to win the Scudetto along with us," Allegri declared to the assembled press after the victory over Novara. "However, we obviously can't rule out the other teams just yet. Udinese, Roma and Inter are doing pretty well. "We really needed the full three points against Novara in order to reach the 40-point mark, the goal we had set at the start of the season." Milan start the second half of the Serie A season with a home game against Cagliari on January 29. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55') Emanuele Giaccherini (81') Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Lichtsteiner: Juventus should always play for the Serie A title The Switzerland international has expressed his satisfaction with the win over Atalanta, and feels that the Bianconeri are of a status that demands always targetting the Scudetto. Jan 22, 2012 Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner has voiced his delight with Saturday's 2-0 Serie A win away against Atalanta and added that a team of the Old Lady's calibre should always be playing for top honours. The Switzerland international, who opened the scoring in Bergamo before Emanuele Giaccherini added a second late in the second half to put the match to bed, was very happy with his side's performance. "Being winter champions doesn’t count for much. For us it’s important to be first," he said on the club's official website. "Today [saturday] it was great to win in this way, with a great performance, creating many opportunities. We were more aggressive than last week, and we dealt well with gaining possession of the ball. "Juventus must always play for the Scudetto," Lichtsteiner argued. "We’re an extremely strong side and everything’s possible. However, we’re not thinking about the title, but winning all our games, then we’ll see what will happen." Juventus currently sit atop of the Serie A table with 41 points from 19 games. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55') Emanuele Giaccherini (81') Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Colantuono admits Juventus deserved 2-0 win: ‘There is too much of a gap between our teams’ Atalanta’s coach is not disappointed in his players for slipping to defeat against the Serie A table-toppers and refuses to blame the loss on refereeing. Jan 22, 2012 Stefano Colantuono admits that Juventus deserved their 2-0 victory over Atalanta, refusing to focus on his side’s penalty claims against who he feels were vastly superior opponents. Goals from Stephan Lichtsteiner and Emanuele Giaccherini sunk the hosts to take Antonio Conte’s side, at least temporarily, four points clear at the top of Serie A, and the home coach believes that the table-topping quality shone through for the visitors. “There’s nothing we can say, as Juve clearly deserved the victory,” Colantuono told reporters after the game. “We had studied the move for the first goal [on Saturday] morning, so it’s a shame that we still conceded anyway. “Juve are physically strong and, once they have broken the deadlock, they do kill you off. There is too much of a gap between our teams at the moment.” The result leaves Atalanta 15th place in the table, five points away from the relegation zone, but Colantuono is not worrying just yet. “Our position in the table is still good and it was only to be expected we’d struggle when facing Milan, Lazio and Juventus in a row,” the 49-year-old said calmly. “We may not be in great shape, but the Bianconeri are stronger and I cannot ask for more from my players.” There were suggestions during the game that Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini had brought German Denis down in the box, with no penalties awarded, but the orobici trainer was unwilling to blame the defeat on refereeing. “I don’t know, it’s tough in these situations because some referees give the penalty and some don’t. It’s certainly not the reason we lost, though, so let us not grasp at excuses,” he insisted. “Juve deserved the three points.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Pepe and Marchisio suffer sprains Jan 22, 2012 Simone Pepe and Claudio Marchisio have been diagnosed with sprains, though the Juventus winger came off worse with ligament damage. Both players went off during last night’s 2-0 win away to Atalanta and the club released a statement this morning on their condition. Marchisio suffered a slight sprain of his right knee and tests showed no ligament damage. Pepe was stretchered off and has been diagnosed with a sprained right ankle with slight anterior ligament damage. Both players will be evaluated over the next few days to determine how long they’ll be out for, but it seems safe to say neither will recover in time for Tuesday’s Coppa Italia clash against Roma.

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Colantuono bows to Juve Jan 21, 2012 Stefano Colantuono has no problems admitting “Juventus clearly deserved the victory,” even with the penalty Atalanta was denied. The Bergamo club was beaten 2-0 on home turf this evening, their third consecutive Serie A defeat. “There’s nothing we can say, as Juve clearly deserved the victory. We had studied the move for the first goal this morning, so it’s a shame that we still conceded anyway. “Juve are physically strong and, once they have broken the deadlock, they do kill you off. There is too much of a gap between our teams at the moment. “Our position in the table is still good and it was only to be expected we’d struggle when facing Milan, Lazio and Juventus in a row. We may not be in great shape, but the Bianconeri are stronger and I cannot ask for more from my players.” Atalanta also had recriminations, as German Denis twice appeared to be hauled to the ground by Giorgio Chiellini. “I don’t know, it’s tough in these situations because some referees give the penalty and some don’t. It’s certainly not the reason we lost, though, so let us not grasp at excuses. Juve deserved the three points.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Conte: 'Juve are extraordinary' Jan 21, 2012 Antonio Conte can finally celebrate Juventus winning the Winter title after an “extraordinary” first half of the season. The crown of Winter champions is given to the team on top of the table at the midway stage and more often than not it leads on to the Scudetto. “Our first half of the campaign has been extraordinary,” he said after the 2-0 win away to Atalanta this evening ensured they remain unbeaten. “We played at a very high level and tonight was the crowning moment. My lads have done remarkable things, but now we must continue giving 120 per cent, as that is the only way to keep hold of the top spot. We are out in front of teams that were favourites before the season began. “We create many chances, but admittedly do miss quite a few as well, so I guess that’s inevitable. Perhaps we should be a little calmer, but the side does play with great intensity. “Atalanta are an organised outfit, so we needed a great performance to beat them. There are some negatives from today, as we hope Claudio Marchisio and Simone Pepe’s injuries aren’t too serious.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55') Emanuele Giaccherini (81') Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Antonio Conte hails 'extraordinary' first half to the Serie A season after win over Atalanta The Bianconeri trainer has commended his side for becoming winter champions of Serie A, praising their hard working nature and consistency, but now wants them to sustain their form. Jan 21, 2012 Juventus coach Antonio Conte has branded his team's start to the season as "extraordinary", following their 2-0 victory over Atalanta in Serie A on Saturday. Goals from Stephan Lichtsteiner and Emanuele Giaccherini inspired the Old Lady to an important win in their title push, and the trainer feels they are fully deserving of earning the distinction of being winter champions in Italy. "We have enjoyed ​​a great first half to the season, we've performed at high levels and deserve to be there [at the top]," the trainer told Sky Sport Italia after the match. "Today I think was the culmination of our efforts. Congratulations to the boys because they've done extraordinary things. Now we must be prepared to carry on giving 120-130 per cent. "Each of my players is displaying more than 100 per cent, this explains why we are at the top. We have also disposed of the top teams that were tipped to beat us," concluded Conte. Juventus have now opened up a four-point gap at the top of Serie A following their win, but Atalanta now face falling from 15th place. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Giaccherini: To be crowned as winter champions is a 'great feeling' The former Cesena forward, who capped off the Old Lady's win over Atalanta with an excellent goal, says he is pleased with the achievement and insists he will only get better. Jan 21, 2012 Juventus forward Emanuele Giaccherini has declared his happiness at his team being crowned as winter champions in Serie A, following their 2-0 victory over Atalanta on Saturday. The forward has struggled for playing time in Turin since his summer arrival from Cesena, but he proved his worth with a fine goal to secure the three points, and the Bianconeri's status as league leaders for the first half of the season - a feat that he claims is a "great feeling". "It's nice to be crowned the champions of winter; we wanted to remain in first place very much," said Giaccherini. "It's a great feeling, even if the championship is long and demanding. "We hope to stay on top for as long as possible. The first part of the season says that we were the strongest. "I work hard to be ready for team and I hope to get better," he concluded. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000 Player Ratings Goal.com casts a studious eye over the performers at the Stadio Atleti Azzuri d'Italia as two second-half goals see the visitors crowned as Serie A's winter champions. Jan 21, 2012 Atalanta Andrea Consigli 7.0 - Did everything right for the home side between the sticks, thwarting Juventus time and time again with his acrobatics and command of his area. His world-class save from Vucinic early in the first half was the main highlight of an impressive display, as he was the one person keeping the scoreline down. Thomas Manfredini 5.5 - Like his central defensive partner, he looked shaky whenever Juventus looked to attack, and will probably be grateful to his goalkeeper for being there to clean up his mistakes. Federico Peluso 4.5 - Left Pepe far too much space on the flanks in the first half, and was caught ball-watching on a few occasions as Juventus attacked in waves. Additionally, he lost sight of Lichtsteiner at the far post in the buildup to the opener, which gave the Juventus full-back the time he needed to head home. Michele Ferri 5.5 - Simply could not cope with the Juve machine when the ball was around the box, especially in the first half onslaught. Was guilty of allowing Matri to give him the slip multiple times, though the Juventus striker's profligacy meant that his lapses were not as exposed as often as they should have been. Ezequiel Matias Schelotto 5.0 - Made one or two bursts to make the Juventus defence think, but otherwise he was mainly used to man the flanks in his own half. Taken off with a quarter of an hour to go. Luca Cigarini 5.0 - Did not have a productive time of it in the centre of the park, giving possession away cheaply far too many times and generally never getting to grips with the game,. Simone Padoin 5.5 - Was cut to ribbons at times in the first half as Juventus ran rings around the Atalanta midfield. However, he improved after the break and made a steady finish to the game. Cristian Raimondi 6.0 - Had an intriguing battle with Vucinic as they tussled more than once, but kept a better watch on the Montenegrin than Peluso did on Pepe down the opposite flank. Booked on the stroke of half-time for complaining after a free-kick was awarded to Juventus. Giacomo Bonaventura 4.5 - With little time or space to make something happen on the wing, his contribution was limited to providing an extra body to defend out wide. Substituted just after the hour mark. Germán Denis 5.0 - Pickings were extremely slim for him up front, with his one half-chance volleyed wide in the first half. Worked hard at chasing down lost causes, but did not have enough quality or support to make anything happen. • Substitutions Adriano Ferreira Pinto 5.0 - Played the last 15 minutes, but failed to make an impact. Manolo Gabbiadini N/A - Given a seven-minute run out Guido Marilungo 5.5 - Found it difficult to adjust to the pace of the game in his half-hour on the pitch. JUVENTUS Gianluigi Buffon 6.5 - The veteran keeper was never really in any danger from Atalanta, and handled his business between the posts with confidence to keep a clean sheet. Giorgio Chiellini 7.0 - Produced a couple of spectacular clearances from dead ball situations to snuff out the Atalanta threat in the air, and generally held his own in the centre of defence. Paolo De Ceglie 6.5 - Rarely tested defensively so he looked to get forward often, especially in the first half offensive avalanche. Provided a decent outlet on the left but should have done better when he headed Pirlo’s free-kick over from a great position. Andrea Barzagli 6.5 - Made several timely interceptions, and even though he was caught out of position once or twice, had a solid game. Stephan Lichtsteiner 7.5 - The full-back was very aggressive defensively, hardly allowing the Atalanta wide men time or space to get their bearings. Broke the deadlock with a nifty header after Pirlo’s brilliant pass, but picked up a silly yellow card for complaining. Simone Pepe 7.0 - At times he was his side’s most dangerous outlet in the first half, constantly finding space on the wings while putting a few chances on a plate for his profligate team-mates. However, there was to be no direct reward for his endeavour, and he was taken off in the second half. Claudio Marchisio 5.5 - Subdued outing for the midfielder, who did not contribute much outside of one or two clever passes, and was replaced at half-time. Andrea Pirlo 7.5 - As ever, the veteran midfielder dictated play with his incisive passing, and initiated many a Juventus attack in this fashion. His gorgeous through ball helped finally break Atalanta’s resistance and allow Lichtsteinier to head in the opener. Arturo Vidal Pardo 6.5 - For most of the game, he executed his role well, cleaning up all the loose ends in midfield. Nearly opened the scoring just before half-time with a howitzer from 30 yards out that cannoned back off the crossbar. Mirko Vučinić 6.0 - The Montenegrin was not a constant threat from out wide, but there were moments when his deliveries into the box caused the Atalanta defence a few problems. Withdrawn with four minutes to go. Alessandro Matri 5.0 - Left his shooting boots in the locker room, providing a catalogue of terrible misses on the night. The Italian should have had a hat-trick, but his radar was off as he wasted a slew of Juventus chances. • Substitutions Leonardo Bonucci N/A - Late cameo off the bench. Emanuele Giaccherini 7.0 - Made a definitive impact off the bench, combining with fellow substitute Marrone to volley Juventus into an unassailable two-goal lead at the end of a great move. Luca Marrone 6.5 - Another inspired substitution by Conte, Marrone helped put the icing on the cake with a sumptuous pass for Giaccherini to score. Almost had a goal himself, but for the fingertips of Consigli. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000‎ Bianconeri Defense Dominates, Alessandro Matri Flounders Jan 21, 2012 Antonio Conte has made a pretty quick run up the Italian football coach table. He went from coach of an Arezzo team that was relegated to Serie C1 in 2007, to winning Serie B with Bari the next season. After that, he was appointed as Atalanta's manager, but his tenure was unsuccessful. Conte started well, but his team's form quickly fell. Their poor play eventually led to Atalanta's furious fans calling for Conte's resignation. Conte did indeed resign, and the police even had to step in to protect Conte from the Atalanta ultras. Conte went on to success at Siena, but nonetheless his time at Atalanta was not pleasant. Today, Conte returns to Atalanta's stadium as head coach of the leading team in Serie A, and the best team in Calcio history, Juventus. Perhaps Conte's redemption song inspired the Old Lady's players, as they dominated for most of the match and won 2-0. Granted, the two goals are a lot less impressive when one considers that they had eight shots on target and 18 shots overall. Juve were great at creating chances to score today but mediocre at finishing. More specifically, Alessandro Matri continued his recent bad form with another stinker. Matri has had some spectacular games this season, for example his brace against Genoa. However, lately he has failed to live up to standards. It started when Mirko Vucinic was injured in December, but it has continued through Mirko's return. Luckily for Antonio Conte, he has other options, most notably the new arrival Marco Borriello. Borriello did not appear in today's match, though he seems ripe for some playing time against Roma in the Coppa Italia match on Tuesday. Of course, Conte also has the legendary Alessandro Del Piero, who has failed to score this year. With a little more match time, however, he will surely knock a goal in. Matri had shot after shot today, but he failed to make any of them count. He had shots that went right at Atalanta's goalkeeper; he had shots that went over him; and he had shots that went to his side—but none of them went into the goal. Juventus had to rely on Stephan Lichtsteiner to give them the leading goal today. Andrea Pirlo sent forth a glorious pass that was perfectly aimed for the Swiss running machine to head it straight into goal. Both men had fine matches, with Pirlo returning to his usual form after an odd dip in performance last week. Lichtsteiner has been perhaps the most consistent performer for Juve, and that's important since there really isn't another player to step in at right back. Martin Caceres may finally find his way to Turin, but as of now Stephan is the only real option at right back. After all, we can't trust Marco Motta. Marco Motta is a bad, bad man. There were also some unorthodox substitutions made by Conte in this match, though one was due to circumstance. Simone Pepe was injured by a late sliding challenge from Federico Peluso, who received some words from Conte. Pepe would have to come out, and as of this writing his condition is still unknown. His replacement was to be the young Luca Marrone. The other unorthodox substitution was that of Claudio Marchisio, who is usually a stalwart for Juventus. Also, his performance usually merits that status. Marchisio was okay today, but Conte made a good decision to put some fresh legs into the midfield at half time with the inclusion of Emanuele Giaccherini. Giaccherini and Marrone did their part to confirm Conte's decisions, as they worked together to score Juve's second goal. Marrone played a ball right through Atalanta's central defense to Giaccherini, who had been making a run. To cap the move off, Giaccherini slid the ball right past Andrea Consigli. Marrone had another impressive movement when he played a little 1-2 pass with Ale Matri, Marrone serving as the end recipient. He smashed the ball towards the goal, but Andrea Consigli made an impressive save. Consigli made many impressive saves today, but he also received some help from Ale Matri. Marrone has impressed me in every appearance he's made this season. Even when he has only played for a few moments, he still manages to make an important linking pass to continue a counter attack, or a nice long ball to meet a winger's run. Conte has been looking for some reinforcements in midfield, but he may a suitable option in Marrone. He is young, and still needs to prove that he can be consistent against tougher opposition, but he shows promise. There was one other thing about today's Juve squad that was different: Paolo De Ceglie was starting at left back, while Giorgio Chiellini started in the center. Until his suspension last week, Chiellini had been playing as the left back for most of the games, with De Ceglie seeing time sparingly. Last week, De Ceglie showed he deserved to start, and today he had another solid game. Chiellini, though, was more than impressive. Today, Giorgio Chiellini was absolutely classy. He had 23 clearances and 19 of those were headed clearances. The player he was marking, Denis, was suffocated for most of the match, though he got a few shots in. Perhaps it was the shift for Chiellini back to central defense; perhaps it was motivation to avenge Conte—whatever it was, Juventus took control today. They had looked shaky last week against Cagliari, but they put in a very solid performance today. Yes, they struggled when it came to finishing, but for the most part this was due to Matri. On the whole, this is a side that looks ready for their big Coppa Italia (aka TIM Cup) tie at home against Roma on Tuesday. Perhaps that game will see the inclusion of Eljero Elia and Fabio Quagliarella, two players who were off the teamsheet for today's game due to minor injuries. The match against Roma is one of two big matches for Juventus next week, as they also face third-place Udinese over the weekend. Juventus have had some struggles the past few weeks against mediocre opposition, but seem to have gotten back to their usual impressive form. Still, if they want to win against Roma and Udinese (teams who both tied Juventus the last time they played), they need to improve their finishing. I think we know what Conte will be focusing on in practice this week. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000‎ Juve secure top spot Jan 21, 2012 Juventus secured their place at the top of Serie A at the midway stage of the season with a 2-0 win over Atalanta in Bergamo. After a one-sided first half in which Juve tried everything to score, they opened the scoring in the 55th minute through Stephan Lichtsteiner. Substitute Emanuele Giaccherini added a second eight minutes from time as Antonio Conti's side opened up a four-point advantage over AC Milan at the top of the table. Juventus hit the woodwork twice in a first half in which the ball just would not go in, despite their monumental efforts. Alessandro Matri missed the first chance in the third minute, lifting his shot over the crossbar from six yards out before Simone Pepe placed his shot wide of the far post five minutes later. Andrea Barzagli hit the left-hand post with a good shot on the turn in the 11th minute and Mirko Vucinic's shot was saved moments later as the Bianconeri laid siege to the Atalanta goal. Shots were raining in from everywhere, including an Arturo Vidal effort from fully 30 yards which cannoned back off the crossbar. With such an elevated number of missed chances, Juve could have been forgiven for thinking it was not going to be their night, but Lichtsteiner finally broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half. Andrea Pirlo lifted the ball to the far post where the Swiss full-back guided it inside the post with a low header. Matri missed the chance to make it two in the 62nd minute when he lifted the ball over Andrea Consigli but wide of the far post. At the other end, Atalanta's top goalscorer German Denis was adamant that Giorgio Chiellini had pulled his shirt as he went down inside the area, still managing to get a shot in on goal as he went down. Juve, who had eased off a little after scoring, sensed that one goal may not actually be enough and they started to attack again. They got the goal to settle their nerves in the 82nd minute when Luca Marrone lifted the ball up into the area and Giaccherini took it on the volley to beat Consigli and seal the win for Juve. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000‎ Juve wear Winter crown in Bergamo Juventus have taken the Winter title with a 2-0 victory away to Atalanta thanks to Stephan Lichtsteiner and Emanuele Giaccherini. Jan 21, 2012 The Bianconeri knew a win would guarantee the Winter champion crown, in other words leaders at the half-way stage this season. Antonio Conte returned to face his former club, but made only one change from the side that drew 1-1 with Cagliari last week, as Giorgio Chiellini returned from suspension to push Leonardo Bonucci out of the centre-back role. Atalanta had lost only once on home turf this term, but missed Giampaolo Bellini, Daniele Capelli and the banned Stefano Lucchini and Carlos Carmona. There was a minute’s applause before kick-off for Mario Merelli, a legendary 50-year-old mountain climber and noted Atalanta fan who died during an excursion this week. He even sent a message to his beloved Orobici from the top of one of the world’s highest peaks. Alessandro Matri should’ve scored after two minutes, but fired over from six yards. Simone Pepe then flashed an angled drive across the face of goal. Atalanta also threatened, as German Denis chested down a cross for Simone Bonaventura’s volley into the ground, which Gigi Buffon plucked out from under the crossbar. Matri went very close on 11 minutes, as a free kick eventually fell to the ex-Cagliari striker and his strike was fingertipped on to the far post by Andrea Consigli. From that corner, Mirko Vucinic stung Consigli’s palms at the near post. An acrobatic attempt at a volley from Paolo De Ceglie whistled wide, while Michele Ferri’s similar effort only got him a nasty cut to the head for his trouble. Matri was incorrectly flagged offside, but had fired straight at Consigli anyway. De Ceglie nodded over from an Andrea Pirlo free kick, though Chiellini risked giving away a penalty for his shirt-tug on Denis. Pepe went on the counter to sting Consigli’s palms with a screamer from the edge of the box. Arturo Vidal went even closer, as he unleashed a blockbuster from distance that cracked against the crossbar, possibly with the aid of a Consigli fingertip. Maxi Moralez chipped a pass on to Denis’ right foot for a splendid volley that flashed across the face of goal to skim the far post. Straight after the restart Matri again turned off target from six yards, but it was Stephan Lichtsteiner who opened the scoring when he got down for a diving header at the back post from Pirlo’s cross, having got away from Bonaventura. Matri pounced on a Ferri error to go clear on goal, but his lob was off target with Consigli well off his line. It was another wasted opportunity from the ex-Cagliari hitman. Pepe was stretchered off after Guido Marilungo’s rough tackle on his right ankle. Chiellini did well to take a Maxi Moralez cross off the head of Denis, then from the corner ‘Tanque’ complained he’d been pulled down by the Italian international defender. Substitute Luca Marrone’s one-two with Matri saw him denied by Consigli at the near stick. Moments later, 21-year-old Marrone set up Juve’s second goal with a delightful flick off the outside of his foot, allowing Emanuele Giaccherini to spring the offside trap and volley from nine yards. Atalanta: Consigli; Raimondi, Ferri, Manfredini, Peluso; Schelotto (Ferreira Pinto 77), Cigarini, Padoin, Bonaventura (Marilungo 62); Moralez (Gabbiadini 83), Denis Juventus: Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Chiellini, De Ceglie; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio (Giaccherini 46); Pepe (Marrone 69), Matri, Vucinic (Bonucci 86) Ref:Celi http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 19 - 21-1-2012 (8:45 p.m.) 0 - 2 Stephan Lichtsteiner (55′) Emanuele Giaccherini (81′) Atleti Azzurri d'Italia Stadium - Bergamo Referee: Domenico Celi Attendance: 21000‎ Lichtsteiner and Giaccherini crown Conte's men as winter champions The Bianconeri dominated the contest in Bergamo, and are assured first place at the halfway stage of the season thanks their four-point lead at the top. Jan 21, 2012 Juventus overcame Atalanta 2-0 at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia to clinch the unofficial title of Serie A winter champions. After a slew of first-half chances went begging, Stephan Lichtsteiner belatedly headed the visitors in front 10 minutes after the restart. Substitute Emanuele Giaccherini volleyed home a well-taken second with eight minutes to go to claim victory for Juventus, who provisionally move four points ahead of nearest rivals AC Milan. Juventus attacked straight from kick-off, and nearly took the lead after only three minutes of play, but Alessandro Matri wasted a glorious chance, sidefooting Simone Pepe’s low cross over the bar from only a few yards out. The visitors were taking the game to Atalanta in the early stages, and Pepe flashed an effort wide of the far post after latching onto Claudio Marchisio’s through ball. Matri went even closer two minutes later, hitting the post from inside the area, before Mirko Vucinic coaxed a stunning save from Andrea Consigli with a powerful shot towards the top corner. Atalanta managed to recover from the frantic start to gain a foothold in the game, but Juventus continued to create chances and always looked the more likely to break the deadlock. Pepe took matters into his own hands with a barnstorming run from midfield five minutes before the break, but his shot at the end was beaten away by Consigli. Barely a minute later, Arturo Vidal unleashed a fearsome drive from all of 30 yards that beat Consigli but smacked off the crossbar. Somehow, Atalanta had managed to make it to half-time with the score still goalless. However, their luck would not hold for long in the second half, and a sublime pass by Andrea Pirlo completely unhinged the Atalanta defence, allowing Lichtsteiner to steal in at the far post and head the visitors in front. Matri fashioned a great chance for himself shortly after the hour mark when he won possession in the opposition half and sprinted through on goal, but his finish deserted him once again as his lob attempt bounced just wide of the far post. Juventus were comfortable at this point, and substitute Luca Marrone had a shot saved at the near post by Consigli after a neat one-two with Matri. With eight minutes left, Juventus put the icing on the cake when Marrone’s delightful chipped ball was caught on the volley by fellow substitute Giaccherini to put the match beyond doubt. The result sees Juventus move four points clear at the top, but that lead could be cut after Milan’s fixture against Novara on Sunday. Atalanta meanwhile remain in 15th place, five points off the relegation zone. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Gigi picchia Bonucci per noi.

Pericolo in difesa .... é entrato Bonucci.

Giocherá contro la "sua" Roma martedí.

Che grande acquisto Giaccherini.