Juventus Season 2014-2015

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Candela: Juve-Roma not decisive

Oct 3, 2014

Vincent Candela believes that the outcome of Week 6’s clash between Juventus and Roma won’t have a significant bearing on the title race.

The two clubs head into this top-of-the-table clash both with 100 per cent starts to the League season to defend.

Whilst it is being billed as a meeting between the two teams most likely to challenge for the Scudetto, for one former Giallorosso, drawing conclusion from any result would be unwise.

“We are too close to the beginning of the season and there are still many games to go,” Candela has reflected to Italian news agency Adnkronos.

“Whoever may end up winning cannot think of winning the Scudetto, just as whoever may come out defeated cannot see their dreams fade away.

“Certainly we will see a confrontation between two of the teams that play the best football in Italy.

“It will be fun to see so many champions on the field.

“Certainly I hope that Totti and his teammates can return to Rome with the three points. On a morale level it will be really important.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus vs Roma is like El Clasico, says Morata

The young Spanish striker is eagerly anticipating the clash against
his new side's title rivals and feels he can cope with the pressure in Turin.

Oct 3, 2014

Alvaro Morata believes that Juventus' clash with Roma is akin to a meeting between Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The young Spaniard moved from the Santiago Bernabeu to Turin this summer for a fee of around €20 million and, after a frustrating pre-season injury, has scored one goal in three Serie A games since.

His new side host their title rivals, who finished second last term and have made a strong start to the current campaign, on Sunday and Morata is confident he knows what to expect.

"The build-up is exactly as it is for Real Madrid against Barcelona," he told the club's official television channel.

"That’s how it goes when you face fellow title contenders. There’s always tension and you try to be as focused as you can. We know it will be an important game and we’ll have to give all we’ve got to emerge victorious."

After injury ruled him out of the early stage of the season, Morata has been getting used to life in Italy and says he is starting to feel at home - both on and off the pitch.

"I’m in good shape and feel I’m improving all the time. I’m available and really want to be involved on Sunday.

"I get on very well with the coach, we speak frequently and work a great deal on tactics. A lot is new as far as I’m concerned, I’m learning different techniques and the whole team is really helping me out.

"Team-mates wise, I get on best with [Fernando] Llorente because I knew him before I arrived. He’s been a real help, as have [Roberto] Pereyra and [Kwadwo] Asamoah.

"Having said that, everyone has treated me fantastically and it’s a real pleasure to be here.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

-

Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus V Roma – Team News,
Tactics, Line-Ups And Prediction

Oct 3, 2014

A blockbuster top of the table clash sees Juventus host title rivals AS Roma on Sunday evening at the Juventus stadium in Turin. Still it is very early in the season and the outcome of this game won’t decide the fate of the Scudetto but sparks are set to fly as Italy’s finest come to blows. Early signs suggest that this will be a two horse title race like last season. Both the sides have won 5 games apiece; Juventus have scored one goal more than Roma while Roma have conceded one against Parma. Juventus have looked solid at the back while Roma look devastating upfront. They demolished CSKA Moscow in the Champions League and although the clinical finishes are sometimes missing in league games yet the statistics would show they have more or less dominated all the 5 games so far.

Juventus on the other hand have responded to critics in the perfect manner who thought Antonio Conte’s departure would decimate the squad. 5 games played, 5 won, 10 goals scored and none conceded- quite commendable to say the least. They look confident on the ball averaging more than 65% of the possession, creating chances at will while they have also dispatched teams who have sat back deep to defend – a situation which was not addressed properly under Antonio Conte. This team is built on the foundations laid by Conte but new head coach Massimilliano Allegri deserves credit as well. He has not radically changed the system but the minor tweaks here and there have worked perfectly so far. Claudio Marchisio and Angelo Ogbonna in particular have looked very impressive till now.

Both the sides were in midweek action as Juventus and Roma faced tricky away trips to Madrid and Manchester respectively. Juventus were uninspiring in their 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid while Roma earned a credible 1-1 draw against the English champions.

Team news and tactical brief

Juventus

Massimilliano Allegri welcomed back Martin Caceres midweek after his absence due to a muscle sprain against Milan but he dislocated his shoulder at the game against Atletico Madrid and is a major doubt for the clash against Roma. Angelo Ogbonna deputized admirably in his absence inspite of being played out of position which shows how well the defensive organization is set.If the Uruguayan does not recover in time, then Ogbonna is expected to start in his place. In goal Gianluigi Buffon made a decisive impact away at Bergamo when he saved a German Denis penalty in a crucial juncture of the game. Once again he showed his class when called upon even though he barely had a save to make before that. Against Roma, he should expect a much busier evening with this being a major test of the so far impregnable Juventus backline. Martin Caceres will find himself in the right of the three man defence with the impressive Leonardo Bonucci in the middle. Giorgio Chiellini looked a bit shaky against Atalanta but he tends to raise his game in these occasions and he would be expected to act as a leader from the back. Roma will play without a reference point upfront so the back three must keep an eye on the clever runs made by the Roma forwards drifting in from the flanks and also behind the backline. Kwado Asmoah’s forward ventures might be limited on Sunday as his primary job would be to curb the attacking threats of Maicon and Gervinho down the flanks. Stephan Lichtsteiner would fancy his chances up against the inexperienced Greek full-back Jose Holebas but he too will have to prioritize his defensive duties to keep the dangerous Juan Iturbe in check.

One subplot in this massive clash is the fascinating battle between two of the best midfields in Europe. Andrea Pirlo, as medical staff of Juventus reported, is available but Allegri would be continuing with Claudio Marchisio in the regista position. Atalanta devised a plan to stifle this system by deploying Richmond Boakye to mark Marchisio and they did manage to disrupt the flow of passing. Unlike the game against Milan, Marchisio’s influence was limited. Roma would have a similar plan to unsettle the Juventus midfield. Arturo Vidal is still not 100 percent fit which is quite visible from his performances on the field. Still he managed to get 75 minutes last Saturday but was fairly quiet against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. Vidal has netted against Roma in this fixture in the last three years and he will most definitely try to keep that run going. Paul Pogba has displayed his physical presence so far this season and has kept the passes short and simple in the middle. Fans are yet to witness his trademark long rangers but it seems he has brought more control in his passing while his penetrating runs from midfield will look to open up the Roma defence. Juventus are slightly ahead of Roma in this department as Rudi Garcia’s men still have some injury concerns in midfield. Fernando Llorente has not scored in the league but his hold-up play with his back to goal is a vital element in this module. He is functioning as a target-man with Carlos Tevez playing behind him. Speaking of Tevez, the Argentine has been on fire this season so far. This is the type of game where Tevez usually raises his game one notch higher. Roma know who the danger-man is in this tie and Rudi Garcia will have to devise a plan to limit his threats in front of goal. Alvaro Morata who opened his account as a Juventus player last Saturday has an injury and will most likely miss this game.

Probable Starting Line-up (3-5-2): Buffon; Caceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah; Tevez, Llorente

Roma

Rudi Garcia has really done an admirable job since taking over at Roma and has cemented himself as one of Europe’s finest tacticians. He has rejuvenated the Gillarossi and their supporters are genuinely confident that this is the year when they finally break their long awaited Scudetto drought. Roma barely put a foot wrong last season and that is continuing in this new campaign as well. They had a solid foundation at the back which many thought would be shaken after the transfer of Mehdi Benatia to Bayern Munich. But credit to Rudi Garcia who has shown that it is the system that matters and not the individual. Benatia’s partner in defence Leandro Castan is out injured from the start of the season yet the new center-back pair of Kostas Manolas and Davide Astori have fitted seamlessly it seems. Astori himself is injured now but French international Mapou Yanga-Mbwia has done just fine in his place. They have conceded just one goal in the league so far and have rarely looked uncomfortable at the back. In goal, Morgan De Sanctis, who missed the midweek game against Manchester City, will recover in time to make a comeback. Maicon will be bundles of energy down the right flank once again and his partnership with Gervinho is likely to be a decisive factor in this game. On the left, Ashley Cole will retain his place after a fine display against Manchester City on Wednesday.

Daniele De Rossi and Kevin Strootman miss out through injuries but again credit must be given to Rudi Garcia whose midfield is still functioning with aplomb inspite of the absences. Radja Nainggolan deserves a special mention here for his brilliant start to the season so far. He is the driving force in the middle of the park, winning tackles, scoring goals- the all action midfielder is a real livewire for Rudi Garcia’s team. He enjoys these clashes against Juventus and will be eager to make his mark once again on Sunday. Seydou Keita will slot in the role of De Rossi while Francesco Totti will operate a little from the deep as he has done this season. Totti is almost playing as a regista sometimes this season which enables him to utilize his magnificent vision to pick out passes for the wingers or fullbacks down the flanks. Miralem Pjanic has not influenced the flow of games to the same extent he was doing last season till now but as we saw against Parma, he is capable of producing a magic moment out of nowhere. Juan Manuel Iturbe returned after his thigh injury midweek but he is expected to start from the beginning here. It is an open secret that Juventus were very eager to secure his services at the beginning of this season but eventually he joined Roma. He can expect a hostile reception in the stadium tomorrow. Gervinho has been sensational so far this season and at times he has been just unplayable. A lot depends on how this man drives the show and if he is allowed room to work his magic, Juventus will be in for a very long night. The Ivorian has already dealt a knockout blow previously to Juventus in the Coppa Italia last season and he will hope to do something similar this time around as well. Alessandro Florenzi, Adem Ljajic and Mattia Destro have all made telling contributions so far this season and they represent pretty decent options for Garcia on the bench if he feels the need to change the system.

Probable Starting Line-up (4-3-3): De Sanctis; Maicon, Manolas, Mbwia, Cole; Pjanic, Nainggolan, Keita; Iturbe, Totti, Gervinho

Players to Watch Out For

Carlos Tevez (Juventus)

This man simply can’t stop scoring; 6 goals already this season. Apart from the goals, he is also the driving force of this team. When Claudio Marchisio was man-marked against Atalanta, it was Tevez who took up the mantle to drop deep and build the play. Tevez himself admitted that under Allegri he is given more license to roam compared to that of Conte’s module. And so far it has produced the goods for him and Juventus. Tevez is the danger-man and definitely the man to watch out for in this titanic tussle.

Gervinho (Roma)

Just like Tevez, Gervinho has been quite simply breathtaking so far this season. An amazing sprinter with the ball combined with his dribbling skills makes him an impossible player to defend against. Last year Conte devised a plan to sit back and invite Roma to attack thus limiting the spaces for Gervinho to operate but this year surely Roma would be better prepared for this game. Gervinho has been the protagonist this season for Rudi Garcia’s side and this is the game where he will be looking to make an even greater contribution to help Roma achieve something significant.

Prediction

Juventus 1–1 Roma

It is still early days in the season and no matter what happens in this game, it won’t be the title decider. Such high profile games are usually very tight and considering the strong defensive setup of both the teams a stalemate looks the most likely outcome. Juventus have a slight advantage in the middle of the park but they have been troubled in the past by teams having quality wingers and Roma certainly fit in that category. A tense affair will most likely see both these strong teams cancel each other out.


Blast From the Past

Juventus ran out comfortable 3-0 winners last time out in this fixture. A tight contest was settled in favor of the Bianconeri in the second half as Roma pressed the self-destruct button with their vice-captain De Rossi getting sent off after a lunging challenge on Giorgio Chiellini and Leandro Castan also receiving the marching orders after an inexplicable handball to deny a certain goal. Roma will need to keep their heads if they have any intentions of getting some points out of this trip.

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

MATCH PREVIEW

Oct 3, 2014

The game of the season so far sees unbeaten rivals Juventus and Roma battle it out in an early Scudetto showdown in Turin.

Juventus have been in imperious form in the early stages of the season. The defending champions have won all five of their League matches, without conceding a single goal. The Bianconeri had been a perfect six for six across Serie A and the Champions League, but defeat to Atletico Madrid midweek has dented that start.

Italy international Giorgio Chiellini has outlined the importance of the game, but doesn’t believe the title will be won or lost in this encounter. “It will be an important game as the two strongest teams in Italy face off. It is going to be difficult and important, but not decisive because we are just at the start of the season.”

The champions will be without Andrea Barzagli and Romulo, through injury. Spanish striker Alvaro Morata faces a late fitness test.

Roma have mirrored the hosts’ fantastic start, but have arguably been more scintillating in their play, especially in Europe. A 5-1 home win over CSKA Moscow preceded a thrilling showing in a 1-1 draw against English champions Manchester City this week, which gained the Giallorossi many admirers abroad for their positive attacking play.

The visitors are expected to field a trident of Alessandro Florenzi, Francesco Totti and Gervinho up front, with Juan Iturbe not 100 per cent ready to start.

The Giallorossi will continue to use depth in the squad to cover injuries to Daniele De Rossi, Kevin Strootman, Salih Ucan, Leandro Castan, Davide Astori and Federico Balzaretti.

Last season the Old Lady ruled the two-game series with the Lupi, winning 3-0 in Turin and 1-0 in Rome and actually have a dominate recent home record in this fixture. Juventus have won the last three Turin meetings between the two, conceding a solitary goal.

Roma will be hoping to reverse the recent losing trend against the hosts and will be buoyed by the start to the domestic and European campaigns. This promises to be the match of the season so far. Expect fireworks.

Keep an eye on: Carlos Tevez (Juventus) – The Argentine hitman has been in blistering form for the Bianconeri this season. Six goals in five games across Serie A and the Champions League demonstrates Tevez’s importance to Allegri’s side. This encounter features two of the League’s most potent attacks, so the 30-year-old is sure to be among the goals in this contest.

Form Guide: Juventus (W W W W W) Roma (W W W W W)

Last season: Juventus 3-0 Roma

Stat fact: Roma haven’t emerged victorious from Turin in Serie A since 2010 and have conceded 11 goals in the last three away games against Juventus.

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

Suspended: None


Roma (probable): De Sanctis; Maicon, Manolas, Yanga-Mbwia, Cole; Pjanic, Keita, Nainggolan; Florenzi, Totti, Gervinho

Suspended: None

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Ancelotti: 'My Scudetto tip'

Oct 3, 2014

Carlo Ancelotti represented both Juventus and Roma in his career, so who does the Real Madrid Coach tip for the title?

“It is difficult to make predictions, but I hope it can be a wonderful game that improves the image of Italian football abroad,” Ancelotti told Rai Sport.

“Who will win the Scudetto? I’ll get off the fence and say Roma will win it.”

Ancelotti played for Roma from 1979 to 1987, winning the Scudetto in a battle with Juve in 1982-83 along with four editions of the Coppa Italia.

He was Juventus Coach from 1999 to 2001, but never won the Serie A title in Turin, losing out narrowly to Lazio and Roma.

Ancelotti’s Juve career ended in 2001 when the Bianconeri finished second to the Giallorossi.

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Cabrini: 'Juve-Roma like the 80s'

Oct 3, 2014

Antonio Cabrini believes tomorrow’s Juventus-Roma will be “a great duel, just like in the 1980s.”

“I expect a very tight game between two teams who did the best work on the transfer market and are certainly the best-equipped to compete at the top level,” Italy legend Cabrini told GianlucaDiMarzio.com.

“It’s too early to say whether it will be decisive for the title race or pick the favourites. Juventus are certainly more accustomed to victory, having triumphed for three years in a row, but Roma proved they are on the same level. It will be a wonderful battle.”

These clubs fought for the Scudetto last season, but above all duelled for trophies in the 1980s.

“It was a great duel in the 1980s between two teams and two clubs who were at the very top. These sides had great champions like Platini on the one hand and Falcao on the other, which provided a duel within the duel. That rivalry was immersed in a fantastic atmosphere.

“You cannot compare the current team with my Juventus, as it was a different type of football back then,” continued Cabrini.

“What I can say is that there doesn’t seem to be much different between Allegri’s Juve and that of Conte. As we go forward, I think we will slowly begin to see more of Allegri’s influence.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

The new Roman Empire - why Rudi Garcia's
men are set to surpass Juventus

Serie A's holders take on last season's closest challengers and the signs suggest
that the Giallorossi will keep rivalling the Old Lady as Italy's dominant force.

Oct 3, 2014

By Peter Staunton

Juventus and Roma, unquestionably the two best teams in Italy meet in Turin on Sunday night in a mammoth Serie A early-season showdown. Both have won five matches out of five so far. Juventus have yet to concede to any team in the league while Roma have shipped just the one goal.

If ever there was a game to show that Roma might close the gap on Juventus then this is it. The reigning Italian champions are unbeaten in 30 Serie A matches at the Juventus Stadium, winning all but two of those, and have conceded only once in their last nine.

Moreover, this is a fixture in which Juve have excelled in the past few years. Since moving to the Juventus Stadium they have beaten Roma 4-0, 4-1 and 3-0. Last season's defeat of Rudi Garcia's side was particularly notable as Roma were, like Juve, unbeaten in the league until that point. It showed that the capital side still had some way to go before they could truly match a team destined to be Scudetto holders three times in a row.

"I don't consider this game a true examination," former Roma midfielder Damiano Tommasi told Goal this week. "But for the Giallorossi it will be a little test to see if the difference between the two sides from last season has already been made up."

They finished 17 points behind Juventus last season after suffering a mid-season meltdown. Juventus finished with over 100 points. That is an astonishing total but says more about the level of internal competition in Serie A than it does about Juve, who were put out of the Champions League at the group stage.

There is a perception that Juventus are beating teams on reputation at the moment - that the lesser lights are caught in the headlights somewhat when facing the Italian record title-holders. The nerves betrayed by German Denis as his sized up Atalanta's penalty kick last weekend before missing pay testament to this. There is a significant psychological hurdle to overcome when facing Juve domestically and Roma know it all too well.

There are definite signs of progress for Roma though. They knocked Juventus out of the Coppa Italia last season and Champions League qualification for the first time in four seasons was secured comfortably. Their expansive football is winning admirers the continent over so far this season too. A Gervinho-inspired Roma demolished CSKA Moscow while Juventus struggled to deal with Malmo. They then earned a point from Manchester City as Juve crumbled at Atletico Madrid.

"In Europe, Roma can compete even against the big clubs," Tommasi said. "In these competitions, teams can express their game better. For Roma, who have grown so much in this point of view, it showed."

Using a dynamic system of play, Garcia has extracted the best, again, out of Gervinho and plays precisely to the strengths of Francesco Totti. The injuries of Kevin Strootman, last year's key figure, and Daniele De Rossi scarcely matter at the moment.

The men covering those two world-class performers have not foundered. Miralem Pjanic can be "Roma's Pirlo" according to Tommasi while Radja Nainggolan has proven to be the expert purchase he was expected to be. Roma stole a march on Juventus with the capture of the Belgian, evidence of their new savvy side in the transfer market. They also beat Juve to the punch on Juan Iturbe, who has shone in spurts for the Giallorossi.

Juventus, meanwhile, have just endured an embarrassingly inadequate window. Alvaro Morata is not the heralded international striker they needed - he is a capable player but no star. The rest of their summer signings provide only cover and make them no better. That has been proven in the Champions League. They can count themselves very lucky to have held on to their two most dynamic players in Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba.

After winning three titles in a row, Juve have just lost a legacy-building coach. Antonio Conte put Juventus back on top of Italian football after years in the wilderness but that infectiousness has departed. They have replaced him with a nearly man. Massimiliano Allegri will probably be sufficient to win the league with what is still the best squad in the division. But the gap will not be as profound this season.

There are faults in this Juventus team as they struggle with issues of injury, form, age and the adaptation process with a new coach. It does not take a genius either to work out who is a more inspirational figure: Conte or Allegri. The former Milan boss took some blame in midweek for being too reactive in his alterations from the bench at Atletico - a criticism he also faced at San Siro where his sides could also accurately be described as flat.

"This is still a determined and solid Juventus," Tommasi said. "Conte, however, spoke the same language for three years. Now, for sure, Allegri will have a different vision of the game.

"Perhaps it is still too early to say whether or not this Juventus is stronger than that which has dominated in recent years, it will take a bit longer to evaluate it."

Roma's project has been one measured by steady progress. It has not taken Roma long to become firmly established as Italy's second team since the American takeover in 2011. There appears to be steady improvements on the field - this season is still young - as well as some solidity in the dugout where Rudi Garcia has been described as the club's Sir Alex Ferguson in waiting.

"The hope of Roma fans is that no more will Juve get a record 100 points and, instead, Roma might win 100 points," Tommasi said.

There is a clear player acquisition model with some of the best established talents in Serie A joining as well as more promising players from further afield. Off the field, as well, Roma are making big strides. The new Stadio della Roma project is under way and should be ready in two years - becoming only Italy's second privately-owned major football stadium after Juventus.

“Our aspirations are to become one of the best teams in the world and you don’t get from A to Z in the couple of years since I’ve taken over," president James Pallotta told Goal. "There’s a lot to do. The most important thing is to put a good team on the pitch first and foremost, and I think we’re on the way to doing that.”

Napoli are stagnating and AC Milan are probably still a bit far away for a title change. Who knows what Inter will show up on any give day. But with the age progression of the key players and a seeming inability to attract Europe's best, Juve's current cycle of dominance is coming to an end. Roma will be there to pick up the mantle.

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus v AS Roma: Preview

Oct 3, 2014

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has warned Sunday's rivals Roma that he and his team-mates have already put their Champions League midweek loss at Atletico Madrid behind them.

The Italian champions fell 1-0 in Madrid on Wednesday to concede their first defeat of the campaign.

``I think our strength is always to evaluate the positives and negatives from a game in order to face our next encounter in the best possible way,'' Chiellini said. ``We are ready to face Roma.

``It will be a different game with respect to our match against Atletico because they play a different style of football.

``We have a lot of respect for Roma, they have great players, not just Francesco Totti.

``We want to do well against them knowing we face a very difficult match.

``Both teams have started the season really well so we expect a level game.''

Roma, like Juve, carry a five-game winning streak in Serie A into the top-of-the-table showdown in Turin.

The Giallorossi held Manchester City to a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League encounter at the Etihad stadium in England to remain unbeaten this season.

Totti, the Roma captain, struck the equaliser to become the oldest player ever to score in the Champions League.

``We knew we were strong side but our performance in Manchester has further reinforced this,'' the 38-year-old Totti said. ``We have a competitive team and like our fans, we expect to do great things this year.

``This could be our year.

``Juve are the defending champions and they are still the team to beat.''

Roma coach Rudi Garcia is hoping to recover veteran goalkeeper Morgan De Sanctis.

De Sanctis sustained a right thigh injury during last weekend's 2-0 triumph over Hellas Verona and sat out Tuesday's match.

Should the 37-year-old fail to recover, Lukasz Skorupski - who started at the Etihad Stadium in midweek - will continue between the posts.

The visitors are also without eight injured players for this weekend's match, including experienced midfielder Daniele De Rossi and Kevin Strootman.

Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri has recalled veteran midfielder Andrea Pirlo.

Pirlo has been sidelined for a month with a thigh injury but could feature for the first time this season against Roma.

The hosts will be without Alvaro Morata, with the Spanish striker having sustained a right thigh injury in midweek.

Morata has joined injured defender Andrea Barzagli on the sidelines.

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Tevez: Roma title rivalry a shock

Ahead of their showdown, the Juventus striker admits that when he arrived
in Serie A he did not expect the Giallorossi to emerge as their biggest rivals.

Oct 4, 2014

Juventus striker Carlos Tevez has admitted he has been surprised to see Roma emerge as title contenders following his arrival in Italian football.

The Argentina international helped the Old Lady to their third consecutive league title in his first season since arriving from Manchester City, with Rudi Garcia’s side finishing runners-up in 2013-14.

The two sides are again locked at the top of the Serie A table with a perfect 15 points from five games and meet on Sunday in Turin as both seek to prove their title credentials.

Unlike last season, when the two teams became separated as Roma's form dropped, Tevez doesn’t expect to see another 17-point margin between the two at the climax.

“Honestly, no, I did not see Roma as our main rivals. It has been a surprise. I did not think they were so strong,” Tevez told Corriere dello Sport.

“This year they are closer, the gap has shrunk. Garcia has shown that they can be calm in all competitions. To me they are much stronger now.”

The 30-year-old also reserved special praise for Francesco Totti, but reminded his team-mates that their Scudetto rivals have a number of other threats than the veteran forward.

“I have had confirmation of what great player he is. His quality is known to all, but what impresses me most is that at 38 years old he still has a great desire and determination. It is not easy to you wear the same shirt for such a long time. He really is the image of Rome,” Tevez continued.

“But it is not enough just to stop him, he is surrounded by others. The angles found by Miralem Pjanic, the runs of Maicon and the depth provided by Gervinho."

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus vs. Roma: Key Issues
That Will Shape Serie A Game

Oct 4, 2014

Ever since the Serie A fixture list was announced, the Week 6 clash between Juventus and Roma has been eagerly anticipated. Having finished as the division’s top two last term, the new campaign has begun in similar fashion as the pair tore through their first five matches with incredible ease.

Conceding just once between them while scoring a combined 19 goals, they appear to have made the title a two-horse race. The other teams expected to challenge have faltered, a combination of injuries and poor form already seeing Fiorentina and Napoli fall some distance behind and looking unlikely to catch up.

With Milan and Inter both in disarray, the head-to-head matchup in Turin on Sunday could play a major role in deciding the destination of this year’s title. A win for either would see them gain an advantage that would provide a serious edge, such is the gulf between them and the peninsula’s other teams.

Over the following pages is a look at the key issues that will shape the game and could ultimately decide the result.


Champions League Hangovers

Both clubs faced incredibly tough tasks in midweek, Roma earning a credible draw at Manchester City, while Juventus lost away to Atletico Madrid. Neither result should derail their European campaigns, but the effects of such difficult encounters could weigh heavily on Sunday’s clash.

That may be most true for Juventus, and Massimiliano Allegri’s ability to lift his side following their first defeat of the season could define his tenure. That prospect—discussed at length here—is more pertinent in the Champions League, but recovering to face Roma will be vital for both the players and their coach.


Arturo Vidal vs. Miralem Pjanic

With both Andrea Pirlo and Daniele De Rossi expected to miss this match through injury, the significance of two other midfielders will undoubtedly come to the fore. Arturo Vidal is the beating heart of this Juventus, a genuine presence at both ends of the pitch and his impact will be telling for the Bianconeri.

Lining up across from him, Miralem Pjanic is no less crucial for the capital club, his recent form ensuring both De Rossi and long-term absentee Kevin Strootman are not overly missed. His play drew praise from none other than the King of Rome Francesco Totti, describing his team-mate as “our little Prince,” per Roma Radio (h/t Forza Italian Football).

Facing off in the vital central area, whoever manages to shine brightest between the two may provide a decisive factor in the match.


Stephan Lichtsteiner vs. Gervinho

Stephan Lichtsteiner has already played a crucial role for Juventus this season, the space afforded to the Swiss full-back often allowing him to have a major impact on the Bianconeri attack. While he has struggled to deliver on occasion, he has still weighed in with a goal and two assists, helping maintain their excellent start to the campaign.

He is likely to be forced into a very different role on Sunday, however, with the threat of Gervinho ensuring his defensive qualities come to the fore. The Ivorian winger has continued to consistently deliver for Roma, terrorising opponents from his position wide on the left, creating chances that are often converted by himself or his team-mates.

If Lichtsteiner is unable to contain the former Arsenal man, it is likely to be a difficult 90 minutes for the home side.


Carlos Tevez vs. the Roma Defence

If Gervinho could be key for Roma’s attack, there is no doubt it will be another former Premier League player doing the same at the opposite end of the field. Carlos Tevez has enjoyed a stellar start to 2014-15, his excellent form from last season carried over into the new campaign.

He has already added six goals to last year’s team-high tally of 19, his influence on results is clearly palpable. With Roma likely to be without Davide Astori, Leandro Castan and Maicon, it will be a makeshift Giallorossi defence looking to suppress the fiery Argentinean.

Their ability to do so was highlighted in that hugely credible draw at the Etihad Stadium, with Kostas Manolas continuing to underline just how good an addition he is for Rudi Garcia’s men. They will need him at their best to quell a Juventus attack boasting Alvaro Morata, Fernando Llorente and, of course, Tevez.

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Tevez: 'I prefer Allegri's Juve'

Oct 4, 2014

Carlos Tevez believes Juventus are “still favourites” against Roma, but he actually prefers Max Allegri to Antonio Conte.

“It’s too early to say this is a Scudetto showdown, as in the long run the Champions League can sap a lot of energy out of teams. Watch out for Inter, Milan and Napoli,” Tevez told the Corriere dello Sport.

“Before coming to Italy, I did not expect Roma to be such a strong side. They were a surprise for me. This season they have reduced the gap, as Rudi Garcia’s squad can comfortably face all their competitions.

“I think Roma are stronger now, but Juventus are still the favourites.”

Juventus have changed relatively few players, but are under new Coach Allegri this term.

“Conte left us that desire to win and the mentality of always being protagonists. With Allegri everything changed, from our tactics to the way we prepare for games. I must admit I like my new position more.

“My future? I confirm what I’ve always said, that I want to end my career at Boca Juniors, but I am taking it one day at a time.”

The clubs had mixed fortunes in the Champions League this week, as Roma earned a 1-1 draw at Manchester City with Francesco Totti’s historic lob, while Juve lost 1-0 to Atletico Madrid.

“We could’ve drawn against Atletico, as they didn’t do much more than we did. Having said that, we should do even more. Our objective is to maintain the same pace in the Champions League that we do in Serie A, so in that sense the defeat in Madrid could serve us well.

“Against Manchester City, Totti just confirmed what a great player he is. Everyone knows his quality, but what really impressed me was his hunger and determination at the age of 38. That’s not easy to maintain if you wear the same jersey for many years.

“Totti is the image of Roma. It won’t be enough to just stop him, though, as he is surrounded by champions.

“I already knew Iturbe from his time at River Plate and I think he can do great things. He reminds me of myself,” smiled Tevez.

“I also know Paredes and think he can do well, as Roma are the ideal squad for his maturation process.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

De Sanctis out of Juve-Roma

Oct 4, 2014

Morgan De Sanctis is highly unlikely to feature in tomorrow’s Juventus-Roma, as he was absent from training today.

The goalkeeper missed out on Tuesday’s 1-1 Champions League draw with Manchester City.

De Sanctis is almost certainly out of tomorrow’s Scudetto showdown in Turin, as he was nowhere to be seen in this morning’s training session.

That means Polish shot-stopper Lukasz Skorupski will get the gloves at the Juventus Stadium.

Roma teammate Leandro Castan was also absent due to an on-going injury, joining Daniele De Rossi, Davide Astori, Kevin Strootman, Marco Borriello and Federico Balzaretti on the treatment table.

Salih Ucan and Radja Nainggolan appear to have shaken off knocks.

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Vidal: Roma have better players than Juventus

The Chilean rates his side as favourites for the Serie A showdown on Sunday
and insists he is happy in Turin despite continued links with a move to Manchester United.

Oct 4, 2014

Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal suggested Scudetto rivals Roma have higher players than them, but thinks he is part of the better team.

The two clubs sit joint-top of the Serie A table with a perfect record after five games and are set to meet in a crunch clash at the Juventus stadium on Sunday.

And the Chile international says the reigning Italian champions remain narrow favourites for the clash because they are a stronger collective unit than the capital club.

"Roma have great quality and fast players,” he told Tuttosport.

“We maybe have less quality, but we are a team. We exploit our opponents by being compact, passing the ball more and reacting under pressure.

"Juventus are under more pressure than the others because we have won the last three league titles. We are always facing the game of our lives, but I love it... the pressure motivates me.”

The former Leverkusen man was regularly linked with a move away from Turin in the summer, with Manchester United particularly keen, but the 27-year-old says he is happy with the Old Lady.

Vidal added: “I can only say that I am happy in Turin. I am happy, my wife and son love it here.

“My family’s happiness is more important than money or anything else. At Juventus I am happy, it is my home. It’s always tough to leave your home, right?”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Garcia: 'Enjoy Juve-Roma!'

Oct 4, 2014

Rudi Garcia urged Roma to “enjoy” their title battle with Juventus and make it “an advert for Italian football.”

“The great thing about tomorrow is that over the last few weeks we’ve faced the champions of Russia, the champions of England, will take on the champions of Italy and after that the champions of Germany,” said Garcia in his Press conference.

“This is fantastic. We would love to play every week at that level and have to enjoy the ride. There are going to be so many champions on the field.

“I hope to see beautiful football, as this game will be watched all over the world. Italy had great results in Europe this week and showed Serie A is under-estimated. These games need to also be an advert for Italian football.”

Roma’s confidence has been boosted by a 1-1 draw at Manchester City midweek, whereas Juve lost their Champions League tie 1-0 at Atletico Madrid.

“We saw that even in difficult moments and a goal down, we were able to react and even had the chance to win in Manchester. Roma always play to win and we’ll approach it the same way as on Tuesday, with the ambition to cause Juventus problems, albeit aware of their quality.

“Juve have the same system as under Antonio Conte, then there are differences under Allegri, but I will keep those to myself,” smiled the Coach.

“They have weaknesses, like all teams, and we must do well to make the most of them. Perhaps this year they play higher up the field out of possession and that can favour us. That’s the only thing I’ll share with you today...”

The Giallorossi lost their Scudetto showdown in Turin last season, crushed 3-0, so how will Garcia avoid a similar fate?

“I leave the past in the past, as this is a new season with a new squad and a new tournament. There’s no point looking to the past, as we cannot change anything and are all focused on playing this game.

“We are ready for Juve’s physicality and aggression. We must be capable of winning back the ball and you don’t do that wearing ballet shoes.

“Tevez is the most decisive player for Juve, that’s what the statistics say. The team is complete, but not unbeatable and nobody can win them all. I trust my players and it’s wonderful to be involved in this game.

“Who has more to lose? There are three points to gain for both teams, it’s not as if the Scudetto will be decided this weekend, that would be a lack of respect to the other teams.

“It can be an advantage on a psychological level to win this game, but it’s not over. For the moment we are on a par with Juventus and it’s not easy to win five rounds in a row. We reduced the gap between the squads, but obviously Juve are favourites – that’s just common sense.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus - Roma Preview:
Serie A's top two meet in crunch clash

Juventus and Roma will look to draw first blood in the race at Serie A's summit in Sunday's
eagerly awaited top-of-the-table Turin clash, with one 100 per cent record sure to end.

Oct 4, 2014

Juventus and Roma will look to draw first blood in the race at Serie A's summit in Sunday's eagerly awaited top-of-the-table Turin clash.

The pre-season title favourites will battle for the first time this term at the Juventus Stadium with at least one 100 per cent winning record sure to end.

Defending champions Juve, who sit top on goal difference, have dominated in recent seasons, winning three straight league titles under the stewardship of Antonio Conte - including last season as they finished 17 points ahead of Roma.

Conte has since departed for the Italy job, but Juve have started well under new coach Massimiliano Allegri - winning all five of their league matches without conceding a goal.

Having completed a league double over Roma last term, including a 3-0 win in the corresponding fixture in January, Juve will perhaps start as slim favourites, though Roma continue to show a dramatic improvement under Rudi Garcia.

After guiding Roma to an impressive second-placed finish last term, Garcia strengthened his squad in the close-season with the likes of Ashley Cole, Juan Iturbe and Urby Emanuelson.

The new charges have settled in well, Roma too boast five wins from five and have conceded just once.

Part of Roma's success is down to the performances of evergreen captain Francesco Totti, who this week became the oldest goalscorer in Champions League history with the equaliser in their impressive 1-1 draw at Manchester City.

The 38-year-old is well aware that Roma's early-season form counts for nothing yet, though.

"The problem is that we have not won anything yet," he told La Repubblica. "We have experienced some beautiful moments, but in the end what counts is the result."

Juve skipper Giorgio Chiellini was in equally bullish mood ahead of the intriguing contest and he insists Sunday's result has no bearing on the destination of the Serie A title.

"The game won't determine anything given that it's still early days," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"We've both begun the campaign in good form and it'll be a tense match where it's vital we take our chances."

Juve, who are looking to bounce back from Wednesday's 1-0 Champions League loss at Atletico Madrid, are once more without Andrea Barzagli (heel) who will visit a specialist in the coming days.

Allegri also has concerns over striker Alvaro Morata (gluteal) and Martin Caceres (shoulder), while Andrea Pirlo (hip) is yet to have featured this term.

For Roma, Iturbe could be handed a start after recovering from a calf complaint to come off the bench against City, but Daniele De Rossi (calf) and Kevin Strootman (knee) are both still out.


HEAD TO HEAD

11/05/2014 - Roma 0 - 1 Juventus
21/01/2014 - Roma 1 - 0 Juventus
05/01/2014 - Juventus 3 - 0 Roma
16/02/2013 - Roma 1 - 0 Juventus
29/09/2012 - Juventus 4 - 1 Roma


LAST FIVE MATCHES

Juventus L W W W W

01/10/2014 - Atlético Madrid 1 - 0 Juventus
27/09/2014 - Atalanta 0 - 3 Juventus
24/09/2014 - Juventus 3 - 0 Cesena
20/09/2014 - Milan 0 - 1 Juventus
16/09/2014 - Juventus 2 - 0 Malmö


Roma D W W W W

30/09/2014 - Manchester City 1 - 1 Roma
27/09/2014 - Roma 2 - 0 Hellas Verona
24/09/2014 - Parma 1 - 2 Roma
21/09/2014 - Roma 2 - 0 Cagliari
17/09/2014 - Roma 5 - 1 CSKA Moskva

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Vidal: 'Totti my childhood star'

Oct 4, 2014

Arturo Vidal “can’t believe” Juventus lost to Atletico Madrid and is glad to face Francesco Totti, who “was a champion when I was a child.”

“We must attack them straight away and not allow Roma time to breathe or play their football,” Vidal told Tuttosport.

“It has always gone well for me, as I tend to score goals against the Giallorossi in Turin. They have fast players and great quality, so play to launch them forward. We might have less quality, but we are more of a team and keep more possession.

“This game arrives at a delicate moment for both teams. The winner will have maintained better concentration throughout.

“There’s more pressure on us, as Juventus always have more pressure than the other teams. We’ve won three consecutive Scudetti and every opponent plays the game of a lifetime against us. I like that, though, as feeling this pressure means you are strong.”

Totti scored for a 1-1 draw at Manchester City midweek, becoming the oldest ever player to net in the Champions League at 38.

“Totti was already a champion when I was a child,” noted Vidal. “He is a genius and as always we will use intensity and aggression to control him. Can I see myself scoring in the Champions League at 38? Ooh, that would be very difficult. My type of football uses up a lot of energy and I don’t know if I’ll get to 38!”

While Roma impressed midweek, Juventus were beaten 1-0 by Atletico Madrid and criticised for a negative approach.

“We faced a strong side that played in a very obstructionist manner, sitting in their own half and waiting to hurt us on the counter-attack. We played on their level, so not perfect, but barely allowing chances to a team that last season was minutes away from winning the trophy.

“I didn’t like the referee in Spain, much like when we played Real Madrid last year, as there were very few yellow cards despite the constant fouls and their defenders were always crying to the officials... It’s horrible playing like that!

“I saw progress in our attitude. We were really angry at the Calderon for losing a game in an incredible way. Nobody could believe Atletico were able to score a goal while playing like that. We made one single mistake and were punished.”

Vidal was asked about the difference working with Max Allegri after Antonio Conte’s sudden summer departure.

“One is more relaxed, whereas the other is more... let’s say intense. The working methods are different, but they are united by the desire to win. They use two different paths to reach the same objective. Allegri is less anxious in general, but in training he is just as tough as Conte.

“Was Conte’s exit a shock? Yes it was, especially as I was on vacation and didn’t understand what was happening. I’d never seen a Coach just leave after winning three consecutive titles.”

Looking back over his career in Serie A, the Chile international picked a surprising toughest opponent.

“Milan the first year were tough, but also Napoli and Roma. I always had problems playing against Inler, while Montolivo is very good on the ball and Nainggolan is a whirlwind.

“Maybe the toughest was Robinho. He’s technically gifted and hides to ball, which drives you crazy. There’s a strong temptation to just kick him!”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

'You can't win with ballet shoes' -
Garcia vows to attack Juventus

The Frenchman says his side will approach their clash with the champions with the
same attacking mindset that saw them take a point away to Manchester City in midweek.

Oct 4, 2014

​Rudi Garcia says Roma will approach their top-of-the-table clash with Juventus on Sunday with an attacking mindset.

Something has to give at the Juventus Stadium, with both teams boasting a 100 per cent record in Serie A, and Garcia expects his side to build on their midweek draw with Manchester City in the Champions League.

Juventus won both matches between the two sides last season but Roma will hope to follow up the champions' defeat to Atletico Madrid by inflicting another loss on Massimiliano Allegri's side.

Garcia knows his team face a stern test but vowed to fight Juve across the pitch for the three points.

"If you're in this job, you aspire to be involved in games like this," the Frenchman said at a media conference on Saturday. "We'll pull out all the stops in Turin to make sure we're able to play our game and show our ambition.

"Roma always play to win and we'll approach it the same way as on Tuesday [against City], with the ambition to cause problems.

"Juve have a strong physical presence on the field, we have to be up for that. We have to win balls in defence too and you can't do that with ballet shoes, you need to fight."

Juve's Carlos Tevez has scored six goals in as many games in all competitions and Garcia knows Roma must stop the Argentine if they are to move ahead of their rivals.

"I think Tevez is their most decisive player," he added. "The numbers tell you that.

"Juve are a complete team, a quality outfit. They're not unbeatable though, we saw that on Wednesday.

"I'm focused on us and I have faith in my players."

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: Juventus need Pirlo in his best shape

The head coach admits he is uncertain whether the midfielder will play
against Roma and has stressed that Sunday's encounter is far from a title-decider.

Oct 4, 2014

​Massimiliano Allegri remains unsure whether Andrea Pirlo will be fit in time for Juventus' Serie A clash with Roma on Sunday.

The game in Turin sees Italy's top two go head to head, with both sides boasting 100 per cent league records after five matches.

Pirlo is yet to feature this season after picking up a hamstring injury, but the experienced midfielder could be in line for a return at Juventus Stadium - but only if Allegri considers him completely ready.

"We'll make a decision on Pirlo," Allegri said in a press conference on Saturday.

"It's best to have him in the best shape for Juventus."

Allegri also confirmed that Martin Caceres and Alvaro Morata will be available and the Juve coach revealed he is facing a selection dilemma between Patrice Evra and Kwadwo Asamoah.

The game has come too soon for Andrea Barzagli, who is yet to fully recover from a foot problem.

After a strong start to the 2013-14 campaign, Roma's title challenge fell away last season as Juve romped to a third successive crown.

And Allegri is wary of the threat posed by Rudi Garcia's men.

"Roma are a team who have bolstered during the summer and gained confidence from last season," he said.

"We need to show we've got the desire to regain our title. It won't be easy. Roma approach the game on a great run of form. Juventus Stadium is a crucial factor for us, the fans never stop cheering on the team.

"I think Roma will approach the game completely differently to how they did last season.

"We're aware of our strength and Roma are our closest rival. But nothing will be decided [on Sunday], there's still a long way to go.

"It will be evenly matched so we'll need to do well to bring out our qualities and strike their weaknesses."

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Roma Name 24-Man Squad For Match Against Juventus

Oct 4, 2014

Roma coach Rudi Garcia has named a 24-man squad for the Giallorossi’s away match against Juventus on Sunday.

Morgan De Sanctis and Leandro Castan have not been included in the squad, with Lukasz Skorupski and Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa expected to replace them in the starting lineup.

Radja Nainggolan and Maicon have also been included after overcoming their respective injury concerns.


Goalkeepers: Lobont, Marchegiani, Skorupski

Defenders: Calabresi, Cholevas, Cole, Maicon, Manolas, Somma, Torosidis, Yanga-Mbiwa

Midfielders: Emanuelson, Florenzi, Keita, Nainggolan, Paredes, Pjanic, Ucan

Forwards: Destro, Gervinho, Iturbe, Ljajic, Sanabria, Totti

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Garcia: Roma Will Face Juventus With Confidence,
They Are Not Unbeatable

Oct 4, 2014

Roma boss Rudi Garcia has insisted that his team will be facing Juventus with confidence on Sunday and believes the capital city club can secure a victory against the reigning Serie A champions.

Both the Giallorossi and the Bianconeri will be entering the match in Turin with five victories in their first five league matches and the Lupi tactician is hoping that his squad’s pressing attack will be able to break down the strong Juve defence in order to take first place, though he admits it’s still too early to worry about which team could win the Scudetto.

Garcia spoke during his pre-match press conference on Saturday about the upcoming away battle with Juventus and the talent possessed by the hosts, while also commenting on Roma’s ability to adapt to their opponents’ playing style and the positive attitude they demonstrate on the pitch.

“The nice thing about tomorrow is that we have played against the champions of Russia, England and now Italy,” said the 50-year-old.

“Then next we have the champions of Germany. It’s something great, we play this game because of challenges like these.

“That’s the beauty of tomorrow, there are many champions on both sides. We’ll play with a lot of confidence and ambition.

“We will always play to win, like we did against Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday, while we were on their field as well.

“Juventus have kept the same tactics from Antonio Conte with Massimiliano Allegri, for the most part. There are some differences that we hope to exploit, perhaps they position themselves higher without the ball, which can create spaces for us.

“They physically have an important impact, which is one of their main qualities. We will have to hold the ball and then be good to press in the attack.

“What has happened in the past doesn’t count, teams are different along with other things. What counts is the effort put in by anyone who plays in this challenge.

“Carlos Tevez is the most decisive and the numbers prove it. Juventus are a complete team, but they are not unbeatable. No one is.

“I’m only focused on my own team, I trust my boys. Our team attitude always leads us to play at our best. Every player is there for the team and the proof has been there in our recent games.

“This means that we’re able to overcome difficult moments, like we did against City. It’s not easy to maintain the best attitude, especially in a long season. However, I expect us to continue as we’ve been and have big ambitions.

“The condition of the team? All of the guys should be available and have the 90 minutes in their legs, we have trained for the past five days.

“I think a draw would be a bad result if one of the teams deserves to win. However, everything is different if a team is struggling and is able to collect a point.

“What matters most is that we are ready to play this game. I hope to see good football, especially after the Italian teams did well in Europe this past week. The Serie A is underestimated and could use the good publicity.

“Tomorrow we will have to think about what’s happening on the field and adapt to the game, being able to change what we can do when needed. We have proven that we can do this and will continue to do so.

“The championship will not be decided tomorrow and it would be disrespectful to think otherwise. However, Juve are the favourites and I won’t change my mind on that.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Allegri: Juventus Must Play With Intensity Against Roma

Oct 4, 2014

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has stated that the Bianconeri must play with intensity if they want to defeat the Giallorossi on Sunday.

The Bianconeri suffered their first loss all season after succumbing to a 1-0 defeat against Atletico Madrid in their second Champions League group stage match, where a second half goal from Arda Turan was enough to give the Spanish champions all three points.

Meanwhile, Roma battled to a 1-1 draw against Premier League winners Manchester City courtesy of Francesco Totti’s record-setting goal ahead of the hugely anticipated clash between this season’s Scudetto favourites.

“Against Roma we’ll definitely be playing with the same intensity as we did in Madrid, except, of course, with a huge improvement on technique and tactics,” he noted ahead of Sunday’s game.

“However, although they are our main challengers, this game is not decisive in terms of the Scudetto. There are still another 96 points remaining in the championship but we will have to be careful given that we know what kind of game Roma play.

“We will push hard to maintain possession and fight to get it back when we lose it, and I am certain that they will be doing the same thing.”

The former AC Milan coach also discussed the status of some of his key personnel, Roma icon Francesco Totti, as well as some of his own decisions in his professional life.

“Andrea Pirlo has been out for six weeks, so his fitness levels aren’t up to par yet. We need him back fit because he’s one of our crucial players. As for [Kwadwo] Asamoah and [Patrice] Evra, we might rotate since Evra has played several games in a row.

“Totti is a historic player like other famous no. 10′s such as [Alessandro] Del Piero and [Roberto] Baggio who keeps performing at the highest level because he has taken good care of himself. He brings a lot of experience to the side.

“As for myself, I have no regrets [about not taking the Roma job] nor at staying at AC Milan, because if I had gone to Roma, I would not have become the coach of Juventus.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

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Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Bonucci: 'It's a two-horse race'

Oct 4, 2014

Leonardo Bonucci shrugs off superstition to declare “it’s just Juventus and Roma for the Scudetto. Gervinho is their key player.”

“We are the strongest side and proved that over the last three years, but Roma have improved a lot, both in terms of quality and their self-confidence,” Bonucci told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“I expect a very different game to the relatively simple ones we’ve had against Roma in Turin recently. I do believe it’s just Juventus and Roma for the Scudetto. The rest of the group seems pretty far away...

“Francesco Totti is a phenomenon and a real leader, but Gervinho is their key player. He provides the change of pace.”

Juve have changed this season, as Massimiliano Allegri took over from Antonio Conte.

“First of all they share that ferocious desire to win. It’s the same objective that they are chasing with a different attitude. Conte is a warrior, on and off the field. Allegri is more relaxed with his work, but really knows how to make his voice heard when things aren’t going well.

“Now we have a different approach to the game with fewer rapid vertical passes, but the intensity has remained the same.”

The Bianconeri continue to stutter in Europe, where they were beaten 1-0 by Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night.

“Perhaps in Europe we lack a little character,” continued Bonucci. “We have everything it takes to do well, but now need a decisive step forward in terms of mentality.

“We need to become aware of our real capabilities. I read a lot of criticism, some of it fair, as we did stick to the bare minimum and at a certain point should’ve been more daring. However, we took the initiative in Madrid.

“We returned from Spain without points, but with more confidence. I think Atletico can really represent a turning point for us on the international stage, as we realised that we can play at that level.”

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

-

Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Pirlo back for Juventus-Roma

Oct 4, 2014

Andrea Pirlo, Alvaro Morata and Martin Caceres are available for Juventus in tomorrow’s title clash with Roma.

Pirlo is back in the squad for the first time in six weeks, while Morata and Caceres have passed fitness tests after picking up problems during the 1-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid.

Andrea Barzagli is still out of action and will see a specialist next week for his on-going Achilles tendon problems.


Juventus squad for Roma: Buffon, Chiellini, Caceres, Ogbonna, Pogba, Pepe, Marchisio, Morata, Tevez, Coman, Giovinco, Llorente, Bonucci, Padoin, Pirlo, Asamoah, Vidal, Lichtsteiner, Storari, Evra, Rubinho, Pereyra, Mattiello

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

-

Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Juventus vs. Roma Preview: Round 6
It takes (the top) two to tango

Oct 4, 2014

In a perfect world, Juventus will swiftly go into the international break with three more points and that will be that. They'd be playing a relatively easy opponent, one where Juve would seemingly cruise to a win by a couple of goals and then we would sit there for two weeks eagerly awaiting the next round of fixtures because we want to see the perfect start roll on.

But Juventus aren't facing a team that will be wallowing in the bottom half of the table this season. No, no. Juventus are facing their closest competition, the club that has also started the season with five straight wins. They're facing Roma, their clear-cut No. 1 competition in Serie A.

So, I'll ask all of you the following question: Who's ready to rumble?

Juventus-Roma is the showdown of the season to date. It doesn't matter if it's just the sixth round or taking place on the fifth day of October, it's the gosh darn showdown of the season. Both teams have yet to lose a game, with Roma and Juventus combining to allow all of one goal between the two of them. Roma are coming off a draw in which they deserved more than one point against Manchester City, Juventus look to get back on the right foot after a disappointing showing in Madrid against Atlético.

Is it possible that a game could be this big on the first weekend in October? Well, when the two teams atop the league at this point in time are so much better than everybody else, then it's pretty important. It is the game that everybody has looked forward to for weeks on end, the one everybody pointed to the minute it was announced on fixture release day. And that is before both Roma and Juventus started the season perfect in Serie A.

Just take this into account: Juventus Stadium sold out in what seemed like about 20 minutes. (Okay, it was actually a couple of hours, but that's still absolutely incredible.) That should pretty much tell you all you need to know about how the game is being perceived by those who are going to be in attendance. And in turn, it will tell you that Juventus Stadium will almost be, without question, deafening when the opening whistle is about to sound.

Yep, it's everything you want — and then some — in a top-of-the-table clash between two very, very good teams.

Now there's just one thing left to do. You know, actually play the game.

GOOD NEWS

Juventus have still yet to allow a goal this season. And outside of a momentary lapse in man-marking from Stephan Lichtsteiner, Juventus still have a perfect defensive record.

Some good injury news for once: Martín Cáceres and Álvaro Morata, who were both injured midweek in Spain, will be available for selection tomorrow night against Roma, according to Max Allegri at his pre-match press conference.

BAD NEWS

As of this preview going live, Andrea Pirlo's status is still being determined. He has been called up, but who knows what his role will be tomorrow night. You get the feeling that he's close to being back to match fitness, but it's hard to read whether Allegri is going to bring Pirlo back before the international break or wait until he's had an extra two weeks just to be sure.

JuventusFC ✔ @juventusfcen
#Allegri: "We'll make a decision on @Pirlo_official between today and tomorrow. It's best to have him in the best shape for Juventus."

There's also the other injured players, most notably Andrea Barzagli and his reported injury setback following surgery on his right heel over the summer. Boo.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

1. Juventus coming out of the Champions League.

It's never not interesting to yours truly to see how Juventus respond to a tough European outing, regardless of the result. But with Juventus playing not-so-hot in Spain and having ramp things up again for another incredibly important game a few days later. As I've said many times after Juventus suffer a loss (or even a disappointing result): Will we get a team that is clearly worn out from the game prior? Or will we get a squad, like we saw so many times under Antonio Conte, that just comes out pissed off and wants to prove a point to everybody? That's Allegri's task. Get 'em snarlin' mad, Max.

"I think our strength is always to evaluate the positives and negatives from a game in order to face our next encounter in the best possible way. We are ready to face Roma. It will be a different game with respect to our match against Atletico because they play a different style of football."

(Source: ESPNFC)

Those are the words of Giorgio Chiellini. Let's see if Giorgio is right. I sure hope he is.

2. Roma coming out of the Champions League.

The difference between last season is a pretty noticeable one: Roma's in Europe, too, folks. Unlike last season when they could put all of their focus on Serie A, Roma now have the same weekly grind that Juventus does with Champions League football being played midweek. Up until this point, they have yet to falter one bit. But the devil's advocate will say that up until this point, Roma hasn't played anybody close to Juve's class in Serie A so far this season. You know what? That's definitely the truth. Who did Roma have after their Champions League opener? Cagliari, which ended in a 2-0 win against Zemanlandia. I think it's safe to say that playing Cagliari after a European contest is a little different than playing Juventus just a few short days after playing in the Champions League.

James Horncastle @JamesHorncastle
Garcia: Challenging all these teams is fantastic. We do this job to play these kind of games.

3. Roma's front three vs. Juventus' back three.

Well, there will be at least one team using a 4-3-3 tomorrow night. It just won't be Juventus. /grumble/

But the reality is, it's going to be a 4-3-3 vs. 3-5-2 just like it was each time Juventus played Roma last season. And when it comes to Roma's trident up top, it's safe to say they will be a challenge. Why? Well, because Francesco Totti is still damn good at what he does. Gervinho has the ability to be a complete pest on the wing and has truly thrived under Rudi Garcia's direction and guidance. And there's also a chance that Juan Iturbe shows his face and reminds Juventus what they're missing after the transfer-that-never-happened this summer. Having Cáceres available will be huge for the defense based on how good he's been this season. Putting at least one of Roma's offensive threats on lock will be huge.

4. The impact of Fernando Llorente.

And now we talk about Mr. Llorente, the guy who was tipped for big things this season but has yet to truly get anything going outside a few contributions here and there. Is it true that Llorente isn't playing well through the first five weeks of the 2014-15 season? Well yeah. But with Morata available despite having a "minor" muscle injury from the loss to Atlético Madrid, one has to think that Llorente will once again be starting alongside Carlitos Tévez against Roma. It will another chance for Llorente to get going against a team that is extremely well drilled and organized defensively. Not exactly the kind of team you want to play against when you're trying to regain some form, but a good performance against a very good team like Roma will likely do wonders in re-instilling some confidence entering the international break.

5. The impact of Arturo Vidal.

In case you've forgotten or haven't checked the internet lately, Arturo Vidal likes playing against Roma.

OptaPaolo @OptaPaolo
4 - Arturo Vidal has netted four goals against Roma in Serie A, his joint-favourite target in the top flight. Preference #JuveRoma

Now, Roma's midfield is definitely not as shaky as it was when Vidal first arrived in Italy. But look at the way Vidal played against Atlético Madrid; that's about as un-Vidal-like as it gets. It was almost a microcosm of the team's performance as a whole, which wasn't anything special whatsoever. Vidal played like crap, Juventus played like crap. There you go, folks. Simple formula. But we know it's not on Vidal, just like it's not solely on a lot of other players. But you look at how Roma may line up on Sunday and see Vidal seemingly straight across from Miralem Pjanić, it's impossible not to think that Good Vidal will have to outweigh Bad Vidal. That's just how the simple formula works.


My starting XI (3-5-2): Buffon; Cáceres, Bonucci, Chiellini; Lichtsteiner, Vidal, Marchisio, Pogba, Asamoah; Tévez, Llorente


OFFICIAL KICKOFF TIME: 6 P.M. IN ITALY; HIGH NOON ON THE EAST COAST; 9 A.M. ON THE WEST COAST

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

[Socrates 8056]

JUVENTUS - ROMA

-

Sunday, October 5th, 2014 - 6:00 PM
Juventus Stadium - Turin
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi

Bonucci: Only Roma can stop Juve

The Bianconeri defender says he believes the Italian capital club are the only side
who can stop he and his team-mates from claiming a fourth consecutive Scudetto this term.

Oct 5, 2014

Juventus star Leonardo Bonucci says Roma are his team's only competition for the Serie A title this term.

The Bianconeri won their third consecutive Scudetto last campaign, with the Italian capital club runners-up.

The two face off on Sunday at Juventus Stadium separated only by goal difference at the top of the table, having both won all five of their opening games, and the defender believes the clash could prove to be a potential title-decider.

“We are the strongest side and have proved that over the last three years, but Roma have improved a lot, both in terms of quality and in their self-confidence,” the 27-year-old told La giornalaccio rosa dello Sport.

“I expect a very different game to the relatively simple ones we’ve had against Roma in Turin recently.

"I do believe it’s just Juventus and Roma for the Scudetto. The rest of the group seems pretty far away."

The Italy international also talked about the Giallorossi's evolution as a team since the departure of Antonio Conte as head coach and subsequent appointment of Massimiliano Allegri to the role.

“First of all they share that ferocious desire to win. It’s the same objective that they are chasing with a different attitude.

"Conte is a warrior, on and off the field. Allegri is more relaxed with his work, but really knows how to make his voice heard when things aren’t going well.

“Francesco Totti is a phenomenon and a real leader, but Gervinho is their key player. He provides the change of pace.”

Bonucci also talked about his side's less impressive form in Europe, after they were beaten 1-0 by Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday.

“Perhaps in Europe we lack a little character,” he added. “We have everything it takes to do well, but now need a decisive step forward in terms of mentality.

“We need to become aware of our real capabilities. I read a lot of criticism, some of it fair, as we did stick to the bare minimum and at a certain point should’ve been more daring. However, we took the initiative in Madrid.

“We returned from Spain without points, but with more confidence. I think Atletico can really represent a turning point for us on the international stage, as we realised that we can play at that level.”

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