Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 PARMA

Carlos Tévez (25′)
Carlos Tévez (32′)

Cristian Molinaro (62′)

March 26, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Luca Banti
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Pogba wants Juve record

Mar 27, 2014

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba says he wants the Old Lady to set a Serie A points record this season.

AMAZONIAN

Antonio Conte’s side beat Parma last night and have now won their last seven league games to remain on course to break the 100 points mark.

“We absolutely need to keep playing the way we are if we want to get the record,” Pogba told Mediaset Premium today.

“We need to be ruthless because that is the only way to keep winning.

AMAZONIAN

“The match against Parma was an important one in terms of the Scudetto.

“The game against Napoli on Sunday will be key and we need to remain concentrated.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 PARMA

Carlos Tévez (25′)
Carlos Tévez (32′)

Cristian Molinaro (62′)

March 26, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Luca Banti
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juventus 2-1 Parma:
6 Things We Learned

Mar 27, 2014

Juventus picked up all three points and snapped Parma's hot streak while extending their own on Wednesday night.

AMAZONIAN

Carlos Tevez bagged a couple of goals to jump ahead of Ciro Immobile in the race for the Capocannoniere.

Cristian Molinaro's rocket volley halved the deficit, but Roberto Donadoni's hopes of salvaging a point went up in smoke when Amauri elbowed Giorgio Chiellini, earning a straight red card.

The Bianconeri held on for their 15th consecutive home victory, a new Serie A record.

AMAZONIAN

James Horncastle @JamesHorncastle
Juventus still perfect at home in Serie A this season. 15 wins. New record. Surpasses the 14 Torino managed in 75-76. Extraordinary #Juve

Here are six things we learned.

AMAZONIAN

Tevez Is the Front-Runner for the Capocannoniere Now

Carlos Tevez can be considered the favourite to claim the Capocannoniere this season.

Not only he has edged ahead of Torino's Immobile, but his form has been sensational. He has five goals in his last five starts in the league, reaching 17 goals for the season.

Given that he is now assuming more responsibility in the side, gathering the ball in deeper areas and running at the opposition, he has more opportunities to score.

AMAZONIAN

Earlier in the season, he was working off the front a lot more and waiting for service to arrive to him rather than creating chances for himself.

Tevez is clearly motivated by the opportunity to win such a prestigious award in his first season, and it appears probable that he will succeed.

AMAZONIAN

Amauri May Find Himself out in the Cold Moving Forward

Amauri showed ill discipline against Juventus by giving the referee little choice but to send him off for an elbow toward Chiellini as the pair challenged for a header.

The Brazilian received something of a surprise start ahead of the in-form Ezequiel Schelotto, joining guaranteed starters Jonathan Biabiany and Antonio Cassano.

Roberto Donadoni may have lost patience now, though, and the more mobile trio could receive a good run of games together.

AMAZONIAN

Schelotto and Biabiany flanking Cassano would give the Crociati tremendous industry down the flanks as well as decent service.

It would also give Cassano more action through the middle of the pitch, granting the Gialloblu more of a cutting edge.

Amauri will need to work his way back into the side and may have to prove himself from the bench for a while.

AMAZONIAN

Osvaldo Could Begin to Oust Llorente from the Starting Line-Up

Dani Osvaldo is starting to factor into Antonio Conte's mind about whether he should partner Carlos Tevez moving forward.

Fernando Llorente is the current partner, and the Spaniard has enjoyed a good season.

But the former Athletic Bilbao striker is far from assured of his place, and Conte may be tempted to integrate the Azzurri international into the XI moving forward.

AMAZONIAN

Osvaldo is technically superior to Llorente and can produce the spectacular, so how he is used for the remainder of the season will be fascinating.

Conte is more than likely to make his loan move from Southampton permanent in the summer, but if he uses him heavily in the closing weeks, his price could soar if he fires, which would be detrimental to the club's transfer kitty.

There will surely be enough game time for the 28-year-old to showcase what he is capable of though, as a permanent move will more than likely suggest that Conte intends to use him as a starter.

AMAZONIAN

Donadoni's Streak Ends, but He Has Made His Point

Roberto Donadoni's incredible unbeaten streak has come to an end, but the former Azzurri manager has completely reinvigorated his managerial career and has re-established himself as a top coach in Italian football.

This 17-match run has shown what he can do, as he has overachieved with the Gialloblu. Obtaining a Europa League place for the club would cap off a sensational season.

He must now be at the top of the list for all of the big managerial positions that will become vacant in the near future.

AMAZONIAN

Even clubs that don't have vacancies, such as Milan, could do with getting in touch with Parma and enquiring as to the availability of the former Rossoneri legend.

Parma are one of Italian football's biggest clubs, and after this season, with, or without Donadoni, they should be able to maintain their position in the upper echelons of the league.

AMAZONIAN

Vidal Is Not Hiding, Despite Struggling for Form

Arturo Vidal is having a good season, but he has gone off the boil in recent weeks.

The Chilean is not hiding though, which is showing tremendous character.

"El Guerrero" is still making the runs from midfield and beyond the front two, which is such a significant part of his game.

AMAZONIAN

He played a big part in Tevez's second goal, bursting beyond the Argentine to gather the ball inside the penalty area and force a smart save from Antonio Mirante.

The Parma keeper parried the ball into the path of the former City striker to give the Old Lady a two-goal cushion.

Vidal appears to be close to regaining the form that made him Europe's most complete midfielder, and the fact that he is not shrinking is the main reason.

AMAZONIAN

Paletta Showed Why Prandelli Has Decided to Make Him an Italy International

Gabriel Paletta showed why Cesare Prandelli has decided to make him an Italian international.

The Argentine-born centre-back was tremendous for the most part, with some fine distribution out from the back to give the Crociati the foundation to build large spells of possession.

The 28-year-old completed 96 percent of his passes, per WhoScored.com, which was the highest accuracy from all starters on the pitch from both sides.

AMAZONIAN

Furthermore, according to WhoScored.com, he made five interceptions, five tackles and seven interceptions, blocked two shots and won four aerial duels to complete a superb defensive display.

It was ironic that he was excellent at the Juventus Stadium, the home of Angelo Ogbonna, who will likely miss out on a World Cup place due to a poor decision to join the Bianconeri—a side he had very little hope of gaining a regular place in the line-up.

Ogbonna's loss is Paletta's gain, and the Parma stalwart will be an excellent option for the Azzurri this summer, based on this form.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 PARMA

Carlos Tévez (25′)
Carlos Tévez (32′)

Cristian Molinaro (62′)

March 26, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Luca Banti
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juventus deserve trophies - Conte

The 44-year-old says all of his players have been brilliant this season
and hailed the "extraordinary" campaign they are having.

Mar 27, 2014

Antonio Conte says his Juventus team still “surprise” him following the 2-1 win over Parma on Wednesday and says they are deserving of silverware again this season.

AMAZONIAN

Carlos Tevez scored twice in the first half as the reigning Serie A champions beat Parma 2-1 to stretch their current unbeaten run to 14 in all competitions and end the visitors' own run of 17 league matches without defeat.

Conte praised his team - destined for a third successive Scudetto - after the victory for the effort and level of performance they have put in this year and says they are having an “extraordinary” campaign.

“This was a wonderful victory against a team that was unbeaten in 17 games and they showed their strength tonight,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

AMAZONIAN

“You don’t go on a run like that if you don’t have quality. I have run out of words to praise the team for playing every three days with no room for rotation.

“I know the players are pushing all the way and some need to rest, but we can’t afford to do that jut now.

“So far the campaign has been extraordinary, but as I always say records aren’t worth much if you don’t get something tangible at the end of it.

AMAZONIAN

“This team deserves a trophy, as they often even surprise me.”

Tevez was booked which means he is suspended for the next tie against Napoli, but Conte says they can cover for the loss of the Argentine striker.

“Carlos won’t be there, but we will have someone else. We try to get the best out of the individuals via the collective.

AMAZONIAN

“We are relaxed, especially after this victory over an excellent side.”

Parma had not been beaten in Serie A since November 2, when Roberto Donadoni's men were defeated on home turf by the Bianconeri.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS 2 - 1 PARMA

Carlos Tévez (25′)
Carlos Tévez (32′)

Cristian Molinaro (62′)

March 26, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Luca Banti
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Tevez: I feel at home alongside formidable Pirlo

The 30-year-old is relishing his spell in Italy under Antonio Conte and claims
he is not interested in finishing as Serie A top scorer as long as his side win the title.

Mar 27, 2014

Juventus striker Carlos Tevez says he feels "at home" within the Italian champions' squad, particularly alongside Andrea Pirlo.

AMAZONIAN

Tevez, who enjoyed a mercurial career in the English Premier League prior to his move to Serie A from Manchester City, has settled into life in Italy in some style, having scored 19 goals to date in all competitions this season.

And the Argentine forward admits he is relishing his time with Antonio Conte and the "formidable" Juventus stars in Turin.

"I feel at home in Italy, at Juve. These guys are formidable champions; Andrea Pirlo above all," he told Tuttosport.

AMAZONIAN

"Conte transmits a winning spirit: he always demands the best, and rightly so. You can see that we are a team on and off the field."

The 30-year-old became Serie A's leading goalscorer this season with his double in the win over Parma on Wednesday, but he has stressed he is far more concerned with Juve defending their title than claiming the capocannoniere prize.

"Being top scorer doesn't matter to me. The important thing is the victory for the team," he added.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Pogba wary of Napoli challenge

The France international says the Bianconeri must be
at their best when they travel to Naples on Sunday.

Mar 27, 2014

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has warned his team-mates that they cannot let their performance levels slip ahead of Sunday’s Serie A clash with Napoli.

AMAZONIAN

Pogba was speaking to the media after Juventus’ 2-1 win over Parma on Wednesday, courtesy of two first half goals from Carlos Tevez.

The win helped the Bianconeri stretched their lead at the top of the table to 14 points, but the France international was cautious of the threat posed by third-place Napoli.

“We will have to play like we did in the first half against Parma,” Pogba told the press conference.

AMAZONIAN

"We are very happy for the win, once again we were able to bring home a very important result. We’re not talking about anything, we must continue to think only of this way, to have the same approach and always play well."

Despite the win, the 21-year-old felt that his side missed the chance to kill the game off following the red card for Parma’s Amauri, who was dismissed for an elbow on Giorgio Chiellini.

“In the second half, especially when we had numerical superiority, we let go, instead we must always be clinical. Sunday against Napoli will be a very important match, we cannot go wrong.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Napoli's goal is to catch Roma - Benitez

The Spanish coach admits his side are not in the race to stop Juventus from winning
the title and feels the Bianconeri will not miss Carlos Tevez when they clash on Sunday.

Mar 27, 2014

Napoli boss Rafael Benitez says his side's objective remains catching second-placed Roma following their win over Catania on Wednesday.

AMAZONIAN

The Partenopei stormed into a 4-0 first-half lead against Serie A's bottom club before ultimately sealing a 4-2 victory, moving them to within six points of Roma after playing a game more.

Napoli host Juventus on Sunday in a tantalising clash but Benitez maintains he is not preoccupied with cutting the 20-point gap to the league leaders.

"Our objective continues to be targeting Roma in second," he told Sky Sport Italia.

AMAZONIAN

"We have to do our work, continue winning and see where we end up. After the Juve game this weekend we'll have only one match per week and it'll be easier for us."

Serie A top-scorer Carlos Tevez is set to be suspended for the encounter, but Benitez does not believe a squad the size of Antonio Conte's will be affected.

"All their other forwards are of the highest level. I don't think a team with €300 million turnover will depend on one player, even a champion like Tevez," he said.

AMAZONIAN

Benitez admits his side lost control of proceedings against Catania in the second half but was thrilled with their attacking efforts, and had particular praise for Henrique following his superb goal and all-round performance.

“We did very well in attack, but winning 4-0 at half-time it became difficult to maintain concentration," he added. "Catania showed great pride to get back into the game and we didn't control it very well.

AMAZONIAN

"We made many changes, as there are several players out injured. I chose Duvan Zapata because he's strong in the air and I also wanted to give Gonzalo Higuain a rest. We have to keep working, because we have to do better.

"Henrique can play more or less anywhere and is tactically astute. He has the experience to control his performance in different roles."

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Trap: Napoli not far behind Juve

Mar 27, 2014

Giovanni Trapattoni believes the current 20 point gap that exists between Juventus and Napoli exaggerates the difference in class between the teams.

AMAZONIAN

The 75-year-old reckons that while the Old Lady are clearly the best team in the country, Rafa Benitez’s Azzurri are not far behind.

“Benitez has won a lot and he is experienced,” Trapattoni told Radio Crc ahead of this weekend’s match between the teams.

AMAZONIAN

“The Azzurri were unlucky in the match between the teams earlier in the season. But the Spanish Coach knows Juve’s weaknesses well.

“Juventus this year have been incredibly consistent but, in terms if the quality of their play, they are not 20 points better than Napoli.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Hamsik ‘can’t wait’ for Juve

Mar 27, 2014

Napoli’s Marek Hamsik says he cannot wait for his side’s match against runaway Serie A leader Juventus on Sunday.

AMAZONIAN

The Partenopei won 4-2 at Catania last night to boost their hopes of a Champions League place but face a stern test against Antonio Conte’s men.

“The first half of the game with Catania was all us,” Hamsik said on his official website.

AMAZONIAN

“We scored four goals and that decided the match. After the break Catania managed to score but in the end we controlled the game and brought the three points home.

“Now I can’t wait for us to take on Juventus in the match on Sunday evening.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

‘Insigne eager to score against Juve’

Mar 27, 2014

Lorenzo Insigne’s agent says his client is eager to bag a goal when Napoli take on Juventus this weekend.

AMAZONIAN

The Azzurri brushed aside struggling Catania last night but are 20 points behind the Old Lady in the Serie A table.

“The first half of Catania-Napoli was important, then from the second half the team started to think about Juventus,” Antonio Otaiano told Radio Crc.

“They are an extraordinary team. But I hope that without Tevez and with some good performances from the Partenopei players, Napoli will be able to get the victory.

AMAZONIAN

“Lorenzo is focused on the game and he has one things fixed in his mind, scoring a goal against Juventus.

“Let’s hope he gets it.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Lippi: Juve virtually unbeatable

Mar 27, 2014

Marcello Lippi has described Juventus as ‘virtually unbeatable’ ahead of their match with Napoli on Sunday.

AMAZONIAN

The World Cup winner had spells coaching both clubs and is anticipating a good match between the sides, though he thinks it will be hard for the Azzurri to finish second.

“I am sure it will be a very good spectacle considering the way in which the two Coaches will approach it,” Lippi said to Ultimecalcionapoli.it.

“Juventus really have shown themselves to be virtually unbeatable.

AMAZONIAN

“Napoli still have the chance to fight, although the odds are against them, for second place.

“I fear though that it will be difficult for them to overtake Roma.

“In terms of how I think Napoli-Juventus will go, I think it will be an open game with any result possible.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Key Battles That Will Shape
Napoli's Clash with Juventus

Mar 28, 2014

Napoli host Juventus on Sunday in a game that does not have the significance that most neutral calcio fans would have liked.

AMAZONIAN

The Partenopei's title challenge has long since burned out, while Juve have relentlessly stormed to, in all probability, a third successive title.

Rafael Benitez's side know there is still plenty riding on the game, however, even if the Azzurri go into the match seeking a win for entirely different reasons.

Benitez is adamant that second in the table should be the goal now, with Roma holding a sizeable advantage to be the best of the rest.

AMAZONIAN

Despite the obvious fact that second is better than third, failure to usurp the Giallorossi will mean that Benitez's side will face a Champions League qualifier at the very beginning of next season, something that is never ideal when preparing the squad during pre-season.

The Old Lady have different challenges left to fulfill this season, even if they continue to insist the title race is not over.

AMAZONIAN

Antonio Conte's side are set for a record points total in Serie A and they will see Napoli as a stepping stone to this.

There is also the small matter of both sides gaining a psychological edge for the start of next season, with Napoli surely looking to hold together a more sustained title challenge.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli's Wide Players Stealing a March on Juve's Full-Backs

Napoli's best bet to cause Juve problems could be to set their wide players free in behind Juve's full-backs as soon as they win possession.

Jose Maria Callejon and Lorenzo Insigne, in for the injured Dries Mertens, will need to be alert when Napoli are able to dispossess the Old Lady.

Upon this moment, we can expect Behrami and Gokhan Inler or Jorginho to use their excellent distribution to stretch the game and speed up the home side's transition from defence to attack.

AMAZONIAN

Kwadwo Asamoah is in a rich vein of form, but he is at his most impressive when pressing high up the pitch and joining in with Juve's attacks.

The Ghanaian must be disciplined, in the same way that Stephan Lichtsteiner has proven to be over a long period, when picking his moments to offer Juve a wide threat in the final third and when to be more restrained.

AMAZONIAN

Insigne has been one of Napoli's best performers this season, but the Italian winger has been far too inconsistent and conceded his place to Mertens. With Mertens out with injury, this becomes an even greater opportunity for Insigne.

On the opposite flank, if left-back Faouzi Ghoulam can force his opponent Lichtsteiner to drop deeper, Napoli will be able to force two-against-one situations. Algerian Ghoulam, back from suspension, is always willing to dovetail the right-winger in front of him.

AMAZONIAN

Hamsik Can Disrupt Pirlo's Ability to Control the Match

Marek Hamsik has struggled for form in recent weeks, but this game he may need to put aside his troubles in the final third when Napoli are in possession in order to help his team.

The Slovakian could have an enormous impact on this game by positioning himself in the pocket of space between Juve's midfield and defence.

Ideally Hamsik will disrupt Andrea Pirlo at every opportunity he can get, as he remains one of the more athletic players in the league, though the 26-year-old's usually impressive passing and shooting has eluded him in recent months.

AMAZONIAN

With a tremendous engine and determination when pressing, Hamsik could be key to preventing Pirlo from quieting the San Paolo crowd, which is what Juve will obviously seek to do in the early stages of the match.

Gonzalo Higuain is often very intelligent when Napoli break up the opposition's spell in possession, usually darting between defenders and offering a channel of space for a teammate to pick him out.

If Hamsik can force Pirlo to surrender possession enough times, similar to what Fiorentina did against Juve at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in the league, the Bianconeri can begin to look vulnerable defending against quick, direct opposition.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Benitez: Mourinho talks too much

The Spaniard says he has little time for the Portuguese's opinions,
explaining that he prefers to deal in facts rather than conjecture.

Mar 29, 2014

Napoli boss Rafael Benitez has fired a retaliatory shot in his ongoing war of words with Jose Mourinho, claiming the Chelsea boss "talks too much".

AMAZONIAN

The Portuguese coach claimed during the week that Juventus would not be entitled to view winning this season's Europa League as 'success', given the Serie A titleholders started the season in the Champions League.

However, Benitez, who has had a strained relationship with Mourinho ever since his time in charge of Liverpool, has now decided to stand up for the Bianconeri, whom Napoli face at the San Paolo on Sunday night.

"He talks too much," the Spaniard told reporters on Saturday. "Whereas I like to let facts do the talking.
"At Liverpool I knocked his Chelsea out of the Champions League when we had half the money ..."

AMAZONIAN

Turning his attention to Juventus but without moving off the issue of financial muscle, Benitez argued that third-placed Napoli will have to continue to splash the cash if they are to reach the Old Lady's level.
"We feel the importance of this game," he confessed. "Juve are a strong team and both of us will want to win. They are three crucial points for us in terms of reaching our objective.

"But their squad is stronger and this aspect makes the difference. If then you have injuries and various problems it becomes difficult.

"We have dropped around eight points that could have made the difference. A winning mentality can also make the difference and we're always thinking about things that we need [in the transfer market].

AMAZONIAN

"But it's not the same to take a player to London or Madrid, as it is to Naples. We know this. But we must aim to sign players of a level with which we can meet the Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.

"But the difference between the turnovers enables one team to create a winning structure and squad every year.

"With a €300 million turnover, Juve can buy the strongest players every year. They have been doing it for a lifetime.

AMAZONIAN

"You must spend every year in order to compete. You can only acquire a winning mentality by signing players used to winning.

"We should not be a club that aims to win a cup every 25 years. There have been mistakes but we have grown."

Despite the fact that he feels the financial playing field is tipped in Juve's favour, he fully expects his Napoli side that they can compete with the two-time defending champions.

AMAZONIAN

"Our intention is to go into a game of this kind with the right attitude," the former Valencia boss explalined.

"Our squad is strong but [second-placed] Roma and the Bianconeri are doing better.

"We must learn to manage games and maintain the level we showed in the Champions League and in some Serie A matches, like against the Giallorossi and the two Milan clubs [AC and Inter].

AMAZONIAN

"I cannot say too much about how to beat Juventus; Conte is listening! We have to try to do well against a team that is having a spectacular season.

"Our best players will have to make the difference in a game like this."

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Napoli v Juventus– Team News,
Tactics, Line-ups And Prediction

Mar 29, 2014

Juventus travel to the Stadio San Paolo on Sunday to take on Napoli in what should have been a decisive game in the Scudetto race but in reality it is far from it. Much was expected from Napoli this season when Rafael Benitez took charge of a team which finished second last season and were looking to go one better this term. Edinson Cavani left for PSG but he was ably replaced by Gonzalo Higuain from Real Madrid along with Raul Albiol and Jose Callejon. Morgan De Sanctis was replaced by Pepe Reina and promising Belgian winger Dries Mertens was signed from PSV. January saw them bring in left back Faouzi Ghoulam from Saint-Étienne and the impressive Jorginho from Verona. But this Napoli team has been a picture of inconsistency and their once feared fortress San Paolo has been breached by Parma and Fiorentina this term while Udinese, Chievo, Sassuolo and most recently Porto have claimed damaging stalemates to leave Napoli way behind the table toppers and also out of Europe (Champions league and Europa League).

AMAZONIAN

They have reached their second Coppa Italia final in three years but surely that was the least prioritized target at the beginning of the season. Defensive blunders and lack of concentration were seen far too often in the Champions League just as they were in Serie A. Benitez has not yet found his preferred center back pairing while injuries to full backs Zúñiga and Mesto has not helped the cause either. Pepe Reina looked shaky in the first couple of games of the season, but has improved vastly. Third place is more or less safe for them so they have nothing but pride to play for in this fixture. Of course, Neapolitans will cherish a victory over bitter rivals Juventus and Higuan and co. will look to do just that.

Juventus meanwhile come to this game on the back of a 7 match winning streak which included a record breaking 15th consecutive home win against high flying Parma on Wednesday. Performances have not been very impressive in the recent games but all these hard earned victories have cemented a 14 points lead at the top and also a place in the quarterfinal of the Europa League. Juventus themselves are chasing a few records namely the 100 points mark, maximum number of victories in a season and they would look for a positive result in San Paolo where they last won in this fixture back in 2000.

AMAZONIAN

Team News and Tactical Brief

NAPOLI

A home loss to Fiorentina and a depressing exit from Europa League was followed by an impressive away win at Sicily. Benitez would hope to build on that positive first half show against Catania and press home their advantage early in the game. Raul Albiol and Gonzalo Higuain were rested on Wednesday so both are expected to return to the starting lineup.

First choice left back Faouzi Ghoulam returns from suspension. Albiol will start alongside Frederico Fernandez at the heart of defence while Henrique who had a fine game on Wednesday will take up his unusual place on the right fullback position. Mesto and Juan Zuniga have started training after their long injury layoffs but are not fit enough to start such an important fixture. The double pivot midfield should see Inler start as the anchor man while Jorginho is expected to play a more supportive role to the Swiss man. Juventus should keep an eye on the long rangers from Inler as last year they were punished for offering him too much time and space.

AMAZONIAN

Dries Mertens has recovered from his ankle injury but is likely to start from the bench so Lorenzo Insigne will take the right side of attack with Marek Hamsik playing just behind the striker. The ever impressive Jose Callejon completes the attacking frontline while Higuain is expected to start at the top. The three men backline of Juventus came under heavy pressure in the first fixture this season and it should be the same story this time as well. The mobile front three are expected to interchange positions to unsettle the opposition defence while the fullbacks will be looking to push up and make a telling contribution.

Probable Starting Line-up (4-2-3-1): Reina; Henrique, Fernandez, Albiol, Ghoulam; Jorginho, Inler; Callejon, Hamsik, Insigne; Higuain.

AMAZONIAN

JUVENTUS

Juventus meanwhile still have only three first choice defenders to choose from as Barzagli, Ogbonna and Peluso continue to miss out through injury. Claudio Marchisio got 30 minutes game time on his return from injury against Parma but the trio of Pirlo, Pogba and Vidal are expected to start on Sunday.

Mauricio Isla will get a rare start and this could be a chance to showcase himself as a worthy candidate for the right fullback position. Kwado Asamoah will face a tough test against the wily Napoli wingers so he needs to step up his game tonight. Juventus will no doubt miss the services of in-form Carlos Tevez but Pablo Osvaldo will look to grab this opportunity and continue his fine goal scoring record at the San Paolo. He will be partnered upfront by Sebastien Giovinco as Conte will most likely rest Fernando Llorente ahead of the midweek trip to Lyon.

Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Chiellini, Bonucci, Caceres; Asamoah, Isla; Pirlo, Vidal, Pogba, Osvaldo, Giovinco.

AMAZONIAN

Players to Watch Out For

Martín Cáceres (Juventus)

When Andrea Barzagli pulled up during the warm-up before the Genoa game and was subsequently declared absent for 20 days, there were fears that the congested fixture list would be difficult for Juventus to handle without the ace defender. Ever since Barzagli’s absence, Juventus have conceded only two goals in five games and his replacement Martín Cáceres has been at the heart of this solid defensive unit. Cáceres himself has flourished with a steady run of games under his belt. An exemplary professional who inspite of limited game time has always answered the emergency call for his club, Cáceres has proven to be more than capable of doing a job in the three men backline.

He was solid away at Florence where Juventus had a very small margin of error. He followed up those displays with an assured performance at Sicily and Wednesday night he impressively shut out the in-form Antonio Cassano to help Juventus register yet another win at home. He is very confident with the ball evident from his 64 completed passes against Parma. Napoli will present a tough challenge on Sunday but EL Pelado will look to tackle it with supreme confidence.


Jose Callejón (Napoli)

Gonzalo Higuaín made most of the headlines upon his arrival in Naples but it is the other newcomer José Callejón who has truly surprised pundits and amazed the San Paolo crowd. Callejón is not a winger who can take out a defender with only his speed but in the middle he is emphatically decisive. A tremendously versatile player capable of playing in any position upfront, Callejon has scored some stunning goals this season as well as creating decisive goal scoring opportunities for his teammates. His winner against Roma was a classy finish similar to a seasoned striker. Juventus must keep an eye on the Spaniard as he looks to add to his 16 goals this season.

AMAZONIAN

Prediction

Napoli 1–1 Juventus

Juventus have not won in Naples since 2000. They will be looking to break this jinx but have a tough task in front of them with their top scorer Tevez suspended. It is true that the fortress has been breached several times this season but Napoli will look to raise their game a few notches higher in this high voltage clash. Expect a tight and tense encounter with both sides cancelling each other out.


Blast From the Past

Last time Juventus came back with three points from San Paolo was back in 2000 when goals from Del Piero and Kovacevic helped Carlo Ancelotti’s men overturn a first half goal from Stellone to beat Zeman’s Napoli . Napoli finished the season on 17th place and were subsequently relegated to Serie B.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Del Piero: 'Napoli-Juve is special'

Mar 29, 2014

Alessandro Del Piero admits Napoli-Juventus “is a very special” game and he’s impressed by Lorenzo Insigne.

AMAZONIAN

The Sydney FC star spoke to newspaper Il Mattino about tomorrow night’s clash.

“The San Paolo is a very special stadium for me and it must be in the destiny of anyone who wears the Number 10 jersey.

“If I think back to the goal I scored from a free kick here in Serie B, I must say both Napoli and Juventus have come a long way.”

AMAZONIAN

In 2006-07 these two giants were both in the second division, as the Bianconeri were punished for Calciopoli and the Partenopei were working their way back up from Serie C after bankruptcy.

“I think that staying with Juventus in Serie B, even before I knew how large the points penalty was going to be, was the best decision I could’ve made,” added Del Piero.

“I had an extraordinary season that gave extra meaning to everything that came afterwards, including the trophy I lifted on the last game at the Juventus Stadium.

AMAZONIAN

“I think in future Napoli can fight for the Scudetto with Juventus, as Aurelio De Laurentiis has planned very well and it still needs a little time to build a great squad.”

Del Piero will be watching tomorrow’s match from Australia and has been particularly impressed by one of Napoli’s home-grown talents.

AMAZONIAN

“I really like Insigne, as I think he can go far. I don’t think it’s wise to give advice, as he knows what he has to do, first of all to never stop cultivating and working on that talent. I wish him all the best and I was glad to hear his sincere words of praise for me.

“As for Juventus, their strength is that winning mentality. This team wins because it learned how to suffer when the results did not come. My teammates are doing extraordinary things.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Mertens recovers for Juve game

Mar 29, 2014

Dries Mertens has recovered in time to be in Napoli’s squad for tomorrow night against Juventus.

AMAZONIAN

It kicks off at 20.45 CET time.

There had been huge doubts over whether Belgium international Mertens would be available, but he has been named in Rafa Benitez’s team.

Christian Maggio is still out after undergoing surgery for a collapsed lung, while Juan Camilo Zuniga and Rafael are long-term absentees.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli squad for Juventus: Reina, Doblas, Colombo, Reveillere, Ghoulam, Mesto, Henrique, Albiol, Britos, Fernandez, Inler, Jorginho, Berhami, Dzemaili, Radosevic, Callejon, Mertens, Insigne, Bariti, Hamsik, Pandev, Higuain, Duvan Zapata

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Benitez 'feels Napoli-Juve' importance

Mar 29, 2014

Rafa Benitez admits Napoli “feel the importance of this game” against Juventus and snapped at Jose Mourinho. “He talks too much.”

AMAZONIAN

It’s third against first in Serie A at the Stadio San Paolo on Sunday at 20.45 CET.

“You can feel the importance of the game here,” said the Coach in a Press conference.

“Juve are strong and everyone wants to win the match. There are three important points up for grabs that would allow us to achieve our objective.”

AMAZONIAN

There is a 20-point difference between them in the Serie A table and Benitez blamed cash concerns.

“I didn’t expect there to be such a big gap between us and Juve, but a lot depends on the squads and Juve have the best strength in depth.

“Juve have a winning mentality, but they needed time to achieve that. It’s also true that €30m revenue allows you to buy the best players in the world. That too is a winning mentality.

AMAZONIAN

“They have a squad that allows them to always compete for silverware. Napoli mustn’t be a club who focus on winning a competition once every 10 years. We need to keep improving, year by year.

“Our objective is to catch Roma in second place. If we beat Juve, then we’ll be closer to that target. Obviously, if you have injuries and various problems, then it becomes difficult. We want to give our team a precise identity and the fans will help us in that.

“I love to feel the passion of the fans for this game, as it fires everyone up. We must reach a stage where we can play games like this on a similar level to our opponents.

AMAZONIAN

“The squad is having a good season, but Roma and Juve are doing better than we are. In order to go for the Scudetto we need more quality and belief. We have lacked that winning mentality.”

When it came to discussing tactics, Benitez preferred to remain vague.

“I don’t want to say too much because Antonio Conte is listening! I don’t like talking about systems, as the difference is made by players who understand football. We must do everything well in order to beat a team doing spectacular work.

AMAZONIAN

“We can beat anyone. Don’t forget when we beat Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal, they were top of their Leagues. Roma were in great form when facing us, yet we beat them twice.”

This week Chelsea manager Mourinho said Juve shouldn’t consider winning the Europa League a success, just as Benitez did last year, because the team was built to win the Champions League.

“He talks too much, whereas I like to let facts do the talking. At Liverpool I knocked his Chelsea out of the Champions League when we had half his money.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

How Juventus Will Line Up Against Napoli

Mar 29, 2014

Before May, Juventus could win the Scudetto. They are trying for 100 points, a total no team in Serie A history has claimed. That they are unbeaten in 22 games is a good sign.

AMAZONIAN

Leonardo Bonucci told Corriere dello Sport (h/t Sky Sports) that the game this weekend at Napoli is their “hardest match before the end of the season.” The Europa League could hold a few more tough fixtures for them—Juventus play Lyon this week—but the remaining eight games for Juventus in Serie A do not pose much of a challenge, Livorno, Bologna and Sassuolo among the easy prey.

OptaPaolo @OptaPaolo
81 - Juventus have picked up 81 points, more than any other side after 30 match-days in the Serie A history. Signora.

The atmosphere at the San Paolo is not kind to any visitor, but Juventus in particular have not won a match there since 2001, per Football Italia.

And Napoli have the desire to beat Juventus. Lorenzo Insigne just wants to score (h/t Football Italia). He has started the past three games, and it is always tough for Benitez to choose between Insigne and Dries Mertens, who is also available for the game.

AMAZONIAN

Gonzalo Higuain must have the same itch. He has lost all three games that he has played against Juventus, without scoring at all. But Jose Callejon and Marek Hamsik add several dimensions to an attack only second to Juventus in scoring in Serie A.

Juventus won’t have Tevez or Andrea Barzagli—Tevez will serve a suspension after collecting his fourth yellow card during the week—but they will have Andrea Pirlo and Arturo Vidal in midfield. Paul Pogba has not enjoyed the most consistent of seasons, despite all the chatter about his future, and he has fallen off a little. He needs a big game.

Pirlo has won points on his own, and while he commands the craft of the free-kick like no other player, Juventus need more of a threat out front. Even with Tevez, Juventus have not played as the standings suggest as of late.

AMAZONIAN

They hold a 20-point advantage over Napoli, but the Bianconeri have let up. They keep winning, and maybe that’s all that matters, but they have managed just seven goals in their past six games in all competitions.

Pablo Osvaldo should get the chance to get his first goal in Serie A with Juventus, and Fernando Llorente will most likely play beside him. It’s a decent partnership, Osvaldo being the kind of player to drift out of the middle and out wide, Llorente assuming a stronger presence in the box.

The one thing they do best is defending. Juventus may give up shots, and Gianluigi Buffon may have to make a big save, but they limit the number of shots actually on goal.

AMAZONIAN

Journalist Gianluca DiMarzio reported on Friday that Juve had a meeting with Martin Caceres to discuss a contract extension, and it is no surprise: The Uruguayan has played more games lately as a replacement in the starting lineup for the injured Barzagli.

Caceres is a pretty clean defender with a great aerial presence, and he plays well with Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini. Maybe Caceres needs those anchors do perform with confidence. When he plays with Angelo Ogbonna, it’s not so tidy.

But the depth of Juventus and their ability to edge out those close games is the overwhelming characteristic that separates them from the rest. Benitez told reporters, per Football Italia, that Juventus simply have the money to win. The statement is not really fact.

AMAZONIAN

James Horncastle @JamesHorncastle
Benitez: “… when you have more money, it’s easier to win.” Napoli gross spend 100.7m euro. net -29.5m. Juventus gross 31.8m, net +5.9m.

So the match on Sunday is not necessarily about the standings. The feelings of resentment are there. Napoli still stand six points behind Roma in second place, and they may want that spot to qualify directly to the Champions League proper. But there is no race between Juventus and Napoli.


Probable formation: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Osvaldo

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Napoli vs. Juventus Preview:
Round 31 — Southern Hospitality

Mar 29, 2014

In a world where a league's first- and third-place teams face one another, there would be a whooole lot of talk going on throughout the buildup. There's still been talk because of which two teams are playing on the Stadio San Paolo field Sunday night. It's impossible not to talk about Juventus vs. Napoli when we're just a mere 24 hours away from kickoff of the first vs. third showdown in Naples.

AMAZONIAN

But is there as much buzz about this Juventus-Napoli match compared to when they played in Turin? Nah, not even close. That's just what happens when there's 20 points separating the two teams.

Napoli hosting Juventus is still a big game. With two talented squads and a rivalry the seems to be getting bigger by the year, it's always going to be a big game. Each team has their respective things to play for right now — Juventus with a third straight Scudetto in the not-so-distant future and Napoli with Fiorentina breathing down their neck for third place in Serie A.

The San Paolo will be packed because Juventus brings out the biggest of crowds pretty much no matter where they go. But this one is just a little bit more special than the other visitors to Napoli's stadio. There will be noise, a whole lot of it. There will be intensity from the opening whistle, a whole lot of it. That's just what comes with Juventus playing Napoli — no matter how many points separate the two teams in the standings.

AMAZONIAN

Even though there is a 20-point gap between the two teams, it's still first place vs. third place. It's still Juventus vs. Napoli. It's still two rivals going against one another in what everybody else is going to be calling the game of the week.

That has to stand for something, right?

I mean, out of all the big games Juventus has played the last few years, Napoli seems to be right up there.

AMAZONIAN

GOOD NEWS

Juventus is making a beeline right for the Serie A points record. With 81 points after 30 league games, getting there is more than a legit possibility. Then you throw in that they haven't lost a league game since the middle of October, things aren't all that bad, you guys.


BAD NEWS

Short-attention-span reading and writing...

• Carlos Tévez is suspended after picking up a yellow card against Parma midweek. I think we can remember how frustrating things were the last time Carlitos wasn't part of the starting lineup.

• Injuries. Still a bunch of injuries. No Andrea Barzagli. No Angelo Ogbonna. No Federico Peluso. That's just the names that could have possibly played a role against Napoli. There are others, of course. But who really wants to have the thought of Peluso trying to defend against somebody like Gonzalo Higuain? Yeah, no thanks on that one, chief.

• Napoli manager Rafa Benitez decided to rest Higuain during their 4-2 victory over Catania on Wednesday night. The good news portion of this point is that Juventus isn't Catania. So there!

AMAZONIAN

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. How the Juventus offense copes with no Carlos Tévez.

Juventus has played sans-Tévez this season. Not very often, but they've done so a few times this season. The end result was, well, not that great. But with Tévez suspended tomorrow night, this will be one of those games where we ask ourselves "No Tévez, no party?" It's a realistic concern, and not just because Tévez is coming off a first-half brace against Parma. Tévez has become so important to the Juve attack this season that the difference between him playing and not playing is becoming pretty noticeable. It's understandable because Tévez has been so good during his first year with Juve, but there will be times, like tomorrow, when he won't be on the field to carry the attack.

Khaled Al Nouss @JuventusRelated
[TJ] Juve without Tevez have won 6, drew 1 & lost 1 & Juve have scored 1.75 goals per game on average without him.

Well, I guess that isn't soooo bad...


2. The impact of Fernando Llorente.

Another game came and went on Wednesday night with El Rey León not making much of an impact. It's not the first time in recent weeks that Llorente has gone relatively quiet in a match. His form for three or four months was so good that it's understandable he's cooled off some. But without Tévez creating a bunch of offense this weekend, Llorente's importance will be even that much more magnified against Napoli. It doesn't necessarily mean he has to score a goal, just be the Llorente we saw when things fully clicked. But if it's the Llorente we've seen the last couple of weeks...ruh roh.

AMAZONIAN

3. How Napoli defend Andrea Pirlo.

I always wonder what teams that play a 4-2-3-1 like Napoli will in all likelihood utilize will do when it comes to Pirlo. There's somebody naturally there, playing in the hole, to man-mark Pirlo from start to finish, but that isn't always the case. Take, for instance, the last time Juventus played Napoli. And then beat the crap out of them. From a certain Napoli-Juventus match review from the middle of November written by a certain Ivo Andov:


Pirlo had a great overall match. He did well to pull away from the half-assed man marking by Napoli and really orchestrated our attack throughout the game.

The biggest question is pretty easy to figure out: Will Napoli and Rafa Benitez learn from their mistake? The first time around was Pirlo doing a whole lot of Pirlo things, picking apart a Napoli side that really did give him plenty of room to operate and pull all of the strings.

AMAZONIAN

4. Juventus' defense against Napoli's attack.

Talent vs. talent. Gonzalo Higuain vs. Giorgio Chiellini and so on and so on and so on. Between the three-man defense of Juventus and the Napoli attack, there's plenty of can't-miss players — and matchups — that are bound to happen. Outside of Juventus, nobody has scored more goals than Napoli's 57. Simple math tells me that's an average of a little bit less than two goals every time Napoli step onto the field against a Serie A opponent. But as we know, not every defense is as good as the one Conte will be fielding on Sunday night.

One thing is for certain: Juventus' defense isn't anything close to Catania's. Which, I might add, is definitely a good thing.

AMAZONIAN

5. Paul Pogba vs. Napoli's midfield.

If it wasn't for Tévez being his usual awesome self against Parma on Wednesday, Paul Pogba would have been my pick for Juve's top player of the match. He was back to being Pogba good — explosive runs forward, slick passes, slicker moves to get around the opposition. It was more of the Pogba we saw at the beginning of the season rather than the one we had been seeing the last month or two. The rest last weekend did him plenty good, and now it's time to build off it. And luckily for us, Pogba just so happens to have a thing with scoring beautiful goals against Napoli.

Yeah, that's quite a pretty goal.

AMAZONIAN

My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Pirlo, Pogba, Asamoah; Llorente, Osvaldo


OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 8:45 P.M. IN ITALY; 2:45 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 11:45 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Anticipating Napoli vs. Juventus

Mar 29, 2014

A match between the North and South, a game between two brilliant tacticians, Napoli vs. Juventus is the match between Italy's two best well-run clubs. Two teams capable of winning trophies, two sides with massive ambition.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli are the example to follow in Italy. They boast an excellent brand, can count on a regularly full stadium, take European competition seriously, and only Udinese made a bigger profit in the 2012-13 season. Not only are they one of the most well-run clubs in Europe, but they're also a side that continues to raise interest in the Italian league.

However, on a sporting level, Napoli have stumbled upon various problems this season, ones they hope they can resolve over the summer by bringing in the right reinforcements. The centre-back partnership is far too slow and lacking in required skill. It's imperative the Azzurri scout a worthy partner for Raul Albiol to play alongside -- a player adept at playing in a four-man back-line. Meanwhile, it seems the midfield has suffered more than expected this season.

Whilst Jorginho brings added creativity, Gokhan Inler is simply not the same player we have seen in recent years. The group in general have let down the defence far too often. They need to better hold the ball, remain disciplined when juggling their tasks and help provide the service required to the players upfront.

AMAZONIAN

Yet Napoli still represent a tough challenge, even if 20 points separate them from Juventus in the table. Some even think that, at home, Napoli are favourites to secure a win. "The Azzurri were unlucky in the match between the teams earlier in the season," said Giovanni Trapattoni.

With all due respect to the former Juve coach, luck was certainly not the reason the Old Lady won that night. With Rafa Benitez essentially getting his tactics wrong by opting to sit back, absorb pressure and then hit on the counter, Juventus stung them by scoring after 75 seconds to render the tactics obsolete. Pepe Reina was Napoli's best player in the first 45 minutes and without his fantastic saves, Juventus would have scored many more.

This is not the way to play against the Bianconeri, as the various ways in which they attack means they always find a way. Offence is essentially the best form of defence against Juve, as both Parma and Fiorentina have shown in recent days.

AMAZONIAN

The Spanish coach seemed to have quickly learned from his mistake as he adopted a more proactive approach to the game in the second half. Pinning Juventus back, Napoli applied pressure, pressed high up the pitch and surged ahead with confidence. However, as we have seen several times this season, the Azzurri do at times struggle to construct clear goalscoring opportunities.

It's likely Dries Mertens will not start, which is unfortunate for the home fans, especially as he has the skills to trouble his opponents. But according to recent reports, it seems likely Benitez will play Marek Hamsik and Gonzalo Higuain from the start. Whilst the former has suffered in his ability to contribute to the side's attacking play, he has provided some excellent defensive displays -- something the team will hope to count on again when Juventus pour forward.

For the Old Lady, Carlos Tevez is disappointingly suspended for the tie, and it seems Antonio Conte will opt to play Pablo Osvaldo alongside Fernando Llorente instead. However, there is a case to be made for Sebastian Giovinco. Whilst little Seba has seemingly suffered to live up to expectations, few can deny the intelligence of a player profoundly adept at creating space and elevating the performances of the teammates around him. His finishing woeful and his physique a concern, Giovinco will perhaps never be a starter for Conte's Juve, but he has enough to trouble opposing sides, especially a Napoli defence that is often slow to react and easily pulled out of position.

AMAZONIAN

Whilst the Southern side haven't always dazzled against the small teams, they proved that when it comes to the big games, they know how to raise the level to make an impact. However, Benitez pointed out that it won't be easy, noting the amount of money Juventus make by quoting turnover figures. Is this his way of excusing a potential defeat?

Juventus may have made the most in revenue but they also have the second highest expenditure and still have debts to clear. However, as writer Massimo Pavan pointed out, quoting these figures mean little, as we have often seen in football how less profitable sides defeat the bigger and wealthier clubs. We need only look at Borussia Dortmund, the fact little Augsberg in the Bundesliga is ninth, ahead of big spenders Hamburg and Werder Bremen, whilst Everton are enjoying a remarkable season in England.

Juventus have a front-line that costs close to nothing, a midfield that either arrived for free, was nurtured from youth levels or a transfer market opportunity well exploited, whilst the purchases of Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci were once-upon-a-time heavily criticised. The team was not assembled thanks to excessive spending but well executed deals in the transfer market. Their current success is one to applaud and an example to emulate, earned through hard work and a well laid-out project. If they win, it's because they deserved to.

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Napoli-Juventus Preview: Bianconeri must
face San Paolo showdown without Tevez

A yellow card in the midweek win at Parma has ruled Serie A's top scorer out
of the meeting with the Partenopei, who will be hoping to avenge a 3-0 defeat in Turin.

Mar 29, 2014

Juventus can officially end Napoli's interest in the title on Sunday, as their own record-breaking march to the Serie A crown continues.

AMAZONIAN

Antonio Conte's men are closing in on a third Scudetto in a row after extending their unbeaten run in the league to 22 matches with a 2-1 win over Parma on Wednesday - a game that also saw them set an Italian top-flight landmark with a 15th straight home win.

They now sit 14 points clear of second-placed Roma with eight games remaining, while Napoli are a further six points adrift and know that another defeat will officially spell the end of any lingering hopes of a miraculous championship challenge.

Napoli's recent loss to Fiorentina saw them fall further behind the league leaders after their early-season promise had faltered from mid-January and into February.

AMAZONIAN

Draws against Bologna and Chievo were followed by a defeat to Atalanta, a run of games that saw their hopes of a first championship since 1990 begin to slip away.

A third home defeat of the league campaign would leave Rafael Benitez's side 23 points behind the leaders with only 21 available, meaning that only Roma could stop the Juventus juggernaut.

In reality, Benitez has long since conceded the title, but he will at least look to mastermind Napoli's first league win over Juve since January 2011, a run of six matches.

AMAZONIAN

And he will have the benefit of facing a side minus talisman Carlos Tevez.

The Argentine striker has netted seven league goals in as many games, and is the Serie A top scorer in his debut season with 18 goals. But he will miss the clash through suspension after being yellow carded in the Parma victory.

"I'm sad to be missing out on Napoli," he said. "I always want to be involved in every game. On the plus side, I'll be fresh for Lyon in the Europa League."

AMAZONIAN

Juve are monitoring Claudio Marchisio ahead of the game, as he continues to overcome a muscle strain, while Paul Pogba returned from suspension in midweek and should again be included.

Napoli could recall Gonzalo Higuain to the starting XI after the striker was rested for the midweek win over Catania.

AMAZONIAN

Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Nov 10, 2013 - Juventus 3 - 0 SSC Napoli
Serie A ‎- Mar 1, 2013 - SSC Napoli 1 - 1 Juventus
Serie A - Oct 20, 2012 - Juventus 2 - 0 SSC Napoli
TIM Supercup - Aug 11, 2012 - Juventus 4 - 2 SSC Napoli
Coppa Italia - May 20, 2012 - Juventus 0 - 2 SSC Napoli

AMAZONIAN

Last Five Matches

SSC NAPOLI

Mar 26, 2014 - Catania 2 - 4 SSC Napoli - Serie A
Mar 23, 2014 - SSC Napoli 0 - 1 Fiorentina - Serie A
Mar 20, 2014 - SSC Napoli 2 - 2 Porto - EL
Mar 17, 2014 - Torino 0 - 1 SSC Napoli - Serie A
Mar 13, 2014 - Porto 1 - 0 SSC Napoli - EL


JUVENTUS

Mar 26, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 1 Parma - Serie A
Mar 23, 2014 - Catania 0 - 1 Juventus - Serie A
Mar 20, 2014 - Fiorentina 0 - 1 Juventus - EL
Mar 16, 2014 - Genoa 0 - 1 Juventus - Serie A
Mar 13, 2014 - Juventus 1 - 1 Fiorentina - EL

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

De Laurentiis: 'Napoli-Juve always great'

Mar 29, 2014

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis is looking forward to tomorrow night. “It’s always a great match with Juventus.”

AMAZONIAN

“It’s always a great match with Juventus, so tomorrow will be a challenge between two big teams with excellent players,” the patron told Radio Kiss Kiss.

“The Bianconeri are very strong, but we have beaten them at times and of course I hope we can do so again tomorrow.

“I remember going back to summer tournaments, then we were promoted together from Serie B in 2007. At times we won, in others we lost, but they were always fascinating fixtures.

AMAZONIAN

“I wish my lads all the best for this game, which I expect to be a wonderful spectacle of football played with the utmost sporting spirit.”

De Laurentiis commented on the referee and his plans to introduce video technology

AMAZONIAN

“I will ask the Federation to try out my experiment on using video replays in a match situation to see if it’s applicable or can be limited to certain situations.

“Daniele Orsato is one of the best referees, so we must not put pressure on him. I am sure his performance will be impeccable. In fact, I hope he officiates in the English style, letting the game flow and awarding few free kicks.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

MATCH PREVIEW

Mar 29, 2014

Napoli look to have a hold on third spot as they welcome leaders Juventus to the intimidating atmosphere of Stadio San Paolo.

AMAZONIAN

The Partenopei raced to a four-goal lead by the interval against Catania on Wednesday. Duvan Zapata bookended the scoring, with Jose Callejon and Henrique also on target. The home side grabbed two consolation goals, but Napoli re-established their 10 point lead over Fiorentina.

The Sicily affair was the first time in six matches that the Azzurri netted more than once. Rafa Benitez will be hoping for a continuation of that clinical edge when they take on a miserly Juve defensive outfit.

Juan Zuniga and Rafael remain long-term absentees, while Christian Maggio and Dries Mertens continue their stint on the sidelines. Faouzi Ghoulam returns from suspension.

AMAZONIAN

Juventus secured a record 15th consecutive home victory with a closely-fought 2-1 triumph against Parma. Carlos Tevez netted a first half brace to end the Gialloblu’s 17-match unbeaten run, although Cristian Molinaro did halve the deficit.

Martin Caceres mentioned before the midweek clash that fatigue is catching up with Juve, but they will strive to push through. Antonio Conte has acknowledged that injuries have caused some to play more than they usually would, with matches coming thick and fast.

Tevez sits out having reached the yellow card limit, joining Andrea Barzagli, Federico Peluso, Angelo Ogbonna and Simone Pepe in the stands.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli hold a slender historical advantage, winning 21 times to 20. The last two meetings in Naples have ended in draws.


Keep an eye on: Marek Hamsik (Napoli) – The Slovak international has been criticised of late, with performances below his usual standard. Adding to his five Serie A goals against Juventus will be a big boost for his confidence and with it, Napoli’s run home.

Form guide: Napoli (D W W L W) Juventus (W W W W W)

AMAZONIAN

Last season: Napoli 1-1 Juventus

Stat fact: Juventus have not conquered San Paolo since the opening day of the 2000-01 season.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli (probable): Reina; Henrique, Fernandez, Albiol, Ghoulam; Inler, Jorginho; Callejon, Hamsik, Insigne; Higuain

Juventus (probable): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Osvaldo

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Juventus squad for Napoli

Mar 29, 2014

Juventus have named their squad for Sunday’s trip to Napoli, but must do without Carlos Tevez.

AMAZONIAN

Tevez is the Serie A top scorer, but Juve will have to do without his goals at the Stadio San Paolo because he is suspended.

Also absent are Andrea Barzagli, Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso and Simone Pepe.

Sebastian Giovinco returns, but Fabio Quagliarella is left behind against his hometown club.

AMAZONIAN

Juventus squad for Napoli: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Pogba, Marchisio, Vucinic, Giovinco, Llorente, Osvaldo, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Storari, Isla, Rubinho, Mattiello, Penna

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

Napoli vs. Juventus Preview

Mar 30, 2014

Juventus will be looking to continue their march toward a third successive Serie A title as they take on Napoli at the Stadio San Paolo on Sunday evening.

AMAZONIAN

Naples remains one of the most difficult places to visit in Serie A, and Antonio Conte’s side will have to be at their sparkling best if they are to take the three points back to Turin.

The same level of focus will need to be applied by the Partenopei, who themselves have been a little inconsistent as of late. Napoli currently occupy the third and final Champions League spot and are currently 10 points clear of Fiorentina, who are in fourth. Rafa Benitez will be looking for his side to secure that spot with a strong performance in this fixture.

The Bianconeri come into this one having won their last seven games in a row; they haven’t lost in their previous 22 Serie A games, per WhoScored.com.

AMAZONIAN

Likely Line-Ups

Napoli: (4-2-3-1) Reina; Henrique, Fernandez, Albiol, Ghoulam; Inler, Jorginho; Callejon, Hamsik, Insigne; Higuain

Juventus: (3-5-2) Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah; Llorente, Osvaldo

Juventus will be without their talisman Carlos Tevez for this one, and that will be a major blow given the sparkling recent form showcased by the Argentinean. Tevez netted a brace to help put an end to Parma’s remarkable 17 game unbeaten run, but it’ll be up to the rest of his teammates to find a way past Napoli.

AMAZONIAN

The former Manchester City man has netted 18 goals this season, per WhoScored.com, and his suspension means Conte looks likely to go with an unchanged side at the San Paolo. The Juventus boss has had to deal with a host of injuries as of late and has paid tribute to his squad, per Sky Sports:

“I'm running out of words of praise for these lads, eight out of 11 are on their fifth consecutive game.

Some need to take a breather, but they can't - this is the worst injury situation I've had since I've been here.”

Whilst Juve will be without their star striker, Napoli will be welcoming back theirs. Gonzalo Higuain was only on the bench for his side’s most recent 4-2 win at Catania, but he is expected to lead the line here against a Juventus defence that has been ravaged by injuries.

AMAZONIAN

Napoli boss Benitez insists that despite being six points off AS Roma, they have not yet given up hope of catching the Giallorossi, per Sky Italia (h/t Goal.com):

“Our objective continues to be targeting Roma in second.

We have to do our work, continue winning and see where we end up. After the Juve game this weekend we'll have only one match per week and it'll be easier for us.”

The former Liverpool boss was also quick to play down the absence of Tevez, insisting that “all of their forwards are of the highest level.” The Spaniard also made a strange quip about the amount of money spent by Sunday’s opponents:

AMAZONIAN

James Horncastle @JamesHorncastle
Benitez: “… when you have more money, it’s easier to win.” Napoli gross spend 100.7m euro. net -29.5m. Juventus gross 31.8m

Money spent or not, this Juventus side are on the brink of breaking a host of Serie A records. They’ve won every game at home this season and could yet set the record for the most away wins in a season too, per James Horncastle of BT Sport. If they win their remaining eight games, they’ll finish the season on 102 points, another Serie A record.

But without Tevez and with a host of injuries, this will be a tough game against the Neapolitans. They’ve only been beaten twice at home all season, and their notoriously raucous supporters will create an extremely hostile atmosphere for the hosts.

AMAZONIAN

With Higuain back, Napoli could trouble this patched-up defensive line. If they can start well and put this leggy Juve side under pressure, then they have a great chance of ending their magnificent winning run.

Despite the loss of Tevez and despite the injury crisis, it’s still so difficult to see Juve losing a game. This one looks like a nailed on draw, a result that you suspect both sides would be pretty happy with.


Prediction: Napoli 1-1 Juventus

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111

[Socrates 8070]

NAPOLI - JUVENTUS

March 30, 2014 - 8:45 PM
San Paolo Stadium — Naples
Referee: Daniele Orsato

'Not 20 pts between Napoli and Juve'

Mar 30, 2014

Napoli director Riccardo Bigon trusts they can beat Juventus this evening and admired Rafa Benitez’s jibe at Jose Mourinho.

AMAZONIAN

“After so many years of being here, I can sense how special this game is,” Bigon told Sky Sport Italia.

“Juve are doing extraordinary things, but in a one-off match we can face them head on. The table reflects the season, but there isn’t a 20-point difference between these teams in terms of quality.

“Over the years we have slowly added elements to create a very competitive squad.”

AMAZONIAN

Napoli are in third place and also in the Coppa Italia Final, where they will take on Fiorentina in May.

“It is a different prospect being second or third, but we know what to do and even third would be worth a place in the Champions League preliminary round.”

In his Press conference on Saturday, Benitez snapped at Mourinho’s criticism and said he “talks too much.”

AMAZONIAN

Bigon admits he was impressed by the outburst aimed at the Chelsea manager.

“You don’t get to be a professional at this level without a strong character. Benitez’s image is so often calm and relaxed, but like everyone he has moments of anger.

“We chose Benitez for a precise reason, as we want to be competitive consistently, going forward to win trophies for many years.”

http://www.goal.com/en/results-standings/69/italy-serie-a/table?ICID=SP_TN_111