Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato‎

Sassuolo v Juventus – Team News,
Tactics, Lineups And Prediction

Apr 28, 2014

Two more wins, that’s all that separates Juventus from yet another Serie A title. Had it not been for Roma’s comfortable victory over AC Milan, the Old Lady could have secured the Championship with a win against Sassuolo. As things stand though, they look set to conquer Italy on the 5th of May, a day that in the past, has been synonymous with winning the league for them.

Sassuolo, at the other end of the table, have it all to fight for. Eusebio Di Francesco’s have managed to string together positive results that has seen them elevate themselves above the dreaded drop zone. As things stand, they are level on points with Bologna but a superior head-to-head record has them hovering above the relegation trio.


Team News and Tactical Brief

SASSUOLO

There’s a ray of hope for Sassuolo. It looked like the writing was on the wall as relegation stared them right in the face but the month of April has been kind to them as their revival has given them a new lease of life. Wins over Atalanta and Chievo are just what the doctor ordered but with games against Juventus, Genoa, Fiorentina and finally Milan to go, they do have their work cut out for them. Nevertheless, it’s the fear of dropping down into the lower divisions that brings out the best in teams and on this evidence, Sassuolo won’t go down without a fight.

Di Francesco has a number of absentees that don’t help his cause. Missiroli and Biondini are accompanied by the talismanic Domenico Berardi in the suspension list. Berardi, who has won plaudits across the peninsula is a big miss in particular. With 13 goals to his name, the man co-owned by Juventus, will be a huge miss for his side. Alexe, Acerbi, Brighi, Bianco, Manfredini and Luca Marrone are doubts for this fixture.

Sassuolo are one of the few bottom sides in the league that love to go out and play their own brand of attacking football. Di Francesco is a disciple of Zdenek Zeman’s philosophy so the expectation would be that they won’t resort to extremely defensive tactics. With the fear of relegation looming over their shoulders, the onus would be on them to go out and get the points on board that would be a step towards safety.

Possible Starting XI (4-3-3): Pegolo; Gazzola, Antei, Cannavaro, Longhi; Chibsah, Magnanelli, Ziegler; Floro Flores, Zaza, Sansone

JUVENTUS

The performance against Benfica in midweek had encouraging signs; there were plenty of positives for Antonio Conte to take. Juventus put in an excellent yet the score-line leaves them with a lot of work to do in the return leg. Coming back to the league, the bianconeri will feel that they have one hand on the Scudetto. A historic title it would be as they chase the possibility of winning it for the third time on the trot, something they haven’t managed to do since the 1930s. They could also breach the 100 points barrier, as of now they’re 10 short off the mark.

Arturo Vidal and Simone Pepe are facing injury troubles and could miss out on this fixture. The Chilean won’t be risked as the medical staff declared him unfit. There are minor fears that his World Cup adventure could be in jeopardy although nothing is conclusive yet. A bit of rotation is in motion as Mauricio Isla should come in allowing Stephan Lichtsteiner to recharge his batteries for the Benfica game while Martin Caceres is expected to retain his position in the back three.

The game-plan for Antonio Conte will of course be to get the points on the board as quickly as possible. The game against Benfica will certainly be playing at the back of the manager’s head and as such expect the first team to be rotated. Recent league games have shown their tendency to take the game by the scruff of the neck in the first period and a goal or two cushion will allow them a slightly laid back approach in the second.

Possible Starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Peluso; Giovinco, Llorente


Player To Watch Out For

Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)

Arturo Vidal’s absence means that a lot of burden the Chilean carried will fall on the shoulders of Marchisio. The Italian International hasn’t had the best of seasons but he remains an integral part of the team. Marchisio’s typically late runs into the box often go unnoticed and it is here that he is at his most lethal going forward. Expect a good display from the Il Principino.


Prediction

Sassuolo 0-2 Juventus

This game could be a bit of the banana skin. There’s plenty of motivation on the part of both the sides to go out and grab the three points. When it comes to form, Juventus are ahead and when it comes to the technical quality, the bianconeri are miles ahead. You’d tend to lean in favor of a Juventus victory with them inching closer to the title.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato‎

Line-ups: Sassuolo-Juventus

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus start Carlos Tevez, Fernando Llorente and Andrea Pirlo in tonight’s Serie A trip to Sassuolo.

It kicks off at 20.45 CET.

The Bianconeri need a victory to keep the gap from Roma at eight points, meaning they’ll be able to mathematically clinch the Scudetto this weekend against Atalanta at the Juventus Stadium.

Arturo Vidal is rested after suffering from a knee problem, but Andrea Barzagli starts despite his recurring bursitis.

Antonio Conte must make choices that both defend the chance of a third consecutive Scudetto and prepare the team for Thursday’s Europa League semi-final with Benfica.

Sassuolo are highly motivated too, as they are joint third from bottom in the Serie A table with Bologna, so even a single point would be precious and take them clear of the relegation zone.

They have been revived since Coach Eusebio Di Francesco returned to the bench, having been replaced by Alberto Malesani for five consecutive defeats.

The Neroverdi are missing their top scorer this evening, as Domenico Berardi is suspended along with Simone Missiroli and Davide Biondini.

Their injury list also includes Marius Alexe, Paolo Bianco, Thomas Manfredini and Francesco Acerbi.

Sassuolo play an attacking 4-3-3 formation and lead the way with ex-Udinese striker Antonio Floro Flores, Nicola Sansone and Simone Zaza.

Former Napoli captain Paolo Cannavaro is at centre-back.

The statistics do not encourage Sassuolo, who without Berardi on the field this season have managed one win, one draw and six defeats.


SASSUOLO: Pegolo; Gazzola, Antei, Cannavaro, Longhi; Chibsah, Magnanelli, Ziegler; Sansone, Zaza, Floro Flores

Sassuolo bench: Pomini, Polito; Ariaudo, Pucino, Mendes, Terranova, Rosi, Marrone, Brighi, Farias, Masucci, Floccari


JUVENTUS: Buffon; Barzagli, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Tevez.

Juventus bench: Storari, Bonucci, Caceres, Padoin, Lichsteiner, Peluso, Vidal, Pepe, Giovinco, Osvaldo, Vucinic, Quagliarella

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato‎

Zaza eager to impress Juve

Apr 28, 2014

Sassuolo striker Simone Zaza assured he wants to “do well tonight against Juventus,” the club that co-owns him.

“Everyone would love to play in a game like this, so we’re here and want to give it our best,” Zaza told Sky Sport Italia.

“My future? Right now I am focused on securing safety with Sassuolo, while of course I’d like to do well tonight against Juventus, the team that co-owns my contract.

“Juve are strong physically and technically, so we’ll need to be very physical tonight. We’ll see what happens.”

Zaza isn’t the only Sassuolo player with Juventus links, as Reto Ziegler, Yussif Raman Chibsah, Lorenzo Ariaudo, Matteo Brighi and Luca Marrone are all either co-owned by or former figures of the Bianconeri.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato‎

Marotta on Garcia and Pogba

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus director Beppe Marotta denied Real Madrid interest in Paul Pogba and slammed Roma Coach Rudi Garcia.

The general manager spoke to Sky Sport Italia ahead of tonight’s Serie A match with Sassuolo.

He was naturally asked about Garcia’s comments suggesting smaller clubs did not give their all against Juve this season.

“Garcia was inopportune. He shouldn’t try to discredit our League and the efforts all the other teams.

“Tonight’s game is full of hidden dangers and we will face it with the utmost concentration. These are sides that on paper might seem simple, but can never be underestimated.

“We are close to the finish line, but need that final push.”

If the Bianconeri win tonight at Sassuolo, then they can mathematically secure the Scudetto next week against Atalanta.

Marotta was also asked about reports in France Football that Real Madrid assistant manager Zinedine Zidane personally called Pogba to pitch the idea of joining him in Spain.

“We don’t believe there was any such call with Zidane, nor any interest from Real Madrid. Would I exchange Pogba with Gareth Bale? They are two excellent players, but completely different.

“We are fortunate to have Pogba, who is young and growing consistently, so we are happy to have him.”

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato‎

HT 1-1: Sassuolo shock Juve

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus-owned Simone Zaza scored Sassuolo’s shock opener, wiped out by Carlos Tevez as it’s 1-1 at the break.

The Bianconeri rested Arturo Vidal, who has a knee problem, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Leonardo Bonucci ahead of Thursday’s Europa League semi-final with Benfica, but kept many of their star names in the starting XI. Sassuolo were also highly motivated, out of the relegation zone only thanks to their head-to-head record with Bologna. Top scorer Domenico Berardi was suspended along with Simone Missiroli and Davide Biondini, while Marius Alexe, Paolo Bianco, Thomas Manfredini and Francesco Acerbi were injured.

The Neroverdi showed from the opening 90 seconds that they would push hard under heavy rain, as ex-Bayern Munich youth product Nicola Sansone flashed an angled drive across the face of goal to skim the far post.

Sassuolo took a shock lead after nine minutes, as Sansone won back possession and threaded through for Simone Zaza, whose angled drive took a deflection off Angelo Ogbonna to wrong-foot Gigi Buffon at the near post. Zaza is co-owned by Juventus and this was the quickest goal of the season for the home team.

Sansone dribbled past Giorgio Chiellini and Ogbonna, but the finish was wayward, as Sassuolo were playing at a visibly higher tempo than Juve. Chiellini knocked back from a set play for Carlos Tevez to drill just wide and Gianluca Pegolo smothered a Paul Pogba snapshot.

The Bianconeri were increasing the pressure and their possession statistics until Tevez unleashed a screamer from the D to fly past Pegolo, though this also took a slight deflection off Alessandro Longhi. It was Apache’s 19th Serie A goal of the season and was sparked by a quickly-taken free kick.

It was still wide open, though, as Zaza again dribbled through defenders down that left side of the box and this time his powerful finish stung Buffon’s palms at the near post.


Sassuolo 1-1 Juventus (Half-Time)

Scorers: Zaza 9 (S), Tevez 35 (J)

Sassuolo: Pegolo; Gazzola, Antei, Cannavaro, Longhi; Chibsah, Magnanelli, Ziegler; Sansone, Zaza, Floro Flores

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Ogbonna, Chiellini; Isla, Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Tevez

Ref: Damato

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO - JUVENTUS

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato‎

HT 1-1: Sassuolo level
with Juventus at break

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus were forced to come from a goal down to go into the halfway stage of their Serie A clash with Sassuolo all square at 1-1 this evening.

The hosts almost made a perfect start to the match when they went close to breaking the deadlock after just two minutes courtesy of a Nicola Sansone strike that went narrowly wide.

They were ahead inside 10 minutes, however, as Simone Zaza latched on to a pass down the left channel before drilling a shot past Gianluigi Buffon, who should have done better at his near post.

Juventus set about looking to find an equaliser and threatened midway through the half as Carlos Tevez put an effort just past the post from inside the area.

Tevez was the creator for another chance moments later as he picked out Claudio Marchisio inside the area, but the midfielder was denied by a fine piece of defending.

The visitors did get their equaliser 10 minutes before the break and it was the same two involved as Marchisio slipped the ball to Tevez, who fired his shot past the keeper from the edge of the box.

Zaza had a glorious chance to restore his side's advantage with less than five minutes to go until half time when he was slipped through on goal, but Buffon stayed by to deny the striker a second.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Tevez and Llorente fire Conte's
side to the brink of the title

Claudio Marchisio was also on the scoresheet as the champions came
from a goal down to move within one win of retaining their Scudetto crown.

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus moved a step closer to retaining their Serie A title after coming from behind to beat Sassuolo 3-1 on Monday.

Simone Zaza handed the relegation-threatened hosts a shock lead after just nine minutes but Carlos Tevez rifled home an effort 10 minutes before the break to restore parity.

Claudio Marchisio's clever close-range finish put Juve in front just after half-time and Fernando Llorente's brilliant backheeled finish 15 minutes from time sealed victory for Antonio Conte's side at a rain-soaked Citta del Tricolore.

With three games now remaining, the champions now hold an eight-point lead over Roma, while Sassuolo remain above the drop zone only due to their superior head-to-head record with Bologna.

Victory for Juve is another step towards a third consecutive Scudetto and Conte's men will finish the job if they beat Atalanta at home in seven days' time, or if Roma fail to win at Catania 24 hours earlier.

Juve made an uncharacteristically slow start to the game and Nicola Sansone flashed a shot narrowly wide in the second minute before setting up the opening goal seven minutes later.

Sansone supplied strike partner Zaza, whose shot took a deflection off the foot of Angelo Ogbonna and skidded off the wet surface before creeping under the body of Gianluigi Buffon at the near post.

It took until the 22nd minute for Juve to muster a meaningful effort, Tevez firing a volley wide of the left-hand post after being teed up by Giorgio Chiellini.

It was Argentine Tevez who levelled matters 10 minutes before the break, finding a pocket of space on the edge of the box and unleashing a shot that whistled beyond Gianluca Pegolo via a slight deflection off Alessandro Longhi.

The hosts responded strongly, Zaza forcing a fine save out of Buffon at the near post as Sassuolo ended the first half with a flourish.

The home side's positivity was punctured 13 minutes after the interval, however, as Marchisio caressed a low finish beyond Pegolo after being picked out by Pirlo's deft chip over the Sassuolo backline.

Marchisio stung the palms of the goalkeeper 10 minutes later from Paul Pogba's lay-off, while Tevez struck the crossbar with a curling effort 13 minutes from time.

Juve did claim the third goal that their second-half dominance merited when Llorente turned home substitute Stephan Lichtsteiner's cross in the 76th minute with a delightful backheel.

Conte's focus will now shift to overturning a 2-1 deficit in Juve's Europa League semi-final second leg at home to Benfica on Thursday.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Juve fightback at Sassuolo

Juventus fought back from a goal down to win 3-1 at Sassuolo
in a hard-fought game, so can secure the Scudetto next week.

Apr 28, 2014

The Bianconeri rested Arturo Vidal, who has a knee problem, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Leonardo Bonucci ahead of Thursday’s Europa League semi-final with Benfica, but kept many of their star names in the starting XI. Sassuolo were also highly motivated, out of the relegation zone only thanks to their head-to-head record with Bologna. Top scorer Domenico Berardi was suspended along with Simone Missiroli and Davide Biondini, while Marius Alexe, Paolo Bianco, Thomas Manfredini and Francesco Acerbi were injured.

The Neroverdi showed from the opening 90 seconds that they would push hard under heavy rain, as ex-Bayern Munich youth product Nicola Sansone flashed an angled drive across the face of goal to skim the far post.

Sassuolo took a shock lead after nine minutes, as Sansone won back possession and threaded through for Simone Zaza, whose angled drive took a deflection off Angelo Ogbonna to wrong-foot Gigi Buffon at the near post. Zaza is co-owned by Juventus and this was the quickest goal of the season for the home team.

Sansone dribbled past Giorgio Chiellini and Ogbonna, but the finish was wayward, as Sassuolo were playing at a visibly higher tempo than Juve. Chiellini knocked back from a set play for Carlos Tevez to drill just wide and Gianluca Pegolo smothered a Paul Pogba snapshot.

The Bianconeri were increasing the pressure and their possession statistics until Tevez unleashed a screamer from the D to fly past Pegolo, though this also took a slight deflection off Alessandro Longhi. It was Apache’s 19th Serie A goal of the season and was sparked by a quickly-taken free kick.

It was still wide open, though, as Zaza again dribbled through defenders down that left side of the box and this time his powerful finish stung Buffon’s palms at the near post.

The second half started in similar fashion, as Andrea Pirlo’s deflected effort looped into the air and wide of a wrong-footed Pegolo, then Sansone skipped past defenders in a give-and-go with Zaza to drill just over the bar. Zaza then misplaced his pass on a counter-attack when it was three against two.

Juve turned the game around completely, as Sassuolo were under pressure and Pirlo smartly chipped a pass over the top for Claudio Marchisio to keep his first time shot low across Pegolo.

Eusebio Di Francesco had to go all-out, so moved to a 4-2-4 system. Zaza received an inevitable booking for simulation when he threw himself over Buffon’s foot and Pegolo got down well to beat away a Marchisio strike.

Antonio Floro Flores pounced on an Ogbonna error to burst into the box, but his shot was charged down.

Tevez thought he’d doubled his tally when his swerving effort veered away from Pegolo, but bounced off the crossbar after some great build-up play from Pogba.

Ogbonna was having a lot of problems against Zaza and Floro Flores, so Antonio Conte replaced him with Leonardo Bonucci.

Juve did make it 3-1 with a magnificent goal, as Stephan Lichtsteiner pulled across the six-yard box for Fernando Llorente’s inspired backheel flick, leaving Pegolo with no chance. Conte showed what it meant to their season with a Jose Mourinho-style knee slide to celebrate.

Sergio Floccari’s fantastic first touch hooked a Zaza ball over the top, but Buffon showed great reactions to parry from point-blank range.


Sassuolo: Pegolo; Gazzola, Antei, Cannavaro, Longhi; Chibsah (Brighi 78), Magnanelli, Ziegler (Floccari 65); Sansone (Masucci 82), Zaza, Floro Flores

Juventus: Buffon; Barzagli, Ogbonna (Bonucci 73), Chiellini; Isla (Lichtsteiner 62), Pogba, Pirlo (Vidal 79), Marchisio, Asamoah; Llorente, Tevez

Ref: Damato

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Juventus close in on Serie A title
with win over Sassuolo

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus have moved to within 90 minutes of winning the Serie A title courtesy of a 3-1 win over struggling Sassuolo this evening.

The relegation-threatened hosts almost broke the deadlock after just two minutes when Nicola Sansone fired an effort narrowly past the post.

They did take a shock lead just seven minutes later when Sansone slipped a pass through to Simone Zaza, who drilled his shot past Gianluigi Buffon at the near post, although the veteran keeper should have done better.

The visitors went in search of an equaliser and almost got it midway through the half as Carlos Tevez squandered a fine opportunity by firing just wide from inside the area.

Claudio Marchisio also threatened before Juve got their goal, with Tevez picking the ball up on the edge of the area and smashing a shot into the corner.

Zaza almost doubled his personal tally to restore Sassuolo's lead shortly before half time, but he couldn't finish with only Buffon to beat.

Juventus completed the turnaround just before the hour mark as Andrea Pirlo dinked a pass over the defence for Marchisio to latch on to, and the midfielder steered his volley past the keeper and into the bottom corner.

Marchisio came close again 10 minutes later as he let fly from just outside the area, but this time Gianluca Pegolo got down well to make the stop.

The visitors came within inches of adding a third in the 73rd minute when Tevez produced a snapshot from inside the area, but his effort crashed against the crossbar.

They wouldn't have to wait much longer to extend their lead, however, as Fernando Llorente produced a delightful piece of skill to flick Stephan Lichtsteiner's low cross home from close range.

That was how it stayed for the remainder of the match as Juventus moved eight points clear of Roma with just three games to play.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Bianconeri move within touching
distance of the title

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus on on the brink of a third straight Scudetto after coming from 1-0 down to eventually beat plucky Sassuolo 3-1 at a wet Stadio Mapei.Sassuolo v Juventus

The Nerovedi took a shock but deserved 9th minute lead through Simone Zaza but Carlos Tevez grabbed an equaliser before the break with Claudio Marchisio and Fernando Llorente saw them run out comfortable winners.

Juventus came into the match knowing a victory would set up a potential title party at home to Atalanta at the end of this week, but Sassuolo were desperate for points to prolong their first ever Serie A campaign to next season and it was the hosts who started the brighter.

Only 90 seconds were on the clock when Nicola Sansone was played in towards goal after a quick counter, the January transfer from Parma shooting across Gianluigi Buffon but narrowly past the far post.

The Nerovedi had the bit between their teeth and threatened again minutes later. They won possession and broke quickly but Reto Ziegler – on loan from the Old Lady – couldn’t slip Zaza in.

The 22-year-old striker though did not have to wait long to make an impact as Sassuolo grabbed a surprise, but richly deserved lead.

Sansone once again drifted in off his right wing and slipped the ball into the path of Zaza in inside left. His initial touch took him wide, but when his strike clipped the studs of Angelo Ogbonna the ball skidded off the wet surface and past Buffon at his near post.

Sassuolo’s hard work and pressing was summed up by the tenacity and skill of Raman Chibsah in midfield. It explains in part why a sloppy Bianconeri took 22 minutes to register a first shot, Tevez’s ferocious strike wide of Gianluca Pegolo’s right post.

There was real anger on the pitch from the men in yellow but the frustration turned to relief as the man signed from Manchester City found the net 10 minutes before the break.

Tevez picked up the ball in the pocket of space between midfield and defence and given far too much time and space on the edge of the box before curling the ball in via a delfection for the Argentine’s 19th league goal of the season.

The tide had turned and although Tevez and Andrea Pirlo had efforts saved early in the second half, the second arrived just before the hour mark.

Sassuolo could only clear as far as Pirlo and the Italian international lifted the ball perfectly into the path of Marchisio who brilliantly steered his first time left footed strike across Pegolo and into the net.

Marchisio almost made the game safe soon after when Paul Pogba laid it back to him on the edge of the box, but his strike was this time well saved and punch clear by Sassuolo’s number 1.

Zaza was booked for a dive as the hosts chances started to dry up but they had the crossbar next to thank for keeping deficit at just one, Tevez denied his 20th of the season as he cracked the woodwork.

Ogbonna was hooked for Leonardo Bonucci to end a miserable night for the former Torino defender as Conte did not want to risk their lead, but it was another substitute who created the goal to seal the points.

Stephan Lichtsteiner came on for Maurico Isla and it was his overlap and cross that found Fernando Llorente in the six yard box. The Spaniard to strong for his marker and produced a beautiful back flick to put the game to bed.

Arturo Vidal got a ten minute run out with Pirlo given a break with Conte’s thoughts turning to Thursday’s Europa League semi-final second leg against Benfica in mind.

The final whistle though meant Juventus know they can clinch the title next Monday night against Atalanta.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Sassuolo vs. Juventus: Score,
Grades and Post-Match Reaction

Apr 28, 2014

Juventus moved within sight of their third consecutive Serie A title with a comeback victory, 3-1, at Sassuolo on Monday evening at the Stadio Citta del Tricolore.

Simone Zaza gave Sassuolo the lead in the ninth minute, finishing from the impressive Nicola Sansone's through ball after an early spell of dominance for the hosts. Carlos Tevez equalised for Juventus in the 35th minute before Claudio Marchisio scored the winner early in the second half. Fernando Llorente sealed the victory with the third, a fine back-heel flick in the 76th minute.

With the win, Juventus moved onto 93 points, eight ahead of second-placed AS Roma with three matches remaining. Victory at home to Atalanta next Monday would clinch Juve's third straight Scudetto while a draw would ensure the Bianconeri could finish no worse than level on points with Roma.

WhoScored.com ✔ @WhoScored
Sassuolo 1-3 Juventus FT: Shots(OT) 12(4) - 14(6), Possession 36% - 64%, Rating 6.7 - 7.1 http://bit.ly/1tVTQzO #SassuoloJuve

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen

.@ClaMarchisio8: "Tonight’s game reflects our season, we’ve shown character and desire to reach our targets.” #SassuoloJuve

It was a fourth straight league win for Juventus, who still have the chance to become the first Italian side to finish a league campaign with 100 or more points. Two victories and one draw in Juve's final three league matches would be enough to hit the century mark.

Meanwhile, the Bianconeri are also chasing silverware in Europe, though they trail Benfica, 2-1, following the first leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final. The second leg is set for Thursday at Juventus Stadium, where Antonio Conte's side have won all 17 league matches this season.

Sassuolo, who had won two of their previous three league matches before Monday, remain in 17th place, level on points with Bologna but out of the relegation places by virtue of a superior head-to-head record.

The hosts started brightly and were ahead within 10 minutes. Sansone gave Juventus a scare in the second minute, flashing a low shot just wide of Gianluigi Buffon's left-hand post. Before long, Sansone was at it again, providing the assist as the hosts took the lead.

In the ninth minute, Sansone played a through ball to Zaza along the edge of the box. Zaza cut to his left and fired back across his body, his shot taking a slight deflection into the bottom corner past Buffon.

Sansone created yet more danger in the 17th minute, dancing through a crowded box before directing his shot just wide.

Juventus missed a big chance to equalise in the 22nd minute. Following a failed clearance from the hosts, Giorgio Chiellini laid off an inviting pass for Carlos Tevez inside Sassuolo's box. Tevez made good contact but missed the target with his volley.

The hosts continued to grow in stature and drew level in the 35th minute. After receiving a pass from Marchisio along the edge of the box, Tevez dribbled to his right and hit a powerful shot that took a slight deflection on its way into the net.

Marchisio shot off target in the 39th minute as Juve looked to take an instant lead. Two minutes later at the other end, Zaza came close to scoring a second, forcing Buffon into a fine save.

With the score level at half-time, both teams had chances early in the second half. Tevez shot on target for Juventus in the 52nd minute, but Gianluca Pegolo saved low at his near post. Four minutes later, Sansone shot over the bar after playing a one-two with Zaza.

Juventus then took the lead in the 58th minute after a moment of magic from Marchisio and Andrea Pirlo. Latching onto the ball after Tevez won possession with a sliding tackle along the edge of Sassuolo's box, Pirlo played a pass over the top for Marchisio. The latter timed his run perfectly, sweeping in his first-touch finish on the volley to put the visitors ahead.

OptaPaolo @OptaPaolo
26 - A. Pirlo has delivered 26 assists in Serie A since he joined Juve, at least 10 more than any other Bianconero over this period. Brain.

Zaza appealed for a penalty after going to ground along the edge of Juventus' box in the 66th minute. Instead, the referee ruled that Zaza had dived and booked the Sassuolo for simulation. One minute later, Pegolo saved Marchisio's shot from outside the box to keep the hosts within touching distance.

The visitors came close again in the 73rd minute when Tevez hit the bar with a first-time shot after good work from substitute Stephan Lichtsteiner. Three minutes later, Juve had their third.

Paul Pogba started the move, spotting Lichtsteiner's well-timed run with a weighted pass on the right. Lichtsteiner crossed into the middle for Llorente, who turned his back to goal and finished with his heel to make it 3-1.

Sassuolo continued to threaten Juventus' goal, with Sergio Floccari forcing Buffon to save low at his near post in the 81st minute and Sansone shooting off target moments later. In the end, though, the hosts were unable to slow Juventus' march to what increasingly appears to be yet another league title.


Grades

Juventus Player Ratings

Gianluigi Buffon 7
Andrea Barzagli 7
Angelo Ogbonna 5
Giorgio Chiellini 7
Mauricio Isla 5
Claudio Marchisio 9
Andrea Pirlo 8
Paul Pogba 7
Kwadwo Asamoah 6
Fernando Llorente 7
Carlos Tevez 8

Substitutes

Stephan Lichtsteiner (for Mauricio Isla, 63') 8
Leonardo Bonucci (for Ogbonna, 74') 7
Arturo Vidal (for Pirlo, 80') 7


Post-Match Reaction

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@ClaMarchisio8: “The weather and heavy pitch made it tough, plus Sassuolo caused us problems in the first half.” #SassuoloJuve

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
.@ClaMarchisio8: "We’ll enjoy this win but tomorrow we’ll focus immediately on the @EuropaLeague - a target that matters a great deal to us"


Up Next

Sassuolo play at Fiorentina in the league next Tuesday.

Juventus host Benfica in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final on Thursday. Next Monday, the Bianconeri host Atalanta in Serie A.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Initial reaction and random observations

Apr 28, 2014

So, what was that Rudi Garcia was saying about teams not exactly trying their best against Juventus?

Sassuolo gave Juventus everything can handle. The 3-1 final score won't necessarily reflect that, but this was a team going toe-to-toe with the soon-to-be Italian champions from basically start to finish. Sassuolo gave Juventus everything they have — they attacked, they battled, they made Juve look quite un-Juve-like for a good portion of Monday night's showdown.

But even with Juve playing not-so-hot for the vast majority of the first half, they were able to rebound and do exactly what pretty much everybody thought they would do — beat Sassuolo. First, Carlos Tévez leveled it, Claudio Marchisio — thanks to a beautiful assist from Andrea Pirlo — put Juve ahead, and Fernando Llorente closed the door on any kind of comeback attempt. And with that, Antonio Conte's band of bianconeros moved within one point of clinching their third straight Scudetto. One point. That's it.

For 45 minutes people talked how Sassuolo might get points and re-open the Scudetto race with a win or a draw. Juve looked bad and Sassuolo looked damn good. But as Juve have done basically every time before when people said things might get interesting, they said one thing and one thing only: Shut the door on that talk, ladies and gentlemen.

Soon, we shall celebrate. And soon, we could possibly be seeing Juve hitting triple digits in points.

James Horncastle @JamesHorncastle
May 5 2002, May 5 2013, May 5 2014... Conte's favourite date

Oh yeah. In a matter of seven days, Cinco de Mayo won't be just a nationally-recognized day for drinking tequila.


Random thoughts and observations

• It was almost like Simone Zaza was auditioning for Juventus or something. Dude had himself a game, easily one of his best of the season. Kid might not end up being tipped as a star like another co-owned striker on the Sassuolo roster, but if he plays anything like that going forward, he will definitely be a useful piece to the puzzle in the future.

• Was Gigi Buffon at fault for Zaza's goal? Maybe a little bit, with an asterisk on it for the slight deflection it took before it got past San Gigi at the near post. But how good was he after that? Forget the near-post mistake, Buffon is Buffon and he always will be. That double save from point-blank range in the second half was absolutely immense.

• With his assist on Llorente's goal, Stephan Lichtsteiner is now joint-top along with Tévez amongst Juve players with seven assists in Serie A this season. Who predicted that one this season?

• How beautiful was Llorente's goal? Shades of Alessandro Del Piero, no? It was especially impressive when you consider how completely quiet Llorente was during the entire game before the backheel.

• Combined goal count for Tévez and Llorente: 34 goals in 35 league games.

Total cost in transfer fees for Tévez and Llorente: €9.5 million (plus bonuses to be paid to Man City).

fernando llorente ✔ @llorentefer19
Oggi abbiamo vinto una battaglia, ma ci resta ancora guerra davanti. Dobbiamo continuare cosí,insieme Possiamo!#vamos

I'd say that's money well spent.

• I'm struggling to find one single word to accurately describe what kind of game Angelo Ogbonna had. Was it a struggle? At points, yes. But at the same time, it's easy to see why Ogbonna does have these inconsistent showings where sometimes he's really good and other times he's not that great. His playing time the whole year is anything but consistent. And when did Martin Cáceres start playing really, really well? When he got consistent playing time.

• Claudio Marchisio is back to being the Claudio Marchisio I'm used to seeing. The run he made to get open for the goal was vintage stuff. Good news for Juventus, good news for Italy, good news for all of us.

• One point away for a third straight league title. There shall be partying next Monday. Get the champagne ready. But first, Thursday's second leg against Benfica awaits. Juventus Stadium should be rockin'. It's time for Juve to use that home field advantage to their...advantage.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Sassuolo vs. Juventus:
5 Things We Learned

Apr 28, 2014

The result was never really in doubt. Juventus let in an early goal, and then they lost the ball several times in midfield. The rain was pouring down, and they were losing a game to a team just above the relegation zone.

But Sassuolo could not hold off Juventus. Not for 90 minutes. The defending champions kept growing in confidence, and they scored three unanswered goals in a 3-1 win on Monday. Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente have now scored 34 goals between them in Serie A. (Ciro Immobile and Alessio Cerci have scored just as many for Torino.)

The game itself was not a full experience for Juventus. They gambled with the ball, and even Andrea Pirlo struggled to complete the pass. Too many times in 2014 have they done just enough to win. But they invariably get the results.

They are putting up numbers rarely seen before. Juventus have collected 93 points with three games left—a high for the club. They have also won 30 of 35 games in Serie A this season, tying Inter for the all-time single-season record.

Next Monday, at home against Atalanta, Juventus could win their third straight scudetto. It’s something they have never done before in the modern era:

James Horncastle @JamesHorncastle
Juventus on the brink of winning 3 Scudetti in a row for the first time since the 30s. Can do it next Monday at home to Atalanta, May 5...

Here are some things to remember from the match.


Simone Zaza Impresses His Parents

It wasn't just the way he scored the goal—a strike on the run in the penalty area, his eighth of the year. The 22-year-old ran all over Juventus. He was playing with confidence against his parent club. It was a timely audition.

Sassuolo currently have four Juventus players either on loan or co-ownership deals. Zaza looks like the pick of the bunch. General manager Giuseppe Marotta has cultivated a promising group of young players and sent them away to get experience—Manolo Gabbiadini out at Sampdoria; Domenico Berardi and Zaza at Sassuolo; and even Ciro Immobile, co-owned with Torino.

This particular future asset was threatening to affect the present. Zaza shocked Juventus and goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon with the early goal and lead, and he could have scored a second. He outmuscles the opposition and holds up the ball.

It was no wonder that Sassuolo looked most dangerous when he was storming down the field.


Another Assist Made by Andrea Pirlo

For the first half of his night, things weren't going all that well. Andrea Pirlo failed to pick out his strikers, and he gave up the ball without much of a fight. Sassuolo pushed him around.

But he kept trying. This is a player that does not surrender so easily, and so he went for another pass, a first touch from a standstill. The ball followed a beautiful arch, and Claudio Marchisio scored at the end of it.

WhoScored.com ✔ @WhoScored
Andrea Pirlo: Only Gervinho (8) has picked up more assists in Serie A in 2014 than @Pirlo_official (6) #Juve

The assist, according to Opta, was his 26th for Juventus in Serie A since joining the club in 2011. He made this one look easy, even if the rest of the game was not.


Antonio Conte Not Ready to Celebrate Scudetto Just Yet

He looks like a man determined to win this league again. Antonio Conte put forth a relatively strong squad against Sassuolo. Conte even substituted players, notably Angelo Ogbonna and Mauricio Isla, who likely will not start against Benfica in the Europa League semi-final. He gave everyone a run.

The coach was active on his own. The scene had the look of a celebration: Conte sliding on the field slick with rain, arms in the air after the third goal. It was huge, and it confirmed yet another comeback. He told Sky Sport Italia (h/t Football Italia) after the match:

“I always had a certain attitude, right from when I was at Arezzo. I was always passionate and enthusiastic as a player and continue that way as a Coach. I live my profession with great enthusiasm and participation, which I think the players appreciate, as I am there fighting with them on the field, in good times and bad.”


Sassuolo Playing the Way They Want

These players did not go out to defend against the incumbent champions. Forty-five points separate Juventus and Sassuolo, and yet coach Eusebio Di Francesco did not order his men to sit behind the ball and defend for their lives. Sassuolo are a team that play with a little bit of adventure.

Unfortunately, those clubs abandoning caution often lose their spot in the league. Pescara played like a free-flowing side to get to Serie A two years ago, but they finished last the next season in Serie A, conceding 84 goals.

The situation is not as bad for Sassuolo. They are level with Bologna in points (28) but above them and the relegation zone.

"I don’t know if this is unwise for an Italian team fighting for survival," Di Francesco told Sky Sport Italia (h/t Football Italia) after the match, "but it’s the only style of football I know. Anyone who hires me knows what to expect and Sassuolo believed in me with our promotion from Serie B."


Juventus Doing Just Enough to Win

It doesn't seem fair to criticize a team for their performances while they are smashing Serie A records. They could still reach 100 points. No club in Serie A history has collected that many.

But there is something desperate about Juventus this year, so far in 2014. They don’t always start the game with pizzazz, and they don’t always kill the game. This time they did.

David Amoyal @DavidAmoyal
Today proves that it's not really a Europe thing at least recently, Juve simply hasn't been very good in 2014 even in Serie A

They keep the games a little too close for comfort. Juventus have won nine games in all competitions by a single goal since the start of the new year. At the start of the season, they were winning by three or four goals. Now they’re doing just enough to win the games, and they rarely concede more than one goal—if any at all—per match.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Player Ratings

Simone Zaza's early goal wasn't enough to stop Antonio Conte's side as Carlos Tevez,
Claudio Marchisio and Fernando Llorente restored their eight-point lead at the top.

Apr 28, 2014

SASSUOLO

Gianluca Pegolo - Beaten by Tevez with a world-class strike. Perhaps could have done a better job to challenge Marchisio on the second, but was left stranded by his defenders. Made some big saves to keep Sassuolo in the game.

Marcello Gazzola - Made a vital tackle on Marchisio in the first half with the midfielder through on goal. Never really got up from his right-back position to provide support in attack.

Luca Antei - Did a great job of keeping Juventus in check, although he conceded possession to Andrea Pirlo to allow the visitors to take the lead.

Paolo Cannavaro - His veteran leadership proved vital at the back. Made a number of important blocks and recovery tackles that had Juventus frustrated for much of the match. Always in the right position.

Alessandro Longhi - Did an exceptional job of defending for much of the match, but struggled following the arrival of Lichtsteiner. Caught out of position for the third Juventus goal.

Raman Chibsah - Tireless performance in midfield, contributing on both sides of the ball. Some momentary lapses in judgement proved to be his undoing.

Francesco Magnanelli - Played in a deeper role, never getting forward to contribute in attack. Completely overmatched by Juventus' midfield trio of Pogba, Pirlo and Marchisio.

Reto Ziegler - Defended against Isla well, getting the better of the Chilean on several occasions. Failed to provide Sassuolo's attacking trio with much support. Subbed off in the 65th minute.

Nicola Sansone - Incredibly creative in attack. Some great link-up play with Zaza caused problems for Juventus. Assisted the game's opening goal with a lovely through-ball.

Simone Zaza - Brilliant skill and work ethic. Gave the Serie A's best defence a serious handful in attack. Put Sassuolo in front early on and would have had another if not for Buffon.

Antonio Floro Flores - Overshadowed by his two strike partners. Made a number of nice runs off the ball to create space, but didn't see much of it himself.


Substitutions

Matteo Brighi - The former Juventus man came on as a result of an injury, with the game already a bit out of reach.

Sergio Floccari - Came on and added even more to a dangerous looking attack. Denied twice by Buffon late on, and was unlucky not to find himself a goal.

Gaetano Masucci - Late substitution. Didn't see much of the ball.

JUVENTUS

Gianluigi Buffon - Poor positioning on the first goal. Made up for it by shutting the door from that point on, making some magnificent stops late on.

Andrea Barzagli - Put under the most pressure by Zaza. Couldn't keep up with the striker. Beaten on the first goal and rescued by Buffon to prevent a second, though he was stronger in the second period.

Angelo Ogbonna - Poor communication with Buffon led to some nervy moments at the back. Caught watching as Sassuolo took an early lead. Recovered well, however, making some important tackles, but was forced off injured in the 74th minute.

Giorgio Chiellini - Wasn't his usual dominant self at the back, but did manage to make some key tackles. Troubled by the activity level of Sansone who was full of energy in the final third.

Mauricio Isla - Couldn't do anything with the ball. Struggled to get the better of Ziegler, who kept the Chilean in check. Subbed off in the 63rd minute, with his replacement Lichtsteiner faring much better.

Paul Pogba - Seemed to come to life as the match went on. Relatively quiet for much of the first half, but linked up wonderfully with Lichtsteiner to set up the third goal.

Andrea Pirlo - Dictated the tempo throughout. Assisted Marchisio's goal with a superb pass. Subbed off with 10 minutes to play for Vidal.

Claudio Marchisio - All over the place in midfield and proved to be too much for Sassuolo to deal with. Made a nice run and finished magnificently to score the decisive second goal.

Kwadwo Asamoah - Saw plenty of the ball early on as Juventus looked to build down the left, but was very wasteful with possession and often lacked a good final ball.

Carlos Tévez - Could have had four or five goals. Brilliant strike to draw Juventus level when they really needed a spark and hit the crossbar with a curled effort late on.

Fernando Llorente - A bit wasteful in the first half. Acted more as provider than poacher, but changed all that with a creative backheel finish to put the game out of reach with 15 minutes to play.


Substitutions

Leonardo Bonucci - Came on for Ogbonna and didn't miss a beat defensively.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - Came on and immediately made an impact, running rampant along the right. Assisted Llorente's goal with a perfect cross.

Arturo Vidal - Late substitution for Pirlo to see the game out.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Di Francesco 'can't park the bus'

Apr 28, 2014

Eusebio Di Francesco praised Sassuolo’s performance against Juventus and warned “I can’t park the bus.”

The Neroverdi had taken the lead through Simone Zaza, but eventually lost 3-1 in a hard-fought game.

“I can only compliment my lads on their performance, determination and mentality,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

However, he was irritated at the free kick that led up to Carlos Tevez’s equaliser, as it was taken from the wrong position and possibly with the ball in motion.

“I want to see the goal again, because the free kick was taken quickly in the wrong position. All my players told me they were out of position. Tiny details make the difference in football and against Juve we couldn’t get away with anything.

“I am happy with the performance against a great team. With this mentality and desire then I am convinced we can achieve safety, but of course you need points and not just the performance.”

Di Francesco was sacked in January and recalled after Alberto Malesani lost all five matches in charge. Does he think Sassuolo could already have been safe with him permanently on the bench?

“I don’t have time to think about what has been. I have to focus on these three fundamental games. It’s not an easy calendar, but I am sure we’ll put in a great performance in Florence. We were also helped by the other teams losing this weekend.”

Sassuolo picked up only 14 points at the Mapei Stadium, so Di Francesco is glad two of the three remaining games are on their travels.

“We’ve got two out of three that are away now? Thank goodness! We have to look to our own strengths rather than the weaknesses of others.”

Di Francesco is a former Roma midfielder who won the Scudetto in 2001, so hit back at suggestions from Rudi Garcia that smaller clubs are easy on Juve.

“We tried, aside from the chatter beforehand. I have a mentality and try to bring it forward here at Sassuolo. We play every game trying to win and to take the initiative. This wasn’t the clichéd approach of a small team facing the giants Juventus and trying to defend."

The Coach is an acolyte of Zdenek Zeman and plays 4-3-3, while in the second half tonight it moved to 4-2-4.

“I don’t know if this is unwise for an Italian team fighting for survival, but it’s the only style of football I know. Anyone who hires me knows what to expect and Sassuolo believed in me with our promotion from Serie B.

“Besides, recently we haven’t been conceding as many goals, as if the strikers work hard then we can play like this.

“To be honest, I just love this type of football, one with a team that is always attacking and creating. I can’t park the bus.”

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Conte takes swipe at Garcia after
Juventus close in on title

The Bianconeri boss says the Frenchman "took a step backwards" with his recent
comments and claims the Giallorossi's form this season has been overhyped.

Apr 28, 2014

Antonio Conte hit out at Roma boss Rudi Garcia after Juventus moved to the brink of clinching the Serie A title with a 3-1 win at Sassuolo.

In pouring rain at the Citta del Tricolore on Monday, Conte watched on as his side fell behind to Simone Zaza's ninth-minute opener.

Carlos Tevez levelled the match 10 minutes prior to the interval, before second-half goals from Claudio Marchisio and Fernando Llorente sealed the victory.

The result leaves Juve eight points clear of Roma with three matches remaining, and Juve will clinch the title with a win at home to Atalanta next Monday, or if Roma fail to win at Catania on Sunday.

Conte, who slid on his knees in celebration when Llorente scored 14 minutes from the end, feels his side have not been given enough credit for their achievements this season and claimed Roma's form has been greatly overhyped.

"I hear people say Roma are doing something stratospheric," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"I say we are eight points ahead of Roma and playing in the Europa League semi-final. If Roma are stratospheric then I cannot find an adjective to describe Juventus.

"Anything Juventus do becomes almost expected. If we win the Europa League, it'll be considered a worthless trophy. If we lose, then people will say Juve aren't ready for Europe. When we achieve something, people act as if it's normal.

"I think those behind us are irritable, not us. They should be careful with what they say, as Roma and Garcia took a step backwards by feeding into the culture of suspicion with talk of 'help' and opponents not giving their all.

"If this is football culture, then it's a step backwards."

When quizzed about his exuberant celebration in the second half, Conte explained it was an action born out of passion.

"What was going through my mind was that we were making a very important step towards a historic Scudetto, as it'd be the third in a row," he said.

"I always had a certain attitude, right from when I was at Arezzo. I was always passionate and enthusiastic as a player and continue that way as a coach.

"I live my profession with great enthusiasm and participation, which I think the players appreciate, as I am there fighting with them on the field, in good times and bad."

Garcia suggested earlier on Monday that Conte was feeling the strain of his side's title push as a was of words between the two coaches continues to build.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

'We're nearly there' - Marchisio proud
of Juventus character after Sassuolo win

The midfielder struck his side's second goal as they came from behind
to win on Monday and move to within just two points of defending their title.

Apr 28, 2014

Claudio Marchisio was full of pride for the character shown by Juventus as they moved to within one win of defending their Serie A title with a 3-1 victory over Sassuolo.

Simone Zaza handed the hosts a shock lead before Carlos Tevez levelled, and Marchisio turned home Andrea Pirlo's chipped pass prior to Fernando Llorente's clever finish, which sealed a win in the pouring rain at the Citta del Tricolore.

Marchisio and Llorente's goals sparked wild celebrations on the touchline as Juve closed to within just two points of the Scudetto, and the Italy international admitted afterwards that his side's character throughout the season was reflected in the joyous scenes at Sassuolo.

"The celebration is because we need two points from three games. It was really a difficult game due to the weather, the turf and Sassuolo, who put us under a lot of pressure," Marchisio told Sky Sport Italia.

"This match reflects our season, as we got through with character and determination. We're nearly there.

"It was an important goal, just as all of them were today. I told Andrea Pirlo that, on a pitch like this, it's always better to play it [the pass] first time."

Juve now turn their attentions to the Europa League, as they attempt to overturn a 2-1 deficit to Portuguese champions Benfica in Thursday's semi-final second leg in Turin.

"Now we are close to another objective that we really care about, so have to be focused on that," added Marchisio. "We already showed in Portugal that we are improving in Europe and we'll give our all with home advantage."

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Conte: 'If Roma are stratospheric...'

Apr 28, 2014

Antonio Conte insists there’s no “Scudetto celebration” yet, but “if Roma are stratospheric then I can’t finds adjectives to describe Juventus.”

The Coach spoke to Sky Sport Italia after the 3-1 victory away to Sassuolo, which put them eight points clear with three games to go.

“No, it was not a Scudetto celebration, as there’s still a chance for those chasing us, so we have to finish it off definitively next week.

“We certainly made a big step forward, but those behind us have every right to continue believing.”

Conte celebrated with a Jose Mourinho-style knee slide after Fernando Llorente’s third goal.

“What was going through my mind was that we were making a very important step towards a historic Scudetto, as it’d be the third in a row.

“I always had a certain attitude, right from when I was at Arezzo. I was always passionate and enthusiastic as a player and continue that way as a Coach.

“I live my profession with great enthusiasm and participation, which I think the players appreciate, as I am there fighting with them on the field, in good times and bad.”

However, Conte took the opportunity to take another sideswipe at Rudi Garcia and Roma.

“I hear people say Roma are doing something stratospheric. I say we are eight points ahead of Roma and playing in the Europa League semi-final.

“If Roma are stratospheric then I cannot find an adjective to describe Juventus.

“Anything Juventus do becomes almost expected. If we win the Europa League, it’ll be considered a worthless trophy. If we lose, then people will say Juve aren’t ready for Europe. When we achieve something, people act as if it’s normal administration.

“I think those behind us are irritable, not us. They should be careful with what they say, as Roma and Garcia took a step backwards by feeding into the culture of suspicion with talk of ‘help’ and opponents not giving their all. If this is football culture, then it’s a step backwards.”

Juventus must overturn the 2-1 first leg defeat in the Europa League semi-final with Benfica on Thursday.

“We are going to play with 12 men on Thursday, I am convinced of it, and Benfica had better beware because the fans are going to enter the fray.

“What excites me is these three years in charge of Juventus. This has been a truly incredible journey, if we think that three years ago we overcame all the odds.

“I am excited to be training these lads who give their all when called upon. It is an exciting time and I want us to enjoy it with our fans.

“I reiterate I want on Thursday for the supporters to create a fiery cauldron in the stadium, just as Benfica’s fans did in Lisbon.”

Simone Zaza scored the opening goal for Sassuolo after just nine minutes, a striker who is co-owned by Juventus.

“Zaza is a strong player who has grown a lot this year. It’s a shame, as we had studied how he could hurt us and he did it anyway! He gave us a wake-up call and I have to compliment Sassuolo, a team that plays real football and can survive in Serie A.”

Conte was asked what he is targeting next season after three years of domination.

“It’s not easy to keep players on point for three years in a row. I think being able to keep them motivated and fired up was not simple. They deserve much of the credit, as a Coach can bring ideas, but the players have to be extraordinary men and I have those at Juventus.

“Next year? Let’s try to end this one on a high first! President Andrea Agnelli asked us to achieve this historic treble, something his father and grandfather didn’t manage at this club.”

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Llorente: I’ve worked for this

Apr 29, 2014

Fernando Llorente says he ‘worked’ and ‘dreamed’ for a debut season with Juventus in which he could ‘feel important’.

The 29-year-old faced early rumours of unrest after last summer’s Bosman switch from Athletic Bilbao, but has held a starting berth under Antonio Conte for most of the season and now has 15 League goals to his name.

“I worked for this, I dreamed of a great season, to feel important in the team,” Llorente has commented to RaiSport this week.

“I have done it and I must be very happy, we must all be, for what we are doing this year, with the possibility on Thursday of making it to a European final, it would be great to be able to win.

“Can I make Spain’s World Cup squad? Let’s see what happens.

“Not everything is decided, still many things can happen, the important thing is for us to be focused on the team, the match on Thursday.

“We want to finish the season perfectly and this will help. We have to stay calm and focused on our team.”

The Spaniard was talking after scoring a back-heel effort for the Old Lady in their 3-1 win at Sassuolo on Monday night.

“I think it was a difficult game, Sassuolo put everything on the pitch to win, so they put us in trouble with that first goal they managed.

“But this team never gives up, we were able to make the breakthrough in the game. This is an important victory, it’s amazing to get 93 points and we have much to be happy with.”

Llorente was asked if the team are close to the likes of Atletico Madrid, who find themselves top of La Liga and in the semi-finals of the Champions League.

“I do not think we are far away. We will be relaxed, go slowly, not put too much pressure on the Champions League.

“What we are doing is something extraordinary and we must continue on this path.”

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Tevez - Scudetto more important
than personal goals

The Argentine striker has shrugged off talk of the Capocannoniere
and is more interested in helping his team land the Serie A crown.

Apr 29, 2014

Carlos Tevez has stressed helping Juventus claim a third successive Scudetto comes ahead of any personal achievement.

The former Manchester United forward starred in Juve's 3-1 win at Sassuolo on Monday night, a result which moved Antonio Conte's men eight points clear at the top of the table with three games to go.

"The Bianconeri now need to match or better Roma's result against Catania when they host Atalanta on Sunday to seal the title after the comeback win at the Citta del Tricolore.

Tevez was awarded his 19th league goal of the season against Sassuolo after his right-foot strike was initially put down as an Alessandro Longhi own goal after taking a slight deflection of the home defender.

Not that Tevez was too concerned after the match.

"What's important is that the team play well and win, not me scoring," he told the club's official website.

"I'd prefer the Scudetto to becoming Serie A's top scorer - that's what excites me. We're nearly there. But it's still not won yet.

"Nothing has changed for me. I've always looked to score and help out the team."

Tevez went on to say his injury problems are well and truly behind him after a spell in which he struggled for fitness.

"The problem was in my knee. It was giving me a bit of pain, but now I feel in good shape," he added.

Juventus will now turn their attention to overturning a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Benfica in the Europa League semi-final.

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Zaza: I am not good enough
to play for Juventus

Apr 29, 2014

Sassuolo sensation Simone Zaza has honestly admitted that he does not believe he is yet ready to feature within the Juventus side.

The young striker, who has half his rights owned by the Serie A champions elect, opened the scoring against the Bianconeri on Monday night and spoke about his life in Serie A so far and why he has work to do before making a potential breakthrough in Turin.

“The compliments I received from Antonio Conte are nice and of course, I would like to be there in the future,” said the former Sampdoria forward to Sky Sport Italia. “Against Juventus, we gave our best but we faced great champions and with the few chances they had, they punished us.

“My role? From the first whistle, I have felt at ease but I think have some time to go yet because I have not got a great deal of experience in Serie A. Compared to last year, it is a different league and I am looking to add more depth to my game.”

He then added: “Could Juventus do with a player like me? I think it is impossible for me to take the place of the strikers who are currently at Juve.

“I would give my best to make myself available but at this moment, I think it is difficult for me and could not happen yet.”

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Marchisio: Juventus have another goal
to reach before Scudetto

Apr 29, 2014

Despite their 3-1 win over Sassuolo on Monday night taking Juventus one step closer to a third successive Scudetto, midfielder Claudio Marchisio reiterated that they will quickly forget the victory and focus on their other remaining goal for the season, reaching the Europa League final in Turin.

On a rain soaked pitch the reigning Serie A champions had surprisingly fell behind to a relegation threaten Nerazzurri early in the first half, however, after Carlos Tevez equalised before the break the Italian scored a vital second for the Old Lady.

“It was a tough match against Sassuolo who put us into difficulty on a heavy pitch,” Marchisio told Sky Sport Italia.

“We are close to our goals.

“My goal was as important as those of Tevez and [Fernando] Llorente, but it is about Andrea Pirlo who can put these fantastic balls into the middle.

“Now we need to put aside this match because we will have another goal to reach first.

“Against Benfica will be a very difficult match, but also at their home we have been shown to be growing.

“We will have our stadium behind us and we will give everything.”

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Juve always fight until the end - Llorente

The Spain international is immensely proud of the Bianconeri's resilience, but he was
reluctant to take too much praise for his fine back-heel goal in Reggio Emilia on Monday night.

Apr 29, 2014

Juventus striker Fernando Llorente has hailed his side's fighting spirit after they came from behind to beat Sassuolo 3-1 to restore their eight-point lead at the summit of Serie A.

The Bianconeri now stand just one victory away from sealing a third straight Scudetto and the Spaniard, who scored in the win, is delighted with his team-mate's resolve.

"I found it a difficult game because I wasn't seeing much of the ball at certain points," he told the club's official website.

"But when that happens, you need to keep fighting until the end, just as we all did. And in the end it came off for us."

Llorente scored a sublime backheel to cap the victory and says service from his team-mates made it easy for him.

"It's not the first goal I've scored like that. I also got a few when I played for Athletic Bilbao. It was a good move and we need to keep getting crosses in the box to score more goals.

"I'm perfectly relaxed at the moment. It's more important to work with the team and we're working very well. We'll go for our objectives and then we'll see what happens."

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

[Socrates 7976]

SASSUOLO 1 - 3 JUVENTUS

Simone Zaza (9′)

Carlos Tévez (35′)
Claudio Marchisio (58′)
Fernando Llorente (76')

April 28, 2014 - 8:45 PM
Città del Tricolore Mapei Stadium — Reggio Emilia
Referee:‬ Antonio Damato
‎Attendance:‬ 13000‎

Sabella must not watch
Juventus, jokes Tevez

The Argentine, who has been in the international wilderness for a while now,
does not expect a World Cup call-up despite his impressive season.

Apr 29, 2014

Carlos Tevez has joked that Argentina head coach Alejandro Sabella must not own satellite television to watch Juventus games as the striker continues to face exile from the international stage.

The former Manchester City and Manchester United forward has not featured for the Albiceleste since 2011, with Sabella choosing to favour the likes of Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Rodrigo Palacio instead.

There have been calls for Tevez to be brought back into the international fold following his 18 goals in Serie A to date this season which have taken the Italian champions to the brink of a third successive Scudetto, though Sabella has so far refused to bow to the pressure.

However, 30-year-old Tevez has come to terms with missing out on this summer's World Cup and jested that Sabella's reasoning for ignoring him must be because he does not watch Juve matches back in his homeland.

"I think the coach of Argentina's national team must not have satellite television hooked up to watch Juventus," Tevez, who was at the heart of Juve's 3-1 win over Sassuolo on Monday, told reporters.

"I do not think I have any hope of going to the World Cup now. I am a direct striker, maybe that plays against me and that means Sabella does not have a good impression of me."

Argentina have been drawn in Group F at this summer's tournament in Brazil, alongside Bosnia & Herzegovina, Nigeria and Iran.

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

[Socrates 7976]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

May 1, 2014 - 9:05 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Mark Clattenburg (England)

‘Do UEFA want Juve in final?’

Apr 29, 2014

Benfica’s director of communications Joao Gabriel has hinted that UEFA want Juventus to progress to the Europa League final.

His comments come after European football’s governing body made the decision to open disciplinary proceedings against Enzo Perez for his alleged elbow on Juve’s Giorgio Chellini during last week’s semi-final first leg between the sides.

The Old Lady made a complaint to UEFA about the incident, but Benfica are outraged that the decision to take action was only made yesterday, meaning that they now have only 21 hours to respond to the accusations.

“Benfica would like to know whether UEFA are more interested in sporting integrity or seeing to it that Juventus reach the final in Turin,” Gabriel said to Portuguese outlet A Bola.

“We now have only 21 hours after finding out about this to respond to the accusations.”

The second leg of the tie takes place on Thursday, with the newly crowned Portuguese champions leading 2-1 from the first leg.