Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

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FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Trezeguet: 'Juve exploit Barca weakness'

Jun 3, 2015

David Trezeguet said Juventus will “make the most of Barcelona’s weaknesses” and advised Paul Pogba to stay.

The build-up to Saturday’s Champions League Final in Berlin continues and ex-Juve striker Trez spoke to RMC Sport.

“The Blaugrana are the team to beat at the moment. We’ve had a difficult journey, but proved our quality. We’ll play our cards and know our strength.

“We know it will be tough, but will try to win the Treble. History counts for a lot. We are concentrated on the game and can make the most of Barcelona’s weaknesses.”

French midfield sensation Pogba is expected to start and Trezeguet has some advice for the youngster.

“Pogba is amazing considering his age. He has technique and pace, becoming very important for the club. He has a great rapport with everyone and Patrice Evra also helped him settle.

“He knows that he can still improve and write history here. For the future, I advise him to remain at Juventus.

“Paul knows that he is in a top club and that over the next few years the level will be raised further to regularly be on a par with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

“One day Gigi Buffon, Andrea Pirlo and Carlos Tevez will leave, so then the team will be built around Pogba.”

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Tevez: Barcelona Are The Best Team In The World

Jun 3, 2015

Juventus striker Carlos Tevez has admitted that Barcelona are the best team in world football currently, acknowledging the momentous task ahead of his side in beating them.

The Bianconeri are gunning for their first Champions League success in 19 years, but Tevez is wary of the mountain that they need to climb in order to end their final hoodoo, with their last three European finals resulting in losses.

“Barcelona are the best team in the world, and we will be facing the three strongest attackers,” the Argentine remarked to UEFA.

“We have to be working very hard, and our performance will have to be more than perfect.”

However, the 31-year-old also took the time to rally support for Juventus ahead of the conclusion of their season, also stating:

“Massimiliano Allegri has given me so much freedom, and has let me play the way I prefer, which is why this season has been much better than the last for me.

“Gianluigi Buffon is a phenomenon, and having him in goal gives the whole team confidence.

“Scoring a goal against Gigi is always difficult, and he gives us that bit of extra security.”

Juventus take on Barcelona in Berlin on June 6, with a historic treble on the line.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Fortune favours the brave: Lady Luck
smiling at the Old Lady

Juventus have already had a tremendous season, and are on the cusp of history. But with all the great

performances, there have been a few times when Juventus has needed some good fortune their way.

Jun 3, 2015

Juventus have officially completed their domestic season, and just one more game remains — the big one, the Champions League final. By now it's cliché, but this season so far has been unexpectedly terrific!

Despite regular dominance on the domestic front, it's been more difficult in Europe. At times, it's been downright dicey. But Juventus has always managed to find a way through, so far at least. On more than one occasion, the Bianconeri has gotten the rub of the green, which has resulted in wins and progress.


Juventus vs. Monaco

In the 57th minute of the first leg of this quarterfinal tie at Juventus Stadium, Arturo Vidal scored a penalty kick which won Juve the game and eventually the tie. There was nothing fortuitous about the penalty kick; the Chilean dispatched his kick with aplomb, sending the keeper the wrong way and putting the ball into the top corner. The play that led to the penalty kick, however, well there was more than a touch of luck involved. A long, raking pass from Andrea Pirlo found Álvaro Morata's run before the young Spaniard was cynically clipped by Monaco defender Ricardo Carvalho just outside the box. However, referee Pavel Královec adjudged the trip to have taken place inside the box, despite the vehement protests from the Monaco players. (One could argue that Monaco were also lucky to not have gone down to 10 men, as Carvalho was the last defender and denied a goal-scoring opportunity). Score one for the good guys.


Juventus vs. Lazio

One-all after 90 minutes, this season's Coppa Italia final went into extra time for only the second time since the final was made a one-off game (as opposed to the previous two-legged version). After a slow start to the game, Juve had recovered and were playing the slightly better football against an in-form Lazio team. Lazio started the first period of extra time in the ascendancy and on ninety-four minutes, almost put themselves back in front. Filip Djordjevic lined up from about 30 yards out and struck a fierce swerving shot that beat Marco Storari in the Juve goal all ends up. Luckily for the boys in black and white, it didn't beat the post — either of them. Yes, Djordjevic's shot — which frankly would have been a very worthy winner — hit the inside of both posts without ever having crossed the goal line. The Serbian even started to run off in celebration before being stunned, like most of the onlookers, that the ball never crossed the line. Now, we'll all remember that in the 97th minute, Alessandro Matri scored — with his own slice of good luck — a deflected winner, which gave Juventus it's tenth Coppa Italia victory and only it's third domestic league and cup double. But had it not be for that event three minutes earlier, who knows what the outcome may have been.


Juventus vs. Real Madrid

It was all Madrid after Cristiano Ronaldo equalized in the 27th minute, the goal having swung the momentum in the favor of the guests. Isco, James Rodríguez and Marcelo were having more freedom and were looking more and more dangerous. Just before halftime, Isco and Marcelo combined on the left before Isco crossed into the middle for Rodríguez. The Colombian playmaker met the cross with a bullet header, but with the goal at his mercy his header inexplicably crashed against the crossbar. It was a major relief to all Juventini worldwide. On first look, it seemed like a sitter missed. On second look, it looked the same. On third look, it was clear that this was divine intervention. Stefano Sturaro, a surprise starter over Roberto Pereyra, tracked Rodríguez on the play and stuck a boot out when the Colombian dived in for the header. The result? The ball got the faintest deflection off Sturaro's Puma boot and onto the crossbar. Without a doubt, that was the most important intervention of the season so far. Juventus went on to win the game 2-1, and well, the rest of history.

Going into the final on Saturday, many have already etched Barcelona's name onto ol' big ears. While the Blaugrana are definitely the better team, and are rightly favourites, the Old Lady should not be merely written off. It's football. It's a one off game. It's in Berlin. Anything can happen. Given some of the fortuitous incidents that have gone in Juve's favour so far this season, this season already has that air of destiny about it. Can Juve be this season's team of destiny? Only one game left to find out.

All will be revealed in three days' time.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Barcelona - Juventus Betting: Can Lionel Messi
fire the Blaugrana to victory in Berlin?

The Argentine has produced some of the best football of his career in recent months
and will be looking to shine on the biggest stage of all in the German capital.

Jun 4, 2015

Lionel Messi is a player who makes life tough for journalists. There are only a finite number of positive adjectives in the English language and during his time as a professional player the Argentine has exhausted all of them. As it is with Cristiano Ronaldo, it seems underwhelming to describe Messi as brilliant because that does not do full justice to their abilities.

This season Messi finished behind the Real Madrid forward in the La Liga scoring charts with Ronaldo netting 48 goals and Messi 43, truly absurd numbers the like of which will not be repeated by a player different to these two for many years to come.

Of course, scoring goals is not the only benchmark by which we must judge players, and Messi tops the assist charts in the Primera Division as well, with his general all round play leading to some suggestions that this could have been his best season ever.

Certainly it has brought success with the League and Cup double secured and a Champions League triumph 90 minutes away. The fact that Messi's brilliance has brought silverware is an important one to note; Cristiano has been the league's top scorer for the last two years without winning the title, while Messi's best ever scoring season in 2011/2012 when he netted a record 50 league goals was also the last time Madrid were crowned champions.

Goals therefore are no guarantee of success, yet this season Messi has combined both. The question is therefore can he perform one last time this term on Saturday night and help Barcelona secure an historic second treble?

Certainly he has risen to the big occasions this season, scoring the goal which won Barcelona the league at the Vicente Calderon against Atletico Madrid, as well as netting a mesmerising double in the final of the Copa Del Rey to win the trophy for the Blaugrana.

While he has three Champions League winners medals, Messi has only played two finals (he did not featured in the 2006 triumph over Arsenal) and in both of those finals he has scored. It is therefore a safe bet that Barca's number 10 will get on the scoresheet in Berlin and the price of for him to score at anytime looks tempting.

To be able to practically double your money by backing Lionel Messi to score a goal is a good bet irrespective of the opponent. William Hill however offer a number of ways to back the forward for more adventuruous punters and while he has done many things in his career, Messi has never scored twice in a Champions League final.

William Hill are top priced at for him to net two or more against Juventus which looks highly appealing given it has paid out five times in his last eight matches. A performance that produced such an outcome would surely see the Argentine as the front-runner for the Man of the Match award, an outcome that's on offer at an industry best price of .

For even higher odds Messi can be backed at to score in each half. A hat-trick is on offer at a massive , a price that is well out of line with the rest of the prices on offer in the market at the time of writing and one that could appeal to long odds value bettors who believe the Barcelona forward will be able to unlock the Italian backline on the biggest of stages.

Finally, those confident that Messi will shine on Saturday should consider backing him to outscore Juve at.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Mission impossible? How Juventus can stop Lionel Messi

Diego Simeone, Javier Zanetti, Marco Van Basten, Rafael Marquez and Neil Lennon help
analyse how the Bianconeri can silence the Barcelona superstar in the UCL final.

Jun 4, 2015

By Carlo Garganese

How do you stop Lionel Messi? It is a question every coach and defender in the world has pondered over the last decade – but very few have found the answer.

On Saturday, Juventus take on Barcelona in the Champions League final in Berlin knowing that they must silence the legendary Argentine if they wish to secure a record-breaking treble.

With the help of Diego Simeone, Javier Zanetti, Marco Van Basten, Rafael Marquez and Neil Lennon, Goal takes a look at some of the key tactical hurdles that Massimiliano Allegri and his men will need to overcome when facing Messi.


SHOULD JUVENTUS MAN MARK MESSI?

From the 1960s until the late 1990s, man-marking was the most popular tactic in dealing with a superstar. The likes of Diego Maradona and Zico spent much of their careers being kicked by specially-assigned hardmen such as Italy’s Claudio Gentile.

In the past, many coaches built their team around one star playmaker, often a No.10. Stop this player and you usually shut down the entire side. But football has changed over the past decade. New rules, tactics and technology mean that man-marking is generally now counter-productive.

Today, there are more points of attack in a formation. If you sacrifice a man simply to follow Messi around the pitch, this will create more space for other top class stars such as Luis Suarez, Neymar and Andres Iniesta. Real Madrid's Pepe followed Messi closely in a few Clasicos with mixed results, but with the exception of Greece’s Sokratis at the 2010 World Cup, there haven't been many success stories when man-marking the Argentine.

This has been recognised by Allegri himself, who has confirmed that his team will employ a zonal marking system.

Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid team did not concede a single goal in six games against Messi last season. The coach is adamant that Juventus must stop Barcelona as a whole in order to stop Messi.

"Man-marking in football is from a time gone by," Simeone told Goal. "Those were different times and in those teams there were no players able to make an impact quite like Messi.

"It doesn’t make sense because when you kick off in midfield, that player is far away. When there is a free-kick and a wall, again a player cannot be close. It’s the same at a corner. So there are many moments when a player has to be far away. Then what do you do? In those moments, you cannot man-mark. You also lose a player and, with him, the stability of your team.

"It’s clearly complicated and that’s why we haven’t seen man-marking on any players in recent times. You try to control Messi with spaces, looking at where he can get to and where he is dangerous.

"But he moves inside and outside, down the wing, on the left… It’s very difficult to think about controlling a player who is uncontrollable. It’s ridiculous – there’s no way."


SHOULD JUVE PLAY A HIGH OR DEEP DEFENSIVE LINE?

Juventus will surely have learned from the mistakes of Pep Guardiola in the last round after the Bayern boss fielded a suicidal high line in the 5-3 aggregate defeat.

Allegri’s side has been compared to Jose Mourinho’s Inter treble-winners from 2009-10 thanks to their physical style and mean defence. The Juve coach could also learn a lot from the Nerazzurri’s victory over Pep's Barcelona in that season’s Champions League semi-finals.

Mourinho masterminded a magnificent rear-guard action to eliminate arguably the finest Barcelona side in history. Despite being in seemingly unstoppable form after his four-goal haul versus Arsenal in the quarters, Messi barely got a kick in both legs.

Inter laid the blueprint for stopping Leo – they defended collectively with a deep line and offered the attacker no space to work with. Over both legs, Inter enjoyed only 18.5 per cent of possession. Javier Zanetti, at the age of nearly 37, was Messi’s closest marker – a duty he performed admirably as part of a perfect back four.

“In both matches in 2010 we did a great defensive job, we prevented him attacking those spaces he usually likes,” Zanetti told Goal.

“I got lucky with him. He’s out of the ordinary. He can create amazing things at any moment. You always have to be concentrated and focused. And even if you are at your 100 per cent best, it is still complicated with him.”

Dutch legend Marco Van Basten was part of the AC Milan squad that shocked Johan Cruyff’s Barcelona Dream Team 4-0 in the 1994 Champions League final - and he agrees with Zanetti that Juventus must defend deep, concede possession and territory, and deny Messi space.

“Juventus have to stay so close, mark very tight, deny space – and most of all they must stay concentrated. If they do that, Juventus can win. With a good, organised defence, if they counter well Juve can beat Barcelona,” Van Basten explained to Goal.

“I was in Athens in 1994 when everybody expected Barcelona to win against Milan. They had Stoichkov and Romario, Cruyff as coach, everyone talked them up but we were very organised. We played well and we killed them, 4-0.”


CUTTING OFF THE SUPPLY LINE TO MESSI

But Juventus can’t simply rely on their back four to deny Messi – it must be a team effort. The defence and midfield departments will need to be close together to prevent Leo from locating space in deeper positions - this season the 27-year-old has also evolved into arguably the game’s greatest playmaker.

When Allegri’s Milan surprisingly defeated Barcelona 2-0 at San Siro in 2013, there was an average of just 30 yards separating their defence from attack. Barca were suffocated in the middle of the park and Messi just could not get the ball in dangerous areas.

Cutting off the supply line to Messi will be crucial. Inter’s Esteban Cambiasso, Thiago Motta and Christian Chivu did an admirable job in preventing the ball from getting into Leo in 2010. When Bayern thrashed Barca 7-0 on aggregate in 2013, Javi Martinez and Bastian Schweinsteiger shielded the defence superbly.

“Try and make him play with his back to goal. Because once he gets on the half-turn and finds the pockets of space, then you are in trouble,” former Celtic manager Neil Lennon told Goal.

The Glaswegians beat Barcelona 2-1 at home in the 2012-13 group stages despite mustering even less possession than Mourinho’s Inter (11 per cent). Although he scored a late consolation goal from a rebound, Messi was anonymous for much of the game.


WHAT FORMATION SHOULD JUVENTUS USE?

Most professionals agree that if a defender is left in a one on one situation against Messi, then his team is in big trouble.

“You must stay with him but stay on your feet. Because he is so good with his feet, if you go to ground he'll finish you. So we were very disciplined in that aspect,” Lennon reflected on Celtic’s victory.

Bayern Munich’s Jerome Boateng had less luck in the build-up to Barcelona’s second goal in this year’s Champions League semi-final at Camp Nou as Messi twisted and turned past the German before delightfully chipping Manuel Neuer.

“It’s impossible to describe how difficult it is to mark Messi, as Boateng discovered in the semis,” former Barcelona and current Verona defender Rafa Marquez explained to Goal.

“When you are going backwards and you have Messi running at you, changing direction at any time. I can tell you I wouldn’t know how to stop him. A foul outside the area, maybe.”

Juventus must not allow Messi to isolate any of their back four. Chiellini is one of the game’s great warriors but he lacks coordination, while central partner Leonardo Bonucci is a better reader of the game than a tackler.

Allegri is likely to field a 4-3-1-2 formation on Saturday, but switching to more of a narrow 4-4-2 in defensive phases - with Arturo Vidal or Claudio Marchisio moving to the right (as they did to help double up on Cristiano Ronaldo against Real Madrid in the semis) and Pogba to the left - could help to limit Messi in this regard. It would enable the lines to stay closer together – and also cut off the width that Barca utilise so well.

Both Real Madrid and Atletico enjoyed great success with such a system in their matches against Messi and Barcelona in the second half of 2013 and throughout 2014.

Saturday’s Champions League final is set up perfectly. The best player in the world against the best defence. If Juventus can’t stop Messi, then surely no one can right now.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

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FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Van Basten: Juventus can beat Barcelona -
but they must stop Messi & Iniesta

The former Milan striker, who won back-to-back European Cups at San Siro, hailed
the Argentine's performance in the first leg of the semi-final against Bayern Munich.

Jun 4, 2015

By Brian Oliver

Marco van Basten believes the two semi-finals of this season’s Champions League showed Juventus what they can do and what they must do if they are to beat Barcelona in the final in Berlin on Saturday.

Their main aim, he told Goal, must be to stop Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi. But the Italians’ victory against Real Madrid has given them the confidence to do so.

“If you ever want to see how one player can make a difference, the last 15 minutes of Barcelona against Bayern Munich in the first game of the semi-final shows the lot,” said Van Basten.

“Lionel Messi was exceptional. He made it 1-0, he made it 2-0 and made the pass for 3-0.

“I played against Maradona and he was a great player like Messi too. There is a big difference between 25 years ago and now, though.”

Maradona and Van Basten had more space to play in, and the game today has become much more compressed, said Van Basten, who will be in Berlin as an ambassador for Nissan. If Juventus can keep it even tighter, he said, they can win.

“We had an area of maybe 40 metres by 50 metres in which we could play; now it’s so tight it’s only half of that,” he explained. “Players have lost 20 metres of space and there might be 10 players between them and the penalty area when they get the ball.

“You must have very good technique, be very clever to get through the defence, play quick one-twos. That is very, very difficult, and it’s the biggest change between then and now.

“The important thing for Juventus is to stop Iniesta and Messi. The others are good, but not that good – these are the two who can make the difference.

“Juventus have to stay so close, mark them very tight, deny them space – and most of all they must stay concentrated. If they do that, Juventus can win. With a good, organised defence, and if they counter well, Juve can beat Barcelona.”

There is a precedent for an Italian team upsetting the odds against Barcelona, said Van Basten, who played in the AC Milan team that won in 1989 and 1990 – the last time any club retained the European title.

“I was in Athens in 1994 when everybody expected Barcelona to win against Milan,” he recalled.

“They had Stoichkov and Romario, Johan Cruyff as manager and everyone talked them up but we [Milan] were very organised. We played well and we killed them, 4-0. That was a nice example of the level of Italian football – well organised, physically strong.

“Juventus already beat Real Madrid in the semi-final and that will have given them the confidence of knowing they can beat the best. They know it’s possible, and I think it’s possible.”

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Why Carlos Tevez Is the Juventus Player
Barcelona Must Stop in Champions League

Jun 4, 2015

Saturday’s Champions League final will see Juventus face Barcelona’s star-studded line-up, and the Bianconeri will likely find that containing the newly crowned La Liga champions is an immensely difficult task. Working in almost perfect unison with Lionel Messi, the additions of Luis Suarez and Neymar have served to make the Catalan giants even more dangerous.

The Bianconeri have proved to be hugely impressive defensively, however, keeping three clean sheets in six knockout games thus far. Conceding just four goals in those games, they have repeatedly subdued opponents and will look to do so once again when they take on Luis Enrique’s men in Berlin.

Yet they are also acutely aware of the need not to curb their own attacking instincts, and Juve will certainly need to push forward themselves when the opportunity arises. Speaking to Isport Blesk last week, club director Pavel Nedved reinforced the need for the Turin giants to ask questions of the Barcelona defence, telling them (h/t Football Italia):

Barcelona have a great attack but we defend well and not only that, we want to create problems for their backline. What we mustn’t do is be passive and hand Barca the initiative. They are used to playing in that situation. We must be careful, otherwise it won’t end well.

In order to do so, Massimiliano Allegri will rely upon the quality of Carlos Tevez, a player who has been simply sensational since joining Juventus almost two years ago. In 95 games for the club, he has netted an astonishing 50 goals, ending the league campaign only a single goal behind leading scorer Luca Toni.
The Argentinian striker has been equally decisive in the Champions League, notching seven times in 12 appearances, including some key performances in the knockout stages. Having opened the scoring in Juve’s 2-1 home win over Borussia Dortmund, he would deliver arguably his finest display of the season in the return encounter.

Scoring twice—and creating a third for Alvaro Morata—it was Tevez who inspired a memorable victory, setting the tone for the Bianconeri both with and without the ball. His work rate is not only essential to Juve’s defensive effort, but it also sparks their own attacking efforts, which has been essential to their success this term.

It is often said that Allegri’s side have played on the counter-attack this term, but that is somewhat misleading. Thanks to the standard set by Tevez—one the likes of Roberto Pereyra, Paul Pogba and Morata have quickly picked up on—they transition quickly and catch opponents by surprise.

There may only be a fine nuance between the two, but it is an important difference to note if Barcelona are to subdue the Bianconeri. It all starts with the man wearing the club’s No. 10 shirt, hounding defenders and deep-lying midfielders constantly, forcing mistakes which he is then the ideal man to capitalise upon.

The man himself is under no illusions of the size of the task ahead, discussing the prospect of facing the Catalan giants with Sport Mediaset last week. “I think Barcelona are the best team in the world,” the 31-year-old told them (h/t Football Italia).

“They have the three best strikers so we’ll have to work hard to give a performance which is more than perfect.” Luckily for Juventus, Tevez is capable of delivering such a display, and it will be up to Barcelona to find a way to stop him doing so when this encounter gets underway.

With 29 goals and eight assists to his name in 44 appearances this term, that is no easy task, and the likes of Gerard Pique and fellow Argentinian Javier Mascherano will also need to be at their very best in order to subdue Juve’s key man.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Del Bosque: ‘Juventus surprised me’

Jun 4, 2015

Spain CT Vicente Del Bosque admits he thought Real Madrid would knock out Juventus but they ‘deserved to reach the final’.

The Bianconeri take on Barcelona on Saturday in the Champions League final, and the former Madrid Coach gave his take on the game to giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“From a Spanish point of view, I’d have liked to have seen a Clasico final between Barça and Madrid,” Del Bosque told the newspaper.

“Having said that, Juventus very much deserved to reach the final, and the fact that both finalists are aiming for the treble is a measure of this great match between two teams which are different in style, but united by greatness.

“Juventus? They’re a team which in particular is very well organised, very efficient.

“I think in Chiellini, Evra, Pirlo, Marchisio and Tevez they have skilled players who are capable of handling the game, and understand the different phases of the game.

“They’re a team which knows how to defend well, and can hurt you in attack with Tevez and [Alvaro] Morata.

“Juventus winning the League was never in doubt, but that dominance didn’t come along by chance. No-one gives you anything for free in Italy.”

Despite this, the World Cup winner admits he thought the Old Lady were dead and buried after going down 1-0 in the Bernabeu in the semi-final second leg.

“Honestly, when Real Madrid took the lead I thought the tie was over, they had everything in their favour.

“But football can surprise you, and, to their credit, Juve didn’t lose their heads, they scored through Morata and defended well against the Madrid pressure.

“The strength of Juventus, their ability to stay strong, calm and decisive, even in times of great difficulty like at the Bernabeu really struck me.

“Allegri’s is a real team, a squad which is not only experienced, but also ambitious.

“They’re players who have one a lot, but they’re not content, they want more, and that shows great professionalism.”

Much of the build-up has focused on Barcelona’s ‘MSN’ front-three - Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar - and Del Bosque agrees that the Catalans are better stocked in attack.

“On paper at least, it seems Barça have greater attacking potential than Juventus, at least individually,” he considered.

“In football, we’re living in the age of Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and the Argentine plays for Barcelona. He decides games.

“Barcelona’s attack seems better than Juve’s.”

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Battle Of Berlin: Top Five On-Field
Clashes Between Juventus And Barcelona

The Champions League final is finally upon us, with Juve and Barca
locking horns to decide the outcome of Europe’s biggest prize.

Jun 4, 2015

Juventus are Italy’s first representation in the final in five years, while Barcelona are ending a surprising four-year exile from the grand stage.

Marcello Lippi was at the helm during Juventus’ last success in the competition (12 years ago) with current coach Massimiliano Allegri looking to etch his name into the club’s history books.

Barcelona have hit a stride even more impressive than their rip-roaring 2010 and 2011 days, and will be a mountainous challenge for Juventus to overcome.

Both sides have plenty of strengths, while also papering over some weaknesses, and the likelihood is that the final will be a tight and unpredictable affair.

Forza Italian Football assess the five key battles which could decide the outcome of the 2014-15 season showpiece.


1. Leonardo Bonucci v Lionel Messi

Just when you may have been led to think that Lionel Messi had peaked, he conjures up another majestic season which continues to leave onlookers astounded.

With the excellent Giorgio Chiellini ruled out of the contest due to a very unfortunate injury, Leonardo Bonucci will need to step up to the plate in order to stop the Juventus defence being run ragged in his compatriot’s absence.

Messi has netted 10 times from 12 Champions League appearances this term, to add to the respectable figure of just 43 La Liga strikes for the campaign.

Italy’s Bonucci will be looking to avoid being literally floored by Messi’s talent, just as defensive counterpart Jerome Boateng was in the last round, a calamity which was joyous to mocking Blaugrana fans.

Coming out to deal with Messi when he has the ball is clearly only one half of the problem, with the other coming through his movement and off-the-ball anticipation, a conundrum which Bonucci will have to be extremely cautious in approaching.


2. Carlos Tevez v Gerard Pique

In hunting down another Champions League title to add to the one he won in 2008, Carlos Tevez may just be the hungriest man in the world.

The electric Argentine is quite rightly Juventus’ main goal threat, and must be treated in such a way by Barcelona’s defence.

Gerard Pique will step forward to deal with the 31-year-old’s might, and will be typically confident in being able to emerge victorious.

However, Tevez’s impressive European record of seven goals from 12 appearances this season suggests that this battle could be just as important as the one involving his national compatriot, Lionel Messi.

Juventus’ midfield naturally looks to seek out Tevez, who can work off others or on his own; thus closing him out from the game is a must if Barcelona are to remain watertight defensively.


3. Stephan Lichtsteiner v Neymar

Another third of Barcelona’s mesmerising attack is Brazilian idol Neymar, who will be desperate to make his mark on the biggest club stage of all, especially after the disappointment of last year’s World Cup.

Neymar is another player on this list who can lay claim to a lethal Champions League strike record this term, with his tally reading nine goals from 11 appearances.

Juventus’ trusty fullback, Stephan Lichtsteiner, is awaiting ankle surgery but will find time for one last spate of painkilling injections to ensure that he is at his astute best to lock horns with Neymar.

Lichtsteiner’s tendency to bomb forward in support may be put to the test by the explosive Neymar, who will be poised to exploit any extra space that he is given by his opposite number.

If the 23-year-old’s endless box of tricks can be compensated for by studious defending, then the elder Swiss could be on course to be victorious in what may be a match-deciding battle.


4. Arturo Vidal v Ivan Rakitic

The clashes of midfield cannot be ignored for this fixture, as both sides’ stacked central compartments do battle to decide the outcome of the game.

Playmakers Arturo Vidal and Ivan Rakitic will be instrumental, providing those passes from deep to tee up wingers and strikers alike, while also being the driving force from midfield to turn defence from attack.

The Chilean and the Croatian are hugely important to how their sides set up for big games, and the result of when they inevitably come together should be telling.

Rakitic arguably offers a different approach than his fellow Barcelona midfield teammates, while Vidal looks to be more flexible in his role, interchanging with those around him in a more fluid set-up.

However, the differences in tackling, with Vidal being superior, could prove to be a significant factor in altering the fate of this battle, should Rakitic not perform at his very best.

These midfield supremos bring a wide array of skills and qualities to the table, and how they make the most of a packed midfield will be crucial.


5. Paul Pogba v Sergio Busquets

Sergio Busquets and Paul Pogba are two players who make for an intriguing battle, which could support either the success or failure of their respective teams.

Anchoring in to keep the defence safe, while also providing an integral part of the transition from midfield to attack, these two enforcers are all-rounders whose performances will have to be at the very top end of the spectrum.

Busquets is evidently less committed to attack than Pogba, representing a difference which could alter their performances when directly pitted against each other.

Pogba is known for his dribbling, distance shooting and ambitious passing, while Busquets has an emphasis on timed tackles and passes of an always accurate standard.

Manchester United youth product Pogba’s liability to commit fouls may be highlighted, especially in comparison to Busquets’ efficiency in avoiding penalisation.

Either way, the two players’ ability to stop midfield and attacking moves before they pose significant danger is a vital aspect of their game, which will help to decide the outcome of the Champions League trophy.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Barcelona name squad

Jun 4, 2015

Barcelona have named the squad which will face Juventus in the Champions League final, with Andres Iniesta included.

The Spanish midfielder had been a slight doubt for the game after picking up an injury in the Copa Del Rey final, but travels as part of the 26-man squad.

The party is made up of 23 first team players, with Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Xavi all making the trip to Berlin, with three youngsters also included.

Munir El Haddadi, Sandro Ramirez and Sergi Samper will travel to Germany alongside their more renowned teammates.


Barcelona squad to face Juventus:

Ter Stegen, Bravo, Masip, Alves, Douglas, Montoya, Pique, Mascherano, Mathieu, Bartra, Vermaelen, Adriano, Alba, Busquets, Samper, Rakitic, Xavi, Iniesta, Sergi Roberto, Iniesta, Rafinha, Pedro, Messi, Munir, Suarez, Sandro, Neymar

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Chiellini ruled out of Champions League final

The Turin side have confirmed that their star defender will miss Saturday's
showpiece against Barcelona after suffering a first degree tear to his left calf.

Jun 4, 2015

Juventus have received a big blow ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against Barcelona after confirming that Giorgio Chiellini will miss the game due to injury.

The influential defender pulled up in training on Wednesday with a calf problem and underwent a scan on Thursday.

The results have revealed that Chiellini will not recover in time to play in Berlin.

“Giorgio Chiellini was subjected to tests following calf discomfort in yesterday’s session,” the club announced in a statement.

“The tests showed a first-degree lesion of the soleus muscle in his left leg, so the defender will not be available for the match against Barcelona.”

The loss of Chiellini is a big setback for Juve, who are already without Martin Caceres and are struggling to get Andrea Barzagli fit for the showpiece.

Barzagli returned to training on Wednesday but is not 100 per cent fit and the Turin side will decide whether to play the 34-year-old in Chiellini's place, or instead opt for Angelo Ogbonna.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Champions League Final: Four Ways
For Juventus To Stop Messi

Jun 4, 2015

Lionel Messi is undoubtedly the best footballer around in the world right now, but is there any way Juve can stop him in the Champions League final?


“Lionel Messi is an alien that dedicates himself to playing with humans.”

Gianluigi Buffon’s words were both humorous and worryingly accurate, the Argentine wizard is at the very peak of his powers and ready to inflict critical damage on a Juventus side entering recently uncharted territory.

Many teams have tried, and ultimately failed, to stop Messi in recent times, and the metaphorical mountain to climb is currently steeper than ever.

All is not lost, though. Juventus’ defensive mastery is very well documented, and the knowledgeable heads at the back are capable of at least giving Messi a slight challenge.

Ninety minutes, maybe more, of toil are to come for the Bianconeri. Perhaps Messi can’t be stopped, but merely slowed down. All will be revealed in one unforgettable night of football, for Italy, Spain and the world combined.

Forza Italian Football delve into how Messi can possibly be stopped when both sides lock horns in Berlin on June 6.


1. Keep an eye on him at all times

Simple enough, right?

You’d think so, but a concerning amount of teams only keep Messi in their sights when they do not have possession.

To give themselves the best chance of containing arguably the world’s most intelligent footballer, Juventus need to avoid making this naive error, and ensure that they know his exact position even when the ball is at the feet of the Turinese.

Communication is vital for this criterion to be achieved, something which Juventus thankfully excel in, with four very experienced names at the back at any one time.

The speed of Barcelona’s attack is one of the most damaging assets on display in world football, especially after pinching the ball from an opponent, and would revel in picking out a Messi in a yard or two of space.

Concentration is a must, and with Messi it is almost like two games are being played simultaneously, a juggling act which Juventus are going to need to perform without dropping the ball.


2. Avoid the temptation to hack him down

Juventus hotheads Angelo Ogbonna and Leonardo Bonucci may experience the desire to hack down Messi during the match, but this extremity is best avoided.

There is a reason that Messi doesn’t win as many fouls as his other rivals for European individual honours, and it’s because he looks to avoid contact at all times.

One ill-judged swipe towards his bottom half and Messi exploits an advantage before the opposition can reverse their error, combining reactions and control in a way that sets him aside from others.

The best option would be for Juventus to use their physicality wisely, by directing their efforts into shielding Messi from goal, giving him a limited amount of resources to work with.

Against Barcelona, a cynical foul or two on the break could come in handy later on, so cooling down and taking Messi on in a more acceptable manner could also pay dividends as the game progresses.


3. Cut out passes before they reach him

This is where Juventus’ midfield might becomes very useful, with the enforcing nature of Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal giving them real hope in breaking down Barcelona’s central compartment.

Incredible solo goal against Athletic Club or not, Messi is still very much involved with the work of his midfield teammates, and providing the shackles on the likes of Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquets is a pastime well worth pursuing for Juventus.

Barcelona’s mesmerising passing play can hypnotise many opposition midfields into obedience, but Massimiliano Allegri’s love for structure and exerting control will give Juventus real optimism in decreasing their effectiveness in supplying Messi.

Juventus have an advantage in midfield when it comes to physicality, and a cluster of well timed tackles plus instinct in anticipating passes would go a long way towards helping the side from the peninsula.

Stopping Messi is very much a team effort, not just a responsibility burdened upon the defence, and a lot of the time it starts in the centre of the pitch.


4. Force Messi into congested areas

Most likely, the central areas of the pitch are going to be very clogged, congested, obstructed and any other synonym you can find.

Even with Messi’s unerring ability to beat a whole host of opposition players, directing him into oncoming traffic is still the safest option for Juventus, refusing him entry to the valuable areas on the two flanks.

Additionally, it would also calm Patrice Evra’s nerves about being directly pitted against the man who famously tore him apart in the 2011 final.

Having Messi playing a narrower role would give Juventus more breathing space to look at reducing Barcelona’s other attacking threats, who could be either Luis Suarez, Neymar, or possibly Pedro.

Finally, Messi on the wing doesn’t just trouble the fullback directly ahead of him, it also requires another body to limit the damage. Ideally, Allegri would prefer Chiellini to remain central and Pogba to stay in midfield, rather than providing cover for an exposed defender.


With Lionel Messi, you can do all of the above and still end up on the side being punished, and that’s the reality of things.

It is still possible for Messi to have an off day, it just happens a whole lot less frequently than other professional footballers.

Maybe Carlos Tevez might just find a four leaf clover, and Simone Padoin a rabbit foot.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Tevez the man to watch, says Mascherano

The Argentine has warned his team-mates about his compatriot and feels
Juventus' disciplined style of play makes them a difficult opponent.

Jun 4, 2015

Barcelona defender Javier Mascherano has singled out Carlos Tevez as Juventus' main threat ahead of Saturday's Champions League final in Berlin.

The 31-year-old has been the star of the club's campaign, with his goal helping to fire them to Serie A and Coppa Italia success.

Tevez and Mascherano played alongside one another at Corinthians and West Ham, as well as for Argentina, and the midfielder knows all too well the qualities of his former team-mate.

"Tevez is a top player, a magnificent centre-forward and, above all, a player who likes to win. He's made for these games," Mascherano told the official Uefa website.

"We have played against each other during Boca v River games, during Manchester United v Liverpool. We have played together as well.

"Our paths in the beginning were quite similar but then he went to Manchester and I went to Liverpool."

The Argentina international added that the Juve's disciplined style of football could prove to be a difficult tactical web to overcome on Saturday.

"They have that Italian competitive edge," he added. "It is always difficult to overcome that because they are very, very competitive. They are very tactical. They understand football and on top of that they have a lot of talent.

"It is not a traditional Italian team. They play like Italians but they have a lot of talent, they know how to attack and they can play in different ways. They have lots of variety and that makes them very difficult to play against."

Mascherano joined Barcelona from Liverpool in the summer of 2010 and admits he initially struggled to adapt to his new surroundings.

"It was difficult in the first few months but I've always believed that training with great players makes you a better player and that's what has happened to me.

"Obviously I am never going to have the quality of Sergio Busquets, Xavi Hernández or Andrés Iniesta, but I can deal with situations that before I would have struggled with."

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus have what it takes to cause shock against Barcelona
in the Champions League final, claims German legend Michael Ballack

Jun 4, 2015

Former Germany and Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack believes Juventus have what it takes to shock Barcelona in Saturday’s Champions League final.

Barcelona are clear favourites for the showpiece in Berlin this weekend as they look to win their fifth Champions League trophy against the Italian side.

But Ballack, who tasted defeat in the competition at the final hurdle in 2008, believes Juventus have what it takes to win having already seen off Spanish side Real Madrid.

The 38-year-old told reporters in Berlin: "For me I think Juventus have a good chance to beat also this really strong Barcelona team because they already kicked out a Spanish team, they know how they play.

‘Even if they are not totally comparable, Barcelona and Real Madrid, but the Spanish influence is there - not just the language, also the way they play football.

‘So that's why I think Italian teams can really well adapt to certain teams and they are able to beat them on Saturday.

"In the position from an outsider you always feel a little bit more comfortable in the final, but on the other side they have the experience as well on the pitch, a lot of players involved in big finals so far.

So they will have the mentality to go out tomorrow and force this Barca team and try to win it.’

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Zoff: ‘Chiellini absence a problem’

Jun 4, 2015

Juventus legend Dino Zoff warns the absence of Giorgio Chiellini is a ‘big problem’ as they prepare for the Champions League final.

It was confirmed today that the defender will miss the match with a calf injury, and the former goalkeeper sees that as a blow for Coach Max Allegri.

“It’s a big problem to be without a fighter like Chiellini who is suited to these occasions,” Zoff told Tuttomercatoweb.

“That said, Andrea Barzagli offers plenty of guarantees to Allegri. I won’t go into the substance, the best choice will be the one Allegri makes after evaluating them for a week.

“This is a good Juventus, Barcelona are a team with wonderful strikers, but the Bianconeri will have their chances.

“I won’t talk about Tevez over Morata, the collective will be crucial to beat Barcelona’s stars.”

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus announce squad for final

Jun 4, 2015

Juventus have named their squad for the Champions League final, without the injured Giorgio Chiellini.

The defender was ruled out with a calf injury earlier today, and has not been included in the 22-man squad.

Fellow centre-back Andrea Barzagli is included in the party, and will be favourite to replace Chiellini in Berlin.

Barcelona announced their squad earlier today.


Juventus squad to face Barcelona:

Buffon, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Morata, Tevez, Coman, Llorente, Barzagli, De Ceglie, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Sturaro, Storari, Matri, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Barcelona: '33 Juve titles'

Jun 4, 2015

Barcelona have tipped their hat towards Juventus ahead of the Champions League Final by declaring they have 33 Scudetti.

The two giants go head-to-head in Berlin on Saturday evening for the trophy.

The official Barça Twitter account ran an infographic with “everything you need to know about Juventus.”

This included a list of their silverware and 33 editions of the Serie A title.

It has been a matter of contention, as the 2004-05 and 2005-06 Scudetti were stripped by the FIGC in the Calciopoli scandal.

The Juventus Stadium has 33 in very large font on the front entrance and merchandise confidently declares they have won 33 titles.

However, the FIGC, UEFA and FIFA officially recognise only 31 of those.

The 2004-05 edition was left unassigned, while the 2005-06 campaign was handed to Inter.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus have taken the long way
back to the Champions League final

Jun 4, 2015

Juventus' journey to the Champions League final has been nothing short of an odyssey. James Horncastle charts its course.


May 28, 2003

The omens weren't good ahead of Juventus' last appearance in a Champions League final. Ballon d'Or-elect Pavel Nedved was suspended for the game against AC Milan at Old Trafford. Igor Tudor and Edgar Davids hobbled off injured before the game went to extra time. Gianluigi Buffon kept them in it. He made a stunning stop to deny Pippo Inzaghi a wonderful headed goal and also saved penalty attempts from Clarence Seedorf and Kakha Kaladze. But it wasn't enough.

After winning the trophy through a shootout against Ajax in Rome in 1996, Juventus collapsed in one here. Since then, they have lost three Champions League finals. "The bitterness was enormous," then-manager Marcello Lippi said. Buffon's 12-year wait for another chance began.


Aug. 24, 2005

Invited to play in the Joan Gamper Trophy at the Camp Nou, Juventus' focus was on Ronaldinho. But lo and behold, an unknown 18-year-old stole the show. Upon watching the teenager turn Fabio Cannavaro inside out, leave Nedved in his tracks and reduce a young Giorgio Chiellini to resort to kicking him out the game, then-manager Fabio Capello turned to Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard and said, "You've already got three foreign players in your team, why not let me borrow this one for a year and then I'll give him back."

The teenager in question was Lionel Messi. In response, Rijkaard insisted Barcelona would give the boy wonder "three or four months" and make a decision on it. Alas, they kept Messi and the rest, as they say, is history.


July 14, 2006

Five days after winning the World Cup final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, the scene of Saturday's Champions League showdown with Barcelona, Buffon and Alessandro Del Piero returned to Turin to discover Juventus had been relegated for the first time in their history as part of the Calciopoli scandal. While they, along with Nedved and David Trezeguet stayed loyal, others like Cannavaro, Lilian Thuram, Gianluca Zambrotta, Patrick Vieira and Zlatan Ibrahimovic abandoned the club.

"Success never gets boring," Chiellini said before last month's Coppa Italia final, "particularly for those of us -- like Buffon and Claudio Marchisio -- who were there in Rimini, Crotone and Frosinone."


May 19, 2007

Managed by Didier Deschamps, Juventus bounced straight back to the top flight despite a 16-point penalty that was later reduced to 9 on appeal. They clinched the Serie B title with three games to spare after a 5-1 win over an Arezzo side coached by former Juve captain and future manager Antonio Conte. A commemorative T-shirt bore the slogan: "BastA -- Enough of Serie B. Now for Serie A." The Old Lady's nightmare seemed finally over. Differences with director of sport Alessio Secco meant Deschamps resigned soon afterward and was replaced by tinker man Claudio Ranieri.


May 19, 2010

The Juventus board voted in Andrea Agnelli as president. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather Edoardo, uncle Gianni and father, Umberto, he soon gave the club a renewed sense of identity and direction after Juventus' disappointing seventh place in Serie A the previous season. Agnelli appointed Beppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici to handle the recruitment side, and while their first year would also end in disappointing seventh and the dismissal of manager Gigi Delneri, the foundations of a new cycle were laid, particularly with the signing of Andrea Barzagli from Wolfsburg on Jan. 22, 2011.


May 24, 2011

It's a day Milan fans still regret. After winning the Scudetto more or less without Andrea Pirlo, the club, underappreciating his genius, were unwilling to offer him a new multiyear contract as a result of cost-cutting measures. And so they allowed the deep-lying playmaker to leave the San Siro for Juventus on a free transfer, a decision for which manager Max Allegri was long blamed.

Far from finished, Il Maestro was to prove the hinge on which the balance of power swung in Italy. The summer of 2011 was a huge one for Juventus. Arturo Vidal joined for €10.2 million, and the appointment of Conte was inspired. Not only was he to reveal himself to be a great coach, but his past with Juventus and ability to transmit the winning mentality of old produced a multiplier effect that brought about a sudden and unexpected renaissance.


Sept. 8, 2011

What a night this was in Juventus' recent history. A friendly with Notts County -- the club who answered the call of Englishman John Savage, a Juventus member, to send them a set of black and white shirts to replace the pink ones they had worn up until1903 -- helped inaugurate the club's new 41,000-seat stadium. The construction of a home to call their own was a game-changer for Juventus, not only as a money-spinner, but in the pride it would give the fans and the players. Credited with a major role in their success, the Juventus Stadium is a fortress. Only four teams -- Inter, Bayern Munich, Sampdoria and Fiorentina -- have ever beaten Juventus there.


Feb. 25, 2012

A point ahead of Juventus at the top of the table, Milan looked about to run away with the title, when Sulley Muntari's effort crossed the line and seemed to double their lead in a deciding match at the San Siro. Alas, it was ruled out controversially, and with 10 minutes to go, Alessandro Matri equalised, rescuing a point to keep the visitors in touching distance. It was a pivotal moment. Juventus later overtook Milan and, in addition to becoming only the third team in Italian history to go an entire league season undefeated, reclaimed the Scudetto for the first time since Calciopoli.


May 13, 2012

A tearjerker. Del Piero, Il Capitano, bid a reluctant farewell in a 3-1 win against Atalanta at the Juventus Stadium. Although Del Piero got to play in the club's new ground and went out on a high, many would have liked it if he had finished his career in Bianconero. However, he still wanted to play and that could no longer be guaranteed. Harsh though it was, the hierarchy's unwillingness to let heart and sentiment get the better of them and hold the club back rather than keep it moving forward would reveal itself to be another reason for sustained success.


Aug. 3, 2012

After Pirlo the previous summer, Marotta and Paratici made another huge coup in the transfer market. Juventus picked up 19-year-old Paul Pogba for nothing. Allowing him to walk out of Old Trafford as a free agent is often regarded as one of the biggest mistakes of Sir Alex Ferguson's career. Free transfers are a trademark of this Juventus administration. They would add Fernando Llorente on a Bosman the following year and will soon announce the arrival of another World Cup winner in Sami Khedira after his contract at Real Madrid expires. Shrewd business.


Dec. 11, 2013

After retaining their title, posting more points and scoring more goals along the way, Juventus were expected to make further inroads in Europe after the elimination in the quarterfinal round by eventual winners Bayern Munich. Instead, they were knocked out in the group stage after defeat to Galatasaray in icy Istanbul and, to Conte's despair, branded failures.

The same treatment was reserved for Juventus after their exit from the semifinals of the Europa League later in the season at the hands of Benfica when many were of the opinion that the trophy had their name on it, what with the final being held at the Juventus Stadium. Chiellini has since argued that those setbacks were character-forming and better prepared them for their run to Berlin this season.


July 15, 2014

A seismic day that threatened to put everything in jeopardy as Conte resigned at the beginning of preseason. He left with the assertion that it would be impossible for him to do better in Serie A after going three in a row and breaking the 100-point barrier. He said he didn't believe Juventus could win the Champions League any time soon and famously said that you can't expect to eat at a restaurant that charges €100 a head when you only have €10 in your pocket.

Allegri has gotten Juventus a lot more bang for his buck. But many didn't see it that way at the time. An unpopular choice as successor, the car taking him to his official unveiling was kicked and spat at by supporters.


Nov. 4, 2014

Risking another group stage exit, Allegri courageously decided now was the time to impose himself on the team and make it his own. After respecting the legacy left by Conte, he changed system for the Olympiakos game, abandoning the tried and trusted 3-5-2 for a 4-3-1-2 and witnessed the team come back from 2-1 down to win 3-2 in Turin.

It was considered a vital step forward in Juventus' evolution in Europe. After the game, Allegri tweeted "Fiuu" ("Phew") in relief at the result. This was significant because it also marked the start of his cult of personality at Juventus and his acceptance by the fans.


March 18, 2015

By winning 3-0 in Dortmund, Juventus finally made a big statement on the continent. It announced that they were back and perhaps definitively over their struggles in Europe and represented a match for anyone. It was a breakthrough moment. Tactically excellent, the emergence of Alvaro Morata and the flourishing of his partnership with Carlos Tevez were grounds for optimism.

Above all, however, it instilled great belief in this group of players and would serve them well when making the Hillary step in Monaco to a first semifinal in 12 years and ensure they held their nerve against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu. A sense of destiny also began to take hold in the Westphalia. For Juventus, the road to Berlin headed through Dortmund just like it did for Buffon, Pirlo and Barzagli at the World Cup nine years ago. Never underestimate how intangibles like these can take on a life of their own.


June 6, 2015

Only one team can win the Treble. Barcelona have done it before. Juventus came close once in 1973. There's a clear favourite. But if a depleted Milan side could shock Johan Cruyff's Dream Team in Athens in 1994, then why shouldn't The Old Lady believe she too can upset the odds?

Twelve years on from Old Trafford, Juventus and their captain are back on the greatest stage. They have come full circle.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Barcelona favourites because of ‘best player
in the world’ Messi – Dragan Stojkovic

The Yugoslavia great and Italia ’90 hero is in awe at the brilliance of the Argentine
star but believes Juventus can’t be written off on Saturday.

Jun 4, 2015

Red Star Belgrade legend Dragan Stojkovic says that Barcelona are favourites to beat Juventus in Saturday’s Champions League final thanks to the presence of Lionel Messi.

Stojkovic was one of Europe’s most admired playmakers during the late 1980s and early 90s, enjoying some titanic tussles with Red Star against Arrigo Sacchi’s AC Milan in the European Cup.

The former No.10 agrees with the majority of experts that Barcelona will be hard to beat in Berlin.

"I always expected to see Barcelona reach the final – even back in the autumn when they were receiving a lot of criticism from fans and the media. They are always contenders,” Stojkovic told Goal.

“But I was pleasantly surprised by Juventus and I’m sure I’m not the only one who didn't expect them to go so far in the competition. Especially after they were drawn against the mighty Real Madrid in the semis. But, they deserve to be a part of the spectacle in Berlin after what they showed in 180 minutes versus Real.

"Barcelona are the favourites because they have the best player in the world. I've had the pleasure to watch Messi several times from the stands and enjoy his magical play, it is surreal what that man can do with the ball.

“They have top goalscorers like Neymar and Luis Suarez next to him and also a very strong midfield that can assist those three forwards, as well as score themselves. And their defence is no weaker than the rest of the team, either, as they conceded the fewest goals in La Liga.”

Stojkovic truly burst onto the scene at the 1990 World Cup in Italy where he was one of the players of the tournament for Yugoslavia, scoring two brilliant goals to knock out Spain in the second round.

The 50-year-old, who reached the European Cup final with Marseille the following year and famously refused to take a penalty in the shootout defeat against his beloved Red Star, does believe though that Juventus can’t be written off.

"Juventus have a chance,” he said.

“They are a very experienced team that can play to get a result. They are aware of their strengths after winning Serie A and I am impressed by their compact defence.

“They will defend in the final - that is logical and justified because Barca will use the tiniest crack in your defence to score.

“I don't care who wins, I just admire the way Barca play and Messi. I can't wait to take my place at the Olympiastadion in Berlin!”

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Barzagli named in Juventus squad
for Champions League final

The defender has recovered from a thigh muscle tear to give his side a boost
after Giorgio Chiellini was ruled out with a calf injury earlier on Thursday.

Jun 4, 2015

Andrea Barzagli has given Juventusa fitness boost after he was named in the 22-man squad to face Barcelona in Saturday's Champions League final.

The defender has been battling to recover from a torn thigh muscle in time to make the game, with his inclusion even more important after Giorgio Chiellini was ruled out with a calf problem.

Otherwise, there are few surprises in the Juve squad, with Andrea Pirlo, Paul Pogba and Carlos Tevez all included for the match against the Spanish champions in Berlin.


Juventus Champions League final squad:

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon, Marco Storari, Rubinho

Defenders: Angelo Ogbonna, Leonardo Bonucci, Paolo De Ceglie, Andrea Barzagli, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Patrice Evra

Midfielders: Claudio Marchisio, Paul Pogba, Andrea Pirlo, Arturo Vidal, Simone Padoin, Kingsley Coman, Simone Pepe, Roberto Pereyra, Stefano Sturaro

Strikers: Carlos Tevez, Alvaro Morata, Fernando Llorente, Alessandro Matri

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Zidane: 'Forza Juventus!'

Jun 4, 2015

Zinedine Zidane is cheering on Juventus against Barcelona and admits he’d love Paul Pogba at Real Madrid.

The two clubs face off in the Champions League Final in Berlin on Saturday evening.

“In a single match anything can happen, especially when it comes to Italian teams,” Zidane told RMC Sport.

“Italian football might not be as glamorous as the Spanish, but they are always up there. We have to really watch out for them.

“I spent five years in Turin, so I hope they do well on Saturday. Juventus deserved to qualify in the semi-final against Real Madrid too.”

Zizou is impressed with many of the Bianconeri players, but above all French midfielder Pogba.

“Paul is someone everybody likes. Being in love with Real Madrid and talented players, naturally I’d love him to perform for the Blancos.

“He has incredible potential and the many fine performances for the France team show he has character too.”

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Andres Iniesta returns to Barcelona training after calf injury

Jun 4, 2015

Barcelona look set to have Andres Iniesta available for Saturday's Champions League final against Juventus with the midfielder having returned to training after a calf injury.

Iniesta, 31, missed his side's workouts earlier this week after being injured during last weekend's Copa del Rey final triumph over Athletic Bilbao but rejoined the squad in training on Thursday.

That means Iniesta could yet line up alongside his long-time midfield colleague Xaxi for the final time in Saturday's final, which will be the last match in Barca colours for the latter.

Club captain Xavi is leaving Barca after 24 years this summer to join Qatari side Al Sadd, and the 35-year-old playmaker is hoping to go out a winner.

"We go into the final full of confidence and charged up," Xavi said to the Spanish press.

Should Barcelona emerge victorious from the Olympiastadion, Xavi will leave with 25 trophies in his famous career with the Catalan club.

Two of those titles have come this season, with the Blaugrana having already clinched the league title and a record 27th Copa del Rey in Luis Enrique's first year in charge.

Barca are the only Spanish club to have won a Primera Division, Champions League and Copa del Rey Treble, something they did under Pep Guardiola in the 2008-09 campaign. Victory on Saturday would see Barca repeat that feat.

"We already have a historic double and we want more," Xavi said. "We could equal the historic treble."

Defeating Italian champions Juventus will be no easy task, though.

Juve have already eliminated Barcelona's arch-rivals and reigning European champions Real Madrid in the semifinals, and are also on for a trophy Treble this season.

"Juventus are a great team, with talent and physique," Xavi said. "Saturday's final will be my last for Barca and I hope to lift the trophy in Berlin."

Barca will again be looking to star man Lionel Messi to try and break down the Juventus defence and possibly add to his remarkable total of 55 goals in all competitions this term.

Xavi has been alongside Messi for most of Barca's triumphs in the last decade and the former Spain ace does not believe there has been anyone better to have played the game.

"What Messi does is scandalous," Xavi said. "He is the best in the world and of the history of the sport. What he does is unique. The goal against Athletic in last weekend's final was one of his best. "

Luis Enrique will take a full squad to Berlin, with reserve players Munir, Sandro and Samper also travelling to the German capital.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus name 22-man squad for
Champions League final against Barcelona

Jun 5, 2015

As the week began, we figured there would be a couple of training sessions, a couple of press conferences, and then Juventus would step onto the field Saturday night to try and win the Champions League for the first time in 12 years. Simple as simple gets, really. It's hard to draw things up any better than that.

But as we found out early on Thursday, we can't always have things go the way we want them.

All the usual and expected suspects have been called up by Juventus manager Max Allegri for Saturday night's Champions League final against Barcelona in Berlin. Well, all of those usual and expected folks were called up who aren't named Giorgio Chiellini. That's because Juventus' top brute-force defender won't be taking part in Saturday night's grand finale because of a left calf injury he sustained in training on Wednesday.

Here's the full post from Juventus' official website:

Massimiliano Allegri has named a 22-man squad for Saturday evening's Champions League final against Barcelona at Berlin's Olympiastadion.

Giorgio Chiellini, who earlier today was officially ruled out of the game following tests on an injured calf, will travel with the squad regardless.

The full list is as follows:

1 Buffon
5 Ogbonna
6 Pogba
7 Pepe
8 Marchisio
9 Morata
10 Tevez
11 Coman
14 Llorente
15 Barzagli
17 De Ceglie
19 Bonucci
20 Padoin
21 Pirlo
23 Vidal
26 Lichtsteiner
27 Sturaro
30 Storari
32 Matri
33 Evra
34 Rubinho
37 Pereyra

Chiellini is obviously the suddenly-glaring and biggest absence because of when he got hurt and the magnitude of the game he will suddenly be missing. No matter what you think about Chiellini's form or how big of a loss he will truly end up being, having a starting defender with so much experience suddenly be unavailable to due an injury is a massive hit.

Of course, there are the other injury-related absences, too. There's no Romulo and Martin Cáceres because of their respective injuries that have seen them sidelined for weeks and weeks and weeks. Kwadwo Asamoah isn't called up simply because he hasn't been included on the UEFA list since he injured his knee late in the calendar year of 2014. Those players not being included in the match squad for Barcelona were a given. The same can't be said for that of Chiellini when preparations for Saturday night's final got underway.

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Lippi Sees Juventus As Outsiders Against
Barcelona In Champions League Final

Jun 5, 2015

Marcelo Lippi believes that Juventus will be underdogs when they face Barcelona in the Champions League final.

Lippi was the last coach to guide Juventus to the Champions League in 1996 and he has praised the current side.

“I think Juventus will find it hard against such a strong Barcelona team, I would give them a 30-35 percent chance of winning,” Lippi told Sport Italia.

“Juventus are defensively strong and they have characteristics that can cause Barca problems.

“They have done incredibly well to reach the final, especially as it is Allegri’s first season in Turin.

“Italian football is in a good place, with Juve in the final and two teams reaching the Europa League semi-finals.

“Napoli are very promising, but they need a clear vision.

“Juventus only buy a couple of players in each transfer window while Napoli panic and buy lots with no clear idea of how the team will line up.

‘I thought Roma would be closer to Juventus, but Garcia has still done a great job.”

[Socrates 8975]

JUVENTUS - BARCELONA

-

 
 

FINAL
Saturday, June 6th, 2015 - 08:45 P.M.
Olympiastadion, Berlin
Referee:‬ Cüneyt Çakir (Turkey)

Juventus - Barcelona Preview:
Two treble-chasers do battle in Berlin

History will be made in Germany on Saturday, regardless of whether
the kings of Spain or Italy are crowned champions of Europe.

Jun 5, 2015

In Italian, the word is 'triplo'. In Spanish and Catalan, it's 'triple'. One word is dominating the build-up to Saturday's mouth-watering Champions League final between Juventus and Barcelona: treble.

Juve and Barca have proven themselves the dominant forces in Italian and Spanish football this season, with both claiming domestic doubles. Now, it's time for one of them to make history by adding the biggest trophy of them all to their hauls.

Only seven teams in history have won the treble, with Barca bidding to become the first club to achieve the feat twice - just six years after Pep Guardiola's 2009 vintage swept the board.

Juve are not part of that elite group. They travel to Berlin bidding to become European champions for the third time overall and first since 1996.

But while many make Barca overwhelming favourites to claim their fourth Champions League title in 10 seasons, coach Luis Enrique - who is looking to emulate his great friend Guardiola by winning the treble in his first season in charge at Camp Nou - is not so sure.

"Winning the Champions League would signify a treble for us and it's something that excites everyone. It's happened just once in the club's history, and this tells you how difficult it is to achieve," he said.

"But I'm concerned about everything Juventus have to offer. They possess quality players. I hope Pirlo doesn't have too much influence on the game, because we all know what he's capable of doing.

"They have great defenders who know how to get things moving from the back. Alvaro Morata's been a big asset for the team and has a real nose for goal, while Carlos Tevez guarantees absolute quality."

Luis Enrique's citing of Juve's defence is telling.

If his front three of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez are the irresistible force, then Massimiliano Allegri's trio of goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and centre-backs Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci have been the immovable object.

However, Chiellini's absence due to a calf problem sustained in training on Wednesday represents a huge blow for Allegri.

Buffon is Juve's captain, but it is Chiellini who is their on-field general; a leader of men who will be sorely missed as they attempt to contain Barca's stellar triumvirate. Either Angelo Ogbonna or Andrea Barzagli are Chiellini's most likely deputies.

Without Chiellini, Juve will have to shackle Messi, Neymar and Suarez, who have scored a scarcely believable 120 goals between them this season.

They put Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich to the sword en route to Berlin, while Messi scored a goal that can only be described as breathtaking even by his otherworldly standards in Barca's 3-1 Copa del Rey final victory over Athletic Bilbao last Saturday.

But if any defence is streetwise, tough and downright good enough to stop them, it is Buffon and co, who are aided and abetted by full-backs Stephan Lichtsteiner and Patrice Evra.

To say a team boasting the attacking talents of Tevez, Pirlo, Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal are relying on their defensive colleagues for glory this weekend would be doing them a disservice.

But it was they who thwarted Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema in the semi-finals, as Juve eliminated Barca's great rivals and holders Real Madrid.

And if Messi, Neymar and Suarez can be similarly frustrated, the 'triplo', rather than the 'triple', could very much be on the cards.


OPTA FACTS

This will be the first final in the Champions League history played in June.

Juventus and Barcelona will play the European Cup/Champions League final for the 8th time in their history.

Barcelona and Juventus will appear in their fifth Champions League final, level with Bayern Munich - only AC Milan (six) have been in more.

Barcelona will play a Champions League final for the fourth time since 2006; more than any other team in the same period.

The Bianconeri have lost their last three CL finals played, after winning on penalties against Ajax in 1995/96.

The Azulgrana have won the last three finals they've played in the Champions League - the last final they lost was against AC Milan in 1993/94.

This will be the 7th European Cup/Champions League final between an Italian side and a Spanish one: Italian teams have won only twice.

So far Barcelona have won only two of the eight European meetings against Juventus (D2, L4).


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus D W W W D

2015/05/30 - Hellas Verona 2 - 2 Juventus
2015/05/23 - Juventus 3 - 1 Napoli
2015/05/20 - Juventus 2 - 1 Lazio
2015/05/16 - Internazionale 1 - 2 Juventus
2015/05/13 - Real Madrid 1 - 1 Juventus


Barcelona W D W L W

2015/05/30 - Athletic Bilbao 1 - 3 Barcelona
2015/05/23 - Barcelona 2 - 2 Deportivo La Coruña
2015/05/17 - Atlético Madrid 0 - 1 Barcelona
2015/05/12 - Bayern München 3 - 2 Barcelona
2015/05/09 - Barcelona 2 - 0 Real Sociedad


HEAD TO HEAD

2003/04/22 - Barcelona 1 - 2 Juventus
2003/04/09 - Juventus 1 - 1 Barcelona