Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

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

Juventus vs. Livorno Preview:
Round 32 — The start of something new?

You know, like a new unbeaten streak. Funny how that works...

Apr 7, 2014

Juventus' first 90 minutes in a post-Napoli loss world looked a lot like the four weeks building up to it. It was a struggle, something that has become all too familiar to us Juventini these days. For better or worse, it's seems as though being completely frustrated is a requirement to watch Juve these days.

What we discovered is that a league loss wasn't the straightaway cure like it was the first time this season. Different kinds of situations, sure, but also the same kind of losses. Bad, bad losses. The only losses we've seen Juventus suffer in Serie A this season.

So much for immediate gratification, huh, folks?

Now with everybody saying the Scudetto race is back on with Roma being five points behind Juventus, a team at the opposite end of the table comes to Turin for a little Monday night football. This Livorno side is far from trying to stave off another team to win the league title. Far from it. When Livorno takes the Juventus Stadium field, they know full well that they need points in the worst possible way.

But in a way, you could say that Juventus is also a desperate team. Desperate in a sense that they want to try and get back to how they were playing a few months ago. Desperate to stop this run of form where they seem to only win by inches with sub-par performance after sub-par performance. Desperate to score more than one goal in a game.

And, probably above all else, desperate to get back to winning in Serie A.

What will it be, fellas? Three points would be cool. So would two or three goals. Oh, and a shutout.


GOOD NEWS

Juventus are at home, in Turin, and will be in front of what will be a sold out crowd. If there's ever a time to maybe get a little extra motivated to try and turn this run of poor form around, it's tomorrow night. The schedule is in their favor with one of Serie A's worst teams coming to Turin and they're going to be home all week. Can't draw it up better than that.


BAD NEWS

I'm just going to steal from the Lyon preview that went live on Wednesday because it still applies to Juventus today. Why? Because not much has changed over the last few days.

If you have watched Juventus lately, you pretty much know things aren't going so hot right now. There are wins and the lead atop Serie A is still pretty comfortable, but the team's actual form has been pretty darn ugly. Winning ugly is one thing, but Napoli pretty reminded us of what we already knew — Juventus isn't playing well at all right now.

The lead atop Serie A is a little smaller than it was a few days ago, but Juventus is still being Juventus right now. And this current version of Juventus we've seen the last four or six weeks, ain't the Juventus we saw the last time Juventus played Livorno.

And just like against Lyon on Thursday, there will be no Arturo Vidal due to a yellow card suspension. Dammit. At least the guy will be well rested for Lyon's visit to Turin later in the week.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Can Juventus snap out of this funk — at least a little bit.

At this point, it seems pretty certain that things aren't going to all be fixed in 90 minutes. As much as we would like that to happen so that Juventus doesn't make us want to pull our hair out, it just doesn't seem realistic at this point. The more realistic thing that might happen is small, baby steps instead of one giant step that involves crushing the opponent. For all the 1-0 wins Juve have had recently, they haven't been pretty. The last time Juve played Livorno, it was towards the start of their unbeaten run, the part where they were blowing right past almost every opponent in Italy. This time, though, things are a little different. And maybe, just maybe, we can get back to the way things used to be.


2. Can Andrea Pirlo get back to being Andrea Pirlo?

I think it's pretty safe to say that the bearded was shut down by Lyon on Thursday night. There were a few moments of Pirlo brilliance, a few perfectly-threaded passes to his teammates, but that's about it. Lyon's man-marking of Pirlo worked almost as well as anybody has accomplished this season. Something else I feel safe in saying: Livorno is not on Lyon's level, just as Lyon is probably not on Napoli's level. And with that, you hope that lesser competition turns out to be the something kick-starts Pirlo


3. If Carlos Tévez plays like he's at full strength.

For one of the few times this season, Juve's No. 10 was rather ineffective before coming off due to an apparent leg injury against Lyon. Even though he did have to come off before the final whistle just a few days ago, Tévez has been included in Juve's 21-man squad by Antonio Conte for tomorrow night's game against Livorno and there's no reason to think he won't be in the starting lineup based on the "No news is good news" theory. You just hope whatever was tweak the other night in France doesn't become a lingering problem.


4. Who will be Tévez's strike partner.

Some places say Fernando Llorente, other places say Dani Osvaldo. The only certainty is that Tévez is starting. The complete uncertainty, at least from the outside looking in, is that predicting who will start alongside Carlitos Neither player stands out when it comes to how they're performing as of late, so there's that. My own gut feeling is that Antonio Conte will probably stick with Llorente and Tevez because that's what Conte does — when in doubt, go with the players that have gotten you to this point. And while I'd like to see somebody else maybe get a shot at showing what they can do these days, my gut just can't stop talking to me. (And it's not because I'm hungry.)


My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Vucinic, Tevez


OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 7 P.M. IN ITALY; 1 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 10 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

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

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

Apr 7, 2014

It’s the business end of the season and the games are approaching thick and fast. Juventus are battling out for titles on two fronts. Their midweek Europa League tussle against Lyon didn’t make for the most attractive of showings yet in what has become the norm off late, they managed to grind out a slender victory. Indeed, the Bianconeri haven’t been as assertive as we’ve grown used to yet they always manage to get the job done. Fatigue is a valid alibi in a congested fixture list but it’s something a team of their caliber must get used to.

Roma’s win over Cagliari means the gap at the top of the table has been cut down to 5 points. Although you could say that Juventus do have the easier run-in with the penultimate game against Roma the only real hurdle left. The potential Europa League fixtures placed in between could make things a bit difficult for the Champions but they do have the depth in the squad to bag both the titles they are currently in the running for.


Team news and tactics

Juventus

Last weekend’s lackluster loss to Napoli was only Juve’s second loss of the campaign. Their last, triggered a record breaking winning streak. Conte will hope his side come up with the same reaction. Arturo Vidal is suspended for this one so Claudio Marchisio will enter the fray to take his place.

The much praised Juventus midfield has been almost invisible in recent games. Players are off form and they’ve found it hard to establish authority and command. That was most evident when Leonardo Bonucci was forced to distribute from the back against Lyon. The defender launched countless wayward deliveries to his forwards that only intensified the frustration. To his credit though, he did put the ball in the back of the net, that turned out to be the winner.

Pablo Osvaldo is expected to partner Mirko Vucinic in attack as Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente might be given a much needed and deserved breather. Osvaldo, since bursting onto the scene for Juventus in the Europa League, has since seen his form disappear. The former Roma striker has yet to score for his new club in the league and has come under much scrutiny given his less than impressive performances.

Andrea Barzagli, Simone Pepe and Angelo Ogbonna should sit this one out with injuries.

Expected starting line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Osvaldo, Vucinic

Livorno

A contrast to their illustrious opponents, Livorno are in the pits of Serie A. A draw against Inter last weekend saw them pick up a vital point that keeps alive their hopes of survival. Livorno lie in 18th place in the league charts with just two points behind Bologna. Di Carlo’s men have seven games of unadulterated struggle to look forward to but there could be a light at the end of the tunnel that could see them retain their Serie A status.

It won’t be easy though and to make things worse, they have to contend with injuries to key players. Luci, Emerson, Rinaudo and Mbaye are all out of the fixture and it remains unclear whether top scorer Paulinho will start for the visitors. His absence will be a major blow for the Tuscan based outfit as his contribution of 12 goals so far has kept them alive in the league, just about.

Hopes will be pinned on the shoulders of young hot-shot Francesco Bardi. The young Italian keeper has come to the fore this season with excellent performances. His outings in the summer u21 Euros allowed him a platform to showcase his precocious talent and he’s steadily improving with time. Livorno are expected to sit back and crowd out their midfield in a bid to make life difficult for Juventus. It won’t be easy for Juventus to break them down and with fatigue a possible factor, Livorno won’t think twice about counter-attacking the Bianconeri.


Expected starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Bardi (GK); Ceccherini, Valentini, Castellini; Piccini, Benassi, Biagianti, Duncan, Mesbah; Siligardi, Emeghara


Player to watch-out for

Paul Pogba (Juventus)

Speculation as you would expect, has been at a maximum around Paul Pogba’s future. Every new week brings with it a new flurry of rumors about a move beyond Italy. On the field however, the young Frenchman has blown hot and cold. Since the turn of the year, Pogba’s form has dipped and rarely has he been as outstanding as we’ve come to expect. Yet, you tend to forget that he’s still at the tender age of 21 and far from a finished product. Pogba, though, has the potential to decide the course of a game with the flick of his boot and will see Livorno as the perfect opportunity to get some form going.


Prediction

Juventus 2-0 Livorno

The home side are heavy favorites at the impenetrable fortress that is the Juventus Stadium. Having won all their home games in Serie A this campaign, it is almost foolish to look at a result that doesn’t see the Champions pick up the three points. Juventus will aim to finish off the game as quickly as possible and leave a bit in the tank ahead of their second leg against Lyon.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

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

Juventus-Livorno Betting Preview:
Depleted hosts to make the breakthrough after half-time

Antonio Conte's men are overwhelming favourites to beat the strugglers,
but there is value in backing the majority of the goals to go in after the break.

Apr 7, 2014

Juventus will be looking to bounce back from last week’s 2-0 defeat at Napoli when they welcome struggling Livorno to Turin on Monda.

That result ended the Bianconeri's 22-match unbeaten streak in Serie A and they are 1/6 (1.17) favourites with bet365 to get straight back to winning ways tonight.

Domenico Di Carlo’s men have won just three of their last 20 league fixtures but are available at 18/1 (19.00) to pull themselves out of the bottom three with a shock victory at the home of the champions.

The hosts have not dropped a single point at home all season, but you can get odds of 11/2 (6.50) on them settling for a draw this evening.

Despite their setback in Naples, Antonio Conte’s men demonstrated exactly why they have dominated their league for the past few season in Thursday’s Europa League win at Olympique Lyonnais.

Having failed to impose themselves on a tight game in an attacking sense, the Italians eventually came away with an invaluable away victory after centre-back Lenoardo Bonucci struck a scrappy late winner from a corner.

Conte’s team have consistently found a way to win without truly sparkling this campaign and should require this never-say-die attitude more than ever tonight due to their current injury list.

A hectic schedule has finally caught up with the hosts, depriving them of injured top scorer Carlos Tevez and suspended star midfielder Arturo Vidal for the clash against a Labronici side reinvigorated by last weekend’s comeback in the 2-2 draw against Inter.

Patience may therefore by required of the home crowd this evening, with odds of 21/20 (2.05) looking a sensible option on a spirited Livorno performance ensuring that the majority of the goals go in after half-time.

That bet would have paid out in four of Juventus’ last six games, as well as four of the visitors’ last five away from home.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

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

All of Italy's against Juventus, says Chiellini

The defender claims the rest of Serie A is desperate to see the champions
lose but considers it a compliment based on their domestic dominance.

Apr 7, 2014

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini says the rest of Italy are out to end the club's spell of dominance in Serie A.

The champions are five points clear at the top of the table with seven games remaining and on track to claim their third consecutive Scudetto crown.

There were joyous celebrations as Napoli, third in the standings, ended Juve's 22-match unbeaten streak courtesy of a shock 2-0 victory last weekend, but Chiellini took the euphoria as a compliment to the Bianconeri's overwhelming success since their promotion from Serie B in 2007.

"I don't think it was excessive, it was just the simple celebration of those who want to win and not finish second," the 29-year-old told Tuttosport.

"It's been Juve versus the rest of Italy since the start of the season.

"When Juventus lose, everyone celebrates because they hope the title race will be open again. The more you win, the less people like you.

"Of course, I hope next year they'll like us even less..."

Last weekend's loss opened the door, albeit slightly, for second-placed Roma, who have now played one game more than Antonio Conte's men.

The leaders have the chance to bounce back when they host relegation-threatened Livorno on Monday and Chiellini knows victory at Juventus Stadium would dent any lingering title hopes in the capital.

"We have the Scudetto in our grasp, but that doesn't mean we've already won it," said Chiellini.

"Now we need to bring it home. The fixture list might appear simple on paper, but there are dangers, starting from Livorno.

"On the other hand, Roma can play without pressure. They've had an amazing campaign, beyond their best expectations."

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

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

Line-ups: Juventus-Livorno

Apr 7, 2014

Juventus take on desperate Livorno in the 19.00 CET kick-off after Roma closed the gap to five points.

The Bianconeri are caught between needing to rotate the squad ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final with Lyon and defending their Serie A leadership.

They were beaten 2-0 by Napoli last week and Roma’s successful run has closed the gap at the top of the table to only five points.

Andrea Barzagli is still out injured with Arturo Vidal suspended, while Carlos Tevez starts despite a muscular problem he suffered in Lyon.

He partners Fernando Llorente, while Giorgio Chiellini starts against his hometown club.

Livorno are in the bottom three, but boosted their confidence last week by fighting back from 2-0 down to hold Inter 2-2.

Andrea Luci, Emerson and Ibrahima Mbaye are all injured, while top scorer Paulinho is not risked from the start.

That’s because the Brazilian is one yellow card away from suspension and Livorno cannot afford to miss him in next week’s relegation dogfight with Chievo.

Instead, Innocent Emeghara and his lightning pace starts with Luca Siligardi, while Ishak Belfodil is on the bench.

This fixture has been played 16 times in Serie A with 14 home victories, one draw (2-2 on December 5 1948) and one Livorno win (3-2 on January 11 1942). In those meetings Juve scored 49 goals and conceded 16.


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

Juventus bench: Storari, Rubinho, Isla, Ogbonna, Peluso, Padoin, Giovinco, Vucinic, Osvaldo, Quagliarella


LIVORNO: Bardi; Ceccherini, Valentini, Coda, Castellini; Benassi, Biagianti, Duncan, Mesbah; Emeghara, Siligardi

Livorno bench: Tiritiello, Bartolini, Paulinho, Gemiti, Aldegani, Greco, Mosquera, Anania, Belfodil, Borja, Piccini

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

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

Marotta: 'Juve used to pressure'

Apr 7, 2014

Juventus “are accustomed to being under pressure,” said director Beppe Marotta ahead of the match with Livorno.

“Every weekend we have to pass a new test,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia after Roma temporarily closed the gap at the top of the Serie A table to five points.

“It’s a difficult test this time, as Livorno have a lot to lose and we must have the maximum concentration.

“This season the gap had seemed to be more consistent than in previous years, but we are accustomed to being under pressure. It is in the DNA of the club, Coach and directors.”

Carlos Tevez is starting this evening despite a muscular problem, though there were reports he’d be rested ahead of the Europa League quarter-final with Lyon on Thursday.

“If Tevez said he is available, then it’s because he feels good physically. The strapping is just a preventative measure, otherwise Antonio Conte wouldn’t have picked him.”

Marotta caused controversy last week when complaining Napoli celebrated “like a provincial team” after beating Juventus, to which the son of President Aurelio De Laurentiis replied by calling him “ignorant.”

“Ignorant? I’ll take that...” shrugged Marotta.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - LIVORNO

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

HT 2-0: Llorente double stuns Livorno

Apr 7, 2014

A quick-fire brace from Fernando Llorente has given Juventus the 2-0 half-time lead over plucky Livorno.

The gap at the top of the table had temporarily been closed to five points, so the pressure was on Juve to win and restore the eight-point cushion. Arturo Vidal was suspended and Andrea Barzagli injured, but Carlos Tevez started despite a muscular problem ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final with Lyon. The Amaranto were in the drop zone and desperate, especially as Emerson, Ibrahima Mbaye and Andrea Luci were sidelined. Paulinho was rested, as he is on a booking and couldn’t be risked for next week’s relegation dogfight with Chievo.

Innocent Emeghara scored in last week’s 2-2 draw with Inter and his confidence was still high, as within two minutes he had forced Gigi Buffon to beat away a snapshot. The Swiss striker threatened again, running at Leonardo Bonucci to set up a Luca Siligardi effort wide.

Tevez responded, testing Francesco Bardi at the near post after good work from Fernando Llorente. Giorgio Chiellini wasted a great opportunity, blasting over from just inside the penalty area against his former club from a Paul Pogba assist.

Stephan Lichtsteiner prodded off target too and Ceccherini performed a crucial sliding tackle on Kwadwo Asamoah in the box.

The pressure finally paid off on 32 minutes when Llorente gathered from Tevez with his back to goal, spun round his marker and smashed it into the near top corner.

Pogba’s screamer was charged down and from the resulting Andrea Pirlo corner Llorente was allowed a free header, which Bardi did not deal with at all well. It appeared to be straight at him and the goalkeeper fumbled it over the line. It was the Spaniard’s seventh headed goal of the season, more than any other Serie A player.

Lichtsteiner ran on to a slide-rule pass down the right and tried to roll across for Tevez, crucially intercepted by Bardi. Just before the break, Emeghara caused a scare when he skipped past two players down the left and hesitated, allowing the block for a corner.

Moments later, Juve went on the counter-attack and Tevez curled just off target.


Juventus 2-0 Livorno (Half-Time)

Scorers: Llorente 32, 35 (J)

Juventus: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente

Livorno: Bardi; Ceccherini, Valentini, Coda, Castellini; Benassi, Biagianti, Duncan, Mesbah; Emeghara, Siligardi

Ref: Gervasoni

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Llorente double fires champions to victory

The Bianconeri eased to victory to restore their eight point lead
at the top of Serie A through the Spaniard's first half goals.

Apr 7, 2014

Fernando Llorente was Juventus' hero as he scored both goals in a 2-0 win over Livorno that cements a top-two finish in Serie A.

With third-placed Napoli losing to Parma on Sunday, Juve coach Antonio Conte knew three points against their relegation-threatened visitors on Monday would seal Champions League football next season.

And the reigning champions, who are now eight points clear of Roma in second and 20 in front of Napoli with just six games remaining, put in an assured display with Llorente, who sat out the midweek Europa League win at Lyon, striking twice in three minutes in the first half.

The Spaniard's first was an emphatic finish from inside the six-yard box, and he then saw a near-post header creep under Francesco Bardi to ensure Juve bounced back from just their second league defeat of the season at Napoli last week by maintaining their perfect home record in Serie A this term.

The second half lacked the intensity of the first, with neither side really coming close to scoring, as Juve seemed content to control proceedings by dominating possession.

Livorno, meanwhile, stay two points adrift of safety in 18th place.

After threatening through Innocent Emeghara in the opening minute, the visitors struggled to contain Conte's side and their goal led a charmed life.

Giorgio Chiellini and Stephan Lichtsteiner wasted early chances for the hosts, but Juve’s pressure eventually paid dividends with Llorente’s quickfire double just after the half-hour mark.

Carlos Tevez was the architect for the opener, as he played a neat pass into Llorente, before the Spaniard spun away from his marker and lashed the ball into the top corner.

The 29-year-old then doubled his tally with a close-range header. Andrea Pirlo delivered a corner to the near post and Llorente's header somehow squirmed under Bardi.

Paul Pogba and Tevez both had opportunities to extend the Bianconeri's lead further in the closing minutes of the half, but their long-range efforts were just wide of goal.

The start of the second half mirrored the first as Livorno came out very quickly, but their inability to test Gianluigi Buffon meant the hosts were able to keep them at bay.

The reigning Italian champions were far from their best after the break and looked to hit their opponents on the counter-attack, although chances were at a premium.

Llorente's search for a hat-trick saw his first sight of goal in the second half hit the side-netting, while Pogba scuffed an opportunity wide from inside the area.

Livorno's Alfred Duncan finally called Buffon into action just before the hour, and the Italy keeper was equal to his long-range effort with a one-handed save.

With Thursday's Europe League quarter-final second leg with Lyon on the horizon, Conte was able to rest Pogba, Llorente and Tevez in the final 20 minutes of the match as Juve took another step towards their third consecutive Scudetto.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Llorente double sinks Livorno

A quick-fire Fernando Llorente double allowed Juventus to beat
Livorno 2-0 and restore their eight-point lead over Roma.

Apr 7, 2014

The gap at the top of the table had temporarily been closed to five points with Roma’s victory in Cagliari yesterday, so the pressure was on Juve. Arturo Vidal was suspended and Andrea Barzagli injured, but Carlos Tevez started despite a muscular problem ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final with Lyon. The Amaranto were in the drop zone and desperate, especially as Emerson, Ibrahima Mbaye and Andrea Luci were sidelined. Paulinho was rested, as he is on a booking and couldn’t be risked for next week’s relegation dogfight with Chievo.

Innocent Emeghara scored in last week’s 2-2 draw with Inter and his confidence was still high, as within two minutes he had forced Gigi Buffon to beat away a snapshot. The Swiss striker threatened again, running at Leonardo Bonucci to set up a Luca Siligardi effort wide.

Tevez responded, testing Francesco Bardi at the near post after good work from Fernando Llorente. Giorgio Chiellini wasted a great opportunity, blasting over from just inside the penalty area against his former club from a Paul Pogba assist.

Stephan Lichtsteiner prodded off target too and Ceccherini performed a crucial sliding tackle on Kwadwo Asamoah in the box.

The pressure finally paid off on 32 minutes when Llorente gathered from Tevez with his back to goal, spun round his marker and smashed it into the near top corner.

Pogba’s screamer was charged down and from the resulting Andrea Pirlo corner Llorente was allowed a free header, which Bardi did not deal with at all well. It appeared to be straight at him and the goalkeeper fumbled it over the line. It was the Spaniard’s seventh headed goal of the season, more than any other Serie A player.

Lichtsteiner ran on to a slide-rule pass down the right and tried to roll across for Tevez, crucially intercepted by Bardi. Just before the break, Emeghara caused a scare when he skipped past two players down the left and hesitated, allowing the block for a corner.

Moments later, Juve went on the counter-attack and Tevez curled just off target. After the restart, Llorente turned Valentini to hit the side-netting from a tight angle.

Livorno came back from 2-0 down to hold Inter last week and gave Buffon a scare with an Alfred Duncan blockbuster from distance, but the veteran goalkeeper flew for a one-handed save at the near top corner.

The second half was entirely comfortable for the Bianconeri, who controlled their two-goal lead and allowed Livorno precious few opportunities. With the final kick of the game, Claudio Marchisio went down just inside the box, but the referee whistled for full time.


Juventus: Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba (Padoin 84), Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Tevez (Giovinco 65), Llorente (Vucinic 77)

Livorno: Bardi; Ceccherini (Piccini 59), Valentini, Coda, Castellini; Benassi, Biagianti (Mosquera 74), Duncan, Mesbah; Emeghara (Belfodil 64), Siligardi

Ref: Gervasoni

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Llorente double crowns Bianconeri win

Apr 7, 2014

Juventus coasted to a 2-0 victory against Livorno at the Juventus Stadium on Monday night in Serie A action.

Fernando Llorente struck twice in the space of two minutes in the first half to ensure the Bianconeri bounced back after their blip in Naples last Sunday.

The game kicked off at a frantic pace and the home side were almost caught napping, Innocent Emeghara bursting forward and striking from range, but Gianluigi Buffon was equal to the task saving down to his left.

After a sloppy opening five minutes the Serie A leaders soon found their feet, Carlos Tevez wriggling into the box after being served by Llorente, but the Argentinian fired his shot straight at Francesco Bardi.

Juve soon established control of the game, Giorgio Chiellini culpable of blasting a guilt-edged chance over the bar after Paul Pogba had found the defender unmarked just inside the area.

Stephan Lichtsteiner was next to squander a presentable chance, the Swiss international failing to administer the contact required to guide Kwadwo Asamoah’s cross goal-wards.

Just after the half-hour mark Livorno’s resistance was emphatically broken by Llorente, Tevez slipping a pass to his strike partner and after turning his defender with an adroit touch, the Spanish forward rifled his left-footed strike into the roof of the net.

Before the Labronici could gather their wits they soon found themselves 2-0 behind courtesy of the Spanish Lion King once again. Andrea Pirlo’s corner was met at the near post by the 29-year-old whose downward header squirmed past Bardi, who will feel he should have done better.

The Bianconeri’s pressure became relentless however just before the interval the Amaranto’s brightest spark, Emeghara, embarked on a virtuoso run nutmegging Martin Caceres, but just failing to get his shot off as Leonardo Bonucci closed him down.

The second-half got underway with both sides unchanged and the Bianconeri soon re-asserted their dominance, Llorente receiving a precise Pogba pass and after shrugging off Nahuel Valentini, the side-netting denied the former Athletic Bilbao man his hatrick.

On the 60-minute mark the away side came desperately close to pulling a goal back after Alfred Duncan’s 25-yard drive looked bound for the top-corner only for the Italian number one to claw the shot aside.

As the Tuscan’s probed for a way back into the game, Domenico Di Carlo brought Ishak Belfodil into the fray while Antonio Conte replaced Tevez with Sebastian Giovinco, undoubtedly with an eye on Juve’s Europa League tie against Lyon on Thursday.

Pirlo then produced an inch perfect pass for Pogba, however with ample time the Frenchman rushed his effort sending it well over the bar.

At the other end Marco Benassi could only muster a tame effort which was comfortably gathered by Buffon as hope appeared to ebb out of the Labronici.

The final 10-minutes of the game meandered by with little incident as the Bianconeri closed out a professional performance in front of a vociferous home crowd.

The win maintains the Vecchia Signora’s 100 percent win record at home and opens up an eight point gap at the summit of Serie A.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Chiellini can see the finish line

Apr 7, 2014

Giorgio Chiellini saw Juventus sweep Livorno aside 2-0 and pointed out “the finish line is getting closer and closer.”

Tonight’s victory followed last week’s surprise 2-0 defeat to Napoli, which threw the title race open again.

“We have been sending messages to the rest of the League for a long time, as we are extraordinarily consistent,” the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

This result restored their eight-point cushion ahead of Roma at the top of Serie A and their 100 per cent home record.

“A single slip-up was physiologically likely, but we reacted well to that. We put in a good performance, there’s still a way to go yet, but the finish line is getting closer and closer.

“In the last month and a half I went from being injured to playing every three days, so that was not easy, but the individual is helped by the collective.

“We are ready to go all the way both in Serie A and Europe. We’re getting closer to the finish line and that fires us up.”

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Initial reaction and random observations

Apr 7, 2014

Apparently all Fernando Llorente needed to do to get back to his awesome goal-scoring ways was shave his beard, add some grease to his hair and comb it off to the side.

It definitely worked for one day, at least.

The Llorente of earlier this season was back in full force in front of the home crowd at Juventus Stadium on Monday night. Two goals from Llorente in a matter of just three minutes was the difference against Livorno, one of Serie A's relegation battlers. The first coming on a beautiful turn and left-footed blast into the roof of the goal, the second with a little help from Francesco Bardi.

Something tells me Mr. Llorente likes playing against Livorno. I don't know what it is.

And something else told me over the course of 90 minutes that this was the kind of thumping we were hoping Juventus would put on a side trying not to get relegated like Livorno currently is. Maybe it's the fact Juve had almost three times the amount of possession than Livorno. Or maybe it was because Juventus barely let Livorno out of their own half of the field in the first 45 minutes.

Yeah, something like that. It was certainly nice to not have that pull-all-your-hair-out feeling from the opening kickoff to the final whistle like what has been present the last couple of weeks. For the first time in many a game, Juventus' performance was miles ahead of their competition.

Ah, yes. Juventus wins with relative ease and Fernando Llorente scored a couple of goals. All is right in the world again.

Here's a pretty nice little fact: Juventus need 10 points in their last six matches to clinch a third straight Scudetto. Looking at the remaining schedule, I would like to think that's going to be pretty achievable in short order.


Random thoughts and observations

• Fernando Llorente good.

• Livorno bad.

• Gianluigi Buffon's save on Alfred Duncan's attempt from long distance? Really, really good.

• Livorno's attempt to not let Andrea Pirlo run the show and take complete control of the midfield? Pretty bad.

• Remember when I said Juventus should maybe turn to Mirko Vucinic because Llorente wasn't playing well? Fernando knows how to shut me up. That had to be a big-time confidence-building game for El Rey Leon because it hasn't come easy for him since his last goal in early March.

• That was the exact kind of game you want to have against a team like Livorno that is fighting for their Seire A lives. Get the goals early, put it away early and then just kinda sit on cruise control in the second half. Maybe a scare here and there — which Buffon helped save us all a little stress with the save on Duncan — but it was pretty smooth sailing after Llorente's second goal.

• Juventus' midfield trio — Paul Pogba, Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio — were all involved early and often. All three had very good games. Then again, it wasn't like any of the players in Juventus' starting lineup had a bad game on Monday.

• If Sebastian Giovinco wanted to build off his strong showing off the bench last Thursday against Lyon, he will probably want to press the restart button. Both him and Vucinic were relatively quite in their appearances against Livorno. Although, to be fair to Vucinic, he basically came on at the same time that Livorno started warming up their bus.

• Not a bad way for Martin Caceres to celebrate his birthday, eh? Other than one slip-up in the first half, it was yet another solid game for Mr. High Socks. Happy 27th to you, Martin, and keep up the good work.

• Back to plus-8 over Roma. Sorry, but we're not sorry.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juve top Livorno to regain
eight-point Serie A lead

Apr 7, 2014

One need only look at the manner in which Juventus General Director Beppe Marotta, club President Andrea Agnelli and former Juve star Pavel Nedved celebrated Juve's first goal to understand how important a win at home to Livorno is for a side chasing their third consecutive league title. Seemingly tired and up against sides desperate to produce a miracle, the Bianconeri continue to push forward, managing a 2-0 victory to safeguard their position at the top of the table.

Tactically, Livorno were worryingly poor. It was clear that when facing opponents boasting such superior technical quality, their game plan would consist of defending then counter-attacking. However, the manner in which their strategy was executed caused concern and further demonstrated why the club find themselves fighting a relegation battle.

The first half was bizarre, to say the least. While the away side played a diligent game initially, the back line soon ceded space and began to fall apart tactically, gifting their opponents the opportunity to mount consistent attacks. If Livorno's game is based around defending before countering, then they must learn how to remain concentrated to close down space to play a compact game.

Not one of Domenico Di Carlo's men was capable of holding his position or shutting down the avenues to goal effectively to minimise the vertical runs forward their opponents consistently made. Easily dragged out of position, the Amaranto back-line would shift towards one Juve attacker and leave plenty of gaps and open space for his teammates to exploit.

This was especially obvious when Stephan Lichtsteiner cut inside and dragged six defenders towards him to create a cluster in the middle allowing the likes of Paul Pogba plenty of room to operate and strike behind Lichtsteiner. The first goal, was to a lesser extent, another example of this. Claudio Marchisio delivered a ball to Carlos Tevez on the left and the Argentine's cut inside dragged three defenders towards him, leaving Fernando Llorente with one player to contend with -- one player who was unable to effectively position himself to stop the Spaniard from turning to strike the ball. 1-0 and it should have been more at that point.

An entire flank was left void of supervision which meant only one accurate cross or two quick passes would allow Juventus to switch play and penetrate with ease. More infuriating for the Livorno coach however was his players' reluctance to mark the creative outlets within Juve manager Antonio Conte's side.

Andrea Pirlo was granted all the time and space in the world to operate and pick out perfect passes while Leonardo Bonucci behind him regularly pushed ahead, almost reaching the box before he was stopped and a tackle was even attempted. Incidentally, it was the defender's run across which dragged defenders away to allow Llorente a free header to score Juve's second from a corner. Not one Livorno player thought to concentrate on the tall man -- the player most likely to score in that situation.

The strategy of defending deep and then leaving the forward(s) up front works only when executed effectively with players of quality, i.e. Manchester United vs Bayern Munich. This particular tactic is meant to stretch the opposition and force the opposing midfielders to play a more cautious game. If they venture too far forward, they risk an imbalance and we saw that happen in the first few minutes of the game when the Old Lady hadn't yet settled into her stride. However, for a side like Livorno, the gaps were essentially too wide and left the Bianconeri with plenty of room to roam in-between while the likes of Marchisio revelled in the ability to intercept passes and initiate his own attacking passages of play.

While the relegation battlers' overall poor grasp of defensive tactics is the reason behind their loss, at least they boast the capability of nicking a goal. Alfred Duncan and Innocent Emeghara are easily their best players on the pitch -- men blessed with pace and physicality and the belief they can take on whomever lies ahead of them. Wonder shots and excellent movements called goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon into action and Conte was furious. He certainly did not want his men to suffer the same fate as Inter last week.

Dramatic and entertaining, the first half was filled with opportunities for goals. The second was somewhat more composed with both sides attempting to minimise the errors. Juventus were more balanced while Di Carlo's men covered the pitch in a more effective manner. However, both teams seemingly accepted the result making for a quieter and perhaps less thrilling end to the game. The focus shifts back to the Europa League and Juve will hope Lyon will provide them with another opportunity to celebrate at home this week.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Player Ratings

Fernando Llorente's first half brace extended the Bianconeri's lead
atop the Serie A table to eight points with six games remaining.

Apr 7, 2014

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - Not tested very often, but up to the task when called upon. Made a brilliant save to deny Duncan later in the second half.

Martín Cáceres - Struggled at times to deal with the strength and pace of Emeghara, but made a few nice recovery tackles on this his 27th birthday.

Leonardo Bonucci - Suffered an injury early in the second half, but soldiered up and helped see out the victory with another no nonsense performance at the back.

Giorgio Chiellini - Didn't put a foot wrong at the back. Typically committed performance from the veteran defender.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Excellent pace and vision saw him set up a number of chances. Glided past Mesbah, giving the Algerian fits with his strong running on the ball.

Paul Pogba - One of the best performers on the pitch for Juventus. He set up a number of chances with some sharp passing and came close to scoring with a few shots from distance.

Andrea Pirlo - Commanding figure in midfield. Distributed the ball exceptionally well, kick-starting nearly every Juventus attack.

Claudio Marchisio - Saw plenty of the ball, but didn't create too much in terms of chances. Seemed to improve as the time passed.

Kwadwo Asamoah - The Ghanaian made a number of nice runs along the left, beating defenders at will. Sometimes lacked a better final ball.

Carlos Tévez - Set up the opening goal with his determination and dribbling skills. Still a relatively quiet performance from the Argentine.

FERNANDO LLORENTE - Man of the match type stuff from the Spaniard who showed his strength on the ball. Made easy work of Valentini on both his goals.


Substitutions

Simone Padoin - Late substitution to wind down the clock.

Mirko Vučinić - Came on with the game out of reach and Juventus looking to wind down the clock.

Sebastian Giovinco - Came close to scoring and setting up a third goal for the hosts.

LIVORNO

Francesco Bardi - Despite endless pressure from Juventus, he wasn't forced into making too many difficult stops. Very poor on the second Llorente goal.

Federico Ceccherini - Did a good job of tracking back on a number of occasions from his right midfield position. Hardly saw the ball in attack. Subbed off in the 59th minute.

Nahuel Valentini - Completely outmatched by Fernando Llorente. Beaten by the Spaniard on both goals.

Andrea Coda - Caught out of position on more than a few occasions. A bit sloppy with his clearances allowing Juventus to keep up the pressure.

Paolo Castellini - A bright spot for Livorno in defence. Fearless in his challenges, and kept Tevez in check for the greater part of the match.

Marco Benassi - Overwhelmed in midfield. Put up against the likes of Pirlo and Pogba, and wasn't able to trouble the Juventus playmakers.

Marco Biagianti - Failed to stamp his authority on the match. Didn't help the back three in dealing with the immense Juventus pressure. Subbed off in the 74th minute.

Joseph Duncan - Produced the best chance of the match for the visitors, but had his blistering shot turned away by Buffon.

Djamel Mesbah - Exposed by the speed and pace of Lichtsteiner. Struggled to cope with the quick passing of Juventus and squandered possession far too often.

Innocent Emeghara - Strong and confident the few times he saw the ball in attack. Subbed off in the 64th minute.

Luca Siligardi - Never managed to threaten the Juventus defence. Very wasteful on the ball.


Substitutions

Cristiano Piccini - Never saw much of the ball after coming on in the second half.

Jonny Mosquera - Came on with 15 minutes to play, with Juventus milking the clock.

Ishak Belfodil - Showed flashes of skill when on the ball, but hardly saw enough of it to make much of an impact.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juventus not champions yet, says Antonio Conte

The Bianconeri now sit eight points clear of Roma with just six games
remaining but the boss insists the title race is far from over.

Apr 7, 2014

Juventus coach Antonio Conte is adamant that his side still have a lot of work to do before they can relax, insisting the league isn't over just yet.

The Old Lady sit eight points clear of second-placed Roma with just six games remaining following their 2-0 victory over Livorno on Monday.

But Conte insists the title race is far from over.

"It is absolutely not over," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"This has been a fascinating season with two teams breaking records and doing extraordinary things. People should give credit to Juventus and Roma, but there are six games to go and you all know what I think about it.

"Nothing has been concluded and we must keep going like this."

The 44-year-old turned his attention to the second-leg of his side's Europa League quarter-final clash against Lyon, which they head into with a 1-0 lead from the first meeting in France.

"We cannot take our foot off the gas, as in three days we play again and we want to get into the semi-finals.

"It would be great to reach the final four, for Italian football as well as for Juve. Lyon have some good players on the counter, so the tie is far from over.

"I hope the stadium will be packed and that the fans make their voices heard to push these lads forward. We need the crowd worthy of a big occasion for this final strait. In recent years we won also thanks to them and I hope it’ll continue that way."

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Di Carlo: 'Stars make the difference'

Apr 7, 2014

Livorno Coach Domenico Di Carlo admits Juventus star power “made the difference” and turned his focus to Chievo.

The Amaranto were beaten 2-0 in Turin by a Fernando Llorente brace and remain in the bottom three.

“We faced the game with the right spirit, immediately having three shots on goal. I liked the team and its tactical balance, but then you have to remember we were facing Juve,” Di Carlo told Sky Sport Italia.

“Llorente had a great turn for the opening goal, while we have more regrets for the second, which in the end made the difference.

“We remained in the game and didn’t lose our balance, otherwise we would’ve been on the end of a real hammering.

“Buffon performed two great saves and they scored two goals, so in the end that’s what made the difference.”

Livorno have Emerson, Ibrahima Mbaye and Andrea Luci injured, while Paulinho was rested to ensure he’ll be at his best for the relegation dogfight with Chievo.

“I think Livorno have a squad up to the task. We want to survive with team spirit and moments that can change a game,” continued Di Carlo.

“It’s a head-to-head with Chievo that we must win, though we know they will focus on the counter-attack and try to stop us playing. We need great intensity on Sunday and call our fans to fill the stadium.

“We’ve got to reach this occasion in the right way and don’t want to give up. It’s a young team, we are learning to be more consistent over 90 minutes, but we do pay for certain mistakes.”

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

Juventus a step closer to
finish line, says Chiellini

The defender is amazed at how consistent the Bianconeri have been
this term while coach Antonio Conte insists nothing is over yet.

Apr 7, 2014

Giorgio Chiellini says Juventus are inching closer to securing their third consecutive Serie A title.

Antonio Conte's men beat Livorno 2-0 on Monday night thanks to a first-half brace from Fernando Llorente that restored their lead over Roma at the top of the table to eight points with just six games remaining.

Chiellini is proud of the way the Bianconeri bounced back from last week's 2-0 defeat to Napoli and he feels his side are getting ever closer to clinching the title again.

"We have been sending messages to the rest of the league for a long time, as we are extraordinarily consistent," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"A single slip-up was physiologically likely, but we reacted well to that. We put in a good performance, there’s still a way to go yet, but the finish line is getting closer and closer.

"We are ready to go all the way both in Serie A and Europe. We’re getting closer to the finish line and that fires us up."

The Old Lady will carry on a 1-0 lead into the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final when they host Lyon on Thursday.

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS 2 - 0 LIVORNO

Fernando Llorente (32′)
Fernando Llorente (35′)

April 7, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Andrea Gervasoni
Attendance:‬ 38000‎

‘Juve’s strikers the difference’

Apr 7, 2014

Paolo Castellini reflected that Juventus’ strikers proved the difference against a Livorno side already looking to Chievo.

The Amaranto were dispatched 2-0 on Monday evening thanks to two goals from Fernando Llorente, but one of their defensive number was not disheartened, particularly with a key relegation clash to come in Week 33.

“The truth is that we came up against a great team and we tried to play our game, taking advantage of the speed of Emeghara.

“The game was not bad, but the strikes from their forwards have determined the game in a certain way.

“Against Chievo we will play for a lot. But we do not want to create tension in the environment, we are happy for the compactness shown against Juve.

“Here we have shown great consistency, I must say that we were fairly good. From this point we must push on.

“The Scudetto? Juve are impregnable. As a former Roma man I would like the Giallorossi to win it, but with Juve like this, it is impossible.”

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

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)

Bonucci expecting ‘battle’

Apr 8, 2014

Juventus’ Leonardo Bonucci is expecting a battle when his side face Lyon in Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg.

The Old Lady hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg in France but the Azzurri international says the team must continue to show a winning mentality.

“Our win against Livorno shows that when we go out onto the pitch we always want to win,” Bonucci wrote on his official website.

“My aim, and I hope it’s my teammates’ aim too, is to increase our advantage over Roma.

“A winning team needs to keep looking forward and after a victory they repeat the job.

“In Udine we have another final, a win we need to win and a match with a thousand motivations.

“Now we need to think about Thursday against Lyon, we are expecting another battle.

“The match against Lyon is the first of four cup finals. At Juventus Stadium I only know one result. Winning!”

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)

Juventus v Lyon team news

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has called on the club's fans to play a big part
when they host Lyon in Thursday's Europa League clash in Turin.

Apr 9, 2014

The Italian champions take a slender one-goal lead into the second leg of their quarter-final tie after Leonardo Bonucci's late strike earned them victory in France.

Conte knows, though, that the tie remains very much alive, with Lyon unbeaten in the competition until last week.

He said: "This tie is far from over. Lyon have great players in attack.

"I hope to see a packed Juventus Stadium and that our fans make their voices heard to push the team forward.

"We need the crowd to rise to the big occasion. We want to be in the semi-final.

"It would be great to reach the last four, for Italian football as well as for Juve."

Lyon can expect a stern test at the Juventus Stadium, the venue for this year's final.

Juve, who lead the Serie A standings with an eight-point advantage over Roma, have been dominant at home this campaign.

They have won all 16 of their league matches in Turin, including Monday's 2-0 triumph over Livorno.

Moreover, Conte's side is unbeaten at home in Europe since falling 2-0 to Bayern Munich in April 2013.

Lyon travel to Italy on the back of Sunday's 2-1 triumph at Valenciennes which lifted Remi Garde's side to fifth in Ligue 1.

Les Gones are still missing half of their regular starting XI through injury but are confident they can overturn the tie.

"We have to believe we can do it," Lyon midfielder Maxime Gonalons said. "But it will be very tough.

"We need to score and then see what happens afterwards.

"Anything is possible in football and Lyon have already turned around worse situations in the past."

Carlos Tevez will lead Juve's attack with the Argentinian striker eager to score his first European goal since April 2009. The hosts also welcome back midfielder Arturo Vidal from suspension.

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)

Juve to use strongest side against Lyon

Turin giants forget title race, set sights on Europa League.

Apr 9, 2014

Juventus boss Antonio Conte has said that his side have put the Serie A title race aside and are focusing exclusively on their Europa League quarter-final return against Lyon in Turin on Thursday.

That means Conte will resist the temptation to rotate his squad to save the energy of key players for the battle in the domestic league.

Juventus are eight points clear in Serie A with six games to go, but the strong form of second-placed AS Roma, who have won their last six games, means Conte's men cannot afford to relax.

That and the fact that Juve take a 1-0 advantage into the quarter-final return after their victory in France a week ago had led to speculation Conte could rest some regulars.

But the coach says he wants Juve to be at their best as they aim to reach the final of Europe's secondary club competition, which will be played at their home ground in Turin on May 14.

"We're here to talk about the Europa League quarter-final return leg and as far as I'm concerned the league doesn't exist today," said Conte.

"It would be prestigious for Juventus to reach the semis, it's been seven years since an Italian team got to that stage," he added, referring to Fiorentina's appearance in the last four in 2008.

"I'll look to pick the best team that will enable us to get through, playing those who can give us the best guarantees from a physical and psychological point of view".

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)

Iuliano: Juventus can win the Europa League

Apr 9, 2014

Former Juventus defender Mark Iuliano is confident that the Bianconeri can lift the Europa league this season.

The Serie A leaders entertain French side Lyon on Thursday night at the Juventus Stadium in the second leg of the quarter final tie.

The Bianconeri hold a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg thanks to a goal from Leonardo Bonucci but Iuliano is confident the Italian champions can continue their march in Europe and even win the competition.

“Hopefully the Bianconeri can get to the final and win the cup,” the 40-year-old told Tuttomercatoweb.com.

“It will be important to understand the game well, psychologically.

“But in that aspect Conte is a guarantee as he knows how to motivate the players.

“Lyon are a decent team who offer good football. So,we still have to pay maximum concentration for the full 90 minutes.”

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)

Juventus-Olympique Lyonnais Preview:
Visitors go in search of a miracle in Turin

Antonio Conte's men boast a formidable home record in all competitions and will be
confident of progressing to the last four after triumphing 1-0 at the Gerland last week.

Apr 9, 2014

Olympique Lyonnais will need to become the first team in a year to win at Juventus if they are to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League.

The Italian champions hold a 1-0 advantage from the first-leg at the Stade de Gerland, which saw the Serie A leaders net a crucial away goal in the 84th minute through Leonardo Bonucci.

The defender's goal puts Antonio Conte's men in command of the tie, and the Old Lady should be clear favourites to qualify for the last four considering their magnificent home record.

Indeed, the return fixture takes place a year to the day since Conte's side last suffered a home defeat, which came at the hands of Bayern Munich in the second-leg of last season's Champions League quarter-finals.

The likes of Real Madrid, Napoli and Roma have all failed to win in the Juventus Stadium since that day, and Lyon coach Remi Garde, who said Lyon had a "mountain" to climb before last week's meeting, accepted his side need a "miracle" following its conclusion.

"It was a great experience for the young players [playing against Juve]," he said. "It will be tough in Turin and we will need a miracle to win in the second-leg."

The clash marks the start of an exciting run of fixtures for Lyon, who face Ligue 1 champions-elect Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday before taking on Laurent Blanc's men again in the Coupe de la Ligue final the following Saturday at the Stade de France.

But the seven-time French champions will approach that daunting triumvirate of fixtures with a number of injury concerns.

Clement Grenier is out with a groin problem, and fellow midfielder Gueida Fofana will also miss out with a similar injury.

Playmaker Yoann Gourcuff remains unavailable with an ankle problem, and Jordan Ferri - scorer of a spectacular long-range strike in Sunday's 2-1 win at Valenciennes - will likely be selected to fill the void again in a depleted midfield.

At the back, Mouhamadou Dabo has yet to recover from a hamstring issue and Miguel Lopes is out for the rest of the season with a broken leg.

Meanwhile, the hosts will be boosted by the return of Arturo Vidal after he missed the 2-0 Serie A win over Livorno at the weekend through suspension.

Defender Andrea Barzagli (calf) is still struggling for fitness, but Carlos Tevez shook off a thigh injury to play against Livorno on Monday and defender Angelo Ogbonna is available to feature for the first time in nearly a month.


Head to Head

UEFA Europa League -‎ Apr 3, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 0 - 1 Juventus
Club Friendlies ‎-‎ Jul 24, 2010 - Juventus 2 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais


Last Five Matches

JUVENTUS

Apr 7, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 0 Livorno - Serie A
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


OLYMPIQUE LYONNAIS

Apr 6, 2014 - Valenciennes FC 1 - 2 Olympique Lyonnais - Ligue 1
Apr 3, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 0 - 1 Juventus - EL
Mar 30, 2014 - Olympique Lyonnais 1 - 2 AS Saint-Etienne - Ligue 1
Mar 23, 2014 - EA Guingamp 0 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais - Ligue 1
Mar 20, 2014 - FC Viktoria Plzeň 2 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais - EL

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)

Conte: Juve focused on Europa League

Apr 9, 2014

The Europa League clash against Lyon is all that matters for Juventus at the moment, according to coach Antonio Conte, with Monday's Serie A clash against Udinese only becoming an issue on Friday morning.

Conte’s side face the Ligue 1 outfit on Thursday in the second leg of their quarterfinal clash, holding a 1-0 lead thanks to Leonardo Bonucci's late goal last week in France.

And during his prematch news conference on Wednesday, the Juve boss let everyone know just how important he considers the game to be.

Already frustrated by a question posed to Martin Caceres about his hopes of playing at the World Cup, Conte intervened after the Juve defender was asked whether he could imagine linking up with Paris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani next season.

"We're here to talk about the second leg of a quarterfinal of the Europa League," Conte told his prematch news conference in Turin. "For me, Serie A does not exist today. We're focused on this game because it would be prestigious for Juve to reach the semifinals.

"Let's not forget that it's been seven years since an Italian side last reached the semifinals of this competition, so doing so would be something to be proud of."

Caceres echoed his coach’s comments, insisting that the Europa League is the team’s only focus at the moment.

"We can't win either the league or the Europa League right now," Caceres said. "Tomorrow's game is the most important one for this week, then we think can about the league after.

“Obviously Serie A is a priority because we've won it two years in a row and it's a priority to win it again, but of course we're delighted to be in the Europa League."

Carlos Tevez has not scored a goal in Europe for four years, but Conte has yet to give the striker any assurances as to whether he will be able to try and end that drought on Thursday.

"It's me who decides," Conte said. "Of course I will discuss it with Carlos, but the final decision is mine.

"We're trying to preserve him from a physical point of view, due to a tendon and adductor problem. Since being suspended against Napoli he's played two games, over 55-60 minutes.

“Carlos is an important player for us. We'll see what I get from him in training in the morning."

Angelo Ogbonna returns to Conte’s squad after injury, but Andrea Barzagli is still out, while Mirko Vucinic remains a doubt as Juve look to remain on course for the Europa League final inside their own stadium.

Meanwhile, Lyon coach Remi Garde said it would be an "upset" if his side were to overturn the first-leg deficit at the Juventus Stadium

"We're here to believe in it, and we believe in it a lot," he told his prematch news conference. "It certainly would be an upset if we go through, because we would have done something that many people would have doubted before the tie.

“I think that if we show the same spirit to last week in the 90 minutes tomorrow, we can put ourselves in a position to create an upset."

[Socrates 8024]

JUVENTUS - OLYMPIQUE LYON

April 10, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium — Turin
Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain)

'EL semis would be proud moment'

Apr 9, 2014

Antonio Conte has claimed his side are fully focused on reaching the Europa League semi-finals.

The Bianconeri host Lyon tomorrow, going into the game holding a 1-0 aggregate lead from the first leg.

And with the last four just around the corner, the Coach has urged his men to focus on what would be a prestigious occasion for the cub.

“Let's not forget that it's been seven years since an Italian side reached the semis,” he told a Press conference.

“That would really be something we would be proud of.

“We're completely focused on this game because it would be prestigious for Juve to reach the semi-finals of such a great competition.

“Our job's going to be very difficult though - all that counts is winning.

“When you win, you've got it right. When things don't go well, you've got it wrong – it’s that simple.

“We'll try to carry on doing the things which went well in the first leg, and try to correct what didn't go so well.”

The tactician then commented on Paul Pogba’s remarkable rise from Manchester United outcast to most-wanted man in European football.

“Certainly Pogba has taken giant steps forwards since he joined us. He's improved physically, technically and tactically.

“I'm convinced he can grow even more though. He's got margin for improvement and he must not settle for where he is now."