Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON - JUVENTUS

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)

HT 0-0: Juve all square in Lyon

Apr 3, 2014

Carlos Tevez, Steed Malbranque and Jimmy Briand threatened, but it’s 0-0 at half-time between Juventus and Lyon in the Europa League.

Both sides had numerous problems ahead of the quarter-final first leg at the Stade de Gerland. The Bianconeri missed Andrea Barzagli, Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso and the suspended Arturo Vidal. Carlos Tevez returned after he was banned for Juve’s 2-0 defeat to Napoli on Sunday and Daniel Osvaldo partnered him in attack. Lyon had a huge injury crisis ruling out Milan Bisevac, Gueida Fofana, Miguel Lopes, Mouhamadou Dabo, Clement Grenier and ex-Milan midfielder Yoann Gourcuff. Samuel Umtiti passed a late fitness test, but Bafetimbi Gomis was surprisingly on the bench.

Lyon were unbeaten in five home Europa League games and tonight was the birthday of Coach Remi Garde. It was also Gigi Buffon’s 700th game in all club competition.

Andrea Pirlo tried to slide an early free kick under the wall, but it was charged down, then Tevez nodded wide from an Osvaldo knock-down.

Steed Malbranque’s shot was deflected off target, though the start to the game was slow and the teams studied each other.

On 26 minutes Buffon had his first sight of the ball, getting down quickly for a one-handed save to turn Malbranque’s effort round the base of the near post. From that corner, it was knocked down for Jimmy Briand to chip over the bar from six yards.

Moments later Juve went extremely close, as Tevez sprung the offside trap on a Pirlo ball over the top and was denied by the goalkeeper sprinting off his line.


Lyon 0-0 Juventus (Half-Time)

Lyon: Lopes; Tolisso, Koné, Umtiti, Bedimo; Ferri, Gonalons, Malbranque, Mvuemba; Lacazette, Briand

Juventus: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Osvaldo

Ref: Collum (SCO)

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Bianconeri's Europa League bid
boosted by Bonucci

The defender struck a crucial away goal for the Italian champions just moments
after Mirko Vucinic had squandered a glorious chance to break the deadlock.

Apr 3, 2014

Leonardo Bonucci gave Juventus a priceless 1-0 win in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final at Olympique Lyonnais on Thursday.

The Italy defender often found himself in the role of replacement playmaker for much of the evening as the French side worked hard to shackle Andrea Pirlo’s influence from deep.

Bonucci's persistence was rewarded in the 85th minute as he lashed home after Paul Pogba bundled a poorly defended corner goalwards.

Juventus substitute Mirko Vucinic - on for injured top scorer Carlos Tevez - cut a particularly relieved figure having blazed over from close range a minute earlier.

Jimmy Briand wasted Lyon's best chance and botched a clear opportunity on the break alongside Steed Malbranque shortly before Bonucci's strike to ensure boss Remi Garde suffered an unsatisfactory 48th birthday.

Juventus welcomed back Tevez from a domestic ban and their Serie A talisman had the opportunity to end his five-year European goal drought in the fifth minute.

Strike partner Pablo Daniel Osvaldo flicked into his path deep inside the Lyon box but the Argentine found neither the required power nor direction with his header.

Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon made his 700th appearance for Juventus and displayed typical excellence to deny Malbranque at his near post when the experienced playmaker darted into the visitors' box.

Lyon should have led from the resulting 26th-minute corner. Arnold Mvuemba's delivery was met by Bakary Kone and Briand lifted the loose ball onto the roof of the net from close range.

Tevez had another sniff of an opening when Pirlo lifted a trademark pass behind the Lyon defence, but Buffon's opposite number Anthony Lopes raced from his line to snuff out the danger.

Buffon helped Samuel Umtiti’s 53rd-minute free kick around the post as Lyon began the second period on the front foot.

Juventus found a response through Tevez but it came at a price. The forward turned and ran at the home back line before driving into Lopes' arms, then immediately signalled to be replaced having apparently pulled a muscle in his leg.

As the hour arrived, Briand almost flicked a Pirlo free kick into his own net but Lopes pushed clear superbly at full stretch.

Vucinic replaced Tevez but it was another attacking substitute, Sebastian Giovinco, who sparked Juventus' most enterprising period.

First, the diminutive forward combined with Pirlo at a short corner that saw Kwadwo Asamoah's strike from the edge of the area deflected narrowly wide.

Giorgio Chiellini wasted a good opening from a clever set-piece, though Vucinic's inexplicable miss from six yards looked to have ended the Italians' chance of a win.

However, Juve finally grabbed a crucial goal with five minutes of normal time to go, with Bonucci bundling home after Lopes saved from Pogba, and the Italian champions will go into the second leg high on confidence, having won all but three of their 21 games at home this term.

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

EL: Juve conquer Lyon!

Leonardo Bonucci scored a late goal as Juventus won 1-0
away to Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final first leg.

Apr 3, 2014

Both sides had numerous problems at the Stade de Gerland. The Bianconeri missed Andrea Barzagli, Angelo Ogbonna, Federico Peluso and the suspended Arturo Vidal. Carlos Tevez returned after he was banned for Juve’s 2-0 defeat to Napoli on Sunday and Daniel Osvaldo partnered him in attack. Lyon had a huge injury crisis ruling out Milan Bisevac, Gueida Fofana, Miguel Lopes, Mouhamadou Dabo, Clement Grenier and ex-Milan midfielder Yoann Gourcuff. Samuel Umtiti passed a late fitness test, but Bafetimbi Gomis was surprisingly on the bench.

Lyon were unbeaten in five home Europa League games and tonight was the birthday of Coach Remi Garde. It was also Gigi Buffon’s 700th game in all club competition.

Andrea Pirlo tried to slide an early free kick under the wall, but it was charged down, then Tevez nodded wide from an Osvaldo knock-down.

Steed Malbranque’s shot was deflected off target, though the start to the game was slow and the teams studied each other.

On 26 minutes Buffon had his first sight of the ball, getting down quickly for a one-handed save to turn Malbranque’s effort round the base of the near post. From that corner, it was knocked down for Jimmy Briand to chip over the bar from six yards.

Moments later Juve went extremely close, as Tevez sprung the offside trap on a Pirlo ball over the top and was denied by the goalkeeper sprinting off his line.

The hosts started to pile on pressure after the restart with a series of corners and free kicks around the box. Buffon flew to palm an Umtiti free kick round the near post, though it seemed to be going just wide anyway.

Tevez aimed a snapshot straight at Anthony Lopes, but immediately called the bench for a substitution, as he appeared to pull something in his thigh. Carlitos limped off to make way for Mirko Vucinic.

Juve weathered that storm and threatened at the other end, as Pirlo’s free kick was touched on by Briand and Lopes leapt to avoid an own goal.

Osvaldo chested down a Pirlo ball over the top and turned, but his shot was crucially charged down from six yards by Umtiti. Sebastian Giovinco replaced the former Southampton striker and made an immediate impact, skipping past Malbranque for a cross that was acrobatically beaten away by Lopes, then the Kwadwo Asamoah shot was deflected out for a corner.

Moments later a well-worked Juve move finished with Giorgio Chiellini’s ball across the face of goal just past Leonardo Bonucci. Mauricio Isla was sent clear down the right, but he hesitated and allowed Lopes to smother at his feet.

Giovinco had the ball in the net after clattering into the goalkeeper and naturally the referee halted play, but Lopes and the Atomic Ant were booked following a scuffle. Pogba attempted an audacious overhead kick from a corner and Giovinco ran into a dead end when trying to dribble between four defenders.

There was a dangerous Lyon counter-attack, but Martin Caceres and Chiellini combined to stop Briand setting up Gomis. Briand was also at full stretch to volley a cross-field pass back into the middle, but Malbranque just failed to get there.

Juventus wasted a golden opportunity on 84 minutes when Vucinic chested down a Giovinco assist only to balloon over from five yards.

However, on a corner moments later Juventus finally broke the deadlock. Lyon failed to clear it effectively, Pogba’s shot was charged down and Bonucci pounced on the rebound to blast into the roof of the net from close range.

Chiellini acrobatically intercepted a cross that substitute Clinton N’Jie was ready to tap in from six yards.


Lyon 0-1 Juventus

Scorers: Bonucci 85 (J)

Lyon: Lopes; Tolisso, Koné, Umtiti, Bedimo; Ferri, Gonalons, Malbranque (Fekir 86), Mvuemba; Lacazette (Gomis 75), Briand (N’Jie 89)

Juventus: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla (Lichtsteiner 78), Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez (Vucinic 56), Osvaldo (Giovinco 62)

Ref: Collum (SCO)

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Initial reaction and random observations

"Leon-ardo > Lyon" has a nice ring to it.
We'll go with that for the time being.

Apr 3, 2014

The Lyon gameplan was pretty simple to figure out 10 minutes into: Man-mark Andrea Pirlo in an attempt to take him away and have somebody else in a Juventus jersey try and beat you. It's something that a number of teams have tried to do, but few actually completely accomplished like they set out to.

As Pirlo was pretty much accompanied around the field by Steed Malbranque, you could see Juventus trying to do something else to generate offense, but not much was happening. Attacks down the wing? Nope. Having Carlos Tévez seemingly try to be a one-man show and do awesome things? Nope. Leonardo Bonucci launching balls from his own half try Tévez or Dani Osvaldo? Nope, nothing was kick-starting the Juve offense.

Ah, but for all those misplaced attempts over the top of the Lyon defense, Leo had the last laugh.

Bonucci's goal in the 85th minute gave Juventus exactly what they set out to do — come back to Turin with a win and an away goal in their back pocket. Their form wasn't magically fixed following Sunday night's loss to Napoli, and the first half against Lyon will only demonstrate that further.

But when Juventus needed a goal, they got one...from one of their central defenders. Yep, just the way we drew it up a couple of hours before kickoff in France.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
Another @bonucci_leo19 stat for you: he made 103 passes this evening, at least 45 more than any other player in #OLJuve. #UEL

Just in case you don't feel like looking it up, that's almost three times as many passes as Prilo completed (40) against Lyon on Thursday night. I think it's fair to say that Bonucci had a little more than defending to worry about Thursday night. And even though he's always a threat because of his passing ability out of the back, the first leg against Lyon was the most involved he has been a good amount of time.

Or, in simpler terms, you can look at a picture.

Good night, folks. We'll see you next time.

(Okay, maybe not. The mic hasn't been dropped just yet.)


Random thoughts and observations

• The game on Fox Sports 1 was "How many different ways can we pronounce Gianluigi Buffon." It ain't that hard, guys. They could have even said 'God' and I would have been totally okay with it.

Now that I've got that out of my system, we can talk some actual football...

• Dani Osvaldo...yikes. That form he showed in his first couple of games with Juventus now seems like a pretty distant memory as we head into April. It was almost like the turnovers he committed vastly outnumbered the positive contributions he made against Lyon on Thursday night. Mirko Vučinić remerging as an option for Antonio Conte might be some bad news for Osvaldo as the season starts to wind down.

• Bonucci just sent three long balls over the top and to the other team while I typed out this sentence. The goal kinda makes up for some of those turnovers, Leo, so you're forgiven.

• Please don't be seriously hurt, Carlos Tévez. I'd miss you so.

• The turning point in Juve's win? The moment Antonio Conte introduced Sebastian Giovinco and teamed him with Vučinić in the attack. Juventus needed some kind of spark and those two provided it. Did it drastically change things and help Juventus storm past Lyon? Obviously not. But there was a clear improvement over what was happening before they stepped onto the field. (Which, hint hint, wasn't much of anything to write home about.) Bonucci launching balls forward really didn't happen as much and Juve played the ball on the ground. Huh, a couple creative players with the ball on their feet. Who knew it would end up working well...

• How good is Gigi Buffon playing right now? Thursday night was again a case of Buffon not having to do very much, but the pair of saves he did make were absolutely huge. I'd say a clean sheet and a win is a pretty decent way to ring in your 700th career club appearance.

• Juventus won a game and Simone Padoin didn't get to come on the field in the final two minutes? Completely unacceptable.

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Bianconeri edge the French side with late goal

Apr 3, 2014

Juventus manage to score a late goal to beat Lyon 1-0 in the Europa League quarter-final first leg at the Stade de Gerland on Thursday evening.

Leonardo Bonucci scored the only goal of the match in the 84th minute in a game that lacked action for most parts.

The game started slowly as players from either sides were feeling each other out, and the first opportunity came to the visitors though Andrea Pirlo couldn’t beat the wall with his free kick.

Lyon crowded the midfield with Steed Melbranque effectively man-marking Pirlo, while both Paul Pogba and Claudio Marchisio were denied room in the centre of the park.

The hosts kept the reigning Italian champions at bay for most of the first half and created two good chances just before the break.

Melbranque forced a save from Gianluigi Buffon at his near post, while Jimmy Briand squandered a golden opportunity from the set piece as he lofted the ball over from just a few yards from goal.

The best chance in the opening half for the Italian side fell to Carlos Tevez. Pirlo played a beautiful pass for the Argentine but he could’t break his European goal drought, which now stands at 24 games, as he missed a header from a tight angle.

The second half slowly started to pick up pace as Remi Garde’s men were presented with two free kicks within the first ten minutes, one of which produced a fabulous save from the Juventus keeper, who parred away Samuel Umtiti’s curving shot for a corner.

Subsitutes, Sebastian Giovinco and Mirko Vucinic combined really well to put Mauricio Isla in very good positions on a couple of occasions but the Chilean failed to capitalize on the situations.

Kwadwo Asamoah went close from long range, before Mirko Vucinic missed a sitter after showing great ball control when he skied the ball in front of goal.

The visitors became more threatening as the second period went on and their hard work finally paid off as Bonucci scored after Pogba’s shot was blocked from a set piece, which Lyon twice failed to clear.

Remi Garde’s men brought on Nabil Fekir and Clinton N’Jie as they pursued an equaliser, but in the end it was Juve who emerged victorious and take a one goal lead back the Juventus Stadium.

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Inefficient Juventus find way past Lyon

Apr 3, 2014

Lyon may have looked like an easy opponent on paper but there were still fears that Juve would suffer. Let's be honest, fans of the Old Lady haven't seen the club's best when it comes to European competitions.

Squandering chances, relying on the frustrating long ball, it all looked hopeless in the Stade de Gerland tonight until a vicious Leonardo Bonucci shot saw Juventus celebrate as the French mourned the 1-0 defeat.

This was hardly the most entertaining match of the season. The entire game produced only four shots on target in total but Lyon deserve to be praised for their performance. For a side that had conceded 37 goals in their domestic league this season, they did well to halt what are perceived to be the favourites for the Europa League trophy for 85 minutes.

Closing down space, tenacious with the tackle and concentrated in their marking, they shut down the avenues Juventus like to attack. Remarkable when you consider the fact 11 teams in France have conceded fewer goals than them. Remi Garde had deployed a side that was desperate to make an impact, a side that fought to man-mark each player and a side that ran relentlessly in hopes of achieving a positive result. Sadly for them, their efforts and concentration were all in vain when their inability to clear in the box led to a Juve's centre-back scoring the away goal to dampen hopes and force them into accepting defeat.

Sitting back and absorbing before searching for their own opportunities to counter and score, Lyon's tactics were clever. They concentrated more on preventing an away goal situation than grabbing one of their own and what better way to do it than to stop the ultimate playmaker -- Andrea Pirlo.

Steed Malbranque followed the Italian around like a bad smell, giving him hardly any time or space to operate yet Pirlo still managed a few ridiculously delicious passes into dangerous areas that were poorly exploited by the front line.

With the playmaker man-marked, the responsibility to deliver fell to Bonucci who consistently chose the long ball to the top that bypassed the midfield. Attempting 27 long balls, 16 were accurate. The others presented the French outfit with the chance to win the aerial duel and then reclaim possession to attack. Gianluigi Buffon had to remain alert to rescue the side on occasion.

Carlos Tevez, back in the side after his suspension against Napoli, showed in an off-night that his goal drought in Europe might be affecting him on a psychological level. On several occasions, one expected more from the striker who has proved exceptional for the team in Serie A. While he squandered some good chances, Pablo Osvaldo struggled to control the ball and continuously mistimed his runs.

The second half started much as it ended but Juventus slowly started to improve. Lyon began to tire and were forced to adopt a deeper position on the field while Conte's men surged forward, improving their movement off the ball to create better chances.

Tevez and Osvaldo were taken off and Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco were introduced and the latter certainly made a difference. Never one to impress with his shots, his mobility, quick thinking and quick feet disturbed the French back-line that has shown themselves to be vulnerable to slick movements in the box in their league games this season.

Fiesty and determined to show off his intelligence, Seba created several chances whilst demonstrating his awareness of all that is beside him including the great run Giorgio Chiellini managed. Impressing in his last few appearances, it's a shame the weight of the Bianconeri shirt has impacted the player so heavily over the years. Psychologically, his desire to impress and feel worthy of the club he admires has curtailed his development but as Antonio Conte pointed out, he has ‘incredible quality'. “He needs to believe in himself even more and realise he can make the difference at a big club like Juventus the same way he did at Parma.”

That important away goal looked like it may never arrive especially not when Vucinic missed what was the best chance of the night but the Bianconeri did what they consistently manage to do in Italy -- finish the game with a victory.

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Lyon 0-1 Juventus:
6 Things We Learned

Apr 3, 2014

Juventus took a step closer to a place in their own final with a 1-0 victory in the quarter-final of the Europa League at Lyon.

The Bianconeri edged a tight encounter at the Stade de Gerland with a late Leonardo Bonucci goal to ensure they have one foot in the semi-finals with the second leg to come at home.

It is worth emphasising that Juventus are not quite excited about winning this competition just yet, but with the opportunity to pick up the trophy in the Juventus Stadium, and once they reach the next round, they will almost be able to touch it.

That moment is not far away after Thursday's victory. Here are six things we learned from it.


Carlos Tevez's European Woes May Begin to Become a Concern for Conte

Carlos Tevez had a miserable evening in Lyon, failing to score and being forced off with injury in the second half.

The Argentine has now gone 24 matches in European competitions without a goal—a run that stretches back to 2009.

That year, Carlitos scored in a 2-2 draw with Porto for Manchester United, but almost five years have passed, which must concern Antonio Conte.

Given that Conte's ultimate goal now is to break through in Europe, after a probable third successive scudetto, the necessity for a striker who is capable of scoring in the big midweek games will become paramount.

Tevez has been a great success in Turin thus far, so the trust in the former Manchester City striker will remain for now, but with a likely semi-final to come, the 30-year-old will need to start producing soon.


Exhaustion May Be an Issue for Conte

Juventus appear to be treading water as the season comes to a close.

They have struggled somewhat in recent weeks, needing a moment of genius from Andrea Pirlo on more than one occasion to decide matches.

The Bianconeri couldn't cope with the intensity of Napoli last weekend and appeared to hand the initiative to Lyon on occasion during Thursday's game.

Injuries to Angelo Ogbonna and Andrea Barzagli have meant that Conte has been unable to rotate the back three in recent weeks.

The inclusion of Mauricio Isla from the start on either flank recently has not been a great success, instead disrupting the flow of the side's wing play.

While Tevez has been in sparkling form, he has not been supported by any of his strike partners to the extent that Conte would have hoped.

Conte may need to take a risk in the next few games by widely rotating the side, potentially dropping points and allowing Roma to gain encouragement that the title race is not over yet.

But with two intense semi-final matches and a final in the Europa League possibly to come, Juventus will need to be firing on all cylinders and have plenty left in the tank.


Osvaldo Is at Risk of Missing the World Cup and Not Earning a Permanent Move

OptaPaolo @OptaPaolo
10 - Pablo Daniel Osvaldo had 10 touches in the first half, fewer than any other player. Lost. #OLJuve

Dani Osvaldo's form is worrying.

The Azzurri international has flopped since moving on loan to Juventus from Southampton.

Aside from two goals in two matches against Trabzonspor, the 28-year-old has not scored in the other nine appearances.

The former Roma striker may now be worried about missing out on Cesare Prandelli's Italy squad, with the fine form of Ciro Immobile, Mattia Destro and Antonio Cassano all pushing for a place alongside the likes of Mario Balotelli, Alberto Gilardino and Giuseppe Rossi, provided he is fit.

Not only that, but unless Osvaldo's form makes a turn for the better, the Old Lady may not be prepared to sanction a permanent move for the player.


Juve's Midfield Needs Freshening Up

Juve's midfielders are all in the midst of a dip in form.

Outside of Andrea Pirlo's sublime free-kicks, "The Maestro," Paul Pogba, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio are badly lacking inspiration lately.

The system may need tweaking in order to freshen up the roles of these exceptional midfielders, whose roles have grown somewhat stale.

Conte has found it difficult to appease Marchisio's need for games due to the superiority of the other three, but a move toward a diamond, at least on the odd occasion, could reinvigorate this marvellous quartet.


Conte Still Undecided on His Favoured Striker Partnership

Carlos Tevez is Antonio Conte's No. 1 striker.

But the second choice has been and remains unclear.

For a while it was Fernando Llorente, but the Spaniard has gone off the boil, while Dani Osvaldo's form has not been quite what Conte had hoped for.

Mirko Vucinic is returning from his latest injury, and Conte appears content to reintegrate him into the squad after he failed to earn a move away in January.

Conte also seems keen to help Sebastian Giovinco become a success in Turin, after two largely frustrating years since rejoining the Old Lady from Parma.

It is probably fair to say Fabio Quagliarella remains the only striker who is out of contention for a start.

Conte has somewhat caused this problem with his reluctance to allow the board to sell any of his strikers.

With six strikers competing for a maximum of two places, Conte is unable to juggle this selection dilemma and appease everybody.

It is a lesson he will hopefully learn from moving forward, and with a better equilibrium, the strikers may be in a better period of form at the right moments.


Juve Must Now Turn Attention to Finishing the Title Race

Juve are for all intents and purposes into the semi-finals.

A quick look at the schedule will show that the Bianconeri have three league matches before the first leg of the semi-finals.

Livorno at home, Udinese away and Bologna at home are the games, which should see Juve take maximum points, if they are at their best.

With Roma back to their best, it is important not to give the Giallorossi any hope that they can get back in the title race. The gap is currently eight points, with seven matches left.

With the pressure largely off the second leg against Lyon, Juve have an opportunity to resume their dominance in Serie A.

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Player Ratings

Goal was on hand to see Juventus slip past Lyon at Stade Gerland, with a scrappy
Leonardo Bonucci goal late on resigning the hosts to their worst home run since 1997.

Apr 3, 2014

OLYMPIQUE LYONNAIS

Anthony Lopes - A few smart saves kept the scoreline at an acceptable level, leaving Lyon with half a chance to stage a comeback in Turin. Quick off his line.

Corentin Tolisso - A solid night for the 19-year-old, who overcame a shaky opening five minutes before dealing with Asamoah brilliantly.

Baky Koné - Missed an important clearance in the build-up to Bonucci's close, with the Burkina Faso international good in the air, much not brilliant elsewhere.

Samuel Umtiti - A powerful performance from the young central defender, covering well and making some committed sliding challenges.

H. Bedimo - Threatening in the first half, pushing on whenever he could, although his shooting was a little bit more than ambitious.

Jordan Ferri - An anonymous night from the midfielder, who didn't offer a great deal going forward, but did work hard to keeps tabs on Pogba and Marchisio making runs.

Maxime Gonalons - The Lyon captain put himself around in midfield and kept the ball fairly well. Used his physicality to protect the ball.

Steed Malbranque - A hard-working evening for the experienced midfielder, who man-marked Pirlo to great effect. Unfortunate to not score from two late bursts into the penalty box.

Arnold Mvuemba - His free-kicks weren't particularly threatening, but the athletic midfielder popped up all over the field, appeasing the fans with his fantastic work rate.

Alexandre Lacazette - A quiet night for the forward, who had the beating of Caceres throughout, but just couldn't turn possession into chances or goals.

Jimmy Briand - Had the best chance of the game for his side, but couldn't clip the ball over Buffon from eight yards out. Frustrating lack of cutting edge from the Frenchman.


Substitutions

Nabil Fekir - The Algerian didn't have enough time on the field to make an impact.

Bafetimbi Gomis - The physically dominant striker missed a vital interception from a late Juventus corner, with his misplaced clearance falling to Pogba.

Clinton NJie - Denied a late chance by an excellent covering intervention from Chiellini.

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - The veteran goalkeeper was rarely called upon, but made a couple of important saves, one of which was to turn behind a 30-yard Umtiti free-kick.

Martín Cáceres - The Uruguayan looked shaky, as he struggled to deal with the dribbling ability of Lacazette and Bedimo.

Leonardo Bonucci - Netted a vital away goal for Juventus, turning home a loose ball at the back post and was responsible for plenty of good distribution from the back.

Giorgio Chiellini - The powerful defender was solid throughout, making important headers and interceptions, as well as breaking forward regularly in the second half.

Mauricio Isla - The Chilean worked incredibly hard and dealt with Bedimo fairly well on the right hand side of Juventus' defence.

Paul Pogba - The Frenchman showed a few nice touches, whether it be to initiate a one-two or to try his luck audaciously - an over-head kick being a particular example.

Andrea Pirlo - The experienced midfielder's set pieces and free-kicks were threatening, with him only being allowed to play sporadic long-balls forward, courtesy of close attention from Malbranque.

Claudio Marchisio - A quiet night for the box-to-box midfielder, who didn't prove himself in Vidal's absence.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Always keen to drive at his man and unleash a few step-overs. Offered good width but not a great deal of penetration.

Carlos Tévez - Had clear ambitions to score his first goal in European competition since 2009, but could only test Lopes on two occasions. Withdrawn through injury.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo - A very poor outing from the loan striker, whose only real chance was blocked by a great sliding challenge by Umtiti.


Substitutions

Mirko Vučinić - The Montenegrin missed a brilliant late chance, blasting over the bar from six yards after taking Giovinco's cross on his chest confidently.

SEBASTIAN GIOVINCO - The Atomic Ant had a profound effect on this game, running at defenders and providing several quality crosses. Great performance from the bench.

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Bonucci: Away goal at Lyon will
prove vital for Juventus

The defender fired home with six minutes remaining at the Stade de Gerland
to give the Italian champions a precious lead to take back to Turin.

Apr 3, 2014

Leonardo Bonucci believes his late strike will prove priceless in Juventus’ Europa League quarter-final tie against Olympique Lyonnais.

The Italy defender netted in the 84th minute of a tightly-contested encounter at the Stade de Gerland to earn the Bianconeri a 1-0 win that puts the Italian champions in pole position to qualify for the last four.

“Lyon were so full of energy in the first half and they ran very hard, but in the second we were able to bring home a very important victory,” Bonucci told reporters.

“We performed much better in the second half – early on we struggled to find the right spaces to play our game.”

Kwadwo Asamoah also agreed that Juve stepped it up a gear after the break but indicated his side were finding it tough to cope with the amount of injuries they have at present.

“In the first half we did not produce enough of the movements we had practiced in training,” the wing-back told Sky Sport Italia.

“In the second half we were a lot better when they had the ball and we were not pushed back so much.

“At this moment there are many players out injured, so the rest of us have to work twice as hard and that is not easy.”

Lyon’s Steed Malbranque was frustrated to see his side come so close to earning a goalless draw that would have left the tie beautifully balanced ahead of their trip to Turin.

“It is a real shame,” he said to beIN Sports. “We had a specific game plan in place to try and counter them and it is tough to take when the goal is scored five minutes from the end.

“There is always hope in football. We will have to play the 90 minutes in Turin at 100 per cent and if we can do that, then why can’t we go and create an upset?”

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Garde: Lyon now need a miracle against Juventus

The 48-year-old praised his side for their performance against the Italian champions
but does not think they have much chance of turning their Europa League tie around in Turin.

Apr 3, 2014

Olympique Lyonnais boss Remi Garde was devastated that his side had succumbed to a late set-piece goal in Thursday's 1-0 loss at home to Juventus.

The Ligue 1 side were just six minutes away from holding the Italian champions to what would have been a fine goalless draw in their Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash at the Stade de Gerland when Leonardo Bonucci struck.

"We tried to compete with a great team. We came very close to what we wanted and were almost in a strong position heading to Turin,” Garde told Bein Sports.

“But the second half was harder than the first and every attack became more difficult to deal with.

“I obviously regret that we have conceded from a set piece. This is a very high level and matches are decided by the smallest details but I am still very happy by what was done by my youngsters."

Garde admits his charges are now massive underdogs to reach the last four of the competition.

“We are disappointed, but we knew before the game that Juventus are one of the best teams in Europe, so it was a mountain to climb," he mused. "Now I think we need a miracle to score two goals in the second leg.

“We had the best scoring opportunities of the first half, but it is difficult to succeed at this level if you do not take your chances.

“It has been a great experience for my young players; like playing 100 games in one.”

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Conte: Incredible Giovinco made
the difference against Lyon

The Bianconeri boss was impressed by the impact his substitute made,
while stressing that Carlos Tevez was only replaced as a precautionary measure.

Apr 3, 2014

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has hailed Sebastian Giovinco after his side battled to a late 1-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais in the Europa League.

The 27-year-old forward came off the bench after 62 minutes and produced a lively cameo as the Iitalian champions snatched a late winner through Leonardo Bonucci.

“There aren’t enough people who praise Giovinco, who in my view has incredible quality,” Conte told reporters after the match.

“He needs to believe in himself even more and realise he can make the difference at a big club like Juventus the same way he did at Parma.

“Those who came off the bench did very well and I am very happy.

“We came to Lyon not to defend ourselves, but to attack and get the win that would make the second leg a little more comfortable for us. We had a good mentality.”

Bonucci’s 84th-minute winner means Juventus will now expect to move a step closer to the Europa League final, which is being played in their home stadium.

Conte says he was impressed with the way his team responded after their recent Serie A defeat to Napoli on a night during which their French opponents made expressive play difficult by defending in numbers.

“We have moved on well after the Napoli game,” he said. “We are Juventus and the players know what it means to wear this shirt.

“It was a tough match; Lyon were above all trying to stop us from playing, with man-marking all over the field.

“Inevitably, they lost some intensity in the second half, while we also moved better and created several chances. In our recent matches, we have been playing better after half-time.

“This was a deserved result but we still haven’t achieved anything – there is a second leg still to play before we can even consider the semi-finals.”

Carlos Tevez had to be replaced after 56 minutes, with Mirko Vucinic coming on in his place, but Conte did not seem seriously concerned about the Argentine.

The Bianconeri boss said: “Carlos had already felt a little pain in his thigh during the last game he played against Parma.

“We agreed the moment he felt pain in that area again he should come off. We did not want to take any stupid risks with him.”

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Bonucci: 'A very important win'

Apr 3, 2014

Leonardo Bonucci admits his goal gave Juventus “a very important victory” in the Europa League at Lyon.

The centre-back fired under the bar when Lyon failed to clear a corner five minutes from time in the first leg of this quarter-final.

“In the first half we struggled to find the right spaces to play our football, while after the break we didn’t risk anything other than on set plays,” Bonucci told Mediaset.

The Bianconeri have kept four clean sheets in five Europa League games this season.

“Lyon ran so hard in the first half, but in the second we were able to bring home a very important victory.

“My celebration? It was aimed at some of my friends who were in the stands tonight. I wanted to dedicate it to someone who died on Monday at the age of 45 and left a family. He was a Milan fan, but was always very kind to me and I spoke to him often."

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Asamoah: 'Movement was key'

Apr 3, 2014

Kwadwo Asamoah said the key was Juventus’ movement off the ball in the second half against Lyon.

Leonardo Bonucci scored a late goal to secure the 1-0 away result in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final.

“Above all in the second half we played well. The first half was alright, but we didn’t do enough of the movements we had practiced in training,” the Ghanaian told Sky Sport Italia.

“We also did better out of possession and weren’t pushed back so much.”

Juve are next in action on Monday evening against Livorno and squad rotation is down to a minimum.

“At this moment there are many players out injured, so the rest of us have to work twice as hard and it’s not easy.

“I am ready to play every game if the Coach asks, as I am a professional and prepared to do anything for the team. It’s better for a player to be on all the time than to be out of action.”

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Conte: 'Lyon tried to block Juve'

Apr 3, 2014

Antonio Conte said Lyon “tried to stop Juventus playing” and reassured fans on the Carlos Tevez injury.

Leonardo Bonucci scored five minutes from time to snatch a 1-0 first leg Europa League quarter-final win at the Stade de Gerland.

“I was never worried by the fitness levels, as this team has always worked hard despite playing so many games this season,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“We do tend to do better in the second half than the first recently, against Fiorentina and also Napoli.

“It was tough today, as Lyon were above all trying to stop us from playing with man-marking all over the field. In that type of situation, you have to hope there’s a one-on-one that goes well or moves practiced in training that go as planned.

“Inevitably, Lyon lost in intensity in the second half, we moved better off the ball and created several chances.

“I think the victory is a deserved result, but we know that we have achieved nothing yet, there is a second leg to play and a semi-final to achieve.”

Tevez went off in the second half after pulling up with a thigh problem.

“Carlos already felt a little pain in his thigh during the last game with Parma and we agreed the moment he felt pain in that area he should come off, as we didn’t want to take any stupid risks.

“Those who came off the bench did very well and I am very happy.”

Sebastian Giovinco came off the bench and was impressive, creating several dangerous opportunities.

“There aren’t enough people who praise Giovinco, who in my view has incredible quality. He needs to believe in himself even more and realise he can make the difference at a big club like Juventus the same way he did at Parma.

“I am happy that Tevez and Osvaldo did well, but we are also rediscovering Mirko Vucinic although he can’t even really play 70 minutes yet.

“We came to Lyon not to defend ourselves, but to attack and get the win that would make the second leg a little more comfortable for us. I wanted to point out the mentality of the side here.”

This evening general manager Beppe Marotta criticised Napoli for their “excessive euphoria” after beating Juventus on Sunday and said they had a “provincial” attitude.

“I am looking only to us,” shrugged Conte when asked about these comments.

“Napoli was in the past, the lads must understand and even be pleased that those who win against us act as if they achieved something extraordinary. Everyone plays the games of their lives against Juventus and that ought to make us proud.

“Inevitably it becomes news when Juve lose, so it gets discussed everywhere. The players and of course their Coach know what it means to represent Juventus and the pressure that entails.”

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Umtiti: 'Lyon still believe'

Apr 3, 2014

Samuel Umtiti insisted Lyon “still believe” despite a home defeat to Juventus in the Europa League.

The 1-0 result at the Stade de Gerland puts the quarter-final firmly in the hands of the Bianconeri ahead of next Thursday’s decider.

“We followed the instructions of the Coach and worked so hard tonight, but the goal at the end really hurt us,” said the defender.

“We know it will be hard, but we still believe. We are going to Turin in order to score.”

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

Lyon players regret Juve loss

Apr 3, 2014

Maxime Gonalons and Corentin Tolisso had regrets, but Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes said there’s “no shame” in losing to Juventus.

The French team’s hopes of continuing in the Europa League are hanging by a thread after a 1-0 home loss to Juve in the first leg of the quarter-final.

“Defensively our plan worked pretty well, but we conceded a goal on a careless mistake at the end and that’s a real shame,” said Tolisso.

“We still believe in our chances and we hope the fans do too. We will need their support if we are to qualify in Turin.”

Gonalons was on the verge of joining Napoli in January, but remained at Lyon and was in action today.

“We wanted to keep a clean sheet, but unfortunately we gave away a goal five minutes from the end,” shrugged the midfielder.

Goalkeeper Lopes had a great save on Carlos Tevez in the first half and tried to look on the bright side.

“The team did its job tonight. It’s a pity we conceded that late goal, but there’s no shame in a defeat to Juventus.”

[Socrates 8070]

OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 - 1 JUVENTUS

Leonardo Bonucci (84′)

April 3, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Gerland Stadium — Lyon
Referee: William Collum (Scotland)
Attendance:‬ 37084‎

BonBon seals sweet victory in France

Juve put one foot in the semi-finals with Bonucci's
late winner against a resilient Lyon side.

Apr 4, 2014

Following a rare setback in Serie A last Sunday, an away Europa League tie in France was a perfect opportunity for Juve to respond and get one step closer to that coveted final in Turin. It took until five minutes before the end to seal a victory and valuable away goal against Lyon. This Lyon side is a far cry from the team that dominated Ligue 1 and proved a very difficult opponent in European competition throughout the 2000's, but they were a solid defensive unit that did not give much away.

Juve started the game well with Carlos Tévez having a good chance in the 5th minute but he placed his header wide. From the outset, it was evident that Lyon had a game plan in which stopping Juve was priority as opposed to taking the initiative and creating anything themselves. This was very much an indication of how this Lyon team has regressed in recent years and considering the players at their disposal made perfect sense.

To stop Juve, you need to stop Andrea Pirlo, and the attacking midfielder Steed Malbranque was assigned this role — an unusual one for Malbranque, who is more recognized as a creative attacking threat from midfield. This game plan seemed to work in Lyon's favour as Pirlo's time on the ball was limited and it was up to Leo Bonucci to step up and become the playmaker coming out of defence. Unfortunately, Bonucci didn't have his passing boots on tonight as many of his long-range passes failed to find teammates.

Malbranque did have an impact in an attacking sense in the 26th minute when his angled shot was stopped by Gigi Buffon. From the resulting corner Briand went close but his effort went over the bar. Likewise, Pirlo did get some space in the 29th minute and provided a fantastic through ball which Tevez ran on to but couldn't force past keeper Anthony Lopes. The 'Tévez not scoring in Europe' narrative looked set to continue but as always it was never through lack of effort. That half chance proved to be the last effort of significance in a very uneventful first half. Lyon's game plan was working so far.

The second half had a frantic start with Lyon pressing hard and Juve failing to get any sustained period of possession and it was the French side who had the first chance of the half with an Umtiti free kick pushed wide by Buffon.

Shortly afterwards some good play from Kwadwo Asamoah saw the ball come to Tevez, who advanced and took a shot from distance that didn't trouble Lopes. This was the Argentine's last involvement in the game as he signalled to the bench to be substituted. Mirko Vucinic entered the fray in the 56th minute and immediately had an impact as he held up the ball and combined with his team mates but some of them — Osvaldo in particular — did not appear to be on the same frequency as him.

Osvaldo had a chance after brilliant ball from Pirlo which the Oriundo controlled well but had his effort blocked by the Lyon defence. This was Osvaldo's last participation in the game in what was probably his least effective performance in a Juve shirt as he was replaced by Giovinco.

Shortly after his introduction, Sebastian Giovinco did well from a short Pirlo corner to dribble past Lyon defence and cross a dangerous ball into box which was parried by Lopes only as far as Asamoah whose long range effort was deflected for another corner. At this point it was clear Lyon were starting to tire as Juve were well in control and the Ligue 1 side's game plan of holding out for a 0-0 draw was entering the crucial final third of the game.

Vucinic continued to impress on the ball, as did Giovinco who provided another good cross which Pogba attempted to meet with a bicycle kick. The ball eventually fell to Chiellini whose shot went well wide. His partner in defence would make up for it later. In the 77th minute Lichtsteiner replaced Isla as Juve's final substitute of the game but it was the previous substitutions that continued to have an impact on the game as Giovinco and Vucinic combined before the Montenegrin hit his shot over the bar.

Finally the breakthrough that Juve were waiting for came in the 85th minute. It started form a short Pirlo corner to Marchisio who crossed into the area. A shot by Pogba was then blocked and fell to Bonucci who rifled it into the top of the net. This was the defenders 3rd goal in all competitions this season and although his passing may have been off tonight his shooting most definitely was not.

The late away goal sets up Juve nicely for the return leg in Turin next Thursday and although the Tevez injury could be a setback Arturo Vidal will be available again. The Chilean's absence was felt tonight as Juve struggled at times to create space in midfield. Put your money on El Rey Arturo sealing a Semi Final spot next week.


PAGELLE

Buffon: 6.5 – Dealt well with any shots that came his way.

Caceres: 6.5 – Solid performance from the Uruguayan. Was rarely threatened but snuffed out counter attacks when called up.

Bonucci: 7.5 – Filled in for Pirlo as regista at times but not his best passing display. Made up for it with a clinical finish and solid defending

Chiellini: 6.5 –Powerful in the air, gave away the odd silly foul but was not his busiest night as a defender

Isla: 6 – Didn't really have an impact on the game going forward. Wasn't threatened defensively

Pogba: 6 - Quiet night for the Frenchman in his home country. His shot did lead to the winner.

Pirlo: 6.5 – Was well marked by Malbranque for a lot of the game. Played some wonderful passes when given the space.

Marchisio: 6.5 – Industrious as ever. Put in a very solid defensive performance and crossed the ball which led to the goal

Asamoah: 7.5 – Some very impressive dribbles and attacking play during the game and coped very well defensively when called upon.

Tevez: 6 – Had a few chances to break his European duck. Worked hard but night ended in disappointment with injury.

Osvaldo: 5.5 – Probably the Oriundo’s worst performance in a Juve shirt. Failed to make any real impact apart from one shot on goal

Subs:

Vucinic: 6.5 - Played well when he came on. Should start in the return leg

Giovinco: 6.5 – Very lively performance off the bench. His movement caused Lyon defence

Lichtsteiner: s/v


Coach:

Conte: 6.5 – Job done for Conte. It was always going to be difficult breaking down a side that were playing so defensively. Subs worked out well.

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Greco: Juve tired

Apr 4, 2014

Livorno’s Leandro Greco believes his side can take advantage of a ‘tired’ Juventus team when the sides meet on Monday.

Antonio Conte’s Old Lady played in Europa League on Thursday, four days after losing to Napoli at San Paolo.

The Amaranto meanwhile have not played since fighting back to draw 2-2 against Inter and the 27-year-old says they have nothing to lose come next Monday.

“It won’t be an easy match,” Greco told Radio Mana today. “But we want to give our best to try and get a result.

“Even a draw wouldn’t be bad when you take on such a strong team.

“But I think Juve have used up a lot of energy in these last few days, so from a physical point of view they won’t be in great condition.

“Therefore I think we can hurt them. The only problem is they have a very competitive squad.

“However, we have nothing to lose and against Inter we never gave up and the result came for us.

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

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Serie A Preview: Juventus v Livorno

Juventus will battle injuries and fatigue but still
should be too strong for struggling Livorno on Monday.

Apr 5, 2014

Juve are well placed to win their third successive Serie A title, sitting eight points clear of second-placed Roma with seven matches to play.

They lost just their second league match of the season last week, slipping up 2-0 at Napoli - a result that ended a 22-match unbeaten streak in Serie A.

Antonio Conte's men are currently trying to negotiate their way through a tricky period, with the club's UEFA Europa League commitments often seeing them play three times a week, and their packed fixture list has led to several injury problems.

Striker Carlos Tevez - the leading scorer in Serie A - is Juve's latest concern after he asked to be substituted with thigh pain in the club's 1-0 win at Lyon in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday.

Tevez is likely to miss this match as a result, while star midfielder Arturo Vidal is suspended.

Defensive duo Andrea Barzagli (calf) and Angelo Ogbonna (thigh) are both in doubt for the champions, who will also be without Simone Pepe due to a thigh problem.

The injury problems have seen some of the club's squad players given regular game time, one of whom, Martin Caceres, has impressed greatly.

Caceres has replaced Barzagli with aplomb at the heart of Juve's defence and was particularly solid in the club's win at Lyon.

Fellow defender Leonardo Bonucci - who scored late on in France - has singled out Caceres for special praise.

"He's a permanent fixture for Uruguay and the only thing that's kept him out of the side is Barzagli's magnificent form," Bonucci told Juventus' official website.

"He's showed he has what it takes to play for Juve.

"He's a superb man-marker, very good at beating his man to the ball. He's perfectly at ease slotting into this back three."

Juve will be expected to bounce back from their loss in Naples, but the 18th-placed Livorno will hope they are tired after their latest European exertions.

Livorno - who have never played at Juventus Stadium - moved to within a point of safety after they came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw against Inter last time out.

Domenico Di Carlo's side trailed by two goals at the break but produced an excellent comeback as goals from Paulinho and Innocent Emeghara saw them claim a point.

Di Carlo was delighted with the fight his side showed and will hope for a similar showing against another of the heavyweights of Italian football.

History is not on their side though - Juve have won six of the last seven meetings between the two sides.

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

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Giovinco/Vucinic can be key - Conte

Juve boss feels his two forwards are capable of producing the individual
brilliance required to unlock defences when sides attempt to stop his side from playing.

Apr 5, 2014

Juventus boss Antonio Conte believes Sebastian Giovinco and Mirko Vucinic could prove to be two of his key men as the season enters the home straight.

Both players have found themselves way down the Bianconeri pecking order this term, with Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez both preferred in attack.

However, after Giovinco inspired Juve to a 1-0 win at Lyon in the first-leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday, Conte backed him and Vucinic to play crucial roles in the final games of the season.

He said: "We will find ourselves in situations similar to those at Lyon, where teams are closed and defensive... it's not that I expect something different.

"We are quite prepared, this is a situation that does not bother me. In such situations we have good players for one on one battles, players like Giovinco and Vucinic can, even in the tightest games, be an important weapon to disrupt the plans of opponents."

Juve face Livorno in Serie A on Monday as they bid to improve on a 2-0 defeat to Napoli in their last league outing, with Conte set to be boosted by the return of two of his first team squad.

"I am heartened by the recovery in the squad. Angelo Ogbonna is ready and we hope Andrea Barzagli will be ready for the run-in so we have more weapons at our disposal."

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

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Juventus News – Looking at Livorno

Apr 6, 2014

How about that Bonucci!

In retrospect, it feels fitting that Leonardo Bonucci would be the one to seal Juve’s 1-0 victory in Lyon, that “1” being a very precious away goal which puts the Bianconeri firmly in control of the fixture.

After all, he spent most of the first half not only carrying out his usual duties as a center-back but also shouldering the burden Juve’s offense, as Lyon paid very close attention to Andrea Pirlo and deployed an almost man-to-man defense in the first half. It wasn’t pretty watching so many desperate Leo lobs to our shackled strikers, but Bonucci and Juve calmly chipped away, knowing Lyon would give out at some point in the second half.

That they did, thanks in part to Mirko Vucinic and Sebastian Giovinco, who provided the necessary spark and danger in front of goal. And when it was time to capitalize on some confusion in front of the Lyon net, Bonucci was there to ram home the goal which give Juve great leverage before the second leg in Turin next week.

Bonucci’s performance was as good as Tuttosport’s celebratory pun was excruciating (“LYONARDO!”).

Now, confidently in command of their two-legged Europa adventure (if still another goal or two shy of total security), Juve return to what has now become a slightly pressing matter: keeping Roma at least eight points behind them in Serie A.

Livorno arrive in Turin on Monday evening struggling against relegation and looking to take advantage of our tired Bianconeri. Juve simply cannot afford anything less than a win, thanks to the otherwise perfunctory loss to Napoli and Roma’s 4-2 win over Parma in their rescheduled fixture.

Fortunately, several players are returning to full health, everyday players are finally about to get some rest — and most importantly, Juve’s will to win never went away in the first place.


Livorno Updates: Monday Match, Vidal Suspended (Again), Giovinco May Start, Juve Rule Friendly

Expect Antonio Conte to delicately balance the twin imperatives of victory and squad rotation when Livorno come to town on Monday.

The two most important mitigating circumstances going into the weekend will be the suspension of Arturo Vidal, who collected one too many Serie A yellow cards (and who just sat out his Europa League suspension on Thursday), and the probable absence of Carlos Tevez, who begged off around the hour mark in Lyon with a slight tweak to his aggravated muscle.

In the case of Tevez, reports from Vinovo indicate that Carlitos was subbed off for precautionary measures and is relatively fine. Still, Conte will likely rest him for Livorno and save him for Lyon’s trip to Turin this coming Thursday.

The good news is that Conte can choose between four strikers to pair up with Monday’s likely starter, Fernando Llorente (who was rested Thursday): Mirko Vucinic, Sebastian Giovinco, Dani Osvaldo and Fabio Quagliarella. The even better news is that perhaps for the first time all season, the entire striker corps are active and competitive with each other. On Friday afternoon, Juve thrashed a local Piedmont side, Ivrea, by a score of 10-1, but what’s even more impressive is that Vucinic, Giovinco and Quagliarella all scored (as did Simone Padoin!). Someone wants a start — bad.

At the moment, Vucinic and Giovinco look like the top two choices to partner Llorente. Here’s hoping that after his great performance in Lyon, Little Seba will get another chance to impress (and continue his search for the mild scoring prowess he exhibited at Parma). It’s getting increasingly bittersweet to watch Seba create real danger and provide great energy in a match like Thursday’s, knowing that through either circumstance, injury or inconsistency he probably won’t do it again for another month. I’m not sure if Conte needs to keep playing him even if he has a rough match, or if Giovinco has to impress immediately, but either way something’s gotta give — might as well give on Monday, against a relegation-bound squad.

The other interesting thing about the Ivrea practice match was that Conte fielded a 3-4-3 formation with Marco Storari in goal and Stephan Lichtsteiner and Federico Peluso manning either flank. That would seem to indicate that the latter two will reprise their roles on the wing no matter what formation Conte chooses for Monday; it’s obvious that Kwadwo Asamoah could use a rest (see below), as could Mauricio Isla, who’s been used frequently in the past month.

Due to Vidal’s suspension, Paul Pogba, Claudio Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo are nearly a lock for central midfield, unless Conte wants to give Simone Padoin a chance (and one of the aforementioned three a much-needed rest).

In defense, Martin Caceres might finally sit for a minute, now that Andrea Barzagli appears ready for action again. Angelo Ogbonna is set to return as well, which means Leo Bonucci or Giorgio Chiellini could also be rested. Finally, it wouldn’t be surprising if Conte swapped Storari for Gigi Buffon, given the opponents and with another match in three days.

I still believe that the Napoli loss was relatively meaningless, but Juve shouldn’t make it retrospectively important by dropping points at home to Livorno. It must be tempting for Antonio Conte to spell a bunch of his beleaguered, exhausted warriors, but he still needs to field a tight-knit XI of players who are relatively familiar with each other.

Despite the distraction of unfinished Europa business looming on the other side of this week, Juve need to concentrate on dispatching Livorno as quickly and as definitively as possible — no suffering.

And it would be nice to start scoring in bulk again. Down with 1-0!

FINO ALLA FINE, FORZA JUVE!!!


Gervasoni Refs Juve-Livorno

Andrea Gervasoni of Lombardy will oversee Monday’s clash with Livorno.

According to the Mothership, Juventus have a very favorable record in their 10 matches under Gervasoni’s whistle: seven wins, two draws and one loss. The last time out, Andrea presided over Juve’s 4-2 victory over Sampdoria in Turin.

No word yet on how well he performs on Mondays (still waiting, STTBS Bureau of Arbitrary Statistics).

Gervasoni’s linemen will be Salvatore Longo and Francesco De Luca. The fourth official is Giuseppe Stallone (his family’s DNA is rumored to be encoded with the much-coveted Eye of the Tiger).

Time to rise up to the challenge of our rivals, ragazzi!

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

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Juventus-Livorno Preview: Bianconeri look
to bounce back against Serie A strugglers

Antonio Conte's men are still clear favourites to claim a third successive Scudetto
but last weekend's defeat at Napoli allowed Roma to cut their lead to eight points.

Apr 6, 2014

Juventus will battle injuries and fatigue but still should be too strong for struggling Livorno on Monday.

The Bianconeri are well placed to win their third successive Serie A title, sitting eight points clear of second-placed Roma with seven matches to play - though the Giallorossi have the opportunity to close the gap when they face Cagliari on Sunday.

They lost just their second league match of the season last week, slipping up 2-0 at Napoli - a result that ended a 22-match unbeaten streak in Serie A.

Antonio Conte's men are currently trying to negotiate their way through a tricky period, with the club's Europa League commitments often seeing them play three times a week, and their packed fixture list has led to several injury problems.

Striker Carlos Tevez - the leading scorer in Serie A - is Juve's latest concern after he asked to be substituted with thigh pain in the club's 1-0 win at Lyon in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday.

Tevez is likely to miss this match as a result, while star midfielder Arturo Vidal is suspended.

Defensive duo Andrea Barzagli (calf) and Angelo Ogbonna (thigh) are both in doubt for the champions, who will also be without Simone Pepe due to a thigh problem.

The injury problems have seen some of the club's squad players given regular game time, one of whom, Martin Caceres, has impressed greatly.

The Uruguayan has replaced Barzagli with aplomb at the heart of Juve's defence and was particularly solid in the club's win at Olympique Lyonnais.

Fellow defender Leonardo Bonucci - who scored late on in France - has singled out Caceres for special praise.

"He's a permanent fixture for Uruguay and the only thing that's kept him out of the side is Barzagli's magnificent form," the Italy international told Juventus' official website. "He's showed he has what it takes to play for Juve.

"He's a superb man-marker, very good at beating his man to the ball. He's perfectly at ease slotting into this back three."

Juve will be expected to bounce back from their loss in Naples, but 18th-placed Livorno will hope their hosts are tired after their latest European exertions.

Livorno - who have never played at Juventus Stadium - moved to within a point of safety after they came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw against Inter last time out.

Domenico Di Carlo's side trailed by two goals at the break but produced an excellent comeback as goals from Paulinho and Innocent Emeghara saw them claim a point.

The coach was delighted with the fight his side showed and will hope for a similar showing against another of the heavyweights of Italian football.

History is not on their side, though - Juve have won six of the last seven meetings between the two sides.


Head to Head

Serie A ‎- Nov 24, 2013 - Livorno 0 - 2 Juventus
Serie A ‎- Feb 6, 2010 - Livorno 1 - 1 Juventus
Serie A ‎- Sep 19, 2009 - Juventus 2 - 0 Livorno


Last Five Matches

JUVENTUS

Apr 3, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 0 - 1 Juventus - EL
Mar 30, 2014 - SSC Napoli 2 - 0 Juventus - Serie A
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


LIVORNO

Mar 31, 2014 - Livorno 2 - 2 FC Internazionale - Serie A
Mar 26, 2014 - Atalanta 2 - 0 Livorno - Serie A
Mar 22, 2014 - Torino 3 - 1 Livorno - Serie A
Mar 16, 2014 - Livorno 2 - 1 Bologna - Serie A
Mar 9, 2014 - Sampdoria 4 - 2 Livorno - Serie A

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

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

MATCH PREVIEW

Apr 6, 2014

While Juventus are closing in on a third consecutive Scudetto, opponents Livorno remain in relegation danger.

The Bianconeri suffered a setback last weekend, relinquishing their 22-match unbeaten Serie A run following a 2-0 defeat at Napoli. The Partenopei scored in either half, with Juve unable to get out of the blocks. Coach Antonio Conte confessed his side was second best on the day.

Not aiding Juve has been the combination of a packed fixture list and a number of injuries. Gianluigi Buffon conceded that progressing through Europe and flying towards the Scudetto has been difficult with a number of players missing over the past month. However, Juve will take winning momentum into the clash after their Europa League triumph versus Lyon.

Carlos Tevez returns from suspension, but Arturo Vidal has reached the yellow card limit. Federico Peluso is available, while Andrea Barzagli and Angelo Ogbonna remain uncertainties. Simone Pepe will miss the match.

Livorno showed promise in recovering from a two-goal deficit against Inter, halting a two-match losing run. Rodrigo Palacio put the Nerazzurri in command on the stroke of half-time, but Paulinho started the comeback after the interval, before a late Innocent Emeghara equaliser.

It not only pushed the Tuscans further from the bottom two, but means they are just a point from safety with seven matches remaining. Labronici boss Domenico Di Carlo praised their spirit against Inter, claiming that will help them avoid the drop. “We can always improve and I was pleased with the spirit of the team. That is the way to ensure we stay up.”

Emerson and Ibrahima Mbaye are set to miss up to a month through injury, while Alessandro Luci is a long-term absentee.

Livorno have won just once in Turin, way back during World War II. The Bianconeri have completely dominated this fixture, winning 14 of the 16 meetings.

Keep an eye on: Francesco Bardi (Livorno) – The rising star will be put to the test by Serie A’s most potent attack. A good Bardi performance between the posts can go a long way towards Livorno leaving Turin with a point.

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

Last season: Not played

Stat fact: Juventus have defeated the Amaranti by three goals or more on seven occasions.


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

LIVORNO (probable): Bardi; Ceccherini, Valentini, Castellini; Piccini, Benassi, Biaganti, Duncan, Mesbah; Emeghara, Paulinho

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

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Di Carlo: 'Livorno can surprise Juve'

Apr 6, 2014

Domenico Di Carlo said Livorno have no fear of Serie A leaders Juventus. “We hope to pull a surprise.”

“Sooner or later, a surprise can happen and we hope to pull a surprise,” Coach Di Carlo told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“Football is unpredictable. Don’t forget two years ago Juve drew here with Lecce around this time of the season and last term they lost to Sampdoria.

“Of course, Juventus are having an extraordinary campaign and at times I hear criticism of them that is frankly inopportune. Antonio Conte is a perfectionist, just like me.

“However, we can still hope they have an off day and we get the perfect game.”

The Amaranto already caused an upset last week, fighting back from 2-0 down to hold Inter 2-2.

“Against the big clubs you must know how to suffer under pressure and then hit them on the break to make the most of any distractions.

“We are in the right condition to pick up points anywhere we can. Obviously I have to consider the overall situation as well.”

This may well be a reference to the rumour Livorno will rest Paulinho, as he is on a yellow card and they cannot afford to miss him against Chievo next week.

“Innocent Emeghara and Paulinho form a partnership that has technique, physicality and depth. I tried to bring confidence, enthusiasm, sense of belonging and the courage to dare.

“The group is young, but these lads follow me and enjoy their football. When they get things wrong, they learn from their mistakes.

“Set plays are fundamental and at times I shout at the players in the locker room because they ought to try out a few more training ground exercises. We are always looking for new options.

“We have grown through the suffering this season because we are not afraid and want to go beyond our limitations.”

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

[Socrates 8070]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni

Juventus and Livorno squads

Apr 6, 2014

Juventus are still without Andrea Barzagli and have Arturo Vidal suspended for their game with injury-hit Livorno.

It kicks off on Monday at 19.00 CET.

Angelo Ogbonna returns to the squad, but Barzagli remains sidelined along with Simone Pepe.

Vidal sits out a Serie A ban after he was also suspended for the Europa League quarter-final against Lyon on Thursday.

Carlos Tevez hobbled off during that 1-0 win in France and is in the squad, but could well be rested tomorrow.

Livorno have to do without Andrea Luci, Emerson and Ibrahima Mbaye, as they are all sidelined, but there are no disciplinary concerns for Coach Mimmo Di Carlo.


Juventus squad: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Marchisio, Vucinic, Tevez, Giovinco, Peluso, Llorente, Osvaldo, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Lichtsteiner, Quagliarella, Storari, Isla, Rubinho

Livorno squad: Bardi, Anania, Aldegani; Piccini, Gemiti, Coda, Ceccherini, Mesbah, Castellini, Valentini, Tiritiello; Biagianti, Duncan, Greco, Mosquera, Benassi, Bartolini; Siligardi, Paulinho, Borja, Emeghara, Belfodil

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