Socrates

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Enrique undaunted by Juve test Dec 12, 2011 Roma manager Luis Enrique says his side will take a fearless approach into their Serie A clash with Juventus on Monday. Enrique's side welcome the Turin outfit to the Stadio Olimpico looking to end Juventus' unbeaten run this term. Antonio Conte's men have won eight and drawn five of their 13 Serie A matches to remain the only unbeaten team in the Italian top flight this term. A win for Juventus could send them back to the top of the table. Roma will be missing the influential trio of Juan, Fernando Gago and Bojan Krkic through suspension after they were all sent off in their 3-0 defeat to Fiorentina last weekend. But despite the capital city club sitting 11th in the Serie A, Enrique said the motivation of taking on Juve could spur Roma on to victory. "Juventus won eight games out of 13 and drew the other five, they haven't lost a match ... therefore we have to give it our best, otherwise it will be a difficult match," Enrique said. "Obviously we're not afraid, nobody should be afraid of playing football, what could happen?" "We should just try and do what we're doing and the best way to do this is to train giving our 100%. The best way to get ready for a match is to continue with what you're well and never be afraid to play a match, especially at the Olimpico." "They only have to play football and they know how to do that, and how to create difficulties for a very strong team." "Not only me, but all of us have the chance to beat a Juventus team that's still unbeaten, I don't see any better motivation than this one." http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Round 14: When in Roma Dec 11, 2011 The week kicked off with another win in league play, and continued with a rotated squad, a first Coppa match, and a little help from our principino (he’s overrated though, right?). Their number 10/captain < ours. And off to Rome we go. Much is being made in the media about how much these two teams dislike each other. I suppose that it’s true, and I won’t argue. But for me, ain’t no hatred like a hatred for Sfinter, and all other rivalries pale in comparison. Regardless, whatever it takes to win, let’s just do it. We need to overblow the rivalry for motivation? Have at it. I hate you, Roma, with your stupid little red shirts that are actually burgundy, and your stupid little patch with two babies sucking from the teat of a she-wolf. Real original. Yes, tomorrow is a huge game. Even if I am having difficulty fanning the flames of this rivalry, the importance of the fixture certainly can’t be downplayed. With Udinese (do they ever lose?) a point ahead of us currently, it will be important to go to Rome and make a statement. Especially since Roma is having a few problems right now. Good news: Three…yes, *three* red cards picked up versus Fiorentina last week means that Roma will have to play without Juan, Fernando Gago and Bojan “I Refuse to Use Vowels Unless Absolutely Essential” Krkic are all suspended, while Kjaer, Burdisso, Pizarro and Borini are all injured. Totti remained on the bench last week, but now that he’s back to full fitness, I’ll expect him to play, while De Rossi might have to play as a makeshift center back again in light of all the thinned-out squad. On our end, I’m expecting much of the same non-coppa lineup. While Elia played well in assisting Marchisio’s winning goal last Thursday, expect him to start from the bench, while Giorgio Chiellini is likely to once again start at left back, to my chagrin. Grrr. Mirko Vucinic remains out til at least the end of 2011. My starting XI: (4-3-3) Gigi; Kelso, Giorgio, Dre, Forrest; Prince, Jovi, King Arthur; Dutchie, A-Mat, Quagmire. Roma probable XI: (4-3-1-2) Stekelenburg; Taddei, Heinze, De Rossi, Rosi; Pjanic, Viviani, Perrotta; Totti; Lamela, Osvaldo. Le Chiavi: Luis Enrique likes to play a possession-based, smooth passing game, not all that dissimilar to Conte’s preferred system. However, it’s easier said than done with so many regulars unavailable. Football-Italia has Roma lined up as so, in a narrow 4-3-1-2, notably with Taddei terzinoed (ala my dreams about Simone Pepe, at least until Matteo Liviero is ready for the first team, but I digress), and Heinze at center back. If that is the case, expect our biggest asset — our ability to stretch the field wide with a plethora of tricky wingers at our disposal — to be our key to victory. If we can hold onto the ball, use the whole field, and incisively attack two non-traditional center backs, 3 points should not be out of the question. Juventus probable XI: (4-3-3) Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Barzagli, Lichtsteiner; Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal; Pepe, Matri, Estigarribia*. *This probable lineup was also lifted from Football-Italia. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Quagliarella instead of Esti. I’m also hungover as F and unwilling to keep thinking anymore about this than I have to. Damn holiday parties. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Pirlo's Olimpico stepping stone Dec 11, 2011 Andrea Pirlo tells Juventus Monday’s trip to Roma is “an important stepping stone towards something very prestigious.” The Bianconeri are the only side still unbeaten and must get a win to stay clear at the top of the table, though they are resisting talk of the Scudetto. “This can be an important stepping stone towards something very prestigious,” said Pirlo. “Francesco Totti is going through a difficult moment because of injuries, but he remains a great champion. I often talk to Daniele De Rossi when we’re on international duty. His contract with Roma expires in June, but it’s up to him to decide whether or not to change clubs.” Few expected Pirlo to walk away from Milan after 10 years, but the move to Juventus has revitalised his career. “Last season, for the first time in a decade at Milan, I was out for a long while due to an injury. I knew that I had more to give and this year started with even more hunger to prove how much I’m worth. “Antonio Conte is a great motivator who has given the team a specific identity. By following him, we can reach prestigious targets.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Conte defends Roma´s Enrique Dec 11, 2011 Juventus coach Antonio Conte spoke out in support of under-fire Roma boss Luis Enrique as the two teams prepare to meet in Serie A. Both new to their respective roles at the beginning of the season, the two men have experienced contrasting fortunes so far in 2011/12. Conte has led Juve to the top of the table, and his team remain unbeaten in the league after 13 matches played. Enrique however has struggled - Roma sit 10th in the standings and are without a win in their last two outings. They suffered the embarrassment of having three players sent off in a 3-0 loss at Fiorentina last week. Some of the demanding Roma faithful are already calling for former Spanish international Enrique to be sacked. But despite Roma's poor start to the campaign, Conte feels his counterpart should be given time at the Stadio Olimpico. "I am convinced Luis Enrique is doing a great job," he said. "We need more coaches like him and you can see his mark on the side, as even (though) they lost to Fiorentina last week, they continued to play good football when down to eight men." Conte anticipates a tough contest when Juve visit the Italian capital on Monday, despite their opponents' inconsistent form. "I expect the usual Roma, they are a team with a precise idea of football and they will remain close to that idea," he said. "I like them a lot, I like how they play football." "Everyone has his philosophy, but I think we share with Roma the desire to play football, that's for sure." "As I have said many times we think football is a kind of mathematics and the good or bad work you've been doing with your team depends on the results you get." "Rome is always a challenging place to go, because it's always a very heartfelt match against a great team and we've always had difficulties in the past against them." "The support at the Olimpico is like a 12th player on the pitch for them." http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A - 15^ Giornata - Andata - 12-12-2011 (ore 20:45) - Stadio Olimpico - Roma Arbitro: Daniele Orsato Confronti ufficiali 172 - 154 (Serie A) - 14 (Coppa Italia) - 4 (Campionato a gironi) Vittorie Juventus 80 - 72 (Serie A) - 6 (Coppa Italia) - 2 (Campionato a gironi) Pareggi 50 - 46 (Serie A) - 2 (Coppa Italia) - 2 (Campionato a gironi) Vittorie Roma 42 - 36 (Serie A) - 6 (Coppa Italia) Goals Juventus 265 - 239 (Serie A) - 21 (Coppa Italia) - 5 (Campionato a gironi) Goals Roma 186 - 168 (Serie A) - 17 (Coppa Italia) - 1 (Campionato a gironi) Roma - Juventus a Roma Serie A Confronti ufficiali 77 Vittorie Juventus 24 (L'ultima il 03.04.2011, 0-2) Pareggi 25 (L'ultimo il 23.09.2007, 2-2) Vittorie Roma 28 (L'ultima l' 08.02.2004, 4-0) Goals Juventus 93 Goals Roma 112 Giocatori con più presenze e goals contro la Roma a Roma 13 presenze Boniperti Giampiero 12 Furino Giuseppe 12 Scirea Gaetano 12 Varglien II Giovanni 11 Bettega Roberto 11 Depetrini Teobaldo 11 Zoff Dino 10 Cabrini Antonio 10 Causio Franco 10 Morini Francesco 7 goals Borel II Felice Placido 4 Bettega Roberto 3 Anastasi Pietro 3 Boniperti Giampiero 3 Iaquinta Vincenzo 3 Nedved Pavel 3 Trezeguet David Sergio 2 Baggio Roberto 2 Bercellino I Giancarlo 2 Cevenini III Luigi Ultimi confronti diretti 25.03.2006 Serie A Juventus-Roma 1-1 23.09.2007 Serie A Roma-Juventus 2-2 16.02.2008 Serie A Juventus-Roma 1-0 01.11.2008 Serie A Juventus-Roma 2-0 21.03.2009 Serie A Roma-Juventus 1-4 30.08.2009 Serie A Roma-Juventus 1-3 23.01.2010 Serie A Juventus-Roma 1-2 13.11.2010 Serie A Juventus-Roma 1-1 27.01.2011 Coppa Italia Juventus-Roma 0-2 03.04.2011 Serie A Roma-Juventus 0-2 Giocate 10 - Vittorie Juventus 5 - Pareggi 3 - Vittorie Roma 2 - Goals Juventus 17 - Goals Roma 10

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Conte Leads Table-Topping Juventus With a Big Touch of ‘Soul’ Dec 11, 2011 Anyone searching for a snapshot of Juventus’s early season success should look no further than Antonio Conte’s leaping, fist-pumping celebrations on the touchline. The Juventus coach is transmitting the same intensity, desire and spirit to the squad that he once showed in 12 years as a key midfielder with the club. As Pavel Nedved, another former Juventus midfielder, described it after last weekend’s 2-0 win over Cesena, “Conte deserves the compliments for the way in which he’s given this squad a soul.” After a disappointing seventh-place finish last season, Juventus holds a two-point lead in the Italian league over AC Milan and Udinese heading into Monday’s match at Roma. Juventus also remains unbeaten in all competition this season after moving to the Italian Cup quarterfinals with a 2-1 win over Bologna on Thursday. Roma, meanwhile, is in full crisis after having three players sent off in a 3-0 loss at Fiorentina that resulted in calls for the firing of manager Luis Enrique. Also this weekend, Milan visits Bologna, Udinese hosts Chievo Verona and fourth-place Lazio visits last-place Lecce. Many commentators were expecting Milan to stay in front of Juventus for the first time this season after the Rossoneri’s 2-0 win at Genoa on Dec. 2. But Juventus showed its resolve against Cesena two days later. After Claudio Marchisio finally broke a 0-0 deadlock and gave Juventus the lead in the 72nd minute, Conte went into his usual routine — running around wildly with his arms flailing, jumping up and down and slapping the plexiglass barrier behind the bench with both hands. The jubilation is a product of the new order and poise that Conte has instilled in his players. And unlike previous managers, Conte has had the nerve to use Juventus’s 37-year-old captain, Alessandro Del Piero, almost exclusively in a bench role — even though he was once a teammate of Del Piero’s, and preceded him as captain. Before returning to Juventus, Conte proved himself as a manager with smaller clubs Arezzo, Bari, Atalanta and Siena — leading both Bari and Siena up to the top division. “He experiences the matches nearly like the players do,” observed Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi. “He understands football and he’s given them solidity.” Conte will be without Mirko Vucinic against Roma after the forward was ruled out for three weeks with a right thigh muscle tear. Roma will be without the three players sent off against Fiorentina — defender Juan, midfielder Fernando Gago and forward Bojan Krcic. Luis Enrique held a meeting with the squad on Tuesday to see if he has the support to continue. “We’ve got to continue as we are, although we’ve got to continue improving and working to find this identity we’re looking for,” De Rossi said. “It’s difficult to outline our goals right now or say where we’ll finish at the end of the year because everything is new here. But I think if this squad were to finish among the top three, it would be a sporting miracle.” Roma is level with Cagliari and Catania in seventh, 12 points behind Juventus. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Serie A Preview Dec 11, 2011 Roma coach Luis Enrique insists he does not feel any additional pressure ahead of tomorrow's home match against Juventus despite his team's poor run of form in Serie A. The Romans have managed just two wins in their last six league games and suffered a 3-0 defeat at Fiorentina last weekend. That result followed their 2-0 loss at Udinese and dropped Roma to 10th in the standings, but Luis Enrique is concerned only with tomorrow's game. "I don't know if this game will mark a turning point or if it will bring me down,'' he said. "The only think that worries me is that the team to beat is Juventus. "The rest does not bother me. "Juve is a very strong team and has a great coach. "I consider this game the most difficult because Juve are in great form. "We will need to go out on the pitch without fear and showing the best Roma in order to beat a very strong Juve.'' Juve lie 12 points clear of Roma and will look to keep their unbeaten run this season at the Stadio Olimpico. They won 2-0 against Genoa in the last round to record their eighth win in 13 games. The Turin giants lie second, one point behind leaders Udinese ahead of Monday's encounter. Udinese won 2-1 against Chievo on Sunday to leapfrog Juventus in the standings. Despite their good run of form, Juve coach Antonio Conte has warned his players to expect a difficult game at Roma. "It's always a challenge to play at Roma,'' Conte said. "We have great respect for Luis Enrique and for his team. "They have great players and are a very good side.'' Luis Enrique will be forced to make wholesale changes to the team for the game against Juve with defenders Simon Kjaer, Nicolas Burdisso and Marco Cassetti out injured while Juan is suspended. To add to Roma's woes, midfielder Gago and striker Bojan will serve a one-match ban. Roma captain Francesco Totti is set to start behind attacking pair Daniel Osvaldo and Erik Lamela. Conte will have all of his players available with the exception of injured striker Mirko Vucinic. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Serie A Preview Dec 11, 2011 This has always been a bitter grudge match and now represents leaders Juventus visiting a Roma side in crisis. The bubble well and truly burst for Luis Enrique after the 3-0 defeat to Fiorentina, their second on the bounce, as fans lost their patience with this new project. Ultras called for his resignation and even waited for the team at the train station on their return to hurl abuse. That debacle in Florence was certainly damaging, especially as Juan, Fernando Gago and Bojan Krkic are all suspended thanks to their red cards at the Stadio Franchi. Enrique finds himself also having to completely reconstruct his defence, as Simon Kjaer and Marco Cassetti join Nicolas Burdisso, David Pizarro and Fabio Borini on the treatment table. Options are limited, so Daniele De Rossi could become a makeshift centre-back to fill the gaps. It’s not too much of a stretch considering midfielders Rodrigo Taddei and Simone Perrotta have been used as full-backs periodically this term. At least there is some good news with Pablo Daniel Osvaldo returning from his club-imposed suspension for punching teammate Erik Lamela, while Francesco Totti has also fully recovered from that ankle injury. It’s possible Enrique will give a starting spot to Federico Viviani, the Under-20 international and captain of the Roma youth team. If the Giallorossi are in crisis, then Juventus are sitting pretty on top of the table and still unbeaten. There was a minor blip midweek when Bologna forced them into extra time for the Coppa Italia, but Claudio Marchisio eventually snatched a 2-1 victory. They also survived the loss of Andrea Pirlo to suspension last week against Cesena, so he returns to the starting XI. The only absentee for Juve is Mirko Vucinic, who would’ve relished coming back to face his former club. After all, he left Roma precisely because of his terrible relationship with the local fans. He’s not the only ex-Roma man in the squad, though, as Simone Pepe grew up in the Giallorossi youth academy. Keep an eye on: Francesco Totti (Roma) – The captain’s presence on the bench in Florence only intensified the fans’ anger towards Luis Enrique, so now that he is back to full fitness it seems inevitable he’ll be the focus point against old rivals Juventus. His teammates lost the plot against Fiorentina, so it’s time to be a true leader. Totti also hopes to improve his record against Juve of seven goals in 26 meetings. Form Guide: Roma (L W W L L) Juventus (W W W D W) Last season: Roma 0-2 Juventus Stat fact: In their last seven visits to Rome in all competition, Juventus have earned six victories and a 2-2 draw. The Bianconeri are unbeaten at the Olimpico since a 4-0 drubbing in February 2004, which remains their only loss here in 11 years. Roma (probable): Stekelenburg; Rosi, De Rossi, Heinze, Taddei; Perrotta, Viviani, Pjanic; Totti; Osvaldo, Lamela Juventus (probable): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio; Pepe, Matri, Estigarribia http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Serie A Preview The Old Lady travel to the capital hoping to maintain unbeaten record, while the hosts look to end two-game losing streak. Dec 11, 2011 PROBABLE LINE-UPS ROMA Stekelenburg Rosi, De Rossi, Heinze, Taddei Perrotta, Simplicio, Pjanic Totti Lamela, Osvaldo JUVENTUS Buffon Lichtsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini Pirlo Pepe, Vidal, Marchisio, Giaccherini Matri Luis Enrique will be missing several key personnel for the visit of the league leaders, with Juan, Bojan and Fernando Gago all suspended after the trio saw red in last week's defeat to Fiorentina. David Pizarro remains a doubt for the Giallorossi, along with Simon Kjaer, meaning Daniele De Rossi is likely to fill in as a makeshift centre-back. However Pablo Daniel Osvaldo is in line to return for the hosts following his internal suspension following his clash with Erik Lamela. The visitors will travel to the capital without former Roma forward Mirko Vucinic, who has been ruled out with the muscle strain sustained in last week's victory over Cesena. On the plus side for the Old Lady, Andrea Pirlo should make his return following suspension, with the former Milan midfielder expected to sit in behind central partners Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio. DID YOU KNOW? - Roma have won only half of their home games this season. - Defeat has been the most frequent outcome of Roma's fixtures this season, with the Giallorossi suffering six losses. - Luis Enrique’s side have lost their last two games without scoring a goal - Juventus have only lost to Roma once in their previous 12 Serie A meetings. - The Old Lady are the only unbeaten side in Serie A this season. - Antonio Conte's side have won exactly half of their away games this season. Head to Head Serie A - Apr 3, 2011 - Roma 0 - Juventus 2 Coppa Italia - Jan 27, 2011 - Juventus 0 - Roma 2 Serie A - Nov 13, 2010 - Juventus 1 - Roma 1 Serie A - Jan 23, 2010 - Juventus 1 - Roma 2 Serie A - Aug 30, 2009 - Roma 1 - Juventus 3 Last Five Matches Roma Dec 4, 2011 Fiorentina 3 - Roma 0 - Serie A Nov 25, 2011 Udinese 2 - Roma 0 - Serie A Nov 20, 2011 Roma 2 - Lecce 1 - Serie A Nov 5, 2011 Novara 0 - Roma 2 -Serie A Oct 29, 2011 Roma 2 - AC Milan 3 - Serie A Juventus Dec 8, 2011 Juventus 2 - Bologna 1 - Coppa Italia Dec 4, 2011 Juventus 2 - Cesena 0 - Serie A Nov 29, 2011 SSC Napoli 3 - Juventus 3 - Serie A Nov 26, 2011 Lazio 0 - Juventus 1 - Serie A Nov 20, 2011 Juventus 3 - Palermo 0 - Serie A Players to Watch Miralem Pjanic The former Lyon playmaker has impressed in the capital, since signing for the club in the summer, putting in some impressive performances for his new side. The 21 year old is currently leading the assists chart for the Giallorossi, with six already this season, and he will need to be at his creative best, if his side are to overcome the league leaders on Monday night. Simone Pepe The versatile winger has been in excellent form for the Bianconeri in recent weeks, netting three goals in his last four league appearances, and after grabbing the winner at the Stadio Olimpico a few weeks back, he will be hoping for a repeat performance on his return to the capital. Prediction With Luis Enrique's side struggling for form at present, along with the visitors recent record against the Giallorossi, another defeat for the hosts could be on the horizon. Editor's Prediction: Roma 1 - Juventus 2 http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Enrique blasts anti-Roma 'bull' Dec 11, 2011 Luis Enrique lost his patience in the Press Conference. “I am tired of these questions. I see Roma, the rest is bull****.” The Coach is increasingly under fire following two consecutive defeats and journalists bore the brunt of his temper ahead of Monday night’s showdown with Juventus. “I am only concerned with the team beating Juventus, the rest is not an issue for me,” stated the Spaniard. “Juve are a strong side with a great Coach who have an incredible defensive approach and are rapid on the attack. “I consider myself the primary responsible figure, but the defeat to Fiorentina actually gives me more strength, because I see my team with eight men continuing to push forward and take risks. We all know we paid for that, but what happened to me can happen to every Coach.” Enrique lost his cool during the Press Conference when he was again asked if Marco Borriello will be picked for the first time since October 26. “If he is called tomorrow, then he will have his opportunity. I am tired of these questions. I always think of the team first and foremost. “I see Roma, the rest is bull**** that you lot care about, but I do not. I may be wrong, but this is my view and I make technical decisions. I see how the team works during the week, you don’t.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Conte: 'Juve blood brothers!' Dec 11, 2011 Antonio Conte reassured Luis Enrique, but also said his Juventus “blood brothers” are out for revenge against Roma tomorrow night. The Bianconeri are top of the table and arguably the favourites going into the Stadio Olimpico on Monday evening, as fans begin to turn on the Giallorossi tactician. “Roma and Juventus are two teams who are quite similar and I think the Giallorossi will play an aggressive game,” said Conte. “I am convinced Luis Enrique is doing a great job. We need more Coaches like him and you can see his mark on the side, as even if they lost to Fiorentina last week, they continued to play good football when down to eight men.” However, Conte also points out this is no ordinary match for him, especially if Francesco Totti is playing. “I had both positive and negative sensations when playing against Roma. I was there when Totti waved four fingers at us as we lost 4-0 in February 2004. “We’ve got to be very careful not to feel the pressure of the Olimpico, as that is a similar atmosphere to our Juventus Stadium. “I also demand great concentration both when we have possession and when Roma have the ball.” Conte was a battling midfielder during his playing days and has lost none of that grit. “When I hear someone criticise my players, who work themselves to the bone, then I get furious. If you have to criticise, then pick on me and leave my lads alone, as they are like blood brothers for me. “The secret of this squad is how ready the players are to work for each other.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Antonio Conte: Roma will play an aggressive game Juventus head coach has warned that the Giallorossi will not be pushovers in Monday's Serie A encounter, pointing out the similarities between the two sides. Dec 11, 2011 Juventus coach Antonio Conte is eagerly anticipating Monday's Serie A encounter away at Roma, and expects the Stadio Olimpico outfit to pose a stern test for the Bianconeri. The Turin club are still unbeaten after 13 league games and currently sit at the top of the table, but their trainer feels that Luis Enrique's men could put in an aggressive display in an attempt to end their opponents' hot streak. "The match against Roma is an important test for us. We have to be prepared for all the problems they could cause us," Conte told the pre-match press conference. "Roma will be looking to dictate play and put in an aggressive display. "Roma and Juve are two of the teams with the most possession and I see similarities between both sides. "I'm a big fan of their style of play. Like us, they always try to take the game to their opponents and dominate. We have to be fully concentrated both on and off the ball." Monday's game at the Stadio Olimpico kicks off at 20.45CET. http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Tardelli crowns Marchisio Dec 11, 2011 Claudio Marchisio is often compared to Marco Tardelli, but the Juventus legend claims “he is stronger than I was.” The midfielder has become the unlikely hero of this season and their top scorer, though he received the highest praise from the current Republic of Ireland assistant manager. “It’s difficult to compare players from the past and the present, but in my view he is stronger than I was,” Tardelli told the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport. More of the stars from that 1980s Juventus and Italy side also gave their backing to Marchisio. “I always avoid comparisons, but Marchisio is Tardelli’s real heir,” said Fulvio Collovati. Current Azzurri Coach Cesare Prandelli added Marchisio “has broken through. He has quantity, quality and now scores goals too. He’s fantastic.”

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Buffon: 'Scudetto talk crazy' Dec 10, 2011 Gianluigi Buffon “would be crazy” to talk about Juventus winning the Scudetto ahead of their trip to Roma. The Bianconeri are top of the table and the only side still unbeaten in Serie A. “We need a great deal of calm here,” the goalkeeper told Tuttosport. “There are too many games to go, including the entire second half of the season. “The road is too long and I really don’t want to take our fans for a ride. If I said that S word, then I’d be crazy. I’m not just refusing to say it out of false modesty. “Don’t forget in December last year we were in second place, then bad luck ran us down. So many injuries, at least six simultaneously, saw our season precipitate. “After all, if we were to lose one or two important players, then we’d have to see if the team could make do without them,” continued Buffon. “In those difficult moments, if they come, we can tell how good this squad really is.” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Del Piero: 'Bring on Roma!' Dec 10, 2011 Alessandro Del Piero played 120 minutes in the Coppa Italia with eight stitches in his head, but riles up Juventus again. “Bring on Roma!” The captain has barely featured this season and his appearance on Sunday lasted just eight minutes before he was accidentally kicked in the side of the head, warranting eight stitches. Despite that injury and medics advising rest, he played the full Coppa Italia tie plus extra time to beat Bologna 2-1 last night. “It took 120 minutes to get past Bologna in the Coppa Italia and qualify for the quarter-finals,” he wrote on his official website. “It was a tough game during which we were capable of reacting to the huge blow of conceding an equaliser in stoppages. “You just need to see how the game went to understand how much we all care about this objective, which allows us to continue the climb towards the ‘Silver Star,’ that is the 10th Coppa Italia. “We were supported from start to finish by our fans and this was important. I’d like to thank them all, even personally, for the warmth they greeted us with. “In terms of my own performance, let’s just say my head held up, despite the protection and the ‘turban’ on the wound I felt good and am happy with the game. I’m satisfied with my 120 minutes and ready to concentrate on the next step, Monday’s trip to the Olimpico. “We can’t stop now! Bring on Roma!” http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Buffon: Talk of winning the Scudetto this early in the season is 'crazy' Despite the fact that the Turin club are top of Serie A and unbeaten after 13 league games, the 33-year-old feels that talk of his side being likely winners is premature. Dec 10, 2011 Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has dismissed talk of his side winning the Scudetto as "crazy", stating that it is much too early to label them as Serie A champions-elect. The Turin outfit are currently two points ahead of AC Milan and Udinese at the summit of the Italian top flight and are unbeaten after 13 games. With a tricky fixture to come against an unpredictable Roma side at the Stadio Olimpico on Monday night, the 33-year-old feels that speaking about where his team will end up at the culmination of the season is pointless. “We need a great deal of calm here,” the Carrara-born keeper told Tuttosport. “There are too many games to go, including the entire second half of the season. “The road is too long and I really don’t want to take our fans for a ride. If I said that 'S-word', then I’d be crazy. I’m not just refusing to say it out of false modesty." Buffon was also quick to remind fans of last season, when Juventus enjoyed a strong start to the campaign but fell away to end up finishing seventh. “Don’t forget, in December last year we were in second place, then bad luck ran us down. So many injuries, at least six simultaneously, saw our season precipitate," the Italy international warned. “After all, if we were to lose one or two important players, then we’d have to see if the team could make do without them. “In those difficult moments, if they come, we can tell how good this squad really is," he concluded.

Serie A Week 15 - 12-12-2011 (8:45 p.m.) - Olimpico Stadium - Rome Referee: Daniele Orsato Del Piero ready for Roma clash after midweek Coppa Italia win The veteran striker says the extra-time victory over Bologna shows the Turin outfit's dedication to the cup, and wants to keep their run going against the capital-city side. Dec 10, 2011 Juventus stalwart Alessandro Del Piero believes his side are ready to face Roma, and feels that the midweek 2-1 extra-time win over Bologna in the Coppa Italia will help build confidence ahead of the Serie A clash. A Cluadio Marchisio strike in the added period gave the Turin club victory in a game in which the 37-year-old forward played every minute, and the veteran believes it was an important triumph. “It took 120 minutes to get past Bologna in the Coppa Italia and qualify for the quarter-finals,” Del Piero stated on his official website. “It was a tough game and we were capable of reacting to the huge blow of conceding an equaliser in stoppage-time. “You just need to see how the game went to understand how much we all care about this objective, which allows us to continue the climb towards the ‘Silver Star,’ that is, the 10th Coppa Italia [in Juventus' history]. “We were supported from start to finish by our fans and this was important. I’d like to thank them all, even personally, for the warmth with which they greeted us," he continued. Antonio Conte's men currently top Serie A, two points clear of AC Milan and Udinese, and face a misfiring Roma outfit on Monday night. Del Piero hopes for inclusion in the starting XI and feels his side have the momentum to get through the fixture. "I’m satisfied with my 120 minutes and ready to concentrate on the next step, Monday’s trip to the Olimpico," he added. “We can’t stop now - bring on Roma." http://www.soccerway...regular-season/

Coppa Italia - Ottavi di finale - 8-12-2011 (ore 21:00) 2 - 1 dopo tempi supplementari Emanuele Giaccherini (90') Andrea Raggi (90+4′ ) Claudio Marchisio (103') Juventus Arena - Torino Arbitro: Sebastiano Peruzzo Coppa Italia - Marchisio 7 bellezze La Juventus supera il Bologna e accede ai quarti di Coppa Italia. Partita non bellissima fino a metà secondo tempo, poi al 90esimo Giaccherini porta avanti la Juve, ma Raggi - di testa - manda le squadre ai supplementari. Nell'extra-time decide il neo entrato Marchisio, al 7° centro stagionale. Eurosport - Giovedí, 8 dicembre 2011 Ancora e sempre Claudio Marchisio. E' il centrocampista della Nazionale il vero uomo in più di questa Juventus: Conte lo sa, lo preserva e quando in difficoltà lo butta nella mischia sperando che il "piccolo Tardelli" gli risolva le situazioni più complicate. Marchisio di solito risponde presente, come in occasione del primo degli ottavi di finale di Coppa Italia contro il Bologna: settima perla stagionale del "Principino" (in 13 partite) e Juventus ai quarti della coppa nazionale. QUAGLIARELLA-DEL PIERO COPPIA D’ATTACCO – Come nelle aspettative della vigilia, massiccio turnover di Antonio Conte che lascia in panchina tutti i titolari a eccezione della coppia di centrali difensivi (Bonucci-Barzagli) costretta a fare gli straordinari per via della mancanza di ricambi. Davanti ci sono Del Piero – quattro giorni dopo il brutto taglio rimediato contro il Cesena – e Quagliarella, titolare a un anno esatto dall’ultima volta. Sugli esterni spazio a Krasic e Giaccherini, con Pazienza e Marrone in mediana. Titolari anche Storari (“In Coppa Italia è il lui il titolare”, ha detto Conte), Sorensen e De Ceglie. PRIMO TEMPO SOPORIFERO: NON SUCCEDE NULLA – Il 4-2-4 della Juventus non riconosce più il proprio padrone: Conte inverte spesso le fasce di Krasic e Giaccherini, ma il poco filtro a centrocampo rende inutile anche la grande voglia di fare ben dei due attaccanti davanti al proprio pubblico. L’esterno d’attacco serbo si muove molto, “taglia” alle spalle dei difensori avversari anche con i tempi giusti, ma è disordinato nel fraseggio e nei rientri. La prima occasione da gol arriva abbondantemente dopo la mezz’ora di gioco, e porta la firma bolognese di Vantaggiato: la sua punizione dal limite è ben calciata, ma per battere Storari serve altro. La risposta della Juventus si materializza al 43esimo, ma Quagliarella – favorito da una carambola fra Krasic e Raggi – è fermato dall’uscita disperata di Agliardi. CHE GRAN SECONDO TEMPO: MA E’ LA STESSA PARTITA? - Rispetto al primo, il secondo tempo è decisamente più emozionante, soprattutto per merito della Juventus. Dopo pochi secondi Krasic si mangia un gol già fatto da pochi passi e pochi minuti più tardi sono Del Piero e Quagliarella a vedersi fermati da un Agliardi in giornata di grazia. Il capitano della Juventus, alla ricerca ancora del primo gol del nuovo stadio, sfiora il vantaggio due volte a cavallo del quarto d’ora, ma prima il suo sinistro da posizione defilata si perde a lato, quindi la sua conclusione dal limite è deviata in angolo dal bravissimo Agliardi sugli sviluppi di un bel triangolo nello stretto con Quagliarella. Le squadre si allungano e, oltre ad Agliardi – che continua a fare il fenomeno sugli attaccanti della Juve (Quagliarella va fuori per un problema muscolare, dentro al suo posto Estigarribia), mentre dall’altra parte è Storari a salire in cattedra negando il gol a Vantaggiato prima e ad Acquafresca poi. ANCORA 1-1: COME IN CAMPIONATO – Quando ormai lo 0-0 sembra il risultato più probabile ci pensa Giaccherini a spezzare l’equilibrio al 90esimo con una cavalcata d’altri tempi conclusa con un destro a incrociare sul palo più lontano da posizione defilata. Sale la tensione, Pulzetti si fa male e deve lasciare il Bologna in dieci per via dei tre cambi già effettuati da Pioli, i giocatori in campo si spazientiscono e nasce una mini-rissa che Peruzzo fatica a sedare anche con i cartellini (Pazienza e Acquafresca). Al 95esimo arriva il gol che manda le squadre ai supplementari: lo segna Raggi, con un colpo di testa “alla Cannavaro” sugli sviluppi di un calcio d’angolo dalla destra. IL SOLITO MARCHISIO: LA JUVE AI QUARTI DI FINALE – Quando Conte è in difficoltà quest’anno è solito affidarsi a lui, al centrocampista che al momento vale i più forti colleghi d’Europa. Lo aveva chiamato in causa al 79esimo dopo aver concesso quasi 80 minuti al baby Marrone: Marchisio è però un’altra cosa, è uno che si butta dentro, che attacca lo spazio e che conclude quanto (se non più) di un attaccante. Da quando viene mandato in campo, il “Principino” ci prova almeno sei volte e, al minuto 102, trova la rete del 2-1 su straordinaria giocata personale, scherzando con Khrin e trovando il diagonale vincente con il mancino da dentro l’area. Agliardi non può nulla, Marchisio può festeggiare il 2-1 bianconero che vale la qualificazione e la settima marcatura stagionale. Su 13 partite. Come un attaccante, anzi meglio di un attaccante: perchè Marchisio – che di professione resta e resterà sempre un centrocampista – è ormai giocatore di caratura mondiale. Un fuoriclasse... Andrea Tabacco - Eurosport http://www.tifosibia...0#entry11679599 Juventus - Bologna 2-1