Juventus Season 2013-2014

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Lichtsteiner 'optimistic' for Benfica

Apr 29, 2014

Stephan Lichtsteiner is “optimistic” for the Europa League semi-final with Benfica after Juventus put their hands on the Scudetto.

Last night’s 3-1 victory away to Sassuolo means the Bianconeri need just two points from the remaining three rounds to be sure of a third consecutive title.

They can therefore focus on overturning a 2-1 first leg defeat to Benfica, which would give them the home advantage in the Final.

“Our second half performance in Lisbon gives us optimism for the Europa League, though we did concede two stupid goals that we avoidable, as we weren’t focused enough,” the Swiss international told Sky Sport Italia.

“The important thing will be avoiding counter-attacks, as Benfica are truly dangerous on those. We need to be more concentrated.”

Lichtsteiner provided the assist for Fernando Llorente’s backheel flick goal against Sassuolo, the sixth strike he has set up for the Spaniard this season.

“I get along well with Llorente. It’d be a real shame if he and Carlos Tevez didn’t go to the World Cup, as they are top players. I hope to the end that they can get the call.”

Juventus can mathematically win the Scudetto next Monday against Atalanta in Turin.

“It is important to have a Coach like Antonio Conte who always has his mind on the team. I can only compliment Roma, as they have had an extraordinary campaign. It’s not over yet, though.”

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

How Juventus Will Line Up Against Benfica

Apr 30, 2014

Juventus host Benfica on Thursday night, the Italian side hoping to overturn the 2-1 deficit from last week’s first leg. With a place in the final—to be held at their own stadium on May 14—at stake, the Bianconeri will hope to secure passage to this season’s Europa League showpiece.

Their Lisbon-based opponents sealed their own domestic title before meeting with the two-time Serie A champions, but Juve have needed to field their strongest XI as Roma push them all the way to the wire. That has left Antonio Conte with little chance to rotate, using eight of his first-choice team in Monday’s 3-1 win over Sassuolo.

Over the following pages is a look at what can be expected from the coach of La Madama in what is set to be a key match for the Turin giants.


Tactics & Formation

The biggest issue for many fans of Juventus has been Antonio Conte’s constant use of the 3-5-2 formation, with a large majority believing a switch to a back four is necessary in order to succeed in continental competition.

It is a framework the coach used to great effect against Real Madrid back in November, but he rarely thought to use it again since. While Benfica’s wide players are clearly not as dangerous as Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, they still pose a serious threat from the wings.

Conte is widely expected to keep faith with the tactics which have served him so well over the last two and a half seasons, lining his side up once more with a three-man defence.


Goalkeeper

There are perhaps no greater certainties for Juventus than the presence of Gianluigi Buffon between the posts for La Madama, with the captain providing a guarantee for those ahead of him. At little fault for either goal last week, the 36-year-old has enjoyed another fantastic campaign, showing all the qualities which mark him out as one of the best ‘keepers in the world.


Defence

Despite Leonardo Bonucci’s error in the first leg, it is difficult to imagine Conte choosing to break up his first-choice trio in defence. As such, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini should join the former Bari man from the first whistle, the former seemingly fully recovered from the calf injury which kept him out in recent weeks.


Midfield

It is here where Conte has the biggest reason for concern, with Arturo Vidal’s knee injury taking much longer to heal than was originally expected. The coach rested him for the league meeting with Sassuolo in order to have him fit to face Benfica, and he will hope the 26-year-old can return here.

Should he make the starting lineup, he can be certain to feature alongside creator-in-chief Andrea Pirlo, with [/b]Paul Pogba[/b] likely to get the nod ahead of Claudio Marchisio. The latter is sure to play should Vidal miss out, his stellar performance on Monday once again underlining his importance to Juventus.

But the absence of the Chilean would hit the Bianconeri hardest, his impact on the side glaringly obvious over the past three seasons. In 2013-14 alone he has weighed in with 18 goals and five assists, while stats site WhoScored.com shows that no player in Serie A has made more tackles this term (130).

On the flanks, Mauricio Isla’s start against Sassuolo means Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah are the most likely candidates.


Strikers

If the goalkeepers and defence make for obvious selections, Antonio Conte would be hard pressed to look beyond his first-choice strike pairing of Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente. Both netted in Monday’s win over Sassuolo, taking their combined tally for the campaign to 37 in all competitions.

The Argentinean’s lengthy European drought came to an end in the first leg against Benfica, and he has enjoyed an excellent debut season on the peninsula, repaying the faith shown in him by the Italian giants. His Spanish partner has fared equally well, overcoming a slow start to become a dangerous opponent for any visitor to Turin.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Juventus-Benfica Preview:
Bianconeri on backfoot ahead of Turin final

Antonio Conte's men trail 2-1 after the first leg in Portugal and will be
desperate to turn the tie around to play in the showpiece at their own ground.

Apr 30, 2014

One goal for Juventus against Benfica on Thursday could prove enough to see them contest the Europa League final on home turf.

A stunning Lima strike six minutes from time at the Estadio da Luz handed Benfica a slender advantage ahead of Thursday's second leg in Turin, but Carlos Tevez's away goal for Juve could potentially prove crucial.

Tevez's 73rd-minute strike, which equalised Ezequiel Garay's early opener, means a 1-0 win for Antonio Conte's team at the Juventus Stadium this week would put them through to the Europa League final at their own stadium on May 14.

However, Juve have struggled to keep clean sheets at home in European competition this term.

Although the Italian champions, who are on course for a third straight domestic title, have not been beaten in their six continental outings at home in 2013-14, they have just one shutout.

And Conte's side will face a buoyant Benfica outfit, who followed up their Primeira Liga title success last week by sealing their place in the Taca da Liga final with a win over rivals Porto on penalties at the weekend.

Benfica also have fine pedigree in the Europa League, and are the only unbeaten team left in this season's competition following the disappointment of losing last year's final to Chelsea.

Jorge Jesus' charges have won their last four European away fixtures, while Juve have won 21 and drawn three of their home games in all competitions this season, and could be crowned Serie A champions again this weekend.

Benfica, though, are on course for a quadruple, as they are in the finals of both the Taca da Liga and the Taca de Portugal and have won their last eight games including the Sunday's shootout success over Porto.

Arturo Vidal is a doubt for Juve with a knee injury while Ljubomir Fejsa (foot), Silvio (leg), Eduardo Salvio (arm) and Nicolas Gaitan (thigh) could all miss out for the visitors.


Head to Head

UEFA Europa League ‎-‎ Apr 24, 2014 - Benfica 2 - 1 Juventus
Club Friendlies ‎-‎ Aug 1, 2012 - Juventus 1 - 1 Benfica


Last Five Matches

JUVENTUS

Apr 28, 2014 - Sassuolo 1 - 3 Juventus - Serie A
Apr 24, 2014 - Benfica 2 - 1 Juventus - EL
Apr 19, 2014 - Juventus 1 - 0 Bologna - Serie A
Apr 14, 2014 - Udinese 0 - 2 Juventus - Serie A
Apr 10, 2014 - Juventus 2 - 1 Olympique Lyonnais - EL


BENFICA

Apr 24, 2014 - Benfica 2 - 1 Juventus - EL
Apr 20, 2014 - Benfica 2 - 0 SC Olhanense - Primeira Liga
Apr 16, 2014 - Benfica 3 - 1 Porto - Taca de Portugal
Apr 13, 2014 - FC Arouca 0 - 2 Benfica - Primeira Liga
Apr 10, 2014 - Benfica 2 - 0 AZ - EL

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Benfica squad for Juve

Apr 30, 2014

Benfica have named their 23-man squad for the Europa League clash against Juventus on Thursday evening.

The Portuguese champions travel to Turin for the second leg of their semi-final, holding a 2-1 advantage from the first clash.

And they do so with Eduardo Salvio in their midst, as the Argentine midfielder has recovered from a fractured arm.


Benfica squad to face Juventus: Artur Moraes, Paulo Lopes, Jan Oblak; Jardel, Luisão, Siqueira, Garay, Maxi Pereira, André Almeida, Steven Vitória; Enzo Perez, Gaitán, Salvio, Sulejmani, André Gomes, Djuricic, Ruben Amorim, Ivan Cavaleiro; Punte, Markovic, Rodrigo, Cardozo, Lima, Funes Mori.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Pirlo is Juventus' silent leader, says Bonucci

The centre-back has hailed the veteran midfielder's positive influence
and feels Europa League glory would see Juve return to the European top.

Apr 30, 2014

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has voiced his admiration for team-mate Andrea Pirlo and believes the experienced midfielder is the Serie A champions' silent leader.

Antonio Conte's men can take another step towards a domestic and European double on Thursday when they face Benfica in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final.

With their third consecutive domestic all-but-confirmed, Bonucci hopes Pirlo's influence can help the Bianconeri turn around their 2-1 deficit from the first leg.

"Pirlo's a leader - a silent leader, but one who knows how to carry his team through difficult moments," Bonucci told Uefa's official website.

"He showed that in Florence in the round of 16, ensuring that we won the match and progressed. He then also scored an important goal which helped us get past Lyon in the quarter-finals.

"Outside of football, he's a great man and has been one of the world's best midfielders in the history of the game."

Juve have not won a European trophy since the Champions League in 1996 and Bonucci claims victory in the competition would ensure Juve were back among the great teams in Europe once again.

"Since our last European trophy in 1996, we haven't been this close to winning a final, so for us it would be a source of pride.

"It would return Juventus to being one of the best teams in Europe."

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Cervan accuses UEFA

Apr 30, 2014

Benfica Vice-president Silvio Cervan believes UEFA would like to see Juventus in the Europa League final for commercial interests.

The second leg of the semi-final between the sides takes place at Juventus Stadium tomorrow evening, with the newly crowned Portuguese champions leading 2-1 from the first meeting.

“It’s a long time since an Italian team last won in Europe,” Cervan is quoted as saying by giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“I have no doubts that, particularly for commercial interests, UEFA would like to see Juventus go to the final and win the tournament.

“They would also want to have a team with great history in the European Super Cup in Cardiff.

“But we are a great club too, as shown by our sixth place in the European rankings.

“Football is great if it’s only played on the pitch. But if there are outside interests that surround it, it’s not worth believing in the beauty of football anymore.”

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Jesus: Benfica must score against Juve

The 59-year-old says his team will set out to attack in the return leg
as he feels they must score again to ensure they progress to the final.

Apr 30, 2014

Benfica coach Jorge Jesus believes his team must score against Juventus in the Europa League semi-final second-leg to ensure they reach the final.

The Portuguese champions recorded a 2-1 win over Antonio Conte's men in the first-leg and travel to Turin to conclude the tie on Thursday.

Jesus insists his team must score at least once in the Juventus Stadium but admitted the Bianconeri will provide them with a difficult test.

"Our approach will be discussed in the dressing room," he told reporters. "We know it's a difficult game against a very strong team.

"Our advantage won't change what we're about and how we line up for the game.

"We believe we need a goal tomorrow and have players who can allow us to think about playing an attacking game.

"We don’t often play teams with tactics like Juve’s. We may have to take certain measures to counteract them going forward."

Benfica midfielder Ruben Amorim says he is confident his side can deal with the Italian giants, insisting they know what to expect from them.

"Our strategy won’t change, we don’t know how to play in another way. We’ve done our homework and know what’s required.

"It’s a complicated game but we’ve prepared as we do for every other encounter."

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Juventus don't fear Benfica, insists Conte

The 44-year-old is confident his team can progress past the Portuguese champions,
while defender Giorgio Chiellini stressed the importance of keeping a clean sheet.

Apr 30, 2014

Juventus coach Antonio Conte is confident his side can beat Benfica and reach the Europa League final, insisting that they are not scared of their opponents.

The Bianconeri head into Thursday's second-leg looking to overturn a 2-1 deficit and set up a showdown with either Valencia or Sevilla.

Conte is sure his side can get the better of the recently-crowned Portuguese champions, arguing that they deserved more from last week's trip to Lisbon.

"We know what we need to do. I'm very confident," he told reporters. "I know we'll have Juventus Stadium behind us.

"The word 'fear' isn't part of our vocabulary. We know we deserve to be in a European semi; it's an exciting moment.

"We deserve to be in a semi-final; it's a great moment for us and we're enjoying it. Our fans deserve it.

"I don’t rank games in terms of their importance. We have the objective of winning every encounter we’re involved in.

"Benfica played very much on the counterattack in the first leg and we need to watch out for this on Thursday night.

"The result from the first leg doesn't tell the true story, but we know we're up against a strong side.

"I think we put in a fine display in Lisbon. It’s not easy, particularly psychologically, when you concede after two minutes.

"I think there was only one team in it during the second half that could have, with greater precision, scored more."

Conte added that star striker Carlos Tevez, who bagged Juve's crucial away goal at the Estadio da Luz, is likely to start Thursday's game, but wouldn't say if Arturo Vidal will be fit enough to feature.

"Tevez is an extraordinary player who has brought us personality and charisma," the 44-year-old trainer enthused. "When things start to heat up, he needs to play.

"Vidal has trained today [Wednesday], you'll find out whether he'll be in the starting line-up or on the bench tomorrow."

Defender Giorgio Chiellini says he is "convinced" the Bianconeri can progress beyond Benfica, but admitted that they cannot afford to concede a goal.

"We’re solely focused on tomorrow’s game," he said, dismissing the suggestion that they could be distracted by the prospect of clinching a third successive Serie A title this weekend.

"It will be difficult but we want to win. I can’t wait to be involved in such a magical night. It will be fundamental for us to keep a clean sheet.

"I’m convinced we have what it takes to score, but we’ll need to try and cut out the errors made in the first leg.

"We can keep living the dream of playing the Europa League final in Turin."

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Europa League: Juventus v Benfica team news

Juventus coach Antonio Conte believes the fans can play a huge role in helping his players
overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Benfica to reach the final of the Europa League.

Apr 30, 2014

A late goal from striker Lima gave Benfica a narrow advantage to take with them to Turin on Thursday, but Conte believes his team are capable of overturning the tie with the help of the Juventus Stadium faithful.

"I want on Thursday for our supporters to create a fiery cauldron in the stadium, just as Benfica's fans did in Lisbon last week," Conte said.

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

Juve head into the contest in buoyant mood after Monday's 3-1 triumph at Sassuolo left them one win away from their third straight Serie A title.

The Bianconeri, who are the only Italian team left in European competition, are eight points clear of Roma at the top of the standings with three games left.

Conte claims his side are only focused on getting past Benfica to reach the European final that will be played in their own stadium.

"We want to progress," Conte said. "Despite the first-leg defeat which we didn't deserve, I think we have proved we have what it takes to be in the final."

Carlos Tevez, who ended his five-year European goal drought against Benfica last week, will lead Juve's attack alongside Fernando Llorente while midfielder Arturo Vidal has recovered from a knee injury and will play.

Rivals Benfica travel to Italy looking to reach the Europa League final for a second straight season, something no team has achieved in the competition.

The recently-crowned Portuguese champions head into the contest also in fine fettle.

Benfica beat arch-rivals Porto on penalties at the weekend to reach the Portuguese League Cup final and remain on course for a treble.

The visitors expect a difficult test in Turin, where Juve have yet to lose this season, but are confident they can succeed.

"We will go to Turin as a united team to try to go through with humility," Lima said. "We have the quality and the ability to achieve that."

Benfica coach Jorge Jesus will be without midfielders Ljubomir Fejsa and Andre Gomes, with the former out injured and the latter suspended.

However, Argentinian attacking midfielder Eduardo Salvio could feature after being included in Benfica's travelling party despite having fractured his arm earlier this month.

English referee Mark Clattenburg will officiate Thursday's match.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

UEFA Europa League Preview: Juventus vs. Benfica,
Leg 2 — Winning is the only thing that matters

Apr 30, 2014

Giampiero Boniperti's famous quote about Juventus couldn't be more appropriate right now.

"Vincere non è importante, è l'unica cosa che conta."

Juventus enter the second leg of their Europa League semifinal tie with Benfica needing to win. There's no other way for them to add an extra home game to the schedule other than to beat Benfica tomorrow night at Juventus Stadium. I could sit here and try and be funny. I could write some lengthy explanation as to why Juventus need to win.

Or, I could just get right to the point.

The result in Portugal wasn't the be-all, end-all in this two-legged semifinal encounter. Carlos Tévez's second-half strike gave Juventus some life — something they didn't exactly have much of before he found the back of the net. Juve's No. 10 gave them hope and something to lean on heading into Thursday night's second leg.

He gave them a chance to achieve what the goal has been ever since they were dumped out of the Champions League on that stupid, sorry excuse for a field in Istanbul back in December — make it to the Europa League final at Juventus Stadium.

But to take advantage of that, Juventus need to win. As it stands, that's their only option.

Aaron Giambattista @agiamba
Juventus has attempted to overcome a 1st leg 2-1 defeat 5 times in Europe, only failed once against Liverpool in 2005. (/@2010MisterChip)

No draws. No funny business. Nothing like that will work if Juve want to play one more game in the Europa League.

Juventus need to win to make it to the Europa League final in front of their hometown crowd. That's as simple as simple gets. A 1-0 win and the ticket is booked. A 1-1 draw, and Juve are watching from their couches as Benfica try to win the Europa League for the second straight year.

Winning is the only thing that matters. Remember what one of the club's true icons said. He knows what he's talking about. And in this case — just like every other one — there's no reason to disagree with him.


GOOD NEWS

The second leg is at Juventus Stadium, a place where Juventus hasn't lost a game all season.


BAD NEWS

Juventus are down 2-1 on aggregate, not exactly the best of scenarios — but also not the worst, to be fair — after Juve's trip to Portugal six days ago.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. The health of Arturo Vidal.

The knee injury was still there during Juve's trip to Portugal a week ago. It's been lingering around for weeks and we've been waiting (somewhat) patiently for the injury to completely go away so we can have our King Arturo back. Antonio Conte said before Juve's Monday night trip to Sassuolo that they're doing everything possible to get Vidal to 100 percent before Benfica visits Juventus Stadium. So now, all we have to do is wait, right? As much as we might want to wring the neck of somebody so that they give us an answer sooner, we can only sit and wait for the word to come down. And when it comes to somebody as important as Vidal, you don't take chances. He's way too important to mess with.

2. How Juventus handle the Benfica counter attacks.

At times, it was almost like Benfica countered with jetpacks attached to their backs. They were quick, they were dangerous, and they created a lot of havoc for the Juventus defense no matter which side of the field they were coming from. It really didn't matter the situation was, Benfica used the counter to their advantage last week and Juve were probably lucky they weren't hurt by it more than they were. Now the matter of attention becomes how Juventus adjust their tactics and/or personnel to counter Benfica's counter. And it's not just a matter of Juve defending well in the final third. It's the defense, the midfield, everybody. This is where Conte really has to do his homework because if it's anything like the first leg, it might be lights out time.

3. The effectiveness of Carlos Tévez.

The European goal-drought is over and the monkey is officially off Carlitos' back. Now, where does he go from here? Tévez was pretty lively even without the goal in the first leg, but ending the goal drought almost certainly is a big weight off his shoulders. Just the fact that people won't talk about it during the course of a match is something that I welcome with open arms. But to actually have it happen and get it out of his mind completely, may be quite a development. He played well against Sassuolo on Monday, scoring his 19th league goal in the 3-1 win. It really does seem like he's really starting to get back into good goal-scoring form the last couple of weeks. And we all know that when Tévez plays well in the second leg, Juventus' chances of reaching the Europa League final become that much greater.

4. Who will start alongside Tévez?

Even though the Italian press correctly predicted that Mirko Vucinic would start next to Tévez in the first leg, I must say I was a little surprised that Conte went with what everybody was saying he would. And based on how ineffective Vucinic was for the vast majority of his time on the field in the first leg, a change as to who plays next to Carlitos could — and probably should — be in order. The question is this: Who is it going to be? It's really hard to get a grasp on where somebody like Fernando Llorente fits into the equation in the second leg. But if Conte wants to roll with what has basically had the big amount of success up top this season, then there's no doubt in my mind it should be Fernando starting next to Tévez tomorrow night.

5. Turning around the 2-1 deficit.

Save the best for last, right? Well, maybe not the best, but the most important thing Juventus needs to do tomorrow night. The "easiest" way? Juventus need a goal and a shutout to ensure a spot in the Europa League final. Okay, so that might not the easiest thing since it's the semifinals of the Europa League and Benfica is a good team, but it may be the easiest when it comes to advancing. No messing around with Benfica away goals, get a goal, get a win, get a spot in the Europa League final. It could be that simple. Or could be stressful as hell. I'll let all of you be the judge of that.

In short: "Vincere non è importante, è l'unica cosa che conta." Bingo.


My starting XI (4-3-3): Buffon; Lichtsteiner, Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Pogba, Pirlo, Marchisio; Tévez, Llorente, Giovinco

(Yeah, you read that right. It probably won't happen, but I went there.)


OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 9:05 P.M. IN ITALY; 3:05 P.M. ON THE EAST COAST; 12:05 P.M. ON THE WEST COAST

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Jesus: Benfica must score

Apr 30, 2014

Benfica Coach Jorge Jesus is convinced his side will have to score an away goal if they are to secure a place in the Europa League final.

The Portuguese outfit are in Turin for the second leg of their semi-final against Juventus and hold a 2-1 advantage from last week’s first encounter.

“We firmly believe we must score,” Jesus said at his pre match Press conference. “We have players who can help us to do that.

“Thanks to their great characteristics and technical qualities, we can think about playing an offensive game.

“Juventus know how good Benfica’s attack is. Juventus’ tactics are tactics that we are not used to playing against, so we are obliged to come up with different ways to stop them.

“We know that we face a tough match. Benfica have the advantage having won the first match, but we will not change who we are.

“Whether we are going to try to score doesn’t depend on what we set out to do at the start of the match. It depends on the circumstances that occur during the match.

“Juventus, to get here, have shown they are an excellent team, but we will approach them how we approach all our big matches.”

The tactician also refused to be drawn on comments from within his own club that UEFA would like to see Juve progress to the final at his team’s expense.

“At this moment the most important thing is to concentrate on the match. I as Coach and the players are not interested in that.

“I understand the question, but I think the comments were just a diversion to ease the tension on the eve of the match.”

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Juventus News – Europa League Updates

Apr 30, 2014

It’s uncanny how Juve’s 2-1 first-leg Europa loss to Benfica last week not only echoed some haunting moments and themes from the Champions League campaign, but also how the match followed the entire September-to-December arc in miniature.

The opener in Portugal featured an early concession eerily reminiscent of the lapse in concentration that hampered the Champions League opener in Copenhagen. It also featured the type of valiant comeback that the Bianconeri have mounted all season in response to setbacks, whether in a game or during a rough stretch of the season — in this case, Carlos Tevez’s first European strike in five years, an away goal that could ultimately decide the fixture.

And unfortunately, it also featured a late concession which might threaten to spoil the whole party, just like both matches against Galatasaray. As they have so many times this season, Juve managed to not so much lose to another team as to beat themselves. Sure, Benfica are a dangerous side, and their go-ahead goal was brilliantly struck, but Juve let them in.

Fortunately, on Thursday evening Juventus will have a chance to come full circle, to finally rectify not only last week’s mistakes but those of the entire European season by beating Benfica at home and booking a trip to the Europa League final in Turin.

Even better news is the fact that Juve finally look offensively potent for the first time in a long while. With Monday’s come-from-behind 3-1 victory over Sassuolo, the Bianconeri finally seemed to regain their former attacking prowess under Antonio Conte.

After a terrible 30 minutes, Carlos Tevez equalized emphatically, Claudio Marchisio hit the kind of clinical finish he used to do every other week two seasons ago, and Fernando Llorente punctuated the affair with a very stylish (and very Spanish) backheel that sent Antonio Conte sliding across the rain-soaked pitch as if he had scored himself. Beyond securing the possibility of clinching the Scudetto next Monday, this kind of performance was exactly what Juve needed.

And they’ll need more of it on Thursday. The Bianconeri must score at least once to go through on the away goal, provided they completely shut out Benfica. Otherwise, they’ll have to score in bulk.

Either way, this is basically it. Whatever meaning this season accrues in retrospect will be dependent on how Antonio Conte’s men deal with those crazy, sudden-death, knockout European nights. A third straight Scudetto would be wonderful and historic, but this season was never about Italy.

They may not be able to win Europe’s biggest prize this year, but answering the Europa League challenge would be Juve’s ultimate statement of intent for some heroic European exploits next season and beyond.

Let’s close this out, ragazzi.

Europa Updates: Vidal Could Start, Giovinco-Llorente Compete for Start

The Sassuolo victory not only afford Juve the chance to seal the Scudetto when Atalanta arrive on Monday, but in keeping Roma eight points behind it also allows Antonio Conte to throw his best XI on the pitch in the latest “most important match of the season.”

And Conte may have the luxury of a selection headache at two specific positions, thanks to the apparent recovery of Andrea Barzagli and Arturo Vidal.

In defense, Gigi Buffon will most certainly be shielded by Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, but Conte is facing a tough choice for the last center-back slot between the recently reintegrated Barzagli and Martin Caceres, who in addition to being match-fit has an undeniable advantage in pace over Andrea. Martin could win out not only for tactical reasons, but also because he was rested for Sassuolo and should be fresh.

On the flanks, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Kwadwo Asamoah are the only true choices on the right and left, respectively — Conte literally can accept no substitutes if he wants to win.

In central midfield, Arturo Vidal could finally be ready to start, which is great news in general but a mixed blessing if he’s not physically ready to be his old self. That means one of Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio and Paul Pogba would have to sit, and all three make a solid case for inclusion. Pirlo is Pirlo, even on his worst days, while Marchisio is hitting his best form of the season (with Monday’s goal as proof). And Pogba is always a threat to do something potentially spectacular and match-winning, despite being visibly fatigued and probably hampered by all the transfer talk and hype surrounding him.

In attack, we should expect Fernando Llorente to partner Carlos Tevez, but word from Vinovo has Conte thinking about pairing Carlito with Sebastian Giovinco. The pairing has its advantages (speed, for one) but would bring with it a sizeable (pun intended) disadvantage: Juve may not want to give up that much height up top.

Juve have an away goal, which means that they could play for a very risky, nerve-wracking 1-0 result, but despite the fact that both Benfica goals were ultimately preventable, the Portuguese side is going seriously threat Buffon’s goal at times, and the best approach may be to press the issue on offense. Juve’s options to pass through to the final will be 1-0 or a rout, since a 2-1 win would lead to an extra 30 minutes and possibly penalty kicks.

As mentioned above, in addition to being an opportunity for at least partial European redemption this season, winning this fixture on Thursday could have far-reaching ramifications not only for Juve’s Champions League prospects next season, but also regarding matters of personnel and international reputation.

A victory here could conceivably convince someone like Pogba to stick around, or it could allow Conte to dream of bigger Bianconeri things at a time when I’m sure he’s wondering what else is out there. But most of all, it will signal to the rest of world football (and any of its discontented stars) that far from struggling with any perceived growing pains, Juventus are a club steadily on the rise.

Beating Benfica and earning a spot in the final could be worth much more than playing for a trophy in front of a home crowd. It could be the opening words of a mission statement for Juve’s future ambitions.

Is that a lot of weight to put on a Europa League match? Maybe. But great clubs play for everything, right?

FINO ALLA FINE, FORZA JUVE!!!


English Refs for Benfica Showdown

The collective fate of Juventus and Benfica will be in English hands on Thursday evening, as Mark Clattenburg will hold the whistle for the Bianconeri’s Europa League moment of truth.

Clattenburg’s previous Juve association is not a pleasant one: He presided over the 2-0 defeat to Bayern Munich in Germany which all but sunk last year’s Champions League hopes.

Let’s not think about that.

Otherwise, according to the Mothership, Mr. Clattenburg has officiated a few big-time matches, including the final of the 2012 Olympics, so he’s no stranger to pressure. And he’ll have more than a bit of it too, especially considering the less-than-veiled accusations from Joao Gabriel, Benfica’s director of communications, following an admittedly late investigation of a foul committed on Giorgio Chiellini in the first leg.

Clattenburg’s linesmen will be Simon Beck and Stuart Burt. Darren England (that’s a bit on the nose, isn’t it?) will be fourth official.

Keep things clean, chaps!

Past Precedents: Juve-Benfica in Turin, Eagles’ Away Form

Juve’s forays against Benfica in Lisbon are not historically successful (and we can now include last Thursday’s match).

Happily (and understandably), Juve have fared much better when hosting the current Portuguese champions, as the official site points out:

"There have been two previous European clashes between Juventus and Benfica in Turin, both in different competitions and eras.

“The first meeting dates back to 1968 in a European Cup semi-final second leg hosted at the Stadio Comunale.

“Reaching the final looked to be a bridge too far for Benfica to cross after the Bianconeri had pulled off an excellent 2-0 away win in Lisbon, and so it proved.

“Juve allowed Heriberto Herrera’s men only one goal, netted by a Eusebio at the peak of his powers (the ‘Black Panther’ would later win the European golden shoe that season).

“It was a different story in 1993, when Giovanni Trapattoni’s Juventus were challenging the Eagles for a place in the UEFA Cup semi-final.

“In the first leg on Portuguese soil, the Bianconeri had lost 2-1 – exactly the same balance of the current Europa League tie. But at the Delle Alpi the hosts managed to snatch a lead with just two minutes gone thanks to Jurgen Kohler, and Dino Baggio made it two before the break.

“From there, Trapattoni’s men (who included Antonio Conte that day) put the tie to bed through Fabrizio Ravanelli against a Benfica side which featured current club director of football Rui Costa and future Juve man Paulo Sousa.”

Good examples to follow for Thursday, especially the latter. But lest we feel too confident going into the return leg, it might benefit us to acknowledge that after a rough road record in the Champions League, Benfica have performed very well away from home in the Europa League:

"In the Europa League, things have gone a lot smoother for Juve’s semi-final rivals on the road, a run that began with revenge of sorts over another Greek side: PAOK.

“It was Lima, the match winner against Juventus last week, who lifted the visitors to victory in a first leg which lacked excitement but did show Benfica’s ability to close out a game.

“They demonstrated it again against Tottenham, conquering White Hart Lane thanks to Rodrigo and a Luisao double in a game of exceptional shot precision from Benfica: eight of their nine shots hit the target on 13 March.

“The first leg was played away from Portugal in the quarter-finals, too, and once again Benfica managed to pick up a victory that greatly increased their chances of qualification.

“The source of the winner in Holland against AZ Alkmaar was Eduardo Salvio, whose quick reactions saw him make it to a parry from goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado first and slot home.

“Overall, then, the Bianconeri’s semi-final opponents have won four and lost two on their travels in Europe this season ahead of running out at Juventus Stadium tomorrow, and are the only side still unbeaten in the Europa League overall.”

Ultimately, when taken with Juve’s recent home form (generally excellent, even when raggedly so), it makes for a more balanced assessment for Thursday’s crucial encounter — and a balanced approach will certainly be necessary to pass through to the final.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Vialli trusts Conte

Apr 30, 2014

Former Juventus player Gianluca Vialli trusts Old Lady Coach Antonio Conte to deliver European success to the club.

On the eve of the Bianconeri’s Europa League semi-final second leg against Benfica, the 49-year-old thinks victory in the competition could provide a springboard to future success in the Champions League.

“I trust Conte and all the older players like Buffon and Pirlo,” Vialli told Uefa.com. “But the other players must improve in Europe, especially in terms of confidence.

“Winning the Europa League could be crucial in helping Juve to start playing better in the Champions League.

“It would certainly be a good way to gain belief and knowledge. It worked for us.”

Vialli was part of the Juventus side to win the 1993 UEFA Cup.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Amorim: Benfica won’t change

Apr 30, 2014

Benfica midfielder Ruben Amorim says his side’s strategy will not change for their Europa League semi-final second leg.

The Portuguese champions hold a 2-1 lead from the first leg against Juventus and the 29-year-old is anticipating another close match between the teams.

“The strategy of Benfica will not change,” Amorim said at a Press conference. “We don’t know how to play any other way.

“It will certainly be a difficult return leg, but we have studied Juventus. We know what we need to do and we know how we can get through.

“Our problems will be the same ones that we had in Lisbon, it’s a difficult match. Our preparation for all our games is the same though.”

The player is also pleased his team will have Enzo Perez available, after UEFA decided to drop disciplinary procedures against him following his apparent elbow on Juve’s Giorgio Chiellini last week.

“It’s good news, even more so because there was no reason for him not to be playing tomorrow.

“But we weren’t worried about potentially missing him anyway.

“I think that Juventus respect Benfica, they showed that in the first leg and the rest is not important.”

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Chiellini: Juve must not concede

Apr 30, 2014

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has stressed the importance of his side keeping a clean sheet against Benfica tomorrow.

The Old Lady head into the Europa League semi-final second leg needing to overturn a 2-1 deficit to progress to the final, to be played at their own Juventus Stadium.

“I can’t wait to get out on the pitch,” Chiellini said at the pre-match Press conference. “It will be a magical evening and one that all Juventini, whether they are at the stadium or watching on television, will want to experience.

“It will be absolutely crucial to not concede a goal, because I am convinced that with the attacking threat we have we will manage to score.

“We must also look to limit the number of errors we make compared to the first leg.

“On that occasion we deserved more than we got but we found ourselves on the end of a negative result.

“We have no fear. We are conscious that everything depends on us and tomorrow we have the chance to continue to live this dream of playing in the final here in Turin.

“So we have no fear, but a lot of desire to play, do well and win. That’s it.”

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Juve squad for Benfica

Apr 30, 2014

Juventus have announced their 23-man squad for the second leg of their Europa League semi-final with Benfica.

The Old Lady will tomorrow look to turn around a 2-1 deficit from the first leg in Lisbon last Thursday to reach the final, to be played at their own Juventus Stadium.

The winners of the tie will face the victors of the other semi-final, an all-Spanish affair between Sevilla and Valencia.


Juventus squad to face Benfica: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Vucinic, Tevez, Giovinco, Peluso, Llorente, Barzagli, Osvaldo, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Storari, Isla, Rubinho.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Juventus vs. Benfica Preview

May 1, 2014

Benfica will defend a 2-1 lead when they travel to Turin to take on Juventus on Thursday in the second leg of the Europa League semi-finals, in what could be the team's most important match of the 2013-14 campaign.

The visitors have already locked up the Portuguese title and will be playing Rio Ave in the domestic cup final later this month, and a good result at the Juventus Stadium could set the team up for a historic treble.

But Juventus are very close to the Serie A title themselves and would want nothing more than to qualify for the Europa League final, which will be played at their very own Juventus Stadium, setting the stage for an epic night of football on Thursday.


Preview

Benfica showed the world last year's final berth in the competition was no fluke when they came out and dominated Juventus for the opening 20 minutes of last week's fixture, scoring a vital early goal and hardly allowing the visitors to establish any sort of rhythm.

Learning from Lyon's tactics in the quarter-final, the Portuguese champions jammed Andrea Pirlo early and forced the ball into the feet of Leonardo Bonucci, who buckled under the pressure and couldn't find any of the attacking targets with his long passing.

Fans were quick to point the finger at the Italian international as he was caught out of position for both goals, and Bonucci didn't shy away from taking responsibility for his sloppy play following the match on his Facebook page (via Football-Italia.net):

"Nothing is decided yet!! I am the first person to be angry with myself... We have to look forward with positivity."

Benfica deserve all the credit in the world for the way they handled Juventus in the opening stages of the first leg, but it was no coincidence the Bianconeri looked most vulnerable in the centre of the defence and in support of Pirlo, with Andrea Barzagli and Arturo Vidal not fit for the match.

While Barzagli is an important feature in the back line, Vidal's inclusion could prove to be the difference in this tie.

His relentless approach toward the ball and constant movement make him the perfect guard dog for Pirlo, and his attacking contributions have been vital for the squad this year, as evidenced by his 18 total goals, per WhoScored.com.

As shared by Jan Hagen, Benfica fielded a number of second-string players against Porto during the weekend:

Jan Hagen @PortuBall
Not playing Benfica XI vs Porto tonight: Artur - Maxi, Garay, Luisão, Silvío - Fejsa, Enzo Pérez - Markovic, Gaitán, Salvio - Rodrigo
7:02 PM - 27 Apr 2014 Fredrikstad, Norge

The visitors have some injury concerns coming into this match, but the list of injured players is relatively unchanged from last week, when the team seemed just fine. Andre Gomes picked up his third yellow card in Lisbon and will be the only notable omission from last week's group of players.

Miralem Sulejmani and Lazar Markovic were able to inflict real damage on the Bianconeri back line with their excellent athleticism and the high line the team used for much of the first half. Coach Jorge Jesus should employ a similar tactic in this match.

Juventus were allowed too much time on the ball in the second half and took control of the match, with Carlos Tevez's equaliser more than deserved.

The late push by the hosts and the subsequent winner from Lima once again showed Juventus' weakness against pressing teams, and Benfica should take advantage from that weakness as they look to erase Tevez's away goal and silence a furious home crowd early.

A healthy Juventus squad won't make this an easy task, however, and the return of Vidal, Barzagli and Fernando Llorente could give the hosts just the boost they need on their way to the final.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Benfica’s salvation: How Jesus has put
the Eagles back on their perch in 2014

Last year was a disastrous one for the club, but ahead of their Europa League
semi-final second leg with Juventus, the current campaign could yet be their greatest ever.

May 1, 2014

COMMENT

By Joe Wright

From the brink of history to the depths of despair. Top of the Primeira Liga, with cup finals against Vitoria Guimaraes and Chelsea to look forward to, Benfica collapsed under expectation in 2013. Defeat to Porto cost them the league, Branislav Ivanovic ended their Europa League dream, and two goals in two minutes saw them throw away a lead in the Taca de Portugal final.

But even in the darkness of last May, there was light at the end of the tunnel. “I cannot explain how we lost because everything we needed to do, we did,” said goalkeeper Artur after their 2-1 defeat in Amsterdam. “This is a group with a lot of merit. We made this stage of the competition deservedly and we showed the world what Benfica are about. We showed that Benfica are now ready to start winning.”

Twelve months on, they are. And in style. Their 33rd league title is sown up, and vengeance over Porto has been delivered in icy-cool fashion following victories in the semi-finals of both domestic cups. As they prepare to take a 2-1 first-leg lead to Turin in Thursday’s last-four second leg with Juventus, history is once more theirs for the taking.

It’s a remarkable transformation by coach Jorge Jesus. Last summer, his future was subject to intense speculation after Benfica’s collapse, but the Estadio da Luz hierarchy looked beyond the tears of Oscar Cardozo and Co. in Amsterdam and foresaw the chance of redemption. Ignoring grumblings of discontent in Lisbon, president Luis Felipe Vieira backed Jesus’ vision for the season to come and handed him a two-year contract extension. Not many club owners would be so bold; even fewer coaches would be allowed such a second chance.

It was a gamble worth taking. Jesus plundered the transfer market, bringing in a total of 15 players at a cost of just less than €33 – a hugely impressive feat in itself – while, crucially, the core of the side was held together, with veteran Pablo Aimar the only high-profile departure. The average age of the incoming players was less than 22; they were hungry to impress and with huge scope for development. Perfect for a side with a point to prove.

Six of the new signings were Serbian, and two have emerged as leading lights this term: Miralem Sulejmani, who arrived on a free from Ajax, and Lazar Markovic, a €10m steal from Partizan. Scouted by Chelsea and several other top clubs, Markovic was persuaded by compatriot Nemanja Matic to move to Lisbon, and his attacking understanding alongside Sulejmani, Nicolas Gaitan, Toto Salvo and Rodrigo has been too much for almost every side this season. Seven goals, no assists and a key pass every other 90 minutes may seem average stats at best in more than 25 appearances, but Markovic’s direct style has been a vital part of the lightning-fast transitional play which has seen Benfica beat Tottenham, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Porto (three times) this term.

Behind an already-fearsome attack, Jesus side are now far more controlled. Matic’s January move to Chelsea was a blow, but Ruben Amorim, Ljubomir Fesa and young Andre Gomes have all deputised impressively in the axis of midfield. The imposing central defensive partnership of Ezequiel Garay and Luisao has never looked stronger, while the loan signing of left-back Guilherme Siquiera from Granada has proven a masterstroke after Lorenzo Melgarejo’s departure.

In a stronger unit, the dependency on individuals has diminished. Cardozo – top scorer with 33 goals last season – may only have managed 11 strikes to date this term, but among 16 different goalscorers across all competitions his reduced rate has barely been noticed. Lima - whose winner against Juventus was his 21st of the season - has taken up Cardozo’s mantle with aplomb, while Rodrigo (17 goals) has been a willing accomplice.

Mentally, they are a different animal. Gone is the pervading sense of entitlement to success which preceded last year’s collapse, replaced by a simple conviction that complacency is not an option. Since the opening day defeat to Maritimo, Benfica have not lost a league game, and have been top since beating Porto 2-0 in January. When they switched off with the tie almost over against Spurs to fall 2-1 down at home, they had to respond. They did. "We knew what awaited us was a hard game but we showed that we were prepared for any eventuality,” said Garay after a late Lima penalty maintained their remarkable unbeaten home run, now standing at 17 months. "I was never worried when we were losing 2-1, because even if they made it 3-1 it would only have gone to extra-time," added Jesus. Belief? You bet.

Benfica still have a huge task ahead of them if they are to overcome favourites Juventus to reach the Europa League final and at last bring an end to Bela Guttman’s curse by winning their first European title in 50 years. Crucially, they're not yet looking too far ahead. “We will go to Turin as a united team to try to go through with humility. We have the quality and the ability to achieve that,” says Lima. The incredible celebrations in Lisbon after their league title triumph, the fortitude required to beat Porto on penalties last week, have been embraced, treasured, and now left behind. It’s all about the next step.

“All that was missing was a small detail here or there," rued Artur after last May. "I am sure our luck will soon change and something good will happen to us.” The doubts have been banished, humility and unwavering belief embraced, and the Eagles have soared back onto their perch in sensational style. On to Turin they go. The march down the road to redemption continues.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Vidal to start against Benfica?

May 1, 2014

Arturo Vidal is in line to make his return to the Juventus starting line-up against Benfica, whilst Martin Caceres will again come in for Andrea Barzagli.

Chilean midfielder Vidal has been restricted to brief appearances from the bench in recent weeks as he has been dealing with a minor knee injury causing discomfort.

On from appearing as a substitute in each of Juve’s last three League games, speculation from the giornalaccio rosa dello Sport is that Vidal could be in line for a start in this evening’s Europa League semi-final second leg.

If the 26-year-old does make it, Claudio Marchisio looks set to drop out.

Andrea Barzagli has been included in the matchday squad also, but speculation is that he will drop out in favour of Martin Caceres returning to the first XI, whilst Stephan Lichtsteiner is seen by Tuttosport as in line to replace Mauricio Isla too.


Probable Juventus XI to face Benfica:
Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Pogba, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Juventus-Benfica Betting Preview:
Back the guests to spoil the party in Turin

Antonio Conte's men can set up a dream final in front of their own fans with a victory
tonight, but Al Hain-Cole is backing the rampant Portuguese champions to tear up the script.

May 1, 2014

Juventus will need to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit if they are to set up a dream Europa League final on home turf when they welcome Benfica to Turin on Thursday.

A late goal in Portugal leaves La Vecchia Signora playing catch-up this evening, with William Hill offering odds of 6/10 (1.60) on them coming out on top in the match odds market.

However, Jorge Jesus’s side are chasing an historic quadruple having already lifted the Portuguese league title and reached both domestic cup competitions, with 4/1 (5.00) odds available on them securing a second consecutive Europa League final appearance with a victory tonight.

March’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham is the only time Os Aguias have failed to win in this competition since last season’s final defeat against Chelsea, and you can get odds of 11/4 (3.75) on them claiming a priceless draw in this one.

Carlos Tevez’s equaliser in Lisbon was celebrated like a winning goal by his team-mates, only for Lima’s late strike to take the wind out of their sails and leave them with a tough task on their hands this evening.

While the away goal means Antonio Conte’s team require only a 1-0 win to set up their eagerly anticipated home final, the visitors demonstrated just this weekend that they are certainly no pushovers.

A red card after just half an hour during Sunday’s cup game against Porto left Jesus’s team a man light in the back yard of one of their fiercest rivals, yet they still managed to hold out for a 0-0 draw before triumphing on penalties.

That performance could represent the perfect dress rehearsal for tonight’s clash, where they will attempt to silence a home crowd likely to feel the tension should things fail to go their team’s way.

Having conceded just nine goals in their last 20 games in all competitions, Benfica are more than capable of making life difficult for their hosts this evening, and should also be confident of finding an away goal of their own after failing to score just twice in their last 32 fixtures.

With all the pressure on Juventus as they look to reach their dream final, it is worth backing the visitors to spoil the party and secure a second successive final appearance, particularly at generous quotes of even money (2.00) with William Hill.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Dino Baggio confident of Juve progress

May 1, 2014

Ex-Juventus midfielder Dino Baggio is confident the Old Lady will overcome Benfica to reach the Europa League final.

The second leg of the semi-final tie between the sides takes place tonight at Juventus Stadium, with the Italian champions trailing 2-1 from the first leg last week.

However, the former player believes the Bianconeri have what it takes to overturn the deficit and also praised the job done by Juve Coach Antonio Conte.

“It is definitely a situation where you should not underestimate the result of the first leg,” Baggio told Tuttojuve.com. “To reach the final a 1-0 win would be enough but it would be better to score more goals.

“For me Juventus have everything they need to end up on top, even though it will be tough against Benfica.

“They are very incisive on the counter-attack so Juve will have to be very watchful of that.

“Juve’s form at the moment is fine. It’s normal that at the end of the season you are a little tired but mentally they are ready.

“The League is pretty much over after they beat Sassuolo and now they can think of winning this trophy.

“It’s hard to think that Juventus will allow the chance to play in a home final slip away from them.

“In these three years Conte has done very well. I think that he and the club will discuss a renewal at the end of the season if they haven’t already.

“I think Antonio is happy at Juventus, he has the chance to build a great team there.”

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Conte will guide Juventus
to Europa League final, says Tacchinardi

The former Bianconeri midfielder is expecting a tough battle but expects
the Serie A champions to prevail and contest the showpiece on home soil.

May 1, 2014

Alessio Tacchinardi is confident that Antonio Conte will guide Juventus past Benfica in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final on Thursday night.

The Serie A champions were beaten 2-1 in Lisbon last week, but Tacchinardi - who wore the Juve jersey between 1994 and 2007 - has little doubt that they will turn things around and reach the final in Turin.

"Juventus will reach the final, although it will be a tough battle. They might suffer, but I have no doubt that they will reach the final at their own stadium," Tacchinardi told Goal.

"It will be a complicated game, but Juventus are the favourites for me. Home advantage will play a big role. I am confident that Juve can turn things around.

"Conte has already proven to be a great coach and can also bring the team's winning mentality to Europe.

"He deserves to reach the final for his commitment, his philosophy and his man-management."

The Europa League final takes place at the Juventus Stadium on May 14.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Cabrini: Benfica slight favourites

May 1, 2014

Ex-Juventus player Antonio Cabrini believes the Old Lady are slight underdogs to progress to the Europa League final.

Antonio Conte’s side face Benfica tonight looking to overturn a 2-1 first leg deficit and secure a place in the final of the competition, which will be played at their own Juventus Stadium.

“It’s not an easy match for Juventus,” Cabrini told Tuttojuve.com. “It’s clear that the 2-1 result in the first leg gives Benfica a 60 per cent chance to get through.

“Juventus, because of their away goal, have a 40 per cent chance.

“Next season? Knowing the club as I do, I think that next season they will aim very much towards doing well on an international level.”

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Juve fans promise 'cauldron'

May 1, 2014

Juventus ultras group the Drughi announced they will “transform the stadium into a cauldron” against Benfica.

Antonio Conte called for the supporters to replicate or even surpass the passion of the crowd in Lisbon during the first leg of their Europa League semi-final.

The second leg is tonight in Turin, kicking off at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT), and the Bianconeri must overturn a 2-1 defeat.

“We climbed the walls of Hell with our support and our passion to get back to being the Juve feared and hated by all,” read a statement from the Drughi.

“Tonight the eyes of all Italy and Europe will be aimed on us, a challenge awaits us and we must be called to action!

“Tonight we will go home without voices, as we have the duty to be the extra man on the field, and we will be!

“We will transform the stadium into a cauldron! All the way... Forza ragazzi, we believe!!!”

If Juve do get through, they’ll be able to play the Europa League Final on home turf, at the Juventus Stadium in Turin.

[Socrates 7971]

JUVENTUS - BENFICA

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

Maradona at Juve and Napoli games

May 1, 2014

Diego Armando Maradona will be at Juventus-Benfica tonight and the Coppa Italia Final Napoli-Fiorentina on Saturday.

It’s reported that Juve striker Carlos Tevez personally invited Maradona to the Europa League semi-final this evening, where the Bianconeri must overturn a 2-1 deficit.

Maradona was at Stamford Bridge last night for the Champions League semi-final between Chelsea and Atletico Madrid.

His lawyer also confirmed El Pibe de Oro is eager to be at the Coppa Italia Final on Saturday at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome between Napoli and Fiorentina.