Juventus Season 2012-2013

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000

What We Learned from Juve's 1-0 Win in Sicily

Dec 9, 2012

On Sunday, Juventus celebrated the return of their coach Antonio Conte with a 1-0 win over Palermo.

Conte's impact on the team was felt immediately. After an uninspired performance during the first half, the team exited the dressing room with a renewed vigour and dominated Palermo after the break.

The only goal of the game came after 50 minutes, when a beautiful back heel by Mirko Vucinic isolated Stephan Lichtsteiner in front of goal. The Swiss international remained calm and slotted the ball in the bottom-left corner.

The weather had a big impact on this game, with rain pouring onto the frozen pitch for the full 90 minutes. Juventus were clearly more comfortable in these kind of conditions, as Palermo were never able to find any momentum.

Here's what we learned from this game.

Leonardo Bonucci Has Taken the Step to the Next Level

A couple of weeks ago, we spoke about the progress Leonardo Bonucci had made since last season. The Italian international had found a way to limit the mistakes that plagued him early in his career and finally looked like the player fans had hoped he would become when the team gave up fan favourite Domenico Criscito to acquire him.

But Bonucci's run didn't stop there, and after watching his masterful performance against Palermo, I think it's safe to say he's taken the step to the next level.

Bonucci hasn't just stopped making silly mistakes; he's completely shut out any attacker he's faced all season. His positioning has become elite, and the way he attacks the ball reminds me of Fabio Cannavaro, a former Juventus great.

He has become incredibly proficient in the air, and his patented long balls no longer miss the mark half of the time.

Playing next to Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini, Bonucci always seemed to be in the shadow of the two best defenders Italy had to offer. That no longer seems to be the case.

Looking at his play this season, it's time to start talking about Bonucci as an elite defender.

Juventus Need a Lot of Work on Set Pieces

Another topic we touched on earlier this season. Juventus have been absolutely dreadful at set pieces, and it doesn't look like there's any kind of progress being made.

Antonio Conte wants his team to play football, and as a result he often asks Andrea Pirlo to take his corners and free kicks short.

The problem is: It doesn't work.

For all of the opportunities Juve receive to fire in dangerous crosses on set pieces, they hardly ever materialise. How often do we see the Bianconeri take set pieces short, only to pass the ball back to one of the defenders waiting in midfield?

The Bianconeri have a lot of size in their team, and players like Bonucci, Chiellini and Vucinic are very able headers. On top of that, they have players like Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal waiting on the edge of the box, ready to take any ball the defense can't clear and fire it on goal.

Because of the team's emphasis on playing on the wing, Juventus will get a lot of opportunities in the form of set pieces. Conte should really work on turning those set pieces into one of the main weapons of his team.

Mirko Vucinic Might Be the Team's Most Underrated Player

For all of you fans suggesting Juventus sell Mirko Vucinic to fund a transfer for a new striker: I hope you watched this game.

Vucinic is one of the Bianconeri's most important players, but because he doesn't score goals, he's often overlooked.

His proficiency in bringing down the most difficult crosses and hold on to the ball is very, very rare.

When he was paired with Alessandro Matri against Palermo, fans got to witness the Montenegrin at his best, and it was pretty impressive.

His assist that provided Juventus with the only goal of the game was a perfect example of what he can do. Controlling a ridiculously difficult cross with his chest, he brought down the ball and held on to it long enough for Stephan Lichtsteiner to make his run into the box.

A simple back heel later, the Swiss winger found himself all alone in front of goal, and all he had to do was pick a corner and put it away.

Credit Vucinic for about 95 percent of that goal.

Vucinic might never score 30 goals in a season, but facing a defense that is difficult to break down, he is one of the most useful players any team can have on their roster. And there are plenty of good defenses in the Serie A.

Alessandro Matri Wasn't Good, but He Wasn't Bad Either.

Before you bring out the pitchforks and light the torches, hear me out.

Yes, Alessandro Matri missed about 25 open chances in this game. Yes, Arturo Vidal's through ball in the first half was so perfect even my mum could have put that away.

But for all of his misses in front of goal, Matri played a very useful game in midfield and the buildup.

Matri hasn't played all that many minutes this season, and his start against Palermo was his first in ages. He lacks the confidence of the coaching staff, and with that much rust, he's bound not to be very sharp in front of goal.

But Matri fought the entire game. He did a remarkable amount of defensive work and provided the midfielders with an excellent target to play the ball into the box. He did a good job holding on to the ball and forced a lot of openings for his teammates.

If he had scored on that beautiful pass from Vidal, he could have easily received a B for his efforts.

The month of December will be crucial for Matri, and he will have to prove to Conte that there is still a place for him on this team. But fans should at least give the guy the chance to get his feet under him and build some confidence. Strikers don't just magically start scoring again.

I was very happy to see him start today, and I hope he gets some more chances in the following weeks. If the goals stay away, so be it.

Juventus Are Better Than Last Year

Last season, Antonio Conte's men didn't lose a single game on their way to the Serie A title. It was an incredible performance from a team that could be described as solid, organised and hard-working.

This year's team is different. It's still as solid and organised as last year, but there's a certain flair and vigour that last year's team was lacking.

With the addition of Kwadwo Asamoah and Sebastian Giovinco, Juventus are far more explosive. Arturo Vidal has developed into a better overall player, and Andrea Pirlo has a better grasp of the system he's running.

Even Claudio Marchisio, who was suffering a bit of a slump in recent weeks, seems to be turning the corner and on his way to the level he was playing at at the start of the season.

The biggest knock on the Bianconeri last year was their inability to put teams away. They drew 15 games all season and nearly lost the title to Milan because of it.

Not this year, though. Juventus are finding ways to win the difficult games and are able to hold off comeback attempts by pesky opponents.

Through 16 games, they already have 12 wins and only two draws.

The Serie A looks to be very competitive this season, with teams like Inter Milan and Napoli playing some incredible football, and I would advise fans to watch both teams take on each other later tonight.

But even with Inter and Napoli elevating their game, Juventus remain the team to beat around Italy. And that feat has not become any easier in 2012-2013.

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000

The Boss Is Back, Normal Service Restored

Dec 9, 2012

Regular readers will undoubtedly be aware of Aaron’s long-held ‘curse of the mezzogiorno’ theory that states all southern teams redouble their efforts when faced with the black and white stripes of Turin’s Old Lady. However, this game had much more in common with Juve’s recent visits to Chievo with the Renzo Barbera looking more and more like the potato field that is the Stadio Bentegodi in Verona as the match wore on. Here’s John and Adam with the review

MATCH ANALYSIS (by Adam Digby)

As suggested in our preview of this encounter, the past few weeks have seen Juventus take on important opponent after important opponent and perhaps the danger here, after games against Lazio, Chelsea, Milan and Shakhtar Donetsk – with the small matter of the Turin derby sandwiched between them – was that the players might relax when faced with relatively weaker – or at least less significant – opponents.

There were however, two factors to consider when looking to this encounter with the Rosanero. Firstly is the poor record of Juventus when facing the Sicilian outfit in recent seasons. Before this weekend, the Old Lady had won just two of the six previous meetings between the pair, losing four consecutive matches prior to last season and being outscored nine goals to two during that period.

The second, and easily most pertinent, was the fact the match signalled the return to active duty for Antonio Conte, his ban for failing to stab Filippo Carobbio to death during their time together in Siena expiring in time for the Coach to be permitted to take full control of the team here. It was a significant day for both Conte and the club who, despite topping the Serie A table and progressing in the Champions League, have clearly missed their leader at times.

Yet as much as this was billed as his return to the bench, for large portions of this game he did nothing of the kind. Described by Gigi Buffon as ‘a caged lion’ during his suspension, Conte seemed to spend the entire 90 minutes prowling the technical area and bellowing at his players. If they – or anyone watching on television – were in any doubt as to the difference he would make, an hour and a half long verbal assault should clarify it for them.

To the surprise of many – particularly those who took advantage of Sky Italia’s ‘Conte-Cam’ (and maybe the Palermo ground staff) – there was also an actual football match taking place and there too the returning hero would make clear both the impact he makes and the power he exerts over this group of players. As the first half petered out in a hail of Mirko Vucinic induced frustration and other equally annoying Juventus bingo clichés (powerful Kwadwo Asamoah runs ending in crosses to strikers poor in the air? Check. Giorgio Chiellini injury he shakes off? Check. Shot of Buffon wandering aimlessly around his area before bellowing for no reason? Check) it was time for ‘The Boss’ to earn his proverbial corn.

We should have put the game to bed earlier, but sometimes it’s not that straightforward against certain teams. It was important to win, also for Conte, in order to welcome him back with a success. - Stephan Lichtsteiner

With Angelo Alessio criticised for basically being too nice, it was deemed that the fire Conte is able to light under his players at half-time was the single biggest difference in the team over the past four months. It worked. Vucinic began passing to men in the same outfit as him rather than his usual preferred option of playing through balls for the side netting and came up with an absolute gem of an assist to Stephan Lichtsteiner for what would prove to be the only goal of the game.

“I’ll have to buy him two dinners for that!” proclaimed the Swiss full back in a post-match interview and he should ensure he does, perhaps a full stomach might convince the hot-and-cold Montenegrin to play as he did in the second forty-five minutes rather than the first. More fitting however was the name on the score sheet with Lichtsteiner perhaps the one player who, above all others, most embodies the spirit of both Conte as a player and the identity he has instilled in this team.

LE PAGELLE (by John Cascarano)

Buffon 6.0 – Default score for once again having nothing to do.

Barzagli 8.0 – Was the single biggest reason for the score/summary above.

Bonucci 7.0 – Solid performance for Boner, becoming the norm. I’d normally be pissed about his yellow card at the end, but that seemed pretty harsh for me.

Chiellini 6.5 – Giorgio, like Buffon, gets a lower score for having less to do. Held his own.

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Lichtsteiner 8.5 – MOTM. Complete train out there. Took a face to the head, bombed up and down the right side and, completely owned it. And scored. Game, set, match.

64′ Padoin 5.0 – Nothing bad, nothing good. I still can’t figure out why he’s on this team.

Marchisio 6.5 – Filled the midfield where Vidal wasn’t in the second half. Covered well, but would’ve liked to see some more forward runs (cue Lichtsteiner).

Pirlo 6.5 – Did not change the game, but did his job in the midfield. + 0.5 for his new-found aggressiveness under Conte, and willingness to get dirty.

Vidal 7.5 – Absolutely a beast, his tackling was once again impeccable. I don’t yet know what his injury status is, but am currently terrified.

54′ Pogba – 6.5 – Did the job in the (unfortunate) absence of Vidal.

Asamoah 5.5 – A relatively quiet day for birthday boy Asabobo.

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Vucinic 6.0 – Dammit, Mirko. You’re up to your old tricks again. – 0.5 for missing that sitter.

Matri 5.0 – Got into good positions, and chested down the ball on a near Marchisio/shoulda-been-a-Vucinic goal. Should have done better, but didn’t play horribly.

73′ Bendtner – s.v. – Should’ve scored. Did virtually nothing beyond that. Sweet gloves though, Nicky.

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Antonio Conte – 10.0 – Gets a perfect 10 for a triumphant return. And since now he’s not caged up in his little booth anymore, I’m terrified that he’ll fly his scary ass over here and physically harm me if I rate him otherwise.

ANALYSIS WRAP-UP (by Adam Digby)

A very non-descript match but one which will undoubtedly be remembered for Conte’s return, even a look at the stats fails to provide any redeeming features. Juve edged possession but had just 53% themselves, the passed the ball marginally better – an 80% completion rate compared to 75% for Palermo – and was reflected in a game which felt remarkably even the whole way through.

The Rosanero did well to shackle Claudio Marchisio following some superb recent displays and on the whole their own 3-5-1-1 formation both mirrored Juve’s own set up and stifled the attacking intent of players like him, Asamoah and Lichtsteiner. It is perhaps the subdued performances of that aforementioned trio which most contributed to the increased feeling of parity as this game wore on. Normally so dynamic, they were nullified well by Gian Piero Gasperini’s usual approach.

Of course the other take away point from the game will be the dive from Leo Bonucci. Yes he received a yellow card and apologised but the incident will undoubtedly be replayed time and again over the coming days. Luckily for him – and everyone else of a Bianconeri persuasion – the referee spotted it on the field and punished him accordingly, thus preventing a repeat of the situation Milos Krasic found himself in two years ago.

The team reacted in an extraordinary manner and I thank the players, because they really are special. So is the club and perhaps so am I. I am fortunate enough to have a great staff, as Massimo Carrera and Angelo Alessio did brilliantly in replacing me and giving orders from the touchline. – Antonio Conte

Hopefully it will be Conte’s return that is focused upon as seeing him come from behind the plexi-glass of a directors box and do his job was reason enough to cheer, even if the action unfolding in front of him left much to be desired. The Boss is indeed back!

BENTORNATO MISTER!!

Senza di te non andremo lontano,

ANTONIO CONTE IL NOSTRO CAPITANO!

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000‎

Player Ratings

The Old Lady had Stephan Lichsteiner to thank whose goal in the second half of a tightly-

fought and icy cold encounter in the Sicily was enough to earn the champions victory..

Dec 9, 2012

PALERMO

Samir Ujkani - Certainly the busier of the two goalkeepers and put in a decent display. Could not do too much about Lichtsteiner's winner.

Ezequiel Muñoz - Like his defensive partners, Munoz was also solid at the back though he did struggle at times in his personal battles with Vucinic and Matri.

Steve von Bergen - Had a strong showing at the back for Gasperini's side as he got stuck in and made a number of important tackles.

Santiago García - Coped at times with the threat of Lichtsteiner, however, like Pisano he too found it difficult to provide much of an outlet for his side in attack.

Eros Pisano - Struggled with the pace and physicality of Asamoah and was penned into his own half as a result. Subsequently, he failed to offer anything going forward and was rightly withdrawn at half time.

Michel Morganella - A strong and physical presence in the middle for the Sicilians, but his passing left something to be desired. Was rightly sent off in the second half, leaving his side with a mountain to climb

Edgar Barreto - Playing in the heart of midfield, he was overshadowed by the likes of Pirlo and Vidal. Still managed to get on the ball often, even if his effect on the game was minimal.

Massimo Donati - The former Milan man marshaled the Palermo defence well, particularly in the opening period.

Josip Iličič - The 24-year-old's pace was a threat for Palermo on the counter attack and he always tried to link up with Miccoli.

Jasmin Kurtić - The Slovenian got on the ball often as he tried to direct proceedings for his side. Despite trying in vain, he did not perhaps affect the match as he would have liked.

Fabrizio Miccoli - The diminutive striker was left rather isolated at times as Palermo often retreated deep with Juve pushing forward. However, when the ball did come his way he was dangerous and had a goal disallowed.

Substitutions

Viola - He may have only played for 15 minutes, but, he made as many tackles as anyone of his team-mates.

Paulo Dybala - The young Argentine made an immediate impact when coming on in the second half with a good effort on goal.

Franco Brienza - Came on for the ineffective Pisano at half-time and despite being a more offensive player, he too failed to really make an impact on the flank.

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - The Italy captain did not have too much to do as Palermo were unable to get in behind the Juve defence. But he was comfortable when he was called into action.

Giorgio Chiellini - Despite picking up a knock in the opening stages, he solidered on with great determination. Dealt comfortably with what Palermo offered going forward and was one of the reasons why they had so few goal-scoring chances.

Andrea Barzagli - As ever, a physical presence at the back for Juve and a reliable inclusion on this particular afternoon. Went about his job dutifully against his former side.

Leonardo Bonucci - The former Bari man was everywhere for the visitors. He was sound at the back, taking no chances, while he also surged forward at every opportunity.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - The Swiss ruled on the right flank for the best part. He stormed forward at every chance while defensively he hardly put a foot wrong. Most importantly, he scored the decisive goal with a good touch and finish.

Claudio Marchisio - It was a typically all-round performance from the combative midfielder, who had his chances to score while defensively he let nothing go by him.

Andrea Pirlo - The Italian once again orchestrated the game for the visitors. Not known for his physical strength, he coped very well in what was at times a tightly contested squall in the middle of the park.

Kwadwo Asamoah - The Ghanaian did not have his best outing, but, it was not his worst either. Got forward readily while he comfortably contained the limited threat of Pisano and later Brienza.

Arturo Vidal - Was unstoppable in the first half, winning tackles while contributing much in an attacking sence. His superb tackle on Morganella before setting up Matri with a delightful through ball showed why he is so important to Juve. Worryingly, was withdrawn early in the second period due to an injury.

Mirko Vučinić - Hit the woodwork in the first half, set up the winning goal with a delightful back-heeled pass and then came close again in the second period. The Montenegrin was Juve’s main attacking outlet and he did not disappoint.

Alessandro Matri - The Italian has been a little goal-shy this season. Had a good chance in the first half to open the scoring, but saw his effort saved by Ujkani. Battled hard but was replaced with a quarter of an hour to go.

Substitutions

Paul Pogba - The Frenchman came on for Vidal and put in a decent showing. Got stuck in defensively though offered little in attack.

Simone Padoin - Introduced for Lichtsteiner and went about helping his team secure all three points.

Nicklas Bendtner - Almost opened his account for the club moments after coming on with a shot that just shaved the post. It proved to be his only contribution of note.

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000‎

Conte: 'Ban made me stronger'

Dec 9, 2012

Antonio Conte was back on the Juventus bench after four months and hailed his “special players” for a victory in Palermo.

“It is inevitable that it causes you pain when you’re away from the field for such a long time, even if you get to work with the team during the week,” said Conte.

“You miss the emotions of the game, but I have been forced to face this situation and hope that it was at least helpful to build character.

“The team reacted in an extraordinary manner and I thank the players, because they really are special. So is the club and perhaps so am I. I am fortunate enough to have a great staff, as Massimo Carrera and Angelo Alessio did brilliantly in replacing me and giving orders from the touchline.

“The fact we are so in sync allowed us to deal with the situation in the best way possible.”

The Coach had been banned for four months for failing to alert authorities to a potential fix when he was at Siena – charges he has always denied.

“When you do your job with the passion and enthusiasm that I bring to it, then being out of the game after preparing it can make you feel as if you’re missing something. Of course, I prefer to train the side during the week and not lead the match rather than having nothing to do with them at all.

“I was able to get to know certain people better and the experience fortified me. There is little positive in being behind a glass wall in the stands.

“If this ban had happened last year, it would’ve been the end for me and for Juventus.”

His comeback coincided with a hard-fought 1-0 victory away to Palermo, sealed by Stephan Lichtsteiner.

“We have got to score more goals and if Palermo had equalised then we would’ve gone into a training camp for two days. We have to be more clinical, as a free kick can change everything and that would’ve been criminal.”

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000

Bonucci sorry for dive

Dec 9, 2012

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has apologised for his embarrassing dive today. “That’ll teach me.”

Bonucci was clear on goal in the final minutes of today’s 1-0 victory at Palermo when challenged by goalkeeper Samir Ujkani and let himself fall to the ground.

“I was supposed to shoot, but then I got different ideas clogged in my head,” he wrote on Twitter.

“I deserved that yellow card and set a bad example. That’ll teach me. As for the rest, it was a great victory.”

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000‎

Buffon: 'Welcome back Conte'

Dec 9, 2012

Gigi Buffon welcomed back Antonio Conte to the touchline and explained why he does not want a lengthy contract with Juventus.

The Coach made his comeback after the four-month ban expired and was shouting from the bench during the 1-0 win in Palermo.

“Conte’s presence is very important, even before kick-off. He ensures nobody can step on to the field lacking concentration or motivation. That’s practically impossible with Antonio!

“We should’ve been more incisive with our attacks today, but winning is what counts and we achieved that.

“The conditions were not helpful. Believe me, it is not as easy as it looks to be a goalkeeper in the rain when there are very few scoring opportunities, as you have to stay sharp.”

Buffon is in negotiations to renew his contract with Juve, but revealed there are some unexpected problems.

“We are getting close to finalising the deal, but we have to discuss the length, as I would like a short contract.

“I don’t want to take anyone’s money without deserving it. I have had an important career and I think I can continue for another two or three years if I maintain certain motivation and targets. It’s about self-esteem too.”

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000

Lichtsteiner rues missed chances

Dec 10, 2012

Stephan Lichtsteiner insists that Juventus should have locked up the three points well before he netted the only goal of the game at Palermo.

The Old Lady created numerous scoring opportunities in Sicily, but had to wait until a second-half strike from the Swiss international to break the deadlock.

“We should have put the game to bed earlier, but sometimes it’s not that straightforward against certain teams,” he stated.

The win for Juventus allowed them to maintain their grip on first place and also meant that boss Antonio Conte made a winning return to the bench following his suspension.

“It was important to win, also for Conte, in order to welcome him back with a success,” the former Lazio man commented.

“I’ll take him and the entire team out for dinner, because we’ve won a complicated game, against a strong side, who don’t deserve to be where they are in the League.”

Palermo are in relegation danger thanks to just 14 points from 16 games so far.

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000

Conte: Maybe I am a little special,

like my extraordinary Juventus players

The Bianconeri boss marked his return to the dugout in Sunday's win over Palermo, and

he admits that if the saga had happened last year, he and the club would have parted company.

Dec 10, 2012

Juventus coach Antonio Conte believes the response he and his players showed during his suspension for his alleged involvement in the Scommessopoli scandal proves the club is "special".

The 43-year-old has been banned from leading his side on matchdays for the past four months after being charged with failure to report two instances of match-fixing while in charge of Siena.

However, he made his return in the Old Lady's 1-0 victory at Palermo on Sunday, and after the game thanked his players for helping him through his absence from Serie A for so long.

"It's inevitable that when you are away on the pitch - the smell of grass, as I defined it three or four weeks ago - for so long, it is a pain," Conte said on Sky Sports Italia. "You do miss something, even if you work with the team throughout the week.

"But, I had to face this situation and I think it was a learning experience in so many ways. And I think the team has responded extraordinarily.

"I want to thank the players, because for me to be able to do in four months what I have done means that I have some special players. Special is the company and maybe I’m a little 'special' too."

The Bianconeri trainer believes the experience would have proven too painful a year ago - to the point that both parties would have severed ties.

"It is inevitable that it causes you pain when you're away from the pitch for such a long time, even if you get to work with the team during the week," Conte told reporters after the match.

"You miss the emotions of the game, but I have been forced to face this situation, and I hope that it was at least helpful to strengthen my character.

"When you do your job with the passion and enthusiasm that I bring to it, then being out of the game after so much preparation can make you feel as if you're missing something.

"Of course, I prefer to train the side during the week and not attend the dugout than having nothing to do with them at all.

"I was able to get to know certain people better and the experience fortified me. There is a little positive in being behind a glass wall in the stands.

"If this ban had happened last year, it would’ve been the end for me and Juventus."

Conte's assistants Massimo Carrera and Angelo Alessio oversaw the club's affairs while he sat out his suspension, and the Lecce native reserved praise for the way his right-hand men handled first-team affairs in his absence.

"The team reacted in an extraordinary manner and I thank the players because they really are special," he added. "So is the club and perhaps so am I.

"I am fortunate enough to have great staff, as Massimo Carrera and Angelo Alessio did brilliantly in replacing me and giving orders from the touchline.

"The fact we are so in sync with each other allowed us to deal with the situation in the best way possible."

Stephan Lichtsteiner's strike proved the difference at the Renzo Barbera, but Conte insists the Bianconeri's profligacy in front of goal could have ultimately cost them.

"We have got to score more goals, and if Palermo had equalised, then we would have gone into a training camp for two days," the former Italy midfielder remarked.

"We have to be more clinical, as a free kick can change everything and that would’ve been criminal."

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

[Socrates 8042]

Serie A Week 16 - 9-12-12 (3:00 p.m.)

0 - 1

Stephan Lichtsteiner (50′)

"Renzo Barbera" Stadium - Palermo

Referee: Andrea De Marco

Attendance: 17000

Bonucci banned after dive

Dec 11, 2012

Leonardo Bonucci has been fined and banned for one match after his yellow card for simulation during Juventus’ League match at Palermo.

The defender was booked during the Bianconeri’s 1-0 win at the Renzo Barbera for a dive taken in the penalty area.

Apologising afterwards, the Italy international has now faced action from the Italian game’s governing body, for what also proved to be his eighth yellow card of the season already.

Bonucci was already on a warning for previous conduct in the season and has now been hit by the FIGC’s disciplinary committee with a €2,000 fine and a one-game suspension.

http://www.soccerway.com/national/italy/serie-a/20122013/regular-season/

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[Socrates 8042]

[Socrates 8042]

[Socrates 8042]

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Pulga warns Juventus

Dec 11, 2012

Cagliari Coach Ivo Pulga warns Juventus “we’re not beaten yet” ahead of their Coppa Italia encounter, but makes some unusual selections.

“It’ll be a great appointment for the club,” said the tactician who steps into the Juventus Stadium at 20.00 GMT.

“Juventus will use their second string side, but those names could easily be first choices in any other team.

“We’re not beaten yet. We want to play our game and have our chances at qualification. We’ve been dropping points due to bad luck recently, as the only really negative performance was against Udinese.

“It just means we’ll have to fight back with even more hard work, determination, concentration and grit.”

However, Pulga left behind many key players such as Radja Nainggolan, Nene, Daniele Conti, Davide Astori, Marco Sau, Andrea Cossu and Lorenzo Ariaudo.

Cagliari squad for Juventus: Agazzi, Avramov; Camilleri, Del Fabro, Murru, Perico, Rossettini, Russu; Casarini, Ceppelini, Dessena, Ekdal, Eriksson, Piredda; Chelo, Ibarbo, Pinilla, Thiago Ribeiro

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Juventus - Cagliari Preview: Bianconeri continue

double quest in Coppa Italia clash

The Turin club enjoy a four-point cushion at the Serie A summit, and can reach

the quarter-final's of Italy's cup competition if they can overcome Wednesday's visitors.

Dec 11, 2012

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

JUVENTUS

Buffon

Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres

Padoin, Giaccherini, Pogba, Marchisio, De Ceglie

Giovinco, Bendtner

CAGLIARI

Avramov

Perico, Rossettini, Ariaudo, Avelar

Ekdal, Nainggolan, Dessena

Ceppellini

Ibarbo, Pinilla

After recording victory in his return to the Juventus bench having served a lengthy suspension for his part in a match-rigging scandal, coach Antonio Conte is set to rotate his team for the visit of Cagliari in the Coppa Italia last-16.

Gianluigi Buffon will drop to the bench, replaced by Marco Storari who will be given the chance to shine in goal, while Andrea Pirlo is another who will be rested for the clash, with Paul Pogba set to start.

There are also two changes in attack. Alessandro Matri and Mirko Vucinic, who led the line against Palermo at the weekend, see their places taken by Sebastian Giovinco and Fabio Quagliarella for the cup tie.

The Sardinians will hope for an immediate recovery after going down 2-0 at the weekend to Chievo, leaving them 14th in the Serie A standings. One of the key changes could be seen in the playmaking position; Andrea Cossu is likely to be rested, meaning former Penarol youngster and Uruguay Under-20 international Pablo Cepellini may get the chance to shine in Juventus Stadium.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Juventus were the first-ever Italian team to complete the national double, lifting the Serie A and Coppa Italia titles in 1960. They were also the first to repeat that feat, in 1995.

• The Bianconeri are making their Coppa bow at the last-16 stage, having reached the final in 2011-12 and going down to Napoli.

• Victory at the weekend extended Juve's Serie A lead to four points, ahead of Inter who went second on Sunday with victory over Napoli.

• Cagliari have already won twice in this year's Coppa, downing Spezia and Pescara 2-1 and 4-2 respectively.

• Brazilian striker Thiago Ribeiro is joint-top scorer going into the last-16, thanks to a hat-trick notched against Pescara.

• The Rossoblu have never lifted the Coppa Italia, their best performance came in 1968-69 when the Sardinians finished runners-up to Roma.

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- May 6, 2012 - Cagliari 0 - Juventus 2

Serie A ‎- Jan 15, 2012 - Juventus 1 - Cagliari 1

Serie A ‎- Feb 5, 2011 - Cagliari 1 - Juventus 3

Serie A ‎- Sep 26, 2010 - Juventus 4 - Cagliari 2

Serie A ‎- Apr 11, 2010 - Juventus 1 - Cagliari 0

Last Five Matches

Juventus

Dec 9, 2012 - Palermo 0 - Juventus 1 - Serie A

Dec 5, 2012 - Shakhtar Donetsk 0 - Juventus 1 - UCL

Dec 1, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Torino 0 - Serie A

Nov 25, 2012 - AC Milan 1 - Juventus 0 - Serie A

Nov 20, 2012 - Juventus 3 - Chelsea FC 0 - UCL

Cagliari

Dec 9, 2012 - Cagliari 0 - Chievo 2 - Serie A

Dec 5, 2012 - Cagliari 4 - Pescara 2 - Coppa Italia

Dec 2, 2012 - Udinese 4 - Cagliari 1 - Serie A

Nov 26, 2012 - Cagliari 0 - SSC Napoli 1 - Serie A

Nov 18, 2012 - FC Internazionale 2 - Cagliari 2 - Serie A

Players to Watch

Paul Pogba

The 19-year-old midfielder has made an instant impact in Turin, with comparisons to Patrick Vieira already being thrown around after some accomplished displays. He will have the chance to further enhance his reputation against the Sardinians.

Mauricio Pinilla

The Chilean striker was on target in both of Cagliari's opening Coppa Italia meetings, and will be hoping to find the net to keep the club's hopes of winning a first cup title in their history alive.

Prediction

The Italians have been in imperious form so far in 2012-13, and even with a rotated starting line-up should have more than enough to dispatch their Coppa Italia rivals and advance to the last-eight.

Editor's Prediction

Juventus 3 - 1 Cagliari

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Strong Juve for Coppa tie

Dec 12, 2012

Antonio Conte has named a full-strength Juventus squad for their midweek Coppa Italia clash with Cagliari.

The Bianconeri host the Sardinian outfit this evening in the Last 16 clash, with the Coach having already confirmed that a number of the players on the outskirts of the first team will feature.

Conte, who will be in the Juventus Stadium dugout for the first time after his ban for alleged involvement in the betting scandal, has indicated that Emanuele Giaccherini, Luca Marrone and Simone Padoin could all play.

However, Martin Caceres misses out as he has yet to reach top condition after injury, whilst Lucio is also still sidelined with injury.

Yesterday’s evening training session suggests a 3-5-2 formation with the following line-up: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Isla, Padoin, Pogba, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Giovinco, Bendtner

Juventus squad to face Cagliari: 1 Buffon, 3 Chiellini, 6 Pogba, 7 Pepe, 8 Marchisio, 9 Vucinic, 11 De Ceglie, 12 Giovinco, 15 Barzagli, 17 Bendtner, 19 Bonucci, 20 Padoin, 21 Pirlo, 22 Asamoah, 23 Vidal, 24 Giaccherini, 26 Lichtsteiner, 32 Matri, 33 Isla, 34 Rubinho, 39 Marrone

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Coppa Italia: Juventus vs. Cagliari Rapid Fire Preview

Dec 12, 2012

A year ago, the Coppa Italia served as a de fecto Champions League for the simple fact that there was no European football to be had for Juventus.

That goodness we don't have to do that again.

But, in less than 24 hours, the Coppa Italia is back again. With Juventus continuing the Champions League voyage, the "other" trophy in Italy has certainly become a lot less important in the grand scheme of things. That's at least some people's general thinking of the matter. For some folks, like Antonio Conte, it's another trophy to win — one that eluded his team last season as they came up short in the final against Napoli.

For Conte, it will be his first game back at Juventus Stadium since he returned from his ban just 72 hours prior. I'm pretty sure the tifosi will be happy to see him, guys. Not quite sure, though. Just kinda a hunch I've got.

Anyway....

The Coppa Italia will probably mean a couple of things: 1) Players who don't start much will actually get to play; 2) It's a chance to see a team Juventus will play again in league in just a little over a week. It's not exactly inside information here, but it's what we've come to expect from the Coppa Italia. And let's face it: With Juventus playing on all three fronts this season, the Coppa Italia is third fiddle to the league campaign and Europe. That's just how it goes.

So, with that being said, are you ready? You know, ready for some football?

It's the Coppa Italia! Let's rock!

TEAM NEWS AND NOTES

A Coppa Italia game means Gigi Buffon gets the night off, right? Not so fast. Due to Marco Storari being suspended, San Gigi will get the start in goal for Juventus, according to Conte at his press conference on Tuesday. ...Also of note from the presser is the current injury situation. According to Conte, Luca Marrone and Mauricio Isla have recovered from their respective injuries. Not-so-good injury news: Martin Caceres and, to a lesser extent, Lucio.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. The lineups. It's the Coppa Italia and that means the benches will be used. It's pretty much the unwritten rule of this competition. Well, for some clubs, like Juventus, it is. Barring injuries, of course, the squad Conte trots out will certainly look different than the one that has been used in recent weeks. There haven't been too many chances for Andrea Pirlo or Claudio Marchisio to rest this season, but Wednesday's cup tie against Cagliari is the time to do so. Conte pretty much said in his pre-match press conference that there will be squad rotation, but to what extent is obviously in wait-and-see mode.

2. The striker combination. Mirko Vucinic has been playing as much as anybody in recent weeks, so if Conte wants to give him a night off, then this is probably the time to do so. That means the age-old question: Who starts up top? Sebastian Giovinco is fresh as can after sitting out Sunday's win due to suspension. The same can be said for Fabio Quagliarella, who has been sitting out the last few games for mouthing off to Angelo Alessio — at least that's our best educated guess at this point. Then there's Alessandro Matri and Nicklas Bendtner. Maybe Big Nick can just live-tweet the game or something if he doesn't get to play. At least he'd be serving some kind of purpose.

3. The reception Antonio Conte gets at Juventus Stadium. It will be loud, it will be fantastic. The tifosi will sing Conte's time and time again and it will be glorious. The reception Conte will undoubtedly will get is deserved and it is one that's been four months in the making. They chanted his name when he was up in the stands, and now it will be even that much better when he steps out onto the sidelines for the first home game since his touchline ban ended.

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Caceres; Isla, Pogba, Marrone, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Quagliarella Matri, Giovinco

Who knows, though. I could be totally wrong — which is very likely.

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Line-ups: Juventus-Cagliari

Dec 12, 2012

Juventus give Nicklas Bendtner and Paul Pogba rare starts as they welcome Cagliari in the Coppa Italia tonight, which is also Antonio Conte’s Turin comeback.

The Round of 16 tie kicks off at 20.00 GMT and it will be the first time Coach Conte has walked along the Juventus Stadium touchline this season.

His four-month ban in the betting scandal expired last week and he returned in the 1-0 win away to Palermo.

Fabio Quagliarella and Marco Storari are suspended, so Gigi Buffon unusually takes the gloves in this competition.

Pogba allows Andrea Pirlo to rest in midfield, Luca Marrone is used at centre-back, while Bendtner is given a chance alongside Sebastian Giovinco.

Cagliari have left behind key players like Radja Nainggolan, Nene, Daniele Conti, Davide Astori, Marco Sau, Andrea Cossu and Lorenzo Ariaudo.

The Sardinians crushed Pescara 4-2 in the last round and here rely on Mauricio Pinilla and the pace of Victor Ibarbo and Thiago Ribeiro.

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Isla, Padoin, Pogba, Giaccherini, De Ceglie; Bendtner, Giovinco

Juventus bench: Rubinho, Branescu, Lichtsteiner, Caceres, Chiellini, Vidal, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah, Vucinic, Matri

CAGLIARI: Avramov; Perico, Rossettini, Del Fabro, Murru; Eriksson, Ekdal; Ibarbo, Ceppelini, Thiago Ribeiro; Pinilla

Cagliari bench: Agazzi, Camilleri, Russu, Dessena, Casarini, Piredda, Chelo.

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

-

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

HT: Juve count injuries and misses

Dec 12, 2012

Juventus are still goalless at half-time against Cagliari in the Coppa Italia, but lost three players already to injury.

The Bianconeri’s first Coppa Italia tie of the season was also Coach Antonio Conte’s first at the Juventus Stadium since his four-match ban in the betting scandal expired. A huge banner read: ‘Welcome back to our leader, though you never really left.’

Fabio Quagliarella and Marco Storari were suspended, but Nicklas Bendtner, Paul Pogba and Luca Marrone were given rare starts. Cagliari left many of their top stars behind, using a very attack-minded 4-2-3-1 system.

Sebastian Giovinco, who was sporting a new beard, sprung the offside trap only to aim the finish weakly into the goalkeeper’s arms. Bendtner also blasted wide, but there was bad news when Arturo Vidal pulled up by himself in midfield and limped off with a suspected knee problem. Vidal had already been a last-minute replacement for Emanuele Giaccherini, who picked up an injury in the warm-up.

Bendtner thought he’d scored his first Juve goal, but again Vlada Avramov was able to parry. The Dane on loan from Arsenal headed a Leonardo Bonucci cross into the ground and back over from close range.

Giovinco had hooked a long ball over the top to go clear on goal when incorrectly ruled offside, though Avramov had also read his lob.

A Giovinco shot was accidentally charged down by teammate Paolo De Ceglie in the box, as Juve fans started to grumble from the stands. Bendtner then crumpled to the ground during a counter-attack and immediately called for a substitution. He was stretchered off for ex-Cagliari star Alessandro Matri, the third forced change for Conte this evening.

Juventus 0-0 Cagliari (Half-Time)

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Isla, Padoin, Pogba, Vidal (Asamoah 16), De Ceglie; Bendtner (Matri 44), Giovinco

CAGLIARI: Avramov; Perico, Rossettini, Del Fabro, Murru; Eriksson, Ekdal; Ibarbo, Ceppelini, Thiago Ribeiro; Pinilla

Ref: Guida

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Coppa: Juve squeeze past Cagliari

Sebastian Giovinco’s goal allowed Juventus to squeeze past Cagliari 1-0

in the Coppa Italia, but Arturo Vidal was one of three players who picked up injuries.

Dec 12, 2012

The Bianconeri’s first Coppa Italia tie of the season was also Coach Antonio Conte’s first at the Juventus Stadium since his four-match ban in the betting scandal expired. A huge banner read: ‘Welcome back to our leader, though you never really left.’

Fabio Quagliarella and Marco Storari were suspended, but Nicklas Bendtner, Paul Pogba and Luca Marrone were given rare starts. Cagliari left many of their top stars behind, using a very attack-minded 4-2-3-1 system.

Giovinco, who was sporting a new beard, sprung the offside trap only to aim the finish weakly into the goalkeeper’s arms. Bendtner also blasted wide, but there was bad news when Vidal pulled up by himself in midfield and limped off with a suspected knee problem. Vidal had already been a last-minute replacement for Emanuele Giaccherini, who picked up an injury in the warm-up.

Bendtner thought he’d scored his first Juve goal, but again Vlada Avramov was able to parry. The Dane on loan from Arsenal headed a Leonardo Bonucci cross into the ground and back over from close range.

Giovinco had hooked a long ball over the top to go clear on goal when incorrectly ruled offside, though Avramov had also read his lob.

A Giovinco shot was accidentally charged down by teammate Paolo De Ceglie in the box, as Juve fans started to grumble from the stands. Bendtner then crumpled to the ground during a counter-attack and immediately called for a substitution. He was stretchered off for ex-Cagliari star Alessandro Matri, the third forced change for Conte this evening.

Juventus finally broke the deadlock just shy of the hour mark, as Luca Rossettini didn’t clear Simone Padoin’s cross effectively, so Giovinco pounced and dribbled forward to slot in at the near post.

Cagliari had their first shot on goal after 59 minutes, as Gigi Buffon got down to palm a Daniele Dessena strike round the upright. Ceppelini won back possession in the box to roll across for Mauricio Pinilla, who turned wide under pressure from Leonardo Bonucci.

Giovinco and Matri blasted off target, while Rossettini nodded a free kick past the post. A Juve corner ricocheted off several legs – including the referee – before it was put back out again. Matri’s glancing header from a Giovinco corner flashed across the face of goal.

Thiago Ribeiro went on the counter and collapsed on the edge of the box under a Bonucci challenge, but was booked for simulation and admitted to his dive.

Juventus go through to face the winners of Milan-Reggina in the Quarter-Final next month.

Juventus 1-0 Cagliari

Scorers: Giovinco 57 (J)

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Marrone, Bonucci; Isla, Padoin, Pogba, Vidal (Asamoah 16), De Ceglie; Bendtner (Matri 44), Giovinco

CAGLIARI: Avramov; Perico, Rossettini, Del Fabro, Murru; Eriksson, Ekdal (Dossena 46); Ibarbo, Ceppelini (Piredda 77), Thiago Ribeiro; Pinilla

Ref: Guida

[Luigi Daniele 68]

Hahahaha

Giovinco scored?

After all the crap the Juve fans were giving him? Well done

[Socrates 8042]

Coppa Italia - Last of 16 - 12-12-2012 (9:00 p.m.)

1 - 0

Sebastian Giovinco (57′)

Juventus Stadium - Torino

Referee: Marco Guida

Conte counts cost of first win back in Turin

The Old Lady triumphed in their last-16 encounter thanks to Giovinco's well-taken strike,

but no less than three players were ruled out of action in a worrying sight for the coach.

Dec 12, 2012

A single goal from Sebastian Giovinco was enough to put Juventus into the quarter-final of the Coppa Italia, as they overcame Cagliari 1-0 in Turin on Wednesday evening. Celebrations for the home team were muted, however, as they suffered injuries to Emanuele Giaccherini, Arturo Vidal and Nicklas Bendtner before and during the match that could stretch their squad to breaking point in the coming weeks.

Juve coach Antonio Conte was given a rousing reception by home fans as he returned to the bench in Turin for the first time following his suspension, and the hosts wasting no time in piling the pressure onto Cagliari. The first-half was almost completely one-sided in terms of possession and territory, but the Sardinians were pardoned on more than one occasion by their rivals' imprecision in front of goal.

The lively Sebastian Giovinco was a constant thorn in the side of the Rossoblu, and after narrowly missing with an early free-kick the youngster was given an excellent chance to open the scoring. Giovinco read perfectly Leonardo Bonucci's lofted pass to break a faltering offside trap, but with the ball running away from him he could only release an underpowered shot that posed few problems for Cagliari keeper Avramov. Nicklas Bendtner also went close, flashing an effort past the post after fluid build-up from the Bianconeri.

It was not to be the ex-Arsenal man's night, as he struggled in vain to open his account for the Italian club. Bonucci again inspired an opportunity with a well-hit cross as play broke down following a corner, but with no markers in his vicinity Bendtner steered his header wide of the post. As half-time approached, the Dane broke down and was forced off, Alessandro Matri coming in to the action.

Opportunities for the visitors were few and far between. Gabriele Perico briefly threatened Gianluigi Buffon's goal, but could only blaze over the bar after being played in by Sebastian Eriksson. Juve finished the first 45 minutes well on top, but a pair of injuries left a sombre mood; as well as Bendtner, Emanuele Giaccherini was forced out of contention during the warm-up, and his replacement Arturo Vidal was another casualty after pulling up with a muscle complaint.

Despite those setbacks, Conte's charges continued their quest to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Coppa, and Matri caused a stir when he headed Giovinco's free-kick just wide of the net. The pressure was building, and with 10 minutes gone in the second-half Juve scored a decisive strike.

A low cross from the home team appeared simple to clear for Luca Rossettini, but the defender dawdled for far too long in getting rid of the ball. Juve took full advantage; Simone Padoin dispossessed his rival, and it fell to Giovinco who jiinked past the remaining markers to net the opening goal. Having withstood the Serie A leaders for almost an hour, Cagliari would now have to drastically change their game plan, and come out for the first time to chase a result in Turin.

Daniele Dessena almost provided an instant response for the Sardinian institution, but the substitute saw his shot saved with class by the ever-reliable Buffon. Hopes were also briefly raised when Perico fired the ball into the far post, only to be extinguished once more as Mauricio Pinilla just failed to meet it with a despairing lunge.

With 15 minutes remaining, Cagliari were given perhaps their best chance of the match. Pablo Cepellini fired across the box following tenacious work from Victor Ibarbo in winning back possession, but his centre was diverted wide by Pinilla who looked anguished at squandering the opportunity. Juventus were in no mood to surrender their narrow advantage, and held on to book a place in the next round and keep their dreams of a third domestic double alive.

The Bianconeri become the third team to book their place in the quarter-final, joining Catania and Roma in the last-eight. Five more ties are still to be decided, with Milan and Reggina continuing the round on Wednesday evening.